Spring 2024 Edition - The AURORA

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

Juanita Love President & CEO

40 YEARS OF IMPACTING GENERATIONS

ONE SCHOLARSHIP AT A TIME

OPENING DOORS TO THE FUTURE!

Awarded $1M+ in scholarships

Over 600 scholarship recipients $1M+ invested in community grants

CELEBRATE WITH US & DONATE TO THE GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND!

www.sgrnationaleducationfund.org

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc.

INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS RASHEEDA S. LIBERTY

INTERNATIONAL GRAND ANTI-GRAMMATEUS DR. KHALILAH SHABAZZ

INTERNATIONAL FIRST GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS MARICA HARRIS

INTERNATIONAL GRAND TAMIOCHUS DANETTE SAMILTON

CENTRAL REGION

Syntaktes: Loreal N. Marshall

Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Nai V. Colton

Youth Services Coordinator: Nariah Swails

NORTHEASTERN REGION

Syntaktes: Selicia Sellers

Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Demetria Smith

Youth Services Coordinator: Adira Abdulla

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

Syntaktes: Dr. Celestine LaVan

Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Tanya Batchelor-Judge

Youth Services Coordinator: Claribel Ross

SOUTHWESTERN REGION

Syntaktes: Miranda Moore

Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: LaTisha Brandon

Youth Services Coordinator: Kennedy Martin

WESTERN REGION

Syntaktes: Michelle Aldridge

Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Syreeta Greene, Ed.D.

Youth Services Coordinator: Kharee Hoggs

Annie L. Lawrence-Brown, R.N., Ed.D. | 13th

Katie Kinnard White, Ph.D. | 17th

Helen J. Owens | 20th

INTERNATIONAL SECOND GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS SAMARIA ROBINSON

INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUS TIERRE BUTLER

APPOINTEES

International Legal Advisor

Debra Y. Hughes, Esq.

International Parliamentarian

Monique Howery

International Program Coordinator

Zeretha Brickhouse

National Philo Coordinator Jakimva Martin

National Rhoer Coordinator

Towanda Maddox

International Sergeant at Arms

Kesha Richardson

Boule Chaplain

Yolanda Davis-Koonce

Deputy Legal Advisor

Joyvan Malbon-Griffin

Global Membership Liaison

Romunda Harris-Fonville

Mynora J. Bryant | 21st

Joann Loveless | 22nd

INTERNATIONAL GRAND GRAMMATEUS SHARRON L. BARNES

INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF THE AURORA ELAINA J. HAMILTON

Bonita M. Herring | 23rd

Deborah Catchings-Smith | 24th

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

THE AURORA MAGAZINE

The Aurora is the official organ of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc, founded at Butler University, in Indianapolis, Indiana, November 12, 1922.

INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

Street Address for Packages Only

P.O. Box 27688 - 311 New Bern Avenue

Raleigh, NC 27601

For Letters and/or other correspondence

P.O. Box 27688

Raleigh, NC 26711

www.sgrho1922.org

1.888.SGR.1922

RASHEEDA S. LIBERTY INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS

ELAINA J. HAMILTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

KAREN Y. WILLIAMS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ASSOCIATE EDITORS FOR FEATURES

ASSOCIATE EDITOR FOR DESIGN & LAYOUT

mplify Greater, a message of illuminating vision, is a statement symbolic of the closure of an administration and the invitation to a new one that will commence August 2024. Signing off as an International Grand Basileus and ushering a new focus, new vision, and new leadership may excite some and challenge others. Either way, it is the best evolution for a sisterhood that has always been on the trailblazing side of history.

In August 2020, I received a certified package to my door amid COVID. I eagerly signed and ran into my office to open the box. Inside the box was the official Grand Basileus pin and a special note with thoughtful words from the 24th International Grand Basileus, Deborah CatchingsSmith. In short, she said the pin was symbolic of 24 administrations who had both the responsibility and honor of leading Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She noted the joy, but also the heavy yoke in defining a meaningful legacy. To this day, I get choked up thinking about the history, the responsibility, and her words as a friend and mentor for nearly 30 years. A “legacy” is really what each leader wants to leave behind. In setting the theme of this administration – Leading with Vision, Driven by Purpose, the goal was to cast a vision of forward-looking leadership but never forgetting the foundation of our Founders.

Despite the headwinds of COVID and operating differently to both grow our membership and support our membership, we tout many successes as a Sigma family. Together, we were able to visualize, plan, and experience the most historical milestone of our lifetime in Sigma – our Centennial. Each region adopted a ONE SIGMA mantra, celebrating uniquely with signature events and including a service component to ensure our communities benefited. Together, we made history as the first sorority to perform live at the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving parade. We worked diligently to negotiate and receive over $4M in sponsorship and giving campaigns to enable us to award scholarships, help eradicate childhood cancer with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, sow in STEM initiatives, maternal equity, and education through our Birthright Journey to Ghana, and ensuring women and youth had opportunities. We completed the physical builds for six schools abroad, as well as lavatory refurbishments and water access. We could not have done this work without the commitment of our Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers whom we successfully recruited, retained, and reactivated at record numbers.

With our historic Sigma family size, we were able to attract brands that wanted to invest and partner with us for customization, New Balance, Macy’s, US Army, Kasper, Netflix, JP Morgan Chase, Amazon, McDonald’s just to name a few. We were invited to the table over a dozen times for closed-door meetings with the White House to discuss the state of Black America and our demands and commitments. We intrigued dynamic women to become a part of our mission, Fantasia Barrino-Taylor, Brownstone, Marsha Ambrosius, Congresswoman Barbara Lee and many more. We built a brand of GREATER for the world to see on television, radio, billboards, social media, and magazines. We understood the mission and the assignment of Greater Service, Greater Progress.

In our work, we never forgot to properly pay homage to the seven young educators who enabled us to be Greater Women for a Greater World. With that, we erected a historical marker in Indianapolis, Indiana at the site of the Irvington Historical Society where our Founders attended school and birthed the idea of Sigma Gamma Rho. To seal these moments in history, we produced an award-winning documentary – Greater than Ourselves, as well as a historical book of the year of 1922 in partnership with Butler University and Irvington Historical Society. Butler University welcomed us home with open arms to witness the unveiling of our monument and open our time capsule of artifacts. We made history as the recipient of the Inaugural Ovid Butler Award by the university, as a precursor for the most touching moment and celebratory highlight of 2022 –receiving the honorary degrees of our beloved Founders at the May 2022 commencement ceremony for the university.

We are the sisterhood that our Founders are proud of, although they may not have envisioned the scale in which we have grown and operated with increasing excellence. Whether it be social action engagement, community giving, undergraduate enablement, or membership development, we did the work. As I look to transition the beautiful honor of serving as International Grand Basileus, I pray that every member and affiliate reflects on the journey and full body of work we have experienced together. I am grateful for both the headwinds and the tailwinds, as they allowed us to create a beautiful journey together. Thank you for trusting the flight plan, allowing me to cast a vision, and amplifying greater in the name of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

here are two distinct firsts for me when it comes to The AURORA - receiving my first copy as a new member in 2006 and holding the 1929 edition of The AURORA in my hands in 2010. Both times, I was filled with awe. With this edition, I will be adding a third ‘first’ as this is my first edition of The AURORA as Editor in Chief. So I dedicate my first edition of The AURORA to my late mother, Ellen Hilton Hamilton, a charter member of the Zeta Xi Chapter at Hampton University and Life Member #1362.

As I step into the role of Editor in Chief, I am filled with a profound sense of honor and purpose to share our history and cement the legacy of our illustrious sisterhood through the stories of our chapters, members, and affiliates. The AURORA is imbued with the stories of those who came before us, carrying forward a narrative of empowerment and progress.

As I take on this esteemed position, I am acutely aware of the weight of our history, as well as the significance of the journey that has led me here. The AURORA is known for giving our Sorors a voice, creating opportunities to tell their stories while reminding us that greater progress is not just about breaking barriers but also about building bridges for others to cross.

Much appreciation and thanks to the International Grand Basileus, Rasheeda S. Liberty, and the International Board of Directors for entrusting me with the responsibility to inspire the next generation of women leaders with the appointment to this role. As a young undergraduate 18 years ago, this opportunity was never in my wildest Sigma dreams. However, I am grateful that it is a part of my Sigma legacy.

To the A Team – The AURORA team of editors – THANK YOU! Each of you accepted my request for tight deadlines graciously. This last month has been a true testament of teamwork making a dream work. A special thank you and shout out to past Editors-in-Chief, Richelle N. Jones, and L. Chanel Dickerson for guiding me through this process.

Being asked and honored to serve as Editor in Chief in a long lineage of dedicated women is not about holding a title; it is about embracing our legacy to create a better, more equitable future for the next generation of our Sigma Family.

Elaina J. Hamilton

Elaina J. Hamilton Editor-In-Chief, The Aurora

Elaina J. Hamilton

Greetings From The Executive Director/ ICHQ

Karen

Y. Williams

Greetings Sigma Family from the International Corporate Headquarters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Welcome to the Spring 2024 issue of The Aurora Magazine! Spring is commonly thought of as the season of new beginnings. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is also experiencing a season of fresh starts and new beginnings as we welcome our new members and affiliates. Let me be among the first to welcome the Spring 2024 classes into the sisterhood! You all made the best choice, and ICHQ will be with you every step of the way as you engage with the organization as a new member.

It is my sincere hope that each family member’s experience in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is filled with learning, sisterhood, and community service. Whether you are a new Soror, Philo, Rhoer, Cultured Pearl, or any status in between, please

know that the staff at ICHQ is here to help, and it is our desire to provide you with G.R.E.A.T.E.R. customer service.

On behalf of the full-time and volunteer staff at the International Corporate headquarters, we would like to thank the entire membership for your support and willingness to collaborate with the team as we implement new processes, streamline, and document our procedures, and provide additional member benefits whenever possible.

Here are two additional learning opportunities for this year; please mark your calendars for the following activities:

• April is Financial Literacy month, and CHASE will be back with another round of Money Mondays scheduled for every Monday in April 2024. Check the Golden Communique for details.

• You can also mark your calendars for August 22, 2024, for ICHQ’s Annual Study Hall. This is an event to learn about ICHQ Operations and get your questions answered in real-time by the staff responsible for each area.

The staff at your International Corporate Headquarters has worked diligently to provide you with as many self-service options as possible. ICHQ now has a Knowledge Base tool that you can access at any time. Please scan this QR code to research your topic before submitting a ticket.

We look forward to seeing you at the 2024 Boule hosted in Houston, TX!

In Service,

Dr. Karen Y. Williams, Executive Director

G.R.E.A.T.E.R.– Goal-Oriented. Responsive. Enthusiastic. Accurate. Talented. Effective. Respectful.

Working towards GREATER,

Karen Y. Williams

Karen Y. Williams, Executive Director

Slate CANDIDATE International

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS

Marica Harris

PLATFORM

One Sigma – One Mission, One Vision, One Sisterhood

MEMBER SINCE

Kappa • 1995

CURRENT CHAPTER

Theta Sigma Sigma • Poughkeepsie, NY

CURRENT OFFICE

International 1st Grand Anti-Basileus

PROFESSION

Nonprofit Executive

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

1st Grand Anti-Basileus Syntaktes

UCC

Strategic Planning Committee Chair

Membership Committee Chair

Area Coordinator

Basileus

Parliamentarian

Marica Harris is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in program operations, fiscal management, continuous quality improvement, and talent acquisition within non-profit organizations. Holding a Master of Arts in Counseling from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (2008) and a Master of Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh (1998), Marica also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wilberforce University in 1996.

Marica has been actively engaged in volunteer work within the sorority since induction. On the international level, she served as the International First Grand Anti-Basileus for the 2020-2024 sorority years. In this role, she provided crucial support and guidance at the International Corporate Headquarters, leading the Associate Engagement Committee, supervising the Membership Services Department, and collaborating with key management staff for day-to-day operations. Additionally, she chaired committees aligned with the sorority’s R3 initiatives: membership, military task force, cultured pearl, ruby, and life membership. Soror Harris also offers supervision and guidance to the regional leadership team, including the Syntakti, Undergraduate Chapter Coordinators, and Youth Services Coordinators.

On the regional level, Soror Marica Harris served as the Area Coordinator, overseeing area meetings in Western New York, Western Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. She also was Northeastern Region Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator, supporting collegiate chapters and advisors while communicating with colleges and universities. As Syntaktes, she managed the day-to-day operations of the Northeastern Region and chaired the Northeastern Region Board of Directors, focusing on membership engagement, training and development, and community service initiatives.

Locally, Marica has served in various roles within Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated. As Basileus, she ensured compliance with bylaws and standard operating procedures, while also serving as an Advisor and Parliamentarian, providing guidance on university and sorority compliance and parliamentary authority interpretation.

Marica’s extensive experience, leadership, and dedication have significantly impacted the sorority and non-profit sector.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL 1ST GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS

Dr. Griena Knight Davis

PLATFORM

Sisterhood First: Furthering the Ideal and Reigniting Sigma’s TORCH

MEMBER SINCE

Alpha Zeta Sigma • 1995

CURRENT CHAPTER

Alpha Zeta Sigma • Bessemer, AL

PROFESSION

Retired Higher Education Administration • Licensed Professional Counselor

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Grand Anti-Grammateus Syntaktes

UCC

Epistoleus

Area Coordinator

Basileus

Anti-Basileus

Rhoer Coordinator

Parliamentarian

Music & Education Chair

Ombudsman

Dr. Griena Knight Davis proudly represents the Alpha Zeta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Arts in Counseling, and Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, respectively.

Having joined the sorority on November 4, 1995, during her graduate studies, Griena has maintained active membership for 28 years, demonstrating unwavering dedication. Now, she announces her candidacy for International First Grand AntiBasileus, aiming to uphold the sorority’s values and legacy while prioritizing Sisterhood.

Griena’s leadership extends across local, regional, and international levels. Locally, she’s served as Anti-Basileus and Basileus of the Chi Sigma Chapter. Regionally, she served as the Alabama State Liaison, Regional Scholarship Chairperson, Southeastern Region Epistoleus, and Syntaktes. Internationally, she’s contributed as a TORCH Trainer, National Music and Education Chairperson, and more, always prioritizing membership needs and development.

Outside Sigma, Griena has been deeply involved in community leadership, including roles in organizations like the Links, Incorporated, and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Her commitment to service extends to Life Membership in various organizations.

Professionally, Griena retired as Dean and Vice President of Student Affairs at Miles College after 15 years, now practicing Counseling and Coaching privately while working as a clinical counselor for the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham.

Married for 12 years and a fur-mom to three beloved pets, Griena is committed to advancing Sigma’s mission and Sisterhood. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share her vision for the sorority’s future.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

Tiffany D. Hightower

PLATFORM

The Focus and Integrity 7-Points Platform* will result in Resounding Excellence throughout the Sisterhood.

MEMBER SINCE

Iota Psi • 1999

CURRENT CHAPTER

Eta Xi Sigma • Oaklawn, IL

PROFESSION

Executive Director of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Grand Anti-Grammateus

Grand Epistoleus

Syntaktes

Basileus

Anti-Basileus

2nd Anti-Basileus Anti-Grammateus

Tiffany D. Hightower is a seasoned public servant with over a decade of impactful service. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, where she has fortified and created innovative programmatic pipelines, while also increasing new revenues tenfold in under 2 years. Previously, Tiffany served as a consultant and political strategist for democratic gubernatorial candidates and held the position of Director of Operations for the Treasurer of the City of Chicago, overseeing a 4.2-million-dollar budget and Human Resources. Notably, she was the Executive Director for Developing Communities Project, Inc., overseeing initiatives ranging from transportation-oriented development to youth leadership.

In addition to her professional roles, Tiffany holds various leadership positions within boards and commissions, including serving as President of the Board of Social Change and as a Member of the Board of Directors for the Salvation ArmyMetropolitan Division. She has also served as the 21st Central Region Director of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., overseeing programmatic efforts across 13 states in the Midwest and 4 countries. Tiffany’s commitment to community empowerment extends to her involvement in initiatives such as the #SheWoke Committee, which contributed to the establishment of the first Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls in 2016.

Educationally, Tiffany holds a BA in Psychology from The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Dominican University. Her expertise and dedication have garnered recognition from various publications and organizations, including features in Rolling Out and Urban Arts, as well as awards such as the 2022 Notable Black Leader and Executive by Crain’s Business Chicago and the 2022 Sistahs with Superpowers Award from Rolling Out Magazine.

Tiffany’s exceptional oratory skills have been showcased at events such as the NAACP Freedom Fund Banquets in Peoria, Illinois (2022) and the South Suburban Branch of Chicago (2023). Most recently, she organized a press conference and policy summit featuring prominent figures such as the National President of the NAACP and Ambassador Carol Moseley Braun. Her remarkable achievements continue to significantly impact local and national levels.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

Loreal (Lori) N. Marshall

PLATFORM

Lifeline 22: The Greater Formation

MEMBER SINCE

Central Region Undergraduate • 2011

CURRENT CHAPTER

Delta Sigma • Chicago, IL

CURRENT OFFICE

Central Region Syntaktes

PROFESSION

Associate Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life University

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Syntaktes

UCC

Nominations Chair

Anti-Basileus Advisor Epistoleus

Loreal N. Marshall currently serves as the Central Region Centennial Syntaktes and is an active member of Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae. Initiated on March 11, 2011, she began her journey as a Central Regional Undergraduate affiliating with Beta Rho Chapter under Delta Sigma Chapter’s guidance. Soror Marshall holds a B.A. in Radio Communications with a Minor in Early Childhood Education from Columbia College Chicago and an M.A. in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Student Services/Higher Education from Lewis University. Professionally, she serves as the Associate Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life at the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC), leveraging her experience from roles at institutions like Columbia College Chicago, The University of Iowa, and Chicago Public Schools.

Soror Marshall’s commitment extends to various committees locally, regionally, and nationally. Locally, she has advised Eta Chapter at Northwestern University, held positions such as Epistoleus and Anti-Grammateus, and participated in committees like Bylaws and Performance. Regionally, she has served as Central Region Syntaktes (2020-2024), Central Region Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator (2016-2020), and engaged in roles like Nominations Chair and TORCH Trainer. Nationally, she has contributed to committees such as the Strategic Planning Committee and the National Nominating Committee.

Beyond her sorority involvement, Soror Marshall is a dedicated mother to her daughter Autumn Bright, a supportive daughter, and a proud big sister. Her family has been a constant support throughout her journey. Engaging in various organizations, Soror Marshall showcases a diverse range of interests, from the National Association of Parliamentarians to the West Side Honeys running group she founded. Her unwavering passion for Sigma Gamma Rho and dedication to continuing the legacy of the Seven Founders shine through her impactful journey. Let us embark on this Heart-to-Heart passage as we Get INformation!

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” ~Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL 1ST GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS Miranda

Moore

PLATFORM

Ignite L.O.V.E. for the Love of Sigma

MEMBER SINCE

Eta Alpha • 1991

CURRENT CHAPTER

Gamma Phi Sigma • Houston, TX

CURRENT OFFICE

Southwestern Region Syntaktes

PROFESSION

Global Human Resources Consultant with SAP

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Syntaktes

UCC

YSC

International Special Projects Chair

With thirty-two (32) consecutive financial years in the sisterhood, Miranda Moore is a proud Ruby Member, legacy, and Life Member #893. Miranda’s Sigma journey began as an undergraduate in the Eta Alpha Chapter at the University of North Texas. Serving as a collegiate member of the International Board of Directors as Southwestern Region Youth Services Coordinator, she continued her dedication to service and leadership over the years in various local, regional, and international positions, including, but not limited to, Southwestern Region Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator, Southwestern Region Centennial Syntaktes, and International Special Projects Chair during which tenure she was awarded Sigma of the Year.

Her professional journey spans over 20 years in Human Resources. She currently serves as a Global Human Resources Consultant with SAP, an international technology giant. With more than 15 years as a Workforce Management Executive, Miranda has worked for companies such as Kronos, PeopleFluent, Deploy Solutions, etc., offering her expertise to Fortune 500 companies across diverse industries.

Beyond her corporate endeavors, Miranda is a business owner, board member, and community leader. Her multifaceted experience encompasses strategy, operations, international business, finances, and people management. On a personal note, Miranda enjoys spending time with family and traveling.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL 2ND GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS

Odyssey Butler-Borner

PLATFORM

Radiating Rhoyalty “Sisterhood, Scholarship & Service”

MEMBER SINCE

Lambda Lambda • 2023

CURRENT CHAPTER

Lambda Lambda • Texas A&M University

CURRENT OFFICE

Chapter Basileus

PROFESSION

Student

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Basileus

Odyssey Butler-Borner, a proud Spring 2023 initiate of the Luminous Lambda Lambda Chapter at Texas A&M University, embodies the essence of service and leadership. Hailing from Dallas, Texas, in the Super Southwestern Region, she is currently pursuing a degree in Communications and International Studies with a minor in Cybersecurity, aiming to complement her education with an MBA to become a project manager at a Fortune 500 company post-graduation.

At Texas A&M University, Soror Butler-Borner serves as the chapter Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, overseeing the development and execution of a campus-level calendar aligned with the sorority’s motto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Additionally, she holds the position of Vice President of the NAACP Unit #6859 and functions as the Community Outreach for the Black Student Alliance Council (BSAC), facilitating event planning and ensuring efficient communication within the organization.

Soror Butler-Borner played a pivotal role as a leading representative at Fusion Fiesta, an event promoting cultural diversity and educational experiences for the student body at Texas A&M University.

Employed as a Student Assistant in the Office of Director of Student Life, she provides essential support to students facing crises and serves as a paralegal for Student Legal Services. Her background as a seasonal daycare worker has enriched her perspective on life and approach to her responsibilities.

In her free time, Soror Butler-Borner dedicates herself to learning new skills, from baking and skincare to mastering embroidery. Her diverse interests align with her commitment to personal growth and community engagement.

Driven by her dedication to service and leadership, Soror Odyssey Butler-Borner is poised to make a meaningful impact both within Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and the broader community.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND GRAMMATEUS

Sharron L. Barnes

PLATFORM

Expanding the Framework of C.O.R.E. – Communications, Operating Systems, Reporting, and Education

MEMBER SINCE

Beta Zeta Sigma • 2001

CURRENT CHAPTER

Zeta Pi Sigma • Greenville, NC

CURRENT OFFICE

International Grand Grammateus

PROFESSION

Career Technical Education Information Technology and Business Teacher

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Grand Grammateus

Basileus

Grammateus

Tamiochus Nominations Chair Parliamentarian

Sharron L. Barnes is the esteemed International Grand Grammateus in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Her journey in financial leadership began in 2020 when she was selected to join the Finance Task Force Team, supporting the Budget and Finance Committee. In this role, Soror Barnes worked closely with the Finance Manager at ICHQ, focusing on tasks like bank reconciliations, analyzing credit card expenditures, and comparing budget forecasts with actual financial outcomes.

