The Blaze: The Progress Issue

Thank you sorors for a year of stellar service! Keeping the vision and staying the course was a difficult task during this COVID-19 pandemic, however, sorors rose to the occasion as Deltas always do. Chapters stepped up and found innovative ways to engage in acts of service and sisterhood even during a time of uncertainty. You joined the virtual movement and continued to provide excellent programs, projects, and events via Zoom and other virtual platforms.

This edition will highlight many of the innovative ways you found to continue to support and serve your individual communities. Many thanks to our Regional Leadership, State/Country Coordinators, State From the Director and the Regional Representative Leadership, andRegional chapter leadership for keeping out chapters engaged in spite of the challenges we faced due to the Pandemic. Although we were not able to meet face-to-face for our state meetings, we Thankapplaud you sororsyou for aon year of stellar service! Keeping the vision and staying the course was a difficult task a very successful Empowerment Weekend and extend during this COVID-19 pandemic, however, sorors rose to therecognized occasion as Deltas always do. Chapters stepped congratulations to all chapters who were for outstanding up andprogramming found innovative and ways other to engage in acts of servicewe andwould sisterhood even during a tidid me of uncertainty. awards.

Lastly, be remiss, if we You joined the virtual movement and conti nued to provide excellent programs, projects, and events via Zoom not acknowledge and thank our Technology and Virtual Support Teams and other virtual platforms. for your time and commitment to supporting virtual programming and This edition will highlight many of theintake innovatithroughout ve ways you found continue to support and serve your membership the to Region. individual communiti es. Many thanks our Regionalover Leadership, State/Country Coordinators, State LeadThis past sorority year, wetowelcomed 650 new members to our ership,ranks, and chapter leadership for keeping chapters engaged in spite of the challenges we faced due to and we know that theseout new sorors will support their respective the Pandemic.

Although we were not able to meet face-to-face for our state meeti ngs, we applaud you on a chapters to help make a positive difference within the communities very successful Empowerment and extend congratulati ons to all chapters who were they serve.

We wantWeekend to acknowledge all of our graduates, whether you recognized for outstanding programming and other awards.

Lastly, we would be remiss, –if we we did not acknowledge and thank received your bachelors, masters or doctorate degree congratulate our Technology and Virtual Support Teams for your timecollegiate and commitment to supporti virtual programming you on your accomplishment.

To our graduates, weng look and membership intake throughout the Region. forward to your continued Delta journey as you transition to an Alumnae This past sorority year, we welcomed over 650chapter. new members to our ranks, and we know that these new sorors will support their respecti ve chapters to help a positive erencemeeting within theface-tocommunities they serve.

As of July 1st, our chapters will make be allowed todiff begin We want to again, acknowledge all of our graduates, whether you received bachelors, masters or doctorate face however, chapters must adhere to local,your state, and federal degree – we congratulate you on your accomplishment.

To our collegiate wewe look forward to your government guidelines.

Sorors, the pandemic is notgraduates, over, and conti Delta journey as you to transiti onone to ananother Alumnae chapter. encourage you tonued take all precautions keep safe – please As of Julyget 1st,vaccinated our chapters and will be allowed to begin meeti ng face-to-face again, however, chapters must adcontinue to practice the 3 Ws: wear your mask, here towatch local, state, federal government Sorors, pandemic not over, yourand distance, and washguidelines. your hands.

Thethe health andissafety ofand all we encourage you to take all precauti ons to keepshould one another safe – please vaccinated members continue to be get your priority.and continue to practice the 3 Ws: wear your thank mask, watch youryour distance, wash your2020-2021 hands. The health and safety of all members should Again, you for partand in making a successful sorority continue to it beREAL your priority. year. Our regional theme, “Keeping in the Blazing Southwest: Again, thank you for your part in making 2020-2021 a successful year.

Our regional theme, “Keeping REAL Sisterhood ... REAL Commitment ... REAL sorority Service” is evident in all it REAL in the Blazing Southwest: Sisterhoodthe ... REAL Commitment ... REALof Service” is evident in all the the work we have seen REAL throughout Region.

This edition the Blaze work weishave seen throughout Region.

This editi on ofofthe Blaze is dedicated to YOU, for the amazing sorors dedicated to YOU,the the amazing sorors the Blazing Southwest of the Blazing Southwest for your steadfast dedication to Enjoy our sisterhood.

Enjoy your summer! your steadfast dedication to our sisterhood. your summer!

Greetings,

In Sisterhood Service, In Sisterhood andand Service, Michelle Brown Michelle Brown Southwest Regional Director Southwest Regional Director Lauryn Cornish Lauryn Cornish Southwest Regional Representative Southwest Regional Representative

Greetings, Sorors of the Blazing Southwest Region!

Welcome to The Progress Issue, the June 2021 edition of The Blaze!

This sorority year has seen unprecedented peaks and valleys, from the persistence of the COVID-19 pandemic and a nerve-wracking presidential election cycle, to all-virtual chapter meetings, service events and sisterhood celebrations.

But through it all, the scholarship, sisterhood and service never stopped.

Chapters advocated for the passing of the CROWN Act, initiated over 660 new members to the Sorority and held COVID-19 vaccine awareness events. Sorors organized an EmPOWERment Weekend to uplift and inform, and celebrated chapter anniversaries and Deltaversaries. All the while, sorors built and strengthened their villages of support.

In the previous issue, we tapped into our Fortitude — the unwavering strength that our Founders, national and regional leadership, and fellow sorors help us source. In this issue, we’re highlighting the enduring legacy of the region. Contributors highlight sorors with servant’s hearts, share how they pivoted service events to the virtual space and celebrate those who graduated. We also honor the life and legacy of our beloved Soror Pier Crenshaw.

Progressing to this point would not have been possible without the guidance and strength of our regional leadership, Regional Director Michelle Brown and Regional Representative Lauryn Cornish. Despite all of the uncertainty and turbulence, they helped us remain steady.

As we proceed to the next sorority year, I encourage you to remain as vigilant and caring as ever — our work is far from over.

In love and sisterhood, Kennedy Williams Southwest Regional Journalist

Masthead Regional Director Michelle R. Brown Regional Representative Lauren A. Cornish

Regional Journalist Kennedy Williams, North Dallas Suburban Alumnae Chapter

Regional Journalist Team DeMonica L. Junious, Ph.D, RN, CNE, North Harris County Alumnae Chapter Arkansas State Journalist Linda Harlston, Texarkana Alumnae Chapter Louisiana State Journalist Tisha McKinney, Baton Rouge Delta Alumnae Chapter North Texas State Journalist Stephanie Maxwell, North Dallas Suburban Alumnae Chapter South Texas State Journalists Tracee Fletcher, MBA, Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter Deshuandra Walker, MBA, Houston Alumnae Chapter Video and Graphic Design Coordinators Erica Burton, Killeen Alumnae Chapter Zelma Dixon-Johnson, Member-At-Large

Table of Contents 01 2020-2021 Initiations by the Numbers

35 Self-Care is Self-Love

02 Moments from EmPOWERment

36 The First Order of Business: Service

Weekend

07 DFW Area Chapters Show the Power in Our Collective Voice

09 ERT Highlights from the Sorority Year 11

Houston Alumnae Honors Frontline Workers

15 Texas Red & White Day: Powering Through the Pandemic

19 Dallas Alumnae Hosts Lifetime Movie Discussion

20 Lyrical Libations Literary Cafe 21 Suburban Houston-Fort Bend

37 Vaccinations: The History and Hesitancy of Black America

38 Code Red: Pandemic Talk 39 The Baker-Zachary Alumnae Chapter Welcomes New Members

40 Celebrating 25- and 50-year Deltaversaries

48 Celebrating a Delta DEAR 49 Congratulations, Grads!

50 The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter Celebrates Elected Officials

Celebrates Sisterhood Month

51 Celebrating Soror Sonya Morring Smith

23 Sorors Show Off Their “Hat-i-tude”

52 Recognizing Soror Dorisene Wallace Hill

25 “Snack and Chat” Discussion of “The

53 Sheryl C. Womble: The People’s

United States VS. Billie Holiday”

26 Waco Alumnae Chapter Continues Red Shoe Luncheon in Virtual Format

27 Sorors with Servant’s Hearts 29 Celebrating the Sisters Network 31 Relay for Life

Parliamentarian

54 Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Rose Roche’s reign as Queen Zulu

55 Remembering Soror Pier Crenshaw 59 The Bay Area Houston Alumnae Chapter’s Pandemic Pivot

32 Celebrating the Year of the Black

60 Tuning in with YN: The Rich History of

33 Arkansas Deltas Participate in Suffrage

62 Recognizing Lambda Theta, Lambda

Woman

Centennial

the Ultimate Upsilon Nu Chapter Upsilon and Iota Delta

212 new members initiated in the Fall

450 new members initiated in the Spring

Participating Chapters:

1

Amarillo Alumnae Austin Alumnae Baker-Zachary Alumnae Blytheville Alumnae Corpus Christi Alumnae Fort Smith Alumnae Fort Worth Alumnae Galveston Alumnae Helena Alumnae Hot Springs Area Alumnae Jonesboro Alumnae La Marque Alumnae Lubbock Alumnae Marshall Alumnae Orange (TX) Alumnae San Antonio Alumnae

Alpha Kappa Alpha Tau Epsilon Beta Eta Iota Eta Psi Iota Delta Iota Eta Iota Mu Iota Omega Kappa Chi Kappa Xi Lambda Chi Lambda Rho Lambda Theta Lambda Upsilon Mu Tau

Nu Iota Omicron Omega Pi Pi Rho Eta Sigma Mu Sigma Phi Theta Nu Theta Xi Upsilon Epsilon Upsilon Nu

Moments from EmPOWERment Weekend From Friday, June 4 to Sunday June 6, 2021, 910 sorors of the Blazing Southwest Region gathered to empower, educate and embrace. Speakers encouraged sorors to emerge from the pandemic prioritizing their mind, body and soul, and to make a YOU-turn in life, with self-care at the forefront.

