The Institute’s top representatives
An article in this magazine about the history of the MIT Alumni Association notes that when the association was formed, there were 84 alumni in total. By 1888, the number had increased to an impressive 579. It grew significantly over the years; today nearly 149,000 alumni are members. Despite this growth and evolution, the culture and character of the alumni community have remained remarkably consistent, represented by individuals known for their rigorous thinking, incisive analysis, mens et manus ethos, and commitment to making a real and transformative impact on people and communities everywhere.
As MIT alumni, you recognize each other by your Brass Rats. These sturdy, cleverly designed rings signify not only your completion (some might say survival) of a challenging course of study but also signal to the world that you stand ready to share your expertise, knowledge, and experience in service to humanity.
Alumni have always been the Institute’s greatest ambassadors, and today that role holds even greater significance. We are working diligently, every day, to advocate for the vital contributions of MIT to ensuring the nation’s security, prosperity, health, and quality of life. I am deeply grateful for the support of MIT’s extraordinary family of alumni in sharing that message widely.
