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History
Phi Eta Sigma was founded at the
University of Illinois in 1923 to recognize and promote superior scholarship
among freshmen. The Society has established chapters in over 350
institutions of higher learning in the United States. We are the 49th
Chapter, established in 1945.
Phi Eta Sigma was originally a freshman men’s scholastic honor fraternity having
a formal grip, a password, and secrets. In 1974, the society dropped the
word “fraternity,” accepted both men and women into membership, and opened the
induction ceremony to non members. Phi Eta Sigma has held membership in
the Association of College Honor Societies since 1937. It is the honor
aspect which we emphasize, stressing the academic nature of our society.
Membership in Phi Eta Sigma is an honor conferred on those who, at the beginning
of their college careers, give promise of continued excellence in scholarship.
In granting membership, we stress not only the importance of scholastic
excellence, but the importance of three elements required for your complete
development as individuals—an unimpeachable character, a well-cared-for body,
and a well-disciplined mind.
The Crest presents the symbols of the Society. The torch and book are emblematic
of scholarship; the pyramid, of strength; and the gold star, of noble character.
The chain links the symbols together, indicating that all three must be combined
in a person who would attain the highest development. The Greek words on the
scroll for the motto of the organization: “Knowledge is Power.”
The key displays the colors of the Society. On a background of gold there
appear, in black enamel, the three Greek letters which form the name of our
Society: Phi, Eta, and Sigma. These are the initials of the words Φίλоι ‘Ηβηδν
ΣοΦίας (pronounced Phé-loy Hay-bay-don So-phé-as). They represent the basis of
our selection of members in that they mean literally “Lovers of Wisdom.”
(This historical information
was taken from the Society's standard induction script.)
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