WHERE KNOWLEDGE INSPIRES ACTION
For 250 years, The Phi Beta Kappa Society has championed education in the arts and sciences, fueling generations of trailblazers. Our members apply their knowledge to defy expectations and shape the world around them for the better.
Join the Celebration
Our national office, chapters, and associations are marking this milestone in true ΦBK style. Attend an anniversary event, donate, spread the word, or celebrate in a way that works best for you!
.png)
September 29, 2026
250th Celebration in Chicago
As part of a nationwide series of events, we invite you to join us for our next event in Chicago for an exchange of ideas, dialogue, and meaningful connection
See the Event
June 10, 2025
Find an Event Near You
Connect with your local campus chapter or regional alumni association to discover what's happening in your area. Learn how you can get involved with Phi Beta Kappa during our anniversary and beyond.
SEE ALL EVENTSHosting a 250 event with your community?
Email events@pbk.org to get your event featured.
Advocate for Liberal Arts & Sciences
Member Spotlight
-
Ta-Nehisi Coates
Author, Journalist & Comic Book Writer, Oregon State University
Ellen Ochoa is a former astronaut and former director of the Johnson Space Center. In 1993, she became the first Hispanic woman to go to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. From 2018 to 2020, she served as vice chair of the National Science Board. A trained classical flutist, Ochoa brought her instrument aboard her first space mission, a nod to her love of music.
"I was learning the craft of poetry, which really was an intensive version of what my mother had taught me all those years ago—the craft of writing as the art of thinking. Poetry aims for an economy of truth."
-
Amanda Gorman
Amanda Gorman, Harvard University.
Amanda Gorman is a poet and activist. In 2017, Gorman became the first National Youth Poet Laureate. She recited her poem, “The Hill We Climb,” at former President Joe Biden’s inauguration, which was widely celebrated. She has published several critically acclaimed poetry books and is a steadfast advocate for issues pertaining to race, women’s rights, and free speech.
"Poetry has never been the language of barriers, it's always been the language of bridges."
-
Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning, University of Tennessee.
Peyton Manning is a former National Football League player, often considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Manning is a two-time Super Bowl champion, winning the league with both the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos. In 2021, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Outside of football, Manning launched the Peyback Foundation to support children from underrepresented communities.
"I do know one thing about me: I don't measure myself by others' expectations or let others define my worth."
-
Francis Ford Coppola, Hofstra
Francis Ford Coppola, Hofstra.
Francis Ford Coppola is regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in history and a leading figure of the New Hollywood era. Coppola is best known for directing The Godfather. In 1997, he co-founded the literary magazine Zoetrope: All-Story, which publishes fiction by emerging writers and notable figures. Over his career, Coppola has received many awards, including five Academy Awards, a BAFTA, and two Palmes d’Or.
"You see the transformation that the arts have on young people. It changes their lives for the better. That's where my engagement is."
Explore More Ways to Celebrate
Keep the celebration going by engaging with Phi Beta Kappa and your love of learning online and in person.
Ways to Get Involved
Attend Key Connections events to network with young professionals in your community.
Browse our eventsKeep your love of learning alive by attending a Visiting Scholar lecture.
Meet our scholarsConnect with fellow Phi Beta Kappa members through our alumni associations.
Find your associationPublications
Read The American Scholar, our award-winning magazine covering advancements in arts and sciences
Subscribe now.png?lang=en-US&ext=.png)
Hear from our nation’s brightest minds through our Smarty Pants and Key Conversations podcasts.
Tune inSupport 250 and Beyond
The arts and sciences spark new ideas and generate knowledge that benefits everyone. Donate to amplify their power and build a thriving future full of opportunity.
ONE-TIME GIFTSECRETARY'S CIRCLE MEMBERSHIP