E
E D I C A T I O N
Dedicated to you,
AN ALPHA CHI OMEGA
This is the start of your story in Alpha Chi Omega. You’ll be joining more than 310,000 members in the continued story of our sisterhood.
The Dedication is Alpha Chi Omega’s new member experience. Just as the dedication at the beginning of a book acknowledges influential people and sets the tone of a story, the start of your story with Alpha Chi Omega acknowledges the opportunities you will have to connect, lead, grow and serve as you make an impact on your chapter, your campus, your community and our sisterhood.
This Dedication guide will allow you to explore the history, traditions and membership expectations of Alpha Chi Omega. It is designed to help you better understand the Fraternity and your part in it.
Now that your story in Alpha Chi Omega has begun, TOGETHER LET US SEEK THE HEIGHTS!
THE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. ® EXPERIENCE
Alpha Chi Omega is a sisterhood of genuine women who have strength and courage in their convictions. Building upon a legacy of leadership and forward thinking, members of Alpha Chi Omega share a lifelong bond that helps them, and now you, to seek the heights in college and beyond!
Alpha Chi Omega is a sisterhood strengthened by the values we share: wisdom, devotion, achievement and commitment. As sisters, we support and inspire each other to respond to the hopes, dreams, fears and realities we all face – taking on challenges that help us grow into women who will change the world.
Alpha Chi Omega is a sisterhood of real, strong women who stand by your side, cheer you on and lead you to a lifetime of growth and connections. Discover opportunities to connect, lead, grow and serve among sisters who celebrate you for the best version of who you are and who you want to become!
OVER
Alpha Chi Omega SISTERHOOD
TOTAL INITIATED MEMBERS
HERA DAY - MARCH 1: In honor of our patron goddess Hera, Alpha Chi Omegas dedicate themselves on this day to aid the happiness and well-being of others.
Our colors of scarlet and olive green are featured in our coat of arms.
Alpha Chi Omega headquarters is located in Indianapolis, Indiana
HE R A
EACH CHAPTER SUPPORTS A local DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTER
FOUNDED: OCTOBER 15, 1885
20,000
ACTIVE COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS NATIONWIDE TOTAL UNDERGRADUATE MEMBERS
Our badge is shaped like a Grecian lyre, reflecting our musical heritage.
FOUNDED AT DEPAUW UNIVERSITY IN GREENCASTLE, INDIANA
15 EXECUTIVE BOARD LEADERSHIP POSITIONS
ALPHA CHI OMEGA HAS CHAPTERS IN 42 states OPEN MOTTO: TOGETHER LET US SEEK THE HEIGHTS
7 FOUNDING MEMBERS
ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S COLLEGIATE CHAPTERS
Alpha (DePauw University)
Beta (Albion College)
Gamma (Northwestern University)
Delta (Allegheny College)
Epsilon (University of Southern California)
Eta (Bucknell University)
Theta (University of Michigan)
Iota (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)
Kappa (University of Wisconsin - Madison)
Lambda (Syracuse University)
Nu (University of Colorado Boulder)
Xi (University of Nebraska - Lincoln)
Omicron (Baker University)
Pi (University of California, Berkeley)
Rho (University of Washington)
Sigma (University of Iowa)
Tau (Brenau University)
Upsilon (Millikin University)
Phi (University of Kansas)
Chi (Oregon State University)
Psi (The University of Oklahoma)
Omega (Washington State University)
Alpha Beta (Purdue University)
Alpha Gamma (The University of New Mexico)
Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union)
Alpha Iota (University of Vermont)
Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon)
Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota)
Alpha Mu (Indiana University)
Alpha Nu (University of Missouri)
Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University)
Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota)
Alpha Tau (University of New Hampshire)
Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama)
Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin)
Alpha Chi (Butler University)
Alpha Psi (UCLA)
Beta Delta (College of William & Mary)
Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University)
Beta Eta (Florida State University)
Beta Lambda (University of Arizona)
Beta Nu (University of Utah)
Beta Xi (Utah State University)
Beta Omicron (Florida Southern College)
Beta Rho (American University)
Beta Sigma (University of Georgia)
Beta Tau (Miami University)
Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University)
Beta Chi (Willamette University)
Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech University)
Beta Omega (The University of Toledo)
Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State University)
Gamma Zeta (Kansas State University)
Gamma Theta (University of Maryland)
Gamma Iota (University of Florida)
Gamma Mu (Ball State University)
Gamma Nu (San Diego State University)
Gamma Xi (Western Michigan University)
Gamma Omicron (Marshall University)
Gamma Pi (University of Tampa)
Gamma Rho (Texas Tech University)
Gamma Sigma (University of Rhode Island)
Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University)
Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston)
Gamma Phi (Lamar University)
Gamma Chi (Stetson University)
Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University)
Delta Zeta (Central Michigan University)
Delta Nu (Iowa State University)
Delta Omicron (Portland State University)
Delta Pi (University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
Delta Rho (University of Arkansas)
Delta Tau (Minnesota State University, Mankato)
Delta Chi (William Woods University)
Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University)
Delta Lambda (Ripon College)
Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts)
Delta Psi (University of California, Santa Barbara)
Delta Omega (University of Kentucky)
Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University)
Epsilon Eta (Stephen F. Austin State University)
Epsilon Theta (California State University, Sacramento)
Epsilon Kappa (California State University, Fullerton)
Epsilon Lambda (The University of Texas at Arlington)
Epsilon Nu (Boise State University)
Epsilon Omicron (Indiana State University)
Epsilon Tau (Virginia Tech)
Epsilon Upsilon (Mississippi State University)
Epsilon Phi (Georgia Institute of Technology)
Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Epsilon Psi (University of California, Irvine)
Epsilon Omega (Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo)
Zeta Eta (Bradley University)
Zeta Sigma (Missouri State University)
Zeta Tau (Villanova University)
Zeta Rho (Northwood University)
Zeta Upsilon (Case Western Reserve University)
Zeta Theta (Brown University)
Zeta Lambda (University of Virginia)
Zeta Nu (Texas A&M University)
Zeta Xi (University of North Carolina at Greensboro)
Zeta Omicron (Vanderbilt University)
Zeta Pi (Arizona State University)
Zeta Phi (Cornell University)
Zeta Chi (Muhlenberg College)
Zeta Psi (Loyola University New Orleans)
Zeta Omega (Western Carolina University)
Theta Iota (Baylor University)
Theta Lambda (Clemson University)
Theta Omicron (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Theta Pi (University of California, Davis)
Theta Sigma (University of North Florida)
Theta Tau (Rutgers University)
Theta Upsilon (University of South Carolina)
Theta Psi (Columbia University)
Theta Omega (Marquette University)
Iota Lambda (Texas Christian University)
Iota Nu (University of California San Diego)
Iota Xi (University of California, Riverside)
Iota Omicron (University of Lynchburg)
Iota Pi (Houston Christian University)
Iota Rho (Loyola University Chicago)
Iota Sigma (Southern Methodist University)
Iota Tau (California State University San Marcos)
Iota Phi (Quinnipiac University)
Iota Chi (Middle Tennessee State University)
Iota Psi (Elon University)
Iota Omega (Carthage College)
Kappa Lambda (University of San Diego)
Kappa Mu (The University of Texas at Tyler)
Kappa Nu (Carnegie Mellon University)
Kappa Xi (University of West Florida)
Kappa Omicron (High Point University)
Kappa Pi (University of North Carolina Wilmington)
Kappa Rho (University of North Carolina at Charlotte)
Kappa Sigma (The University of Southern Mississippi)
Kappa Tau (University of Connecticut)
Kappa Upsilon (Florida International University)
Kappa Phi (Loyola Marymount University)
Kappa Chi (Florida Gulf Coast University)
Kappa Omega (Indiana University Indianapolis)
Lambda Mu (Trinity College)
Lambda Nu (Northeastern University)
Lambda Xi (Augusta University)
Lambda Omicron (Chapman University)
Lambda Pi (University of Mississippi)
BUILT BY AND FOR REAL, STRONG WOMEN
Alpha Chi Omega was founded on October 15, 1885, at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. At a time when women were just beginning to occupy seats in college classrooms, seven female students formed a women’s society within the school, only the sixth of its kind in the country.
Alpha Chi Omega is an organization built by and for real, strong women. These seven visionary young women laid the groundwork for a sisterhood that would span decades and transform hundreds of thousands of women into the best versions of themselves through supportive friendships and extraordinary opportunities to connect, lead, grow and serve.
Over its 140-year history, Alpha Chi Omega has grown to initiate more than 310,000 members and has 146 active collegiate chapters and 171 alumnae chapters nationwide. Like our Founders, we envision a world where Alpha Chi Omegas are embracing their ambitions, reaching their fullest potential and making a difference in the world.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S FOUNDING STORY
On October 15, 1885, Professor James Hamilton Howe, dean of the School of Music at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, invited seven young women from the school to attend a meeting for the purpose of forming a society. Dean Howe sensed unrest among his female students, which he surmised was due to a lack of social opportunities on campus. He hoped this organization would be similar to the literary societies already existing on the campus. At the time, membership in the two existing women’s fraternities at DePauw was not open to music students.
The seven young women chosen to attend this first meeting were Anna Allen, Olive Burnett, Bertha Deniston, Amy DuBois, Nellie Gamble, Bessie Grooms and Estelle Leonard. While they favored the dean’s idea in principle, they felt that such a general organization would not give them the close companionship they desired.
While they were debating the course to pursue, a welcome suggestion came from their friend and associate, James G. Campbell, an undergraduate member of Beta Theta Pi who acted as librarian for the School of Music. James shared the idea of forming a fraternity. It was decided that such a group would benefit the students, the university and the musical arts –thus, the founding of Alpha Chi Omega.
After the founding meeting, a constitution and bylaws were drafted; the fraternity’s name, colors, flower and motto were chosen; the first eight new members were selected; and the badge was designed – all before Alpha Chi Omega was introduced to the DePauw University student body at a convocation held in Meharry Hall.
Just nine days after the founding meeting, Alpha Chi Omega’s Founders and new members, adorned with scarlet and bronze (later to become olive) green ribbons, made their presence known to the DePauw University community.
