250th Commemoration & Award Event

In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary year, the American Academy is partnering with the American Philosophical Society (APS) and Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) on a series of events.

The next occasion will be gathering in Chicago at Phi Beta Kappa’s 250th anniversary celebration for Free Expressions: Academic Freedom and the Public Good. The program will explore the vital role of scholarship, intellectual inquiry, and the free exchange of ideas in a democratic society. It will feature a keynote address and fireside conversation with Academy Member Carla Hayden, 14th Librarian of Congress, reflecting on the indispensable role of libraries, scholarship, and the open exchange of ideas in sustaining a vibrant and democratic society.  

The program will also include the presentation of special awards from the three organizations. We are pleased to announce that Academy President Laurie Patton will present the Academy’s Scholar-Patriot Award to leading scholar of American politics John Mark Hansen (University of Chicago). Mark is being recognized for his distinguished scholarship, exceptional service to the Academy, and longstanding commitment to advancing knowledge and civic life in the spirit of the Academy’s—and our nation’s—founders.   

We hope you will join us for an evening of celebration, reflection, and connection.