About the Elliott Sisters

The Elliott Sisters were a fixture at Alpha Sigma Tau National Conventions. Edith Minerva Elliott (1937) and Meda Ray Elliott Sewell (1940) began their Alpha Sigma Tau journey at Concord College when they were initiated into the Omicron Chapter. Later, Betty Gail Elliott (1972), was invited into the Sisterhood as one of the very first alumna initiates. From the time of their respective initiations until their deaths each sister made significant contributions to the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority and Foundation. Meda Ray served as President, Treasurer, and member of the National Foundation Board of Directors. Under Meda Ray’s leadership as President the Foundation expanded its infrastructure, recruited volunteers, and developed a greater presence in the lives of members. Meda Ray and Edith each funded scholarships in their name in the early days of the Foundation.

Most notably, the Elliott Sisters may be credited with conducting the first efforts of Foundation fundraising at National Conventions. The sisters, always sitting side-by-side, didn’t allow their hands to be idle during the long days of business conducted at the Convention. Each sat quietly, but diligently working, hand-making little yellow roses to be attached to attendees’ name badges. The Elliott Sisters were generous but asked for a modest contribution to purchase a rose, one for yourself and more to share, with all proceeds going to benefit the National Foundation. Today, the Foundation offers yellow rose stickers to be purchased as honor gifts at the Convention, but the idea really began decades ago as a result of the passion and dedication of the Elliott Sisters.