Unlike older institutions with generations of established traditions and reputations, UC Irvine began with a blank canvas and an ambitious vision. The results of these efforts are becoming increasingly evident in the growing number of UC Irvine faculty earning election to the nation’s most prestigious scholarly organizations. Membership in the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, National Academy of Medicine, National Academy of Education and National Academy of Inventors represents the highest level of professional recognition in academia. Between 2000 and 2002, five UC Irvine faculty were elected to these academies; between 2024 and 2026 (so far), 19 have been. Membership enhances opportunities for collaborative research, influences national policy discussions, and lures graduate students and prospective faculty.