Alpha Chi Omega's Founders chose "Alpha," the first letter of the Greek alphabet, because they were forming the first fraternity in the school of music. Since they thought they might also be founding the last such fraternity, "Omega" seemed appropriate. "Kai," meaning "and," was added to form the beginning and the end. "Kai" was soon changed to "Chi," a letter of the Greek alphabet.
Alpha Chi Omega is a national sorority composed of 135 chapters.
Our Flower: Red carnation
Our Colors: Scarlet red and olive green
Our badge: Lyre
Our Symphony: "To see beauty even in the common things of life, to shed the light of love, and friendship round me; to keep my life in tune with the world that I shall make no discords in the harmony of life; to strike on the lyre of the universe only the notes of happiness, of joy, of peace; to appreciate every little service rendered; to see and appreciate all that is noble in another, be her badge what it may; and to let my lyre send forth the chords of love, unselfishness sincerity. This is to be my symphony."
Our open motto: "Together let us seek the heights"
Originally founded as a music sorority.
Alpha Chi Omega has many slogans, but most impressionable is: Real. Strong. Women. Our philanthropy is domestic violence awareness, prevention, and education. Our symbol is the lyre to reflect our heritage as a musical sorority and our flower is the Red Carnation. We celebrate multiple milestones throughout the year including our Founder's Day (October 15, 1885), MacDowell Month (Celebrate's Our Musical Heritage), and Hera Day (Day of service).
Alpha Chi Omega does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, or religion. Membership in Alpha Chi Omega is based solely on five membership standards. The National Membership Standards are: 1] academic interest; 2] character; 3] financial responsibility; 4] leadership ability; 5] personal development.
Alpha Chi Omega is a national sorority composed of 132 chapters.