American Academy of Arts and Sciences Honors Anthony S. Fauci, MD
(April 21, 2025) — The American Academy of Arts and Sciences honored Anthony S. Fauci, MD, distinguished university professor at the School of Medicine and McCourt School of Public Policy, with the Award for Excellence in Public Policy and Public Affairs “for his extraordinary leadership, groundbreaking research and unwavering commitment to public health.”
As a new member in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Fauci signed the “Book of Members,” a tradition dating back to the academy’s 1780 founding.
The award recognizes individuals for their distinction, independence, effectiveness and work on behalf of the common good. Fauci received the honor on April 17 during a ceremony in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that was also broadcast online.
“You exemplify the academy’s values of using evidence and knowledge to advance the common good,” said Laurie L. Patton, president of the academy.
During the ceremony, Patton recalled Fauci’s trajectory in public service, from his role in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic to guiding the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic, adding: “Your unyielding commitment to science, truth and human wellbeing has saved millions of lives and in doing so, you have inspired future generations to pursue knowledge, serve humanity, and stand resolute in the face of adversity.”
“It is really with great appreciation and sincere humility that I accept the American Academy of Arts and Sciences Award for Excellence in Public Policy and Public Affairs,” Fauci said.
Before joining Georgetown in 2023, Fauci, a physician, leading immunologist and infectious disease researcher and advisor to seven U.S. presidents, served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. In December 2022, he stepped down after 38 years as director to pursue the next phase of his career: continuing to advance public health and mentoring and inspiring the next generation of leaders in science, health care and public service.