The History of Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity: 1960-1985

The History of Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity

1960-1985

NINTH EDITION

PUBLISHED BY ALPHA CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY, 2023

[OPPOSITE PAGE]

OLIVE BANKS AUSTIN (ALPHA KAPPA, UNIVERSITY OF OREGON), COSMA ARNOLD LEE (CHI, OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY) AND DOROTHY JUSTESEN DIEGELMAN (BETA KAPPA, UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING), MEMBERS OF THE GAMMA MU GAMMA (PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA) ALUMNAE CHAPTER, PACK BOXES FOR THE EASTER SEALS AS PART OF AN ALTRUISTIC PROJECT.

Setting the Scene

JULIANA BISHOP HITPAS (DELTA SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC) PORTRAYS NORINA IN AN UNKNOWN PLAY OR MUSICAL.

Setting the Scene

What seems like a lifetime ago for some seems like just yesterday for other members of Alpha Chi Omega. Let’s think about what it was like to be a woman living in the United States during the years 1960-85, what she witnessed and experienced during this pivotal time in history, by noting landmark events spanning wide-ranging areas of impact ...

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Space exploration, with the United States sending men to the moon and bringing them back home to Earth safely, and Sally Ride becoming the first American woman in space

Computers, including the first Apple Macintosh personal computer

POLITICS, CIVIL RIGHTS, LIFE-CHANGING EVENTS, SOCIAL UNREST

The assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr.

The rise of communism and the Cold War

Passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was comprehensive legislation intended to end discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex and national origin; continued work for equality throughout this era and beyond through subsequent litigation, political engagement and day-to-day actions

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The Vietnam War, student protests and the killing of four students by the National Guard at Kent State University

Watergate and President Nixon’s subsequent resignation

Learning of these events and issues from Walter Cronkite or The Huntley-Brinkley Report

OUR ROLE IN THE SPACE RACE

Alpha Chi Omega played its own important role in the era of the country’s commitment to — and fascination with — space exploration that marked the times.

Janet Shearon Armstrong (Alpha Beta, Purdue University) was married to Neil Armstrong when he became the first man to walk on the moon in 1969. Janet spoke of her then-husband’s trailblazing career in The Lyre, saying, “Because I understand Neil’s love for his work, I have never doubted his capabilities nor feared his flights. Certainly he must occasionally face danger, but so do many husbands, and all of us, as wives, have essentially the same responsibilities.”

Barbara Field Gordon (Rho, University of Washington) was the former wife of Apollo 12 command module pilot Richard Gordon, which orbited the moon 45 times in 1969.

Bonnie Jo Darling Allen (Alpha, DePauw University) was married to astronaut Joe Allen, who served as mission specialist on the first fully operational flight of the Space Shuttle program in 1982.

One of NASA’s first seven astronauts, Scott Carpenter was the son of Florence Noxon Carpenter (Nu, University of Colorado Boulder). Scott also happened to have four aunts who were Alpha Chi Omegas, all alumnae of the Nu chapter!

WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND OPPORTUNITIES

More opportunities for women in sports and the passage of Title IX

New career opportunities and options for women in the workplace

Publication of The Feminine Mystique by feminist Betty Friedan

Expanding leadership roles on campus and in the business world for women

The U.S. Congress passing the Equal Rights Amendment, though it failed to be ratified by the necessary 38 states

Sandra Day O’Connor becoming the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court

ENTERTAINMENT AND TRENDS

Groundbreaking television that forced you to look more closely at identity, such as All in the Family or M*A*S*H, or that featured strong, independent women, like That Girl or The Mary Tyler Moore Show

Escape through soap opera characters on All My Children or General Hospital or a brand-new entertainment platform — music videos — on MTV

A revolution of sorts in music

— The Beatles invading America, Woodstock, Elton John, Prince, Barbra Streisand and Cher

Comedy becoming edgier and political, with The Smothers Brothers, George Carlin and Laugh-In, plus Dick Gregory and many more raising their voices

Movies like Mary Poppins, The Sound of Music, The Graduate and Kramer vs. Kramer

Snoopy, Charlie Brown and their friends

Sports, including the first Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers taking home the title

Fashion, ranging from maxi skirts to mini skirts, and including bikinis and preppy attire

ALPHA CHI OMEGA AND THE ERA

After commemorating the 1960 Diamond Jubilee celebration of Alpha Chi Omega’s first 75 years, National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University) made these remarks:

“In this, the 75th year of Alpha Chi Omega, it is fitting that we pause and ponder on our place in the changing world of today. What place will sororities and fraternities have in these most challenging times?

What can Alpha Chi Omega offer to girls who are being prodded by their schools to step up their pursuit of excellence?”

The coming decades would bring tumult, an era of scrutiny and resulting introspection that would test the very foundation of the Fraternity, its leaders and its members. A rapidly changing world, a society grappling with civil rights, differing views of the role of higher education, and evolving expectations of and opportunities for women – all reshaped Alpha Chi Omega in the era from the 1960 Diamond Jubilee to the 1985 Centennial Celebration.

SUMMER 1985 LYRE

A-CHI-DEMY AWARDS

Some of Alpha Chi Omega collegians’ favorite things, according to results in the Summer 1985 Lyre:

COMEDIAN

1. Eddie Murphy

2. Joan Rivers

3. David Letterman

MAIL ORDER CATALOG

1. L.L. Bean

2. Esprit

3. Land’s End FOOD

1. Pizza

2. Mexican

3. Chinese

The National Organization

THE ROLE OF GREEK LIFE

FORM, FUNCTION AND FINANCES

THE NATIONAL PRESIDENTS

HEADQUARTERS

HONORING OUR RITUAL AND TRADITIONS

PANHELLENIC RELATIONSHIPS

A GROUP OF FRATERNITY OFFICERS AND STAFF POSE TOGETHER AT THE GROUNDBREAKING FOR THE NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS AT 8733 FOUNDERS ROAD.

The Role of Greek Life

As this era began, Alpha Chi Omega’s leaders were well aware of shifting attitudes and increasing scrutiny of Greek life. The benefits of the fraternal experience – service, connection and personal development, to name a few – were sometimes overshadowed by its criticisms, including discrimination and membership selection. The relationship between the Fraternity and host institutions strained throughout this time. As noted in Baird’s Manual of American College Fraternities, “No matter how wisely fraternities might have planned and acted, neither they nor any other segment of American society, especially one identified with ‘the establishment,’ could have come through the social turbulence and political turmoil of the sixties and seventies in firm command of its own destiny.”

There were practical and sometimes quantifiable ways in which fraternal groups were of value to colleges and universities. Studies showed that participants in Greek life tended to graduate at higher rates than non-Greek students. Fraternities and sororities provided housing for thousands of students nationwide. These students also tended to be extremely active in campus life and activities and provided support through donations of time and financial contributions to charitable causes.

But the criticisms of the Greek system were loud, and the Fraternity hoped to combat them. In December 1960, National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University) challenged members to educate the critics, saying, “No doubt some of the distrust existing between college faculty members and sororities is our fault. We do not give them an opportunity to meet us in our own surrounding.” She urged chapters to invite faculty into the chapter houses, to demonstrate their “friendliness and poise” and adherence to high social and academic standards. Explaining what the concept of “fraternity” was all about, in the midst of a highly contentious environment, would be critical, she believed.

Alpha Chi Omega, along with all fraternal organizations, walked a tightrope of sorts as it sought to find a path of collaboration with university leaders while maintaining local autonomy for chapters.

National President Jessie Fanyo Payne said, “We are living in a restless world. Values and standards are changing in education and as a complementary part of this field we must evaluate our goals and try to reach a harmonious understanding with the colleges and universities.”

But pressures against fraternities continued to mount, with forces steadily gaining momentum. These were described in The History of Alpha Chi Omega: One Hundred Years:

Fraternity, as practiced traditionally by Greek letter groups, would reap a whirlwind of criticism as increasing manifestations of social unrest became apparent, particularly on college campuses on the west and east coasts. From the free-speech movement at the Berkeley campus of the University of California to the student riots at Columbia, criticism of and demands made upon fraternities would emerge with their own crackling timbre among the larger cacophony of protest and demonstration.

MEMBERS OF DELTA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN POSE WITH CARTONS OF CLOTHING COLLECTED BY THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN) CHAPTER MEMBERS AND THE DELTA SIGS AS PART OF A JOINT PHILANTHROPY PROJECT TO SEND CLOTHING TO KOREAN ORPHANS. THE PROJECT COLLECTED 10,000 POUNDS OF CLOTHING, WHICH WAS FIRST SHIPPED TO SAN FRANCISCO AND THEN TO KOREA.

WHAT CAN WE DO?

BY NATIONAL PRESIDENT JESSIE FANYO PAYNE (UPSILON, MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY), 1964

You are familiar with the criticism of fraternities because they have been so widely circulated — some of them contradict each other. We cannot be all things to all people; we cannot solve the problems facing the world within our private social groups. But what can we do?

First — we know that we must reflect the basic goals and aims of the college or university since we are an adjunct of them. In the words of the trustees of the University of Pennsylvania, “The future of the fraternities will be determined by the fraternities themselves, and in particular by their demonstrated ability to contribute positively to high academic standards, good social behavior and constructive extra-curricular activities.”

Secondly — we must reflect the basic philosophy of Alpha Chi Omega. Our Constitution states: “The objects of this Fraternity are to encourage the spirit of true sisterhood, to develop through personal effort a high moral and mental standard and to advance the appreciation and practice of the allied arts among its members.”

The basic concept of the administrations and Alpha Chi Omega appear to be in agreement. All we have to do is live up to them.

As a private group we feel we have the right to maintain standards for membership that will keep Alpha Chi Omega strong. Are we to weaken because of internal and external pressure?

The convention is the supreme legislative body of the Fraternity. You are Alpha Chi Omega. Here in convention assembled you will share experiences and thinking and make constructive plans for a strong tomorrow. May you have great wisdom.

And remember the words of one of our Founders, Olive Burnett Clark, who said, “Fraternity does not change, it develops. The development is in the living of our ideals; in the heart that is shielded by our emblem of sisterhood; in the mind where thoughts are unselfish and pure; by words that are kind; by acts that are sincere; by deeds that are worthy.”

University administrators began questioning the rights of fraternal groups and, in a growing number of cases, particularly in California universities, requesting that chapters provide information proving that chapter membership included members of different races and religions. In 1964, National Panhellenic Delegate Rosemary Newman Hittle (Alpha Chi, Butler University) wrote:

Unquestionably, the pressures against fraternity have mounted rapidly in the past year … Several requests for copies of the Constitution have been honored when received from an authorized member of the administration. Two different requests were received for specific examples in our chapters which would prove that persons of various

races or religions were among our members. It was with some complacence that this officer was able to reply that in keeping with our policy which required no information as to race, creed or color in selection of members, no such statistical record was ever compiled on this subject.

Greek groups were also pressured to provide proof that they had no discriminatory policies regarding membership selection. According to an article in the fall 1964 Lyre, “On 47 campuses where we have chapters we have been required either to furnish our Constitution, submit a non-discriminatory membership statement, sign such a statement prepared by the college, or have received a letter from the administration saying that we can have no discriminatory policies.”

Alpha Chi Omega leaders continued to state that the Fraternity had no discriminatory clauses, rather membership requirements as a private group. As a voluntary private organization, Alpha Chi Omega vigorously defended its right for chapters to freely choose members and for the Fraternity to guide and supervise those chapters and defended the right of other organizations to do the same and manage their own membership requirements and policies without outside interference. As National President Jessie Payne stated in her 1960 report to the membership, “We believe we have the right to choose our own members, without dictation from others. This right is in jeopardy as more and more universities and colleges are investigating constitutions for membership clauses and are setting deadlines for filing of statements relative to membership selection. Every Alpha Chi Omega should be prepared to define the Fraternity for what it is a voluntary association promoting scholarship, leadership and friendship.”

Alpha Chi Omega also found itself in the midst of a social revolution, realizing it could not be all things to all people nor solve all the world’s problems. But it could retain its relevancy by holding true to its founding principles. In 1964, National Panhellenic Delegate Rosemary Newman Hittle (Alpha Chi, Butler University) reminded members:

• “We are not a political action group, a religious or a social reform group.”

• “We are a democratic organization … We are frankly quite discriminatory in the truest sense of the word in attempting to select and attract only the finest girls from those who are available.”

• “Our membership is entered into voluntarily, with the knowledge that simply expressing a desire for membership is not tantamount to being invited into membership.”

Frustration was high among Alpha Chi Omega’s membership — both collegiate and alumnae — with many angered by the portrayal of fraternal groups as discriminatory and at the lack of recognition given to the positive attributes and actions of the groups and their members. Amid it all, Alpha Chi Omega and its leaders found it continued to be vital to carry on with necessary programs and procedures — establishing new chapters, creating programming tools for chapters, strengthening the Fraternity’s finances and tackling chapter housing projects.

When Rosita Hopps Nordwall (Epsilon, University of Southern California) became National President in 1964, she challenged delegates to the national convention to use their individual skills and talents as leaders to combat the ever-increasing criticism of fraternal values. She shared about the basic human need that Greek membership fulfills — meaningful relationships where sisters could learn and grow from and with each other.

In her National President report to the 1968 Convention delegates, Rosemary Newman Hittle declared that it was “time for fraternities to fight back.” She stated, “If Greek groups are to take this offensive, they will want to make a greater effort to close the gap between what they could be and what they seem to be. If trivia is the order of the day in your chapter, maybe there is good reason to be on the defensive. Take a good look at some worthwhile goals and work for them!”

Past National President Jessie Fanyo Payne delivered an address at the 1968 Convention entitled “Past Is Prologue,” in which she asserted, “Fraternities have always experienced change and growth because they reflect campus and community conditions of which they are a part. Now, as we are caught up in the tremendous educational, social and world changes, it becomes imperative for us to hold fast to the basic strengths that are good. It is also imperative for us to be flexible, willing to discard superficialities and traditions that are harmful.”

THE EPSILON IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA) CHAPTER HOUSE COULD HOLD 16 MEMBERS.

Collegiate chapter members were on the front line of criticism of the Greek system as a whole and their choice to participate in the system as individuals. Supporting these members and bolstering their resolve was a prime objective of national officers and traveling consultants. Ann Marie Lewis (Zeta Xi, University of North Carolina at Greensboro), who visited chapters as a national collegiate field advisor, remarked on trends she found during her travels, saying, “Another challenge the Greek system now faces, in addition to more complex and sophisticated educational approaches, is the reality of what one current magazine terms the ‘megaversity.’…It is more difficult for the Fraternity system to publicize and promote its advantages in such a complex environment which offers a tremendous number of opportunities for involvement and participation relevant to one’s interests.”

National Panhellenic Delegate Marilyn Kallen Peterson (Beta Theta, Lawrence University) explained that shifts in university support for and supervision of Greek groups was bringing corresponding challenges. According to Marilyn, “Greater control over student organizations is being placed with student governing bodies, and there have been attempts to include fraternities in this control. This is particularly true in situations where fraternities are classified as ‘student activity’ groups, rather than housing units or private associations.”

At the 1972 National Convention, National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) described what she found to be a stabilized campus environment, explaining, “In the huge new schools of today, the need for smaller, more intimate, more congenial and more mutually supportive groups is

Across the country, campuses generally moved away from the philosophy of “in loco parentis,” during which time they had enacted numerous rules and policies designed to guide students’ behaviors. Now, the national organizations of fraternities and sororities, rather than the college or university, would need to assume greater responsibility for their members’ behaviors and their safety. Students were also gaining a stronger voice in establishing those policies that would directly affect them and their undergraduate experience.

greater than ever.” She envisioned a future for Alpha Chi Omega full of challenges but also hope. “The picture is good. The future is what we make it. The challenge given us by our Founders is being met by our members.”

As National Collegiate Vice President Margie Perkins Mullins (Iota, University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign) looked to the future in 1974, she remarked:

There is a great deal to make one optimistic about

“It is impossible to tell with certainty the future course of our Fraternity. We do know there will always be a need for women to gather together in a bond of friendship and loyalty with common goals. If we reflect upon and learn from the past, discard only that which is truly not applicable, and look ahead to questions of society affecting our members, we will continue to be a contributing vital force on today’s college campus.”

NATIONAL PRESIDENT KAREN AUNAN MILEY (ALPHA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA), WINTER 1976-77 LYRE

the future of Alpha Chi Omega and the fraternity system: increased interest in traditionalism, in giving oneself to others in service to community and school, and in getting lasting values from college days. Alpha Chi Omega offers all of these and so very much more. We must continue to work toward training our officers, who, in turn, must keep listening to the membership for their ideas on making Alpha Chi Omega a better way of life.

By 1976, while the overall mood on campuses was more positive, students — and their expectations — were changing. As National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) remarked about a current or potential member, “She will expect an opportunity for leadership development, to meet socially with her peers, to meet with professors and administrators for an exchange of views, to share experiences with alumnae of varied backgrounds, and to graduate having developed to her fullest potential. Our collegians are thinking young women who need the best in guidance and advice from alumnae.”

The emotionally charged campus environment did take its toll on the ability of some chapters to thrive or, sometimes, survive, with a larger than normal number

of chapter closings. But the Greek system’s strongest core asset — friendship — would allow it to continue.