OUR FOUNDERS
ANNA ALLEN (1870-1932)
Anna lived her entire life in Greencastle, Indiana, and was childhood friends with Bessie and Olive. She was interested in music and was the youngest student to do advanced work at DePauw’s School of Music. Anna was 15 years old when Alpha Chi Omega was founded, and she graduated at 19. Anna was the Founder most associated with the Alpha chapter. Until her death in 1932, she knew every initiated member of the Alpha chapter (all 700 of them.)
OLIVE BURNETT (1867-1957)
Olive, or “Ollie,” grew up in Greencastle, Indiana, and even though she left school as a junior to teach piano and violin, Olive became great friends with Bertha. Bertha’s scrapbooks and Olive’s commitment to documenting the details, including vibrant descriptions of the Founders, forever preserved the history and founding of Alpha Chi Omega. When she could no longer travel, Olive welcomed sisters young and old to her home in Indianapolis to hear the founding story and always encouraged sisters to continue to “seek the heights.”
BERTHA DENISTON (1869-1950)
OLIVE
Bertha was born in Peru, Indiana, and was our first recording secretary, taking minutes of the first organizational meeting on October 15, 1885. She purchased the first badge and allowed other Founders to wear it. Hers is the only original badge still in existence today (and is on display at Alpha Chi Omega headquarters). Bertha helped establish the Beta chapter in Albion, Michigan. Eventually, she lost her hearing and couldn’t continue with music, but Bertha continued to travel and spend time with her “Alpha Chi girls.”
BERTHA
AMY DUBOIS (1869-1915)
Amy was born in Oxford, Indiana, and was 15 when she entered DePauw. She studied both voice and piano. She had a quiet and straightforward demeanor but was also known as a prankster (one time turning all the furniture upside down in Estelle Leonard’s room.) She was Alpha Chi Omega’s first treasurer but left school after just one year and moved to Kansas, where she taught music. She corresponded with but never saw the six Founders after that one year on campus.
NELLIE GAMBLE (1867-1960)
NELLI E
Nellie was born in Martinsville, Illinois, and was the only Founder not from Indiana. She studied piano from an early age. A friend encouraged her to go to DePauw when her plan to attend Jacksonville College had to be given up. Nellie was the first corresponding secretary and was president in 1886. She reflected on Alpha Chi Omega as having a small beginning but loyal girls with high standards who have achieved marvelous results. Nellie lived to be 93.
BESSIE GROOMS KEENAN (1866-1920)
Bessie lived in Greencastle, Indiana, and was Alpha Chi Omega’s first “social chair,” since most parties were held at her family’s home. Daddy Grooms, as the Alpha Chi Omegas called her father, encouraged and supported their fraternal experience. Bessie’s daughter, Hannah, was initiated into the Alpha chapter in 1918 and eventually became the director of the central office (now referred to as headquarters) for Alpha Chi Omega, helping continue her mother’s dream.
BESSI E
ESTELLE LEONARD (1860-1955)
Estelle was born in Monroe County, Indiana, and came to DePauw at the age of 25 with the ambition of learning music as a means of livelihood. She financed her own education and served as Dean Howe’s secretary for two years. Estelle was the first chapter president and was particularly interested in and involved with the wording of the first constitution and the first charter presented to the Beta chapter. She taught music for 45 years in public schools and moved to Indianapolis in 1945, making daily visits to Alpha Chi Omega’s central office.
ESTELL E
Find the Founder who...
Is from Illinois:
Was Alpha Chi Omega’s first treasurer:
Taught piano and violin:
Was the first chapter president:
Turned all the furniture upside down in Estelle Leonard’s room: Purchased the first badge:
Was president in 1886:
Had a daughter who became director of the central office:
Taught music in public schools for 45 years:
Knew every initiated member of the Alpha chapter:
Graduated from DePauw when she was 19:
Were 15 when they entered DePauw (two Founders):
Had family who helped host the early social events:
Took minutes at the first meeting on October 15, 1885:
Were childhood friends (three Founders):
NAME
Alpha Chi Omega
BRAND TAGLINE
OPEN MOTTO COLORS
“Together let us seek the heights”
NEW MEMBER PIN
SCARLET AND OLIVE GREEN
LYRE BADGE
FLOWER
COAT OF ARMS PATRON GODDESS
TRADITIONS
FOUNDERS’ DAY
Alpha Chi Omega was founded on October 15, 1885. Every year, Alpha Chi Omegas across the country celebrate Founders’ Day on October 15.
MACDOWELL MONTH
In recognition of Alpha Chi Omega’s first altruistic project, the MacDowell residence for artists in Peterborough, New Hampshire, February is celebrated as MacDowell Month. During this month, sisters celebrate the fine arts!
HERA DAY
Alpha Chi Omega recognizes Hera Day, in honor of our patron goddess, on March 1 to give personal service for the happiness and well-being of others.
NATIONAL CONVENTION
Every two years, Alpha Chi Omegas from all over the country gather for the National Convention. This event is an opportunity for members to come together to connect, learn, celebrate and strengthen the bond they have with Alpha Chi Omega. Each alumnae and collegiate chapter sends a delegate to vote on new legislation or policy updates and to elect the National Council .
SUPPORTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS
In 1992, Alpha Chi Omega adopted domestic violence awareness as our national philanthropy. Since then, Alpha Chi Omega members have been dedicated to raising awareness and educating others about domestic violence. We’re so glad to have your support and voice as part of Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropic mission!
One in four women experience domestic violence, with women between the ages of 18 and 24 being one of the most vulnerable populations. Together, we work to end unhealthy relationships and build healthy relationships.
Alpha Chi Omega also works to empower its own members, giving them tools to build their own healthy relationships, and to raise awareness for domestic violence by educating others on its impact and work being done to end it. As champions of change, our leadership around this issue is creating lasting impact in our local communities and the world.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH (DVAM)
DVAM is recognized nationally during the month of October. To end unhealthy relationships and build healthy relationships, Alpha Chi Omega headquarters provides a number of opportunities for members to highlight their service to individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, to educate themselves and others about healthy relationships, and to raise awareness of the cause.
HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WEEK (HRW)
The goal of Healthy Relationships Week is to foster the development of healthy relationships and, in turn, prevent domestic violence and sexual assault. The week traditionally focuses on encouraging individuals to define what love means to them through the Love Is … campaign. We are real, strong women dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence; taking the time to build healthy relationships and friendships and encouraging others to do the same are important steps in supporting our national philanthropy! Healthy Relationships Week is celebrated in the month of February around Valentine’s Day.
SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH (SAAM)
Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is recognized nationally during the month of April. As part of Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropic mission, our sisters remain dedicated to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and educating themselves and others about the prevalence of sexual violence, not just in April but year-round.
$12 million GIFTED THROUGH THE AXΩ FOUNDATION TO LOCAL NONPROFITS AROUND THE COUNTRY
Alpha Chi Omega, along with our national partner Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), provide resources and tools to members for Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April meant to engage the campus community in conversations to stop sexual assault.
THE GOAL OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WEEK IS TO FOSTER THE DEVELOPMENT OF HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS AND, IN TURN, PREVENT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA MEMBERS ARE DEDICATED TO RAISING AWARENESS AND EDUCATING OTHERS ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT.
1
IN
4
WOMEN WILL EXPERIENCE INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN THEIR LIFETIME
Love is... A CAMPAIGN
ENCOURAGING INDIVIDUALS TO DEFINE WHAT LOVE MEANS TO THEM. EVERY 68 SECONDS SOMEONE IS SEXUAL ASSAULTED IN THE UNITED STATES.
IF YOU EVER NEED SUPPORT CALL THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE 800-799SAFE (7233) OR TEXT “LOVEIS” TO 22522.
ALPHA C H I O MEGA DVAM
MEMBER WELLNESS
Being a member of Alpha Chi Omega comes with additional time commitments and responsibilities that you have to balance alongside your studies, friends, family, work and more! It’s an adjustment as you figure out how to balance it all while still prioritizing your health and wellness.
RISK MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY
Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity encourages members to stand up and intervene when something is unsafe or undignified, be a positive role model and influencer to shape the Alpha Chi Omega experience with health and safety as a priority, and make positive choices reflective of dignity and respect. The Fraternity believes that substance abuse prevents individual members from seeking the heights as real, strong women and from exemplifying these characteristics of sisterhood. The Fraternity believes in the betterment of women through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience.
Alpha Chi Omega does not condone unkind, undignified or humiliating activities. No chapter, new member, student, alumna or volunteer shall engage in or permit hazing activities. Hazing is any reckless or intentional act that produces physical, mental or emotional pain, discomfort, humiliation, embarrassment or ridicule, regardless of a person’s willingness to participate, that is required or expected of a member and that is not related to the Fraternity’s mission.
This includes any activity, whether it is presented as optional or required, that places a member in a position of servitude as a condition of membership.
Retaliation against any person who reports, is a witness to, or is involved with or cooperates in the investigation and adjudication of hazing is strictly prohibited.
ALPHA CHI OMEGA’S BACKSTOPS
The backstops are a tool that can help empower you to make smart and healthy choices that reflect being a real, strong woman.
What choices do I have?
This first backstop encourages members to explore healthy decisionmaking and to consider the choices they have in different situations. Alpha Chi Omega wants every member to feel empowered to make positive choices reflective of dignity and respect while striving for a healthy membership experience.
How will I be a real, strong woman today?
This second backstop asks members to make positive and healthy decisions that exemplify the characteristics of our sisterhood. Members are not afraid to stand up and intervene when something is unsafe or undignified. They are positive role models and shape the Alpha Chi Omega experience with health and safety as a priority.
Mental Health Resources
NATIONAL RESOURCES
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988
The Steve Fund (mental health assistance for young people of color)
Text “STEVE” to 741-741
The Trevor Project (crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people)
Text “START” to 678-678
SELF-CARE PRACTICES
Exercise.
Go for a walk.
Move your body (stretching/yoga).
Take a nap.
Meditate.
Do breathing exercises.
Go to bed early.
