Fraternity Heritage Module and Activity Guide

FRATERNITY
HERITAGE MODULE
AND ACTIVITY
GUIDE
This guide will help the Director Fraternity Heritage or specified facilitator execute the
assigned Fraternity Heritage Activities for the term.
Last Updated: August 2021 Page 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Philanthropies .....................................................................................................................................................4
Overview of Read > Lead > Achieve Initiatives ............................................................................5
Settlement School ....................................................................................................................................5
The Story of One .......................................................................................................................................6
Create Your Own Philanthropic Project ..........................................................................................6
What Literacy Looks Like .....................................................................................................................7
Pi Beta Phi Foundation Timeline .......................................................................................................8
Pi Beta Phi Foundation Funds and Programs ...............................................................................8
The National Panhellenic Conference........................................................................................................9
Building Community ............................................................................................................................ 10
The Pi Beta Phi and NPC Missions .................................................................................................. 10
NPC History ............................................................................................................................................. 11
Notable Pi Phis ................................................................................................................................................. 12
Famous Pi Phis Jeopardy.................................................................................................................... 13
Notable Pi Phis Spotlight .................................................................................................................... 13
Pi Phis in Our Community.................................................................................................................. 14
Chapter Heritage ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Our Chapter Archives, Our Chapter History ............................................................................... 16
Our Angels in The Arrow®.................................................................................................................. 16
An Overview of Our Chapter’s History ......................................................................................... 17
Chapter Birthday Party ....................................................................................................................... 17
Convention and Awards ............................................................................................................................... 18
Pi Beta Phi Awards Bingo .................................................................................................................. 19
Conventions at a Glance...................................................................................................................... 20
Convention Happenings ..................................................................................................................... 20

The Founders of I.C. Sorosis ....................................................................................................................... 21
Which Founder Are You? ................................................................................................................... 22
Founders Speed Dating ....................................................................................................................... 22
Room for Rent......................................................................................................................................... 23
Traditions and Celebrations ....................................................................................................................... 24
History of the Cookie Shine ............................................................................................................... 25
Special Times in Pi Phi ........................................................................................................................ 27
Meaningful Membership .................................................................................................................... 28
Pi Beta Phi Publications ............................................................................................................................... 29
The Arrow and What it Means to Me ............................................................................................ 30
Arrow Editor for a Day ........................................................................................................................ 30
The Arrow through the Years .......................................................................................................... 31
Symbols of Pi Beta Phi .................................................................................................................................. 34
Pi Beta Phi Badge................................................................................................................................... 35
Symbols of Pi Beta Phi ......................................................................................................................... 36
Create Your Own ................................................................................................................................... 38

PHILANTHROPIES
This section outlines the information that should be covered throughout the philanthropies
module and philanthropy section of the historical website. The lessons are designed to
review and relate the information from the historical website, as well as utilize activities to
make the learning experience more fun. These activities are simply meant to be a guide.
Use what will work best for your chapter and feel free to modify as needed. We encourage
your creativity with Fraternity programming activities.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To develop a greater understanding of our philanthropic heritage.
• To better understand Read > Lead > Achieve® and our current philanthropic efforts.
• To better understand the role of Pi Beta Phi Foundation and its role in the
Fraternity’s mission.
RESOURCES
Historical Website exhibits
Philanthropy: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/philanthropy
Settlement School: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/settlement-school
Pi Beta Phi Foundation: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/foundation
Pi Phi Firsts: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/pi-phi-firsts
Resource Library documents
Destination Recruitment Philanthropy
National Panhellenic Conference Manual of Information
Other resources
Story of One video: https://vimeo.com/442493365
Story of One II video: https://vimeo.com/222427087
Fraternity history book, Hearts that are bound by the Wine & Silver Blue; Pi Beta Phi
Fraternity
Campus Fraternity and Sorority professionals
Campus archives

OVERVIEW OF READ > LEAD > ACHIEVE INITIATIVES
Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Resources: Historical website, Resource Library: Search for document, “Destination
Recruitment Philanthropy.” Logos for Read > Lead > Achieve initiatives and the matching
descriptions for each initiative.
Activity
Discuss Pi Beta Phi’s history of altruistic work and commitment to literacy and
education as described on the historical website. Depending on what works best for
your audience, create a presentation or prepare a “memory” like game ahead of time
that will cover the description of each Read > Lead > Achieve initiative and match it
with its logo. Once the group has identified all Read > Lead > Achieve initiatives, the
chapter should discuss ways it has supported specific initiatives through fundraising
events and time dedicated to literacy advocacy. It is important that our members
have a solid understanding of Read > Lead > Achieve and the initiatives that pair
with our Fraternity’s philanthropic focus, so we can speak to these initiatives
throughout recruitment, during philanthropy events and whenever we have the
chance to be an advocate for literacy.
SETTLEMENT SCHOOL
Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Director

Fraternity Heritage
Resources: Historical website, 100 Years of Literacy – Part 1 video, computer/laptop with
Wi-Fi connection to view 100 Years of Literacy video.
Activity
Watch 100 Years of Literacy video
Now that participants understand how Pi Beta Phi came to establish the Settlement
School in Gatlinburg, have the large group break into smaller groups and discuss
how they would do this today. What elements would you need today (quite different
than 1914) to create a successful literacy program? What kind of structure would
we need to ensure success in a philanthropic endeavor at this scale today? Have the
groups discuss where one would start and what one would need within their
groups.

