Phi Kappa Phi is not a sorority or fraternity; rather, it is an honor society. Established in 1897 as an organization that promotes “unity and democracy of education” and recognizes academic excellence by individuals across all academic disciplines.
To be invited to join Phi Kappa Phi, students of “good character” must demonstrate superior scholarship, ranking in the top of their class, top 7.5% for juniors, and top 10% for seniors and graduate students. Once invited, a student will receive instructions to complete their membership process.
Benefits of membership in Phi Kappa Phi include preference for scholarships, grants, and fellowships due to outstanding academic achievements. Membership has real-world applications like career resources, networking, and internship opportunities, among others.
Dr. Scott Davis, President of Phi Kappa Phi CSU Stanislaus Chapter, was on hand to represent the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi with the inaugural event in a new interdisciplinary lecture series created to share knowledge and exchange ideas across campus.
Inspired by the 50’s and 60’s, the series embraces live, in-person engagement, a moment in time with no digital footprint, and will never happen again.
The first session of the event, entitled Showing Up: Art for Hard Times, was presented in conjunction with the Department of English and the Department of Theater Arts.
Laura Dickinson-Turner, CSU Stanislaus alumna and current Artistic Director of the Prospect Theater Project, delivered a discussion on the experience of live theater, with a focus on Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor’s Lost.
Ms. Dickinson-Turner posed to the attendees, “There is one question each play asks us: when something or someone really matters to you, how will you show up for it or them?”
Her talk delved into the importance of presence, performance, and the arts as a means of human connection, particularly during difficult times.
Dr. Davis also hinted at a future partnering with Phi Kappa Phi and Criminal Justice, Sustainability, and other departments.
For students interested in learning more about Phi Kappa Phi, they will be tabling at the quad on Oct. 8th from 11 am to 1 pm.
