NSHSS History

Launch of a new website

NSHSS launches a new and improved online experience.

NSHSS awards inaugural Future Educators Scholarship 

NSHSS recognizes students with a passion for education and an aspiration to change it.

NSHSS adds the First Generation Scholarship 

The First Generation award was established to recognize and honor first-generation college students for their academic and leadership initiatives.

NSHSS awards the first Experiential Learning Grants

NSHSS celebrates the experiential learning programs educators use to stimulate academic inquiry by promoting interdisciplinary learning, civic engagement, career development, cultural awareness, leadership, and other professional and intellectual skills.

NSHSS pilots the Social Emotional Learning in the Classroom Grant

To aid educators in spreading awareness and affect change regarding mental health in their classrooms, NSHSS began the Social Emotional Learning in the Classroom Grant. 

NSHSS celebrates 20 years

NSHSS celebrated 20 years of supporting students around the world.

Intern Readiness Certificate Program

NSHSS launched the Intern Readiness Certificate Program, created to give students a toolkit of vital skills to allow them to succeed.

NSHSS Career Survey is published with results from over 11,000 respondents

Organizations, institutions, and employers have relied on this report to develop informed strategies for engaging, managing, and retaining a diverse and talented young workforce.

NSHSS adds the Why Vote? Voter Awareness & Education Scholarship

NSHSS awards students who demonstrate an active commitment for spreading awareness/education on the importance of voting in their community. 

NSHSS awards the first Passion for Public Service Scholarship

Public service can take many forms: urban planning, environmental protection, emergency services and first responders, even military service and public education. Those who are public servants are integral parts of everyday communities and NSHSS celebrates them with this scholarship. 

Two Million Members

NSHSS reached a milestone of two million lifetime members globally.

NSHSS adds the 18 under 18 Award

The 18 under 18 Award celebrates the nation's most effective leaders under 18 whose inspiration spreads positive influence for world betterment.

Notorious RBG Women of Tomorrow scholarship honors the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg

NSHSS honors the blazing legacy of "Notorious RBG" with $10,000 in scholarships for students embodying the spirit of Ruth Bader Ginsburg within their own communities.

NSHSS Mental Health Awareness Scholarship is added

The NSHSS Mental Health Awareness scholarship awards students for their positive efforts in spreading awareness and affecting change regarding mental health.

The first NSHSS Innovation in Technology Scholarships are awarded

This NSHSS program honors students with a dedicated passion for AI, technology, coding, and more. 

NSHSS starts offering the Your First Scholarship 

NSHSS helps students through the process of winning their first scholarship! In Your First Scholarship, students are guided through all the steps of the application process, learning the best tips and tricks, and essentially, leaving you with a refined "toolbox" for use in future endeavors. 

NSHSS begins the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Teaching Grant

The NSHSS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Teaching Grant is for educators who serve in rural areas, have diverse student populations, or are actively promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives in their school or greater community.

Inaugural Be More Competition awards $100,000 in grants for world betterment ideas

NSHSS invited all of our members, families, educators, and partners to join us online for the live final round of the Be More-a-Thon recognizing innovation for world betterment. The winners of the ten $10,000 Be More Fund grants were chosen and awarded in real-time on November 14, 2020, in an exciting final round!

NSHSS Co-founder Claes Nobel Celebrates 90th Birthday

The NSHSS community celebrated Mr. Nobel's 90th birthday on July 20, 2020, with gifts of song, verse, artwork, and words of gratitude for his support of students and service to world betterment.

NSHSS Responds to Global Pandemic

In the spring of 2020, in response to the global coronavirus pandemic, NSHSS shifted to remote work and the rapid development of resources to support our student and educator community. We launched more than 60 free virtual webinars, several new scholarships, and a series of relevant World Betterment initiatives.

NSHSS pledges $10,000 to fund college students in emergent situations

In the spring of 2020 in response to the global coronavirus pandemic, NSHSS pledged $10,000 toward college students experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic. 

NSHSS announces first annual John Lewis Good Trouble Scholarship 

NSHSS honors Representative Lewis's legacy by awarding recipients who embody the "good trouble" ideals with this scholarship.

NSHSS begins the Virtual Valedictorian Scholarship  

2020 graduates had anything but a traditional end to their senior year; this NSHSS scholarship celebrated graduation by providing a platform for inspiring high school seniors to share their wisdom with their peers.  

NSHSS awards the first Activism and Advocacy Scholarship

The Activism and Advocacy Scholarship honors those passionate about social, political, or civil change.

NSHSS announced the Community College or Trade School Scholarship

This NSHSS program was launched to assist students pursuing their goals at a community college or trade school.

NSHSS hosts a Virtual Prom

The 2020 virtual prom allowed students to celebrate such an important milestone as a prom virtually, despite the circumstances of the pandemic. 

