Interpretation of the Motto

The Officers and Regents remind each chapter that the major objective of the Society is to recognize academic excellence. However, they hope the chapter will acquaint its members with the Motto. The Motto specifies qualities which, ideally, each member of the Society should have as personal goals and should endeavor to encourage in society as well. The Greek words carry with them far more than literal translation suggests, and surely the founders of the Society had in mind these fuller concepts of these words.

The word Areté includes the concept of excellence in the moral sense and is not limited to the ideal of superiority in scholarship, nor does it involve the endeavor of competing primarily for academic grades.

The word Diké includes the concept of what is suitable and appropriate as well as just.

An interpretation of the Timé includes the concept of dignity and true worth as well as honor.