All About NSBE
Where we come from, what we are working toward, and why our members keep showing up.
Founded 1974
Six engineering students at Purdue started all of this.
The National Society of Black Engineers was founded in 1974 by six students who refused to be the only ones in the room. They are known as the “Chicago Six,” and every chapter since — ours included — traces back to them.
- Edward Coleman
- Anthony Harris
- Brian Harris
- Stanley L. Kirtley
- John W. Logan Jr.
- George Smith

Our purpose
Our Mission
To increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.
What we envision
A world where Black engineers are leaders in innovation and creators of positive change within their communities.
What we do about it
We give students the tools, resources, and networks to thrive academically and professionally, and we build a community that makes excellence a shared habit. The motivation behind that work is what we call our NSBE Why.
Membership is open to all University of Houston students.
In their words
Why NSBE?
We stay motivated by having a deep understanding of our "Why NSBE." Here is what this year's officers have to say about theirs.

NSBE is more than an organization to me, it is a community where Black engineers are empowered to recognize their potential, create opportunities for one another, and succeed together. As president, my goal is to lead with service and leave every member better than I found them.

Join our community
UH NSBE is more than just an organization, it’s a family. Come learn what it means to be part of the NSBEfam at the University of Houston.
Become a member