The San Antonio Alumnae Club of Kappa Alpha Theta was first chartered in San Antonio, Texas in 1950. Our first president, Clarisse Brown, served during the years of 1950-1951. From that year forward, countless hours and ceaseless energy have been dedicated to the continued growth of our organization. We currently have 429 members in our San Antonio directory of which 175 are active. Volumes of photo albums dating back to the 1960’s reveal several themes that have been important to our chapter: fundraising events, donations of monies raised, and celebratory events to bring together our members.

The first documented fundraising event was held in 1966. The “Flaming Festival” became an annual fall event that involved the sale of decorative and theme candles. For entertainment, attendees toured a display of table decorations designed by professional decorators and Theta alumnae. In 1980, the Theta alumnae chapter hosted a Learning about Learning holiday event called the “Holiday Factory: Santa’s Workshop.” Children were invited for an afternoon of toy making. The 1981 Learning about Learning venture was titled the “Holiday Starship” and included holiday decorations with a space theme as well as computer instruction for the children. By 1983, the fundraising focus had shifted from the holidays to the season of spring. “Spring into Bloom” was an elaborate, festive luncheon and flower sale. This event was held in the home of an alumnus and offered not only the sale of blooming flowers, but also jewelry and crafts made by local artisans. The spring fundraising event gradually evolved into a larger production that included a style show, luncheon, and even distinguished guest speakers. The current version of our spring fundraiser is now called “Bingo.” The event consists of a luncheon and live bingo game with prizes donated by local retailers.

Our chapter has a stellar record of donations. In fact, we were recognized in 2003 for being in the top ten percent of Theta alumnae chapters for our donations to CASA. In addition to our contributions to CASA, we have annually contributed to all Theta chapters where a San Antonio resident has pledged. Our chapter consistantly donates to the Kappa Alpha Theta Friendship Fund and Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation. We have also financially assisted the chapter houses at Texas A&M University and the University of Texas at Austin, including a recent donation to the Alpha Theta Campaign at the University of Texas at Austin.

In addition to our activities planned for fundraising, our chapter organizes several social events each year for the membership. Past events have included “Brown Baggers” lunches with children, Theta Legacy Teas, and spring picnics for alumnae and their spouses and dates. Dessert parties and wine and cheese parties were popular during the eighties. Our social calendar today includes two annual events, the Holiday Tea and our Founder’s Day Luncheon. Alumnae and their children will attend the Holiday Tea. We even have Santa on hand to entertain the kids and pose for photos! We have also organized in years past a Theta Happy Hour and a Theta - Tri-Delta Mixer that were casual weeknight events that entertained our members and friends. We currently have a Theta Supper Club that meets monthly in the evening to explore the fun culinary treats our city has to offer.

As this brief history shows, our chapter has enjoyed many years of entertaining, fundraising, and celebrating. Plans are already underway for next year’s events, thus continuing our traditions for future generations of San Antonio Thetas.