In her 1980-81 Heraeum report, National President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University) remarked that while interest in Greek life was seeing a resurgence, concerns still persisted, saying, “It is this officer’s opinion that this attitude will last for a few more years before a new social attitude requires a change and new approach by fraternities.”

Whether in agreement or not, the university and the Fraternity were inextricably bound, and future members and leaders would continue to define Alpha Chi Omega’s relationship with the institutions that hosted collegiate chapters. In 1985, National President D’Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) stated, “Without the university there would be no individual chapter. But we must also effect a compromise that allows the National Fraternity to continue to exercise quality control over its own collegiate chapter.”

BID DAY 1979; ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER

Form, Function and Finances

As times — and the needs of members — changed, Alpha Chi Omega changed and evolved, adapting its operations and structure to meet the times. As one example, according to the 1967-68 Heraeum, the Fraternity would seek advice from its attorney on the advisability of incorporating in the state of Indiana as a not-for-profit organization.

An expanded National Council guided the Fraternity from 1970-72 (with 12 members rather than 10), and with 11 of the 12 officers new to their positions. This provided challenges, as explained in The History of Alpha Chi Omega: One Hundred Years:

The current structure of 12 National Council-level positions had become unwieldy. There was much duplication of effort, and the increasing travel costs for such a large group were becoming a major concern. (The Council had been enlarged from 10 to 12 in 1970 with the addition of a National Financial Program Director and a National Secretary, the latter separated from the former Secretary/ Treasurer).

In the mid-1970s, the Fraternity found its most pressing challenge to be balancing the high expectations and standard of services with sound financial practices, which would require discipline, patience and thoughtful prioritization. Unpredictability of membership numbers also presented difficulties in budgeting.

At this time, the Fraternity had two funds, the General Operating Fund (covering conventions, central office operations, The Lyre, altruistic contributions and programming) and the National Altruistic Foundation (handling the Hannah Keenan Scholarship Fund, other scholarship and fellowship funds, and philanthropic projects).

In 1976, National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) looked back to 1970 and explained to convention delegates that the National Council had entered their offices with 12 members and quickly found the group to be “unworkable, repetitious and unwieldy.” They recommended a reorganization study, which led to the 1974 Atlanta convention delegates voting upon another reorganization that “broadened the base of officers, trained more for

management positions and lightened the Paper Tiger,” she shared.

Adele also remarked on the National Council’s emphasis on what she described as their watchwords of “financial responsibility” and the necessity of the Fraternity’s income to rise and meet the organization’s growth. Financial stressors included programming, unpaid loans, housing in need of enlargements and increasing costs associated with materials and travel by volunteers.

Alpha Chi Omega also found the term “liability” rising in public discourse more and more. Fraternity leaders and legal advisors knew the organization was exposed to potentially debilitating liability suits and so instituted a property and liability insurance program. As Fraternity counsel Thomas Lofton shared at the 1980 National Convention, the need for this type of program had become clear, with several NPC groups named as defendants in potentially costly liability suits. The exposure was great and the risks huge, but at the time few collegiate chapters had any form of liability coverage. This, coupled with the results of a study of the property coverage of Alpha Chi Omega chapter houses, which found them to be underinsured, necessitated the development of a national insurance program to include property insurance, liability insurance and excess umbrella coverage.

At the same time, a combination of factors — an upswing in membership numbers, along with an

increase in dues and fees approved at the 1978 National Convention — helped to offset high inflation and allow for the Fraternity to operate with a balanced budget. As the 1980s began, it was imperative that the Fraternity concentrate on discipline in financial planning. They implemented a budgetary process focused on

can be found later in this book in the Foundation chapter.

A subsequent renaming of National Council positions meant that officer titles were more standardized for the six-member leadership group: National President, national vice president-alumnae, national vice president-collegians, national vice president-finance, national vice president-membership and national vice president-secretary. It also meant that important and related areas including recruitment, extension and establishment would be part of a concerted, cohesive effort led by the national vice president-membership.

management by objective. They also improved financial awareness by creating financial educational programs for chapters and advisors and coordinating efforts between national-level volunteers and staff.

An overview of long-range planning by the National Council — including consideration of troubling financial conditions (such as double-digit inflation and high interest rates) — led to the following goals set forth in 1982:

• To maximize the total number of members

• To improve the management of and increase financial resources

• To maintain and innovate support services for the Fraternity

• To have the Fraternity occupy positions of leadership/excellence on campus and in the community

• To promote involvement in the allied arts

Finances in the early 1980s were marked by high interest rates and operating deficits for the Fraternity’s budget. Collegiate chapter members had, for many years, been the ones to “foot the bill” for Fraternity operations, but Fraternity leaders came to realize that maintaining a level of service and support could only be possible if alumnae were more involved. Establishing the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation was a first, important step that would alter the role of alumnae in securing the Fraternity’s future; more details about this milestone

The National Panhellenic Conference delegate was now included on the National Council as an appointee of the National President, attending National Council meetings with voice but no vote. Before this, as a National Council member, the Panhellenic delegate could only serve for four years — which did not allow adequate time for the officer to develop meaningful relationships with her peers from other National Panhellenic Conference member groups.

With its officer structure refined and retooled, by 1985 the Fraternity also found itself in a much-improved financial position. This was due to concerted efforts

related to increased membership through recruitment, extension and retention initiatives — as well as a formalized budgeting process and clear analysis of priorities and long-range planning. Chapters, house corporation boards and property management teams became increasingly aware of the need for structured budgeting processes and sound financial planning.

Overall, the organization was willing to carefully balance what had worked through the years with what would most likely be needed going forward.

THE 1980-83 NATIONAL COUNCIL

THE 1983-85 NATIONAL COUNCIL

The National Presidents

ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S LEADERS 1960-85

The 1962 Nominating Committee said this about Jessie: “Alpha Chi Omega displayed a great deal of courage moving forward to a complete re-organization to better meet the demands of a changing world. Our leader during these crucial two years has shown an equal amount of courage amid the vexing problems of growth and change.” The committee described Jessie as “a woman of real stature.”

Jessie was called on to implement a National Council structure with increased emphasis on policy making and was president during a period known for volatility and vast changes in society and Greek-letter organizations.

“The Fraternity world is faced with pressures from without and within. May all of us who are now entrusted with the stewardship of the Fraternity draw inspiration from our proud heritage as we face a rapidly changing world with honor, integrity and dignity.”

– From the 1962 National Convention

According to the 1964 Nominating Committee, “In these troubled times she is our first choice for president.” During her term of office, Rosita was charged with balancing the day-to-day business of the Fraternity with rising anti-Greek sentiment and the Greek organizations’ right to select their members.

“A good leader has the task of compromising differences. In any group of leader-followers there are bound to be many suggested courses of action, not all compatible, but somehow these must be explored, rejected or welded into a unified course of action.”

– From the 1964 National Convention

ROSEMARY NEWMAN HITTLE (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY)

– 1966-70

Known for her grace, composure and versatility, Rosemary had previously served Alpha Chi Omega as national Panhellenic delegate, national extension director and national secretary-treasurer before being elected national president. She oversaw a surge in extension efforts for the Fraternity and led the organization in retaining existing collegiate chapters during a tumultuous time while establishing cooperative relationships with college and university administrators.

A proven leader in Alpha Chi Omega and the fraternity world at large, Rosita served as national chairman of the National Panhellenic Conference prior to her term as Alpha Chi Omega’s national president. She had also served as a chapter counselor and alumnae vice president.

“We might preface our chosen convention theme with the classic opening lines from Dickens’ Tale of Two Cities, ‘It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.’ But if every time is a good time, if we but know what to do with it, certainly the campus scene of today should welcome someone who knows what to do about it.”

– From the 1968 National Convention

JESSIE FANYO PAYNE (UPSILON, MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY) – 1960-64

ROSITA HOPPS NORDWALL (EPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA) –1964-66

MEET THE VISIONARY WOMEN WHO LED ALPHA CHI OMEGA THROUGH THE ERA AND USHERED THE FRATERNITY INTO ITS SECOND CENTURY.

ADELE FIEVE DREW (ALPHA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA) – 1970-76

Adele served Alpha Chi Omega in numerous volunteer roles before being elected national president – including national alumnae vice president, convention manager, Midwestern province president and Texas alumnae district chairman. During her sixyear presidency, she managed a reorganization of the Fraternity’s administrative structure and led Alpha Chi Omega through a period of great social unrest while navigating an increasingly difficult economic climate.

“With an ever-growing membership of over 80,000, we must continue to update, to adapt our programming to be current and to serve the needs of our educated and alert membership. In our society today, there is nothing comparable to the opportunities and the satisfaction offered with fraternity membership.” – From the 1974 National Convention

KAREN AUNAN MILEY (ALPHA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA) – 1976-80

Karen’s volunteer experience leading up to her service as national president included national collegiate vice president, national membership director, province president and various advisory roles. Under her leadership, areas of emphasis for the Fraternity included collaboration between collegians and alumnae, public relations and image management, and financial management – including the creation of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation.

“The Founders were not unlike today’s fraternity woman. The doors of education have been open to us for many years, but only in recent times have so many women become more aware of and more able to participate in the socio-economic life of our country. Our collegiate chapters reflect this with added emphasis on career development and a willingness to solve social problems. Our alumnae groups reflect this with a greater diversification of members and a respect for purposeful meetings and activities. The challenge is whether we will provide our members the opportunity to develop the social skills necessary for today’s society.”

– 1976

MARTHA CAROLAN HANNEGAN (OMICRON, BAKER UNIVERSITY) – 1980-83

Prior to serving as National President, Martha Hannegan volunteered for Alpha Chi Omega as an alumnae chapter president for two chapters, on the national rush committee, as a province president, assistant collegiate vice president and national collegiate vice president. As national president she oversaw long-range planning, challenges related to chapter housing, preparation for the centennial and the evolution of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation and the Fraternity’s financial status.

“We may not all think alike and our preferences on directions for Alpha Chi Omega may differ. However, our desire for success and our commitment to excellence are unanimous.” – 1983

D’ALICE COBURN COCHRAN (ALPHA MU, INDIANA UNIVERSITY) – 1983-88

D’Alice Cochran’s prior Alpha Chi Omega volunteer experience included service as a province president, district alumnae chairman, national extension director and national alumnae vice president. She brought a strong commitment to determining and meeting members’ needs as a social organization. She oversaw a retitling of national officer positions and the creation of the national vice presidentmembership position, which encompassed extension and new chapter establishment and support, while also forging a spirit of cooperation between the Fraternity and the Foundation.

“The success of our Centennial Celebration and the reviewing of the glories of our past has built great pride in the Fraternity in the hearts of its members. Now we must build on that pride in order to launch our Fraternity into its second century, which must be just as outstanding as its first century.” – From the 1985 Centennial Celebration

Headquarters

Alpha Chi Omega’s headquarters moved to its 3445 Washington Boulevard location in Indianapolis in 1961. The offices featured “liberal splashes of Alpha Chi’s scarlet and olive green,” along with air conditioning, ample office space, two bedrooms, beautifully landscaped grounds and a woodpaneled library that served as an archives room. The new headquarters would house a growing staff to manage Fraternity operations. (Editor’s note: The terms “headquarters” and “central office” have been used interchangeably in source material for this time period; this book will use the term “headquarters” to refer to the location of Alpha Chi Omega’s operations, unless a job title or quote specifically refers to “central office.”)

Described in 1964 Lyre coverage as the Fraternity’s “nerve center,” the 11-member staff at headquarters was led by Hannah Keenan (Alpha, DePauw University), daughter of Founder Bessie Grooms Keenan, who had taken on the role of director of central office in 1937. In the early to mid-1960s, the staff’s key roles were to maintain up-to-date records, handle budgeting and accounting, offer financial services to collegiate chapters, and produce The Lyre and other publications.

While Hannah Keenan retired from her longstanding role as director in 1966, she continued to serve as Fraternity archivist (a role she also maintained while serving as director). During her tenure she witnessed enormous changes and growth for the Fraternity.

According to the winter 1978-79 Lyre:

During her professional association with Alpha Chi Omega (1929-1978), Hannah has seen eight province presidents multiply to 26; 51 chapters more than double to a total of 108; and alumnae groups mushroom from 70 to over 300. She has witnessed phenomenal growth in the Fraternity — from 10,267 in 1929 to its current size of over 91,000 members.

HANNAH KEENAN (ALPHA, DEPAUW UNIVERSITY) SERVED AS DIRECTOR OF THE CENTRAL OFFICE FROM 1937-66.

THE WASHINGTON BOULEVARD HEADQUARTERS BUILDING

In 1966, Kathryn “Pat” Lenihan (Alpha Gamma, The University of New Mexico), a former university dean of women who had also served in the Navy, became director of central office.

Staff titles changed over years; notably, the director of central office title was changed in 1968 to executive secretary. And as collegiate chapter and house corporation board finances became more complex, headquarters staff provided increased attention and support. According to the spring 1969 Lyre, Collegiate Finance Coordinator Margaret Kayser Buschmann (Alpha Chi, Butler University) “does her best to steer chapters away from financial ‘thin ice,’ and from permitting individual members from ‘going off the deep end’ into debt on meals, dues, etc.”

A major change came about in 1970 — converting membership records from index cards to magnetic tape for computer processing. According to a Lyre article at the time, “This amazing machine can read the magnetic tape at 90,000 characters per second, process cards at 1,000 per minute, print reports at 1,100 lines per

minute, and has a process cycle of 0.7 micro-seconds.” Obviously, this resulted in faster and more efficient production of address changes, mailing labels and membership lists.

In 1972, the Fraternity announced that it would move again, with negotiations underway to purchase a site in the College Park business area on the northwest side of Indianapolis, where several other fraternity and sorority headquarters were either already building or preparing to build. According to National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota), “It has proven to be most functional as well as lovely and is home to our National Council, NCFAs and committee members who may meet in the living quarters.”

THE DEDICATION EVENT FOR THE NEW HEADQUARTERS ON FOUNDERS ROAD

The new building was dedicated in October 1974. At the dedication ceremony, Adele remarked, “This is far more than a building. It is the operational heart for all members, collegiate and alumnae, wherever they may be. It is being dedicated as a memorial to the untiring efforts and abundant faith

of our sisters who have long dreamed and sacrificed so that we might be here to conduct this act today.”

At this point, headquarters was now led by Jody Bayer Martindill (Alpha, DePauw University). She had previously served as program services coordinator and acting executive secretary. She served on the staff for 11 years before her retirement in December 1978.

NATIONAL COLLEGIATE FIELD ADVISORS IN 1978, PREPARING TO HIT THE ROAD TO VISIT COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS

JODY BAYER MARTINDILL (ALPHA, DEPAUW UNIVERSITY) SERVED AS EXECUTIVE SECRETARY FROM 1973-78.

THE LYRE

Dee Meeker Gibson (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) became Lyre editor in 1973 after working as a probation officer for the juvenile courts in Indianapolis as well as an editor of trade association magazines. Dee described the role of The Lyre as an outreach tool by saying, “I want it to lead people, not to follow them. It must bridge lots of gaps — age, locality, interests, apathy. It should reach the individual and the groups.”

In 1978, Dee retired as Lyre editor. Taking over the position was Nancy Nitchman Leonard (Alpha Chi, Butler University). After Nancy became executive secretary in 1979, Channa Beth Kirsch (Alpha Chi, Butler University) took on the position of editor. Other editors of The Lyre included Shari Johnson Schneider (Alpha Beta, Purdue University), Denise Barker Witt (Alpha, DePauw University) and Sally Mathis Cutler (Alpha Chi, Butler University).

As the organization grew and alumnae roles evolved, it became increasingly important to have a professional staff that was equipped and empowered to support the organization’s many volunteers in their efforts. In 1978, Nancy Nitchman Leonard (Alpha Chi, Butler University) joined the staff as editor of publications. In 1979, she succeeded Jody as executive secretary.

As executive secretary, Nancy described changes in headquarters operations in this way in her 197980 Heraeum report: “If ‘transition’ was an accurate description of the activities at Central Office last year, then surely ‘new approaches and responsibilities’ should be the phrase applied to 1979-80.” One important development was the implementation of a more robust system for storing the Fraternity’s quickly growing database of membership records.

At the leadership level, the title of executive secretary was soon changed to executive director. This title more clearly described this leader’s role — and Alpha Chi Omega was the first women’s fraternity to use this title for its professional staff leader. By 1985, Nancy led a staff numbering 22, which included three chapter services representatives who worked directly with assigned collegiate chapters by geographic region. Other additions included staff in the areas of public relations, mail center management, special services (chapter growth and Ritual) and archives.

As described in The History of Alpha Chi Omega: One Hundred Years, “The staff gained a clear direction

about performing additional work which had proven repetitive, even clerical in nature, and which in some cases had been done previously by volunteers. This increased interaction of staff and volunteer officers would (per Executive Secretary Nancy Nitchman Leonard) ‘give the volunteer officers some time to look out the window and dream and say what if…’”

1977-78 HERAEUM REPORT OF CENTRAL OFFICE OPERATIONS

(LEFT) THE SUMMER 1977 COVER WAS THE FIRST TO BE PRINTED IN ALL COLOR.

[Staff member Karen Dickerson]

“attended classes in calligraphy and her beautiful work has brought many complimentary remarks when fiftyyear members receive their certificates and from others receiving special recognition certificates.”

