Phi Beta Kappa Key of Excellence Award

About this program

The Phi Beta Kappa Society’s Key of Excellence Award recognizes innovative programs that engage communities with the arts and sciences; awardees receive a $10,000 cash prize and special recognition at a local event that convenes policymakers, business leaders, and Phi Beta Kappa members. Eligible applicants are organizations and programs (e.g., nonprofits, state cultural councils, and programs at public and private colleges and universities), and nominations may be submitted by interested parties on behalf of organizations; nominations are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants must demonstrate strong cross-disciplinary public engagement in both the arts and sciences, visible public programming and outreach, involvement of diverse constituencies, improved local access, and identifiable community beneficiaries; Phi Beta Kappa conducts due diligence and may give special consideration to geographic diversity, community scale, and organizational structure.