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On April 20, 1898, a sisterhood emerged from the dreams and determination of eight visionary young women in Farmville, Virginia. This group of pioneering women set out to create a steadfast bond that has withstood the test of time. Our Story On April 20, 1898, a sisterhood emerged from the dreams and determination of eight visionary young women in Farmville, Virginia. This group of pioneering women set out to create a steadfast bond that has withstood the test of time. National Archives Tri Sigma’s National Archives exists to safeguard and preserve the records of the sorority, ensuring that our history and heritage is maintained. Materials are identified, acquired, stored, preserved, and made available to members as is safe and practical for the integrity of the materials. LEARN MORE Our Insignia COAT OF ARMS Sketched by Harriet Hankins, Alpha, around 1902, the significance of the Coat of Arms is revealed to members following their initiation. SYMBOL Adopted as the official symbol at the 1974 Convention, the sails always appear full to represent an empowered sisterhood that is always moving forward. FLOWER The official flower is the purple violet, as they were in bloom in Farmville at the time of our founding and were gathered the morning of the first initiation ceremony. JEWEL Although not official until 1909, the pearl has been our designated jewel since our founding and first appeared formally on the member badge in 1903. EMBLEM The skull & crossbones appear on our member badge. It symbolizes our closed motto which is known only to initiated members. BADGE Adopted in 1903, the badge design is reflective of the Triangle Degree—Tri Sigma’s second degree of membership—and is worn only by initiated members. Our Founders In 1898, Margaret Lee Batten, Louise Marie Davis, Martha Trent Featherston, Isabella Merrick, Sallie Jackson Michie, Lelia Scott, Elizabeth Watkins, and Lucy Wright embarked on a mission to forge a sisterhood grounded in the unbreakable bond of friendship. Click any of the images above to learn more about our Founders. Margaret Lee Batten Born September 11, 1882, in Smithfield, Virginia, Margaret’s never-ending smile made her the sunshine of the Sigmas. Though quite regal, she was known for her dancing skills, extensive wardrobe, and impressive strength. As a young widow and mother, she went on to pursue a career in hotel industry. Her genuine love of people made her an overwhelming success. She entered Omega Chapter in 1960 while residing in Washington, D.C. Louise Marie Davis Born in August of 1880 in Cumberland County, Virginia, Louise received her early education at home under the direction of a governess. That home would later become a popular place for Sigma visitors. As a student, she enjoyed the athletic program, tennis, long walks, and practicing perfect posture by marching around the gymnasium with a hymnbook on her head. Though a bout with the German measles delayed her graduation by a year and a half, she still had many fond memories of her college days. She later married and had had three children before entering Omega Chapter in 1963 while residing in in Warhill, Virginia. Martha Trent Featherston Born November 18, 1878, in Roanoke, Virginia, Martha was born in the Surrender House at the infamous Appomattox Courthouse. Better known as “Pat,” she was demure, dignified, and much loved by her peers. Despite her serious demeaner, she had quick wit about her. She taught a variety of ages and subjects during her long 41-year teaching career. Martha entered Omega Chapter in 1972 while residing in Prince Edward, Virginia. Isabella Noyce Merrick A direct descendant of the heir apparent of King Edward III of England, Isabella was born May 18, 1879, in Charlottesville, Virginia. Described as lovable and a good student, Isabella was perhaps our most mischievous Founder. She admittedly snuck a few visits with boys during the week—despite school rules—and enjoyed the occasional claret ice, a type of wine cooler for the time. She trained and showed horses—and even rode to school on horseback! Being able to earn her own living was a priority for Isabella. She taught at a nearby school before getting married, moving to North Carolina, and raising her son. Though the exact date is unknown, Isabella entered Omega Chapter sometime after December 21, 1969. Sallie Jackson Michie Sallie was born at her family’s home—known as Monticello’s Bel Aire—on February 6, 1883, in Earlysville, Virginia. A bright and diligent student, Sallie graduated college with top honors at 16 and was the youngest girl to ever graduate from the Normal School! Though sometimes quiet, her fun-loving nature was a welcomed surprise to everyone she met. She taught in Virginia and Georgia for 10 years, before marrying and moving to New York City. During World War I, she worked for the Army Air Corps in Washington, D.C., and continued until her retirement in 1943. She entered Omega Chapter on January 2, 1974. Lelia Agnes Scott Lelia was born April 12, 1880, in Amelia, Virginia. Studious and seemingly older than her years, Lelia was a gifted student and excelled in mathematics. Her room became the gathering place as the Founders first planned their