Alpha Gamma Delta History

Alpha Gamma Delta was founded at Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York on May 30, 1904.

When Alpha Gamma Delta was founded at Syracuse. Dr. Wellesley Perry Coddington, a professor of the university was a member of Eclectic Fraternity, Phi Nu Theta and Phi Beta Kappa.

"Fraternity life must have meant much to him in his undergraduate days," wrote Georgia Dickover, Founder. "Over a half a century in a college community as student and professor, he remained as enthusiastic as a recent initiate."

From 1900-1905, however, enrollment at Syracuse doubled. This is what led Dr. Coddington to discuss the need for more organizations with Marguerite Shepard, class of 1905.

Because Marguerite was ending her junior year and would soon be graduating, she shared Dr. Coddington's idea with her younger sister, Estelle, a member of the class of 1908. Estelle saw the chance to make college friendships deeper and more permanent and discussed the possibility with her close friend, Georgia Dickover. These three women embraced the idea and made a list of other women to consider for membership. With Marguerite, Estelle and Georgia's approval, Dr. Coddington spoke with Jennie Titus, a member of his ethics class about the opportunity. She joined the group at their second meeting and became an energetic and eager worker.

On May 30th, 1904, 11 pioneering women came together to form Alpha Gamma Delta. Today Alpha Gamma Delta has grown to be an international organization with 181 collegiate chapters and 250 alumnae chapters, clubs and Junior Circles.