Honoring our Ritual and Traditions

Seventy-five years of Alpha Chi Omega meant an ever-deepening appreciation of the founding values and traditions of the Fraternity — and how they provided guiding principles and shared meaning to members. In December 1960, National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University) reminded members, “Our heritage is rich, our ideals and goals are high. If we meet this changing world with understanding and an awareness of our responsibilities, Alpha Chi Omega can only remain strong and meaningful as she starts on her next 75 years.”

Jessie became the first National President to wear a badge specially designated for this important volunteer leader. The badge belonged to Nella Ramsdell Fall (Beta, Albion College), who served in many volunteer leadership positions for the Fraternity and who worked diligently on the Fraternity’s Ritual, including the rewritten Initiation Ceremony that was adopted by convention delegates in 1910. This badge was larger than the traditional badge and set with light blue opals and diamonds.

Members continued to find value in the traditions and heritage embodied within Alpha Chi Omega. As Jessie pointed out, “Like the rituals in church, few of our rituals have been changed much since their writing.

We add new songs without discarding the old ones. At a formative time in life, the high ideals and standards of Alpha Chi Omega are presented to our members — the same high ideals and standards that have been presented to undergraduates since they were first accepted in the nineteenth century.”

Ritual was a focus of the 1962 National Convention in Miami Beach, where more than 600 members joined together for a convention program featuring both a model Initiation Ceremony and a sunrise Ritual appreciation program. At the 1972 National Convention, delegates discussed and approved a number of changes to the Initiation Ceremony.

In the mid-1970s, the Fraternity placed emphasis on Ritual appreciation by working closely with chapter officers and stressing the value of formal chapter meetings and improved post-initiation education.

In her 1985 Heraeum report, National President D’Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) remarked on the National Council’s emphasis on Ritual appreciation, making sure that all chapters had appropriate equipment and ceremonies in order to best present this important and meaningful facet of membership.

OUR VISUAL REPRESENTATION

In 1983, the Fraternity introduced a three-star logo, drawing inspiration from the three stars in the coat of arms and adding another visual device to communication tools. As detailed in the fall 1983 Lyre, the logo came about in response to a 1980 survey “in which many of our members expressed the opinion that AXΩ needed a graphic identification in addition to our beautiful lyre symbol … We do not wish to replace the lyre, only to enhance it. Stars are lucky; we wish on them … they’re lofty; we reach for them. And so, the graphic was born … there from the first.” In 1984, the Fraternity also introduced a new informational publication for members, “The Tri-Star Tribune.”

Panhellenic Relationships

In 1962, the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) outlined three emerging, pressing areas: intellectual development, “subversive influences” on college campuses and protection of member organizations’ rights to control their insignia. Other critical topics on the horizon for Panhellenic groups included new member periods and re-pledging, limits on quota (the number of potential new members a chapter can offer bids to), timing of recruitment and recruitment rules.

During this era, a need for greater adult and administrative assistance to and guidance of college Panhellenics was also noted by Alpha Chi Omega’s leadership. In addition, Panhellenic chapters nationwide struggled at times with complex rules and regulations that sometimes actually discouraged women from participating in the recruitment process.

The topic of recruitment continued to be a prime concern to NPC. As universities applied pressure for fraternities and sororities to reevaluate the role of alumnae recommendations, for example, some NPC groups eliminated the requirement that recommendations be provided in order to extend a bid to a woman. College Panhellenics struggled with how to promote the Greek system and attract more women to participate in recruitment. And many campuses began evaluating the pros and cons of fall versus deferred recruitment.

As the Greek system as a whole faced increased criticism and critique, it became more and more important for the NPC member groups to put aside differences, become less competitive, and work together for the betterment — and even survival — of their beloved national organizations.

Fostering a greater sense of cooperation among chapters on campuses was increasingly vital to the good of the whole. As one national visitor to Alpha Chi Omega chapters noted, “Non-Greeks are not impressed by petty attitudes within what is supposed to function as a system … The concept of Greek membership, as opposed to membership in specific groups within that system, is one which currently needs repeated emphasis and development.”

According to National Panhellenic Delegate Marilyn Kallen Peterson (Beta Theta, Lawrence University), campus protests across the country, “in some instances, [have] been reflected in campus Panhellenics, who have espoused political causes in an effort to be relevant. Aside from such action being beyond Panhellenic’s realm, attempts to take a stand on political issues from individuals with widely divergent views infringes on the rights of individuals to personal philosophies.”

PEG OLSON (CHI, OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY), RIGHT, ACCEPTS THE PANHELLENIC WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM THE MILWAUKEE CITY PANHELLENIC COUNCIL.

ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S RUSH INFORMATION BLANK FROM THE MID-1970S

MAKING A NAME AND SHARING IT

Alpha Chi Omega’s leaders realized the importance of “spreading the word,” so to speak, about the value of membership and formed a new National Public Relations Committee — with a long-term vision of increased awareness and support of fraternal life. Its first step? Instilling a greater sense of pride in current members and, ultimately, a stronger local and national presence.

In the early 1970s, a special committee composed of public relations professionals created a brochure titled “Age of Alpha Chi Omega,” which was later revised and renamed “The World of Alpha Chi Omega.” In 1978, the National Council determined that one of the Fraternity’s main goals would be “to be mindful of the Fraternity’s public image effectiveness.”

Alpha Chi Omega’s philosophy regarding the role of Alpha Chi Omega as member of NPC was stated in this way in 1971:

We consider Alpha Chi Omega chapters to be an integral part of the university community. We hope the university will be a better place because Alpha Chi Omega is there.

We believe in cooperating with university administrations, if at all possible, and operate as a recognized adjunct of the university.

We believe, in most instances, it is to our advantage to operate under the chapters’ right to select their members according to our national membership standards and the wisdom of our members. We will not tolerate administrative or other interferences with this right.

The Fraternity also put forth this Panhellenic philosophy:

NPC is a conference body, not a legislative body.

NPC is not a super fraternity but a conference body of 27 completely autonomous groups.

Our ideals and goals are basically the same, but our internal policies and organizational procedures may be different.

Even though other groups may operate differently than we do, we respect their right to govern themselves as their membership sees fit, such as we cherish our right to self-governance.

Panhellenic, whether at national, local, or collegiate levels, cannot interfere with the autonomy of member groups.

Central to NPC are the Unanimous Agreements, which establish operations and rules to ensure fair play for all member groups and are ratified by the groups’ inter/ national presidents. They could be changed only by unanimous vote of all groups. In 1973, however, a resolution was passed requiring a unanimous vote for enactment of a new agreement and a seven-eighths vote to amend or revise an existing agreement.

Alpha Chi Omega continued to provide leadership to NPC following Rosita Hopps Nordwall’s (Epsilon, University of Southern California) term as NPC chair. Marilyn Kallen Peterson, a former National Council officer, represented Alpha Chi Omega in NPC as chairman of the College Panhellenic Committee, advising and assisting College Panhellenics nationwide that were in need of stronger support and organization.

THE NPC DELEGATION, CIRCA THE EARLY 1980S

In her 1980 -81 report, National Panhellenic Delegate Betty Beard Wall (Psi, The University of Oklahoma) noted areas of strength and of concern for College Panhellenics. On the positive side was execution of formal recruitment, generally more supportive administrations and officers’ openness to suggestions for improvement in operations. To improve on was a lack of knowledgeable Panhellenic advisors, a high number of dropouts during recruitment, challenges in setting quota and total, weak Panhellenic spirit, restrictive rules, housing, little sister organizations, hazing and alcohol abuse.

As the 1980s progressed, NPC progressed as well — gaining strength and professionalism, which included establishing the NPC Central Services Office. These years were generally marked by growth and success for the Panhellenic community. Areas of increasing concern, however, included financial stress on students, alcohol use and the role of little sister organizations (where fraternity men paired up with sorority women) on campuses. Clearly, while the specific issues to be addressed may have changed over the years, the need for leadership and cooperation between NPC groups remains vital.

The Collegiate Experience

RECRUITMENT THROUGH THE YEARS

NEW MEMBERS

THE CHAPTER EXPERIENCE

HOUSING OUR MEMBERS

GROWTH THROUGH NEW CHAPTERS

THREE ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA) CHAPTER MEMBERS DISPLAY A 25-FOOT CHRISTMAS LETTER THAT THEY PREPARED FOR THE PATIENTS AND STAFF OF THE USS SANCTUARY, A HOSPITAL SHIP OFF THE COAST OF VIETNAM. A TAPE OF CHRISTMAS CAROLS AND FRATERNITY SONGS, SUNG BY ALPHA UPSILON, TOGETHER WITH PICTURES OF THE WOMEN, ACCOMPANIED THE LETTER.

Recruitment Through the Years

Editor’s Note: The terms “rush” and “pledge” were used throughout this time period but have since been replaced by “recruitment” and “new member,” respectively. This book will primarily use the current terminology, except in direct quotes and titles.

Recruiting new members to the Fraternity — it’s the organization’s lifeblood, its forward momentum, the joyous way sisters help others understand the benefit of membership. And while key elements may remain the same, how the recruitment process would work, when it would occur, how members would be selected, and how alumnae input would be managed and valued were all brought under a microscope and deeply tested between 1960 and 1985.

MEMBERSHIP SELECTION

Beginning in the early 1960s, Greek membership selection processes were being challenged by host universities; as detailed in the previous “The Role of Greek Life” chapter, institutions sought confirmation that membership selection policies did not have discriminatory clauses. Colleges and universities were seeking insight into policies and threatening repercussions if Greek organizations did not comply with requests; as The Lyre’s coverage of the 1962 National Convention stated, “The greatest problem and danger facing fraternities today, on many campuses, is still unresolved — the right of fraternities to select their own members by whatever criteria they may variously choose.”

Alpha Chi Omega clearly stated the organization’s membership requirements of academic interest, leadership and character, along with this membership policy statement:

Alpha Chi Omega is a national collegiate private social sorority offering life-time membership to its initiates, an experience in self-governing living, encouragement to develop to the fullest potential as an educated woman, acquaintance with many avenues of service to others, and high standards.

Choice of members for a lifetime national sisterhood involves realization and acceptance of the fact that no chapter chooses for itself alone or without consideration of the past and future as well as the present.

The membership is determined at the campus level by mutual choice. The rushees are guided in their choice by the chapter campus records, hometown prestige and national image of Alpha Chi Omega. The chapter is guided in its choice by certain policies on membership selection which have become part of our heritage and are the basis for our national image.

National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University) reminded members attending the 1962 convention, “The high requirements for potential members have given us 77 years of growth and progress. Alpha Chi Omega is ‘going on 100’ — 100 chapters and 100 years. She is strong and vital and she has high goals for the future.” The Fraternity held true to the concept of voluntary selection of members, Payne said, “guided only by the prospective member’s scholastic record and by the requirement that she must be adequately sponsored from her own community.”

“The fraternity world is faced with pressures from without and within. May all of us who are now entrusted with the stewardship of the Fraternity draw inspiration from our proud heritage as we face a rapidly changing world with honor, integrity, and dignity.”

NATIONAL PRESIDENT JESSIE FANYO PAYNE, AT THE 1962 NATIONAL CONVENTION

At the 1964 National Convention, delegates unanimously adopted a Membership Statement outlining the Fraternity’s membership criteria, reiterating its status as a private social sorority and stating, “Alpha Chi Omega has no written or unwritten statement or policy which would specifically inhibit selection of members on the basis of race, creed, color or national origin.”

In her 1970 report to the membership, National Panhellenic Director Marilyn Kallen Peterson (Beta Theta, Lawrence University) described the expectations of the host universities regarding membership selection processes, saying:

Virtually all schools have required assurance from fraternities that race, creed and ethnic origin are not criteria for membership. An ever-increasing number are asking that the responsibility for selecting members be vested with student members only (elimination of mandatory alumnae recommendations). There are also demands for elimination of the ‘blackball’ or unanimous vote in selecting members. None of these requirements pose any difficulty for Alpha Chi Omega, and these issues will be discussed at a number of fraternity conventions this summer.

RECOMMENDATIONS

But the recommendation process that Marilyn pointed to was becoming a hot button topic for university administrators, some of whom felt it could be used to

discriminate based on race or religion and could present a barrier to recruitment for women from different backgrounds than the current chapter members and the alumnae writing recommendations. Collegiate chapters were also sometimes frustrated by what they found to be recommendations lacking complete or truly useful information, and in other cases alumnae were not available to recommend members to chapters in areas without a large alumnae base.

The driving philosophy for recruitment within Alpha Chi Omega was that “the alumnae recommend; the collegiate members choose.” At the 1966 National Convention, it was determined that a committee, composed of alumnae and collegiate members, be formed to study the recommendation process and policies and report back to the 1968 convention delegation. Two years later in Dallas, delegates made the historic and, to many, controversial decision to make recommendations desirable but not mandatory .

Still, alumnae were strongly encouraged to provide information on qualified prospective members. The summer 1970 Lyre entreated, “Do you know a girl you’d like to see pledged to Alpha Chi Omega? If so, do something, to be an activist! Write down the nice things

A HEADLINE FROM VOLUME 72 OF THE LYRE ANNOUNCING THE END OF MANDATORY RECOMMENDATIONS

SPREAD FROM THE LYRE, SUMMER 1981

you know about her and send them off to the Alpha Chi Omega Rush Information Chairman at the college or university she will attend.”

Though it looked different by the end of this era than the start, alumnae involvement in the recruitment process remained important. National Rush Director

LEGACIES

Betty Beard Wall (Psi, University of Oklahoma) reminded members in the summer 1975 issue of The Lyre, “For ninety years Alpha Chi Omega has prospered because of the love and interest of collegians and alumnae working together to select the best qualified members.”

As the Fraternity’s membership grew, so did the number of legacies (defined at the time as a sister, daughter or granddaughter of an Alpha Chi Omega) participating in recruitment. In 1968, the policy was altered.

Former policy: If a legacy attended a final or preference party, her name had to appear on the first bid list. New policy: If a legacy attends a final or preference party, her name must appear on the bid list someplace, either the first or second list.

Reasoning for the change: Many felt that more legacies’ chances were harmed than helped by the former policy due to such factors as additional scrutiny and holding them to a higher standing in earlier rounds. Sometimes chapters felt uncomfortable with or resistant to policies that favored legacies over potential new members who did not have legacy status.

Statistics from 1978 indicated that of the 384 legacies who were reported by chapters, 119 pledged Alpha Chi Omega, 148 dropped Alpha Chi Omega or dropped out of recruitment, and 157 were dropped by Alpha Chi Omega. A shift in attitude led to a clarification in 1978 that reverted the policy to where it stood 10 years prior: “Legacies are given every consideration. If they attend a preference party or final party, their names are placed on the first bid list.”

An article in the spring 1979 Lyre addressing the topic of legacies offered this advice to chapters grappling with the fair and kind assessment of these prospective new members:

To all collegians: Give the legacy the benefit of the doubt. She cannot be expected to walk in the door as an instant success — outgoing, gorgeous, straight-A student, brilliant conversationalist — any more than other rushees. Collegians should be honest with themselves and exercise the courage of their convictions either through the membership selection process or on the preference card. Alumnae must respect these convictions. It is imperative that our legacies feel secure in the knowledge that they were considered equally with other rushes and pledged because the chapter was confident in their ability to contribute in a positive way to Alpha Chi.

MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS AT THE 1964 NATIONAL CONVENTION

RECRUITMENT TRENDS

In the early 1960s, approximately three-fourths of chapters held fall recruitment, with generally 70% filling the allotted quota (the maximum number of potential new members a chapter can offer bids to) during formal and informal recruitment. On some campuses, fewer women were opting to participate in formal recruitment, choosing instead to wait for the open recruitment period, during which chapters were able to continue to recruit to reach quota and/or total (the maximum allowable chapter size, including new and initiated members) in a more relaxed period of less structured events.

As the 1960s came to a close, concerning trends for Alpha Chi Omega in the area of recruitment included the large number of women who dropped out of recruitment (coupled with a smaller number even beginning the process), lack of information on prospective members and overly elaborate recruitment events. Another factor affecting recruitment of collegiate members was a move toward deferred recruitment. Rather than recruiting members at the beginning of the academic year, deferred recruitment meant waiting until the second or third term to conduct the process. While generally successful on many (particularly large) campuses, there was concern that those opposed to fraternities and sororities would now have an entire semester in which to undermine Greek life with new students.

Despite this uncertainty and the concerns regarding fraternities and sororities, Alpha Chi Omega continued to experience growth as the 1970s began, with nearly 3,000 new members (2,400 of whom were initiated). This growth came despite the fact that recruitment numbers on individual campuses were unpredictable from year to year. Careful review of membership statistics by the national organization was designed to help pinpoint chapter difficulties in recruitment so that assistance could be provided to improve outcomes.

Stability of numbers of women participating in recruitment nationwide was a developing concern. Panhellenics were challenged to create simpler, more accessible recruitment processes — while maintaining enough structure to ensure fairness to all chapters on a campus. And individual chapters were challenged to carefully evaluate what they had to offer prospective members and how to best communicate these values.

