Fall/Winter 2021 Edition - The Aurora

AURORA THE

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

FALL/WINTER 2021

Natalie HINDS THE

AMAZING

RACE

All throughout the year, we celebrate Black Joy. Its beauty. Its brilliance. Its variety. Its tenacity. Its resilience.

Its ability to thrive despite everything.

The power of Black Joy truly knows no bounds... it’s A Joy Supreme.

Celebrate A Joy Supreme with us at aarp.org/blackcommunity

IN THIS ISSUE

FALL/WINTER 2021

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58 International Officers Contributors Greetings from International Grand Basileus Rasheeda S. Liberty From the Editor Richelle N. Jones, J.D. The Rhoad Home Founders’ Day Reflections | Stepping Into 100 Years

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Beacon Of Light

| 16 | International Grand Basileus Rasheeda S. Liberty, along with other leaders of the National Pan-Hellenic Council meet with Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington, D.C. | 58 | The U.S. premiere of the Netflix original film, The Harder They Fall. Photo credit: Rachel Murray for Netflix.

AURORA THE

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

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A Seat At The Table

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Let’s Give ‘Em Their Props

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Is There A Doctor In The House?

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Region News

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Central Region Leading In A Captivating Way

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Northeastern Region Being Notable

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Southeastern Region So Sophisticated

49

Southwestern Region Super In Every Way

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The Amazing Race: Olympian Natalie Hinds

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A Moment In History: Hattie McDaniel History Maker

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Celebrating Sigma Legacy

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The Harder They Fall Premiere

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Chapter Spotlight Central Region

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Celebrating Our Rubies

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Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc.

| 56 | Soror Hattie McDaniel, the first African-American to win an Academy Award for her supporting role in Gone With the Wind in 1939. | 52 | On the cover, 2020 Tokyo Olympics Bronze Medalist and Soror, Natalie Hinds. Photo credit: Mike Lewis/USA Swimming.

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Alumnae on the Move

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Undergraduate Pulse

99

7 Luminaries In Sports

105

Affiliate News

105

Celebrating Our Friends Philo News

107

Sisters Forever Rhoer News

108

Blooming Rhosebud News

110

Omega Rho

112

Sigma Gamma Rho Certified/Registered Vendors

116

The Aurora Submission Guidelines

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Hazing Is Prohibited

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| 83 | The Eta Sigma Chapter was excited to perform a modified “Happy Birthday!” celebration for one of their many chapter treasures. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. 14th International Basileus, Soror Evelyn Hawkins Hood was excited and beamed with joy at seeing Sorors at her doorstep to wish her Birthday Blessings! | 104 | Soror Marie Richardson, Seven Continents Half Marathon Finisher.

INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC. 2020-2022

INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS RASHEEDA S. LIBERTY

INTERNATIONAL FIRST GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS MARICA HARRIS

INTERNATIONAL SECOND GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS TE’LOR ALLEN

INTERNATIONAL GRAND GRAMMATEUS RHONDA DAVIS

INTERNATIONAL GRAND ANTI-GRAMMATEUS DR. KHALILAH SHABAZZ

INTERIM INTERNATIONAL GRAND TAMIOCHUS DANETTE A. SAMILTON

INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUS TAMIKA WILLIAMS-CLARK

INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF THE AURORA RICHELLE N. JONES, J.D.

CENTRAL REGION Syntaktes: Loreal Marshall Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Nai V. Colton Youth Services Coordinator: Aliya Cannon NORTHEASTERN REGION Syntaktes: Thomasina Gore, Esq. Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Selicia Sellers Youth Services Coordinator: Taylor Sligh SOUTHEASTERN REGION Syntaktes: Dr. Celestine LaVan Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Tanya Batchelor Judge Youth Services Coordinator: Kristian-Zani Eatman SOUTHWESTERN REGION Syntaktes: Miranda Moore Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: LaTisha Brandon Youth Services Coordinator: Jessica Brooks WESTERN REGION Syntaktes: Michelle Aldridge Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator: Taryn McNamee Youth Services Coordinator: Beyonce Utley

