About the Academy

The South Carolina Academy of Science, with the South Carolina Junior Academy of Science, is the only state-wide interdisciplinary science organization whose membership includes high school students, teachers, administrators, college students, professors, scientists, related professionals, parents of students, college presidents, business executives, owners of large and small businesses, as well as leaders of financial institutions and institutions of higher education. A major reason for this broad spectrum of support for the Academy is that, individually and collectively, all share a deep commitment to stimulate the creative abilities of the youth of our state and to provide learning opportunities that allow for the development of their talents.

The South Carolina Academy of Science (SCAS) was organized in 1924. In 1927, the Academy affiliated with the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Publication of the Bulletin of the Academy began in 1935, and in 1973, the Newsletter was established as a vehicle for communication among members. Beginning in the 1960s, industry and business joined academic institutions in support of the Academy and have helped to set goals to aid and improve the development of science in South Carolina.

SC Academy of Science annual meetings provide a forum for the exchange of scientific information among its members. Yearly activities of the Academy include sponsorship of numerous awards, science programs and student research projects.

History of the Academy

The South Carolina Academy of Science (SCAS) was organized in 1924 under the direction of G. C. Mance, Professor of Geology at Winthrop College. In 1927, the academy affiliated with the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Publication of the Bulletin of the Academy began in 1935, and in 1973, the Newsletter was established as a vehicle for communication among members.

Beginning in the 1960s, industry and business joined academic institutions in support of the Academy and have helped to set goals to aid and improve the development of science in South Carolina. In 1969, Dr. John Michener, Vice-President of the South Carolina Academy of Science, worked with students from Spartanburg High School to establish the South Carolina Junior Academy of Science (SCJAS). The first meeting, in Columbia, was attended by 150 high school students. In the late 1980s, a trust fund was developed to help financially sustain the SCJAS operations. SCJAS has a current membership of over 2500 student members and 100 affiliate science clubs. SCJAS provides two workshops annually at colleges and universities in South Carolina.

Mission Statement

• To promote the creation and dissemination of scientific knowledge within the state of South Carolina by stimulating scientific research and publication.
• To improve the quality of science education in the state of South Carolina.
• To foster the interaction of business, industry, government, education and the academic scientific community.
• To improve public understanding and appreciation of science for its utilization in human progress.
• To encourage young people to become involved in science through support of the Junior Academy of Science.