The Phi Theta Kappa Society was founded in 1918 by presidents of Missouri junior colleges at Stephens college in Columbia, Missouri.

Modeled after Phi Theta Kappa, the Society had the following purposes: To recognize academic excellence among two-year college students, to provide opportunities for leadership training, to provide an intellectual climate for the interchange of ideas and ideals, and to imbue scholars with the desire for continued education.

Over the years, Phi Theta kappa has continued to promote amoung its membership the four "Hallmarks" of membership: scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship.

In 1929, the Society gained official recognition as the United States' honor society for two-year colleges by the American Association of Junior Colleges (later the American Association of Junior and Community Colleges).

Margaret Mosal, a two-year college student from Missisippi, became the society's first National President to be elected by convention delegates. She later became the society's first Executive director - a position she held for 50 years. The Society flourished into a nationally recognized organization under Dr. Mosal's capable leadership.

In 1985, Rob Risley became Phi Theta Kappa's second Executive Director. At that time he was Associates Director of the Society. He is a former International President of Phi Theta Kappa. Mr. Risley has directed the energies of the Headquarters staff toward developing chapter programming and identifying the ways the strengths and reputation of the Society may be utilized for the benifits of the individual chapters.

Today, there are approximately 1000 active chapters in all 50 states and abroad. The first Canadian chapter was chartered in 1991. More than 60,000 two-year college students are selected for membership each year.