Kappa Phi Clubs were established at the State University of Iowa and the State College at Ames. The summer of 1918, in the midst of World War I, these three chapters met together to talk over mutual problems and plan for future activities. Against many odds, in stifling Kansas heat, girls met for two days in the Upper Room of the Methodist Publishing House, Kansas City, where a scribbled, pinned-together Constitution was written and the National Council of Chapters established.
The ten years between 1916 and 1926 saw much growth and change. By the end of 1926, Kappa Phi boasted 17 chapters. Four National Councils had been held with many accomplishments and a lot of fun. During these ten years Grand Officers, later known as National Officers, had been elected, the Constitution accepted, the Kappa Phi Hymn had became official, and the slogan, "I'd love to" was accepted. Rituals were set up, an official charter granted, and the Pledge Pin and official Kappa Phi pin were designed and adopted. Chapter budgets were set up, National dues established, the printing of the National Quarterly, Candle Beam, was authorized. Alumnae groups were formed and a plan to coordinate the work and programs of the different chapters was begun. One important decision during these ten years was that Kappa Phi never competed with social sororities and never established Kappa Phi residence houses.