H.E.R. Stories
the Dynamic & Historic EASTERN REGION
Theljewa Garrett, Regional Director Naya Fraizer, Regional representative
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Eastern Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Spring '15 @easternregdst
A Message from the
REGIONAl Director & Regional Representative
Announcing the Spring 2015 Edition of H.E.R. Stories. The Spring 2015 Edition of H.E.R. Stories represents the numerous programs and events performed throughout the region. Through this magazine, chapters and members are able to share their stories and passion for public service and sisterhood. H.E.R. Stories brings together collegiate, alumnae, and the 126 active chapters of the Dynamic and Historic Eastern Region. We are excited to share this first edition of H.E.R. Stories as leaders of a phenomenal group of women. Keeping Excellence and Purpose in the East, Theljewa and Naya
The Eastern Region The historic Eastern Region’s geographic area includes the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington DC, along with England, Germany and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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H.e.r. Stories The H.E.R. Stories publication is the official magazine for Sorors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Please check the Publications section of the Eastern Region website at www.easternregiondst.org for future H.E.R. Stories submission information.
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table of contents H.e.r.Stories | spring '15
Epsilon Delta chapter...................................................4
Frederick County Alumnae Chapter................23
Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter.....................................5
allentown Alumnae Chapter ............................24
fort washington (MD) Alumnae Chapter..................6
MONMOUTH COUNTY ALUMNAE cHAPTER...............25
PittsburgH Alumnae Chapter.....................................7
alpha gamma chapter..........................................26
Quaker City Alumnae Chapter....................................7
annapolis Alumnae Chapter..............................27
valley forge Alumnae Chapter..................................8
atlantic city Alumnae Chapter........................27
Rockland Alumnae and Pi Lambda..............................9
baltimore Alumnae Chapter..............................28
Rochester Alumnae Chapter......................................10
boston Alumnae Chapter....................................29
the importance of Community Partnerships..........11
bergen county Alumnae Chapter.....................29
Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter .......................................12
baltimore county Alumnae Chapter...............30
New york Alumnae Chapter........................................13
fairfield county Alumnae Chapter..................30
Nassau Alumnae Chapter...........................................14
hartford Alumnae Chapter................................31
Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter.........15
Columbia (MD) Alumnae Chapter.......................32
East Kings County Alumnae Chapter.......................16
pi sigma chapter ....................................................32
Princess Anne Alumnae Chapter...............................17
North Arundel County Alumnae Chapter.......33
WASHINGTON DC Alumnae Chapter.............................17
Montgomery County Alumnae Chapter..........34
Central Jersey Alumnae Chapter............................18
Profiles in Delta Leadership................................35
Pi Delta chapter............................................................19
NJ Garden City Alumnae Chapter......................36
Paterson (NJ) Alumnae Chapter...............................20
rancocas valley Alumnae Chapter.................37
Tri-County MD Alumnae Chapter.............................21
montclair Alumnae Chapter.............................37
a poem for my sister....................................................22
north jersey Alumnae Chapter.........................38
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Epsilon Delta chapter
Collegiate Chapter of the year Epsilon Delta Chapter, with nine members, planned and executed impactful community programs on the campus of Temple University in Philadelphia, PA.
A Spotlight on the events of the 2013-2014 Collegiate Chapter of the Year… • Delta Academy with 25- 30 young girls in the program, the chapter planned a full of activities on campus to teach the young ladies about STEM. • 50 Years Forward: Are We Living the Dream?: Awareness program revisiting the civil rights movement based upon the iconic I Have a Dream speech by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. • Closing of a Generation: A Look at the Philadelphia School System: Discussed Statewide school closings, funding issues, overcrowded classrooms and the quality of education today. • The Plan Program: A seminar to sharpen communication and networking skills in order for attendees to secure jobs and capitalize on other business opportunities.
Members of Epsilon Delta winning the Collegiate Chapter of the Year Award at Regional Conference.
• 360 Degrees of Sisterhood: Raised awareness to the issue of human trafficking and the mistreatment of women and girls occurring around the world. The Circle of Sisterhood Movement was highlighted, as it encourages sororities to join and stand together for change. • Health Fair 2014-A Matter of The Heart: Vendors presented HIV/AIDS and STI’s prevention information and tools. The Epsilon Delta Chapter collaborated with the Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter, through Project ACE, to co-sponsor the event. • D.O.A: A Look at Hospital Maltreatment: Examined medical mistakes that happen too often in healthcare facilities. Dissecting the Hippocratic Oath to determine if medical professionals are truly living up to what they promise. • The Great Debaters Program: This program helped people find their own political path and encouraged them to examine their beliefs. In doing so, participants were encouraged to align themselves with a political party based upon their beliefs. • Sunday’s Best: Scholarship Brunch: The Epsilon Delta Chapter awarded scholarships to two deserving Philadelphia high school seniors, to aid them in their pursuit of higher education.
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Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter
We're More Than a Sisterhood. We're a Movement. She leaves her house and heads to the state capitol building for her first meeting of the day. She leaves her house and is off to teach the future leaders of this country about the importance of civic engagement. She leaves her house, in her uniform, off to protect the area’s residents. They each step out of their front doors ready to take on the day before them. They are wives, mothers, managers, leaders, CEO’s, military personnel, educators, caregivers, friends and family. They are the faces of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. They are members of the Harrisburg Alumnae Chapter (HAC). Whether made by HAC or joining upon graduation and return (or relocation) to the area, the women who comprise this chapter of an illustrious sisterhood are a force within the greater Harrisburg community. When one experiences a loss, they all experience that loss…as a sisterhood. When one celebrates an accomplishment, they all celebrate that success…as a sisterhood. They feel so deeply because they see themselves in one another. Through it all, they work to give back to the surrounding community. Within the course of the last year, they successfully hosted multiple events including the signature “Kings Who Cook” extravaganza which netted more than $12,000 in profit in 2014. Those monies were invested directly
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back into the local communities in the form of college scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors. The chapter also hosted its first-ever “Gospel Explosion and Master Class,” bringing renowned gospel great Donald Lawrence and Company to the area for a night of soul-stirring praise and worship. Each week, they provide line dance classes instructed by none other than the chapter President. Members of the chapter also host monthly meetings with the Dr. Betty Shabazz Academy and G.E.M.S. students. You can see them participating in neighborhood cleanup projects or hosting community service days for residents. This is not even a full picture of all they accomplish but a just a glimpse of their dedication. They don’t take their roles or responsibilities in Delta lightly. When they crossed those burning sands, they dedicated themselves to a lifetime of service and commitment and Harrisburg Alumnae is holding up that charge. This chapter’s work demonstrates that they are more than a sisterhood. Each member is one piece of a larger puzzle ingrained in the fabric of the Harrisburg community. As soon as any one of them steps out of their front doors in the morning, they are doing the work of Delta. While Delta brought them together, love and respect sustain them. They look forward to joining their Delta sisters throughout the world as they move forward in action in 2015. I am proud to be one of them. Submitted by Soror Brandi Hunter-Davenport, HAC Journalist
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1) Sorors chaperoned a day trip with the GEMS, visiting L’Oreal in New York. 2) HAC President Kristal Turner-Childs, with Sorors Tyrica Hendricks (center) and Terry Baldwin, enjoying a night of bowling. 3) HAC Sorors and community members preparing to join thousands for the 2014 Breast Cancer Walk, which took place on City Island in Harrisburg on October 18.
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fort washington (MD) Alumnae Chapter hard at work in the community
FWAC Holiday Giving As the 2014 holiday season approached, FWAC’s Friendly Seniors Visitor Program Committee partnered with Daughter for the Day (DFTD), which is a non-profit organization committed to improving the lives of seniors in the Prince George’s County, Maryland area. On November 11, 2014, FWAC Sorors stepped in to clean the home of “Mrs.Jones”; a recently-widowed elderly county resident who is in declining health. FWAC Sorors arrived to the home and found many piles of items that were unorganized and much that needed to be done. They jumped right in with cleaning and also assisted with packing up her late husband’s room, which contained his clothes and many other items. By the end of the day, there were over 40 bags of items marked for donation or disposal. FWAC also assisted by donating non-perishable food items and meals that would be easy for “Mrs. Jones” to prepare. When she returned to her newly cleaned and almost unrecognizable home, “Mrs. Jones” cried out “Now I can throw a party!” She was thrilled! FWAC Economic Development On November 22, 2014, the FWAC Economic Development Committee assisted members of the community in safeguarding their identities and avoiding fraud by hosting a free Community Shred event at Crossland High School in Temple Hills, Maryland. Members of the community were permitted to bring up to 5 boxes of documents to be securely destroyed by large shredding trucks from the company EcoShred, LLC. Documents that were shredded included paystubs, tax documents, social security documents, and those containing personally identifiable information. Students were also on hand to assist and received community service participation credit hours for their work. Over 2 tons of documents were destroyed at this successful event!
Over two tons of documents were destroyed at this sucessful event.
FWAC Jingle & Mingle Next, FWAC in partnership with Fort Washington (MD) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. hosted its first Jingle & Mingle Toy Drive on December 5, 2014 at Olde Towne Inn in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. The professional network event and toy drive was a huge success. The toys collected were for the benefit of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. All of the toys collected were delivered to the Fort Washington Fire Station which is one of the local Toys for Tots Program drop-off sites. The event was attended by Prince George’s County, Maryland Council members Derrick Leon Davis, Mel Franklin and Karen Toles. All of the guests really enjoyed attending the Jingle & Mingle event while supporting such a worthy cause. The holiday season is a wonderful time to positively impact the community and FWAC did just that with these activities and events!
