Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority was founded on April 20, 1994, at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign by fifteen visionary women determined to create lasting change. They recognized the urgent need for an organization that would genuinely celebrate and uplift the diverse cultures represented on their campus. From its inception, Delta Xi Phi was rooted in multicultural awareness, meaningful community service, the advancement of women through higher education, and the cultivation of authentic sisterhood and lifelong friendship.
The journey began in the spring of 1992, when two separate groups of women at UIUC independently sought to establish a new sorority. Upon discovering one another, they met to share their visions and quickly realized their missions were aligned. United by shared purpose, they merged to pursue their common goal and temporarily named themselves Women for the Advancement of a Multicultural Society (WAMS).
WAMS reached out to various sororities across the country in hopes of bringing an existing organization to campus. However, none fully embodied the values and vision they were determined to uphold. Rather than compromise their ideals, they chose courage over convenience.
On April 20, 1993, after nearly a year of searching and reflection, the women of WAMS made a defining decision: they would build the organization they had been seeking. Three members stepped forward as pledge educators, guiding the remaining twelve women through a year-long journey of growth, discipline, and unity. Throughout that process, they forged an unbreakable bond of sisterhood and laid the foundation for something greater than themselves.
Through intentional meetings and thoughtful deliberation, they established the sorority’s letters, colors, mascot, flower, and stone—each symbol representing their collective vision and commitment. On April 20, 1994, WAMS officially became Delta Xi Phi. The women who once searched for belonging were now forever recognized as the Founding Mothers of Delta Xi Phi.
(History recorded by Founding Mother Elia Morales.)
On February 6, 1998, the sorority became a legally incorporated entity, adopting its full name: Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. This designation formally affirmed its structure, longevity, and unwavering commitment to its mission.
Today, Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. stands as a proud founding member of the National Multicultural Greek Council, continuing to champion multiculturalism, sisterhood, service, and the empowerment of women nationwide.
Our Pillars Our Symbols National Philanthropy Our Vision, Mission, & Values
Founding Mothers:
Alpha Chapter – Alpha Line founded April 20, 1994
“Diamantes”
AMANI A. ABUKHDEIR
HANADI ABU-KHDEIR
LYNETTE E. ALVARADO
ERMA L. ALVAREZ
YVONNE E. ALVAREZ
MONICA L. ARCIGA
MARIA G. BARRERA
MARIA TERESA BOTELLO
AIDA L. DERAT
LETICIA ESCAMILLA
CHRISTINE M. LOPEZ
ELIA MORALES
CARLA R. ORTEGA
ALMA RIVERA
NANCY TSAO