Kappa Sigma Fraternity

Overview

Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ), commonly known as Kappa Sig or KSig, is an American collegiate social fraternity. It is one of the largest international fraternities with a presence in North America. The fraternity operates under four pillars: Fellowship, Leadership, Scholarship, and Service.

History

Traditional Founding

The fraternity claims a historical origin dating back to the University of Bologna in the early 15th century. According to tradition, Manuel Chrysoloras, a scholar at the University of Bologna, founded a secret society to protect students from the corruption and violence inflicted by the city's governor, Baldassare Cossa. This ancient order evolved over the centuries, eventually influencing the modern fraternity.

Founding in the United States

Modern Kappa Sigma was formally established in the United States on December 10, 1869, by five students at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. These five founders—William Grigsby McCormick, George Miles Arnold, John Covert Boyd, Edmund Law Rogers, and Frank Courtney Nicodemus—formed the fraternity based on traditions from the ancient order in Bologna. They became known as the "Five Friends and Brothers" and developed a Constitution and Oath that remain foundational to the fraternity's principles today.

Structure and Activities

Kappa Sigma is an independent fraternity, having been formerly affiliated with the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC). It has over 318 active chapters and colonies across North America and has instilled in its members a commitment to its core values. The fraternity's emblem is the Star and Crescent, symbolizing light and guidance. Its official colors are Scarlet, White, and Emerald Green, and its flower is the Lily of the Valley.

Philanthropy

Kappa Sigma is involved in several philanthropic efforts, notably the Military Heroes Campaign, which supports veterans and servicemen by donating to organizations like the Fisher House Foundation and the SEAL Legacy Foundation. The fraternity also manages an Endowment Fund that supports educational and leadership programs, awarding scholarships to undergraduate members.

Publications and Traditions

The fraternity publishes The Caduceus, a historical and informational newsletter. Its motto, "Bononia Docet" (Bologna Teaches), reflects its historical roots. Kappa Sigma celebrates Founders' Day on December 10 to commemorate its founding and honor its five original founders.

Membership

To be eligible for membership, prospective members must profess a belief in God, although adherence to a specific religion is not required. Kappa Sigma has a significant global presence with over 17,000 active members and a total lifetime membership of more than 282,000 brothers.