Jessica Rosenworcel named executive director of the MIT Media Lab

The MIT Media Lab is pleased to announce Jessica Rosenworcel as its new Executive Director starting mid-September. 

By David Sweeney  | MIT Media Lab

A mission-driven leader with a profound commitment to public interest technology, Rosenworcel brings a distinguished record of public service and innovation, including her recent tenure as Chairwoman of the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Her appointment builds on the Media Lab’s 40-year foundation of propelling innovation, and its commitment to continue advancing work at the intersection of art, science, engineering, and design.

Rosenworcel is widely recognized for her leadership in shaping the digital future—championing broadband equity, safeguarding communications networks, and promoting responsible approaches to artificial intelligence and space infrastructure. At the FCC, she launched transformative initiatives to close the digital divide, strengthen cybersecurity, protect civil rights in the digital domain, and ensure public access to trusted information and emergency services.

“I’ve spent my career focused on how technology can serve people—how we build systems that are fair, inclusive, and forward-looking,” said Rosenworcel. 

I believe deeply in public service, and I’ve seen firsthand how innovation and imagination can foster real change. 

"At this moment of rapid technological transformation, I’m excited to bring that mission to a new context—one infused with the magic of the MIT Media Lab and powered by MIT’s global impact on humanity through bold ideas, creativity, and a deep commitment to the public good.”

As Executive Director, Rosenworcel will help to shape the Lab’s strategy and vision in close collaboration with Media Lab Faculty Director and Muriel R. Cooper Professor of Music and Media Tod Machover, and will oversee the Lab’s development and communications efforts. She will partner with faculty and research groups to expand global impact and forge new pathways for engagement across sectors, such as industry, philanthropy, academia, and government. Her leadership will support the Media Lab’s continued pursuit of transformational technologies—and their potential to positively shape individuals and society—by building a future in which everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

“Jessica understands both the immense potential and the great responsibility that come with emerging technologies,” states Machover. “Her experience and expertise in so many relevant areas, including the potential and challenges of AI, as well as her crystal-clear communication style and synthesizing spirit, will bring focus and energy to our whole community. I look forward to partnering with Jessica to help shepherd the Media Lab during these challenging times to an even brighter future.”

Rosenworcel’s unique blend of public leadership and civic values reinforces the Lab’s role as a convener of bold ideas and ethical innovation.

“Jessica brings a clarity of vision grounded in human values,” added Hashim Sarkis, Dean of the MIT School of Architecture and Planning. “Her leadership will help move the Lab into its next 40 years, building on its strong legacy of ground-breaking innovation.”