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Alpha Gamma Delta

Alpha Gamma Delta (ΑΓΔ), also known as Alpha Gam, is an international women's fraternity and social organization.[1] It was founded on May 30, 1904, by eleven female students at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York,[2] and thus it is the youngest member of the Syracuse Triad of North American social sororities that also includes Gamma Phi Beta (1874) and Alpha Phi (1872).[3] Since its founding, Alpha Gamma Delta has, as of December 2021, initiated over 201,000[4] members and installed 199 collegiate chapters and more than 250 alumnae groups.[5][6][7][8]

Alpha Gamma Delta
ΑΓΔ
FoundedMay 30, 1904; 119 years ago (1904-05-30)
Syracuse University, (Syracuse, New York)
TypeSocial
AffiliationNPC
ScopeInternational
Vision statementInspire the Woman. Impact the World.
MottoLoving. Leading. Lasting.
Colors  Red   Buff   Green
FlowerRed and Buff Roses with Green asparagus plumosa fern
JewelPearl
MascotSquirrel
PublicationThe Quarterly
PhilanthropyThe Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation, with a philanthropic focus on Fighting Hunger
Chapters199 installed collegiate chapters; 119 active collegiate chapters across North America
Members201,000+ lifetime
Headquarters8710 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46260
United States
Websitealphagammadelta.org

The fraternity provides various social, academic, leadership, and community service opportunities for collegiate members and alumnae.[5] Throughout the organization's history, it has sponsored charities and causes via grants, scholarships, and volunteer hours. Its current philanthropic initiative is a fight against hunger partnered with the nonprofit organizations Feeding America and Meals on Wheels.[9]

Alpha Gamma Delta is one of 26 North American fraternities that are members of the National Panhellenic Conference.[10] The fraternity's international headquarters is located in Indianapolis, Indiana.[7]

History edit

Founding edit

In 1904, efforts to introduce a new women's fraternity at Syracuse University began from eleven women and Dr. Wellesley Perry Coddington, a professor at the university who encouraged his students to form new fraternities[3][11][12][13] and was instrumental in the early development of Alpha Gamma Delta. In May of that year, the founding women chose the fraternity's colors, motto, and badge.[1][7]

Alpha Gamma Delta was officially founded on May 30, 1904, at Dr. Coddington's home with eleven founders:

At the founding, its constitution and bylaws were read and adopted and suggestions for a ritual were made. Jennie Titus was elected as the first president.[14] Unlike many other groups founded at the time, Alpha Gamma Delta was founded as a US-wide women's fraternity rather than a local fraternity or a literary or professional society,[1] also refusing an offer to join one of the other two US-wide women's fraternities on campus.[3][7]

The organization's official designation as a fraternity rather than a sorority derives from an early advisor who noted that soror is a Latin word with no connection to the Greek traditions cited by similar collegiate social groups.[15] Many other Greek-letter organizations for women also refer to themselves as fraternities, although in the collective sense, they are generally called sororities.[16][7]

Expansion and first philanthropies edit

Alpha Gamma Delta expanded to an unusual extent during its early years; its Beta chapter was founded at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1905 and by 1909, its 9th chapter—Iota—was founded at the University of Washington. The fraternity's first National Conference was held in 1907,[14] and two years later it joined the National Panhellenic Conference.[17][7]

Alpha Gamma Delta began international expansion in 1919 with the chartering of its Tau chapter at the University of Toronto. The fraternity held its annual meeting at the International Convention and adopted an international philanthropy project.[14][7]

The 1910s and 1920s saw the beginning of the fraternity centralizing its philanthropic objectives toward single causes. Instead of hosting its sixth annual National Convention, the fraternity's national president canceled the meeting and asked chapters to donate their $50 fees to war relief efforts. Many chapters adopted war orphans or made garments, beginning the fraternity's timeline of organized charitable activity.[18] During World War I, the fraternity supported the American Red Cross[19][20] and various war relief efforts. This service continued during World War II.[7][14] In 1920, the fraternity created its first official philanthropy by starting a summer camp for underprivileged children in Jackson, Michigan, which expanded into Wellington, Canada.[14][18][21] These camps hosted more than 7,000 children and ran for 27 years.[22]

In 1947, Alpha Gamma Delta's primary philanthropic activities shifted from volunteering with underprivileged children to sponsoring counselors for the National Society for Crippled Children and Adults.[23][24] That year, the fraternity held its first International Convention outside the United States, in Banff, Alberta.[14] By 1949, the fraternity had installed 60 chapters and had initiated 20,840 members.[25][7]

In 1959, at the organization's 22nd International Convention, Theta Sigma Upsilon merged with Alpha Gamma Delta and added 19 chapters to the latter's roster.[26][27][7][8]

Organizational and philanthropic changes edit

During and after the 1960s, the organization underwent restructuring, in which it created a separate branch to manage its philanthropic sponsorships and run programs for its members. A separate foundation, originally called the Founders Memorial Foundation, was established in 1962 to handle fundraising; it was later renamed the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation.[28] This Foundation managed the funds raised by collegiate and alumnae chapters via activities and by direct donations to the foundation. In 1979, the fraternity partnered with the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and again changed its primary philanthropic focus, which would later expand in 1991 to diabetes treatment and research.[14][28][7]

Alpha Gamma Delta celebrated its centennial anniversary during its 2004 International Convention.[14]

In the 2010s, Alpha Gamma Delta continued to change and restructure, creating a separate branch to manage its collegiate housing and again changing its service and philanthropy programs. The fraternity founded its Fraternity Housing Corporation in 2010 to provide local chapters with a national property management and funding option; in 2021, circa 100 out of 125 active chapters are managed under this corporation.[29] The fraternity partnered with Feeding America and Meals on Wheels in 2017 and now focuses its community service and fundraising initiatives towards fighting hunger .[22]

Alpha Gamma Delta gives back to the community through community service efforts. In 2016, they launched their first International Week of Service where members from all over North America participate in local community service initiatives. Members volunteer their time at humane societies, retirement communities, local clean-up services, and many more. By volunteering together during the Week of Service, they can impact their communities.

