Delta Theta Tau Sorority

Delta Theta Tau Sorority (ΔΘΤ) is a non-collegiate, community-based service sorority in North America, founded on October 16, 1903, in Muncie, Indiana. It was established as the first non-sectarian sorority in the United States. The sorority members are required to believe in a higher power, making it inclusive for women from diverse backgrounds[1][2].

History

Delta Theta Tau was founded by five high school girls: Nora Spurgeon Charman, Olive Spurgeon Gage, Ethel Busch Lesh, Betsy Gordon Gibert, and Charline Prutzman Rector. Initially named the Tyrolean Club, the group changed its name to Delta Theta Tau and drafted its constitution during the founding meeting at Betsy Gordon's home. Ethel Busch was chosen as the first leader[1][3].

The first pledges were Bess Staigers, Charline Knapp Murray, Anna Hilling, Della Ault, and Florence Jackson. Over time, the sorority evolved from a social organization into a service-oriented sorority dedicated to philanthropy and charity[1].

Organization and Structure

Delta Theta Tau has 72 active chapters and over 50 alumnae chapters across the United States and Canada. Membership can begin at the age of 18, and members come from all ages and walks of life[2][4]. The sorority operates through a national council and is divided into provinces, each supporting local philanthropic projects[3].

Symbols and Traditions

The sorority's symbols are the vertical diamond, with olive green and white as its colors, the white rose as its flower, and diamond and emerald as its jewels[1][2]. The motto, "Grit Wins," reflects the spirit of resilience and dedication to community service[1].

Philanthropy

Delta Theta Tau Sorority is deeply involved in philanthropic activities. Over the past decade, it has supported the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED), a group of disorders affecting the development of skin, hair, teeth, and other ectodermal tissues. The sorority also runs the Golden Hand Fund, a non-profit entity providing financial assistance to various charities[1][2].

Additionally, Delta Theta Tau offers anonymous financial support to members in their golden years through its Delta Home program[1][2].

Publications

The sorority publishes a quarterly magazine called GRIT, which covers national and local chapter news, conventions, and philanthropic activities. GRIT has been in publication since 1917, initially priced at $0.50 per copy, and now features a full-color format[1][3].