secret society before taking place in the privacy of the left wing of Professional Hall. She graduated from the Normal School in 1898 alongside Martha, Lucy, and Sallie, and was referred to as “the greatest of our class” in the yearbook by the class prophet. On June 19, 1913, Lelia became the first Sigma to enter Omega Chapter. Elizabeth Egerton Watkins Born July 6, 1881, in Old Point Comfort, Virginia, Elizabeth was described as small and dainty. She served as the associate editor of the 1899 issue of the Normal Light yearbook and was roommates with Margaret and Lucy. She loved teaching and taught public school in Hampton prior to her marriage and becoming a mother to three daughters. Elizabeth was the only Founder to marry a Hampden-Sydney graduate. Her husband Harry Houston, Pi Kappa Alpha, served as Speaker of the House in the Virginia Legislature. She entered Omega Chapter on August 13, 1964, while residing in Hampton, Virginia. Lucy Elizabeth Wright Lucy was born Jan. 27, 1880, at Clover Dale Farm in James City County, Virginia. A natural scholar, she started college on her 16th birthday in 1896 and graduated three years later. She was the chapter's first chief officer and excelled in many activities, including tennis and cycling. She was a skilled seamstress, and (rumor has it) one of the dresses she designed was so popular, she borrowed a sewing machine and made and sold several duplicates for 25-cents each. Upon graduation, she accepted a principalship at Hickory Neck Academy where she remained until she married. The birth of her son Robert W. James made her the first Sigma mom. She entered Omega Chapter January 28, 1960, in Richmond, Virgina. Team Tri Sigma Each triennium, six members are elected to Executive Council to guide the strategic plan of Tri Sigma. The National Headquarters staff works to ensure the day-to-day operational needs of the organization and strategic goals are met. Together, through a team of national and collegiate chapter volunteers, we work hard to enhance the Tri Sigma experience for all members. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL NHQ STAFF JOB LISTINGS National Headquarters Tri Sigma’s base of operations is located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. With 75% of Tri Sigma’s full-time NHQ staff working remotely across 12 states, the NHQ serves as an administrative hub and houses our extensive archives collection. For more information about NHQ’s relocation, visit our FAQ. VIEW NHQ FAQ Our Beginnings Inspired by their Greek-letter friends at nearby Hampden-Sydney College, our eight Founders first cemented their ties of friendship by forming the S.S.S. Club while at the State Female Normal School (now Longwood University). A year later, surrounded by candlelight and purple violets picked from the nearby woods, Sigma Sigma Sigma held its first initiation on April 20, 1898. By the next decade, Tri Sigma had grown to eight collegiate chapters in five states, and 18 alumnae chapters. More than 125 years and 140,000 initiated members later, Tri Sigma still empowers women to change the world through the guiding values of wisdom, power, faith, hope, and love.

Tri Sigma’s Executive Council is elected each triennium and guides the strategic vision of Tri Sigma. Questions, feedback, and concerns concerning the national organization submitted should be submitted here and will be forwarded to the appropriate person for follow-up. 2025-28 Executive Council Tri Sigma’s Executive Council is elected each triennium and guides the strategic vision of Tri Sigma. Questions, feedback, and concerns concerning the national organization submitted should be submitted here and will be forwarded to the appropriate person for follow-up. Lauren Moran National President Gamma Rho PennWest Edinboro INFO Brenda Christie National Vice President Alpha Iota Northeastern State University INFO Crystal Jones National Vice President Zeta Pi Batten University INFO Celinda Miranda-LaBella National Vice President Zeta Epsilon Florida International University INFO Veronica Atkins Seymour National Vice President Eta Omicron Sam Houston State University INFO Courtney Stone-Plamp NPC Delegate, Ex-Officio Alpha Psi Eastern Illinois University INFO

Membership in Tri Sigma doesn’t end after graduation—it’s a lifetime of unforgettable moments. Regardless of where life takes you after graduation, there are alumnae engagement opportunities for every stage of life. A Lifetime of Sigma Membership in Tri Sigma doesn’t end after graduation—it’s a lifetime of unforgettable moments. Regardless of where life takes you after graduation, there are alumnae engagement opportunities for every stage of life. Stay Connected We want to keep in touch! Log into Sigma Connect to review the information we have on file for you and update as needed. UPDATE VIA SIGMA CONNECT Join an Alumnae Chapter Alumnae chapters help foster a sense of lifelong sisterhood and are a great way to connect with sisters in your community. By joining an alumnae chapter, you’re embracing a powerful network of Sigmas who share an unbreakable bond. You’ll also have opportunities to engage in meaningful philanthropic activities allowing you to make a positive impact in your community and