LOCAL RESOURCES
Cook or bake something.
Eat a balanced meal.
Clean or organize your space.
Read.
Watch a movie or show.
Listen to music or a podcast.
Spend time outside.
Craft or make art.
Talk to a friend or family member.
Go to an event.
Take a bath or long shower. Journal.
Take a tech break.
Make a gratitude list.
MENTAL HEALTH CHECK-IN
It’s important to reflect on your emotional well-being and mental health often. Frequent check-ins can help you recognize shifts in your mental state so you can make changes or seek help as needed to support your well-being.
What is one thing I am grateful for today?
Practicing gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help people feel more positive emotions.
What have I done to practice self-care today?
Self-care helps you balance your emotional wellness.
How much sleep, physical movement and time outside did I get in the last 24 hours? How am I fueling my body for tomorrow?
Your body and mind are interconnected. Developing healthy habits for your physical health can have a positive impact on your mental health.
What triggered the greatest amount of stress for me today?
Identifying stressors can help you manage your emotions in healthy ways.
What emotions did I experience today?
Recognizing the emotions you experience can help you be more in-tune with your emotional state.
Who can support me in maintaining my mental health?
Everyone needs a support system – like friends, family, peers or mental health services – to maintain their emotional well-being.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
MATTERS.
Alpha Chi Omega provides free, confidential mental health screenings to check in with yourself!
MEMBERSHIP STANDARDS
Alpha Chi Omega’s membership standards guide us as sisters while we live and grow as real, strong women. Strive to uphold these in your daily life.
ACADEMIC INTEREST
Intellectual development and learning
All members should have a commitment to learning and intellectual development. This means that you should study and excel in your classes and continue to learn and grow throughout your lifetime membership.
CHARACTER
Integrity, dignity and loyalty
All members are expected to uphold our standards and values fully and consistently. Just as Alpha Chi Omega members are worthy of honor and respect, so are nonmembers. Alpha Chi Omega is a sisterhood with a bond and connection that takes dedication and commitment from our members.
RESPONSIBILITY
Honors commitments and fulfills membership obligations
All members are expected to honor their commitments to their sisters, friends, family and community. They are also expected to fulfill membership obligations as outlined in the chapter bylaws, which include paying dues and bills, attending chapter events and activities, and upholding the Member Code of Conduct.
LEADERSHIP
Involved and engaged
All members should strive to be involved and engaged in leadership opportunities, both formal and informal, in your chapter, on your campus or in your local community.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Personal presentation, social awareness and cultural humility
All members should be aware of how they portray themselves to the world, including their words, their presentation and their actions. Members should strive to empathize with others from different backgrounds and cultures and learn about others with different identities.
COLLEGIATE CHAPTER OFFICERS
Each Alpha Chi Omega collegiate chapter has an executive board that leads the chapter by executing programming and performing important functions.
Note: Some collegiate chapters operate on a condensed version of this executive board.
CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Leads the chapter and executive board and serves as an ex officio member of all chapter committees
VICE PRESIDENT CHAPTER RELATIONS AND STANDARDS
Promotes adherence to chapter bylaws and National Fraternity policies and leads the chapter relations and standards board
VICE PRESIDENT FINANCE
Oversees chapter budgeting, invoicing and bill payments
VICE PRESIDENT RISK MANAGEMENT
Ensures that sound risk management planning and practices are followed at all chapter and co-sponsored events
VICE PRESIDENT RITUAL AND FRATERNITY APPRECIATION
Develops and implements chapter programming related to Ritual, including ceremonies and initiation
VICE PRESIDENT RECRUITMENT
Educates members on, promotes and develops all recruitment preparations and activities
VICE PRESIDENT NEW MEMBER
EDUCATION
Educates new members about
Alpha Chi Omega and plans and executes events and activities related to the new member experience
VICE PRESIDENT PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING
Collaborates with officers and other chapter members on communication and marketing efforts
VICE PRESIDENT MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMMING
Plans and administers educational programming, sisterhood events and chapter retreats
VICE PRESIDENT CHAPTER ENRICHMENT AND BELONGING
Oversees chapter belonging and inclusion programming, workshops and activities
PANHELLENIC DELEGATE
Represents Alpha Chi Omega to the Panhellenic community and encourages relationships between the chapter and other fraternities and sororities on campus
VICE PRESIDENT INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT
Creates and promotes learning and academics through programming and support
VICE PRESIDENT FACILITY OPERATIONS
Oversees chapter facility and booking campus spaces
VICE PRESIDENT PHILANTHROPY
Plans and executes chapter philanthropy events and promotes domestic violence awareness on campus and in the community
VICE PRESIDENT RECRUITMENT INFORMATION
Plans and executes the membership selection process as it relates to primary and continuous recruitment according to best practices
NATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Alpha Chi Omega is made up of four entities: the Fraternity, the Foundation, the National Housing Corporation and Pearl Stone Partners. Together, they work to carry out our missions and vision.
Alpha Chi Omega’s chief executive officer (CEO) leads the professional staff on day-to-day operations of the organization.
The National President and other board members are volunteers that set the vision and strategy of the organization.
