Chi Omega Fraternity

Chi Omega Fraternity is the largest women's fraternal organization in the world, boasting over 418,000 initiates with 181 collegiate chapters and 248 alumnae chapters[1][2][5]. Despite being a women's organization, Chi Omega refers to itself as a women's fraternity.

History

Founded on April 5, 1895, at the University of Arkansas, Chi Omega was established by five young women: Ina May Boles, Jean Vincenheller, Jobelle Holcombe, Alice Simonds, with the assistance of Dr. Charles Richardson, a local dentist and initiate of Kappa Sigma Fraternity[2][3][5]. The founding chapter is known as the Psi chapter. Initially, the focus was on creating a community that fostered friendship and respect for women's potential.

By its 10th anniversary in 1905, Chi Omega had installed 17 chapters across the United States, supported by its early alumnae and Dr. Richardson[3][5]. The fraternity joined the National Panhellenic Conference in 1903, a significant milestone in its growth[2][5].

Philosophy and Purposes

Chi Omega's six guiding purposes are:

• Friendship
• High Standards of Personnel
• Sincere Learning and Creditable Scholarship
• Participation in Campus Activities
• Career Development
• Community Service[1][4].

These purposes aim to cultivate a balanced life while fostering personal growth and community engagement.

Symbols and Traditions

Chi Omega's symbols include the owl as its mascot, symbolizing wisdom; the skull and crossbones, representing courage; the white carnation, as its official flower; and cardinal and straw as its colors[2][5]. The fraternity's official jewel is the pearl and diamond[2]. The Chi Omega badge, originally made from dental gold by Dr. Richardson, is a symbol of pride and unity among its members[3][5].

Philanthropy

Since 2002, Chi Omega has partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, emphasizing its commitment to community service and philanthropy. Through this partnership, Chi Omega has raised over $19 million and volunteered over a million hours[2].

Governance

The fraternity is overseen by a Governing Council consisting of five elected alumnae, who serve two-year terms. Each chapter receives annual visits from National Consultants to aid in member development.

Publications

The Eleusis, the fraternity's official publication, has been in circulation since 1899. Initially edited by Ida Pace Purdue, it now distributes over 243,000 copies to members twice annually[5].

Leadership Development

The Nancy Walton Laurie Leadership Institute is a prominent leadership training program for both collegiate and alumnae members, focusing on personal development and leadership skills[2].