APPOINTEES International Legal Advisor Debra Y. Huges, Esq. International Parliamentarian Paulette Davis International Program Coordinator Zeretha Washington National Philo Coordinator Paulette Waite National Rhoer Coordinator Towanda Maddox International Sergeant at Arms Tamara McLaurin Boule Chaplain Yolanda Davis-Koonce Deputy Legal Advisor Joyvan Malbon-Griffin Global Membership Liaison Tezra Woody

PAST GRAND BASILEI Cleo S. Higgins, Ph.D. | 10th Annie L. Lawrence-Brown, R.N., Ed.D. | 13th Evelyn H. Hood | 14th

Katie Kinnard White, Ph.D. | 17th Helen J. Owens | 20th Mynora J. Bryant, Ed.D. | 21st

Joann Loveless | 22nd Bonita M. Herring | 23rd Deborah Catchings-Smith | 24th

AURORA THE

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

THE AURORA MAGAZINE

The Aurora is the official organ of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc, founded at Butler University, in Indianapolis, Indiana, November 12, 1922.

INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 1000 Southhill Drive, Suite 200 Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628 www.sgrho1922.org 1.888.SGR.1922

RASHEEDA S. LIBERTY

INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS

RICHELLE N. JONES, J.D. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ASSOCIATE EDITORS FOR FEATURES

L. CHANEL DICKERSON

ADRIENNE REDD GADLING

GLORIA DALTON

ANGELA SPEARS

ASSOCIATE EDITOR FOR SPECIAL CONTENT

GWENDOLYN M. GOINS

ASSOCIATE EDITORS FOR GENERAL CONTENT

TONISHIA HOLLOWAY

DR. WANDA LEFLORE

TAMELIA SPOONER-JAMES

DR. KIMBERLY PORTER

DR. JANET TIMMONS

DR. MORLENA T. ROBINSON

DESIGN Headhuntr Studio by Barbra Araujo PRINT Progressive Business Solutions The Aurora is published three times a year.

All materials for publication should be addressed to the attention of The Aurora at the International Headquarters or sent electronically to theauroramag@sgrho1922.org.

The Editor assumes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or manuscripts.

Such documents, if to be returned, must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

All Rights Reserved. Postage paid to Raleigh, (North Carolina) Postmaster.

FROM THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS | FALL/WINTER 2021

10 | THE AURORA

Rasheeda S. Liberty t’s time! It is time for all members and affiliates to market, showcase and amplify the work that Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. has committed for the past 100 years to the world. As we kick off our Centennial year, 2022, I am reflective of what our Founders envisioned for us, excited about our ability to share our service with the world, and actively sowing for our next 100 years. At the national level, the marketing is being realized through nearly $1M in partnership commitments both in-kind and direct funding. Partners realize that the influence of 100,000 inducted women is powerful, Our Rhoer and Philo affiliates extend that sphere of influence even more. We have increased our commitment of $1M in philanthropic gifts to $2.2M in the last year, focused on scholarship, capital projects, etc. We have an opportunity to increase our giving even more. Together, we can make some huge strides to amplify, showcase and build our brand. Here are some small steps in the next year that you can take: 1) Share commercial-ready videos and photos that showcase our colors and brand. If the video or photo cannot be shared with 50 million viewers worldwide, do not share publicly; 2) Wear our colors boldly to all events where Greek life is highlighted and celebrated; 3) Seize local opportunities to brand and market Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.; 4) Bring new partners to the table. We have closers nationally that can ensure that we can drive membership benefits from every interaction; 5) Think out of the box. The same event, same venue and same audience is not game changing for the organization; 6) Allow new voices at the table. Remember – we are building a sisterhood for the future; and 7) Create an attraction model for new volunteers, supporters and champions of the sisterhood.

The ideas shared above are meant to provide you tangible tools for execution, as it takes a collective voice to build the brand of our sisterhood. We have been sowing and doing the work in our communities consistently, investing in our undergraduate leaders, building our volunteer base and professional staff, and making strategic decisions to secure our future financially.

As shared, we have a lot to leverage in who we are and what we stand for. With that, I am encouraging you to share our message of GREATER. The word “greater” is embodied in our slogan – Greater Service, Greater Progress. As a result, we want to showcase how greater women make for a greater world. Use our new hashtag - #greater as we go forward this year. Be greater in this next phase of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s journey.