The weekend began with sisterhood activities such as Delta trivia, a virtual community service event and a scavenger hunt. Follow a meditation led by Soror Sheila McKeithen, Jamaica country coordinator, Southwest Regional Director Michelle Brown opened the sessions encouraging sorors to play an active role in taking back our power and uplifting each other.

Soror Jacqueline A. Dillard, past Central Regional Director, led the “Pick Up your Feelings” general session, in which she challenged sorors to “not allow our progress and success as an organization to be diminished by pettiness and bitterness,” and to keep the true definition of sisterhood in mind at all times. Following this session, National Second Vice President Diamond Compton and National Secretary Elsie Cooke-Holmes’ session “Emerging from the Pandemic: Mind, Body and Soul,” reflected on the challenges and breakthroughs of virtual operations.

Sessions about transitioning from college to the workforce, maximizing your side hustle, reimagining sisterhood, centering self-care and developing a strong personal brand continued throughout the afternoon.

The weekend closed with an awards presentation and ecumenical service.

2

EmPOWERment Weekend Chapter Awards

Arkansas R.O.B.O.T (Rated Outstanding Because of Timeliness) Redzone Compliance Award: Lambda Theta Southeast Arkansas Alumnae Best Collaboration Lambda Upsilon Jonesboro Alumnae Little Rock Alumnae Most Innovative Sisterhood Month Southeast Arkansas Alumnae West Memphis Area Alumnae Economic Development Northwest Arkansas Area Alumnae Little Rock Alumnae Educational Development Lambda Theta Marianna Area Alumnae Little Rock Alumnae International Awareness & Involvement Lambda Theta Jonesboro Alumnae Central Arkansas Alumnae Physical and Mental Health Marianna Area Alumnae West Memphis Area Alumnae Central Arkansas Alumnae

Arkansas Social Action ImpactHER Awards Little Rock Alumae Chapter: LaTonya Laird Honorable Debrah Mitchell Cheryl Powell Forrest City Area Alumnae Chapter: Linda Morgan Bobbie Fingers Northwest Arkansas Area Alumnae Chapter: Brenda Deal Doris Davis Central Arkansas Alumnae Chapter: Dametrice FranSha Anderson Natalie Parker Holliman Ashley Stepps West Memphis Area Alumnae Chapter: Alean Peek Tate Sigma Phi: Tyreesha McCollum Courtney Hicks Pine Bluff Alumnae Kymara Seals Betty Lacy Lambda Theta: Jasmine Dennis Nazaria Tolliver Arkansas Social Action ImpactHER of the Year Soror Cheryl Powell, Arkansas Social Action Coordinator

3

Jamaica Servant’s Heart Awards Soror Gail M. Bozeman Technological Genius Award Soror April S. Morgan Beyond the Call of Duty Award Soror Ilana Dickson Next Level Award Soror Jewel Daniels Pioneering Spirit Award Soror Carol A. Dexter Soror Latoya Smart, Ph.D. Dedicated Service Award Soror Janice Anderson Soror Pamela Bridgewater Soror Ernestine Mason Soror Elaine Mays Soror Eleise Richards Soror Emmera Walker Soror Lauren Williams Friendship Award Jumoke Patrick Joy Crawford Coordinator’s Choice Awards Soror Michelle Brown Soror Deborah Bland Soror Jamita Machen Soror Jada Burton Soror Carol Dexter Soror Gail M. Bozeman

4

South Texas

North Texas/ New Mexico

R.O.B.O.T (Rated Outstanding Because of Timeliness) Redzone Compliance Award Zeta Upsilon Prairie View Alumnae East Harris Chambers Liberty County Alumnae

R.O.B.O.T (Rated Outstanding Because of Timeliness Redzone Compliance Award Theta Kappa Metropolitan Dallas Alumnae

Educational Development Upsilon Nu Brazos Valley Area Alumnae LaMarque Alumnae Beaumont Alumnae Economic Development Upsilon Nu Brazosport Area Alumnae Katy Area Alumnae East Harris Chambers Liberty County Alumnae International Awareness & Involvement Alpha Kappa Brazosport Area Alumnae East Harris Chambers Liberty County Alumnae Physical and Mental Health Upsilon Nu Brazosport Area Alumnae LaMarque Alumnae Austin Alumnae Political Awareness & Involvement Upsilon Nu Brazosport Area Alumnae LaMarque Alumnae Houston Alumnae Best Community Collaboration Alpha Kappa Brazos Valley Area Alumnae Waco Alumnae Houston Alumnae Most Innovative Sisterhood Event Brazosport Area Alumnae LaMarque Alumnae North Harris County Alumnae

5

Educational Development Sigma Mu Denton County Alumnae Fort Worth Alumnae International Awareness & Involvement Denton County Alumnae Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Economic Development Sigma Mu Denton County Alumnae Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Physical and Mental Health Sigma Mu Denton County Alumnae Metropolitan Dallas Alumnae Political Awareness & Involvement Lambda Chi North Central Texas Alumnae North Dallas Suburban Alumnae Arts & Letter Special Award Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Best Community Collaboration Lambda Chi Fort Worth Alumnae Membership Reclamation Dallas Alumnae Outstanding Sisterhood Lambda Chi North Central Texas Alumnae Social Action Southwest Dallas County Alumnae

Educational Development First Place: Alpha Tau Hammond Area Alumnae Slidell Alumnae

Louisiana

Third Place: River Parishes Alumnae Shreveport Alumnae

Second Place: Louisiana Tri-Parish Alumnae Baton Rouge Sigma Alumnae

Arts & Letters First Place: New Iberia Alumnae Slidell Alumnae Baton Rouge Sigma Alumnae

Third Place: Grambling Alumnae Baton Rougue Alumnae

Second Place: Monroe Metropolitan Alumnae Monroe Alumnae

International Awareness & Involvement First Place: Hammond Area Alumnae Louisiana Tri-Parish Alumnae Baton Rouge Sigma Alumnae

Sisterhood Award First Place: Ellen Jackson, Vidalia Alumnae LaConga Hilliard Scott, Baton Rouge Delta Alumnae

Second Place: New Iberia Alumnae Slidell Alumnae New Orleans Alumnae Economic Development First Place: Vidalia Alumnae Grambling Alumnae Baton Rouge Sigma Alumnae

Second Place: Kim Fobbes, Bayou Lafource Alumnae Third Place: Athena Self, New Iberia Alumnae Andrea Love, Baton Rouge Sigma Alumnae Outstanding Collegiate Ravyn Prevost, Alpha Tau R.O.B.O.T Award Iota Mu Lambda Rho Ascension Alumnae

Second Place: Hammond Area Alumnae Slidell Alumnae Baton Rouge Delta

Star Cluster Award First Place: Cluster 5, Fleur de Lis Krewe Second Place: Cluster 2, Irradiating Irises Third Place: Cluster 3, Gentle Jazz Ensemble

Third Place: Natchitoches Alumnae

Star Chapter Award Collegiate: Lambda Rho Alumnae: Vidalia Alumnae Chapter

Physical and Mental Health First Place: Lambda Rho Vidalia Alumnae Grambling Alumnae New Orleans Alumnae Second Place: Alpha Tau Natchitoches Alumnae Louisiana Tri-Parish Baton Rouge Sigma Alumnae

6

7

8

9

10

Houston Alumnae

Honors Frontline Workers

By Soror Jona Sargent

As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the U.S., sorors in health care stepped up and used their medical expertise to serve and heal on the front lines. Although strides have been made to quell the virus and vaccines are available, the impact of the pandemic will be long lasting. The Houston Alumnae Chapter celebrates these nine

sorors

and thanks

for their service during the pandemic.

Tamara Lynette DuBose, MSN,RN Tamara DuBose received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Baylor University in 2002 and her Master of Science in Nursing Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2015. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at the University of Texas Health and Science Center at Houston. She has worked at Texas Children’s Hospital for 17 years and is currently the Assistant Clinical Director of Nursing in the Surgery/Trauma/Orthopedics inpatient unit. She is also passionate about understanding and identifying opportunities to reduce social disparities of health within her community. Since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic, she has served on the frontlines with her staff assisting with testing and ensuring the safety of her team. She has also participated in several hospital-wide initiatives and partnered with interdisciplinary team members to support the hospital efforts in coping and preserving through the pandemic.

Taryn R. Edwards, MSN, APRN, CPN, FNP-C COVID-19 has changed the day to day work of many, Soror Edwards included as an outpatient pediatric nurse practitioner. Kids are used to smiles and lots of playful interactions, and now find practitioners in layers of gowns, goggles and masks unable to assess who’s walking in the room. It’s made for some challenges, but keeping patients and families safe is always the priority. Educating parents on how to keep their children safe in common environments like daycare and play dates in the midst of this pandemic is forcing health care providers to remain abreast of fluid changes to COVID-19 guidelines.

