"P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where we celebrate the advancement of women, educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations."
P.E.O. Statement of Purpose and Intent
P.E.O. does not discriminate against any woman based on age, ethnicity, religion or education. Our sisterhood is based on friendship and mutual respect. P.E.O. is not political nor is it a political action group. Individually, each member may work for causes of her choice outside of P.E.O.; as sisters, we respect one another’s political and /or religious views and activities. We meet to support each other for fellowship and for the common and united purpose of assisting women reach their educational goals.
For more information about P.E.O. scholarships, awards, and loans, check out our Projects page!
P.E.O. history and Nevada State Chapter
P.E.O. was founded on January 21, 1869, by seven students at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. This circle of kindred spirits – bonded by their enthusiasm for women's opportunities – eventually expanded to include women off campus as well. The organization's membership now extends to more than a half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education, while supporting and motivating them.
Nevada's State Chapter was established in 1946 and now has 37 local chapters throughout the state. Well before that date, in 1916, P.E.O. was established in Elko, Nevada, when Chapter A chartered on October 7, 1916. What tenacity these strong and brave sisters must have had! Eleven chapters were chartered from Chapter A, Elko in 1916 to Chapter K, Boulder City in 1945. Those who have traveled Nevada know that this venture to and from those first cities (Elko, Reno, Ely, Fallon, Sparks, Las Vegas Carson City and Boulder City) covers over 4,600 miles of two lane roads. At its first convention on November 8 and 9, 1946, Nevada became a state chapter. Today Nevada includes more than 1,400 active members throughout the state's 37 local chapters.