The Phi Epsilon Chapter of Phi Sigma Iota, the national romance languages society, was installed at Northwestern University on May 20, 1938. The constitution states that the purpose of the society is “the recognition of outstanding ability and attainments in romance languages and literatures, the stimulation of advanced work and individual research in this field, and the promotion of a sentiment of amity between our own nation and the nations using these languages.” Faculty, graduate students and advanced undergraduates of the romance languages department are considered for initiation. Activities include at least two meetings annually, which consist of a program of lectures about subjects relating to the romance languages, local banquet and attendance at the national convention. Northwestern University faculty held various national offices in Phi Sigma Iota. Professor Edwin B. Place served as national president and Professor Harvey L. Johnson was district president.
From the guide to the Records of The Phi Epsilon Chapter of The Phi Sigma Iota, 1938-1956, (Northwestern University Archives)