Lorraine E. McKinney, D.P.M. For the past five years, Soror McKinney has served as podiatrist for St. Hope Foundation, a federally qualified health care center with five locations in the greater Houston area. Her role as a podiatrist has placed her with others on our multidisciplinary team on the frontlines for COVID19 screening. Many patients have delayed diabetic foot care due to COVID-19, assuming their foot concerns were not urgent. However in several cases, Soror McKinney has been able to assist patients with evaluations and treatments which has prevented lower extremity amputations.

Kesha P. McNeil As a Houston Health Department (HHD) Health Care Professional, Soror Kesha P. McNeil works with the COVID-19 Response Team in Houston, TX. She works closely with many HHD epidemiologists and nurses as contact monitor and contact tracer on the HHD COVID-19 Response Team. As an HHD contact tracer, she helps control and flatten the curve of this pandemic. Her goal is to continuously call patients that are diagnosed with COVID-19, while gathering their information on the contacts they’ve been exposed to and provide isolation/quarantine recommendations. In addition, she offers valid information on testing and ongoing monitoring, if warranted. At times it can be mentally and physically draining, but she continues to grind every day at work knowing that she can make a difference and what she does really matters.

Shanekwah Melville APRN, MSN, FNP-C COVID-19 is a true testimony that with faith in God we will overcome this pandemic. A Family Nurse Practitioner for UTHealth and partnership with Harris Health, Soror Melville has been doing her best to provide optimal healthcare for all my patients. The pandemic is emotionally and mentally draining on Soror Melville at times.

She doesn’t consider herself a hero because she signed up for this job and is devoted to health care. She will continue to remain strong, pray for all her patients, essential workers and everyone in general through these testing times. She rejoices in her work and will never lose sight.

Cheryl Davis Sheppard

ed

Cheryl D Sheppard serves as an essential leader for the Houston Health Department. She manages a team that connects the uninsured and underinsured to health coverage. She also ensures underserved are connectto basic needs, including but not limited to, food, rent and utility assistance and transportation to testing sites. In addition to connecting the underserved populations, she oversees three senior congregate meal sites designed to provide education, nutritious meals and socialization for Houston’s older adults.

During this unprecedented pandemic, Soror Sheppard established strategies to continue to deliver quality services to the community in a safe manner. As a public servant, Soror Sheppard lives by the quote of Soror Dorothy Height, “We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for and with those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity.”

Angela Sterling, MSN, RN Soror Sterling is a nurse with several years of experience in various staff and leadership roles in oncology and quality positions. Currently, she serves as a quality registered nurse for a large ambulatory, research and educational group of facilities associated with Baylor College of Medicine. Her role involves clinical training, education, quality data review and analysis, and monitoring of care practices to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards. With the onset of the COVID 19 pandemic, she has assumed leadership for managing the entire purchasing and distribution of personal protective equipment for all of the Baylor facilities located in Houston and the surrounding areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has created limitations on PPE and other resources, and the task of ensuring the adequacy of supply and distribution to over 13,000 staff, providers and leaders each day is both challenging and rewarding.

Soror Sterling loves being a nurse, even during this unprecedented time, and is thankful to be able to respond to this latest call.

Christy M. Ware, Health Outcomes Pharmacist, Walgreens As a Health Outcomes Pharmacist, Soror Ware’s role is to promote healthy outcomes in patients with various medical conditions.

Through counseling, she has to identify, address and assess barriers and provide solutions. To that end, when the pandemic hit, the aging adult population was negatively impacted in several ways. One of the most prominent ways was the process by which to register to receive the vaccine.

Initially, many of the companies were only allowing online registration. Through our counseling sessions, Soror Ware identified this barrier to care and offered recommendations for improvement. Her company listened, and in turn set up call centers to assist those patients in getting registered and scheduled for vaccine administration. Many of Soror Ware’s counseling sessions began with barrier intervention, but ended with advice and guidance surrounding the vaccine.

Anjanette Wyatt Dr. Anjanette Wyatt is the President and CEO of Clinical Care Pharmacy Houston Texas. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Doctor of Pharmacy degrees from Texas Southern University College of Pharmacy.

She also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Wyatt is a director of the Delta Research and Educational Foundation. She is currently the vice president of the American Pharmacists Association Foundation Board.

in

In her work as a clinical pharmacist, Soror Wyatt has been instrumental in providing access to the COVID-19 vaccine for minority and underserved communities.

She recently developed the Minority Outreach Vaccination Effort (MOVE) program to offer COVID-19 vaccination clinics at minority-owned pharmacies in underserved communities of color. After experiencing a near death battle with COVID-19, she realized that many people were losing their lives as a result of not having access to crucial medications, especially in the African American community. Soror Wyatt is a patient advocate for those affected by COVID-19 and provides support for families with loved ones who are gravely ill. She is dedicated to increasing vaccine confidence and reaching Herd Immunity in America.

D E LTA is Who We Are, S O C IA L AC T IO N

is What We Do! Submitted by Cassandra Anderson Carter, South Texas State Coordinator

“2021 Virtual Vision: Deltas Powering Through the Pandemic.”

In addition to our national obligations to participate in Delta Days at the United Nations, Delta Days at the Nation’s Capital and Advocacy Day, North and South Texas came together on March 29, 2021 for a Virtual Red & White Day at the Texas State Capitol. Our theme was “2021 Virtual Vision: Deltas Powering Through the Pandemic.”

Following greetings from our Texas legislators and our Southwest Regional leadership, we had a bill tracking session to cover legislative priorities which included opposition to voter suppression bills HB6 and SB7.

We had outstanding presenters for rapid fire sessions on vaccine hesitancy, accessing 2020 census data, redistricting, voter suppression and winning elections with women.

There were six awards presented in three categories: Ruth Jones McClendon Social Activism Award Recipients: Candace Wicks, Community Advocate, and Teneshia Hudspeth, Harris County Clerk Texas Justice Award Recipients: The Honorable Tammy Kemp, Presiding Judge, 204th Judicial District Court, and The Honorable Tamecia Glover, Associate Judge, Fort Bend County Barbara C. Jordan Excellence in Government Service Award Recipients: Representative Toni Rose and Councilwoman Tiffany Thomas, city of Houston As the evening drew near, we were greeted by our National and Regional leadership followed by a panel discussion on “Rush to Deny Our Vote & Strategies to Protect It.”

2021 Texas Delta Legislative Awards

As the evening drew near, we were greeted by our National and Regional leadership followed by a panel discussion on “Rush to Deny Our Vote & Strategies to Protect It.” The evening ended with an informative fireside chat with The Honorable Alexis Herman moderated by Soror Shavon Arline Bradley.

There were 644 sorors registered for the event, and after expenses for the platform, awards, courtesies and honorariums, the remaining funds in the amount of $1,108.55 was donated to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund from the Texas Delegation of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Southwest Region.

Special thanks are extended to Soror Lisa Newman and the Austin Alumnae Chapter finance team for serving as the very capable and dedicated Red & White Day fiscal agents. A huge thanks to the regional and state tech teams for all of their help to make the daylong conference run smoothly and efficiently. Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our Texas Social Action Coordinators, Soror Mythe Kirven and Soror Sharon Watkins-Jones as well as the North and South Texas planning committees for their outstanding teamwork.

We look forward to being back in Austin at the Capitol for the next legislative session in 2023!

Submitted by Soror Cassandra Carter, South Texas State Coordinator

15

16

17

18

Dallas Alumnae Hosts Lifetime Movie Discussion

By Soror Dorothy McCartney

Soror Victoria Christopher Murray, author, and Soror Perri Camper, actress.

The Dallas Alumnae Chapter hosted a Zoom discussion of the Lifetime movie “Lust” on Friday, April 30, 2021 at 7:00p.m. This discussion was hosted and narrated by the chapter’s Arts & Letters Committee. This energetic and lively conversation featured renowned author Soror Victoria Christopher Murray. “Lust” is a book spotlighting the first of the seven deadly sins. Soror Murray has penned over thirty other books, including “Envy,” which is also available on Lifetime.

Soror Murray shared the origin of her early passion for writing and how this desire remained as she navigated through college, corporate America and returned again to her ultimate destination and first love of writing.

Soror Murray was initiated into the Sorority in the Queens Alumnae Chapter, Queens NY in 1978.

Copies of the author’s books were given to four lucky sorors: Sharon Harvey, Renee Battle, Melana Lindsay and Shaniqua Curry.

The chapter was also grateful to have Soror Perri Camper, an actress in “Lust” who portrayed Sonia. Soror Camper is a graduate of the University of North Texas, where she was initiated into the Zeta Eta Chapter in 2002. Soror Camper participated in the lively group discussion after attendees gave feedback on four movie related questions in breakout rooms. Dallas Alumnae Chapter was honored to have Soror Murray and Soror Camper attend, taking take time out from their busy schedules to join us via Zoom.

19

The Monroe Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter offered an afternoon of virtual entertainment — artistry, intellectual conversation, laughter, soulful music, expressive poetry, audience interaction — at the Lyrical Libations Literary Café.

The Café is an Arts and Letters program that offers opportunities for local African Americans to showcase their artistic talent. It encourages community artists to remain faithful to their individual art of dance, painting, poetry, writing and other artistic talents. Proceeds from Café production are used to support the Chapter’s scholarship program. This is the fourth production year for the immensely popular show. Each year, local performers seek to be a guest on the show. This year, the talent outreach, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, garnered talent from North Carolina, Texas and Louisiana.

