About Tri Delta
Tri Delta was founded by women, for women, in 1888 at Boston University when our Founders bravely created a new organization that would “think more of a woman’s inner character than her outward appearance.” Their vision has grown into the dynamic women’s organization we know today.
Today, Tri Delta is a network of nearly 250,000 women, and we are committed to lifelong learning through educational initiatives, transformational programming and relevant personal and professional development.
From supporting Tri Delta’s Foundation—which empowers collegiate and alumnae members through transformational programs, scholarships and emergency financial support—to supporting the life-saving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and local children’s cancer charities, Tri Deltas are passionate about serving others.
Our Values
- Truth
- Self-sacrifice
- Friendship
Symbols & Colors
- Pearl
- Pine
- Pansy
- Dolphin
- Blue
- Gold
- Silver
Chapter History
The Wilmington Delaware Delta Delta Delta Alumnae Chapter has a long history and presence and was formally recognized in 1949. However, the chapter's roots go back to 1938 when Tri Delta members were active in the beginnings of the Wilmington Panhellenic Association. Delta Delta Delta meetings were reported in the local newspaper as early as 1944.
The chapter has always been a wonderfully diverse group of various ages and backgrounds. Over the years, the chapter has welcomed members from 24 states and Canada, representing 37 collegiate chapters! No matter where we are from, our love for Tri Delta bonds us together, and our diversity strengthens us. Ongoing membership efforts have been a key part of our chapter’s success. In the 1990s, the membership committee expanded its geographic outreach beyond Wilmington and Northern Delaware, resulting in new members from Delaware and Chester Counties, PA, Cecil County, MD, and Southern N.J.
Along with interesting, fun, and varied monthly activities, we celebrate Founders Day and Pansy Breakfast annually and honor our Diamond, Golden, and Silver Circle members' longevity as Tri Delta sisters.
The chapter has a strong history of supporting philanthropy efforts. In addition to financial contributions to St. Jude’s Hospital, the chapter supports our local Nemours Children's Hospital and Ronald McDonald House. Examples of gifts include teaching dolls, pediatric wigs, an aquarium, playground equipment, gift cards, and on-site service projects.
Chapter members have supported the fraternity by serving as Alumni and Collegiate District Officers, attending and chairing Tri Delta State meets, writing references, and attending Convention, where our chapter has been recognized with several awards.
In 2018, our chapter was delighted to actively support the establishment of our first local Tri Delta collegiate chapter - Upsilon Epsilon, at the University of Delaware. We are delighted to see the UD chapter grow and thrive! Our alumni members continue to serve as chapter advisors. The successful launch and establishment of the UD chapter have allowed us to share our love of Tri Delta with these new members. We are now welcoming the first group of graduates to the lifetime gift of alumnae membership.