est. 1917
“Promote good fellowship among the women students throughout the various colleges in the country...to create a secret society composed of these women based upon their good moral character, regardless of nationality or creed... to have distinct chapters at various colleges...” - from the notes of our founders.
This was the founding promise five young law students from New York University School of Law pledged with the formation of the Alpha Chapter of Delta Phi Epsilon on March 17, 1917.
These pioneering women, met with closed doors and narrow-mindedness, chose not to conform but to create. They built Delta Phi Epsilon on the bedrock of acceptance, embracing all races and religions with open arms. Their bold step towards inclusivity cultivated a diverse sisterhood of empowered women, shaping a legacy that continues to thrive.
Guided by our motto Esse Quam Videri to be rather than to seem to be, Minna Goldsmith Mahler, Eve Effron Robin, Ida Bienstock Landau, Sylvia Steierman Cohn and Dorothy Cohen Schwartzman forged a legacy that grows ever stronger through genuine authentic relationships. The Alpha Chapter of Delta Phi Epsilon became the only Panhellenic sorority founded at a professional school.
In an era where women were often dissuaded from pursuing education, our founders dared to dream. They were visionaries, they were trailblazers, and above all, they were sisters. Delta Phi Epsilon was built upon the solid bedrock of Justice, Sisterhood, and Love.
Esse Quam Videri - to be rather than to seem to be- became our founding principle that, to this day, we weave into our daily lives as sisters and leaders.
Our motto holds great meaning for our members and continues to resonate with them over 100 years after its writing. For being, rather than simply just doing,
allows one to remain true to herself.
To inspire and empower our sisterhood to engage in a lifetime of leadership and service.
Our mission is to provide a sisterhood experience rich with tradition, innovation and opportunities for growth.
Justice, Sisterhood, and Love.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. It was virtually unknown to the general population until 1955. when a group of parents formed the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF). It’s mission is to be driving force in finding a cure. Phyllis Kossoff, Delta Chapter at Hunter College was instrumental in founding the CFF.
Phyllis came to our convention in 1957 and shared her endeavors during an emotional presentation. As a result Delta Phi Epsilon designated the CFF our philantropy. Since that day, sisters from every chapter have supported the CFF mission.
Delta Phi Epsilon has donated more than $1 million to research in the pursuit of curing cystic fibrosis.
It is the mission of the Educational Foundation to encourage the personal and professional advancement of our members by supporting educational and philanthropic programs that are responsive to our communities.
As the first international sorority to pledge regular support to ANAD, Delta Phi Epsilon began its commitment and formal affiliation with the organization in 1985. Delegates during the 1983 convention determined that the philanthropic projects, such as ANAD would ‘better reflect the needs of young people today.’
Delta Phi Epsilon has always placed great importance for individuality and valuing someone for who they are, not what they look like. Sisters of Delta Phi Epsilon educate, advocate and raise funds for ANAD. We are ambassadors for healthy attitudes, bodies and behaviors on campus and within the community.