The Phi Kappa Tau John Messier Memorial Scholarship

Phi Kappa Tau is known throughout the United States for their devotion to community service and commitment to academic excellence. At the Alpha Pi chapter, we offer a scholarship named in honor of one of our prestigious alumni who sacrificed his life in Iraq.

The John Messier Scholarship is given each year to an incoming male freshman at the University of Washington. The winner is not required to join the fraternity, and the scholarship is also not based on financial need. The winner of the scholarship receives $1000.

Requirements

Each applicant must write a short essay pertaining to what it means to be a man of character. Finalists are required to come to an interview/ BBQ at our chapter house at the University of Washington. Applicants must be 18 years of age by the start of the fall term and must be planning to attend the University of Washington.

John Messier was an exceptional man of character. As an example of someone who has lived up to the Creed of Phi Kappa Tau, we are using that same Creed to evaluate men applying for this scholarship.

Phi Kappa Tau, by admitting me to membership has conferred upon me a mark of distinction in which I take just pride. I believe in the spirit of brotherhood for which it stands. I shall strive to attain its ideals, and by so doing to bring to it honor and credit. I shall be loyal to my college and my chapter and shall keep strong my ties to them that I may ever retain the spirit of youth. I shall be a good and loyal citizen. I shall try always to discharge the obligation to others which arises from the fact that I am a fraternity man.
-Roland Maxwell, November 19, 1950

Please reflect on how you may demonstrate these values as you write on one of the topics below.

Essay Questions

Please choose one. Essays are to be typed double spaced and printed out in Times New Roman size 12 font. Please attach the essay to the back of this application (if sending via mail) or send it in the form of an attachment via email. Essays should be approximately 500 words in length.

  1. Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity is committed to the values of scholarship, leadership and exemplary character. Please identify and describe one situation where you exhibited one or more of these traits.
  2. Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity participates nationally in philanthropic endeavors and values giving back to community. Please identify and describe one way in which you have participated in a philanthropic endeavor.
  3. Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity values the fellowship and brotherhood that develops out of respect for a fellow man. Please describe what brotherhood means to you and one situation where you have helped or been helped by someone who you deem worthy to be called your brother.

Download the Application  (PDF)  (Word Doc)

National Scholarships

We also have National Scholarships available through the Phi Kappa Tau Website. Go here to learn more.