Delta Theta Tau Sorority

Delta Theta Tau Sorority (ΔΘΤ) is a community-based, non-collegiate service sorority founded on October 16, 1903, in Muncie, Indiana. It is notable for being the first non-sectarian sorority in the United States.

Founding and History

Delta Theta Tau was initiated by five young women from Muncie High School: Nora Spurgeon Charman, Olive Spurgeon Gage, Ethel Busch Lesh, Betsy Gordon Gibert, and Charlene Prutzman Rector. Initially known as the Tyrolean Club, the group decided to change its name to Delta Theta Tau during a meeting at Betsy Gordon's home. Ethel Busch was selected as the first leader, and the colors olive green and white were chosen for the sorority, along with the motto "Grit Wins," which was derived from their high school class motto[1][2].

In the early years, the organization was primarily social but evolved into a service-oriented sorority focused on charity and philanthropy. The Beta chapter was established on February 9, 1905, in Elwood, Indiana. By 1913, there were eleven active chapters, and the sorority's newsletter, GRIT, was first published in 1917. Over time, Delta Theta Tau expanded significantly, with 18 chapters by 1920 and currently having 72 active chapters in the United States[1][2].

Organization and Structure

Delta Theta Tau operates as an independent, non-academic organization. It is structured with a National Council and Board of Trustees, Delta Home Directorate, and various chapters divided into provinces across the United States. Local chapters often engage in community-specific charitable projects in addition to participating in national philanthropic efforts[1][3].

Philanthropy

The sorority is dedicated to advancing philanthropy and charity. Notably, Delta Theta Tau supports organizations like the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED). The Delta Theta Tau Golden Hand Fund provides charitable contributions to various philanthropies, and Delta Home offers assistance to members facing financial difficulties during their golden years[1][2].

Symbols and Traditions

• Colors: Olive Green and White
• Symbol: Vertical Diamond
• Flower: White Rose
• Jewels: Diamond and Emerald
• Motto: "Grit Wins"
• Publication: GRIT

Honorary Members

Delta Theta Tau has honored several notable figures, including actress Shirley Temple Black and actress Mary Pickford, by granting them honorary memberships[2].

Membership and Scope

With over 180,000 lifetime members, Delta Theta Tau is a significant national organization. Membership is open to women of all educational backgrounds who believe in a higher power. The sorority operates across North America, with active chapters in the United States and alumnae chapters in both the U.S. and Canada[1][2].