Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States. Founded in 1776 at the College of William & Mary, PBK has a long and storied history of recognizing and rewarding academic achievement.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) was one of the first institutions to establish a chapter of PBK, in 1853. Since then, UNC has inducted thousands of students into this prestigious organization.
Benefits of Phi Beta Kappa Membership
There are many benefits to being a member of Phi Beta Kappa. These include:
- Recognition for academic excellence: PBK is a testament to a student’s hard work and dedication to their studies.
- Networking opportunities: PBK members have access to a network of fellow scholars, alumni, and faculty.
- Scholarship support: PBK offers a number of scholarships to its members, including the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa Book Award.
- Leadership development: PBK members have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills through involvement in the organization’s various activities.
- Intellectual enrichment: PBK members have access to a variety of intellectual enrichment opportunities, such as lectures, conferences, and workshops.
How to Join Phi Beta Kappa at UNC
To be eligible for Phi Beta Kappa at UNC, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be in the top 10% of their class.
- Have a GPA of at least 3.85.
- Have completed at least 90 semester hours of coursework at UNC.
- Be of good moral character.
Students who meet these requirements are invited to apply for membership in PBK. The application process is rigorous, but it is also an opportunity for students to reflect on their academic achievements and their commitment to scholarship.
Notable Phi Beta Kappa Members from UNC
UNC has a long and distinguished history of producing Phi Beta Kappa members. Some of the most notable PBK members from UNC include:
- William Archibald Graham: Governor of North Carolina, U.S. Senator, and Secretary of the Navy
- Zebulon Baird Vance: Governor of North Carolina and U.S. Senator
- Charles Brantley Aycock: Governor of North Carolina and educational reformer
- James B. Hunt Jr.: Governor of North Carolina and U.S. Ambassador to Austria
- Roy A. Cooper III: Governor of North Carolina
These are just a few of the many notable Phi Beta Kappa members from UNC. The organization has a long and proud tradition of recognizing and rewarding academic excellence.
The Future of Phi Beta Kappa at UNC
Phi Beta Kappa is a vital part of the academic community at UNC. The organization provides students with a variety of opportunities to develop their intellectual, leadership, and professional skills.
As UNC continues to grow and change, so too will Phi Beta Kappa. The organization is committed to adapting to the needs of its members and to continuing to play a vital role in the university community.
Conclusion
Phi Beta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States. UNC has a long and storied history of PBK membership, and the organization continues to play a vital role in the university community. PBK members are recognized for their academic excellence, and they have access to a variety of benefits, including networking opportunities, scholarship support, and leadership development. If you are a high-achieving student at UNC, I encourage you to apply for membership in Phi Beta Kappa.