Symbols edit

While Alpha Gamma Delta has no official symbols, it has official flowers, colors, and a jewel chosen by the founders.[1] Alpha Gamma Delta's flowers are red and buff roses, and green asparagus plusmosa ferns, matching the official colors red, buff, and green. The jewel is the pearl. The armorial bearings of the fraternity were designed by founding member Emily Helen Butterfield in 1906.[7]

The fraternity's vision is to "Inspire the woman. Impact the world", while its motto is to "Loving, Leading, Lasting"

Mascot edit

In 1915, Gamma chapter at Wesleyan University chose the mascot, a squirrel, and named it Skiouros, with the following explanation:

"...[S]ome [members] sought a mascot to symbolize the characteristics of the colors and progress of Alpha Gamma Delta ... the little squirrel, a typical frequenter of autumn haunts, was chosen as the mascot. Our little friend, we find, is also nimble and agile—he leaps from branch to branch and [symbolizes] the spirit that never dies, the spirit of energetic alertness and progress."[30]

Badge edit

The fraternity's founders designed a badge; they decided on a new design submitted by Mr. J. F. Newman, a jeweler, in the following months: "The second, and current, badge features a plain Delta (Δ), a chased Gamma (Γ), and an Alpha (Α) set with pearls [the official jewel] or diamonds superimposed on the other two letters".[1] Members may attach one of several honors chains to their badges if they have received the appropriate honor.[18][7]

Programs edit

Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation edit

Alpha Gamma Delta participates in philanthropy through donations made through a separate arm, the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation. Created in 1962, the Foundation provides grants to organizations and individuals in the U.S. and Canada who are involved in fields related to certain causes. The Foundation currently and historically awards scholarships and grants, funds wellness programs, and provides leadership training and other courses.[31][32][7]

Since 2017, the fraternity's philanthropic objective has been to fight hunger, and it currently works with Feeding America and Meals on Wheels America. As of 2018, its campaign, which is titled "Full Plates. Hearts. Minds", provides meals for hungry people and creates awareness of food insecurity.[22]

 
Members of Alpha Gamma Delta at a sorority formal

Local activities edit

Collegiate and alumnae members participate in fundraising activities for the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation and volunteer with and raise funds for food-based organizations in local communities, including Feeding America and Meals on Wheels. Chapters plan their local events, which include fundraisers and galas.[33][34]

Chapters also plan social events such as formals and mixers with fraternities, host sisterhood activities, and reunions, and participate in charity-related events.[16][35] As for academics, each chapter must maintain a 2.9 average GPA to remain in good standing with the national organization. The fraternity has scholastic recognition and programs for individuals who maintain a GPA above 3.14 and for chapters averaging from 3.14 to 3.5 and higher.[36]

Alpha Gamma Delta created an annual internal celebration called International Reunion Day in 1936, as many of its collegiate chapters could not celebrate the organization's Founder's Day on May 30 due to university vacation closures or final exams held on that day.[37] Collegiate and alumnae chapters were—and still are—encouraged to meet on the third Saturday of April instead.

Membership edit

According to Alpha Gamma Delta, the fraternity has an initiated member base of over 201,000 and 119 active chapters. As with all National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities, women may join Alpha Gamma Delta if they attend as an undergraduate a university with an active chapter from which they receive a membership offer.[16] Prospective members must meet the fraternity's national minimum GPA requirement (2.5/4.0) as well as the chapter's requirement. Alternatively, women past college age may be invited or may apply to join via alumnae initiation if they are not already a member of another NPC sorority,[38] a process which 20 of the 26 NPC members also participate in.[39] Due to NPC agreements, no woman who has been initiated into another NPC sorority may join another one, although no NPC member is restricted from joining a professional or service Greek letter organization.

Collegiate members have chapter meetings, philanthropy events, and chapter leadership opportunities;[16] according to the fraternity's website, active membership involves programming with the Epsilon Pi Journey.[40] Alumnae in good standing may join one of 250+ alumnae clubs in North America.

Leadership edit

International Headquarters is the governing body for all members—undergraduate, and alumnae—and is headed by an International President. The International Headquarters calls an annual meeting of chapter presidents and any alumnae or collegiate members who wish to attend. As chapters expanded early in the 20th century, Alpha Gamma Delta established fraternity provinces organized by geographic region; these have directors who lead each province and represent them to the International Headquarters.[18][7]

Individual collegiate chapters follow a standardized leadership structure; they have an elected executive board consisting of a president and several vice presidents with different responsibilities. Alumnae often act as advisors or volunteers for a nearby collegiate chapter.[18]

In 1982, the fraternity launched an annual leadership program, The Leadership Conference, to provide its members with leadership education.[14] However, after continual requests for the program to speak at conferences, present at events, or run corporate retreats, this program branched into an organization of its own, the Leadership Institute, which now runs around 60 programs to address women's leadership, both inside and outside of workplaces and careers.[41]

Today, Alpha Gam hosts an annual Academy for Collegiate Officers and biannual Academies for Chapter Officers and its Volunteer Service Team.

