Kappa Delta Pi

Overview

Kappa Delta Pi (ΚΔΠ) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization and honor society for education. Founded on March 8, 1911, at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, it was established as one of the first discipline-specific honor societies in the United States[1]. The society's mission emphasizes excellence in education and fosters a community of educators dedicated to improving teaching practices and promoting quality education[2].

History

Kappa Delta Pi evolved from the Illinois Education Club, initiated by Dr. William Begley in 1909. After deciding against merging with Pi Kappa Mu, the club transformed into a national honorary educational fraternity, and by 1911, it became Kappa Delta Pi. The first chapter, Alpha, was installed at the University of Illinois, followed by Beta at the University of Colorado in 1912, Gamma at the University of Oklahoma in 1915, and Delta at the University of Texas in 1916[1].

In 1924, Kappa Delta Pi established its Laureate Chapter to honor outstanding contributions to education, with John Dewey as its first member[1]. By 1930, the society had grown substantially, and by 1963, it had initiated over 177,000 members and established more than 300 chapters[1]. Initially known as a fraternity, it transitioned to being referred to as a society in 1932[1].

Activities and Initiatives

Kappa Delta Pi chapters offer members opportunities for networking, leadership development, service activities, and professional education. The society focuses on promoting excellence in teaching and education through various programs and resources. It also supports its members with access to conferences, research workshops, and job opportunities[2].

In 2010, Kappa Delta Pi became an official United Nations Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), enhancing its role in global education initiatives, particularly in support of the Sustainable Development Goal for quality education[3]. The society engages in partnerships with nonprofit and for-profit organizations to advance educational goals[4][5].

Governance and Membership

Kappa Delta Pi is governed by an executive council of nine elected members. As of 2025, it has over 20,000 active members and more than one million lifetime members worldwide[1]. The society publishes The Educational Forum, its official publication, which was first released in 1936[1].

Symbolism and Pillars

The colors of Kappa Delta Pi are purple and gold, and its flower is the violet[1]. The society's motto is "Knowledge. Duty. Power." Its pillars include Community, Belonging, Leadership, and Celebration[1].