• History

    Alpha Phi was founded at Syracuse University by ten of the first nineteen women admitted to the newly opened university. 
                
    The Original Ten, the founders of Alpha Phi, were women of courageous vision and pioneering hearts. Pursuing their studies in a largely male-dominated university, these women yearned for a circle of friends who could sympathize with each other's troubles and support each others' ambitions. On September 18, 1872, these ten women initiated themselves into Alpha Phi. 

    For more information about Alpha Phi, please select from the options above. When you're finished, we invite you to visit Alpha Phi International's website to learn more about our remarkable sorority.

    Six of the Alpha Phi founders seated outside of Risely Hall at Cornell University, at an early National Convention

  • Symbols

    The Fraternity Crest: This crest has been Alpha Phi's coat-of-arms since 1922. The shield is bordeaux with a scroll and ivy leaf above it. Inscribed on the scroll is "Union Hand in Hand"; Alpha Phi's public motto. A diagonal stripe of silver crosses the shield from left to right, and a silver lamp as well as the constellation Ursa Major are shown in silver. The meaning of these important images is disclosed during the initiation ritual.

     

    The Alpha Phi Badge: The official badge of Alpha Phi is a gold monogram showing the symbol of Alpha superimposed over a Phi. Engraved in black are the letters a, o, and e; the meaning of which are again disclosed during initiation.

     

    Fraternity Flowers: Lily of the Valley and Forget-Me-Not

     

    Mascot: The Alpha Phi Bear ("Phi Bear"), named after the constellation Ursa Major which is known as the Great Bear.

     

    Colors: Silver and Bordeaux