Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity

Overview

Kappa Kappa Psi is a national nonprofit honorary fraternity for college and university band members in the United States. The organization was founded on November 27, 1919, at Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Oklahoma State University) to promote and support band programs through service and leadership.

Founding

The fraternity was established by William A. Scroggs, a student at Oklahoma A&M, with the support of band president A. Frank Martin and Bohumil Makovsky, the director of bands. The initial ten members included William Houston Coppedge, Clyde DeWitt Haston, George Asher Hendrickson, Dick Hurst, Andrew Franklin Martin, Iron Hawthorne Nelson, William Alexander Scroggs, Raymond David Shannon, Clayton Everett Soule, and Carl Anderson Stevens. Dr. Hilton Ira Jones suggested the name "Kappa Kappa Psi," and Col. F.D. Wickham assisted in its final organization.

Mission and Activities

Kappa Kappa Psi operates primarily as a recognition society, offering service, leadership opportunities, and social programming for band members. Its main objectives include promoting the existence and welfare of college and university bands, honoring outstanding band members, stimulating campus leadership, fostering relations between college bands, and providing a positive social experience for band members.

Local chapters engage in numerous service projects, such as maintaining band facilities and supporting community events. They also organize social activities like hosting receptions and sponsoring concerts. The fraternity emphasizes developing wholesome experiences in organization, leadership, and social contacts for its members.

Growth and Influence

Since its founding, Kappa Kappa Psi has grown to include over 200 chapters nationwide, with more than 66,000 lifetime members and nearly 6,000 active collegiate members. Notable members include President Bill Clinton, composer John Williams, and jazz musician Count Basie. The fraternity is recognized for its contributions to music education and its commissioning of significant band works.

Organizational Structure

The fraternity is governed by a National Council and Board of Trustees, with support from the National Headquarters staff. Its sister organization, Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority, shares a similar mission and structure.

Cultural and Symbolic Elements

Kappa Kappa Psi's official colors are blue and white, and its flower is the red carnation. The motto is "Strive for the Highest," reflecting its commitment to excellence in band music and leadership. The fraternity publishes The PODIUM, a periodical that serves as a communication platform for its members.

Historical Significance

Kappa Kappa Psi played a significant role in expanding band programs during the 20th century, particularly by fostering an environment conducive to band music development and leadership. It has also been a pioneer in recognizing the value of dedicated leadership among band members and the broader music community.