Celebrating our most academically
talented students
Phi Beta Kappa: Phi Beta Kappa is a national academic honor society founded at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va., on December 5, 1776. The stated purpose of Phi Beta Kappa is to “recognize and encourage scholarship, friendship, and cultural interests.” The Ursinus College chapter, Tau of Pennsylvania, was approved on October 19, 1991. Composed of faculty members holding Phi Beta Kappa kets, the chapter confers membership on the basis of “high scholarship, liberal culture, and good character.” Election to Phi Beta Kappa is considered the highest academic honor for undergraduate students.
Cub & Key Society and Whitian Society:
The Whitian Society and the Cub & Key Society are Ursinus honor organizations with a history extending back for roughly a century. They were designed to recognize students who embody the ideals of Ursinus students—outstanding scholars who are also deeply engaged in campus activities and service to the college and community. Selection to the groups is a joint effort without gender distinction. Elected students may list membership to the joint societies on their own resumés, or if they wish, may choose to identify with either group singly.
The Cub & Key Society was founded in 1939 at Ursinus College to recognize the male leaders of the campus who have distinguished themselves through high scholastic standing, participation in extracurricular activities, and service to the College community. Election to the society is limited to second-semester juniors.
The Whitian Society was founded in 1939 at Ursinus College by Dr. Elizabeth B. White, professor of history and dean of women. The society recognizes the achievements of women who have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic performance, in addition to leadership and service to the College. Election to the society is limited to second-semester juniors.