Chapters edit

 
Alpha Gamma Delta house at University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign

Alpha Gamma Delta has 199 collegiate chapters across North America; these are grouped and named by geographical region.[18] The longest-running active collegiate chapter is Delta chapter at the University of Minnesota. Since its re-establishment in 2010, the oldest active collegiate chapter is the Alpha chapter at Syracuse University.[7][8]

Fraternity Housing Corporation edit

The Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity Housing Corporation (FHC) is a 501(c)(7) organization formed in 2010 to provide student housing for the fraternity's undergraduate members. Currently, the FHC provides property management services to about 100 collegiate chapters and about 100 staff members in the headquarters office and local US chapters.[29] Outside of housing, the FHC manages meal services for the members of the fraternity. It reported assets of US$78 million in 2019.[42]

Notable members edit

Business, philanthropy, education, and science edit

Entertainment and arts edit

Journalism edit

Literature edit

Politics edit

Sports edit

Local chapter or member misconduct edit

In 1970, at Eastern Illinois University, Donna Bedlinger died from head trauma after she was left in the woods with other pledges as part of hazing.[67]

In 2000, a member at the University of Georgia filed a discrimination complaint against her chapter, alleging that members denied a black classmate a membership offer due to her race. The chapter was temporarily suspended and received racial sensitivity training.[68] After this incident, the university Interfraternity Conference created a diversity improvement program.[69]

In 2013 and 2014, sorority women from multiple chapters at the University of Alabama – including Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha Omicron Pi, Phi Mu, Kappa Delta, Pi Beta Phi, Delta Delta Delta, and Chi Omega – alleged that either active members or some alumnae had prevented them from offering membership to black candidates because of their race.[70][71] Alpha Gamma Delta member Melanie Gotz stated that the entire collegiate chapter had "wanted this girl to be in Alpha Gam [but] were just powerless over the alums." An alum denied the allegations in the report, and the national headquarters issued a statement saying that the sorority "prohibits discrimination based on race in all of its activities including recruitment."[72] Gotz and fellow students held a campus march to integrate campus Greek life, and following media and national outcry, the university held a second round of recruitment to offer membership to more women, including black women.[70] The Alabama chapter initiated its first black member that year.[72]

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d e f Meehan Pedrotty, Kate (2007-03-02). "A History of Sigma Chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta, 1917–2006". University of Illinois Archives – Society for the Preservation of Greek Housing. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  2. ^ Baird, William Raimond (1912). Baird's Manual of American College Fraternities. G. Banta Company. p. 462.
  3. ^ a b c "The Syracuse Triad : Syracuse University Magazine". sumagazine.syr.edu. Retrieved 2017-10-16.
  4. ^ "Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly". October 2019.
  5. ^ a b "About – Alpha Gamma Delta". alphagammadelta.org. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  6. ^ (PDF). Alpha Gamma Delta. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2022-03-30.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p Anson, Jack L.; Marchenasi, Robert F., eds. (1991) [1879]. Baird's Manual of American Fraternities (20th ed.). Indianapolis, IN: Baird's Manual Foundation, Inc. p. IV-10–13. ISBN 978-0963715906.
  8. ^ a b c William Raimond Baird; Carroll Lurding (eds.). "Almanac of Fraternities and Sororities (Baird's Manual Online Archive), showing Alpha Gamma Delta chapters". Student Life and Culture Archives. University of Illinois: University of Illinois Archives. Retrieved 15 May 2021. The main archive URL is The Baird's Manual Online Archive homepage.
  9. ^ "Philanthropy". Alpha Gamma Delta. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  10. ^ "Our Member Organizations". National Panhellenic Conference. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  11. ^ "Dr. Coddington". Alpha Phi New Member. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  12. ^ "Syracuse History:: Delta Delta Delta:: Tri Delta at Syracuse University:: Omicron Chapter Sorority Panhellenic SU". sutridelta.org. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  13. ^ Becque, Fran (2012-10-10). . Fraternity History & More. Archived from the original on 2018-06-27. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  14. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "Founders". Alpha Gamma Delta. Retrieved 2018-06-28.
  15. ^ "About – Alpha Gamma Delta". alphagammadelta.org. 2018. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  16. ^ a b c d "How Sororities Work". HowStuffWorks. 2007-08-06. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  17. ^ Shaw Martin, Ida (1909). The Sorority Handbook (3 ed.). Roxburgh Press. p. 42.
  18. ^ a b c d e f "Alpha Gamma Delta History", Alpha Gamma Delta, 2010-07-14, retrieved 2018-05-10
  19. ^ "Quarterly Winter 2014". Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly. p. 13. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  20. ^ Becque, Fran (2013-11-14). . Fraternity History & More. Archived from the original on 2018-06-27. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  21. ^ "SORORITIES ACTIVE IN PHILANTHROPY". New York Times. 1938-11-20.