find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. FIND A CHAPTER START A CHAPTER Volunteer Opportunities Tri Sigma would not be the organization it is today without the time and talent of our volunteers. By offering their mentorship, leadership, and support, volunteers help shape the experiences and growth of our members. Whether you’re interested in working directly with collegians as a Chapter Advisory Board member or focusing on specific areas for the organization, there’s a place for you to make an impact. GET INVOLVED Alumnae Dues One of the easiest ways to help steer Tri Sigma forward is to pay your alumnae dues through the annual or lifetime dues program. By paying alumnae dues, you’re contributing to the sustainability and success of Tri Sigma. These funds support technology needs, national events such as Convention, printing and production of The Triangle magazine, care and preservation of our archives, leadership programming, and recruitment and expansion support. PAY IT FORWARD Alumnae Initiate Program The Alumnae Initiate Program is a unique opportunity that extends the invitation of sisterhood beyond the traditional college campus environment. This program invites women of character to join regardless of age and offers a lifetime of sisterhood with the same rights, responsibilities, and privileges as a member who was initiated as a collegian. LEARN MORE Golden Violets The time-honored tradition of Golden Violet recognition—Tri Sigma’s highest honor—is given to alumnae who have demonstrated their lifetime commitment through loyalty and steadfast support for 50 years. MAKE A NOMINATION Local Founders Day Events Tri Sigma Founders Day is April 20! During the month of April, Sigmas from coast to coast are encouraged gather together each year celebrate the founding of our sisterhood. FIND AN EVENT SUBMIT AN EVENT Upcoming Events Tri Sigma Founders Day 2027 Tue, Apr 20 Local events hosted by chapters Learn More

Tri Sigma is proud to recognize exceptional members and chapters during the 2025 calendar year as a part of its annual awards program. The annual awards program celebrates the accomplishments of collegiate chapters, alumnae chapters and individual members during the past calendar year. Chapter award categories highlight the connection between excellent operations and sisterhood while individual award categories recognize outstanding leadership within Tri Sigma and the local community. The following 2025 award recipients have created a legacy of excellence, hard work, and are stellar examples of a values-focused commitment to Tri Sigma and their communities.  COLLEGIATE CHAPTER AWARDS Excellence in Alumnae Engagement Nu–University of Central Missouri Excellence in Marketing and Social Media Social Media Campaign: Alpha Chi–Murray State University PR Week: Gamma Xi–Barton College Creative Use of TikTok: Zeta Theta–Idaho State University Excellence in Member Engagement and Inclusivity Alpha Chi–Murray State University Excellence in New Member Engagement Chi–Pittsburg State University Excellence in New Member Onboarding Alpha Chi–Murray State University Excellence in Membership Recruitment Nu–University of Central Missouri Excellence in Ritual and Values Eta Tau–Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Community Collaborator Award Zeta Theta–Idaho State University Theta Alpha–High Point University Community Impact Award Beta Epsilon–Western Illinois University Resiliency Award Beta Beta–Missouri State University Theta Alpha–High Point University Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency Award Nu–University of Central Missouri Laura Ward Sweet Panhellenic Excellence Award Nu–University of Central Missouri INDIVIDUAL COLLEGIATE AWARDS Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award Morgen Rhodes, Beta Tau–University of Detroit Mercy Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior Erin Clark, Eta Tau–Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Outstanding Advisor Taylor Hester, Eta Tau C.A.B. Chair Andrea Richards, Mu C.A.B. Chair Fraternity/Sorority Advisor of the Year Alyssa Mohr, Eastern Michigan University ALUMNAE CHAPTER AWARDS  Alumnae Chapter of the Year Chicago North Shore Empowered to Innovate Pittsburgh Excellence in Collegiate Support Phoenix Excellence in Character Development Long Beach Excellence in Member Development & Educational Programming Phoenix Excellence in Mentorship Indianapolis Suburban Excellence in Ritual & Values Denver Excellence in Social Media Lafayette Excellence in Volunteerism Chicago North Shore INDIVIDUAL ALUMNAE AWARDS Emerging Alumna Rebecca Jones, Zeta Chi and Coastal Area Alumnae Chapter Outstanding Alumna Haley Foster, Alpha Beta and Metropolitan Washington Alumnae Chapter Emma Hanby, Alpha Beta and Northeast Ohio Alumnae Chapter Steadfast Alumna Cindy Harms, Alpha Epsilon and Long Beach Alumnae Chapter Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award Amanda Armstrong, Iota Alpha and Indianapolis Suburban Alumnae Chapter Collegiate awards were presented live at the Regional Academies hosted throughout January and February. Alumnae awards were presented locally throughout March and April. For more information on awards criteria, members can log into Sigma Connect.

