Symbols
The Alpha Omicron Pi badge comprises the Greek letters, Α (Alpha), Ο (Omicron), and Π (Pi) superimposed on each other with a ruby at the Apex of the A (Alpha). Badges may be worn by initiated members only. If it is worn with another pin, it is to be placed above it and to the right. No other pin, badge, insignia, such as a fraternity pin, Greek letter indicating the name of a chapter or a symbol denoting an office, may be attached to the badge in any way, whether by a chain or by hanging it on the fastener.
Alpha Omicron Pi has only one color, cardinal. It is the color of the Fraternity flower, the ruby and the ribbon sometimes worn under the badge to welcome a new collegiate chapter.
Alpha Omicron Pi has only one jewel, the ruby. The occasional use of pearls or diamonds in special badges has no significance or special meaning.
To Dragma, translated as "the sheaf", is the name of the fraternity's magazine. The name was selected for three reasons: because it is a reminder of the common interest which unites all AOIIs; because it is a record of accomplishment, or harvest; and because it fittingly describes the purpose of such a publication, the uniting of members through communication. It is published three times per year, and has won numerous awards since its inception. Most recently, in 2008, To Dragma received the Fred F. Yoder Award for overall excellence.
A sheaf of wheat is a common symbol in AOII, found in our new member pin, the rings for the chapter president, alumnae chapter president and International president. The binding together of wheat into a sheaf in the new member pin represents individuals bound by the common bond of Alpha Omicron Pi. The wheat indicates usefulness in its harvest.
The Nineteenth Century French rose, General Jacqueminot, a deep red rose, was chosen as the flower of Alpha Omicron Pi because its color is the symbol of the central and essential virtue of the Fraternity. Its choice had no connection with any legend, poem or story. This strong red rose, with its overtones of courage and vigor, was selected for its richness of color and fragrance, combines with softness and modesty of bearing. The Jacqueminot Rose is not available at most florists, so any deep red rose which is available may be used.This rose is also significant because it has no thorns all the more welcoming for the members and new members.
While not an official symbol, the Fraternity and our chapters consider the Giant Panda to be its mascot because it is the only animal that does not have any natural enemies.
Believing in their beginnings in Greek tradition, ΑΟΠ does not have a coat of arms, but uses a Jacqueminot rose as their symbol. A coat of arms is a medieval or masonic tradition, and therefore has no roots in the Greek tradition. ΑΟΠ is the only Greek organization without a coat of arms.
The fraternity teaches its members never to use the abbreviations "AOPi" or "AOTT," but instead always to use "AOII" or "ΑΟΠ."
The fraternity awards an annual prize to the organization's outstanding chapter, the Jessie Wallace Hughan Cup.
Read more about this topic: Alpha Omicron Pi
Famous quotes containing the word symbols:
“My image is a statement of the symbols of the harsh, impersonal products and brash materialistic objects on which America is built today. It is a projection of everything that can be bought and sold, the practical but impermanent symbols that sustain us.”
—Andy Warhol (1928–1987)
“The twentieth-century artist who uses symbols is alienated because the system of symbols is a private one. After you have dealt with the symbols you are still private, you are still lonely, because you are not sure anyone will understand it except yourself. The ransom of privacy is that you are alone.”
—Louise Bourgeois (b. 1911)
“And into the gulf between cantankerous reality and the male ideal of shaping your world, sail the innocent children. They are right there in front of us—wild, irresponsible symbols of everything else we can’t control.”
—Hugh O’Neill (20th century)