The 2021 production exhibited a local artist, Kshana Hall, who showcased her artistic abilities by expressing her feelings with a paint brush on a canvas during the event. The virtual audience enjoyed spoken word artists Jamie Mayes, Evelyn Todd, Robert Kemp and Chastity Jones. Each was creative in the way they articulated their emotions using expressive and animated words.

The interaction and encouraging words from the audience to the performers was amazing.

The Arts and Letters committee partnered with the Mardi Gras committee in awarding spectacular gifts for raffle ticket sales: 1st Prize — Louis Vuitton On The Go purse; 2nd Prize — Visio 70” Class V-Series LED Smartcast TV w/sound bar; 3rd Prize — Apple Watch Sports Edition and custom watch band.

The successful raffle ticket sales permitted the Chapter to award 14 scholarships amounting to $1200 to graduating high school seniors in our service area of Ouachita, Morehouse and Richland parishes. More than 85 pre-registrants and 12 committee members supported the 2021 event.

This was another successful Lyrical Libations Literary Café production. The Monroe Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter eagerly anticipates the next production.

Intellectual conversation by two published authors was a serious note in the program, while comedian “Aunt Susie” depicted by Donterrio Anderson added laughter. The between-acts’ music was provided

by DJ from WXLX 104 Jam. His soulful music mix created the afternoon’s ambiance for poetry, prose and portrayal. The virtual audience loved the moments of fun when they were able to intermingle via the ‘chat’ feature with the DJ and Chapter MC to be the first to “Name That Tune.”

20

21

Suburban Houston-Fort Bend Celebrates Sisterhood Month With a Virtual Ecumenical Service The Suburban Houston-Fort Bend Alumnae Chapter celebrated Sisterhood Month by hosting its first Virtual Ecumenical “Faith Brunch” on March 21, 2021. The Southwest Regional Chaplain Rev. Dr. LaVerne Whitehead Reed was the guest minister for the service. The service was live on the SHFBAC Facebook page with over 1000 viewers, while almost 300 members were hosted on Zoom. The chapter usually attends a local church during Sisterhood Month and decided to continue the tradition virtually. Family and friends were invited to attend as well.

song “My God is Awesome” by Charles Jenkins. The video was created by Soror LaTeira Jefferson. Special recognition of national visitors and local government officials were given by Membership Services cochairs Kendra Waters and Renecheia Robinson.

The call to worship was presented by the Assistant Chaplain and Gospel 1360 radio host Letitia Jackson.

Rev. Rennekia Goffney of Church Without Walls introduced the scripture, which was Psalms 28:7-9, which reflects of the strength of the Lord for His people. The song “Grateful” by Hezekiah Walker prepared the worshippers for the sermon.

The service began with an inspiring selection by the 20 member SHFBAC Choir who sang “ Thank You Lord” by Walter Hawkins. Soror Cassie Levy, member of the National Strategic Task Force Committee, served as the presider for the chapter service. A hearty welcome message was delivered by the SHFBAC President Jackie Smith with her presidential theme “Sisterhood and Service Matters,” followed by the opening prayer from SHFBAC Chaplain Alethea Perro. A wonderful guest appearance was made by Southwest Regional Director Michelle Brown as she reflected on how “we are our sister’s keeper” as we celebrate Sisterhood Month. She stated she was grateful to share in our service and grateful for better health.

Following Soror Levy’s inspiring introduction of Rev. Reed, the pastor of the hour, began her enlightening sermon. “What do you do when your world feels like it is not okay and you feel depleted? Do we stress-eat and avoid dealing with the crazy world with pandemic pounds as we remain in front of our computers and IPADS as we pretend that things are okay? Homes became instant schools and family and friends became separated and we cease to gather to worship and fellowship. Our Red force of prayer has kept us going with compassion, texted prayers and Zoomed prayers as we tighten the ties that bond. It is the Lord that answers us and delivers us when the world gets crazy.”

The program continued with energetic Sisterhood Month greetings given by several sorors. First Vice President DaLana Guess stated, “Sisterhood Matters as we ensure full accountable for what we say we should do and will do for each other with honesty.” Second Vice President Lena Ellis reflected that “Service Matters because we are responsible for stewardship and giving back to our communities.”

Membership Co-Chair Amber Brown presented the Sisterhood Month theme “Sisterhood is Sweet because we comfort, inspire and hold each other accountable.”

A trip down memory lane appeared in the form of a chapter video as they prepare for their 45th chapter anniversary on May 22. The video featured charter members, chapter lines and service projects to the

Rev. Reed’s 20 minutes speech was motivating and real worship in the virtual world. Assistant Chaplain Soror Diane Young-Murray gave a powerful intercessory prayer followed by the benediction from Rev. Irishea Hillard of New Light Christian Church.

Kudos to the SHFBAC Choir directors Salethia Morris, Nytasha Sims and Toni’a Alexander who coordinated the virtual production of the songs. A virtual ecumenical booklet was designed by Soror Donielle Clemons, and Soror Kathy Carpenter prepared the program templates. But without the Technology team under the leadership of Soror Stephanie Collins, SW Regional Technology CoCoordinator; Jessica Wright, SHFBAC Technology chair; and Trisha Dixon, committee member; none of this would have been possible. Soror Lena Ellis designed the virtual backgrounds used by the chapter with their logo. Soror Cassie Levy served as the Ecumenical chair of the event.

22

Sorors Show Off Their “Hat-i-tude”

By Soror Debra Johnson

Michelle Bonton, director and founder of the Harris County Cultural Arts Council, had a vision of presenting the history behind African American women’s head coverings and invited the East Harris Chambers Liberty County (East HCLC) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. to partner with her on the project titled CROWNS held April 2-16, 2021.

CROWNS: A Celebration of Cultural Headwear was a unique experience celebrating the history of headdresses worn by Black women through the centuries. The exhibit captured the time from the days of African royalty to the Tigon law period, to the modern-day headdress and the “church hat.” Soror Doroth I. Height’s iconic hats were also featured.

According to Ms. Bonton, Esteban Miro’, Spanish Governor of the Louisiana and Florida provinces, instituted a sumptuary law requiring black women to cover their heads during the late 1700’s. The head covering worn was called a Tignon (tee-yon).

Its intent was to oppress Black women and mark them as slaves or a lesser station to prevent them competing with white women for the courtship of eligible men. Black women wore the Tignons, but they wore them with class, grace and style and made them into a fashion statement.

Ruth Buffington, charter member of East HCLC Chapter, said, “I really enjoyed the CROWNS exhibit honoring Soror Height and Michelle Bonton’s grandmother...both SERIOUS hat lovers! I am so excited to have the HC Cultural Arts Center in our community. I have travelled downtown, across town and out of town for the arts. We have the CROWNS and so much to come right here in our own FRONT yard,” she added enthusiastically.

23

The exhibit was a celebration of the grace, beauty, strength and resiliency Black women have always displayed in the face of oppression. Exhibits included a Delta inspired video presentation honoring Soror Height created by the Heritage and Archives Committee of the East HCLC Chapter, live hat models, and a video about the book Crowns – Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats, written by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry.

“East HCLC continues to support our CROWNS from the headdresses of African Queens, to headwraps and church hats of African-American women, and even further with support of the Crown Act Law which aims to Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” Debra Johnson, East HCLC Chapter President, said.

Soror Ruth Buffington shows off her headdress

24

“Snack & Chat” Discussion of “The United States VS. Billie Holiday”

By Soror Erica L. Williams

The Baton Rouge Delta Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has a stellar history of supporting red carpet initiatives aligned with the National Arts & Letters Commission.

The pandemic prevented the chapter from holding red carpet events in person. However, the Arts & Letters Committee didn’t let that stop them from promoting red carpet activities for the featured movie, “The United States VS. Billie Holiday.” As part of sisterhood month activities, the Arts & letters Committee encouraged chapter members and their families to stream the movie on the weekend of its premiere and post pics on social media.

Then, on March 10, 2021, at 6:00 p.m., the committee, in conjunction with Sisterhood Month activities, held a virtual ZOOM “Snack & Chat” discussion of the movie.

In partnership with New Venture Theatre, a local community theatre that showcases plays amplifying Black voices, the committee featured a special guest, Greg Williams Jr., executive artistic director of New Venture Theatre. Williams joined sorors for a fun-filled, engaging and historically informative chat about the intricacies of Holiday’s life and the movie.

The program’s purpose is to support the National Arts & Letters Commission red-carpet initiatives and to provide an atmosphere for sorors to relax and bond in a sisterly fashion and comradery during Sisterhood Month.

25

The lively discussion included chats about the movie’s themes, including familial dysfunction, abuse and racism. Williams spoke of his extensive knowledge of Billie Holiday’s fascinating life gained via research for the plays he directed about her, including the play, “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill.”

Sorors had opportunities to share their thoughts about the movie and ask questions to Williams about his theatrical experience in general and Billie Holiday.

The attendees were quizzed about the movie and Delta Arts & Letters trivia and won gift cards.

The well-attended event included DOLLS, DIVAS and DEARS. Special guest Soror Monica Fenner, the Southwest Region’s Arts & Letters Coordinator, provided an enthusiastic welcome and spoke on the illustrious Arts & Letters programming in the Blazing Southwest Region.

The Arts & Letters Committee also donated $150.00 to New Venture Theatre, which lost significant revenue due to the pandemic.

Attendees provided feedback on how informative and fun the event was and learning fascinating behind- the-scenes information about Billie Holiday.

