Agonian Sorority

Our Creed

The mission of Agonian Sorority, Inc. is to foster elevated standards of intellectual, social, and moral values among its members. The Sorority is dedicated to establishing, maintaining,  and promoting the well-being of its members. Primary objectives include encouraging academic excellence, nurturing leadership skills and individual talents through friendships and mentorship, engaging in community service , and upholding the highest ideals of honor, truth, and loyalty.

History of AGO in Potsdam

The roots of the Agonian Sorority in Potsdam trace back to the Calliopean Literary Society, founded in 1882. In 1921, Eunice (Brownie) Badger became a member of the Calliopean Literary Society and served as its Faculty Advisor for an impressive 62 years. In 1926, the Calliopean Society transformed into the Zeta Gamma Upsilon local Sorority, with Audra Cavanaugh Rogers assuming the role of President.

On December 8, 1928, the members officially became the Gamma Chapter of the Agonian Sorority. The Sorority achieved state incorporation in 1946, acquiring the house at 11 Pierrepont. In January 1955, the chapters disbanded, resulting in the present-day Agonian Sorority, now recognized as a local sorority. The initiation of the first Clarkson members occurred in the fall of 1972, and the Agonian Alumnae Association was established in 1976 by Sue Wajda. The Charter members were initiated by a team from Geneseo Normal School (Alpha Chapter).

Words from our President

"Before attending college, I never thought that I would join Greek Life, let alone be the President of a sorority. However, when I came to college two years ago, I was searching for a community and a place where I felt that I could not only grow but to also learn who and be my true authentic self.  

Joining Alpha Kappa Phi I have been able to grow more than I could have ever imagined. I have gained confidence in myself and my abilities, as it is my sisters who never fail to lift me up and remind me of all that I can do. I have built connections with people within the community through our various community service projects. I have also had the opportunity to step into many leadership positions that have consistently taught me various life skills such as communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and active listening. However, arguably, the most important thing I have experienced is the creation of bonds within the sisterhood. My sisters will be the bridesmaids at my wedding, the aunts of my children, and the ones I know I can always call during life's difficulties even after I graduate and begin my life. My sisters are the ones I can always go to when I miss home because, with them, I have found another home. I have truly learned and can understand what Jodi Picoult meant by “Home is not a place, but rather, the people you love.”  

Alpha Kappa Phi is more than a sorority to me, it is my home. A home that was created because of the bonds of sisterhood that have united me and my sisters, and a bond that I will forever cherish and be grateful for. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be their authentic self. Being a sister of Alpha Kappa Phi has granted me not only the opportunity to learn who I am but to also experience unconditional support and love from the people I hold dear to my heart, something that I hope everyone can find. 

I hope you too can find your home and maybe you can do so by also going Greek!"

I wish you all the best!

- Emmalee White

FAST FACTS

• Formal Name: Agonian
• Greek Letters: AKΦ
• Nickname: Ago, Alpha Kappa Phi
• Chapter: Gamma
• Colors: Gold, White and Navy Blue
• Motto: We Strive to Lead
• Symbol: Anchor
• Flower: Yellow Rose
• Stone: Pearl