Alpha Xi State 
Wyoming
Wyoming THE DELTA KAPPA GAMMA SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL
The Chartering of Alpha Xi State
The First Twenty-one Years reports "During the
months of April and May of 1940, invitations were extended to
many qualified teachers throughout the state. From this group,
thirty-six women responded to the invitation, and met in Cheyenne
to form the nucleus for Alpha Xi State--Delta Kappa Gamma. The
various members of the group were designated either as charter
members or Founders by Dr. Blanton."
The story continues in "A Past to Behold, A Future to
Mold" as written by founder Francina Wymore. Excerpts from
that booklet create a picture of what happened that day.
"It was June 1, 1940. The day was calm, beautiful, inspiring--one
of Wyoming's wonderful days. It was a day that was to become
more wonderful, inspiring, beautiful, and memorable in ways other
than that provided by nature. The place was the Plains Hotel
in Cheyenne. The room was the main dining room. A large table
covered with a white tablecloth was near the windows. On the
table was placed a large, golden-colored bowl filled with big
red roses. The huge candle sticks, also golden in color with
tall red candles, were near the flowers.
About forty women were gathered in small groups about the
room. Most of these people had met each other at teachers' meeting
or when in attendance at the University of Wyoming. The air was
filled with expectancy and with curiosity. What was Delta Kappa
Gamma? Why had we been selected to become members of this honorary
organization for women educators?
As Annie Webb Blanton entered the room silence predominated
and things began to happen.
Conversation was almost nil at the table. As she ate, Dr.
Blanton took the time to explain the purposes of Delta Kappa
Gamma, its responsibilities, and opportunities. As she spoke,
members-to-be seemed to become inspired about the organization.
She asked that these women give very serious consideration when
they select the people who would guide the destinies of this
newly-formed honorary organization. She strongly stressed the
need for service in the formative years. She recognized the greatness
of distances in Wyoming. She knew that chapters would be formed
in various parts of the state if these first officers did their
work effectively.
Dr. Blanton then said, 'It is my duty to appoint the people
who will be the Founder of this Alpha Xi State, Wyoming. Great
will be their responsibilities, individually, and collectively.'"
The name were called and the question "Do you accept
without reservation the duties and responsibilities as the Founders
of Delta Kappa Gamma of Alpha Xi State? If you do, answer 'I
DO'" The answers were unanimous.
Then those present formed four lines in front of the table
and were initiated into the Society.
For a complete account of this day, send $2.00 to cover copying
and postage to Ann Hardesty,ahardest@wyoming.com Find her mailing
address in your chapter yearbook under state treasurer.
October 2003
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