Copper Black Award Frequently Asked Questions What is considered to be a "creative achievement"? A novel idea that has proven to be of practical value to others, such as a solution to a particular problem. Are artistic works such as paintings, music, choreography, or fiction eligible? No. How much is the award? The award includes $500 and a plaque and medal. These will usually be awarded at the Annual Gathering. Who decides who gets the award? The Copper Black Award Committee will rank all of the applications received by Feb 1 each year and select the most outstanding. How does one apply for this award? The applicant must be a member in good standing of AML in the year the award is given. Self-nominations are encouraged, but any member of AML, or a local group speaking through its LocSec, may nominate someone. For an application form, which includes details of the requirements, write to Copper Black Award Committee, Mensa Education & Research Foundation, 1229 Corporate Drive West, Arlington, TX 76006. The request for a Copper Black Award application form need not describe the achievement; a postcard will suffice. The application is also available online. Is there a special time to apply? Requests for application forms may be requested from the National Office at any time. Completed forms may be submitted at any time. How recently must the creative idea have occurred? The significant question should be, "How recently must the creative idea have been implemented?" Only innovations that have actually been implemented in whole or in part will be considered. The first award was given at the 2000 AG. For that award, the committee considered novel ideas that were implemented in whole or in part since July 1995. How significant must the achievement be? The Copper Black Award Committee will have to decide that by comparing the achievements submitted each year. In some years, all achievements nominated may be of only local importance. In other years, perhaps, the committee may have to decide among innovations of national or global significance. Is any member of American Mensa eligible? Not everyone. The award cannot be given to current members of the AMC, Trustees of the Foundation, members of the Copper Black Award Committee. However, any of these may nominate another Mensan for the award. Where does the award money come from? Copper Black was a Mensan who valued creativity. In her will she left a legacy of a special award for creative achievement, in the amount of $500, for an outstanding achievement by a member of American Mensa, Ltd. If an achievement doesn't win in one year, may it be submitted again? Yes, but only if important new information about its implementation is submitted. Current Winner  |  Past Winners