DELTA CALL JANUARY 2026 JANUARY 2026
113 years Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service and Social Action
Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter
DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC. www.columbiascdelta.com
“Mission FORWARD” 2025-2027 EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS
ANDEDRA EDWARDS 1ST VICE PRESIDENT
KAREN JOHNSON CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
FAITH PALMER ASST. TREASURER
ARLENE PRINCE CHAPTER PRESIDENT
ZELICE NEVILS RECORDING SECRETARY
CARMEN WRIGHT FIN SECRETARY
EVA PRIOLEAU ASST. FIN SECRETARY
CICELY MAXWELL 2ND VICE PRESIDENT
LISA MCCLOUD TREASURER
MARY SMITH IMMEDIATE PAST PRES.
Contents
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President’s Message
Chaplain’s Corner It’s A New Thing
January Birthdays Social Action Committee “Beyond the Ballot” Community Service Committee Harvest Hope Food Bank Membership Services Committee A Jazz Brunch Delta Dears DEARS In December Physical and Mental Health Committee Choosing Peace During the Holidays Sorors In The Community Upcoming Events Communications and Public Relations Committee
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Sorors,
Dr .. Arlene Dr Arlene Prince Prince
President’s Message
As we step into a new year, I greet each of you with gratitude, hope, and renewed purpose. January invites us to pause, reflect, and recommit—to our sisterhood, to our service, and to the legacy we are entrusted to uphold. I am deeply proud of the strength, grace, and determination you continue to bring to our chapter and to the communities we serve. This year, we continue our journey under the banner of Mission Forward 3.0, moving with intention, unity, and excellence. Our charge is clear: to elevate our impact, strengthen our bonds, and embody the spirit of Delta in all we do. As we begin this new season, let us embrace the opportunities before us with open hearts and focused minds. January also calls us to honor our Founders—22 visionary women whose courage and brilliance carved a path for generations of Black women to lead, serve, and transform the world. Their legacy is not simply history; it is a living mandate. May their example inspire us to walk boldly, advocate fiercely, and serve compassionately.
As we embark on the months ahead, I encourage each of you to stay engaged, stay connected, and stay committed. Your presence matters. Your voice matters. Your contributions strengthen our collective power. Together, we will continue to build a chapter rooted in sisterhood, accountability, innovation, and joy. Thank you for all you do and all you are. I look forward to a year filled with purpose, progress, and powerful moments of connection. Dr. Arlene Prince Dr. Arlene Prince Chapter President
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CHAPLAIN’S CORNER “A New Thing!” “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” - Philippians 1:6 As we step into this new year together, this verse reminds us that new does not mean effortless, but it does mean intentional. God doesn’t wait for the wilderness to clear before He moves; He creates paths while we’re still walking through it. This is our invitation to release what no longer serves our growth, to trust what is unfolding even if we can’t fully see it yet, and to walk boldly together into what is next. The new thing is already in motion. Our role is to recognize it, receive it, and respond with faith, unity, and action.
Angel Malone Chaplain
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:19
May this year find us courageous, aligned, and willing to step forward, expecting streams even in dry places.
Make a little room for God!
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January Birthdays Nadira Cole 1/1 LaTasha Harris 1/16 Machelle Thompson 1/1 Donna Manradge 1/18 Lauren Ashley Johnson 1/2 Jackie Weedon 1/18 Traci Young Cooper 1/3 Ida English 1/30 MaryLong 1/4 Mary Ann Smith 1/20 Jacqueline McClary 1/4 Theresa Singleton 1/22 Kotina Hutto 1/6 Ramona Carr 1/23 Bridget Edwards 1/7 Makesia Sumpter 1/23 Audra S. Kimpson 1/8 Dejona Major 1/26 Denethia Sellers McCarthy 1/8 Patricia Pearson 1/26 Lisa McCloud 1/9 Alfreda W. Tindal 1/26 Mildred Goggins 1/11 Vernell Ross 1/27 Elizabeth Jenkins 1/11 Beverly Ann Knox 1/28 Vicki Young 1/11 Tarcia Flemming 1/30 Essie M. Williams 1/14 Cynthia Edney 1/31 Andrea Vaughn 1/14 Melissa Watson-Ward 1/31 Gilda Hinson 1/15 6
BEYOND THE BALLOT: WOMEN LEADING THE CHANGE
The purpose of the "Beyond the Ballet: Women Taking the Lead" webinar was to highlight women who are redefining leadership beyond traditional roles and expectations. The webinar was aimed at inspiring participants by showcasing women leaders who have broken barriers, leveraged their talents, and stepped into influential roles across various fields. It provided a platform for sharing personal journeys, leadership strategies, and lessons learned, while encouraging empowerment, confidence, and collective support among women aspiring to lead.
