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Theta Phi Alpha

Navigating the Journey of Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service

Our History 📜 Our Philanthropy ❤️

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Historical Overview

Origins and Foundation

Theta Phi Alpha (ΘΦΑ) is a distinguished national women's fraternity established on August 30, 1912, at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. It is recognized by the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), signifying its adherence to established standards within the collegiate Greek system. The fraternity's inception was motivated by a desire to provide a welcoming environment for Catholic women students who sought fraternity life, as other organizations on campus were not always inclusive.

NPC Affiliation and Growth

Theta Phi Alpha achieved full membership in the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) in 1951, marking a significant milestone in its national recognition. The fraternity later absorbed Pi Lambda Sigma, another national Catholic women's fraternity, in 1952, integrating its chapters and members. The organization has navigated periods of expansion and contraction, demonstrating resilience and commitment to growth, culminating in its current status with numerous active chapters and alumnae associations across the United States.

Evolution and Modern Identity

Throughout its history, Theta Phi Alpha has evolved to embrace inclusivity, opening its membership to women of all faiths in 1968 and subsequently adapting its rituals to reflect a broader perspective. The fraternity has also focused on developing robust leadership programs, strengthening chapter operations, and refining its national identity, including the adoption of a new logo and tagline in 2003. Its commitment to service is underscored by its long-standing philanthropic focus on Hunger and Homelessness.

The Founding Visionaries

Father Edward D. Kelly

The impetus for Theta Phi Alpha originated with Father Edward D. Kelly, who recognized the need for a dedicated social and fraternal space for Catholic women at the University of Michigan. His initial efforts led to the formation of Omega Upsilon in 1909. Father Kelly's vision was instrumental in providing an inclusive fraternity experience for Catholic students.

The Ten Founders

The formal establishment of Theta Phi Alpha on August 30, 1912, was the culmination of efforts by ten women—eight alumnae and two undergraduates—who collaborated to reorganize and revitalize the nascent Omega Upsilon. These founders were instrumental in shaping the fraternity's foundational elements, including its name, motto, colors, and symbols, laying the groundwork for its enduring legacy.

The ten women who guided the transformation of Omega Upsilon into Theta Phi Alpha were:

  • Dorothy Phalan (née Caughey)
  • Katrina Ward (née Caughey)
  • Mildred Connely
  • Selma Gilday
  • Otilia O'Hara (née Leuchtweis)
  • Amelia McSweeney
  • Camilla Sutherland (née Ryan)
  • Helen Quinlan (née Ryan)
  • May C. Ryan
  • Eva Bauer Everson

The Creed

The enduring spirit of Theta Phi Alpha is encapsulated in its creed, a testament to its core values. This creed emphasizes principles such as justice, wisdom, loyalty, faith, truth, and honor. It also highlights the significance of the fraternity's symbols: the white rose for purity, the sapphire blue for loyalty, and the compass for steadfast direction.

“Justice to each fellow man,
Wisdom in each deed and plan,
Loyalty to every friend,
Faith that sorrow can transcend.
Truth to God and truth to self,
Honor valued over wealth,
This is the creed that in us lies,
This is the creed of loyal Theta Phis”

"The white rose for its purity,
The sapphire blue for loyalty,
The compass for its needle sure,
That holds our course firm and secure,
The silver for a precious faith,
That knows no end not even death,
This is the creed that in us lies,
The creed of loyal Theta Phis"

~ The Compass, 1921

Emblems of Identity

Colors and Jewels

Theta Phi Alpha's official colors are Blue, Gold, and Silver. Blue symbolizes the deep bond of sisterhood, while Gold and Silver represent enduring faith and preciousness. The fraternity's official jewels are the Sapphire, signifying loyalty, and the Pearl, representing purity and value.

Guiding Symbol

The primary symbol of Theta Phi Alpha is the Compass. This emblem serves as a constant reminder of the fraternity's commitment to providing direction and guidance to its members, reflecting the principles of steadfastness and purpose in their lives and endeavors.

Floral Emblem and Mascot

The fraternity's flower is the White Rose, chosen for its representation of purity and its elegant simplicity. The mascot, the Penguin, was adopted to embody the spirit of sisterhood and loyalty, bringing a unique and endearing character to the organization's identity.

Patron Saint and Motto

Saint Catherine of Siena is honored as the patroness of Theta Phi Alpha. Her influential motto, "Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring," is adopted by the fraternity, inspiring members to persevere through challenges. The fraternity's official slogan is "Ever Loyal, Ever Lasting."

Commitment to Service

Hunger and Homelessness

Since 1993, Theta Phi Alpha has dedicated its national philanthropic efforts to addressing Hunger and Homelessness. This cause reflects a deep-seated commitment to community welfare and social responsibility. The fraternity actively engages its members in initiatives aimed at providing shelter, essential resources, and support to those experiencing food insecurity and homelessness.

The Theta Phi Alpha Foundation

The Theta Phi Alpha Foundation serves as the organizational body overseeing the fraternity's philanthropic endeavors. Its mission is to provide essential resources for scholarships, community service, and educational initiatives, embodying the vision of "ever loyal commitment, everlasting support." The Foundation enables members to make a tangible difference in addressing critical societal needs.

Membership and Chapters

Notable Members

Theta Phi Alpha has been graced by the contributions of numerous distinguished members who have excelled in various fields. These individuals exemplify the fraternity's values through their achievements in arts, sciences, public service, and community leadership. A comprehensive list of notable members is maintained to honor their impactful careers and contributions.

