W.E.B. Du Bois Honor Society

About the W.E.B. Honor Society

The W.E.B. Du Bois National Honors Society is an organization committed to the scholarship and leadership recognition of collegiate undergraduates, especially African American students. Although the organization is sponsored by the Honors College, membership is open to any student who is academically eligible and who shares the ideals of and plans to contribute to the academic advancement and achievement of African American students both on campus and within the local community.

Founded in 1991 on the campus of Florida State University, the Du Bois National Honors Society is actively seeking institutional chartership on campuses all across the country.  The University of Maryland chapter is pleased to have been granted institutional membership

Students interested in membership must have a minimum cumulative GPA of a 3.30 and be registered as an enrolled full time student actively seeking an undergraduate degree.  Students are inducted in the fall semester.  If you are interested in applying, please click on the link to the application.

How much is membership?
Membership is $50, which covers your $25 national dues, induction materials    including certificate and honor cords and local dues

What if my GPA is below a 3.3 but close, may I still be considered for membership?
The 3.3 requirement is a minimum set by the national office and we cannot therefore lower the initiation requirement

Do I need to be involved once inducted?
The expectation is that all members will be actively involved as demonstrated leadership to one’s community is a significant component of this organization.

What are the benefits of memberships?
The opportunity to be distinguished among peers and to be a part of the intellectual and socially conscious legacy that is Dr. Du Bois’

Do I need to attend the induction ceremony?
Students should make every effort to participate in the induction ceremony as that date will be posted well ahead of time.

Who can attend the ceremony?
We encourage you to invite friends and family members.  We will ask that you   rsvp your guests with the Honors College staff.

Am I automatically a member of the Honors College if I am given membership to the Society?
No. Although the Honors College hosts the chapter, the two are different entities. Current UMD students may, however, apply to the University Honors living-learning program that is a part of the Honors College.  The application is usually available on June on the Honors College website, www.honors.umd.edu

Can graduate students at the University of Maryland become members?
Unfortunately, at this time the Honor Society is for undergraduate students only.