The Visionary Journey of Pi Sigma Epsilon
Beginning with the End in Mind
Imagine a group of visionary leaders, determined to chart a course for future generations, knowing precisely where they wanted to go and the steps needed to get there. The founders of Pi Sigma Epsilon (PSE) embodied this vision. Their unwavering dedication aimed at creating a collegiate organization to foster sales and marketing skills through lifelong opportunities. They knew the journey would require strong alliances, starting with forging a pivotal relationship with Sales and Marketing Executives International (SMEI). This foresight laid the foundation for what PSE has become today.
The Vision Becomes Reality
It was 1951 when Lloyd L. Antle, a passionate Ohio University graduate and a marketing professor at Georgia State University, dreamed of a professional fraternity for sales and marketing. Accountants and general business majors had their fraternities; why not sales and marketing professionals? With this vision, Antle reached out to his colleagues, Dr. William H. Harris and Dr. Henry Baker. They all agreed: sales and marketing would soon become essential forces in the economy.
These three pioneers then approached Lewis F. Gordon, a charismatic marketing executive and founder of the Sales and Marketing Executives International association in Atlanta. Gordon’s enthusiasm and expertise were crucial in shaping the first collegiate fraternity dedicated to marketing, sales management, and selling. Together, they garnered support from SMEI Atlanta members, organized meetings, and meticulously developed the plans for their new professional fraternity.
After a year of relentless planning and collaboration with students, professionals, and the founders, they established the core pillars of Pi Sigma Epsilon: The Statement of Purpose, Constitution and Bylaws, Creed, Key, and Ritual of Initiation. The Greek letters Pi Sigma Epsilon were chosen to represent its diverse members: Prospective Sales Executives (collegiate), Preparers of Sales Executives (educators), and Professional Sales Executives (professionals and alumni). On May 14, 1952, PSE was officially incorporated under Georgia laws, with its first chapter, Alpha, installed at Georgia State University.
Executive Director Appointed
Initially, the founders balanced their career commitments with their dedication to PSE, which meant only six chapters were established between 1952 and 1958. Realizing the need for full-time leadership to achieve their ambitious goals, the founders appointed Lewis F. Gordon as the first full-time Executive Director in 1958. Gordon’s dynamic leadership and tireless efforts led to unprecedented growth, making PSE the fastest-growing professional fraternity in history. Gordon also strengthened ties with SMEI, securing financial support and sponsorships for PSE chapters nationwide.
PSE Years 1958 - 1974
Under Gordon’s guidance, PSE expanded from six to forty-seven chapters between 1958 and 1968. Many members went on to become industry leaders, remaining active in PSE. After Gordon’s retirement in 1968, PSE relocated its headquarters to the SMEI International Offices in New York City, reflecting the close collaboration between the two organizations. The fraternity continued to grow, appointing additional office personnel including the first Field Services Representative to support chapter development.
For the first twenty-three years, Pi Sigma Epsilon was an all-male fraternity. However, in 1974, a significant change occurred: the National Constitution was unanimous to welcome women into the fraternity. This inclusion marked a new era, with women taking on vital roles and contributing significantly to PSE’s growth and progress.
PSE Today
Today, the professional fraternity continues to innovate and grow, with increased participation at conventions and strong relationships with employers. PSE is transforming perceptions of sales and marketing professionalism, striving for higher excellence and forging new paths to success. The legacy of its visionary founders lives on, inspiring future generations to lead with purpose and serve with dedication.
Statement of Purpose
One of the first steps taken in the creation of Pi Sigma Epsilon was the development of the Statement of Purpose. The Fraternity adheres to these six purposes as they are the reasons for its existence.
- To create a collegiate organization of students who are interested in the advancement of sales and marketing as a career and profession; and
- To promote the study of sales and marketing in colleges and universities; and
- To bring together academically qualified students who express a desire to enter the fields of professional sales and marketing; and
- To encourage in colleges and universities the establishment of courses preparing students for careers in professional sales and marketing; and
- To stimulate improved methods and techniques in the fields of sales and marketing; and
- To instill in its members the highest possible ethical standards.