General Info

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) with more than 15,000 members, is the largest student-managed organization in the country.

NSBE is comprised of more than 270 chapters on college and university campuses, 75 Alumni Extension chapters nationwide and 75 Pre-College chapters. These chapters are geographically divided into six regions.

NSBE had its genesis at a national conference planned and hosted by the Society of Black Engineers at Purdue University in April 1975. Black Engineering students from the United States and Canada attended the event. From this meeting of concerned students and educators, NSBE was born. In 1976, NSBE was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in the State of Texas. NSBE also became recognized as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

WMU Chapter

The Black Engineering Society at Western Michigan University began with efforts of a few black students who, in 1971, recognized the need to establish lines of communication between blacks enrolled in the various engineering and technology curricula in the College of Applied Sciences… The WMU Chapter of NSBE is apart of the ‘Mother’ Region IV along with other universities from Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin. The WMU Chapter of NSBE received its charter in 1981 and has continued to successfully strive for excellence among members in academic and industry. Our chapter presently has over 25 members including 4 executive board members.

Organization's Objectives

• Stimulate and develop student interest in the various engineering disciplines
• Strive to increase the number of minority students studying engineering at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Encourage members to seek advanced degrees in engineering or related fields and to obtain professional engineering registrations.
• Advise minority youth in their pursuit of an engineering career.
• Promote public awareness of engineering and the opportunities for blacks and other minorities in that profession.
• Function as a representative body on issues and developments that affect the careers of black engineers.

The Misson

NSBE's mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.

The Torch

The NSBE torch symbolizes our everlasting burning desire to achieve success in this competitive society and to affect a positive change on the quality of life for all people. The lightning bolt represents the striking impact that will be felt by the Society and industry due to the contributions and accomplishments made by dedicated members of the National Society of Black Engineers.

2006-2007 National Directives

Each year your elected National Chairperson provides key areas that NSBE will focus and strive for that year that he or she is elected. For 2006 - 2007, your National Chairperson, has set these areas below as our National Directives. As members, we must strive to tailor our programs, efforts and activities around these directives.

• Leadership and Academic Development
• Operational Effectiveness.
• Vital and Technical Excellence
• Expanding Career Access.