As the 1970s unfolded, it became increasingly clear that recruitment was not an activity separate from yearround chapter life — but that all activities ultimately reflected on how successful a chapter would be during recruitment itself. Informal recruitment became more prevalent, offering chapters additional opportunities to grow new member classes and maximize membership. Chapters were challenged to become more flexible and creative in their recruitment tactics. And recruitment itself needed to focus less on lavish entertainment that was not necessarily representative of the sorority experience. Elaborate costumes, skits and time spent rehearsing these rather than investing time and effort into better getting to know prospective members often detracted from the best intentions of recruitment.

RECRUITMENT EVENT FROM THE 1980S, CHI (OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY)

“Rush week is always successful because each of us gives 110%. We know rush is what brings Alpha Chi Omega its life and we love life.”

JULIE SATTERFIELD (XI, UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA –LINCOLN), RUSH CHAIRMAN, SUMMER 1974 LYRE

As National Membership Director Vera Meyer Paul (Alpha Delta, University of Cincinnati) explained, “Where Panhellenics have adjusted smoothly to the newer style of less formal rush and have added more fun and an outgoing attitude in seeking members, rush is stronger.” The emerging theme was a focus on returning to the Fraternity’s roots, with members reaching out to prospective members — “make a friend, then make that friend a sister” — as a simple, straightforward way to grow the sisterhood.

registration; scholarships and loans have not met the needs of the working student.”

In her 1978-79 Heraeum report, Martha noted trends in recruitment, including:

• Increased number of women participating in recruitment and joining an NPC group

• Very structured formal recruitment

• Small number of campuses with deferred recruitment

• Increased emphasis on advance planning for recruitment and, consequently, greater need for recruitment assistance in a less traditional timeframe

Trends in recruitment shifted over the years to include decreased numbers on small campuses, increased numbers on larger campuses, a move from deferred back to fall recruitment, and a fall recruitment followed by continuous open bidding. The Fraternity’s total membership reached over 84,000 by 1975. This growth reflected a positive shift among National Panhellenic Conference member groups, with a gain in undergraduate members that had not been experienced since the mid-1960s. Numbers joining increased slowly but steadily, for example, from 1974-77. Fraternity leaders noted that students were seeking a meaningful experience to provide opportunities that could not be replicated in residence hall life.

This was an era of generally increasing recruitment registration numbers, as well as returning to greater structure in the process. Still, a number of issues impacted recruitment, according to National Collegiate Vice President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University), who said, “The plight of the small private college continued as the state universities experienced continued growth. Finances continued to be a problem, requiring increases in dues and fees to keep up with inflation. There continued to be a lack of rushee education regarding cost and time commitment. Commuter schools experienced a decline in rush

As Alpha Chi Omega entered the 1980s, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) noted plenty of challenges on the horizon. She said, “In the competitive market of the eighties, only the fraternities with a quality product can hope to survive relatively intact. A commitment to excellence and the attainment of that excellence will be the magnet that attracts quality members. Outstanding members will then be the ingredient in the perpetuation of excellence and in maintaining maximum size. Rushees will always follow the characteristics of human nature in wanting to pledge the best.” The balance of quality and quantity of members would prove to be vital to Alpha Chi Omega’s success.

Chapters worked in earnest to meet the Fraternity’s stated goal of maximizing membership numbers and were supported in their efforts through regional seminars and visits from national officers and traveling consultants. In 1984-85, the Fraternity reported 4,150 new members, with 3,621 initiated. Total membership stood at 113,307.

BID DAY 1984, GAMMA RHO (TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY)

1983 RUSH WEEK, EPSILON UPSILON (MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY)

New Members

New member guidance and retention was highlighted in the early 1960s as an area of obvious importance but also an area in need of improvement to ensure the Fraternity’s long-term success and viability. Statistics for 1962, for example, indicated that 81.88% of new members were initiated, helping Alpha Chi Omega grow to a total membership (including collegiate and alumnae members) of 52,666. Some new members chose not to pursue membership after their new member period, while others did not attain the grade point average required for initiation. These factors negatively impacted the overall initiation rate.

The mid-1960s found a record number of women both accepted bids to and were initiated into Alpha Chi Omega, likely due to a combination of a strong economy, increased emphasis on promotion of the fraternity system and more relevant chapter programming. The 1964 National Convention delegates adopted a new five-point pledge program, which included:

1. Use of mystagogue oath (mystagogues being older members who served as mentors to new members)

2. Strong mystagogue-mystagee program

3. Pearl program (positive merit program)

4. “Ladder to the Lyre” program (week preceding initiation)

5. Post-initiation instruction

New member programs in chapters demonstrated both strengths and weaknesses. Across the country, while strides were being made in creating positive programming, Fraternity education was sometimes lacking. According to National Collegiate Vice President Miriam Gartner Decker (Lambda, Syracuse University) in her 1970 report to the membership, “It seems that we are missing an ideal opportunity to instill pride and appreciation of both Alpha Chi and fraternity in general.”

In an attempt to recognize positive actions rather than punish for perceived lack of initiative, new members were to “earn the 22 pearls” of the badge through acts of service and Fraternity education. These newest

members were increasingly found to be seeking a meaningful Greek experience. As one delegate to the 1970 National Convention expressed, “At our university, our pledges do not want any ‘Mickey Mouse.’ They are different from what pledges used to be. Our pledges are involved in campus protests over the war in Vietnam, and other things, too.”

This position was reiterated by visitors to chapters, who noted the challenge faced by chapters in making new member programming relevant, constructive and meaningful, rather than in any way superficial. Overall, a noticeable trend toward flexibility in programming necessitated that the Fraternity be nimble and adapt programs for new member periods lasting anywhere between six and 12 weeks.

In 1976, statistics showed a fairly steady number of new members from year to year in the 1970s, with a slight increase in the number initiated. Chapters struggled at times to find the right balance of programming and expectations for their newest members. What would now be considered hazing, new member “duties” (which sometimes included dusting, vacuuming and setting dining tables) were intended to remind the new members that they were now part of a new, large family. Participation in campus activities that could be described as “juvenile” were intended to introduce new members to the larger campus scene.

CAROL HALL BOLEN (BETA PHI, BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY) POSES WITH THE PLEDGE AWARD WON BY HER CHAPTER AT THE 1972 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN CHICAGO, ILLINOIS.

In 1979, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) challenged chapters — and their alumnae advisors — to offer positive programming to new members and to eliminate hazing, knowing that some of these activities were ingrained in chapters, sometimes by advisors who “unknowingly or knowingly encourage these activities because it is how it was done in their day.” The Fraternity knew well that a strong new member program was a key indicator of a chapter’s overall position of strength.

that you never questioned before and probably enjoyed as a collegian.” She reminded members, “A pledge should not be expected to participate in any activity in which an initiate is not willing to participate. She does not need to prove her right to membership. This was done when the chapter selected her for membership based on our standards of academics, leadership and character.”

The National Council continued to stress that Alpha Chi Omega membership must begin with a positive new member experience. “At a time when fraternities and sororities are enjoying increased rush registration and greater membership stability, reminiscent of years past, we are faced with another reminder of those years: immature, negative pledge activities or ‘hazing.’” They emphasized that “rules or customs that are unkind, undignified, or humiliating are not to be practiced — regardless of local customs,” and that any attitude of “tradition,” or “I had to do it,” were not acceptable defense of such practices.

In 1980-81, the number of new members totaled 3,752 — with 3,086 initiated, a total collegiate membership of 7,898 and total number of members ever initiated topping 100,000.

She went on to remind chapter officers, “You may be called on to assist a chapter in the development of a pledge program and to eliminate traditional activities

OUR 100,000TH MEMBER

Programming was developed to nurture academic achievement of new members known as “hold-over pledges” who were not eligible for initiation due to their grade point average during their new member period. This programming would hopefully lead to a rise in GPA so that these women could fully join the chapter.

Cindy Thatcher, a sophomore at Zeta Nu (Texas A&M University), became Alpha Chi Omega’s 100,000th initiated member in 1981. She received a call from National President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University) just a few days after her initiation, which occurred 96 years after the founding of Alpha Chi Omega.

Cindy was honored at a ceremony at headquarters, where she received a special pin from Hannah Keenan (Alpha, DePauw University), daughter of Founder Bessie Grooms Keenan and former director of the central office.

“A pledge should not be expected to participate in any activity in which an initiate is not willing to participate. She does not need to prove her right to membership. This was done when the chapter selected her for membership based on our standards of academics, leadership and character.”

The concept that recruitment did not end when women initially joined was not new — it had been stressed with chapters since the early 1960s — but it was emphasized with renewed vigor in the 1980s. Chapters were encouraged to “keep rushing our pledges,” recognizing that, “pledgeship should not culminate on bid day. No pledge class should be expected to survive and prosper in Alpha Chi Omega’s sisterhood on the momentum of rush and bid day alone,” according to the winter 1983 Lyre

Concerted efforts by national fraternity leaders, college administrators and legislators led to a growing number of states with anti-hazing laws. As an added measure to demonstrate the importance of committing to a positive new member program, collegiate chapters were now required to sign a contract annually verifying that their

program did not include hazing or demeaning activities for new members.

The Fraternity introduced a new membership manual for new members, “You Make the Difference,” focusing on Alpha Chi Omega history and values. Retention and initiation were areas in need of improvement, with the following goals outlined:

1. Improve upon the quality of pledges taken during rush.

2. Improve our scholastic achievement program.

3. Improve our pledge guidance program in general so we will keep their interest.

BETA OMEGA (THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO) CHAPTER MEMBERS POSE TOGETHER HOLDING A SIGN CELEBRATING THEIR NEW MEMBERS ON BID DAY.

The Chapter Experience

Chapter programming, including areas such as scholarship, pledge guidance, membership selection, fraternity education and social graces, continued to be carefully developed, analyzed and measured.

As the era began, National Collegiate Vice President Martha Bolt Graham (Alpha Beta, Purdue University) extolled chapters to fulfill an important responsibility:

This obligation is to enrich the lives of members to a greater degree than is probable without the benefit of fraternity. The chief areas in which this enrichment can take place are the cultural, the social, the altruistic, and the intellectual. The problem for us, as fraternity women, is to develop practical programs which will enable chapters to achieve such a goal in day-to-day chapter living.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

In the early 1960s, the topic of social was identified as an area for improvement in chapter programming and took form, in one example, in a social manual titled “For She’s an Alpha Chi.” The manual’s topics included fashion, note-writing tips and a Panhellenic dean’s view of college students.

A trend toward informality and changing standards was pointed out by National Collegiate Program Director Joyce Nesbitt Anderson (Mu, Simpson College), creating “a void in the responsibility to provide knowledge and experience in all types of entertaining … It indicates more careful attention and guidance must be given to group-living or group activities, which is really one of the most important aspects of fraternity.”

ALCOHOL EDUCATION, SAFETY ISSUES AND LIABILITY

In the 1970s, the Fraternity recognized the immediate need to address the topic of alcohol and its impact on collegiate chapter life and programming. The Fraternity’s stated policy on drinking was: “To abide by federal, state and college or university in regard to use of alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages shall not be kept in Alpha Chi Omega houses, lodges, suites or meeting rooms. Alpha Chi Omega does not condone excessive drinking.”

The issue of liability rose to the forefront of discussions among the Fraternity’s leadership, volunteers and collegiate chapters. For example, chapters were now

A 1985 SOCIAL EVENT, DELTA IOTA (EMORY UNIVERSITY)

required to include policies in their bylaws for handling emergency situations. Alpha Chi Omega’s leaders regularly brought legal counsel and other experts in the field to conventions and leadership conferences to directly address the issues of liability, policy enforcement and emergency procedures that were of mounting relevance and importance. For example, Mary Ann Cavanaugh Gadow (Kappa, University of Wisconsin-Madison), a chemical dependency counselor, shared her expertise through Lyre articles and presentations to convention delegates.

In her 1978 State of the Fraternity report, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) shared, “We are concerned about the use of alcohol on today’s campus and how it affects our chapters. There is, in some instances, an unbelievable amount of pressure inside and outside the chapters for all members to participate in social functions that only offer alcoholic beverages. Realizing that our role is to help the individual member, we have embarked on an alcohol awareness program of education and support.”

These presentations covered a number of scenarios. In a presentation to delegates of the 1983 National Convention, Tom Lofton, the Fraternity’s legal counsel, discussed the topic in detail, according to the 1983-84 Heraeum:

He pointed out that before the close of this year, there will be a serious fire in at least three sorority houses or dormitories in the nation; there will be collegians involved in terrible auto accidents; many of the accidents will involve alcohol and drugs. Presidents of various fraternities and sororities will be required to suspend other members of their groups. He stated that he hoped none of these would befall Alpha Chi Omega; but if they do, the Alpha Chi Omega presidents will be prepared. Alpha Chi Omega is best because her chapter presidents are best by being responsible and dependable.

Matters related to member behavior, chapter responsibility and liability would continue to inform decisions made by Fraternity leaders as they strove to ensure the safety and security of individuals, chapters and the organization as a whole.

PROGRAMMING TOOLS AND OFFICERS

In the late 1970s, Alpha Chi Omega embarked on new ways to provide programming and training to chapters, especially to chapter officers. A series of kits, based on a sort of “do it yourself” model, provided programming suggestions for topics covering all areas of chapter operations — academics, recruitment, housing, pledge programming, Ritual, finances, fraternity education and more.

Sometimes seen as one of the weaker areas of chapter programming, Fraternity education became an area of growth and expanded emphasis. The chapter officer position of third vice president was created to build members’ awareness of Alpha Chi Omega ideals, heritage and policies.

ACADEMICS

Emphasis on academic excellence and achievement was always top of mind for the national organization and individual chapters. In 1963, of 99 collegiate chapters, 61 had a grade point average higher than the all-sorority average, and 87 chapters ranked higher than the allwomen’s average. This ranking generally held steady in the coming years and could be attributed to higher grade requirements for joining a sorority, along with strong study programs for new members and members with lower GPAs.

Academic requirements for the new member period, initiation and continued active membership were evaluated and revised as deemed appropriate. Increasingly, chapters began to note that, while they should provide an atmosphere conducive to scholastic success — and should recognize such success — academic achievement was ultimately the individual member’s responsibility.

NORMA DOWDY LABUDA (DELTA PHI, TEXAS A&I UNIVERSITY) POSES WITH THE MOST IMPROVED SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WON BY HER CHAPTER AT THE 1972 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN CHICAGO, ILLINOIS.

Scholarship programs, although an ongoing area of emphasis, varied greatly from chapter to chapter. Some, for example, required study tables with carefully recorded hours. Others found the idea unacceptable and controlling. In 1973, Academic Standards Committee Chairman Lenore

Jensen Lemanski (Delta Zeta, Central Michigan University) explained the desired role of academic programming: Basically, the scholarship program should use as a starting point the premise that the chapter should make it possible for good scholarship to occur, should provide some resources to help members improve their scholarships, and should encourage scholastic achievement. The means by which these objectives are attained can be as varied as the chapters themselves.

STANDARDS

As the 1970s began, the National Council accepted the Collegiate Program Planning Committee’s recommendation that each chapter establish a standards board to address members’ adherence to policies regarding topics including alcohol, financial obligations, morality, and “disregard of honesty and integrity.” Chapter standards boards were encouraged to take on not just a disciplinary role, but to also be positive and supportive in commending members’ accomplishments and adherence to policies and standards.

As the 1968-69 summary of national collegiate field advisors reports shared:

More and more Standards Boards are assuming a positive role rather than disciplinary. They are a commending body. We must have standards as we have a new kind of university student and member today. Each wants to do “her own thing,” to be an individual. This talent must be directed in the manner best for the girl primarily and then the group.

MEMBERS WHO RECEIVED GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS (1961-62)

BETA DELTA (COLLEGE OF WILLIAM & MARY) CHAPTER MEMBERS WALK WITH THEIR FLOAT, WHICH FEATURES A KNIGHT IN A FOOTBALL UNIFORM SUSPENDED IN A BLOCK OF ICE, DURING A HOMECOMING PARADE.

Housing Our Members

The demand for sorority housing accelerated in the early 1960s. Between 1962 and 1964, 14 Alpha Chi Omega chapters saw new houses or additions to existing houses, with some 2,000 undergraduate members living in approximately 50 Alpha Chi Omega-owned houses.

One example of expansion of an existing house was at the Kappa (University of Wisconsin-Madison) chapter, which increased the house’s size by more than 10,000 square feet and featured a living room, coat and mail rooms, and a chapter room/study hall in the basement of the addition. According to one Kappa chapter report, “house spirit” was described as “improved over the last year or so, though there seems to be a recurring problem of observance of quiet hours by a few people.”

New chapter facilities during this era included a new house for the Alpha Beta chapter at Purdue University, with ground broken in the fall of 1964, and at the Delta Rho chapter at the University of Arkansas with a new house that same year. As a result of a vote at the 1968 National Convention, a national collegiate housing committee was established “for the basic purpose of evaluating building plans and establishing standards and guidelines to be used by Alpha Chi Omega house corporations involved in any kind of building.” Some of

the committee’s early discussions centered around building projects at a number of campuses – ranging from housing commitments related to extension, remodeling of houses, additions to houses and rental properties.

But in the late 1960s, fraternity housing faced a variety of challenges as colleges and universities built larger residence halls and college enrollment fluctuated. The early 1970s found some older Alpha Chi Omega chapters with large houses struggling financially. While some chapters found less need for extremely large houses, they still desired space for meetings and gatherings.