NSHSS Hosts Its First Member Event at St. Jude

On October 25-26, 2019, NSHSS teamed up with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and ALSAC to bring a group of our members to the St. Jude campus in Memphis, TN for an event that allowed them to explore all aspects of careers in healthcare and research.

NSHSS Introduces the Passion Project Exhibition During Scholar's Day D.C.

On Auguest 3-4 2018, NSHSS implemented the first-ever Passion Projects Exhibition during Scholar's Day D.C. giving members from around the world a chance to showcase their research, passion, and solutions to the issues most dear to them. Presented to a panel of judges as poster board exhibits, student exhibitors competed for up to $2,500 in scholarships.

NSHSS Hosts Its First Hong Kong Member Event

On March 26, 2017, NSHSS and its collaborating university partner The University of Hong Kong, hosted the first member event. This event gathered over 200 high-achieving high school students to hear about opportunities for college preparation and scholarships. NSHSS Co-Founder Mr. Claes Nobel shared his message of universal peace and asked students to to be good stewards of the earth.

Mr. Nobel at the UN

On February 18, 2016, Claes Nobel addressed 500 youth leaders attending the 2016 Winter Youth Assembly at the United Nations in New York City. In his keynote address, Mr. Nobel discussed the power that young people possess to create lasting world change.

2014 Claes Nobel World Betterment Award

On December 5, 2015, Claes Nobel formally presented the 2014 Claes Nobel World Betterment Award to Dr. William E. Evans, former President and CEO of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, at The Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, Georgia. The Award was established in 2013 to honor outstanding individuals who are making exceptional contributions for global unity and cultural understanding.

The International Services Council

On March 6, 2015, Claes Nobel delivered a keynote speech at the 50th Anniversary Gala of the Huntsville-based International Services Council of Alabama. The International Services Council, now the Global Ties Alabama, is one of 94 non-profit councils in the United States.

Claes Nobel Receives Humanitarian of the Year Award from SCIP

On April 24, 2014, the Selective Corporate Internship Program (SCIP) presented Mr. Nobel with their prestigious Humanitarian of the Year Award at SCIP's 17th annual gala celebration. SCIP, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization was founded in 1997 by Monica and Miguel Mancebo to provide intensive, business environment training to talented inner city high school students from New York City and New Jersey.

Founders James Lewis and Claes Nobel Attend President Obama’s Second Inauguration

NSHSS scholars joined a group of nearly 2,000 of their peers at the High School Presidential Inaugural Conference in Washington, D.C., January 19-23, 2013, in conjunction with the Inauguration of the President and Vice President of the United States. NSHSS partner Envision sponsored this unique and historic event.

NSHSS Fellows Program Is Launched

The NSHSS Fellows Program is an alumni network of NSHSS members who have graduated from college, who are actively involved in the academic, corporate, arts, or non-profit communities across all industries, and who are deeply committed to improving themselves and the communities in which they work and live. As of 2020, there are more than 600 active NSHSS fellows.

Stockholm University Hosts NSHSS Scholars During Nobel Week

From December 7-10, 2013, Stockholm University hosted a special member event for NSHSS scholars, who traveled from aroud the world to Stockholm, Sweden, to experience Nobel Week, a time of festivities in honor of the 2013 Nobel Laureates. Stockholm University hosted an array of activities, including attending Nobel Prize Laureate lectures at the University and participating in Swedish cultural traditions.

Stockholm University Hosts Claes Nobel and James Lewis During Nobel Week

Mr. Nobel returned to his native country to share his insights with students during the annual Nobel Week celebrations in Stockholm, Sweden, where the Nobel Prizes are awarded. On December 6, 2012, Mr. Nobel addressed Swedish and international students participating in Business Administration and Political Science Bachelor’s Program at Stockholm University.

James Lewis Receives Phoenix Award from the City of Atlanta

The prestigious Phoenix Award was presented to James Lewis on behalf of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed at the NSHSS Holiday Member Event held at The Carter Center. Mayor Reed said, "Atlanta is truly blessed to say James W. Lewis is one of her own. He gives so much to students and works hard alongside of them to set an example for others to give selflessly."

James Lewis Receives Diversity Champion Award at the World Diversity Leadership Summit

James Lewis received this award at the World Diversity Leadership Summit in St. Louis, MO for his work in building a dynamic academic organization that fosters diversity and inclusion. NSHSS scholars also met representatives from top corporations and government organizations to discuss effective global diversity

Claes Nobel Receives Legacy Award from Usher's New Look Foundation

Usher Raymond IV, Founding Chairman of Usher's New Look Foundation, and award-winning musician, honored Mr. Nobel with the New Look Foundation Service Legacy Award during a ceremony closing the 2012 World Leadership Conference in Atlanta. He was honored for his establishment of NSHSS, exemplifying his passionate leadership for youth, environmental stewardship, and humanitarianism.

