About Us
Founded April 5, 1895 at the University of Arkansas, Chi Omega is the largest women's fraternal organization in the world with more than 300,000 initiates and 171 collegiate chapters. Over the years, Chi Omega has nurtured its members, one woman at a time, 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, community service, leadership opportunities and social enrichment.
Locally, the Xi Kappa chapter of Chi Omega at Texas A&M University was founded in 1975. Thanks to our high standards of personnel, participation in campus activities, dedication to community service and love for our sisters, we quickly became one of the strongest houses on campus. Since 1975, having started with just 16 charter members, we now boast an incredible membership of over 200 young women.
Chi Omega's symbol is the wise owl, our flower the white carnation, and our colors cardinal and straw. Only pearls and diamonds are allowed on the Chi Omega pin. For establishing the largest women's fraternal organization, we have our five founders to thank: Dr. Charles Richardson, Jobelle Holcombe, Jean Vincenheller, Ina May Boles and Alice Simonds.
Throughout our history, Chi Omegas everywhere have enriched their lives through our six purposes. These purposes are the principles that guide the direction of every chapter, creating endless opportunities for personal growth.
FRIENDSHIP The central principle, upon which all others are built. It is the spirit of love, and fun, and family; the security that comes from knowing that there will be sisters who will accept you for who you are throughout your life.
HIGH STANDARDS OF PERSONNEL The element that helps ensure the continuing success of the Fraternity. Chi Omega chapters attract the finest young women who have a strong commitment to success in college and throughout their lives.
SINCERE LEARNING AND CREDITABLE SCHOLARSHIP The ultimate reason for attending college. Chi Omega helps you obtain the finest education possible through academic incentive programs, tutoring, and scholarships from the Chi Omega Foundation.
PARTICIPATION IN CAMPUS ACTIVITIES The element which ensures that Chi Omegas are active participants on campus and in the community. Involvement in campus activities help to broaden one's perspective by introducing you to new people, cultures and ideas.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT The preparation for life after college. The Chi Omega Career Development Portfolio, "On the Way Up," prepares our members for beginning their chosen careers. "Crossroads," Chi Omega's network, is our way of linking, assisting, and contacting members who are moving, changing careers, or just need a friend In a new city or town.
COMMUNITY SERVICE The philanthropic activities that contribute to a community's welfare. Chi Omega allows each chapter to select its own local philanthropy so that members may work on behalf of organizations in their own community and see the results of their efforts. Chi Omega is a large contributor to our national philanthropy, Make A Wish Foundation.