One of the purposes of Mensa is to identify and foster intelligence for the betterment of humanity. The Mensa Foundation fulfills that by assisting intellectually gifted people in the development of their intellectual and social abilities so that they can better benefit society.
In pursuit of both goals, American Mensa and the Mensa Foundation founded an award recognizing the application of Mensans’ intellectual abilities that resulted in tangible benefit to society. Acceptable activities included, for example, new or significantly improved education programs for employees, clients or business associates; programs designed to educate the public, including children, youth and adults; novel philanthropic efforts; and intellectual research and development.
Only American Mensa members whose membership is active at the time of nomination were eligible. Especially encouraged were educators, business executives, and governmental and military leaders. Excluded were Mensa member activities appropriate for the Foundation’s other award programs, including the Distinguished Teacher Award, the Copper Black Award for Creative Achievement, and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Political activities were also excluded from consideration.
This award has been discontinued.