The Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation Founders' Day Campaign

"In 1913, our Founders - Lillian Gordon, Ethel Gordon, Josephine Ellison, Shirley Cohen, Fay Chertkoff, Claire Wunder, Estelle Melnick, Rose Sher, Jeanette Lipka, and Gwen "Rae" Zaliels - approached the Dean of Women at Hunter College in New York City with a vision. They wanted to start a sorority that would promote open membership to all women of character regardless of background; a sorority committed to sisterhood, excellence in scholarship, and selflessgiving.

On November 26, 1913, Phi Sigma Sigma was born, unobtrusively, without the thought of expansion. It was the first nonsectarian sorority; the only one that was open to diverse membership from inception and the only one with a ritual that was not based in scripture. Under the leadership of Fay Chertkoff (our first chapter archon), Alpha Chapter was installed at Hunter College." -Phi Sigma Sigma Web site

Two years ago, the Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation premiered its first Founders' Day e-mail campaign to commemorate the Founders of Phi Sigma Sigma by raising funds to advance the values they gave us through the creation of Phi Sigma Sigma; the advancement of womanhood and our twin ideals - the brotherhood of man and alleviation of the world's pain.

In 2008, nearly $20,000 was raised by over 400 collegians and alumnae. These funds were dedicated to the National Kidney Foundation Transplant Games whose mission is demonstrate the success of transplantation, honor those who have given the gift of life, and call attention to the need for more organ donors. During the summer of 2008, 125 Phi Sig volunteers, including 77 collegians attended the Games at their own expense. Their experiences were truly life changing.

"Junior Whopper was a little guy named Michael, but he had such a huge personality. His mother told me that he just received a second kidney on Labor Day and without this second kidney he would not be here with us today. My eyes welled with tears as I looked at him and knew how special this little boy was." -- Missy Spishak, Zeta Kappa

Funds raised this year will be dedicated to educational grants for deserving sisters in need and help for those with kidney disease.

We can't wait to add your name to your chapter's honor roll as we commemorate the work of our Founders and the lasting legacy they gave to all of us. 

Thank you for choosing to give your gift now.