About National Beta

Impacting Students and Empowering Communities

As the largest, independent, educational youth organization in America, National Beta emphasizes our four pillars by providing opportunities and experiences to impact our members, their schools, and communities across the world.

Academic Achievement

Character

Leadership

Service

The National Beta Constitution

The National Beta Club was founded on the standards set forth in our Constitution and continues to uphold students to the same ideals. The articles of our Constitution and By-Laws provide direction and purpose for all clubs across the globe.

A History of Leading By Example

Dr. John West Harris, a small-town farm boy turned wartime flying instructor, led the life of both an adventurer and scholar. Dr. Harris was a lauded proponent of education with A.B. and M.A. degrees from Wofford College, a Ph.D. from The University of North Carolina, a membership in Phi Beta Kappa and a year’s attendance at Columbia University Law School. His joy of learning led to a joy of teaching- both inside and outside of the classroom, stressing that academics and life experiences were equally valuable for personal and professional success. A well-rounded individual himself, Dr. Harris was the epitome of “lead by example”.

In 1934, the dream became a reality with the establishment of National Beta, a national organization devoted to honoring and recognizing students for their achievement, character and leadership qualities, as well as encouraging growth through service and comradery. From the first club of 15 members at Landrum High School in Landrum, SC to an international student organization with 500,000 members annually, National Beta has grown in size, but its focus, and values have held steadfast and true to the vision which Dr. Harris set forth.

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Who We Are

Lyle J. Gladney sr rep ga

Lyle J. Gladney

Senior Leadership Representative, National Leadership Ambassador

Global Leadership Academy

Georgia

Sydney Byrd jr rep ky

Sydney Byrd

Junior Leadership Representative, National Leadership Ambassador

Austin Tracy Elementary

Kentucky

Laura Higson el rep ky

Laura Higdon

Elementary Leadership Representative, National Leadership Ambassador

Chesser

Kentucky

Zion Jenkins sr rep la

Zion Jenkins

Senior Leadership Representative, National Leadership Ambassador

Franklinton High School

Louisiana

Scarlett Morales jr rep la

Scarlett Morales

Junior Leadership Representative, National Leadership Ambassador

Prairieville Middle School

Louisiana

Cora Sanders sr rep tn

Cora Sanders

Senior Leadership Representative, National Leadership Ambassador

Morristown Hamblen High School West

Tennessee

National Beta Board Members Emeritus

A National Beta Board Member Emeritus is a former board member who has completed their service and is honored with a lifetime designation in recognition of their dedication and lasting contributions to the organization.

Board MS StantonLong

Stanton Long

Board Member Emeritus​ 2023

patstout

Pat Stout

Board Member Emeritus​ 2018

Harry M. Ward

Harry M. Ward

Board Member Emeritus​ 2014

dalehughes

Dale Hughes

Board Member Emeritus​ 2018

hermanwilliams

Herman Williams

Board Member Emeritus​ 2018

roykirkland

Roy Kirkland

Board Member Emeritus​ 2012

jamesearledwards

James Earl Edwards

Board Member Emeritus​ 2011

jdavidscott

J. David Scott

Board Member Emeritus​ 2010

wctotten

W.C. Totten

Board Member Emeritus​ 2005

bobmorris

Bob Morris

Board Member Emeritus​ 2005

drmanulgoins

Dr. Manul Goins

Board Member Emeritus​ 2004

harveymilton

Harvey Milton

Board Member Emeritus​ 2001

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Jerry Hobbs

Board Member Emeritus​ 2001

johnhughes

John Hughes

Board Member Emeritus​ 2001

doylecarter

Doyle Carter

Board Member Emeritus​ 2001

curtisparr

Curtis Parr

Board Member Emeritus​ 1997

williambryan

William Bryan

Board Member Emeritus​ 1997

jimmielawrence

Jimmie Lawrence

Board Member Emeritus 1993

National Beta Partners Impacting Our Community

Partnering with National Beta gives businesses and organizations the opportunity to make an impact on student’s lives and education.

Foster the next generation
Connect with students
Network with educators
Be part of the Beta community
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Get Involved with National Beta and Be Part of Our Community

Our members and sponsors impact the National Beta community by shaping the future of students and educators. Learn more about chartering a club and becoming a sponsor or learn how to connect with other members.