Facts about Kappa Kappa Gamma History and Tradition

Kappa's symbols — the golden key, the fleur-de-lis and the coat of arms — represent something much deeper, which is friendship rooted in a tradition of high standards.

These standards are as important today as they were in 1870 when Kappa Kappa Gamma was founded by six young women at Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois. Since that time, Kappa has grown to 131 collegiate chapters and over 330 alumnae associations worldwide.

Kappa promotes, through its standards, a broad college experience. Scholarship or intellectual development is our first priority, and the impressive achieve-ments of our members attest to this.  

In Kappa, scholarship programs provide an atmosphere for academic accomplishment emphasizing that each member attain her "personal academic best." Cultural growth is important as well. Kappa Kappa Gamma encourages members to seek opportunities for self-growth in a variety of interests in the chapter, campus, and in the community. Kappa Kappa Gamma also provides leadership opportunities in a mutually supportive environment.

Kappa standards also include an expectation of high personal ethics and a commitment to the campus community and the larger world.

Too, gentle civility is underscored for we recognize that there is much to be learned from being with others whether in class, attending a social event or in preparation for a joint philanthropy project.

Kappa members believe that philanthropy or mutual helpfulness is of significant importance. Awareness of the needs of others is raised by participating in campus philanthropy events. Kappa is proud of its programs of consequence, its high standards and adherence to ethical principles, and of its countless members whose accomplishments have provided a better life for others. Kappa Kappa Gamma at its core is friendship, leadership and scholarship... an opportunity and experience for a lifetime.

-Kappa Kappa Gamma International

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