The award is presented to the most outstanding student leader and is based upon qualities acquired and measurably improved upon during the program. Some of these skills are personal growth, leadership qualities, attitude, problem solving, and motivation. The recipient is selected by participants and staff.

The late Howard B. Chapin served in the North Carolina Legislature as a representative of Beaufort, Hyde, and Washington counties from 1974 to 1992. Mr. Chapin's labor and leadership have benefited his region and the entire state. His bill to the North Carolina General Assembly allowed for the creation of the Legislators' School for Youth Leadership Development. Mr. Chapin saw the need for enrichment opportunities for students in rural areas of the state and he set out to make sure there were opportunities available. Through his work, two summer programs were formed, one at Western Carolina University and the other at East Carolina University. In honor of Representative Chapin, the program's most prestigious award was named for him. In 2001, the Chapins established a scholarship for a Chapin Award winner.

Mr. Chapin passed away in 2002. His wife, Mary Alice Chapin, continues to be a strong supporter and advocate for the Legislators' School program.