Sheena Thompson, MBA Human Resources Consultant
Moderator
Christina Cue
National Event Strategist
Ultimately, the webinar seeks to motivate attendees to recognize their own leadership potential and to lead boldly, authentically, and unapologetically. Leslie Simpson, Esq. Attorney, Former Lobbyist, Political Strategist
Tameika Isaac Tameika Isaac Devine, Devine, Esq. Esq.
Annie McDaniel Annie McDaniel
SC Senator & Attorney District 19
SC House Representative District 41
Melissa Watson Melissa Watson Ward, Ward, LMSW LMSW Emerge Action Fund Training Director
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Community Service Committee
D u r i n g t h e D e ce m b e r C h a p te r m e e t i n g , m e m b e r s s u cce s s f u l l y co l l e c te d 3 0 8 p o u n d s o f n o n - p e r i s h a b l e fo o d i te m s , w h i c h we re d o n a te d to H a r ve s t H o p e Fo o d B a n k i n Co l u m b i a , S o u t h C a ro l i n a , i n s u p p o r t o f fa m i l i e s ex p e r i e n c i n g fo o d i n s e c u r i ty. I n a d d i t i o n to t h e fo o d co l l e c t i o n e f fo r t , 1 7 S o ro r s vo l u n te e re d o n Tu e s d ay, D e ce m b e r 3 0, 2 0 2 5 , a t t h e H a r ve s t H o p e Fo o d B a n k , w h e re t h ey a s s i s te d i n pa c k i n g s n a c k ba g s fo r t h e B a c k Pa c k Fe e d i n g Pro g ra m . T h i s p ro g ra m p rov i d e s n u t r i t i o u s fo o d to c h i l d re n w h o m ay o t h e r w i s e l a c k a cce s s to m ea l s o u t s i d e o f school hours. To g e t h e r, these e f fo r t s re f l e c t the c h a p te r ’s co n t i n u e d co m m i t m e n t to s e r v i ce , co m m u n i ty engagement, and a d d re s s i n g c r i t i c a l n e e d s w i t h i n t h e l o c a l co m m u n i ty.
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A Jazz Brunch
Closing out the last 2025 chapter meeting, the CSCAC Membership Services Committee hosted our December Fellowship - 'A Jazz Brunch”. Members had the opportunity to fellowship with one another while enjoying the delightful sounds of saxophonist Ezra Johnson and delicious brunch prepared by Southern Crave Catering. The event closed out with a fun "left/right" game gift exchange. Thank you to the membership services committee for such a delightful event.
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DeltaDEARS
On December 1, the Delta Dears came together in the spirit of service and sisterhood to support the Harvest Hope Food Bank December distribution. Prior to the drive-thru distribution, the Dears assembled gift bags to share with Oak Read, ensuring each family received not only nourishment but also a token of care during the holiday season. Despite the cold weather, Sorors remained steadfast and dedicated, posing together as they awaited drive-thru participants and demonstrating that inclement conditions do not deter Delta women from serving the community.
In December
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Dedicated -Energetic- Active -R espected - Sorors
Huggins. Williams. Littlejohn Myers, Weedon. Tindal, Rivers, Savage. Morris, and Ross
Gift
GIVING Delta DEARS continue their commitment to service by gathering during the Harvest Hope distribution to prepare gift bags for Oak Read seniors. Parker. McClerklin, White, Ashford and Andrews
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Following the Harvest Hope distribution, sorors gathered for a planned fellowship luncheon in celebration of the Christmas distribution season. This time of connection and reflection strengthened bonds of sisterhood and provided an opportunity to recharge after service. The luncheon was thoughtfully planned and sponsored by Sorors Parker, Savage, and Littlejohn Myers, exemplifying Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated’s enduring commitment to service, unity, and fellowship.
D D
elta EARs
Social
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Delta DEARs Holiday Celebration with Oak Read Seniors Annually, our Delta Dears sponsor a Christmas Celebration of either Oak Read or Arrington Manor Highrise. This year DEARs celebrated with Columbia Housing Staff and Oak Read seniors and posed for pictures after the celebration.
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A Word
from the Wise
Sitting:Berry, McClerklin, Parker, Ashford, Weedon, Rivers, Savage Standing: Tindal, Hall, Jenkins, Williams, Nelson and Morris at the January Harvest Hope Distribution
Take twelve fine, full-grown months; see that these are thoroughly free from old memories of bitterness, rancor and hate, cleanse them completely from every clinging spite; pick off all specks of pettiness and littleness; in short, see that these months are freed from all the past — have them fresh and clean as when they first came from the great storehouse of Time. Cut these months into thirty or thirtyone equal parts. Do not attempt to make up the whole batch at one time (so many persons spoil the entire lot this way) but prepare one day at a time. Into each day put equal parts of faith, patience, courage, work (some people omit this ingredient and so spoil the flavor of the rest), hope, fidelity, liberality, kindness, prayer, meditation, rest (leaving this out is like leaving the
Sorors Andrews and White on duty for January Harvest Hope Distribution.
oil out of the salad dressing — don't do it), and one wellselected resolution. Put in about one teaspoonful of good spirits, a dash of fun, a pinch of folly, a sprinkling of play, and a heaping cupful of good humor.
