National Achievers Society (NAS)
NAS Application
Program Overview
The National Achievers Society (NAS) was established to identify and inspire academically accomplished minority high school students, with the goal of expanding the pool of individuals who are ready, motivated, and qualified for higher education.
In the 2025–2026 academic year, the Knoxville Area Urban League NAS cohort inducted 88 scholars from high schools across Knox County. This diverse and dynamic group represents a broad range of schools, communities, and academic interests.
Throughout the school year, NAS scholars and their families participate in weekend events, service projects, leadership workshops, and college readiness activities. The program spans three years—beginning in the sophomore year and continuing through senior year—offering consistent support for academic achievement, cultural enrichment, and preparation for post-secondary success.
Applications are now open for the 2025–2026 NAS program year. Interested students and families are encouraged to apply and join a legacy of excellence, leadership, and achievement. Click the button above to apply.
Attention all NAS Alumni! Were you a scholar through the Knoxville Area Urban League? Now's your chance to reconnect by joining the NAS Alumni Network!
By joining, you will have the opportunity to:
- Stay engaged with the Knoxville Area Urban League (KAUL)
- Network with current NAS scholars
- Access exclusive opportunities
- Contribute through panels, tours, and mentorship
This is a low-commitment network designed to help you cultivate new connections and give back to the community.
Click Here to Stay Connected
Founding
The Campaign for African American Achievement commenced in March 1997, bringing leaders of national black organizations together to review, analyze, and strategize solutions for the educational and developmental challenges confronting African American children and other youth of color.
Purpose
NAS aims to inspire, acknowledge, and strengthen achievements among African American youth and other youth of color. The purpose of the National Achievers Society is to significantly diminish the negative peer pressure often linked with high academic achievement. This is achieved by fostering an environment where motivation thrives, paving the way for academic success to flourish.
Kemet Chapter
The Kemet chapter of the National Achievers Society, founded in Knoxville in 2004, derives its name from the rich history of Egypt, the first great civilization in Africa, where "Kemet" translates to "Black Land." This symbolism reflects the chapter's commitment to encouraging scholars to thrive despite negativity and hardship, much like Egypt flourished amidst challenging conditions by utilizing the gift of the Nile River.
Criteria & Expectations
- Enrolled in grades 10-12
- Maintain a GPA of 3.o or higher
- Actively participate in all activities and engage fully
- Recognize themselves as meaningful contributors to their community through service to others
- Acknowledge that education is the key unlocking the doors to success
Project Ready Mentor
Project Ready coupled with a hybrid (one-on-one & group) mentoring model at the Knoxville Are Urban League provides National Achievers Society scholars with additional support in understanding their goals & aspirations while building the mental& emotional foundation to THRIVE.
Mentor Application
Project Ready
Project Ready is an innovative and unique college access program that provides a comprehensive, research-based approach to preparing young people and families for the challenges and promise of higher education. Project Ready is geared to reach the whole student and is comprised of three key components: Academic Development, Social Development and Cultural and Global Awareness. Students may enter the program as early as middle school and participate throughout their high school career.
Example of Project Ready: Hampton Roads Video