Chapter Traditions

Chapter traditions can be thought of as the "ties that bind" us throughout the years. They span across both age and location and establish a feeling of belonging. There are several traditions that are observed from a national level that all chapters partake in, such as Founders Day. However, most traditions are formed at the local chapter level. No two chapters may have the same traditions, but the importance is unchanged. You will soon be partaking in your chapter's traditions. Take them to heart and make them your own.

Founders Day

First set aside by the 1912 National Convention, Founders Day was observed in the early days by each chapter having a formal banquet that brought both collegiate and alumnae members together. Today, the formal banquet has been replaced with more casual gatherings, but it is still a festive occasion with speakers and the presentation of awards.

In 1923, it was suggested that all groups make their festivities uniform with a special candlelighting ceremony honoring our Founders. This ceremony was used until 1927 when a revised service by the author of our Creed, Dorothy Mumford Williams Alpha Zeta, was sent to chapters. With the Elizabeth Coulter Stephenson Scholarship drive in 1940, a new service was prepared by Carolyn Bowers Omega.

As time went on, chapters began to perform their own service, but the basis still is a memorial to the six Founders with the lighting of six candles. Originally, as each Founder passed on, a gold candle was lighted in their honor, replacing the white one. Now that all of our Founders are gone, the use of white or gold candles is optional.

Delta Zeta Ribbons
The colors of our ribbons are rose and green as chosen by our Founders. Originally these colors were called Old Rose and Vieux Green but as far as the 1926 Constitution, the colors were referred to as simply rose and green.

Our ribbons, like the ones you received when you accepted your bid, have been referred to as "new member ribbons." In actuality, they are not just for new members. You receive the Delta Zeta ribbons as a new member but all members, new members, initiates, and alumnae alike, may wear them for various reasons. Our ribbons of rose and green are worn under (but not attached to) the Delta Zeta badge or new member pin to signify Founders Day, the installation of a new chapter, the anniversary of one's own chapter installation and in memory of a deceased member. new members may wear ribbons during Bid Day.

Chapter Awards
Chapter awards spotlight members' achievements and accomplishments. Many chapters hold annual banquets or receptions to present chapter awards. Some chapter awards such as "highest GPA" or "Sister of the Semester" may be awarded during a chapter meeting. Weekly awards may be just a posting in a meeting area while others can be more elaborate such as plaques or certificates. Regardless of the type of award, the purpose is the same...providing an opportunity for every sister to highlight her unique strengths and talents.

Big Sisters and Family Trees
One of the closest bonds formed in Delta Zeta, the woman with whom you will share the closeness of Delta Zeta the most, is a special sister who will always be there when you need someone. In Delta Zeta, every member has a special sister called a Big Sister. Much like the name implies, a Big Sister becomes a guide during your first months experiencing Delta Zeta as well as remaining a very special person throughout your life.

As an extension of the Big Sister Program, many chapters also include the concept of a "Family Tree". The "Family Tree" can be extensive and you may find yourself with not only a new Big Sister, but also a Grand Big Sister and a Great-Grand Big Sister! This will allow you the opportunity to experience Delta Zeta's sisterhood throughout the different classes in your chapter.

Soon you will have the opportunity to identify the initiated members who you might want as your Big Sister. Before deciding upon who should have this honor, you need to be aware of what you want and expect personally from her. Your expectations should serve as a guide in selecting your Big Sister.

Senior Ceremonies
Typically held at the end of the school year, many chapters honor their senior members for their devoted service to the chapter. This can be done in the form of a ceremony, a special dinner or a joint collegiate-alumna event. This is a time for reflection for the seniors and allows them the opportunity to give back some of what they have experienced during their years as a collegiate member. The senior ceremony also serves as a welcome to the next step of "becoming an alumna member of Delta Zeta."