An anthropology theory holds that you can honestly know only a limited number of people in your lifetime. On purpose, a small society of around 20 active undergraduate members per chapter, the Sigma Phi Society bears out this perspective of quality over quantity. 

Lifelong friendships with your Sig Brothers are not only a value but the simple happy result of living, sharing, and supporting each other in your university life—academic, social, spiritual, empirical. Through membership in Sigma Phi, you can enjoy the fruits of this vital college time for the rest of your life—from active to alumnus—connected through this special bond. 

Our beautiful historical-landmark Thorsen House—built by renowned architects Greene & Greene—embodies Sigma Phi's enduring commitment to lifelong Sig brotherhood. Continuously shepherding our architectural masterpiece and friendships for decades, every brother knows the power of this shared space. It's where you live, study, play basketball and volleyball, jam, cook, eat, garden, watch the sunset and watch the sunrise.

We seek individuals with these qualities:
• A solid moral center
• A positive attitude
• Devotes time and energy to his brothers and our shared living experience

• Exemplifies team spirit 

In short, we seek a person with a passion for his studies at Cal as he experiences life and the world around him in a small band of supportive, amazing people. 

Your Sigma Phi brothers have a shared zest for living and learning, yet each stands as a unique individual. Sigma Phi only flourishes because of its members' diverse life experiences. These shared core values and markedly unique backgrounds bind the Society together, giving strength like our House's varied wood grains. 

Founded at Union College in Schenectady, New York, on March 4, 1827, Sigma Phi became a triumvirate of Greek-letter organizations known as the Union Triad. These were the first three social fraternities in the United States. With its establishment of a chapter at Hamilton College in New York, Sigma Phi became the first Greek organization to establish a second chapter at another college, thus becoming the first and oldest national Greek organization. 

The University of California Berkeley Sigma Phi Society chapter was founded in 1912, inviting the social La Junta Club to join the national organization. A prominent founding member of La Junta was future U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Earl Warren. In 1942 the Society moved into Greene & Greene's Thorsen House, which is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Sigma Phi's active and alumni members proudly serve as stewards of this distinguished architectural jewel.