AS OF 1978, THE FRATERNITY HAD:

68 CHAPTERS IN HOUSES

5 CHAPTERS IN LODGES

17 CHAPTERS IN SUITES

11 CHAPTERS IN PANHELLENIC BUILDINGS

2 CHAPTERS IN APARTMENTS

4 CHAPTERS IN OTHER SITUATIONS

107 TOTAL CHAPTERS

The fall 1978 Lyre outlined a number of challenges and opportunities for the organization. Chief among them were chapter housing and the struggle to provide adequate facilities. The article reported, “Construction costs, property values, and interest rates have continued to climb in an ever upward spiral — only compounding the problems.” And while recruitment numbers on many campuses were increasing, the National Council encouraged house corporations to maintain chapter houses with capacity no more than three-fourths the chapter size.

In her address to the 1980 National Convention attendees, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota), explained,

“The National Fraternity can no longer afford to help chapters with building projects and relinquish control of the equity ... What would happen if we pooled these resources in equity and applied them to extension campuses or for existing chapters who must upgrade housing for a better campus position?” She pointed out that while a physical house did not epitomize a chapter,

a desirable house could certainly provide a chapter with a competitive edge.

In 1942, the Fraternity had broadened the scope of the Alta Allen Loud Fund, renaming it the Alta Allen Loud Clearinghouse Fund and authorizing it to accept and pay interest on the deposits from collegiate chapters, house corporations and individual members. The money was then loaned to other collegiate chapters or house corporations for building, remodeling or redecorating chapter houses and suites. It was in this time period that the Fraternity found that the Alta Allen Loud Clearinghouse Fund faced challenges, with a large number of outstanding low-interest loans, compounded by few deposits. To attract more deposits from chapters, the Fraternity increased the interest on deposits.

In her 1980 report, National Treasurer Barbara Deady Horton (Gamma, Northwestern University) described new ways the Fraternity was facilitating housing funding. “Since the Fraternity is able to own houses, we are accepting gifts of houses from house corporations. This relieves the burden on local house corporations and adds to the Fraternity’s ability to get financing for housing projects.”

Issues related to providing adequate and appropriate chapter housing evolved, as well. This became more than just providing a comfortable, well-appointed home for members. Security and fire prevention, for example, became matters of importance and priority. Offering housing opportunities for members that were safe, affordable and appealing would continue to be of utmost importance to the Fraternity moving forward.

MEMBERS ENJOYING THE LIVING ROOM AT THE THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN) FACILITY

ZETA PI (ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY) RENTED APARTMENT SPACE FOR CHAPTER MEMBERS IN THE 1980S.

Growth

THROUGH NEW CHAPTERS

When? Where? How? The answers to these questions guided the decision-making process as the Fraternity sought to add to its chapter roll. But while somewhat driven by data, the extension process has never been a simple or straightforward area of Fraternity operation, particularly in this increasingly complex time, when relationships between host institutions and Greek groups were being defined and redefined.

The question of “where” to expand was based on critical consideration of a number of factors — support of the administration, current and projected enrollment, status and strength of the Greek system (including if the need for another group existed), housing needs, academic strength and alumnae support chief among them.

As for “how,” the process could take two different routes. The Fraternity could affiliate a local sorority already existing on a campus that wished to become part of a national organization or establish (during that time, the word was “colonize”) a new chapter and recruit members at the invitation of the campus Panhellenic.

administrations are talking complete autonomy and 100 percent pledging; and again many administrations are questioning the need and in some cases discounting the advantages of organized groups. Our lack of alumnae in many expandable areas can be a deciding factor; and in some cases where they do exist, their interest in supporting a new group is not enthusiastic. The ideal situation is hard to come by.

Even with the simmering issues of campus unrest and wary administrations, extension for Alpha Chi Omega continued on an upward trajectory, with the number of collegiate chapters growing to nearly 100 by 1961 and subsequently adding to the number of undergraduate members. Bringing four collegiate chapters into the fold at this time, for example, meant approximately 200 new members nationwide. And despite the strained relationships between universities and fraternities, during 1965-66 alone, the Fraternity established six new collegiate chapters.

In the late 60s and early 70s, a number of inquiries came from small but growing campuses, some of which had recently attained university status and were seeking to add to the range of experiences available to their expanding student population. In her 1968-69 Heraeum report, Extension Director Jacquelyn Lawson Strauss (Alpha Chi, Butler University) offered this perspective:

In the early 1960s, Extension Director Aileen Yeo Bardsley (Theta, University of Michigan) made note of just some of the challenges of extension, explaining:

We question the advisability of becoming involved on these turbulent campuses while in other areas

The future looks bright for the extension field. Statistics show an influx of college students will continue and that more and more are going to obtain their degrees and to continue in post-graduate study. More junior colleges are expanding to a complete four-year program and new institutions for juniors, seniors and graduate studies are being founded. Many administrators are beginning to realize that there still is a need and a place for fraternities and sororities on the campus today and are encouraging the establishment and expansion of the Greek system on their campuses.

Undeterred by turbulent times on campuses and often tense relationships with university administrations,

“We question the advisability of becoming involved on these turbulent campuses ... The ideal situation is hard to come by.”

Alpha Chi Omega installed 16 new chapters between 1960 and 1968. For National Panhellenic groups overall, the addition of chapters was four times greater than the number of chapters lost. Still, National President Rosemary Newman Hittle (Alpha Chi, Butler University) noted in 1970:

It is true, however, that statistics of the past two years diminish this ratio to closer to three to one. It is part of the strange dichotomy of our times. Until two years ago Alpha Chi Omega had lost only one chapter in the last 15 years. The trend to lose weakened chapters was very late in hitting us. We had done more than most other groups to strengthen chapters. We have installed two this year and have closed two, so we now stand at 110.

Chapters that were not able to thrive and succeed at this time included those at the University of Pennsylvania (Alpha Epsilon), the University of Arizona (Beta Lambda) and Denison University (Delta Xi). As Rosemary expressed, “In each case it might be noted there were still a number of fine members, but just not enough. Alpha Chi Omega does not believe in waiting until a chapter dwindles to nothing before taking action.”

In the 1970s, rapidly changing campus conditions meant a need for Alpha Chi Omega to be nimble and to adjust the list of “priority” campuses for expansion, keeping in mind a number of issues. National Extension

Director Jacquelyn Lawson Strauss (Alpha Chi, Butler University) noted, “As the campus world changes so must the attitudes in extension. We must look closely and re-evaluate our ideas that have centered for so long on the larger prestige campuses.” One evolving growth opportunity, for example, was campuses that were formerly all-male and now open to female students. Many of them had existing fraternity systems and were looking to offer a similar experience to their new women students. Another emerging trend was, interestingly, inquiries from campuses just starting their Greeks systems, who found that the close relationships fostered in fraternities and sororities would be of value to their students.

Creating a sound foundation for new chapters required a large commitment of time, personnel and money, and so, during the lean financial times of the early 1970s, extension opportunities were generally pursued with caution and a practical evaluation of the potential chapter’s chances for long-term success. There was also the issue of housing to contend with, as there seemed to be a shift in students’ needs from a large facility to one more focused on a meeting place — in a house, lodge or suite, for example.

At the 1972 National Convention, National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) expressed optimism for the extension field, however, stating, “In the huge new schools of today, the need for smaller, more intimate, more congenial and more mutually supportive groups is greater than ever. The fact that 26 campuses opened for the first time to NPC groups in the last biennium is dramatic proof of this.”

Extension Director Judy Summerlin Purvines (Gamma Pi, University of Tampa) spoke to the process and considerations in the fall 1977 Lyre. Addressing the

NATIONAL EXTENSION DIRECTOR VALENA HARPER BURKE (XI, UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA - LINCOLN) POSES WITH ANN GRIMES EZEKIEL (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY), CAROL KAIN GAINES (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY) AND CAROLYN BROCK RICKETSON (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY) DURING A CHARTER PRESENTATION FOR EPSILON ZETA (AUBURN UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER FOLLOWING THEIR INSTALLATION.

“In the huge new schools of today, the need for smaller, more intimate, more congenial and more mutually supportive groups is greater than ever.”

matter of timing, she explained that while in some cases years of cultivation would lead ultimately to an opportunity to expand, in other cases an opportunity might arise quite quickly and without advance notice or relationship-building. In many cases, Alpha Chi Omega would have a letter of interest on file with the Panhellenic on a campus in which the Fraternity was interested in establishing a chapter. When the college or university was ready to expand, Alpha Chi Omega, along with other NPC groups with a letter on file, would be invited to present. After that, the Panhellenic would select the group to join its system.

chapters in a particular state or region but rather expand in areas with the greatest potential for membership growth.

In her 1983 State of the Fraternity address, National

President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University) noted significant changes in the field of extension. “College administrators have encouraged Greek affiliation, recognizing the valuable support system which Greeks provide to the University. Another

“Another cause for increased extension is a result of the admission of women students to the traditionally all-male schools.”

In the late 1970s, growth by extension reached unprecedented levels, due in part to population shifts and opening of some universities to women for the first time.

National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) expressed her belief that “excellence starts when we select campuses for extension. The Council’s goal is to consider extension only at the most prestigious campuses where academic and social excellence are considered to be of primary importance.” Fraternity leaders also determined that Alpha Chi Omega should not limit the number of

cause for increased extension is a result of the admission of women students to the traditionally all-male schools.” This renewed emphasis on extension resulted in more than 60 inquiries between 1980 and 1983.

Alpha Chi Omega was now positioned to adopt a selective extension plan heading into its 100th year, with priority placed on expanding to colleges and universities of the highest academic caliber — and offering the Fraternity the opportunity to distinguish itself as a top-tier Panhellenic group.

NEWLY INITIATED ZETA RHO (NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER MEMBERS POSE TOGETHER FOR A GROUP PHOTOGRAPH AFTER THEIR CHAPTER INSTALLATION.

ZETA PHI (CORNELL UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER INSTALLATION

The Alumnae Experience

FINDING OUR WAY AS WOMEN ALUMNAE AND THEIR EVOLVING ROLE

CHI CHI (PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA) CHAPTER PRESIDENT ALICE STAYDUHAR GLASER (LAMBDA, SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY) POSES WITH CHI CHI CHARTER MEMBER IRENE WOOD (DELTA, ALLEGHENY COLLEGE) WHO SITS AT A PIANO.

Finding Our Way as Women

Women have long been working to find their place in American society, balancing the expectations set upon them (or set by themselves) to be all things. Although this era saw a major setback for women in terms of the inability to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, the years 1960 through 1985 also brought about many advancements for women.

A 1970 questionnaire completed by Alpha Chi Omega alumnae revealed emerging trends in society. Nearly 90% of alumnae respondents were married, with one in four employed full time. While teaching was the profession of the majority of those working full time, alumnae also reported careers as social workers, business executives, physicians and sales professionals, among other careers.

Tips on job-seeking and career development began to appear in Alpha Chi publications, including the very directly named article, “How to Get a Job,” in the spring 1971 issue of The Lyre. An article in the winter 1975-76 Lyre described the job market by saying, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” and adding, “The days of the giant rush for new degree holders is over, but jobs are there and waiting for the man or woman who is not tied into a single job expectation or location.”

Careers for women in higher education became more widespread. Twenty-two Alpha Chi Omega alumnae who served as deans at colleges and universities across the country were featured in the spring 1967 Lyre Virginia Allen (Theta, University of Michigan), a one-time president of the Federation of Business and Professional Women, was appointed by President Nixon to head a special task force that had been created by President Kennedy charged with making recommendations regarding women’s rights and needs.

In a 1976 message to members, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) remarked on the evolving opportunities for women.

The Founders were not unlike today’s fraternity woman. The doors of education have been open to us for many years, but only in recent times have

so many women become more aware of and more able to participate in the socio-economic life of our country. Our collegiate chapters reflect this with added emphasis on career development and a willingness to solve social problems. Our alumnae groups reflect this with a greater diversification of members and a respect for purposeful meetings and activities. The challenge is whether we will provide our members the opportunity to develop the social skills necessary for today’s society.

To assist members in changing and challenging times, Alpha Chi Omega created the Continuing Education for Women grant program to support women who were returning to college to complete their degrees or to pursue advanced degrees. According to The History of Alpha Chi Omega: One Hundred Years, “It was a timely innovation, one that characterized the Fraternity’s awareness of the larger-than-life economic conditions in which the organization and its members were forced to exist.”

The often untapped power of Alpha Chi Omega connections was unleashed with the 1982 launch of the Network of Opportunity, which included two key elements a Career Network and Relocation Network. The Career Network’s stated objective was “to develop a data bank of career information where collegians

and alumnae might learn from other alumnae of the educational requirements and opportunities for advancement of a career specialty.” The Relocation Network was intended to lessen the stress of a move by connecting sisters moving to a new part of the country with sisters who could provide information on schools, medical providers and other helpful community resources.

As an advertisement for the Network of Opportunity stated in the winter 1981-82 issue of The Lyre, “Alpha Chi Omega is an experience for a lifetime.

OF OLYMPIC PROPORTIONS

Your membership is a lifetime commitment to the continuous search for excellence in all phases of life. Establishing the Network of Opportunity fulfills the Fraternity’s commitment to encourage and recognize the continued growth, development and achievements of its initiates.”

Opportunities for female student-athletes were changing as well during the 1970s, particularly with passage of Title IX, which brought about new opportunities for women to participate in sports.

Alpha Chi Omega was honored to salute Olympic skier and medalist Jean Saubert (Chi, Oregon State University). Jean won a bronze medal in the women’s slalom event and a silver medal for the giant slalom at the 1964 Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria. Despite the enormous time commitment required to train as an Olympic-level athlete, Jean attained an excellent grade point average and was a member of Mortar Board. Jean was invited to attend the 1964 National Convention but was unable to attend — she was attending summer school to make up for class time lost due to her Olympic participation. Funds that had been set aside for her travel expenses were, at her request, contributed to a scholarship fund.

Twenty years later, Julie Brown (Alpha Psi, UCLA), a long-distance runner, made history by earning a spot on the 1984 U.S. Olympic team. Julie represented her country in the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in the first-ever Olympic women’s marathon, where she placed 36th. She had qualified for the 1980 Olympics in Moscow in the 800 and 1,500 meter events but was unable to compete due to the United States’ boycott of the Olympics. Julie was later honored with the Alpha Chi Omega Award of Achievement.

OLYMPIC DISTANCE RUNNER JULIE BROWN (ALPHA PSI, UCLA) STANDS AT THE PODIUM AFTER WINNING THE AWARD OF ACHIEVEMENT AT THE 1985 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA. JULIE COMPETED IN THE FIRST-EVER WOMEN’S OLYMPIC MARATHON IN 1984.

“Alpha Chi Omega is an experience for a lifetime. Your membership is a lifetime commitment to the continuous search for excellence in all phases of life.”

Alumnae and Their Evolving Role

In the early 1960s, Alpha Chi Omega alumnae were finding new and meaningful ways to be involved in their communities — making their mark in issues ranging from assistance to the underprivileged, to senior citizen issues, drug and alcohol treatment, ecology and politics.

By 1963, with 55,000 total members, there were 250 recognized alumnae groups. While the number of established alumnae chapters and clubs continued to increase, the number of alumnae joining the groups did not necessarily increase at the same rate, as younger alumnae were often not as involved as their older alumnae sisters. With an increasing number of women entering the workforce, competition for and constraints on a finite number of hours in the day made it challenging for women to devote time to alumnae activities. In response to a 1970 alumnae membership questionnaire, members who were not involved in Alpha Chi Omega alumnae groups reported reasons ranging from no group in their area to timing being wrong at this point in their lives or activities not being of interest to them.

However, alumnae continued to be encouraged to support the Fraternity in ways both large and small. In the mid-1970s, the number of alumnae groups increased dramatically, demonstrating many members’ interest in continuing involvement and lifelong association. In her June 1973 report to the membership, National Alumnae Vice President Lois Caldwell Brater (Alpha Beta, Purdue University) described the challenges and rewards of “vying” for the time and attention of alumnae members:

We are constantly in competition for the loyalties of our alumnae with other national volunteer agencies who professionally recruit workers. Our clubs and chapters must be important, vital and interesting to our alumnae in order to keep them as members. Many women are returning to employment and do not have the time to give to the Fraternity that they had previously. This is a trend of society today and something we must cope with in the future. On the other hand, many of our groups showed increased interest, increased membership and increased involvement in altruistic endeavors and donations on a national and local level.

According to the summer 1976 Lyre, these were just some of the ways alumnae were challenged to “help the wheels go round”:

• Being active members of alumnae chapters and clubs

• Serving collegiate chapters as advisors or house corporation board members

• Assisting with recruitment

• Promoting Alpha Chi Omega in the community

In her 1967 report in the Heraeum, National Alumnae Vice President Jean Langston Wells (Alpha Phi, The University of Texas at Austin) described the continuing need for engaged, involved alumnae, particularly in an era when the value of fraternities and sororities and their openness to a diverse membership was being brought into question. She reported, “The continued stresses being leveled against the fraternity system make it imperative that alumnae members understand that the strength of Alpha Chi Omega is directly dependent upon alumnae concern and action. We must build better by working harder, by making Alpha Chi Omega come alive in our daily living. The sum of Alpha Chi Omega in our chapters and clubs can be a propelling force toward that abundant future which each of us desires for our fraternity.”

