Our History

SPHINX is the oldest honorary at Ohio State University. Since 1907, SPHINX has recognized 24 exceptional senior students with membership annually.

The following was written in the anonymous membership invitation sent by the original four to their twelve classmates. Each was asked to join in forming a senior society that would be:

Something to make more genuine the friendship between college students.
Something to make more cherished the memories of our years at Ohio State.
Something for the University, the Alma Mater we shall love the more as years go by.
Something which, when established now, will – let it be hoped – in future years prove an incentive to underclassmen to strive to make higher their own standards as well as those of their University.

May we always remember…how firm thy friendship, OHIO.

Our Mission

To recognize and honor students who have shown success in various fields of endeavor.

To create a bond of fellowship in which each individual will use his or her abilities to enhance and promote the best interests of The Ohio State University.

Our Charge

SPHINX is proud to bestow membership on 24 senior students who uphold the highest ideals of scholarship, leadership, camaraderie, citizenship, and service at The Ohio State University. We, the tried links of SPHINX, pass the challenge of SPHINX onto new and capable persons, in the hope that our love for the University and our concern for its betterment will continue to live and prosper in the future classes of SPHINX.