“The United States VS. Billie Holiday” features Soror Andra Day, who won a Golden Globe Award for her performance.

Waco Alumnae Chapter Continues Red Shoe Luncheon in Virtual Format

By Soror Mia Moody-Ramirez

In what has become the “new normal,” the Waco Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. sponsored its “Scholarship Lunch-In” in a virtual format during the 2020-21 pandemic.

“It was a very innovative experience that definitely tested our patience and endurance to bring all of the elements together for a very entertaining presentation,” said chapter fundraising chair Jocelyn Pierce.

Each year, the Waco Alumnae Chapter presents its Red Shoe luncheon with a different twist. Previous events include a fashion show, book drive and a panel of regional and national officers.

Whatever the line-up, the luncheon is something that the community has grown to love.

“There is always delicious food, entertainment, door prizes and fun,” said Chapter President Cerise Franklin. “We usually sell out of tickets.”

women in their respective fields of expertise in support of Delta Sigma Theta’s Five-Point Programmatic Thrust.

Honorees included: Educational Development: Pearl Beverly, director of Multicultural Affairs at Baylor University Economic Development: Marcia Neal, owner of Sausee’s Soul Food Restaurant International Awareness and Involvement: Soror Dr. Lakia Scott, the first tenured African American Professor of Education at Baylor University Physical and Mental Health: Sherry Williams, retired director of Public Health, McLennan County Political Awareness and Involvement: Soror Dr. Peahes Henry, president of the NAACP, Waco Chapter

“We are appreciative to our chapter members and the general public for supporting this event to provide scholarships for local high school graduating seniors,” Pierce said.

The virtual “Lunch-In” was highly anticipated, as it was rescheduled from last year due to the pandemic. The committee was determined to proceed with this year’s event.

“Thanks to our tech leader Soror Mia MoodyRamirez, who made it look effortless, we had a successful first endeavor,” Pierce said.

The scholarship luncheon honored outstanding

26

The Vidalia Alumnae Chapter presently has three members who personify those with a servant’s heart. They are among local doers, strivers and innovators. Namely, they are Sorors Michelle Bethea, Rosa Demby and Dorothy M. Parker. Sorors Bethea, Demby and Parker have met the moment to serve with true DST spirit.

They face challenges as visionary creators and innovators who are striving to meet the needs of the communities they serve.

27

Soror Michelle Bethea

Soror Rosa Demby

Soror Dorothy M. Parker

The full-time supervisor of food and nutrition at Concordia Parish School Board, Soror Michelle Bethea is in the first year of a 4-year term as an alderwoman in her hometown, Clayton, LA. She approaches her desire to serve the citizens she represents with the following words: “It is personal to me. I saw issues in the community that needed addressing and thought ‘I want things to be better for myself as well as for the community in general, so why not put yourself out there and let the people know of your interest in making life better for us all.’ I thought that I could serve the Lord by serving others within the community.” Though serving for the first time, Soror Bethea is keeping her commitment to the citizens she serves by “working with the mayor and other council members to remedy the town’s water problems, build community pride and keep our town solvent.”

A local businesswoman and retired educator and administrator, Soror Rosa Demby serves the town of Vidalia as a first-term alderwoman. She says, “People in the community encouraged me to run,” and she responded to their plea because she “wanted to be a voice for the voiceless.” Working to upgrade her district, she is “striving to rid the community of blighted property and overgrown grass.” Her goals also include helping to research and design plans to improve community policing. Soror Demby says she is serving ultimately because “If I can help somebody along this way, my living will not be in vain.” Helping others she does. During a recent water crisis in her district due to tornado damage, she personally supplied and delivered water to needy residents, just one example of her capacity for caregiving.

Serving her third year as a member of the Concordia Parish School Board, Soror Dorothy M. Parker is a lifelong resident of the parish. “Having attended schools in the parish, having served as an educator in the system for 35 years, I decided to become a school board member,” Soror Parker said. “It was not an easy decision. However, with the encouragement of former teachers and board members, colleagues, parents and community members, I decided to take on the task.” Those who encouraged Soror Parker did so because she is a former administrator who had proven to be an even-tempered, skilled, innovative leader and collaborator.

Community members describe her as “an important influence on the Board.” She uses her unique administrative skill at all levels in all aspects to help determine the Board’s direction as they strive for the system’s success. Most importantly, I have a sincere interest in the education of our children,” Soror Parker said. She serves with the attitude that it is her duty and responsibility that every Board decision she makes should positively impact students’ lives.

28

Celebrating the Sisters Network

By Soror Patricia Anthony

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is honored to partner with Sisters Network Incorporated to provide a broader scope of knowledge that addresses the breast cancer survivorship crisis affecting African American women. The Houston Stop the Silence 5K Walk/Run is the only National African American Breast Cancer Walk, and the Dallas 6000 Sisters, 6000 Steps for Hope Breast Cancer Virtual Walk spotlights the 6,000 African American women who lose their fight with breast cancer in the United States each year.

Sisters Network also has a Breast Cancer Assistance and Mammogram Program that provides financial and free mammograms to breast cancer survivors and other women nationwide. For assistance and/or to register for a free mammogram, please apply at https://www.sistersnetworkinc.org/programs. html. Applications must be received no later than July 30, 2021. We salute all breast cancer survivors, especially our sorors. We encourage you to keep loving, believing and supporting yourself. You are surrounded with beauty and abundance – we got your back.

Sorors — it is our time once again to support our national partner in the 6000 Sisters, 6000 Steps for Hope Breast Cancer Virtual Walk, scheduled for Saturday, September 25, 2021, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Participating in this race reflects the joy in our sisterhood and the service in hearts. To reach and touch another woman’s heart puts a reason and meaning behind life.

We invite all sorors, family and friends to join the team. However, if you had a team last year and registered, the information for your team has been saved.

When registering, just type the name of your team in the space provided, click on the link and join. Imagine, if every chapter registered five team members to include family, friends or co-workers, we would have more than 1200 participants representing our region. Let’s do this sorors!

I look forward to seeing you during the virtual walk via your posts on our Facebook page, the Sisters Network Dallas Virtual Walk’s Facebook Page and your chapters’ Facebook page. In advance, thank you for your participation and blazing the amazing Southwest Region in this annual walk to eradicate breast cancer in African American women.

29

30

Relay for Life

By Soror Tanisa J. Bernard

The Austin Alumnae Chapter Crimson and Cream Cancer Crushers participated in a 24-Hour Virtual Cancer Walk on April 24, 2021. In support of this effort, members agreed to donate $22 to East Austin Relay for Life and complete a fitness walk anytime between 3 p.m. on Saturday April 24 until 3 p.m. on Sunday April 25, 2021. To support the 24-hour virtual event, Sorors signed-up for 30 minute time slots designating when they planned to walk in their neighborhoods or on their personal treadmills. For entertainment as they exercised, Sorors were encouraged to join the Red Carpet Pundit with Arts & Letters as they reviewed the movie “One Night in Miami.” The Crimson and Cream Candy Crushers outdid themselves, raising more than $4000. Fun was had by all!

31

Celebrating the Year of the Black Woman

By Soror DeMonica L. Junious, PhD, RN, CNE

The North Harris County Alumnae Chapter has remained committed to constructive service and emancipating the voices of women by dedicating the 2021 Virtual May Week activities to the empowerment of the Black woman. Standing firm and engaged to the chosen theme, NHCAC hosted activities that highlighted their accomplishments.

The Fifteen Faces of Fortitude were showcased on the chapter’s social media platforms. These amazing ladies were selected based upon the passion, dedication and service displayed throughout their volunteerism, professional affiliations and desires to positively impact the lives in, of and around their communities. “This year, we have a direct representation of when EVERYONE does a little, NO ONE has to do a whole lot,” stated Soror Avis Smothers, who is one of this year’s chosen women of valor.

for which highlighted the African American women through the Eyes of the Arts. This was an awe inspired event, empowered with spoken word and viewings of the works of a local African American artist.

Lastly, as an acknowledgement of gratitude, Joni Y. Hall, chapter president, and the entire NHCAC concluded this May Week event by recognizing and observing those members that celebrated milestone 25 and 50, years of sorority sisterhood, scholarship, and service, as well as the Soror of the Year. The membership of NHCAC will continue to embrace and celebrate the legacy of our culture, as we are honored to dedicate this year’s celebration to the African American woman!

NHCAC also celebrated and recognized “emerging” young female leaders within and throughout the community during a separate social media campaign for the 2021 scholarship recipients. While recognizing these bright futures, NHCAC was also engaged in candid conversations with high school and college students that revolved around the COVID crisis. Our Arts and Letters Committee also rolled out the red carpet in this ongoing celebration,

32

Arkansas Deltas Participate in Suffrage Centennial When the University of Central Arkansas began planning for the 100-year anniversary of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote, organizers looked for community partners.

“We were planning several events throughout the month of October for our Suffrage Centennial Celebration, and we had partners” said Gayle Seymour, associate dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences at UCA. “To accomplish one of our events, ‘United: The Acorn Project,’ we knew we needed the assistance of many community partners.

“Because of Delta Sigma Theta’s history and connection to the Women’s Suffrage March in 1913, we knew Delta could be a great partner.”

Sixteen chapters from across Arkansas participated in the project and contributed a significant portion of the acorns needed to complete the project.

“The unbelievable women of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, whose many chapters worked across the state, literally made at least a third of the acorns in the flag,” said Liz Smith, associate professor in the Department of Art and Design, who was the lead organizer of the acorn project.

