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Honors College

Phi Kappa Phi

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PKP at USM

ABOUT US

Founded in 1897 at the University of Maine, Phi Kappa Phi is the nation's oldest, largest, and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Membership is by invitation only to the top 7.5% of juniors and the top 10% of seniors and graduate students. Each year the Society distributes more than $700,000 through national and chapter scholarships and awards. Along with academic recognition, members are eligible for exclusive partner discounts and networking opportunities.

Phi Kappa Phi has over a fifty-year history at Southern Miss: our chapter (#99) was founded on April 18th, 1967.  In recent years, the chapter has engaged in such events as book drives to promote literacy and “Getting into Graduate School” programs; each spring, we host a formal induction ceremony attended by the Provost, the Deans, and Chapter Officers, along with inductees and their families.  Our chapter has been very successful in garnering grants and award, with multiple Study Abroad Grant winners, Love of Learning Award winners and National Fellows—a truly impressive record!

 

OFFICERS 

  • Bridgette Davis, President
  • Joseph Cheatle, Vice President
  • Ashley Allen & Jay Howell, Treasurers
  • Mary A. Beard, Secretary 
  • Marion Patti, Outreach Coordinator

 

FAQ 

What are the eligibility requirements for Phi Kappa Phi?

Phi Kappa Phi membership is earned. Admission is invitation-only and requires nomination approval by your university chapter.  Requirements include:

  • Juniors must have completed at least 72 credit hours, with at least 24 semester hours at their current institution, and rank in the top 7.5 percent of their class.
  • Seniors must have completed at least 90 credit hours, with at least 24 semester hours at their current institution, and rank in the top 10 percent of their class.
  • Graduate students must have completed at least 18 graduate hours or the equivalent at their institution and rank in the top 10 percent of their class.

     

When will invitations for membership be sent out?

We induct members in the spring, so invitations will go out sometime in February or early March.    


What are the benefits of joining? 

  • Highly Selective Membership: Limited membership is offered to the top performing second-semester juniors, seniors and graduate students.
  • Résumé Enhancements: Phi Kappa Phi logo graphics and verification letters are available to highlight your membership in the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline honor society.
  • Upperclass/Graduate Student Focus: Recognizes those who prove to be strong scholars throughout their academic careers.
  • Extensive Community: With more than 1.5 million members inducted since 1897, the Society includes scholars and professionals in just about every discipline imaginable.
  • Recognition and Rewards: New members attend an initiation ceremony on their campus and receive a personalized membership certificate and card and the official Phi Kappa Phi pin.
  • Award Programs: Members are eligible to apply for nearly $1 million in awards each year. The programs range from $35,000 Fellowships for graduate school to $500 Love of Learning grants for continuing education and professional development. 
  • Member Discounts: Corporate partners, such as AT&T, Dell, GEICO, and Lenovo, provide valuable discounts and services to members.


How much does it cost to join? 

The fee for induction is $85, which includes fee to join the national organization and chapter fee.  With the fee you will receive a Phi Kappa Phi pin and a medallion that you can wear at your graduation ceremony or other honorary events.


How do I learn more?

Visit www.phikappaphi.org for more information.

Contact Us

Honors College
Honor House
118 College Drive #5162
Hattiesburg, MS 39406

Hattiesburg Campus

Campus Map

Phone
601.266.4533