The Delta Dictionary

In today's Pansy Post, I thought it would be fun to go through the whole alphabet sharing words or phrases that mean a lot to us. Whether you've been a Tri Delta for decades, or you just happen to find this, you might just learn something.

A- Alumnae

Our Alumnae mean a lot to us. They are the fearless and selfless women who encourage us, stay behind the scenes, and support us in so many ways. They might not even realize how much they mean to us. We are grateful to be walking in their footsteps.

B- Bid Day

If you have no idea what Bid Day is, let me explain. Bid Day is the last day of the recruitment process where each girl gets to run to their new "home". At the University of Arkansas, Bid Day is a very big deal and you've probably seen it on social media. Maple Street is closed for the day and each house is covered in banners and balloons. Each house has their own theme, Tri Delta's themes have always been top tier! It is the first day you get to meet your new sisters and get to call your sorority "home." Some may say it is their favorite day of the year.

C- Crescent Moon

The Crescent Moon is one half of our most sacred and recognizable symbol: the Stars and Crescent. It isn't just a pretty shape; it’s packed with meaning that dates back to Tri Delta's founding in 1888. It's a symbol of growth showing that even when you are a new member, or just feeling small, you still have big potential.

D- Delta Iota

At the University of Arkansas, we are the Delta Iota chapter of Delta Delta Delta. There are so many Tri Delta chapters across the nation, so it's our specific name that sets us apart!

E- Established in 1888

You read that right! Tri Delta was established on Thanksgiving Eve in 1888 at Boston College. The women who created this sorority wanted to create a group of people that were "kind alike to all" which you will get to know more about if you keep reading!

F- Fayetteville

Fayetteville is a true home-away-from-home for most of us here. Fayetteville, Arkansas is consistently named one of the "Best Places to Live in the U.S." by U.S. News & World Report. Ask anyone, they'll say they love it here.

G- Greek Life

If you are considering coming to the University of Arkansas, you should also consider being involved in Greek Life. There are so many ways to get connected, meet new people, and truly find a place to call home. Greek life is big at the University of Arkansas, in fact, we were recently named "Best Greek Life Community in the Country" three years in a row.

H- House Boys

There are 11 house boys and one house girl that help out with our house. The house boys mostly help out in the kitchen. They're friendly, so great to us, and we appreciate them so much!

I- Initiation

Initiation is a sweet time for all of our women. For legacies (women who have a family member who was also a Tri Delta), this is special because it allows these women to have a unforgettable moment with a Tri Delta they looked up to for so long."Growing up, always being close with my mom and getting to see the friendships she made in college with her sorority sisters, I knew I wanted to be just like her. I always wanted to be a Tri Delta so I could be a part of the generational bond my family has," Emily (PC 24).

J- Jodi

Our house mom, Mom Jodi pledged Tri Delta at the University of Arkansas in 1971 and was initiated in February of 1972. During her time in-house, she loved sun bathing on the roof, playing spades until 3 a.m., and the musicals they put on during rush week! Her door is always open for every single girl in the house. She is full of wisdom, light, and encouragement. She makes us better!

K- Kind Alike To All

One of our mottos, "kind alike to all" originated from our founders all that time ago. They wanted to find a group of people who prioritized being kind to everyone they come into contact with. Not just your sisters, not just other greek-life women. They wanted to show kindness to everyone. Tri Delta strives to prioritize kindness to everyone on campus and in their own lives.

L- Let Us Steadfastly Love One Another

Another one of Tri Delta's mottos is "let us steadfastly love one another." This emphasises our commitment to sisterhood, friendship, and kindness. To love steadfastly is to love unwaveringly. We are loyal and constant because we have sisters in our corner who cheer for us and encourage us when we need it the most.

M- Maple Street

Our house is located at 920 West Maple Street. If you are every on campus, Maple Street is definitely something you wouldn't want to miss. You may even hear Maple Street mentioned in a few songs by artists that graduated from the UofA!

N- New Members

Becoming a New Member in Tri Delta marks the beginning of a lifelong journey. From the moment they receive their bid, these women are welcomed into a sisterhood that prioritizes personal growth and academic excellence. During this initial period, they learn the rich history of the "Stars and Crescent," and explore our traditions.

