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Beta Eta History

The Beta Eta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor dates back to 1924 when nine young women formed a local sorority called Phi Gamma Mu. On September 23, 1929, this sorority was installed into Alpha Delta Pi.

 

 

In 1933, the Beta Eta Chapter purchased our current chapter house located at 722 South Forest from Dr. & Mrs. Smith. Additions were made in 1948, 1956 and 1962 to accommodate the expanding chapter. Among sisters, the chapter house is often referred to as the 'Pi Palace.' The Beta Eta Chapter has demonstrated continual excellence in all facets of existence since its founding. We are actively involved in the University of Michigan Greek System through participation in the Panhellenic Association, Greek Leadership Conference, Greek Week, University activities and the larger Ann Arbor community. We also keep a full social calendar and have received several awards for scholarship. In addition, we have received the "Diamond Four Point" award many times and are a two-time recipient of the "Golden Lion" award. These awards are bestowed to worthy chapters at the Alpha Delta Pi National Convention signifying chapter excellence in the areas of service, sisterhood, scholarship and social activities. These are the values that are represented by our diamond shaped pin.

 

 

International History

Alpha Delta Pi holds the distinction of being the first secret society in the world for college women, and is regarded as "First and Finest." We were founded on May 15, 1851, at Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Georgia. The original name of the sorority was the "Adelphean Society." The word "Adelphean" is derived from the Greek word meaning sister.

 

The six original founders of the Adelphean Society were Eugenia Tucker Fitzgerald, Ella Pierce Turner, Octavia Andrew Rush, Mary Evans Glass, Elizabeth Williams Mitchell (NP) and Sophronia Woodruff Dews.

The Adelphean Society flourished through the years and in 1904 the members voted to become national. In 1905, the name was changed to Alpha Delta Phi, but because of continued confusion with a mens' fraternity of the same name, the name was changed once again to Alpha Delta Pi in 1913.

The qualifications for membership have remained unchanged through the years--scholarship, high principles of behavior and true friendships. The basic principles and ritual are also much the same as those that our founders developed.

 

On May 15, 2001, Alpha Delta Pi became the first sorority in the world to turn 150 years old. This historic event was celebrated locally by all chapters, as well as a 150th Anniversary Convention held in downtown Atlanta.