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PittsburgH Alumnae Chapter
sponsors a Western PA Conservancy Garden It mattered not to sorors of Pittsburgh Alumnae that it was a dreary Saturday morning. They showed up anyway to volunteer to bed down a garden for the winter season at the Western PA Conservancy (WPC), lending several hands to what would have been a one-man show! Sorors willingly got down and “dirty” to show support in sustaining the beautification of a neighborhood. Chapter member Soror Helen Bowers also presented information on sponsoring the garden, which includes a donation and a threeyear commitment. As a sponsor, Pittsburgh Alumnae will provide physical and monetary support, including planting flowers in the spring, maintaining the garden throughout the summer and bedding down the garden in the fall. The chapter will also invite the participants of Delta GEMS, along with the collegiate chapters to participate in these activities through its Project ACE/CTT committee. Pennsylvania’s first conservancy, WPC has protected more than 235,000 acres of natural lands in Pennsylvania since it was established in 1932.
Quaker City Alumnae Chapter "toy" project
Across the United States, almost 7.8 million children are living in homes where grandparents or other relatives are the primary caregiver, with more than 5.8 million children living in grandparents’ homes and nearly 2 million children living in other relatives’ homes. In the fall of 2000, Quaker City Alumnae Chapter established a partnership via its Toy Library Committee with a local Philadelphia organization, Grands As Parents (GAPs). GAPs, founded in 1996, is an independent organization that works with grandparents and other kinship care givers, providing support in raising their grandchildren or other young family member because of the absence of the primary parent(s). The Toy Library Committee is a two-year recipient of the Support Community Outreach Program Grant (SCOP) through the city of Philadelphia. The SCOP contribution allows the committee to sponsor a reading buddies program, Black History program, a book library, trips and programs showcasing literary and artistic talents, and also hosts an annual Toy Drive/ Christmas Party. Quaker City Alumnae has also incorporated literacy as part of its program activities to support the education process outside the school classroom. The chapter is establishing a library of children’s books to loan out monthly for home reading, as part of maintaining its important involvement with GAPs.
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valley forge Alumnae Chapter engages and empowers
Sorors of Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter (VFAC) have been busy this year on a variety of fronts: • VFAC led a Voter Registration/Education Campaign in which over 200 people received pamphlets about Voter Rights, the Lawmaking Process and Gubernatorial Candidates’ Credentials. The chapter also provided information on public services for food and shelter, Elder Abuse, and an upcoming Black Male Development Symposium at Arcadia University. • VFAC’s “Sisterly Discussion” series invited Pennsylvania’s Social Action Coordinator, Soror Marvetta Coleman, who discussed strategies to help community members become more involved in local politics and provided partnering strategies for programs. Highlights of her presentation included a “What is Social Action?” quiz, a discussion on the foundations of social activism, an examination of several historical female social activists and action steps for Delta’s to use. She also gave several examples of passive and active social action including voting, calling state representatives, educating youth on political involvement, pushing for legislation and taking a self-assessment of activities. VFAC President Soror Wanda D. Graham was instrumental in identifying a sponsor for this event, Mr. Peter A. D’Amico, CFP and Founding Partner, The Philadelphia Wealth Management Co. • Councilwoman and Soror Blondell Reynolds-Brown of Philadelphia shared her programmatic and legislative accomplishments towards improving the quality of life for children. Since 1999, Soror Reynolds-Brown has been an honorary mentor to thousands of women and girls through her signature program, The Celebration of Moxie Women. She inspired VFAC to get more involved in the areas of support for children and women’s equality in local and state government, specifically increasing the number of women of color on non-profit and corporate boards. Her presentation raised consciousness about social topics pertinent to local communities, highlighted the positive work Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. does in the local and state legislature, and increased knowledge of the process for running for elected offices.
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Rockland Alumnae and Pi Lambda Partner Up!
Rockland County Alumnae Chapter (RCAC) partnered with Pi Lambda (Westchester City-Wide Collegiate Chapter) as part of its Project ACE program. Designed to ease the transition between collegiate life to alumnae life and build meaningful bonds, RCAC continued the tradition of bonding experiences with the lovely collegiate sorors from “across the bridge” (Tappan Zee) that separates the chapters. For 30 years, RCAC has always partied with a purpose, and this sisterhood activity was no different. All sorors from Rockland County were invited, and when all was said and done, approximately 22 women attended. Sorors came bearing unwrapped gifts to donate to West H.E.L.P. Mount Vernon, a local family shelter in Westchester County, New York.
RCAC collected five 20-gallon bags of gifts filled with toys for boys and girls of various ages.
Pi Lambda sorors have been working with West H.E.L.P. Mount Vernon for a number of years. One of RCAC’s own, Soror Phara Pignard-Carolei, is the Team Leader for Social Services at West H.E.L.P. Aside from collecting toys, gadgets, figurines, and other goodies, sorors also participated in ice breaker activities such as snapping endless pictures and the infamous Purse Scavenger Hunt, which through competitiveness, bonded sorors closer than ever! The chapter looks forward to more activities to fuel it ahead for the next 30 years!
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Rochester Alumnae Chapter What's My Fate?
A partnership between Rochester Alumnae Chapter’s Arts and Letters and Social Action Committee brought the Rochester community together to discuss both a local and a national dilemma concerning the future of young Black Males. The theme, “What’s My Fate: From the School House to the Jail House – Breaking the Cycle,” engaged the community in untold ways. Nearly 200 attended the panel discussion, which included Rochester’s Mayor, the president of the local community college, judges, prosecutors, the Deputy Police Chief, a school social work director, clergy and the school board president. Warren stressed increased personal responsibility, and said as a community we have to focus on our educational system and teach kids early enough to offset the pull of the criminal behavior in our streets. The forum discussion on the decades-long disparity in the number of non-violent drug arrests and their impact on blacks came at the invitation of the Rochester Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The topic stems from author Michelle Alexander’s book The New Jim Crow. In it, Alexander argues that more black men have been incarcerated on drugrelated felonies than were enslaved during slavery. Rochester Alumnae will host another discussion on the topic that will focus on developing programs to assist in dismantling this problem. An excerpt from local news media: Some of Rochester’s best-known and highest-achieving African-Americans were among those gathered to discuss the dynamics of the mass incarceration of young black men, here and elsewhere, during a panel discussion Tuesday night at Monroe Community College. And the more than two hundred people who attended the forum learned — as Mayor Lovely Warren, Rochester Police Department Deputy Police Chief Wayne Harris, City Court Judge Stephen Miller, Board of Education President Van White and others shared their best, heart-felt ideas — it’s going to take a combination of educational focus, more attentive parenting, an ethical shift toward personal responsibility, and a sustained increase in black community unity in order to counter what’s been called a modern-day “Jim Crow” criminal justice system or slow America’s “school-to-prison pipeline.
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The Importance of Community Partnerships Community Partnerships may be formal or informal, involve networking or detailed relationship building, and create grass-roots relationships and/or strategic alliances. Developing partnerships may lead to enhancing our community service initiatives. Although developing partnerships involves a lot of work for what may seem like little obvious or immediate return, the long-term impact is usually worth the wait. There are significant advantages to your chapter working with other local groups. You can share activity space, pool resources, strategize together so that you offer complementary activities and even join together formally to fundraise or create a larger single group. Through these partnerships you will have a much wider and longer lasting effect on the work you currently do in your service area. Many times partnerships are the saving grace in the implementation of our programs and achievement of our goals. By choosing the right partners, we put in place the level of support that may be needed to keep our initiative on track. A chapter should choose a partner that shares its mission and values in order to maximize the positive benefits associated with partnering. In order to find the right partner, you must identify each potential partner’s purpose, mission and the value this partnership will bring to your program. Next, find out which causes your potential partner support: Partnering with a community benefit organization that your customers support is a good way to build customer goodwill. Do not forget to consider the size and location of the potential partner. On one hand, partnering with a national organization may produce more recognition. However, choosing an organization that is both geographically local and active in the local community can bring more satisfaction to the community in which you serve. Of course, supporting a local branch of a national organization can, to a certain extent, provide both national recognition and personal satisfaction. Next, determine what type of support the potential partner needs. Certain partners will benefit most from financial contributions, while others may benefit more from manpower in the form of volunteer hours, shared expertise or leadership.. Harmonize the benefits your chapter is capable of offering with the needs of your partner. Third, look into the potential partner’s leadership to ensure compatibility. Think of the partnership like a relationship – you must be able to get along in order to succeed. The principals of the chapter and committee should meet with the potential partner’s board of directors and executive or other officers. Make certain a strong working relationship can be fostered with the people you will deal with on a regular basis. A reputable organization will define its mission and goals clearly, have measurable goals and use concrete criteria to describe its achievements. Often times we feel we may lose control of our program by partnering. Partnering work does not mean your chapter will lose control. You must be clear with your objectives, roles and responsibilities. Good networking saves money and builds beneficial relations. Communicate often to ensure that your goals, tactics and plan of action remain on target. Leverage your initiatives by building strong community partners and watch your programs grow.
