James Howe, former dean of the DePauw University School of Music and an instrumental figure in the founding of Alpha Chi Omega, writes to Fraternity President Ethel Mead Van Auken (Lambda, Syracuse University) with an update on his professional work, which Alpha Chi Omega helps to subsidize through an endowment. Howe also expresses wonder at the growth of Alpha Chi Omega, particularly the importance of Beta (Albion College) chapter, for whose installation he provided the funds.
Founders Olive Burnett Clark (Alpha, DePauw University, seated left) and Estelle Leonard (Alpha, DePauw University, seated right) play piano while Patricia Lyons Pointer (standing left) and Beverly Brantner Price, both pledges of the Alpha Chi (Butler University) chapter, sing from a book of Alpha Chi Omega songs. The event was the Beta Beta (Indianapolis, Indiana) alumnae chapter's Founders' Day celebration. The photo was taken by George Tilford for the "Indianapolis News."
This portrait of Estelle Leonard (Alpha, DePauw University) would have been taken during her music teaching years at Union City Public Schools. The back of the photo is inscribed with "For Frances Koch, May 31, 1910. Estella Leonard Music (Piano) Teacher"
Estelle Leonard (Alpha, DePauw University) entered university hoping to make a living as a musician. Most of her time was spent practicing or studying. She also served as Dean Howe’s secretary for two years. Though she had serious goals and a “dignified appearance,” she was known for playing practical jokes on her colleagues. She graduated in 1891 and had a full career, teaching music, publishing piano compositions and reporting for the local newspaper. Long involved with Alpha Chi Omega, she attended more conventions than any other Founder. She was described in our 1948 History as “distinctly modern in her ideas” and as having “developed independence, decision, and a rather bohemian attitude.”
This article provides biographical information on Alpha Chi Omega Founder Estelle Leonard (Alpha, DePauw University) and includes a photograph.
"Sunlight," composed by Founder Estelle Leonard, was written as a piano solo for her young students.
Top: small gold bow-shaped pin with the coat of arms; bottom: silver link bracelet with the coat of arms. Both belonged to Founder Estelle Leonard.
Vicky Richardson Harrison (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) explains the history behind the two dresses on display in the headquarters museum.