USC Phi Sigma Kappa
Our Chapter Founding
The Omega Deuteron chapter of Phi Sigma Kappa was founded at the University of Southern California in 1928, become one of the earliest charted Fraternities at the University. The chapter became a cornerstone of brotherhood, scholarship, and leadership on campus for over a century. Established in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, the chapter has long reflected the dynamic and ambitious spirit of USC, fostering a community where driven, diverse men unite through shared values and lifelong bonds. Since its founding, Phi Sigma Kappa at USC has grown into one of the most respected and tight-knit fraternities on campus, with thousands of alumni who have gone on to lead in business, public service, and countless other fields.
In recent years, the chapter has continued to thrive, placing an emphasis on personal development, academic achievement, and meaningful service. With an active membership committed to the Fraternities core values of promoting Brotherhood, stimulating Scholarship, and developing Character. Phi Sig remains a place where brothers grow into leaders during the most transformative years of their lives.
Phi Alpha Mu
Prior to our Fraternity, being a Chapter of Phi Sigma Kappa, it was a local Fraternity, Phi Alpha Mu. In 1921, 25 USC students gathered to create a masonic fraternity. In 1922, it became a social fraternity. In 1927, Phi Alpha Mu petitioned to be charted by Phi Sigma Kappa. In this petition, USC President, USC College of Liberal Arts (Dornsife) Dean, USC School of Commerce and Business Administration (Marshall) Advisors, endorsed the petition. In 1928, Phi Sigma Kappa became one of the earliest Fraternity at USC.
Our Brotherhood
Brotherhood at Phi Sig is what really sets our chapter apart. It’s not just about wearing the same letters—it’s about having a group of guys who’ve got your back no matter what. Whether we’re grinding through school together, grilling in the courtyard, or just hanging out watching a game, there’s always a sense of support and good energy in the house.
We come from all different backgrounds, but once you walk through the doors at 938 West 28th, you're family. From day one, theses brother want to see you grow, succeed, and have a great time along the way. It’s the little things—late-night food runs, helping each other prep for interviews, spontaneous road trips—that turn into the stories we’ll remember long after college. At the end of the day, brotherhood here isn’t forced—it’s lasts, it's real.
History
1921 - Local Fraternity Founded (Phi Alpha Mu)
1928 - Received Charter as Omega Deuteron of Phi Sigma Kappa
1929 - Nate Barragar, Football Captain
1932 - Ernie Smith, Football All-American
1936 - Signet Circle Corporation Chartered by State of California
- Building Fund Established
1939 - Purchase of Property at 938 West 28th Street
- Mike MacBan elected USC Student Body President
1950 - New house built and occupied
- Mothers Club raised funds to furnish the new house
- Chapter Room dedicated as Paul C Jones Chapter Room
1951 - Frank Gifford, Football All-American
1953 - 25th Anniversary of Omega Deuteron
- March issue of Signet dedicated to Omega Deuteron
1956 - Paul C Jones elected Phi Sigma Kappa Grand President (Second Row, Far Right, Sitting)
1959 - Mortgage on Chapter House retired
- Ralph Smith elected USC General Alumni Association President
1962 - Pledge Dormitory designated the Sheff E. Niles Dormitory
- Mike MacBan elected USC General Alumni Association President
1965 - Homer Merchant receives Medallion of Merit – PSK’s Highest Award
1975 - 1,000 member initiated by Omega Deuteron
1976 - Albert D. Shonk Jr. receives Medallion of Merit
1978 - 50th Anniversary Celebration
- Paul C. Jones receives Medallion of Merit (Second Row, Far Right, Sitting)
1979 - Albert D. Shonk Jr. elected Phi Sigma Kappa Grand President
- Re-elected 1981
1981 - Frank Gifford receives Medallion of Merit
- Chapter Charter suspended
1984 - American Swim Team rents Chapter House for Los Angeles Olympics
- Fred Jahnke coordinates refurbishment of Chapter House
- Chapter Library designated as the Albert D. Shonk Jr. Library
- Albert D. Shonk Jr. becomes President of Phi Sigma Kappa Foundation
1987 - Omega Deuteron hosted National Phi Sigma Kappa Convention in
Long Beach
- Fred Jahnke, Chairman of Convention Committee
- Current Flag Adopted
1988 - Annual National Leadership School named the “Albert D. Shonk Jr Leadership School”
1989 - Darren Azarian receives Order of the Diamond Circle (Highest Undergraduate Award)
1992 - Omega Deuteron receives six awards/recognition at Greek Awards Banquet
1996 - Albert D. Shonk Jr. honored with Grand Chapter title of “Mr. Phi Sig”
2010 - Phi Sig Colony established
2011 - Chapter re-charted (Dec. 2 & 3)
2012 - Major renovation of the Chapter House
2023 - Omega Deuteron disaffiliates from the USC Interfraternity Council (IFC)
- Omega Deuteron joins the University Park Interfraternity Council (UPIFC)
2024 - Hall of Fame Award Established
- Albert D. Shonk Jr. – Inaugural Award Recipient
2024 - Grand Chapter Ranking of the Top 150 Phi Sigs Ever Included:
- #1: Albert D. Shonk Jr. / 1954
- #30: Darren Azarian / 1994
- #79: Scott Jacobson / 2005
2025 - Alumni Mentoring Program Initiated