Alpha Sigma Phi (ΑΣΦ), commonly known as Alpha Sig, is a men's social fraternity founded on December 6, 1845, at Yale College. It is the 10th oldest Greek letter fraternity in the United States, established by Louis Manigault, Stephen Ormsby Rhea, and Horace Spangler Weiser. The organization operates as a nonprofit entity with a focus on leadership development, community service, and academic excellence.

History

Alpha Sigma Phi was founded as a secret society at Yale before evolving into a national fraternity. Its first constitution, written by Manigault, formalized the Alpha Chapter at Yale[1][3]. The fraternity underwent a significant reorganization in the early 20th century, symbolized by its adoption of the phoenix as its official emblem to represent renewal following a period of decline[2]. By 2024, Alpha Sigma Phi has over 181 active chapters and provisional chapters, with more than 98,000 lifetime members[2].

Organization and Values

The fraternity’s motto, Causa Latet Vis Est Notissima ("The cause is hidden, the results well-known"), reflects its emphasis on personal growth and integrity. Its five core values—Silence, Charity, Purity, Honor, and Patriotism—guide member conduct and philanthropic initiatives[5]. Each value is associated with specific charitable partners, focusing on areas such as mental health awareness, disaster relief, and veterans' support[5].

Philanthropy and Foundation

The Alpha Sigma Phi Foundation, established in 1945 as the Memorial Fund, operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting educational programs and scholarships[4]. A transformative $6.4 million bequest from Howard L. Kleinoeder in 1990 enabled expanded leadership training and financial aid for members[4]. The Foundation later funded the fraternity’s headquarters in Carmel, Indiana, through a $900,000 campaign (1999–2002)[4].

Symbols and Traditions

Alpha Sigma Phi’s colors are cardinal red and stone grey, and its flowers are the cardinal rose and yellow tea rose[2]. The fraternity publishes The Yale Tomahawk as its official magazine[2]. Membership rituals and traditions emphasize brotherhood, mentorship, and lifelong commitment to the organization’s ideals[2][5].

Expansion

After a period of limited growth, the fraternity prioritized expansion in the mid-20th century, leading to its current international presence[2]. Recolonization efforts, such as the 2012 re-establishment of the Psi Chapter at Oregon State University, demonstrate its ongoing commitment to sustaining active chapters[5].