In 1895, four young women at the University of Arkansas realized the need for the potential and inherent value of women. Ina Mae Boles, Jobelle Holcombe, Jean Vincenheller, and Alice Simonds approached Dr. Charles Richardson, a regent of the University and a national officer of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, to assist in organizing a women’s group similar to the men’s fraternities, which were being established on campus. Working together, Dr. Richardson and the four undergraduates developed the structure of a Women’s fraternity that would be national scope.

On April 5, 1895, the founders signed the first constitution and ritual. There were fourteen original members, including the Founders. They promised loyalty to goal, which have proven timeless in content and application. Throughout its history, Chi Omega has focused on the personal growth of its members academically, socially, and emotionally. The intrinsic worth of the Fraternity, resulting in the successful growth and development of Chi Omega.

The Chi Omega Symphony was written in 1909 by Ethel Switzer Howard, a pledge of Xi Chapter at Northwestern University. She write the poem in preparation for her initiation and felt that the words exemplified goals to which Chi Omegas aspired. The friendships of Chi Omega are compared to a symphony; while one musical instrument playing alone is pleasant, when all instruments are blended together, they make beautiful harmony. So it is with Chi Omega... Ethel Switzer Howard's Symphony has since become every Chi Omega's creed.