Gamma Phi Beta was formed in 1874 by four women at Syracuse University. Helen M. Dodge, Frances E. Haven, E. Adeline Curtis, and Mary A Bingham were “a serious minded group of girls,” who strived to create a welcoming and supportive environment for collegiate women. Gamma Phi Beta is one of the 10 oldest women’s organizations in North America and was the first to be called a “sorority.” The term "sorority" – meaning sisterhood – was coined for Gamma Phi Beta, and while many other women's fraternal organizations are incorporated as "fraternities," Gamma Phi Beta remains a true Sorority.

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Now, after 150 years, Gamma Phi Beta has 137 active collegiate chapters and 155 alumnae chapters across the United States and Canada. With over 240,000 initiated members, Gamma Phi Beta has been able to inspire and uplift thousands of women, fulfilling their ongoing mission of building confident women of character who celebrate sisterhood and make a difference in the world around us.​