IN LOVING MEMORY OF THE SEVEN OF '1922'
In 1922, driven by a shared commitment to raising the standards in education and empowering future generations of women, seven visionary Black women educators came together in Indiana to form a global community organization. This era was marked by significant racial tension and discriminatory practices, including the segregation of Black Americans into inferior schools. This historic act, carried out by these courageous young women during a time of racial and gender oppression, exemplifies the tenacity of the Seven of '1922'. They serve as a model for breaking barriers and uplifting underrepresented voices in spaces where change is needed. Their dedication to excellence, leadership, and service laid the foundation for what would become one of the most influential organizations in the country, with 500+ chapters worldwide and over 100,000 collegiate and professional members.
Founding and Early Milestones
The Grand Chapter of this global community organization was founded on November 12, 1922, as a Greek-letter organization for teachers and incorporated on December 6, 1922. On December 30, 1929, the Grand Chapter voted to reorganize as a collegiate organization, granting a charter to the Alpha Chapter at Butler University. It was officially incorporated as a national collegiate organization on March 6, 1930.
Butler University Honors the Founders' Legacy
During the celebration of the organization’s first 100 years, all seven founders were posthumously awarded honorary degrees at Butler's commencement. Additionally, the Founders' Plaza, located beside Atherton Union—the focal point of many campus activities—was erected at Butler. On the monument, the organization slogan is inscribed, ensuring their legacy is forever etched in Butler’s history.
A Lasting Dedication
"This permanent addition to the campus landscape will forever celebrate the historical bond between Butler University and the global community service organization," President James Danko said in his dedication speech. "It also serves as a permanent reminder that we are called to follow in their footsteps and fight against injustice and racism wherever it exists."
The Seven Pearls Foundation gives The Seven of '1922' their roses, not just for the lives they lived, but for the legacy they left—giving us a reason to serve and a path to follow.
Founding and Early Milestones
The Grand Chapter of this global community organization was founded on November 12, 1922, as a Greek-letter organization for teachers and incorporated on December 6, 1922. On December 30, 1929, the Grand Chapter voted to reorganize as a collegiate organization, granting a charter to the Alpha Chapter at Butler University. It was officially incorporated as a national collegiate organization on March 6, 1930.
Butler University Honors the Founders' Legacy
During the celebration of the organization’s first 100 years, all seven founders were posthumously awarded honorary degrees at Butler's commencement. Additionally, the Founders' Plaza, located beside Atherton Union—the focal point of many campus activities—was erected at Butler. On the monument, the organization slogan is inscribed, ensuring their legacy is forever etched in Butler’s history.
A Lasting Dedication
"This permanent addition to the campus landscape will forever celebrate the historical bond between Butler University and the global community service organization," President James Danko said in his dedication speech. "It also serves as a permanent reminder that we are called to follow in their footsteps and fight against injustice and racism wherever it exists."
The Seven Pearls Foundation gives The Seven of '1922' their roses, not just for the lives they lived, but for the legacy they left—giving us a reason to serve and a path to follow.
