nsbe history
Purdue University, 1975 - The National Society of Black Engineers was founded by Anthony Harris, Brian Harris, Stanley L. Kirtley, John W. Logan Jr., Edward A. Coleman, and George A. Smith also known as "The Chicago Six". NSBE was eventually incorporated in Texas, in 1976 as a non-profit organization. John Cason, also of Purdue, served as the first elected president of NSBE.
The function of this organization was to increase retention and success of black students, as well as to enhance the recruitment of black engineers. NSBE was built as an organization that would promote the development of students academically, professionally and would positively impact on the community as stated in the mission "To increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community." In addition to the mission, NSBE wanted to focus on Seven Key Business Areas that are Academic Excellence, Communication, Continuous Education and Career Access, Cultural and Community Awareness, Financial Vitality, Leadership, and Technical Excellence.
Three official documents, the National Constitution, Bylaws, and the National Long Range Plan govern NSBE. There are seven standing committees and they include Academic Excellence, Charter Membership, Communication, Finance, Pre-College Initiative, Publications and Public Relations. NSBE's National Executive Officers (NEO) are National Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Programs Chair, and the Secretary. In addition to the NEO, two positions serve as advisory members and do not have voting power they are the Chair Emeritus and the Parliamentarian.