Alpha Gamma Sigma (honor society)
Alpha Gamma Sigma () (AGS), founded in 1926 by Dr. William T. Boyce at Fullerton College, is the honor society of the California Community Colleges system. It was conceived as "an intellectual stimulus, comparable to that of Phi Beta Kappa in the higher colleges" for what were then called junior colleges in California. AGS supports its members in defining and reaching their goals by encouraging achievement and community service, building social and professional networks, and providing the information and focus needed for success. Hence the AGS motto: "Add to good character, knowledge and judgment." Campus AGS  Chapters. Colleges that have chartered Alpha Gamma Sigma chapters can be seen on the Chapter Membership page of the AGS Website. All chapters must remit part of their local dues to AGS Inc. for the support of scholarships and some administrative expenses. To remain in good standing, chapters must also submit annually to AGS, Inc. a list of those students who have achieved "Permanent Member" status. Each chapter sets requirements for participation that include meeting attendance, educational enrichment activities, and school or community service. Most community colleges with chapters award transcript recognition to students who have met those requirements. Membership  Eligibility. Students enrolled in a California community college with an active AGS chapter are eligible for membership if they have: Permanent Membership. Students may earn Permanent Membership if they have: Scholarships. Alpha Gamma Sigma, Inc. annually awards scholarships in two categories: service and academic excellence. There are multiple awards in each category each year unless a number is specified below. Service Awards Academic Awards AGS State Advisory Board. The State Advisory Board is composed of the advisors of all chapters in good standing as well as any retired former advisors who accept the Board's invitation to continue serving. Each  active chapter has one vote on SAB matters. AGS Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of Alpha Gamma Sigma, Inc. consists of current for former members of the SAB elected by that body, plus two student members, one from each region, elected by the General Assembly of Delegates at the Spring Convention. AGS, Inc. is a non-profit corporation.