About Phi Alpha Theta and the Kappa Upsilon Chapter

Phi Alpha Theta is a National History Society that originated at the University of Arkansas in 1921. At present, there are more than 750 chapters nationwide including Puerto Rico. There are also chapters in Canada and in the Philippines. Phi Alpha Theta is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies. Phi Alpha Theta is a professional society, which encourages the study of History through lectures, research, promoting good teaching, and publication. Phi Alpha Theta also encourages the exchange of learning and the camaraderie among students, faculty, and historians to enhance understanding, stimulate interest, and enahnce professionalism in the study of history. The Kappa Upsilon Chapter at Roosevelt University was founded in September of 1999.

Our Mission Statement

The mission statement of Kappa Upsilon is to encourage the study of History and to recognize scholastic excellence in history and all related fields. The chapter sponsors lectures, helps members find scholarship opportunities, and encourages its members to help make their scholarly presence known. Kappa Upsilon also seeks to encourage individual excellence in original research and historical writing, and is proud to be a part of The Delano, a historical journal that publishes scholarly work from students as well as members of the community. Submission of works is accepted from both members and non-members of Kappa Upsilon as well as students from various universities.

Membership Requirements

Membership of Phi Alpha Theta is obtained on the basis of excellence in the study and writing of history. Undergraduates must have completed at least twelve semester hours in collegiate history courses with an average grade point of 3.1 and an overall grade point average of 3.0. Graduates must have completed approximately twelve semester hours of graduate-level history courses, with an average grade point of 3.5 and may not have received an “F” in any class.  History students who have not met the requirements are urged to attend and participate in scheduled events.

Recent Events

The Kappa Upsilon chapter has sponsored several events for its members and family or friends. Some recent outings have included an outing to Ravinia for a Bach concert, and a trip to the Cleopatra exhibit at the Field Museum. Kappa Upsilon also sponsors lectures given by distinguished faculty. Past lectures have included “The History of the Hot Dog,” “Methodology, Historiography, and Black Chicago’s Civil War Veterans,” “How to Write a Research Paper,” and “Going to the English Court: 1700-1997.” The chapter also publishes a semester newsletter, and encourages members to come up with interesting activities that everyone would enjoy.

Women and the Holocaust: A Symposium

Roosevelt University