The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International has seven basic Purposes that govern its program of work and study. The activities of each level of the Society implement the Purposes of the Society. The Purposes may be amended only by action of the international convention at the time of constitutional amendment.
I. To unite women educators of the world in a genuine spiritual fellowship. Delta Kappa Gamma members expand their friendships and increase their appreciation of women educators at home and abroad through travel, participation in international organizations, chapter meetings, conferences, workshops and conventions. Seminars, travel and study experiences, projects and programs are additional means of implementing this Purpose. World Fellowship grants provide opportunities for extended communication and understanding. A gift from the Emergency Fund to a member who suffers extensive loss from floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and similar disasters is a manifestation of spiritual fellowship.
II. To honor women who have given or who evidence a potential for distinctive service in any field of education. The Founders sought to initiate outstanding women educators who could achieve still more when stimulated by association with other professional educators. Membership in the Society continues to carry recognition of superior potential and accomplishment. Women educators are honored by being invited to affiliate with a select group of women who have been successful in professional and personal relationships. Honorary membership may be extended to women who have made significant contributions to education and/or the advancement of women educators but who are not eligible for active membership. Outstanding women educators in countries where the Society has not been organized may be awarded citations for distinguished service to education in their countries.
III. To advance the professional interest and position of women in education. One of the chief motivations for the founding of the Society was the belief of Dr. Annie Webb Blanton that qualified women educators should be given equal opportunities in all areas of professional work. Members of the Society have been influential in bringing about promotion opportunities and single salary schedules. Through scholarship programs, the Society endeavors to encourage and assist members to advance their professional interests, competencies, and positions. Projects supported by the Golden Gift Fund, such as the Leadership/Management Seminar and special stipends, advance the work of the Society.
IV. To initiate, endorse and support desirable legislation or other suitable endeavors in the interests of education and of women educators. Members of the Society consistently support efforts on a non-partisan basis to support desirable legislation or other suitable endeavors that encourage improvements in education. At all levels the Society has cooperated with other professional organizations in support of legislation to advance education and/or the status of women in education. State organizations and chapters have led in organizing activities that relate to the rights of women educators in the civic and political life of their respective communities.
V. To endow scholarships to aid outstanding women educators in pursuing graduate study and to grant fellowships to non-member women educators. The first national scholarship of $1,000 for graduate study was awarded in 1940. Currently 27 annual and two biennial international scholarships of $5,000 are authorized. Voluntary contributions by members to the international World Fellowship Fund afford women from other countries $4,000 graduate study awards to study at universities in the United States or Canada. Many scholarships are granted each year to members by state organizations. Some state organizations offer members opportunities to study outside their own countries.
VI. To stimulate the personal and professional growth of members and to encourage their participation in appropriate programs of action. The Society encourages and assists the personal and professional growth of members for effective participation as educators and civic leaders. Leadership development opportunities and workshops are conducted by the Society. Members are encouraged to plan, implement, and evaluate programs of study and action.
VII. To inform the members of current economic, social, political, and educational issues so that they may participate effectively in a world society. Programs, seminars, publications, and travel and study experiences are provided to assist members in expanding their knowledge and understanding, in studying and assessing current issues, and in enriching their personal lives. Rich interpersonal relationships and challenging personal experiences provide opportunities for effective participation in a world society.