The 2024 MacArthur Foundation Fellowships, commonly referred to as 'genius grants', have awarded $800,000 over five years to 22 recipients, including notable figures such as Dr. Ruha Benjamin, Dr. Jericho Brown, and visual artists like Ebony G. Patterson and Tony Cokes. This year marks a notable increase in the number of writers and artists among the fellows, reflecting a broader cultural trend towards storytelling and the exploration of underrepresented narratives. The selection process is highly confidential, with nominees recommended by peers and vetted by an independent advisory board, and recipients are often unaware of their nominations until they are selected. Marlies Carruth, director of the program, emphasized the importance of this discretion, allowing for honest evaluations. Many fellows, including children's author Jason Reynolds, expressed surprise and gratitude upon receiving the call informing them of their selection. The initiative has recognized approximately 1,100 individuals since its inception in 1981, celebrating diverse contributions across various fields.