The Seal & Serpent Society is Cornell's oldest independent society. Founded in 1905 by a small group of classmates, our founders did not set out to build a community. They soon found, though, that they had "the nucleus for one and a definite place for it among organizations as they then stood on the Hill." Because we are exclusively and singularly a Cornell society, we are free to define ourselves on our own terms. We answer to no national organization. Instead, we hold ourselves to a distinctly Cornellian standard: "egalitarian excellence" in our character, our scholarship, and our morality.

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​​The Seal and Serpent Society has a long history of supporting equality and fostering a community where our membership and guests feel safe. When we invite people into our home, we do so warmly: as friends, not merely visitors. Sexual violence has no place in our community, and we endeavor to support survivors by continuing to create a safe and welcoming space for all.

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Membership in Seal & Serpent

All new members of the Society are selected by the active chapter. To receive an invitation, a student must exemplify our core values and show high character in all aspects of their life. They must demonstrate legitimate interest in advancing our Society's founding principles. We encourage anyone interested to come to our events, stop by The Lodge, or reach out here!