As the International Grand Grammateus, Soror Barnes meticulously reviews and approves all sorority disbursements while monitoring actual income against forecasted figures. She prepares detailed reports for conferences and assists in managing records for chapters and affiliates, leveraging her extensive experience in various regional and international roles to ensure financial operations run smoothly.

Previously, Soror Barnes served as the Northeastern Region Tamiochus for four years, where she modernized the regional meeting registration process and integrated all financial operations into QuickBooks to enhance transparency. She conducted financial workshops and provided targeted training for chapters across the Region.

During her tenure as Basileus of the Zeta Pi Sigma Chapter in Greenville, NC, Soror Barnes emphasized financial literacy and strategic planning among chapter members, contributing to a 43% increase in chapter membership. Additionally, she mentored the Basileus of the Eta Mu Undergraduate Chapter at East Carolina University and newly inducted Sorors, nurturing their potential as future financial leaders. Soror Barnes’s dedication to financial stewardship and leadership development continues to leave a lasting impact within the sorority.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND ANTI-GRAMMATEUS

Dr. Khalilah Shabazz

PLATFORM

Strengthening the Sigma R.E.C.O.R.D.

MEMBER SINCE

Alpha Sigma • 2013

CURRENT CHAPTER

Alpha Sigma • Indianapolis, IN

CURRENT OFFICE

International Grand Anti-Grammateus

PROFESSION

Vice President & Chief Diversity Officer at Butler University

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Grand Anti-Grammateus Anti-Grammateus Scholarship Committee Chair

Dr. Khalilah A. Shabazz, born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, is deeply committed to her family, community, and professional career as a college administrator. With a strong focus on teaching and facilitating dialogues, Soror Shabazz currently serves as the Vice President & Chief Diversity Officer at Butler University. In this role, Shabazz is a dynamic force in promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts both on campus and within the wider community.

A proud member of the Alpha Sigma Chapter, Soror Shabazz holds a special connection to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, as the Legacy/Great-Granddaughter of Founder Vivian Irene White-Marbury. Raised to uphold and promote the tenets of scholarship, sisterhood, and service, she embodies the essence of a Sigma woman.

Soror Shabazz’s career is marked by progressive leadership roles, underscoring her ongoing commitment to enhancing her leadership skills. She has participated in numerous national and international professional development opportunities, continually refining her abilities and expanding her expertise in educational administration.

Beyond her professional work, Soror Shabazz is deeply involved in the community. Soror Shabazz has an extensive record of community service and has played pivotal roles in various local and national initiatives, showcasing her engagement and commitment to social causes.

With extensive experience, a strong educational background, and a poised leadership style, Soror Khalilah A. Shabazz is well-equipped to lead both within and outside of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Her dedication to fostering diversity and community engagement remains a cornerstone of her distinguished career.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND TAMIOCHUS

Danette Samilton

PLATFORM

Raising the Bar

MEMBER SINCE

Mu Alpha • 1996

CURRENT CHAPTER

Lambda Gamma Sigma • Pomona, CA

CURRENT OFFICE

International Grand Tamiochus

PROFESSION

Business Operations Executive

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Grand Tamiochus

Basileus

Grammateus

Tamiochus

Danette Samilton is a finance professional with over 20 years of progressive experience. Currently serving as Senior Vice President at Bank of America, she focuses on optimizing operational and financial performance. Her expertise lies in strategically identifying, developing, and implementing streamlined and robustly controlled processes. Throughout her career, Soror Samilton has forged partnerships with executives to devise strategic operational and financial plans, addressing immediate needs and long-term objectives. In her current role, she leads Strategy and Business Operations for the Non-Financial Regulatory Reporting, Tax, and Credit Reporting Operations team.

A proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Soror Samilton’s journey began in Spring 1996 through the Mu Alpha Chapter at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is an alumna of UCLA, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in economics, followed by an MBA specializing in Finance from Pepperdine University.

Balancing her professional acumen with her personal life, Soror Samilton is married to Jawell Samilton. They are devoted parents to triplet daughters, who have recently embarked on their college journey as freshmen.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUS

Jimeka Brown

PLATFORM

Unlocking Greater

MEMBER SINCE

Kappa Chi • 2001

CURRENT CHAPTER

Mu Iota Sigma • Olive Branch, MS

CURRENT OFFICE

Southeastern Region Epistoleus

PROFESSION Educator

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Basileus

Anti-Grammateus

Epistoleus

Rhoer Advisor

Philo Advisor

In the realm of Sigma, one name shines brightly for her exceptional creativity, expertise, and extensive experience - Soror Jimeka Brown. Since her induction in 2001 at Mississippi Valley State University, Kappa Chi Chapter, Jimeka has made a significant impact on the sorority. She is a charter member of Mu Sigma Sigma Chapter in West Memphis, Arkansas, and currently belongs to Mu Iota Sigma Chapter in Olive Branch, Mississippi. Jimeka proudly holds the statuses of Life Member and Ruby Member, reflecting her dedication, commitment, and belief in the sorority.

With a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Jimeka brings a unique perspective to her work. With over two decades of teaching experience, she has honed her skills and developed a keen eye for design, seamlessly merging her educational background with her design acumen.

Soror Brown serves as the Epistoleus for the Southeastern Region, a role responsible for creating a template toolkit used throughout the sorority. Organizing Epistoleus Bootcamps and training sessions, she actively shapes the branding of the Sorors and Affiliates, ensuring effective communication and consistent branding within the region.

Additionally, Jimeka chairs the Southeastern Region’s Public Relations committee, spearheading initiatives like the Rhoyal Review and serving as the editor-in-chief for the Southeastern Region e-magazine, the So Sophisticated.

Beyond Sigma, Jimeka collaborates with chapters internationally, including Germany, Canada, and Belize, earning recognition and admiration from her peers.

Soror Jimeka Brown epitomizes creativity, expertise, and unparalleled dedication. Alongside her roles as Epistoleus, graphic designer, mentor, and experienced educator, she considers her most important role to be a mom to Rhoer JaNya Tuggle, instilling in her the principles of Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

Tierre Butler

PLATFORM

Expect Greater…Continually

MEMBER SINCE

Iota Sigma • 2013

CURRENT CHAPTER

Lambda Delta Sigma • Annapolis, MD

CURRENT OFFICE

International Grand Epistoleus

PROFESSION

Marketing and Communications Professional

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Grand Epistoleus

Anti-Basileus

Epistoleus

Public Relations Chair

Tierre Butler is a dedicated candidate seeking re-election to the position of International Grand Epistoleus. Hailing from the Notable Northeastern Region, she is a member of the Legendary Lambda Delta Sigma Chapter in Annapolis, Maryland. Tierre’s educational journey at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she pursued undergraduate and graduate coursework, exposed her to diverse perspectives, instilling a sense of greater expectations.

Her sorority journey commenced in 2013 upon induction into the Iota Sigma Alumnae Chapter in Richmond, Virginia, marking the beginning of a transformative leadership venture. From local roles as First Anti-Basileus and Membership Chair to crafting and sharing narratives as the Northeastern Regional Epistoleus, Tierre has embraced the privilege of service. Appointed as Centennial and International Public Relations Chair, she has contributed to global-scale campaigns and initiatives.

Tierre attributes her personal and professional growth to the invaluable influence of the organization, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping her identity and purpose. Serving in various capacities equipped her with transferable skills that facilitated a successful career transition into Marketing and Communications.

Guided by the mantra “expect greater,” Tierre embodies optimism and a commitment to pushing boundaries. As she seeks another term, she encourages the organization to embrace this mindset continually, emphasizing the importance of preserving history while innovating for the future.

Throughout her sorority journey, Tierre has embraced the past, shaped the present, and eagerly anticipated the future, fueled by passion and a commitment to making a difference, with an unwavering belief that the best is yet to come.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUS

Terrika Foster-Brasby

PLATFORM

Ignite Greatness

MEMBER SINCE

Theta Alpha Sigma • 2016

CURRENT CHAPTER

Theta Alpha Sigma • Hartford, CT

CURRENT OFFICE

Northeastern Region Epistoleus

PROFESSION

Multimedia journalist and sports reporter

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Epistoleus

Public Relations Chair

Basileus

3rd Anti-Basileus

Anti-Grammateus

Terrika Foster-Brasby has been deeply involved in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. since joining on April 2, 2016. Just two months later, she was elected as the Theta Alpha Sigma Alumnae Chapter Epistoleus. In this role, she bolstered the Theta Alpha Sigma chapter’s presence within the greater Hartford community and on social media, showcasing its programs and talents. Under her leadership, the chapter saw increased interaction with other fraternities and sororities, along with greater visibility on various social media platforms and news outlets. Soror Foster-Brasby continued to excel in local chapter leadership, serving as Scholarship Committee Chair, Anti-Grammateus, and 3rd Anti-Basileus, where she facilitated the induction of new Sigma Gamma Rho members at the University of Hartford.

In 2020, Soror Foster-Brasby expanded her contributions to the regional level, serving as the Northeastern Region Epistoleus under the administration of 23rd Syntaktes Thomasina V. Gore, Esq. Despite the challenges of a global pandemic, Soror Foster-Brasby supported the region in numerous ways, including the creation of an Epistoleus (History) Committee, revamping the region’s social media presence, and increasing engagement. She was re-elected for the 2022-2024 sorority years.

Outside of her chapter and regional roles, Soror Foster-Brasby has served on various international committees, including the International History Team and International Social Media Team. Professionally, she is a respected multimedia journalist and sports reporter, making notable appearances on ESPN, CBS Sports, and NBC Sports. Her exceptional contributions have earned her several prestigious awards and recognitions within the sorority. Soror Foster-Brasby’s dedication to Sigma Gamma Rho is matched only by her commitment to her family, her interests, and her community in Detroit, MI.

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUS

Elaina J. Hamilton

PLATFORM

A Greater Sigma Legacy

MEMBER SINCE

Omicron Eta • 2006

CURRENT CHAPTER

Beta Omicron Sigma • Charlotte, NC

CURRENT OFFICE

International Editor-in-Chief of The AURORA

PROFESSION

Senior Client Success Manager

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Editor-in-Chief of The AURORA Basileus

Anti-Basileus

Grammateus Anti-Grammateus Epistoleus

As a legacy member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Elaina J. Hamilton’s journey encompasses chapters including Omicron Eta, Beta Omicron Sigma, Alpha Mu Sigma, and Theta Lambda Sigma. Recently, she transferred back into Beta Omicron Sigma in Charlotte, NC. Over the years, she has held diverse leadership roles, such as Membership Services Coordinator and Membership Service Director at the International Corporate Headquarters of Sigma Gamma Rho, NPHC Vice President at UNC-Greensboro, and various positions within Omicron Eta, including Chapter Basileus, Anti-Basileus, Grammateus, and Anti-Grammateus. Elaina is an active conference attendee at local, regional, and national levels, contributing to numerous committees, including the National Membership Committee, Strategic Planning Committee and the national committee to write the 3rd history book, showcasing her commitment to the Sorority’s broader community.

A visionary in design, branding, and marketing, Elaina is particularly proud of her contributions to the sorority’s visual identity. From designing the 2009-2010 Sorority Membership Card to spearheading the Sorority Timeline wall panel housed at ICHQ (which later traveled to Boules and Centennial), she has cherished capturing the Sorority’s history and impact. Additionally, she has played a crucial role in branding and marketing initiatives, such as SGRho at Essence Fest. Her commitment to continual learning and excellence powered her success in launching the official Sorority LinkedIn page, eLearning platform, ticketing system, chapter file digitization, and digital brochures for colleges and universities to aid regional leadership in international collegiate relations.

Innovative and adaptive, Elaina redesigned the Level 1 - TORCH Certification, restructured research processes for life membership, ruby recognition, and cultured pearls, and collaborated with Past International Grand Epistolei and Public Relations Chairs to amplify the marketing and communication plans of the Sorority’s global brand. She has devoted considerable time to the important work of archiving the Sorority’s records, including researching over 2,000 Life Member, Ruby, and Cultured Pearl milestones, conducting national disciplinary action audits, refining historical search processes, and digitizing historical photographs and documents. Her commitment to preserving the Sorority’s history is visually evident in her role in the official Sorority documentary.

Learn more about her campaign at www.aGreaterSigmaLegacy.com

CANDIDATE FOR OFFICE OF

INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF THE AURORA

Shira Amos

PLATFORM

Empower, Elevate, Excel – Your Voice, Your Vision and Your Sigma Journey

MEMBER SINCE

Alpha Sigma • 2013

CURRENT CHAPTER

Alpha Sigma • Indianapolis, IN

CURRENT OFFICE

Central Region Epistoleus

PROFESSION

Community Affairs Manager • OneAmerica Financial

SORORITY OFFICES HELD

Epistoleus

Anti-Basileus

Tamiochus

Shira Amos is a dedicated member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., affiliated with Alpha Sigma Chapter since 2013, holding the esteemed position of Life Member #2063. Her unwavering commitment to service and leadership within the sorority is showcased through her diverse roles, including serving as the chapter’s Anti-Basileus from 2018 to 2020 and Financial Officer (Tamiochus) from 2014 to 2018. Shira has also contributed as a valuable member of the Membership Committee from 2014 to 2018 and chaired significant events, such as the Alpha Sigma Founders Celebration from 2014 to 2018 and in 2022.

Beyond the chapter level, Shira extends her impact as a dedicated board member and Financial Officer of the Seven Beacons Foundation since 2015. Actively contributing to the success of major community events, she served on committees for the Indianapolis Circle City Classic (2014–2019), Indianapolis Black Expo (2014–2018), Tamika Catchings’ “Catch the Stars Foundation” (2013-2014), and the IU Groups Scholars program as the board Treasurer and Social Media Chair (2018-2022). Shira’s dedication reaches the international level, evident in her role as a Committee Member for the International Epistoleus from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2020 to 2022.

In recognition of her exemplary service and leadership, Shira assumed the pivotal role of Alpha Sigma Centennial Chair from 2021 to 2022. In this capacity, she optimized area businesses and government entities to enhance branding and marketing within the city of Indianapolis. Currently, Shira proudly serves as the Epistoleus for the Central Region from 2020 to 2024, maintaining her steadfast commitment to the ideals and values of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. with the motto “Empower, Elevate, Excel – Your Voice, Your Vision, and Your Sigma Journey,” as she runs for the position of Editor-in-Chief of The Aurora for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Beacon of

Lambda Upsilon

Sigma Light

Plano, TX

BREAKING THE CYCLE: THE FIGHT AGAINST UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS AND PROMOTION OF WELLNESS

Trauma bonding, love bombing, and gaslighting are increasingly recognized as signs of unhealthy relationships. To shed light on this issue, the Lambda Upsilon Sigma Chapter organized a virtual Domestic Violence panel during Domestic Violence Month. The panel, led by mental health professionals Soror Lavita Jones, Soror Dr. Sheila Lumar, and Soror Dr. Deborah Purge, discussed ways to navigate unhealthy relationships, foster healthy ones, and overcome abuse. Participants, both from the chapter and the panel, adorned themselves in shades of purple with pearls, symbolizing solidarity, and support.

In addition to raising awareness, Lambda Upsilon Sigma actively supports five organizations that provide vital resources to the Dallas community. These include Hope’s Door (a Domestic Violence Shelter), City House (support for abused, neglected, and homeless children), Casa of Collin County (advocates for abused children), Samaritan Inn (a Homeless shelter), and Emily’s Place (another Domestic Violence Shelter).

Furthermore, the chapter’s H3 Wellness Committee, chaired by Dr. Shakila M. Farmer, is dedicated to promoting physical, mental, and financial wellness. Through a series of wellness workshops, they educate participants on topics such as food addictions and provide demonstrations of healthy meals. To encourage one another, the chapter initiated two signature campaigns: #LUSMeatLessMondays and #LUSWalkWednesdays. On Mondays, members share their favorite meatless recipes, while on Wednesdays, they commit to 30 minutes of exercise and share their progress on social media, inspiring others to join in.

Lambda Delta Annapolis, MD

Sigma

“SPREADING HOPE” AND STANDING WITH SURVIVORS

One year ago, in April, Lambda Delta Sigma (LDS) partnered with the YWCA of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Maryland, to host a Denim and toiletry drive in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Denim Day. The YWCA of Annapolis offers counseling, case management, and housing resources to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

Utilizing an Amazon Wish List, LDA Sigma collected Amazon Gift cards, 25 pairs of jeans in various adult and children’s sizes, and 67 bottles/jars of hair & skin products for minority women. These items were delivered to the YWCA of Annapolis in the summer of 2023.

In May of last year, the chapter’s Breast Cancer Committee convened for “Spreading HOPE.” Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers came together to assemble over 30 comfort care packages for patients at Maryland Oncology Hematology.

Queen KING

of YOUNG THE

By Elaina Hamilton & Gloria Dalton

“NECESSITY IS THE MOTHER OF INVENTION.”

n 2019, Soror Cora Miller and her husband, Stefan, founded a company called Young King Hair Care Products. Young King is a plant-based, natural grooming hair care product company designed exclusively for multicultural males with curly/kinky/coily hair. Soror Miller sat down with us for a chat to tell us how and why she and her husband created a business just after becoming first-time parents. She also shared her experiences of being a first-time business owner and why she chose to be a woman of Sigma Gamma Rho.

A King is Born

“After giving birth to a beautiful brown baby with a head full of gorgeous hair,” the Millers noticed that there were no clean, natural hair care products specifically designed for curly and coily headed young men in the beauty aisles or in the beauty industry. Originally from Southern California, Soror Miller has always believed that representation is important, especially in the products that you use. “You should always feel represented in a space and see yourself in the products that you use and activities that you do.” Noticing the gap or lack of representation for young men of color in the beauty industry, specifically for textured hair care, led her on a quest to create products for her son Kade and other young men. Her background as a VP of external affairs for healthcare led her to become a champion of people of color and now, through the creation of Young King, she is a champion for her son and other young men of color regarding self-care and self-love.

She Understood the Assignment

Instead of going straight to the kitchen and whipping up ingredients, she first did her research with consumers as well as working with a Cosmetic Chemist to develop a product. She also sent out surveys asking mothers about some of the challenges they faced every day while caring for their sons’ hair care needs. The product development phase lasted nearly two years as she wanted to make sure the product worked before launching it to the public. Instead of just “slapping her name” on existing products, she wanted her potential customers to have confidence in the products that she was developing.

In December 2019, the product was launched. Then, the Pandemic hit. Thankfully, the digital world gave the Millers the leverage to connect with future customers. Not only that, the surge of support for black companies was at its height due to the civil unrest with the murder of George Floyd. Since everyone was online during the Pandemic, the word about Young King spread quickly. The free resources were like a catalyst for the momentum for their company to grow. That growth allowed Young King to be selected into the Target Acceleration Program for emerging businesses in 2020. Young King was one of 10 emerging companies selected among thousands of applicants to be part of the program. The Target Acceleration Program is highly competitive and not a guarantee that your products will be sold on their shelves. It was a process. After all the hard work and patience, at the top of 2021, Young King Haircare was selected to be sold at over 300 Target Stores. Young King Haircare was then selected to also be sold in Walmart, CVS, and Amazon.

“

You should always feel represented in a space and see yourself in the products that you use and activities that you do. ”

Cofounders Stefan and Cora Miller with children Kade (the young king) and Cree.

Applause A Round Of Applause

(A List Of Milestones) Advice To New Entrepreneurs

The producers of the show Shark Tank approached the Millers in 2021 to be on the show. Cora was pregnant with their second child, her daughter Cree. Young King was a vendor at the Essence Festival twice.

In December 2022, Young King partnered with Marvel/Disney and developed four new products for “The Black Panther 2 Wakanda Forever.” The company, with Walmart, rented an entire movie theater for a screening of the film for kids in Baltimore, MD.

she met while at Chapel Hill. She describes them as lifelong friends. They’ve been in each other’s weddings and are planning a mini reunion.

Cora’s Next Chapter

Soror Miller speaks life into Young King becoming a global brand, empowering young men to learn to love and feel good about themselves, and spearheading more community outreach through Young King. The company recently launched two new products coming out for Target and Walmart so stay tuned for that. For more information on Young King, go to www. youngkinghaircare.com

“Always know your why. Your why needs to be more than just making money.” Soror Miller and her husband’s answer to why she created their company is their son.

“Make sure you are grounded in your why and hold firm and true to that so that you can weather any storm that comes your way.” Soror Miller wants her children to have a legacy and be proud that their parents built a company from the ground up. Building a company from a dream is not an easy feat. Many of us have friends that have been dreaming of starting a company for years or decades that never reached fruition.

The Sigma Influence

Being a member of Sigma Gamma Rho is the gift that keeps on giving. Soror Miller crossed Spring 2005, Lambda Psi Chapter of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. While growing up in Southern California, she was not familiar with Greek life among college students until one of her teachers at church. Her work-study advisor at Chapel Hill, Rachel Morris, inspired her to become a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She described the women of Sigma that she met as “dope, incredible, and dynamic,” as opposed to some of the other groups on the campus. One of the biggest lessons that she learned from being in a chapter was teamwork. Being a part of a chapter with strong-willed dynamic women was a challenging experience, but it prepared her for group work in corporate America and entrepreneurship. She continues to keep in contact with the Sorors that

Opposite Page: Cora at Target after recent launch of new products.

Top Left: Cora with Lambda Psi Sorors, Pharen Bowman and Crystal Yi.

Bottom Left: The Young King, Kade, at Walmart celebrating brand expansion. Bottom Right: Cora representing Young King at Essence in 2023 on the New Voices Foundation/ Fund Spotlight Panel.

CELEBRATING

DR. ANNIE LAWRENCE-BROWN’S

Centennial Legacy

Born on February 13, 1924, in Madisonville, Virginia, Dr. Annie Lane Lawrence-Brown celebrated her 100th birthday with a remarkable legacy spanning nursing, education, and sorority leadership. From her humble beginnings to pioneering achievements, her journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Graduating from Freedman’s Hospital School of Nursing at Howard University and later obtaining a nursing degree from DePaul University, Dr. Lawrence-Brown’s early years were marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her passion for nursing and dedication to education laid the foundation for a groundbreaking career that would shape the lives of countless individuals.

Dr. Annie Lawrence-Brown served as the Central Region Undergraduate Campus Coordinator, Basileus of Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter, and the 8th Central Region Syntakes.

