Today, we celebrate a remarkable achievement right here in our sunny state of Florida! Mary Kelly has been elected to the prestigious American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS) for the cohort of 2026. This isn’t just any ordinary recognition; it’s a nod to her contributions to the arts, as well as a significant acknowledgment from a venerable institution that has been around since 1780. Yes, you read that right—1780! Founded by notable figures like John Adams and John Hancock, the Academy has a long-standing tradition of honoring excellence across various fields, including arts, sciences, and public policy.
Now, what’s even cooler is that this election was celebrated on April 22, 2026, in what Academy President Laurie Patton described as a fitting tribute to the achievements of new members, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. It’s a big deal! The Academy isn’t just about awards; it’s about gathering leaders from diverse sectors to explore new ideas and address pressing issues facing our nation and the world.
A Legacy of Excellence
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences has quite the impressive resume. Since its inception, over 14,500 members have been elected, each contributing significantly to their respective fields. The Academy aims to promote arts and sciences that enhance the interest and dignity of a free, independent, and virtuous society. With around 5,400 members today, including many Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners, it’s one of the oldest and most respected honorary societies in the United States.
As for Mary Kelly, she’s not just resting on her laurels. Later this year, she will showcase her work in exhibitions like “Labouring Bodies” at the Museum Tinguely in France and “What Remains” at Murray Edwards College in Cambridge. Talk about making waves across the pond! Alongside her, other talented nominees in the arts include Nicole R. Fleetwood, Torkwase Dyson, and Michael Maltzan, among others. It’s a thrilling time for the arts community.
More About the Academy
To give you a bit more context, the AAAS operates as a non-profit organization based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It’s not just about the accolades, though; the Academy focuses on influencing research and analysis in critical areas like science policy, global security, and the arts. Its motto, “Sub Libertate Florent” or “in freedom, they flourish,” perfectly encapsulates its mission. The Academy publishes various works, including “Memoirs” since 1785 and “Dædalus,” a quarterly journal since 1958, contributing to ongoing discourse in multiple disciplines.
So, next time you think about the intersection of art and science, remember that institutions like the American Academy of Arts and Sciences are working hard to foster innovation and excellence. Mary Kelly’s recent election is a celebration of this legacy. Congratulations to her, and we look forward to seeing what she will bring to the table in the years ahead!
For more information, check out the official pages of the Academy at www.amacad.org and see the news about Mary Kelly at Houldsworth or Vielmetter Los Angeles.