Phi Delta Theta Introduces Rising Phi Program to Recognize the Fraternity’s Top Undergraduates
Rising Phi is Phi Delta Theta’s Launchpad for Personal Growth, Leadership, and Lifelong Success
Inspired by brother Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, Rising Phi challenges undergraduates to take their own “giant leap” during their college years. Through a guided journey of milestones and achievements, the program helps members strengthen their leadership, character, and career readiness while building a lasting connection to the Fraternity and its values.
Become a Rising Phi by Achieving 20 Formative Milestones Before Graduation
Rising Phi challenges members to complete twenty of twenty-four established milestones ranging from chapter leadership and fraternity engagement to campus involvement, philanthropy, and career development. Each milestone reinforces Phi Delta Theta’s Cardinal Principles and prepares members for life beyond college, ensuring they graduate not only as stronger Phis but as well-rounded leaders.
Progress toward completion is tracked in myPhiDelt, giving participants a clear visualization of their accomplishments and a path toward their next objective.
The Rising Phi Milestones:
Rising Phi challenges members to complete 20 of 24 of the following milestones:
Chapter Involvement:
- Initiate into Phi Delta Theta
- Become an officer within a Phi Delta Theta chapter
- Become a Big Brother to a new member
Broader Fraternity Engagement
- Submit recruitment referrals for six potential new members
- Attend a Phi Delta Theta conference
- Apply for a Phi Delta Theta Foundation scholarship
- Pay chapter dues in full
Fraternity Education
- Complete Phikeia education online modules within PDT U
- Complete bystander intervention online module within PDT U
- Complete health and safety online module within PDT U
- Complete six point personal wellness online module within PDT U
Campus and Involvement
- Join a campus student organization other than Phi Delta Theta
- Become an officer of a campus student organization other than Phi Delta Theta
- Earn dean’s list recognition for three academic terms
- Attend a professional development event or career fair
Philanthropy and Service
- Become an Iron Phi by raising $1,000 and completing a personal athletic goal
- Serve an ALS family through the Live Like Lou Foundation’s Connect & Serve program
- Join the Knights of Pallas undergraduate giving society by making a $20 donation to the Phi Delta Theta Foundation
Career Development
- Create and complete a LinkedIn profile
- Build a professional résumé
- Meet with the career center staff on campus
- Network with a professional in desired career field
- Secure pre-graduation internship or employment
- Secure post graduation employment or education
Recognition for Rising Phis
Upon completing the twentieth milestone, Rising Phis earn individual recognition and branded merchandise to showcase their accomplishments. Through collective engagement from members, Rising Phi also helps chapters thrive and fosters deeper engagement across the brotherhood.
By completing the journey, Rising Phis distinguish themselves among the best of Phi Delta Theta as leaders who are the most engaged, dedicated, and inspiring brothers within the Fraternity.
“Rising Phi is a great opportunity for our undergraduate members to grow in their leadership, stay engaged with Phi Delt throughout their entire college journey, and prepare themselves for post-college pursuits. The men who complete this program deserve to be recognized for their accomplishments.”
– Aaron Hollis, Phi Delta Theta Director of Member Development
A Vision for Rising Phi
Phi Delta Theta looks forward to sharing the accomplishments of the brothers who complete the Rising Phi challenge. The network of brothers who obtain Rising Phi status will serve as a shining example of making the most out of their Phi Delta Theta undergraduate experience.
We’re excited to empower and build a community of leaders through the pursuit of their betterment and connection to the opportunities that they find within Phi Delta Theta.
– Sean Wagner, Phi Delta Theta Executive Vice President & CEO