In 1971, Dr. Lawrence-Brown assumed the role of the 13th International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., a position she held until 1976. During her tenure, she orchestrated significant milestones that left an indelible mark on the sorority’s history. Among her most notable achievements was the establishment of Sigma Gamma Rho’s first National Headquarters in Chicago. This pivotal moment provided the sorority with a permanent home and a centralized hub for its operations, fostering greater unity and cohesion among its members. She also initiated the life member program, becoming Life Member #11

Dr. Lawrence-Brown’s commitment to service was further exemplified by her collaboration with the March of Dimes to fund and pilot Project Reassurance. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to support expectant mothers and promote healthy pregnancies, reflecting her unwavering dedication to improving maternal and child healthcare outcomes.

By Shira Amos

Additionally, Dr. Lawrence-Brown commissioned the sorority’s inaugural history book, “Behind These Doors - A Legacy: The History of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority.” This seminal work chronicled the sorority’s rich heritage and celebrated the achievements of its members, ensuring that their contributions would be preserved for future generations.

Throughout her tenure as Grand Basileus, Dr. Lawrence-Brown prioritized the reactivation of Sigma Gamma Rho’s founders, including Vivian Irene White Marbury, Dorothy Hanley Whiteside, and Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson. By honoring their legacy and contributions, she reaffirmed the sorority’s commitment to preserving its heritage and upholding its founding principles.

Dr. Lawrence-Brown’s leadership extended beyond her role as Grand Basileus, serving as a mentor and role model to countless sorority members. Her dedication to increasing membership, mentoring, and educating Sorors has left an indelible mark on the organization, shaping its trajectory for years to come. Her favorite quote, “It is my desire that the Central Region be the most outstanding Region in our Sorority. It ought to be - we were born here; Central Region is hallowed!”

For this remarkable milestone, we celebrate Dr. Annie LawrenceBrown for her unwavering dedication to excellence, her pioneering spirit, and her profound impact on the lives of others. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide us, reminding us of the transformative power of service, leadership, and sisterhood. Happy 100th birthday to a true trailblazer and inspiration!

Above Right, L-R: Founder Hattie Mae Dulin Redford, Past IGB Annie Lawrence-Brown, and Founder Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson

NO HOME HATE for

By Dr. Tonisha Pinckney

n the quiet town of Conway, South Carolina, the lives of Soror Monica Williams and her husband Shawn Williams were upended in a deeply personal event that echoed some of the darkest chapters of American history. Mr. Williams expressed, “This home is supposed to be our place of retirement, a place of peace, a place of respite, and a place for all of our family together.” However, that peace was pierced by the trauma of racism and hatred.

In late November 2023, their sense of security and belonging in their community was shattered when a cross was set ablaze on their property. This act, a stark reminder of a past many hoped was long gone, was not a spontaneous occurrence but the culmination of a two-year sustained campaign of harassment and intimidation from their neighbors, according to Soror Williams. The cross-burning incident not only terrorized the Williams family but also sent shockwaves through their community, the nation, and the sisterhood, eliciting feelings of fear, anger, and a resounding call for justice that rippled through social media outlets, mainstream media, and political arenas.

WHEN HATE VISITS HOME

The harrowing events of Thanksgiving night in 2023 starkly revealed the depths of racial animosity. While the Williams family gathered for a time of family and fellowship in their predominantly White neighborhood, they became the target of a calculated act of hate. Allegedly, their neighbors, Worden Butler, and Alexis Hartnett, erected and set fire to a cross in plain view of the Williams’ home. This egregious act followed a two-year period of racial slurs and threats directed at Soror Monica Williams and her family.

The burning cross was not just an act of physical intimidation; it was a psychological assault, a message steeped in historical racism and violence. Mr. Williams described it as an “act of domestic terrorism,” emphasizing the symbol’s association with racism, specifically anti-Blackness. They endured not only the immediate threat to their safety but also the deep emotional and psychological scars such an act can inflict.

The response from the community and local law enforcement was swift but inadequate, reflecting the gravity of the situation. When asked about the police

response, Soror Williams recounted, “that night, when all of this went down, she [Harnett] was coming out the house screaming and hollering, calling us all kinds of racial names in front of the police. They didn’t do anything.” Mr. Williams added, “they were so nonchalant and didn’t have any sense of urgency” when they responded. The incident spurred a broader discussion on race relations in the area, bringing to light the undercurrents of racism that still exist in many American communities. For the Williams, the incident was a tragic reminder of South Carolina’s history, including the 2015 mass shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, “Mother Emanuel.”

REFLECTIONS ON THE PAST

Cross-burning in America, mainly by the Ku Klux Klan, originated in the early 20th century as a means to instill fear and assert racial dominance. While some argue that cross-burning is protected by the First Amendment right to freedom of speech, others contend that it is used solely to intimidate, express hatred, instill fear, and issue a clarion call for more of the same.

In a parallel incident in Abingdon, Virginia, James Brown received an 18-month sentence for crossburning after a civil rights protest on June 14, 2020. Brown pleaded guilty, admitting his motive was to intimidate the family, highlighting the challenges of legal recourse in hate crimes, like the Williams’ case. Despite support from VicePresident Kamala Harris, the FBI, and various political leaders, justice remains elusive. Similarly, Worden Butler and Alexis Hartnett, the alleged perpetrators, posted targeted hate speech and celebratory comments about the cross-burning on Soror William’s property, echoing the Virginia case.

In 1966, Soror Ellie Dahmer faced the tragic loss of her husband, Vernon Ferdinand Dahmer, a dedicated civil rights activist who was assassinated by the KKK for aiding African Americans in registering to vote. Their home was firebombed. Soror Dahmer’s response to this personal tragedy was a testament to resilience and determination. The heinous act against the Dahmer family not only birthed a tale of loss but also a powerful narrative of steadfast commitment to fighting for equality and justice. The Williams family, much like Soror Dahmer, channeled their grief and anger into further activism.

Left: Soror Monica Williams of the Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter in Charlotte, NC and Mr. Shawn Williams of the Pi Phi Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. at South Carolina Senate

Below: Dr. Ellie J. Dahmer, Beta Chi Sigma Chapter in Hattiesburg, MS - Holding a photo of her husband (StoryCorp) Opposite Page: Smoking ruins of Vernon and Ellie Dahmer’s house in the Kelly Settlement of Hattiesburg, Miss., the morning it was firebombed on Jan. 10, 1966. (Moncrief Photograph Collection, ID #510, Mississippi Department Of Archives & History)

A CALL TO ACTION: GREATER SERVICE, GREATER PROGRESS #AMPLIFYGREATER:

Founded amidst adversity, near the KKK’s headquarters, the sorority’s Founders boldly confronted racial hostility. This shared spirit of courage, reflected in both the Dahmer and Williams families’ responses to racial atrocities, exemplifies the sorority’s enduring dedication to justice and equality, highlighting the ongoing struggle against racial injustice and the crucial role of community solidarity.

In 2021, hate crimes rose by 11.6%, with over 2,000 incidents fueled by anti-African American bias, continuing the sharp increase seen in 2020, where attacks on Black individuals surged by nearly 40%. Tackling hate crimes is complex; legislation, exemplified by the “Clementa C. Pinckney Hate Crimes Act,” is pivotal. Combating racial violence demands a multifaceted strategy that integrates legal measures, community involvement, and sustained advocacy efforts.

TAND TOGETHER:

We must stand as a beacon of hope and resilience, steadfastly protecting our civil and gender rights.

RASSROOTS ADVOCACY FOR GOVERNANCE REFORM: AISE YOUR VOICE:

Empower community-driven efforts to influence and reform policies addressing hate crimes and racial injustice.

Elevate the conversation by providing realistic solutions. Have difficult conversations – speak up, speak out, educate, engage, and inspire.

Seize the immense power of your vote. Engage in the electoral process. Elect leaders who are committed to dismantling the structures that allow hate crimes to thrive, and who stand with us in the quest for equality, equity, and justice. S G R H

OARNESS THE VOTE: FFER SUPPORT:

Extend a hand of support to Sorors who have been scarred by hate crimes. Be the “Shield” on which she can lean, the shoulder on which she can cry, and the champion that will fight with her.

Let’s give ‘em their props

Diana Starks was recognized as one of Diversity MBA’s inaugural Top 25 Outstanding Leaders in Diversity Impact. Diana is the senior vice president and senior diversity advisor within the People Resources Department, including the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Opportunity, and director of the Office of Minority and Women Inclusion at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. This award was designed to recognize the incredible work and impact of leaders whose longevity, consistency, dedication, and discipline in driving change have inspired others and made a difference in their organizations and communities.

She currently serves as Chaplain for the Alpha Lambda Sigma Chapter in Cleveland, Ohio.

SOROR DIANA STARKS

ALPHA OMICRON SIGMA DALLAS, TEXAS

“The most meaningful way to succeed is to help others succeed.” - Adam Grant

On October 21, the Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. honored the Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter at the C.C. Russeau Old Gold and Black Gala held in Dallas, Texas. The men recognized the ladies for their leadership, excellence, advocacy, and service efforts in the Greater Dallas community.

The chapter is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of four of their Sorors: Tiffany Ekpete, Tatyanna Byrd, Shakirah Halaire, and Schnequa Pinkett.

On October 14, 2023, Soror Tiffany Ekpete was crowned Elite Mrs. Ultimate United States at the National Educators of America Pageant! Soror Tiffany Ekpete was also honored with the Ultimate Women of Impact award, and in the future, the award will now be officially named in her honor. The National Educators of America Pageant is geared explicitly towards educators teaching from K-12 to collegiate levels, with a motto of “recognizing Educators who inspire and ignite imagination.”

Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter Basileus and Members Accepting the 2023 Community Service Award. L-R: Dr. E. Jean Pemberton (Chaplin), Jheri Thornton, Tajae Brown (Rhosebud Coordinator), Robin Birt, Kamisha Knight-Johnson (Basileus), Denita Branch (5th Anti-Basileus), Kimbrelea Shavers, Eva Runnels, Vivian Kindard-Smith (2nd Anti-Basileus)

SOROR SHAKIRAH HILAIRE

An example of excellence in the community, Soror Shakirah Hilaire is a registered dietitian. She educates patients with chronic illnesses and provides medical nutrition therapy to people without housing. Soror Hilaire obtained her Master of Clinical Nutrition from the University of Texas Southwestern in August 2023 and passed her dietitian registration examination on October 21, 2023.

Soror Hilaire has a rare condition that affects the way she digests food. Throughout her life, she has undergone over ten surgeries to re-section and remove parts of her intestines. This ultimately led her to have a colostomy and feeding tube. From being fed through a tube to total parenteral nutrition (TPN), Soror Hilaire wanted to learn more about nutrition support and how to help others with chronic conditions like hers. As the recipient of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Diversity Award and the National Organization of Blacks in Dietetics and Nutrition Award, she aims to close the gaps in health disparities among the Black and Brown communities by providing nutrition education and medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions.

Embodying #greater in every sense of the word, Soror Pinkett was promoted to Vice President and head of Consumer Executive Escalations at Goldman Sachs. Through this role, Soror Pinkett oversees the escalation process, including reviewing trends to enhance systems and methods for multiple lines of business to ensure customer satisfaction is met. Soror Pinkett was inducted into our organization in 2001 through the Nu Iota Chapter at the University of Texas at Arlington. She now serves as the Sergeant at Arms for the Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter.

SOROR TATYANNA BYRD

SOROR SCHNEQUA PINKETT

Setting her students up for success is Soror Tatyanna Byrd’s mission. Soror Byrd is an Advise TX adviser, and she had a 100% success rate with all of the 2022-2023 seniors of Desoto High School completing the Dallas County Promise Path Submission. She helped students throughout their college application process, by finding the right schools to applications, scholarships, financial aid, and enrollment.

SOROR LA BECKY ROE

A member of Beta Omicron Sigma in Charlotte, NC, La Becky Roe founded Let’s Talk About It - The Autism Center, Inc., an awardwinning organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The organization’s subsidiary, Autism in Color, offers education, training, and consulting services to executive teams, public-facing professionals, and communities. With over 20 years of expertise in the field, Soror Roe brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to provide a comprehensive and valuable offering.

As a parent of a child with ASD, Soror Roe’s work is driven by a genuine desire to dispel mental health misconceptions and increase awareness and advocacy for those with autism. She holds a post-graduate certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder Across the Lifespan and a Master of Science in Education, Criminal Justice, & Human Services with a Concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis and Crime Prevention.

Soror Roe has partnered with Mecklenburg County’s Crisis Intervention Team to train CMPD officers, Sheriff’s Department staff, 911 operators, and other local police departments on safe and effective engagement with individuals on the autism spectrum. She has also collaborated with schools and corporate employers, including TIAA, to provide internal and external support groups and workshops. Last year, Soror Roe was chosen to speak at the Americans with Disabilities Act Symposium.

SOROR MEDRIA BUFORD

On a momentous occasion for the Alumnae Chapter, Soror Medria Buford has ascended to Director of Alumni Affairs at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, making history as the first African American to hold this esteemed title. Her appointment is a testament to her unwavering dedication and profound sense of responsibility in advancing alum engagement to new heights.

Soror Buford worked hard for years to get to her current prestigious role. She was a successful beauty salon owner for over a decade, honing her customer care skills. Her experience as office manager for a sickle cell anemia foundation further developed her marketing and fundraising abilities. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, she served as a Health Promotion Ambassador and Contact Tracer for the Louisiana Department of Health, showing her commitment to community well-being.

Soror Buford plans to strengthen alumni-benefactor connections and improve networking and fundraising for the ULM Alumni Association and Sigma Gamma Rho. Her commitment, creativity, and compassion promise to take them to new heights.

In her brief time as a member of Sigma Gamma Rho, Soror Buford has already made a significant impact, serving as Epistoleus and Social Committee Chair. She’s sowing seeds of LOVE within the Southwestern Region of Sigma Gamma Rho and is excited to witness the blossoming of her contributions. Soror Medria Buford’s journey is an inspiring tale of dedication and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on her community and beyond.

SOROR ANTOINETTE CLARK

In a celebration of literary excellence, the distinguished members of Eta Lambda Sigma proudly extend their heartfelt congratulations to accomplished author Soror Antoinette Clark. Clark, a three-time published author, recently graced the world with her third children’s book, “Kindness Matters: Helpful Honeybees.”

Beyond her literary achievements, Soror Clark holds the prestigious position of President and CEO at Shoulders of Strength, Inc., a role she has dedicated herself to since 2004. Within this organization, she has crafted Medicaid-approved programs specifically tailored to address a broad spectrum of behavioral, mental health, addictive, and intellectual concerns of the participants. Her visionary leadership at Shoulders of Strength, Inc. has genuinely illuminated the path of Greater Service in her community.

Soror Antoinette Clark’s latest literary contribution reflects her creative spirit and embodies the values and principles Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. holds dear. As the chapter celebrates her accomplishments as an author and leader, the Sorors look forward to witnessing the positive impact her book, “Kindness Matters: Helpful Honeybees,” will have on young minds as it spreads the vital message of kindness and compassion.

Recently receiving her doctorate in Educational Leadership, Soror Brandy Peer of Eta Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter has established her own consulting company called BMPowered Consulting, LLC. The primary objective of BMPowered Consulting is to inspire positive transformation and personal growth by offering customized coaching solutions. BMPowered Consulting aims to empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential, ultimately fostering long-lasting positive change in the world. The overarching purpose of the company is to create a world where every individual can live their best and most purposeful life, one coaching session at a time. Soror Peer also serves on the Northeastern Region Membership Committee.

SOROR CAMILLE JOSEPH VARLACK

Eta Nu Sigma Basileus Camille Joseph Varlack was recently promoted to the position of chief of staff to the 110th mayor of New York City, Eric Adams.

“I’m incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to serve as chief of staff, and I’m excited to continue to work with this incredible team that Mayor Adams has assembled,” said Varlack. “My mother — a nurse from Trinidad and Tobago who immigrated to the U.S. — taught me from a young age that order, structure, and discipline were nonnegotiable, and that’s the mentality I bring with me wherever I go. New York City is at the heart of the American Dream, and we’ll work tirelessly to make sure our city continues to be a place where people like my mother can work hard and achieve their dreams.”

Soror Varlack has held various positions in city government and is also a founding partner of the Bradford Edwards & Varlack LLP law firm.

SOROR FATIMA JONES

Eta Nu Sigma member Soror Fatima Jones has been named Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at The Apollo Theater. Soror Jones has been a part of the institution’s marketing and communications team since 2018. As CMCO, Jones oversees brand and performance marketing, creative, social media, digital marketing, public relations, and the communications team.

With this promotion, Jones joins the organization’s executive leadership team at an important time in The Apollo’s history. “The Apollo brand is synonymous with Black culture and American creativity. For nearly nine decades, The Apollo’s impact on global culture is undeniable,” said Jones. “As we forge a path forward, we will remain flexible, adaptable, and innovative in the ways we reach our audiences and communities from Harlem and beyond. It is an honor to be a part of the fantastic team that will shepherd The Apollo into an exciting new phase of its history.”

Soror Jones joined The Apollo after serving as Director of Public Relations at the Brooklyn Museum, where she led communications and outreach efforts for blockbuster exhibitions such as David Bowie Is and We Wanted A Revolution: Black Radical Women.

SOROR DANA CARABALLO

Eta Nu Sigma Soror Dana Caraballo recently launched her practice, “Meaningful Movement Mental Health Counseling, PLLC,” located in West Hempstead, NY, providing services to youth and young adults aged 4 to 25. Her goal is to be a vital community resource for children, adolescents, and young adults by providing a safe space to express their feelings and assist them with strengthening their mental state.

Soror Caraballo comments, “As a firstgeneration American whose parents emigrated from the beautiful twin Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, I understand firsthand the barriers black and brown communities encounter when attempting to identify quality services within their local communities and not feeling represented in professional fields, especially mental health.”

Learn more about her new practice at www.meaningfulmovementcounseling.com

SOROR FRANCES BATES

Frances Bates, Eta Nu Sigma’s former First Anti-Basileus, is the newest Community Affairs Manager at LinkNYC at Intersection, a media and technology company that enriches people’s journeys through their cities and connects them to their communities. LinkNYC is the New York City branch of an infrastructure project creating free 5G Wi-Fi service for all NYC residents. Soror Bates will form community partnerships to educate and cultivate relationships in the five boroughs to provide tech advocacy and training. She will also plan outreach events with New Yorkers to increase usage and make LinkNYC a beloved part of each community. Those interested in potential community partnerships may reach out to her at frances.bates@intersection.com.

SOROR NICOLE ROBINSON-ETIENNE

Nicole Robinson-Etienne, a member of Eta Nu Sigma, was honored alongside 50 of New York’s most prominent women in government, business, and media at HK Hall.

Nicole Robinson-Etienne was born to Caribbean immigrant parents in Brooklyn. After receiving her law degree from Boston’s Northeastern University, she returned to New York to work as an immigration attorney, helping clients navigate the complex legal processes in asylum and family reunification cases.

“That’s all I ever really wanted to do when I graduated from school,” says Robinson-Etienne, reminiscing. “I really wanted to come back to Brooklyn and serve the community from where I was raised.”

In 1999, Robinson-Etienne brought her legal prowess and passion for community service to politics as special counsel to former assembly member Rhoda Jacobs. In that role, she worked on legislative initiatives and advocacy efforts on behalf of constituents in Flatbush, NY.

Robinson-Etienne currently leads outreach efforts as the director of external affairs at LinkNYC, focusing on expanding free high-speed public Wi-Fi and reliable 5G mobile broadband services, as well as providing tech training to New Yorkers in need through the company’s new community Gigabit Centers.

Beyond her professional work, she devotes her time to mentoring young Black girls through the Girl Scouts.

SOROR MARIAN MARTIN

“Love & Order” are two words that encapsulate our lively, beautifully Cultured Pearl & Life Member, Soror Marian Martin. Her love for family, friends, people, and our Sorority emanates and impacts everyone she encounters. Her journey with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated began in 1960 with the Tau Chapter on the campus of Virginia Union University (VUU), where Soror Martin’s talents for establishing and maintaining order were clear.

Despite being the youngest of eight sisters, she was compelled to become a leader, strategically organizing a sense of order within the newly reactivated Tau Chapter. After obtaining her undergraduate degree, Soror Martin immediately joined the Iota Sigma Alumnae Chapter, continuing to serve Tau Chapter as the advisor. She formerly served as the Parliamentarian for the Notable Northeastern Region for two terms and currently serves as Iota Sigma’s Parliamentarian. Her ties with Virginia Union University are continuous; she serves as the Parliamentarian for the VUU Alumni Association and writes the standard operating procedures and policies for its various chapters.

SOROR ERICA COURTENAY-MANN

During the pandemic, Soror Erica Courtenay-Mann became inspired to share her Sarcoidosis story in hopes of improving the lives of Black Americans living with this disease. She joined the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research - Women of Color Patient Advisory Committee in July 2021 and has been a change agent in pushing the needle forward for a cure. Her initial involvement with the WOC Committee was with the Ignore No More Campaign. She was featured on several podcasts and virtual speaking engagements, and discussed Sarcoidosis on Roland Martin’s web show, “Unfiltered”. Knowing that Black American women are three times more likely to have Sarcoidosis than their non-Black counterparts, she continues her passionate work on the WOC Committee.

As part of the Ignore No More: ACTe Now Campaign, the foundation and committee created an anonymous survey for patients within the African American diaspora to share their experience with Sarcoidosis and provide their knowledge and perspectives on clinical trials. Being a beacon for a better quality of life for Black Sarcoidosis patients, Soror Courtenay-Mann had the honor of speaking at the congressional briefing hosted by Representative Danny Davis for the benefit of FSR’s Ignore No More Campaign on clinical trial diversity, titled Advancing Clinical Trial Equity for Black Patients with Sarcoidosis. Knowing that Soror Courtenay-Mann is using her voice on Capitol Hill to help other Sarcoidosis warriors is the definition of ‘Greater Service, Greater Progress.’

ZETA PHI SIGMA TACOMA, WA

Operation Homefront, Operation BigBookBag

The Tacoma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., teamed up with Operation Homefront to help collect back-to-school supplies from our local Dollar Trees, made possible with the collective assistance of Soror Jacina Laboo, Soror Cienai Wright Wilkins, Soror Tracie Cluke, Soror Sharon Reed, Soror Clarice Whitaker, Soror Tyi Richards, Soror Bre’ann Staples, Soror Talia Euell, Soror Tanisha Macklin, and Soror Lynn Willis.

