Story perspectives

2025 MacArthur Fellows Announced: Innovators in Art and Science

10/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Heather Christian is among 2025 MacArthur Fellows, receiving $800,000 over five years; selections are by anonymous nominators.
Matt Black, photographer documenting economic inequity, and Garrett Bradley, filmmaker exploring racial oppression.
Hahrie Han, a political scientist, studies public-life participation, inspired by college activism.
Toby Kiers, evolutionary biologist, studies fungi and biodiversity and founded the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1981 by the MacArthur Foundation, the MacArthur Fellowship, often called the "Genius Grant," awards $800,000 to 20-30 individuals annually for their creative potential. Over 1,175 fellows, including Toni Morrison, have been recognized for their contributions across various fields. Recent selections emphasize pressing societal issues, with fellows like Matt Black and Garrett Bradley addressing economic inequity and racial oppression.

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Story summary

Heather Christian is among 2025 MacArthur Fellows, receiving $800,000 over five years; selections are by anonymous nominators.
Matt Black, photographer documenting economic inequity, and Garrett Bradley, filmmaker exploring racial oppression.
Hahrie Han, a political scientist, studies public-life participation, inspired by college activism.
Toby Kiers, evolutionary biologist, studies fungi and biodiversity and founded the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks.

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