In Sisterly Service,

Rasheeda S. Liberty

Rasheeda Liberty 25th International Grand Basileus Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

FROM THE EDITOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

uring this 99th year of Sigma Gamma Rho’s founding, thank you to every member who purposes in her heart to carry the torch of our illustrious founders in pursuit of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”

It was Maya Angelou who said, “there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” With this in mind, this edition is special because we feature phenomenal women who allowed us to tell their stories of their triumphant journeys. Whether it is sports, theology, philosophy, education, medicine, or law, we salute your amazing accomplishments.

To our talented Soror Natalie Hinds, thank you for gracing our cover and allowing The Aurora Team to interview you to tell your incredible story.

To our vivacious Ruby Sorors, you are an integral part of our sisterhood. Your service and commitment to Sigma are an example to us all and are a beautiful portrait of what perseverance, dedication, and love look like.

Enjoy this edition!

In Service,

Richelle N. Jones Richelle N. Jones, J.D. Editor-In-Chief, The Aurora

The Aurora on Issuu.com

11 | THE AURORA

Richelle N. Jones

THE RHOAD HOME | FALL/WINTER 2021

The Rhoad Home: A Founders ' Day Reflection

12 | THE AURORA

By Angela Spears

I often think about why I joined Sigma Gamma Rho. When I think about what seven women started almost 100 years ago, it is amazing. They created a mission and developed a sustainable structure.

They were trailblazers. They understood and believed in service, scholarship and sisterhood.

Sisterhood is what drew me to the organization, and it is what keeps me coming back.

I only have a brother (Fred), so I missed out on sharing secrets with someone and laughing in the middle of the night. For almost 30 years, the sisterhood has meant so much to me. I have grown and continue to grow personally and professionally as well as within the sorority. I have had some amazing experiences and have meet women who have changed my life.

Top: Soror Angela Spears and IGB Rasheeda S. Liberty; Bottom: PIGB Evelyn Hood and Soror Angela Spears

One of the biggest honors as a member was meeting and knowing Past International Grand Basileus Corine J. Green. I was voluntold to work on the SPEAR Foundation. I sent an email to her and misspelled her name. She pointed it out and I, of course, was so embarrassed. When I met her in person, she looked me up and down (I was nervous) and then she smiled and said, “I’ve never met you. You’re kind of cute.” Our love affair began! I loved our conversations. I loved her honesty. I loved her stories. I loved all of her valuable advice. I thank Soror Green’s daughter, my sister, Soror Dorothy Simmons-Blake, for sharing her mom with me.

I have many stories of true sisterhood and friendship.

Sorors Rachel Morris and Vanessa Tyson mean the world to me. I treasure my talks with Sorors Shantana Robinson, Dawn Chitty and Taheerah Demby. Some sorors come in and out of your life.

Some are there only for a season and that’s okay.

I remember covering the Congressional Black Caucus as International Grand Epistoleus (IGE). I had the opportunity to interview Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

A soror jumped in to fix the collar of my blazer and took a picture for me. When I asked sorors to assist on IGE committees, they showed up and went above and beyond. That is sisterhood.

I love hearing the stories Past International Grand Basileus Evelyn Hood and Sorors Theresa Leake and Barbara Sawyer have shared with me about

THE RHOAD HOME | FALL/WINTER 2021

13 | THE AURORA

our Seven Pearls. I love my relationships with our past presidents. I have learned so much from Sorors Joann Loveless and Bonita Herring. I am still learning from Grand Basileus Rasheeda Liberty. I love laughing with Soror Helen J. Owens. I love seeing Dr. Katie K. White and telling her she was my first Grand Basileus.

Sisterhood is a two-way street. When Soror Richelle Jones, editor-in-chief of The Aurora, calls, I just say, “I will do it. It will get done.” When Soror Secenario Jones sends that text – Hey Soror Spears! I just reply with “yes.” I appreciate sorors like Marizen Sawyer. Excellence is always her goal. We push each other to go to that next level.

