Chi Beta Phi was founded in April, 1916 atRandolph–Macon College. It recognizes a sole founder in John Howard Greene. The fraternity's purpose was to promote interest in sciences using reviews of current investigations, by promoting lectures by prominent scientists, distributing papers prepared by its members, and general discussion. The Fraternity existed as a local organization for four years, but began to expand during the 1921-22 school year, when three additional chapters were added.
A national convention occurred onMay 5, 1922 which determined an interest in national expansion. By 1925, individual chapter names were determined, a constitution and national program was developed, and the fraternity was on its way to opening 33 chapters over the next century.
Its coat of arms is a shield, draped and showing beveled edges. At upper left, on the shield is an electrode, to symbolize the science of Physics. At upper right is placed a microscope, to symbolize both Biology and Psychology. At the top of the crest is a star to symbolize both Astronomy and Math. The Computer Sciences are alluded to by its surrounding rays. At the lower portion of the crest are two retorts, to symbolize Geology and Chemistry. The letters of the fraternity are placed across the center, and the motto is on the ribbon below.[1]
The motto of the Fraternity isScientia Omnia Vincit, or in English, Science Conquers All.
^Whitworth Female College, of Brookhaven, MS, ceased operations in 1938. This school name appears to have been listed in error on the national website, rather than the similarly-named school in Seattle, WA. A professor at the Seattle school is a member of Chi Beta Phi.
Former and formerly active members of the Professional Fraternity Association or its predecessors: Professional Panhellenic Association or Professional Interfraternity Conference