  22. ^ a b c . NIC Foundation. 2017-08-23. Archived from the original on 2018-05-10. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  23. ^ "Mission and History – Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation". alphagammadeltafoundation.org. Retrieved 2018-05-11.
  24. ^ "AID FOR PALSY VICTIMS: N.Y.U. Training Counselors in Helping Handicapped". The New York Times. 1950-05-23.
  25. ^ The Rattle of Theta Chi. Theta Chi Fraternity Inc. 1950. p. 33.
  26. ^ Cooper, Judy (1959-06-22). "Councils Announce Merger Of Two Groups". St. Petersburg Times. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  27. ^ "Alpha Gamma Delta and Theta Sigma Upsilon: Celebrating 50 Years". Alpha Gamma Quarterly. Vol. C, no. 3. Summer 2009.
  28. ^ a b "Mission and History – Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation". alphagammadeltafoundation.org. Retrieved 2018-06-04.
  29. ^ a b "Our Story". Alpha Gamma Delta – Fraternity Housing Corporation. Retrieved 2018-05-16.
  30. ^ "Fraternity Education Review". Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly. Winter 2004.
  31. ^ "Philanthropy – Alpha Gamma Delta". alphagammadelta.org. Retrieved 2017-11-06.
  32. ^ "17 FELLOWSHIPS AWARDED: They Are for Training to Help in Job Counsel for Handicapped". New York Times. 1951-03-08.
  33. ^ Stanley, Josie. "Alpha Gamma Delta hosts eighth annual 5k run". Flor-Ala. Retrieved 2018-05-15.
  34. ^ "Little 500 qualifications, who's in and who's out – Indiana Daily Student". www.idsnews.com. Retrieved 2018-05-16.
  35. ^ "Alpha Gamma Delta celebrates sisterhood". The Edmond Sun. 2018-05-15. Retrieved 2018-05-15.
  36. ^ "Academics". Alpha Gamma Delta. Retrieved 2018-06-18.
  37. ^ "International Reunion Day (IRD)". Alpha Gamma Delta. Retrieved 2018-06-04.
  38. ^ "Alumnae Initiates". Alpha Gamma Delta. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  39. ^ "sorority Q&A: thinking about alum initiation…". Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  40. ^ "Join". Alpha Gamma Delta. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  41. ^ Santovec, Mary Lou (2014-08-01). "Mentors Share the Wealth". Women in Higher Education. 23 (8): 1–2. doi:10.1002/whe.20091. ISSN 1060-8303.
  42. ^ "Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly • Fall 2019". Issuu. 18 October 2019. Retrieved 2019-11-25.
  43. ^ "Distinguished Citizens". Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly. Summer 2010. p. 14.
  44. ^ "Quarterly Fall 2017". issuu. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  45. ^ a b . Alpha Gamma Delta International Fraternity. Archived from the original on 2018-07-07. Retrieved 2019-09-03.
  46. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s . Alpha Gamma Delta. Archived from the original on 2010-08-25. Retrieved 2007-03-12.
  47. ^ "Michigan Women's Hall of Fame entry for Emily Butterfield" (PDF). michiganwomenshalloffame.org.
  48. ^ "Treasure: Watercolor artist a women's rights pioneer". Detroit News. 27 November 2014.
  49. ^ Flanigan, Tom. "Rita Coolidge Will Call Tallahassee Home. Again". Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  50. ^ "Erin Hatley crowned Miss Tennessee 2011". The Victoria Advocate. Retrieved 2018-06-04.
  51. ^ a b "17 notable women who pledged Auburn sororities". Alabama Media Group. 2016-08-11. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  52. ^ "Sorority Flocks to New Orleans". The Oklahoman. 1985-08-02. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  53. ^ "Marcelle LeBlanc of Alabama Crowned Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2022" (Press release).
  54. ^ "Camille Schrier | Miss America 2020". 9 May 2020.
  55. ^ "Birmingham native Marcelle LeBlanc shares how she landed roles in Stranger Things, Cobra Kai + more | Bham Now". 29 January 2021.
  56. ^ "Talent of Leadership Recipients 2015" (PDF).
  57. ^ "Blondes Do Have More Fun". Montpelier. 2001. Retrieved 2008-08-21.
  58. ^ O'Shea, Samara. "Samara O'Shea". LinkedIn. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  59. ^ "Women Making Waves". September 10, 2016.
  60. ^ "Alumnae Recognition".
  61. ^ "Congratulations to Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay". Lindsay Kenney LLP. 2016-09-13.
  62. ^ "2016 Convention Distinguished Citizen – Kerry-Lynne Findlay". Vimeo. Aug 24, 2016.
  63. ^ "Kay Ivey's college friends remember her as a 'natural leader' focused on politics". Apr 14, 2017.
  64. ^ "ElaineFolkMarshall – Distinguished Citizen". YouTube.
  65. ^ "Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly • Fall 2019". Issuu. 18 October 2019. Retrieved 2019-11-25.
  66. ^ a b . Fraternity History & More. 2012-07-31. Archived from the original on 2018-05-10. Retrieved 2018-05-10.
  67. ^ "Organizations Held Liable for Greek Hazing Victims and Hazing Death". The Kryder Law Group, LLC. 2019-08-07. Retrieved 2020-09-23.
  68. ^ Roche, Timothy (2000-11-02). "Blacks Need Not Apply". Time. ISSN 0040-781X. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  69. ^ Horton, Melanie. "Greeks start diversity program". The Red and Black. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  70. ^ a b "Revolution on Sorority Row". Marie Claire. 2014-08-06. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  71. ^ . Her Campus. Archived from the original on 2018-06-28. Retrieved 2018-06-27.
  72. ^ a b Holpuch, Amanda (2013-09-21). "Black University of Alabama students join traditionally white sororities". The Guardian. Retrieved 2018-06-27.

