Delta Kappa Gamma Society International

Delta Kappa Gamma Society International (ΔΚΓ) is an international professional society for women educators. It was established on May 11, 1929, at the Faculty Women's Club at the University of Texas, Austin, Texas[1][2].

History

Delta Kappa Gamma was founded by Annie Webb Blanton, a faculty member of the University of Texas and former Texas state superintendent of public instruction. The organization's conception aimed to promote excellence in education and the personal and professional growth of women educators[1][2]. The eleven founding members included Mamie Sue Bastian, Ruby Cole, Mabel Grizzard, Anna Hiss, Ray King, Sue King, Helen Koch, Ruby Terrill Lomax, Cora M. Martin, Lalla M. Odom, and Lela Lee Williams[2].

By 2004, Delta Kappa Gamma had expanded to include 2,960 chapters and 132,000 members. As of 2025, it boasts over 90,000 members across eighteen countries[1].

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International is to promote the professional and personal growth of women educators and to support excellence in education. The organization's purposes are:

• Unite women educators globally through fellowship[2].
• Honor women who have provided or show potential for distinctive service in education[2].
• Advance the professional interests and positions of women in education[2].
• Initiate, Endorse, and Support legislation or endeavors benefiting education and women educators[2].
• Endow scholarships for graduate studies and grant fellowships to international educators[2].
• Stimulate members' personal and professional growth through programs[2].
• Inform members on current issues in society[2].

Symbols and Representations

Delta Kappa Gamma's name is derived from Greek words: Διδασκοτικι (teacher), Κλειδουχι (key), and Γυναικεσ (women). The society's motto is "Each for all and all for each." Its colors are red and green, with red symbolizing courage. The symbol of the organization is the red rose, representing the beauty of mind and spirit[1].

Chapters and Membership

Delta Kappa Gamma has chapters across all fifty states in the United States and thirteen other countries. Membership is offered by invitation to women who are professional educators or have been employed in the field. Members can be active, reserve, honorary, or collegiate[1][2].

Governance

The organization is governed by its constitution and international standing rules, with an executive board elected at international conventions. Governance is structured at local, state, and international levels[1].

Partnerships and Philanthropy

Delta Kappa Gamma has been a long-time partner of UNICEF, supporting global education programs for girls. The society contributed significantly to UNICEF's Schools for Africa initiative and currently supports the GIRLS Fund to improve girls' education in Africa[3].

Impact

Delta Kappa Gamma's commitment to promoting educational excellence and empowering women educators has made it a significant organization in the global educational community. Through its scholarships and international support, DKG enhances opportunities for educators worldwide[2][3].