Phi Beta Kappa is an honor society in the United States that recognizes and celebrates academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences. Founded in 1776 at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, it is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the country.
Membership in Phi Beta Kappa is highly selective, and it is considered a significant achievement to be invited to join. Students are chosen based on their exceptional academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and a well-rounded education that includes a broad range of liberal arts courses.
The society’s motto is “Love of Learning is the Guide of Life,” emphasizing its dedication to scholarship, intellectual curiosity, and lifelong learning. Phi Beta Kappa aims to foster a community of scholars who embody both intellectual rigor and a commitment to the liberal arts tradition.
Induction into Phi Beta Kappa is a noteworthy accomplishment that often carries weight in future academic and professional endeavors. Many prominent individuals in various fields, including science, politics, literature, and entertainment, have been inducted into this distinguished society.
In addition to recognizing academic excellence, Phi Beta Kappa also supports and promotes the liberal arts through scholarship programs, lectures, and advocacy for the value of a liberal education. Phi Beta Kappa chapters are found in more than 290 colleges and universities across the United States, each dedicated to upholding the society’s principles and fostering the pursuit of knowledge.
