Who We Are, What We Do

P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women 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. Since our founding in 1869, P.E.O. philanthropies have provided nearly $415 million in financial assistance to more than 122,000 women.

Two members in front of a P.E.O. banner at the 2023 convention

Mission Statement

P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women 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.

1884 P.E.O convention

Our Legacy: Over 150 Years of P.E.O. History

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 friendship and their enthusiasm for educational opportunities for women, eventually expanded to include women off-campus as well. Through membership, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than a half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education.

Our Commitment to Inclusion and Belonging

The P.E.O. Sisterhood is a nonprofit volunteer women’s organization grounded in our loving concern for each other and our mission of supporting women to pursue their educational goals. Joined by a shared commitment to these two foundational tenets, P.E.O. strives to offer a sense of belonging to current and future members by embracing each person’s unique talents, background and perspective.

P.E.O. Values Sculpture

International Chapter Leadership

Get to know the leadership of the International Chapter of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. These dedicated volunteers lead the Sisterhood by serving in officer roles at the international and state/provincial/district levels and as chairs for each of our philanthropic projects and boards/committees.

Contact P.E.O.

Need assistance or have a question? The staff at the
P.E.O. Executive Office is here to help!

Careers at the P.E.O.
Executive Office

P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) is a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advance of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship of Cottey College and motivate women to achieve their highest achievements. Our beautiful office, friendly staff and dedicated volunteer leaders make working at P.E.O. an ideal opportunity to add positivity to the world.

P.E.O. Executive Office