The Fraternity is governed by the National Council, a group of elected alumnae from chapters across the country. These six women are the visionaries, leaders and ambassadors of Alpha Chi Omega’s past, present and future. They serve as the organization’s strategic and policy-making board.
VISION
Alpha Chi Omega shapes the future through the powerful, transformative and everlasting connections of real, strong women.
MISSIONS
Fraternity: Through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, Alpha Chi Omega cultivates impactful communities where women are inspired to connect, lead, grow and serve.
Foundation: The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation strives to realize and sustain the educational and philanthropic values of Alpha Chi Omega through successful fundraising and stewardship. Generous gifts from our members and friends enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience and empower our members to impact their communities and world positively.
NHC: The National Housing Corporation enhances the Real. Strong. Women. Experience by providing safe and competitive facilities where members connect, lead, grow and serve.
Pearl Stone Partners: Pearl Stone Partners delivers comprehensive human resources services and supports employees and those who direct them to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience.
VALUES
• Wisdom
• Devotion
• Achievement
• Commitment
NATIONAL PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE
Alpha Chi Omega is part of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), which is a governing body of 26 women’s fraternities and sororities that supports the advancement of the sorority experience.
Alpha Chi Omega
FOUNDED: OCT. 15, 1885
Alpha Omicron Pi FOUNDED: JAN. 2, 1897
Alpha Xi Delta FOUNDED: APRIL 17, 1917
Delta Phi Epsilon FOUNDED: MARCH 17, 1917
Kappa Delta FOUNDED: OCT. 23, 1897
Alpha Delta Pi FOUNDED: MAY 15, 1851
Alpha Phi FOUNDED: OCT. 10, 1872
Chi Omega FOUNDED: APRIL 5, 1895
Delta Zeta FOUNDED: OCT. 24, 1902
Kappa Kappa Gamma FOUNDED: OCT. 13, 1870
Alpha Epsilon Phi
FOUNDED: OCT. 24, 1909
Alpha Sigma Alpha FOUNDED: NOV. 15, 1901
Delta Delta Delta FOUNDED: NOV. 27, 1888
Gamma Phi Beta FOUNDED: NOV. 11, 1874
Phi Mu FOUNDED: MARCH 4, 1852
Alpha Gamma Delta FOUNDED: MAY 30, 1904
Alpha Sigma Tau FOUNDED: NOV. 4, 1899
Delta Gamma FOUNDED: DEC. 25, 1873
Kappa Alpha Theta FOUNDED: JAN. 17, 1870
Phi Sigma Sigma FOUNDED: NOV. 26, 1913
FOUNDED: APRIL 28, 1867
Sigma Kappa FOUNDED: NOV. 9, 1874
Theta Phi Alpha FOUNDED: AUG. 30, 1912
Sigma Delta Tau FOUNDED: MARCH 25, 1917
Sigma Sigma Sigma FOUNDED: APRIL 20, 1898
Zeta Tau Alpha FOUNDED: OCT. 15, 1898
Alpha Chi Omega (ΑΧΩ)
Alpha Delta Pi (ΑΔΠ)
Alpha Epsilon Phi (ΑΕΦ)
Alpha Gamma Delta (ΑΓΔ)
Alpha Omicron Pi (ΑΟΠ)
Alpha Phi (ΑΦ)
Alpha Sigma Alpha (ΑΣΑ)
Alpha Sigma Tau (ΑΣΤ)
Alpha Xi Delta (ΑΞΔ)
Chi Omega (ΧΩ)
Delta Delta Delta (ΔΔΔ)
Delta Gamma (ΔΓ)
Delta Phi Epsilon (ΔΦΕ)
Delta Zeta (ΔΖ)
Gamma Phi Beta (ΓΦΒ)
Kappa Alpha Theta (ΚΑΘ)
Kappa Delta (ΚΔ)
Kappa Kappa Gamma (ΚΚΓ)
Phi Mu (ΦΜ)
Phi Sigma Sigma (ΦΣΣ)
Pi Beta Phi (ΠΒΦ)
Sigma Delta Tau (ΣΔΤ)
Sigma Kappa (ΣΚ)
Sigma Sigma Sigma (ΣΣΣ)
Theta Phi Alpha (ΘΦΑ)
Zeta Tau Alpha (ΖΤΑ)
Pi Beta Phi
Alpha Chi Leadership Inventory
Below are 10 horizontal rows with four words each. Go through the four words in each row and rank each word. Put 4 next to the word that best describes you, 3 next to the word that is next closest, 2 next to the word that describes you less and 1 next to the word that least describes you. Once you have ranked each row of words, add the numbers in each vertical column for your total.
Likes authority Enthusiastic Sensitive Consistent
Takes charge Takes risks Dislikes change Likes instructions
Determined Visionary Calm Precise
Resourceful Communicator Enjoys routine Predictable
Competitive Supporter Loyal Practical
Problem-solver Outgoing Giving Researcher
Productive Fun-loving Avoids confrontations Conscientious
Bold Likes variety Sympathetic Perfectionist
Decision-maker Spontaneous Nurturing Detail-oriented
Persistent Inspirational Peacemaker Analytical TOTAL
Each column has a symbol of Alpha Chi Omega at the top that represents a particular leadership type. The column with the highest score is your dominant type. It’s important to remember that you have traits of each of these leadership types, but this is a helpful tool to help you better understand your tendencies, your strengths and challenges, and how you may respond in situations.
