Kappa Alpha Theta was founded on January 27, 1870 at what is now known as DePauw University. Indiana Asbury, as the university was then known, officially became a coeducational establishment in 1867. The four founders of Kappa Alpha Theta - Bettie Locke, Alice Allen, Bettie Tipton, and Hannah Fitch - sought to originate an association that would encourage women to attend coeducational colleges, assist them toward a degree, and, ultimately, offer encouragement and support for women. Thus, Kappa Alpha Theta became the first Greek Letter Fraternity for women.

Although there were societies for women before 1870 - some of these had secret rituals with badges, passwords, mottoes, and other symbols - Theta became the first women's Greek Letter Fraternity when its primary founder, Bettie Locke, wanted full membership in a male fraternity. When asked to wear the fraternity badge as a "mascot," she responded that she could not wear it if she did not know the secrets and purposes the letters represented. She said, "If you won't initiate me into your fraternity, I'll start my own." Consequently, Kappa Alpha Theta was established, and in 2005, Kappa Alpha Theta celebrated its 135th anniversary.

The Eta Iota chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta was established and joined the University of San Diego's Greek Community in 2000.

We value our history, and we take pride in our four founders who were truly visionary. We also value what we offer women today. Our vision statement testifies:

Kappa Alpha Theta is the organization that provides the finest and most rewarding membership experience.

Our vision statement is based on our core purpose and values. Our purpose is to support our members so they can learn, grow, and excel, and our principal values are personal excellence, friendship, sisterhood, scholarship, service, and leadership.

Symbols of Kappa Alpha Theta include the twin stars, a black and gold pansy, and the kite, which all represent the fraternity ideals of sisterhood.