Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity

Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity, commonly known as Phi Tau, is a collegiate social fraternity in the United States. Founded on March 17, 1906, at Miami University in Ohio, it began as the Non-Fraternity Association, initially aiming to give a voice to non-fraternity men on campus.

History

The Non-Fraternity Association was established in response to the exclusive practices of dominant fraternities on campus, known collectively as "The Ring." The founders, Taylor Albert Borradaile, Clinton Dewitt Boyd, Dwight Ireneus Douglass, and William Henry Shideler, sought to create an organization based on character rather than social status or wealth[1][3]. The association later changed its name to Phrenocon in 1909 and eventually became Phi Kappa Tau in 1916[3].

Phi Kappa Tau is a member of the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) and emphasizes brotherhood, leadership, and service. The fraternity grew nationally, with its chapters spread across the U.S. The organization values inclusivity and ethical behavior, aiming to create a diverse and fair community[1][2].

Philanthropy

Phi Kappa Tau's national philanthropy is the SeriousFun Children's Network, which was founded by Paul Newman, an alumnus of the Beta chapter[2]. The network supports camps and programs for children with serious illnesses and their families.

Chapters and Members

As of May 2024, Phi Kappa Tau has 161 chartered chapters, with 83 active chapters and 7 associate chapters. The fraternity boasts about 3,900 active collegiate members and over 101,000 lifetime members[2].

Phi Kappa Tau Foundation

Established in 1945, the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation is a separate charitable entity dedicated to supporting the fraternity's educational and philanthropic initiatives. The Foundation experienced significant growth following a substantial donation in 1983 from Ewing T. Boles, an alumnus of the Delta chapter at Centre College[2].

Symbols and Creed

The fraternity's colors are Harvard Red and Old Gold, and its flower is the red carnation[2]. The Phi Kappa Tau Creed emphasizes the importance of brotherhood, loyalty, and moral integrity:

"I believe in the spirit of brotherhood for which it stands. I shall strive to attain its ideals, and by so doing to bring to it honor and credit. I shall be loyal to my college and my chapter and shall keep strong my ties to them that I may ever retain the spirit of youth. I shall be a good and loyal citizen. I shall try always to discharge the obligation to others which arises from the fact that I am a fraternity man." [3]

Conclusion

Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity continues to play a significant role in the lives of its members, fostering a community built on democratic principles, ethical leadership, and service. Through its philanthropic efforts and strong organizational structure, Phi Kappa Tau strives to make a positive impact both locally and nationally.

[1] https://wright.phikappatau.org/history [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phi_Kappa_Tau [3] https://www.pktphichapter.org/history [4] https://www.pktphichapter.org/history-phi-chapter [5] https://www.pktbetaphi.com/history/