THE COAT OF ARMS

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The coat of arms shows the acorn, the bird, and the fish, representing life on the ground, in the air, and in the water. The knight's helmet signifies that the scientist is always ready to apply his abilities for the benefit of mankind. The skull reminds us that science, although greater than the life of any individual, depends upon the contributions of individual scholars. The two light quarters of the shield represent truth known to us; the dark quarters represent truth still unknown. The diagonal golden band symbolizes the light and truths of science. As on the key, the serpent stands for wisdom. The colors of the society are red and green: blood red for zoology and leaf green for botany. The motto is Blepein Basin Bious, which means, "to see the foundation of life." |
THE KEY

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The key is a common symbol of academic excellence, and written upon it are three Greek letters, Beta Beta Beta, and a coiled serpent. The first Beta stands for the Greek word Balanos, which means acorn; it represents life in and on the ground. The second Beta stands for the Greek word Boudetase, which means little bird; it represents life in the air. The third Beta stands for the Greek word Boax, which means fish; it represents life in the water. All three words may be summed up in one word, BIOS, meaning life. |
What is Tri-Beta?
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Tri-Beta is a Biological Honors Society committed to a tradition of friendship and excellence in the areas of science and medicine. Tri-Beta is more than just a club; it is a lifelong committment which provides its members with social opportunity within their field as well as knowledge and experience in the occupational world. Many members obtain valuable research experience in labs on and off campus. |
Some Background
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Tri-Beta was founded in 1922 by Dr Frank Brooks and his students at the Oklahoma City University. In 1925, Tri Beta became a national organization; it published the first issue of its science journal, BIOS, in 1930. Since its founding, over 380 chapters have been established in the United States and Puerto Rico. There are currently more than 145,000 lifetime members. The "Beta" in the society's name stands for Biology. It's symbol, the snake symbolizes both science and knowledge. Tri-Beta has two society colors: red for vitality, and green for life. |