Past Executive Council Member and longtime Tri Sigma volunteer Allison Swick-Duttine, Psi–Marshall University, was recently honored with two industry awards at the Northeast Greek Leadership Association’s annual conference in Pittsburgh. National President Lauren Moran and eight of Allison’s students from State University of New York at Plattsburgh were there as she received the NGLA’s 2026 Compass Award and the Mardie Trask Sorensen Chapter Advisor of the Year award from Order of Omega. The Compass Award is NGLA’s highest honor, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and long-standing commitment to advancing fraternity and sorority life in the Northeast and beyond, according to the association. “Allison has been a respected leader and advocate for fraternity and sorority life throughout her career, most of which has been spent at SUNY Plattsburgh. She represents the very best of our community,” said NGLA Executive Director Tom Murphy. “Her leadership has influenced generations of students and professionals, and her commitment to creating meaningful fraternity and sorority experiences continues to make a lasting impact across our region.” Involvement in NGLA has been a constant throughout Allison’s career. “My first encounter with the organization was when I served as a member of the conference graduate staff. In fact, it was the connections that I made at that time that led me to my first position at SUNY Plattsburgh,” she said. “I am so proud of the organization NGLA has become and look forward to bringing my students to the conference each year.” Allison—who serves as SUNY Plattsburgh’s Director of Student Leadership, Fraternity & Sorority Life, and Student Volunteerism—credits her collegiate Tri Sigma membership as inspiration in pursuing a career in higher education. “My experience as an undergraduate member at Marshall University was transformative. I don't think I would have been able to develop my skills in leadership and character development on a campus that large without it,” she said. “Being able to learn and grow from my sorority experience led me to want to share that experience with other students as a career.” That, she has certainly done. While fraternity/sorority advisor roles are known to have a high rate of turnover due to long hours and high stress, Allison has stayed the course for more than 28 years. “I feel fortunate to have been supported throughout my career by SUNY Plattsburgh and organizations I have volunteered with over the years such as NGLA and Tri Sigma, the Hazing Prevention Network and the Association of Fraternity & Sorority Advisors,” she said, “It is because of this support and the opportunity for growth that I have stayed in fraternity/sorority advising for the entirety of my career. That is something that is not nearly common enough.” Allison has previously been awarded the Dr. Robert H. Shaffer Award (2021), Shelley Sutherland Outstanding Volunteer Award (2012) and the Sue Kraft Fussell Distinguished Service Award (2007)—all from the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors. When she’s not working or volunteering for Tri Sigma and other industry organizations, Allison enjoys reading, thrifting and hiking in the Adirondacks. She also loves cooking and traveling with her husband and son, who is a college freshman. Allison Swick-Duttine (center) with colleague Will Cangialosi and National President Lauren Moran at NGLA’s 2026 annual conference in Pittsburgh. The Northeast Greek Leadership Association is dedicated to educating and empowering fraternity and sorority leaders across the Northeast. Through its annual conference and year-round programming, NGLA provides resources, leadership development, and networking opportunities that inspire values-based leadership and foster a thriving Greek community.   In conjunction with her honor, the NGLA Fund  is raising money in Allison’s name to support scholarships that help students attend the NGLA Annual Conference, ensuring access to leadership development and educational opportunities for future leaders. Order of Omega recognizes high-achieving fraternity and sorority members who exemplify leadership, service, and academic excellence. The organization currently has over 590 active chapters across the United States, Canada, and The Bahamas.

Tri Sigma is excited to pilot a Member Advisory Panel over the next 12 months.  The purpose of the MAP is to empower the voices of collegiate and alumnae members. MAP members will provide ongoing input, ideas, and feedback about the relevant issues, trends, and changes in society that impact the membership experience.  The work of this panel will provide additional information to Executive Council and staff, which will help shape and define the work of the national organization. Those selected to be on MAP can expect to: Gain a broad perspective on the national organization’s infrastructure, group dynamics, and leadership opportunities. Interact with Executive Council, Tri Sigma staff, members, and other stakeholders of Tri Sigma. Participate in open and honest dialogue through direct connection to Executive Council and other leaders. UPDATE—Applications are now closed.