The College Society was established through a grant received from the Pew Foundation, with additional support received from Samford University. These monies were originally earmarked for one group of students and professors in 1997.  However, the program soon expanded and is now a self-sustaining organization.

It is administered by a Coordinator, who chairs a College Society Council. Council members are chosen based on their participation in graduate-school related activities including the Honors Program, the Student Showcase, the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, and others. The Dean and Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences serve as ex officio members.