The acorn project was a ground mural made up of thousands of handmade ceramic acorns in an array of skin toned hues. The mural was constructed to look like an American flag.

In planning the project, Seymour reached out to her campus colleague Fredricka Sharkey, director of communications at UCA, and campus adviser for Lambda Upsilon on the UCA campus.

33

By Soror Fredricka Sharkey After learning that the acorn project needed several thousand acorns, Sharkey suggested a virtual meeting via Zoom with Social Action Committee chairs from chapters across the state to discuss the idea.

After clearing the idea with Deborah Bland, Arkansas State Coordinator, Sharkey organized a Zoom call to connect Seymour and Smith with chapters across the state.

Smith led discussions via Zoom to showcase how to construct the acorns, organized drop-off and pick-up locations throughout Arkansas.

At the project’s end, Deltas contributed roughly 3,000 acorns that were unveiled at a ceremony in October as part of UCA’s Suffrage Centennial Celebration. The project was unveiled during a special ceremony in on Oct. 20. Riva Brown, associate professor in the UCA School of Communication and member of the Little Rock Alumnae Chapter, spoke during the unveiling.

The participating chapters were Blytheville Alumnae, Central Arkansas Alumnae, Delta Eta, Forrest City Alumnae, Gamma Gamma, Helena Alumnae, Hot Springs Area Alumnae, Jonesboro Alumnae, Lambda Theta, Lambda Upsilon, Little Rock Alumnae, Marianna Area Alumnae, Northwest Arkansas Area Alumnae, Pine Bluff Alumnae, Southeast Arkansas Alumnae and West Memphis Area Alumnae. Sharkey also served as a speaker during the Suffrage Centennial Celebration kickoff event in August.

Above: Sorors and UCA staff pose with the acorns.

Below: Soror Linda Morgan, left, of the Forrest City Area Alumnae Chapter, and her mother Alberta Tucker pose with the acorns at the Arkansas State Capitol.

34

Self-Care is Self-Love

By Soror Maria Starling

Creativity is the key to maintaining and ensuring sisterly connections in a season of unforeseen circumstances.

The Houston Alumnae Chapter’s “Hey Sister, See You on the Web” social media campaign has provided a virtual platform to connect and engage sorors who login to the chapter’s social media account on a daily basis.

In the true spirit of sisterhood, the Houston Alumnae Chapter continues to display creative ways to not only reclaim our sisters, but to also continue highlighting and uplifting sisters who go above and beyond the call of service to uplift and serve the community, even in a global pandemic.

Our social media campaign, “Self-Care is Self-Love” during Collegiate Connection Month focused on mental and physical health while continuing to engage, uplift and renew the sisterhood. Weekly postings reflected the need to stop, stretch and reflect on all of the beauty life has to offer.

35

The First Order of Business: Service

By Soror Jadan K. Crow

The Spring 2021 new initiates of the Illustrious Iota Eta Chapter, located at Texas Christian University, supported the surrounding community with a feminine care drive.

The new initiates established the first order of business on efforts aimed to help relieve the needs of women currently in their reproductive years. Following Sorority and CDC guidelines in the midst of a pandemic, the Iota Chapter set a goal to create care kits that addressed the biological needs of care kits. In the end, these outcomes were met. Twenty feminine care kits were created and assembled to include lotion, soap, tampons, feminine care wipes, pads, dental care, shave care, hand sanitizer, fruit snacks, and deodorant. These packages were also accompanied by two mop and broom sets per individual, which were included on the recipient’s immediate needs lists. A monetary donation of $100.00 to Safe Haven of Tarrant County, which allows its patrons autonomy, while also meeting their needs at any moment in time. The Iota Eta Chapter successfully delivered the feminine care packages, mop and broom sets and the accompanying financial contributions on May 1, 2021, exactly one day after the new members were initiated. Welcome to the sisterhood sorors and thank you for your commitment to serve. What a wonderful way to conduct your very first order of business!

36

Vaccinations: The History & Hesitancy of Black America

By Soror Kim Weaver Did you ever imagine you would live to see the world experience a pandemic that would impact families internationally across the globe? In March 2020, the entire country engaged in a lockdown due to the emergency alert of the deadly virus COVID-19.

Moreover, this virus would lead to exposing the undeniable disparities in predominantly Black neighborhoods, including senior citizens’ hesitancy of the vaccine, the lack of internet access to schedule appointments, underlying medical conditions, multi-family dwellings and essential workers, who just so happen to be largely populated by minorities, dying at a higher rate than those any other ethnic background. As a commitment to servicing our community, the Emergency Response Team (ERT) of the Metropolitan Dallas Alumnae (MDA) Chapter hosted a candid conversation about COVID-19, dispelling some of the common myths roving throughout our community.

A year into the pandemic, Black Americans continue to experience hospitalization and death from COVID-19 at a much higher rate than white Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. White and higher-income Americans were also more likely to have received a vaccine than Black and Hispanic people. As a leader in our community, MDA led a virtual outreach effort to stress the importance of getting vaccinated. For many Black Americans, distrust in the safety of vaccines has remained prevalent.

Dr. Shawn Jones, who is responsible for safety and training at the City of Oakland and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, was our keynote speaker. Dr. Jones has over 15 years of experience both as a nuclear chemist and biological analyst at several Fortune 500 companies with names such as Exxon, Bayer and Norvartis.

With this experience along with being certified as a trainer by his local Governor’s Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.), we knew his contribution and impact would be positive.

The first one-hour virtual event held on April 10 via Zoom was a complete success. Due to the overwhelming response to the quality of information shared by Dr. Jones, the Chapter hosted a second event on May 13 to target a larger audience, this time via Facebook Live. The target audience and population was catered more so towards church communities and men and women of color.

Both events generated conversation surrounding the misconception of the Tuskegee Experiment, understanding the hesitancy in people of color to take the vaccine, the overall disparities in determinants of health, and other ongoing efforts to strive towards normalcy. We know it will take a village to reach these goals, and MDA is poised and ready to serve.

37

CODE RED: PANDEMIC TALK

By Soror Kimya Babers During the month of March 2021, the Hammond Area Alumnae Chapter (HAAC) hosted a five-part series entitled CODE RED: Pandemic Talk. Throughout the series, HAAC allowed for candid discussions with professionals surrounding several issues relating to the Sorority’s Five-Point Programmatic Thrust.

surrounded them when diagnosed with the coronavirus.

One Soror shared with the audience her experience with losing her father as a result of the virus and her being diagnosed in the midst of her grief. Panelists and the audience had intense and extensive dialogue about how the COVID 19 pandemic affected them spiritually.

The first session hosted was entitled CODE RED: Pandemic Talk “Relax, Relate, Release.” This session focused on mental health issues and how the COVID pandemic has encouraged and intensified mental health issues among adults and adolescents. The panelists educated the community on the signs and symptoms on different mental health issues. Panelists further discussed how suicide rates has increased since the pandemic. Panelists advised the audience of the different warning signs to look for with children and adults who may be experiencing mental health concerns and/or contemplating suicide.

The fourth CODE RED: Pandemic Talk series focused on the impact of the COVID 19 Pandemic on our education system. This series was entitled “How You Doin?” and it dealt with Social Emotional Learning as well as academic burnout. The panelists were inclusive of School Administrators, a School Counselor, and a parent. During this session, parents and teachers alike shared their experience with burnout during this pandemic. This platform allowed for open candid discussions to be shared amongst the community about the struggles and concerns of how this pandemic has affected their children, the teachers, and the administrators.

The second session of the CODE RED: Pandemic Talk series was entitled CODE RED Pandemic Talk: “How You Livin?” The chapter was blessed to have Sorors Carolyn Lewis and Shytishia Flugence to assist in this endeavor. This session focused on the financial impact of the pandemic. Panelists educated the community on the importance of financial literacy, understanding credit, budgeting, and investing. The community was further educated on unemployment benefits during the pandemic period, filing claims, and unemployment programs. Panelists shared information about the stimulus bills and tax information, focusing on child tax credits. Panelists gave extensive information on tax deductions, student loans and more.

The final CODE RED: Pandemic Talk was entitled “Let’s Talk.” This session focused on the Coronavirus, CDC guidelines, prevention and precautions of the coronavirus, and the COVID 19 vaccinations.

Panelists educated the audience on the coronavirus, comorbidity and the importance of self-care through it all. Panelists reiterated the CDC guidelines for prevention and precautions, discussing with the community the importance of continued hand washing, social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing. More importantly, the community was educated on the Coronavirus vaccinations. Panelists shared with the community statistics on the Coronavirus as well as the different vaccinations. One of the most impressive The third CODE RED: Pandemic Talk series was entitled factors of this session was that the Panelists shared of “Reflect, Renew, Refresh.” This session focused on the themselves, along with other frontline workers, the spiritual impact and dealing with death and dying as a emotional and mental struggles they have faced during result of the pandemic. This session was the most moving the pandemic. of the series. During this forum, panelists discussed with the audience how the pandemic has forced us to deal with death and dying differently. Sorors were invited to share their stories of dealing with the fears that

38

The Baker-Zachary Alumnae Chapter Welcomes New Members

By Soror Vennetta Hayes The Baker-Zachary Alumnae Chapter is proud to present our Spring 2021 Initiates. On April 25, 2021, 24 dynamic women became members of the BakerZachary Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. This group of ladies contributed 1583 pounds of food to our local food pantry as their first act of service together. This was double the amount received from a typical school drive! They hit the ground serving after initiation by planning and implementing a virtual mental health panel as part of the chapter’s May Week activities. Kudos BakerZachary Alumnae Spring 2021!