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Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter enriching the community
The Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter (BAC) spent the first half of the sorority year strengthening its youth programs and hosting events that involved and enriched the community. On September 20th, BAC held its 1st annual Youth Explosion, designed to merge the chapter’s youth-service programs in an effort to educate families and recruit young people for year-long participation. The event was held at Concord Baptist Church, a historical pillar in BedfordStuyvesant – the first stop on the US tour of Nelson Mandela in July of 1990. Each of the chapter’s youth committees staged a table for participants. Not only was the event educational, it was fun! Participants and Sorors enjoyed basketball, dancing, crafts, and food. Sorors from the Brooklyn-wide collegiate chapter, Epsilon Pi, joined to volunteer and fellowship. The Youth Explosion was also an opportunity for the Emergency Response Team to share resources with the community. In addition to the Sorors present, there were over 100 youth in attendance, ages 7-17 and 25 parents/guardians. BAC looks forward to this event growing in 2015. BAC is very fortunate to have a star in its midst – the young actor Eden Duncan-Smith, daughter of Soror Nicole Duncan-Smith – who helped the chapter with a very special Red Carpet event for Annie on December 20th. Eden, who played the role of Isabella (the oldest of Annie’s foster sisters), made an appearance at a special reception to sign autographs, take photos and meet with the young attendees of the screening. It was a treat having Eden there, not only as a star of film and Broadway, but as Delta’s National Emerging Artist Winner (2010), Brooklyn’s KUUMBA Award Winner (2014) and one of Ebony Magazine’s “Coolest Black Kids in America.” The Arts & Letters Committee hosted a fun-filled event, filling more than 200 seats for the familyfriendly film featuring actors of color in beloved roles.
Brooklyn Alumnae’s EMBODI program continues to make lasting impressions on young men in the borough. By inviting local male volunteers to model service, new career paths, and positive examples of manhood, the chapter is investing in strong families for a stronger Brooklyn. Highlights of EMBODI’s programming include: • Participation in the Brooklyn Alumnae Youth Explosion and Emmanuel Baptist Church’s “Blessing Our Block” street fair • Personal Development Workshop with special guest writer/artist and contributor to comic books such as G.I. Joe, Iron Man, Spider-Man, and Green Lantern. • Sponsored trip to the HBCU Big Apple Classic basketball games and college fair at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. • A Kwanzaa Celebration that included setting
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the Kwanzaa table, pouring of libations, honoring of ancestors, and sharing a meal, as well as a remembrance for the unarmed Black men who have been killed by police. • Sponsored trip for participants and family to a Brooklyn Nets vs. Boston Celtics game at the Barclays Center. • Talent & Interest Development Workshop with a celebrity photographer and visual artist in which participants set goals for the new year and created “vision cards.”
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New york Alumnae Chapter
Continues to Uphold The Sorority's Mission New York Alumnae Chapter (NYAC) started off the 2014-2015 sorority year living out our sisterhood’s mission on a national and local level. Under Delta’s Membership Services theme, “Loving Our Sorors on Purpose With a Purpose,” NYAC is supporting members, as well as reclaiming sorors and collegiates. Here are a few highlights: • Membership Support and Development: The chapter launched a Members Only website section as a centralized location for news, events, etc. NYAC also developed “Ready, Set, Run” - a workshop series to develop leadership and help sorors navigate running for office on the local, regional and national level. In addition, NYAC hosted an Emergency Preparedness Kit Party where sorors built emergency kits, brought in emergency officials and raffled an emergency “Go bag.” • Collegiate Engagement: NYAC co-led a Hazing Prevention Week Social Media Campaign with Rho Chapter to educate the community about hazing’s negative effects. In addition, the chapter sponsored collegiate to attend the New York Metropolitan Area 102nd Founders Day celebration. • Reclamation: NYAC conducted targeted outreach to sorors through activities such as celebrating new chapter sorors with “Sunshine Selfies,” an initiative wherein photos of visiting sorors and new chapter members are published in the monthly chapter newsletter.
NYAC also remains committed to community public service. Program highlights include: • Thriving healthy living engagement through participation in walks and raising funds for awareness/research through the chapter’s Annual Community Health Fair and monthly chapter meeting presentations. • Launching an economic development program to support black-owned businesses and promote entrepreneurism. “Behind the Brands: A Discussion for Entrepreneurs” brought in black business heavyweights such as SheaMoisture CEO and UPTOWN magazine Co-CEO Brett Wright to discuss black entrepreneurship with more than 60 participants. • Screening of documentary film, “Justice is a Black Woman,” highlighting the career of Justice Constance Baker Motley. A panel discussion on local educational social justice issues was included. • NYAC fed families for Thanksgiving, coordinated a #HashtagLunchbag event in which members packaged and distributed lunch bags to homeless and provided Christmas gift baskets to elderly and toys to families serviced by a local YMCA. • The chapter serves youth via Delta Academy, Delta GEMS and EMBODI, all of whom had successful kick-offs and meetings that included educational and cultural activities. NYAC also served residents of Greater Harlem Nursing Home, where the chapter has the distinction of being the longest serving organization providing service. NYAC is mission-focused and looking forward to even more this spring as it furthers its programmatic outreach and impact, deepens its commitment to members and prepares for its 95th anniversary as the sorority’s First Graduate Chapter.
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Nassau Alumnae Chapter
Empowers Youth with the Tools for Educational Advancement
For the past 50 years, the Nassau Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has sought to empower youth by providing them with the tools required to realize the benefits of a higher education. Some of these higher education initiatives include the Chapter’s college scholarship program, tours of historically Black colleges and universities, and college fairs. The college tour provides youth with an opportunity to experience the campus environments while, igniting desires to go further with their formal education. The tours of historically Black colleges and universities began in 1993. Since that time, over 700 students have been on the road, experiencing more than 100 campus visits to these esteemed institutions of higher learning. It has been humbling and gratifying for the Chapter to receive the numerous updates from students who have attended a college fair, participated on a college tour or received a scholarship. Seeing our youth move to the next level in their educational journeys makes the late nights, many planning meetings, numerous phone calls, and written communications worth the effort and hard work. The Chapter’s 2010-2014 four-year scholarship recipient, Keaundra Harris, is going into her final year at Texas Southern University. The Chapter’s current four-year scholarship recipient, Steven Alexander attends Howard University. He will receive $2,500 annually until 2016. The Chapter’s two $1,000 incentive awardees are Stormy Keppel, a student at City College of New York and Cary Lamb, a student at the State University of New York at Stony Brook.
The 2014 College Tour departed with 31 students on Friday, October 10, 2014 and returned on Sunday, October 12, 2014. The group visited seven historical black universities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. Although it rained throughout the weekend, the students still happily toured the campuses of Morgan State, Howard, Hampton, Norfolk State, Virginia State, Bowie State, and Lincoln Universities. Plans are already underway for the 2015 college tour.
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(l-r) Corresponding Secretary, Patricia Hodge-Mack, 3rd Vice President, Tary Scroggins, Chapter President, Joe Ann Oatis, 2nd Vice President, Cynthia Horton and 1st Vice President, Patsy Nwagbaraocha
Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter marches in the MLK Parade
On Monday, January 20, 2014, Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (BMAC), Baltimore Alumnae Chapter (BAC) and the Dr. Jeanne L. Noble Delta G.E.M.S, E.M.B.O.D.I. and Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy participants of BMAC and BAC marched in the 2014 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade in Baltimore, Maryland. The parade commemorates the life of civil rights leader and icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Youth participants and sorors from BMAC and Baltimore Alumnae Chapters. It was BMAC’s first time participating in the 14th annual parade. The youth program participants carried banners and marched as BMAC and BAC sorors sang songs such as D-E-L-T-A It Really Sounds Good To Me and WE Are the Deltas while strolling down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. They bonded with members of the Metropolitan Baltimore National Pan Hellenic Council and received a thank you from Mayor Rawlings-Blake for “helping to make the 14th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade one of the most exciting we’ve had in years!”
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Youth Programs Participants and members of BMAC marching down MLK Jr. Blvd in Baltimore City
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Inspi(red)^3: A Crimson Wonderland
East Kings County Alumnae Chapter A Party With A Purpose
Many people are distracted during the holiday season. Office holiday parties, hosting family from out of town, shopping for gifts, preparing holiday meals and trying to wrap up the year - there are a lot of things competing for attention. Yet every year since 2009, the East Kings County Alumnae Chapter (EKC) has successfully gathered a crowd to party with a dual purpose: to raise funds for the chapter’s programs and to collect toys for children in need. We’ve had some great collaborations - the men of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. in 2010; and the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 2011 and 2012. But the best collaboration to date has been with our very own Sorors. For the first time three chapters from two states - EKC, North Manhattan Alumnae Chapter (NMAC) and North Jersey Alumnae Chapter - collaborated to host an unforgettable holiday party, all in the name of public service. Six hundred people packed Suite 36 for Inspi(red)^3: A Crimson Wonderland, many bringing toys with them and ensuring a wonderful Christmas surprise for the children who would receive them. We also got a surprise of our own when the NYPD Guardians Association, a fraternal organization of black policemen, showed up with a significant donation of toys! That same night, we delivered 14 extra large bags (nearly 400 toys) to the Women In Need (WIN) homeless shelter in East New York, Brooklyn which has over 200 homeless families with children residing and receiving services at that location. The evening staff at WIN was completely overwhelmed by the amount and quality of the toys and expressed their sincere gratitude. “Many of the children would have gone without holiday presents this season if not for your donation.” -Staffer at WIN Homeless Shelter in East New York, Brooklyn We wish we could have seen the children’s faces when they woke up to all those toys Sunday morning! In addition to giving Sorors an opportunity to fellowship while providing service to the community, the party underscored the true meaning of the holidays. It was a great show of sisterhood and highlighted the true work of Sorority life, especially in light of recent poor displays of sorority life in the media. “It was wonderful to work in sisterly love and affection with two other chapters.” -Soror Jillian Joseph, Fundraising Chair, EKC For more information about EKC’s programs, visit EKCellenceInAction.wordpress.com
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Princess Anne Alumnae Chapter Supports Jazz Initiative
Princess Anne Alumnae Chapter (PAAC) hosted “SerendipiTea – Hot Jazz on a Cool Afternoon” with more than 150 people being entertained by the talents of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Jazz Ensemble. The program began with a welcome from President Sonya Whited, who noted SerendipiTea is a part of PAAC’s effort to support Delta’s National Commission of Arts and Letters initiative, Project ART, by highlighting the UMES Jazz Ensemble. The UMES Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Brian Perez, consists of students who are music education majors preparing to spread the practical knowledge they are gaining about the jazz idiom to young music students once they graduate and become instrumental music educators. The Ensemble functions as ambassadors of entertainment for the university and has represented the university locally, throughout the state and also while touring both nationally and internationally. In all, the event raised over $3,100. Proceeds will be donated to the UMES Jazz Ensemble and will assist the chapter in carrying out its public service projects.