STARS
Stars are naturally bright and comfortable taking charge and leading the way, just like how people look to the North Star for direction. Stars are decisive, open to adventure and competitive. Stars are confident and self-reliant. They tend to take the lead if nobody else will. It’s important for stars to recognize when they need to let others shine to prevent their natural assertiveness from causing issues with others.
STRENGTHS
• Decisive
• Goal-oriented
• Achievement-driven
• Independent
• Risk-taker
• Takes initiative
• Persistent
• Efficient
• Competitive
MOTIVATORS
COMMUNICATION
CHALLENGES
• Indecisive
• Overly accommodating
• Avoids confrontation
• Fears change
• Timid
• May sacrifice results for the sake of harmony
• Tends to hold grudges
Relationships with and appreciation for others
Two-way communicator with strong listening skills and empathetic responses
DECISION-MAKING
UNDER PRESSURE
DESIRES
Slow to make decisions and desires to get input from everyone involved or affected
In tense situations, can yield to the options, ideas and wishes of others
Quality relationships, security, a relaxed and friendly environment, freedom to work at their own pace
LYRES
Lyres are excitable and outgoing. Much like the musical instrument, they add notes of fun and whimsy into all that they do. They are strong communicators and connectors with a knack for networking. Lyres are very encouraging and don’t shy away from being the center of attention. They have a strong desire to be liked, which can cause them to be more focused on what people think of them rather than meeting their goals.
STRENGTHS
• Enthusiastic
• Optimistic
• Strong communicator
• Passionate
• Motivational
• Outgoing
• Dramatic
• Fun-loving
MOTIVATORS
COMMUNICATION
CHALLENGES
• Unrealistic
• Not detail-oriented
• Impulsive
• Disorganized
• Listens to feelings over logic
• Reactive
• Sometimes too excitable
Fun, recognition and approval by others
Enthusiastic and stimulating; will use communication as a tool to inspire and motivate others
DECISION-MAKING
UNDER PRESSURE
DESIRES
Intuitive and fast; will make both a lot of right calls and a lot of wrong calls
In tense situations, can flip from motivating to attacking
Friendly relationships, opportunities to help and motivate others, opportunities to share their ideas, prestige
CARNATIONS
Carnations are loyal, and much like the flower, they aim to share their beauty and kindness with the world even if they don’t get something in return. They are great listeners, very empathetic and encouraging. Because they aim to please, they can have a hard time making decisions and being assertive in situations and relationships.
STRENGTHS
• Patient
• Easy-going
• Team player
• Stable
• Compassionate
• Sensitive
• Loyal
• Dependable
• Empathetic
CHALLENGES
• Indecisive
• Overly accommodating
• Avoids confrontation
• Fears change
• Timid
• May sacrifice results for the sake of harmony
• Tends to hold grudges
MOTIVATORS Relationships with and appreciation for others
COMMUNICATION
DECISION-MAKING
UNDER PRESSURE
DESIRES
Two-way communicator with strong listening skills and empathetic responses
Slow to make decisions and desires to get input from everyone involved or affected
In tense situations, can yield to the options, ideas and wishes of others
Quality relationships, security, a relaxed and friendly environment, freedom to work at their own pace
PEARLS
Oysters create pearls through the complex process of layering a piece of sand with mother-of-pearl over and over for months or years. Pearls are methodical, orderly and detail-oriented. Pearls have high standards and favor consistency and following rules. Because pearls have such high standards and a need for order, the desire to maintain those standards and control can affect their ability to express warmth in their relationships.
STRENGTHS
• Analytical
• Detail-oriented
• Thorough
• Accurate
• Intuitive
• Industrious
• Persistent
• Controlled
MOTIVATORS
COMMUNICATION
DECISION-MAKING
UNDER PRESSURE
DESIRES
CHALLENGES
• Perfectionist
• Overly cautious
• Critical of themselves and others
• Too picky
• Overly sensitive
• Needs all the facts to make decisions
The desire to be right and maintain quality
Diplomatic, good listeners with an ability to communicate details
Avoids making decisions and needs a lot of information before making a decision
In a tense situation, can become avoidant and shut down
Stability, clearly defined tasks, low risks, precision and planning
ACADEMIC AND CAREER SUPPORT
Sisters of Alpha Chi Omega have big goals – and we know you are a student first and foremost! Alpha Chi Omega holds members to a high academic standard, with each chapter having a specific GPA requirement that members are expected to meet. To help members as they seek the heights academically, chapters will provide a range of support and incentives to help sisters achieve their academic goals!
SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS
The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation offers scholarships and grants each year to a variety of members, chapters and organizations. These opportunities are made possible thanks to the generosity of donors.
Scholarships and grants are primarily provided through endowed funds based on criteria established by each fund’s donor. Some funds are open to any member of Alpha Chi Omega; other funds may be limited to members of a particular chapter, from a particular state or region, or those with specific fields of study.
