The Founding Sisters

The Founders of Phi Sigma Sigma
"I am happy that I was one of the founders of a sorority that has grown not only in size, but in perspective and goals." --Rose Sher Seidman

Rose Sher Seidman was married and had two sons and seven grandchildren. She taught school from 1915-1917 before returning to teach at a private school in 1940, where she stayed for ten years. She sponsored extracurricular activities including social dance and puppetry. Later in life, Rose studied new modern math and traveled extensively in Europe, Iceland, the Caribbean and the United States. She died in November 1987 in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Josephine Ellison Breakstone was a school teacher by profession. She was married and lived in New York City until the time of her death.

Estelle Melnick Cole worked as a hospital volunteer in New York while taking courses in languages and the arts. She served as an interpreter for her husband while they traveled extensively around the world. Estelle later moved to Harrison, NY where she resided until her death.

Fay Chertkoff worked as a teacher throughout her full and interesting life. She was responsible for writing most of the Fraternity's rituals and served as a national officer for many years.

Gwen Zaliels Snyder graduated from Hunter College and taught school before marrying and have one daughter. She became a textile designer and branched into interior designing for private homes.

Ethel Gordon Kraus was married and had two children, one a member of Phi Sigma Sigma and five grandchildren. She was a member of the Godmother's League and the Hattie Bondy Scholarship Fund. Ethel's hobbies included bridge, theater and gardening. She died in 1984 in New York City.

Jeanette Lipka Furst graduated from public high school at age 11 and entered college at age 15 to become the youngest member of Phi Sigma Sigma. She completed her studies in three years and graduated from Hunter College at age 18. Jeanette taught fifth grade and later earned her doctorate in audio-visual education and communications.

Lillian Gordon Alpern was born in New York City, the youngest child in a family of six. She follwed in her sister's footsteps and attended Hunter College. While a junior in college, she met and fell in love with Charles Alpern, whom she left school to marry. Lillian was the first founder to pass away in 1945.