External links edit

  • Alpha Gamma Delta's official website
  • Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation official website
  • Alpha Gamma Delta Chapter Houses Website

alpha, gamma, delta, ΑΓΔ, also, known, alpha, international, women, fraternity, social, organization, founded, 1904, eleven, female, students, syracuse, university, syracuse, york, thus, youngest, member, syracuse, triad, north, american, social, sororities, t. Alpha Gamma Delta AGD also known as Alpha Gam is an international women s fraternity and social organization 1 It was founded on May 30 1904 by eleven female students at Syracuse University in Syracuse New York 2 and thus it is the youngest member of the Syracuse Triad of North American social sororities that also includes Gamma Phi Beta 1874 and Alpha Phi 1872 3 Since its founding Alpha Gamma Delta has as of December 2021 update initiated over 201 000 4 members and installed 199 collegiate chapters and more than 250 alumnae groups 5 6 7 8 Alpha Gamma DeltaAGDFoundedMay 30 1904 119 years ago 1904 05 30 Syracuse University Syracuse New York TypeSocialAffiliationNPCScopeInternationalVision statementInspire the Woman Impact the World MottoLoving Leading Lasting Colors Red Buff GreenFlowerRed and Buff Roses with Green asparagus plumosa fernJewelPearlMascotSquirrelPublicationThe QuarterlyPhilanthropyThe Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation with a philanthropic focus on Fighting HungerChapters199 installed collegiate chapters 119 active collegiate chapters across North AmericaMembers201 000 lifetimeHeadquarters8710 North Meridian Street Indianapolis IN 46260 United StatesWebsitealphagammadelta orgThe fraternity provides various social academic leadership and community service opportunities for collegiate members and alumnae 5 Throughout the organization s history it has sponsored charities and causes via grants scholarships and volunteer hours Its current philanthropic initiative is a fight against hunger partnered with the nonprofit organizations Feeding America and Meals on Wheels 9 Alpha Gamma Delta is one of 26 North American fraternities that are members of the National Panhellenic Conference 10 The fraternity s international headquarters is located in Indianapolis Indiana 7 Contents 1 History 1 1 Founding 1 2 Expansion and first philanthropies 1 3 Organizational and philanthropic changes 2 Symbols 2 1 Mascot 2 2 Badge 3 Programs 3 1 Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation 3 2 Local activities 4 Membership 5 Leadership 6 Chapters 7 Fraternity Housing Corporation 8 Notable members 8 1 Business philanthropy education and science 8 2 Entertainment and arts 8 3 Journalism 8 4 Literature 8 5 Politics 8 6 Sports 9 Local chapter or member misconduct 10 See also 11 References 12 External linksHistory editFounding edit In 1904 efforts to introduce a new women s fraternity at Syracuse University began from eleven women and Dr Wellesley Perry Coddington a professor at the university who encouraged his students to form new fraternities 3 11 12 13 and was instrumental in the early development of Alpha Gamma Delta In May of that year the founding women chose the fraternity s colors motto and badge 1 7 Alpha Gamma Delta was officially founded on May 30 1904 at Dr Coddington s home with eleven founders Ethel Evelyn Brown Distin Flora Knight Mayer Georgia Alberta Dickover Estelle Shepard Beswick Emily Helen Butterfield Edith MacConnell Hickok Georgia Otis Chipman Grace Mosher Harter Mary Louise Snider Jennie Titus Smith Morris Marguerite Shepard 1 14 At the founding its constitution and bylaws were read and adopted and suggestions for a ritual were made Jennie Titus was elected as the first president 14 Unlike many other groups founded at the time Alpha Gamma Delta was founded as a US wide women s fraternity rather than a local fraternity or a literary or professional society 1 also refusing an offer to join one of the other two US wide women s fraternities on campus 3 7 The organization s official designation as a fraternity rather than a sorority derives from an early advisor who noted that soror is a Latin word with no connection to the Greek traditions cited by similar collegiate social groups 15 Many other Greek letter organizations for women also refer to themselves as fraternities although in the collective sense they are generally called sororities 16 7 Expansion and first philanthropies edit Alpha Gamma Delta expanded to an unusual extent during its early years its Beta chapter was founded at the University of Wisconsin Madison in 1905 and by 1909 its 9th chapter Iota was founded at the University of Washington The fraternity s first National Conference was held in 1907 14 and two years later it joined the National Panhellenic Conference 17 7 Alpha Gamma Delta began international expansion in 1919 with the chartering of its Tau chapter at the University of Toronto The fraternity held its annual meeting at the International Convention and adopted an international philanthropy project 14 7 The 1910s and 1920s saw the beginning of the fraternity centralizing its philanthropic objectives toward single causes Instead of hosting its sixth annual National Convention the fraternity s national president canceled the meeting and asked chapters to donate their 50 fees to war relief efforts Many chapters adopted war orphans or made garments beginning the fraternity s timeline of organized charitable activity 18 During World War I the fraternity supported the American Red Cross 19 20 and various war relief efforts This service continued during World War II 7 14 In 1920 the fraternity created its first official philanthropy by starting a summer camp for underprivileged children in Jackson Michigan which expanded into Wellington Canada 14 18 21 These camps hosted more than 7 000 children and ran for 27 years 22 In 1947 Alpha Gamma Delta s primary philanthropic activities shifted from volunteering with underprivileged children to sponsoring counselors for the National Society for Crippled Children and Adults 23 24 That year the fraternity held its first International Convention outside the United States in Banff Alberta 14 By 1949 the fraternity had installed 60 chapters and had initiated 20 840 members 25 7 In 1959 at the organization s 22nd International Convention Theta Sigma Upsilon merged with Alpha Gamma Delta and added 19 chapters to the latter s roster 26 27 7 8 Organizational and philanthropic changes edit During and after the 1960s the organization underwent restructuring in which it created a separate branch to manage its philanthropic sponsorships and run programs for its members A separate foundation originally called the Founders Memorial Foundation was established in 1962 to handle fundraising it was later renamed the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation 28 This Foundation managed the funds raised by