History

Alpha Chi Omega was founded as a women’s fraternal organization. It was established to provide a basis of mutual helpfulness and of congenial fellowship. The purpose of Alpha Chi Omega was to provide the advancement of the intellectual, social and moral culture of its members. Today, Alpha Chi Omega membership exceeds 180,000 initiated members with over 130 active collegiate chapters and 200 alumnae chapters.

Timeline: 1885 – 1900

1885	On October 15 seven women meet and form Alpha Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega at DePauw University, Greencastle, Indiana. The members begin the process of selecting a badge and coat of arms.
1891	First convention is held at Alpha Chapter.
1894	The first issue of The Lyre magazine is published.

Timeline: 1901 – 1920

1902	Alpha Chi Omega is one of the founding groups of the National Panhellenic Congress. (Later known as the National Panhellenic Conference).
1906	Alpha Alpha Alumnae Chapter, Chicago, is established as the first chartered alumnae group.
1910	Hera is chosen as the inspiring patron-goddess. Hera Day, March 1, is declared as Alpha Chi Omega’s great day of service highlighting its members continuing service throughout the year.
1911	The Ritual of Alpha Chi Omega is officially adopted along with the ritual music.
	Star Studio is built at MacDowell Colony, Peterborough, New Hampshire.
1914	My Symphony, written by Celia McClure Pardee, Delta, is adopted as the Official Symphony of Alpha Chi Omega.
1919	Convention delegates vote on a gift for those who served their country overseas. It is called the Distinguished Service Medal.

Timeline: 1921 – 1940

1921	The first Province Assembly is held. A decision is made to have province gatherings in the off year from Conventions.
1922	The first Central Office is established in Washington, DC, home of the National Secretary.
	L. G. Balfour is appointed official jeweler
	The total membership receiving The Lyre has grown to 3000.
1935	Alpha Chi Omega’s 50th Golden Jubilee Anniversary is celebrated with 700 delegates and visitors meeting in Greencastle, Indiana.
	The Distinguished Service Award purpose is broadened and the four living founders received a medal struck in gold.

Timeline: 1941 – 1960

1945	The 1945 Convention is cancelled due to wartime conditions.
1946	Central Office is moved to the Chamber of Commerce building, in Indianapolis.
1949	This convention is held in Pasadena, California, with a record attendance of 987
	The 50 year pin is created as a gift of the Fraternity to fifty year members.
1955	The Award of Achievement medallions are adopted to be presented to eminent Alpha Chi Omegas at each convention.

Timeline: 1961 – 1980

1960	The 75th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary National Convention is held in French Lick, Indiana. A new Constitution is adopted.
	The Carnation Charm is officially adopted as the service award for Chapter Advisors who have served two terms.
	Alpha Chi Omega National Headquarters (Central Office) is moved to 3445 Washington Blvd. in Indianapolis Indiana .
1963	A Founders’ size badge is designed for members of National Council to wear during their term of service.
1966	Hannah Keenan, daughter of founder, Bessie Grooms Keenan, retires as Director of Central Office after serving on the staff from 1929 – 1966.
1974	The newly built Headquarters is dedicated at 8730 Founders Road, Indianapolis, Indiana.
1976	The Bell Tower is dedicated at DePauw University in honor of the Founders.
1979	The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation is established.

Timeline: 1981 – 2000

1985	Centennial National Convention is held in Indianapolis, Indiana. Over 1,600 collegians and alumnae attend the celebration.
1988	The first issue of Alpha Chi Omega is printed as a newsletter to national officers, collegiate chapters and alumnae groups.
1993	The present day Headquarters building is dedicated at 5939 Castle Creek Parkway North Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana.
1996	The National Housing Corporation is established.
1998	Nancy Nitchman Leonard, who served as Executive Director 1979-1999, is named the first woman President of the Fraternity Executive’s Association.
1999	Kickoff of the Pathway to the Future Campaign.
	Groundbreaking for the Brick Garden.
	Nancy Nitchman Leonard retires after 20 years serving as Executive Director.
2000	Holiday (Holly) Hart McKiernan assumes the Executive Director position.
	Inaugural presentation of Kristin's Story at Florida State University , which is a joint project sponsored by Alpha Chi Omega and Delta Delta Delta.
	The Governing Documents of Alpha Chi Omega– Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, and Heritage are adopted at the National Convention in Norfolk, Virginia.

Timeline: 2001 – present

2001

Middle Tennessee State University and Elon College, North Carolina, become the newest collegiate chapters.

IMPACT Alpha Chi Omega is introduced as a new leadership development program for collegians.

The Brick Garden is dedicated during Leadership Academy in Indianapolis.

2003

Julie Burkhard assumes the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) Treasurer position on the NPC Executive Committee.

The country is divided into five regions to better serve collegians and alumnae.

2004

Suzette E. Bewley assumes the Executive Director position at Alpha Chi Omega’s National Headquarters.