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History of Soroptimist

SIBC > SIGBI > History of Soroptimist
The Soroptimist Name

The first question we are often asked about Soroptimist International 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

SI granted Category 1 Consultative status (now General Consultative Status) with ECOSOC.
Inauguration of SI South West Pacific Federation. The Founder President was Mary Whitehead.
Foundation of International governing body of Soroptimist International.
SI awarded category C Consultative status with ECOSOC. (Economic & Social Council, United Nations.)
Soroptimist International Association awarded Consultative status with UNESCO.
First Soroptimist club in Sydney, Australia.
Europe and Great Britain & Ireland form separate Federations
Foundation of American and European Federations. Soroptimist International Association created to provide link between the Federations.
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.
First Soroptimist club founded in Oakland, California. The Founder President was Violet Richardson Ward.