WASHINGTON DC ALUMNAE CHAPTER Entrepreneurship Expo 2014
The current economic crisis has challenged Americans to develop individual streams of income, instead of relying on the economy to create jobs. Becoming a small business owner is what the spirit of the Entrepreneurship Expo, presented by WDCAC’s Financial Fortitude Committee, sought to cultivate and create. Last year’s Expo featured small business owners, sponsorships by two Fortune 500 companies, marketing professionals, as well as health and wellness specialists to aide in the birth of new business owners. The Entrepreneurship Expo was an all-day affair, attended by over 100 participants hungry for information. Among the many talented and experienced presenters were entrepreneurs providing expertise in marketing,
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fundraising, the securement of government contracts, work & home life balance, and social media, to name a few. Presenters not only discussed the building blocks necessary to building a business, but also shared personal success and failures. The keynote speaker, branding expert Amanda Miller-Littlejohn, explained the importance of branding using award-winning singer Beyoncé as her example, discussing the branding that has given her worldwide status. The participants’ were diverse, with backgrounds ranging from college students to seasoned entrepreneurs looking for innovative ways to take their business to the next level. After each workshop, the presenters were able to meet one-on-one with a number of participants and answer personalized questions. Many presenters asked participants to follow-up with them; participants were looking forward to more networking opportunities vis-à-vis the Entrepreneurship Expo, and expressed a great desire to see the expo become an annual event. The Entrepreneurship Expo is a wonderful example of merging a community need with a great idea and turning into a successful event. True to its name, the Expo definitely educated, inspired, and empowered many district residents to continue striving to become successful entrepreneurs.
Central Jersey alumnae chapter A CJA Christmas Story
Central Jersey Alumnae (CJA) Chapter enjoys working hard and playing hard. On the second Saturday in December they were able to do both! The chapter hosted its annual Christmas Party, in support of two local group homes. Monetary donations from the members of CJA and the community supported the event. Soror Donna Houston visited each group home and spent time with the children during game nights and information sessions. The Christmas Party committee bonded with the children and helped them create their “Christmas Wish List.” Santa’s Soror Elves shopped filling their sacks with “Christmas Wish List” items. Twenty children, twelve counselors, more than two hundred fifty sorors and their guests arrived to a red carpet welcome. The Chapter President, Soror La Rhetta Bradley, announced each child’s name and future occupation as they walked down the red carpet. Activities included arts and crafts, face painting, and dancing. Our Eastern Regional Director, Soror Theljewa Garrett, joined in the fun and interacted with all. Our Chapter Chaplain, Soror Deborah Stapleton, blessed Sorors and guests with a special Christmas prayer. The “Cake Boss” donated two exquisitely designed cakes for the occasion. This event was a collaboration with Delta Academy, led by Soror Keirah Black; Delta GEMS, led by Sorors Donna Marable and Camille Lawson; EMBODI, led by Soror Tyra Walker; and the Kappa Leaguers, a youth initiative led by the New Brunswick Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Twenty sorors, including Soror Garrett, presented each child with a festive red basket filled with essential items. Each group home received a special CJA gift of an educational book and game library. Santa made a grand entrance as the children were led to their gifts on stage. Presents were piled high on each child’s decorated chair. Through tears, hugs, shrieks of joy, laughter and smiles the children expressed their gratitude. CJA received touching communications from the children confirming that a happy Christmas was had by all!
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Pi Delta chapter
Making Our Way to Zero Imagine a life where you slowly see your health fade away because you believe “it is just a cough”. A life where once you find out what is making you sick sounds like an immediate death sentence. A life where making better and more informed decisions could have been the difference between health and disparity. That is the life that HIV/AIDS provides. HIV/AIDS is a pandemic that affects the black community. Our most dynamic sorority has noticed how grave of an issue this disease was to our community and has implemented initiatives and programs to help the cause. From promoting health and wellness on HIV/AIDS in a foremost manner and affirming March 8, 2003 as our International Day of Service – to Summit V and VI that specifically focused on HIV/AIDS affecting women and our community our sorority has paved the way for collegiate members such as myself to further help in the cause. To coincide with those initiatives the Pi Delta chapter at Stony Brook University has annually held an AIDS Awareness Banquet to raise funds for the cause on World AIDS Day (December 1) beginning in 2010. We collaborate with the Rho Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated to bring forth awareness to the campus community about HIV/AIDS that directly affects us. Each year we have different themes which focus on specific topics of the disease while raising funds for that specific sector of the problem. While 2013’s theme was focused on pediatric HIV/AIDS 2014’s banquet was tag lined “Working Toward an AIDS Free Generation”. The goal was to bring awareness on how we as young college students can protect and prevent the HIV/AIDS crisis from personally affecting our health. The event is used as a fundraiser and this year we donated the funds to the Long Island Association for AIDS Care Incorporated since they serve the Long Island community locally. The night was filled with performances and various activities that were used to educate the students at Stony Brook University. We had a spoken word piece from Franz Cueva about identity and how some may feel ostracized due to what people categorize them as – much like someone who has HIV/ AIDS. We also had an activity where some volunteers demonstrated how well they knew how to use contraceptives. This showed that many people can prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases by learning how to properly use condoms. Towards the end a true/false game debunked myths associated with the disease. This program was truly beneficial in providing students with more information on such a taboo topic. We created a safe space where a serious topic could be addressed head on.
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Paterson (NJ) Alumnae Chapter Social Action in Action: Making A Difference in Passaic County Under the capable leadership of Candice Cotton, Chairperson and Tammy McLean, Co-Chairperson, the Social Action Committee (SAC) kicked off the 2014-2015 sorority year by teaming up with local politician, Freeholder Theodore “TJ” Best. Together, chapter members and Mr. Best distributed backpacks filled with school supplies to children in the community. The parents expressed their appreciation while the smiles from the children were priceless. Shortly thereafter, the Chapter joined the fight against breast cancer by participating in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey. Keeping in Stride, Team Delta maintained its step along with parents, community supporters, and students from the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy and the Dr. Jeanne L. Noble Delta GEMS. Team Delta adopted the motto “Even Deltas Wear Pink” and raised over $1,000 to help save the birthdays of women and men wearing all colors. In turn, as the 2014 political elections approached, the SAC collaborated with Kimberly Clark-Bryant, Chairperson and Tracy Salmon, Co-Chairperson of the Information and Communication Committee to organize a voter registration drive at four locations in Passaic County. They launched the national campaign #DSTVOTEREDU with daily educational posts being uploaded to Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. This information was designed to educate the community, provide local voting facts, increase the number of registered voters, and promote the importance of voting in mid-term elections. During the Thanksgiving holiday season, the Chapter worked in partnership with educators at Paterson’s Public School No. 6 and social workers to identify ten families to receive food baskets. Additionally, the Chapter and members of its youth programs collaborated with Councilwoman Ruby Cotton and the Bronze Shield organization of Passaic County to provide and serve meals during the annual community Thanksgiving Day dinner attended by several hundred people. As a special project, the SAC organized an onsite clothing drive and provided warm clothing for the children and adults in attendance. During the Christmas holidays, the Chapter participated in a holiday celebration sponsored by the Kids of Incarcerated Parents (KOIP). Inspired by the life journey of its founder Jahmier Wilson, KOIP embraces children with at least one parent who is incarcerated during the holiday season by sponsoring an afternoon holiday party filled with laughter, games, and gifts. The Chapter provided and served food before distributing Christmas gifts to the children. It was a great beginning to the holiday season, filled with heartwarming memories. While this special population of children received personal gifts, Chapter members believe they also felt the gifts of love and concern offered by the Paterson Alumnae Chapter. The Chapter continues to create and implement the work intended more than a century ago by the founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Together, with the community, we believe that our efforts represent God’s work, something highly esteemed and valued, like our pearls. We are the Pearls of Passaic County.
