Pi Epsilon Delta was established at University of Wisconsin on June 8, 1919, by students who were interested in theater.

[2] Pi Epsilon Delta was established as an honor society to recognize and encourage collegiate theatre.

[1][3] Its activities included supporting dramatic performances, playwriting, and the study of drama and encouraging leadership in these fields.

[2] The merger was facilitated by two faculty members at the University of Wisconsin, Gertrude Johnson, professor of the speech department and grand chancellor of Pi Epsilon Delta, and Merle R. Raines, an English instructor and grand secretary of the Associated University Players.

[5] Pi Epsilon Delta was an honorary society, while the Associated University players were a theatrical production group.

[6] Students were admitted to the National Collegiate Players based on a point system for achievement in acting, construction, costuming, directing, playwriting, stage design, stagecraft, and the completion of courses in dramatic arts, speech, and literature at an accredited institution.

[8][9][10] The Players also initiated honor members who had made significant contributions to academia or the theater profession.