At a time when society looked upon women only as daughters, wives, and mothers — and therefore not in need of higher education — our ten founders were pioneers of the coeducational system. Attending school with the handicap of implied, if not open, opposition, our founders sought support from each other.

There was a need for a social center, a place of conference, a tie which should unite, a circle of friends who could sympathize with one another in their perplexities. They formed Alpha Phi in 1872 at Syracuse University.

Today, Alpha Phi continues to provide a "tie which unites, a circle of friends" for women young and old all around the world. From hand to hand and heart to heart, we are all grateful and proud of the legacy left to us by our founders.

 

Ten women talked and laughed on a college campus. 

Ten women among a hundred men.

Ten women who were forward thinking and who —

even after living sheltered lives —

bought a house, wrote by-laws, set dues, invited members,

created ceremonies, endured the criticisms of the men,

supported each other, and began a network

across the world.

Think back on that time... The women they were...

The organization they began... Once upon a time.

 

Ten women were new members with you.

Or five. Or thirty. Or fifty.

Ten women among the hundreds on your campus.

Ten women became your friends, shared their clothes,

Helped you with your most difficult class,

suggested the right professors,

laughed with you at parties,

and congratulated you on your successes.

Ten women were your best friends.

Remember those days...

Remember the laughter and the tears...

What an organization you belong to!

Once upon a time...

Ten thousand women were members.

Now over 100,000 belong.

10,000 women are your NETWORK...

your SUPPORT...

your SISTERS.