For 139 years the Signet Society has played a major role in the intellectual, literary, and artistic life of Harvard College. Founded in 1870 by members of the Class of 1871, the Signet has flourished as a unique Harvard tradition ever since. Composed of students, faculty, and other persons at Harvard College, the Signet Society is officially recognized by Harvard College as an active undergraduate extracurricular organization. Signet membership continues to be based on criteria set up over a century ago: character, intellectual achievement, literary or artistic talent, and an interest in the humanities and the creative arts.
The Signet Society remains the only place at Harvard where lively conversation among students and faculty over the lunch table is the rule, not the exception. Special events such as readings, talks, screenings, shows, and receptions reflect the interests of undergraduates, graduate, and associate members alike: literature, the performing arts, the fine arts, the social sciences, politics, and culture. Renowned artists, writers, actors, and scholars visiting Cambridge often join Signet members for discussions or to give more formal presentations. The Signet Society Alumni are working to connect Signet alumni living in 35 countries back to the Signet, and each other.