Our History
DIMES
On March 17, 1917, five women at the New York University Law School were looking to join an organization that accepted all people from all backgrounds. After coming up short, they courageously decided to start their own: Delta Phi Epsilon. In Delta Phi Epsilon, all races and religions are accepted. This was among the first social sororities to have this stance.
"DIMES" is an acronym of our founder's first names:
D orothy Cohen Schwartzman
"To promote good fellowship among the women students among the various colleges in the country...to create a secret society composed of these women based upon their good moral character, regardless of nationality or creed..."
- The Founders
I da Bienstalk Landau
M inna Golsmith Mahler
E va Effron Robin
S ylvia Steierman Cohn
The 5 S's
The women of Delta Phi Epsilon not only make bonds that go beyond friendship, they also develop themselves in five main areas:
Service, Social, Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Self
These words are also known as the "5 S's". Throughout the year, every sister works towards strengthening each of these tiers in her life. Developing in the 5 S's makes each member a more balanced and well-rounded woman. The 5 S's benefit women far beyond just their college years. A woman who is in touch with these areas in her life is a confident and empowered leader.