History of AOII

  • Founders                                                                                                                                                                     
    founders
    Alpha Omicron Pi was founded in 1897 by Stella George Stern Perry, Jessie Wallace Hughan, Elizabeth Heywood Wyman, and Helen St. Clair Mullen. AOII has over 130,000 initiated members, 178 chartered collegiate chapter across Canada and the United States and 300 chartered alumnae chapters internationally.


    Badge                                                                                                                                                 

    badgesThe badge of Alpha Omicron Pi is composed of the three initial letters of the three words of the Motto, superimposed one upon the next in order, which gives the Fraternity its name. Badges may be worn by initiated members only.

     


    New Member Pin                                                                                                                                                        

    new member pinThe binding together of wheat into a sheaf in the new member pin represents individuals bound by the common bond of Alpha Omicron Pi. The pin is worn by new members during their new member period and is returned to the chapter before the initiation ceremony. 


    Jewel                                                                                                                                                     

    symbol13Alpha Omicron Pi has only one jewel, the ruby. The occasional use of pearls or diamonds in special badges has no significance or special meaning. 

     


    Flower                                                                                                                                                                         symbol16

    The Jacqueminot, a deep red rose, was chosen as the flower of Alpha Omicron Pi because its color is the symbol of the central and essential virtue of the Fraternity. This strong red rose, with its overtones of courage and vigor, was selected for its richness of color and fragrance, combines with softness and modesty of bearing.


    Crest                                                                                                                                               

    AOII crestAOII is the only women's fraternity that does not use a crest. Our founders felt that the beauty and simplicity of our badge possessed enough significance to stand alone. Crests are medieval while we are founded on Greek ideals. Where other groups might use a crest, we simply display the rose.

     


    Colour                                                                                                                                                                         

    Alpha Omicron Pi has only one color, cardinal. It is the color of the Fraternity flower, the ruby and the ribbon sometimes worn under the badge to welcome a new collegiate chapter.


    Mascot                                                                                                                                                                          pandas

    While not an official symbol, the Fraternity and our chapters consider the Panda to be its mascot.