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Tri-County MD Alumnae Chapter
Impacts the communities of Southern Maryland with Tri-County United Forums The Tri-County Alumnae Chapter was chartered in March, 2011 conducted its first community forum entitled “Tri-County United” on September 28, 2013 at the La Plata campus of the College of Southern MD. The purpose of this forum was to:
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Provide information to the community on Delta’s mission, history and chapter programs; Identify issues and challenges that community leaders were facing; and Provide an opportunity for the Chapter to identify community partners for future projects;
This forum represented the Chapter’s first activity to assess community needs and begin networking with key community leaders. This was also the first session in a series of forums to address community concerns. The first session also identified issues in six areas: education, human services, social action, business and economic development, arts and humanities and environmental concerns. Education was the number one priority identified by the community and was the topic of the next forum conducted on September 27, 2014 at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center. The topic for this forum was “Closing the Achievement Gap for Minority Students.” Because the service areas for The Tri-County Alumnae Chapter cover three counties, (St Mary’s, Charles and Calvert counties) representatives from each school district were invited to participate in a panel discussion on this topic. This was an opportunity for the school districts to share best practices and answer questions from the community. The panelists were Nancy Highsmith, Director of Equity and Title Nine-Calvert County Public Schools, Dr. K. Nicola Williams, Coordinator of Certified Staffing and Minority Recruitment-St. Mary’s County Public Schools, and Tameka Johnson, Director of Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) College Readiness System-Charles County Public Schools. Thirty-one persons attended representing leaders from non- profits, human service agencies, Maryland Higher Education, the NAACP, Black Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Maryland PanHellenic Council. Feedback from evaluations was excellent and attendees requested that next years forum in 2015 have more time to identify community solutions and develop an action plan. Attendees saw the forum as a good opportunity for the community to discuss similar problems that all three counties have in common.
For more details on the Chapter events go to the chapter website: http://www.dsttricountymd.org/ and Face book page: https://www.facebook.com/TCMDAC?ref=hl.
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a poem for my sister
By soror Marsha Wesley Coleman I think it’s about time to write a poem for my sister. My sister, I see so much in you, so much strength that you do not see at times. At times, I wonder if you realize just how important you are and how much I admire you. I admire you and what you have accomplished with what you have. You inspire me in so many ways. You inspire me in so many ways that you probably are unaware of and I want so much for you to believe in yourself. I want so much for you to believe in yourself because most of what I am is what you have made me. You have made me so strong from your experiences from both your successes and your failures. My sister you have style. You have style and grace and beauty and stamina... Stamina which has helped you to get through some extremely rough times Rough times which may seem right now will last a life time. A life time is filled with changes and twists and so many turns, and I know that for you happy turns are close by closer by than you may think. You may think that I am too young, your younger sister, to know much about life and its pain or what you are going through and maybe I don’t. But I just want you to know that I’m here. I just want you to know that I’m here now and I’ll always be there for you and I think it’s about time… I think it’s about time I write a poem for my sister.
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Frederick County Alumnae CHAPTER LEADS THE WAY IN HISTORIC MARCH In March 1913, the 22 founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. participated in the historic Women’s Suffrage March in Washington D.C., which was Delta’s first public demonstration of social advocacy. During Delta’s centennial celebration in 2013, thousands of members retraced the footsteps of our founders in a historic march to advocate for equality for women. Since that first public demonstration, Deltas have participated in numerous marches that were organized to address important social issues. In August 1963, Deltas--most notably, Dr. Dorothy Height--participated in the historic March on Washington, in support of jobs and equality for human kind. Fifty-one years later, Deltas are continuing to march in support of civil rights. At a time when communities across the country are fragile and fractured because of race relations, violence against young men and other tragedies, members of the Frederick community identified a unique way to celebrate their progress. On September 26, 2014, members of Frederick County Alumnae Chapter, (FCAC), Maryland, participated in a historic March on Frederick, part of Hood College’s yearlong celebration of the passing of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, which attracted over 1,200 participants including FCAC, Divine Nine members, students, faculty, staff, community members and visitors who reflected on the progress made within the Frederick community in the last 50 years. As a tribute to the historic March on Washington, the March included a walk past many of the historical sites of Frederick County’s African American history and concluded at Hood College, where local, state and national civil rights activists, including former Chief Judge Robert Bell and social activist and American civil rights leader Julian Bond, addressed the crowd. One of the many impactful reflections shared that day; … It was such an amazing day and had such an impact on our students. I stayed near the back of the pack with about ten of our senior boys, many of whom were African American. They talked about that time in our history…. They got it. They really understood, through the actual process of marching, feet to the ground, what it must have been like in 1964. One remarked that there probably weren’t very many white people cheering them on or participating. They thought it was great that there were just as many whites as black people participating 50 years later. These students will never forget this day. Neither will I ever forget it either as I have etched in my mind the vision of myself, linked arm and arm with them, marching to celebrate where we have all come from and the journey still ahead of us. The speeches and songs added such meaning, inspiration and depth to the message of the day. The March inspired an entire community and an army of volunteers to realize a dream. I am thankful to have been a witness and a participant in this great day in Hood College and Frederick history.
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allentown alumnae chapter the chapter that prays together
The Allentown Alumnae Chapter (AAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., believes that the chapter that prays together, stays together. AAC also recognizes that greater exposure in the community in which it serves can lead to strong and lasting relationships as well as provide avenues to connect and reclaim inactive sorors. Keeping these objectives in mind, the Membership Services Committee of AAC under the leadership of Soror Dorothy Henderson, kicked off its 2014-2015 year with a Fourth Sunday Worship series. The chapter planned to fellowship once a month at a different soror’s church. Wearing red suits and with bibles in hand, sorors lined the pews for a little praise and worship. In September, we worshipped in Bethlehem, PA. On this particular Fourth Sunday, service included the deacon’s ordination of Delta Dear Soror Sandra Sharp. In October, the chapter worshipped in Easton, PA with the congregation of Greater Shiloh Baptist Church. During the service, Pastor Phillip Davis and his wife acknowledged the sorority prompting several inactive sorors in the congregation to stop by and fellowship. November took the chapter to St. Paul Baptist Church in Somerville, NJ, the home church of the chapter’s president, Soror Caron Robinson. As if the devil was trying to steal our joy, the church’s furnace malfunctioned, causing the temperature in the sanctuary to drop. Despite the chill, the Spirit was high. Sorors soon forgot about their cold toes and were on their feet dancing and shouting praises! Once service was over, Pastor Reggie Hall personally greeted sorors and posed for pictures. The chapter looks forward to continuing this spiritual initiative.
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MONMOUTH COUNTY ALUMNAE cHAPTER SORORS IN THE NEWS
Soror Dorothy M. Lee Murray Soror Dorothy M. Lee Murray represents more than 30,000 Hampton University alumni as President of the National Hampton Alumni Association, (NHAA) Inc. She was recently elected for a two-year term (2014-2016). As the president, her responsibilities encompass raising funds for Hampton University and its Endowed Scholarship Program, chairing the NHAA Board of Directors, and advising regional and chapter presidents. She also works with the university president and other administrators in accomplishing alumni giving goals. The theme for her term is “Together…We Make a Difference.” Soror Lee Murray’s administration is focused on engaging alumni to become more active in the association, providing open communication with the Board of Directors, and increasing connections with students. Her goal is to continue to make alumni proud of their national association and their historic alma mater. Soror Lee Murray graduated from Hampton Institute in 1980 with a B.S. in Management. As an undergraduate, she was active in student leadership, participated in various clubs, and tutored fellow students. After graduation, Soror Lee Murray pursued a career in investment banking and worked at various financial institutions. She is currently employed as an analyst at Chubb Insurance Group. Soror Lee Murray was initiated in the Gamma Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., at Hampton Institute in 1978. She currently serves as chairperson of the Fundraising Committee for Monmouth County Alumnae Chapter and is a member of Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, New Jersey.
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Soror Ethel Fairley Soror Ethel Fairley was recently inducted into the Stillman College Educators Hall of Fame in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She is retired from Monmouth Regional High School in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Soror Fairley is the immediate past president of the New Jersey Business Technology Education Association and a member of the advisory committee for Career and Technical Education at Mercer County Community College in West Windsor, New Jersey. In 2011, Soror Fairley received the Stillman College Presidential Award and the Class of 1963 Magnolia Salute Award during the college’s Founder’s Day event. She also served as Grand Marshal for the 2012 Stillman College Homecoming Parade. Soror Fairley is a 1962 charter member of Epsilon Eta Chapter at Stillman College. In 2012, she was honored by Epsilon Eta and the Tuscaloosa County Alumnae Chapter during Epsilon Eta’s 50th Anniversary Celebration. Soror Fairley is an active member of Monmouth County Alumnae Chapter where she serves as chairperson of the International Awareness and Involvement Committee. She is a life member of the National Council of Negro Women. She has served as a Deacon and an Elder at First Presbyterian Church in Red Bank, New Jersey, where she sings in the Tower Hill Choir.
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alpha gamma chapter: #BringBackourGirls Vigil
In the dark of night on April 15, 2014 more than 300 girls were kidnapped from their school in Chibok, Nigeria. The horrific crime carried out by Islamic militant group, Boko Haram went largely unreported for nearly two weeks. Thousands of people have been killed in Boko Haram attacks since the group was established in 2002 in its fight to create an Islamic state in northeast Nigeria. This abduction was a tragedy so monumental that it hit the United States, and people created a campaign entitled #BringBackOurGirls. The campaign gained support from people all over the world raising awareness. The mass abduction that drew global shock, condemnation, and media attention has been largely forgotten; except in Chibok of course. Everyday at Unity Fountain in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, family members of the girls and community members gather in solidarity to chant the message that was heard around the world last April: “Bring back our Girls”. Most of the world including the United States appears to have forgotten about the tragedy, but not the Alpha Gamma Chapter and Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. October 15, 2014, to mark the occasion of the 6 month anniversary of the abductions, the Alpha Gamma Chapter and Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter hosted #WhereAreOurGirls? on the campus of Morgan State University. The program was developed to let the campus and surrounding communities stay abreast of the issue and keep them aware of the events that are still going on in Nigeria. The program included a poem recited by a Morgan State student and a musical selection performed by two Sorors of Alpha Gamma. The crowd marched across campus with their candles lit and held signs marked “#WhereAreOurGirls?”, while singing in unison “This Little Light of Mine.” Many candles were blown out by the wind, but the determined crowd and participants would not be deterred. The march started with about 30 people and by the end there were more than 50 people gathered at the other side of campus to participate in this important vigil. At the end of the event a moment of silence was taken for the abducted girls who have not seen their families in over six months. None of the young women so far have been rescued, despite a global #BringBackOurGirls Twitter campaign that went viral and garnered support from high-profile figures. But where are they now? Where are those high-profiled figures, and supporters? It seems like people forget so quickly, but the Alpha Gamma Chapter and Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter made it our mission to be a part of the solution with our #WhereAreOurGirls? event. Although we cannot force the public to care about this issue, we can make sure they do not forget about “Our Girls”. Deltas remain a strong voice for change and a beacon of light focused on issues that cannot be forgotten.