Give the groups enough time to brainstorm these essentials and a basic structure.
Allow them 10-15 minutes to do this, then have the group share. There are many
pieces that go into establishing a successful literacy program. This activity
demonstrates how thoughtful and detail oriented our sisters were when they
decided to take on the Settlement School project that transformed the Gatlinburg
community.
THE STORY OF ONE

Resources: Historical website Story of One video: https://vimeo.com/442493365
Story of One II video: https://vimeo.com/222427087 , Computer/laptop with Wi-Fi
connection to view video(s).
Activity
Watch Story of One and/or Story of One II video(s)
Often the Story of One video is presented during the philanthropy round of
recruitment. Have the audience watch the video(s) to become more familiar with
one of our materials regarding literacy awareness. After watching the video have the
group members find a partner and share a story that relates to literacy advocacy or
awareness with their partner.
Some members may have personal stories about themselves or family being
impacted by illiteracy. Others may reference a story from a literacy partnership with
a school or from a past philanthropy event. After partners have paired and shared,
ask for some to share their stories. Sometimes we are surprised to learn that people
we know are impacted by illiteracy or our literacy efforts even today.
CREATE YOUR OWN PHILANTHROPIC PROJECT
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Resources: Historical website, whiteboard or large paper, markers.
Activity
In this activity we will create a number of philanthropic projects for our chapter to
host or participate in throughout the year. Number off into groups of five. All the
one’s, two’s three’s, etc. sit together. For larger chapters you can create more
groups.

In your group, share ideas of various philanthropic projects you’ve heard of in other
Pi Phi chapters, organizations and in your community. From there, your group will
focus on one philanthropic project and brainstorm how this project could turn into
reality. At the end of your group discussion, select a group member to present this
idea to the rest of the large group. Take this philanthropic idea and discuss:
I. Project/goal
II. Audience
III. Advertising
IV. Five steps to meet the goal
Allow adequate time for the groups to discuss their philanthropic ideas. Have a
representative from each group share.
WHAT LITERACY LOOKS LIKE
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Resources: Historical website, paper, writing utensils.
Activity
Have the group number off into groups of five. All the one’s, two’s three’s, etc. sit
together. For larger chapters, you can create more groups. Task each group with
writing a story about a philanthropic project or event they enjoyed and felt was
successful. This story should be five to six sentences long.
After each group has completed their story, provide them with the following
instructions: Now remove all the nouns in your first two sentences. Next, remove
the verbs from the third and fourth sentences. Finally, remove the adjectives from
the remaining sentences. Have a few groups volunteer to read their stories out loud
to the entire group (omitting those words noted.) This will provide a visual of what
literacy looks like, when one does not understand literacy both written or heard.

PI BETA PHI FOUNDATION TIMELI NE
Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Resources: Historical website, timeline from Pi Beta Phi Foundation exhibit, printer and
paper, scissors, a ribbon or crepe paper to indicate timeline.
Activity
During the New Member Education Program, we learned some of the basics of
Pi Beta Phi history. Now we’re going to dive deeper into Pi Beta Phi Foundation’s
history. The facilitator will hand out a Foundation major milestone to each
pair/small group and participants will have to decide where they think this event
falls on the timeline. Based off knowledge of Pi Beta Phi history and Pi Beta Phi
Foundation, participants will lay their event where they think it best fits.
Participants can talk with other sisters about their clues/events and see if they can
use other events or prior knowledge to determine where this event is supposed to
go.
PI BETA PHI FOUNDATION FUNDS AND PROGRAMS
Facilitator(s): Vice President Finance/Housing, Vice President Community Relations, Vice

President Member Experience
Resources: Historical website, Funds and Programs section of Foundation exhibit, buckets,
candy (you can use other items in place of candy).
Activity
Introduce the funds and programs that are supported by Pi Beta Phi Foundation.
Share details and provide examples to best explain each fund. Set up a display
(buckets) at the front of room as a visual when explaining these funds. Provide each
member with candy (or marbles, anything small) and allow each person to choose
where to put their candy (Emma Harper Turner Fund Program, Literacy Fund, etc.).
This visual assists in explaining where the money fundraised and/or donated goes
and how it can be distributed.

THE NATIONAL PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the National
Panhellenic Conference (NPC) module and the NPC section of the historical website. The
lessons are designed to review and relate information from the historical website, as well
as utilize activities to make the learning experience more fun. These activities are simply
meant to be a guide. Use what will work best for your chapter and feel free to modify as
needed. We encourage your creativity with Fraternity programming activities.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To understand our historical presence with the NPC.

• To better understand our current role in the NPC both on your campus and the
Fraternity at large.
RESOURCES

National Panhellenic Conference: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/national-
panhellenic-conference

Other resources
National Panhellenic Conference website: http://npcwomen.org/
Fraternity

BUILDING COMMUNITY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations, Chapter President

Resources: Historical Website, Campus Fraternity/Sorority Advisor
Activity
Invite your campus Fraternity/Sorority Advisor to speak to the chapter. Call this
event, “Building Community.” Have your Fraternity/Sorority Advisor share
information on the different councils/chapters on your campus. They could cover
each group’s history, recruitment processes, philanthropies, ways to collaborate
with them on future events, philanthropies, etc. This is a great way to build rapport
with your campus Fraternity/Sorority Advisor and an opportunity for the chapter to
learn more and get involved with the overall fraternity/sorority community on
campus.
THE PI BETA PHI AND NPC MISSIONS
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations, Panhellenic Delegate

Resources: NPC website, Pi Beta Phi website, National Panhellenic Conference video,
Advancing Sorority Together.
Activity
Share the NPC mission and the Pi Phi mission. NPC: The National Panhellenic
Conference is the premier advocacy and support organization for the advancement of
the sorority experience. Pi Beta Phi mission: The mission of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for
Women is to promote friendship, develop women of intellect and integrity, cultivate
leadership potential and enrich lives through community service. Next, discuss how
both missions are similar and ways we can support the NPC system.

