Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity

Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving college and university band programs across the United States. It was founded on November 27, 1919, at Oklahoma State University (then Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College) by ten band members who aimed to create a lasting bond among band members and provide leadership opportunities.

Mission and Purpose

The fraternity primarily serves as a recognition society focused on providing service, leadership, and social programming for band members. Its mission is to assist the Director of Bands in developing leadership and enthusiasm within band programs, while offering its members valuable experiences in organization, leadership, and social interactions.

Activities and Initiatives

Local chapters of Kappa Kappa Psi are involved in various service projects, including support for band programs, community service initiatives, and social activities. These chapters also foster morale, spirit, and enthusiasm within the bands they serve.

History

Kappa Kappa Psi was established during a period when college and university bands were seeking ways to promote goodwill and recognize dedicated leadership among band members. The organization grew rapidly, with 27 chapters established within its first decade. Despite challenges during the Great Depression and World War II, the fraternity continued to expand and develop its structure, stabilizing its constitution and bylaws at its 1927 National Convention.

Relationship with Other Organizations

Kappa Kappa Psi is closely affiliated with Tau Beta Sigma, the National Honorary Band Sorority, which was initially considered as an auxiliary chapter but instead became a separate national organization recognized as a sister organization in 1947.

Membership and Chapters

More than 66,000 men and women have been initiated into Kappa Kappa Psi since its founding, with nearly 6,000 members active at any given time across over 200 chapters at colleges and universities in the United States.

Notable Members

Kappa Kappa Psi counts among its members numerous notable figures in music and leadership, including composers John Williams and John Philip Sousa, and former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

Motto and Symbols

The fraternity's motto is "Strive for the Highest," and its colors are blue and white. The organizations use the Greek letters ΚΚΨ, and the red carnation is its designated flower.