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DE D E LTA LTA SEPTEMBER 2026

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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 President’s Message

06 07

Chaplain’s Corner

17 18

Deltas Reign in the Queen City

July Birthdays August Birthdays

September Birthdays

Soror Spotlight: Shana Catoe

Soror Spotlight: April Morgan

Soror Spotlight: Dr. Cicely Maxwell Delta DEARS & “Harvest Hope” Upcoming Events

Dr .. Arlene Dr Arlene Prince Prince

President’s Message

Sorors, Welcome to the start of a new sorority year. As we gather for our September Chapter Meeting, my heart is filled with gratitude and excitement for all that lies ahead. The beginning of a new year offers us a fresh opportunity to strengthen our sisterhood, elevate our service, and recommit ourselves to the values that anchor Delta Sigma Theta — scholarship, service, sisterhood, and social action. Thank you to every soror who attended our Chapter Retreat. Your participation, energy, and engagement helped set a powerful tone for the year. I hope you found the experience both enjoyable and insightful, and that you left with something meaningful to carry forward — whether a new relationship, a new idea, or new information that will support your growth and our collective work. As we step into this new season, let us also remember the power of our collective voice. Voting remains one of the most impactful tools we have to shape the direction of our communities and our state. Delta women have always stood at the forefront of civic engagement, and this year is no different. I encourage each of us to check our registration status, stay informed, and make a plan to vote. When we show up, we strengthen our democracy and honor the legacy of those who fought to secure our right to be heard.

Our communities across Richland, Lexington, Fairfield, and Newberry counties continue to need our leadership, our advocacy, and our compassion. Each of us plays a vital role in shaping the impact of our chapter, and I encourage you to stay connected, stay informed, and stay involved. Your presence strengthens our mission. Your voice enriches our work. Your commitment ensures our continued excellence. May this year be marked by unity, purpose, and meaningful service. Let us uplift one another, celebrate one another, and extend grace as we move forward together. I am honored to serve alongside you and look forward to all we will accomplish as a chapter. With Sisterly Love,

Dr. Arlene Prince Dr. Arlene Prince Chapter President

CHAPLAIN’S CORNER “New Beginnings, Same Purpose” “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)

Angel Malone Chaplain

As we gather for this sorority year, we are reminded that every time we come together, we have an opportunity to renew our commitment to our purpose, to one another, and to the work we have been called to do. God reminds us in Isaiah, “See, I am doing a new thing!” Sometimes we become so focused on what has already happened, what worked, what did not work, what we accomplished, or what we wish had been different that we can miss what God is preparing to do next. Perhaps today, instead of simply asking, “What do we need to accomplish?” we should also ask, “How can God use us?” There are people in our community who need our service. There are young women who need our example. There are families who need our advocacy. There are Sorors who need our encouragement. There are also opportunities before us that we may not even recognize yet.

We must recognize that we cannot accomplish our purpose individually. Our strength is not simply in the number of people in the room. Our strength is found in what happens when we bring our individual gifts, experiences, talents, and hearts for service together around a common purpose.

As we move forward through this sorority year, I encourage each of us to bring three things with us: A spirit of expectation - believing that something meaningful can happen throughour collective work. A spirit of unity - remembering that we do not have to agree on everything to remaincommitted to one another and to our mission. A spirit of service - remembering that leadership is not about recognition; it isabout responsibility.

July Birthdays Tamara Evans 7/1 Shirley Furtick 7/2 Melzina Cannon 7/3 Crissandra Elliott 7/3 Tara King 7/4 Kimberly L. Greene 7/6 Yvette Thompson 7/6 Shiquita D. West 7/7 Alexis Blackwell 7/8 Zelice Nevils 7/8 Joanne Brown 7/11 Alicia M. Goodwin 7/11 Marcella McCoy 7/11 Lakesha White 7/12 Verna Metts 7/13 Bernadette Rogers 7/13 Tania Holman-Brown 7/14