The Tacoma Alumnae Chapter collected 2,645 supplies from participating Dollar Trees in the surrounding Pierce County, South King County, and Thurston County. With the help of our Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers, we were able to sort, count, and pack up all the supplies for delivery. Our Sigma family spent collectively around 60+ hours coordinating, transporting, sorting, and packing all the back-to-school supplies. During August 2023, Roosevelt Elementary School in Tacoma, WA, received 87 backpacks and 5 boxes of supplies from Rhoers and Rhosebuds.

Along with the support provided by Sorors in Tacoma, WA, on August 9, 2023, Soror Roz’lyn Grady Wyche, President of the Alaska Coalition of BIPOC Educators (ACBE), received donations from Anytime Fitness to provide backpacks and needed school supplies in support of Operation BigBookBag and the HUGGS (Helping Us Give School Supplies) Backpack Drive. Students in Anchorage, Alaska, were provided with donated backpacks and supplies.

SOROR JEANNETTE JOHNSON

Soror Jeannette Johnson received the 2024 Helen Jenkins Davis Award during the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Columbus Education Association banquet. This award is named in honor of the first black teacher hired by the Columbus City Schools. The teacher given this award promotes social justice, diversity, human and civil rights.

Soror Johnson has been teaching for 35 years in the Columbus City Schools. Her commitment to promoting diversity and addressing social injustice is richly reflected in her innovative curriculum. She selects a variety of picture books that celebrate diversity and offer insights into different cultures and experiences, enriching her scholars’ understanding of the world. Soror Johnson goes beyond traditional teaching methods by inviting a diverse range of guests to her classroom. These guests, extending from community leaders to cultural ambassadors, provide her students with real-world perspectives and firsthand experiences, further deepening their awareness and appreciation of social diversity and justice.

This approach inspires her scholars, fostering a learning environment where variety is not only taught but experienced and valued. Soror Johnson continues to serve the Columbus Education Association in many capacities. She is currently the Governor of District 5 in her school district.

Soror Johnson is a charter member of Iota Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Worthington, OH and Life Member #1919 with 36 years in Sigma.

SOROR MARKIA MILLIN

During the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Learning, at Capital University, Soror Markia Millin received the 2024 MLK Spirit Award. This award is granted to a senior who demonstrates leadership on and off campus by exhibiting qualities such as service, authenticity, courage, and excellence in honoring the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Soror Millin is majoring in criminology with minors in psychology and sociology. She has excelled in her academic courses and is actively engaged in community activities, including talks on positive reentry for incarcerated individuals, aimed at broadening her horizons and fostering change in the community. She currently works as an intern with the Ohio Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Soror Millin has produced programs for Capital University and other small neighboring colleges in Central Ohio. These programs include Open Mic, Black History Month Bingo, Meet the Greeks, tabling for hair care, mental health programs, and many other events.

A member of the Iota Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter, Soror Millin was the only Sigma sorority member at Capital University last year. She also won Sorority Leader of the Year during the 2022-2023 school year. Soror Millin has been a force on campus, representing Sigma to the fullest and letting EVERYONE know Sigma Gamma Rho is HERE!!!

SOROR ANDREA LOVETT

A luminary has emerged within the Iconic Iota Zeta Sigma Alumnae Chapter, in the field of education. Soror Andrea Lovett was named the 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year at Creekland Middle School in Gwinnett County, Georgia.

With an impressive seven-year tenure in education, Soror Lovett’s fifth year at Creekland has been particularly transformative. In her role, she imparts knowledge in the intricate domain of 7th grade mathematics, skillfully turning what can often be a daunting subject into an exhilarating intellectual voyage for students.

Soror Lovett’s teaching methodology transcends the traditional, empowering her students to embrace learning challenges enthusiastically. Her classroom fosters an atmosphere of growth and curiosity, where students eagerly engage in the pursuit of knowledge.

However, Soror Lovett’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. She serves as a mentor, guiding her students toward success and promoting the importance of education first. Her influence instills confidence, determination, and a strong sense of community among her students.

Soror Andrea Lovett’s Teacher of the Year Award is a shining testament to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s values of scholarship, service, and sisterhood. Andrea educates and inspires, making her an indispensable part of the sorority’s legacy.

SOROR CHANDRA STORY, PH.D.

Soror Chandra Story, Ph.D., Kappa Tau Sigma Alumnae Chapter member in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, was named the recipient of the 2023 ATHENA International Leadership Award of Rutherford County. The prestigious ATHENA Award recognizes leaders for attaining professional excellence, giving back to the community, and helping women advance their leadership skills—goals well aligned with those of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Other ATHENA International Leadership Award recipients have included Condoleezza Rice, Johnnetta Cole, and Gabby Giffords.

Dr. Story was lauded for her career dedicated to public health for marginalized communities, her commitment to service, and her passion for empowering women. Statewide, Soror Story serves on the Tennessee Health Disparity Task Force. On the national stage, she played a crucial role in drafting a policy statement for the American Association of Public Health that focused on the inclusion of women of color. Soror Story also serves as board president for the Middle Tennessee Fund for Women and Girls.

The local organization that conferred the award is based in Rutherford County, Tennessee, home to one of the nation’s fastest-growing major cities (Murfreesboro) and the state’s largest undergraduate university, Middle Tennessee State University, where Dr. Story is a Professor of Community and Public Health. The university named Soror Story the 2023 recipient of the John Pleas Faculty Award, presented annually to a Black faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and service.

LAMBDA UPSILON SIGMA PLANO, TX

Lambda Upsilon Sigma’s 2023 was a year filled with service and celebration.

In partnership with the Lambda Upsilon Sigma Charitable and Educational Foundation (LUSCEF), the chapter hosted ‘Cookies, Cocktails, and Creations.’ This event brought together Girl Scout cookies, wine, and book lovers for an interactive evening.

VIP guests were welcomed with an intimate reception that included miniature charcuterie boards and a trio of Girl Scout cookies paired with wine and spirits. Following the reception, guests transitioned to a five-station dinner with various Ole’ Orleans’ red and white wines, accompanied by an array of Girl Scout cookies. Soror Dr. Essence Johnson hosted a book discussion of The Cocktail Club with author and Soror Pat Tucker.

Celebrating 10 years on June 24, 2023, the Rhoyal Affair acknowledged and honored the five charter members. Since its inception, the chapter has given over 10,000 hours of community service, awarded over $80,000 in scholarships, and donated to multiple charities. They are proud to be a bicentennial chapter, one of the largest chapters in the Super Southwestern Region.

REGION NEWS

The ‘Captivating’ Central Region recently concluded its 84th Regional Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, hosted from March 7-10, 2024. Themed “The Greater Gateway: 99 years of Leading the Way,” the event served as a testament to the region’s unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership. Hosted by the 24th Past International Grand Basileus, Deborah CatchingsSmith, and the St. Louis area chapters: Alpha Upsilon Sigma (Basileus Katina Hardin), Eta Mu Sigma (Basileus Demetrius Butler), and Zeta Sigma (Basileus Earlene K. Bolton).

The conference began with warm greetings to attendees, fostering a tone of camaraderie and collaboration. Notable representatives from the Divine 9 participated in an engaging public session, fostering meaningful connections among each organization. A highlight during the public meeting was Macy’s announcement of a generous donation totaling $250,000 to the SPEAR foundation. This substantial contribution will significantly impact initiatives supporting those in need, reflecting the spirit of service ingrained in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

In addition to essential business proceedings, the conference featured a range of initiatives catering to the needs of undergraduate members. From Central Gives Back to the Poodle Pop-Up shop and the Stroll Clinic & Step Show, attendees were provided with valuable resources and opportunities for growth.

The Philos and Rhoers showcased exceptional leadership throughout the conference, actively participating in crucial business meetings, officer installations, and a variety of engaging events such as the Rhoer Sistershare, Butterfly Brunch, Philo First Lady Pageant, and the Rhoer Pajama Party.

Our affiliates aren’t merely followers; they are leaders embodying #Greater, embracing “Leadership through Action!” Their contributions and dedication exemplify the essence of our sisterhood. Under the leadership of Madam Youth Services Coordinator, Nariah Swails, the Central Region Board of Directors orchestrated impactful philanthropic efforts with local organizations, raising over $6,000 for the St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Epworth Children

& Family Services. The generous donations provided by the Board of Directors, chapters, Sorors, etc., allowed us to purchase hundreds of toys, diapers, wipes, and essential items, making a positive impact on the lives of those in need within the area.

Growth and Rebirth within the Region: The ‘Captivating’ region has also been actively engaged in the reactivation and chartering of new chapters. Under the guidance of UCC Nai V. Colton in 2023-2024, significant progress was made with the reactivation of chapters at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, Wisconsin (Epsilon XI), Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Theta Zeta), and Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio (Theta Kappa).

The region proudly celebrated the chartering of two new chapters at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky (Upsilon Lambda).

Additional Syntaktes Loreal N. Marshall led the charge in reactivating Theta Kappa Sigma in Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Iota Iota Sigma in Fort Wayne, Indiana, while also chartering Xi Epsilon Sigma in Macomb, Illinois.

Congratulations are in order to Syntaktes Loreal N. Marshall, UCC Nai V. Colton, YSC Nariah Swails, and the Regional Board of Directors on a successful conference and productive four years of leadership and service to the ‘Captivating’ Central Region. As we look ahead to the milestone of our 100th-year celebration, Central Region remains steadfast in its commitment to “Leading the Way.” Upholding the values and legacy of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., the region continues to empower excellence and shape a future of even greater achievements and contributions. With the 24th Past International Grand Basileus, Deborah Catchings-Smith, as the Centennial Chair, we are assured to have an amazing celebration!

SOROR LISA D. HARRIGAN TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE BERKLEE GOSPEL MUSIC HALL OF FAME

Soror Lisa D. Harrigan of Delta Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter (Westchester County, NY) has been recognized by Berklee College of Music & Boston Conservatory at Berklee with an induction into the Berklee Gospel Music Hall of Fame. This honor, for her tremendous contributions to Gospel Music, is scheduled to take place during the 2nd Annual Gospel Extravaganza Concert on Thursday, May 2, 2024.

Dr. Emmett G. Price III, Ph.D., Dean of Africana Studies, said, “Her impact and influence on Gospel Music at Berklee continues both on campus and across the globe. As the founder of Berklee’s Reverence Gospel Choir, her courageous vision and resilient endurance served as a catalyst for a group that now has international reach and global influence as a training ground for creative artists.”

Soror Harrigan’s significant leadership as a student is an inspiration to what many endeavor to grow and nurture at Berklee. Formerly, Soror Harrigan served as the Music Committee Chair for the Northeastern Region. She will be joining a select list of inductees for 2024, including Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Rev. Milton Biggham, and Ms. Evelyn Lee.

SIGMA GAMMA RHO DAY AT THE MARYLAND STATE CAPITAL

On Monday, February 19, 2024, Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers visited Maryland’s capital city for Sigma Gamma Rho Day in Annapolis. During the day, members and affiliates were greeted by Maryland Governor Wes Moore — who is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. — as well as members of the Maryland State House of Delegates and the Maryland State Senate.

Sorors and affiliates distributed a legislative agenda prepared by Northeastern Region Legislative Action Chair NaShona Kess, Esq., to their representatives outlining the sorority’s legislative priorities in housing, healthcare, education, and more. A legislative reception was held for members of the Maryland General Assembly to meet Maryland Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers from their legislative districts.

The day concluded with Syntaktes Selicia Sellers and Area I Coordinator Dr. Dawn Sherman receiving proclamations on behalf of the Maryland chapters in recognition of the sorority’s leadership in community service and advocacy to improve the quality of life of Maryland residents.

Sorors present at the event, currently holding elected or appointed positions in county or state government, included Maryland State Delegate Soror Tiffany Alston, State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County Soror Aisha Braveboy, and Prince George’s County Board of Education member Soror Jocelyn Route.

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NOTABLE UNDERGRADUATES: JESSELLA GAYMON, AT&T RISING FUTURE MAKER

Soror Jessella Gaymon, a Fall ‘23 Beta Omicron initiate at North Carolina Central University, was one of 25 HBCU students selected out of 1,001 applicants to be an AT&T Rising Future Maker! She had the opportunity to travel to AT&T Headquarters in Dallas, where she connected with other students and executive directors, creating opportunities for herself.

The contest required individuals to submit an essay or video to answer the following prompt: “How are you making history as a student of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and why should you be inducted as a Rising Future Maker?”. In addition, contest winners are awarded mentoring opportunities, $5,000, a year of AT&T service with a new device, and more. At the Winner’s Event, the 25 students received their prizes, the Dallas Cowboy Experience, and a grand welcome as “Rising Future Makers” at AT&T’s headquarters.

“I am extremely grateful to represent my university as an AT&T Rising Future Maker! This opportunity has allowed me to not only create opportunities for myself but for my peers. As a student leader, some individuals look up to me and are inspired by my leadership. I strive to represent myself well to allow students behind me to have these same opportunities. This experience was nothing but amazing, and I am grateful for the support I received along the way! I attend a small institution, so I know individuals are looking up to me.

Knowing that someone is always watching me lets me know that anyone can be a Rising Future Maker!” said Gaymon.

The Rising Future Makers Showcase reflects AT&T’s long-time support of HBCUs, continued commitment to empowering diverse communities, and dedicating resources that foster economic growth while helping bridge the digital divide, which disproportionately impacts communities of color. With each class, AT&T Dream in Black provides access to technology and resources, connecting students to their greater possibilities.

After a rigorous selection process, the 2023 Rising Future Makers Showcase presents HBCU students from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating creativity, technical prowess, and a commitment to leave a legacy of impact on society.

CELEBRATING 101 YEARS OF SERVICE: THE 84TH SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE IN MEMPHIS, TN

With the theme of “The Soul of Sisterhood,” the Southeastern Region hosted its 84th Regional Conference in Memphis, Tennessee, April 4-7, 2024, at the Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel. Nearly 1,300 sorority members and affiliates came together for a weekend dedicated to camaraderie, business, and service.

The conference kicked off with the Sigma Service “Day of Impact” on Thursday, April 4th, dedicated to supporting the renowned St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This initiative underscores the sorority’s commitment to advancing cures and prevention methods for pediatric catastrophic diseases through fundraising and awareness efforts. The opening day concluded with community service open to the city of Memphis to showcase its commitment to service and scholarship through various activation stations, including Swim 1922 and St. Jude.

Regional Director Celestine LaVan emphasized the organization’s commitment to creating a positive impact within communities, staying true to its motto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Events like the Soul Sisters Dedication Reception, the Golden Garden Gala, the Black and Bling reception, an undergraduate Step Show, and the Rhoer Sneaker Ball made the weekend both entertaining and impactful.

This conference was not just the celebration of a significant milestone but also an opportunity to renew the commitment to service, sisterhood, and scholarship that has been at the core of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., for over a century. As members and affiliates from Alabama, the Bahamas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and The Virgin Islands came together to share their experiences, make new connections, and uplift their communities, the spirit of unity and progress undoubtedly shone bright throughout the weekend.

THE LAUNCH OF SOPHISTICATED CONVERSATIONS

Sophisticated Conversations is a celebration of achievements, a preservation of history, and a source of inspiration aimed at capturing the wisdom and experiences of trailblazers and history makers within the sisterhood. Launching on February 4, 2024, this series is the brainchild of Southeastern Region Public Relations Chair, Soror Devin Williams.

During the month of February, the series featured Dr. Katie K. White, the 17th International Grand Basileus; Soror Cynthia Horner, a prominent figure in the media industry; and Helen J. Owens, the 20th International Grand Basileus. The stories captured by Southeastern

Region Epistoleus Jimeka Brown are stories of advice, the impact that Sigma Gamma Rho has made on their lives, and recounts of the entertainment industry relationships.

Past Grand Basileus Dr. Katie K. White reflected on experiences with the founders of the sorority. She described Founder Dorothy Hanley Whiteside as a prankster and highlighted Founder Hattie Mae Dulin Redford’s financial acumen. Past Grand Basileus Helen J. Owens shared her life’s story, detailing her upbringing as a sharecropper’s daughter, the importance of education, her journey to Lane College, meeting her husband, starting a family, and how Sigma Gamma Rho became an integral part of her life’s work. From the Northeastern Region, Soror Cynthia Horner shared insights into her childhood and what led her to become the editor and owner of Right On! Magazine. She recounted fascinating stories of her interviews with iconic personalities such as Michael Jackson, Prince, and Mariah Carey.

SOROR JASMINE FRIPP: A HARMONY OF EDUCATION AND MUSICAL EXCELLENCE

THE MELODY OF EARLY INSPIRATION

From a tender age, Soror Jasmine Fripp’s heartbeat to the rhythm of music. She experienced an initial setback in fourth grade when she wasn’t picked for the school choir, but she kept going. Her tireless dedication has not only garnered two Grammy nominations but has also inspired countless young minds to explore the realms of music and self-expression. As an educator at KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School, Soror Fripp’s classroom resonates with the vibrant notes of learning and creativity.

Soror Fripp is inspired by India Arie and Ella Fitzgerald while being mentored by Grammy award winning Music Educator, Dr. Jeffery Redding. As she navigated her career, Soror Fripp’s affiliation with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. deepened her commitment to education, echoing the principles of service and progress.

Amid her professional achievements, Soror Fripp finds solace and joy in her role as a mother and wife. Her daughter, Carmine, following in her footsteps, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of musical excellence. Supported by her devoted husband, Carlton, Soror Fripp’s family is the cornerstone of her success.

MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS

The Super Southwestern Region is excited about the membership growth of Sorors and Affiliates. Thanks to the investments of our members, the region has continuously surpassed growth goals over the past five years. During the month of March, we salute our collegiate members and those chapters that have achieved milestones. Congratulations!

83rd SOUTHWESTERN REGION CONFERENCE

The 83rd Southwestern Region Conference was held March 14-17, 2024, in Dallas, Texas, at the Hilton Anatole. The Conference Theme – Empowered To Succeed & Influencing Change – was exemplified by the attendees, guests, and sponsors throughout the multi-day event, with an overall economic impact estimated at well over half a million dollars.

Pre-conference activities included a metroplex-wide Swim 1922 community service event where nearly 100 participants, parents, and guests either learned to swim, received water safety tips, or cheered for attendees. The Golden Launch Party was held the evening of March 13th, preparing the entire Dallas/ Fort Worth area for the royal blue & gold takeover!

March 14th started with a Career and Health Fair to supercharge careers and focus on healthy living and wellbeing. The career fair exposed participants to resume writing, mock interviews, and a pitch competition. Health Fair participants included All of Us Research, American Heart Association, Baylor, Scott & White, NMDP (formerly known as the National Marrow Donor Program and Be The Match), Black Eye Care, Bridging the Gap Foundation, St. Jude, and Red Cross. The conference sponsor, Murray’s Worldwide, provided grab bags & hair care samples.

Later in the day, the region hosted a standing-roomonly Public Meeting with representation from the entire NPHC, and the evening culminated with an 80th celebration for the Philos, featuring a Boot & Bling Zydeco Party!

The Opening Session, held on March 15th, included a pep rally with sponsor and host Rock T, who recorded the region for the Rickey Smiley Morning Show and hyped the crowd about Stomp Wars! After plenary, the region enjoyed an Empowerment Luncheon where the 22 SWR Syntakti and 3 International/Past Grand Basilei of the region were honored and awarded as empowerment legends: world-renowned fashion designer J. Bolin, philanthropist & entrepreneur Anita Hawkins, actress & fitness guru Bo Talley-Williams, and singer & producer Angela Blair Jeffries. The Philos shined that evening in their First Lady Pageant, and the night culminated with a Step & Talent Show.

As part of the Healthy Living initiatives, a “Get Up & Move” workout session was held with Soror Bo Talley Williams, and a Walk22 event was led by Soror and Past Regional Syntaktes, Dr. Faith Foreman Hays.

On March 16th, the region celebrated Life Members during a luncheon, held multiple workshops catering to professional & personal growth, hosted a Leadership Tea, and held the Achievement & Awards Banquet, honoring award recipients, as well as the 22nd Syntaktes Miranda Moore as her term comes to an end. Afterwards, Sorors & Philos were entertained by Dru Hill, while the Rhoers had a Club 1939 festivity.

Omega Rho and memorials were held on the last day of the conference, and a Praise & Worship service with a “Give Me Back My Stuff” message from Chaplain Stokelin, songs from the SWR choir, and Bishop Marvin Sapp blessing the attendees!

Kudos to the Sigma Family, sponsors, and guests on an impactful & successful 83rd Southwestern Region Conference!

“The more you celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

SORORS GREET VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS IN LOS ANGELES

By March 10, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris had already traveled to 13 states. Her message has been clear: “Our fundamental freedoms are under attack, but we are in this fight together. And when we fight, we win.” On Saturday, March 9, 2024, members of Sigma Gamma Rho Southern California met Vice President Harris at the Los Angeles International Airport. Sigma members were front and center to hear Vice President Harris say, “Oh Beautiful, my D9 Sisters.”

The Secondary Gym buzzed with energy as over 60 girls in grades 6-12 from AISA, Yas American Academy, & Gems Academy delved into the world of STEM. Speed mentoring sessions and parental support workshops fostered a supportive environment. Parental support workshops included – Oprah Winfrey

STEMSPARK: EMPOWERING GIRLS FOR BRIGHT STEM FUTURES

On March 2, 2024, Mu Phi Sigma, Dubai Alumnae Chapter, in partnership with the American International School of Abu Dhabi (AISA), hosted a successful Youth Symposium themed “STEMspark: Empowering Girls for Bright STEM Futures” event! STEMspark ignited excitement! There were engaging workshops, inspiring speakers, hands-on activities, food, and prizes.

topics such as ‘Growth Mindset’ and ‘Preparing Your Student for STEM Professions.’ Professors from Sorbonne University of Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi School of Management were also in attendance, hosting a booth and providing information on their respective institutions.

Event panelists consisted of local professors and Sorors in STEM professions. The girls walked away from the event with a better understanding of STEM professions, and most of all, they learned that STEM can be a lot of fun.

EXCITING NEWS ALERT FROM AURORA, CO

Theta Zeta Sigma Alumnae Chapter’s Youth Symposium in Aurora, Colorado, on March 16, 2024, was an absolute blast! With a focus on “Prepared Youth Equals a Better Future,” the symposium welcomed over 20 bright young minds from grades K-12. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as eager participants dove into a day filled with learning, growth, and fun.

