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!