American sororities have a rich history, with many established in the 19th century as spaces for women to support each other in higher education and beyond. These early sororities set the foundation for what would become a powerful network of sisterhood, personal growth, and community service. Each one on this list has its own unique story, colors, and values, contributing to their distinct identities. From promoting academic excellence to championing charitable causes, these organizations have played a vital role in empowering women for over a century. Here’s a look at some of the oldest sororities in America and the legacies they’ve built.
Alpha Chi Omega
Alpha Chi Omega was founded on October 15, 1885, at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, by seven women from the School of Music. Initially established as a musical fraternity, it has since evolved into a social sorority emphasizing personal development, academic excellence, and philanthropic endeavors. Its colors are scarlet red and olive green, symbolizing the fraternity’s musical heritage and growth. With 194 active chapters across the United States, it has a significant presence in the collegiate Greek system. Its national philanthropy focuses on domestic violence awareness and prevention, supporting organizations that aid survivors. It was among the first sororities to address domestic violence as a philanthropic cause, highlighting its commitment to social issues. It also offers numerous leadership programs and scholarships to support its members’ personal and professional growth.
Gamma Phi Beta
Gamma Phi Beta was established on November 11, 1874, at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York, by four women seeking to create a supportive community for women pursuing higher education. It is notable for being the first women’s organization to be called a “sorority,” a term coined by a professor at Syracuse University. As a social sorority, it emphasizes building strong girls and women through various initiatives. Its colors are brown and mode (a shade of light brown), representing steadfastness and growth. With 187 active chapters, it has a widespread presence across North America. Its philanthropic focus is on building strong girls, partnering with organizations like Girls on the Run to empower young women. It was one of the first sororities to establish a national philanthropic focus, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to community service. The sorority also offers leadership development programs and scholarships to support its members’ academic and personal achievements.
Sigma Kappa
Sigma Kappa was founded on November 9, 1874, at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, by five women who were the first female students admitted to the college. It was established to provide mutual support and friendship among women pursuing higher education. As a social sorority, it emphasizes personal growth, friendship, service, and loyalty. Its colors are lavender and maroon, symbolizing dignity and courage. With 122 active chapters across the United States, it has a strong presence in the collegiate Greek community. Its national philanthropies include the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Sea Coast Mission, and Inherit the Earth, reflecting a diverse commitment to various causes. It was among the first sororities to adopt multiple national philanthropies, showcasing its broad dedication to service. It also provides leadership opportunities and scholarships to support its members’ development and success.
Delta Gamma
Delta Gamma was established on December 25, 1873, at the Lewis School for Girls in Oxford, Mississippi, by three young women during the Christmas holiday. It was founded with the aim of fostering high ideals of friendship, promoting educational and cultural interests, and instilling a sense of social responsibility. As a social sorority, it emphasizes personal integrity, responsibility, and intellectual honesty. The sorority’s colors are bronze, pink, and blue, representing the fraternity’s values and heritage. With 151 active chapters across North America, it has a significant presence in the Greek community. Its national philanthropy is Service for Sight, supporting organizations that aid the visually impaired. It was one of the first sororities to establish its own philanthropic foundation, highlighting its commitment to service. It also offers leadership programs and scholarships to support its members’ academic and personal growth.
Alpha Phi
Alpha Phi was founded on September 18, 1872, at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York, by ten women who were among the first female students admitted to the university. It was established to promote sisterhood and support among women pursuing higher education. As a social sorority, it emphasizes character development, academic excellence, and community involvement. Its colors are silver and Bordeaux, symbolizing the fraternity’s heritage and values. With 173 active chapters across North America, it has a widespread presence in the collegiate Greek system. Its national philanthropy is the Alpha Phi Foundation, which supports women’s heart health and other charitable causes. It was among the first sororities to establish a foundation dedicated to women’s health, demonstrating its commitment to addressing critical issues. It also provides leadership development programs and scholarships to support its members’ personal and professional success.
Kappa Kappa Gamma
Established on October 13, 1870, at Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, Kappa Kappa Gamma is one of the oldest women’s fraternities. It was founded to provide women with opportunities for personal development and community involvement. As a social sorority, it emphasizes leadership, scholarship, and friendship. The organization’s colors are dark blue and light blue, representing loyalty and friendship. With over 140 chapters across North America, it has a significant presence in the Greek community. Its primary philanthropic focus is mental health and well-being, with initiatives supporting mental health organizations. It is known for its commitment to empowering women and fostering lifelong friendships through its sisterhood. It also offers numerous leadership programs and scholarships, supporting members’ academic and professional goals.
Kappa Alpha Theta
Kappa Alpha Theta, founded on January 27, 1870, at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, holds the distinction of being the first Greek-letter fraternity for women. The organization was established to provide a supportive network for women pursuing higher education. As a social sorority, it focuses on fostering personal excellence and leadership among its members. Its colors are black and gold, representing strength and integrity. With 212 active chapters, it has a widespread presence in the United States and Canada. Its national philanthropy is Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), reflecting its commitment to supporting children in the foster care system. It was the first women’s fraternity to establish a chapter in Canada, marking its international expansion. Its emphasis on academic achievement is evident through its numerous scholarships and grants awarded to members annually.
Pi Beta Phi
Pi Beta Phi was established on April 28, 1867, at Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, originally under the name I.C. Sorosis. It adopted the Greek letters ΠΒΦ in 1888, becoming one of the earliest national women’s fraternities. As a social organization, it emphasizes friendship, leadership, and philanthropic service. Its official colors are wine and silver blue, symbolizing the fraternity’s heritage and aspirations. Currently, it has over 136 active chapters across North America. Its primary philanthropic focus is on literacy, with initiatives like Read > Lead > Achieve aimed at promoting reading among children. It was the first sorority to establish a national philanthropy, setting a standard for other Greek organizations. Its leadership development programs have been instrumental in shaping influential women across various fields.
Phi Mu
Founded on January 4, 1852, at Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Georgia, it began as the Philomathean Society, a literary club. It transitioned into a Greek-letter organization in 1904, adopting the letters ΦΜ. As a social sorority, it focuses on promoting personal and academic development among its members. Its colors are rose and white, representing purity and sisterhood. With over 137 active chapters nationwide, it has a significant presence in the collegiate Greek system. Its national philanthropy is the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, reflecting its dedication to children’s health and well-being. It is recognized for its strong alumnae network, providing lifelong support and opportunities for its members. Its commitment to leadership development is evident through its various programs and initiatives aimed at empowering women.
Alpha Delta Pi
Alpha Delta Pi, originally known as the Adelphean Society, was established on May 15, 1851, at Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Georgia. It holds the distinction of being the first secret society for women, laying the groundwork for modern sororities. The organization adopted the Greek letters ΑΔΠ in 1905, reflecting its evolution into a Greek-letter society. As a social sorority, it emphasizes sisterhood, scholarship, and service. Its official colors are azure blue and white, symbolizing friendship and sincerity. Today, it boasts over 161 active chapters across the United States and Canada. Its philanthropic efforts are primarily directed toward the Ronald McDonald House Charities, showcasing its commitment to community service. Notably, it was among the first sororities to establish a national philanthropy, setting a precedent for other Greek organizations.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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