150 Years of Alpha Phi

Our 150th anniversary is a milestone moment measured in memories and mighty moments of sisterhood embraced from generation to generation.

We are proud to honor this special celebration and grateful for each opportunity our members have had to lead, grow, learn, advocate, make a positive impact, lend a hand to others and flourish in the strength of sisterhood.

When we think back to the formation of our Fraternity, it is easy to wonder what small act happened first? Did our history start with a conversation? An idea? A promise? A belief or a dream? Determination and vision? Or did Alpha Phi spring from the innate desire to share love, lift others up, challenge one another toward excellence and forge lifelong friendships?

When reflecting on the founding of Alpha Phi, Martha Foote Crow wrote that the original idea came to both her and Kate Hogoboom Gilbert in a contemporaneous way. She said, “The thought seems to have sprung spontaneously out of the interests and conditions of our life in the university…that small group of women who began the co-educational system in Syracuse University constantly felt the anomalousness of their position, the atmosphere of opposition and criticism.”

It is likely that each of us imagine the specific spark that ignited Alpha Phi in our own way, but the pride we feel in being part of this supportive community that encourages continual growth is unifying from hand-tohand and heart-to-heart.

In this commemorative issue of The Quarterly, we will reflect on the ways Alpha Phi has evolved, celebrate achievements and look ahead as we preserve this moment in time so that future generations may connect with the members of today as they blaze trails ahead in the next 150 years. With sincere appreciation, respect and love for our members, those alive today and those who have entered the Silent Chapter, we dedicate these pages to you and the countless ways you lead with love in the spirit of sisterhood.