Sigma Kappa Sorority, Iota Chapter (University of Denver) Records

The Iota Chapter of Sigma Kappa Sorority was established at the University of Denver in Denver, Colorado, on February 21, 1908. It was the first Sigma Kappa chapter to be chartered west of the Mississippi River, and only the ninth chapter chartered since the founding of the sorority at Colby College (Waterville, Maine) in 1874. Students at the University of Denver attempted to form a chapter in 1906, but lacked sufficient funds. In the winter of 1907-1908 the Grand President of Sigma Kappa, Sara B. Mathews, visited Denver and recommended that the charter be granted.

Financial struggles of the organization and health problems of the members limited the growth of the Chapter in its early years. However, five years after the Chapter was founded, it gained enough strength to host the 39th Convention of the Sigma Kappa Sorority. The convention was successful, with Iota Chapter offering sorority sisters Western hospitality, fun and community.

The Chapter was involved in a variety of philanthropic activities. Its primary beneficiary was the Maine Sea Coast Mission, and in later years the Chapter also helped Alzheimer's patients. The Chapter members were involved in many University activities, and strove to maintain high academic standards.

In the 1930s, the Iota Chapter acquired a house for its members. The Sigma Kappa House at 2258 S. Josephine was constructed in 1932. It was purchased by the University in 1960 and renamed for Mrs. Rollie Bradford, a Sigma Kappa alumna and member of the University of Denver Board of Trustees.

The Iota Chapter had 35 members in 1966, and encountered financial difficulties. The National Council of Sigma Kappa decided to close the Chapter in October 1967, although they left open the possibility of reinstating the Chapter in the future. It was not until 1988, however, that enough interest was generated to reorganize the Chapter. At that time the University invited Sigma Kappa to reopen their Iota Chapter. In 1993, the Chapter was again experiencing financial problems as they graduated their largest class ever. Members began sacrificing class commitments to keep the Chapter open, and it was decided to close the Chapter. On May 14, 1993, the members of Iota Chapter voted to release the National Charter it had received when it reopened five years before.