NPC HISTORY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations or Panhellenic

Delegate
Resources: Historical Website, NPC Website, Resource Library: National Panhellenic
Conference Manual of Information
Activity
Utilize the information from the NPC exhibit on the historical website and
information from the NPC website to prepare a “True or False” presentation on
NPC/fraternity and sorority history. An example would be to ask when Panhellenic
was established. Note a year and ask is it ‘true or false’. Then, the next slide should
note the correct answer. Another example would be to ask which Panhellenic
sororities founded the NPC. Continue with various historical data, one fact per slide,
and share in a discussion. It is also important to highlight Pi Beta Phi’s presence
with the National Panhellenic Conference from the beginning. You can find a list of
Pi Phi’s NPC delegates on the NPC exhibit – check to see if your chapter has a former
or current NPC delegate!

NOTABLE PI PHIS
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the Notable Pi Phis
Module. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the historical
website, as well as utilize activities to make the learning experience more fun. These
activities are simply meant to be a guide. Use what will work best for your chapter and feel
free to modify as needed. We encourage your creativity with Fraternity programming
activities.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To develop a greater understanding of past and current Pi Phis who have impacted
our Fraternity.
• To understand our historical presence through these leaders and how they have
impacted both the Fraternity and NPC.
RESOURCES

Notable Pi Phis: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/notable-pi-phis

Other resources
Fraternity

FAMOUS PI PHIS JEOPARDY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Vice President

Community Relations or Chapter President
Resources: Pi Beta Phi website, a “Jeopardy” template for PowerPoint can be found with a
quick Google search
Activity
The facilitator will create a Jeopardy game with the answers being famous Pi Phis.
The link above in “Resources” has a breakdown of categories of famous Pi Phis. One
category could be “Anchors, Reporters, and Radio Personalities,” another could be
“Government and Politics,” etc. There are plenty of categories and famous members.
The facilitator can pick which Pi Phis they want to feature as some are very well-
known and some might have even been initiated in your chapter. A co-facilitator
should keep track of points and declare one team as the Famous Pi Phis Jeopardy
winner.
NOTABLE PI PHIS SPOTLIGHT
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or anyone willing to

assist the VPME
Resources: Historical website: Notable Pi Phis
Activity
The facilitator will prepare a slide honoring a notable Pi Phi to be shared at chapter
meetings each week. The slide should include some facts such as chapter of
initiation, their contributions to the Fraternity, a picture of the member (so chapter
members can seek them out at Pi Phi events like convention or Leadership Institute)
and their professional career. This is an easy way to incorporate Fraternity heritage
throughout the term. This activity will also demonstrate the core value of Lifelong
Commitment to our members as these notable Pi Phis continued to give back to the
Fraternity after college graduation.

PI PHIS IN OUR COMMUNITY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Vice President

Community Relations or Chapter President
Resources: Sister Search, LinkedIn, computer, tablet or smart phone.
Activity
Chapter members can utilize resources such as LinkedIn or Sister Search (located on
the Pi Beta Phi website) to identify members who may be leaders in their
community or leaders in a profession in which a member is interested. This activity
will give undergraduate members experience with professionally searching for
members in leadership with similar interests. This activity could potentially provide
networking and other opportunities. If the chapter discovers they have an alumna in
their area who is in an untapped school district (for C.A.R.) or is involved with
another great philanthropic cause, the chapter could reach out to establish a
relationship. While members are searching on LinkedIn, they are encouraged to join
the Pi Beta Phi Fraternity Group.

CHAPTER HERITAGE
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the Chapter
Heritage Module. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the
historical website, as well as utilize activities to make the learning experience more fun.
These activities are simply meant to be a guide. Use what will work best for your chapter
and feel free to modify as needed. We encourage your creativity with Fraternity
programming activities.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To understand the historical presence of your chapter heritage.

• To better understand where to look for information and how to preserve your
chapter’s heritage.
RESOURCES

Chapter Histories: https://history.pibetaphi.org/chapters/list-of-chapters
Housing: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/housing

Chapter Archives Guide, Content List and Sign Out Log
Fraternity Heritage Module Appendices
Other resources
Fraternity

OUR CHAPTER ARCHIVES, OUR CHAPTE R HISTORY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Director Fraternity

Heritage
Resources: Chapter Archives Guide, located in the Resource Library. Chapter archives that
are on display in the chapter house, in the storage unit, or items that are passed from one
chapter officer to the next
Activity
Collect two to three different items that have been kept in the archive or displayed
for achievements in and around the house. Look for items that were from years
when current members were not involved in the achievement or recognition. These
can be awards won (e.g., silver plates, plaques, etc.) The facilitator can collect a few
items then share the history of the items to explain why/how these were achieved,
acquired, or awarded. This allows chapters to understand their history and see
items they have achieved, promoting sisterhood over the years. It could rejuvenate
the chapter and remind them of how their chapter history is important to preserve.
OUR ANGELS IN THE ARROW ®
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Vice President

Community Relations
Resources: Copies of The Arrow, the more copies the better
Activity
The facilitator (and potentially a team) should gather past issues of The Arrow
magazine. The facilitator/this group will look at past magazines to share articles or
achievements the chapter had published about themselves, or of the Fraternity, that
relates to areas of interest for the chapter. Looking at older editions of The Arrow,
chapter members can see where the chapter has been and where it is headed. This
may excite members to think about the legacy they plan to leave for the chapter. If
the chapter would like to share a recap of a recent event or a story about an
inspiring member, they can submit a story at pibetaphi.org/submit.

