Robert L. Bennett Memorial Scholarship
Background
The Alpha Alpha Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity at Mercer University was charted on February 16, 1923. Since the chapter opened its doors nearly nine decades ago, hundreds of men have found a home in Pi Kappa Phi through their participation with Alpha Alpha Chapter.
On December 9, 1924, Robert L. Bennett joined Alpha Alpha Chapter as its 24th initiate. That was a first step toward lifelong involvement with Pi Kappa Phi. As a student Bennett was involved in the affairs of Alpha Alpha like many other student leaders, but his contribution to his fraternity as an alumnus was meaningful, sustained and unmatched. Bennett served on the National Council as National Chancellor and National Chaplain. In his capacity as a National Council member, he also served as an ex-officio member of the Pi Kappa Phi Properties Board of Directors, helping to inform the fraternity’s housing policies.
An attorney by trade, Bennett dedicated many hours of service to the advancement of Pi Kappa Phi. In 1975, for his volunteer work he was awarded the fraternity’s second highest award, the Merit Citation, for “exceptionally meritorious service to Pi Kappa Phi.” Three years later in 1978, he would be recognized again as Mr. Pi Kappa Phi, the highest honor bestowed upon an alumnus of the fraternity.
Within Pi Kappa Phi circles, Bennett was best known for his generosity to the Pi Kappa Phi Foundation. Through his estate, Bennett donated more than $2 million to the Foundation in 1998, instantly transforming the organization. Assets from that fund are used today to help cover the educational and leadership development related expenses of the fraternity. Robert L. Bennett passed to the Chapter Eternal in 1998.
General Criteria
The Robert L. Bennett Memorial Scholarship recognizes undergraduate members of the Alpha Alpha Chapter who exhibits good character and is academically competitive. To be considered for this award, the applicant must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (4.0 scale).