History of Alpha Chi Omega

Alpha Chi Omega was founded on October 15, 1885 at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. Professor James Hamilton Howe, Dean of the Music School, invited seven young women from the school to attend a meeting for the purpose of forming a society. The first appearance of the seven founders - Anna Allen, Olive Burnett, Bertha Deniston, Amy DuBois, Nellie Gamble, Bessie Grooms and Estelle Leonard was in Meharry Hall, where they wore scarlet and olive green ribbon streamers attached to their dresses.

These women chose the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet—Alpha and Omega, with “Kai” meaning "And" in the middle, which they later changed to the Greek letter Chi. Our founders were the first fraternity in the music school and chose their name because they also believed they would be the last such organization.

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According to our founders, the purpose of Alpha Chi Omega is to advance “the intellectual, social and moral culture” of its members. Today, Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation, and our National Housing Corporation serve more than 200,000 members in more than 130 collegiate chapters and 200 alumnae chapters nationwide.

Alpha Gamma Alpha is comprised of Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae from all across the nation that reside in the Atlanta, GA area. We are dedicated to furthering the Alpha Chi Omega mission to inspire women to connect, lead, grow and serve. We believe that your Alpha Chi Omega journey doesn’t end at graduation – we strive to continue to seek the heights as Real. Strong. Women. together.

Real. Strong. Women.

"Together Let Us Seek the Heights" 

Domestic Violence Awareness, Prevention, and Education

Scarlet and Olive Green

Red Carnation

The lyre represents our background in musical interest, and according to Greek mythology, it was the first musical instrument to be played on Mt. Olympus by the gods.

Founder's Day celebrates the birth of Alpha Chi Omega.

In honor of our patron goddess Hera, members of Alpha Chi Omega spend this day dedicated to helping others through service.

During this month, all members are encouraged to find time to appreciate art in order to honor our founder's musical heritage.