WASHINGTON — The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine announced today the appointment of photographer Christopher Michel as artist-in-residence.  In this position, Michel will leverage visual storytelling to celebrate the work of scientists, engineers, and medical professionals and to inspire others to engage in solving Earth’s grand challenges.  Michel has volunteered for many years in various capacities for the National Academies, including as a member of the Presidents’ Circle, on the division committee of the Division on Earth and Life Studies, and as an adviser to the Climate Communications Initiative. 

“The National Academies have long recognized that engaging the public through art and the humanities is a powerful way to foster appreciation for the impact of science and critical and innovative thinking, and have supported programs to foster connections with artists, musicians, poets, filmmakers, and other creative communities,” said Marcia McNutt, president of the National Academy of Sciences.  “We are pleased to have Chris join us and bring his refined eye and unique style of portraiture to the groundbreaking work being done today in science, engineering, and medicine.”

As a photographer, Michel has documented people working in extreme locations such as the North and South Poles, Mount Everest, and the edge of space (aboard a U-2 reconnaissance plane).  His images have appeared broadly in print and online and have been a resource to science-based organizations for over a decade. Michel has published a number of fine art books and is working on his latest book with travel writer Pico Iyer.  Prior to becoming a photographer, he flew for the U.S. Navy as a navigator and mission commander aboard P-3C patrol aircraft.  Michel holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois, a Master of Business Administration from the Harvard Business School, and an honorary doctorate from Tiffin University.

The National Academies have a range of activities that engage broad communities in the work of scientists, engineers, and medical professionals.  These include programs such as Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences (CPNAS) and The Science & Entertainment Exchange, as well as LabX, EngineerGirl, and Young Leaders Visualize Health Equity, which are designed to demonstrate the vital role of science, engineering, and medicine in daily life, and as potential fields of career opportunities. 

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine are private, nonprofit institutions that provide independent, objective analysis and advice to the nation to solve complex problems and inform public policy decisions related to science, technology, and medicine. They operate under an 1863 congressional charter to the National Academy of Sciences, signed by President Lincoln.

Contact:
Dana Korsen, Media Relations Manager
Office of News and Public Information
202-334-2138; news@nas.edu