Our Story

To work earnestly, to speak kindly, to act sincerely, to choose thoughtfully.

National Origins

Founded in 1895 at the University of Arkansas, Chi Omega is the largest women’s fraternal organization in the world with over 400,000 Initiates, 181 collegiate chapters, and 248 alumnae chapters. Throughout Chi Omega’s long and proud history, the Fraternity has brought its members unequaled opportunities for personal growth and development.

Our Founders

Our five Founders were a small band of young women who, with the help of local dentist Dr. Charles Richardson, established the secrets, symbolism, and ritual that now bind together over 400,000 women from 181 collegiate chapters and 248 alumnae chapters.

  • Symbol

    Chi Omega’s symbol is the owl, a bird of wisdom, which reminds the membership of their responsibility to strive for knowledge and understanding throughout life.

  • Chi Omega Crest

    Centered on the crest is the white carnation, with the Chi to the left and the Omega to the right of the flower. Above these symbols are both the skull and crossbones and the owl. Beneath the carnation are the five letters, Rho, Beta, Upsilon, Eta, and Sigma. A laurel wreath, used by ancient Greeks to honor scholars and heroes, surrounds all of the emblems known and loved by Chi Omegas.

  • The Eleusis

    Eleusis, the city of Greece where the mystic rites were performed, was named in honor of the son of Mercury, the messenger of the Gods; hence the name of Chi Omega’s messenger, The Eleusis. The first issue included an account of the founding, histories, and pictures of the chapters, and a directory of the members.

  • “When we looked upon that pin, our hearts then opened up to Chi Omega. Even though we were very young, we must have realized something about the spirit of the Fraternity.”

    Jobelle Holcombe, Chi Omega Founder

  • “Chi Omega looks back on its accomplishments with tremendous pride. Let us build on what we have accomplished, joining together the passion and love of Chi Omega to soar into our future.”

    Melanie Shain, National President 1992-1998

  • Sisters inspired by our values who serve the world while keeping Chi Omega ever at heart.

What is Eta Beta like today?

Over the years, Chi Omega has adapted to changes in society and the needs of its members, while staying true to its core values of sisterhood, personal integrity, academic excellence, and community service. Our sorority has a strong presence on many college campuses, and continues to attract new members who are passionate about making a difference in their communities.

Chi Omega has a rich history of empowering women and promoting positive change in their communities, and continues to thrive as a leading sorority today.