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In 1970, when Thetas "rang out three cheers" as the Fraternity celebrated its Centennial, almost one-fourth of all college-aged women were enrolled in colleges and universities, compared with the less than 1 percent in 1870. Ninety-one percent of all campuses were coeducational. Educational opportunities for women had changed dramatically, and going to college had become a common expectation. During this decade, women were encouraged to explore the full range of their talents and prepare for careers. They did not feel that they had to marry in order to fulfill themselves, and certainly not right after college.

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The early 1970s were difficult years as the turbulence, protests, and political unrest of the '60s continued. It was a time of questioning and rejecting traditional values, and the Greek population reached an all-time low. What one wore was a political statement rather than a fashion statement. For most, that meant jeans, often decorated, and very long or very short skirts. In many chapters, Theta helped members focus on worthwhile goals. The chapter was a refuge where one could relax.


As the decade evolved, chapters found meaningful ways to contribute to the community through service projects and philanthropies. And they had fun. Disco dancing and wild printed dresses were seen at parties. Gradually membership began to rebuild. Young women still recognized the benefit of belonging to a group of contemporaries with whom to share and work and grow. Chapters were established at Ball State, Montana State, Eastern Kentucky, Clemson, Virginia, California-Riverside, Texas A&M, Baylor, and Mississippi.