AN OVERVIEW OF OUR CHAPTER’S HISTORY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Vice President

Community Relations
Resources: Historical website: https://history.pibetaphi.org/chapters/list-of-chapters
click on your chapter, https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/housing, Fraternity Heritage
Manual Appendix E – Current Award Winners, located in the Resource Library
Activity
The Pi Beta Phi historical website has a page for every Pi Beta Phi chapter ever
chartered. Each chapter’s page highlights the chapter’s installation ceremony, lists
the chapter’s accomplishments/awards, highlights chapter philanthropic events,
and lists notable Pi Phis from the chapter. The facilitator can present the chapter
specific information at a chapter meeting during the term or at a specific event.
Since many chapters have a description of their installation banquet, chapters could
recreate the events/décor of the banquet to celebrate the heritage of their chapter.
While preparing for this activity, the facilitator should check that all information
about their chapter on the historical website is correct. If there is a discrepancy with
information on the historical website, contact Headquarters (HQ) with the correct
information by completing the contact us form.
CHAPTER BIRTHDAY PARTY
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Director Fraternity

Heritage, Vice President Community Relations
Resources: Historical website, click on your chapter, Housing Information
Activity
The chapter can host a birthday party for chapter members and potentially extend
the invitation to alumnae or other fraternities and sororities on campus. This
chapter birthday party should be held on or close to the chapter’s installation day
and should highlight facts and history about the chapter. See “An overview of our
chapter’s history” for information on how to locate chapter specific history. This
event could also be an appropriate time to host a cookie shine and share a
Pi Beta Phi tradition with other fraternities/sororities and alumnae

CONVENTION AND AWARDS
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the Convention and
Awards Module. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To develop a greater understanding of our past conventions.

• To better understand Pi Beta Phi collegiate and alumnae awards.
RESOURCES

Convention: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/convention

Collegiate Awards Guide
Alumnae Awards Guide
Other resources
Pi Beta Phi website: https://www.pibetaphi.org/pibetaphi/
Fraternity
Fraternity Heritage Module – Conventions and Awards

PI BETA PHI AWARDS BINGO
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience

Resources: Resource Library Documents: Collegiate Awards Guide, Alumnae Awards
Guide; bingo sheets, bingo chips or uncooked beans to serve as bingo chips.
Activity
The facilitator should create 5x5 bingo sheets for each member or for teams of
members. It is easy to create a bingo card using Microsoft Word. In each box write
an award name, it is best to randomize the listed awards on each bingo sheet so all
bingo sheets do not match. The facilitator will pre-select awards to announce and
will read the name and description of the award. Once the game begins and bingo
sheets and beans have been distributed, the facilitator will read the award and its
description. The first person or team to get five awards in a row on their bingo sheet
will shout “bingo!” The member/team can read off their winning awards and can
share which award spoke to them most.
Sample Awards for the bingo boxes (some can be abbreviated, if needed)
Collegiate:
• Amy Burnham Onken Award
• Balfour Cup
• Excellence in Risk Management
• Excellence in Finance/Housing
• Excellence in Operations
• Silver Slipper Award
Alumnae:
• Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg Crest Award
• Evelyn Peters Kyle Angel Award for Club Service
• Emma Harper Turner Leadership Award
• Young Alumna Achievement Award
• Premier Club

CONVENTIONS AT A GLANCE
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience
Resources: Historical website, a map of North America, small stickers or thumb tacks,
members may potentially need to use their cell phones to access the exhibit on the
historical website and look up where smaller towns are on the map.
Activity
This activity will review the dates, locations and presiding officers of previous
conventions. The facilitator should hang a map of North America on a wall or place it
on a table where it can be accessed by the entire group. The facilitator can assign a
convention (or multiple conventions) to each member or groups of members. For
example, if a member were assigned the 14 th Convention, they would share that
convention was held in Boston, Massachusetts August 27-29, 1895, and was
presided by Helen Sutcliff, Kansas Alpha. This member would also take their sticker
and mark the location of that convention on the map. The maps and stickers (or
thumb tacks) will serve as a visual aide for seeing where conventions have been in
the past. Reviewing the conventions video at the top of this exhibit would also be a
great resource and could assist in providing more information about convention to
members who have not attended before.
CONVENTION HAPPENINGS
Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Chapter President
Resources: Fraternity Heritage Module X: Convention and Awards, personal pictures or
videos of conventions past.
Activity
Every chapter of Pi Beta Phi sends a voting delegate to each convention. In
preparation for the next convention, the chapter can review what has been
celebrated and what business was accomplished at previous conventions. The
module that covers conventions and awards provides a summary of each
convention. It is interesting to compare early conventions to more recent
conventions. Invite a member of the AAC or a chapter member who has attended a
convention in the past and have them share their convention experience. They can
share photos from when they attended convention and compare it to the description
provided in the module. If a member still has any convention memorabilia —
programs, nametags, gifts from the local committee, t-shirts, etc. this could also be
fun to share with the chapter.

THE FOUNDERS OF I.C. SOROSIS
This section outlines information which should be covered when discussing the Founders
of I.C. Sorosis. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the
LEARNING OBJECTIVE S
• To learn more about our 12 founders.

