Traditions:

The symbols of Alpha Phi are outward signs of the high regard and love we have for each other and for Alpha Phi.

The Alpha Phi Badge

The official badge of Alpha Phi is an unjeweled monogram of gold showing the symbol of Alpha superimposed upon the symbol of Phi.

Alpha Phi was the first women's organization to use Greek letters as an emblem Originally there was no standard badge. Until 1906 when the current badge was adopted, each member went to the jeweler of her choice to have her pin designed. Most chose similar designs using the ‘lazy Phi,' a Phi symbol turned on its side. You can see many of these unique pins in the Ruth Himmelman Wright Heritage Hall at the Executive Office in Evanston. Illinois.

Honor Badges

Today, special honor badges, replicas of the lazy Phi pin, are worn by international officers, and Educational Leadership Consultants. They are also worn by presidents of collegiate chapters while they serve as president.

New Member Badge

In 1898 the Fraternity adopted a special badge to honor her newest members. The badge they selected is in the shape of an ivy leaf, set in silver pewter. An ever-growing vine, the ivy symbolizes the growth of the Alpha Phi sisterhood.

Fifty-Year Pin

The first fifty-year pins, silver circles with red stones, were presented at the 42nd Convention in 1958 to several alumnae who had given significant service to the Fraternity for fifty years or more. These pins are replicas of the pins presented to the six living founders at the Fraternity's Fiftieth Anniversary Convention in 1922.

The Fraternity Crest

The Fraternity Crest is the Alpha Phi coat-of-arms, adopted by Convention delegates in 1922. The shield is bordeaux with a scroll and ivy leaf above it. Inscribed on the scroll is the public motto, Union hand in hand.

Fraternity Colors

Alpha Phi's original colors were blue and gold. In 1879, noting that a fraternity had colors too similar to hers, Alpha Phi adopted the more distinctive colors of silver and bordeaux. Members wear their colors in the form of a ribbon of silver/gray and bordeaux, under their badge to acknowledge special occasions, the installation of a new chapter, the anniversary of their chapters installation, or the celebration of Alpha Phi Founders' Day, October 10.

Fraternity Flowers

The flowers of Alpha Phi are the fragrant lily-of-the-valley and the blue and gold forget-me-not. The ivy leaf is also a symbol, the new member badge taking its form.

Alpha Phi Bear

The mascot of Alpha Phi, the "Phi Bear" is named after Ursa Major, the Great Bear, and was adopted in 1974.

The Alpha Phi Motto

The Alpha Phi open motto is: "Union Hand in Hand."