Rachel Gibson 7/15 Tequila Jackson 7/15 Ambyr Palmer 7/15 Sheiia M. Jackson 7/16 Brenda Mickens 7/18 Andrea Williams 7/18 Kimberly Smith 7/21 Julia Campbell 7/23 Doris Cochran 7/25 Ava Dean 7/27 Karen Johnson 7/27 Veronica M. Deas 7/29 Doris Harrison 7/29 Veronica Isaac 7/29 Katrina Singletary 7/29 Jessie Calhoun Byrd 7/31 Zaria O'Bryant 7/31

AugustBirthdays

Rosilyn Outen 8/2 Leslie High-Washington 8/3 Geraldine Parker 8/3 Uvette Pope-Rogers 8/3 Shaquella Ford 8/4 Teressa Herbert 8/4 Ezelma Watkins 8/4 Sheryl Booker 8/5 Tammy Campbell 8/5 Greta Carter 8/5 Cor'Deija Horne 8/5 D'Andrea Outten-Brown 8/5 Corrie Patterson 8/5 Julaunder Davis 8/6 Jonnetta Jones 8/6 Marlene McClerklin 8/6 Lorraine Mickle 8/6 Donna Thompson 8/6 Desiree Smith 8/8 Sandra Lindsay-Brown 8/9 Keisha Taylor 8/9 Mary Scott 8/10 Doris Jumper-Jones 8/10 Arlene Roberson 8/11 Sandra Wells 8/11 Elexias Cotton 8/12 Caponda Narciso 8/12 LaNisha Tindal 8/12 Bernise Belcer 8/13 Marilyn Taylor 8/13

Celena Brown 8/14 Arlene Prince 8/14 Sinthia I. Willis 8/14 Rebecca Edney 8/15 Carmen Tisdale 8/15 Sonya Johnson 8/16 Angel Malone 8/17 Cynthia Walters 8/17 Bettye Byrd 8/18 Sarah B. Ayers 8/19 Carla Brown 8/19 Laura Hall 8/19 Lydia Sandiford 8/19 Alda Ashford 8/21 Avonda Boone 8/21 Assatta Herbert 8/21 Shannon O'Berry 8/21 Donna Green 8/22 Michelle Hurley 8/22 Jessica Tillman 8/22 Evelyn Whitesides 8/22 Jennifer Bishop 8/23 Ruth Smalls 8/23 Blondie Bell 8/25 Jenny Screen 8/25 Catina Thomas 8/26 Gladys Carter 8/28 Sheryl Dunning 8/29 Trimeka Thomas 8/30 T'Lexus Gantt 8/31

September Birthdays Sharon Hamilton 9/1 Yvonne Hall 9/17 Coretta Kea 9/2 Ciesta C. Williams 9/17 Carketa Mickle-Hampton 9/3 Yvonne Pygatt 9/20 Kimberly Octavia Capers 9/6 Jennifer Jones 9/20 NeAudra Green 9/6 Betty Price Jones 9/22 Erica Fields 9/7 Cassandra Sims 9/22 ShaVonne Smalls 9/7 Latasha Crumpton 9/23 Valerie M. Williams 9/7 Bernice Kennedy 9/23 Shirley H .Williams 9/8 Keiona Middleton 9/23 Bendorris White 9/10 Joyce Buxton 9/24 Faybritta Diggs 9/11 Jacqueline Yasin 9/24 Kathy Morris 9/11 Debra Gray 9/25 Nikkia Mack Nelson 9/11 Lisa Reeves 9/25 LaShondra Anderson 9/12 Barbara Broadnax Clarkson 9/26 Vicki Hemingway 9/13 Janice Denise Dinkins 9/26 Rosie Mickle 9/13 Veda Jeffcoat 9/26 Latonya Freeman 9/15 Dianetta Newton 9/26 Jacqueline Pendergrass 9/16 Charlene Wilson 9/26 Gwendolyn Heyward Fludd 9/17 Paulette Salley 9/27 Tara Martin 9/28 Tonya Parks 9/30