• To appreciate the legacy created by the women who established Pi Beta Phi.
RESOURCES

Our Founders: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/our-founders
Candle Lighting Ceremony for Founders’ Day
Founders’ Tribute
Other resources
Pi Beta Phi founder quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/pi-beta-phi-fraternity/1
Fraternity

WHICH FOUNDER ARE YOU?
Recommended Facilitator(s): Director Fraternity Heritage, or anyone willing to assist her

Resources: Historical website, Pi Beta Phi founder quiz
Activity
Our 12 founders had the vision to form the first secret society for women patterned
after men’s groups at a time when only five state universities admitted women.
These courageous women set the stage for a thriving organization continuing to
enrich the lives of many during their collegiate years and beyond. Find out which of
our 12 founders you are most like by taking the quiz in the link provided above.
After members take the quiz, they should find other members who got the same
founder and discuss why they think they are similar to this founder. You can print
copies of the founders’ bios from the “Our Founders” exhibit on the historical
website so members can learn even more about our founders.
FOUNDERS SPEED DATING

Resources: Historical website
Activity
Our founders were women of value who created something for other women
pursuing higher education. In this activity, our members can reflect on Pi Beta Phi
values as our founders once did. Have members sit or stand in rows facing each
other. You can line up chairs facing each other, or simply have members line up and
stand. The facilitator will read one question and the two members facing each other
can take turns discussing their responses to the question. Have them discuss the
topic for three minutes. Rotate two members down in seating and have the
facilitator read another question with a three-minute discussion. Repeat this
rotation 3-4 times.
Below are several questions to use:

• Think about our core value of Integrity and what it means to you.
• Think about our core value of Lifelong Commitment and share how you are
living that value.
• Think about our core value of Honor and Respect and share how you see
your chapter members living this value.

• Think of our core value of Personal and Intellectual Growth and share how
you are living that value on our campus.
• Think of our core value of Philanthropic Service to Others and share how you
or your chapter is making a difference in your community.
• Think of our core value of Sincere Friendship and share what that means to
you as a member of Pi Beta Phi.
• Feel free to create your own questions!
ROOM FOR RENT

Resources: Historical website, display the following ad on a projector or draw it on a flip
chat – “Room for Rent! Homeowner: Major Jacob H. Holt Address: 402 East 1 st Ave.,
Monmouth, IL. Female Students Only.”
Activity
Perhaps Ada Bruen and Libbie Brook answered this ad. Maybe they were friends
with Major Holt’s daughter, Frances, or their families knew the Major. Ada and
Libbie were friends from Henderson County, Illinois. While we don’t know for sure
how they came to live at Holt House, we know what they created is history. On April
28, 1867, Ada and Libbie invited ten close friends to the small upstairs southwest
bedroom of the Holt House. Together they would elect Emma Brownlee as President
and pledge to “always conceal and never reveal” the secrets of their organization. A
vision became reality as I.C. Sorosis was born. They chose the grip, the motto
accompanied by the Greek letters, Pi, Beta and Phi and they decided on the arrow as
the badge. Within those walls, they wrote a constitution and formulated goals for
the society “to cultivate Sincere Friendship, establish the real objects of life, and
promote the happiness of humanity.” Take a second to think about the
conversations you and your sisters or friends have in your living space, whether it
be a residence hall, a chapter house, apartment or rental home. Can you imagine
some of your ideas or weekly traditions you’ve put into place, lasting 150 years?

TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the Traditions and
Celebrations Module. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To develop a greater understanding of the Affiliation, Installation of Officers, AAC

Installation, and Chapter Installation Ceremonies.
• To better understand New Chapter Installation Recognition and Chapter Loyalty
Day.
• To develop a greater understanding of the Cookie Shine, Founders’ Day and early
traditions of Pi Beta Phi.
• To understand Memorial Services for a Collegian.
• To better understand and demonstrate the New Member Mentor Ceremony,
Pledging Ceremony, Re-pledging Ceremony and Pre-initiation.
• To better understand and demonstrate the Senior Ceremony and the Seven Gifts.
RESOURCES

Holt House: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits

Contact Pi Beta Phi HQ to receive a copy of the Traditions and Celebrations document.
Other resources
Fraternity

HISTORY OF THE COOKIE SHINE
Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience
Resources: Historical website, Cookie Shine song on Resource Library
Activity
Hold a Cookie Shine and have three individuals share the Cookie Shine history
below. Have members share what a Cookie Shine means to them and sing the
“Cookie Shine” song during the event. For those chapters which would like to do a
bit more and can plan in advance, make the official cookie for the Cookie Shine —
the recipe is shared below.
History of the Cookie Shine

The Cookie Shine has its origin at the first I.C. Sorosis party given by the chapter at
the University of Kansas, in 1873. Charter members Flora, May and Alma Richardson
were entertaining in honor of their sister Sara, a charter member of the chapter at
Lombard College. The Chancellor of the University of Kansas, John Fraser, was
present at the party. When the I.C.s began to lay their spread of good food, the
Chancellor dubbed the feast a Cookie Shine, a term he used for any kind of informal
social gathering. The term so pleased the I.C.s that they immediately adopted it as
their own.
The tradition spread quickly among chapters so that by 1912, The Arrow reported,
“The term itself, and the occasion for which it stands, has become so inseparable a
part of the social file of our Fraternity that it will always be held in unquestioned
and loving regard by all of us.” Cookie Shines continue to be part of Pi Phi
celebrations at conventions, chapter installations and anniversary celebrations.
Cookie Shines are not secret, although some chapters do keep Cookie Shines secret,
while others invite family and guests. A large sheet (or sheets) on the floor is
decorated with candy and cookies forming the Greek letters, arrows, angels and
other symbols. Many chapters pass around a large cookie in the shape of an arrow,
and members say a few words or make a wish before breaking off a piece. The
Cookie Shine song and other favorite Pi Phi songs are sung while the Pi Phis share
fellowship and memories.

