About the Fraternity

Beta Theta Pi was founded on August the 8, 1839, by eight students at Miami University. The group held its first meeting in an upper room of the campus building known as “Old Main.”

The eight founders:
John Reily Knox 1839
Samuel Taylor Marshall 1840
David Linton 1839
James George Smith 1840
Charles Henry Hardin 1841
John Holt Duncan 1840
Michael Clarkson Ryan 1839
Thomas Boston Gordon 1840

After 175 years, Beta Theta Pi is still one of the strongest Interfraternity Council groups in North America. The mission, vision, and core values written by the founders are still emphasized with the modern Men of Principle program.

Our Mission: To develop men of principle for a principled life.

Our Vision: Every member will live Beta Theta Pi’s values.

Core Values: To build lasting bonds of friendship and brotherhood, Beta calls for mutual assistance, intellectual growth, trust, responsible conduct, and integrity.