ABOUT MAIDS OF ATHENA
Our crest is shaped like a shield, representing the growth of intellectual thought. In its center, stands a Doric column for stability and fortitude. The column is enclosed by a triangle. Its sides are symbolic of our Ideals: Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. At the top of the triangle, you will find the Greek key, representing the eternal link between the value of the past and the hope of the future. While below the triangle, are our sorority letters ΠΑ, for Παρθενος Της Αθηνας (Parthenos Tis Athena). Athena resides above the shield, balanced on both sides by a laurel wreath, symbolizing Victory and Leadership. Draping the shield are two olive branches, symbolizing Peace. Below the shield floats a ribbon with the word ARETE, or virtue in the ancient Greek. Official crest colors are blue and gold. The blue background of the shield stands for truth and faithfulness, while the remaining parts in gold represent fineness in character.
MISSION
The mission of the AHEPA Family is to promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family and Individual Excellence.
HISTORY
Mr. Thomas D. Lentgis, the Supreme Governor of the Order of AHEPA, founded the Maids of Athena on July 5, 1930 in Tacoma, Washington. At the time, the first chapter Sparta #1 was founded with 12 original members; however, a charter was not granted until November 18, 1937.
Charters were then granted to Alethea #2 in Seattle, Washington, Diana #3 in Portland Oregon, and Ariadne #4 in Vancouver, British Columbia. By the end of 1937, there were 20 chapters and a total membership of 444.
The first constitution and ritual were written in 1935. At the 1950 Supreme Convention in Cleveland, the Maids of Athena officially became the Junior Auxiliary of the Daughters of Penelope. In 1953, the first National Conference of the Maids of Athena was held in Houston. The first Maids of Athena Grande Lodge was elected in 1954 at the Pittsburgh Conference.
WHAT DO WE STAND FOR?
Our members are encouraged to strive to achieve and embody the ideals of our Order; Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.
In addition to these ideals, members embrace the following goals and principles: Sisterhood, Service, Citizenship, Hellenism, Family and Arete or Virtue.