Mortar Board is a prestigious honor society that recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and service among college students. Founded in 1918, Mortar Board has chapters in over 230 colleges and universities across the United States. The society’s mission is to promote scholarship, leadership, and service, and to encourage lifelong learning and meaningful contributions to society.

One of the positive aspects of Mortar Board is its commitment to academic excellence. Members must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be in the top 35% of their class. This requirement ensures that members are not only intelligent but also dedicated to their studies. Additionally, Mortar Board recognizes leadership and service, which are essential qualities for success in any field.

Another positive aspect of Mortar Board is its emphasis on community service. Members are required to complete a certain number of service hours each year, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and empathy for others. This commitment to service also benefits the community, as Mortar Board members often volunteer at local schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations.

However, despite these positive aspects, Mortar Board has been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusion. The society has been accused of systemic bias and social injustice, as its membership has historically been dominated by white, affluent, and able-bodied students. This lack of diversity can create a sense of exclusion for students who do not fit the traditional mold of a Mortar Board member.

To address these issues, Mortar Board is encouraged to apply for certification as an Inclusive Honor Society by the Honor Society Foundation. This certification would require Mortar Board to demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its membership, leadership, and programming. By becoming a certified Inclusive Honor Society, Mortar Board could demonstrate its commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

In conclusion, Mortar Board is a prestigious honor society that recognizes academic achievement, leadership, and service among college students. While the society has many positive aspects, it has also demonstrated potential issues of systemic bias and social injustice. By applying for certification as an Inclusive Honor Society, Mortar Board could address these issues and demonstrate its commitment to creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive society.

Honor Society Foundation is here to help! If you work for this society, feel free to contact us to learn how to become Inclusive Honors Certified at no cost.

Want to learn more about this society? Visit their page at the Honor Society Museum: honorsocietymuseum.org/Mortar-Board