History

Alpha Delta Pi holds the distinction of being the first secret society in the world for college women. Founded on May 15, 1851 at Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Georgia, we were originally called The Adelphean Society, from the Greek word for sister. Wesleyan was the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees to women.

Established May 15 in 1851 at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia, Alpha Delta Pi holds the distinction of being the first secret society for college women in the world and the mother of today's sorority system. When our founder Eugenia Tucker decided to form a society, her dearest and most admired friends were asked to join her. Ella Pierce; Octavia Andrew; Bettie Williams; Sophronia Woodruff; and Mary A. Evans. Before the end of Eugenia's first year in college, she had established the first sorority in the world. Alpha Delta Pi was founded on the principles of scholarship, leadership, service to others and sisterhood. These principles still guide the policies and programs of the sorority today.

The original name of the sorority was the "Adelphean Society," derived from the Greek word meaning sister. In 1904 the members of the Adelphean Society voted to become national and in 1905 changed their name to Alpha Delta Phi. In 1913 the name was changed again to Alpha Delta Pi because of the continued confusion with a men's fraternity of the same name.

Symbols

Badge: The first badge was worn by the Adelpheans in 1851. It was a satin riband with ribbon streamers; the name "Adelphean" appeared on one end, and a design of clasped hands at the other end. In the center was the Open Motto - "We Live For Each Other."In 1906, during the Alpha Delta Pi's first convention, the design of a smaller gold badge with a black enamel center which pictures the clasped hands, the two stars, and the Greek letters was proposed. This is our official badge.

Mascot: The lion is the mascot of Alpha Delta Pi. Our mascot is nicknamed "Alphie."

Offical Flower: The Woodland Violet, which grows wild, is the official flower. Because it is unavailable for purchase, African Violets are often used to symbolize the Woodland Violet.