History

The Soroptimist name

The first question we are often asked about Soroptimist is: "but what does it mean?"

The name Soroptimist was coined from the Latin soror meaning sister, and optima meaning best. Soroptimist is perhaps best interpreted as 'the best for women'. From the founding of the first Soroptimist club in Oakland, California, in 1921, through to the present day where over 3000 clubs are flourishing throughout the world, Soroptimists have continued to strive to achieve 'the best for women' in every sphere of their lives.

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Violet Richardson Ward

Notable dates in the development of Soroptimist International

1921

First Soroptimist club founded in Oakland, California. The Founder President was Violet Richardson Ward.

1924

Chartering of first Soroptimist club in London. The Founder President was Viscountess Falmouth.

Suzanne Nöel founded SI Paris, the first Soroptimist club in Europe. She later became the first President of the European Federation.

1928

Foundation of American and European Federations. Soroptimist International Association created to provide link between the Federations.

1934

Europe and Great Britain & Ireland form separate Federations.

1937

First Soroptimist club in Sydney, Australia.

1948

Soroptimist International Association awarded Consultative status with UNESCO.

1950

SI awarded category C Consultative status with ECOSOC. (Economic & Social Council, United Nations.)

1952

Foundation of International governing body of Soroptimist International.

1978

Inauguration of SI South West Pacific Federation. The Founder President was Mary Whitehead.

1984

SI granted Category 1 Consultative status (now General Consultative Status) with ECOSOC.

Viscountess Falmouth

Dr Suzanne Nöel
Founder President of
the European Federation

Mary Whitehead
First President
South West Pacific
Federation