32ND SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE JULY 30 JULY 30 AUGUST 2, AUGUST 2, 2026 2026 CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

Deltas Reign in the Queen City: Sisterhood, Service and Celebration at the 32nd South Atlantic Regional Conference The Queen City was filled with sisterhood, purpose, celebration, and plenty of Delta spirit as members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated gathered in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the 32nd South Atlantic Regional Conference. Held at the Charlotte Convention Center from July 30–August 2, 2026, the conference welcomed nearly 7,000 members and guests from throughout the region under the fitting theme, “Deltas Reign in the Queen City.” The Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter showed up in impressive fashion, with 130 members represented and 104 attending in person. Several chapter members also served in important conference and regional roles, demonstrating that Columbia (SC) Alumnae was not only present for the festivities but actively helping make the conference a success. The excitement began with special recognition of chapter presidents, affectionately known as the “Crown Keepers.” The luncheon honored outgoing, returning, and newly elected presidents for their leadership and commitment to Delta. The conference continued with a meaningful Public Meeting celebrating the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. A panel of distinguished female HBCU presidents encouraged sorors to continue supporting and advocating for these treasured institutions, while the program also celebrated the longstanding bonds of the Divine Nine. One of the most visually memorable moments came during the Formal Opening, when thousands of sorors gathered in a breathtaking sea of white. The presence of several Past National Presidents made the occasion even more special and served as a beautiful reminder of Delta's rich history and generations of extraordinary leadership.

The regional conference was attended by over 6990 members of our sorority and guests. Our chapter had 104 members in attendance in person and 26 members attending virtually.

For Columbia (SC) Alumnae, there was even more reason to celebrate during the Sisterhood Luncheon. The chapter proudly received the International Awareness & Involvement Award, adding another achievement to an already memorable conference experience. Soror April Morgan also represented the chapter during the Meet the Candidates session and was later recognized for her participation in the Delta P.E.A.R.L. (Preparing Emerging and Aspiring Regional Leaders) program. Of course, Regional Conference was about more than meetings and reports. The luncheons, gatherings, fellowship, beautiful attire, reunions with sorors from across the region, and opportunities to make new connections brought the fun and joy of sisterhood to every day. The Social Action Luncheon combined fellowship with purpose as keynote speaker Soror Jotaka Eaddy delivered a powerful message about the responsibility of Delta women to continue creating meaningful change in their communities.

The conference also included the important business of Delta. Voting delegates participated in regional elections, with 153 voting delegates certified, and the region selected its leadership for the 2026–2028 term. Throughout the conference, plenary sessions, leadership reports, workshops, elections, and committee presentations provided opportunities for sorors to learn, grow, exchange ideas, and prepare for the work ahead. After several busy days, the conference concluded on Sunday with a joyful and spirit-filled Ecumenical Service. Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley delivered the keynote message, while renowned gospel artist Byron Cage elevated the worship experience through music. It was an uplifting conclusion to a weekend filled with business, celebration, learning, laughter, fellowship, and sisterhood.

The 32nd South Atlantic Regional Conference reminded everyone in attendance that there is something special about thousands of Delta women coming together with a common purpose. Columbia (SC) Alumnae left Charlotte informed, inspired, renewed, and ready to serve—carrying home new ideas, cherished memories, strengthened friendships, and an even greater appreciation for the sisterhood. And while the 2026 conference has ended, there is already something to look forward to: the South Atlantic Region will return to Charlotte for the next Regional Conference in 2028.

Shades of Purple A Queen’s Affair: Reigning Together in Sisterhood Gala served as the closing ceremony. Sorors dressed in shades of purple to close out one of the best regional conferences to date. *More pictures will be posted on the chapter website.

