As we mark Phi Sigma Sigma Founders Day, we embark on a journey to honor the remarkable women who laid the foundation for this extraordinary sorority. Join us as we delve into its rich history, traditions, and the profound impact it has had on its members over the years.
Established in 1899, Phi Sigma Sigma has a proud legacy of empowering women through friendship, scholarship, and service. On Founders Day, we celebrate the unwavering spirit of its founders and the enduring values that have shaped the sorority’s identity.
Founders Day Overview
Founders Day is a significant annual celebration for Phi Sigma Sigma, honoring the founding of the sorority on February 26, 1899.
The first Founders Day celebration was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the home of one of the founders, Nora March.
Historical Context: Phi Sigma Sigma Founders Day
Phi Sigma Sigma was founded on November 26, 1913, at Hunter College in New York City. The sorority was established by four women: Mary Louise Booth, Helen Cobb, Agnes M. H. Corbet, and Ruth H. Kemper.
The four women were all members of the Student Government Association at Hunter College. They were frustrated by the lack of opportunities for women to participate in leadership roles on campus. They decided to form a sorority that would provide women with the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and to make a difference on campus.
Events Leading Up to the Establishment of the Sorority
The events leading up to the establishment of Phi Sigma Sigma can be traced back to the early 1900s. At that time, women were not allowed to vote or hold public office. They were also not allowed to attend most colleges and universities.
However, there were a few colleges that began to admit women in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Hunter College was one of the first colleges to admit women. It was founded in 1870 as a women’s college. However, in 1908, Hunter College became a coeducational institution. This change led to a decline in the number of women students at Hunter College.
The four women who founded Phi Sigma Sigma were all concerned about the decline in the number of women students at Hunter College. They believed that a sorority could help to attract more women to the college and to provide them with the support they needed to succeed.
Founders
Phi Sigma Sigma was founded by four remarkable women who shared a vision of creating a supportive and empowering community for women. These pioneering women laid the foundation for the sorority’s values and traditions, which have guided its members for over a century.
Founding Members
- Ada Mae Baker: Ada Mae Baker was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the first president of Phi Sigma Sigma. She was instrumental in establishing the sorority’s constitution and bylaws.
- Mary Bailey Setzler: Mary Bailey Setzler was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the first vice president of Phi Sigma Sigma. She played a key role in developing the sorority’s ritual and traditions.
- Helen Bowerman Kelchner: Helen Bowerman Kelchner was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the first secretary of Phi Sigma Sigma. She was responsible for maintaining the sorority’s records and correspondence.
- Martha Comfort Stradley: Martha Comfort Stradley was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and the first treasurer of Phi Sigma Sigma. She managed the sorority’s finances and ensured its financial stability.
Founders Day Traditions
Founders Day is celebrated with various traditional activities that honor the legacy of the founders and strengthen the bond among chapter members.
Each chapter may have its unique customs, but some common traditions include:
Formal Ceremony
- A formal ceremony is often held to commemorate the founding of the sorority and recognize the contributions of the founders.
- This ceremony may include readings from the sorority’s history, speeches by chapter leaders, and the presentation of awards to outstanding members.
Rituals and Symbols
- Many chapters have specific rituals and symbols associated with Founders Day.
- These rituals may include the lighting of candles, the singing of special songs, or the wearing of ceremonial attire.
Social Gatherings
- Social gatherings are a common way to celebrate Founders Day and foster a sense of community among members.
- These gatherings may include banquets, receptions, or informal get-togethers.
Service Projects, Phi sigma sigma founders day
- Some chapters choose to commemorate Founders Day by engaging in service projects that benefit their community.
- This may involve volunteering at local organizations, donating to charities, or participating in community clean-ups.
Examples of Chapter Celebrations
- The Beta Chapter at the University of Michigan holds an annual Founders Day banquet where members dress in formal attire and celebrate with a special meal.
- The Gamma Chapter at the University of Illinois hosts a Founders Day tea party where members share stories about the sorority’s history and enjoy refreshments.
- The Delta Chapter at the University of California, Berkeley, organizes a Founders Day service project where members volunteer at a local homeless shelter.
Significance for Members
Founders Day holds immense significance for Phi Sigma Sigma members, serving as a cornerstone of their collective identity and sense of belonging.
Phi Sigma Sigma Founders Day is a day to celebrate the founding of the sorority. This year, Founders Day falls on March 31st. In the meantime, if you’re looking for some extra help with your EPA 608 test, check out our EPA 608 test answers 2023 . These practice questions will help you get a head start on your studies and make sure you’re ready to ace the exam.
Happy Founders Day, Phi Sigma Sigma!
This annual celebration fosters a profound connection among members, reminding them of their shared history and values. It provides an opportunity for them to reflect on the legacy of their founders and the principles that have guided the sorority for over a century.
Sense of Community
Founders Day strengthens the bonds between members by creating a shared experience. It brings them together to celebrate their common heritage and acknowledge the contributions of those who came before them.
Through activities like historical presentations, alumni guest speakers, and commemorative ceremonies, members gain a deeper understanding of the sorority’s origins and its impact on their lives. These shared experiences create a sense of camaraderie and foster a lasting sense of community.
Sense of Belonging
Founders Day reinforces a sense of belonging for members by emphasizing their connection to a larger, enduring organization.
It reminds them that they are part of a legacy that extends beyond their individual chapters or years of membership. By celebrating the sorority’s history and values, members feel a sense of pride and connection to something greater than themselves.
Founders Day Impact
Founders Day has profoundly impacted Phi Sigma Sigma throughout its history, reinforcing the sorority’s core values and guiding its mission. This annual celebration serves as a testament to the legacy of the founders and their unwavering commitment to friendship, scholarship, and service.
Strengthening Bonds of Sisterhood
Founders Day fosters a sense of unity and belonging among members. The shared experience of commemorating the sorority’s origins reinforces the bonds of sisterhood that have been forged over generations. Through activities like special ceremonies, alumni gatherings, and community service projects, members come together to celebrate their shared history and values.
Honoring Founders’ Legacy
Founders Day provides an opportunity to honor the remarkable women who founded Phi Sigma Sigma. Their vision, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of friendship have shaped the sorority into what it is today. By commemorating their legacy, members pay tribute to the pioneers who laid the foundation for their organization.
Renewing Commitment to Mission
Founders Day serves as a reminder of Phi Sigma Sigma’s mission to promote friendship, scholarship, and service. By reflecting on the founding principles, members reaffirm their commitment to these ideals and strive to uphold them in all aspects of their lives.
The celebration inspires them to embody the values of their founders and make a positive impact on their communities.
FAQ Explained
When is Phi Sigma Sigma Founders Day celebrated?
Phi Sigma Sigma Founders Day is celebrated on November 26th.
Who were the founding members of Phi Sigma Sigma?
The founding members of Phi Sigma Sigma were Ida M. Husted Harper, Mary B. Willard, Elizabeth G. Evans, Clara Bradley Burdette, and May L. Cheney.
What is the significance of Founders Day for Phi Sigma Sigma members?
Founders Day is a time for Phi Sigma Sigma members to come together and celebrate the sorority’s history, values, and accomplishments. It is a day to reflect on the legacy of the founders and to recommit to the ideals of friendship, scholarship, and service.
