What is Tau Beta Pi?

Tau Beta Pi is the national engineering honor society, founded in 1885 by Dr. Edward H. Williams, Jr. while a professor at Lehigh University. Its purpose is to recognize engineering students of distinguished scholarship and exemplary character, and "to foster a spirit of liberal culture in engineering colleges." Now with 493,057 initiated members, the society has 234 collegiate chapters, and chartered alumnus chapters in 59 cities. Tau Beta Pi has a worldwide reputation because of its high standards for membership.

The Michigan Epsilon chapter of Tau Beta Pi was chartered at Wayne State University on March 10, 1951. Over 90% of our members are active in activities ranging from service to social to professional. Our chapter has been honored with several awards including the R. C. Matthews Award for Most Outstanding Chapter for 1998-1999, the Secretary's Commendation (6 years running), the Chapter Projects Award (2 years running), and the Michael S. Darson Award for Outstanding Student Organization. In addition, Michigan Epsilon hosted the 2002 Tau Beta Pi National Convention at the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan.

The Southeastern Michigan Alumnus Chapter of Tau Beta Pi is active once again. This was an effort spear-headed by a group of Michigan Epsilon alumni. All Tau Beta Pi members who live in the Detroit area are encouraged to join. You can contact Colleen for more information.

 

Mission Statement

The mission of the Michigan Epsilon Chapter of The Tau Beta Pi Association is to honor both students and professionals, in the field of engineering, who demonstrate distinguished scholarship and exemplary character. We, as an organization, will promote a broadminded education at Wayne State University, and plan and participate in academic, technical, social, and community projects that benefit Tau Beta Pi, Wayne State University, and the surrounding community.

 

Enrichment Programs

Michigan Epsilon provides many free programs for the benefit of engineering students at Wayne State University. A few examples are:

  • Engineering Futures Professional Development Program
  • Free tutoring for many engineering courses
  • Meet the College Luncheon
  • Annual Freshman Sophomore Dinner


Volunteer Opportunities

Both members and non-members are welcome to participate in our many community and university service activities, including:

  • Habitat for Humanity
  • High School Robotics Competition
  • Donating a portion of fundraiser funds to a local homeless shelter
  • Capuchin Soup Kitchen


Social Activities

Believe it or not, our members still find time for a social life! Our Social Committee has something for everyone:

  • Movie Nights
  • Sports Activities
  • Alumni Night
  • Barbecues
  • BD's Mongolian Barbecue
  • Engineers' Halloween Party


How Do I Join?

See our Initiation section for more information.