[1] Established in 1996, it was the first national society to honor four-year college scholar-athletes who excel in both the classroom and athletics.

[2][1] Nick Mourouzis formed the National College Athlete Honor Society at DePauw University in Greencaslte, Indiana on May 17, 1996.

[2][3] Although there were existing organizations that honored athletics for academic accomplishments, Mourouzis wanted student-athletes who lettered in their sport while also maintaining a high-grade point average.

[1] Mourouzis envisioned an organization to honor student-athletes the way Phi Beta Kappa recognizes scholars.

[4] Varsity athletes in all college sports are eligible to join Chi Alpha Sigma provide a local chapter has been established on campus.