NHAC 65th Anniversary Gala Celebration by nhacdst

NEW HAVEN ALUMNAE CHAPTER

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC.

P R E S E N T S

Anniversary Anniversary GALA

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2024

TYDE AT WALNUT BEACH

HistoryOur

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is a private, not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world The sorority currently has 1,000 collegiate and alumnae chapters located in the United States, Canada, Japan (Tokyo and Okinawa), Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Jamaica, West Africa, Southern African, United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Korea.

The major programs of the sorority are based upon the organization’s Five-Point Programmatic Thrust:

Economic Development

Physical and Mental Health

Educational Development

Political Awareness and Involvement

International Awareness and Involvement

On the heels of the establishment of the first National Headquarters and becoming the first Black Greek Letter Organization to establish such a property, 23 Sorors in the Greater New Haven area ventured to be first as well When applying for a charter, Sorors were asked by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated Grand Chapter to give information on the possibilities of establishing and growing a chapter Our visionary charter members response was “At the present time, there is no other organized chapter of a National Sorority in the New Haven area We believe that a chapter of Delta Sigma Theta in this area would offer a great deal to the surrounding community, particularly in encouraging youth to seek higher education ” These 23 pioneering women amid an autumn day, chartered the New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated Two days later, the National President, Dr Jeanne L Noble signed the application establishing the New Haven Alumnae Chapter on October 3, 1959 With a desire to continue the commitment begun by the 22 Founders, along with visionary leadership, tireless commitment, and unwavering faith, and a love for Delta, our 23 Charter Members and subsequent Chapter Presidents and Chapter Members have propelled this chapter to its present heights of exemplary community service

The New Haven Alumnae Chapter became the first African American organization to establish an Endowment Fund with the Community Foundation of Greater New Haven’s Communities of Color Fund Additionally, in 2007 the Chapter launched the Delta Foundation of Greater New Haven a 501(c)3 foundation designed to improve the quality of life for citizens of the Greater New Haven area throughout the lifespan. Scholarship and programming fundraisers are a historical part of New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Over our 65 years, Jabberwock, Crimson and Cream Gala, Lobster and Crab Fest, and Throwback Party, just to name a few, are community-supported fundraisers that have supported the important programming of the Chapter. The chapter has presented over $400,000 in scholarships and awards to deserving youth in our communities over 65 years.

The award-winning New Haven Alumnae Chapter has been recognized by our national organization. The Chapter has won the Small Chapter of the Year Award at both the national and regional levels Additionally, proud to be recipients of the Social Action Award and the Regional Day of Service Award, among many others

As we celebrate these past 65 years, we are cognizant of the innumerable educational, social and political challenges that face the place where we live, work and serve We continue the legacy of strategically planning innovative programs and projects that address and support the diverse needs and interests of our communities

The New Haven Alumnae Chapter serves the following towns in New Haven county: Ansonia, Bethany, Branford, Derby, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Meriden, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Seymour, Wallingford, West Haven, & Woodbridge

MembersCharter

BETTY ANDERSON*

MIRIAM BATES*

DOROTHY BRIGHT*

LILLIAN BROWN*

JOSIE GADDY*

DELILAH GOMES

LEDONIA GRAY*

MILDRED HARPER*

DORIS JONES*

PENELOPE JONES*

JUANITA KENT

MELISSA LOWERY*

ANN MCKINNEY

JACQUELINE PANNELL*

QUEEN PATTERSON

BERMER RIDENHOUR

NANNIE ROGERS*

IRENE ROSS*

LUBERTA SIMS*

JESSIE SIZEMORE*

MILICIENT TYSON-SMITH*

SHIRLEY ADAMS-SMITH

MARGARET TAYLOR*

*OMEGA OMEGA

PresidentsPast

DELILAH GOMES 1959 1960

MILICENT SMITH 1960 1962

MARGARET TAYLOR 1962 1964

ANN MCKINNEY 1964 1966

ROSALYN MACDONALD 1966 1966

MATTIE LONG 1966 1968

JUANITA KENT 1968 1970

ELOISE MIDDLETON 1970 1972

NANNETTE TENN 1972 1974

JESSIE SIZEMORE 1974 1978

FRANCES JUDSON 1978 1980

DELILAH GOMES 1980 1982

LORRAINE SCOTT 1982 1984

LEDONIA GRAY 1984 1988

THELMA JOHNSON 1988 1992

CYNTHIA FARMER STREETER 1992 1994

LILLIAN PRINGLE HOLMES 1994 1998

ROBIN MILLER GODWIN 1998 2002

RAMONA MCNEIL GATISON 2002 2004

LISA CRUTCHFIELD DIGGS 2004 2008

KAREN DUBOIS-WALTON 2008 2012

ROBIN MILLER GODWIN 2012 2016

KARIMAH MICKENS WEBBER 2016 2020

PAULA IRVIN 2020 2024

KATRINA RICE 2024 PRESENT

from theMessage President

On behalf of the New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , it is with boundless joy and immense pride that I welcome you to this monumental anniversary celebration As we gather to honor the legacy of our Chapter, we are reminded of the power of unity, resilience, and purpose that has guided us through the decades

