APPROVAL OF CARNATION AS OFFICIAL SORORITY FLOWER
At the Sorority's sixth Convention in Boston, Massachusetts, the Convention body voted and approved the carnation to be the official flower of the Sorority. It was selected is because of its longevity and strength. The carnation is the longest lasting flower and serves as a special reminder of our sisterhood.

In June 1876, Founder Helen M. Dodge (Syracuse, 1874) became the first Gamma Phi Beta to receive her undergraduate degree, and her sisters honored her with a basket of flowers to celebrate the occasion.

In 1921, The Crescent noted, "she [Helen] still cherishes the white and gold basket and the pressed blossoms." It was clear that even then flowers were a means to commemorate occasions with sisters, so it made sense that at some time the need for an official flower would arise.

For decades members shared carnations of all colors. Because of its wide use and favor among members, however, the pink carnation was affirmed as the official flower and color at Convention 1950.