Olsen said Stanley was chosen due to his academic leadership and research in infectious diseases. 

“He has helped national and international groups, particularly in the last couple of years, on the COVID-19 pandemic and the critical importance of vaccination in protecting our communities,” Olsen said. “He has been a champion for science and basic research.”

Stanley has also written op-eds on the importance of science and testified before Congress. 

He is the first MSU president and 12th member from MSU to be elected. Provost Teresa Woodruff and various distinguished professors and faculty are also members. 

“He has been a leading national voice for biosecurity, science and science literacy and the ways in which higher education is a critical driver of economic development, particularly in the state of Michigan,” Woodruff said in a statement. “I am delighted to welcome President Stanley into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and know he will be an active presence and continue to lead national thinking in higher education.”

Olsen said the academy convenes leaders across the globe to address issues of importance. This year, 260 other members were elected. 

“It just speaks volumes of the university’s academic leadership and excellence and the world-class faculty that exists here, ready, willing, able to teach the next generation of leaders and doers,” Olsen said.