Effie E. Lyman Memorial Academic Scholarship

The Effie E. Lyman Memorial Academic Scholarship is a general scholarship reserved for members of Alpha Sigma Tau. It is named in honor of Effie Polhamus Lyman (Alpha 1899/Eastern Michigan).

About Effie Lyman

Effie Polhamus Lyman was one of the first patronesses of Alpha Sigma Tau, known in the early 1920s as the “Sorority Mother.” Not only did she advise the Alpha Chapter, but she also helped organize and start additional chapters in order for Alpha Sigma Tau to become recognized by the Association of Education Sororities (later absorbed by the National Panhellenic Conference) as a National Organization. Effie’s biggest goal for Alpha Sigma Tau was to become a National Organization, and even in her final days, she worked diligently toward this vision. Sadly, Effie passed away before she could see Alpha Sigma Tau granted national status and grow beyond its first five chapters.

Upon her passing, her husband, Dr. Elmer Lyman, donated $100 to Alpha Sigma Tau in memory of his wife. The money was used to establish the Effie E. Lyman Memorial Student Loan Fund, known as the Effie Lyman Memorial Academic Scholarship today.

Thanks to Effie, her husband, and the generous Foundation donors over the years, Effie’s legacy continues to empower Alpha Sigma Tau women through this scholarship.