The MIT Muslim Students' Association's vision is to "grow and cultivate the Muslim leaders of the US and the world who can leverage science, engineering, innovation and technology to advance humanity”. MSA does this by its mission of “growing the Muslim community within and beyond MIT, spiritually, professionally, academically and socially, while collaborating with and growing the broader MIT community at large.” To achieve this mission, MSA values inclusiveness, growth, service, engagement and unity.

Every year, MIT MSA puts together over 200 events, gatherings and programs with an executive team of 20-30 members for the Muslim community at MIT that represent a few dozen of nationalities, languages and ethnicities. As a nominator wrote, “As an Executive MBA student who is much older than most of the students in the group, I have never felt awkward or out of place. The members have even generously hosted me for one evening and offered to let me stay with them if the need ever arises. I am extremely proud of this amazing group of people and the community they have built and maintained over the years!”

Another wrote: “In the time being, it is not very easy to be a Muslim, let alone an active proud one. The MSA stands to create a community among Muslims where Muslim students can be sure of their identity as Americans and Muslims, unapologetically. To feel that there is a place at MIT that fosters spiritual, social and personal growth for Muslims to feel proud of who they are and to see an opportunity to give to the world around them. Between organizing events, vigils, interfaith programs, charity work with other communities at MIT, and coming together with other minority groups all while excelling academically, members of the MIT MSA has shown their ability to handle tough times with dignity and courage. They remained focused on the bigger picture and on the good work that needs to be done and were not distracted by the difficulties of the times we live in. They are an example of hope, strength and inclusion for many communities within the MIT”.

Thank you, MSA, for your longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion for all.