Our History

A Brief History of the Gryphon Society 

The Gryphon Society at Lehigh University was founded in 1957 and began with an application of 40 or so undergraduate men to the Committee on Student Activities for recognition as a campus "living group."  Its primary purpose was proposed to provide social opportunities for its members. The idea then emerged for Gryphons to serve as counselors to our first-year students arriving to campus to help in their adjustment to the academic rigors of University scholarship.  Gryphon Society members have always been Lehigh students who exhibited qualities of leadership and academic scholarship.  Over the years, this group has evolved to now support a vibrant residential learning community.  The position of a Gryphon has increased from primarily serving as a counseling role for new students to a supportive presence that is far more encompassing of the needs of our current students. Today, the Gryphon can be described as a leader, advocate, mentor, role model, administrator, programmer, resource, and policy enforcer when needed.  

The origin of the word "Gryphon" comes from Greek Mythology and is recognized as a winged beast - half eagle, half lion.  The Gryphon is said to have guarded the gold of ancient Scythia.  Defined as "a fabulous monster" and "a strict chaperon" it possesses the body and legs of a lion, the wings and beak of an eagle, and pricked ears noting its alertness.  The Gryphon name was proposed by the students who founded the Gryphon Society and has been a symbol of the Gryphon position for over sixty years.