From the Chair of the Board of Directors

The founding mission of the Academy is “to cultivate every art and science which may tend to advance the interest, honor, dignity, and happiness of a free, independent, and virtuous people.” Over our history, we have carried out that mission in a variety of ways, while always holding true to its core of service to the nation.

When the Academy was established at the dawn of the republic, it was charged with the development of practical new knowledge that would aid a generally uneducated citizenry. Many of the early contributions came from natural observation and scientific research. Those of us who witnessed the solar eclipse this year might enjoy learning that one of the Academy’s first initiatives, in 1780, was to establish “a Committee to procure an accurate observation of the Solar eclipse in October next, in the eastern part of this State.” The expedition party was able to record “beads” of sunlight around the moon during the total eclipse, which would be named Bailey’s Beads half a century later.

With the rise of universities and research institutions by the mid-twentieth century, the Academy’s role shifted from knowledge production to knowledge application, and we developed a new focus on public policy. For example, after World War II, the Academy’s meetings and seminal volume of Dædalus on arms control influenced President Kennedy’s decision to establish the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency in September 1961. That emphasis on influencing policy has continued through the decades, with notable examples in the humanities, arts, and law.

Now, as we near the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I would describe yet another phase of service to the nation, one that harnesses the Academy’s considerable strengths in service to democracy itself. Through a multi-year commitment to advance the recommendations outlined in the Our Common Purpose report, we are working to reinforce our democratic institutions, promote civic involvement, and improve representation and access. 

Our Common Purpose is itself a major project, but it has also planted seeds that have grown to extend its scope and expand the reach of its service to the country. Individuals and groups nationwide have been inspired to initiate community efforts, establish new organizations, and introduce legislation at the local and state levels. As Laurie Patton takes the helm as our new Academy president in January, she will build on these strong foundations with new and continued efforts toward fostering broad engagement in American democracy. 

As Academy members, we are charged with the stewardship of our organization and its mission. Your participation and support make our work possible. Thank you for all you do for the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Goodwin Liu