Phi Gamma Delta: A Legacy of Brotherhood and Leadership

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Phi Gamma Delta
• History of Phi Gamma Delta
• Mission and Values of Phi Gamma Delta
• Benefits of Joining Phi Gamma Delta
• Becoming a Member of Phi Gamma Delta
• Notable Alumni of Phi Gamma Delta
• Conclusion

Introduction to Phi Gamma Delta

Phi Gamma Delta (affectionately known as "Fiji") is an international men's social fraternity founded in 1848 at Jefferson College in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. With over 140 active chapters and colonies across North America and Europe, Phi Gamma Delta is one of the largest and most respected fraternities in the world.

History of Phi Gamma Delta

1848: Phi Gamma Delta was founded by six college students: John Templeton McCarty, Samuel Brown Wylie Mitchell, James Elliott, Ellis Bell Chapman, Lemuel Werts Smith, and James Boyd Young. The fraternity's original motto was, "Friendship, Literature, and Truth."

1850s-1860s: Phi Gamma Delta expanded rapidly throughout the United States, establishing chapters at prestigious universities such as Yale, Harvard, and Princeton. During the Civil War, many Fiji members served in the Union Army, earning the fraternity a reputation for patriotism.

1870s-1880s: Phi Gamma Delta continued to grow in size and influence, becoming a leading force in the American fraternity system. The fraternity adopted its current name and motto, "Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Under Which We All Dwell in Harmony and Love."

20th Century: Phi Gamma Delta played an active role in both World Wars, with thousands of members serving in the armed forces. After the war, the fraternity continued to expand, establishing chapters at major universities in the United States and abroad.

21st Century: Today, Phi Gamma Delta remains a vibrant and active fraternity, dedicated to the principles of brotherhood, leadership, and scholarship. The fraternity continues to play a significant role on college campuses and in communities around the world.

Mission and Values of Phi Gamma Delta

The mission of Phi Gamma Delta is to develop men of character who are:

• Intellectual: Committed to lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge
• Ethical: Guided by high moral standards and a sense of integrity
• Responsible: Accepting personal accountability and contributing to society
• Brotherly: Dedicated to fostering strong and lasting bonds among members
• Innovative: Embracing new ideas and challenges, and striving for excellence

Benefits of Joining Phi Gamma Delta

Joining Phi Gamma Delta offers numerous benefits to its members, including:

• Academic Success: Fiji members consistently outperform non-members in academic achievement. According to a study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley, Fiji members have a higher GPAs and graduation rates than the campus average.
• Leadership Skills: Phi Gamma Delta provides opportunities for members to develop their leadership skills through various programs and initiatives. Fiji members hold leadership positions in student government, campus organizations, and the fraternity itself.
• Networking Opportunities: The Phi Gamma Delta network extends across the country and the world, providing members with access to professional contacts and mentorship opportunities.
• Social Connections: Phi Gamma Delta fosters a strong sense of community among its members, providing opportunities for members to make lifelong friends and build lasting relationships.

How to Become a Member of Phi Gamma Delta

Becoming a member of Phi Gamma Delta is a multi-step process that typically involves the following:

1. Recruitment: Interested students attend recruitment events hosted by the local chapter.
2. Interviews: Candidates are interviewed by current members to assess their fit with the fraternity.
3. Membership Education Program: Candidates participate in a comprehensive education program that covers the history, values, and traditions of Phi Gamma Delta.
4. Initiation: Successful candidates are initiated into the fraternity through a solemn and meaningful ceremony.

Notable Alumni of Phi Gamma Delta

Phi Gamma Delta has a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. Some notable alumni include:

• Presidents of the United States: Chester A. Arthur, James A. Garfield, and William McKinley
• Justices of the Supreme Court: Melville Fuller and Edward White
• Nobel Prize Winners: Thomas Hunt Morgan and Lars Onsager
• Business Leaders: Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and Elon Musk

Why Phi Gamma Delta Matters

Phi Gamma Delta matters because it provides its members with a unique and transformative experience that helps them develop into well-rounded individuals. The fraternity's emphasis on brotherhood, leadership, and scholarship creates a supportive and challenging environment that fosters personal growth and achievement.

Phi Gamma Delta also plays a significant role in its communities. Members are actively involved in volunteer work, philanthropy, and campus leadership, making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Call to Action

If you are a young man looking for a fraternity that will help you reach your full potential, consider joining Phi Gamma Delta. The fraternity offers a supportive and challenging environment that will help you develop into a man of character and leadership.

Visit the official Phi Gamma Delta website at www.phigam.org to learn more about the fraternity and find a chapter near you.

Conclusion

Phi Gamma Delta is a prestigious and respected men's social fraternity that has been shaping young men for over 160 years. Its mission to develop men of character and leadership has been consistently fulfilled through its dedicated members and alumni.

By joining Phi Gamma Delta, you will become part of a legacy of brotherhood, scholarship, and service. You will have the opportunity to develop your leadership skills, expand your network, and make lifelong friends.

Tables

Table 1: Number of Phi Gamma Delta Chapters

Table 2: Phi Gamma Delta Members by Occupation

Table 3: Phi Gamma Delta Impact on Campus