History and
Organization
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History and organization
The oldest and most prestigious honorary society in the United States,
Phi Beta Kappa was established in 1776 at the College of William and
Mary. Phi Beta Kappa's goal is to further ongoing learning in the
letters, arts and sciences. New members are initiated in recognition of
extraordinary academic achievement in the liberal arts and sciences.
Each year Phi Beta Kappa, with its affiliates, raises and distributes
over $1,000,000 to benefit student and scholars through programs such as
scholarships, lectures, book and essay awards, summer institutes for
teachers and funds for visiting scholars.
The Rice University chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, Beta of Texas, was
founded in 1929. All resident Rice University faculty, students, and
staff who have been initiated by the Beta of Texas or other chapter of Phi
Beta Kappa are regarded as General Members of the Beta of Texas chapter.
General members are encouraged to attend all meetings. (Please contact
the chapter secretary if you are a
member of Phi Beta Kappa, but do not find your name below.)
The chapter officers are drawn from the
General Membership, and are elected at the Initiation Ceremony every
Spring. |