Notable alumnae include Agnes Regan, Mary Virginia Merrick, Agnes Repplier, Jane M. Hoey, Anne O'Hare McCormick, Loretta Young, Sister M. Ignatia, Phyllis McGinley, Maria Augusta Trapp, Candy Lightner, Helen Thomas, Linda Caldwell Fuller, Nancy Goodman Brinker, Kay Redfield Jamison, Elizabeth Smart, Rachel Simmons, and Dolly Chugh, among many others who have made significant contributions.

Chapter Structure

The fraternity operates through a network of active collegiate chapters, each named sequentially with Greek letters starting from Alpha. Chapters are established following rigorous requirements, ensuring a strong foundation for new member groups. Alumnae associations and clubs further extend the fraternity's reach, fostering lifelong connections and continued engagement among its members across the nation.

Organizational Structure

National Convention

The supreme governing body of Theta Phi Alpha is its national convention, convened biennially in even-numbered years. This assembly serves as the primary forum for strategic decision-making, policy review, and the election of national officers. Complementary Leadership Conferences are held in odd-numbered years to foster ongoing development and engagement among members.

Grand Council and Trustees

The fraternity's affairs between conventions are managed by the Grand Council, comprising seven elected officers who convene quarterly. The Board of Trustees, elected for four-year terms, provides advisory oversight on national policy, coordinates awards, and appoints national officers. This structure ensures robust governance and strategic direction for the organization.

Recognition and Honors

Chapter and Association Awards

Theta Phi Alpha recognizes outstanding chapter performance through awards such as the Circle of Excellence Award, established in 2008. Alumnae associations are honored with awards like the Diamond Jubilee Award for excellence in membership, financial management, and program planning, acknowledging their significant contributions to the fraternity's vitality.

Individual Honors

The Guard of Honor represents the highest distinction bestowed upon a member for lifelong contributions to Theta Phi Alpha. Other individual accolades include the Senior Service Award, presented to collegiate seniors demonstrating commendable scholarship, leadership, character, and service. The prestigious Siena Medal is awarded to non-members who have made exceptional contributions aligned with the fraternity's values.

The Siena Medal, named in honor of Saint Catherine of Siena, is the organization's highest honor for non-members. Recipients are recognized for significant achievements and service.

Year Recipient Accomplishment
1937Agnes ReganFirst executive secretary to the National Council of Catholic Women and supporter of education.
1938Mary Virginia MerrickNational Christ Child Society founder and lifetime director.
1939Agnes RepplierEssayist known for contemporary commentary.
1940Jane M. HoeyDirector of the Public Assistance Bureau of the Social Security Board.
1941Anne O'Hare McCormickFirst woman recipient of the Pulitzer Prize in Journalism.
1942Anne Sarachon HooleyNational Council of Catholic Women president.
1943Katharine DrexelFounder of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament for Indians & Colored People.
1944Helen C. WhitePresident for the American Association of University Women and the American Association of University Professors.
1945Alleta SullivanMother of the Sullivan brothers, lost in the sinking of the USS Juneau.
1946Frances Parkinson KeyesNovelist and biographer.
1947Mary Teresa NortonU.S. Congresswoman from New Jersey; chairman of the House Committee on Labor.
1948Madeleva WolffEducator, poet, author, and president of St. Mary's College.
1950Loretta YoungAcclaimed actress.
1951Anne LaughlinAdministrator for National Youth Administration, UNRRA, and UNICEF.
1952Elizabeth G. SalmonFirst woman president of the American Catholic Philosophical Association.
1954Sister M. IgnatiaPioneer in assisting alcoholics with Alcoholics Anonymous.
1956Phyllis McGinleyPulitzer Prize recipient and author.
1958Mary Harden LooramChairman of the motion picture department of the International Federation of Catholic Alumnae.
1960Mary Ellen KellyFounder of the League of Shut-In Sodalists.
1962Maria Augusta TrappLeader of the Trapp Family Singers.
1964Irene M. AuberlinWorld Medical Relief founder and president.
1966Dorothy Julia WillmanCo-founder of the Summer Schools for the Christian Apostolate.
1968Rosemary KilchWomen in Community Service president.
1976Hattie LarlhamHattie Larlham Foundation co-founder.
1986Candy LightnerMothers Against Drunk Driving founder.
1988Anne M. BurkeSpecial Olympics founder.
1990Helen ThomasFirst woman member and President of the White House Correspondents Association.
1992Eileen StevensFounder of the Committee to Halt Useless College Killings.
1994Linda Caldwell FullerHabitat for Humanity International co-founder.
1996Nancy Goodman BrinkerSusan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation founder.
1998Barbara McKillipFounder of the Libri Foundation.
2000Kay Redfield JamisonAdvocate in manic depression illness research.
2002Pamela MartinHomeward Bound executive director.
2004Susan Davenny-WynerSoprano solo singer and conductor.
2006Andrea CooperActivist sharing her daughter's story of rape and suicide.
2008Diane StraubU.S. Paralympic team gold medalist and world record holder for swimming.
2010Emily Elizabeth DouglasFounder of Grandma's Gifts at age 11.
2012Elizabeth SmartActivist for sexual predator legislation and the Amber alert system.
2014Rachel SimmonsAuthor of "Odd Girl Out" and "The Curse of the Good Girl".
2016Terry GrahlEnchanted Makeovers founder and CEO.
2018Ginny CarrollCircle of Sisterhood founder and executive director.
2020Nikole Collins-PuriTechBridge Girls founder.
2022Dolly ChughAward-winning professor and author.
2024Kristin SmedleyActivist and educator about blindness.

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References

References

  1.  Theta Phi Alpha University of Michigan Founding
  2.  Theta Phi Alpha Creed, accessed 29 July 2015
A full list of references for this article are available at the Theta Phi Alpha Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding fraternity life, organizational management, or historical accuracy. Always refer to official Theta Phi Alpha resources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.