Group Leader, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Systems Group
Lincoln Laboratory
Bringing Out the Best
Award presented by
Eric Evans, Director of the MIT Lincoln Laboratory

The next recipient of the Bringing Out the Best award is also from Lincoln Laboratory. His name is Jonathan Pitts, and he leads the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Systems Group. Jon is a living, breathing masterclass in leadership, fostering a culture where people work hard and appreciate the hard work of others.

When the pandemic hit, Jon led the Laboratory’s efforts to develop a COVID-19 response platform that coordinated real-time data and predictive analytics, providing leaders at MIT and beyond with the resources to prepare for and mitigate the virus. He motivated his team to bring their best selves to the effort, as he did himself.

One of his nominators shared, "Jon’s excitement to find the best solution is infectious, as he helps staff build comprehensive solutions to some of the world’s toughest challenges."

Jon, as another of your colleagues said: You may have a PhD in chemistry, but it is your humanity that will have a long-lasting effect on our community, our nation, and the world. Congratulations on your Excellence Award!