Exploring how we remain committed to literacy

Since 1910, Pi Beta Phi has championed the cause of literacy—not as a trend or campaign, but as a fundamental expression of our values. At Convention 2025, we reaffirmed that commitment with renewed energy, fresh impact stories, and a reminder: our dedication to literacy is not just what we do—it’s who we are. This work is more than philanthropy. It’s a movement to empower others through reading, confidence, and opportunity.

A Legacy Nearly 115 Years in the Making

Through more than a century of service and generosity, Pi Phis have donated millions of books, volunteered in thousands of classrooms, and supported literacy nonprofits in communities of every size. Our efforts are powered by chapters and alumnae clubs engaging in hands-on service; Read > Lead > Achieve®, our umbrella initiative supporting national and local programs; The Literacy Fund at Pi Beta Phi Foundation, which provides critical grant support and resources; and, signature events like Fraternity Day of Service and Champions Are Readers®. These initiatives not only change lives—they give Pi Phi members a meaningful way to live out our shared values.

Making an Impact in This Biennium

From 2023 to 2025, Pi Beta Phi members made measurable progress in bringing our literacy mission to life.

Literacy as a Reflection of Leadership

This commitment isn’t just about books. It’s about helping young readers discover their voice, their confidence, and their potential. When we help a child fall in love with reading, we’re not just giving them a skill—we’re giving them a future. Pi Phis across the continent—collegians and alumnae alike—are putting our values into action by volunteering in classrooms, hosting book drives, and leading advocacy campaigns. They’re showing their communities that literacy is a cause worth fighting for.

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See the remaining top 10 updates that were shared during Pi Beta Phi's 75th Biennial Convention.

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Pi Phi By the Numbers

More than 150 years ago, 12 courageous young women at Monmouth College came together to form a new organization grounded in the values of Integrity, Lifelong Commitment, Honor & Respect, Personal & Intellectual Growth, Philanthropic Service to Others and Sincere Friendship. Learn more about Pi Beta Phi with some fast facts about our sisterhood.

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