Alpha Gamma Delta

Alpha Gamma Delta
Name	Alpha Gamma Delta
Founded	30 May 1904
Founders	Marguerite Shepard, Estelle Shepard Beswick, Georgia Alberta Dickover, Jennie Titus Smith Morris, Grace Mosher Harter, Edith MacConnel Hickok, Mary Louise Snider
Type	Social sorority
Scope	International
Headquarters	Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
Colors	Red, Buff, Green
Flower	Red and Buff Roses with Aspidistra leaves
Jewel	Pearl
Motto	"Loving, Leading, Lasting"
Publication	The Quarterly
Philanthropy	Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation, Fighting Hunger
Homepage	https://www.alphagammadelta.org/

Alpha Gamma Delta. Alpha Gamma Delta is an international women's fraternity founded on May 30, 1904, at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York. Established by a group of seven visionary women, it has grown into a prominent organization within the National Panhellenic Conference, dedicated to academic excellence, leadership development, and lifelong sisterhood. The fraternity's mission emphasizes inspiring the woman to greatness through lifelong growth and service.

History

The organization was founded at Syracuse University, an institution also home to other early Greek-letter organizations like Alpha Phi and Gamma Phi Beta. The founding members, led by Marguerite Shepard, sought to create a society that balanced intellectual development with strong personal bonds, during an era of expanding opportunities for women in higher education. The fraternity rapidly expanded, establishing its second chapter at Michigan and gaining membership in the National Panhellenic Conference in 1909. Key milestones include the establishment of its international headquarters in Indianapolis and the creation of the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation in 1962, which formalized its philanthropic commitments. Throughout the 20th century, it continued to grow internationally, with chapters across the United States and Canada.

Symbols and traditions

The official colors are red, buff, and green, and the symbols include the pearl as its jewel and the squirrel as its mascot. The primary flowery symbols are red and buff roses combined with leaves of the aspidistra plant. The fraternity's badge, a monogram of its Greek letters, is a central emblem, and its open motto is "Loving, Leading, Lasting." Significant traditions include the annual celebration of Founders' Day on May 30, the presentation of the Fraternity Education program for new members, and the use of specific songs and rituals during chapter meetings and formal ceremonies. These elements are detailed in the official publication, The Quarterly.

Philanthropy and service

The fraternity's philanthropic focus is fighting hunger and supporting food security, primarily through its partnership with the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation. This foundation provides grants to organizations like Feeding America and supports educational initiatives such as the Journey of Hope program. Internationally, members contribute millions of hours of community service and raise significant funds, with efforts often coordinated through local food banks and agencies. The fraternity also awards scholarships to members and supports leadership training, emphasizing a commitment to Judeo-Christian ideals and service as outlined in its stated purpose.

Membership

Membership is extended to women enrolled at colleges and universities with active chapters, following a recruitment process typically governed by National Panhellenic Conference guidelines. The fraternity emphasizes leadership development, academic achievement, and personal growth, with many members holding significant positions in student government and other campus organizations. After graduation, alumnae can join local alumnae chapters and continue participating in philanthropic and social activities, maintaining lifelong connections through networks across North America.

Chapters and facilities

The fraternity maintains over 180 collegiate chapters and more than 250 alumnae groups across the United States and Canada. Its international headquarters, known as the Alpha Gamma Delta International Headquarters, is located in Indianapolis, Indiana. This facility houses the executive offices, historical archives, and provides support for chapter operations. Many collegiate chapters maintain dedicated chapter houses, which serve as residences and centers for member activities, with properties often managed by local house corporation boards.

Notable alumnae

Notable members have achieved distinction in diverse fields such as government, science, entertainment, and athletics. In public service, these include former United States Senator Joni Ernst and former First Lady of Ohio Hope Taft. In academia and science, notable figures are NASA mathematician Kathleen McNulty and educator M. Lucile Harrison. The entertainment industry includes actress Shelley Long and journalist Michele Norris. In athletics, members include Olympic medalist Nancy Hogshead and professional golfer Patty Berg, a founding member of the Ladies Professional Golf Association.

Category:Fraternities and sororities in the United States Category:National Panhellenic Conference Category:Organizations based in Indianapolis Category:Student organizations established in 1904