Scarlet Key was founded in 1938 as an activities honor society, whose members voted in new members annually. Students were informed of their induction by being ''tapped'' by an existing member. The organization held a formal initiation ceremony each spring and fall and also sponsored a semiformal dance at the University President's home. Before the early 1970s, Scarlet Key members often served as hosts for University events, much like the President's Hosts do today.
From 1972 to 1978, no new Scarlet Key members were inducted. In 1979, the General Alumni Association, now the Boston University Alumni, revived Scarlet Key as an honor awarded to outstanding seniors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in student activities and organizations, service to their School or College, and scholarship.
As Scarlet Key continues to grow, many of its more than 1,500 alumni have taken on leadership positions in the University. Ten members of the current Board of Trustees were Scarlet Key recipients. Three members of the Executive Committee of the
Boston University Association belong to Scarlet Key, as do numerous faculty members, including the dean of the School of Management. Honorary recipients include Presidents emeriti John Silber and Aram Chobanian.
The establishment of this high honor by the Dean of Students is in keeping with our continuing effort to give special recognition to those who, through their distinguished accomplishments, have made notable contributions to Boston University.
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2009 Nomination Information
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