The Cookie Shine Song
by Iowa Beta Himena Hoffman and Colorado Alpha Lela Howard
Some folk may love the banquet hall

With courses just galore,
And some may choose the gay ballroom
And dancing quite adore,
No matter what they offer
The same choice will be mine
Just to be a Pi Phi girl at a Pi Phi Cookie Shine. … So
Chorus: Here’s to the Pi Phi Cookie Shine,

Here’s to the friendships true
Oh what is so fine as a Cookie Shine
Under the wine and blue.
Some folks may find at the theatre

Hours of perfect bliss,
Some folks may say that circus day
They could not afford to miss,
I’ll not dispute the question,

But their pleasures I’d decline
Repeat chorus
Some folks may choose a picnic jaunt

To places far remote,
And some on trips out to the parks
Fairly seem to dote,
But with all these many pleasures
With joy I can resign
Repeat chorus

The Official Cookie Shine Cookie Recipe
½ cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 egg yolks, beaten
1 tablespoon cream
1 tsp. vanilla
½ tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
2 cup flour
Cream butter and mix well with sugar. Add egg yolks. Sift together flour, baking powder
and salt. Add this to the creamed mixture, alternating with the cream and vanilla. Chill for
one hour. Roll out and cut in the shape of arrow and place on a greased cookie sheet.
Sprinkle with sugar before baking in a moderate oven 350-375° F for 10-12 minutes.
SPECIAL TIMES IN PI PHI
Resources: Historical website, have ceremony scripts available in person or pulled up on

laptops for members to reference
Activity
Get a set of notecards and write each of the ceremonies & celebrations within Pi Phi on
the notecards. Make enough for each member attending the gathering. Those
ceremonies and celebrations include:
• Affiliations
• Installation of Officers
• AAC Installation
• Chapter Installation Ceremonies
• Chapter Loyalty Day
• Cookie Shine
• Founders’ Day
• New Member Mentor Ceremony
• Pledging Ceremony
• Senior Ceremony
• Seven Gifts Ceremony

Pass the notecards to members randomly, then ask members to find another person
who shares the ceremony written on their notecard. Have members discuss the
ceremony written on their notecard and share what they recall about the ceremony or
celebration. Ask members to reflect on the ceremony or celebration within their groups.
Have four or five groups share their ceremony or celebration, what the ceremony meant
to the group and any highlights shared.
MEANINGFUL MEMBERSHIP
Resources: Historical website
Activity
Have members reflect on why they chose Pi Beta Phi, they can think about
ceremonies they’ve been part of or traditions they enjoy in the chapter. Allow
members five to six minutes to think. Pass out an 8x10 blank piece of paper and a
variety of markers. Ask members to draw their reason for joining Pi Phi, allow them
10 minutes to complete their drawing. Ask members to count and group off
(pending on how big your chapter is, they can count off into groups of 5-8). You will
want about 3-4 members per group. Have all similar numbers group together and
share their drawings with each other. Afterward, ask three members to share why
they chose Pi Phi and what it means to them.
Conclude by sharing with members that our ceremonies and celebrations deepen
our love for Pi Phi and link us together in sisterhood. They remind us of why we are
Pi Phis and how our founders shared the same experience we do today. If you meet
a Pi Phi anywhere in the world they will have shared in those same ceremonies and
celebrations as you! How cool is that?

PI BETA PHI PUBLICATIONS
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the Pi Beta Phi
Publications Module. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the
LEARNING OBJECTIVE S
• To develop a greater understanding of The Arrow of Pi Beta Phi from the History to
Changes in Publication and the Editors of The Arrow.
• To better understand The Arrow Centennial and through the Years.
• To understand NPC Magazines, Historical Publications and our Pi Beta Phi
Directories.
RESOURCES

The Arrow: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-arrow
The Marketing of Pi Beta Phi: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/marketing-of-pi-beta-
phi
Other resources
Fraternity

THE ARROW AND WHAT IT MEANS TO ME
Resources: Historical website, current and past The Arrow issues:

https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-arrow,
https://www.pibetaphi.org/engage/publications/arrow
Activity
Have members look up past articles in The Arrow using this website. Allow them to
review for 10 minutes. If the chapter has copies of The Arrow, those can be utilized
as well. Then have members get into 5-6 groups (more if you have a larger chapter)
to share their take-away from the photos and articles. Have each group pick one
shared item that spoke to all members of the group and report it out to the larger
group. Conclude by sharing with members: The purpose of The Arrow is to present
matters of value to Pi Beta Phi; furnish a means of communication among collegiate
chapters, alumnae clubs and officers; and represent the most significant interest of
Fraternity women.
ARROW EDITOR FOR A DAY
Resources: Historical website, current and past Arrow issues:

https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-arrow,
https://www.pibetaphi.org/engage/publications/arrow
Activity
If you were The Arrow Editor for a day, what would you consider important to
report out to the larger membership on? Did you know, The Arrow is distributed
quarterly to dues paying members so there are four issues printed each year? HQ
Staff and International Officers work hard to compile pertinent information for each
issue. Let’s create our own issue of The Arrow today! Count off members and
separate them into groups 1 through 5.