39

Our newest members are: First row: Maya Anderson, Tonya Jackson, Johnelle Scott, Pashion Norman, Miriam Young, Richala Jackson, Chasity Jones and Judith Jackson. Second row: Danyell Johnson, Chayla Price, Tenesha Wilson, Jayla Anderson, Yolando Anderson, Brittany Dixon, Dominique O’Conner and Nyoka George. Third row: Kaleisha London, Lavonita Ealy, Gracie SlackTurner, Takara Butler, Latoya London-Moore, Monique Williams, Renicca Carter and Tanugla James.

40

50 Years

New Orleans Alumnae Chapter

Soror Yvonne Stepter

Soror Iola Graves

41

Soror Mary Conerly

Soror Lynda R. Louis

Soror Valerie Broomfield Sholes

Soror Paulette Anderson Williams

Soror Rita Weary

Soror Thelma Harris French

Soror Hermine Crump Jones

Soror Rachel W. Mercadel

Soror Carolyn E. Lewis

Soror Florence Durell

Soror Margaret Ferguson Washington

Soror Elaine Bailey

Tyler Alumnae Chapter

Soror Emmer Gray Mallard

Soror Arthurlene Greer

Soror Orenthia Mason

42

Houston MetopolitanAlumnae Chapter

Soror Jewell Davis-Lomas

43

Soror Grace Macklin

25 Years

New Orleans Alumnae Chapter

Soror Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes

Soror Dana Encalade-Monk

Soror Gwendolyn Lewis

Soror Avis Maria Brock

Soror Darlene richardson

Soror Carla M. Moore

Soror Essence Harris Banks

Soror Keesha Monique Davis

44

Soror Kiki Barnes

Soror Patrice J. Tyson

Soror Taaqua M. Lacey-Williams

45 Soror Vyntrella B. Menzies

Soror Kimberly Jones-Williams

Soror Nyree A. Ramsey

Soror Quatressa R. Weary

Soror Sarita P. Melson

Soror Trenisha Michelle Johnson

Soror Tyra Granderson

Soror Yolanda McPherson Lloyd

Soror Tarsha McGee

Tyler Alumnae Chapter

Soror Hollisia Allen

Soror Dr. Cheryl Garmon

Soror Cheryl Simpson

Soror Carrie Mayfield

Soror Collette Stec

Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter

Soror Shalandra Jones

Soror Jacqueline Moton

Soror Demita Sweet

46

Prairie View Alumnae Chapter

Soror Taniqua Blakely

Soror Flora Thomas

47

Soror Calandra Stephenson Lake

Soror Kimberly Hughes

Celebrating a Delta DEAR Prairie View Alumnae Chapter

Soror Jeronia Roberts entered our beloved sisterhood Spring 1971 at Albany State University in Albany, Georgia. She worked as a teacher in Florida, California and Texas for 8 years. She then worked in the library for 18 years before she retired.

When you ask Soror Roberts how she found the Prairie View Alumnae Chapter, she tells the story of hosting an event at her home and meeting a guest that was a soror. They quickly exchanged pleasantries, and Soror Roberts was simply asked, “Are you interested in becoming active?” This brought Soror Roberts to her first chapter meeting in four years. The heartwarming reception she received from so many sorors kept her coming, and after 40 plus years she reactivated to become a financial member, inspiring her to give her talents to the chapter and community.

the kindest, most empathic soul when she entered that chapter meeting over 40 years ago. She calls, sends encouraging text messages and makes some of the most wonderful sweet tea you will ever have.

We are honored to hold Soror Jeronia Roberts as one of our beloved Delta Dears.

Soror Roberts has been an active chapter member, eager supporter of any activity and vital contributor to various committees.

She often reports that PVAC is full of the sweetest sorors you can ever find, but we feel that we found

48

Congratulations, Grads!

From The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter

Soror Kristy Love, Ed.D., Executive Educational Leadership, Houston Baptist University

Soror Kristal “Krissy” Watson, Ed.D., Leadership and Learning in Organizations, Vanderbilt University

49

Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter Celebrates Elected Officials

In November 2020, Soror Teneshia Hudspeth was elected Harris County Clerk in Houston, Texas; she is the first African American to hold this position.

Soror Karolyn D. Williams was appointed Executive Command Assistant to Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan, the second Black sheriff in the county’s history.

50

Soror Sonya Morring Smith Becomes the First African American Secretary of the NM Department of Veterans Services

In January 2021, Soror Sonya Morring Smith was confirmed as the New Mexico Cabinet Secretary of Veteran Services, serving as the first African American and fifth woman to hold this highly coveted position. Her influence and presence in the Albuquerque community is profound as evidenced by her participation as a member of the Board of Directors for Presbyterian Health Services and the Board Member of the African American Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, among others. In February, she was recognized as a “Barrier Breaker” by the New Mexico Black Leadership Council.

Soror Smith has been a member of the Albuquerque Alumnae Chapter since her move to New Mexico in 2014. She joined our illustrious organization through the Norfolk Alumnae Chapter in 2001 and is an alumna of Norfolk State University. Soror Smith is recognized in the chapter, both as a leader and steady worker. She currently serves as the chapter’s Parliamentarian and has also served as Vice President, Chair of Social Action and Ways and Means.

A member of the U.S. Air Force Reserve, she received an honorable discharge after serving in the Gulf War as a medical technician in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. She most recently worked at the New Mexico Department of Health as a special projects coordinator, helping to guide the efforts of the agency’s COVID-19 testing team. Prior to that, she served as the director of compliance and primary care programs at Southwest Care Center in Santa Fe, NM and before that, as the clinical compliance manager at the University of New Mexico Truman Health Services clinic. Soror Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in health services management from Norfolk State University in Norfolk, VA. Soror Smith is the epitome of our organization’s growth and leadership. The Albuquerque Alumnae Chapter are extremely proud to have her among our ranks.

51

Recognizing Soror Dorisene Wallace Hill The Delta Dear Committee of Central Arkansas Alumnae (CAAC) recognized the importance of acknowledging and honoring achievements and contributions of each other and to serviced communities. With this collective understanding Soror Dorisene Wallace Hill was selected as the 20202021 Delta Dear of the Year by the “Dears” committee.

Soror Hill was initiated into in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporation in 1956 and she has been an active member until today. She is a proud charter member of the Central Arkansas Alumnae chapter. Mentoring younger sorors was and is her passion. In her 65 years of service to Delta, she has promoted the organization’s programs and initiatives through various offices and positions at the local, state, regional and national levels.

Soror Hill’s Delta roles and responsibilities were identified as chapter president, the chapter’s first arts & letters Chair and Ritual & Ceremonies Chair.

On the State level she was a DID Trainer, Membership Intake Trainer, Program Coordinator, Heritage & Archives CoOrdinator as well as Cluster Chair. Her energy and dedication were used at the regional level as School of America CoChair and Heritage & Archive committee member (national level also).

In 2015, the Central Arkansas Alumnae Scholarship was named the “Dorisene Wallace Hill Scholarship.” On New Year’s Day 2021, the Chapter honored Soror Hill with a virtual 88th birthday party complete with video messages from current and former chapter members

whose lives she impacted throughout her Delta years.

Soror Hill is a retired elementary school principal. She was honored with the Arkansas Arts in Education Award. Soror Hill used some personal time to volunteer with several organizations including Easter Seals Advisory Board, Goodwill of Arkansas Board of Directors, the Committee on Women’s Concerns, and American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).

Soror Hill has served in several positions such as Women’s Initiative spokesperson, speaking out for mid-life and older women, Arkansas Economic Security Coordinator, chairperson of the Arkansas Diversity Committee, and member of the State Advisory Board. She received the State’s first Heritage Award for her years of service.

Soror Hill also served as an AARP Tour Coordinator for Chapter 4982. From 20152017 as president, she served the Retired Educators of Little Rock and other public schools.

Thank you, Soror Dorisene Wallace Hill, for your many years of committed service to church, community, and Delta.

52

Sheryl C. Womble: The People’s Parliamentarian

Soror Sheryl C. Womble was initiated into the Eta Theta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at Paine College in 1975. On Saturday, May 1, 2021, Soror Womble became the recipient of the “Parliamentarian of the Year Award” at the 66th Annual Convention of the Texas State Association of Parliamentarians (TSAP), the first virtual convention. Soror Womble held the position of president of the San Antonio Alumnae Chapter from 2006 until 2008. She currently serves as the chapter’s parliamentarian and chair of the Rules of Order and Procedures committees. In addition, she is a working member on the Arts and Letters, Collegiate Connection and President’s Advisory Council committees.

As a Professional Registered Parliamentarian, Soror Womble has experience providing advice on parliamentary procedure, including meeting strategy, developing, revising and amending bylaws, conducting parliamentary procedure workshops, overseeing elections, training presiding officers, boards and committees, preparing meeting scripts and analyzing unique and complex matters. Soror Womble has served as a convention parliamentarian and consultant for these organizations: Texas Library Association, American Art Therapy Association and The American Dental Assistants Association, and a workshop presenter for The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and other organizations.

