Jessie Schlosser Smith (she/her)
DIRECTOR
As Director of Open Space Programming at MIT, Jess works closely with collaborators to create welcoming, inclusive programs designed to engage the MIT, Cambridge, and Kendall Square communities.
With a background in arts and culture, Jess has worked at many non-profit arts organizations, including the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, where she served as Director of Public Programs.
Jess’s undergraduate studies took place at the University of New Hampshire, where she studied English and studio art. She completed her master’s degree in Public Humanities at Brown University.
Sasha Martin (she/her)
PROGRAM MANAGER
Sasha is passionate about building community through placemaking, and believes in the power of public spaces to combat isolation and increase people’s sense of belonging. As Program Manager, she crafts engaging and impactful programs that deepen connections between the MIT, Cambridge and Kendall communities.
Prior to joining the Open Space Programming team, Sasha worked in live events in Washington, D.C., where she produced concerts, comedy shows, and live podcast tapings in an 800-seat historic synagogue.
Sasha grew up in Jamaica Plain, MA and studied Sociology at Tulane University in New Orleans, LA.
Monica Phan (she/her)
COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE
Monica is a first-generation Cambodian American from Providence, Rhode Island. Determined to support the Southeast Asian population, she earned a degree in Public Health and became a certified community health worker.
During her time working in public health non-profits, Monica grew a passion for graphic and web design. She is excited to be spreading the word about MIT Open Space Programming's offerings to MIT and the surrounding Cambridge and Kendall communities.
Rachel Watts (she/her)
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Coming from a background in the restaurant industry and the theatre, Rachel has a passion for hospitality. She brings this to her work on the Open Space Programming team by building relationships with collaborators, caterers, and the Cambridge community.
She enjoys problem-solving and working on program logistics, even when the task is as simple as buying popcorn for family movie nights.
Ryan Rose (he/him)
OPERATIONS AND EVENTS MANAGER
Ryan cares deeply about the relationship between space and inclusivity, and how space usage fosters a sense of belonging. As Operations and Events Manager for Open Space Programming, Ryan works closely with the MIT, Cambridge, and Kendall communities to strengthen their spaces and make them available for events year-round.
Prior to joining Open Space Programing, Ryan oversaw the facilities and events for venues ranging from a Broadway-style Theatre in New Haven, CT, to a university quad in Los Angeles, CA. He started his career at the University of Southern California, where he earned a bachelor’s in Creative Writing and worked in concert production.
Vivian Martin (she/her)
EVENT ASSOCIATE
Born and raised on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, Vivian moved to the United States in 2013 and later began studies in Liberal Arts and Communications at Bunker Hill Community College.
Vivian has a background in marketing and administrative support. Recently, she transitioned to an events logistics career, where she’s fortunate to have found purpose and a sense of belonging. As the Event Associate for Open Space Programming she’s excited to provide joyful, diverse, and inclusive spaces to our community at MIT.
Emily Hollett (she/her)
OPERATIONS AND VISITOR EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR
Emily values making people's visits to MIT enjoyable experiences. As a Operations and Visitor Experience Coordinator, Emily is excited to greet visitors, answer their questions, and work on projects behind the scenes!
Prior to working at MIT, Emily studied communications and professional writing at Framingham State University and worked as a real estate agent in Brewster, MA.
Jackson Martin (he/him)
CHIEF OF HAPPINESS AND STRESS RELIEF OPERATIONS
Jackson takes his work at Open Space Programming super seriously and brings his Pup-hD in the field of smile generation logistics to the table. But that's not all - his loving and supportive nature is what makes him stand out!
During his Pawffice hours, Jackson can be found snuggled up with his Dunkies plushie, melting hearts left and right. He loves to graciously accept treats (who doesn't?) and is always ready to give a hug to anyone who needs it. Talk about a tail-waggingly adorable colleague!