[erica812]

Hi, AngiRd! I hope you have an awesome time at the meeting.

Beta Sigma Phi is similar to collegiate sororities in that it is based on sisterhood; it also has rituals, traditions, symbols, colors, etc. Both BSP and collegiate sororities have social activities and service activities. Both exist to foster friendship and close bonds. But unlike collegiate sororities, Beta Sigma Phi sisters do not need to be or ever have been in college. BSP chapters are usually (but not always) small and meet in homes or community locations. The process of establishing a chapter is vastly different. BSP chapters are fairly autonomous in their activities, unlike collegiate sororities that are heavily directed by national or international offices and college regulations.

ElieM answered your other question quite well. Walter W. Ross saw a need, and he took action. Due to the circumstances before and during the Depression, the women in his community were missing out on college educations in order to go to work to help their families. He established an organization that would allow women to educate themselves through programs that they would present to their fellow members. At first, the group was not a sorority. It was kind of a book club. It blossomed and became Beta Sigma Phi.

Hope this helps!