Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity

Overview

Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity (ΚΚΨ) is a nonprofit, national honorary band fraternity in the United States. Founded on November 27, 1919, at Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College, now Oklahoma State University, it serves college and university band programs.

Mission

Kappa Kappa Psi operates primarily as a student service and leadership recognition society. Its goals include providing service to bands, fostering leadership, and offering social experiences for band members. The fraternity aims to enhance band morale, spirit, and enthusiasm through organizational activities.

History

The fraternity was established by ten members of the Oklahoma A&M College Band, led by William A. Scroggs and directed by Bohumil Makovsky. Since its inception, Kappa Kappa Psi has grown significantly, with more than 66,000 members initiated into the fraternity over the years. Currently, it has nearly 6,000 active collegiate members.

Chapters and Activities

Kappa Kappa Psi has chapters across over 200 colleges and universities, focusing on serving band programs through various service projects. These projects often include organizing rehearsals, cleaning practice rooms, and conducting community service activities such as blood drives.

Notable Members

The fraternity counts notable figures among its members, including President Bill Clinton, composers John Williams and John Philip Sousa, and jazz musician Count Basie.

Symbols and Traditions

• Motto: "Strive for the Highest"
• Colors: Blue and White
• Flower: Red Carnation

Relationship with Tau Beta Sigma

Kappa Kappa Psi shares a long-standing relationship with Tau Beta Sigma, the National Honorary Band Sorority, which was recognized as a sister organization in 1947. The two organizations often collaborate on projects and share national headquarters.

Commissioning Programs

The fraternity is known for its commissioning program, which has sponsored works such as Francis McBeth's The Seventh Seal and Fisher Tull's Prelude & Double Fugue.