Our History
On March 8, 1911, a vision for inclusive excellence in education took root at the University of Illinois. Dr. William Bagley and a small group of forward-thinking educators founded Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), an honor society that would change the landscape of education forever.
In a time when other educational societies, like Phi Delta Kappa, explicitly excluded women, stating “There will never be the opportunity for the admission of women,” KDP chose a different path. From day one, we embraced diversity and celebrated excellence in all its forms.
Our founding principle was simple yet revolutionary: to honor and support all exceptional educators, regardless of gender, race, or background. This commitment to inclusivity has been our guiding star for over a century.
Key milestones in our journey:
- March 8, 1911: KDP founded at the University of Illinois
- June 8, 1911: KDP officially incorporated as an honor society in education
- 1911: These four Society Ideals were established by KDP’s founders: Fidelity to Humanity; Science; Service and Toil. Click here to read KDP’s historical Creed.