“We must build better by working harder, by making Alpha Chi Omega come alive in our daily living. The sum of Alpha Chi Omega in our chapters and clubs can be a propelling force toward that abundant future which each of us desires for our fraternity.”

A major emphasis of the 1980s was increasing membership in alumnae chapters and clubs. National Alumnae Vice President D’Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) outlined these trends in the alumnae field — an increased emphasis on providing recruitment information as a key strategy for strengthening collegiate chapters, as well as a new emphasis on supporting the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, while also supporting the other Fraternity altruisms and the arts.

National President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University) made these observations about the evolving role of alumnae: “Even though women are returning to the work force in droves and college graduates are seeking careers, they have not and will not shirk the responsibility of volunteerism. Our greatest challenge is to let our members know why and how volunteer hours spent with Alpha Chi Omega will provide training and skills which are beneficial in other areas of their lives.”

Alpha Chi Omega also found new ways to recognize alumnae who made a lasting impact on the organization and its members. In 1983, the Fraternity awarded the first Alumnae Appreciation Award, honoring outstanding service to the Fraternity, to Florence Lindahl Cooling (Iota, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign). Her devotion and support spanned more than 60 years, including service on advisory boards, house corporation boards, alumnae Panhellenics and as convention parliamentarian.

Emphasis on alumnae relations took many forms — from career networking support, to engaging alumnae in areas not supported by an alumnae chapter or club, to increased programming options, to incentives for alumnae chapters and clubs to increase their paid memberships.

Leading up the Fraternity’s 100th anniversary, 198384 was declared the “year of the lost alumnae,” with increased efforts to secure accurate information for members listed as “lost” in the membership records, finding several hundred alumnae.

MEMBERS OF GAMMA TAU (OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER AND RHO RHO (OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA) CHAPTER WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE BIBS FOR A LOCAL CARE CENTER AS PART OF A HERA DAY PROJECT.

THE GAMMA ZETA GAMMA (SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA) ALUMNAE CHAPTER MAKES HAND PUPPETS FOR PROJECT HEADSTART.

FLORENCE LINDAHL COOLING, THE FIRST RECIPIENT OF THE ALUMNAE APPRECIATION AWARD

Altruism

PHILANTHROPY THROUGH THE ERA BY SISTERS, FOR SISTERS: CREATING THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION

JOAN ALBERT (ALPHA IOTA, UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT) WITH A POSTER FUNDRAISING FOR CEREBRAL PALSY IN 1970

Philanthropy Through the Era

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALUMNAE TO SEND CHECKS FOR THE FRATERNITY’S VARIOUS ALTRUISMS, AS PRINTED IN VOLUME 78 OF THE LYRE

The altruistic spirit of Alpha Chi Omega’s members remained strong and focused, although this period found the Fraternity reimagining what the concept would mean to the future. In 1973, the Heraeum indicated:

Altruistic endeavors this past year encompass four Ps: Perspective, celebrating 88 years as we look ahead; Progress, in the role of women to achieve the potential of the person and pride of accomplishments; Pioneering in new avenues and different activities; Partnership with collegians and alumnae, other Greeks.

EASTERSEALS

In 1967, Alpha Chi Omega marked 20 years of support for the National Society for Crippled Children and Adults, which formerly adopted the name Easterseals in the same year. In enhancing support of Easterseals, Alpha Chi Omega added a new program for graduate students in the field of speech pathology. In 1966-67 alone, Alpha Chi Omega’s alumnae chapters and clubs contributed more than $19,000 to Easterseals agencies while also providing more than 15,000 service hours.

For many years, this program was the largest and most widely known of the Fraternity’s altruisms. In her report to the 1962 Convention, National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University) noted that “a grand total of $315,000 has been provided for handicapped aid since 1947.” In 1972, Easterseals honored the Fraternity for its 25 years of support and remarked on Alpha Chi Omega’s impressive support. According to Easterseals leadership:

Your record of services should give all of you a warm glow for your fraternity has given 301 scholarships, at a cost of $93,000 to provide rehabilitation services to more than a half-million Americans, most of whom are crippled by cerebral palsy. Of these scholarships, 271 went to physicians, dentists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech pathologists, and special educators for their work in the rehabilitation scene in all parts of this nation.

MACDOWELL

Members continued to show support for Alpha Chi Omega’s oldest altruistic endeavor, support of the MacDowell Colony (which changed its name to MacDowell in 2021). Marian MacDowell (Zeta, New England Conservatory of Music), an accomplished pianist and visionary, created the retreat to honor her husband, Edward MacDowell, a well-known American composer. Fay Barnaby Kent (Delta, Allegheny College) studied under Edward and, as a National Council officer, convinced the Fraternity to support the idea of an artists’ retreat in 1911.

Financial contributions of nearly $2,000 in 1963-64 alone provided for scholarships for 12 fellows through the Fay Barnaby Kent Scholarship Fund, which was established in 1961. That year also marked the 50th

A LETTER OF THANKS FROM THE NATIONAL EASTER SEAL SOCIETY TO ALPHA CHI OMEGA RECOGNIZING 60 YEARS OF SERVICE

AN UNIDENTIFIED DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY) CHAPTER MEMBER DRESSED AS A BUNNY HELPS A YOUNG CHILD FIND EASTER EGGS DURING A SERVICE PROJECT WITH THE EASTERSEALS.

anniversary of the Star Studio at MacDowell, which was funded by the Fraternity and was the first studio there to be built by an outside entity. Fay continued to champion support of the artists’ retreat and spearheaded the creation of MacDowell Month in February of each year.

research of various altruistic fields, particularly lungrelated diseases impacting children. Based on strong alumnae and collegiate support for the original pilot project, the National Council voted to adopt the Cystic Fibrosis Research Foundation as an added national altruistic project.

At the time, approximately 80% of all cystic fibrosis patients would die in childhood. According to the 1985 history book, “The disease was found to occur in about one of every 1,000 births and was characterized by an abnormally thick gluey mucus clogging the lungs and digestive tracts.” Members were encouraged to make financial donations and to provide hands-on support in their local communities to help children.

Appreciation of this support was shared by MacDowell’s then-director, George Kendall, who said, “When we think of them we think also of all of you and of what your generosity and understanding continue to mean to these gifted people and to the work they come here to do. A world of thanks to you all.”

CYSTIC FIBROSIS

At the 1974 National Convention, delegates voted to adopt cystic fibrosis as a national altruistic project after four years of research and a piloted rollout, with a challenge to fund two research scholarships for this chronic, hereditary disease affecting the lungs and digestion.

According to the 1973-74 Heraeum, the decision to support this particular disease came as a result of

Just one example of support: Alpha Omicron Alpha alumnae chapter in Des Moines, Iowa, worked with the local Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to hold a Breath of Life Campaign with alumnae addressing postcards and assembling thousands of kits for door-to-door solicitations, while also volunteering at the local office, promoting public education programs, and conducting educational programs.

OLIVE BURNETT CLARK ALUMNAE PROGRAM (OBCAP)

This program, established in 1960, was designed to provide financial aid to members — often but not always in their “golden years” — who found themselves facing adversity and in need of financial assistance. Funds for the cause came from the former Alumnae Clubhouse Fund after it was determined that an alumnae home for elderly members was financially impractical. The Altruistic Committee noted the gratitude of recipients: “The sweet letters of gratitude from these appreciative sisters have made this committee experience a warm inner glow that comes from being of service to others.”

The reasons for these confidential applications took many forms. In the 1970s, OBCAP funds supported alumnae with a variety of circumstances — family illness leading to financial hardship, the challenges of single parenthood and medical expenses, a desire to pursue continuing education. The continuing education element of outright gifts had been approved at the 1970 National Convention “to provide grants annually to members who are in need of financial assistance to further their education, with preference given to members aged 40 or over.”

STAR STUDIO AT MACDOWELL; PHOTO BY KELSEY HAUSMAN; PHOTO COURTESY OF MACDOWELL

NATIONAL PRESIDENT MARTHA HANNEGAN (RIGHT) JOINED THE ALPHA BETA CHAPTER (PURDUE UNIVERSITY) FOR THE INAUGURAL FRISBEE GOLF FUNDRAISER FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS IN 1982.

By Sisters,

For Sisters

CREATING THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION

MEMBERS OF THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES SIT TOGETHER AROUND A CONFERENCE TABLE. THEY ARE (LEFT TO RIGHT) KAREN AUNAN MILEY (ALPHA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA), JESSIE FANYO PAYNE (UPSILON, MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY), DOROTHY THOMPSON CHAMBERS (ALPHA OMEGA, BIRMINGHAMSOUTHERN COLLEGE), HARRIET THWING HOLDEN (ALPHA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA), BARBARA DEADY HORTON (GAMMA, NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY), MARIAN MCKEE SMITH (ALPHA NU, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI) AND HELEN BENSON RECKORD (ALPHA RHO, UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO). THIS PHOTOGRAPH IS IN THE SPRING 1979 ISSUE OF THE LYRE.

The most impactful shift in altruistic thought and action for Alpha Chi Omega came with the 1979 creation of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, a separate, tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation with the capacity to promote and support the charitable and educational activities of the Fraternity. The National Council had been investigating the need for, and appropriateness of, such an entity for some time. While the National Altruistic Foundation had existed since 1953, its scope was ultimately too narrow for the emerging needs of the organization and its members. It was also becoming clear to Alpha Chi Omega’s leaders that income from collegiate members was simply not sufficient to fund the growing educational and altruistic needs of the organization.

The following resolution was thus presented to and adopted unanimously by the 1978 Convention delegates:

WHEREAS, Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity leaders have become increasingly aware of the need for additional worthwhile programs, and

WHEREAS, spiraling costs limit development of such new programs with fewer increases in dues and fees, and

WHEREAS, Alpha Chi Omegas everywhere are eager to contribute tax-deductible dollars to further the projects which support the educational and literary programs of our Fraternity,

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: This Convention authorize the National Council to take the legal steps necessary to establish a new ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION.

The Foundation would be administered by seven trustees, all members of Alpha Chi Omega. (Their first meeting took place in January 1979.) Funds would be acquired through contributions. Members were encouraged to donate through an annual giving program or to make gifts in honor or memory of a sister, friend or family member. This reflected a philosophical shift for Alpha Chi Omega, which in the past had not regularly solicited financial support from alumnae – and it became an opportunity for alumnae to more directly impact their sisterhood as it grew and evolved. Step by step, the Foundation’s practices and goals took shape.

In her 1979-80 State of the Fraternity address, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) expressed her enthusiasm for this groundbreaking initiative, saying, “The Foundation is a reality and fundraising is underway. The Foundation will make possible an expansion of our existing program and provide a vehicle through which each member can support her Fraternity throughout her lifetime.”

Harriet Thwing Holden (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota), the first president of the Foundation,

outlined its initial goals: to raise $1 million, to add new scholarships and loan programs, and to build the Alpha Chi Omega Archives Museum. According to the winter 1979-80 Lyre:

“The immediate goals of the Foundation are to provide increased scholarships and student aid and to further develop the educational and altruistic work of the Fraternity. Within its long range plan the Foundation hopes to build a large endowment (a permanent fund) by the 1985 Centennial. The income from the endowment will be used by the Foundation for its general purposes or a purpose specified by the donor.”

While Alpha Chi Omega had long provided scholarships to members (the administration of which was transferred to the Foundation), it was now able to increase both the number of scholarships (and fellowships) as well as the amount of money distributed.

And the theme of the Foundation’s first fundraising drive? Appropriately, “I believe in Alpha Chi Omega.” In her 1980-81 report, National Alumnae Vice President D’Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) remarked on trends in the alumnae field, including “while still supporting our traditional Fraternity altruisms, a new emphasis on the support of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation as the number one altruism of our Fraternity.” The Foundation would soon become known as “Alpha Chi Omega’s #1 Altruism.”

Alpha Chi Omega’s leaders sought innovative ways for members to support the Foundation. The Heritage Roll, offering members a way to provide planned gifts to the Foundation, was introduced in 1982. And collegiate chapters were encouraged to hold frisbee golf tournaments on campus as one way to raise money for the Foundation at the local level.

Executive Secretary Nancy Nitchman Leonard

(Alpha Chi, Butler University) noted in her 1982-83 report to the membership, “The Executive Secretary is dedicated to the growth and success of the Foundation

for the Foundation can be the answer to the challenge of a financially sound Fraternity. Effort spent at this time can be returned many-fold so that effort appears to be a worthwhile investment.”

At the 1983 National Convention in Philadelphia, Foundation President Faythe Luther Vorderstrasse (Alpha Rho, University of Idaho) reminded attendees of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation’s vision, potential and purpose. Her remarks included the following:

We are a fraternity of sisters, each lending her special talents to developing the greatest potential in others. We have a challenge to develop whole persons who will make their mark on our society … As we approach our second century, the time has come that we must dare to dream of projects greater than we had ever deemed within our grasp. It is vital that we continue our implementation of the finest in fraternity programming. It is vital that we develop an unrestricted endowment fund to provide a continuous source of income which may be used to support the educational programs of our Fraternity in the future. It is vital that we accept the concept that charity must begin at home. We can continue to be of help to others only so long as our Fraternity is strong and viable itself.

In 1983-84, contributions to the Foundation totaled more than $190,000, coming from more than 5,000 donors. Total Foundation assets reached $500,000. And the Foundation’s first development director, Past National President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University), was hired to oversee the expanding fundraising efforts as a member of the headquarters staff.

In her 1984-85 report, National President D’Alice Coburn Cochran elaborated on what she described as “what’s new” with the Fraternity: “Alpha Chi Omega has come to the realization that it is acceptable and desirable to ask our alumnae for money,” — adding “treasure” to the already ample gifts from alumnae of their time and talent. Annual giving and the number of donors continued to increase year-over-year.

As the Foundation marked its five-year anniversary, Foundation President Faythe Luther Vorderstrasse thanked members for their support: “Yes, thanks to the generosity of our members and friends … thanks to their believing and caring … your Foundation rates an A+ in this first five year progress report … imagine where we can be at the time of our 25th … or 50th … or 100th!”

Bringing Sisters Together

NATIONAL CONVENTIONS AND EVENTS

CELEBRATING THE CENTENNIAL

THE FOUNDERS’ BELL TOWER WAS CONSTRUCTED BY ALPHA CHI OMEGA AS PART OF DEPAUW UNIVERSITY’S NEW PERFORMING ARTS BUILDING IN 1976 AND DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF THE SEVEN FOUNDERS.

National Conventions and Events

While it may seem like everything was changing during this era, one thing remained the same – the desire for sisters to come together. At national conventions across the country, as well as other events for leaders and volunteers, Alpha Chi Omegas discussed developing trends, made historic decisions for the organization and reignited their bonds of sisterhood.

33RD NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1962 MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA

In her Call to Convention, National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University) stated, “A great tradition of idealism and ethical integrity runs

through our history. Our Ritual expresses the best hopes and aspirations of mankind. Come to convention and refresh yourselves on the spiritual values of Alpha Chi Omega — values which are made effective only through living them. Come to convention and help plan for the future of the Fraternity!”

From her State of the Fraternity remarks:

• Nine chapters ranked first scholastically (1961-62) on their campuses.

• 37 chapters ranked upper third scholastically.

• 81.88% of pledges were initiated.

• 70% of all chapters filled quote during formal and informal rush.

• 77% of chapters had fall rush, 23% deferred rush.

• 52 houses were owned by Alpha Chi Omega house corporations, and 10 chapters were in rented houses. (The others had suites or rooms on campuses where there are not sorority houses.)

• A total of 2,020 students lived in Alpha Chiowned houses.

• 7 new chapters were chartered during the past biennium.

• Chapter 100 was still an “unknown” at the time of convention.

• 10 new alumnae clubs were established during the 1961-62 fiscal year.

• There were now 240 organized groups, including 70 chapters and 161 clubs.

34TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1964 COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

From the State of the Fraternity address by National President Jessie Fanyo Payne (Upsilon, Millikin University): “You are familiar with the criticisms of fraternities because they have been widely circulated — some of them contradict each other. We cannot be all things to all people … The basic concept of the administration and Alpha Chi Omega appear to be in agreement. All we have to do is live up to them.”

BARBARA STEINFELD, PRESIDENT OF CHI CHAPTER (OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY), ADDRESSES CONVENTION ATTENDEES AT THE 1964 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO IN A TRIBUTE TO HER CHAPTER SISTER JEAN SAUBERT, WHO WON TWO OLYMPIC MEDALS AT THE 1964 WINTER OLYMPICS IN INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA BUT WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND CONVENTION DUE TO SUMMER SCHOOL.

Also from her State of the Fraternity remarks:

“A comparison with the record of two years ago shows that 73 chapters improved, while 11 held their own. Fourteen chapters are first in scholarship on their campuses, and 16 are in second place. In the membership selection or rushing field over half of our chapters filled quota during formal rush and an additional 14 chapters were full during the year.”

“During the last two years, loyal alumnae have contributed almost $100,000 to the various altruistic and collegiate programs, with almost 40% of this going to collegiate scholarships and collegiate aid.”

“An accelerated building program has seen new houses or additions for 14 chapters during the past two years.”

She noted the following areas in need of strengthening: social development, knowledge of the Fraternity, standards boards, rush recommendation system, leadership training for new members, greater support of chapter advisers, better public relations of Panhellenic on the campuses where the number of well-qualified rushees was decreasing and better public relations on the part of city Panhellenics to fight the anti-fraternity sentiment.

35TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1966

PORTSMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE

Topics described as “burning issues” included a discussion of the policy requiring alumnae recommendations and a request by a study committee that the policy be reviewed prior to the 1968 convention. In the meantime, the committee requested that the National Council be granted the power to waive the requirement for any chapter whose existence might be jeopardized by adherence to the policy due to pressure from a college or university administration. This recommendation was adopted.

Director of Central Office Hannah Keenan (Alpha, DePauw University), who was retiring after 29 years in her position and staff service of a total of 37 years, was presented with a check as a gift from hundreds of members. To honor Hannah, the Undergraduate Scholarship Fund was renamed the Hannah Keenan Scholarship Fund. National President Rosita Nordwall said of her: “Hannah is unique, she is an original, she is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the Fraternity. She can never be replaced – we can only re-assign the position.”

More than 300 convention attendees enjoyed an outing to MacDowell in Peterborough, New Hampshire. According to The Lyre, “Cameras in number were broken out when Alpha Chi’s Star Studio was reached – conventioners delighting in ‘shooting’ each other on Star’s front porch!”

36TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1968

DALLAS, TEXAS

The convention delegates voted, upon the recommendation of the National Study Committee on Recommendation Requirements, that: “It is desirable (but not mandatory) that a prospective member be favorably recommended in accordance with membership standards.”

The following Voting Requirements were adopted: “Before a prospective member may be pledged she shall receive chapter approval based on the results of an affirmative rating as set up in the Polices and Procedures Manual. A prospective member who does not receive chapter approval may be proposed again at a later date.

According to the fall 1968 issue of The Lyre, as Emerson stated, “’Every time is a good time, if we but know what to do with it’ – and Alpha Chi Omega had known what to do with those four days!”

37TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1970 PORTLAND, OREGON

The fall 1970 Lyre convention coverage featured the headline “Noted for 50-Year Members, Speakers, Outspoken Collegians”’ and shared, “The convention was notable for two contrasting developments. There were more 50-year members present than had ever attended one Alpha Chi Convention, and there was more collegiate participation in meeting and workshops than many national officers had observed at any other of our national conclaves.”

National President Rosemary Newman Hittle (Alpha Chi, Butler University) noted trends in chapter retention, saying, “Until two years ago Alpha Chi Omega had lost only one chapter in the last 15 years. The trend to lose weakened chapters was very late in hitting us. We had done more than most groups to strengthen chapters. We have installed two this year and have closed two, so we now stand at 109.”

In accordance with the National Council’s proposal that the governing board of officers be increased from 10 to 12 members, the convention passed the proposed amendment, allowing for 12 members. The additional

officers were National Secretary and National Financial Program Director.

1970 PROVINCE-DISTRICT MEETINGS

The theme of these meetings was “The Potential of Positive Greeks.” The main order of business was the election of province presidents and district alumnae chairmen.

38TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1972

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

It was the largest convention to date, with more than 550 registrants. According to The Lyre, “At almost every luncheon and dinner extra tables had to be rushed into use to take care of the overflow of last-minute ticket buyers.”

In her State of the Fraternity remarks, National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota), stated, “The college campus has stabilized. In the huge new schools of today, the need for smaller, more intimate, more congenial and more mutually supportive groups is greater than ever.” She noted that during the last biennium 26 campuses opened for the first time to NPC groups.

Upon recommendation of the Ritual Committee, a number of changes to the Initiation Ceremony were approved by the convention delegates.

DELEGATES GATHER FOR A NATIONAL CHAPTER MEETING DURING THE 1970 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN PORTLAND, OREGON.

FIFTY-YEAR MEMBERS POSE TOGETHER AT THE 1972 NATIONAL CONVENTION.

39TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1974

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota), in her keynote address, suggested that attendees “REFLECT on the seven original ladies. Their tiny group has grown to a membership of over 80,000 and its steady and careful growth was undeterred by a major depression, four wars, a period of campus unrest and a myriad of other problems. REFLECT on our development. It has always been careful. REFLECT on our adaptability, of which I am very proud. We have continuously updated and changed with the times.”

Delegates passed a constitutional amendment regarding composition of the National Council, changing the make-up from 12 members to six, who would be supported by middle management directors and assistant vice presidents. The National Council was voted on to include: National President, National Collegiate Vice President, National Alumnae Vice President, National Secretary, National Treasurer and National Panhellenic Delegate.

Delegates voted in support of a resolution stating that Alpha Chi Omega adopt cystic fibrosis and the National Cystic Fibrosis Research Foundation as a national altruistic project.

40TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1976 MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

From the fall 1976 Lyre:

Have you ever seen a LYRE cover walking? The spring LYRE cover inspired the idea for Adele Drew’s dress, which she wore for the opening business session. The dress was made by Marge Brammer, a very talented worker in Central Office, who needed only the idea to make the dress a reality.

National President Adele Fieve Drew (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) noted, in her State of the Fraternity address, “It is obvious that our economy, the need for more income, the changing campus picture and the changing living patterns in metropolitan areas all play an important part in planning for our Fraternity.”

THE SPRING LYRE COVER (ABOVE) THAT INSPIRED ADELE DREW’S DRESS (RIGHT)

Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota), who had been serving on the National Council as National Collegiate Vice President, was nominated from the floor and elected to serve as National President.

41ST NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1978

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

In her Call to Convention, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University Minnesota) announced, “An added dimension to this year’s convention programming is an extra day of training for Chapter Advisors. They will arrive ahead of the convention body to meet with fraternity leaders.”

The convention delegates approved the new Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, broadening the scope of the existing foundation.

In her State of the Fraternity address, National

President Karen Miley noted the National Council’s three goals for the 1976-78 biennium:

1. To create an atmosphere in which collegians and alumnae can openly interact

2. To be mindful of the Fraternity’s public image effectiveness

3. To operate within a balanced cash budget

42ND NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1980 NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

From remarks by incoming National President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University): “No one can predict what the exact ‘shape of the ‘80s’ will be. The challenge for each of us is to face the future as an opportunity like no other we have ever had. We can remember the past but we certainly cannot focus our attention there. We must assume the leadership role as innovators and creators to shape a future that we can live with — not trying to be everything to everybody, everywhere, but being an important something when and where we choose to be.”

administrative support services from Central Office and our need to maximize membership growth.”

43RD NATIONAL CONVENTION, 1983

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

The convention theme, “Pride Makes the Difference,” was embraced by convention planners, volunteer leaders and attendees alike. In her convention remarks, National President Martha Carolan Hannegan (Omicron, Baker University) said, “We may not all think alike and our preferences on directions for Alpha Chi Omega may differ. However, our desire for success and our commitment to excellence are unanimous. Alpha Chi Omega’s potential can be realized through thoughtful planning, innovative programming, dedication to ideals, respect for each other and enthusiasm for the future. If we are loyal to these guidelines, we can justify the pride our members feel in being part of our Fraternity and will earn the pride future members must seek and feel.”

The first Alumnae Appreciation Award was presented to Florence Lindahl Cooling (Iota, University of Illinois).

Hannah Keenan (Alpha, DePauw University), former executive secretary and daughter of Founder Bessie Grooms Keenan, invited sisters to attend the upcoming Centennial Celebration in 1985 in Indianapolis.

Delegates approved a resolution for a Centennial badge, to be set with diamonds and worn by the National President during her term of office.

In her State of the Fraternity address, National President Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) described the long-range planning process undertaken in the fall of 1978 and the development of a clear focus and goals for the organization. She said, “These goals emphasize our commitment to lifetime membership, our pride in Alpha Chi, our plans for advancing the appreciation of the allied arts, our determination to increase our financial resources, our development of effective

SISTERS ENJOYED REUNITING AT THE 1980 NATIONAL CONVENTION.

MEMBERS CHEER ON ALPHA CHI OMEGA DURING THE 1983 NATIONAL CONVENTION IN PHILADEPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA.

Celebrating the Centennial

100 YEARS OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA SISTERHOOD

he Fraternity began planning and conceptualizing the centennial celebration as early as the mid 1970s, and as the 1980s began, plans for the centennial and the beginning of Alpha Chi Omega’s second century began to take form and shape. At the 1983 National Convention in Philadelphia, the following Centennial Celebration Statement of Purpose was presented by former National President and Centennial Chairman Karen Aunan Miley (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota).

The purpose of the Alpha Chi Omega Centennial Celebration shall be to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the founding of our Fraternity, by recognizing the accomplishments of our Fraternity at large, our chapters, and those of our individual members. The celebration shall serve as the cornerstone of our second century. It will provide the membership with an opportunity to be a part of the leadership’s vision for Alpha Chi Omega in her second century.

The centennial year began with a full-color centennial program sent to every member in October 1984.

Individual collegiate chapters and alumnae chapters and clubs received a Centennial Candle Ceremony and an audio-visual presentation for use in their local celebratory events. Other items created to commemorate the 100th anniversary included a centennial calendar, a poster, a wall-hanging of individual needlepoint squares representing each chapter for headquarters, a Centennial Handbook and a number of special items available for purchase.

In addition, the Alpha Chi Omega National Panhellenic Conference Centennial Award was created to be given biennially to an outstanding Panhellenic advisor. A new centennial badge, to be worn by each National President, was also created. The Fraternity hired writer and historian Tom Rumer to research and write an updated history book to properly document Alpha Chi Omega’s first 100 years.

TTHE OFFICIAL CENTENNIAL CONVENTION PHOTO FROM VOLUME 89 OF

More than 1,700 members and guests joined together for the 1985 Centennial Convention in Indianapolis. The festive convention celebration featured:

• A processional of chapter banners, created especially for the celebration

• A video presentation of toasts and tributes to Alpha Chi Omega

• Tours of the national headquarters building and the Alpha Chi (Butler University) chapter house

• A birthday party featuring cake, costumes and gifts

• DePauw Day activities, including a pageant reenacting the Fraternity’s founding, a tour of the Alpha (DePauw University) chapter house and an operetta commissioned especially for the occasion

PLAY DAY WAS ADDED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CONVENTION TO SIGHT-SEE IN INDIANAPOLIS AND OFFER SOME BONDING TIME WITH SISTERS. THIS PARTICULAR EXCURSION WAS TO THE INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY MUSEUM, HOME OF THE INDY 500 RACE, WHICH WAS HELD THE MONTH BEFORE.

• Visits to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis Museum of Art

• The “Rush Revue,” featuring collegiate members from the six Indiana collegiate chapters performing at the Circle Theater in downtown Indianapolis

• A new tradition — all attendees wore white to the opening business session

• Votes on official business, including a provision granting the Board of Directors the authority to adjust Fraternity dues in proportion to the December Consumer Price Index

THE FIVE DAYS WERE FILLED WITH ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING A SPECIAL DEPAUW DAY, WHERE ATTENDEES PACKED ONTO BUSES IN GROUPS AND MADE THEIR WAY TO GREENCASTLE, INDIANA, FOR A TOUR OF CAMPUS, A PAGEANT OF OUR FOUNDING, A CONCERT BY THE FOUNDERS’ MEMORIAL AND PRESENTATION BY NATIONAL PRESIDENT D’ALICE COCHRAN.

• Presentation of the centennial badge, set with diamonds and funded by gifts from collegiate chapters and alumnae chapters and clubs, to National President D’Alice Coburn Cochran (Alpha Mu, Indiana University)

The Centennial Celebration fulfilled the vision put forth by Hannah Keenan (Alpha, DePauw University) in her 1983 Convention “Call to Celebrate,” when she said: “Many sisters have gone before us to make great contributions to our Fraternity, and many sisters will come after us to carry on our traditions and build upon them. However, the happy duty falls to us to celebrate the Centennial of Alpha Chi Omega … the cornerstone of our Second Century … Together we will usher in a second century greater than the first. Together we will reach the heights.”

THE 1985 CENTENNIAL CONVENTION MUG FEATURED THE FRATERNITY SEAL AND THE EVENT LOCATION (INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA).

THE INDIANA CONVENTION CENTER RECOGNIZED ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S FIRST CENTURY.

MEMORIAL TO FOUNDERS DEDICATED AT DEPAUW

For many years, the Fraternity’s leaders had dreamed, planned and raised funds for an appropriate memorial to our seven Founders on the DePauw University campus in Greencastle, Indiana. Finally, in October 1976, the Founders’ Memorial Carillon was dedicated as part of the university’s Performing Arts Center.

Chapter Listings 1885-1985

COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS

ALUMNAE CHAPTERS

MEMBERS OF THE GAMMA DELTA CHAPTER (UNIVERSITY OF DENVER) IN FRONT OF THEIR CHAPTER HOUSE CA. 1972

Collegiate Chapters 1885-1985

Collegiate chapters with their establishment dates (and closure and reestablishment dates as applicable) as of July 31, 1985

ACTIVE

ALPHA (DEPAUW UNIVERSITY), Greencastle, Indiana –October 15, 1885

BETA (ALBION COLLEGE), Albion, Michigan –May 27, 1887

GAMMA (NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY), Evanston, Illinois – November 14, 1890

DELTA (ALLEGHENY COLLEGE), Meadville, Pennsylvania – January 29, 1891

EPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA), Los Angeles, California – June 16, 1895

ETA (BUCKNELL UNIVERSITY), Lewisburg, Pennsylvania – June 16, 1898; closed in June 1899; reestablished April 1, 1921

THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN), Ann Arbor, Michigan – November 19, 1898

IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANACHAMPAIGN), Urbana, Illinois – December 8, 1899

KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – MADISON), Madison, Wisconsin – December 18, 1903

LAMBDA (SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY), Syracuse, New York – December 18, 1906

MU (SIMPSON COLLEGE), Indianola, Iowa –May 13, 1907

NU (UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER), Boulder, Colorado – September 6, 1907; closed June 26, 1973; reestablished January 26, 1979

XI (UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA – LINCOLN), Lincoln, Nebraska – November 28, 1907

OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY), Baldwin, Kansas –September 17, 1908

PI (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY), Berkeley, California – May 7, 1909; closed June 26, 1973; reestablished February 5, 1978

RHO (UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON), Seattle, Washington – October 14, 1910

SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA), Iowa City, Iowa –June 13, 1911

TAU (BRENAU UNIVERSITY), Gainesville, Georgia –November 24, 1911

UPSILON (MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY), Decatur, Illinois –May 9, 1913

PHI (UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS), Lawrence, Kansas –September 15, 1914

CHI (OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY), Corvallis, Oregon –March 19, 1915

PSI (THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA), Norman, Oklahoma – January 14, 1916

OMEGA (WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY), Pullman, Washington – September 22, 1916

ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSITY), West Lafayette, Indiana – April 26, 1918

ALPHA GAMMA (THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO), Albuquerque, New Mexico – June 6, 1918

ALPHA DELTA (UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI), Cincinnati, Ohio – April 25, 1919

ALPHA ETA (UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT UNION), Alliance, Ohio – June 11, 1920

ALPHA IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT), Burlington, Vermont – June 14, 1921

ALPHA KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF OREGON), Eugene, Oregon – June 22, 1921

ALPHA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA), Minneapolis, Minnesota – September 30, 1921

ALPHA MU (INDIANA UNIVERSITY), Bloomington, Indiana – April 21, 1922

ALPHA NU (UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI), Columbia, Missouri – August 25, 1922

ALPHA OMICRON (THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY), Columbus, Ohio – September 14, 1923

ALPHA PI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA), Grand Forks, North Dakota – November 10, 1923; closed May 1, 1938; reestablished February 17, 1968

ALPHA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO), Moscow, Idaho – May 9, 1924

ALPHA TAU (UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE), Durham, New Hampshire – June 24,1924

ALPHA UPSILON (THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA), Tuscaloosa, Alabama – September 9, 1924

ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN), Austin, Texas – September 13, 1924

ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY), Indianapolis, Indiana – February 28, 1925

ALPHA PSI (UCLA), Los Angeles, California –March 27, 1926

ALPHA OMEGA (BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN COLLEGE), Birmingham, Alabama – April 9, 1926

BETA DELTA (COLLEGE OF WILLIAM & MARY), Williamsburg, Virginia – April 8, 1927

BETA EPSILON (MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY), East Lansing, Michigan- February 11, 1928

BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY), Tallahassee, Florida – March 29, 1929

BETA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA), Tucson, Arizona – October 29, 1930; closed June 1, 1970; reestablished February 28, 1981

BETA MU (PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY), University Park, Pennsylvania – April 8, 1932

BETA NU (UNIVERSITY OF UTAH), Salt Lake City, Utah – March 23, 1934

BETA XI (UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY), Logan, Utah –May 19, 1934

BETA OMICRON (FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE), Lakeland, Florida – November 13, 1936

BETA PI (WASHINGTON COLLEGE), Chestertown, Maryland – May 21, 1937

BETA RHO (AMERICAN UNIVERSITY), Washington, DC – June 3, 1937

BETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA), Athens, Georgia – January 7, 1938

BETA TAU (MIAMI UNIVERSITY), Oxford, Ohio –December 13, 1941

BETA PHI (BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY), Bowling Green, Ohio – May 28, 1944

BETA CHI (WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY), Salem, Oregon –June 10, 1944

BETA PSI (LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY), Ruston, Louisiana – October 7, 1944

