The American Astronomical Society (AAS) has announced a new accolade: Fellow of the AAS, and four department members are part of the inaugural class. Professors Marc Kamionkowski, Adam Riess, Joseph Silk, and Rosemary Wyse were recognized for “original research and publication, innovative contributions to astronomical techniques or instrumentation, significant contributions to education and public outreach, and noteworthy service to astronomy and to the Society itself.”

The initial group of AAS Fellows was designated by the AAS Board of Trustees. These include past recipients of certain awards from the AAS or its topical Divisions, distinguished AAS elected leaders and volunteer committee members, and previously unrecognized individuals with long histories of outstanding research, teaching, mentoring, and service.