The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) recently announced that home-educated student James W. Wiggins from Laurel has been selected for membership.

The society recognizes the top scholars in the nation and invites only those students who have achieved superior academic excellence. The announcement was made by NSHSS founder and chairman Claes Nobel, a senior member of the Swedish Nobel family.

"On behalf of NSHSS, I am honored to recognize the hard work, sacrifice, and commitment that James has demonstrated to achieve this exceptional level of academic excellence,” said Nobel. "James is now a member of a unique community of scholars — a community that represents our very best hope for the future.”

"Our vision is to build a dynamic international organization that connects members with meaningful content, resources, and opportunities,” stated NSHSS President James Lewis. "We aim to help students like James build on their academic successes and enhance the skills and desires to have a positive impact on the global community.”

Membership in NSHSS entitles qualified students to enjoy a wide variety of benefits, including scholarship opportunities, academic competitions, free events, member-only resources, publications, participation in programs offered by educational partners, online forums, personalized recognition items and publicity honors.

Formed in 2002, the National Society of High School Scholars recognizes academic excellence at the high school level and encourages members of the organization to apply their unique talents, vision, and potential for the betterment of themselves and the worlds Currently, there are more than 150,000 society members, representing 15,000 high schools in nearly 20 countries.

NSHSS advocates for scholarship opportunities for deserving young people and has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships since its inception just four years ago.

For more information about NSHSS, visit www.nshss.org.