Purpose
The objectives of our Fraternity are the promotion of growth in character; unity of feeling, sisterly affection, and social communion among our members. In all that we do, we try to obey God’s principles of justice and right. We have banded ourselves together to improve our minds and hearts, and we seek to aid each other through a constant watchcare always given in love. We believe ourselves to be sincere searchers for truth.
Creed
I believe in my Fraternity. I believe in the friendships formed in the springtime of my youth. I believe in its high ideals which lift me up beyond myself. I believe in its earnest drive for good scholarship, moral character, and genuine culture. I believe in it as a shrine of international sisterhood wherein I may find love and loyalty, sympathy and understanding inspiration and opportunity. I believe in it as a creator of good citizenship, helping me to do my work well, to live in harmony with others, and to serve my country and to trust in God. I believe in my Fraternity. I believe in Alpha Phi. - Annette Holt Hitchcock, Pi 1912
History
Alpha Phi has a long and proud history. We exist today because of the vision and ideals of our Founders. Our future depends on how we understand and invest in the idea that women, bound together in sisterhood, provide the strength and support which fosters achievement. Throughout our history, Alpha Phi has been blessed to have many respected members in government, business, and the arts. These Famous Phis promote Alpha Phi’s diversity and influence throughout their communities and, indeed, throughout our nation. In her own right, Alpha Phi as a whole has made her mark in gaining women’s rights on college campuses and shaping the Greek system. Our Alpha Phi Milestones remind us that as a group of women, bound by sisterhood and seeking the higher ideals, we can make a difference.
Symbols
The symbols of Alpha Phi are outward signs of the high regard and love we have for each other and for Alpha Phi. Treat these symbols with respect by upholding the high ideals and standards which bind Alpha Phis throughout the world. There are the Alpha Phi Badge, Honor Badges, New Member Badges, Fifty-Year Pin, The Fraternity Crest, Fraternity Colors, Fraternity Flowers, and the Alpha Phi Bear.
Organizational Structure
Under the umbrella of Alpha Phi exists two distinct organizations: the Alpha Phi Fraternity and the Alpha Phi Foundation. The Fraternity concerns itself with membership activities while the Foundation focuses itself on charity and philanthropy. Each organization, working hand-in-hand at the Executive Office in Evanston, IL, has its own staff, board, and volunteers. The Fraternity is overseen by the International Executive Board, while the Foundation is overseen by the Foundation Board of Directors. While the Fraternity and Foundation are distinct from each other, both organizations operate similarly. The boards govern and oversee board affairs while staff members manage day-to-day business. The directors and staff work together to ensure that Alpha Phi runs as effectively as possible. Aside from the boards, specialists and committees serve at the International level to assist with special projects. To aid the directors and staff, eight sets of regional teams act as liaisons between Alpha Phi governance and the collegiate and alumnae chapters. The regional teams, whose members reside close to the chapters, are available for chapter support and advice. Each collegiate chapter has a chapter adviser who reports chapter activities to the Alpha Phi International community and also assists in day-to-day chapter activities. Each alumnae chapter is coordinated by a group of alumnae chapter officers. In order for Alpha Phi to run smoothly, we rely on members lending their time, talents and skills to our organizations by filling key volunteer positions. Representing Alpha Phi on the interfraternal level are the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) delegation.