On April 12, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences elected Partner Bill Lee to its 2017 class of members. He joins many of the world's most accomplished scientists, academics, journalists, civic leaders, artists and entertainers in receiving this honor.

“I feel honored and privileged to be a part of this distinguished group of individuals who have contributed to such diverse and meaningful work for the public good,” says Lee.

The academy, which is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is among the country's oldest academic societies and independent policy research centers. Its current research focuses on education, the humanities and the arts; science, engineering and technology policy; global security and international affairs; and American institutions and the public good.

“In a tradition reaching back to the earliest days of our nation, the honor of election to the American Academy is also a call to service,” said academy President Jonathan F. Fanton in a statement announcing the new member class. “Through our projects, publications and events, the Academy provides members with opportunities to make common cause and produce the useful knowledge for which the Academy's 1780 charter calls.”

Lee and his fellow honorees will be inducted into membership at a ceremony in October 2017 in Cambridge.