SoE Staff Spotlight: Daria Levear, MIT CEE
Daria Levear consistently delivers exceptional work in planning and organizing every CEE event. The CEE Research Day was scheduled for February 23, 2026, but due to a snowstorm we had to cancel it and reorganize everything over the weekend, since the event was planned for Monday. Daria managed the entire process with remarkable skill. She coordinated communication with ePosterboard, the food vendor, the linen vendor, the room reservation team, faculty hosts, presenters, and all RSVP’d guests in a way that made the transition incredibly smooth.
Her quality of work has always impressed me, but this situation was truly exceptional. Her timely actions ensured that the cancellation went smoothly, allowed us to reschedule the event effectively, and minimized financial loss. She deserves to be recognized for her dedication.
Profile
Name: Daria Levear
Job Title: Event Coordinator
Department, Lab, or Center: Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering
How long have you worked at MIT: Since August 2022
In a few short sentences, describe your role and responsibilities at MIT: The role of Event Coordinator is really to bring people together, and we try to do our part to help foster a convivial community spirit within the CEE community. I plan and manage a variety of events ranging from fun celebrations to professional seminars and conferences. My day-to-day involves selecting and negotiating with vendors, placing orders, coordinating visits of guest speakers, plus handling actual setup and tear-downs for any lunches, seminars, and ceremonies happening that day.
What is your favorite part of your job: I love the transformation that happens on the event day when weeks or months of behind-the-scenes logistics finally materialize into an experience that everyone enjoys. Seeing a room full of people learning at a seminar or celebrating at a party is fulfilling and makes me feel that my work was worth it. My favorite event of the year is our Holiday Party.
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d feel comfortable sharing: With a toddler keeping me busy, there isn’t much time for hobbies. But when I do get a little bit of spare time, I enjoy reading, baking and planning our family’s future trips.
