History of NSAL

The National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) has been around since 1944. The non-profit organization was founded in the summer of 1944 by Mollie Davis Nicholson and Francesca Nielsen in Chevy Chase, Maryland. It originally launched as a women's organization to support and discover exceptional young artists. Early on, the society gained significant prominence when First Lady Bess Truman hosted a grand reception at the White House to promote its mission While it began as a women's group, men were later admitted to the society and continue to play an active role in its mission.  Today, the national volunteer network has expanded to 15 chapters across the United States. Over its history, it has supported thousands of young talents, including famous past scholarship recipients like actress Shirley MacLaine and opera singer Jessye Norman. 

The organization continues to operate today, funding major national competitions and awarding substantial scholarships in disciplines like dance, music, drama, literature, and visual arts. 

The NSAL Pittsburgh Chapter has been around since January 1966. 

The local chapter was founded by Mrs. Leroy L. Lewis (who also served as its first president) and Mrs. John S. Tennant, II. For over 60 years, the chapter has actively hosted regional competitions and provided critical financial aid and career opportunities to emerging artists in Western Pennsylvania across dance, drama, literature, music, and the visual arts. 

The chapter was officially organized in January 1966 under the guidance of Mrs. Leroy L. Lewis (who served as the founding president) and Mrs. John S. Tennant, II. Just months after forming, the chapter hosted its very first local competition in piano. By May 1966, they sent their first regional winner to the National Competition in Washington, D.C.

One of the biggest milestones in the chapter's history occurred in May 1978, when Pittsburgh was selected to host the NSAL National Conference. The week-long event brought top artistic talent and patrons from across the country to Pittsburgh. The grand finale was held at the Carnegie Music Hall, featuring the National Career Awards Competition in Career Performance.

Distinguished Alumni & Winners

Over the decades, the Pittsburgh Chapter has been a launching pad for artists who went on to achieve national and international acclaim. A few notable names you might want to highlight on the history page include: Jessye Norman (Opera): While she won the National Career Award in 1968, her ties to the organization are a major point of pride. Byron Janis (Piano): The world-renowned classical pianist was an early, enthusiastic supporter of the Pittsburgh Chapter's musical endeavors. Local Icons: The chapter has consistently launched the careers of principal dancers for the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, musicians for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and celebrated local visual artists.