The event kicked off with a heartwarming presentation by Soror Ayesha Ricks, a member of Theta Zeta Sigma Alumnae Chapter and a Professional School Counselor. Soror Ricks set the tone with an exploration of social-emotional learning, emphasizing the importance of relationship building beyond electronic devices and fostering meaningful connections and emotional intelligence among our youth. Following Soror Ricks’ lead, Aurora Police Department’s Officer Matthew Alcorta took the stage, captivating the audience with lessons on local laws, law enforcement knowledge, life skills, and leadership. Officer Alcorta’s engaging approach left a lasting impression on the attendees, equipping them with invaluable tools for navigating the world with confidence. Additionally, Deserving Dental, represented by Founder & Executive

Director Jennifer Geiselhofer and her team, shared essential tips on dental wellness, ensuring that our youth understand the importance of oral hygiene for a bright and healthy future.

The symposium was a testament to the power of education, community engagement, and socialemotional learning in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

SGRHO - LANCASTER ALUMNAE AND CONCERNED BLACK MEN

The Epsilon Chi Sigma Alumnae Chapter and The Concerned Black Men of Los Angeles hosted a Youth Symposium on March 9, 2024, at Cole Middle School. The workshop-style event was open to students from elementary to high school. The Youth Symposium offered Antelope Valley students workshops on topics like higher learning, physical and mental well-being, financial stability, and opportunities in STEM. Workshops were also available for attending parents. The symposium is a way to teach the youth to use their knowledge and skills as keys to unlock advancement in those areas. There were more than 70 students and parents in attendance.

Basileus of Mu Phi Sigma Chapter, Soror Kimberly Braxton

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PAST INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS

Evelyn H. Hood LIFE & LEGACY

Soror Evelyn H. Hood was a dedicated educator, an Atlantan deeply engaged in her community, a wife, and a doting aunt.

To Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., she was an esteemed leader, the 14th International Grand Basileus. Her love for Sigma started when she became a member in 1950, and she served her beloved sorority until the end of her life as a member of the Eta Sigma chapter in Atlanta, GA. After a life of excellence and service, Soror Hood passed away at the age of 99 on April 6, 2023. Her Omega Rho ceremony was held on April 20, 2023, at West Mitchell Street Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Atlanta, GA, where she was the eldest member and a prized Sunday school teacher. Soror Rasheeda S. Liberty, the 25th and current International Grand Basileus, conducted the ceremony.

In addition to Soror Liberty, five Past International Grand Basilei were in attendance: Soror Katie K. White (17th), Soror Helen J. Owens (20th), Soror Joann Loveless (22nd), Soror Bonita M. Herring (23rd), and Soror Deborah Catchings-Smith (24th).

Sorors from Atlanta’s Eta Sigma Chapter, Soror Hood’s home chapter, as well as Sorors from around the country were adorned in a sea of white as they gathered to honor a legacy that is the epitome of “Greater Service, Greater Progress”.

From 1976 to 1980, during Soror Hood’s administration as International Grand Basileus, the sorority saw the creation of the Philo Affiliates and over $600,000 was raised in scholarships for high school students under her leadership. She also contributed to stabilizing

By Nichole Williams

cash flow in the sorority as well as solidifying major donations from key organizations, such as the United Negro College Fund and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Soror Hood was born in Bibb County, GA to Oran and Anne Spivey Hawkins. She completed high school in Macon before attending Paine College in Augusta. She moved to Atlanta and completed her studies at Atlanta University (now Clark Atlanta University). Upon graduating from Atlanta University, Soror Hood began a 42-year career as a teacher at C.W. Hill Elementary School in Atlanta where she nurtured her second-grade students through teaching them reading and writing.

After marrying educator LoVette Hood Jr., Soror Hood and her husband opened their home to their many nieces and nephews, giving them a place to stay as they focused on their college studies. One of those nephews was Dr. M. Gerald Hood, who went on to become a noted OB-GYN in Atlanta.

Outside of Sigma, Soror Hood volunteered at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center and the YWCA of Greater Atlanta. She was a beloved figure in her community and received many awards from the City of Atlanta and Fulton County.

Soror Hood’s impact will be felt for generations to come, both within Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and beyond.

HELPING

One OF OUROwn

$1M ACCOMPLISHMENT BENEFITING ST. JUDE MARKS NEW ACHIEVEMENT FOR THE DIVINE NINE

By ALSAC/St. Jude

A cancer diagnosis changes everything. The world seems to stop in an instant. All parts of life are suddenly different.

Tanisha was aware of these devastating realities. She had been a long-time supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, and is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., which also supports the lifesaving mission of St. Jude.

L to R: Rasheeda Liberty, International President of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.; Tanisha, St. Jude Mother; and DJ, DeShon

But being aware of something and experiencing it are two very different things.

When DJ, Tanisha’s oldest son, was 15, a lump suddenly appeared on the right side of his jaw. A trip to the doctor returned a diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma, a type of soft tissue cancer. DJ was referred to St. Jude for treatment.

Tanisha said it felt like she was hit in the stomach with a ton of bricks upon hearing the diagnosis.

DJ underwent surgery to remove the tumor, which was followed by radiation therapy and nearly a year of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, despite those efforts, the cancer still returned. More radiation and chemo followed.

After being placed on maintenance therapy to keep the cancer in remission, a follow-up MRI revealed another tumor. More than three years after the initial diagnosis, DJ’s treatment continues at St. Jude.

“Childhood cancer is devastating,” Tanisha said. “But with it there is hope, especially with places like St. Jude.”

Tanisha says DJ is still alive because of the generous support from individuals and organizations across the country, including Sigma Gamma Rho. She said it means the world to her that her sorority completed its pledge to raise $1 million for St. Jude in honor of Sigma Gamma Rho’s 100th anniversary. In doing so, Sigma Gamma Rho became the first Divine Nine sorority to raise $1 million for St. Jude. The sorority was honored for its achievement at the 2024 St. Jude Celebration of Hope seminar in Memphis, Tennessee, in January.

Rasheeda S. Liberty, International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho, stated in a press release celebrating the achievement, “Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated is grateful for the opportunity to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s work to find cures and help save the lives of children all over the world. I am proud of the mobilization of our global membership to reach this $1 million milestone, and to have done so just prior to our 101st Founders’ Day. This accomplishment aligns with our sorority’s motto, ‘Greater Service, Greater Progress.’

We look forward to continuing our partnership with St. Jude in the years to come.”

Tanisha presented Liberty with the St. Jude Pioneer Award during the 2024 Celebration of Hope seminar.

Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – so they can focus on helping their child live.

“It’s because of gifts like this that parents like me can go into a hospital, see my son and not worry about a bill or how much it’s going to cost to buy his medicine,” Tanisha said. “I know I would be bankrupt if I had to.”

Tanisha also said DJ was excited to know of Sigma Gamma Rho’s fundraising achievements, adding that he now calls every member of the sorority his aunties.

“St. Jude is a godsend,” Tanisha said. “And I will scream it from the top of the highest mountain.”

To learn more about Tanisha’s story and the St. Jude partnership, please scan here:

ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER

Alpha Sigma’s Centennial Celebration: Honoring Legacy, Inspiring Community In 2022, the Alpha Sigma Alumnae Chapter celebrated Centennial with various events that honored the Founders and celebrated #Greater

While the Alpha Sigma Alumnae Chapter welcomed Sorors from all over the country, the chapter showcased a series of events during Founders month, which is affectionately known as Rhovember.

To commemorate the Founders and 100 years of sisterhood, scholarship, and service, the City of Indianapolis honored Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated with a street sign dedication that was held on Friday, November 11, 2022. The roadway, called Boulevard Place, is what our Founders walked on. The new roadway, Indianapolis, IN

ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER (cont’d)

which is in between 49th and 52nd Street, has since been renamed as Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Way.

On Saturday, November 12, 2022, the Chapter hosted the Golden Soiree, which was the Official Centennial Afterparty. Both Alumnae and Undergraduate Sorors were able to gather in style and celebrate 100 years of true Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service.

The Chapter also held their Sisterhood Brunch on Sunday, November 13, 2022. Soror and Chef Temicka “Tweet” Moore of Sincere Catering, hosted the event and blessed guests with live music, amazing food and entertainment. During that same event, the chapter held a rededication ceremony to reflect, honor and celebrate the Sorority’s history and legacy.

On November 18, 2022, Alpha Sigma celebrated with the Indianapolis Public Schools Foundation at the Hall of Fame to honor the Founders as “Inspiring Alumni.” Each Founder was recognized for their work within Indianapolis communities and surrounding public schools. The Alpha Sigma centennial planning committee and the Legacy team Sorors Tanika Scott and Soror Marier Cox worked diligently to make sure this project came to fruition.

Furthermore, Alpha Sigma partnered with the men of Alpha Alpha Omega Alumni Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated to host the Gold Rush: Scholarship Brunch and Day Party fundraiser. This successful event brought the community together and raised money to provide scholarships to youth seeking higher education. The money raised for this event went toward scholarship initiatives for the chapter.

A recap of the Chapter’s Centennial events can be found by visiting the Chapter’s YouTube page: www.youtube.com/@alphasigmaSGRHO

Dr. Khalilah Shabazz, great granddaughter of Founder Vivian Irene White Marbury

ALPHA OMICRON SIGMA CHAPTER

Dallas, TX

Exemplifying Excellence Through An Impactful Year

The Alpha Omicron Sigma (AOS) chapter commenced the sorority year with strength! On August 5, 2023, AOS hosted its annual Operation Big Book Bag initiative at Gateway Charter Academy in Dallas, Texas. Sorors and community members generously donated school supplies, filling over 100 backpacks. AOS Rhoers assisted by distributing backpacks, while the Rhosebuds helped clean and organize preschool classrooms, showcasing the younger generation’s impactful giving.

On October 14, 2023, Alpha Omicron Sigma participated in two community service events! AOS Sorors partnered with Tango Charities in Bedford and Downtown Dallas, Texas, preparing a total of 4,990 meals for families and individuals in need. Through these efforts, AOS made a significant impact on the Dallas-Fort Worth community, exemplifying the spirit of #Greater.

Under the guidance of the community service chair Tiffany Ekpete, AOS was honored for their ongoing partnership with Bessie Coleman Middle School in Cedar Hill Independent School District. Through Operation BigBookBag, AOS donated over 100 supply-filled backpacks and provided classroom supplies throughout the year.

Additionally, AOS chartered the Upsilon Mu Chapter at the University of North Texas at Dallas on April 23, 2023, under the leadership of Basileus Kamisha Knight-Johnson, Anti-Basileus Tamika Peak, and Past Basileus Dentia Branch. The chapter also awarded $2750 in scholarships to high school seniors and undergraduates, continuing their commitment to education.

The “Amazing” ladies of AOS remain dedicated to serving the Dallas community, fostering sisterhood, and expanding scholarship opportunities. They strive to create a Greater World through Greater Service and Greater Progress!

Fort Worth, TX

Empowering Sisterhood, Elevating Communities

The Prestigious Alpha Pi Sigma Chapter commenced the sorority year with a renewed commitment to progress through sisterhood under the leadership of Basileus Tanisha Artis. Throughout the year, APS Sorors collaborated, uplifting the sisterhood, and enhancing programming, propelling a positive trajectory beyond Centennial celebrations.

APS initiated the year by partnering with the Fort Worth Independent School District for Operation BigBookBag. Alongside District 4 Board Trustee Wallace Bridges and the Historic Southside Neighborhood Association, members filled 330 backpacks with donated school supplies over two days. Sorors also volunteered at the community event, assisting families in book giveaways and school registrations.

Continuing the momentum, APS adopted the NICU at John Peter Smith Hospital for Project Cradle Care. As part of the adoption, APS donated baby essentials like blankets, bottles, onesies, and diapers, alongside shoe gift cards for low-income families through Soles for Little Souls.

Under the leadership of 1st Anti-Basileus Charisa Burkhead, APS inducted eight remarkable women and reclaimed many more. The Rhoers achieved their membership goals by inducting four outstanding young ladies, and the Philos welcomed two new members. Concluding a successful sorority year, Alpha Pi Sigma received recognition for its numerous community service contributions to Fort Worth and Tarrant County.

ALPHA RHO SIGMA CHAPTER

Empowering Mothers In Waco Through Community Support

In a heartwarming display of community support, the Alpha Rho Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority has made a generous donation of cash and baby supplies to the Care Net organization in Waco, Texas. This donation will help support Care Net’s mission to provide compassionate care and practical resources to women facing unplanned pregnancies. Additionally, the donation from the Alpha Rho Sigma Chapter will assist Care Net in continuing to provide essential services to those in need. In support of Care Net and the vital work they do for the Waco community, Alpha Rho Sigma hosted a community baby shower, which is held annually, to provide more resources and supplies for mothers in need.

ALPHA XI SIGMA CHAPTER

Motherhood Matters

The Alpha Xi Sigma Tulsa Alumnae Chapter orchestrated a series of events dedicated to supporting mothers and children through the Project Cradle Care initiative. The initiative kicked off on January 28, 2023, with a drive-thru community baby shower. Sorors, Philos, Rhoers, and Rhosebuds distributed 45 bags filled with essential baby items, such as bottles, diapers, and wipes, to community members. Additionally, gently used children’s clothing donations were made available to the public. The event garnered attention and was featured on KTUL Channel 8 News.

The second event, held on February 22, 2023, saw the distribution of 70 bags to recipients enrolled in Strong Tomorrows, a program supporting expectant and parenting students in Tulsa Public Schools.

The third event highlighted the March of Dimes Sibling Kit initiative. On March 10, 2023, Sorors crafted and delivered 50 Sibling Kits to Saint Francis Children’s Hospital.

The series of events concluded on May 14, 2023, with the delivery of Mommy Self-Care Bags to the women of James, Inc. These 50 bags, containing

L-R: Olga Rodgers, Basileus, Doylene Walker, Sylvia Heggins, Elwayne Gilbert, Thia Allen, Blanche Willis, Savannah Samuels

ALPHA XI SIGMA CHAPTER

pajamas, gift cards, and toiletries, served as thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts to support the organization’s mission of guiding expecting and adolescent parents towards self-sufficiency.

In total, these initiatives have positively impacted 165 families, demonstrating Alpha Xi Sigma’s dedication to supporting and uplifting mothers and children in their community.

BETA CHI SIGMA CHAPTER

Hattiesburg, MS

Sigma Gamma Rho At HubFest!

The Beta Chi Sigma Alumnae Chapter made a significant impact as the sole health & wellness booth at the 2023 HubFest in downtown Hattiesburg, MS. Dubbed VaxScene, this event focused on vaccine-centered health initiatives, provided free to the community.

Having secured 3 Good Health WINs grants, the chapter seized the opportunity to educate hundreds of participants on vaccine awareness and equity. Attendees actively engaged with chapter members, availed themselves of wellness resources, and received giveaways. In collaboration with Walmart Pharmacy, the chapter also facilitated a vaccination clinic and conducted health screenings.

Looking ahead, the Beta Chi Sigma Chapter remains committed to advancing Greater Service and Greater Progress through forthcoming community service endeavors.

BETA LAMBDA SIGMA CHAPTER

Raleigh, NC

Dr. Patrena Benton Elliott Appointed President of Halifax Community College

Over the past 28 years, Dr. Patrena Benton Elliott has cultivated an extensive career in higher education. On January 1, 2023, she assumed the role of the sixth and first female President of Halifax Community College, marking a significant milestone in her journey. Before this appointment, she served as Vice President and Chief Academic and Student Affairs Officer at Robeson Community College.

Dr. Elliott’s career is adorned with various senior administrative roles, including Vice President for Academic Affairs, Graduate College Dean, and Chief Executive Officer of a statewide inter-institutional center within the University of North Carolina System. Throughout her tenure, she has spearheaded the establishment of academic programs spanning from certificate to graduate levels, secured substantial institutional funding, mentored numerous students, and delivered presentations nationwide.

Her educational background includes a B.A. in Communication Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an M.S. in Adult Education, and a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from North Carolina A&T State University. A lifelong learner, she has also earned Higher Education/Leadership Certificates from prestigious institutions such as Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, Leadership Raleigh, Hampton University, and the University of North Carolina System.

Dr. Elliott’s contributions have been recognized through honor society inductions and leadership awards. She actively engages in service organizations like The Links, Incorporated, and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Personally, she is married to Dr. Stanley Elliott, and they take pride in their daughter Jordan, a recent college graduate, and their son Sterling, a current college student.

BETA PI SIGMA CHAPTER

Durham, NC

Celebrating 100 Years Of Greater Service, Greater Progress

The Beta Pi Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho, Inc. has wholeheartedly embraced its centennial year by dedicating “Greater Service” throughout the Durham and Orange County communities. The Sorors joined forces with the Beta Pi Sigma Rhoer Affiliates to serve at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. Together, they assisted in packing approximately 11,200 pounds of food, equivalent to 9,341 meals, which were distributed to families in need during Thanksgiving.

The chapter collaborated with the NPHC of Durham/Orange Counties for a winter Toy Drive initiative. Through a community-hosted winter mixer, over 150 new toys were generously

BETA PI SIGMA CHAPTER

(cont’d)

donated by individuals and organizations. These toys were distributed to families with the assistance of the local housing authority.

Through contributions from the Northeastern Region MidWinter Meeting Community Service fundraiser, the Beta Pi Sigma Rhoer Club, and Chapter resources, Beta Pi Sigma procured over 1,000 items for Project Cradle Care. They assembled 100 care packages for Duke Children’s Health Center Neonatal Clinic, comprising sibling kits, parent kits, baby bibs, and onesies. Serving the community remains a cornerstone value for the Beta Pi Sigma Chapter, and they take immense pride in their ongoing commitment to serving the Durham and Orange County, NC communities.

DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER

Chicago, IL

The Rhoyal Standard

The Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, epitomizes the organization’s commitment to service, embracing the motto “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Under the leadership of Soror English Gonzalez, Civic Chair, and Soror Lawanda Mahomes, St. Jude Walk/Run Fundraiser Chair, the chapter excelled in fundraising, raising $2,313 for children battling cancer through the St. Jude Fundraiser.

In the Soles for Little Souls initiative, Delta Sigma distributed 130 pairs of shoes to children in need, with support from the Chicago and Calumet CityLansing chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. These shoes were provided to the Rush School Based Health Center and Breakthrough Ministries in Chicago, IL.

Additionally, the chapter organized its annual Youth Symposium at William H. Brown Magnet School in Chicago, IL, led by Soror English Gonzalez. Over 100 students from grades 5th to 8th engaged in enriching activities, workshops, and sessions on crucial topics such as Bullying, Healthy Relationships, Finance, Mental Health, Entrepreneurship, Career Engagement, Social Media Etiquette, and Reproductive Health.

In recognition of her dedication, Soror Audrey Tanksley, MD, received the Ollie V. Greene Humanitarian Award for her contributions to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and the community. As a board-certified Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine physician, Soror Tanksley led health and wellness initiatives, including the “Covid Conversation with Delta Sigma Chapter’s Poodles in Scrubs” webinar and the “Rhoer Tik Tok Challenge” promoting Covid vaccine awareness.

Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter remains committed to excellence and community service, setting “The Rhoyal Standard” in their endeavors.

EPSILON PSI SIGMA CHAPTER

Topeka, KS

Rhovived And Ready For Action

Epsilon Psi Sigma Chapter, located in Topeka, Kansas, had its beginning on March 6, 1982, with eight Sorors: Terry Lewis, Cleta Wolverton, Marie Carter, Sandy Hysten, Lula May, Bessie Jackson, Malisse Lockhart, and Rosalyn Carr. M. Malisse Lockhart, affectionately known as Ma Sigma, was the encouraging force while leading the way. Communication began with Central Regional Syntaktes

Adah Hull, along with her making a visit during the fall of 1981. The eight reached out to other chapters in the area, inviting them to the birth celebration ceremony of Epsilon Psi Sigma at St. John AME Church.

The next year, on December 4, 1983, the chapter welcomed neophytes, Sorors

Darlene Hughes Palmer, Tamara Ezell, and Vivian Lynch. The chapter continued for several years; however, as Sorors moved and started their careers, the chapter faded. With the encouragement of Soror Stacy Yeager, three Epsilon Psi Sigma charter members made the pledge to reactivate. These faithful few, who are now seasoned and retired, recognize Ma Sigma’s legacy of uplifting and helping “ladies interested in education” and reactivated the chapter with Sorors Marie Carter, Angel Spann, Darlene Palmer, Amber Sellers, and Rosalyn Carr on April 26, 2021. Since reactivating in 2021, Epsilon Psi Sigma has grown, welcoming new members into the sisterhood. Epsilon Psi Sigma is back and ready for action in Topeka, Kansas.

ETA LAMBDA SIGMA CHAPTER

Monroe, LA

“Empowering Communities And Making Waves”

The Eta Lambda Sigma Chapter has been tirelessly engaged in a series of impactful endeavors. Collaborating with the undergraduate chapters Kappa Theta of the University of Louisiana Monroe and Beta Omega of Grambling State University, the Sorors organized their Annual Women’s Empowerment Brunch, a free event open to the public. The event was graced by guest speaker Soror Kramer McDaniel, LCSW-BACS, the owner of AGAPE Therapeutic Solutions in Lafayette, Louisiana. Soror McDaniel enlightened attendees on strategies to increase and maintain productivity professionally and personally.

Adding to their list of accomplishments, the Sorors awarded their annual high school scholarship to

ETA LAMBDA SIGMA CHAPTER

Amarie Brown, president of the chapter’s affiliate Rhoer Club. In their unwavering commitment to community service, they also volunteered each month at the Community Soup Kitchen, where they prepared meals, distributed supplies, and maintained the community clothing closet. Their dedication to community wellbeing extended to their annual Swim 1922 Water Safety Clinic, held in partnership with the City of Monroe. Swimming lessons and goodie bags complete with swimsuits, snacks, and other essentials were provided to participants.

The chapter’s commitment to giving back was also demonstrated through a partnership with Community Connections Inc. at Caver McDonald Library for Operation BigBookBag. This collaboration resulted in the donation of 144 backpacks to benefit multiple elementary schools, including Carver, Clara Hall, Cypress Point, Shelling, and Jefferson Upper. Eta Lambda Sigma’s dedication to the community shines bright, and they look forward to a promising future filled with continued service and impactful initiatives.

ETA SIGMA SIGMA CHAPTER

Greenville, SC

Membership Growth And Community Impact

The Eta Sigma Sigma Chapter continues to thrive in sisterhood, scholarship, and service, embodying the mission of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in the Greater Greenville Community. Achieving PEARL status with a double-digit TORCH Class in Spring 2023 marks a historic milestone for the chapter.

In addition to fostering growth, Eta Sigma Sigma remains dedicated to service. Collaborating with Upstate Circle of Friends (UCF), the chapter volunteers in cleaning and beautifying the Belle Meade community garden. They also organize Operation BigBookBag events and Greenville Stay Well Community Health Fairs.

