The Mensa Foundation

Human intelligence is the world’s most important resource. The Mensa Education & Research Foundation is dedicated to nurturing and protecting that resource.

As the philanthropic arm of Mensa, the Mensa Foundation designs its awards and publications programs to support and recognize those striving to broaden our understanding of intelligence. The Foundation also encourages the use and enjoyment of intelligence through scholarships, publications and events. These programs are summarized as follows:

Colloquium
This weekend-long event provides a forum for Mensa members and the public to study a topic in great depth. Colloquium attendees have the chance to interact with international experts as well as engage in small-group discussions. Colloquium topics have been as varied as consciousness, cosmology and humor. Learn about the next Colloquium at www.colloquium.us.mensa.org.

Scholarships
The Foundation’s scholarship program is unusual in that it is based solely on essays written by the applicants; academic success and financial needs are not considered. In 2007, the Foundation awarded more than $59,000 in scholarships to college students of all ages. More than 400 Mensa volunteers assist every year in evaluating essays and recommending recipients.

Awards
The Foundation’s awards recognize individuals who have excelled in intelligence research or who have encouraged the use of intelligence. These include the Lifetime Achievement Award, the Awards for Excellence in Research, the Mensa Press Award, the Distinguished Teacher Award, the Copper Black Award for Creative Achievement and the Intellectual Benefits Award. The latter two awards are also presented to Mensans around the world by the Foundation and Mensa International, Ltd.

Mensa Research Journal
Published three times a year with occasional supplements, the Mensa Research Journal highlights scholarly articles from a diverse selection of nationally and internationally esteemed authors. Each issue focuses on a specific intelligence-based theme. Past themes include homeschooling for the gifted, disorders of memory, spatial intelligence and intellectual property in the 21st century.

Mensa for Kids
Sponsored by the Mensa Foundation, www.MensaForKids.org provides a place for our Young Mensans and other smart children ages 6-10 to play and learn. The site includes games; resources for kids, parents and teachers; and a Feature of the Month.

For more information on any of the Mensa Foundation’s programs, or to make a donation, visit www.mensafoundation.org. Donations to the Mensa Foundation are both beneficient and tax-deductible.