collegiate and alumnae chapters via activities and by direct donations to the foundation In 1979 the fraternity partnered with the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and again changed its primary philanthropic focus which would later expand in 1991 to diabetes treatment and research 14 28 7 Alpha Gamma Delta celebrated its centennial anniversary during its 2004 International Convention 14 In the 2010s Alpha Gamma Delta continued to change and restructure creating a separate branch to manage its collegiate housing and again changing its service and philanthropy programs The fraternity founded its Fraternity Housing Corporation in 2010 to provide local chapters with a national property management and funding option in 2021 circa 100 out of 125 active chapters are managed under this corporation 29 The fraternity partnered with Feeding America and Meals on Wheels in 2017 and now focuses its community service and fundraising initiatives towards fighting hunger 22 Alpha Gamma Delta gives back to the community through community service efforts In 2016 they launched their first International Week of Service where members from all over North America participate in local community service initiatives Members volunteer their time at humane societies retirement communities local clean up services and many more By volunteering together during the Week of Service they can impact their communities Symbols editWhile Alpha Gamma Delta has no official symbols it has official flowers colors and a jewel chosen by the founders 1 Alpha Gamma Delta s flowers are red and buff roses and green asparagus plusmosa ferns matching the official colors red buff and green The jewel is the pearl The armorial bearings of the fraternity were designed by founding member Emily Helen Butterfield in 1906 7 The fraternity s vision is to Inspire the woman Impact the world while its motto is to Loving Leading Lasting Mascot editIn 1915 Gamma chapter at Wesleyan University chose the mascot a squirrel and named it Skiouros with the following explanation S ome members sought a mascot to symbolize the characteristics of the colors and progress of Alpha Gamma Delta the little squirrel a typical frequenter of autumn haunts was chosen as the mascot Our little friend we find is also nimble and agile he leaps from branch to branch and symbolizes the spirit that never dies the spirit of energetic alertness and progress 30 Badge edit The fraternity s founders designed a badge they decided on a new design submitted by Mr J F Newman a jeweler in the following months The second and current badge features a plain Delta D a chased Gamma G and an Alpha A set with pearls the official jewel or diamonds superimposed on the other two letters 1 Members may attach one of several honors chains to their badges if they have received the appropriate honor 18 7 Programs editAlpha Gamma Delta Foundation edit Alpha Gamma Delta participates in philanthropy through donations made through a separate arm the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Created in 1962 the Foundation provides grants to organizations and individuals in the U S and Canada who are involved in fields related to certain causes The Foundation currently and historically awards scholarships and grants funds wellness programs and provides leadership training and other courses 31 32 7 Since 2017 the fraternity s philanthropic objective has been to fight hunger and it currently works with Feeding America and Meals on Wheels America As of 2018 update its campaign which is titled Full Plates Hearts Minds provides meals for hungry people and creates awareness of food insecurity 22 nbsp Members of Alpha Gamma Delta at a sorority formalLocal activities edit Collegiate and alumnae members participate in fundraising activities for the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation and volunteer with and raise funds for food based organizations in local communities including Feeding America and Meals on Wheels Chapters plan their local events which include fundraisers and galas 33 34 Chapters also plan social events such as formals and mixers with fraternities host sisterhood activities and reunions and participate in charity related events 16 35 As for academics each chapter must maintain a 2 9 average GPA to remain in good standing with the national organization The fraternity has scholastic recognition and programs for individuals who maintain a GPA above 3 14 and for chapters averaging from 3 14 to 3 5 and higher 36 Alpha Gamma Delta created an annual internal celebration called International Reunion Day in 1936 as many of its collegiate chapters could not celebrate the organization s Founder s Day on May 30 due to university vacation closures or final exams held on that day 37 Collegiate and alumnae chapters were and still are encouraged to meet on the third Saturday of April instead Membership editAccording to Alpha Gamma Delta the fraternity has an initiated member base of over 201 000 and 119 active chapters As with all National Panhellenic Conference NPC sororities women may join Alpha Gamma Delta if they attend as an undergraduate a university with an active chapter from which they receive a membership offer 16 Prospective members must meet the fraternity s national minimum GPA requirement 2 5 4 0 as well as the chapter s requirement Alternatively women past college age may be invited or may apply to join via alumnae initiation if they are not already a member of another NPC sorority 38 a process which 20 of the 26 NPC members also participate in 39 Due to NPC agreements no woman who has been initiated into another NPC sorority may join another one although no NPC member is restricted from joining a professional or service Greek letter organization Collegiate members have chapter meetings philanthropy events and chapter leadership opportunities 16 according to the fraternity s website active membership involves programming with the Epsilon Pi Journey 40 Alumnae in good standing may join one of 250 alumnae clubs in North America Leadership editInternational Headquarters is the governing body for all members undergraduate and alumnae and is headed by an International President The International Headquarters calls an annual meeting of chapter presidents and any alumnae or collegiate members who wish to attend As chapters expanded early in the 20th century Alpha Gamma Delta established fraternity provinces organized by geographic region these have directors who lead each province and represent them to the International Headquarters 18 7 Individual collegiate chapters follow a standardized leadership structure they have an elected executive board consisting of a president and several vice presidents with different responsibilities Alumnae often act as advisors or volunteers for a nearby collegiate chapter 18 In 1982 the fraternity launched an annual leadership