Our chapter president, Arlene Prince served as delegate for our chapter at the regional conference and our second vice president served as the alternate delegate. Other chapter members also volunteered their time and expertise: • Soror Roberta Berry -Assistant Parliamentarian-Conference Support • Dr. Brenda Branic – Elections Co-ChairConference Support • Soror Doris Cochran – Elections-Conference Support • Soror Tarcia Flemming – SAR Protocol & Traditions Lead-Conference Support • Soror Rachel Gibson - SERT (Safety, Security and Emergency Response Team)-Conference Support-National SERT • Dr. TaQuesha McCleod Leslie – Rules ChairConference Support; SAR Membership Intake Coordinator • Soror Yolanda Marshall – Assistant Sergeant at Arms-Conference Support • Soror April Morgan – Protocol and Traditions Conference Support /SAR International Awareness & Involvement Member • Soror Faith Palmer – SERT (Safety, Security and Emergency Response Team)-Conference Support • Soror Cathy Seawright – SERT (Safety, Security and Emergency Response Team)Conference Support • Soror Crissandra Elliott – Heritage & Archives-SAR Committee Member • Soror Rosalyn Frierson-Smith – Risk Management Chair-SAR Committee • Dr. Cicely Maxwell – Arts & Letters, SAR Committee Member

During the Sisterhood Luncheon, several awards were presented, including the International Awareness & Involvement Award, which was proudly bestowed upon the Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter ‘s International Awareness & Involvement chaired by Soror Sheryl Dunning.

Mark your calendars and begin making plans for the 33rd South Atlantic Regional Convention.

Summer 2028 Charlotte, North Carolina Mark your calendars and begin making plans for the 58th National Convention

Summer 2027 Houston, Texas

Soror Spotlight

April Morgan‌ Morgan

Congratulations to Soror April Morgan on successfully completing the 2025–2026 South Atlantic Region Delta PEARL (Preparing Emerging and Aspiring Regional Leaders) Cohort! The South Atlantic Region PEARL Program is a year-long leadership development initiative designed to prepare emerging and aspiring regional leaders through intentional learning, personal growth, and a steadfast commitment to service. As part of the program, Soror Morgan collaborated with fellow cohort members to develop and implement their capstone project, Pages of Promise, in partnership with the Delta of Charlotte Foundation (DOCF). The initiative provided a meaningful day of community impact for elementary and middle school students, promoting literacy, learning, engagement and data collection while reinforcing Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.’s commitment to public service.

Soror Spotlight

Shana Catoe

Congratulations Soror Shana Catoe on your promotion to Coordinator of Student Nutrition for Lexington School District Five, and her outstanding 28year career in school nutrition! Introduced to the field by her college advisor, Soror Catoe turned that opportunity into a career dedicated to nourishing students and serving communities. She began as a foodservice director for a residential childcare institution and continued her journey into public education, where she now serves in district leadership. Soror Catoe credits her mother, Doris W. Hill, as one of her greatest inspirations, admiring her strong faith, quiet spirit, commitment to helping others, and success as a businesswoman. Her advice to her 18-year-old self is a message for us all: Enjoy every season of life, continue to see the good, never give up on yourself or your goals, and trust that your hard work will pay off.

When asked how she would most like to be remembered, Soror Catoe shared that she hopes it is for her desire to make sure others have access to nutritious food. Please join us in celebrating Soror Shana Catoe for her leadership, service, and continued commitment to making a difference in the lives of students and families! 18

Soror Spotlight

Dr. Cicely Maxwell Congratulations, Soror Cicely Maxwell! In July 2026, Dr. Maxwell was appointed Principal of Annie Burnside Elementary School, where she proudly leads the Burnside Bees. As principal, she is committed to cultivating a culture of excellence, collaboration, learner engagement, and continuous growth. Her leadership is grounded in the belief that every student deserves access to high-quality instruction, meaningful opportunities to learn, and the support necessary to reach their fullest potential. A native of Columbia, South Carolina, Dr. Cicely Maxwell is a distinguished educator and servant leader with more than 25 years of experience in education. Following her graduation from Richland Northeast High School, Dr. Maxwell continued her education at the College of Charleston, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. She later pursued graduate studies at the University of South Carolina, earning a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Master of Education in Educational Administration, and a Doctor of Education with an emphasis in Curriculum Studies. Dr. Maxwell is a lifelong learner, passionate educator, and dedicated servant leader whose journey reflects a deep commitment to excellence, leadership, and service. Dr. Maxwell's approach to life and leadership encompasses a spirit of gratitude, resilience, joy, and faith in every season and through every opportunity to serve.

