As the entire world adjusts to the new normal brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, Phi Beta Kappa chapters and associations have risen to the occasion. After many chapters held virtual inductions for the Class of 2020, associations across the country have hosted book clubs, happy hours, trivia game, movie screenings, and lectures, all via Zoom. Our members have clearly figured out how to remain connected while staying at home! 

Back in Washington, DC, the National Office has been hard at work supporting our members and advocating for the arts, humanities, and higher education. Our National Arts and Sciences Initiative inducted its inaugural class of Key Into Public Service Scholars with a two-day virtual convening. The scholars met with industry leaders and experts to learn about the value of graduate school, how to enter the foreign service, and how to communicate the value of their degrees to employers.  

Finally, we listened to member requests and highlighted 28 fantastic books by Black authors in our 2020 Summer Reading List. With books spanning centuries and continents, we hoped to capture just a fraction of the incredible contributions that Black authors have made to the literary canon. We’re certain every member can find something of interest on the list.