For the first time in Grant history an African-American student, Chidinma Egbukichi, is the co-president of the esteemed academic club, the National Honor Society (NHS) Though Egbukichi has made Grant history, one problem still remains: there are very few African-American members in NHS and most of them are seniors.

National Honor Society president Chidinma Egbukichi is one of only a few students of color in the club despite efforts to increase diversity. Photo by Annie Kersting.

Christian Dreyer, advisor to NHS, has noticed the disparity and has been trying to solve this predicament. While the exact numbers depend on who is counted, presently, students of color make up approximately 15 percent of NHS, and African-Americans alone make up about six percent. Grant's African-American population is 21.4 percent.

The National Honor Society, established in 1921, is a club based on recognizing academic and extracurricular excellence in high school students. Besides the Grant High School chapter's required GPA of a 3.5, the NHS application for admittance asks for achievements in and outside of school, and work experience. Applicants must possess scholarship, leadership, service, and character. After evaluating the applications, the Grant High School faculty council of the NHS ultimately decides on the acceptance of applicants. Dreyer has taken "every necessary step" to increase the numbers of students of color within NHS but to no avail.

"I have written a special letter of invitation to every student on the list [of students with a 3.5 GPA] and I have even extended the application deadline, but nothing has worked," Dreyer explained. Dreyer offers one possibility why nothing has worked: lack of confidence. "Maybe the students don't have the confidence enough to apply themselves and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity," he said. Other members of NHS have offered their own opinions. "I don't think they specifically keep out minorities," said junior Alice McAdams. "Within separate communities or groups, there are certain things that are seen as cool." McAdams thinks that being a part of the club is more acceptable among white students than among those with color. Egbukichi agreed as well.

"Yes, [there are racial inequalities] with regard to membership of minorities," said Egbukichi. "Membership within the club does not reflect attendance at this school. I think the GPA requirement might have something to do with it, but I also think that the students think NHS is a "white club" and don't feel comfortable joining." NHS members of color have also spoken out on this delicate subject. "It's hard being one of very few students of color in groups or activities," said senior Adiana Wilmot. "I feel like people look at us in the meetings like we don't belong. I wish there were more people of color in NHS to bring more diversity [to the club]. It's kind of lonely."

With special invitations and letters being sent to these students asking them to be a part of the club, what more can be done to increase the membership of students of color? Students of color who have above a 3.5 GPA should feel welcome and are encouraged to join NHS. As stated by Egbukichi, "NHS is for everyone."