College of Charleston Pi Kappa Phi Alumni Advisor Honored
The National Interfraternity Council has recognized Richard Pierce '01, the College's Pi Kappa Phi alumni advisor, with its Advisor Award of Distinction.

Above: The Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity was founded at the College of Charleston in 1904.

At the College of Charleston, Pi Kappa Phi isn’t just another fraternity, it’s the birthplace of a national brotherhood. Founded in 1904 on CofC’s campus, Pi Kappa Phi has grown into a nationwide organization with more than 120,000 members. Now, more than 120 years later, that legacy continues to shine, thanks to alumni advisor Richard Pierce ’01.
This past June, Pierce was recognized by the National Interfraternity Council (NIC) with the Advisor Award of Distinction, one of the highest honors given to fraternity and sorority advisors across the country.
For Pierce, the recognition was an unexpected but deeply meaningful acknowledgment of more than two decades of service.
“It is certainly an honor to be recognized and to receive the award,” Pierce says. “I appreciate being nominated and for the letters of recommendation provided by my national headquarters, student affairs at the College of Charleston, recent alumni and current undergraduates. It is always nice to be recognized for your contributions; however, the recognition is not the reason fraternity and sorority advisors do what they do.”
Deep Roots at the College
Pierce first became an advisor shortly after graduating in 2001. What started as a way to stay involved has since evolved into a lifelong connection, not just to Pi Kappa Phi, but to the College itself.
“Being an alumni advisor has deepened my connection not only to Pi Kappa Phi, but to the College of Charleston as well,” he says. “In large part, my involvement with the College of Charleston is due to being a Pi Kappa Phi.”
That involvement has produced plenty of proud moments. One highlight came this year, when the chapter raised more than $55,000 for its national philanthropy, The Ability Experience, which supports people with disabilities. The success allowed the fraternity to donate $7,500 directly to Best Buddies at CofC, strengthening ties between the chapter and the campus community.
“Seeing our men interact during a cookout with our Best Buddies and then being able to see how a portion of the funds raised directly impacts others on our campus has certainly been a highlight during my time as advisor,” Pierce says.
A Lasting Legacy
As the birthplace of Pi Kappa Phi, CofC will always be tied to the fraternity’s national story. Pierce hopes his recognition brings attention not just to his chapter but to Greek life across campus.
“By receiving this award, I hope it continues to highlight the special relationship between Pi Kappa Phi and the College of Charleston, and I hope it shines a positive light on the fraternity and sorority community at the College,” he says.
Read more about Pi Kappa Phi’s roots – and landmarks – at the College of Charleston.

The Pi Kappa Phi Bell Tower, gifted to the College in 2004

The clock on the gable of Randolph Hall, gifted to the College in 1954

Pi Kappa Phi gate dedicated to the College in 1929
And to today’s students, Pierce’s advice is simple: Make the most of the experience.
“When done correctly, fraternity and sorority life is one of the most impactful things you can do as an undergraduate,” he says. “You learn leadership and social skills that will prepare you for life. No matter what organization you have joined, get involved, fill a role, make a positive impact and do things the right way.”
For a man whose connection to CofC began as an undergraduate brother more than two decades ago, the Advisor Award of Distinction is less about recognition and more about legacy, a reminder that the values of Pi Kappa Phi, and the College where it all began, still have the power to shape lives today.
Corrina Castillo is a senior communication major from East Hampton, New York, with interests in writing and broadcast journalism and TV production. She is a Martin Scholar and a member of the Phi Eta Sigma National Honors Society and the Lambda Pi Eta National Communication Honor Society.