Basic Info
Founded: Oct. 10, 1872, at Syracuse University
Flowers: Lily of the Valley and Forget-Me-Not
Symbol: Ivy leaf
Colors: Silver and Bordeaux
Badge: Alpha Phi Greek letters
New Member Pin: Ivy Leaf
Philanthropy: Cardiac Care and Research
Founders
At a time when society looked upon women only as daughters, wives, and mothers—and therefore not in need of higher education—our ten founders were pioneers of the coeducational system. As some of the first women attendees of Syracuse University, our founders sought support from one another. There was a need for a social center, a place of conference, a circle of friends who could sympathize with one another in their perplexities. They formed Alpha Phi in 1872 to meet these needs.
Our 10 Founders:
Clara Bradley Wheeler Baker Burdette
Hattie Florence Chidester Lukens
Martha Emily Foote Crowe
Ida Arabella Gilbert DeLamanter Houghton
Jane Sara Higham
Kate Elizabeth Hogoboom Gilbert
Elizabeth Grace Hubbell Shults
Rena A. Michaels Atchison
Louise Viola Shepard Hancock
Clara Sittser Williams
The Alpha Phi Foundation
Alpha Phi Foundation, founded in 1956, is one of the oldest Greek foundations for women. It was set up as a trust to award grants from scholarship and cardiac aid funds. Today, two original priorities remain: to encourage and recognize superior scholarship and to support women’s cardiac health. The Foundation also funds programs that provide leadership and educational opportunities, educate women about philanthropy and assist members in need.
For nearly 50 years, Alpha Phi has focused on women's cardiac health as a philanthropic priority. Through its annual Cardiac Care Award, the Alpha Phi Foundation helps to fund research and educational programs that support women's cardiac health. As a result of these efforts, health care professionals and women everywhere are learning more about the causes, prevention and treatment of heart disease – the number one killer of women.
Alpha Phi Foundation is proud to continue the Fraternity’s high regard for scholarship and foster the pioneering spirit our Founders held close to their hearts by awarding scholarship aid to Alpha Phis everywhere.
Since 1946, Alpha Phi has donated more than $1 million to support cardiac health initiative.
