Tau Beta Pi Association Inc.

Overview

The Tau Beta Pi Association Inc. is the oldest engineering honor society and the second oldest collegiate honor society in the United States. Its mission is to mark in a fitting manner those who have conferred honor upon their Alma Mater by distinguished scholarship and exemplary character as students in engineering, or by their attainments as alumni in the field of engineering, and to foster a spirit of liberal culture in engineering colleges.

History

Tau Beta Pi was founded on June 15, 1885, at Lehigh University by Dr. Edward Higginson Williams Jr., who aimed to provide recognition for superior scholarship among engineering students similar to what Phi Beta Kappa offers for liberal arts students. The first student member was Irving Andrew Heikes, the valedictorian of his class at Lehigh.

In 1892, the second chapter was established at Michigan State University. Since then, Tau Beta Pi has expanded significantly, now boasting over 255 active collegiate chapters across the United States and Puerto Rico. Historically, the society did not discriminate based on race or religion but was initially a male-only organization. It began awarding a "women's badge" to exceptional female engineering students in 1936 and started granting full membership to women in 1969.

Growth and Integration

In 1974, Sigma Tau, another engineering honor society founded in 1904 at the University of Nebraska, merged with Tau Beta Pi. This merger aimed to strengthen the engineering honor society landscape by consolidating resources and talent under a single robust organization. Sigma Tau brought 34 collegiate chapters and approximately 45,000 members into the merger, enhancing Tau Beta Pi's presence nationwide.

Mission and Activities

Tau Beta Pi emphasizes both academic achievement and personal integrity. It fosters a culture of excellence within engineering education, encouraging members to pursue distinguished careers and contribute positively to their communities. Members include a range of notable figures in engineering and technology, including Nobel laureates.

Governance and Structure

As a nonprofit educational organization, Tau Beta Pi is incorporated under Tennessee law and is classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. This classification makes donations to the association tax-deductible. The organization operates with a strong network of collegiate and alumni chapters, promoting engineering excellence and providing resources for members.

Notable Achievements

Tau Beta Pi has become a prestigious symbol of achievement in engineering education, with notable members contributing significantly to various fields of engineering. Its commitment to fostering a spirit of liberal culture in engineering colleges continues to shape the educational landscape in the United States and beyond.

References

References can be found on external resources regarding Tau Beta Pi's official history and activities.