HISTORY
Notable dates in the development of Soroptimist International
Soroptimist International of Geelong Inc. was chartered in 1960
1921
First Soroptimist club founded in Oakland, California. The Founder President was Violet Richardson-Ward.
1924
Chartering of first Soroptimist club in London. The Founder President was Viscountess Falmouth.
Suzanne Nöel founded SI Paris, the first Soroptimist club in Europe. She later became the first President of the European Federation.
1928 + 1934
1928- Foundation of American and European Federations. Soroptimist International Association created to provide link between the Federations
1934- Europe and Great Britain & Ireland form separate Federations
1937
First Soroptimist club in Sydney, Australia.
1948 + 1952
1948- Soroptimist International Association awarded Consultative status with UNESCO
1952- Foundation of International governing body of Soroptimist International
1978 + 1984
1978- Inauguration of SI South West Pacific Federation. The Founder President was Mary Whitehead
1984- SI granted Category 1 Consultative status (now General Consultative Status) with ECOSOC.
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT SHARON FISHER
From the Federation of the Americas, Sharon took up her post as Soroptimist International President 2020 – 2021 at the official change of insignia ceremony, held in Kuala Lumpur, July 2019.