A year after the fraternity’s founding at 90 Broad Street in Charleston, South Carolina, Pi Kappa Phi celebrated its first Founders’ Day on December 10th, 1905.
The fraternity, which had grown from seven men to nine following the election to membership of Henry Klugh Purdy in February and “out-of-town” student Lawrence Orr Bruce in March, gathered in celebration of its first anniversary for dinner at the residence of Lawrence Harry Mixson’s mother at 190 Wentworth Street. Pi Kappa Phi had much to celebrate in just a year of existence, including the development of the fraternity’s badge, colors and ritual, and its persistence to establish itself at the College of Charleston.
Today, our brothers across the country will come together to celebrate in a similar fashion as our Founders had in 1905. Pi Kappa Phi continues to celebrate progress year after year in its 115th year. The loyalty of Pi Kappa Phi’s seven Founders continues to reverberate through more than 140,000 initiated members who have been inspired by their decision to lead.
As Pi Kappa Phi looks on to the future, let us remember the brothers who have impacted us along the way. In recognition of our Founders, take the time to recognize an influential brother by wishing them a happy founders day, and by making a donation in their name to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation that will impact our student members.
Happy Founders Day from Pi Kappa Phi, and thank you for your continued loyalty and support.