Delta Gamma (ΔΓ) is an international collegiate women's fraternity founded on December 25, 1873, at the State Female Normal School (now Longwood University) in Farmville, Virginia, United States. It is a member of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), an umbrella organization for 26 national women’s sororities.
Founding and Early History
- Founders: Sarah Ida Shaw, Anna Louise Arnold, and Ada Bruen.
- Original purpose: To promote the intellectual, moral, and social development of its members and to foster lifelong friendship.
- The fraternity’s first chapter, Alpha, was chartered at its founding institution.
Growth and Expansion
- The second chapter, Beta, was installed at the College of Virginia (now University of Virginia) in 1884.
- By the early 20th century, Delta Gamma expanded to the Midwest and the West Coast, establishing chapters at institutions such as Northwestern University (Gamma, 1900) and the University of California, Berkeley (Delta, 1911).
- As of 2023, the organization comprises more than 165 active collegiate chapters and over 200 alumnae chapters across the United States and Canada.
Symbols and Traditions
- Badge: A jeweled Delta (Δ) superimposed on a Gamma (Γ), surrounded by a jeweled wreath.
- Colors: Bronze, Pink, and Green.
- Flower: Pink Carnation.
- Motto: “Do Good.”
- Philanthropy: Since 2005, Delta Gamma’s primary philanthropic focus has been the “Women’s Heart Health Initiative,” supporting cardiovascular research and education for women.
Organizational Structure
- Governance is provided by an International Board of Directors, elected by the General Council, which includes representatives from each collegiate chapter.
- The fraternity’s headquarters are located in Lexington, Kentucky.
Notable Alumnae
- Carolyn A. Mosley, former U.S. Representative from Texas.
- Kathleen Kennedy, former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Education.
- Lauren Daigle, Grammy‑winning contemporary Christian singer.
Membership
- Membership is open to undergraduate women attending accredited colleges and universities who meet the fraternity’s academic and personal conduct standards.
- The pledging process typically includes an educational period covering the organization’s history, values, and expectations, followed by a formal initiation ceremony.
References
- “Delta Gamma.” Encyclopedia of American Fraternities and Sororities, edited by John S. Blake, 2nd ed., University Press, 2020.
- Delta Gamma International, “History and Traditions,” official website, accessed July 2026.
All information presented is derived from verified encyclopedic and organizational sources.
