On this day in history March 1st, 1868 six young gentlemen came together in friendship creating a brotherhood of distinction known today as Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike). Pike has over 280,000 lifetime initiates, 16,000 undergrad members, and more than 220 chapters and colonies across the United States & Canada. As a fraternity, Pike has upheld the desire of their founders to develop men of integrity, intellect, success, and high moral character. So, let’s take a look at some of the noteworthy faces who have joined the brotherhood.
John Stewart - American Comedian, writer, producer, director, political commentator, actor, and television host pledged Pi Kappa Alpha during his time at the College of William and Mary. Though he was only there for 6 months he is one of the most well-known alumni.
Tim McGraw - His new music video for his song “thought about you” even features photos of Pike Alumni! He pledged the Eta Omicron Chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha at Northeast University (now the University of Louisiana Monroe).
Photo courtesy of iheart.com
Edward A. Pease – An Indiana Native, Edward A. Pease is also among the ranks of the most notable Pike brothers. He is a former U.S House of Representative and Indiana Senate member. After his time in congress, Pease joined Rolls-Royce plc. North America, as their Senior Vice President of Government relations. He served as the Pi Kappa Alpha National Director of Alumni Affairs and has been an active advocate for the American College fraternity, serving as national president for Pi Kappa Alpha. He was awarded the Loyalty Award at the convention in 2016. A two-term president of the North American Interfraternity Conference and winner of its highest honor, the Gold Medal.
Chad Clifton - A Former NFL Offensive Tackle for the Green Bay Packers, where he was part of the team who won Super Bowl XLV. During his career he was also named in two pro bowls. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha while he attended and played football at the University of Tennessee.
Photo courtesy of nflspinzone.com
John Nance Garner – The former Vice President, who served from 1933 to 1941 under Franklin D. Roosevelt, was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha while attending Vanderbilt University.
Charles O. Holliday – The former chairman of Bank of America attended the University of Tennessee where he was a member of the Zeta chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha. During his time at University of Tennessee he obtained a B.S in industrial engineering. After college he started climbing the ladder at Dupont and eventually became the Chief Executive Officer at Dupont. Making him only the 18th CEO in more than 200 years of Dupont’s history.
Photo courtesy of wvik.com
Jim Parsons – Most known for his role as Sheldon on The Big Bang Theory. Parsons pledged Pi Kappa Alpha during his time at University of Houston. He has received numerous awards including four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series and The Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series Musical or Comedy.
Kent Bazemore – The Golden State Warriors player was part of the Zeta Iota chapter at Old Dominion University. Earning not one, but two degrees while at Old Dominion, in Human Services & Criminal Justice.
Photo courtesy of goldenstateofmind.com
It is clear to see why so many men aspire to wear the Pi Kappa Alpha garnet and old gold when that brings them into such distinguished ranks. From all of us here at Campus Classics, Happy Founders Day Pi Kappa Alpha!