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 The
Official Colors
The Official Colors of Iota Phi Theta are Charcoal Brown (PMS
469)
and Gilded Gold (PMS 871 Metallic).
 The
Shield of Iota Phi Theta
The Shield of Iota Phi Theta (significantly, not a "crest" or
"Coat of arms") is the most commonly used symbol of the
Fraternity. Its connotation, or meaning, is revealed by the
initiation ritual.
The Shield may be used only by official members of the
fraternity on stationery, jewelry, and other personal effects.
It is used by the fraternity upon its official stationery,
membership certificates, and other documents. Designed by
Founder Charles Briscoe, the Shield of Iota Phi Theta was
modified slightly several times during the early years of the
Fraternity.
A note about the Shield and its
origins:
Heraldry is the art and science of designing, defining,
and describing fraternal and familial insignia. This is
a very specific discipline that dates back to the 11th
century. Heraldic Blazoning is the official language
used in Heraldry to describe these symbols. As in many
other areas, the Shield of Iota Phi Theta "breaks the
rules" of Heraldry in some ways. This is a testament to
the desire of the Founders to create symbolism that
would represent an organization dedicated to embodying a
fresh approach.
The Heraldic Blazoning of Iota Phi Theta's shield is as
follows: "Brunatre a border Or, on an inescutcheon
Brunatre bordered Or the Greek letters Iota Phi Theta of
the last, in chief a cross Sable alight with twelve rays
Or, a candle alight Gules with five rays Or, a Centaur
Vert with eyes Gules, in base five mullets Or."
(For more information about Heraldry and Heraldic
blazoning,
please click here).
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 The
Centaur
Besides the Fraternity Shield, the next most readily identifying
symbol of Iota Phi Theta is The Centaur.
A Mythical beast with the head and torso of a man, and the body
of a stallion, The Centaur is near and dear to all Men of Iota
Phi Theta and its mythology, characteristics, and legacy are a
binding force within the Brotherhood. Additionally, Iota Phi
Theta intakees are referred to as Centaurs. (Note: The Centaur
can appear in Green, Brown, or Gold but must ALWAYS have Red
eyes.)
 The
Yellow Rose
The Yellow Rose is the official flower of the Fraternity.
--from Iota Phi Theta National website
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