I admire my mentors like Soror Jennifer Gunn. I love those honest talks with sisters like Syntaktes Celestine LaVan. Our sisterhood is about finding those special people who can help guide you. It’s also Top to Bottom, L-R: Soror Angela Spears; Soror Angela Spears interviewing Speaker Nancy Pelosi; Soror Shantana Robinson and Soror Angela Spears; Soror Angela Spears and PIGB Bonita Herring

THE RHOAD HOME | FALL/WINTER 2021

about guiding the new generation of sisters like Sorors Ahmanielle Roussell, Jaymee Embree, Lauren Calhoun and so many more. Sisterhood is about sharing the good times and the bad times. Sometimes, we even shed a few tears together.

14 | THE AURORA

I did not name every sister who has impacted my life. But you know who you are. You know you are always in my heart. You know how to make me laugh.

You know when to hit me with the truth.

I am honored to serve my sisters. I am honored to continue in the footsteps of Mary Lou Allison Gardner Little, Dorothy Hanley Whiteside, Vivian White Marbury, Nannie Mae Johnson, Hattie Redford, Bessie Martin and Cubena McClure.

I love my sisterhood. I support my sisterhood. I believe in my sisterhood.

That is why I am a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. I do it for The Seven!

Top to Bottom, L-R: Editor-in-Chief of The Aurora Richelle Jones and Soror Angela Spears; Soror Angela Spears and PIGB Corine J. Green; Soror Angela Spears and PIGB Joann Loveless; Sorors Vanessa Tyson, Angela Spears, and Rachel Morris

Beacon of THE LEGACY OF ELLIE J. DAHMER

By Soror Cheryl Reese

Light

BEACON OF LIGHT | FALL/WINTER 2021

SOROR ELLIE J. Weeks after his death, the family received Dr. Dahmer’s voter registration card in the mail. The lead perpetrator of the attack on the Dahmer family was finally brought to justice 30 years later. The Civil Rights Museum in Jackson, Mississippi has an extensive exhibit on the Dahmer family.

Soror Ellie J. Dahmer and her family were honored with the installment of a statue of her husband, Vernon F. Dahmer, Sr., on the grounds of the Forrest County Courthouse in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Dr. Dahmer was a community activist and head of the Forrest County National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, who sought to get black citizens registered to vote. His mantra was, “If you don’t vote, you don’t count.” These words are engraved on his statue.

Dr. Dahmer was recognized for his contribution to the voting rights struggle in this country and the harrowing ordeal the Dahmer family experienced 55 years ago because of this effort. The family lost their dwelling, transportation, business and for Dr. Dahmer, even his life.

Late on the night of January 10, 1966, the Ku Klux Klan firebombed and riddled with gunfire the Dahmer home, their automobile, and the small grocery store next to the Dahmer home causing Soror Dahmer and their children to climb out of windows and run into the woods while Dr. Dahmer fought off the attackers. An 83-year old aunt living in back of the store narrowly escaped the flames with her life. Dr. Dahmer died from injuries sustained in the attack.

For a time, Soror Dahmer was banned from teaching jobs in Forrest County following the attack. She supported her family as a cosmetology practitioner and by delivering newspapers. She was eventually able to return to her career in education and is now retired. Soror Dahmer later served as Election Commissioner for District 2 in Forrest County.

Ironically, this was the same county that denied her and her husband the right to vote.

Soror Dahmer has been teaching Sunday School for over 70 years and her current classroom is only steps away from where her husband is buried. She often speaks with tour groups that visit her home and the grave site of her husband.

Soror Dahmer received an honorary doctorate from The University of Southern Mississippi in honor her contributions to the American Civil Rights Movement and her advocacy for literacy and academic achievement Soror Dahmer remains active in civil rights and community affairs. She often talks about the power of prayer and frequently advocates for the well-being of children. Soror Dahmer recently turned ninety-six years old, and she continues to live on the farm where the attack on her family took place. Beautiful pink flowers bloom every year around the concrete slab where the little store once stood.

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Dahmer

A SEAT AT THE TABLE | FALL/WINTER 2021

A Seat At The Table

By Monchiere Holmes-Jones, MOJO Marketing & PR

Washington, D.C.—Leaders of the National Pan-Hellenic Council met with Vice President Kamala Harris on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 to discuss impacting the future of healthcare and education in the black community through their organization’s respective legacies.

