A new nation would require institutions – cultural as well as political – as a grounding force and elevating influence in turbulent times. What began as a secret debating society in the midst of war became something very different over the course of the next two centuries. Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) grew along with American higher education into an organization grounded in liberal – as in the Latin word for “free” – arts and sciences learning and freedom of inquiry.

Today, PBK is the nation’s most prestigious honor society, known for recognizing academic excellence on 293 select campuses across the nation. More than 500,000 members come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. On campuses and in communities, the work of the Society now attests to the lifelong value of an education that fosters scientific inquiry, liberty of conscience, critical thinking, and creative endeavor for all.

Represented by a signature gold key and three Greek letters, PBK offers a credential that has national recognition.

Membership affirms our motto "Love of learning is the guide of life," derived from the Greek Φιλοσοφία Βίου Κυβερνήτης (ΦΒΚ).

Since 1955, the Epsilon Association of California has been a constituent member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society, an unincorporated association. Your gift is deductible on your federal income tax return as a charitable contribution.