Phi Eta Sigma () is an American freshman honor society. Founded at the University of Illinois in 1923, it is the oldest and largest freshman honor society. It is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies.
History
Phi Eta Sigma was founded by Thomas Arkle Clark at the University of Illinois on March 22, 1923. Clark was a professor and dean of the university. By 1962, the society had 117 active chapters and 76,447 initiates. It is the oldest and largest freshman honor society.
Symbols
The name Phi Eta Sigma was chosen to stand for the Greek words for "Lovers of Wisdom". The society's motto is ', translated as "Knowledge is Power".
The Phi Eta Sigma crest features a shield with the Greek letters , a pyramid which symbolizes strength, and a lamp for scholarship.