A Legacy of Innovation: Prof. Richard Larson’s 55-Year Journey at MIT

Prof. Richard Larson’s extraordinary 55-year journey at MIT is a testament to the impact of seizing unexpected opportunities. What started as a short-term position grew into a lifelong legacy marked by pioneering research, transformative teaching, and lasting mentorship—leaving an indelible mark on the fields of operations research and STEM education worldwide. Throughout his career, Prof. Larson has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, addressing real-world problems with mathematical precision and human insight. From advancing queuing theory to founding Learning International Networks Coalition (LINC), his work has shaped policies and practices in education, healthcare, and urban systems. His passion for mentoring future leaders and his dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration continue to influence generations of scholars, educators, and policymakers across the globe.