Hi-Y is a national organization whose roots date back to the beginning of Chapman High School.

In 1889 the Dickinson County High School opened it’s doors. The Enrollment for the first year was 137 students. Students living outside the city limits of Chapman usually acquired a “room” and boarded in town. According to the Chapman Courier dated February 22, 1890, some of the young men of the high school and town formed a bible class which met from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. on Thursday evenings. The meetings were under the guidance of D. F. Shirk. From this beginning was formed the FIRST HIGH SCHOOL YMCA IN THE WORLD.

In the fall of 1922 the local club received its Hi-Y charter in a ceremony in Manhattan, Kansas. The local club adopted the name Hi-Y following the older boys conference of the YMCA which met at Manhattan.

The Hi-Y meets regularly and presents an interesting program for its members. Since the Model Legislature meeting at Topeka has been discontinued, Chapman Hi-Y now participates in a Model UN program at Fort Hays. The members started a new tradition by holding an annual picnic at Milford Lake, which includes fishing, great food, and a fun time.