On December 20, 2025 at 9am the Physical and Mental Health Committee collaborated with the Hospitality Committee and the Chapter Chaplain to host a wellness workshop titled Choosing Peace During the Holidays.
CHOOSING PEACE DURING THE HOLIDAYS
The purpose of the workshop was to provide education and encourage dialogue around mental and physical well-being, particularly during the holiday season when stress, grief, and exhaustion can be heightened. The workshop provided a welcoming and supportive environment for over 40 Sorors who attended. The session was facilitated by Dr. Michelle G. Clay, who led an engaging discussion focused on choosing peace intentionally through boundary setting, selfcare, and creating space to rest and breathe. Sorors were encouraged to reflect on what peace looks like for them personally and how they can protect it during demanding times.
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PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH COMMITTEE
A meaningful portion of the workshop included open dialogue among sorors. Participants shared strategies they use to weather the holidays, discussed traditions that bring comfort, and exchanged ideas on how to be more intentional about checking on one another. The conversation reinforced the importance of sisterhood beyond meetings and events. Sorors also learned about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and were reminded that some individuals struggle with mental health challenges year-round, not only during seasonal changes. The discussion emphasized the need to remain aware, compassionate, and connected to our sisters always, not just during the holidays. Overall, Choosing Peace During the Holidays provided a safe space for education, reflection, and sisterly connection. The program aligned with the committee’s mission to support the holistic wellness of sorors and encouraged continued mindfulness, care, and accountability within the sisterhood.
From Left to Right: Soror Shana H. Catoe, Soror Arlene Prince, Omme-Salma Rahemtullah - FoodShare Executive Director, Ashley Page-Bookart - Director of Programs and Rural Outreach
Soror Arlene Prince and Soror Shana H. Catoe delivered the chapter donation to FoodShare of SC on Tuesday, January 6th . The $2,750.00 donation will go towards food boxes for each of our service areas to help combat food insecurity. FoodShare of SC’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in diverse communities by increasing access to fresh, affordable produce and providing quality cooking skills education.
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Sorors In The Community Marlene McClerklin
For more than five decades, Marlene Murphy McClerklin has dedicated her life to education, service, and faith, leaving a lasting impact on students, educators, and communities throughout Richland County. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and servant leadership has shaped generations and strengthened the foundation of public education and community engagement. On January 10th, Soror McClerklin was formally honored as a 2026 inductee into the Richland One Hall of Fame. Members of the Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter proudly gathered in strong support to celebrate her remarkable legacy and distinguished contributions to education and service.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
2025 JANUARY 2026 17
Chapter Meeting, 10:00 am Second Nazareth Baptist Church
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Statewide Founders Day, North Charleston
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NPHC-Columbia Greek Unity Church Service, 9am Journey Church, 1151 Longreen Parkway
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Community Health Expo, 10am-1pm, Hyatt Park hosted by Physical and Mental Health Committee
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How to Preserve Your Family Artifacts Webinar 11am hosted by Heritage & Archives Committee
FEBRUARY 2026 1
Nominations and Applications are due
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Executive Board Meeting, 5:30 pm (Virtual)
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Chapter Meeting, 10:00 am Second Nazareth Baptist Church
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UPCOMING EVENTS
2025 MARCH 2026 1
Executive Board Meeting, 5:30 pm (Virtual)
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3rd Annual International Women’s Day Brunch, 11:00 am- 2:00 pm, Seawells
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Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter celebrates Founders Day
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Chapter Meeting, 10:00 am Second Nazareth Baptist Church
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Financial Literacy Workshop hosted by Economic Development
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Executive Board, 5:30 pm
APRIL 2026 18
Chapter Meeting, 10:00 am Second Nazareth Baptist Church
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Dionysian Ball, 8pm-11:59pm, SC State Fairgrounds-Cantey Building
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Communications and Communications and Public Relations Public Relations Committee Committee Angelia Temoney Chair Journalist
Effie Patricia Williams Co-Chair
Press Release Manager
Toniea Denton
Do you have a story idea or highlight you would like to submit for the Delta Call? You can reach the Communications and Public Relations Committee at cacdstjournalist@columbiascdelta.com
Social Media Manager
Kimberly Suber Social Media Contributing Editors
Greta Carter Tarcia Flemming Alicia Goodwin Sheila Jackson J Caressa Louallen
@columbiascdelta @DeltaColumbia columbiascdelta www.columbiascdelta.com
KeyTara Pinckney Erica Staley
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Fairfield || Lexington Fairfield Lexington || Newberry Newberry || Richland Richland
Dedicated to Dedicated to Sisterhood, Scholarship, Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Service, and Social Social Action Action