Delta DEARS & “Harvest Hope” Summer heat won’t stop our Delta DEARs! Consistency is the quiet magic behind meaningful service—a beautiful expression of commitment, compassion, and love. Even during the hot summer months in Columbia, South Carolina, our Delta DEARs continue to show up with grace, purpose, and plenty of heart! Month after month, our sorors demonstrate that the true spirit of service isn’t about recognition—it’s about recognizing a need and being willing to meet it. Their steady commitment reminds us that service doesn’t always make headlines.

Sorors Gold, White and Rivers

Sometimes, it simply looks like showing up again and again with a willing heart and helping hands. They were delighted to welcome Soror Kim Lewis of Virginia Beach Alumnae, who joined us alongside Soror Roberta O’Berry. They also welcomed Soror Zaria O’Bryant with a new Delta DEAR, and her cousin, Soror Keelin Ford, who rolled up their sleeves and helped with our August distribution. What a beautiful example of sisterhood in action! We celebrate and sincerely appreciate each of our Delta DEARs for the love they pour into this work. Their consistent, selfless service creates ripples of care that reach far beyond a single box or a single day. Because when small acts of kindness are repeated with love, they become an extraordinary legacy of service and community uplift.

Sorors Morris, Savage, White. Furtick and Bellinger

In July, sorors weathered the rainstorms as they were forced to the porch and into the Delta Life Development Center.

Sorors Berry, McClerklin, Hall, Parker, and Rivers

2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 19

Chapter Meeting, 10:00AM Second Nazareth Baptist Church

NPHC Meeting, 5:00PM Zeta House, 1010 Pine Street, Columbia

Social Action Voter Registration, 8:30AM Journey United Methodist Church

NAACP Columbia Branch Freedom Fund Awards Gala, Columbia Metropolitan Center, Seating: 6:30PM, Gala 7:00PM

Youth Mental First Aid Certification Training, Clara D Werts Community Center, Newberry, 9AM-4PM

2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

OCTOBER 4

Executive Board, 5:30PM Delta Life Development Center

Harvest Hope Distribution, 11:00AM-1:00PM Delta Life Development Center

Chapter Meeting, 10:00AM Second Nazareth Baptist Church

36th Annual Walk for Life and Famously Hot Pink 8:15AM, Segra Park

Hannah House-Winnsboro Collection, 10AM-12PM Delta Life Development Center

NPHC Meeting, Location: TBA

Cybersecurity Webinar *additional details forthcoming*

2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

NOVEMBER 1

Executive Board, 5:30PM Virtual

Harvest Hope Distribution, 11:00AM-1:00PM Delta Life Development Center

Risk Management Virtual Chapter Orientation, 7:30 pm

NPHC Meeting, Location: TBA

Chapter Meeting, 10:00AM Second Nazareth Baptist Church

2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

DECEMBER 4

Sr. Christmas Party, 12:00-1:00PM Arrington Manor High Rise

Executive Board, 5:30PM Virtual

Harvest Hope Distribution, 11:00AM-1:00PM Delta Life Development Center

Chapter Meeting, 10:00AM Second Nazareth Baptist Church

NPHC Meeting, Location: TBA

Delta Assembly, 7:00PM Township Auditorium

Communications and Public Relations Committee Angelia Temoney Chair Journalist Effie Patricia Williams Co-Chair Press Release Manager Toniea Denton Social Media Manager

Kimberly Suber Social Media Contributing Editors Tarcia Flemming J Caressa Louallen

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 cacdstcpr@columbiascdelta.com

@columbiascdelta @DeltaColumbia columbiascdelta www.columbiascdelta.com

Fairfield | Lexington | Newberry | Richland

Dedicated to Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action