National History
Phi Chi Theta is a National Coeducational Professional Fraternity in Business and Economics. Phi Chi Theta was founded on June 16, 1924, in Chicago, Illinois. The founders were six women from two of the competing business fraternities, Phi Theta Kappa and Phi Kappa Epsilon, joined forces to form an organization with a common purpose.
Today, the Phi Chi Theta National Chapter is comprised of 40 Collegiate and Alumni Chapters. Phi Chi Theta has over 20,000 members across the country. The National Chapter is the governing body of Phi Chi Theta and consists of the duly elected National Officers and National Delegates.
The National Officers are deemed the Executive Council, and have the authority to administer the affairs of the Fraternity during the interim between Biennial National Chapter Meetings. Phi Chi Theta is a member of and is affiliated with the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Professional Fraternity Association (PFA), and the College Fraternity Editors Association (CFEA).
Chapter History
Phi Chi Theta Eta Alpha Chapter at UVA was founded in the fall of 2022 by nine students who recognized the need for greater access to business opportunities on Grounds. With diverse backgrounds that ranged from student-athletes to members of Greek life, they shared a common goal: to create a community where students passionate about business could connect, grow, and lead.
Led by the chapter’s first president, Shannon Garvey, the group laid the foundation for an organization rooted in inclusivity, ambition, and professional development. Since then, the chapter has rapidly expanded and gained affiliation with the McIntire School of Commerce, one of the top undergraduate business programs in the world. Today, Phi Chi Theta holds a strong presence at UVA and continues to empower students across disciplines.
Founding Members
From left to right: Lauren Pederson, Ashley Le, Jake Wood, Abby Jansen, Jack Witmer, Shannon Garvey, Joe Thompson, Caroline Williams, and Kate McGee
