North Carolina Student Legislature
Contention. Civility. Camaraderie.
History of NCSL
Founded in 1937, the North Carolina Student Legislature (NCSL) is the oldest, active, student-run, nonpartisan legislative organization in the nation. Born out of a desire to educate and empower young leaders through direct engagement with the legislative process, NCSL has remained a forum where college students from across North Carolina gather to research, write, and debate legislation on real-world issues. For over eight decades, NCSL has served as a training ground for civic-minded students, many of whom have gone on to become lawmakers, judges, attorneys, and public servants, shaping public policy and advancing democratic ideals both in North Carolina and beyond.
Founding in the Capitol (1937)
The North Carolina Student Legislature was founded on November 12, 1937, in the House Chamber of the North Carolina State Capitol. Organized by N.C. State College professor Edwin H. Paget and inspired by the Kansas Student Legislature, the inaugural session brought together 121 students from 18 colleges. Delegates debated issues like President Roosevelt’s potential third term and gubernatorial veto powers. The session was broadcast live by WPTF and WRAL—highlighting the organization’s early significance.
A Platform for Progress
(1939-1946)
By 1939, NCSL had become the largest student legislative assembly in the nation. The organization championed realistic, high-level policy debate. In 1945, NCSL voted to invite Black colleges to participate, facing strong opposition at the time. Yet by 1946, five historically Black colleges were included—marking a bold step toward inclusion.
Civil Rights in Action
(1950s-1960s)
NCSL continued to break ground by supporting progressive legislation. In 1957, delegates passed a resolution supporting interracial marriage, which drew significant media attention. During the 1960s, NCSL passed bills advocating for the end of segregation and the abolition of capital punishment, positioning student voices as a moral compass in the midst of national unrest.
Formal Recognition
(1977-1985)
NCSL continued to break ground by supporting progressive legislation. In 1957, delegates passed a resolution supporting interracial marriage, which drew significant media attention. During the 1960s, NCSL passed bills advocating for the end of segregation and the abolition of capital punishment, positioning student voices as a moral compass in the midst of national unrest.
Nonprofit Status & University Recognition (1985-1990)
During the 1980s, NCSL incorporated as a nonprofit organization, while also being formally recognized by the UNC System as a semi-independent educational entity. This marked a new era of professionalism and accountability within the student legislature.
A Legacy that Inspires
(1990s-Present)
Throughout the decades, NCSL has continued to grow and evolve, providing students from across the state with a platform to research, write, and debate legislation. Its model has inspired other student legislatures—including those in Maryland and Tennessee. Today, NCSL remains a leader in civic engagement, with alumni serving in public office, the legal field, education, and beyond.