HISTORY

Chi Omega Fraternity was founded at a time when women were just becoming visible on our nation's university campuses.  These early collegiate women were destined not only to manage home and family -- they would establish a foothold as leaders in the community and the business world.  It was a time of tremendous intellectual growth and personal challenge for these pioneers...and they recognized the need for a strong system of support from both friend and mentor.           To value the talents of women...to encourage them in realizing their greatest potential.  These are the principles upon which Chi Omega was founded in 1895 at the University of Arkansas.  Now, over a century later, these founding principles are just as relevant.           Today, Chi Omega is the largest women's fraternal organization in the world with 240,000 initiates and over 170 collegiate chapters.  Since its beginning, Chi Omega has nurtured its members by providing them with unique opportunities in leadership, in scholarship, and in life-long friendship.  Ours is a distinguished history...and our most vital role has been the preparation of young women to achieve their highest possible aspirations. Dr. Charles Richardson         Dr. Charles Richardson occupies a unique place in Fraternity history, a founder of a woman's fraternity.  As a founder of Chi Omega, he drafted our first ritual and constitution, chose the names of our officers and developed the Eleusinian mysteries as the basis of our esoteric symbolism.  In his many writings, Dr. Richardson often said that founding Chi Omega was his most precious accomplishment and the one in which he had the most pride and satisfaction.         With Dr. Charles Richardson's help, Allie Simonds, Jean Vincenheller, Jobelle Holcombe and Ina Mae Boles founded Chi Omega and became our Founders. Chi Omega's Mission         Chi Omega is a sisterhood that provides a network of friends and life-long development for collegiate and alumnae members.  Chi Omega is committed to: - Personal integrity - Excellence in academic and intellectual pursuits - Intergenerational participation - Community Service - Leadership opportunities - Social enrichment

Chi Omega's first initiated members.

Chi Omega Greek Theater

Just the Facts! Chi Omega is the SECOND largest women's organization in the Nation, next to the Girl Scouts! Chi Omega has a National Achievement Award that recognizes outstanding women. (First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt served on the selection committee) Chi Omega has a Greek Theater located at the University of Arkansas! Chi Omega Cares Series is an interactive program that covers contemporary issues such as eating disorders and substance abuse. Chi O Creations is Chi Omega's EXCLUSIVELY owned boutique. Chi Omega believes in six purposes: Friendship, High Standards of Personnel, Scholarship, Community Service, Quality Activities, and Career Development

Chi Omega Cares Series

The Eleusis Chi Omega's Magazine