President Sarah Willie-LeBreton Elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences
Published October 12, 2026
Sarah Willie-LeBreton, President of Smith College, has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in the Leadership, Policy, and Communications area. The induction ceremony was held on October 10, 2026, in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The Academy recognized Willie-LeBreton’s career as an applied sociologist, her insightful scholarship on race and social inequality, and her enduring dedication to advancing equity and inclusion in higher education. The academy also highlighted Willie-LeBreton’s leadership as the 12th president of Smith College, her extensive governance across educational and civic organizations, and her steadfast belief in leveraging sociological research to address real-world challenges while strengthening liberal arts communities.
“Having chosen a career in research, teaching, and higher education leadership, few honors are as meaningful as those bestowed by colleagues,” said Willie-LeBreton. “And in this particular moment, when we find ourselves defending the very activities that propel humanity forward and that light the way toward greater understanding and mutuality, I am humbled by this recognition and inspired to continue the work.”
Willie-LeBreton joins more than 20 Smith-affiliated members of the academy, including five past Smith presidents; alums Gloria Steinem ’56 and Deborah N. Archer ’93; two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry, U.S. Poet Laureate, and past Smith College Writer-in-Residence Richard Wilbur; Smith College Elizabeth A. Woodson 1922 Professor Emerita of Africana Studies Paula J. Giddings; and Michael Gorra, professor of English language and literature.
Willie-LeBreton is among more than 250 new members of the Academy who were recognized for their excellence and leadership. Founded during the American Revolution, the Academy is both an honorary society that recognizes and celebrates the excellence of its members and an independent research center convening leaders from across disciplines, professions, and perspectives to address significant challenges.
