Alpha Phi’s history begins in 1872, rooted in the bold innovation of our ten Founders — some of Syracuse University’s first female students. Several decided that they were not satisfied with merely participating in the classroom. Denied admission to the men’s fraternities, they decided to create their own fraternity for women. From the beginning, these courageous women envisioned an expansive sisterhood, and their leadership and organizational practices set the tone for the Alpha Phi of today. Much like our present-day membership, the Founders were a group of curious women who did not back down from a challenge. They had a clear vision for our sisterhood and the confidence in one another to make an impact.

In the spring of 1884, the Founders of Alpha Phi said “their hearts turned not to love, but to lots,” and in 1886, they purchased the future site of the first chapter house in the country. The lot 56 x 178 feet was purchased for $25 a foot. The money for the building of house was forthcoming—a bank loan of $2500 on a first mortgage; a loan of $2700 from an Alpha Phi father on a second mortgage; and gifts and pledges from the women, alumnae, parents and friends. By 1902, the debts were paid and the $5200 house was clear of mortgages. On June 24, 1886, the New York Times reported on the event saying, “This is believed to be the first chapter house built for women

From hand to hand and heart to heart, we are grateful and proud of the legacy left to us by our Founders — ten individuals who paved the way for women in higher education and created a legacy built on friendship and mutual respect. Clara Sittser Williams, Martha Emily Foote Crow, Jane Sara Higham, Kate Elizabeth Hogoboom Gilbert, Elizabeth Grace Hubbell Shults, Rena A. Michaels Atchison, Louise Viola Shepard Hancock, Clara Bradley Wheeler Baker Burdette, Hattie Florence Chidester Lukens, and Ida Arabella Gilbert DeLamanter Houghton.

In 1922, the Alpha Phi Crest was Adopted. Our colors are Silver and Bordeaux. The gold badge that was chosen in 1906 remains today.

An ever-growing vine, the ivy leaf symbolizes the growth of the Alpha Phi sisterhood. It also represents fidelity and eternal friendship. Ivy is incorporated into Alpha Phi’s crest and new member pins.

The flowers of Alpha Phi are the fragrant lily of the valley and the blue and gold forget-me-not. Lastly, the Fraternity constellation is Ursa Major, the Great Bear.