The National Honor Society (NHS) was founded in 1921 by Edward Rynerson, principal of the Fifth Avenue High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The proposal was made to the National Association of Secondary Principals to recognize and encourage academic achievement while developing other characteristics essential to citizens in a democracy. These ideals of scholarship, character, service, and leadership remain as relevant today as they did in 1921.

Membership selection, within the guidelines of the national organization, is handled through the local school chapter. Eligibility is more than just an honor roll. Each local NHS chapter establishes rules which are based upon the student’s outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These four criteria for selection form the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are built.

State and National Affiliation

The Minnesota Association of Honor Societies (MAHS) sponsors a State Leadership Convention for its members. Four $500 scholarships and many individual awards to outstanding chapters, individual members, and advisors are awarded. The executive committee, composed of elected student officers, co-state advisors, and the Coordinator of Student Activities, meets to plan conferences, select award recipients, and coordinate a newsletter.