16 | THE AURORA

This pivotal meeting included Sigma Gamma Rho’s 25th International Grand Basileus, Rasheeda S. Liberty, who called for more funding for Historical Black Colleges and Universities and stronger healthcare legislation against Covid-19 and health disparities in the Black community.

“I have asked the Divine Nine leaders to come in to share with me your thoughts about the work we are doing and the work we can continue to do to uplift and to reach out to all the people of our nation, understanding our capacity to always engage and to empower and to improve as a nation. So, I thank you all,” said Vice President Kamala Harris.

“It was indeed an honor and a privilege to have a seat at the table to discuss voting rights, HBCU funding, healthcare, small business support and student loan debt relief,” said International Grand Basileus Rasheeda S. Liberty.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. leadership and members continue to be dedicated to greater service, greater progress internationally and their organization’s steadfast legacy is illuminated in the 100 years of women’s development and education. This monumental meeting promises to bring needed support for the Black community on game changing issues relevant for a greater future for all.

L

LET’S GIVE ‘EM THEIR PROPS | FALL/WINTER 2021

et’s give ‘em their props

As a high school principal, Soror Hampton works with continuation students who yearn to obtain a High School Diploma regardless of the obstacles they may be facing. She enjoys advocating for the underserved and has been recognized for doing just that. During the pandemic and distance learning, Soror Hampton still found ways to connect with students, families, and staff to ensure academic success and help others build capacity.

In April 2021 and May 2021, she received the ACSA Region 12 Administrator of the Year AwardAlternative Education, the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Educational Medal of Honor, and numerous certificates from local and state politicians.

One can easily recognize the passion Soror Hampton has for her students and the community as she actively seeks to support them through sorority programs and community initiatives that support the needs of the students.

17 | THE AURORA

Soror Tiffany Hampton has been a dedicated member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. for 18 years. She is an active member of the Lambda Rho Sigma Chapter of Santa Monica, CA, where she currently serves as Tamiochus and Scholarship Committee Co-Chair. Soror Hampton not only serves in leadership roles within the organization locally and regionally, but she is also a leader in her educational profession.

SOROR TIFFANY HAMPTON

LET’S GIVE ‘EM THEIR PROPS | FALL/WINTER 2021

SOROR DENISE MERRITT

Soror Merritt, brings to this role a wealth of knowledge gained on the local, regional and national levels of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., having previously served as Basileus, Anti-Basileus, and Undergraduate Chapter Advisor locally, and regionally as on the Basileus Bootcamp, Technical Team, and Online Submission committees. Her approach is to have successful recruitment, coupled with a productive T.O.R.C.H. process. Soror Merritt also states that she will use her knowledge to develop a solid Sigma foundation for incoming as well as transfer Sorors, equipping them with the tools they need to be confident and successful in their collegiate years, which she believes will result in positive Sigma footprints wherever they land.

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A strong family legacy that has embraced Soror Merritt with sisterhood, scholarship, and service, includes her daughter, Soror Dana Merritt, sister, Soror Belinda Randle-Broadus, and other relatives. She was motivated to join Sigma after making her debut in Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chapter’s Annual Debutante Cotillion.

SOROR DENISE MERRITT ELECTED TO LEAD REACTIVATED PSI CHAPTER AT SIU-C

SOROR ALICIA DAVIS Basileus Alicia Davis of the Mu Mu Sigma Alumnae Chapter in Tallahassee, Florida, was interviewed

by Candace Kelley of Comcast Newsmakers Florida Team to discuss the chapter’s events and programming for the current sorority year. Comcast Newsmakers presents short-form issue-based conversations with leaders and groundbreakers dedicated to advancing America’s communities.

The chapter is proud of this feature and the excellent job Soror Davis did in representing Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and the Mu Mu Sigma Chapter. Kudos, Soror Davis!

The newly elected 4th Anti-Basileus and Psi Chapter Advisor’s words of wisdom to live by for her new journey are, “Keep God first, employ open communication, and have Self-Control.”

