Congratulations to Dr Smit Patel on the successful defense of his PhD dissertation entitled “Engineering an In Vitro Pancreatic Niche”! His work established enabling technology for the long term culturing and assessment of pancreatic islet, which can serve to elevate not only pharmaceutical screening but also provide an in vitro window to study a hard-to-culture primary tissue. We are so grateful Dr Patel’s substantial contributions to the Stabler lab, the department, and the university! He not only contributed to the research field, but also supported a collaborative and enriching scientific culture. You have left an incredible legacy.