Parents
Why Phi Kappa Psi?
Transitioning to college is a major life event for your young man. Guiding him through this process can be precarious. So we appreciate and invite your questions. We think you will agree - Phi Kappa Psi is a great choice!
Founded in 1852, Phi Kappa Psi is one of the largest social fraternities in the United States. The chapter at the University of Georgia was begun in 1976 and has helped almost 1000 men develop as students, leaders, athletes, and philanthropists. Phi Kappa Psi has a strict ant-hazing policy, works to encourage responsible social behavior, and provides a structure for friendship to evolve as each member comes to call each other, “brother.”
Questions?
Not sure if Phi Psi is right for your student? Are there any questions or concerns you have? Feel free to reach out to our chapter advisors Tom and Ed. They will be happy to answer your questions over the phone, email, or zoom.
Alumni Chapter Advisor Ed Pinson - noahanimaldr@gmail.com
Alumni Rush Advisor Tom Washburn - washburnt@gmail.com
Rush Chair Brooks Donaldson - bdonald842@gmail.com / 404-277-5028
Rush Chair Michael Gabriels - michaelgabriels@yahoo.com / 706-247-2624
Scholarship
Georgia Alpha has a high standard for academics. Those who fall below a 3.0 GPA average aren’t allowed to participate in fraternity events until grades improve. Our overall chapter GPA was a solid 3.42 and included those who made the Dean’s list and Presidential Scholar list. There are scholarships that we can award to brothers to help with housing or dues. The Georgia Alpha chapter awards two scholarships a year to the students with the highest GPA and the most service hours. Phi Kappa Psi's national organization also offers a variety of scholarships based on merit, service, and need. For more information on national scholarships, please visit the Phi Kappa Psi Foundation's website: https://www.pkpfoundation.org/my-phi-psi-funds/national-scholarships/
Housing
Living in the house brings you closer to brothers! Brothers can live in the house after their freshman year. Located nearby are plenty of grocery stores and restaurants. Steps from the house is a trail that can be walked or biked on to get to campus or enjoy the beautiful Athens scenery. Those who also live in the house tend to have a higher GPA compared to those living elsewhere. Housing is affordable also, with a single room being cheaper than a Rutherford Hall single room.
Philanthropy
The last two years we were able to partner with The Backpack Project of Athens. This organization’s mission is to pack essential supplies needed for the homeless community in Athens. We were thrilled to be a part of cooking and delivering meals, and help packing items such as healthcare supplies or clothes. We also participate with Athens-Clarke County in road cleanups around our area. Brothers are encouraged to find additional programs to voulenteer for on thier own. There are plenty of opportunities for volunteering as a brother!
529 Plan Eligible
Most brothers live in the house starting their sophomore year. Many have been able to use 529 Plan funds to pay their rent. Check with your accountant or tax adviser to make sure this applies to your son's situation.
House Trivia
Phi Kappa Psi has the newest house at UGA and the largest house property of any fraternity in the nation!
Leadership Experience
Phi Psi holds elections at the end of every Fall Smemester for eight officer positions such as President, Vice President, Tresurer, etc. New chairs are appointed to each committe at the end of Fall as well. These include Philantrophy, Standards, Risk Managment, etc. Your student will learn how to work with others, manage a group or project, plan events, and manage time. Phi Psi encourages all of its leaders and members to foster a responsible environment.
Recent Alumni
Sean McIlvane
Class of 2021
Sean just graduated from UGA, but is already on to HUGE things! Sean is attending Duke for a masters in electrical and computer engineering with an emphasis on quantum computing. He is spending his summers working for a high profile tech company in Seattle.
Cody Hall
Class of 2015
Cody was recently named UGA Alumni Association 2021 40 Under 40 - which surprised no one that knows him! He works for Gov. Kemp as a Director of Communications and as a senior advisor. He previously served at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce as a Public Affairs Executive.
Andrew Pinson
Class of 2008
Gov. Kemp announced his appointment of Andrew Pinson to the Georgia Supreme Court and was sworn into office in April of 2022. Pinson most recently served as Solicitor General in the Office of the Attorney General.
Venerable Alumni
John Hopkins
Class of 1991
John is best known for his role as a founding member of the Grammy Award winning group Zac Brown Band.
David Shafer
Class of 1987
David is the chairman of the Georgia Republican Party and former President Pro Tempore of the Georgia State Senate.
Wil Boysbyshell
Class of 1983
Wil is an award winning visual artist whose paintings and drawing are featured in galleries throughout the country.