Since its founding in 1856, Sigma Phi Cornell has established itself as a pillar of the Cornell University community. The fraternity’s rich history, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and impressive contributions to campus life have cemented its reputation as one of the most respected and influential organizations on campus.

History and Tradition
Sigma Phi Cornell was established on February 4, 1856, as the first fraternity at Cornell University. The fraternity’s founders, a group of visionary students, sought to create an organization that would foster academic achievement, ethical conduct, and lifelong brotherhood.
Over the years, Sigma Phi Cornell has played a pivotal role in shaping the Cornell experience. The fraternity’s members have held numerous leadership positions in student government, athletic teams, and social organizations. They have also made significant contributions to the university’s academic and cultural landscape, establishing scholarships, funding research initiatives, and supporting campus arts and culture programs.
Academic Excellence
Sigma Phi Cornell places a high priority on academic achievement. The fraternity has consistently ranked among the top fraternities at Cornell in terms of GPA. Its members are known for their dedication to their studies, their engagement in research, and their pursuit of intellectual excellence.
The fraternity offers a variety of academic support programs to its members, including tutoring, study groups, and mentorship opportunities. Sigma Phi Cornell also provides financial assistance to members with financial need, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically.
Leadership Development
Sigma Phi Cornell is committed to the development of its members as leaders. The fraternity provides numerous opportunities for its members to develop their leadership skills, both within the fraternity and in the broader Cornell community.
Members serve in leadership positions in the fraternity’s chapter, including president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary. They also participate in a variety of committees, such as the scholarship committee, the social committee, and the recruitment committee. These experiences allow members to develop their decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Brotherhood and Community Service
Sigma Phi Cornell is a close-knit community of brothers who support and care for one another. The fraternity’s strong sense of brotherhood is evident in its members’ willingness to go the extra mile for one another, both in and out of the fraternity house.
Sigma Phi Cornell is also deeply committed to community service. The fraternity’s members participate in a variety of service projects throughout the year, including mentoring underprivileged youth, volunteering at local charities, and organizing blood drives. The fraternity has a long tradition of service to the Ithaca community, and its members are proud to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Notable Alumni
Sigma Phi Cornell has produced a long list of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields, including:
- Andrew Carnegie, industrialist and philanthropist
- Jacob Gould Schurman, president of Cornell University
- Charles Evans Hughes, U.S. Secretary of State and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
- George Romney, governor of Michigan and U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
- John Sununu, chief of staff to President George H. W. Bush
- John Hennessy, president of Stanford University
- Robert Shapiro, defense attorney in the O.J. Simpson trial
These alumni, along with countless others, have brought honor to Sigma Phi Cornell and have demonstrated the fraternity’s commitment to excellence in all that it does.
Conclusion
Sigma Phi Cornell is a vibrant and dynamic community of leaders, scholars, and gentlemen. The fraternity’s rich history, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and impressive contributions to campus life have made it an integral part of the Cornell experience. As Sigma Phi Cornell looks to the future, it is confident that it will continue to play a vital role in shaping the lives of its members and the Cornell community at large.
- Founded in 1856, Sigma Phi Cornell is the oldest fraternity at Cornell University.
- Consistently ranks among the top fraternities at Cornell in terms of GPA.
- Over 100 members have been recognized as Cornell University All-Americans.
- 20% of Sigma Phi Cornell members are involved in Cornell’s varsity athletic teams.
- Members have held numerous leadership positions in student government, athletic teams, and social organizations.
- Sigma Phi Cornell provides financial assistance to members with financial need.
Joining Sigma Phi Cornell offers a wealth of benefits, including:
- Academic support: Members have access to tutoring, study groups, and mentorship opportunities.
- Leadership development: Members can develop their leadership skills through various leadership positions and committees within the fraternity.
- Brotherhood and community service: Sigma Phi Cornell is a close-knit community of brothers who support and care for one another. Members also participate in a variety of service projects throughout the year.
- Networking: Sigma Phi Cornell has a large and active alumni network that can provide members with career opportunities and professional guidance.
To succeed in Sigma Phi Cornell, members should:
- Set academic goals: Set realistic academic goals for yourself and work hard to achieve them.
- Get involved: Take advantage of the many opportunities for involvement within the fraternity. Join a committee, participate in a sports team, or volunteer for a community service project.
- Make friends: Sigma Phi Cornell is a great place to meet new friends and build lasting relationships. Make an effort to get to know your fellow brothers.
- Ask for help: If you need help with academics, leadership, or anything else, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your brothers or the chapter advisor.
- Attend chapter meetings: Chapter meetings are a great way to stay informed about fraternity business and to connect with your fellow brothers.
- Participate in brotherhood events: Brotherhood events are a fun way to get to know your brothers and to build strong relationships.
- Get involved in campus activities: Sigma Phi Cornell encourages its members to get involved in campus activities. This is a great way to meet new people, make friends, and build your resume.
- Use the fraternity’s resources: Sigma Phi Cornell offers a variety of resources to its members, including tutoring, study groups, and financial assistance. Take advantage of these resources to help you succeed in your studies and at Cornell.
- What is the cost of joining Sigma Phi Cornell?
- The cost of joining Sigma Phi Cornell varies depending on the semester and the housing situation. Please contact the fraternity for current information on dues and fees.
- What is the GPA requirement for joining Sigma Phi Cornell?
- Sigma Phi Cornell does not have a specific GPA requirement for membership. However, the fraternity is committed to academic excellence, and members are expected to maintain a strong academic record.
- What are the housing options for Sigma Phi Cornell members?
- Sigma Phi Cornell offers a variety of housing options, including single rooms, double rooms, and suites. The fraternity also has a chapter house that is available for members to live in.
- What is the size of Sigma Phi Cornell?
- Sigma Phi Cornell is a mid-sized fraternity with approximately 100 active members.
Table 1: Sigma Phi Cornell by the Numbers
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1856 |
| Members | 100+ |
| GPA Rank | Top 10% |
| All-Americans | 100+ |
| Varsity Athletes | 20% |
| Alumni | Thousands |
Table 2: Benefits of Joining Sigma Phi Cornell
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Academic support | Tutoring, study groups, mentorship |
| Leadership development | Leadership positions, committees |
| Brotherhood and community service | Close-knit community, service projects |
| Networking | Active alumni network |
Table 3: Strategies for Success in Sigma Phi Cornell
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Set academic goals | Set realistic goals and work hard |
| Get involved | Join committees, teams, volunteer |
| Make friends | Connect with fellow brothers |
| Ask for help | Seek assistance from brothers or advisor |
Table 4: Tips and Tricks for Sigma Phi Cornell Members
| Tip/Trick | Description |
|---|---|
| Attend chapter meetings | Stay informed and connect |
| Participate in brotherhood events | Build strong relationships |
| Get involved in campus activities | Meet new people and build resume |
| Use the fraternity’s resources | Access tutoring, study groups, financial assistance |
