Tri Delta's History

Delta Delta Delta was founded in 1888 at Boston University. Our founders saw a need for a group that would be different from the others. Sarah Ida Shaw, with the help of her close friend Eleanor Dorcus Pond, set out to “found a society that shall be kind alike to all and think of a girl’s inner self character than of her person appearance.” Delta Delta Delta’s early history describes the growth of our Fraternity as women across the country shared in their vision for an organization based upon perpetual friendships. Since 1888, more than 200,000 women have joined our sisterhood and pledged to “steadfastly love one another.” Our organization gives these young women the opportunity to share friendship and support throughout their collegiate experience.

Tri Delta's Purpose

THE PURPOSE OF DELTA DELTA DELTA shall be to establish a perpetual bond of friendship among its members, to develop a stronger and more womanly character, to broaden the moral and intellectual life, and to assist its members in every possible way.

IT SHALL ALSO BE THE PURPOSE OF DELTA DELTA DELTA to promote and develop mutually beneficial relationships between the Fraternity and the colleges and universities where the Fraternity has established chapters, to develop qualities of unselfish leadership among its members, and to encourage them to assume, with integrity and devotion to moral and democratic principles, the highest responsibilities of college women.

Tri Delta's Symbols

The Pearl: The pearl is the jewel of Tri Delta. It was chosen to symbolize the new member because it is the one jewel that grows, developing from a tiny grain of sand into a thing of great value and beauty.
The Pine: The pine tree is a symbol of Tri Delta's collegiate members because it represents growth and lofty aspirations.
The Pansy: The pansy is Tri Delta's flower. It is a symbol of alumnae membership and the third step in the lifetime development of Delta Delta Delta's members.
The Dolphin: The dolphin was considered a good omen by the ancient Greeks. It symbolized rebirth, friendship and leadership. In Tri Delta the dolphin is symbolic of clear skies and smooth sailing and has special significance for Fraternity leaders.
Poseidon: The patron Greek divinity of Tri Delta is Poseidon, god of the sea and one of the three rulers of the universe.
Our Colors: Tri Delta's colors are silver, gold and cerulean blue. Green is also significant for Tri Delta as it represents the union of the three colors.

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