The Julian C. Stanley Study of Exceptional Talent (SET) is an outgrowth of the Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth (SMPY) at Johns Hopkins University. Founded in 1971 by Professor Julian Stanley, SMPY pioneered the concept of above-grade-level testing of middle school students, using the SAT to identify exceptionally talented mathematical reasoners, then offering rigorous programs for students who exhibit exceptional reasoning ability.

In 1979, CTY was created as an independent entity to administer the Johns Hopkins Talent Search and summer programs, while Dr. Stanley continued to focus on offering educational counseling to the ablest mathematical reasoners throughout the United States. SET was created in 1991, with a commitment to serve verbally as well as mathematically talented students.

In 2000, Dr. Stanley was selected by Mensa as the winner of its first Lifetime Achievement Award. He was the unanimous choice of the selection committee.

For more about the history of SET, SMPY, and CTY, please see read the invited talk Dr. Stanley gave on his life and work to the American Psychological Association in August, 2002.