A Brief History Lesson
Now that you are a member of The Delta Kappa Society International, you
will want to know more about this honor Society.
Founded on May 1, 1929, by twelve women educators in Austin, Texas,
Delta Kappa Gamma was envisioned by Dr. Annie Webb Blanton, the first
woman elected to public office in the state of Texas. Dr. Blanton was a
successful candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction in 1918, after
having served as the first woman president of the Texas State Teachers
Association. After serving two terms as State Superintendent she did not
seek a third term. Instead, in 1922, she was a candidate for the United
States Congress. Although she was not elected, she helped to break the
gender barriers for women who followed her.
The original purposes of the Society emphasized gender equity, school
legislation, excellence in education, good teaching conditions, networking,
and financial help for women preparing to teach. These purposes have
formed the basis of our current Seven Purposes.
Each year chapters observe Founders Day, not only to honor the original
twelve women, but as a reminder that current activism must keep pace with
that of the Founders on issues educators face today.
An active Program of Work at the chapter, state, and international levels
keeps members informed of current cutting-edge educational issues and
promotes projects that help educators, education, and students both locally
and globally.
Through the years Delta Kappa Gamma members have made a significant
impact on education. The history of the Society is contained in two
volumes: Our Heritage in The Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Volumes I and
II.
New history is being written every day. As a member you are a valued part
of the Delta Kappa Gamma heritage.
Welcome to this Society of Key Women Educators!
Meet Our Founders
DR. ANNIE WEBB BLANTON: whose dream, drive, and genius for organizing
brought Delta Kappa Gamma into being. Dignified in appearance, small and feminine,
she possessed a warmth and nobility which endeared her to her students and to her
peers.
MISS MAMIE SUE BASTIAN: a fun-loving founder who always expressed her views in
her own unique way. Dr. Blanton counted upon Mamie Sue’s warm, outgoing
personality, her sense of humor, and her ability to make friends to help organize
chapters. Mamie Sue developed a spirit of friendship and cooperation in the Society
and inspired loyalty to its purposes.
MISS RUBY COLE: who had the distinction of organizing Beta Chapter in her home
city, San Antonio, less than two months after the society had been founded.
MISS MABEL GRIZZARD: who was known for her community work as well as for her
excellence as an educator. Her former students rated her as an outstanding teacher
who was understanding and helpful.
DR. ANNA HISS: who is described as being tall, graceful, charming, cultured, and
friendly. She was a creative and effective administrator with great precision in
organization. These many talents made her a beloved and long remembered Head of
the Physical Education Department at the University of Texas.
MISS RAY KING: who served as the first treasurer of the Delta Kappa gamma Society.
She was active in the educational, cultural and social life of her community, and enjoyed
playing bridge with her many friends.
MISS SUE KING: an excellent scholar and leader. Her students remember her as the
teacher who made history come alive for them. Few society members had the privilege
of knowing her, since death cut short the career of this brilliant woman less than a year
after the Society was organized.
DR. HELEN KOCH: renowned professor at the University of Chicago for many years.
This farsighted educator saw the Society as an organization whose future capabilities
could dissipate any condition which might seriously threaten the welfare of children.
She knew the society could advance the cause of education and constructive
international relations throughout the world.
MRS RUBY TERRILL LOMAX: who served the University of Texas as Dean of Women
and as Associate Professor of Classical Languages. She held many leadership roles in
her church and in civic and social organizations. Her University students named her
“Deanie”. . . a fact which indicates that her human characteristics were appreciated as
much as her intellect.
DR. CORA M. MARTIN: a petite, very fashionable lady who added color and fun to any
gathering. She has been described as being the best first grade teacher ever. She
brought out the best in every child.
MRS. LALLA M. ODOM: one of the early advocates of women’s rights. Her determined
stand against discrimination brought about the reversal of the ruling against married
teachers in her city. She expressed herself well, frequently taking issue with any
attempt to downgrade teachers and education.
MISS LELA LEE WILLIAMS:who welcomed differences of opinion, honored each
person’s viewpoint and took time to analyze a speaker’s remarks. During her 45 years
with Dallas Schools, she constantly searched for new techniques and innovations to
improve teaching.
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