5 Original Founders


In 1895, four young women at the University of Arkansas wanted to find a way to express the amazing potential and inherent value of college-aged women.  Ina Mae Boles, Jobelle Holcombe, Jean Vincenheller, and Alice Simonds approached Dr. Charles Richardson, a regent of the University and a national officer of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, to assist in organizing a women's group similar to the men's fraternities which were being established on campus.  Working together, Dr. Richardson and the four undergraduates structured a National Women's fraternity.

On April 5, 1895, the founders signed the first ritual handbook and constitution.  Including the founders, Chi Omega had fourteen original members who pledged their loyalty to the Fraternity, which is the strongest foundation of this organization.  They promised loyalty to goals, which have proven timeless in content and application.  Throughout its history, Chi Omega has focused on the personal growth of its members - academically, socially, and emotionally.  The intrinsic worth of the Fraternity has resulted in the successful growth and development of Chi Omega.

Today, Chi Omega is the largest women's fraternal organization in the world with over 300,000 initiates and more than 170 collegiate chapters.  Since its beginning, Chi Omega has nurtured its members by providing them with unique opportunities in leadership, in scholarship, and in life-long friendship.  Ours is a distinguished history...and our most vital role has been the preparation of young women to achieve their highest possible aspirations.