Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity

Overview

Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity, also known as Kappa Kappa Psi (ΚΚΨ), is a national honorary band fraternity in the United States. Founded on November 27, 1919, at Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Oklahoma State University), its primary purpose is to serve college and university band programs by providing leadership opportunities, service initiatives, and social programming for band members[1][2][5].

Founding and Growth

Kappa Kappa Psi was established by ten band members led by William A. Scroggs, with the assistance of band director Bohumil Makovsky. The organization's name and symbols were suggested by Dr. Hilton Ira Jones of the OSU Chemistry faculty[2][3][5]. Throughout its history, Kappa Kappa Psi has expanded rapidly, with over 200 chapters across the U.S., involving more than 66,000 members since its inception[1][2].

Purpose and Activities

The fraternity's mission is centered around five primary purposes:

1. Promoting band welfare: Supporting the existence and well-being of college bands.
2. Honoring band members: Recognizing outstanding band members for their achievements.
3. Stimulating leadership: Encouraging leadership within campus bands.
4. Fostering relationships: Building connections between college bands.
5. Providing a social experience: Creating a positive social environment for band members[5].

Local chapters engage in various service projects, including renovating practice spaces, supporting athletic bands, and conducting community service activities such as blood drives[2]. They also organize social events, like concerts and receptions[2].

Notable Members and Initiatives

Kappa Kappa Psi counts notable figures among its members, including John Philip Sousa, Count Basie, and President Bill Clinton[2]. The fraternity has a rich musical legacy, having commissioned works like Francis McBeth's The Seventh Seal and Claude T. Smith's Symphony #1 for Band[1].

Relationships with Other Organizations

Kappa Kappa Psi is closely associated with Tau Beta Sigma (ΤΒΣ), the national honorary band sorority. Although Tau Beta Sigma was initially offered a chance to become an auxiliary chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, it ultimately decided to charter as an independent organization in 1946 and has been recognized as a sister organization since 1947[2][4].

Financial Information

Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity operates as a nonprofit organization with the EIN 731169672.

Conclusion

As a dedicated service and leadership recognition society for band members, Kappa Kappa Psi has played a significant role in shaping the college band experience across the United States. Its motto, "Strive for the Highest," encapsulates its commitment to excellence in music and leadership[2].