Meryl Streep may not have won the Oscar for best but her talent has captivated another group of established individuals; the American Academy of Arts and Letters. The American Academy of Arts and Letters promotes continuous interests in the fine arts, music, and literature through the recognition of individual artists. Nominees may only be suggested by Academy members. Streep, along with conductor James Levine, were chosen in the category of “Americans of great distinction in the arts whose work falls outside the traditional apartments.”

Throughout her career, Meryl Streep is a two time Academy Award winner and seven time Golden Globe winner. She was overjoyed by the honor stating “I have to say that I was stunned, and when they sent me the roster of people in the academy I just burst into tears.”

Meryl Streep is most recognized for her roles in Sophie’s Choice and recently Julie and Julia.