After its charter in 1995, the UMBC Chapter quickly became one of the most active chapters in the Mid-Atlantic region (now Region 1), and in 1997 at the International Convention in Atlanta was awarded its first Key Chapter Award, one of the most prestigious awards given by Golden Key, for excellence in leadership, service and overall activity. The UMBC chapter was one of the youngest chapters ever to receive this award, and has since won the award four times.

Our chapter was recognized for achieving Gold Status at both the 2006 International Convention in Phoenix, AZ and the 2005 International Conference in Los Angeles, CA. The chapter has presented workshops and displays at every International and Regional Convention since 1996, covering topics such as “Building a Firm Foundation with your Honorary Members”, “Jump-starting an Inactive Chapter”, “Winning a Key Chapter Award”, and “Organizing a Multi-Chapter Community Service Event.”

We are a very active chapter with plenty of opportunities to get involved - we host several dozen activities each semester. These activities include community service projects, including regular volunteering at Villa Maria Children's Center, Dr. Suess Reading Days, and the Better World Books book drive, and fundraising events such as the Kaplan test drives and commencement flower sales. We also host events to recognize the accomplishments of outstanding students, including the annual New Member Recognition Ceremony and the Sophomore Social.  Each year new community service projects have been added and member involvement has grown. This year's goals are to increase membership, enhance interaction with Honorary Members and expand our community service activity!