The organization remains the most active secret senior society at the university with over 2,000 alumni in the United States and 24 countries throughout the world.

First led by Daniel S. Keller Jr., Friars was created "to firmly establish uncompromising democracy in all class, college, and University activities.

Throughout its storied history, Friars have shaped many aspects of Penn life, such as adding straw hats to Hey Day in 1949 and creating Spring Fling in 1975.

[14] Membership is intentionally drawn from all walks of campus: the only common thread is that every member of the society is a recognized senior leader and contributes to the greater Penn community.

The group proudly consists of those making a difference in the athletic arena, the performing arts, student government, the Greek system, publications, as well as assorted entrepreneurs and community activists, and organizers.