Phi Theta Kappa traces its beginnings to a Society that originated with six charter members under the name of Kappa Phi Omicron at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, in 1910. The Society continued to grow and in the spring of 1918 was one of many honorary groups in Missouri. At a meeting of the presidents of the Missouri junior colleges for women in 1918, it was decided to organize a new honorary society, chapters of which would have a common character, stand, and similarity of organization. The name Phi Theta Kappa was chosen, and the Society was incorporated in Missouri as a national organization.

Phi Theta Kappa’s Center for Excellence is headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi. Here the President and CEO, Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner , and her staff work to provide the support and direction needed to fulfill the purpose and mission of the Society.