Pi Kappa Alpha, commonly known as PIKE, is one of the oldest and largest college fraternities in North America. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, PIKE has played a significant role in shaping the lives of countless young men and contributing to campus communities across the United States and beyond.
In its early years, PIKE expanded slowly but steadily across the South. The fraternity faced challenges during the Reconstruction era, but managed to survive and grow despite the difficult economic and social conditions of the time.
By 1909, PIKE had expanded beyond its Southern roots, establishing chapters in the Midwest and Northeast. This period also saw the creation of The Shield & Diamond, the fraternity's official magazine, which continues to be published today.
The fraternity experienced rapid growth in the post-World War II era, as college enrollment surged across the United States. By the 1970s, PIKE had become one of the largest fraternities in North America.
- Tim McGraw, country music star
- Bobby Bowden, legendary college football coach
- Burt Reynolds, actor
- John Goodman, actor
- Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys
The fraternity has also been recognized for its philanthropic efforts and commitment to leadership development. PIKE chapters across North America regularly engage in community service projects and raise funds for various charitable causes.
As Pi Kappa Alpha moves forward, it faces the challenge of balancing its rich traditions with the evolving needs and expectations of modern college students. By embracing diversity, promoting responsible behavior, and focusing on personal development, PIKE aims to remain a relevant and positive force in the lives of its members and campus communities for years to come.
Founding and Early Years
Pi Kappa Alpha was founded on March 1, 1868, at the University of Virginia by six young men: Frederick Southgate Taylor, Littleton Waller Tazewell, James Benjamin Sclater Jr., Robertson Howard, Julian Edward Wood, and William Alexander. These founders sought to create a fraternity based on the ideals of scholarship, leadership, athleticism, and gentlemanly conduct.In its early years, PIKE expanded slowly but steadily across the South. The fraternity faced challenges during the Reconstruction era, but managed to survive and grow despite the difficult economic and social conditions of the time.
Expansion and Growth
The turn of the 20th century marked a period of significant growth for Pi Kappa Alpha. In 1889, the fraternity held its first national convention, which helped standardize practices across chapters and strengthen the organization's national identity.By 1909, PIKE had expanded beyond its Southern roots, establishing chapters in the Midwest and Northeast. This period also saw the creation of The Shield & Diamond, the fraternity's official magazine, which continues to be published today.
The fraternity experienced rapid growth in the post-World War II era, as college enrollment surged across the United States. By the 1970s, PIKE had become one of the largest fraternities in North America.
Notable Achievements and Members
Throughout its history, Pi Kappa Alpha has counted many distinguished individuals among its ranks, including politicians, business leaders, athletes, and entertainers. Some notable PIKE alumni include:- Tim McGraw, country music star
- Bobby Bowden, legendary college football coach
- Burt Reynolds, actor
- John Goodman, actor
- Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys
The fraternity has also been recognized for its philanthropic efforts and commitment to leadership development. PIKE chapters across North America regularly engage in community service projects and raise funds for various charitable causes.
Modern Era
Today, Pi Kappa Alpha continues to adapt to the changing landscape of higher education while striving to uphold its founding principles. With over 200 active chapters and colonies across North America, PIKE remains a significant presence on college campuses, offering opportunities for leadership, personal growth, and lifelong friendships to a new generation of young men.As Pi Kappa Alpha moves forward, it faces the challenge of balancing its rich traditions with the evolving needs and expectations of modern college students. By embracing diversity, promoting responsible behavior, and focusing on personal development, PIKE aims to remain a relevant and positive force in the lives of its members and campus communities for years to come.