Zeta Tau Alpha
Real. Noble. Women. The Legacy and Symbols of Zeta Tau Alpha 👑💜
From its historic founding built on deep friendships to its modern-day commitment to breast cancer education and awareness, Zeta Tau Alpha has always been an organization for women who "Seek the Noblest." It's more than just a sorority; it’s a lifelong promise to live with purpose, serve others, and foster genuine bonds. ✨
But what are the stories behind the symbols that members wear with such pride? Let’s explore the rich heritage that defines ZTA.
Founded in Friendship 💖
On October 15, 1898, at the Virginia State Female Normal School (now Longwood University) in Farmville, Virginia, nine courageous women came together. Maud Jones Horner, Della Lewis Hundley, Alice Bland Coleman, Mary Campbell Jones Batte, Alice Grey Welsh, Ethel Coleman Van Name, Helen May Crafford, Frances Yancey Smith, and Ruby Leigh Orgain envisioned a sisterhood built on genuine connection and shared values. Their initial gatherings, even inspired by a gift of strawberries 🍓, laid the foundation for what would become an international bond of over 310,000 initiated members.
The Symbols of Sisterhood
The symbols of Zeta Tau Alpha are a beautiful representation of its history and values, worn proudly by its members.
The Gold Standard: Tackle Twill Letters The most iconic symbol is the letters themselves. Classic tackle twill letters are the gold standard for Greek apparel for a reason. These aren't printed-on graphics; they are pieces of high-quality twill fabric, precisely cut and expertly stitched onto the garment. This traditional method ensures your letters will never crack or fade, representing the lasting and unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. Choosing tackle twill is a commitment to quality and a nod to the long line of members who have worn their letters with the same pride.
- Turquoise Blue & Steel Grey: ZTA's official colors 💙🤍 are timeless and represent the strength and depth of the sisterhood. These colors are prominent in our collection of Zeta Tau Alpha apparel.
- The Crown: A five-pointed crown is a prominent identifying symbol, with its full significance revealed upon initiation, representing majesty and purpose. 👑
- The White Violet: Chosen by Founder Ruby Leigh Orgain, this delicate flower 🌸 is a key symbol, its meaning cherished within the sisterhood.
- Patron Goddess Themis: The Founders chose Themis, the goddess of divine justice and law, to represent ZTA's commitment to truth and steadfastness. ⚖️
A Commitment to Service: Thinking Pink® 🎗️
Today, Zeta Tau Alpha’s dedication to making a difference is powerfully focused on its national philanthropy: breast cancer education and awareness. Through the impactful "Think Pink®" campaign, ZTA partners with leading organizations like the American Cancer Society® and the NFL (Crucial Catch) to educate communities and support breast cancer research. This commitment to service is a core part of what it means to be a "Real. Noble. Woman."
Wear Your Letters with Pride
Being a member of Zeta Tau Alpha means carrying on a legacy of friendship, service, and seeking wisdom. It means striving for high ideals and living a life of steadfastness and purpose. 🤝
Ready to showcase your ZTA pride? Explore our full collection of officially licensed apparel—from classic tackle twill letter shirts to cozy sweatshirts and stylish accessories, all designed for the real, noble women of Zeta Tau Alpha.