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annapolis alumnae chapter celebrates 67 years
On December 9, 2014, the Annapolis Alumnae Chapter celebrated its 67th year of sisterhood and service to the community. The chapter is built on a long legacy of advocacy and remains committed and devoted to upholding the ideals of its rich history and accomplishments. To celebrate this milestone, the chapter paid homage to its founders at the December 20th chapter meeting. The Annapolis Alumnae Chapter’s commitment to public service is exemplified through initiatives such as our annual Scholarship Program, which has provided more than $260,000 in scholarships to high school students in Anne Arundel County; Delta Academy, which offers experiences in the areas of educational, social, physical, and emotional growth of young girls between the ages of 11-14; Delta GEMS, and EMBODI. The chapter also supports public service projects including the annual C.R.O.P. (Communities Responding to Overcoming Poverty) Walk, health fairs, feed the homeless partnerships with various local churches, March of Dimes, seminars and workshops on financial empowerment, and a youth showcase highlighting original works in the performing arts. Our annual Fashion Show and Minority Scholarship Award activity has reached its 32nd year of highlighting the academic excellence of area students as well as providing the latest fashions. On February 7, 2015, the chapter will host its first “Ingenious Works of Art: A Showcase of Original Works in the Performing Arts” and on April 25, 2015, the chapter will host its first “Dr. Thelma T. Daley STEM Initiative” which will expose more than 100 youth to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
atlantic city alumnae chapter
On Saturday, December 20, 2014, the Atlantic City Alumnae Chapter hosted a Red Carpet viewing of the movie “Annie”. The Dr. Jeanne L. Noble’s Delta GEMS, along with chapter and community members of all ages walked the red carpet to support the controversial remake of the classic story of little orphan “Annie”. The movie provided the GEMS and their guests with laughter and hope for a better tomorrow. The resounding message from the GEMS was that, family doesn’t always consist of those with whom you share the same blood line. It is made up of people in your life, who embrace you; and accept you. Sorors Glorist Moore and Andrea Fogg are co-chairpersons of this committee. Committee members include Sorors Kim SpencerHudgins, Sharon Gooding, Marion Torian, Donnita Steele and Candy Wesley.
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baltimore alumnae chapter Champions for EMBODI
The Baltimore Alumnae Chapter’s EMBODI Program has a growing platform making a big impact with young men. In 2012 the program started in earnest reaching out to over 30 males with a total of 5 completing out the year. Since then, the sorors and like-minded community partners have built a robust program capitalizing on the collective resources and opportunities for exposure to STEM topics, college tours, practicing social etiquette and even cooking classes from a male chef. The 2013-14 sorority year was a banner one for EMBODI! We accepted the invitation to partner with the Eastern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. during their Regional Conference held in Baltimore. We successfully enrolled our high school boys into the Alpha’s annual Leadership Development Institute (LDI). The program is a two day session which provides training and educational information to develop high school boys into young male leaders, ending with their ‘culminating event’ at the Black and Gold Ball. The Alphas hosted interactive webinars with the boys prior to LDI in order to meet and prepare them for the institute. The webinars provided an opportunity to dialogue and define the word ‘Leader’ as well as share the types of leadership styles that are used to accomplish goals, address issues and resolve problems. Four of our seven participants displayed their own electronic leadership poster presentations at the LDI. Baltimore Alumnae was very proud that our boys were the only four out of thirty high school participants at the conference, who pushed past their comfort zone to present their displays to the entire institute (approximately 30 youth and 10 adults). The Alphas invested quality time, energy, and finances for the entire event. All seven of our boys, along with 23 other attendees, were taken to K and G Men’s Store, fitted, and received brand new suits, shirts, and ties/bow ties. In a few cases, dress shoes were also purchased for those who had none to wear. In addition, each boy received an LDI t-shirt and certificates of completion of the institute at a closing ceremony. The pictures above hardly capture the impact and gratitude that these two days had on every participant. Our partnership with the Alphas has certainly empowered many young men. We are inspired to continue to seek similar collaboration to meet the needs of the young men we serve. During the 201314 EMBODI year, eight of the enrolled boys were residents of the inner city neighborhood where Baltimore Alumnae’s Delta Community Center is located. We have made a difference in our community and we look forward to building on these achievements in the coming years! Phyllis Dawes Stevenson, EMBODI Chair Monica Watkins, President
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BAC's EMBODI has come a long way... from 5 participants in 2012 to 15 2013-14. currently there are 31 enrolled participants.
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Boston alumnae chapter Partnership with pine st inn
PROJECT HOMELESS: Boston Alumnae Chapter’s Partnership with Pine Street Inn Since 1986, the members of Boston Alumnae Chapter (BAC) have partnered with a homeless shelter in Boston called Pine Street Inn. The partnership, entitled Project Homeless, was an idea conceived by Soror Judith Dixon during the 1985-1986 sorority year after she discovered the large number of men and women that were homeless in the Boston area. Soror Dixon researched the issue of homelessness in hopes of being able to provide assistance to Boston’s homeless population. Soror Dixon wanted the opportunity to create a public service project for the sorority that involved the preparation and serving of meals to Boston’s homeless women. She was directed to the Pine Street Inn where she was informed that there was an opportunity to work with homeless women temporarily being housed at a local church until the women’s division at Pine Street Inn was completed. Soror Dixon shared her vision with the BAC as an opportunity for a broader public service project within the community. The project was accepted unanimously by the Chapter. Today, the members of Boston Alumnae plan the menu, prepare the meals in their homes and serve the meals to an average of 100-120 women every second Saturday of the month. In addition to serving home cooked meals, the members provide gift bags filled with new clothing items, toiletries and costume jewelry for Mother’s Day and Christmas to the women at the Pine Street Inn. The BAC has received many accolades from the Pine Street Inn since the inception of their vital program for the homeless, which continues to flourish.
bergen county alumnae chapter
retracing the past-A step into bergen county history The Bergen County Alumnae Chapter’s Arts & Letters Committee presented a cultural and educational experience for their members & friends at Gethsemane Cemetery, one of the historically black cemeteries in Bergen County, New Jersey. Artifacts at the cemetery as well as the original worn tombstones told the story of some of the most prominent and not so prominent African Americans that lived and died in Bergen County from pre-Civil War time to the beginning of the 20th century. Historian & Bergen County resident, Dr. Arnold Dr. Arnold Brown (center) stands among the Brown, gave an in-depth tour and history lesson of the land, Delta sisters & family members in a recent visit to the historical Gethsemane Cemetery. the people and the culture that brought the black residents of Bergen County together. Janet Strom, Bergen County Arts & History Coordinator & Caretaker, presented information to highlight the impact of Bergen County, New Jersey locally and nationally. The historical Gethsemane Cemetery had been neglected for years and was used as a dumping ground for several decades. Members of Bergen County Alumnae Chapter, along with other community groups, worked together to make the landmark truly a monument for those who helped build that part of the country. Keeping the cemetery free from debris and cleaned up for history, is a major community service project that BCAC chapter is working on with their Delta GEMS, Delta Academy and EMBODI youth participants.
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baltimore county alumnae chapter A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
Just before sunset on Sunday, December 14, 2014, members of Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter (BCAC) and their guests gathered at the Gordon Center for Performing Arts in Owings Mills, Maryland for “An Evening of Elegance.” This event culminated 30 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship and stellar Service to the Baltimore County community. Guided by Soror Sherrie Johnson, the audience reflected upon the rich history of “BCAC through the Years.” The groundwork laid by thirty-one dynamic Delta women affectionately known as “The Pioneering 31” was revisited. The leadership of Soror Gloria Richardson Marrow, was also highlighted for her role in bringing the bright light of Delta into Baltimore County, Maryland on December 15, 1984. Additional BCAC’s accomplishments were highlighted on stage and captured in a video presentation and pictorial display adorning the lobby of the Gordon Center. During another reflective moment, all paused to remember the sorors who passed into the Omega Omega Chapter. BCAC was then celebrated in grand style with a captivating two-set musical performance by Billboard-charting artists Chelsey Green and The Green Project. They performed renditions of popular R&B, funk and classical hits using the viola and violin alongside Chelsey’s sultry contralto vocals. The music had sorors and guests dancing in their seats and on the dance floor, making the “Evening of Elegance” a night to remember.
fairfield county alumnae chapter world aids day
On November 30, 2014, the Fairfield County Alumnae Chapter (FCAC) of Connecticut, spread knowledge of HIV/AIDS throughout their community, in support of World AIDS Day. The 2014 AIDS campaign was Getting to Zero: Zero New HIV Infections. Zero Discrimination. Zero AIDS Related Deaths. The campaign’s focus signified a call to action from the government, as well as a push towards greater access to treatment. As a result, FCAC was challenged to employ new concepts and ideas to reach the heterosexual population about stigmas concerning HIV/AIDS, with the hope of reducing them.
