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Delta Zeta
2012
chapter information
- Designation: Gamma Lambda Chapter
- Active Members: 81
- SJSU Founding: February 28, 1948
- National Founding: October 24, 1902 at Miami University in Oxford OH
- 2011 Service / Philanthropy: 780 hours of service, $4,534 raised for charity
- Scholarship: Fall 2012—2.78, Spring 2012—2.78
- Colors: Old Rose and Nile Green
- Flower: Pink Killarney Rose
- Symbol: Roman Lamp
- Motto: "Let the Flame Endure Forever!"
- Nicknames: DZ, DeeZee
- Famous Alumnae: Joy Behar (co-host, The View), Florence Henderson (actress), Sally Ride (astronaut), Edith Head (designer), Martha Sofia Lovisa Dagmar Thyra (Princess Martha of Sweden), Meg Ryan (actress), Neve Campbell (actress), Courtney Cox (actress), Sharon Stone (actress), Ann Rice (author)
For More Information
Annual events
- Turtle Bowl
- Breakfast For Dinner
- New Member Dance
- Alumnae Rose Tea
- Parent’s Day

Learn more about our chapter's house!

About Delta Zeta
The purpose of this sorority shall be to unite its members in the bonds of sincere and lasting friendship, to stimulate one another in the pursuit of knowledge, to promote the moral and social culture of its members, and to develop plans for guidance and unity in action; objects worthy of the highest aim and purpose of associated effort. The purpose of this sorority shall be advanced through the National Convention, the National Council, and the college and alumnae chapters.
History of Gamma Lambda Chapter
Delta Zeta was established at San José State University in 1948, and remains a strong chapter today. In Delta Zeta, our purpose is to enrich our member's college years, our campuses, our communities and beyond. Delta Zeta membership endures for a lifetime. Delta Zeta is a commitment to enrich our lives with the highest of values. Membership involves many privileges and obligations. We strive to excel in the areas of academic achievement, philanthropy, community service, campus involvement, spiritual growth, leadership development and social success. Our chapter takes pride in our Turtle Bowl event which raises money for the Painted Turtle Camp, participating in the American Cancer Society's Breast Cancer Walk, academics, and a variety of other events that involve giving back to the community.
Fun Facts
- Delta Zeta is the largest international sorority and second largest sorority in the United States, with over 160 chapters
- Our philanthropy is Speech & Hearing and The Painted Turtle Camp
- Our badge was voted the most beautiful fraternal badge and is on display in the Smithsonian
- Tiffany & Co. designed the Delta Zeta badge
- The sorority featured in Legally Blonde was based on Delta Zeta
- Delta Zeta is in the first group of sororities to receive a print by designer Lilly Pulitzer
Awards and Recognition
| 2012 | Derby Darling – Sigma Chi's Derby Days 1st Place – Alpha Omicron Pi's Strikeout Competition Xi Woman – Alpha Xi Delta's AmaXing Challenge 1st Place – Greek Week 1st Place – Alpha Phi's Dodge Ball Competition 2nd Place – Delta Gamma's Anchor Slam 3rd Place – Sigma Chi's Kicking and Screaming Soccer Tournament |
| 2011 | Commitment to Service – SJSU Student Leadership Gala Best in Council – SJSU Student Leadership Gala Best Inter-Fraternity Relations – SJSU Student Leadership Gala Best Innovative Community Program – SJSU Student Leadership Gala Most Donations – Alpha Phi Omega's "Fashion for Philanthropy" Best Panhellenic Delegate – 2011 Panhellenic Council Best Attendance at Panhellenic Meetings – 2011 Panhellenic Council Most Admired Chapter – 2011 Panhellenic Council 1st Place – Sigma Nu's Softball Tournament |
| 2010 | Philanthropic Excellence – Delta Zeta Region Days Conference 3rd Place – Kappa Delta's Shamrock Showcase 1st Place – Greek Week |