LET’S GIVE ‘EM THEIR PROPS | FALL/WINTER 2021

SOROR JERIAN DIXON-EVANS

Soror Jerian Dixon-Evans is a Ph.D. candidate at Northern Illinois University. She has been awarded the R36 Dissertation Grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA). This grant funding is provided by the NIA to talented pre-doctoral students to expand the diversity of the scientific workforce and whose research aligns with the strategic priorities of aging associated health conditions.

Her project is titled “The Impact of Race on Quality of Life of the Aged after Heart Transplant or Destination Therapy Mechanical Support.” The project will be a secondary analysis of data collected at Northwestern University from the SUSTAIN-It study.

Soror Dixon-Evans will be the first student and woman of color in her Ph.D. program to win this extremely competitive federal grant. The purpose of her study is to determine whether older advanced heart failure patients who undergo destination therapy mechanical circulatory support, as compared to patients who undergo heart transplantation, experience non-inferior change in overall health-related quality of life (HRQOL). It is her hope that the health disparity gap in elderly minority communities that are disproportionately impacted by cardiovascular disease will be decreased and HRQOL outcomes will be improved. Soror DixonEvans is grateful to God for blessing her with this opportunity to be funded as a Principal Investigator while still a student. Soror Dixon-Evans is a Life Member (LM#1088) and a proud member of Eta Xi Sigma Alumnae Chapter, Oak Lawn, IL. She is also the legacy and niece of Soror Carolyn Dixon (Delta Omicron Sigma Chapter).

SOROR DAVINA YOUNG Soror Davina Young is the product from a long line of Sigma Gamma Rho women. Her maternal grandmother, Sallie Mae Adams and her paternal aunt, Shirley Young Ford, were Sigma women, as are her mother, Arndrea Blatch, and biological sister, Danielle Young. So, it is clear to see where Soror Young’s love for the royal blue and gold comes from, was encouraged to bloom and eventually lead her to create a legacy of her own as adviser of the Beta Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter Rhoers.

Soror Young is keeping the family tradition alive. Her daughter, Aniyah Franklin, a ninth grader, is currently a Rhoer with hopes of someday becoming a Sigma Gamma Rho woman.

In the fall of 2005, Soror Young joined the Beta Delta Sigma Chapter. In 2020, she was named Rhoer Advisor. Soror Young is no stranger to the Rhoer culture; she was a Gamma Iota Sigma Rhoer. This work is personal for Soror Young, and she passionately works to ensure each Rhoer strengthens the Rhoer Club’s reputation through solid community service work. For example, through its visibility and work in Leon County and surrounding areas, the Southside Rotary Club recently awarded the affiliate with a grant for their work in recognizing local veterans with thank you cards for their service.

Soror Young is a 2004 Florida A&M University graduate. Professionally, she works as a government analyst I for the Florida Department of Financial Services in the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services, and she is a certified-Florida Contract Manager.

LET’S GIVE ‘EM THEIR PROPS | FALL/WINTER 2021

SOROR ROBERTA ANDREYA AYERS

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CENTRAL REGION APPOINTS SOROR ROBERTA ANDREYA AYERS CENTENNIAL MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

The newly appointed Centennial Membership Chair of the Captivating Central Region brings a strong sense of pride, unity, and commitment to service from the 90’s to her new position. Soror Ayers, inducted March 15, 1999, remembers when the Divine Nine organizations really worked together and understood the importance of setting examples for others in the community. The same organizations that strolled in unity and completed service projects together, also rallied for like causes, celebrated successes while continuing to value education and service. Although she initially had no interest in Greek Life, Soror Ayers was inspired how Sigmas conducted themselves in the community and on campus at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIU-E). She noted that their commitment to education and service surpassed other organizations although Sigma during that period had one of the lowest populations on campus.

Soror Ayers’ motivation to work with membership committees at various levels in

Sigma Gamma Rho began with her valuing quality over quantity.

Dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of sisterhood she says, “Membership is the heart and core of our sorority. I want to do my part to ensure that Sorors have an impactful experience as part of this global organization. If Sorors don’t feel welcomed, they won’t be invested in the sorority and they won’t stay. It’s really that simple! It’s important that we show the outside world why we believe Sigma is the only way to go. Our actions and image must align with our core values.” She also believes that serving on the membership committee allows her to have a seat at the table and to be a part of the solution of building a stronger sisterhood. She will have the opportunity to use her business acumen and human resources skillset to assist with strategic planning, training, and leadership development.