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In an effort to spread the word of zero discrimination and the importance of HIV testing, FCAC entered churches in the areas of Fairfield County where HIV rates were the highest. FCAC collaborated with Mount Aery Baptist Church of Bridgeport, CT, Grace Baptist Church of Norwalk, CT, and two churches from Stamford, CT, Faith Tabernacle and First United Methodist. The members of FCAC were encouraged to worship at a church closest to their home, wearing red in honor of AIDS awareness, to support World AIDS Day. The collaborating pastors read World AIDS Awareness materials and a document prepared specifically for church services by the chapter’s Social Action Committee. FCAC was recognized by each pastor for their efforts in continuing the fight for awareness, testing, and lower HIV/ AIDS rates in their communities. At the end of each church service, members of FCAC distributed educational information and bookmarks with AIDS 2014 slogans to all church members and visitors in attendance. FCAC reached over 300 people on World AIDS Day 2014.
hartford alumnae chapter
30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Day Scholarship Breakfast On January 19, 2015, the Hartford Alumnae Chapter (HAC) hosted the 30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Day (MLK) Scholarship Breakfast. Over 600 people gathered at the Convention Center in Hartford, CT to raise scholarship funds in conjunction with the signature sponsor, United Technologies Corporation. Dr. King’s legacy and vision was embedded throughout the program and highlighted in a special visual exhibit, entitled Historical Corridor Walk, which detailed the history of HAC. The keynote speaker was Patricia Russell-McCloud, Esq., an internationally recognized motivational speaker and the 11th National President of the Links, Inc. The MLK breakfast continues to be Hartford Alumnae’s signature scholarship fundraiser and one of the largest MLK events celebrated in Connecticut. Since 1984, HAC has honored Dr. King’s dream by awarding over $250,000 in renewable scholarships to 130 talented female high school students from the Greater Hartford community.
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Columbia (MD) alumnae chapter
Focusing on International Awareness and Involvement On World Aids Day, December 1, 2014, the Columbia MD Alumnae Chapter answered the call to action by collaborating with Howard County General Hospital’s Wellness Center. Free HIV Screenings were provided and sorors assisted by greeting, guiding and handing out free HIV/AIDS literature. As people came by the table to pick up literature, sorors also guided them to the HIV screening area. Sorors were on duty from 9:00am to 3:00pm distributed materials to approximately 58 people. Members of the Wellness Center expressed their gratitude and indicated that they would like the chapter to assist again next year. The Columbia (MD) Alumnae Chapter also partnered with ForeignBorn Information and Referral Network (FIRN), Inc. to assist families with food donations during the holidays. Sorors Odessa Matthews and Ethel Reed met with the Executive Director of FIRN, and presented a total donation of $250. Five families were identified by FIRN and provided a $50 supermarket gift certificate. The chapter is looking forward to collaborating with FIRN in the future, to address the needs of foreign born Howard County residents.
pi sigma chapter
September 11th Candle Light Vigil The Pi Sigma Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated created this program designed to honor the memories of the victims and innocent civilians who lost their lives on September 11th. By commemorating the 13th Anniversary of 9/11 , we also provided a place of healing and opportunity for our peers to share personal memories from that day. It was heartwarming to see so many people gather from all walks of life. Despite our differences, we united as one to pay tribute to the victims and survivors of 9/11. The night began with a vigil with sincere thoughts from the Chapter President Zia Harry who said, “ Thank You all for coming out tonight, as many family members continue to mourn the loss of loved ones, I can’t imagine how I would feel if I was in their situation.” A Prayer followed as everyone gathered in a circle, held hands and bowed their heads along with a moment of silence. A trifold board was provided where students decorated and filled it with signatures, comments and messages expressing appreciation for those who protected our nation and kept it strong following the attack; the most insightful part of the evening. Many students were young when 9/11 took place, and the majority of the speakers were in class. Some international students were not even aware this incident was taking place, but shared their deepest condolences just the same. To conclude our Candle Light Vigil, there was a silent walk around the Woodlawn Residential Buildings.
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North Arundel County Alumnae Chapter Celebrating Twenty-Five Years: The Bridge to Now
Then, a little more than 25 years ago, public school educator and community activist, Christine Scott Davenport, embarked upon a visionary and uncompromising journey that changed the Delta fabric of Anne Arundel County. Her preliminary outreach to inactive Deltas in North and West Anne Arundel County culminated in the chartering of the North Arundel County Alumnae Chapter (NACAC), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, with 27 exuberant members on Sunday, April 16, 1989. And now, more than 25 years later, NACAC is commemorating this significant milestone with a host of events and activities, as highlighted: • Through its Campaign $25 for 25 NACAC fulfilled a long-standing desire to have a plaque mounted at the Anne Arundel County Board of Education Administration Building in honor of Soror Dr. Carol Sheffey Parham, who was the first woman and first African American Superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools. • NACAC hosted a 25th Anniversary Rededication and Reception Celebration. As part of that event, two sorors, Linda Bradford and Barbara Redden of L&B Designs, created a signature anniversary jewelry collection for purchase, the proceeds of which went to student scholarships. • The chapter spearheaded a Flowerbed Beautification Project to honor a beloved charter member and past president, E. Juliette Wilson. Sorors gathered to breathe new life into a once dormant flowerbed on the county’s historic B&A Trail. Twenty-seven flowers were planted, one in honor of each charter member. • The culminating event was a 25th Anniversary Jazz Lunch, filled with food, fun and fellowship. With each event, NACAC reflected on past accomplishments and the many programs and activities implemented to change lives and impact communities in Anne Arundel County. As members look ahead to the future, they’ve strengthened their commitment to build upon the Delta legacy, letting faith and “hearts for service” guide the way ahead.
Dr. Carol Sheffey Parham (immediate right), NACAC Chapter President Rhonda Lynn Johnson (immediate left), Officers and members of NACAC.
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Sorors Christine S. Davenport and E. Juliette Wilson
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Montgomery County Alumnae Chapter
C3: Cyber-ethics, Cyber-security and Cyber-safety - An EMBODI Technology SessioN In October, 2014, Stephen F. Berry, US Army (Ret.) and Adam Vicks, an IBM consultant for the federal government, mentors for the EMBODI Program sponsored by the Montgomery County (MD) Alumnae Chapter (MCAC) EMBODI program, opened their presentation about cyber security and technolgy by stressing the importance of protecting personal information. Mr. Berry recommended a few easy ways for the participants to protect themselves from cyber hacks: • delete any unrecognizable email addresses found in your inboxes; • focus, be mindful, and selective about your apps; and • monitor all contacts on Facebook and other social media. If you do not know the contact, ask questions because someone could duplicate your life – and later, credit profile. The young men learned that their cell phones, personal computers, and laptops should have antivirus software. They also learned of the need to be cautious before accessing any website. Some of the EMBODI participants even related personal experiences of family members who had their identities stolen and computers compromised. Mr. Berry also shared how some major companies like Home Depot, Target, and JP Morgan have been hacked recently. These hackings adversely affected the financial information of thousands of people. In fact, the aftermath continues with some people still trying to remedy the harm done to their finances. Mr. Vicks discussed cyber terrorism and informed the youth of the work of professional hackers who are paid by various companies and organizations to spy on others and to collect their information. “If cyberterrorists see an opening to harm others,” Mr. Vicks warned, “they will do it.” Mr. Berry shared a video about an exoskeleton device being worked on by the military. This computerized device is strapped to soldiers to help them carry more weight, perform additional tasks, and still have energy. The mentors asked the participants to share their future career aspirations, which included scientist, rocket engineer, computer technician, and lawyer. Both Mr. Berry and Mr. Vicks emphasized the various job opportunities in the cybersecurity field. In closing, they reminded the youth of the need keep clean records as the gateway to wider opportunities regardless of one’s career choices. As accomplished professionals in highly technical fields, the participants appreciated the advice offered by Mr. Berry and Mr. Vicks. The Chapter’s key message in sponsoring this session for these prospective leaders of our globally, interconnected digital age was one of responsibility for choices when using computers and other digital devices. The mentors provided essental information that highlighted this key message.
