The McArthur Fellows program was an agency created by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation in 1981 to grant annual awards to individuals, known as “MacArthur Fellows,” who have exhibited creative thinking and outstanding achievement in the fields of science, medicine, the humanities, and the arts. Since its inception, the MacArthur Fellows program has awarded over $200 million in grants to hundreds of individuals worldwide.
The MacArthur Fellows are highly accomplished individuals who have made substantial contributions to their chosen fields. Typically, the Fellows are researchers, teachers, inventors, activists, activists, philosophers, artists, and other creators whose work has had significant influence on society. The MacArthur Foundation recognizes the important contributions of the Fellows through an annual award of an unrestricted $625,000 over five years for their work.
The MacArthur Fellows program is renowned for the selectiveness of its awardees. The MacArthur Board of Directors makes selections based on the nominees originality, creativity, and potential for social impact. The jury seeks candidates that demonstrate excellence within their field, but also offer the potential to become world-renowned. The invitation to become a Fellow is generally considered one of the highest honors in the world.
The selection process begins with a nomination of a worthy individual. In order to be qualified, a nominee must meet specific criteria outlined on the MacArthur Foundations website. Once a nomination is received, it is carefully evaluated by the Board of Directors. After evaluations are complete, the nominating body meets to officially select the MacArthur Fellows for the year.
The selection of a MacArthur Fellow is often considered a pinnacle of someones career, and is frequently accompanied by opportunities for greater recognition within their respective field. Because the award is unrestricted, the Fellows can invest the money in any way they would like, such as further research, expanding the scope of their endeavors, or donating the funds to enrich their community.
The Fellows are also provided with ongoing support from the MacArthur Foundation. This includes career counseling to assist Fellows in achieving their goals, networking opportunities with other MacArthur Fellows, access to events, and a certificate of achievement. Being a MacArthur Fellow is a long-term commitment that extends well beyond the five-year award period.
The list of MacArthur Fellows reads like a “whos who” of individuals who have made an impact on our world. They are entrepreneurs, scientists, musicians, writers, and researchers, among others, and their accomplishments span a range of disciplines. They have shaped the future of their fields, created new ideas, and provided guidance to others.
Today, the MacArthur Fellows Program continues to identify and recognize extraordinary individuals who are doing transformative work across all areas of human endeavor. Year after year, the Fellows remain an inspiring reminder of what is possible when passion and dedication come together in pursuit of a greater good.