Soror Ayers’ membership plan for success includes Recruitment, Reclamation and Retention while enhancing the overall membership experience in preparation for the Centennial and beyond. She says the Membership Committee will center their efforts on member engagement, growth and development, and relationship-building. She also wants Sorors to understand wholeheartedly that each of us add value to this organization and it is our responsibility to ensure that we live up to the values and standards established by our illustrious Seven Founders. We are one Sigma! “It’s imperative that we treat each other the way we want to be treated. Wearing our letters must come with a responsibility and an obligation to be Greater,” says Soror Ayers.

As Centennial Membership Chair, Soror Ayers shares the following pearls of wisdom: “I would like to implore the next generation of Sorors to work hard, absorb as much knowledge as possible, and to always keep Sigma first. It’s extremely important to mentor others and demonstrate Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service daily. It absolutely matters how you treat others and image speaks volumes. I strive to lead by example so that others will be inspired by my unwavering commitment to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. My humble advice is to make your service and character undeniable; remember that Sigma is a lifelong commitment, and know your purpose.”

Soror Ayers is a member of the Alpha Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter in East St. Louis, IL. Her legacy includes her aunt, Soror Donetta Ayers and her daughter, Soror Raven Ayers.

SOROR HELEN WHITE Soror Helen White, Life Member and Western Region General Member, was honored on September 15, 2021 for her tireless work as a stellar community service representative in the city of San Diego and San Diego County, California. She was awarded the Janice Elaine Gabriel Community Service Award for 2021.

Congratulations to Soror White on this great accomplishment!

LET’S GIVE ‘EM THEIR PROPS | FALL/WINTER 2021

SOROR DESTINY HARPER-LANE SOROR BRIANA MCFADDEN

&

Soror Destiny Harper-Lane, the Anti-Basileus of the Nu Eta Sigma Chapter successfully defended her dissertation: “Strategies to Reduce Voluntary Employee Turnover in Big-Box Retailers” on September 2, 2021.

She completed her Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration of Leadership from Walden University School of Management and Technology.

The Nu Eta Sigma Chapter is proud of Dr. Harper-Lane and Soror Briana McFadden and wish them both continued blessings.

SOROR ALISA BAILEY STEVENS MRS. ILLINOIS AMERICAN 2021 She never gave up on the dream of becoming Mrs. Illinois American and in 2021, that dream came true! Soror Alisa Bailey Stevens is Mrs. Illinois American 2021! Soror Stevens is a wife and a mother of two beautiful children, in addition to recently becoming a full-time caregiver of her mom. She studied nursing at Kent State University, where she became a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho, Sorority, Inc. The Mu Kappa Sigma Chapter would like to congratulate Soror Stevens on her amazing accomplishment! .

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Soror Briana McFadden, the Grammateus of the Nu Eta Sigma Chapter graduated from Squadron Officer School (In-Residence) at Maxwell Air Force Base on September 2, 2021.

It’s a career milestone to successfully complete this five-week course as a civilian. The course is geared for military officers. Soror McFadden completed leadership development and physical training alongside active duty, reservists, and guard military personnel.

IS THERE A

Doctor

IN THE HOUSE?

By Gloria Dalton and Tamelia Spooner-James

The Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education (1950) was a landmark decision and a pivotal point in the African American community. For many Black Americans, a formal education meant freedom; however, earning a degree guaranteed a chance at the American dream: prosperity, success, and upward mobility for the family derived through hard work and achievements. For some, obtaining a “higher education” was considered the gateway to better, higher paying jobs. A higher education, also called a post-secondary education, is an optional final step of the completion of the secondary education, provided by a college or university. Distance learning and on-line education portals makes obtaining these terminal degrees more obtainable than ever before.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc; has always been known for promoting education through scholarship. Meet the Doctors in the House! These Sorors are women forging their way through.

