The first secret society for women was founded as a men's model

Wars & Conflicts · Published 9 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1867, a group of women at Monmouth College sought the same benefits as men's collegiate secret societies. They formed I. C. Sorosis, creating the first national women's fraternity and setting a precedent for Greek-letter organizations across North America.

Established on April 28, 1867, within Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, Pi Beta Phi started as a clandestine group called I. C. Sorosis. The founders—including Margaret Campbell, Libbie Brook Gaddis, and Ada Bruen Grier—intended to replicate the social benefits of men's collegiate fraternities. While the term "sorority" had not yet been coined, the group is recognized as the first national women's fraternity, predating Kappa Alpha Theta, which became known among women in 1870.

The organization's identity evolved significantly over its first two decades. In 1870, it established its second chapter at Iowa Wesleyan University, becoming the first multi-chapter women's secret society. By 1882, it had officially adopted the colors wine and silver blue, and by 1888, it transitioned from its original name to the Greek-letter designation Pi Beta Phi. The group's official motto, "Friends and leaders for life," was also formalized during this era.

The fraternity's influence expanded through various philanthropic and educational efforts. In 1912, it organized the Pi Beta Phi Settlement School in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to provide education and healthcare to rural areas. This later evolved into the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Today, the organization focuses heavily on literacy through its "Read>Lead>Achieve" program, supported by the Pi Beta Phi Foundation, which was established in 1990.

Despite its prestige, the fraternity has faced modern challenges. In 2010, a Cornell University chapter faced criticism over an email regarding recruitment attire. More significantly, in 2013 and 2014, members at the University of Alabama alleged that alumnae threatened to withdraw financial support if black candidates were offered membership, highlighting historical tensions regarding racial integration in Greek life.

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