On Friday, April 5, the Alpha of Alabama chapter of Phi Beta Kappa was pleased to induct 100 new members as a part of its 2024 cohort, among them 19 History students—15 majors and 4 minors.
UA History alumna and Phi Beta Kappa member Martha Griffith, Director of Special Projects for University President Dr. Stuart Bell, introduced the inductees to the storied history, symbolism, and ceremony of Phi Beta Kappa, as well as the long history of Alabama’s own chapter, established in 1851.
Dean Joseph Messina of the College of Arts and Sciences, an honorary member of the Alabama Alpha chapter, then gave a brief address to the students. A reception followed the initiation.
Founded at William and Mary in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States. Its motto is that the “love of learning is the guide to life.” Among its members have been numerous luminaries of the American past, including seventeen presidents, 42 Supreme Court justices, and more than 150 Nobel laureates.
Congratulations to all of our new History inductees!