COTILLION HISTORY
Debutante is a French word meaning female beginner or one who makes a first appearance. Historically, she was a young lady from an aristocratic upper class family who upon reaching the age of maturity came out into society at a formal debut.
The idea of presenting young girls to society began in the United States in 1748. At this time, the 59 colonial Philadelphia families held Dancing Assemblies, the forerunner to the Debutante Ball. The tradition continues today through the country with the majority of balls being held from November through January.
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It is with great pleasure that The Ivy Foundation, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Delta Phi Omega Chapter announce its 2021 Pearls of Prestige Debutante Cotillion Program. The program’s primary goal is to provide life skills training for high school Junior and Senior young ladies of African American descent. This will be accomplished via community service projects, cultural activities, educational workshops and monthly meetings focused on leadership development and social etiquette. At the culmination of the program, Debutantes will be presented to the community during the formal Pearls of Prestige Debutante Cotillion.
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We are honored that you are interested. Applications are no longer being accepted for the 2021 debutante class. If you (your daughter) are currently in the 9th or 10th grade in high school and are interested in receiving information about future debutante cotillion programs, please Contact Us.
