Alpha Chi Omega was founded on October 15, 1885 at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. Its purpose was to give students in music an organization similar to the literary societies already on that campus. While at first membership was only offered to students in the School of Music, it later expanded to include liberal art students who took at least one music class. Today there is no music requirement, but as seen through our traditions we still celebrate what our fraternity was founded on.
To this date, there are 135 chapters of Alpha Chi Omega in 40 states, totaling over 200,000 initiated members.
Eta Chapter
Eta, the sixth chapter formed after Alpha Chi's founding, was established on June 16, 1898. The faculty passed a ruling that required sophomore pledging immediately after the installation of the chapter. The young chapter was not strong enough to meet this requirement and it became inactive in June 1899. It was reestablished on April 1, 1921.
Brand: Real. Strong. Women.
Motto: Together let us seek the heights.
Patron Goddess: Hera, guardian of women
Philanthropy: Domestic violence awareness
Badge: Grecian lyre, reflecting our musical heritage
Colors: Scarlet and Olive Green
Flower: Red Carnation
Founder's Day
The first meeting of Alpha Chi Omega was held on October 15th, 1885. Each year the sisters of Eta find a special way to celebrate.
Hera Day
Hera was chosen as the patroness of Alpha Chi Omega. According to Greek mythology, she was wed to Zeus, the supreme god of the ancient Greeks. She was the most regal of goddesses, and as "Queen of Heaven," she shared in the honors with Zeus. Their marriage was held in spring, so the Greeks held annual spring festivals in their honor called Heraea. On March 1st, Alpha Chi dedicates that day to the service and happiness of others.
