The Ivy Club
Princeton’s First Eating Club
Eating clubs are unique to Princeton. They were created by students as an alternative to the limited dining and social options available to undergraduates in an era when the University had banned fraternities. Formed in 1879, Ivy was the first eating club, and its founders helped to establish the club system which became, and remains, the center of dining and social life for most upperclassmen.
The Ivy Club is an independent, non-profit association whose members are or have been Princeton undergraduates. In addition to meals and social events, the Club sponsors educational programs, and strives to provide its members a comfortable, supportive environment that encourages intellectual and personal growth, and enables members to learn from each other.
The Club
Each winter, following an interview process known as bicker, The Ivy Club invites a group of 72 Princeton sophomores to become members. This group from each class forms an Ivy Section.
History
During the first 130 years of Princeton’s history, student dining options ranged from inadequate to nonexistent. Indeed, after Nassau Hall burned in 1856, the College offered no food service at all…
Undergraduate Officers
The undergraduate officers are elected by the membership each February for the following academic year, and are responsible for overseeing and providing leadership for undergraduate activities.
Board of Governors
The Board of Governors oversees and is responsible for the Club’s assets and operations. Its objective is to enhance the lives of the Club’s members and ensure Ivy’s long-term vitality.