Who We Are: Our Story

National Story
Our Story Begins...
It all began on April 5, 1895, at the University of Arkansas when four young women, with the help of a local dentist, established the secrets, symbolism and rites that today bind over 240,000 women. This small band of women founded Chi Omega after realizing a need for an organization that would foster both friendship and respect for the potential and inherent value of women.

Local Story
The Epsilon Alpha chapter of Chi Omega is located on the campus of The University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. Over 200 members strong, we are the largest chapter of Chi Omegas nationwide. Over 80 members live in our beautiful three story chapter house under the supervision of House Director, Eve Cook.

On November 13, 1919, upon the petition of ten women led by Gertrude Sidener, Epsilon Alpha became a chapter of Chi Omega Fraternity, conferred by National President Mary Love Collins.  The instillation took place on the second floor of The Varsity Shop at the corner of Asp and Boyd.  Eight years thereafter, in 1928, our beautiful and stately southern colonial structure became home to Epsilon Alpha Chapter of Chi Omega Fraternity.  It has been the home away from home for generations of Chi Omegas, having been remodeled and expanded to accommodate the Chapter’s impressive growth in prominence and size.  The warmth, dignity and strength of the house reflects Epsilon Alpha’s long tradition of scholarly achievement, student and interfraternity leadership, strong and loyal alumnae, highest standards and the cultivation of deep and enduring fraternal bonds.  The writing of the OU Chant in 1938 by Chi Omega Jessie Long Clarkson Gilkey is but one of the Epsilon Alpha’s countless contributions to the University and to University life.  Those who enter our house as guests are welcome.  Those who enter as sisters are forever blessed.