When Alpha Gamma Delta was founded there were many professors of great reputation, but none more widely known than Dr. Wellesley Perry Coddington, head of the department of philosophy and psychology. Dr. Coddington graduation from Wesleyan University in 1860 and was a member of Electic Fraternity, Phi Nu Theta, and Phi Beta Kappa. He taught Greek, Latin, and German at old Genessee College and became one of the first five members of Syracuse University's faculty when Genessee became a part of Syracuse in 1871.
"Fraternity life must have meant much to him in his college days," wrote Georgia Dickover, Founder. "Over half a century in a college community as student and a professor, he remained as enthusiastic as a recent initiate."
From 1900-1905 however, enrollment at Syracuse doubled. This is what led Dr. Coddington to discuss the need for more student organizations with Marguerite Shepard, class of 1905.
Because Marguerite was ending her junior year and would soon be graduating, she shared Dr. Coddington's idea with her younger sister, Estelle, a member of the class of 1908. Estelle saw the chance to make college friendships deeper and more permanent and discussed the possiblility with her close friend, Georgia Dickover. These three women embraced the idea and made a list of other women to consider for membership.With Marguerite, Estelle, and Georgia's approval Dr. Coddington spoke with Jennie Titus, a member of his ethics class about the opportunity. She joined the group at their second meeting and became an energetic and eager worker.
On May 30th, 1904, eleven pioneering women came together to form Alpha Gamma Delta.Today Alpha Gamma Delta has grown to be an international organization with 179 collegiate chapters and 250 alumnae chapters, clubs and Junior Circles.
