Gamma Phi Beta Sorority - Zeta Omega

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Members of Gamma Phi Beta, one of the 10 oldest women's organizations in North America, are proud of our rich and accomplished history, dating back to our founding on November 11, 1874, at Syracuse University in New York.

During an era when women were discouraged from attending college, four bold and courageous friends came together to form a women's society. They bonded together to face adversity and encourage one another's intellectual growth. Now, 150 years later, we celebrate the vision and dedication of those women for whom the word "sorority" was first coined - and all who have come since.

Flower: Pink Carnation
The carnation was named our official flower at Convention 1888. In 1950, members affirmed the color. Carnations have been revered for more than 2,000 years as one of the most long-lasting flowers. Many varieties produce a clove-like scent, and the aroma is said to be both uplifting and motivating.

Colors: Brown & Mode (Light Brown)
The Founders first selected light blue, but after only a few months, they agreed to change in honor of one of their mentors, Dr. John J. Brown. Brown allowed the women to utilize his study at Syracuse University for meetings. At Convention 1887, the decision was affirmed.

Symbol: Crescent Moon
Founder Mary A. Bingham contributed to the idea of a crescent as part of the badge design. The waxing crescent is a symbol of our ever-growing sisterhood.

"We . . . must show growth in knowledge, wisdom, power, womanliness year by year or we are not living up to our chosen symbol." Sara Preston Finley (Minnesota-Twin Cities, 1912)

Crest
Our crest, or shield, was envisioned by Gertrude Comfort Morrow (California-Berkeley), the winner of a Sorority-wide design contest in 1915. At Convention 1927, delegates affirmed that the crest could only be worn by initiated members who were able to understand and appreciate the ideals within.

Our Mission

To inspire the highest type of womanhood.

Our Vision
We will build confident women of character who celebrate sisterhood and make a difference in the world around us.

Our Guiding Principles

We promote lifelong commitment, intellectual and personal growth, and service to humanity.
We perpetuate our heritage as we commit to the growth of our Sorority.
We foster enduring friendships.
We advocate ethical behavior, respect, authenticity, accountability, and integrity.
We aspire to excellence in all that we do.

Our Motto
Founded on a rock.

"Since the rock is the firmest and most enduring substance, able to withstand the ravages of time, and offering the strongest protection, it seemed fitting that Gamma Phi Beta should be thus founded." Founder E. Adeline Curtis

Core Values

Each member of Gamma Phi Beta has taken an oath to uphold the highest standards of womanhood. As individuals, we all strive to live Gamma Phi Beta's Core Values, Love, Labor, Learning, and Loyalty, in our daily lives. Living our Core Values demonstrates to the outside world what it means to be a Gamma Phi Beta.

Love
We value love. In Gamma Phi Beta we value the love and respect we have for one another and ourselves. We value the individual worth and contribution of each member, and we make a commitment to be sisters and to love each other.

Labor
We value labor and service to others. We encourage our members to serve and be involved in Gamma Phi Beta, the Greek community, and our local communities.

Learning
We value learning academic achievement, and lifelong personal development and growth.

Loyalty
We value loyalty, to one another and to our values. Gamma Phi Beta is a lifetime commitment, a connection to each other and our sisterhood.

Philanthropic Focus: Building Strong Girls

      Philanthropic Partners: Girls on the Run

In addition to a new philanthropic focus, the Sorority also announced its newest philanthropic partner – Girls on the Run. A volunteer-led program, Girls on the Run weaves training for a 5K run with fun, experience-based lessons that improve self-awareness, build a collection of positive experiences, and inspire life-changing confidence through accomplishment. The organization’s programming inspires self-respect and healthy lifestyles in girls, and their core curriculum addresses many aspects of girls’ development.