program The Leadership Conference to provide its members with leadership education 14 However after continual requests for the program to speak at conferences present at events or run corporate retreats this program branched into an organization of its own the Leadership Institute which now runs around 60 programs to address women s leadership both inside and outside of workplaces and careers 41 Today Alpha Gam hosts an annual Academy for Collegiate Officers and biannual Academies for Chapter Officers and its Volunteer Service Team Chapters editMain article List of Alpha Gamma Delta chapters nbsp Alpha Gamma Delta house at University of Illinois at Urbana ChampaignAlpha Gamma Delta has 199 collegiate chapters across North America these are grouped and named by geographical region 18 The longest running active collegiate chapter is Delta chapter at the University of Minnesota Since its re establishment in 2010 the oldest active collegiate chapter is the Alpha chapter at Syracuse University 7 8 Fraternity Housing Corporation editThe Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity Housing Corporation FHC is a 501 c 7 organization formed in 2010 to provide student housing for the fraternity s undergraduate members Currently the FHC provides property management services to about 100 collegiate chapters and about 100 staff members in the headquarters office and local US chapters 29 Outside of housing the FHC manages meal services for the members of the fraternity It reported assets of US 78 million in 2019 42 Notable members editBusiness philanthropy education and science edit Jani Macari Pallis Gamma Phi founder of Cislunar Aerospace 43 Kelly M Miller Zeta Kappa first female president of Texas A amp M University Corpus Christi 44 Gail Saltz Zeta Beta Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry columnist author TV commentator on psychiatry 45 Beth Ford Rho CEO Land O LakesEntertainment and arts edit Fran Allison Pi radio and TV personality Kukla Fran and Ollie 46 Amber Brkich Mariano Alpha Epsilon TV personality Survivor All Stars winner The Amazing Race 46 Emily Helen Butterfield Alpha Michigan s first licensed female architect artist Women s Movement pioneer 47 48 Clyde Connell Mu international artist 46 Rita Coolidge Gamma Beta Grammy Award winning singer songwriter 49 Ashley Durham Gamma Zeta model Miss Tennessee USA 2011 Miss USA 1st runner up 2011 50 Wynn Everett Gamma Delta actress poet best known as Whitney Frost on Agent Carter 51 Donna Fargo Gamma Eta Grammy Award winning singer songwriter 46 Gloria Loring Delta Alpha singer songwriter author actress national spokesperson for the JDRF 52 Dorothy Provine Iota actress The Alaskans Sugarfoot The 30 Foot Bride of Candy Rock 46 Jeanne Robertson Gamma Delta comedian Miss North Carolina 1963 45 Karen Staley Alpha Omicron country music singer songwriter 46 Barbara Jo Walker Gamma Zeta Miss America 1947 46 Marcelle LeBlanc Gamma Delta Miss America s Outstanding Teen 2022 and actress 53 54 55 Journalism edit Andrea Mead Canning Zeta Chi TV anchor journalist Dateline Weekend Today 56 Literature edit Mignon G Eberhart Beta Alpha mystery writer proclaimed as America s Agatha Christie 46 Donna Lewis Friess Delta Alpha author college professor activist 46 Agnes Newton Keith Omicron author Japanese POW civilian internment camp survivor 46 Heather MacAllister Epsilon Eta novelist 46 Karen McCullah Lutz Gamma Mu screenwriter author 10 Things I Hate About You Legally Blonde The House Bunny 57 Samara O Shea Alpha Omega author Love of Letters A 21st Century Guide to the Art of Letter Writing Note to Self On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits 58 Politics edit Carolyn Bennett Tau member of Canadian Parliament 59 Beth Chapman Gamma Upsilon former Alabama secretary of state 46 Kerry Lynne Findlay Delta Zeta former member of Canadian House of Commons and minister of national revenue 60 61 62 Jennie M Forehand Gamma Epsilon former Maryland state senator 46 Kay Ivey Gamma Delta Governor of Alabama and former Alabama state treasurer 51 63 Mildred Jeffrey Delta political activist and organizer 46 Kelly Loeffler Sigma former U S senator R GA 46 Dee Long Lambda former Minnesota House speaker 46 Elaine Marshall Alpha Xi North Carolina secretary of state 64 Marian Heiss Price Beta Alpha former Nebraska state senator 46 Judy Baar Topinka Lambda former comptroller and treasurer of Illinois 46 Sports edit Cheyenne Knight Psi professional golfer 65 Maria Maunder Zeta Chi 1996 Summer Olympics women s rower 66 Teri McKeever Delta Alpha 2012 Summer Olympics women s swim team coach 66 Jo Ann Washam Delta Beta professional golfer 46 Local chapter or member misconduct editIn 1970 at Eastern Illinois University Donna Bedlinger died from head trauma after she was left in the woods with other pledges as part of hazing 67 In 2000 a member at the University of Georgia filed a discrimination complaint against her chapter alleging that members denied a black classmate a membership offer due to her race The chapter was temporarily suspended and received racial sensitivity training 68 After this incident the university Interfraternity Conference created a diversity improvement program 69 In 2013 and 2014 sorority women from multiple chapters at the University of Alabama including Alpha Gamma Delta Alpha Omicron Pi Phi Mu Kappa Delta Pi Beta Phi Delta Delta Delta and Chi Omega alleged that either active members or some alumnae had prevented them from offering membership to black candidates because of their race 70 71 Alpha Gamma Delta member Melanie Gotz stated that the entire collegiate chapter had wanted this girl to be in Alpha Gam but were just powerless over the alums An alum denied the allegations in the report and the national headquarters issued a statement saying that the sorority prohibits discrimination based on race in all of its activities including recruitment 72 Gotz and fellow students held a campus march to integrate campus Greek life and following media and national outcry the university held a second round of recruitment to offer membership to more women including black women 70 The Alabama chapter initiated its first black member that year 72 See also editFraternities and sororities in North America List of social fraternities and sororitiesReferences edit a b c d e f Meehan Pedrotty Kate 2007 03 02 A History of Sigma Chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta 1917 2006 University of Illinois Archives Society for the Preservation of Greek Housing Retrieved 2018 05 10 Baird William Raimond 1912 Baird s Manual of American College Fraternities G Banta Company p 462 a b c The Syracuse Triad Syracuse University Magazine sumagazine syr edu Retrieved 2017 10 16 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly October 2019 a b About Alpha Gamma Delta alphagammadelta org Retrieved 2018 05 10 Key Fraternity Achievements 