The Annual Youth Symposium 2023, held in partnership with UCF, was a resounding success. Attendees enjoyed engaging activities, special performances, and informative sessions covering various topics such as self-care, mental health, financial literacy, and voting resources.

With increased membership, Eta Sigma Sigma expands its community impact through enhanced collaboration and partnerships. The chapter’s commitment to service and community betterment remains unwavering as they continue to make a GREATER difference in Greenville.

ETA NU SIGMA CHAPTER

Brooklyn, NY

Eta Nu Sigma Sponsors Signature Events: Youth Symposium x EmpoWOMENt

New York State Senator Kevin Parker and NYC Councilmember Farrah Louis partnered with Eta Nu Sigma for the chapter’s National Youth Symposium and EmpoWOMENt event.

“I am always excited to collaborate with the amazing members of Eta Nu Sigma,” said Senator Parker, emphasizing their 30-year relationship dedicated to community empowerment.

The dual programs, held at PS/IS 109 in Brooklyn, offered a platform for both youth and women’s empowerment. EmpoWOMENt addressed various aspects of women’s health, including cancer awareness, financial planning, and embracing identity. Meanwhile, the National Youth Symposium provided interactive workshops, games, and lunch for young attendees.

Topics at EmpoWOMENt covered a wide range, from Real Estate and Generational Wealth to embracing spirituality and self-awareness. The event aimed to address holistic well-being for women in the community.

Both events received support from local vendors and garnered attention from local and national media outlets, highlighting the significance of the collaborative initiative in fostering community empowerment.

Empowering Young Minds Through Storytelling

Brooklyn children had the chance to listen to uplifting stories during World Read Aloud, sponsored by Eta Nu Sigma (Brooklyn Alumnae) chapter and organized by committee chairs Kenay Sudler and Yveka Pierre. Held at The Center for Fiction Bookstore, this event aimed to promote literacy by exposing children to books by acclaimed authors during Black Children’s Book Week. According to Eta Nu Sigma’s Social Action Committee co-chair Yveka Pierre, representation in literature is crucial for building self-esteem and empathy among youth.

The Read Aloud highlighted books that feature Black authors and characters, providing children with diverse role models. Readers, including chapter members and a Rhoer, engaged children with captivating stories.

The Seven Roses Legacy Foundation supports such events, accepting donations to offer scholarships to Brooklyn and Queens residents. www. sevenroses.org

ETA PSI SIGMA CHAPTER

Shreveport, LA

28 Exquisite Years Of Serving Our Community

The women of Eta Psi Sigma Chapter continue their elaborate community outreach efforts. They started the centennial year (2022-2023) with a partnership with LifeShare Blood Center for a National Blood Donor Month blood drive. Additionally, they supported the Project Cradle Care Initiative by donating baby care baskets and educational books to expectant mothers through a local Parenting Center for the third consecutive year.

Remaining active in the community, Sorors collaborated with MySparShreveport to host a Health, Beauty, and Fashion Expo, providing valuable information on mental health and skincare. They also distributed over fifty bookbags to students as part of SGRHO’s Operation BigBookBag initiative.

In response to the water crisis in Mississippi, the chapter donated three pallets of bottled water and renewed its partnership with Shreveport Green by becoming the first organization to sign up for Adopt-A-Street. The year concluded with the Soles for Little Souls Shoe Drive, resulting in seventy-one pairs of new shoes donated to a local school.

Eta Psi Sigma Chapter remains dedicated to reaching out and serving their local communities, adhering to their motto of “Greater Service, Greater Progress!”

GAMMA BETA SIGMA CHAPTER

Omaha, NE

More Than A Splash In Community Engagement

The Groundbreaking Gamma Beta Sigma Chapter (GBS) initiated the sorority year with fervor, participating in the Native Omaha Day Parade and the Biennial Black Community Homecoming Celebration. Throughout the weeklong celebration, GBS engaged in various activities, including a “Meet the Greeks” discussion and organizational fair at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, and supported the Omaha Community School Supplies Drive with Change Omaha in August.

GAMMA BETA SIGMA CHAPTER

In September, the chapter showcased our esteemed organization at the Great Plains Black History Museum, contributing to a month-long exhibit featuring Omaha Divine Nine organizations. GBS members loaned precious artifacts, paying homage to our Seven Founders and oldest living chapter members by sharing unique paraphernalia dating back to our charter in 1954.

Furthermore, chapter members participated in community events such as the “Suicide Prevention and Awareness Walk,” coached sessions for “Girls on the Run,” presented at a workshop on scholarship opportunities for college-bound high school students and attended the Central Region’s Leadership Summit.

Gamma Beta Sigma remains steadfast in their commitment to expanding chapter membership and enhancing the community impact. For more information, follow us on social media @OmahaSGRho

GAMMA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER

West Palm Beach, FL

Gaining Greater Success

Under the leadership of Basileus Tequesta Cunningham Alston, the Gamma Gamma Sigma Alumnae Chapter in West Palm Beach, Florida commenced the 2023-2024 sorority year with great enthusiasm and vigor. Members were rejuvenated during a three-day retreat in September, setting the tone for a year of growth and success. The chapter experienced remarkable growth, achieving Pearl membership status in January 2023, rebounding from a slight decline before the pandemic. The active participation of reactivated, transferred, and new members has paved the way for a bright future and increased membership.

Initiatives for the upcoming year include various fundraisers and the signature event, “The Annual Big Hat Jazz Brunch Scholarship Awards Fundraiser,” which provides scholarships to students pursuing higher education. Additionally, the chapter is organizing events such as “Poodle Membership Retention” (PMR) socials, virtual informational sessions, SWIM 1922 events, and charitable walks.

The first event of the year is the “St. Jude Walk/Run,” a national project aimed at ending childhood cancer. This hybrid 5K event takes place in September, both in person and virtually, in support of the lifesaving mission of St. Jude.

In October, the chapter will focus on the “Hattie McDaniels Breast Cancer Awareness/Women’s Wellness Initiative.” Through these endeavors, the Gamma Gamma Sigma Alumnae Chapter continues to thrive, delivering impactful community service and achieving greater success in the upcoming sorority year.

IOTA ZETA SIGMA CHAPTER

Sigma Women Making A Difference

The Iota Zeta Sigma Alumnae Chapter (IZS) in North Atlanta, GA, demonstrated its commitment to “Greater Service Greater Progress” by launching the 2023 school year with Operation BigBookBag. Operation BigBookBag was the culmination of two summer events held at The Dekalb Preparatory Academy in Decatur, GA, and Rock Chapel Elementary School in Lithonia, GA. Chapter members and affiliates utilized their personal networks and pooled resources to donate over 160 book bags filled with essential supplies for student attendees at both events.

Stephanie Madison-Miller, Iota Zeta Sigma International Programs Chair, remarked, “Our goal was to facilitate a seamless transition back-to-school for students in our service area.” Operation BigBookBag preparation and planning generated significant service hours for the chapter, ultimately bringing smiles to the faces of children.

Operation BigBookBag 2023 exemplifies Iota Zeta Sigma’s dedication to community and education. As the chapter continues its service journey, the legacy of this initiative will illuminate the path toward a brighter and more empowered future for countless young minds.

KAPPA SIGMA CHAPTER

New York, NY

Committed To “Greater Service, Greater Progress” In Harlem

The Kappa Sigma New York City Alumnae Chapter (KS) kicked off 2023 with the theme “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” dedicating themselves to giving back to the Harlem community. The chapter organized a Project Cradle Care event in partnership with March of Dimes, providing sixty sibling activity kits to families with patients in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Harlem Hospital. Chairperson Soror Patricia Thomas, alongside other Sorors, collected and distributed the kits to families.

KAPPA SIGMA CHAPTER

Additionally, the chapter collaborated with the SCAN-Harbor Reach for the Stars college-bound program at Wadleigh High School for their Annual Youth Symposium. Sorors facilitated activities covering financial planning, college life, and coaching for students’ business ideas. Soror Clellia Sciaccia led this event, supported by Soror Tiana Morrison, who organized Social Emotional Learning (SEL) activities. Students received valuable guidance and ideas to help them achieve their goals.

In March (2023), the chapter inducted eight new members. Membership Chairperson, Soror Zulema Jones Enoe, introduced RHOyal Compstat, a group of Sorors equipped with diverse skills and knowledge to further SGRHO’s mission: Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service to the Harlem community.

KAPPA OMEGA SIGMA CHAPTER

Lakeland, FL

Soaring To Greater Heights Kappa Omega Sigma (KOS) Sorors continue to soar, exemplifying the spirit of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. They kicked off the year with their annual “KOS Kick-off” in Lakeland, Florida, collecting school supplies for Operation BigBookBag and supporting voter registration efforts.

Throughout RHOvember, KOS celebrated SGRHO’s Centennial with sophistication, engaging in community service, hosting a sisterhood mixer, organizing a private screening of “Black Panther,” hosting a sneaker ball, and culminating with a farewell brunch.

In the new year, KOS honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during Bartow’s Parade, distributing books and beads to parade-goers. The celebration of Black history continued as the Lakeland Magic recognized the chapter during their halftime show for Black History Month.

KOS’s commitment to service shone bright as they collected 102 pairs of gently used gym shoes for donation to GotSneakers. They also welcomed new Rhoers, inducted the largest new member class in KOS history, awarded a $500 scholarship, and fundraised over $3,000.

Guided by the mission of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Kappa Omega Sigma continues to enhance the quality of life for women and their families through community service, civil, and social action.

LAMBDA CHI SIGMA CHAPTER

Alsip, IL

From Centennial To Symposium

The Leading Ladies of Lambda Chi Sigma (LCS) Chapter embarked on the 2022-23 sorority year with the spirit of a Centennial Celebration! Joining thousands of Sorors, Philos, Rhoers, and Guests in Indianapolis, IN, LCS painted the town royal blue and gold during the Centennial Boule. They engaged in the Irvington Walking Tour, conducted Sigma business, attended celebratory events, and retraced the path of SGRHO’s illustrious founders.

In August 2022, Sorors partnered with Covenant Faith Church of God for their Back to School Fest and Diaper Drive, distributing fifty book bags filled with school supplies to children during Operation BigBookBag. LCS marked their 9th Charterversary in September with “The Greater Gatsby Soiree,” followed by a Rhomania Murder Mystery event in October and the induction of five new members in November.

As the 100th anniversary celebrations continued, LCS participated in the Captivating Central Region’s 22-Karat Golden Soiree. Their commitment to community service persisted through involvement in the Covenant Faith Church of God’s Christmas Giveaway. Wrapping up the year, LCS celebrated their Rhoers and supported the Philos Virtual Culinary Experience fundraiser in February 2023, followed by participation in a Self-Care Saturday event.

In March 2023, LCS hosted the Annual Youth Symposium at Prairie Hills Junior High, inducted two new Rhoers, and educated the Rhosebuds on the benefits of houseplants and potted succulents. Lambda Chi Sigma continues to serve the community in a Rhoyal fashion.

LAMBDA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER

Annapolis, MD

Medical Screening, Vaccines, And Fitness – Oh My!

The Lambda Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter (LDS) organized a Happy Hour to support Operation BigBookBag in August, distributing school supplies to their partnership school, Georgetown East Elementary School. LDS volunteers, alongside the new school principal, teachers, and staff, welcomed students back to school with high fives and cheers.

In September, LDS raised over $1,600 by participating in the Susan G. Komen “More Than Pink Walk” at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C. As part of their Women’s Wellness Initiative, LDS hosted a “Kick Cancer” happy hour to raise awareness and involve more participants in supporting Susan G. Komen and St. Jude.

LAMBDA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER

Striving for Greater, Lambda Delta Sigma sponsored the first “Health Expo” hosted by The Honorable Tiffany Alston, Maryland State Delegate, Legislative District 24, and The Honorable Joseline PeñaMelnyk, Maryland State Delegate, District 21, and Chair of the Health and Government Operations Committee. Soror Cliffondra Brown, VP of Customer Relations, and Training & Development at RadNet Inc., also participated. The event offered medical screenings, flu vaccines, behavioral health services, fitness activities, cooking demonstrations, and resources for seniors provided by local and state agencies and organizations.

Additional sponsors included Bishop Joel and Pastor Ylawnda Peebles, and City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, MD, who generously provided event space for the “Health Expo.”

NU PI SIGMA CHAPTER

Denton, TX

A Greater Impact In Denton, TX

The Nu Pi Sigma Chapter of Denton, Texas (Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area), was chartered on September 25, 2022, in the SUPER Southwestern Region. Comprising 12 Charter Members from diverse backgrounds, occupations, and Sigma experience, the chapter embodies a rich tapestry of perspectives. The Charter Members include Nicole Woods (Charter Basileus, Life Member), LaTisha Brandon (SWR UCC, Life Member), La’Shaunte Beathea, Ashley Branch (Life Member), Kenneshea Byers, Jaclyn Carson, Joy Eki-Edo, Shayna Hines, Dorian Jordan, Jalicia Smith, Shaundre Wilson, and Deondriea Way.

Since its inception, Nu Pi Sigma Alumnae Chapter has been actively involved in the Denton County community. They volunteered and donated food during the holiday season to support the Morse Street Baptist Church Annual Thanksgiving Drive and Denton County Friends of the Family Donation Drive, aiding numerous families. Additionally, the chapter donated 1,400 newborn diapers to a local nonprofit pediatric care center through Project Cradle Care, aiming to assist newborn families and further impact the Denton County community positively.

For Human Trafficking Awareness month, the Nu Pi Sigma Social Action Committee organized its inaugural Golden Alert program on January 11th, featuring speakers from various organizations. They also became an Adopt-A-School sponsor for Denton ISD, supporting Operation BigBookBag. Nu Pi Sigma participated in three Back-to-School Fairs, providing over 7,000 students with essential supplies, haircuts, immunizations, and screenings, with Sorors volunteering as Registered Nurses. Additionally, they sponsored 250 packs of markers for the local NPHC Back to School Fair to support Operation BigBookBag.

Follow the journey of the Nu Pi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. at www.sgrhodenton.org or @sgrhodenton on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, as they uphold the principles of LOVE and Excellence in Denton and beyond.

NU SIGMA SIGMA CHAPTER

San Marcos, TX

A New Era Of Sophistication In San Marcos

The Naturally Sophisticated Nu Sigma Sigma Chapter of San Marcos, TX, was recently chartered on February 25, 2023, by 15 phenomenal women. The day brimmed with genuine love from Sorors, family, and friends who gathered from near and far to offer support, including central Texas-area Basilei, Anti-Basilei, and Regional leadership.

Established to ENHANCE: Elevate, Nurture, Help, Advocate, Nourish, Contribute, and Encourage the quality of life for women and their families within San Marcos, TX, and Hays County, the Nu Sigma Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. swiftly grew to over 23 members within the first 90 days since chartering.

Nu Sigma Sigma eagerly enters the 2023-2024 sorority year with a laser focus on forging connections with organizations in the San Marcos community, implementing national programs, and collaborating with other local chapters across the Central Texas region to uphold the Sorority’s slogan of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” You can find Nu Sigma Sigma on all social platforms @sanmarcossgrhos

NU XI SIGMA CHAPTER

Dublin, GA

The Blueprint Chapter: Empowering Communities In Dublin-Laurens County

The Exhilarating Nu Xi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. has been actively serving the DublinLaurens County area in Georgia since its chartering in April 2022, exemplifying Greater Service, Greater Progress.

Partnering with the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia, the chapter organized the Women’s Wellness Health Summit in February, providing guests with valuable information on medical, physical, nutrition, and mental well-being. Through H3: Healthy Choices, Healthy Living, Healthy Generations, the event encouraged the community to adopt healthier lifestyles.

In March 2023, the Nu Xi Sigma Chapter hosted its inaugural Youth Symposium for students of Jeffersonville Elementary and Wilkinson County Elementary Schools. Approximately 50 students in grades 3-5 engaged in STEM activities, Agriculture, Meteorology, and an Obstacle Course, enriching their educational experience and fostering enthusiasm for learning.

As a beacon of community empowerment, Nu Xi Sigma pledges to continue its impactful initiatives in and around Dublin-Laurens County. For updates on future events, follow them @nuxisigma on Facebook and Instagram. Join them in creating positive change and uplift the community.

SIGMA SIGMA CHAPTER

Los Angeles, CA

Superstars Inspired By The Dream

The 39th Annual Los Angeles Kingdom Day Parade witnessed a magnificent display by the women of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., represented by the Los Angeles Alumnae Chapter (Sigma Sigma) and the Antelope Valley Alumnae Chapter (Epsilon Chi Sigma). Sponsored by Broadway in Hollywood, Sigma Gamma Rho’s Western Region united in a joint appearance, led by Basileus Tawanda Carpenter (SS) and Basileus Denicia White (ECS), showcasing a float adorned in royal blue and gold.

Accompanied by a custom SGRho Slingshot, Basileus Patrice King (Lambda Gamma Sigma) drove a gold convertible carrying esteemed guests WR Syntaktes (Director) Michelle Aldridge and Past International Grand Basileus (President) Joann Loveless. Members, including Philos, Rhoers, and others, donned official gold blazers to walk alongside the float.

Themed “Superstars Inspired by the Dream,” the float paid tribute to Sigma Gamma Rho’s iconic Soror and Oscar winner Hattie McDaniel and others, with Sorors dressed in elegant blue and gold gowns adorned with sparkling tiaras. DJ K. Fields provided a musical tribute to Black artists aboard the float.

Following the float, sorors joined a step/stroll team led by step master Tamryn Ferrer and Ifetayo Jabari-Kitwala, showcasing Sigma Gamma Rho’s signature moves. Dr. Darlesh Horn decorated the signature tent and table, while LaRita Shelby served as Vice Chair of the Parade Committee. Together, the Sorors’ unified efforts brought forth a glorious celebration on King Day.

THETA PI SIGMA CHAPTER

Hemet, CA

Legacy Soror Sets Bar High At Theta Pi

Sigma Alumnae Chapter

Legacy Soror Jessica Webb, SPR ‘22, of the Theta Pi

Sigma Alumnae Chapter in Riverside County, California, is determined to forge her own path. As the niece of Soror Annie Kathy Webb, FA ‘81, and Soror Gloria Lindsey, SPR ‘82, of the Alpha Tau Chapter at Jackson State University, Soror Webb has drawn inspiration from the strong women of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. since her earliest memories. Currently pursuing a doctorate in Entomology at the University of California Riverside, Soror Webb, at just 24

THETA PI SIGMA CHAPTER

(cont’d)

years old, stands as one of the youngest in her program, continually striving for excellence.

At the 2023 Annual Youth Symposium, Soror Webb orchestrated a highly successful, interactive STEM workshop. Collaborating with multiple departments at UCR, she provided students with an opportunity to explore various fields, including Neuroscience, Engineering, Geoscience, Entomology, Astronomy, and more. Soror Webb’s workshop, alongside nine others covering topics from Financial Health to Finding Joy in Adversity, received rave reviews. Keynote Speaker Freedom Writer Narada Comans, Marvel Comics Author John Jennings, performers, and community resource tables added to the event’s success, leaving 58 students from across Riverside County brimming with joy, with no negative feedback reported in their follow-up survey.

Impressed by the triumph of the 2023 Annual Youth Symposium, the Black African American Recruitment Department at the University of California Riverside is already gearing up to partner with Theta Pi Sigma again for the 2024 event. Soror Webb’s dedication and impact continue to inspire and uplift her community.

UPSILON SIGMA CHAPTER

Sisterhood, Healthy Living, And Service

In observance of Heart Health Awareness Month, Upsilon Sigma partnered with Tennessee State University Snap-ED instructor Angela Settles for a heart-healthy eating and cooking class. Participants learned to prepare Nashville, TN

Under the guidance of Basileus Dr. Danielle Frazier and First Anti-Basileus Soror Shaleace Hudson, Upsilon Sigma warmly welcomed seven new Sorors into their Chapter in Spring 2023: Sorors Anisha Barbee, Mishelle Brooks, Gloria Daniels, Deosha Dowdy, Asiyah Franklin, Jessica Reid, and Jennifer Toney. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. extends a heartfelt welcome to these new Sorors!

UPSILON SIGMA CHAPTER

two affordable and nutritious recipes—a Breakfast Banana Split and Broccoli Salad. They also received a daily nutritional intake sheet and healthy lifestyle tips.

Integrating community service with healthy living, Upsilon Sigma, led by Basileus Charity Miles Williams, took part in the St. Jude 5K Walk/Run in the Fall, raising an impressive $2,483 for Childhood Cancer. This impactful community service initiative was orchestrated by Soror Aisha Lee, Program Chair.

Continuing their commitment to community service, Upsilon Sigma also participated in a blood drive with Blood Assurance in the Greater Nashville area, led by Social Action Chair, Soror Ashley Small. Arlington, TX

ZETA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER

Chapter History, Designer Purse Fundraiser And Service

Zeta Delta Sigma celebrates 40 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service. Recently honored as the “International Alumnae Chapter of the Year” at the Centennial Boule, the Chapter welcomed its largest T.O.R.C.H. class, the Sensational Seventeen, in Chapter history. Under the leadership of Basileus Ashlee

ZETA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER

McGhee and First Anti-Basileus Karen Hicks, Zeta Delta Sigma continues to exemplify excellence.

This excellence extends to fundraising efforts. Collaborating with the Zeta Delta Sigma Yellow Tea Rose Foundation, the Chapter organized a successful Inaugural Designer Purse Bingo Fundraiser, providing networking opportunities with community partners and raising funds for a worthy cause.

The sorority year concluded with a retreat in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, attended by nearly 100 members who enjoyed food, fun, and sisterly bonding. As part of their Retreat Service Project, Zeta Delta Sigma donated 50 Blessing Bags to the homeless at Arlington Life Shelter. These bags contained toiletries, socks, food, and other essentials, making a positive impact on homeless individuals and families in North Texas, assisting them on their path to self-sufficiency. (cont’d)

ZETA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER

East Chicago, IN

Greater By Design

The Sorors of Zeta Gamma Sigma Chapter exemplify their motto, “Greater by Design,” through various impactful initiatives. Recently, the chapter awarded $2,000 in scholarship money to four deserving college students, with plans to expand scholarship opportunities in the future.

In collaboration with Witnessing Church of God in Christ, Zeta Gamma Sigma built and opened the Smart Poodle Free Little Library #165746. This project has been highly successful, with neighborhood children eagerly emptying the library’s shelves. Additionally, children enjoy engaging programming such as reading contests and book talks by Divine Nine authors of children’s books. The chapter aims to build another library in the East Chicago Community to further promote a love of reading among local children.

