History of Kappa Alpha Theta

Founded on January 27, 1870 at Indiana Asbury University, now known as DePauw University, in Greencastle, Indiana, Theta is the first Greek-letter women's fraternity. Theta's four founders, Bettie Locke Hamilton, Alice Allen Brant, Bettie Tipton Lindsey, and Hannah Fitch Shaw, were forward-thinking women who were among the first ever admitted to the college. Common interests in and dedication to excellent scholarship and loyal, supportive friendships united Theta's founders.

Bettie Locke Hamilton was the motivating force behind the creation of Kappa Alpha Theta. When Bettie was asked to wear the badge of Phi Gamma Delta, a men's fraternity, as a symbol of friendship, Bettie declined because she was not allowed to participate in or have knowledge of the fraternity's rituals. The exclusion of Bettie from Phi Gamma Delta prompted her to organize her own fraternity. Bettie did however accept the gift of a silver cake basket from the fraternity Phi Gamma Delta engraved with their greek letters. Bettie Locke Hamilton later used this basket to hold the Founders Day messages received from Thetas all over the country every year, and is now a treasured historic memento. For a history timeline click here

History of Epsilon Eta

Founded in 1980, Epsilon Eta Chapter at Centre College is committed to high scholarship, active service at Centre and in the Danville community and a well-rounded social life. Theta's commitment to the Centre community is evident in our participation in every facet of college life, from involvement in service organizations such as LIFT and CARE to participation in varsity and intramural sports. Thetas also excel in the classroom and have been recognized by the national organization for academic excellence. Thetas are active philanthropists through participation with our national philanthropy, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).

Centre Thetas are also involved in a program to help local families of autistic children. In addition to our involvement in various service projects, Centre Thetas are known for a great social life. Chapter events include Theta Prom, fall and spring informals, grab-a-dates, as well as cookouts with other fraternities and sororities. Theta's Halloween Fireside is a popular fall tradition open to the whole campus. Thetas are known for their enthusiasm, campus involvement, and diversity. Centre Thetas develop strong friendships and loving memories that they will carry on into their adult life. For over 125 years, intelligent and compassionate women have called Kappa Alpha Theta their fraternity.

Theta... for a lifetime.

Facts

• The first women admitted to Phi Beta Kappa were Thetas.
• The first women's fraternity to establish a chapter in Canada was Kappa Alpha Theta.
• The first woman elected to the U.S. Senate in her own right was a Theta.
• Theta now boasts more than 128 college chapters, 252 alumnae groups, and 150,000 members

Philanthropy

Theta's International Philanthropy is Court Appointed Special Advocates. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to speak up for abused and neglected children in courts. With the information these volunteers gather through their work with social workers, parents, children, teachers, and others, judges can make informed decisions about the needs of children - foster care, reunification, or adoption. Through the efforts of CASA volunteers, children have a better chance of living in safe, loving homes. For more about our philanthropy, click logo to link to the national CASA homepage.

Symbols

Fraternity Purpose:

The intellectual ambition of the Fraternity shall be the attainment of highest scholarship. The social aim of the Fraternity shall be to exercise the widest influence for good. The moral aim of the Fraternity shall be the standard of love.

Mission Statement:

Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, Kappa Alpha Theta exists to nurture each member throughout her college and alumnae experience and to offer a lifelong opportunity for social, intellectual and moral growth as she meets the higher and broader demands of mature life.

Fraternity Headquarters:

Kappa Alpha Theta International Headquarters is staffed by approximately 25 women and men who manage administrative aspects of the Fraternity and Foundation. Headquarters is located at 8740 Founders Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268.

Famous Thetas