Assign groups based on this example:
1. Cover
2. Feature story
3. Chapter recognition– have fun with this one and select something exciting
your chapter has done that makes you Pi Phi proud
4. AAC/CHC spotlight – pick an AAC/CHC member to recognize and write why
you’re thankful for them
5. Back cover
Once each group has spent 15-30 minutes discussing their portion of The Arrow, tell
them to select a representative from their group to share what they created with the
rest of the chapter.
THE ARROW THROUGH THE YEARS
Resources: Historical website, current and past Arrow issues:

https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-arrow--,
https://www.pibetaphi.org/pibetaphi/collegians/benefits/the_arrow_magazine/
Activity
Print copies of the worksheet on the next page. Have members match up the dates
and events, allow them five minutes to complete. Recognize members who guessed
them all correctly with a reward. Conclude by sharing with members: Pi Beta Phi’s
quarterly publication, The Arrow, has been in print for more than 130 years. During
that time, the magazine has been a prominent mainstay for connecting members of
Pi Beta Phi. According to Past Grand President Mary Loy Tatum, Oklahoma Beta, The
Arrow fulfills a great need for the membership to be bound together. Whether it's
1885 or 2020, The Arrow is the connection between the Fraternity and its members.

KEY
1882: Iowa Alpha Belle Re Qua Leech urged convention attendees to establish a
Fraternity magazine. It was voted to publish a magazine devoted to literary
purposes at the Burlington Convention.
1888: At the Ottumwa Convention, it was voted to change the style to match The
Key of Kappa Kappa Gamma.
1897: The Madison Convention created an advisory board of three members,

appointed by the Editor.
1974: Color made its debut on the first and last eight pages.
1985: The magazine’s Centennial was celebrated with an anniversary issue of the
magazine.
1990: The Arrow Editor transitioned from a volunteer role to a HQ staff member
which expanded the resources available and the opportunities to come.
2003: The first full color issue of the magazine was published in the spring of 2003.
This was also the first issue to be featured online.
2010: The Collegiate Spotlight section was added to The Arrow.
2016: The Arrow was redesigned. It continues to evolve to this day as the needs of
our members change.

The Arrow through the Years
Match the dates and events, draw a line to match them up.
The Arrow was redesigned. It continues to evolve to this day as the

1882
needs of our members change.
The first full color issue of the magazine was published in the
1888
spring of 2003. This was also the first issue to be featured online.
The Madison Convention created an advisory board of three

1897
members, appointed by the Editor.
The Arrow Editor transitioned from a volunteer role to a HQ staff

1974 member which expanded the resources available and the
opportunities to come.
Iowa Alpha Belle Re Qua Leech urged convention attendees to

establish a Fraternity magazine. It was voted to publish a
1985
magazine devoted to literary purposes at the Burlington
Convention.
At the Ottumwa Convention, it was voted to change the style to

1990
match The Key of Kappa Kappa Gamma.
2003 The Collegiate Spotlight section was added to The Arrow.
The magazine’s Centennial was celebrated with an anniversary

2010
issue of the magazine.
2016 Color made its debut on the first and last eight pages.

SYMBOLS OF PI BETA PHI
This section outlines information which should be covered throughout the Symbols of Pi
Beta Phi Module. The lessons are designed to review and relate information from the
This modules and activity guide is simply meant to be a guide. Use what will work best for
your chapter and feel free to modify as needed. We encourage your creativity with
Fraternity programming activities.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• To develop a greater understanding of the Pi Beta Phi badge and its meaning.
• To better understand the various symbols that make up Pi Beta Phi.
RESOURCES
Historical Website Exhibits

Symbols of Pi Beta Phi: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-badge
Other resources
Fraternity history book, Hearts that are bound by the Wine & Silver Blue; Pi Beta Phi Fraternity

PI BETA PHI BADGE
Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Director Fraternity Heritage
Resources: Historical website, Symbols of Pi Beta Phi:

https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-badge
Activity
Have members reflect on the Pi Beta Phi badge. Print or create a Kahoot survey
asking members the below questions. Allow them five minutes to complete. Bring
the group together and have different members read each statement and provide
their response before showing the answer. Once the answer is shown, look at the
Kahoot results or ask for a show of hands of how many thought it was the correct
response. Ask members to share their thoughts on the area being reviewed.
True or False:
1. The badge, which shall be worn on the left side near the heart, shall be a golden
arrow, bearing the Greek letters Pi Beta Phi transversely on its feather, with a loop
chain of 12 links pendent from the shaft.
2. Collegiate members are only expected to wear the badge at Pi Beta Phi events.
3. Wearing a replica of the I.C. badge is restricted to the Chapter President. The replica
badge is the property of the chapter.
4. No member shall give, sell or lend a Pi Beta Phi badge to any person not a duly
initiated member of the Fraternity.
5. The Pi Beta Phi badge can be used as a mounting on any piece of jewelry.
6. Upon the death of its owner, a badge may be buried with its owner, bequeathed to a
member of the Fraternity, a collegiate chapter or alumnae club to be used as an
honor badge or sent to Headquarters for such disposition as directed by Grand
Council.
Key
1. True 4. True
2. False 5. False
3. True 6. True

