The purpose of this sorority shall be to unite its members in the bonds of sincere and lasting friendship, to stimulate one another in the pursuit of knowledge, to promote the moral and social culture of its members, and to develop plans for guidance and unity in action; objects worthy of the highest aim and purpose of associated effort. The purpose of this sorority shall be advanced through the National Convention, the National Council, and the college and alumnae chapters.

To the world,
I promise temperance and insight and courage,
To crusade for justice,
To seek the truth and defend it always:
To those whom my life may touch in slight measure,
May I give graciously
Of what is mine;
To my friends,
Understanding and appreciation;
To those closer ones,
Love that is ever steadfast;
To my mind,
Growth;
To myself,
Faith
That I may walk truly
In the light of the Flame.
–– Dorothy Mumford Williams, Alpha Zeta (1939)

• Delta Zeta was founded on October 24, 1902 by these six women: Julia Bishop, Anne Simmons, Anna Keen, Alfa Lloyd, Mabelle Minton, and Mary Collins. It is the first national sorority at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.  
• Delta Zeta’s 158 collegiate chapters are distributed from coast to coast while 182 alumnae chapters offer continuing association in 49 states, including Hawaii as well as the United Kingdom and Canada.
• Surfing Sisters is our first virtual (online) alumnae chapter, established in 2000 as an option for alumnae who do not live near an established college or alumnae group.
• The sorority badge is the Roman Lamp.
• Its official jewel is the diamond.
• The sorority colors are rose and green.
• The flower is the pink Killarney rose.
• At the 2006 Delta Zeta National Convention, the turtle became the official mascot.
• The LAMP of Delta Zeta is the official magazine. It is published three times a year and mailed to all initiated members whose addresses are current at National Headquarters.