What's happened
The 2025 MacArthur Foundation fellows, announced Wednesday, include 22 individuals across arts, science, and social issues. Notable winners are atmospheric scientist Ángél Adames-Corraliza and archaeologist Kristina Douglass, recognized for their contributions to climate understanding and indigenous conservation. The award totals $800,000, paid over five years, with no application process.
What's behind the headline?
The 2025 cohort exemplifies the foundation's focus on deep community engagement and interdisciplinary work. The inclusion of scientists like Adames-Corraliza and Douglass underscores a growing recognition of climate science and indigenous knowledge as vital areas of innovation. The selection process's secrecy and peer-driven nature reinforce the prestige and unpredictability of the award. This year's emphasis on empathy and community suggests a shift towards valuing social impact alongside scientific and artistic achievement. The award's visibility will likely boost the careers of these individuals and highlight the importance of their fields, especially climate research and social justice, in addressing pressing global challenges.
What the papers say
The articles from Bloomberg, AP News, and The Independent collectively highlight the diversity and prestige of the MacArthur Fellowship. Bloomberg emphasizes the scientific achievements of Adames-Corraliza and Douglass, while AP News and The Independent detail the selection process and personal stories of recipients like Dasgupta and Johnson. The coverage underscores the foundation's peer-review process, the award's broad scope, and the societal relevance of the winners' work, illustrating how the fellowship continues to recognize impactful, community-driven innovation.
How we got here
The MacArthur Fellowship, often called the 'genius award,' has been recognizing exceptional individuals since 1981. Recipients are selected through a peer-review process, considering recommendations from a broad network, and do not apply or participate in their selection. The award aims to support innovative work across diverse fields, often highlighting community engagement and societal impact.
Go deeper
Common question
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Who Are the 2025 MacArthur Fellows and Why Do They Matter?
The 2025 MacArthur Fellows represent some of the most innovative minds across arts, science, and social issues in the U.S. These individuals are recognized for their exceptional creativity and societal impact, often arriving at pivotal moments in their careers. Curious about who they are, what they do, and what this means for innovation in America? Keep reading to discover the stories behind these groundbreaking awardees and how their work shapes our future.
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