SYMBOLS OF PI BETA PHI
Resources: Symbols of Pi Beta Phi: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-badge
Activity
Call on various members to read the symbols of Pi Beta Phi noted below. You can do
this on Google slides or print and hand out worksheets to members. Ask members to
listen to each one and pick one of the symbols that speaks to them. Have members
think about why they related to such symbol. Then have members share in groups of
5-6 why they chose the symbol. Afterward, bring everyone together and have one
member for each symbol share: why it was chosen and what it means to that
member.
The Badge
The badge of I.C. Sorosis, which was chosen by the founders in May 1867 and worn nine
days later for the first time to chapel by the founders, consisted of a golden arrow with the
letters "IC" written in black on its wings. There was no fixed place to wear the badge;
sometimes it was worn in the hair, on a high collar or on either side of the bodice. In 1888,
when the name of the Fraternity was changed to Pi Beta Phi, the Greek letters replaced the
"IC" on the wings and its size was shrunk by a ¼ of an inch to 1 ½ inches long. The new
Greek letters were placed diagonally in gold. It wasn’t until 1906 that a fixed location, the
left side near the heart, was designated for the wearing of the badge. In 1918, the one-inch
badge that we are familiar with now became standard. At the 1934 Yellowstone
Convention, the convention body voted to limit the links in the chain of the badge to 12 —
one for each founder. In 1942, the Fraternity approved three ways in which to dispose of a
member’s badge upon her death: a badge may be buried with its owner, bequeathed to a
member of the Fraternity or sent to Headquarters for such disposition as directed by Grand
Council. Our three oldest pin designs are still currently worn as 'recognition' pins for the
Chapter President, Grand Council members and Fraternity Directors.

The Crest
The crest, or coat of arms, of Pi Beta Phi is a diamond displayed with the Brownlee family
crest. An eagle is displayed in the middle, on top of which is the seal of Monmouth College,
where Pi Phi was founded. The blazing sun, with the Latin word meaning light LUX in the
center, is on the eagle's chest. In the eagle's right talon is the monogram "IC," and the left
talon holds the arrow of Pi Beta Phi. The diamond signifies a women's organization; the
eagle, by holding the "IC" in one talon and Pi Beta Phi arrow in the other, signifies the
absolute identity between I.C. Sorosis and Pi Beta Phi Fraternity. The coat of arms was
adopted at the 1912 Evanston Convention.
The Carnation
Adopted at the 1890 Galesburg Convention, the wine carnation became the official flower,
with these words: "The roots of the flower are the Founders, for from them the whole plant
grew ... the stem represents the Grand Council. It gives to us what was received from the
roots. It gives us height and strength ... the leaves of our flower are the alumnae. They stand
nearest the stem and assist it in its work. They are in communication with the world and
breathe in for us the best of the world's ideals ... the petals are red for the girls are loyal. As
it is the rich, wine color that makes the flower attractive, it, too, is the warm fervent loyalty
of its members making Pi Beta Phi beautiful in the eyes of everyone. The pistil is the spirit,
and the stamens are ideals of Pi Beta Phi. The petals stand closely united around these to
defend and protect them.”
The Angel
Fraternity history tells of songs about Pi Phi angels becoming popular in the late 1930s and
early 1940s with skits depicting Pi Phis as angels often used during recruitment. Angel
collections are popular among many Pi Phis. The founders did not choose the angel as a
Fraternity symbol; however, it is a worthy unofficial symbol of Pi Beta Phi.
Our Colors
The colors of the Fraternity, wine and silver blue, were adopted at the 1882 Burlington
Convention.

CREATE YOUR OWN
Resources: Symbols of Pi Beta Phi: https://history.pibetaphi.org/exhibits/the-badge,

blank pieces of paper with crayons or markers
Activity
Challenge your members to imagine they were the founders of Pi Beta Phi. They can
select symbols, create a flag and design a badge that all members will wear and use.
Have them separate into groups of 5-10 and as a group come up with the symbol,
flag, flower, mascot and badge they would have selected. If there is time, they can
create a crest, too! Give them 20 minutes to complete this task. When that time is up,
ask for each group to present their symbols to the group. If you have a large chapter,
ask for volunteers to present their symbols.

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FRATERNITY

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 1

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 2

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Last Updated: August 2021 Page 4

Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Director

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 5

THE STORY OF ONE

Recommended Lead Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

CREATE YOUR OWN PHILANTHROPIC PROJECT

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 6

IV. Five steps to meet the goal

WHAT LITERACY LOOKS LIKE

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 7

Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations

PI BETA PHI FOUNDATION FUNDS AND PROGRAMS

Facilitator(s): Vice President Finance/Housing, Vice President Community Relations, Vice

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 8

• To understand our historical presence with the NPC.

Historical Website exhibits

Resource Library documents

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 9

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations, Chapter President

THE PI BETA PHI AND NPC MISSIONS

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations, Panhellenic Delegate

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 10

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Community Relations or Panhellenic

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 11

Historical Website exhibits

Resource Library documents

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 12

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Vice President

NOTABLE PI PHIS SPOTLIGHT

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or anyone willing to

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 13

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Vice President

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 14

• To understand the historical presence of your chapter heritage.

Historical Website exhibits

Resource Library documents

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 15

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Director Fraternity

OUR ANGELS IN THE ARROW ®

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Vice President

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 16

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience or Vice President

CHAPTER BIRTHDAY PARTY

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience, Director Fraternity

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 17

• To develop a greater understanding of our past conventions.

Historical Website exhibits

Resource Library documents

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 18

Recommended Facilitator(s): Vice President Member Experience

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 19

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 20

• To learn more about our 12 founders.

Historical Website exhibits

Last Updated: August 2021 Page 21

Recommended Facilitator(s): Director Fraternity Heritage, or anyone willing to assist her

FOUNDERS SPEED DATING