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The Friars Senior Society of the University of Pennsylvania, commonly nicknamed Friars, is one of the oldest undergraduate honor society at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Friars recognizes student leaders who have made a significant contribution to the University in all areas of campus life. The organization remains active with over 2,000 alumni in the United States and in 24 countries throughout the world.
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History
First led by Daniel S. Keller, Jr., Friars was created "to firmly establish uncompromising democracy in all class, college and University activities." In the early years, when violent class contests existed between freshmen and sophomores, Friars served as marshals during these fights. The organization was initially restricted to male leaders, with the first co-ed class formed in the spring of 1971. Throughout its storied history, Friars have shaped many aspects of Penn life such as the addition of straw hats to Hey Day in 1949 and the creation of Spring Fling in 1975.
Each full class consists of 30 to 36 seniors. Friars promotes interaction between those from all walks of life who have given their time and energies to making the University what it is; hence, the name Friars, for those who sacrifice their time during college to meaningful activities. The group is governed by the Friars Graduate Board and organizes activities for both undergraduate and graduate members.
Membership
Friars are chosen in the well-known Tapping Service. Two-thirds of the group are nominated or “tapped” for membership in the spring of one’s junior year by current members. The other third is filled in the fall of one’s senior year through a similar process. Membership is intentionally drawn from all walks of campus: the only common thread is that every member of the society is a recognized senior leader and contributes to the greater Penn community. Typically, the group consists of about 1/3 athletic captains, 1/3 performing arts leaders, and 1/3 Greek, student government, publication, entrepreneurs and community organizers. Members are encouraged to attend shows, performances and events by fellow Friars, and they get together and perform various community service projects throughout their senior year.