For over six decades, the New Haven Alumnae Chapter has embodied the ideals of sisterhood, scholarship, and service, enriching the lives of countless individuals through our programs, scholarships, and unwavering dedication to social action Our journey began with 23 visionary women, who laid a strong foundation, to every Soror who has contributed to our rich history, this milestone is a testament to the power of collective effort and visionary leadership

As we reflect on the remarkable achievements of the past, we are inspired to forge ahead with renewed vigor, continuing our mission to uplift and empower those around us. Our Chapter’s programs and initiatives have not only addressed the critical needs of our community but have also fostered growth, unity, and collaboration within our sisterhood.

This anniversary is not just a celebration of our past; it is a reaffirmation of our ongoing commitment to the ideals of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Our work is far from finished, and as we look to the future, we are called to reimagine new possibilities, forge new partnerships, and continue standing at the forefront of social change. In a world that so desperately needs healing, justice, and equality, we, as a chapter, stand ready to meet the challenge.

To our friends, partners, and community members, thank you for your unwavering support Your encouragement and collaboration have allowed us to expand our reach and deepen our impact Whether through your attendance at our events, financial contributions, or words of support, you have stood by us, and for that, we are eternally grateful

To our past and present Chapter members, I offer my deepest gratitude for your steadfast dedication, hard work, and sisterly love Your contributions have been invaluable, and it is because of you that our chapter has remained strong and vibrant through the years Together, we have fostered an environment of inclusivity, support, and empowerment a true embodiment of our Sisterhood

As we commemorate this special milestone, let us not only reflect on our Chapter’s rich history but also celebrate the brilliant future ahead With passion in our hearts, vision in our minds, and sisterhood in our souls, the New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc will continue to soar to greater heights, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come

Humbly Yours,

Katrina M. Rice

from the Message Committee

On behalf of the planning committee, it is with immense excitement and joy that we welcome you to the 65th Anniversary Celebration of the New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.! We are thrilled to have you join us as we honor and reflect on 65 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action in the Greater New Haven area.

This milestone is not just a celebration of our past, but a tribute to the countless contributions made by our members and supporters who have dedicated their time and talents to uplift our community. We have worked diligently to ensure that this occasion is a memorable one, filled with experiences, connections, and celebrations.

Your presence here today amplifies the spirit of unity and commitment that has defined our chapter for over six point five decades.

Thank you for being here with us. Here’s to a wonderful celebration!

Paula Irvin, Lead

Andréa Deyo

Adrien Esdaile

Pia Gero

Jennyfer Holmes

Lillian Holmes

Karen Jean-Baptiste

Kyle Jones

Nancy Jordan

Katrina Rice

Debbie Stanley-McAulay

Tressa Spears Jackson

Luretha Tolson

Kathy Townsend

Eleanor Turner

Mistress of Ceremonies

Kyle Jones

Kyle Jones is the New Haven Reporter and Weekend Anchor for NBC Connecticut. Kyle was born in New Haven and has been excited to be home since 2019, telling stories that impact people the most and getting involved in the community that has belonged to her family and friends for generations

Kyle grew up in the Maryland suburbs outside of Washington, D.C. Prior to joining NBC Connecticut, she reported along the East Coast at WMDT in Maryland, WMTW in Maine, and WJCL in Georgia.

Before her career in journalism, Kyle spent eight years working in public relations in Washington, D.C. She has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland, and she is a 2003 graduate of Hampton University.

And, while at Hampton, she became a Spring ‘02 initiate of the Gamma Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

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On behalf of the New Haven Alumnae Chapter Past Presidents, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the New Haven Alumnae Chapter as the Chapter celebrates an incredible milestone 65 years! This remarkable achievement is a testament to the commitment to Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action in the Greater New Haven area.

As we reflect on the past and celebrate this significant occasion, may we continue to inspire and lead with the same passion and purpose that has characterized the journey. We are excited to see what the future holds for the chapter as you carry forward the legacy of excellence and activism.

Here’s to many more years of making a difference and uplifting our community!