Until 1870, Greek-letter fraternities were a privilege afforded only to men. But that year, almost simultaneously, two Greek-letter fraternities were founded for women. Kappa Kappa Gamma was one of these fraternities.

The six young founders of Kappa Kappa Gamma wanted to cultivate intimate friendships and so the sisterhood was born.

The six young women who founded Kappa Kappa Gamma played out a pioneer role by designing the Kappa badge - a golden key- and drafting a charter and constitution.

Yet, the Founders were much like young women today, in that they were balancing expectations and pursuit of higher education with social expectations and pursuit of higher education with social relationships and family commitments. They sought a home away from home, a community based on common interest and values. They sought equality and excellence, and believed that "in union, there is strength."

While the Fraternity has grown more complex in its organization and governing law since the days of the Founders, the noble ideals of the ritual are the same as those inaugurated in 1870, and the principles upon which Kappa Kappa Gamma was founded have not changed.