Panhellenic Council (PHC)
The Panhellenic Council (PHC) serves as the governing body for Penn State’s National Panhellenic Conference sororities, as well as professional and independent women’s fraternity and sorority chapters.
Rooted in the values of sisterhood, scholarship, leadership, and service, PHC fosters a community where women support one another’s personal, academic, and professional growth. Through leadership roles, philanthropy, and shared experiences, members learn to lead with purpose, give back to their communities, and build friendships that last well beyond their time at Penn State.
Understanding Recognition
In order for a sorority to operate at Penn State, it must be recognized as an affiliate group of its inter/national fraternity, otherwise known as a chapter. Chapters must also maintain University recognition by upholding the standards and expectations outlined for all fraternities and sororities. Below you’ll find a list of PHC chapters that are currently recognized by the University.
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Founded in 1851 as the first secret society for women, Alpha Delta Pi focuses on sisterhood, leadership, and philanthropy. The Penn State chapter supports Ronald McDonald House Charities and creates a welcoming environment for members to grow academically and personally. Sisters are known for lifelong bonds and their motto, “We Live for Each Other.”
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Alpha Omicron Pi, established in 1897, emphasizes character, dignity, scholarship, and college loyalty. The chapter at Penn State dedicates its efforts to arthritis research and education, hosting annual events to raise awareness and funds. Members value inclusive sisterhood and personal development.
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Alpha Phi was founded in 1872 with a commitment to high ideals of womanhood and friendship. Penn State’s chapter focuses on supporting the Alpha Phi Foundation, which funds women’s heart health initiatives. The chapter provides leadership opportunities and a vibrant social community.
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Alpha Sigma Alpha, founded in 1901 at Longwood University, is a sorority rooted in scholarship, leadership, service, and sisterhood. At Penn State, members participate in philanthropic initiatives, campus involvement, and leadership opportunities that encourage personal growth and collaboration. The chapter emphasizes lifelong learning and meaningful connection.
- Learn more about Alpha Sigma Alpha in Discover
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Since 1893, Alpha Xi Delta has empowered women to realize their potential. The Penn State chapter supports Autism Speaks through fundraising and advocacy, while offering members opportunities to develop leadership skills and strong friendships. Their motto, “The Pen is Mightier than the Sword,” inspires academic achievement and service.
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Delta Gamma, founded in 1873, is committed to “Doing Good.” The Penn State chapter raises funds for Service for Sight, their signature philanthropy, and provides resources to support members’ personal and academic growth. Sisters share a deep bond rooted in mutual respect and service.
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Delta Phi Epsilon, established in 1917, promotes justice, sisterhood, and love. The chapter champions causes like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD). Members build strong connections and lead service projects across campus.
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Founded in 1902, Delta Zeta’s purpose is to foster lifelong friendship and personal development. The Penn State chapter supports hearing and speech causes, including partnerships with Starkey Hearing Foundation. Sisters are united by their creed of “Walk Truly in the Light of the Flame.”
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Gamma Phi Beta, established in 1874, is dedicated to building strong girls and inspiring the highest type of womanhood. The chapter’s philanthropy supports Girls on the Run, encouraging confidence and wellness in young women. Members grow through leadership, service, and genuine sisterhood.
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Founded in 1870 as the first Greek-letter fraternity for women, Kappa Alpha Theta promotes scholarship and service. At Penn State, the chapter supports CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), advocating for children in foster care. The organization emphasizes leadership and lifelong friendship.
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Kappa Delta, founded in 1897 at Longwood University, is a national sorority committed to leadership, service, and lifelong friendship. At Penn State, members engage in philanthropic efforts, leadership development, and campus involvement that encourage personal growth and responsible citizenship. The chapter emphasizes strong values, meaningful connections, and opportunities for continued engagement beyond college.
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Kappa Kappa Gamma, established in 1870, centers on friendship, leadership, and scholarship. The Penn State chapter engages in community service and supports Reading Is Fundamental, promoting literacy for children. Sisters build lasting connections and a spirit of philanthropy.
- Learn more about Kappa Kappa Gamma in Discover
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Omega Phi Alpha is a national service sorority committed to friendship, leadership, and service. The Penn State chapter organizes diverse service projects supporting the community, the university, and national causes. Members find purpose in giving back while forming meaningful bonds.
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Founded in 1984, Phi Sigma Rho is a social sorority for women in engineering and technical sciences. The chapter offers an empowering environment for academic success and professional growth. Members balance rigorous coursework with community service and sisterhood.
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Phi Sigma Sigma, established in 1913, champions inclusiveness and the power of sisterhood. The Penn State chapter’s philanthropy supports school and college readiness initiatives. Sisters work together to strengthen their academic, social, and philanthropic impact.
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Founded in 1867, Pi Beta Phi’s mission is to promote friendship, scholarship, and philanthropy. The Penn State chapter focuses on literacy advocacy, supporting Read > Lead > Achieve initiatives. Members thrive through leadership opportunities and a strong network of support.
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Sigma Alpha is a professional agricultural sorority founded in 1978. The chapter emphasizes scholarship, leadership, fellowship, and service within the agricultural field. Members engage in educational outreach and professional development activities across campus.
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Established in 1917, Sigma Delta Tau empowers women to reach their fullest potential. The Penn State chapter’s philanthropy supports Prevent Child Abuse America, raising awareness and funds for children in need. Members value academic success, leadership, and lifelong friendships.
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Sigma Kappa, founded in 1874, fosters personal growth and loyalty among members. The chapter supports the Alzheimer’s Association and Inherit the Earth, helping improve the lives of older adults and the environment. Sisters share a commitment to service and sisterhood.
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Founded in 1898, Sigma Sigma Sigma inspires women to live purposeful lives. The Penn State chapter raises funds for the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation, which supports child health initiatives. Members cultivate academic excellence and a sense of belonging.
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Zeta Tau Alpha, established in 1898, focuses on fostering the noble ideals of friendship and service. The chapter’s philanthropy centers on breast cancer education and awareness, supporting the ZTA Foundation. Sisters at Penn State build a supportive community that lasts beyond college.
Understanding Unrecognized Groups
Unrecognized organizations are groups that have lost University recognition or never had it in the first place. These organizations operate without oversight or support from Penn State, and they do not follow the standards or safety requirements established for recognized chapters. Participation in unrecognized groups can involve serious risks, including dangerous hazing, lack of accountability, and unsafe social environments.
