The Arctic environment is changing at an unprecedented rate and there is a need to understand this change and predict its future behavior. Model studies play a fundamental role as a tool for experimentation and prediction. However, progress in model development often suffers from a disconnect with observational discoveries. In turn, observational activities could better utilize model guidance regarding the relative importance of processes and improved sampling strategies. With a new generation of CMIP6 models, recent MOSAiC field campaign results, and the availability of ICESat-2 data, there are new opportunities for integrating models and observations. This session welcomes presentations on activities that combine models and observations to enhance the understanding of the changing Arctic system. Examples include methods to use observations in model validation and improvement, observational network design that use models to guide observations, and data assimilation which combine models and observations to enhance prediction of the Arctic system.