About Kappa Kappa Gamma

“Kappa Kappa Gamma is an organization of women, which seeks for every  member throughout her life bonds of friendship, mutual support, opportunities for  self-growth, respect for intellectual development, and an understanding of, and  an allegiance to, positive ethical principles” (Mission Statement, Kappa Kappa  Gamma Fraternity Council, 1984-86). 

History: Kappa Kappa Gamma, one of the oldest sororities in North America,  was founded in1870 at Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois, by  six young women focused on the promotion of academics and  leadership. Today there are more than 140 chapters throughout the  United States and Canada, with more than 260,000 members. 

Colors: Dark Blue & Light Blue 

Pin: Golden Key 

Flower: Fleur-de-lis (Iris) 

Jewel: Sapphire 

Official Symbol: Owl 

Roman Patron: Minerva

About Our Beta Xi Chapter

Pronunciation: Beta “Ka-zee.” While not true to the correct pronunciation of the Greek  letter “Xi,” this pronunciation was established early in our history and remains part of our  chapter tradition. 

Founding: Beta Xi was founded on The University of Texas at Austin campus in 1902  with 15 charter members. 

Membership: Throughout its long history, Beta Xi has initiated more than 4,700  members. While most have been from Texas, Beta Xi members also come from many  parts of the United States and other countries. In recent years, the Beta Xi Chapter has  maintained an average active membership of 250-280 young women. 

Goals: Philanthropy, Scholarship, Leadership, and Camaraderie. 

Beta Xi is a welcoming community in which our members forge life-long friendships and  gain valuable skills that serve them well in their lives beyond graduation. 

The Grande Dame of University Avenue

  • The Early Years

    Beta Xi’s first house stood at the northwest corner of 24th and Rio Grande. As the chapter grew, members asked for a larger home closer to campus.

  • The Lot

    On August 24, 1936, Beta Xi alumnae formed the House Association of Beta Xi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Later that year, the House Association purchased the current site at the northeast corner of 20th Street and University Avenue.

  • The Architect

    In 1938, the House Association hired noted Houston architect Birdsall P. Briscoe. His best-known work is Bayou Bend, built in 1928 for Ima Hogg, daughter of Texas Governor James Hogg. Together, Briscoe and the House Association chose a blend of Greek and Georgian Revival styles.

  • The Recognition

    The house opened in 1939 with three floors and a basement, home to 38 young women. And in 1943, Architectural Digest featured Briscoe’s work, including four photographs of the new Beta Xi house.

  • The First Expansion

    A large garden room was added beyond the dining area in 1972. It remained the last major addition for more than 40 years.

  • The Renovation

    More than 1,200 Beta Xi alumnae, families, and friends donated to a major renovation. All historic portions of the interior and exterior were carefully preserved, and 6,000 square feet were added at the back of the house. Highlights include: more than a third of the house dedicated to study space; 29 bedrooms, housing up to 65 women; larger bathrooms, plus lounges on the second and third floors; a new commercial kitchen; an elevator and a new hardwood back staircase; an expanded basement, updated plumbing and electrical, and modern A/V, internet, and security systems; and a top-to-bottom redecoration