HISTORY OF SIGMA KAPPA
Colby College in Waterville, Maine, was the first college in New England to admit women on an equal basis with men students. The first woman student was admitted in 1871, and for two years Mary Caffrey Low was the only woman student at Colby College. In 1873, four more young women from Maine, Elizabeth Gorham Hoag, Ida Fuller, Frances Mann, and Louise Helen Coburn were admitted to Colby and the five young women found themselves frequently together. During the school year of 1873-74, the five young women decided to form a literary and social society. They were told by the college administration that they needed to present a constitution and bylaws with a petition requesting permission to form Sigma Kappa Sorority. They began work during that year with an eager glow of enthusiasm. Their purpose at the outset was that the sorority should become what it is now, a national organization of college women. On November 9, 1874, the five young women received a letter from the faculty approving their petition. Thus, this date has since been considered our Founders' Day.
PURPOSE OF SIGMA KAPPA
The purpose of Sigma Kappa is to provide women lifelong opportunities and support for social, intellectual, and spiritual development by bringing women together to positively impact our communities.
SIGMA KAPPA FACTS
Founded: 1874, at Colby College, Waterville, Maine
Open Motto: One Heart, One Way
Colors: Maroon and Lavender
Jewel: Pearls
Symbols: Dove and Heart
Flower: Wild Purple Violet
Collegiate Chapters: 108 in 36 states
Alumnae Chapters: 118 in 40 states
Members: 125,000 worldwide
Philanthropies: Gerontology (the study of aging), with a focus on Alzheimer's disease research and programs directed at improving the lives of older citizens; Inherit the Earth; Maine Seacoast Mission.
Scholarships: The Sigma Kappa Foundation provides scholarship to collegiate and alumnae members each year, including scholarships for leadership, continuing education, and gerontology.
Open Motto: One Heart, One Way
Colors: Maroon and Lavender
Jewel: Pearls
Symbols: Dove and Heart
Flower: Wild Purple Violet
Collegiate Chapters: 108 in 36 states
Alumnae Chapters: 118 in 40 states
Members: 125,000 worldwide
Philanthropies: Gerontology (the study of aging), with a focus on Alzheimer's disease research and programs directed at improving the lives of older citizens; Inherit the Earth; Maine Seacoast Mission.
Scholarships: The Sigma Kappa Foundation provides scholarship to collegiate and alumnae members each year, including scholarships for leadership, continuing education, and gerontology.