Furthermore, Zeta Gamma Sigma hosted its inaugural Swim1922 event in partnership with the local YMCA, impacting the community by promoting water safety and swimming skills. The kickoff event featured an informative session with swim gift bags and a raffle, offering seven children the opportunity to receive free swim lessons for six weeks.

Through these endeavors, Zeta Gamma Sigma Chapter continues to make a significant and positive impact in the community, demonstrating their commitment to service and education.

ZETA OMICRON SIGMA CHAPTER

Bolingbrook, IL

The Zeal To Serve For 100 More Years

In tribute to Soror Hattie McDaniel and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Zeta Omicron Sigma hosted a Rhoyal Tea event, expertly orchestrated by Omar Ramos. The event featured three distinguished panelists: Soror Eva Outlaw-Walker, Soror Shonda Welch-Farris, and Michele HicksTurner. Guest speakers Soror Darnell Nunn, Soror Shonda Welch-Farris (MSN, RN, FNP-BC), Christina Gomez (MPH, VNA HealthCare), and Jamie Steier (MSN, RN VNA Health) shared their breast cancer journeys and engaged attendees in a lively Q&A session.

For Centennial Founders’ Day, Ζeta Omicron Sigma passionately supported the Feed My Starving Children project by packaging meals for needy children globally.

In addition to organizing a Soles for Little Souls shoe drive and various service projects, proudly welcomed two new members in Fall 2022, both Sigma Legacies: Soror Angel Banks and Soror Bryanna Daniels.

Thirty-two youths, Grades 6-12, participated in the chapter’s annual Youth Symposium, featuring workshops on Mental Health, Self-Care, and Discovering Individuality. The event, facilitated by esteemed Sorors, also included a prize raffle and photo sessions.

In honor of Juneteenth, Chapter Members joined the Aurora Divine Nine Alliance to partner with the Northern Illinois Food Bank, providing food for 1,000 families in Aurora, IL through a food giveaway.

ZETA TAU SIGMA CHAPTER

Mt. Rainer, MD

Zeta Tau Sigma Celebrates 40 Years

41 years ago, on March 26, 1983, the Zeta Tau Sigma Alumnae Chapter was chartered in the presence of International Grand Basileus Alice Swain, International 1st Grand Basileus Dr. Rejesta V. Perry, Executive Secretary Bonita Herring, and Northeastern Region Syntaktes Dr. Mynora J. Bryant. The ceremony took place at the Rayburn Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Soror Lillie Jackson Van Landingham, Chartering Basileus, aimed to see Sigma’s presence grow in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Twenty-five Sorors and five honorary members were inducted, making the Chapter the largest ever chartered in the Northeastern Region at that time.

The chapter hosted a formal Gala in Greenbelt with over two hundred Sorors, family members, and friends to celebrate the 40th Year Chartering Anniversary. Highlights included a Proclamation from the Prince George’s County Council and greetings from Dr. Mynora J. Bryant, the 21st International Grand Basileus, and Soror Sharon Royster, Zeta Tau Sigma Basileus. Special guests included Soror Selicia Sellers, the 24th Northeastern Regional Syntaktès, and Dr. Dawn Sherman, Area 1 Coordinator, who offered congratulatory remarks and a salute.

During the celebration, Zeta Tau Sigma awarded $7,000 in scholarships to Prince George’s County students and recognized two Village Keepers Honorees: The Bowie State University Aquatics Team (for Swim 1922) and Mrs. Dorothy Boddie (for feeding thousands of individuals).

Congratulations to Zeta Tau Sigma for outstanding service in the Washington DC metropolitan area!

ALPHA OMEGA & MU UPSILON - HUSTONTILLOTSON UNIVERSITY & THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS

Working Sigma Together

For the first time in both chapters’ history, the Alpha Omega Undergraduate Chapter at Huston-Tillotson University and the Mu Upsilon Undergraduate Chapter at the University of Texas at Austin collaborated to host “Poodle Palooza.” Poodle Palooza served two purposes: to collect school supplies for youth in the Austin area through Operation Big Bookbag and to foster a strong sisterly bond between the two undergraduate chapters that are less than 5 miles apart. The event featured a step show, vendors, and networking opportunities for the young ladies. The chapters collected over 100 backpacks and school supplies, which were donated to Idea Parmer Park Charter School, a K-12 institution. Both chapters are advised by the Alpha Kappa Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Austin, Texas. If you are visiting the Austin area in August 2024, follow the chapters’ social media platforms for details on Poodle Palooza 24.

Mu Upsilon: @ut_sgrhos

Alpha Omega: @ht_sgrhos

Right: (L-R) Soror Casimir, Soror Wilson, Soror Du’Bois, Soror Omakor, Soror Maress, and Soror Oliver

ETA IOTA

THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS

Come Say HI

“This is how we do it, we’re back in town... Sigma sisters running this and we’re on the come up!” sang to the tune of Montell Jordan’s “This is how we do it”... Eta Iota is BACK! The Eta Iota undergraduate chapter returned to The University of Kansas campus for the first time since 2002. Five young ladies, two of whom are Legacies, and one of the Legacies is a former Rhoer, embarked on bringing GREATness to campus. With the reactivation of Eta Iota, KU’s campus now has 8 of the 9 NPHC organizations. Eta Iota is excited to show up and show out for the sisterhood and looks forward to learning and growing in Sigma.

KAPPA XI SUNY OLD WESTBURY, OLD WESTBURY

UNDERGRADUATE PULSE

The Kappa Xi Spring 2023 initiates, Soror Tamisha Charles and Soror Tania Fils-aime, are embarking on their first Sigmaversary! They have been actively engaged this year by hosting, attending, and participating in events such as Rhoyal Fest NYC, Club Bash, student orientation, homecoming, St. Jude’s walk/ run, and much more.

Soror Tamisha Charles hails from Queens, proudly representing her roots in Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad. She is the oldest of three siblings, with two younger sisters. Her primary goal in college is to maintain academic excellence, as evidenced by her 3.4 GPA.

Tania Fils-aime is a member of the SUNY Old Westbury Class of 2023, having earned a BA in Media and Communications. As the older sister of two, she takes pride in her Haitian heritage. She has a passion for creativity in various forms, including fashion, music, and more. Best wishes to Soror Fils-aimes as she pursues a career in the entertainment industry.

Kappa Xi was chartered on June 20, 1987, by 8 women. The chapter continues to grow with the contributions of Tamisha Charles, Tania Fils-aime, Leah Ramirez, and Kaydian Walker.

Sorors Taylor Boaz, Janaye Ebo, Camylle Guice, Chrishayla Adams, and Viviana Turner

MU ZETA TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY, COMMERCE

Operation BigBookBag: Empowering Students With Essential Supplies

The Mu Zeta Chapter, chartered on the campus of Texas A&M University - Commerce, used their summer wisely. From May 1 to August 23, 2023, they coordinated the efforts of a dynamic Operation BigBookBag. With the assistance of their advisors, TuLisha Haynes and Darrion Culler, the chapter strategically engaged Target, Brookshires, and Dollar Tree to secure donations for the service project. In total, ten companies contributed to filling 500 book bags with essential supplies including backpacks, crayons, pencil sharpeners, writing journals, plastic folders, pencils, and pens.

The supplies were donated to four schools within the Greenville Independent School District (ISD): Travis Intermediate, Carver Elementary, Crockett Elementary School, and Greenville Middle School. Surplus bags were deposited into a school supply reserve for teachers to access freely throughout the academic year. Expressing gratitude, Greenville ISD conveyed their appreciation through a publication in the Herald Banner, extending thanks to the Mu Zeta Chapter and its partners for their generous contribution.

The collaborative efforts of community sponsors Nicole Taylor (Basileus), Chyna Davis, Demia Boner, Laela Spann, Deijah Stephens-Walker, LaPorche Chambers, Precious Ifeacho, and Jada Greer underscored the power of collective action to make a tangible difference in students’ and educators’ lives.

NORTHEASTERN REGION UNDERGRADUATE QUEENS COLLEGE

Soror Kennedy T. Davis-Nealy Honored As Presidential Scholar

Soror Kennedy T. Davis-Nealy has been honored as a Presidential Scholar at Queens College. The former Rhoer, who became an active Regional Undergraduate, received her B.A. in Psychology from Queens College (CUNY) with honors (Summa Cum Laude) in 2023. She recently transferred into Nu Beta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Queens, NY. Her mother, school principal Tiffany Davis-Nealy, is a past NER Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator.

OMICRON DILLARD UNIVERSITY

Valesha Rhodes, DU 2023 Class Valedictorian

Soror Valesha Rhodes, former student at Dillard University, received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and the distinction of valedictorian. Soror Rhodes was one of five students to be selected as the 2023 Class Valedictorian at Dillard’s Commencement Exercise on May 13, 2023. Soror Rhodes was recognized as the most outstanding student in the School of Social Science and has the highest average GPA of 4.0 in Psychology.

She plans to pursue a law degree and a master’s degree in social welfare to pursue a career in family law and wellness, child advocacy and education rights. She selected University of California, Los Angeles for Law School and, as a graduate fellow, will receive $50,000 a year as well as a $10,000 Trial Advocacy Scholarship.

Soror Rhodes took advance of the New Alumnae Transfer discount by transferring directly into the Epsilon Sigma Chapter of New Orleans, LA.

FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY

RHOyalty, Brains, And Drive

Soror Alyse Saint Fleur was inducted into the Pi Eta Undergraduate Chapter at Florida Atlantic University in Fall 2022. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance and is expected to graduate in the summer of 2024. Soror Saint Fleur is currently employed as a Patient Services Representative at Genesis Community Health-Dental Boca Raton.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Soror Saint Fleur is an active member of the Black Student Union and the NAACP Chapter at Florida Atlantic University. She is the Co-founder and Vice President of the Finance Students Association and the Treasurer of the Accounting Students Association.

Soror Saint Fleur holds the title of “2023 Miss Black & Gold” for the Miss Black & Gold Pageant hosted by the Upsilon Theta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The pageant is a scholarship program that highlights and fosters the inextricable connection between success and etiquette among young women. The pageant spotlights poise, self-confidence, communication skills, intelligence, and beauty.

THETA RHO CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY

Being An Undergraduate Leader

Leadership can be taught, but for some, they are born with it. Soror Nariah Swails is a natural born leader. She is nailing her term as the highest-ranking undergraduate for the Central Region. In addition to being the Central Region Youth Services Coordinator, she is the Basileus of Theta Rho and the vice president of Cleveland State’s NPHC. Soror Swails said “A leader is someone who shows the way and guides others to success. Something that I admire about myself as a leader is that I’m unapologetically me.”

She has a passion to serve. Launching her service project, “Central Gives Back,” she coordinated a staple event during Centennial weekend, where Sorors volunteered at Dove Recovery Home in Indianapolis, Indiana. They cooked and served breakfast to the ladies of the home and distributed over 100 hygiene packages. In the role as YSC, she partnered with Nu Gamma Chapter in Cincinnati, Ohio to plan and execute an Undergraduate Retreat.

After balancing her leadership roles and responsibilities, she will be graduating this spring with a nursing degree and a 3.63 GPA. There is no doubt that Soror Nariah Swails has embodied what it means to be not only a Sigma woman but a student leader on her campus and a role model for her peers.

SIGMA SEVEN’S

If I Could Go Back

By Mary L. Bankhead, M.A., M.S.

In today’s world of hustle culture, the next new thing, and Google, it can be easy to get caught up in the daily grind and overlook one of our most precious resources: the wisdom from those who have walked the paths we are now traversing. Our sisterhood spans nearly seven generations of Sorors with invaluable knowledge, and we will soon welcome Generation Alpha into the Sigma Family. As our membership continues to diversify in age, we encourage members to “sit at the knee” of and learn from the experiences of our Ruby, Life Member, and Cultured Pearl Sorors. We hope to inspire the transformational power of listening, learning, and reflecting on the stories of those who have walked the path of life before us.

Bessie Fono

Delta Alpha Sigma | Augusta, GA

Ruby and Life Member #480

With 53 years of Sigma membership, I share the following words of love and wisdom for the Sigma Family:

1 | Keep a positive attitude.

2 | Listen — you can learn a lot just by listening.

3 | Come in ready to work, especially with what your gift or interest is.

4 | Find a Soror who you feel at ease talking to as a mentor.

5 | Ask questions when uncertain about something.

6 | Illuminate that Sigma love.

“You can’t dance at every party.” This means you cannot do everything, go everywhere, or meet everyone’s expectations in Sigma; and this is okay! Devote your time to the parts of Sigma that give you life, and the flame within you will burn forever.

Viretta Vann

Zeta Pi Sigma | Greenville, NC Ruby and Life Member #2182

“Be bold, be strong, and learn who you are. Learn how to stand on your feet and speak for yourself. I was online Fall ‘78 and I started out with 5 and end up going over by myself. As a result, I ended up becoming strong, bold, and stood up for myself.”

Tracy D. Thornton

Gamma Phi Sigma | Houston, TX Ruby Member

Yolanda Mattox

Alpha Sigma | Indianapolis, IN Ruby Member

1 | Go to Conferences, go to the business meetings, and learn the business of Sigma. If you don’t understand ask a Soror, they would be glad to help you understand.

2 | Remember your why. There was something that attracted you to Sigma and made you want to join. Always keep that in your mind.

3 | Every Soror isn’t going to be a Sister. Don’t let a “mean girl” Soror run you away from Sigma. Sigma needs your talents and abilities to become greater.

4 | There will be times when Life gets the best of you. Don’t shy away from the sisterhood then. Stay active, come to all the public events and service projects so much that the chapter will think you are financial.

5 | Don’t get stuck in “chapter-hood.” You will miss out on meeting some amazing Sorors that way.

6 | Undergrads matriculate to the grad chapter in your area. Get a mentor in the grad chapter if you don’t already have one.

7 | Don’t forget about the Cultured Pearls! These women have so many stories and history to share. Take the time to talk to them and soak up all their knowledge.

Dr. Faith Foreman-Hays

Gamma Phi Sigma | Houston, TX

Ruby and Life Member #497

“Give your best to Sigma and it will give its best to you. Remember why you joined and never let anyone turn you away from this sorority.”

Cynthia Metoyer

Beta Mu Sigma | Phoenix, AZ

Ruby, Cultured Pearl, and Life Member #615

Amplify greater in all that you do. Amplifying greater to me means living out Luke 6:27-28 and Proverbs 18:20-21.

Luke 6:27-28 - But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.

Proverbs 18:20-21 - Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction. The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

We are Sorors, Sisters, Women! We know that in life, we will not please everyone all the time, but if we are willing, with God’s help, we can follow His path of living life with others. Sometimes we offend unintentionally, and maybe intentionally, but with God’s help, we can amplify greater in all that we do by living a great and noble way of life.

Valerie Johnson-Reed

Lambda Omega Sigma | Spring, TX Ruby Member

“Get to know the older Sorors who have knowledge and wisdom. You will learn many valuable things from being in the sorority, but don’t limit your interactions with just your chapter, get to know other members of the sorority.”

AFFILIATE NEWS

Alpha Beta Sigma Philo Affiliate Portsmouth, VA

Creating A Greater Friendship In Portsmouth, VA In Portsmouth, Virginia, the Astounding Alpha Beta Sigma Chapter (ABS) expanded their Sigma Family with a new Philo Affiliate Group, advised by Sorors Cassandra Karo and DeAlana Chase. They were inducted virtually during the 2023 NER MidWinter Conference.

New Philos Jewel Barber, Jessica Baxter, Felicia Brown, Jasmine Cuffee, Roxanne Grant-Duell, Tanya Griffin, Shamecia Hines, Susie Austin-McCall, and Philo Kim Woody answered the call of friendship and service with excitement to learn and connect with the Greater friends of Sigma Gamma Rho.

They quickly contributed to the alumnae chapter’s philanthropic efforts by donating to the SPEAR Foundation Soles for Little Souls, Project Cradle Care, and the Youth Symposium. Several of the Philo women played an integral part in the success of the Youth Symposium. During the Youth Symposium, Philo Jasmine Cuffee was a featured presenter who passionately shared her story of perseverance with the audience of community youth, Rhoers, Philos, and Sorors. Philo Cuffee’s motivational speech stressed the importance of setting S.M.A.R.T. goals, working hard, and pursuing your dreams no matter what.

Alpha Iota Sigma Philo Affiliate Savannah, GA

Alpha Iota Sigma Philos In The Community Operation Big Book Bag 2023!

Partnering with Connors Temple Church, the Philos of Alpha Iota Sigma collected 300 school supplies through donations that yielded over 100 bags with a note of encouragement. The bags were distributed at the Operation Kids Forward Back to School Bash on July 29th.

Fit With Tasha Depression Awareness 5K Run/Walk

The Philos Affiliates made donations in support of the Fit With Tasha Depression Awareness 5K Run/Walk to spread awareness and end the stigma of this taboo topic. The event was filled with exercise and vital information concerning depression.

Hospice Day 2023

For families that must make the difficult decision to call in hospice, ladies of Alpha Iota Sigma Philo Affiliates volunteered their time for Hospice Day 2023 (October 14, 2023) to show their support. They presented flowers, doughnuts, and a card to the staff at Hospice Savannah, a non-profit agency designated by the United Way of the Coastal Empire.

Sisterhood Saturday Was Filled With Inspiration, Motivation, And Encouragement

On September 16, 2023, the Philo Affiliates hosted its first signature event, Brunch & Blessings. This intimate event was organized to honor women in the community for their contributions and service. The International Philo Coordinator, Soror Jakima Martin; Sorors from Dublin, Georgia and Beaufort, South Carolina; and members of Alpha Iota Sigma showed up to honor Maranda Porter and Nisha Giustino for their outstanding work as exceptional leaders in the community.

Eta Xi Sigma Philo Affiliate Oak Lawn, IL

Eta Xi Sigma Philos Are Feeding Starving Children

Philos Sandra Evans-Washington and Lynn Felder accompanied the members of the You B4 Me Foundation on March 17, 2023, to the Feed My Starving Children Organization in Schaumburg, IL. Bags of rice, soy, dried vegetables, and a nutritionally complete blend of vitamins and minerals called manna packs were funded by donations. The bags were weighed, packaged, sealed, boxed, and shipped to Haiti, El Salvador, Ukraine, Angola, and the Philippines. Twentyfive boxes of Manna Packs were packed by Philos Evans-Washington and Felder, with each box containing 30 bags. It was a very humbling but rewarding experience.

The Feed My Starving Children Organization’s mission is to feed God’s starving children, hungry in body and spirit. You B4 Me is an Illinois nonprofit corporation that provides support and resources to individuals and families in need.

Gamma Gamma Sigma Philo Affiliate West Palm Beach, FL

Golden Friend | Rest in Power

Gamma Gamma Sigma Chapter celebrates and spotlights a Golden Friend, Philo Clementine White Butler. Philo Butler was born on August 24, 1940, to the parents Arthur and Minnie White and has been married to Ira Butler for 39 years. She currently resides in Riviera Beach, Florida. She is the stepmother to one daughter, grandmother of three, and great-grandmother of six children.

Philo Butler joined the Philo Affiliates of Gamma Gamma Sigma Chapter in 1997, under the advisorship of the late Soror Emma Moore. In 1998, Philo Butler was elected President and served until 2021.

Under Philo Butler’s leadership, the Gamma Gamma Sigma Philo Affiliate participated in a variety of community service projects, with one close to Philo Butler’s heart being the Annual Gold and White Tea Scholarship, which assists students seeking higher education. Philo Butler attended several Southeastern Regional Conferences, the Boule in Miami, Florida in 2000, and won 3rd place at the Southeastern Regional Conference’s First Lady in Jackson, Mississippi in 2011. Philo Butler has been a Golden Friend of the Gamma Gamma Sigma Chapter for 26 glorious years. Philo Butler passed the torch to the next generation, Philo Jasmine Johnson, the current President.

Thank you, Philo Butler, for Leading with Love. Continue to rest in power.

Alpha Omicron Sigma Philo Affiliate Dallas, TX

Greater And Golden AOS Philos Getting It Done!

Each month, the Alpha Omicron Sigma Philos find ways to help the greater Dallas community by participating in the Annual AIDS/HIV awareness walk in South Dallas and hosting lake cleanup days at White Rock Lake called “For The Love of The Lake”. The success of the event encouraged the group to make “For the Love of The Lake” one of their marquee programs.

Alpha Upsilon Sigma Philo Affiliate East St. Louis, IL

Alpha Upsilon Sigma Philo Affiliates Donate To Call For Help, Inc.

The Alpha Upsilon Sigma Philos delivered domestic items and household supplies to Call For Help Inc. in East St. Louis, IL. Founded in 1970 as a suicide prevention program, Call For Help, Inc. has expanded to help people overcome crises ranging from displacement to mental illness. AUS Philo Advisor Jan Griffin and Co-Advisor Jeanie Brown also shared an exciting scholarship event that the Philos sponsored: a Scholarship Tea and Fashion Show. The proceeds went towards a scholarship for a graduating AUS Rhoer.

Epsilon Tau Sigma Philo Affiliate Missouri City, TX

Making Magic Through Partnerships

The Philos of Epsilon Tau Sigma partnered with the alumnae chapter on national and local programs, including domestic violence awareness, Project Cradle Care, and Operation Big Book Bag. They also participated in NPHC Christmas programs in Northeast Houston.

Gowns, tuxedos, and a wedding dress were collected and shared with one middle school, two high schools, the Becoming Queens and Kings Foundation, and Dress for Success in support of their first Cinderella Project. The entire group participated, and parents from our Rhoer Advisor, Adrienne Rance’s, elementary schools donated.

The Philos also held their first Rhoer and Rhosebud etiquette class. The class consisted of workshops teaching etiquette, personal hygiene, and how to deal with bullying. Everyone dressed in their respective affiliate colors, wearing gloves and fascinators.

If you want to donate to our Cinderella Project throughout the year, please email philos@ets-sgr.org or etsphilo@gmail.com

Lambda Delta Sigma Philo Affiliate Annapolis, MD

Sigma Chapters Support Sickle Cell Awareness

On Saturday, September 9, 2023, Lambda Delta Sigma Philo Affiliate President Tesha Samuels and her non-profit, Journey to ExSCellence, held their Annual 5K Walk/Run at Fairwood Community Park in Bowie, MD, in honor of Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Sickle cell disease affects approximately 100,000 Americans.

The Prince George’s County community rallied around the Sickle Cell Warriors and caregiver participants. Lambda Delta Sigma & Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter Sorors and Philos participated in the walk and were there to show support to Philo Samuels. Philo Samuels is a living testimony. As a Warrior and Ambassador, she is always willing to share her story and amplify the voice of Sickle Cell Warriors everywhere.

