The History of NSCS

The Society was founded in 1994 at The George Washington University in Washington, DC. NSCS has active chapters on over 145 college and university campuses across the United States. Chapters are involved in service to their campus and local communities as well as scholastic and social activities. NSCS was founded as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate academic achievement among bright and ambitious first and second-year students. Over the past 7 years NSCS has evolved from one chapter located in our Nation's capitol to over 120 chapters across the country.

NSCS is committed to MAKING A DIFFERENCE on campus and in the community. During our brief history our members have developed and maintained a commitment to community service, academic success, and leadership development. Students joining NSCS have achieved a GPA of 3.4 or higher within their first two years of college. Chapters have participated in community service programs which include canned food drives, Habitat for Humanity, scavenger hunts to gather food for families during the holidays, visits to nursing homes, and voter registration initiatives - just to name a few. All chapters of NSCS participate in Planning for College Success (PFCS.) PFCS is our partnership with Colin Powell and his Commitment to America's Promise. This is a program in which NSCS students partner with 7th graders in their communities and encourage them to strive towards college.

NSCS @ UCF

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars was established at UCF in November 1999 when NSCS headquarters staff met with Helen Chaddon, a member inducted while a student at the University of South Florida, and Chris Marrazzo, a first year student. In the following six months, an interest group was formed and Dr. Elizabeth Mustaine undertook the role as Chapter Advisor. In Spring 2000, all eligible 1st and 2nd year students were invited to become members. In August 2000 UCF had its first annual induction ceremony with only two officers(Chaddon and Marrazzo) and an advisor. Over 700 students were inducted. In its first year, NSCS formed a group of officers who would lay the foundation for the chapter.

The chapter participated in various service projects. In May 2001, Helen Chaddon graduated and Chris Marrazzo took over as president. Two months later, the UCF chapter had four members represented at the annual NSCS Leadership Summit, held right here in Orlando. Over 350 NSCS members nationwide built a playground in the Meadows Housing Complex in Winter Park. In August 2001, the chapter inducted over another 700 students, and since then has participated in service projects with Special Olympics and Habitat for Humainity. The chapter had also offered practice testing sessions with The Princeton Review. A large step in the growth of the chapter was taken in November with the unveiling of the UCF NSCS Website. This has allowed more students to become connected to the chapter and hopes that the chapter will have continued success and involvement on campus and within the community.

Symbols
The Book
The book symbolizes the endless pursuit of knowledge. May our members always be reminded that scholars whose search for knowledge exceeds their desire for emotional security are those who shape history.

The Torch
The Torch represents the ability of each of us to serve as a guiding light for others and for the ability of education to serves as a beacon of light, eradicating ignorance. May our members always seek to expand educational opportunities for themselves and others.

The Stars
The stars illuminate the three ideals upon which the society is founded: Scholarship, Leadership, and Service. Through Scholarship we become qualified for leadership. As leadership provides the opportunity for personal growth, so service rejuvenates and replenished the world around us. may our members always employ their own brilliance for the good of all.

The Laurel
The laurel is an ancient symbol of distinction. It serves to remind our members that they are part of a long and noble tradition of distinguished leaders. May the Society's members uphold their place in history by living up to the honor bestowed upon them.

Official Colors
Crimson and Gold