Fraternities have long been a staple of college life, offering students the opportunity to form lifelong bonds, engage in philanthropic activities, and develop leadership skills. With their rich histories and diverse missions, it can be difficult to discern which fraternities stand out among the rest. Whether you are a prospective member trying to find the perfect fit or simply curious about Greek life, the following list highlights the top 10 fraternities, taking into account their history, philanthropic contributions, alumni success, and overall impact within the Greek life community.
#10 Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)
Founded in 1848 at Jefferson College in Pennsylvania, Phi Gamma Delta, often known simply as FIJI, boasts a membership that embraces strong values. FIJI’s emphasis on friendship, knowledge, service, morality, and excellence underpins their commitment to not only their brotherhood but also their academics and community involvement. Distinguished alumni include the likes of philanthropist Ron Sargent, former CEO of Staples, which showcases the organization’s influence in cultivating successful leaders.
#9 Beta Theta Pi
Beta Theta Pi was established in 1839 at Miami University in Ohio, making it one of the oldest fraternities in the United States. This fraternity prides itself on developing men of principle for a principled life. With a mission to build lasting bonds of friendship and brotherhood, Beta encourages its members to live their lives with integrity. Renowned Betas include Walmart founder Sam Walton and Senator Richard Lugar, providing a glimpse of the fraternity’s impressive reach into the fields of business and politics.
#8 Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon, founded in 1856 at the University of Alabama, stands out for its historical significance and breadth of its membership. With the motto “The True Gentleman,” SAE underscores the importance of upholding high moral standards and the gentlemanly conduct. SAE is known for being the first fraternity to eliminate pledging and is noted for having the largest alumni base in the country. Famous SAE members include author William Faulkner and entrepreneur William McKinley, underscoring the fraternity’s storied past and cultural impact.
#7 Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp)
Sigma Phi Epsilon was founded in 1901 at Richmond College in Virginia. Known as SigEp, the fraternity has grown to become one of the largest undergraduate fraternities. SigEp takes pride in its “Balanced Man Program,” encouraging members to strive for academic excellence, physical wellness, and leadership. With the Balanced Man Scholarship, SigEp also recognizes and rewards students who demonstrate these traits. The alumni list boasts influential individuals such as Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist George F. Will.
#6 Alpha Tau Omega (ATO)
Alpha Tau Omega stands out for its concept of brotherhood that transcends the Civil War divide, as it was founded in 1865 at the Virginia Military Institute. ATO emphasizes leadership as a key component of personal development and is committed to shaping members into ethical leaders. The fraternity’s Lifeline Project works to reduce the number of traffic deaths nationwide which is a testament to their commitment to the greater good. Notable ATO alumni include President Dwight Eisenhower and hotelier Conrad Hilton, emphasizing the organization’s influence on leadership at the highest levels.
#5 Kappa Sigma
Kappa Sigma, another formidable fraternity, was established in 1869 at the University of Virginia. It is one of the largest fraternities internationally, focusing on fellowship, leadership, scholarship, and service. Kappa Sigma’s philanthropic program, “A Greater Cause,” aids a variety of charitable initiatives. Kappa Sigma members are known for their dedication to community service and leadership development. High-profile Kappa Sigma alumni include singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett and politician Robert J. Dole, highlighting the stellar company members keep.
#4 Lambda Chi Alpha
Lambda Chi Alpha distinguishes itself with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion since its inception in 1909 at Boston University. The fraternity abolished pledging in the 1970s, adopting an associate member status instead to promote equality among members. Its philanthropic efforts, particularly its partnership with Feeding America, demonstrate Lambda Chi Alpha’s commitment to social causes. Influential alumni, such as talk show host Dr. Phil McGraw, attest to the personal and professional development the fraternity fosters.
#3 Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)
Pi Kappa Alpha, or Pike, founded in 1868 at the University of Virginia, has a reputation for cultivating excellence among its members. The fraternity’s tagline, “Scholars, Leaders, Athletes, Gentlemen,” encapsulates the multifaceted development Pike promotes. Through the PIKE Foundation, the fraternity supports educational programs and scholarships, further contributing to the academic and personal growth of its members. Noteworthy alumni include businessman and former presidential candidate H. Ross Perot, showcasing the fraternity’s capacity to propel members to extraordinary heights.
#2 Alpha Phi Alpha
Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded in 1906 at Cornell University. It holds a landmark place in history for both its cultural significance and its role in the civil rights movement. The fraternity’s commitment to developing leaders, promoting brotherhood and academic excellence, and providing service and advocacy for the community aligns with its notable members, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall, both of whom reflect Alpha Phi Alpha’s societal impact.
#1 Sigma Chi
At the pinnacle of our list is Sigma Chi, founded in 1855 at Miami University in Ohio. Known for its core values of friendship, justice, and learning, Sigma Chi boasts a network of alumni that excels in various fields. The Sigma Chi Foundation offers numerous leadership development programs and scholarships, highlighting the fraternity’s investment in cultivating future leaders. The brotherhood has an impressive roster of influential alumni, including actor Brad Pitt and journalist David Letterman, underscoring the fraternity’s wide-reaching influence and prestige.
In conclusion, fraternities offer more than just a social outlet; they are institutions that support scholarship, leadership, and community involvement. Each of the fraternities listed here has made a significant impact on both its members and the broader community. When considering which fraternity to join or learn more about, it is important to reflect on the values and opportunities each presents, ensuring a good fit and a positive, enriching experience in the Greek life community.