The Females' Center of Excellence and Leadership, Inc. (Xcel) was founded in 2002 as a student organization at Northeastern University. Its founder, Tricia Brunton started the organization to prepare female college students for the 'real world' through leadership, community service, networking, scholarship and mentoring.

As a student organization, Xcel provided developmental programs and events, such as the On The Road to Xcellence Women's Conference, that supported its members and the Northeastern University community. The Northeastern University Xcel Student Chapter continues to provide quality programs and events.

In December 2005, The Females' Center of Excellence and Leadership was incorporated as a non-profit in Massachusetts. It obtained tax exempt status under 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in 2007.

In 2009, Xcel underwent a major reorganization which allowed it to expand its outreach from only female college students to female students (high school seniors and up) and professionals of all backgrounds. Xcel also introduced workshops and educational networking events.