Pi Beta Phi Fraternity

Pi Beta Phi Fraternity (ΠΒΦ), often referred to as Pi Phi, is an international women's fraternity founded at Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, on April 28, 1867. It was originally established as I.C. Sorosis, the first national secret college society for women modeled after men's Greek-letter fraternities. This pioneering organization laid the groundwork for future women's fraternities and has played a significant role in empowering women and fostering literacy programs.

Founding and History

Pi Beta Phi was founded by 12 visionary women who saw the need for a women's organization that mirrored the structure and ideals of men's fraternities. The name was later changed to Pi Beta Phi, and the Greek letters replaced "I.C." on the official badge, which features a golden arrow. The fraternity has since grown to over 136 active chapters and more than 300 alumnae organizations across the United States and Canada.

Philanthropy and Programs

Pi Beta Phi's primary philanthropic focus is literacy. The fraternity supports the Read > Lead > Achieve program, which aims to improve children's reading abilities. This initiative includes the "Champions are Readers" program, designed for preschool through third-grade students, providing them with necessary materials to enhance their literacy skills. Additionally, Pi Beta Phi has a strong legacy in arts and crafts preservation through the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This institution originated from the Pi Beta Phi Settlement School, which offered education and economic opportunities in a rural area before adapting to focus on arts preservation.

Governance and Membership

The fraternity is governed by a Grand Council, which includes a Grand President and several Grand Vice Presidents. These positions are elected biennially, ensuring dynamic leadership and representation across different aspects of the organization. Pi Beta Phi is a member of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), one of the 26 international sororities under this umbrella organization.

Symbolism

Pi Beta Phi's official colors are wine and silver blue, with the golden arrow serving as its primary symbol. The fraternity flower is the wine carnation, and its mascot is the angel. The Arrow, which is also the name of Pi Phi's publication, symbolizes the connection to their founding ideals and philanthropic goals.

Notable Contributions

Pi Beta Phi has been a leader in establishing several "firsts" in the fraternity and sorority world. It was among the founding members of the National Panhellenic Conference and pioneered the concept of alumnae associations. The fraternity's commitment to education and community service has marked it as a significant force in empowering women through lifelong membership and friendship.

Impact

Over 350,000 women have been part of Pi Beta Phi since its inception. The fraternity's mission emphasizes building friends and leaders for life by fostering a lifelong experience rooted in timeless values, promoting friendship, cultivating leadership potential, and enriching lives through community service.