The Phi Beta Kappa Award for Distinguished Service to the Humanities

The award includes a cash prize and a medal named for Mr. and Mrs. William B. Jaffe, whose gift of $25,000 enabled the Society to create the award in 1970. Mr. Jaffe was a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Union College. Award recipients are honored at the Triennial Council Meeting of the Phi Beta Kappa Society.

Nomination Process

Nominations for this award are accepted every three years. There will be a call for nominations a year prior to each Triennial Council in the Key Reporter, the General Newsletter and social media. The Society is now accepting nominations for 2027 Distinguished Service to the Humanities Award through April 30, 2026. 

For full consideration, nominators are asked to include:

• A letter detailing your recommendation of the candidate for this award
• A copy of the nominee's curriculum vitae 
• Your contact information as the nominator