1. What is Phi Kappa Phi?
Phi Kappa Phi is an academic honor society founded in 1897 whose chief purpose is to reward and recognize scholarly achievement in all majors and disciplines in the university. The University of West Florida Chapter was one of the first honor societies established on this campus, and Phi Kappa Phi is one of two widely recognized honor societies nationwide.
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline honor society. Standards for election are extremely high. Because Phi Kappa Phi is highly selective, membership is a stamp of excellence that is recognized by graduate and professional school admissions committees and employers alike.
At initiation, members receive gold keys and certificates of membership, but Phi Kappa Phi is much more than a line on a résumé. It is a more than 100-year-old honor society comprised of the best and brightest from all academic disciplines. It is a community of scholars who are leaving an enviable legacy for future generations.
2. How are members elected at the University of West Florida chapter?
Membership in the University of West Florida chapter is by invitation only and is based on three criteria: 1) superior scholastic achievement as measured by your cumulative earned GPA, 2) satisfactory progress toward your degree objective, and 3) a demonstrated concern for the promotion of excellence. Each semester the UWF Chapter invites to Phi Kappa Phi those who are highly qualified juniors (top 7.5%), seniors (top 10%), and graduate students (top 10%).
3. What are the membership dues?
Membership dues at the University of West Florida Chapter are $70.00. This amount covers initiation fees and first year dues to the Society; a Society pin; a membership certificate suitable for framing; and one-year subscription to the Society's quarterly magazine, the Phi Kappa Phi Forum. Each issue focuses on a single topic and is written by top scholars.
4. What are benefits of membership?
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi offers numerous benefits that can assist members throughout their academic and professional lives. Our global focus on resources allows Phi Kappa Phi members to connect and network with one another from every corner of the world.
Benefits of membership may include, but are not limited to, the following:
For more information about benefits of membership, please visit the national Web site: http://www.phikappaphi.org/.
5. How do I get my member number?
The National Office assigns your member number when you join online. You will receive your member number and you will create a password when you join online. You may begin to use this information to enjoy membership benefits.
To inquire about membership status, contact the Society Headquarters at 1-800-804-9880 ext.11 or members@phikappaphi.org.
6. What can this society mean to you after graduation?
Phi Kappa Phi recognizes excellence. Membership in the Society carries with it the respect of your academic faculty/advisors, family, friends, peers, and employers. You may find membership in the Society opens "doors" for future employment, and membership will provide you an advantage because others know that Phi Kappa Phi members represent the very best and brightest higher education has to offer.
1. When does the University of West Florida chapter hold initiation?
The University of West Florida Chapter holds an initiation ceremony each semester usually on a Thursday or Friday evening. The ceremony format is similar to a graduation ceremony; chapter officers wear academic robes, initiates are seated together, and each initiate’s name is called to receive the membership packet.
Time and location is included in the invitation.
2. Is attendance required at the initiation ceremony?
Attendance at the initiation ceremony is requested; however, if your schedule does not permit your attendance, you will be initiated in absentia. When you join online, you will indicate whether or not you will attend the initiation ceremony.
3. How long is the initiation ceremony?
The ceremony usually takes about 45 minutes.
4. How do I purchase a stole or honor cords?
To purchase a stole ($24) or honor cords ($10), use your member number and password and order from the Phi Kappa Phi online store. Shipping charges will apply. The UWF chapter of Phi Kappa Phi will sell medallions ($10) in the Honors office located in Pace Hall, building 930.
5. How do I claim my membership packet if I missed the initiation ceremony?
Membership packets are available for pick up 30 days after the initiation ceremony. Packets will be in the Honors office in Pace Hall, building 930.
6. How can I have my packet sent to me?
Your membership packet can be sent to you if the following conditions apply:
7. What happens to my membership packet if I do not claim it?
The chapter will may every effort to help get your packet to you, but if a packet is not claimed within 30 days after the initiation ceremony, the contents of the packet are destroyed. Replacement membership certificates and Society emblems can be replaced for $10 payable to Phi Kappa Phi.