South Carolina Academy of Science

About the Academy

The South Carolina Academy of Science is a state-wide, interdisciplinary science organization. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in science. Members include college students, grade school and college faculty, educational administrators, and related professionals in business and government. The Academy sponsors the South Carolina Junior Academy of Science (SCJAS), which is composed of high schools students. SCJAS introduces students to the scientific community by providing them an opportunity to present original research to their peers and adults. SC Academy of Science annual meetings provide a forum for the exchange of scientific information among its members.

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.
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 Academy of Science, worked with students from Spartanburg High School to establish (SCJAS). The first meeting, which was held 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.

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

Tax-exempt status

The Academy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization, so contributions above the value of any goods or services received may be deductible as a contribution to charity. As a tax-exempt organization we cannot support candidates for public office, lobby government bodies or make public policy statements. We can provide and support education of the public and government officials.