Internationally
Beta Theta Pi was established on August 8, 1839 at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Beta was the first fraternity founded west of the Allegheny Mountains and the first fraternity to locate a chapter west of the Mississippi River. Today, Beta has 141 chapters and colonies in the United States and Canada.

During his college career, a young man finds that being a Beta means many things:
Brotherhood, Excellence, Tradition and Academics.

Brotherhood
From the beginning, brotherhood has served as the cornerstone of Beta Theta Pi. This lasting bond of friendship is cultivated by being a part of a group of individuals who share the same goals and values, constantly supporting each other in the pursuit of social, moral and cultural excellence. Founder John Reily Knox described it as, "What a few men who are united in common purpose and effort are determined to do, can be done. More than that, such associations teach us just how far human friendships can carry us."

Excellence
Excellence is stressed during the -undergraduate years and beyond. After graduation, many Betas go on to make significant contributions in their fields. With more than 85 Rhodes scholars, nearly 200 Congressman and nine Supreme Court justices, the Beta roll reads like "Who's Who." A few notable Betas include:

Coaching Legend John Wooden
Wal-mart Founder Sam Walton
Canadian Prime Minister John Turner
Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt
Composer Stephen Sondheim
Senator Richard Lugar
Representative Richard Gephardt
Nike Founder Bill Bowerman

Tradition
In 1839, the founders of Beta Theta Pi selected three great principles that have defined members for 163 years. These principles have maintained their brilliance despite the tests of war and a changing society. This foundation has proven to be as powerful and reliable now as when it was established. The Beta legacy has been handed down for generations, and Betas today continue to pass it on to those who follow.

Academics
Beta Theta Pi's objective is to help undergraduate men overcome the obstacles of collegiate life, thus preparing them for the challenges faced as a graduate. As a Beta, one has the advantage of being able to seek the advice of upperclassmen and to study with others who share similar goals and aspirations. Beta expects its members to accept the challenge of developing their academic and leadership skills. Beta was the first fraternity to establish higher academic standards for its chapters than required by their host institutions. The Fraternity awards more than 90 scholarships annually, and nearly $500,000 is spent each year to further develop our members. Today, Beta Theta Pi continues to reaffirm its dedication to the cultivation of the intellect.


Taken in part from The Beta Theta Pi National Web site