Introduction

 

Sigma Delta Omega was founded on the fifth day of April, in the year two thousand and six. It was founded by Tari Tan after the creation of the Unified Greek Council, as a way to unite Women of Science at Oregon State University. This first chapter, now known as the Alpha chapter, was originally known as the Hydrogen chapter. 

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Symbols, Crest, and Creed

 

Sigma Delta Omega came to be represented by many symbols. The first, the Greek letters Sigma, the mathematical symbol for change, Delta, the scientific symbol for change, and Omega, representing “w” for women, collectively came to mean “The Sum of the Change in Women.” SDO’s mascot became the phoenix, which came to represent the rebirth of new members into SDO. Our three colors, gold, green, and blue, represented the levels of membership in SDO. Gold, which represents prestige and wisdom, is worn by officers; green symbolizes growth and ambition, and is worn by Sweet Pea pledges; blue, to represent loyalty, trust, intelligence, and confidence, is worn by initiated members. 

 

The crest has 8 main parts, each element representing the ideals of SDO

1. Lock- Knowledge yet to be obtained, key-ability to access knowledge

2. DNA fire-constant, progressive change, intensity and vivacity

3. Pillars-mental and emotional strength 

4. Ivy-strength and everlasting bond between the sisterhood

5. 3 Principles - Unitas, Determino, Scientia

6. Triquerta-3 principles, eternal bond

7. Phoenix-health, rebirth, official mascot of SDO

8. Mendelian Pea Plant-diversity of the sisterhood, and official plant of SDO

 

The three founding principles of Sigma Delta Omega are Unitas, Determino, and Scientia, which mean unity, determination, and knowledge, respectively.