Delta Zeta Sorority

Local Chapter History

The Delta Omicron Chapter first appeared in the Northwestern Oklahoma State University 1902 yearbook as the Shakespeare Club. In 1916, the Shakespeare Club joined the Delta Sigma Epsilon national sorority. DSE is a sorority for state teacher's colleges - founded at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio; same as the Delta Zeta Sorority.

In 1956 DSE National merged with Delta Zeta National. The Delta Omicron Chapter was a very active chapter until the 1980's, when the charter was given back in the late 80's and was off campus until the chapter was reinstalled.

Delta Zeta Delta was formed in November 2001. DZD petitioned for a charter at the National Delta Zeta Convention of 2002, it was granted in February 2003, and the chapter was installed in June 2003. Since that time, the Delta Omicron Chapter of Delta Zeta has been very active on campus, recruiting quality girls and living up to the legend that is Delta Zeta!

National History

When six young women came together in 1902 to form a social sorority, they had a vision of lifetime sisterhood fostered by ideals that they cherished. The six friends bonded quickly as they faced the challenges of starting a sorority on a male-dominated campus, as women had just been given full status as students at Miami University.

Alfa Lloyd, Mary Collins, Anna Keen, Julia Bishop, Mabelle Minton and Anne Simmons met with Dr. Guy Potter Benton, then president of the university, to make their idea a reality. Delta Zeta Sorority was founded at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in 1902. It was the first sorority to be founded at the university.

The Founders then went on to lay the foundation for the Sorority which would have a national reach. Today, Delta Zeta has enriched the lives of over 260,000 alumnae and collegiate members in the United States and Canada.

Learn more about our history by visiting the Delta Zeta Museum online.

DELTA ZETA MUSEUM

Local Chapter History

The Delta Omicron Chapter first appeared in the Northwestern Oklahoma State University 1902 yearbook as the Shakespeare Club. In 1916, the Shakespeare Club joined the Delta Sigma Epsilon national sorority. DSE is a sorority for state teacher's colleges - founded at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio; same as the Delta Zeta Sorority.

In 1956 DSE National merged with Delta Zeta National. The Delta Omicron Chapter was a very active chapter until the 1980's, when the charter was given back in the late 80's and was off campus until the chapter was reinstalled.

Delta Zeta Delta was formed in November 2001. DZD petitioned for a charter at the National Delta Zeta Convention of 2002, it was granted in February 2003, and the chapter was installed in June 2003. Since that time, the Delta Omicron Chapter of Delta Zeta has been very active on campus, recruiting quality girls and living up to the legend that is Delta Zeta!

National History

When six young women came together in 1902 to form a social sorority, they had a vision of lifetime sisterhood fostered by ideals that they cherished. The six friends bonded quickly as they faced the challenges of starting a sorority on a male-dominated campus, as women had just been given full status as students at Miami University.

Alfa Lloyd, Mary Collins, Anna Keen, Julia Bishop, Mabelle Minton and Anne Simmons met with Dr. Guy Potter Benton, then president of the university, to make their idea a reality. Delta Zeta Sorority was founded at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in 1902. It was the first sorority to be founded at the university.

The Founders then went on to lay the foundation for the Sorority which would have a national reach. Today, Delta Zeta has enriched the lives of over 260,000 alumnae and collegiate members in the United States and Canada.

Learn more about our history by visiting the Delta Zeta Museum online.

DELTA ZETA MUSEUM

HEARING AND SPEECH

• Founded: October 24, 1902 Miami University, Oxford, Ohio
• Founders: Alfa Lloyd, Mary Collins, Anna Keen, Julia Bishop, Mabelle Minton, and Anne Simmons
• Order of the Laurel: Grace Mason Lundy, Irene Caroline Boughton, Elizabeth Coulter Stephenson, Myrtle Graeter Hinkly, Norma Minch Andrisek
• Grand Patron: Dr. Guy Potter Benton, D.D., LL.D, (Phi Delta Theta)
• Colors: Rose and green
• Flower: Pink Killarney rose
• Jewel: Diamond
• Badge: Roman Lamp
• Mascot: Turtle
• Magazine: The LAMP of Delta Zeta is the official magazine. It is published three times a year and mailed to all initiated members whose addresses are current at National Headquarters. An online version is offered to those members who prefer not to receive a hard copy.
• Number of Collegiate Chapters: 170 in the United States and Canada
• Number of Alumnae Chapters: Over 200 alumnae chapters offer continuing association in 49 states, including Hawaii as well as the United Kingdom and Canada.
• Number of Initiated Members: Over 260,000
• Number of collegiate members: At any given time, Delta Zeta has more than 16,700 undergraduate members.

Why Go Greek? What's so special?

Greeks are leaders!  Leaders on campus, leaders in business, communities, states, and other organizations.  No matter how you look at it, Greeks just stand out!

