Chi Omega is a sisterhood that provides a network of friends and lifelong development for collegiate and alumnae members
It all began on April 5, 1895, at the University of Arkansas when four young women, with the help of a local dentist, established the secrets and symbolism that today bind over 260,000 women. This small band of women founded Chi Omega after realizing a need for an organization that would foster both friendship and respect for the potential and inherent value of women. Over the years, Chi Omega has provided its members with unique opportunities in leadership, scholarship, and lifelong friendship - striving to provide each Sister with a commitment to personal integrity, excellence in academic and intellectual pursuits, intergenerational participation, community service, leadership opportunities and social enrichment. Ninety six years later, the Iota Lambda Chapter was established at Villanova University. Founded upon the same principles established by the four founding members, the Iota Lambda chapter has grown to over one hundred active members today! For more info on the Villanova Chapter click here!
Symbols and Colors
Colors: Cardinal (red) and Straw (yellow).
Greek Letters: XΩ Chi Omega Greek Letters are the Chi (X) and the Omega (Ω). Every Chi Omega may wear and use our letters. Not knowing the Greek language, the Chi Omega Founders cut cardboard into the shapes of Greek letters, shuffled, arranged and rearranged them on the floor until they found the monogram, CHI OMEGA. They liked the combination.
Flower: White Carnation. It was chosen for its pure, delicate white color and its rich, refreshing perfume.
The Owl: The owl, an emblem on our Chi Omega badge, is the most recognizable symbol of Chi Omega, and represents wisdom.
Philanthropy and Service
The Make-A-Wish Foundation is Chi Omega Fraternity's National Philanthropy. Since the start of this alliance, Chi Omegas have made a difference in many children's lives through volunteering time, talents, and dollars. The Make-A-Wish Foundation has honored Chi Omega for the incredible volunteer efforts of our members.
Over the past few years, the Villanova Chapter of Chi Omega has raised enough money through fundraising events, such as Rock N' Bowl, Chi O Karaoke, and Dodge for a Dream, to grant five wishes: Two local area girls: Fiona and Ashley and three local area boys named Aiden, Matthew and Christopher! The chapter sent Aiden, Fiona and Ashley and their families to Disney World for a week long, all expenses paid vacation. The chapter sent Christopher to the Superbowl and Matthew to New York City!
In addition to the chapter's work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, many sisters are involved in Habitat trips, Service Break trips, RUIBAL, Bigs & Littles, Special Olympics and more!
Sisterhood
The friendships developed in Chi Omega give members a home across geography and generations and provide lasting support beyond college. Whether traveling abroad, or home in the summer; Chi Omega is always present in the lives of its sisters. Sisters take road trips to one another, visit each other when traveling abroad, and just hang out on weekends.
The families within Chi Omega provide guidance and love. Many of the sisters have made their best friends within the chapter and the bonds continue to grow year after year!
Awards and Achievements
- Best Recruitment 2009
- President of the Year 2009
- Greek Woman of the Year 2010
- Best Financial Standing 2011
- Best Ritual 2011
Famous Members
Harper Lee: author of To Kill a Mockingbird
Alice Sheets Mariott: co-founder of the Mariott hotel chain
Angela Kinsey: actress that currently stars on NBC’s hit show “The Office”
Susan Helms: first woman astronaut to live on the International Space Station
Mary Ann Mobley: former Miss America
Natalie Allen: former CNN anchor
