Established in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa is the most prestigious academic honor society in the United States, with chapters at more than 290 top colleges and universities and a membership that include 17 U.S. presidents and more than 150 Nobel Laureates. Phi Beta Kappa’s mission is to champion education in the liberal arts and sciences, foster freedom of thought, and recognize academic excellence.  

The name Phi Beta Kappa, adopted by the founders, originated from the Greek phrase PHILOSOPHIA BIOU KYBERNETES, which they translated as “Love of learning is the guide to life.” The initials of this Greek phrase—PBK—are inscribed on the society’s signature gold key.

Johns Hopkins University established a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa – the Alpha Chapter of Maryland – in 1895. Pictured above is the original charter document, signed by the president of Phi Beta Kappa, Thomas Wentworth Higginson, and addressed to Johns Hopkins University’s first president, Daniel C. Gilman (and others). It is dated September 11, 1895.

Membership

Membership is by invitation. Students who meet the eligibility criteria are considered for election by the Committee on Members-in-Course, composed of Johns Hopkins faculty and staff who are themselves members of Phi Beta Kappa.

Membership in Phi Beta Kappa signals exceptional academic achievement, opens the door to lifelong connections with a diverse network of accomplished members, and provides resources and opportunities rooted in the power of the arts and sciences. A full list of member benefits is on the national Phi Beta Kappa Society website. 

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee of the Johns Hopkins University Chapter includes:

• Samuel Spinner, President
• Jennifer Wester, Secretary
• Kathie Sindt, Historian