Here are some interesting Greek Facts:

• Since 1825, the founding of Greek-letter organizations, all but two U.S. Presidents were Greek. 
• All but two U.S. Vice-Presidents were Greek. (since 1825).
• 7 out of 10 people listed in Who's Who are Greek.
• Both females elected to the U.S. Supreme Court were sorority members.
• 85% of the Fortune 500 executives are Greek.
• Of the nation's 50 largest corporations, 43 are headed by Greeks.  
• 63% of the U.S. President's Cabinet members since 1900 have been Greek.
• Nationally, over 70% of Greeks graduate, while only 50% of non-Greeks graduate.  
• 76% of U.S. Congressmen and Senators are Greek.
• Less than 2% of an average college student's expenses go toward Greek membership dues.
• Over 85% of the student leaders on some 730 campuses are members of a Greek-letter organization.  
• Since 1910, 40 of 47 Supreme Court Justices have been Greek. Three Canadian Prime Ministers have been Greek.

   Maybe you will be one of those great numbers!

Why should I join a sorority?

When in college, students always need a positive influence, a group that helps be your safety net!  Joining a sorority not only is a home away from home, but gives you a group of friends you never thought you could have!  Joining a sorority helps give students new perspectives on life, family, and friendship!  Also, members help develop leadership, help instill values and character for legacies to follow.

Now that I'm interested in joining a sorority, what now?

Now that you have made up your decision about joining a sorority, plan to attend information nights that are held before rush and be sure to fill out the Panhellenic Information Sheet. After you have taken care of those things, look on the school schedule and watch for posters that list dates and places.  And above all, enjoy your rush experience.

What sororities are at Northwestern?

• Delta Zeta

Is recruitment for freshman only?

Absolutely not!  Rush and recruitment are open to all undergraduate students.  Just because you are not a freshman does not mean you cannot take part in a fun, exciting time like rush! Many sororities have a mixed arrangement on girls in a new member class!

If I take part in recruitment, do I have to join a particular sorority?

Many girls misunderstand the process of recruitment.  You do not have to join a sorority if you do not feel it is right for you after recruitment.  Recruitment/Rush is the time to see what sorority life can offer you!  You are the only person that can be the judge of that.  Joining a sorority should feel right to you, it is a life-long commitment so be sure to find a sorority that matches your values and beliefs.  If you are unsure about sorority life, there is nothing to lose if you go through rush, there are no obligations!

What are references or recs for joining a sorority?

Sororities have different recs for initiates.  Some larger sororities at larger campuses require a reference from an alumnae member of their sorority before they can pledge.  But, at Northwestern, the process is very different. If you are a fun loving individual with time to give to a sorority with an great attitude, who understands the financial and moral obligations to a sorority, then you will be perfect for one at Northwestern.  You do not have to go through rush to be a member of a sorority.  There is a process called C.O.R. (Continuous Open Recruitment) which means if you miss out on rush, you can still be a member! Sororities require a certain GPA, if you are unsure about your GPA, contact the Registrar's Office and they can print you copy of an unofficial transcript.  Also, girls will be required to help uphold the rules and regulations of their certain sorority.

What is a legacy?

Many chapters define the term legacy differently.  It is more commonly known as a woman who's mother, grandmother or sister belonged to a sorority.  Some chapters even extend the term to aunts, stepmothers, and cousins.

How will I know which sorority is best for me?

In making this decision, the most important thing to do, is to keep an open mind through the recruitment process.  Many times girls go to recruitment with a good idea of what sorority they would like to belong to, but when recruitment rolls around, their ideas may change which is perfectly normal.  Joining a sorority is like finding the perfect pair of shoes, when you slip into the room (shoe) it feels right, very comfortable and makes you feel able to walk around! When joining a sorority you must keep in mind that the sorority you join will help represent you!  The best bet is to find a sorority that fits for you, one that makes you comfortable, that has the same beliefs and moral standings as you, and one you feel you can grow old with!  Joining a sorority is a life long commitment, you will go through important years of your life with sorority sisters and the bond will never fade!

Do you have any tips for successful recruitment?

• RELAX, there is nothing worse that going into a rush party stiff and uncomfortable!    
• HAVE FUN!  Sororities are about fun! Fun people, fun times, and fun activities! 
• Wear comfortable clothing.  Do not wear a formal dress to rush, you will only feel uncomfortable but out of place!
• Before rush activities, eat a good meal and drink lots of fluids, so your mind will be focused on the important things of rush and your mind will not be wandering and your stomach growling.
• Be familiar with the Greek Alphabet and Recruitment Terms.
• Make sure you are aware of the financial obligations of each sorority.
• Meet several different members of a sorority to get a good feel of membership.
• ACT YOURSELF.  Sororities pick people for who they are and what they believe in, if you are fake during rush, you may divert your whole rush experience!
• Ask questions!  The most important rule of thumb for rush.  If you do not ask questions, you will never fully understand the potential of a sorority and what the sorority means to you.
• Do your homework, it may sound crazy but it's true!  Many sororities have national and local websites for you to check out.  If you are unsure of some of the things that were talked about in rush, the websites can provide extra literature and basis for membership. Some sororities may not tell the girls everything during rush, that's why it's important to check your facts before joining!
• Keep your family posted!  They will be eager to learn that their darling daughter has made a step in her future by going Greek!

