Madison Reporter

On April 5, 2025, a total of 245 University of Wisconsin-Madison undergraduates from the College of Letters & Science were inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa (ΦΒΚ) academic honor society. The ceremony took place at Monona Terrace.

The Phi Beta Kappa chapter at the university was established in 1899 and acknowledges students who thoroughly engage in sciences, arts, and humanities. The Greek phrase "philosophia biou kubernetes" translates to “the love of wisdom is the helmsman of life,” indicating that the pursuit of knowledge is essential in guiding one's life.

Professor Jeff Hardin, from the integrative biology department and president of the Alpha chapter of Wisconsin, commenced the ceremony with an opening procession and a welcome message. During the event, he also provided the land acknowledgment and briefed attendees on the history of Phi Beta Kappa. Professor Jeanne Schueller, the president-elect of the Alpha chapter, administered the society’s declaration and pledge to new inductees.

Honored during the ceremony were four members of the UW-Madison community. Professor Young Mie Kim from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication received the 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award, following a nomination by inductee Kate Lewicki. "Dr. Kim’s seminars are the highlight of my academic week," Lewicki noted, praising Kim’s teaching methods. Additionally, Professor Gloria Mari Beffa, Orion Risk, and Dorothy Lsoto were inducted as honored members of Phi Beta Kappa.

Among the inductees, Lily Hamacher delivered an address urging students to embrace a broad educational experience. Hamacher is pursuing majors in economics (honors) and mathematics while also working toward certificates in business and political economy, philosophy, and politics, as well as honors in liberal arts.

The selection criteria for new ΦΒΚ members include a cumulative GPA of 3.80 or higher, along with fulfilling rigorous math, language, and breadth requirements. The nominations are vetted by a committee of faculty and staff who evaluate student records for their love of learning beyond their major field of study.

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