Beta Sigma Phi sorority to celebrate 89th anniversary
Beta Sigma Phi, the largest Greek letter organization in the world, is celebrating the 89th anniversary of its founding.
It is not affiliated with a college and membership is by invitation only. The Greek Motto is Life, Learning, Friendship with 160,000 members in countries throughout the world that come from all walks of life and share experiences and friendships and are devoted to social, cultural and service projects.
The first chapter was founded in Abilene, Kansas, on April 30, 1931.In the midst of the Great Depression, founder Walter W. Ross, felt women needed more in their lives than work and hardships.
Many were not able to pursue a higher education and needed a cultural and social outlet to establish lasting friendships. With the help of several women in the town, Beta Sigma Phi was started.
Although founded as a social organization, members began adding service projects to their program. Over the years chapters participate in service projects on both the local, state and national levels, raising millions of dollars to support charitable organizations and health research programs.
The Stroud chapter designates its donations to the International funds tobreast cancer research, women’s heart heath, Lupus and Diabetes programs,all of which affect local members or their families.
Oklahoma chapters support the state’s own, “Ally’s House” charity that helps families with children fighting cancer by assisting with housing and other expenses while undergoing treatments.
The Stroud chapter continues to support local projects each year and others as they find a need or by request.
Although women enjoy many more opportunities today, the organization continues because of the friendships gained and shared experiences through socials, community service and events such as the Founders Day celebration.
Not only will members recognize the founding of the organization,but will celebrate the 41st anniversary of the chartering of the Stroud chapter.
Awards usually given at the Founder’s Day banquet to recognize members for sorority and community work will not be presented this year due to an abbreviated year because of Covid. Instead, members will focus on fellowship missed with no meetings or socials.
Officers will retain their posts for the next Sorority year and members achieving membership milestones will be honored.
Since the organization was unable to have its annual Valentine Ball, the Founder’s Day program will include recognition of the 2021 chapter Valentine Queen, Linda Stephens, who is also the chapter President.The Bristow chapter will join in the event again this year.
Banquet theme will be the year’s International theme, “Sisters by Choice.” The planning committee includes Pam Hunt, Sandy Jones, Linda Waller, Darlene Lau, Pam Clement, Rachel Shields and chapter President, Linda Stephens.