Alpha Phi Omega - Theta Iota - History

Traditons of Alpha Phi Omega

Toast Song
(Sung to the tune of "Alma Mater")

Here's to Alpha Phi Omega, Loyal Brothers we,
True to Self and to each other, firm in loyalty,
Daily working, daily striving, ever more to be
True to Alpha Phi Omega, our Fraternity.

Brothers clasp the hands of Brothers, strong the circle we,
Ever mindful ever serving all humanity
Now we raise our grateful voices, in our song to thee
True to Alpha Phi Omega, may we always be.

Symbols of the Fraternity
In the early days of our Fraternity our Founders chose recognizable objects that would be representative symbols of the spirit of our guiding principles of Leadership, Friendship & Service. They selected items of historical and traditional value and notability. The meaning and definitions of these symbols have not changed in our lifetimes, and likely will not.

JEWEL

Diamond - The most precious of all gemstones representing brilliance, luster, always increasing in value, and an expression of the greatest gift of love when given.

FLOWER

FORGET-ME-NOT - a perennial flower with royal blue blossoms. It is everlasting, always remembered.

TREE

OAK TREE - We have all heard from a parent or mentor at least once in our lives the story of the sturdy oak tree that grew from a small acorn. The oak is stately, sturdy, and sheltering.

COLORS

BLUE - Our color of blue is a royal blue color. It is elegant, a sign of pure deed and thought. A color in our nation's flag.
GOLD - Our color of gold is called "old glory" gold. A color also found in the nation's flag (fringe & tassels). It represents the high value, respect, royalty, and a sign of love.

BIRD

GOLDEN EAGLE - At the 1976 National Convention the delegates chose another symbol to further this richness of our history and traditions. They declared the golden eagle as a new Fraternity symbol. An eagle is often found as a standard or as a part of the seal of a nation. The golden eagle symbolizes strength, gracefulness, keenness of vision, and endurance.

Motto of the Fraternity (which includes the cardinal principles):
Be a Leader
Be a Friend
Be of Service

Pin

This badge, worn by thousands of Members of APO, is the "Emblem of Campus Service." Students and faculty alike recognize and respect the activities for which it stands.

Coat of Arms

The ideals of Alpha Phi Omega are embodied in our Coat of Arms. As everyone who has passed through the ritual knows, the symbolism of the Coat of Arms stands for the very purpose of our Brotherhood.