In 1937, the first practical idea for establishing an organization for band women was presented to D.O. WIley, director of the Texas Tech University Band. Wava Banes, a member of the band, along with her classmates, Emily Surell and Rosell Williams, discussed many of the possibilities and requirements necessary for the formation of a National Band Sorority.
Their plans and discussions came to fruition in 1939, when a group of bands women at Tech founded a local organization, known as "Tau Beta Sigma," modeled both in principle and idealism after Kappa Kappa Psi. Just like the Fraternity, Tau Beta Sigma was designed to serve as an honorary, service, and leadership recognition society to providing special social and educational experiences that were useful to women during th days of the "all male world" of collegiate bands...
In order to establish the national organization, the women of the Texas Tech Tau Beta Sigma Band Sorority surrendered their name, Chapter constitution, Ritual, and jewelry designs to the band club at Oklahoma State University in January of 1946. And, on March 26, 1946 a charter was granted to Tau Beta Sigma...
During the 1970s, Tau Beta Sigfna continued to grow. Participation and service at the local, district, and national levels helped to improve the lines of communication betwee the National Council and the Active membership. In 1977, all former membership restrictions were removed and chapters were afforded the opportunity to initiate male members of the band. In addition, the national fee structure was alligned and all former debts of the sorority were eliminated.
Over the past decade, Taue Beta Sigma has adopted national policies on hazing and alcohol. In addition, the geographical districts were restructured and renamed and the Ritual of Tau Beta Sigma was revised to reflect the changes in the membership of the organization. A membership development program was also implemented, providing chapters with suggestions and information on the recruitment and education of Prospective Members and candidates. |