What questions should I ask during rush parties?

The best advice is learning from experience, if you forget something you still have other days to ask the questions you wish you did in the first place!! Some possible questions to ask during rush are:

• Why did you pick the sorority you are in?
• What are the financial obligations to the sorority?
• What kinds of social activities are planned for the sorority?
• What kinds of terms of membership are there?
• How will I know which sorority is best for me?
• Any advice you can give me for the rush experience?
• If i join a particular sorority, what kind grade expectations are there?
• What is a particular sororities philanthropy?
• Are women of a particular chapter involved in other campus organizations?  If so, what kind of organizations do they belong to?
• If I am unsure, do I have to sign a bid card at the end of the process?
• Do I have to join a sorority if they give me a bid card?
• If I do not join the sorority that gives me a bid card, is there a way, I could join another sorority?

How long will I be a new member?

The "New Member" period varies.  The most common period is 6 to 10 weeks, depending on several factors that are predetermined by the chapter.

How much time will I spend with my sorority?

The time you spend with your sorority varies.  If you want the full experience attending games and activities will be high on your list.  Most sororities require certain events such as formal and informal meetings, sisterhood meetings, sisterhood events, being part of a committee, or during special months attending campus activities together such as homecoming, fundraising activities, or preparing for events that the university has personally asked for a sorority to do.

What is hazing and does it really happen?

Hazing is  any willful act or practice by a member directed against a member or associate member, which is likely to: cause bodily harm or danger, offensive punishment, or disturbing pain; compromise her dignity; cause embarrassment or public shame; cause her to be the object of malicious amusement or ridicule; cause psychological harm or substantial emotional strain; impair academic efforts. Delta Zetas believe that true sisterhood is built only within a positive environment, hazing is not one of the qualities we believe is positive! Unfortunately, hazing still does occur on some campuses, but Northwestern Oklahoma State University's Greek system has pledged to refrain from hazing.

What other types of organizations are Delta Zetas involved in?

Delta Zetas are very active on campus!  Members are involved with prestigious organizations on campus such as: Student Government Association, President's Leadership Class, Northwestern Scholar Ambassadors, Ranger Connectors, Cardinal Key, Black and Red Honor Scroll, Castle Players Drama Club, and Circle K.  Members are also very active in organizations through their majors and minors, such as Mass Communications, Computer Science, Business, Biology, and others.  Delta Zetas are also very active in campus activities such as Band, Vocal, Theater and Speech, Intramural Sports, Cheerleading, and college athletics: softball and soccer.  Delta Zetas have also been very lucky to have the past two reigning Miss Northwesterns, and Ranger Queen, Freshman Queen, and sponsor of Mr. Cinderfella.  No matter how you look at it, Delta Zetas are active in every possible way!

Do new Delta Zeta members get badges?

Yes! Delta Zeta has a special pin that is received after initiation. The Delta Zeta badge was voted the most beautiful sorority badge and was made by Tiffany's in New York!

What are some of the responsibilities of Delta Zeta Membership?

Some of the basic responsibilities of any organization!  You do not have to be tattooed or branded by fire, but asked to keep rituals private, respect the Delta Zeta Sorority and it's integrity to it's fullest!  Delta Zetas are a fun loving group with high moral and ethical standards, we ask that new members have the same passion for the sorority as past members hold!   You also have the responsible to yourself as well, keeping active, keeping your grades up, keeping your sisters informed on what's going in your life, and the responsibility to be yourself!!

What are some of the financial responsibilities of Delta Zeta?

When you join any sorority there are financial obligations.  When you join Delta Zeta, you will agree to pay National Delta Zeta dues and fees, as a collegiate member which is specified in the Delta Zeta Constitution.  You also agree to pay local chapter dues and fees set up by the chapter membership.  Delta Zeta commits to manage financial resources efficiently and responsibly to develop leadership and life skills training and to provide services to our collegiate chapter.

• Since 1825, the founding of Greek-letter organizations, all but two U.S. Presidents were Greek. 
• All but two U.S. Vice-Presidents were Greek. (since 1825).
• 7 out of 10 people listed in Who's Who are Greek.
• Both females elected to the U.S. Supreme Court were sorority members.
• 85% of the Fortune 500 executives are Greek.
• Of the nation's 50 largest corporations, 43 are headed by Greeks.  
• 63% of the U.S. President's Cabinet members since 1900 have been Greek.
• Nationally, over 70% of Greeks graduate, while only 50% of non-Greeks graduate.  
• 76% of U.S. Congressmen and Senators are Greek.
• Less than 2% of an average college student's expenses go toward Greek membership dues.
• Over 85% of the student leaders on some 730 campuses are members of a Greek-letter organization.  
• Since 1910, 40 of 47 Supreme Court Justices have been Greek. Three Canadian Prime Ministers have been Greek.