O- On the Hill

The University of Arkansas sits on top of one big hill, so it seems. You will hear people say that they're "headed to the Hill" and in this case, it is true. There are so many hills on campus that it really just feels like there is no downhill, everything is uphill somehow.

P- Pearl & Pansy

There's an article posted about what our signs and symbols mean, including the pearl and the pansy. But for this case, I wanted to share a little secret. During Christmas time, when our house is all decorated in beautiful silver and blue, you might just spot our elves, Pearl and Pansy. They get into many different shenanigans throughout the month leading up to Christmas. It is truly so much fun to find them hanging out around the house.

Q- Quality Time

Speaking from personal experience, getting to live in-house has been one of my favorite memories. The quality time spent with your sisters is such an awesome experience. Bonding with women, finding common interests, and even eating breakfast in your pjs truly makes it one big sleepover that last a whole year.

R- Recruitment

Recruitment is the annual process women go through to find their home. This lasts one week and each day serves a different purpose. There is a philanthropy round, a sisterhood round, and a preference round. Each round, we get to showcase their qualities and traditions and the week ends with Bid Day as a celebration!

S- St. Jude

The true heartbeat of Tri Delta, St. Jude is our philanthropy that we support in various ways. Most recently, we did a letter campaign called Sincerely Yours. If you want more information about that specific event, check out our last Pansy Post!

T- Trident

For the members of Tri Delta, the trident is far more than just a decorative emblem; it is a profound symbol of authority, self-control, and the shared journey of sisterhood. As the traditional scepter of the Greek god Poseidon, the trident represents a "wielding of power," but for a Tri Delta, this power is directed inward toward personal growth and leadership. Each of its three distinct prongs serves as a silent reminder of the sorority's triple-rooted foundation, mirroring the organization's dedication to truth, self-sacrifice, and friendship.

U- University of Arkansas

Getting to do life as a student at the University of Arkansas is something super special. Just ask any of the 34,175 students enrolled here, they will have a long list of things they love about this school. Go Hogs!

V- Values

The values we hold close to our hearts are truth, self-sacrifice, and friendship. Truth serves as our moral compass, demanding an uncompromising honesty that builds a foundation of trust with the world. However, truth gains its depth through self-sacrifice, the selfless bravery to put the needs of others above our own comforts, proving that our convictions are more than just words. These two values are ultimately woven together by the threads of friendship. It is within our closest bonds that truth is spoken most kindly and sacrifice is made most willingly, creating a supportive sanctuary where we can grow into our best selves. Together, these values don't just define who we are; they illuminate the path toward a life of purpose and connection.

W- Woo Pig Sooie

Around here, no matter where you're from, you have a special place in your heart for the Hogs. We are loyal fans, to a fault, even if we have a losing season (especially if we have a losing season). We will cheer louder and prouder after every win, loss, or tie. Woo Pig Sooie forever!

X- eXperience

Being Tri Deltas, or more broadly, being students at the University of Arkansas is one of the most memorable experiences. This is the place we have grown, matured, met our best friends, and had more opportunities than we could ever imagine. Each and every person who comes to the University of Arkansas will have a different college experience, but that is what makes it so much fun!

Y- Yellow, Silver, Blue

In Tri Delta, the trio of silver, gold, and cerulean blue (often associated with the "yellow" tones of gold in branding) forms a symbolic palette that reflects Tri Delta's celestial and maritime themes. These colors are not merely aesthetic; they represent a harmonious union of the organization's ideals:

• Cerulean Blue: Evokes the sky and the sea, honoring Poseidon, Tri Delta's patron Greek divinity. It symbolizes loyalty and the "smooth sailing" that comes from steadfast friendship.

• Gold: Represents the brightness of the sun and the precious nature of the "Stars and Crescent" badge. It signifies generosity and the high value placed on developing a "stronger and more womanly character."

• Silver: Complements the gold and blue to complete the celestial imagery, often appearing in the silver trident. It represents strength, purity, and the enduring nature of the sisterhood.

Z- Zealous

Zealous is showing great energy, passion, or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective. The women at Delta Iota are the most energetic, passionate, and enthusiast women out there. They will meet you at your lowest with such a positive attitude, you will forget, even if it's just for a second, why you were feeling down. What a perfect word to end the Delta Dictionary.