Our Founding

Kappa Alpha Theta was founded in 1870 at Depaw University as the first Greek-letter fraternity for women. Our founders — Bettie Locke, Alice Allen, Hannah Fitch, and Bettie Tipton — envisioned a supportive community that would empower women to excel during a time when opportunities for them in higher education were limited. Guided by values of scholarship, service, leadership, personal excellence, and friendship, they created a sisterhood dedicated to helping women reach their full potential.

Since its founding, Theta has grown into an international organization with over 145 active college chapters and more than 200 alumnae groups worldwide. We continue to uphold the legacy of our founders by fostering a lifelong sisterhood rooted in friendship, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Throughout our history, Theta has had a longstanding partnership with Courts Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), which provides advocacy for children in the foster care system. 

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The Eta Psi chapter of Theta is one of Tufts University's newest sororities, celebrating its 12th anniversary in the fall of 2025. Thirteen of our sisters call 25 Whitfield Rd their home with our house providing all theta sisters with a space to connect and hang out with each other!