Our History
From humble beginnings to national impact — the journey of NSBE and our UTSA chapter through the decades.
The Foundation
NSBE was founded at Purdue University by Edward Barnette and Fred Cooper to address the high dropout rate of Black engineering students.
National Formation
The first national meeting was held at the University of Illinois, officially establishing the National Society of Black Engineers.
Incorporation & Growth
NSBE was incorporated as a non-profit organization in Texas, enabling rapid expansion across universities nationwide.
UTSA Chapter Founded
The UTSA NSBE chapter was established, bringing academic excellence and professional development to San Antonio.
Modern Era
Today, NSBE boasts over 31,000 members across 250+ student chapters. Our UTSA chapter continues to grow and innovate.