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Profiles in Delta Leadership
Submitted by soror Norma J. Hatot-King The most famous scientist of the 20th century, Albert Einstein understood that not everything that can be counted counts and not everything that counts can be counted. His philosophy is a thought-provoking one especially during an area of increased scrutiny from the Federal, State, and local governments and with nonprofits seeking more and more support from those levels. Understanding what counts requires authentic leadership, which has been embodied by Deltas leaders for decades. Authentic leadership mandates self-awareness, knowing one’s values, strengths, and limitations. Authentic leaders are honest and fair in their dealings with others. They understand and practice transparency in their relationships. They embrace opposing perspectives so that they can more effectively plan a balanced plan of action. Authentic leaders understand what is right and possess the courage to do what is right. These characteristics were embedded in our founders, the courageous women who dared to chart our course as an organization more than a century ago. They possessed the virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance – virtues of authentic leadership. They made choices based on facts rather than feelings or opinions. They practiced skillful servant leadership that supported authenticity. As such, we honor the past as an important reference for the present and the future. In turn, we honor and acknowledge our Delta legacy of greatness. Inclusive of our founders and national presidents, we honor the leadership of Shirley Chisholm, Barbara Jordan, Hazel Johnson-Brown, Elizabeth Catlett, Stephanie Tubbs-Jones, Ruby Dee Davis, Wilma Rudolph, Mary McLeod Bethune, Betty Jean Sanders-Shabazz, Eunice W. Johnson, and countless numbers of phenomenal women in Delta. The names without any description of their accomplishments speak volumes. These audacious, passionate, long distance runners possessed altruistic courage and steadfastness beyond measure. As extraordinary leaders, they moved beyond talking and led by example. They were faithful and obedient and understood what is important in this life. As teachers, they lived the lessons that they taught. They were lifelong learners, embracing God’s promise to all of us. They taught us and left us many lessons in leadership. They left us profiles in leadership that included identifying and embracing opportunities to learn, having the divine wisdom to listen more and talk less, curbing instant gratification and learning to say no, finding quiet time to hear yourself think and feel, taking time to develop one’s intuition, remembering and helping others as you have been helped. These Delta profiles in leadership taught compassion and the value of kindness and caring. Today, we have a legacy of being solution oriented, embracing opportunities to share the credit and do the work, while creating an atmosphere of openness and truth. Our Delta ancestors left us a legacy of visionary leadership embraced by today’s Delta leaders of greatness. We do not wait for something to happen; we get ahead of the possibilities and influence the outcome. We are counting what really matters as we further advance our work with excellence and purpose in the dynamic and historic East.
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NJ Garden City Alumnae Chapter Welcomes Community Partnerships
The New Jersey Garden City Alumnae Chapter welcomes any opportunity to give back to its community. This past Fall under the Physical and Mental Health/Homeless Committee, the chapter partnered with the Neighbors Who Care Resource Center in Lindenwold, NJ to sponsor a “Community Dinner”. The community dinner was held on Thanksgiving Day at the Lindenwold Senior Citizens Community Center. This was a first time venture for both New Jersey Garden City and Neighbors Who Care. The Chapter periodically meets at the community center as well as serves the Lindenwold community. Neighbors Who Care assists and empowers the same community by providing support and educational programs. What a great venture for two organizations with the same vision to come together to provide a Thanksgiving meal to those in need. Both organizations pulled resources together in an effort to provide meals to over one hundred people. The community center was transformed to create a warm and loving atmosphere with a myriad of Thanksgiving decorations. The Thanksgiving meal consisted of turkey, stuffing and gravy, macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, green beans, rolls, dessert, and beverage. There were several guests in attendance and for those that couldn’t attend, meals were packed and delivered. Not only was a meal provided, there was a clothing closet set up for those in need of coats and other outerwear. This worthwhile Community Thanksgiving Dinner received television coverage from a local news station KYW 3. It doesn’t stop with the Community Dinner; the Sorors of New Jersey Garden City Alumnae continue to give back. The Chapter established a partnership with the United Methodist Church of Turnersville, New Jersey in an outreach program entitled “Feed My Sheep”. It’s a non-judgmental, faith based program dedicated to providing nourishment to the homeless. Every third Sunday members of New Jersey Garden City Alumnae serve dinner to those less fortunate as well as provide donations of gently used clothing. To kick off the Christmas Holiday Season, NJ Garden City Alumnae Chapter provided gift cards to families in need as well as conducted a pajama drive in support of the Erick J. Umstead Memorial Foundation which helps parents of chronically ill children. The donated pajamas are distributed to area hospitals and pediatric facilities. Additionally, members of New Jersey Garden City Alumnae and South Jersey Alumnae Chapter partnered to host the red carpet event of the remake classic of the movie “Annie”. There were more than 220 Sorors and friends that turned out at the Cinemark Theatre in Somderdale, New Jersey. Guests had an opportunity to pose on the red carpet and have their picture taken by the “Deltarazzi”. What a great way to kick off the Holiday Season.
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rancocas valley alumnae chapter celebrates kwanzaa
December 26 begins the celebration for Kwanzaa! Umoja means unity and stresses the importance of togetherness for the family and the community, which is reflected in the African saying, “I am We,” or “I am because We are.” This is why Delta GEMS and Delta Academy participants were honored to take part in the Willingboro Kwanzaa Fest held in Westhampton, New Jersey, December 27, 2014. This year’s Kwanzaa festival featured a doll-making workshop. The young ladies not only learned how to make dolls from broomsticks and colorful fabrics but also helped smaller children to make their own dolls and other arts and crafts. The celebration ended with a community meal where the young ladies fixed plates and served food to nearly 200 guests embodying the Kwanzaa principle Umoja. Rancocas Valley Alumnae Chapter (RVAC) Soror Karen Abdul Malik was the event organizer and RVAC served as one of the five partners that supported the event through Soror volunteers and monetary donations. This was the second time the youth program participants were able to volunteer in the celebration and look forward to next year’s festival.
RVAC Delta GEMS and Academy young
RVAC Delta GEMS and Academy
RVAC Delta GEMS and Academyyoung
ladies assist with the doll-making
young ladies help prepare food
ladies assist with arts and crafts during
workshop during the Kwanzaa festival.
during the Kwanzaa festival.
the Kwanzaa festival.
montclair alumnae chapter on the Rise!
Montclair Alumnae Chapter is on the Rise! Our sorority year has gotten off to a great start with signature programs that reflect the influence of our national initiatives. In the Fall of 2014, the Special Projects Committee spearheaded two activities that were a huge success. On Thanksgiving Day, we hosted an event where we served the homeless at Blessed Assurance Life Christian Center in Newark, NJ. It was a great opportunity for sorors and their families to join hands with the community and it demonstrated how a few hours of your time can make an impact on someone’s life. As we moved forward into the Christmas Holiday season, we serviced the Isaiah House in East Orange, NJ. The Isaiah House houses families and helps strengthen and rebuild their lives, breaking the cycle of homelessness.
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On December 22, 2014, the chapter delivered Christmas gifts to the children of Isaiah House, and as each child’s name was called, their face was filled with joy. It was not only rewarding but another great commendable moment for our chapter.
The Physical and Mental Health Committee kicked off our Cancer Awareness Program with our 2nd Annual Mammogram Screening. On October 16, 2014, we collaborated with Rutgers University’s S.A.V.E Program and St. James AME Church. We provided 21 women with free mammograms and cervical cancer screenings. We concluded our cancer awareness program on October 19, 2014 by participating in the Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk. There were 46 participants who walked with our Magnificent MAC team which included sorors, Delta Academy and GEMS, family and friends. We had an enjoyable time partnering with sorors from North Jersey Alumnae Chapter to show our support for breast cancer awareness. To date, we have raised approximately $1200. Our International Awareness and Involvement Committee is charged with educating the chapter and community on current and ongoing international issues. In bringing awareness to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, on World AIDS Day, the chapter hosted a Day Party called “Dancing with Deltas”, for the residents of the Broadway House in Newark, NJ. To bring awareness to the water contamination in Haiti, the chapter raised funds to support National Action’s mission of bringing clean water to Haiti. The funds raised were used to purchase a water filtration system. The chapter also worked with World Vision to bring awareness to the plight of orphaned children in third world countries. We now sponsor a child from the Democratic Republic of Congo. We recently formed a partnership with Heifer International to bring awareness to hunger issues abroad. The chapter raised funds and purchase a goat and farming material for a family in need. As we continue to serve, we Recognize the needs of our community, we strive to Implement programs to fulfill our obligation to those to which we are called to serve; we Stabilize and prepare the next generation and Empower our sorors to continue to honor their commitment to Delta. We are Montclair Alumnae Chapter - on the R.I.S.E.
north jersey alumnae chapter
engaged in health promotion, educational Development and political awareness The Mary McLeod Bethune Community City was the site for an October 2014 health fair co-sponsored by the North Jersey Alumnae Chapter and the NAACP of Jersey City. They worked together to provide muchneeded health screenings for an underserved community. The health fair provided a forum for children and adults to take charge of their well-being and gain vital information for their everyday lives. Health providers conducting the screenings included the Jersey City Medical Center, Hoboken Family Planning, and the American Heart and Stroke Associations. Brochures and special giveaways were donated by the Jersey City Fire Department and the Hudson County Cancer Coalition. At the end of the fair, Chapter member Henrietta Parker and Patricia Jackson of the Jersey City NAACP expressed satisfaction with the outcome after serving as the co-chairpersons of the community event.
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November 2014 found Chapter members sponsoring a one-day college tour for 43 of the youngest members of its Delta Teen Lift Program. These middle school students toured Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. “The purpose of this trip was to give middle school students a head start before heading to high school,” declared Patricia Davis Adams, Chair of the Delta Teen Lift Program. While on a walking tour of the campus, the group met with participants in the Morgan State University Campus Pals Gateway Program. The visit also coincided with high school visitation day, allowing the Delta Teens the opportunity to mingle with thousands of students during the Student Life Session. The current Miss Morgan State University, a New Jersey resident, spent time with the students during a briefing offered by all of the campus organizations. December 2014 found Chapter members working to preserve the legacy of one of its deceased members, the Honorable Shirley A. Tolentino. Chapter members proudly supported a tribute posthumously bestowed upon the Honorable Tolentino, the first African-American female superior court judge in New Jersey. Congress approved the dedication of a United States Post Office in her honor. According to Robert Kennedy, “Each time a man stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a ripple of hope.” Hope springs eternal in large part because of the efforts of the Honorable Shirley A. Tolentino.
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