Among the great old fraternities, Beta Theta Pi was established on August 8, 1839 at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Early on, Beta earned a reputation as a pioneer by being the first fraternity founded west of the Allegheny Mountains and the first to locate a chapter west of the Mississippi River. Today, Beta has over 160 chapters and colonies in Canada and the United States.

In 1839, the founders of Beta Theta Pi laid out the great principles that have defined members for 167 years. These principles have maintained their brilliance despite the tests of war and a constantly changing society. This foundation has proven to be as powerful and reliable now as when it was established. The Beta legacy has been handed down for generations, and Betas today continue to pass it on to those who follow.