BETA OMEGA (THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO), Toledo, Ohio – November 17, 1945

GAMMA DELTA (UNIVERSITY OF DENVER), Denver, Colorado – October 12, 1946

GAMMA EPSILON (OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), Stillwater, Oklahoma – March 8, 1947

GAMMA ZETA (KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY), Manhattan, Kansas – March 22, 1947

GAMMA THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND), College Park, Maryland – October 30, 1948

GAMMA IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA), Gainesville, Florida – April 2, 1949

GAMMA MU (BALL STATE UNIVERSITY), Muncie, Indiana – June 10, 1950

GAMMA NU (SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY), San Diego, California – November 18, 1950

GAMMA XI (WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), Kalamazoo, Michigan – April 21, 1951

GAMMA OMICRON (MARSHALL UNIVERSITY), Huntington, West Virginia – November 8, 1952

GAMMA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA), Tampa, Florida –January 20, 1954; closed May 15, 1977; reestablished January 9, 1982

GAMMA RHO (TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY), Lubbock, Texas – March 6, 1954

GAMMA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND), Kingston, Rhode Island – November 11, 1955

GAMMA UPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON), Houston, Texas – February 11, 1956

GAMMA PHI (LAMAR UNIVERSITY), Beaumont, Texas –November 17, 1956

GAMMA CHI (STETSON UNIVERSITY), DeLand, Florida – May 18, 1957

DELTA EPSILON (SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY), Cape Girardeau, Missouri –April 26, 1958

DELTA ZETA (CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY), Mount Pleasant, Michigan – November 8, 1958

DELTA THETA (UNIVERSITY OF MAINE), Orono, Maine – April 25, 1959

DELTA IOTA (EMORY UNIVERSITY), Atlanta, Georgia –May 9, 1959

DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY), Huntsville, Texas – September 6, 1959

DELTA LAMBDA (RIPON COLLEGE), Ripon, Wisconsin – October 31, 1959

DELTA MU (UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS), Amherst, Massachusetts – February 18, 1961

DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY), Ames, Iowa –March 18, 1961

DELTA OMICRON (PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY), Portland, Oregon – May 13, 1961

DELTA PI (UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, KNOXVILLE), Knoxville, Tennessee – October 21, 1961

DELTA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC), Stockton, California – March 10, 1962

DELTA TAU (MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO), Mankato, Minnesota – April 3, 1965

DELTA UPSILON (COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY), Fort Collins, Colorado – October 16, 1965

DELTA CHI (WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY), Fulton, Missouri – November 20, 1965

DELTA PSI (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA), Santa Barbara, California –December 4, 1965

EPSILON ZETA (AUBURN UNIVERSITY), Auburn, Alabama – February 4, 1967

EPSILON ETA (STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY), Nacogdoches, Texas – May 6, 1967

EPSILON THETA (CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, SACRAMENTO), Sacramento, California – May 20, 1967

EPSILON IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA), Cedar Falls, Iowa – March 2, 1968

EPSILON KAPPA (CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON), Fullerton, California – December 7, 1968

EPSILON LAMBDA (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON), Arlington, Texas – February 15, 1969

EPSILON NU (BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY), Boise, Idaho – March 7, 1970

EPSILON XI (UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, RENO), Reno, Nevada – March 6, 1971

EPSILON OMICRON (INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY), Terre Haute, Indiana – March 20, 1971

EPSILON PI (GEORGIA SOUTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY), Americus, Georgia – February 5, 1972

EPSILON RHO (UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE), Newark, Delaware – February 26, 1972

EPSILON TAU (VIRGINIA TECH), Blacksburg, Virginia –March 31, 1973

EPSILON PHI (GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY), Atlanta, Georgia – February 22, 1975

EPSILON CHI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL), Chapel Hill, North Carolina –January 22, 1977

EPSILON PSI (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE), Irvine, California – January 29, 1977

EPSILON OMEGA (CAL POLY, SAN LUIS OBISPO), San Luis Obispo, California – April 15, 1978

ZETA ETA (BRADLEY UNIVERSITY), Peoria, Illinois –May 6, 1978

ZETA THETA (BROWN UNIVERSITY), Providence, Rhode Island – May 5, 1979

ZETA KAPPA (NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY), Las Cruces, New Mexico – November 10, 1979

ZETA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA), Charlottesville, Virginia – April 19, 1980

ZETA MU (DARTMOUTH COLLEGE), Hanover, New Hampshire – November 22, 1980

ZETA NU (TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY), College Station, Texas – May 8, 1981

ZETA XI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT GREENSBORO), Greensboro, North Carolina – March 20, 1982

ZETA OMICRON (VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY), Nashville, Tennessee – April 17, 1982

ZETA PI (ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY), Tempe, Arizona – September 25, 1982

ZETA RHO (NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY), Midland, Michigan – January 15, 1983

ZETA SIGMA (MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY), Springfield, Missouri – April 15, 1983

ZETA TAU (VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY), Villanova, Pennsylvania – June 25, 1983

ZETA UPSILON (CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY), Cleveland, Ohio – September 24, 1983

ZETA PHI (CORNELL UNIVERSITY), Ithaca, New York – February 4, 1984

ZETA CHI (MUHLENBERG COLLEGE), Allentown, Pennsylvania – October 27, 1984

ZETA PSI (LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS), New Orleans, Louisiana – November 10, 1984

ZETA OMEGA (WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY), Cullowhee, North Carolina – April 20, 1985

THETA IOTA (BAYLOR UNIVERSITY), Waco, Texas –April 27, 1985

THETA KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS), Memphis, Tennessee – April 27, 1985

TOTAL ACTIVE: 122

INACTIVE

ZETA (NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORY), Boston, Massachusetts – December 15, 1895; closed June 1, 1950

ALPHA EPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – May 9, 1919; closed June 1, 1969

ALPHA ZETA (WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN SAINT LOUIS), St. Louis, Missouri – June 8, 1920; closed June 5, 1975

ALPHA THETA (DRAKE UNIVERSITY), Des Moines, Iowa – June 10, 1921; closed October 19, 1933

ALPHA XI (UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA), Missoula, Montana – May 11, 1923; closed June 1, 1952

ALPHA SIGMA (OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY), Delaware, Ohio – May 9, 1924; closed February 28, 1977

BETA GAMMA (LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY), Baton Rouge, Louisiana – October 29,1926; closed February 6, 1971

BETA ZETA (WHITMAN COLLEGE), Walla Walla, Washington – November 9, 1928; closed September 9, 1983

BETA THETA (LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY), Appleton, Wisconsin – February 20, 1930; closed May 28, 1983

BETA IOTA (UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO), Toronto, Ontario, Canada – April 23, 1930, closed July 15, 1953

BETA KAPPA (UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING), Laramie, Wyoming – October 23, 1930; closed September 17, 1979

BETA UPSILON (DUKE UNIVERSITY), Durham, North Carolina – January 31, 1942; closed January 22, 1976

GAMMA ETA (SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY), San Jose, California – March 10, 1948; closed May 1, 1974

GAMMA KAPPA (IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY), Pocatello, Idaho – February 25, 1950; closed November 19, 1984

GAMMA LAMBDA (KENT STATE UNIVERSITY), Kent, Ohio – April 1, 1950; closed January 28, 1973

GAMMA TAU (OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – December 3, 1955; closed October 7, 1978

GAMMA PSI (WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY), Wichita, Kansas – February 1, 1958; closed April 17, 1984

GAMMA OMEGA (UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI), Miami, Florida – March 8, 1958; closed June 1, 1970

DELTA ETA (QUEENS COLLEGE), Charlotte, North Carolina – March 7, 1959; closed June 1, 1965

DELTA XI (DENISON UNIVERSITY), Granville, Ohio –April 29, 1961; closed June 1, 1969

DELTA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS), Fayetteville, Arkansas – December 1, 1961; closed May 31, 1977

DELTA PHI (TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-KINGSVILLE), Kingsville, Texas – October 30, 1965; closed March 9, 1978

DELTA OMEGA (UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY), Lexington, Kentucky – March 26, 1966; closed March 10, 1976

EPSILON MU (NORTHERN ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY), Dekalb, Illinois – February 28, 1970; closed May 1, 1974

EPSILON SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA), Orlando, Florida – February 10, 1973; closed April 4, 1984

EPSILON UPSILON (MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY), Starkville, Mississippi – April 6, 1974; closed March 23, 1984

ZETA IOTA (STANFORD UNIVERSITY), Stanford, California – October 27, 1979; closed May 1, 1982

TOTAL INACTIVE: 27

Alumnae Chapters 1885-1985

Alumnae chapters with their establishment dates as of July 31, 1985; all chapters were active.

ALPHA ALPHA (Chicago, Illinois) – May 23, 1906

BETA BETA (INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA) –

December 14, 1906

GAMMA GAMMA (NEW YORK, NEW YORK) –

November 6, 1907

DELTA DELTA (WEST SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, CALIFORNIA) – September 25, 1908

EPSILON EPSILON (DETROIT, MICHIGAN) –

March 17, 1909

ZETA ZETA (BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS) –

November 9, 1909

ETA ETA (MADISON, WISCONSIN) – June 16, 1911

THETA THETA (BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA) –

January 11, 1913

IOTA IOTA (SEATTLE, WASHINGTON) – March 8, 1913

KAPPA KAPPA (LINCOLN, NEBRASKA) –

January 31, 1914

LAMBDA LAMBDA (GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN) –

February 7, 1914

MU MU (KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI) –

September 20, 1914

NU NU (DENVER, COLORADO) – July 29, 1916

XI XI (PORTLAND, OREGON) – March 11, 1922

OMICRON OMICRON (TWIN CITIES, MINNESOTA) –

January 15, 1923

PI PI (PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA ) –

February 10, 1923

RHO RHO (OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA) –

March 17, 1923

SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI) –

March 14, 1925

TAU TAU (CHAMPAIGN, ILLINOIS) – March 25, 1925

UPSILON UPSILON (SYRACUSE, NEW YORK) –

November 17, 1926

PHI PHI (MEADVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA) – June 5, 1928

CHI CHI (PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA) –

October 19, 1929

PSI PSI (TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA) –

June 11, 1932

OMEGA OMEGA (YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO) –

March 26, 1933

ALPHA BETA ALPHA (SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA) – April 8, 1933

ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA (ATLANTA, GEORGIA) –

June 5, 1933

ALPHA DELTA ALPHA (SPOKANE, WASHINGTON) –

October 7, 1933

ALPHA EPSILON ALPHA (WASHINGTON, D.C.) –

August 14, 1934

ALPHA ZETA ALPHA (SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH) –

January 24, 1935

ALPHA ETA ALPHA (JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA) –

December 27, 1934

ALPHA THETA ALPHA (BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA) –

January 29, 1935

ALPHA IOTA ALPHA (COLUMBUS, OHIO) –

February 23, 1935

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA (PASADENA, CALIFORNIA) –

April 6, 1935

ALPHA LAMBDA ALPHA (CINCINNATI, OHIO) –

April 4, 1935

ALPHA MU ALPHA (AKRON, OHIO) – May 5, 1935

ALPHA NU ALPHA (WEST CLEVELAND, OHIO) –

May 6, 1935

ALPHA XI ALPHA (MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN) –

May 18, 1935

ALPHA OMICRON ALPHA (DES MOINES, IOWA) –

June 21, 1935

ALPHA PI ALPHA (FORT WAYNE, INDIANA) –

June 22, 1935

ALPHA RHO ALPHA (CENTRAL NEW JERSEY) –

May 23, 1936

ALPHA SIGMA ALPHA (WICHITA, KANSAS) –

August 6, 1936

ALPHA TAU ALPHA (WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA) –

January 2, 1937

ALPHA UPSILON ALPHA (ALBION/JACKSON, MICHIGAN) – May 13, 1937

ALPHA PHI ALPHA (OAK PARK, ILLINOIS) –

May 17, 1938

ALPHA CHI ALPHA (TULSA, OKLAHOMA) –

October 8, 1938

ALPHA PSI ALPHA (OMAHA, NEBRASKA) –

May 21, 1938

ALPHA OMEGA ALPHA (DETROIT, MICHIGAN) –

March 1, 1941

BETA GAMMA BETA (ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO) – March 17, 1941

BETA DELTA BETA (LAKELAND, FLORIDA) –

July 1, 1941

BETA EPSILON BETA (EVANSVILLE, INDIANA) –

December 30, 1944

BETA ZETA BETA (HOUSTON, TEXAS) –

November 21, 1944

BETA ETA BETA (EL PASO, TEXAS) – June 24, 1945

BETA THETA BETA (TOPEKA, KANSAS) – May 25, 1946

BETA IOTA BETA (EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN) –

October 5, 1946

BETA KAPPA BETA (DALLAS, TEXAS) –

February 9, 1947

BETA LAMBDA BETA (AUSTIN, TEXAS) –

February 27, 1947

BETA MU BETA (NORMAN, OKLAHOMA) –

January 16, 1947

BETA NU BETA (TUCSON, ARIZONA) –

January 22, 1947

BETA XI BETA (GREATER WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK) – March 5, 1947

BETA OMICRON BETA (MIAMI, FLORIDA) –

March 22, 1947

BETA PI BETA (ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN) –

February 22, 1947

BETA RHO BETA (LARAMIE, WYOMING) –

April 13, 1947

BETA SIGMA BETA (DECATUR, ILLINOIS) –

April 18, 1947

BETA TAU BETA (SALEM, OREGON) – March 17, 1947

BETA UPSILON BETA (CANTON, OHIO) –

January 12, 1948

BETA PHI BETA (TOLEDO, OHIO) – January 20, 1948

BETA CHI BETA (TACOMA, WASHINGTON) –

May 14, 1948

BETA PSI BETA (ALLIANCE, OHIO) – August 3, 1948

BETA OMEGA BETA (PHOENIX, ARIZONA) –

January 28, 1949

GAMMA DELTA GAMMA (LAWRENCE, KANSAS) –

April 2, 1949

GAMMA EPSILON GAMMA (WALLA WALLA, WASHINGTON) – June 1, 1949

GAMMA ZETA GAMMA (SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA) –

February 17, 1950

GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OREGON) –

January 18, 1950

GAMMA THETA GAMMA (LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA) – November 17, 1951

GAMMA IOTA GAMMA (SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA) – December 13, 1952

GAMMA KAPPA GAMMA (SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS) –

December 31, 1952

GAMMA LAMBDA GAMMA (DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS) – March 5, 1957

GAMMA MU GAMMA (PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA) –

November 25, 1957

GAMMA NU GAMMA (BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA) –

September 1, 1958

GAMMA XI GAMMA (LUBBOCK, TEXAS) – July 1, 1960

GAMMA OMICRON GAMMA (EAST CLEVELAND, OHIO) – July 18, 1963

GAMMA PI GAMMA (LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA) –

December 25, 1963

GAMMA RHO GAMMA (MID-MICHIGAN) –

September 1, 1966

GAMMA SIGMA GAMMA (ROCHESTER, NEW YORK) –

January 26, 1968

GAMMA TAU GAMMA (NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA) – March 8, 1968

GAMMA UPSILON GAMMA (ORLANDO, FLORIDA) –

September 10, 1971

GAMMA PHI GAMMA (TAMPA, FLORIDA) –

April 13, 1973

GAMMA CHI GAMMA (NORTH CHICAGO, ILLINOIS) –

January 5, 1976

GAMMA PSI GAMMA (SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA) –

October 12, 1977

GAMMA OMEGA GAMMA (NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA) – January 11, 1978

DELTA EPSILON DELTA (COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO) – March 1, 1979

DELTA ZETA DELTA (SAN MATEO, CALIFORNIA) –

February 22, 1979

DELTA ETA DELTA (ARLINGTON, TEXAS) –

September 8, 1980

DELTA THETA DELTA (ANDERSON, INDIANA) –

September 1, 1981

DELTA IOTA DELTA (SOUTH LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA) – March 3, 1982

DELTA KAPPA DELTA (PALM BEACH, FLORIDA) –

October 8, 1982

DELTA LAMBDA DELTA (KAY COUNTY, OKLAHOMA) –

January 25, 1983

DELTA MU DELTA (GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA) –

January 29, 1983

DELTA NU DELTA (SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA) –

September 18, 1983

DELTA XI DELTA (KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE) –

February 29, 1984

DELTA OMICRON DELTA (HOUSTON, TEXAS) –

October 7, 1984

DELTA PI DELTA (GULF COAST, FLORIDA) –

January 12, 1985

DELTA RHO DELTA (GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA) –

January 20, 1985

TOTAL ACTIVE: 103

Note: It has been extremely difficult to keep accurate records for the alumnae clubs over the years of Alpha Chi Omega’s history. Clubs and chapters were designated based on minimum membership numbers that varied over the years. Additionally, legislation passed in 1914 required a year as an alumnae club before a group could be recognized as an alumnae chapter. A list of alumnae clubs was compiled in 1935 (and shared in a previous installment of this history book), though the 1935 History states, “many more than this number of clubs have been formed, but some have become chapters, others have ceased to exist when their members have moved to other localities, and still others have failed to petition for national recognition, with its concurrent duties.” As such, the editorial team determined that this publication would only include a list of alumnae chapters recognized by the National Fraternity through 1985.