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!
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December 05, 2026
Phi Beta Kappa's 250th Anniversary Gala
Where Knowledge Inspires Action
On December 5, 1776, a group of students at the College of William & Mary founded Phi Beta Kappa on a simple but enduring conviction: love of learning is the guide of life.
Exactly 250 years later, The Phi Beta Kappa Society invites members, supporters, and friends to gather in Washington, D.C., for a once-in-a-generation celebration of this extraordinary milestone.
Purchase Tickets
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Find an Event Near You
Connect with your local campus chapter or regional 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 the Arts & Sciences
Member Spotlight
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Ellen Ochoa
NASA Astronaut, San Diego 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.
"Don't be afraid to reach for the stars... I believe a good education can take you anywhere on Earth and beyond."
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Amanda Gorman
Poet and Activist, 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."
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Peyton Manning
NFL Player and TV Host, 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."
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Francis Ford Coppola
Movie Producer and Director, Hofstra University
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
Watch the recording of our 250 event in San Diego, "The Human Algorithm: The Liberal Arts and the Age of Artificial Intelligence"
Watch the recordingConnect with fellow Phi Beta Kappa members through our alumni associations.
Find your associationKeep your love of learning alive by attending a Visiting Scholar lecture.
Meet our scholarsPublications
Read The American Scholar, our award-winning magazine covering advancements in arts and sciences
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Hear from our nation’s brightest minds through our Smarty Pants and Key Conversations podcasts.
Tune inSupport 250 and Beyond
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