Claes Nobel Delivers Virginia State University Commencement Speech and Accepts Honorary Degree from President Keith Miller

Mr. Claes Nobel delivered the commencement address to the Virginia State University graduates on May 13 in Richmond. University President Keith T. Miller also conferred upon Mr. Nobel an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters, recognizing him as “a renowned champion of environmental stewardship and youth leadership.”

NSHSS Educator of the Year Program Is Launched

The Educator of the Year award is presented annually to an exemplary educator who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to preparing students for success in college and in life. This recipient exemplifies best practices in teaching, is an outstanding role model for peers and students, and demonstrate outstanding leadership and excellence in education.

NSHSS Joins the Creative Coalition and Be a STAR Alliance Anti-Bullying Initiative

NSHSS President James Lewis, who serves on the advisory board for this important initiative, accompanied NSHSS members to the Be A STAR kick-off gala in Washington, DC. “STAR” or "Show Tolerance And Respect" has a mission to ensure a positive and equitable social environment regardless of age, race, religion, or sexual orientation through grassroots efforts beginning with education and awareness.

NASDAQ Celebrates Claes Nobel's 80th Birthday

Mr. Nobel was invited to preside over the open or closing bell ceremony at the NASDAQ Stock Market in Times Square to celebrate his 80th birthday. The tradition continued for many years, thereafter. He was showcased, along with NSHSS, for his dedication to encouraging today’s young scholars to become tomorrow’s leaders. Following the ceremony, Mr. Nobel met with scholars and their families in the Times Square NASDAQ reception rooms.

NSHSS Ambassador Program is Launched

NSHSS Ambassadors are high school leaders representing the Society as positive role models. NSHSS offers the Ambassador Scholar Award to support college tuition scholarships for outstanding seniors each year who have demonstrated the characteristics of a model Ambassador. Today, more than 6,000 students participate in the program.

NSHSS launches its annual Career Survey of Millennials

Each year NSHSS surveys its membership, charting preferences and attitudes of high-achieving students in the areas of career choices, workplace environment, educational goals, and more. The research can yield insights into developing strategies for employers and for engaging the emerging talent pipeline. The survey receives national press coverage each year.

Claes Nobel honored at Grauman's Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles, CA

Claes Nobel was honored at Grauman's Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles, CA, at the 4th annual Artivist Film Festival & Artivist Awards for his commitment to global leadership in environmental ethics and youth outreach and for his inspirational work towards a better world.

NSHSS Members Meet Nobel Laureate Herbert Kroemer at University of California, Santa Barbara

More than 500 NSHSS members met Nobel Laureate in Physics, UCSB faculty, and NSHSS Advisory Board member Herbert Kroemer during the member event at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The program celebrated “The Passion of Invention,” a theme inspired by Mr. Kroemer. 

First Annual Holiday Member Event at The Carter Presidential Center

NSHSS held the first-ever annual holiday recognition event in December at The Carter Center. Founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, the Atlanta-based Carter Center helps to improve the quality of life for people around the globe. The event included workshops, panels, a college fair, and more. More than 450 students, educators, and families attended the event.

NSHSS Chairman Claes Nobel Delivers Commencement to the School of Law at Griffith College in Dublin, Ireland

Mr. Nobel met with university officials, including Griffith College President Diarmuid Hegarty and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate John Hume, who was awarded Griffith College‘s Distinguished Fellowship Award at the graduation ceremony for students of law.

NSHSS Members visit Australia and Advisory Board Member Dr. Di Yerbury with Mr. Nobel and Mr. Lewis

NSHSS members were invited to a special Australian adventure. Members stayed at Macquarie University campus in Sydney, Australia, and heard from university professors, including Dr. Di Yerbury, Vice Chairman Emeritus of Macquarie University, who is the first woman vice chancellor of an Australian university.

Robert Sheppard Leadership Award is Launched

More than 1,500 students compete for this prestigious award each year. This scholarship was established in honor of former NSHSS Vice President Robert Sheppard. This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding dedication and initiative in ongoing projects that better their communities. 

NSHSS Educator of Distinction Program is Launched

Each year, members are invited to nominate a teacher who has made the most difference in their lives and has inspired them as an outstanding role model. These dedicated teachers and counselors are recognized as Claes Nobel Educators of Distinction and are celebrated at events. To date, NSHSS has recognized 55,000 Educators of Distinction worldwide.

First Annual Scholar's Day Celebration is held in the U.S. Senate

NSHSS hosted an annual celebration honoring our scholars and educators in Washington, D.C. Students, teachers, families, and NSHSS friends and partners gather from all over the world to recognize achievements and to be motivated and inspired by outstanding mentors in the U.S. capitol.

NSHSS Introduces Collegiate Council Members

NSHSS Collegiate Council members are college students selected for their outstanding leadership abilities. They offer advice to high school members about preparing for and succeeding in college. They participate in member events and also share their experiences through social media and articles. In 2003, over 200 students served on the Council.