Nu Eta Sigma Philo Affiliate Schertz, TX

Expanding The Sigma Family Through Friendship

The Nu Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter’s Sigma Family grew on March 18, 2023. The new Affiliate Group was started by Philo Briahnna Edwards, Philo Tajhnay Fontus, Philo Anna Henry, Philo Daphne Jackson, Philo Jakayla Kendall, Philo Kathy Thompson, and Philo Yolanda Torrence. Congratulations on one year, friends!

Omicron Sigma Philo Affiliate Memphis, TN

Memphis Philos Amplify Sisterhood And Service

The Omicron Sigma Philos amplify greater in their efforts to serve The Memphis Community.

Newly inducted Philos are Cassandra Cooper-King, Carolyn Jones, Evelyn Simpson, and Mary Cockhren (seated from left to right) were inducted into the group on October 28, 2023 on fire to serve.

Omicron Sigma Philo Affiliate (cont’d)

As an Induction project and in recognition of Domestic Violence Month, OS Philos prepared and donated toiletry bags to a local YWCA Shelter for Women.

The OS Philos, in collaboration with the Omicron Sigma Chapter, started Founder’s Day Weekend by donating money for bus passes to the VA Hospital in Memphis. During the Founder’s Day Awards Program, Philo Pauline Williams was recognized for excellence in Art Education.

In support of World AIDS Awareness Day, Omicron Sigma Philos purchased paper and sanitizing products for Hope House, a school in Memphis for children affected by HIV/AIDS.

Viewing the Color Purple with local Sigma Ladies was an outstanding bonding experience and a perfect way to end 2023. Chapter Members from Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi attended.

The Omicron Sigma Philos started in January with Project Cradle Care. The Ladies donated diapers and baby wipes to the Shelby County Youth Advocacy Program in support of teen mothers.

The Ladies participated in programs throughout February to bring awareness to Heart Health and Black History.

Theta Eta Sigma Philo Affiliate Rock Hill, SC

Congratulations On One Year!

One year later, the newly chartered Philo Affiliates of Theta Eta Sigma continue to make an impact in the Rock Hill, South Carolina community through service initiatives. The charter was established with six phenomenal ladies: Markeeter Knox, Kimberly Hinton, Fonta Lewis, Donnie Lewis, Debra Kirby, and Annetta Seabrook.

Alpha Alpha Sigma Rhoer Club Baltimore, MD

Sisters Growing Through Service

The Baltimore Rhoers of Alpha Alpha Sigma are dedicated to enriching activities that promote sisterly bonds and service. They have participated in activities such as ice skating, donating canned goods to food pantries, game nights, empowerment workshops, and more! They hosted what is shaping up to be an annual program called “Not Too Much on My Body,” led by motivational speaker and body-positive advocate BQ Garrett.

Alpha Omicron Sigma Rhoer Club Dallas, TX

Certifications And Life Skills

The Alpha Omicron Sigma Rhoer Club had an amazing CPR workshop conducted by Soror Dr. Enda J. Pemberton, a member of the advising chapter. Not only did the workshop provide hands-on and real-life examples of how to use life-saving CPR techniques, but the Rhoers also practiced with real automated external defibrillator (AED) machines. They learned about and walked through the four CPR actions: look, listen, call for help, and perform CPR. Participants left the workshop with new skills and CPR certification. The Alpha Omicron Sigma Rhoer Club would like to thank Soror Dr. Enda J. Pemberton for donating her expertise, time, and energy.

Eta Nu Sigma Rhoer Club Brooklyn, NY

Eta Nu Sigma Rhoer Club Collaborations

Consistently collaborating with The Eta Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter, their Fundraising Committee, Social Committee, and The Seven Roses Legacy Foundation, the Rhoer Club has enjoyed participating in events that celebrate skating culture and support breast cancer awareness. On October 15, 2023, the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk” took place on the Coney Island boardwalk in Brooklyn, NY. The Rhoers, accompanied by their advisor Soror Felicia Richards, Co-Advisor Vanessa Mejia, and other chapter members, served as greeters on the boardwalk. The Rhoers designed a special T-shirt in memory of Rhoer Megan Marcano’s aunt, Diane Angel Agosto, who recently passed away after battling cancer.

Congratulations to the seven Rhoers who graduated, some of whom now attend college: Chioma Okoro (President), Sharon Gorden (Vice President), Madison Dunbar (Treasurer), Maureen Vernet, Aniya Gibbs, Arianna Herbert, and Ceyanna Martin.

Eta Nu Sigma Rhoer Club (cont’d)

Never Too Young To Do Big Things!

Sharon Gorden

Rhoer Sharon Gorden, the Founder and President of Understanding Us Natural Hair Club (UUNHC), hosted two workshops: “Natural Hair 101” at Sigma’s 2023 Youth Symposium and “Understand and Heal Your Crown” during Black History Month. The latter was a discussion about the history of black hair care and how to create meaningful dialogue around natural hair. Her goal was to raise enough money to create a scholarship that will allow students at Brooklyn College Academy to get their hair styled by a natural hair stylist. Rhoer Sharon Gorden is the recipient of the Northeastern Region $100,000 “Change Your Life Scholarship.”

Casey Hamilton

Rhoer Casey Hamilton, who received her Commercial Pilot Certificate, participated in Aviation4Us, a notfor-profit organization that aims to support and develop bright and determined youth by offering high-quality aviation fundamentals, giving them exposure to the field of aviation. The program is designed to exposes NYC young people to lifechanging experiences that improve their academic engagement, grow, and strengthen their character, provide basic ground school instruction, and prepare them for a future in the aviation industry at no cost.

Gabriella Fleming

Rhoer Gabriella Fleming has been passionate about riding horses since fifth grade. Her passion doesn’t stop at riding. She works and volunteers her time at the New York Equestrian Center in West Hempstead, NY after school and during summer camp, assisting with riding therapy for kids, teens, and adults with special needs.

Lambda Gamma Sigma Rhoer Club Pomona, CA

Rhoers Serving the Pomona Community Rhoers of Lambda Gamma Sigma proudly hosted their own Operation Big Book Bag in collaboration with Congregations Organized for Prophetic Engagement (C.O.P.E.) and New Life Christian Church at the Black Health and Wellness Fair. One hundred small bags filled with school supplies were distributed to students.

In the past, the Rhoer Club has participated in CPR training classes, held dance workshops, and engaged in other community service and enrichment activities. Their efforts have benefited organizations like House of Ruth, a comprehensive domestic violence agency based in Southern California, including the Pomona area. Volunteering their time and talents to the Rhoer Club are Sorors Sheree Rome and Keisha Stephney. Soror Stephney spoke about her firsthand experience as a triple-negative breast cancer survivor (twice). She is a motivational speaker and the founder of The Peach’d Pink Project, a nonprofit organization that provides support to women of color before, during, and after breast cancer.

Lambda Upsilon Sigma Rhoer Club Plano, TX

Rhoers Leading In Excellence

Two Rhoers from the Lambda Upsilon Sigma Club were selected for the St. Jude Ambassadors Program as part of the St. Jude Leadership Society, a distinguished membership for high-performing students who share a passion for leadership, service, and community while supporting St. Jude patients and families.

Rhoers Madison Kelly (President) and Joi Byers (Recording Secretary) used their platform to bring awareness to the mission, “no child should die in the dawn of life.” Rhoer Madison Kelly is a junior at Texas Connection Academy. In addition to serving as the Rhoer Club President, she is also the president of the Denton Teen Council. She enjoys helping her community and volunteering in a project to support kids in the foster care system. Rhoer Joi Byers demonstrates her leadership through her scholastic achievements. She participates in extracurricular activities, serving as the Vice President of the National Junior Honor Society, competitive volleyball, and journalism. She also volunteers to serve in her community and raises money to create toiletry bags for the homeless at Minnie’s Food Pantry. Congratulations to the LUS Rhoers!

Nu Beta Sigma Rhosebud Club Queens, NY

Keep Shining, Rhosebud Kaylin!

Kaylin Clarke, a founding member of the Nu Beta Sigma Rhosebud Club, is fun-loving, compassionate, artistic, medal winning track star, and dedicated to achieving success. When she is not running for the gold, she is busy learning choreography in gymnastics and dance. Kaylin is a phenomenal student who helps other students in her school and community. During the Rhosebud meetings, Kaylin takes the lead on the prayers. In addition to the Rhosebud Club, Kaylin is involved in her church’s youth program.

Omega Rho: February 20, 2024 HYDEIA

Broadbent

Birthdate: June 14, 1984

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. mourns the loss of renowned Soror Hydeia Broadbent, who dedicated her life to HIV/AIDS activism. Soror Broadbent was diagnosed with HIV at 3 years old. By the time she was 5 years old, the disease had progressed to full-blown AIDS. She rose to prominence as a child in 1992 at 7 years old when she spoke about her experience with the disease on a Nickelodeon special with Magic Johnson. When she was 12 years old in 1996, she appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show and became a voice for children and youth living with AIDS.

Her public work from such a young age prepared her to deliver a message of hope and resilience worldwide. In 2013, Soror Hydeia Broadbent was appointed to serve as a United States State Department Speaker and Specialist to Katima Mulilo, Namibia. As an African American, she spoke about the impact of the disease on the Black community. Soror Broadbent received numerous awards for her humanitarian work and activism, including the American Red Cross Spirit Award and an Essence Award. She was inducted into the sorority as an honorary member at the 2012 Boule in New Orleans, Louisiana. Soror Broadbent departed this earthly life on February 20, 2024.

Bourne Smith

Birthdate: August 22, 1931

Omega Rho: June 29, 2023

Margaret Ruth Morgan Bourne was born on August 22, 1931, in Durham, North Carolina. The oldest of five siblings, she attended Durham Public Schools, graduating from Hillside High School in 1949. Soror Bourne received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from North Carolina Central College (University) in 1953. During her collegiate years, she participated in many activities, including the NCCU Marching Band, where she played the saxophone. She joined Sigma Gamma Rho while at NCCU; in fact, she was a charter member of the Beta Omicron Chapter in 1952. Following graduation, she moved to Brooklyn, New York, to build her life and joined the Kappa Sigma Chapter.

Her career in public service began as a Social Worker. However, Soror Bourne spent most of her years teaching in the New York Public School System at I.S. 55 in Brooklyn until retiring in 1991. Throughout her career, she was an advocate for excellence in education, mentoring, and encouraging many students, including her nieces and nephews, to seek opportunities to advance their eventual careers. Notable in her journey, she also participated in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

Soror Bourne traveled and shared many experiences through Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and the North Carolina Central University Alumni Association.

Margaret Ruth Morgan Bourne will be remembered for her passion for learning and awareness of social injustice issues. She will be cherished for her generosity and great love for her family, especially her son, along with her nieces and nephews.

Birthdate: December 23, 1928

Omega Rho: March 4, 2023

Soror Doris Smith was born on December 28, 1928, in Edinburg, Arkansas, to the late Jodie Marks and late Bertha (Jenkins) Marks. Her late husband, Wendell Smith, preceded her in death. She was a charter member of the Gamma Chi Sigma Chapter in Wichita, Kansas, which was chartered on June 17, 1967. Soror Smith transitioned to Omega Rho on March 4, 2023.

SYLVIA

Soror Sylvia Nichols was inducted into the Alpha Eta Sigma Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter in January 1990. Soror Nichols served as the chapter’s Grammateus for several terms during the 1990s. She was an educator for the Philadelphia Public School system and actively served Sigma for 32 years before transitioning to Omega Rho on November 1, 2022.

Gainey

Birthdate: May 27, 1925

Omega Rho: September 25, 2023

Soror Leola Massey Gainey, affectionately known as “Mrs. G,” transitioned to Omega Rho on Monday, September 25, 2023, at the age of 98. Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1925, she later moved to West Palm Beach, FL, where she became a pillar in her community. Soror Gainey was initiated into the Gamma Gamma Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in 1955, as part of the chapter’s first line. She was a Life Member #540 and Cultured Pearl, graciously serving as the Courtesy and Benevolence Chair and on the scholarship committee.

Soror Gainey dedicated her life to serving her beloved husband, son, and others. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Allen University and a master’s degree from Florida Atlantic University. Soror Gainey worked in the Palm Beach County School District as an educator for 36 years. A devout Christian, she was a longtime member of Payne Chapel AME Church in West Palm Beach, FL.

Her love and legacy will continue to live on in her family, friends, and Sorors. The Sorors of the Gamma Gamma Sigma Alumnae Chapter are eternally grateful for Soror Gainey’s sisterhood, scholarship, and service to our sorority.

Soror Floria L. Garbutt transitioned to Omega Rho on September 23, 2023, at the age of 87. She retired as a Palm Beach County School District instructor after serving for several years. Soror Garbutt was a faithful member of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Riviera Beach, FL, where she served on the Deaconess Board, Missionary Society, as a Sunday School Teacher, in the Mass Choir, and with the Ministers’ Wives Association. Additionally, she was a member of the Classroom Teachers Association of Palm Beach County, the Florida Retired Educators Association, the Park Manor Neighborhood Association, and the Lindsay Davis Center.

Soror Garbutt was initiated into the Gamma Gamma Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in 1989. She was a Life Member #1721 and Ruby. Soror Garbutt graciously served the Gamma Gamma Sigma Chapter in various roles, including chair and co-chair of the Big Hat Jazz Brunch and the Benevolence Committee, and she also served on the Scholarship Committee. She had a profound love for writing and reciting poetry. Soror Garbutt had a golden personality and loved to share jokes and laughter. Throughout her years, she maintained her independence and remained active in her church, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and other civic organizations.

Soror Garbutt’s love and legacy live on in her family, friends, and Sorors. She leaves behind her sons Garriet L. (Brenda) Carter, Sr., and Kevin (Mel) Davis; one daughter: Karen (Hugh) Bailey; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three sisters: Oletha Harris, Evelyn (Ross), and Joyce (Ervin) Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many relatives and friends.

ELLEN HILTON

Hamilton

Birthdate: June 30, 1955

Omega Rho: August 30, 2023

Soror Ellen Hilton Hamilton was born on June 30, 1955, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She attended Hampton University, where she became a charter member of the Zeta Xi Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in 1975. After graduating from Hampton with a bachelor’s degree in music education, Soror Hamilton taught music in Trenton, New Jersey. Following her career in education, she transitioned to become a paralegal, dedicating more than three decades of her life to the profession. Soror Hamilton was a devoted member of the Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter in Charlotte for over 40 years, where she served in various roles, including advisor to the Nu Rho Chapter at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She was Life Member #1362

In addition to her service to Sigma, Soror Hamilton contributed to her community through the Charlotte Chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association. Soror Hamilton transitioned to Omega Rho on August 30, 2023. She is survived by her two legacy daughters, Soror Jameil Weldon and Soror Elaina Hamilton.

Birthdate: January 15, 1960

Omega Rho: February 10, 2024

Soror Tammy D. Griffin-Rice was born on January 15, 1960, in Milwaukee, WI. She received a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a master’s degree in education from National Louis University. She was initiated into Sigma Gamma Rho through the Eta Zeta Chapter at the University of WisconsinMilwaukee on April 11, 1981. After graduating from UW-Milwaukee, Soror Griffin-Rice joined the Gamma Pi Sigma Chapter in Milwaukee, where she served as Chapter Basileus from 1996-2000. In 2009, she became Life Member #800.

In 2018, she became a charter member of the Mu Rho Sigma Chapter in Henderson, NV. While in Mu Rho Sigma, she advised the Rosebud Club, and on a national level, she served on campaigns and strategy sessions for her Sigma daughter, International Grand Basileus Rasheeda S. Liberty. In addition to her service to Sigma, Soror Griffin-Rice was a faithful member of Victory Baptist Church since 2015. She is survived by her husband, Orlando Cedric Rice, along with her daughters, Tamneeka Louise Rice Lightford (Demarlo II), Soror Portia Jean Gregory (Dishone), and Soror Olivia Darnell Bond (Bionca), in addition to her grandchildren.

Jones

Birthdate: January 10, 1947

Omega Rho: January 20, 2024

GLORIA

Lindsey-Tate

Soror Minerva H. Jones was born on January 10, 1947, in St. Matthews, SC. She graduated from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College and Claflin College (now University), and she also obtained a license in cosmetology. Soror Jones retired in 2014 after a dedicated career at Carolina Eastman that spanned 19 years. She was a Life Member #2090, serving through the Delta Chi Sigma Chapter in Orangeburg, SC.

In addition to her service within Sigma, she was president of the Jasmine Social Club and was a faithful member of First Baptist Church. She was a woman of deep faith who believed in the Christian tenet, “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). Even in difficult times, she never stopped saying, “I know my God.” She is survived by her husband Eddie C. Jones, her daughter Soror Secenario “Kisha” Jones, and her sons LaRonde’ (Sharon) Jones and Zackary (Shanena) Jones.

Soror Gloria Lindsey-Tate was the Mississippi State Coordinator for the Southeastern Region of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She was inducted into Sigma through the Alpha Tau chapter at Jackson State University in 1982. Soror Lindsey-Tate was a charter member of the Mu Iota Sigma Chapter, and she was Life Member #1941 The chapter sponsors the Dr. Gloria Lindsey-Tate Legacy Scholarship to honor her memory. She is survived by her daughter, Soror Jonetha Lindsey.

JOSSETTE

Burgos-Jackson

Birthdate: September 3, 1972

Omega Rho: January 21, 2024

Soror Jossette Burgos-Jackson was born on September 3, 1972. She graduated from Syracuse University in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, joining Sigma Gamma Rho through the Theta Omicron Sigma Alumnae Chapter in Syracuse, New York, in 2014. She then attended Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management, graduating in 2017 with a Master of Business Administration degree. Soror Burgos-Jackson owned and operated Elbita’s Cocina, a food truck specializing in Puerto Rican cuisine. She also served as the Operations Specialist for the Community Folk Art Center in Syracuse, NY.

Crump-Carter

Birthdate: May 15, 2000

Omega Rho: February 2, 2024 EGYPT

Soror Egypt Crump-Carter was born May 15, 2000. She played an integral part in the reactivation of Nu Nu Chapter at Bennett College in Greensboro, NC. Soror Crump graduated from Bennett College in May of 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration. Soror Crump-Carter transitioned to Omega Rho on February 2, 2024.

BARBARA

Lacen-Keller

Barbara Lacen-Keller, a New Orleans civic figure spanning the worlds of culture and politics who was known as the “Mayor of Central City,” passed away on Monday, January 16, 2023, at the age of 76. Soror Lacen-Keller was born in Treme to Augustine “Miss Teen” Germaine Lewis, who was the only spy girl Mardi Gras Indian in the city in the 1940s. She soon followed in her mother’s footsteps, becoming the Little Queen of the Cheyenne tribe in the 1950s. She married musician Anthony “Tuba Fats” Lacen in 1980.

From 1992 to 2000, Lacen-Keller served as the administrator for a government health clinic. After

working in several nonprofit and government jobs, Soror Lacen-Keller was hired by New Orleans City Council member Stacy Head, where she served for 12 years as the constituent services director.

Since retiring in 2020, she had served on the boards of the Jazz & Heritage Foundation, WWOZ, and the Dryades YMCA. She was also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. Lacen-Keller is survived by three daughters, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

DOROTHY JEAN

Birthdate: July 24, 1947

Omega Rho: December 7, 2022

SAUNDRA REVEILLE WITHERSPOON

Birthdate: September 3, 1972

Omega Rho: January 21, 2024

Members of Alpha Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter mourn the loss of Soror Dorothy Jean Lloyd, affectionately known as “Dee.” Soror Lloyd, born on July 24, 1947, to Andrew and Lucille (Cross) Dodd, was the oldest of four siblings. She met her husband, William (Bill) Lloyd, while attending Lincoln Senior High School, ESTL, IL, and married him on August 31, 1969. One son, Christopher Michael Lloyd, was born to this union.

Soror Lloyd attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and Webster University. She was an educator in East St. Louis School (ESTL) District 189 and retired from the Alton, IL Community School District. She was inducted into the Gamma Beta Undergraduate Chapter and later transferred to Alpha Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter. She served as Chapter Chaplain and made a positive impact on many women through her spiritually inspired messages.

Soror Lloyd, a Cultured Pearl and Life Member #489, received the Dr. LaRona J. Morris Sigma of the Year Award and the ESTL Pan Hellenic Council SAGE Award. She was also a member of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. and Phi Delta Kappa International.

Soror Dorothy Lloyd transitioned to Omega Rho on December 7, 2022, leaving delightful memories and a dedication to service that shines through her Sorors and her sister Philo Karen Watson.

Members of Alpha Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter mourn the loss of Soror Saundra Reveille Witherspoon Rule. Soror Rule was born on August 6, 1939, to Wesley B. Witherspoon and Cleadith Mae Jones-Witherspoon. A role model to her five younger siblings, she graduated from Lincoln Senior High School, ESTL, IL, in 1957 and attended SIU-E, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and later obtained her master’s degree. Soror Rule married Marvin Rule, who preceded her in death. She began her teaching career in School District 189, ESTL, IL, where she retired after thirty years of service.

A devout Christian, she was a member of First Baptist Church of Golden Garden, IL, and a member and “Church Mother” at The Faith House in O’Fallon, IL. When she relocated to Atlanta, GA, to be closer to family, she joined Salem Baptist Church. Soror Rule, a founding member of the sorority community at SIU-E with the establishment of the Gamma Beta Chapter of SGRHO in July 1961, was inducted on July 29, 1961.

As a member of Alpha Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter, she served as Basileus, Grammateus, AntiGrammateus, and often volunteered at community events with her sisters Philo Lenora Crockett and the late Philo Gloria Witherspoon. She held the esteemed honor of being Life Member #845 Soror Rule also inspired her nieces and great-nieces to make their debut to society by participating in Alpha Upsilon Sigma’s Annual Cotillion. Soror Rule gracefully transitioned into Omega Rho on August 12, 2022.

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SUBMISSION GUIDELINES AURORA THE

The Aurora is published three times a year. Submission guidelines are as follows:

Submission Deadlines:

Fall/Winter - August 15 | Spring - February 28 | Summer - May 6

Submissions for Alumnae on the Move, Let’s Give ‘Em Their Props, Undergraduate Pulse, Affiliates, Omega Rho, and Beacon of Light must be 250 words or less. End-of-the year reports and newsletters are not acceptable.

Before submitting an article, please check for spelling errors, repetitions in the text, look for inconsistencies, and ensure that all information is factual and references the names of persons when giving direct or indirect quotes.

Include contact name, chapter name, location, school, city, state, and suggested headline.

All submissions are subject to editing and potential exclusion based on timeliness of content.

Submissions should be written in reporter format, excluding words such as “we,” “our,” and “us.”

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AURORA