Pi Sigma Epsilon - History

History

In 1951, Lloyd L. Antle, an Ohio University graduate and professor of Marketing at Georgia State College proposed that the sales profession should have a professional fraternity of its own because sales and marketing would become a vital force in the economy. Professor Antle and his colleagues, Dr. William Harris and Dr. Henry Baker, asked Mr. Lewis F. Gordon, one of the founders of the Sales and Marketing Executives (SME) association of Atlanta, to help design the first collegiate fraternity in marketing, sales management, and selling.

The four men approached other SME members, gained their support, set up organizational meetings, and worked diligently to develop plans. After an entire year of planning, the foundation for this new organization was laid. With input from students, professionals and those founders, five essential aspects of Pi Sigma Epsilon were developed: the Statement of Purpose, Constitution and Bylaws, Creed, Key and Ritual of Initiation. The Greek letters of Pi Sigma Epsilon were carefully chosen to represent members of the fraternity.

• Prospective Sales Executives (collegiates)
• Preparers of Sales Executives (educators)
• Professional Sales Executives (professionals and alumni)

The Fraternity was incorporated in the state of Georgia on May 14, 1952, and the first chapter, Alpha, was installed at Georgia State College.

For the first 23 years of its existence, Pi Sigma Epsilon was an all-male fraternity. In 1974, the National Constitution was amended to include women. Today, PSE’s membership, leadership, and staff include women who play key roles in every aspect of the organization. Currently, PSE consists of 142 chartered chapters at colleges and universities.