What is P.E.O?

P.E.O. is an international philanthropic women’s organization that supports women both through friendships and bonds of sisterhood, as well as through scholarships, grants, awards and loans. Currently, there are 5,632 chapters, with chapters in all 50 states and Washington D.C as well as in 6 Canadian provinces.

This philanthropic organization was started in 1869 by seven women students—often called the Founders. Their original purpose was friendship, intellectual growth, and support for one another. Over time, the organization’s focus evolved toward a broader mission: promoting educational opportunities for women. Today, P.E.O. is known for its educational loans, grants, scholarships, and stewardship of Cottey College, a women’s college in Missouri. P.E.O. continues to be a women-led organization and remains nonpolitical and nonsectarian.

The history of Cottey College and P.E.O. deepened when Virginia Alice Cottey, founder of Cottey College left the college to the P.E.O. Sisterhood in her will. In 1931 P.E.O. officially accepted ownership and responsibility for the college. It is one of the only U.S. colleges supported by women’s nonprofit organization.

For more information about P.E.O. please go visit www.peointernational.org