The Gamma Phi chapter of Alpha Delta Pi, the “oldest secret society for college women,” is celebrating the 150th annivers-ary of the sorority by creating a sitting area in front of ETSU’s Panhellenic residence hall. The sitting area includes two park benches, a decorative plaque and landscaping for the entire area.
“Alpha Delta Pi is excited to be able to work with and share this milestone event with the students and faculty of ETSU,” said Jenny Peterson, event coordinator. “It is not only a time to show ETSU our appreciation, but a wonderful opportunity for us to work together for the improvement of our campus.
We chose the location in front of Panhellenic Hall not only to improve the appearance of the building and surrounding areas, but to provide a comfortable place for residents of the building and other students to enjoy.”
The sorority will dedicate the sitting area to ETSU on Saturday at 10 a.m. Speakers at the event include Dr. Bert Bach, provost and vice president for academic affairs, who will accept the gift on behalf of ETSU; Harry Steele, director of housing and residence life, who will discuss Greek life at ETSU; and Rhonda Bishop, an international officer of the sorority, who will speak on behalf of Alpha Delta Pi.
Founded on May 15, 1851, Alpha Delta Pi holds the distinction of being the first secret society in the world for college women. The sorority was founded at the first college chartered to grant degrees to women, Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Ga.
Alpha Delta Pi bases its membership on the qualifications of “scholarship, high principles of behavior and true friendships.” Today, there are more than 170,000 initiated members of the sorority worldwide and more than 130 collegiate chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

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