2016 2018 PDF Alpha Gamma Delta Archived from the original PDF on 2022 03 30 a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p Anson Jack L Marchenasi Robert F eds 1991 1879 Baird s Manual of American Fraternities 20th ed Indianapolis IN Baird s Manual Foundation Inc p IV 10 13 ISBN 978 0963715906 a b c William Raimond Baird Carroll Lurding eds Almanac of Fraternities and Sororities Baird s Manual Online Archive showing Alpha Gamma Delta chapters Student Life and Culture Archives University of Illinois University of Illinois Archives Retrieved 15 May 2021 The main archive URL is The Baird s Manual Online Archive homepage Philanthropy Alpha Gamma Delta Retrieved 2018 05 10 Our Member Organizations National Panhellenic Conference Retrieved 2018 05 10 Dr Coddington Alpha Phi New Member Retrieved 2018 05 10 Syracuse History Delta Delta Delta Tri Delta at Syracuse University Omicron Chapter Sorority Panhellenic SU sutridelta org Retrieved 2018 05 10 Becque Fran 2012 10 10 Happy Founders Day Alpha Phi the Oldest of the Syracuse Triad Fraternity History amp More Fraternity History amp More Archived from the original on 2018 06 27 Retrieved 2018 05 10 a b c d e f g h i j Founders Alpha Gamma Delta Retrieved 2018 06 28 About Alpha Gamma Delta alphagammadelta org 2018 Retrieved 2018 05 10 a b c d How Sororities Work HowStuffWorks 2007 08 06 Retrieved 2018 06 27 Shaw Martin Ida 1909 The Sorority Handbook 3 ed Roxburgh Press p 42 a b c d e f Alpha Gamma Delta History Alpha Gamma Delta 2010 07 14 retrieved 2018 05 10 Quarterly Winter 2014 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly p 13 Retrieved 2018 05 10 Becque Fran 2013 11 14 Veterans Day Another Day to Recognize Philanthropy and a Special Gift to the Circle of Sisterhood Fraternity History amp More Archived from the original on 2018 06 27 Retrieved 2018 05 10 SORORITIES ACTIVE IN PHILANTHROPY New York Times 1938 11 20 a b c Campaign Profile Alpha Gamma Delta Fighting Hunger Full Plates Hearts Minds NIC Foundation NIC Foundation 2017 08 23 Archived from the original on 2018 05 10 Retrieved 2018 05 10 Mission and History Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation alphagammadeltafoundation org Retrieved 2018 05 11 AID FOR PALSY VICTIMS N Y U Training Counselors in Helping Handicapped The New York Times 1950 05 23 The Rattle of Theta Chi Theta Chi Fraternity Inc 1950 p 33 Cooper Judy 1959 06 22 Councils Announce Merger Of Two Groups St Petersburg Times Retrieved 2018 06 27 Alpha Gamma Delta and Theta Sigma Upsilon Celebrating 50 Years Alpha Gamma Quarterly Vol C no 3 Summer 2009 a b Mission and History Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation alphagammadeltafoundation org Retrieved 2018 06 04 a b Our Story Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity Housing Corporation Retrieved 2018 05 16 Fraternity Education Review Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly Winter 2004 Philanthropy Alpha Gamma Delta alphagammadelta org Retrieved 2017 11 06 17 FELLOWSHIPS AWARDED They Are for Training to Help in Job Counsel for Handicapped New York Times 1951 03 08 Stanley Josie Alpha Gamma Delta hosts eighth annual 5k run Flor Ala Retrieved 2018 05 15 Little 500 qualifications who s in and who s out Indiana Daily Student www idsnews com Retrieved 2018 05 16 Alpha Gamma Delta celebrates sisterhood The Edmond Sun 2018 05 15 Retrieved 2018 05 15 Academics Alpha Gamma Delta Retrieved 2018 06 18 International Reunion Day IRD Alpha Gamma Delta Retrieved 2018 06 04 Alumnae Initiates Alpha Gamma Delta Retrieved 2018 05 10 sorority Q amp A thinking about alum initiation Retrieved 2018 05 10 Join Alpha Gamma Delta Retrieved 2018 05 10 Santovec Mary Lou 2014 08 01 Mentors Share the Wealth Women in Higher Education 23 8 1 2 doi 10 1002 whe 20091 ISSN 1060 8303 Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly Fall 2019 Issuu 18 October 2019 Retrieved 2019 11 25 Distinguished Citizens Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly Summer 2010 p 14 Quarterly Fall 2017 issuu Retrieved 2018 05 10 a b Impactful Alpha Gams Alpha Gamma Delta International Fraternity Archived from the original on 2018 07 07 Retrieved 2019 09 03 a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s Alpha Gamma Delta Accomplished Alpha Gams Alpha Gamma Delta Archived from the original on 2010 08 25 Retrieved 2007 03 12 Michigan Women s Hall of Fame entry for Emily Butterfield PDF michiganwomenshalloffame org Treasure Watercolor artist a women s rights pioneer Detroit News 27 November 2014 Flanigan Tom Rita Coolidge Will Call Tallahassee Home Again Retrieved 2018 06 27 Erin Hatley crowned Miss Tennessee 2011 The Victoria Advocate Retrieved 2018 06 04 a b 17 notable women who pledged Auburn sororities Alabama Media Group 2016 08 11 Retrieved 2018 06 27 Sorority Flocks to New Orleans The Oklahoman 1985 08 02 Retrieved 2018 06 27 Marcelle LeBlanc of Alabama Crowned Miss America s Outstanding Teen 2022 Press release Camille Schrier Miss America 2020 9 May 2020 Birmingham native Marcelle LeBlanc shares how she landed roles in Stranger Things Cobra Kai more Bham Now 29 January 2021 Talent of Leadership Recipients 2015 PDF Blondes Do Have More Fun Montpelier 2001 Retrieved 2008 08 21 O Shea Samara Samara O Shea LinkedIn Retrieved 2018 06 27 Women Making Waves September 10 2016 Alumnae Recognition Congratulations to Kerry Lynne D Findlay Lindsay Kenney LLP 2016 09 13 2016 Convention Distinguished Citizen Kerry Lynne Findlay Vimeo Aug 24 2016 Kay Ivey s college friends remember her as a natural leader focused on politics Apr 14 2017 ElaineFolkMarshall Distinguished Citizen YouTube Alpha Gamma Delta Quarterly Fall 2019 Issuu 18 October 2019 Retrieved 2019 11 25 a b 2012 Olympics The Power of National Panhellenic Conference Women Fraternity History amp More Fraternity History amp More 2012 07 31 Archived from the original on 2018 05 10 Retrieved 2018 05 10 Organizations Held Liable for Greek Hazing Victims and Hazing Death The Kryder Law Group LLC 2019 08 07 Retrieved 2020 09 23 Roche Timothy 2000 11 02 Blacks Need Not Apply Time ISSN 0040 781X Retrieved 2018 06 27 Horton Melanie Greeks start diversity program The Red and Black Retrieved 2018 06 27 a b Revolution on Sorority Row Marie Claire 2014 08 06 Retrieved 2018 06 27 The Truth About Racism at Southern Sororities Her Campus Archived from the original on 2018 06 28 Retrieved 2018 06 27 a b Holpuch Amanda 2013 09 21 Black University of Alabama students join traditionally white sororities The Guardian Retrieved 2018 06 27 External links editAlpha Gamma Delta s official website Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation official website Alpha Gamma Delta Chapter Houses Website Retrieved from https en wikipedia org w index php title Alpha Gamma Delta amp oldid 1206636748, wikipedia, wiki, book, books, library,

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