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This December marks a meaningful milestone for the University of Tampa’s Phi Kappa Phi chapter: its 15-year anniversary on campus. As the nation’s oldest and most selective multidisciplinary collegiate honor society, Phi Kappa Phi recognizes the top academic performers across all areas of study.

This fall, 299 UTampa students were invited to join the honor society — each selected based on rigorous national eligibility criteria. Invitations are extended only to the top 7.5% of juniors and the top 10% of seniors and graduate students. Those who accept their invitation may take part in the next induction ceremony on Feb. 22.

UTampa currently has 281 active members, including students, alumni, faculty and staff. While active membership fluctuates each year, one achievement has remained consistent: excellence on the national stage.

In four of the past five years, a UTampa student has been awarded the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi National Fellowship. “This level of success speaks volumes about our students and the support they receive from our chapter and the provost’s office,” said Kathryn Branch, associate dean of the College of Social Sciences, Mathematics and Education and professor of criminology, who is serving her first year as chapter president.

While most chapters survive entirely by the membership dues, the UTampa provost’s office provides the funding annually.

One of Phi Kappa Phi’s defining pillars is service. This fall, that mission came to life through the chapter’s “Letters of Love” service project, led by student Vice President Libby Divers ’26, a new media major.

The Letters of Love project is a national nonprofit initiative centered on writing uplifting cards for people facing medical hardship.

Divers coordinated event logistics with Branch and collaborated with UTampa’s Letters of Love club throughout the process.

“Seeing the creativity and care students put into their cards really stood out to me,” Divers said. “Their desire to support others came to life in such a meaningful way.”

The project reflects the heart of Phi Kappa Phi’s mission. “We recognize academic excellence in all fields, and we serve our community. This event accomplished both by uniting students across majors and giving back to people in need,” Divers said.

Beyond service, Phi Kappa Phi’s presence on campus is incorporated into the milestone moments of students’ academic journeys. Each commencement, graduating members are recognized in the official program and acknowledged during the ceremony. This December, 13 active members will be recognized at commencement. 

While members prepare to don their caps and gowns and step forward into the next chapter of their lives, Phi Kappa Phi prepares to welcome a new group of scholars who are prepared to carry on the tradition of excellence.

Divers hopes this year’s invitees understand the significance of that invitation. “Being invited to join Phi Kappa Phi is an honor you shouldn’t take for granted,” she said. “This organization has given me so much — from leadership experience to genuine friendships. I hope new members take advantage of everything it offers.”

With dedicated active members and a commitment to service, Phi Kappa Phi’s next 15 years at UTampa can be just as impactful as its first.