Founded on January 2, 1897 at Barnard College on the campus of Columbia University in New York, Alpha Omicron Pi began as a dream by four young college women to continue their friendship throughout life. One of AOII's founders, Stella George Stern Perry, wrote in 1936, "We wanted a fraternity that should carry on the delightful fellowships and cooperation of college days into the workaday years ahead and to do so magnanimously. Above all, we wanted a high and active special purpose to justify existence and a simple devotion to some worthy end."

Stella's wish for AOII then, remains AOII's wish for her members today: "May you have the joy in it all, dear children, that we (founders) have had all the way! May you love one another as happily always as we four have done in a life-long fellowship without a break! And may your descendants in Alpha Omicron Pi bring to you the glory that you yourselves are to us today!"

our mission

Alpha Omicron Pi is an international womens fraternity promoting friendship for a lifetime, inspiring academic excellence, and lifelong learning, and developing leadership skills through service to the fraternity and community.

symbols

Rose: The Nineteenth Century French rose, General 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.

Ruby: Alpha Omicron Pi has one jewel, the ruby. There is the occasional use of pearls or diamonds in special badges but they have no significance or special meaning.

Panda: The Panda is AOII's unofficial symbol.The panda was chosen because it is an animal that has no enemies.

Badge: The 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.Our badge symbolizes simplicity and singleness of heart. Badges may be worn by initiated members only.

Sheaf of Wheat: Our symbol of the sheaf of wheat represents our diversity as a sorority. Like each individual piece of wheat we are different, however we are all tied together and share our common bond of AOII.