The Foundation awards almost $350,000 each year in merit-based scholarships to collegiate and alumnae members to help pay for educational expenses.
The Foundation awards almost $60,000 each year in need-based grants to collegiate and alumnae members to help pay for educational expenses.
WOMEN & WISDOM
Women & Wisdom is Alpha Chi Omega’s personal and professional development program. Through the online network, webinar series and mentoring programs, there are many ways Alpha Chi Omega can help you reach your professional aspirations!
Alpha Chi Omega’s Network of Real, Strong Women, www. womenandwisdom.org, is an online networking platform just for members of Alpha Chi! By joining the platform, you can connect with both alumnae and collegiate sisters through professional interests and experiences.
The Women & Wisdom Series is a set of webinars focused on exploring career advancement and personal development topics from accomplished women leaders.
Throughout the year, opportunities to participate in structured mentoring programs will be available through Women & Wisdom. Alpha Chi Omega will pair you specifically with another sister who will act as your mentor, and you’ll meet at different times throughout the duration of a program.
YOU BELONG IN ALPHA CHI OMEGA
Alpha Chi Omega is a sisterhood of more than 310,000 women. Each sister has a unique lived experience, and we come together through our shared values and bond.
INCLUSION AND BELONGING STATEMENT OF POSITION
We are Alpha Chi Omega.
We are real women: diverse in our experiences, our identities and our stories. Our sisters must reflect the diversity of our communities, and we must welcome them to an inclusive experience. We are a sisterhood committed to creating spaces where all members are respected, are included and feel a sense of belonging.
We are strong women: eager to embrace the interconnected and diverse world in which we live. Our unique experiences provide an opportunity to learn from the personal narratives of others; we listen with humility and openness as we commit to appreciating all that is noble in another.
We are real, strong women committed to fostering belonging, cultivating inclusive environments and empowering all our members to seek the heights.
Your Alpha Chi Story
WHAT IS ALPHA CHI OMEGA?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA?
WHY DID YOU JOIN ALPHA CHI OMEGA? OR WHY DO YOU CONTINUE IN YOUR MEMBERSHIP WITH ALPHA CHI OMEGA?
CORNERSTONES
Cornerstones are the important aspects of your life that make you YOU!
PEOPLE OF INFLUENCE VALUES
COMMUNITIES
PASSIONS
SEEKING THE HEIGHTS MOMENTS
PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND MOMENTS OF PRIDE
These are moments to be proud of and celebrate – big or small!
FUTURE GOALS
What are you striving to accomplish in the near or distant future? No goal is too big or too small.
Greek Alphabet
TERMS TO KNOW
ALUMNA – an initiated sorority woman who has graduated
ALUMNAE – the plural of alumna
ALUMNAE CHAPTER – an organized group of alumnae members that meets regularly, collects dues and participates in Alpha Chi Omega celebrations and Ritual
BADGE – a pin that is a distinctive emblem of membership in a sorority or fraternity; Alpha Chi Omega has a lyre badge
BADGE/PIN ATTIRE – clean, ironed dress clothes like what you would wear to a job interview
CHAPTER – a local group of a national fraternity or sorority
COLLEGIAN – a member of Alpha Chi Omega who is enrolled at a college or university with an active AXΩ chapter
CONTINUOUS OPEN BIDDING (COB) – an informal recruitment process that allows potential new members to join outside of the primary recruitment process
HEADQUARTERS – the building that houses Alpha Chi Omega’s archives, Fraternity, Foundation, National Housing Corporation and Pearl Stone Partners offices; Alpha Chi Omega’s headquarters is located at 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46250
LIFETIME MEMBER – an initiated member of a sorority or fraternity
NEW MEMBER – someone who has accepted a bid to a sorority or fraternity but is not yet initiated
PACE – an acronym reminding members to Promote Alpha Chi
Everyday
PANHELLENIC – a college, alumnae or national organization established to maintain fraternity relationships among women’s groups and to promote the sorority experience
POTENTIAL NEW MEMBER (PNM) – any woman interested in becoming a member of a sorority
PRIMARY RECRUITMENT – a designated membership recruitment period during which a series of organized events is held by each sorority and implemented by the college
Panhellenic
This program is generously supported by the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation.
Let’s be real.
Someone needs to change the language.
CHANGE THE CONVERSATION
Change how women think about the idea of sorority.
WE ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE.
By offering an experience that respects and responds to the hopes, dreams, fears and realities of today’s women in today’s world.
At Alpha Chi Omega, we are REAL WOMEN . Facing REAL ISSUES . In the REAL WORLD . On the one hand, inspiring. In turn, BEING INSPIRED .
Transforming.
And BEING TRANSFORMED . Together, creating a more positive reality, for ourselves and others.
We are STRONG WOMEN . Strong in the courage of our convictions, the confidence in our actions and the purpose in our hearts.
To know us will be to experience a voice that is respectful, GENUINE , open, EMPATHETIC and honest REAL.
We will define how a sorority will thrive, and be defined, today and in the future.
WE ARE REAL. STRONG. WOMEN.