Tri Delta hosted its first Leadership School at Miami University in 1955, becoming the first women’s fraternity to offer a formal, structured leadership training program of its kind. At a time when women’s leadership development was often overlooked or informal, Tri Delta made a clear statement that leadership is learned, practiced and worthy of investment. That belief continues to guide the Fraternity today.
The idea that leadership schools could strengthen chapters and cultivate confident leaders was not new to men’s fraternities. Many had already implemented training programs for chapter officers and found measurable benefits for both individuals and their organizations. What was new was Tri Delta’s decision to claim that same level of importance and intention for women at a time when opportunities for leadership training were far more limited.
Volunteer Workshops
Plans for Tri Delta’s Leadership School grew out of two earlier volunteer workshops. The first took place in 1945 when volunteers gathered instead of a Convention, which was postponed due to World War II. The second was held in the summer of 1953 at Northwestern University and brought together Executive Board members, directors, district presidents and committee chairs for a three-day workshop focused on strengthening the Fraternity’s future.
Leadership Sessions
It was Ruth McDowell Kinnard, Alabama, who recognized the broader potential of these gatherings. During her term as Fraternity President, she developed the concept into a comprehensive Leadership School designed to educate advisors and chapter officers on fraternity operations, policies and programs. Her vision was rooted in a simple but powerful idea—that informed leaders build stronger chapters, and strong chapters sustain a thriving sisterhood.
The first Leadership School session was held Aug. 30 through Sept. 2, 1955, at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. The program included small discussion groups, known as “Delta Discourses,” and a model chapter meeting presented by the Executive Board. Topics ranged from recruitment and new member education to alumnae engagement, housing and social activities—issues that remain central to chapter success today. Nearly 300 members attended (triple the number expected), signaling both the demand for leadership training and the enthusiasm of members eager to grow.
While the sessions were rigorous, the experience was also grounded in connection and hospitality. Delta Beta Chapter served as host, and local alumnae in Oxford welcomed attendees through receptions and social events. This balance of learning and relationship building reflected a value that Tri Delta continues to prioritize—that leadership is strengthened through community.
Impact
The program’s impact was recognized beyond Tri Delta. An article in the Winter 1956 issue of “Banta’s Greek Exchange” described the event as “A Pioneering Project,” noting that it was the first leadership training program ever held by a women’s fraternity and praising its “outstanding success.”
That success ensured the Leadership School would become a permanent part of Tri Delta’s programming. Originally held every other year in rotation with Convention years, the program has evolved into today’s Collegiate Leadership Conference (CLC), now held annually, and Volunteer Leadership Conference (VLC), held on non-Convention years. These conferences continue to provide innovative training, meaningful networking opportunities and a shared Purpose for collegiate and volunteer leaders alike.
More than a historical milestone, Tri Delta’s first Leadership School reflects a long-standing commitment to empowering women with the skills, confidence and support needed to lead with integrity. In a world that continues to demand adaptable, values-driven leadership, this early investment remains deeply aligned with Tri Delta’s mission, serving as a reminder that leading the way has always been part of our story.