53

Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Rose Roche’s reign as Queen Zulu

By Soror Erica Joseph

The West Baton Rouge Museum celebrated Mardi Gras season in grand style by commemorating the 25th Delta anniversary of Soror Rose Roche’s reign as Queen Zulu. Soror Roche is a native of Port Allen, LA and member of the Louisiana Tri-Parish Alumnae Chapter. Soror Roche reigned as the first non-native of New Orleans to be Queen of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club in 1996. Soror Roché was the Queen of King Louis Rainey, Jr. The “Queen Zulu: Rose Roche of Port Allen” exhibit was on display during the month of February.

Included in the exhibit, located in the Brick Gallery of the West Baton Rouge Parish Museum, was the dress, headpiece, crown and scepter worn by Soror Roché during her ride on Mardi Gras day. Also on view was the queen’s flag, official 1996 Zulu poster and designs of other past gowns by the selected dress designer. The exhibit also included Zulu coconuts over the years, various throws and dabloons. A mini documentary of Soror Roché was recorded as she reflected on her reign as Queen Zulu 1996 and was live streamed through the museum Facebook page and YouTube channel..

She currently serves as Chair of Arts & Letters and the Delta DEARS Committee. She will be celebrating 50 years as a member Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. this year.

Currently, she serves as Director of Community and Economic Development and was recently elected Municipal Clerk for the City of Port Allen. She also serves on the Democratic Parish Executive Committee and is a past Regional Social Action Coordinator.

Soror Roché is a retired from the Southern University System and former directress of the world-famous Southern University Dancing Dolls.

She is a charter member of Louisiana Tri-Parish Alumnae and was the first President of the chapter.

54

55

RESOLUTION IN LOVING MEMORY OF SOROR PIER CRENSHAW The Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated mourns the passing of our dear member, Soror Pier Crenshaw. The history of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will forever be interwoven with Soror Crenshaw as a dedicated member and with her involvement in the community. We pause, at this time, to convey our sincerest condolences.

WHEREAS, Soror Pier Crenshaw has served Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. since April 29, 1978, when she was initiated into our illustrious sisterhood with the Zeta Sigma Chapter at the University of Houston in Houston, Texas. Soror Crenshaw was a charter member of the Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter, where she faithfully served as Chapter President (2012-2016), Treasurer, Internal Audit Chair and held numerous chair roles. Her impact and leadership spans into the Southwest Region, where she was the North Texas/New Mexico State Coordinator, a Membership Intake Trainer, Delta Internal Development Trainer, and a member of the Investigation Team.

WHEREAS, Soror Crenshaw possessed a warm smile, a kind and welcoming spirit, a hearty laugh, quick wit, a spirit of excellence, an encouraging nudge, and an authenticity that made every person in her presence feel loved.

WHEREAS, Soror Crenshaw supported her family, friends, sorors, and community with a sincere compassion and distinguished quality; words cannot express the sadness we feel in our hearts. Dr. Perry Crenshaw, Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter President Brandi Hicks, Soror Kristin Williams, Soror Ariana Moss-Fields, and Eboni Waller we pray the Holy Spirit, our comforter continues to keep and dwell in you, today and in the days to come.

WHEREAS, we believe the words of Jesus in John 14 that encourages us to “Let not your heart be troubled: yet believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

BE IT RESOLVED, that the members of the Southwest Dallas County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. pause to thank our heavenly Father for the life and service of our sister, Soror Pier Glover Crenshaw. Her legacy will live for generations.

56

57

58

The Bay Area Houston Alumnae Chapter’s Pandemic Pivot

By Soror Kimberley Baker

Lights, camera, action.... BAHA style! Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic and Delta’s allvirtual programming for 2020 and 2021, the Bay Area Houston Alumnae Chapter has been flexible but effective. The chapter’s nascent Production Strike Team (PST) has elevated the sorority’s five-point programmatic thrust.

Led by Soror Vickee Gray, BAHA’s PST has produced and executed more than 25 events. Other PST Sorors are: Kimberley Baker; Andre’a Streeter, Imani Spears, Shirlean Law, Pamela Stone, Donisha Smith, Kaye Wright, Kymberly Butler-Devrouax and Tenea Sanders.

Highlights have included chapter meetings, chapter anniversary, its annual Small Business Saturday economic development day, Sisterhood Month activities and ZFusion physical and mental health salute.

They even served as the production team for two multi-chapter DIDs. PST hosted “Get in Tune with Zoom” webinar to teach sorors and the public about

59

planning virtual productions, screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, lighting, and attire.

BAHA’s PST plans to create a how-to guide for virtual productions that will be available online for the public.

Soror Shantel Williams is president of BAHA. The chapter has over 170 members. Since 2005, BAHA has been anchored in the Greater Southeast Houston area proudly serving the communities of Clear Lake, Friendswood, Pasadena, Pearland, Seabrook and Webster.

TUNING IN WITH YN : The Rich History of The Ultimate Upsilon Nu Chapter

The Upsilon Nu Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was chartered on the day of April 28,2013 A centennial line on the campus of The University of Texas at San Antonio. Twenty- eight Quintessential women came together to create a strong foundation for the future of The Upsilon Nu Chapter. Our chapter’s main focus is to inform, educate, and enrich The University of Texas at San Antonio and the San Antonio community through our Five Point Programmatic Thrust, since the day we were chartered.

Stand Up to Bullying October 2,2014

The purpose of Stand Up to Bullying was to inform people of the various forms of bullying and how to recognize when it takes place. We did this event in conjunction with Sigma Lamda Beta, a multicultural fraternity on campus. We started off the event with a speaker that brought to light startling statistics about bullying and talked about different instances of bullying that have happened recently in society. We then had our members and the members of Sigma Lamda Beta act out skits that displayed bullying in the household, in school, and in relationships. We also shared personal testimonies and discussed the topic among the audience. We closed out the event by having everyone sign handprints as a pledge to not bully.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun November 2019 As part of Delta Week, the Upsilon Nu chapter hosted an all-female slumber party on campus with a focus on promoting mental health and encouraging women’s empowerment. This event promoted personal growth and provided a calm and relaxed environment filled with Girl Power. Additionally, the slumber party provided guidance and a blueprint on steps that can be taken to reach goals. Participants were asked to join six lovely chapter members in their favorite pajamas as a way to ease the environment and calm nerves. A common theme found throughout the slumber party was how to manage the everyday life stresses of a college educated woman and promote self-love. Additionally, the importance of mental health was emphasized because statistically stress has been compared to an epidemic amongst college students. Attendees participated in

60

activities that focused on self-expression and putting yourself and mental state before unnecessary stress.

The common goals reached were to have attendees leave feeling refreshed, encouraged and know that they matter!

College Survival: COVID-19 Edition 2021 The chapter held this event to provide helpful tips to students to be successful for the semester. These key tips include studying , stress reveling ,and self care. The purpose is for students to plan ahead , be prepared , and to stay stress free to have a successful semester.

61

Recognizing Lambda Theta, Lambda Upsilon and Iota Delta This sororority year, Lambda Theta, at the University of Arkansas, Lambda Upsilon, at the Unviersity of Central Arkansas, and Iota Delta, at Henderson State University, were recognized by their respective universities for their outstanding scholarship, sisterhood and service. Learn more about the awards each chapter received below.

Lambda Upsilon Highest GPA for the Fall 2020 semester Cultural Program of the Year for the annual Dance Around the World program Outstanding Greek Woman of the Year: Soror Ashley Mackey

Iota Delta Highest GPA for sororities in the NPHC

Lambda Theta

NPHC Most Philanthropic Chapter NPHC Outstanding Chapter President NPHC Outstanding Chapter Advisor In addition, Lambda Theta’s Michelle Wilson Scholarship received full endowment. Every year, the chapter hosts the Michelle Wilson Walkathon and gives away a scholarship as a tribute to our soror and alumna of the University of Arkansas, who passed away of lupus. This year, the chapter aimed to endow the Michelle Wilson scholarship to provide financial relief to students at the University of Arkansas in perpetuity.

With lots of faith and hard work, Lambda Theta raised $15,000 in less than 4 months to achieve the endowment.

62

Become a 2021 Delta Sponsor!

Sorors — Thank you for your overwhelming response to the 2021 Delta Sponsorships Benefits! We are delighted about your interest in supporting our Sorority by becoming a Delta Sponsor.

We invite you to become a 2021 Delta Sponsor at either the Fortitude, Pearl, Violet, Crimson & Cream or Ruby individual levels, or the Sisterhood Group level. Additional information on how to become a 2021 Delta Sponsor is available in the Call to Convention.

The deadline to become a 2021 Delta Sponsor and be eligible to receive exclusive Delta Sponsorship benefits is August 15, 2021.

Please contact us at strategicpartnerships@deltasigmatheta.org with any additional questions. Together, we continue to support efforts which will preserve the “Joy in Our Sisterhood, Power in Our Voice and Service in Our Hearts.”

Sisterly, Vonetta C. Mickens Chair, Strategic Partnerships Task Force Vicki Carew Chair, Delta Sponsorship Subcommittee

63

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC.

Call to Convention

NOVEMBER 20 - 22, 2021

ATLANTA, GA

Get Convention Ready!

Sorors, It’s almost time to register for the 55th National Convention! Make sure you’re convention ready by downloading your copy of the Call to Convention, which is now available on the Member Portal and DST Sorority App. The Call to Convention contains everything you will need to navigate Delta Sigma Theta’s FIRST hybrid national convention. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the entire document as some elements have changed to accommodate our new operational standards. Registration opens on Thursday, July 15, 2021 at noon EST for all delegates.

64