ALARMING STATISTICS: Statistics show that an individual with only a high school diploma is twice as likely to make under $40,000 per year than someone with a college degree. In contrast, an individual with a college degree is nearly nine times more likely to make over $100,000 than someone with only a high school diploma and 13 times more likely to make more than $200,000 per year. 1 From 2002 to 2017, of the roughly 50,000 people who earned Ph.D.s each year, the percentage who were black increased only modestly, from 5.1 percent to 5.4 percent, according to data from the National Science Foundation. In 2017, there were more than a dozen fields—largely subfields within science, technology, engineering, and math—in which not a single doctoral degree was awarded to a black person anywhere in the United States. 2

1 https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2012/09/17/education-is-the-key-to-better-jobs/ 2. https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2019/04/lack-of-black-doctoral-students/587413/

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Amelia

Bell-Hawkins Mu Delta Sigma

Dr. Shannon D.

Pearson

Dr. Shannon D. Pearson earned her Doctorate of Information Technology from Capella University in August 2020. Dr. Pearson’s research on Cloud Computing Encryption Methods and Best Practices used a qualitative research method, gaining industry expertise from Cloud Experts in the industry greater than 5 years. Her Investigation focused on the lived experiences of these experts in handling cloud data at different levels of transition. Dr. Pearson also holds a Master of Information Technology Project Management, a Bachelor of Computer Science with a specialization in Information System Security. Her career focus has afforded her the experience of working in the Healthcare Industry as a Systems Integration Advisor and public sector as a ServiceNow System Administrator. Her IT career spans 16+ years. Dr. Pearson is member of the Zeta Alpha Sigma Alumnae Chapter, College Park, Georgia. She has served as the community service chair for the past three years and is a technology committee member. Her dedication to serving the community is evident through the growth of community service projects and community partnerships with local schools and hospitals. She also serves as the Secretary of a NonProfit Organization focused on the cultural growth in the African American communities in Coweta County, Georgia.

Zeta Alpha Sigma

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Soror Amelia Bell-Hawkins earned her Ph.D. in Nursing Education from Capella University in September 2020. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and master’s degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Coppin State College. She successfully drafted an LPN program approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing. Dr. Bell-Hawkins resides in Fort Myers, Florida and works as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Immokalee, Florida.

She plans to use her research findings to reduce minority nursing student withdrawal rates by creating resources to aid students’ understanding of course content, critical thinking, and improving their clinical skills. During her Ph.D. journey, she lost her father to cancer, overcame multiple family challenges, was a charter member of Mu Delta Sigma Chapter and initiated the charter of Tau Upsilon Chapter at Florida Gulf Coast University. She became a Ruby at 57th Biennial Boule in Dallas, Texas and approved Life Member #1399 in 2019. She served six years as secretary for the NPHC of SWFL and is the newly elected First Vice-President to the council. Soror Bell-Hawkins established The Thanksgivers, a collaboration with the Mu Delta Sigma Chapter and the Xi Omicron Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, to provide Thanksgiving meals to families in Lee and Collier Counties.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Rowena

Elliott

Zeta Alpha Sigma

Dr. Rowena Elliott is a School of Nursing Professor at Emory University, Board-Certified RN, Nephrology Nurse, Nurse Educator and Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner with 39 years of experience.

Dr. Elliot earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Education from the University of Mississippi. She later earned a post-graduate certificate as an adult gerontological nurse practitioner from the University of South Alabama.

Her professional experience includes medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, long-term care, home health, dialysis, surgery, and legal nurse consulting. For 23 years, she has taught every level from Associate to Ph.D.

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Dr. Elliott demonstrates her passion and leadership through various organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (Nominating Committee), National League for Nursing (Commissioner), the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association (President 20192020), the American Academy of Nursing (2012 Fellow, Outstanding Contribution Award), and the American Nephrology Nurses Association (1st AA Ph.D. President 2011-2012) Dr. Elliott owns The Elliott Agency, an education and legal nurse consultancy, and “Without Walls,” a wellness initiative that provides toiletries and scarves for homeless individuals. She joined Sigma Gamma Rho at Alcorn State in 1980 and Zeta Alpha Sigma is proud to be the chapter this Ruby Life Member calls home.

Dr. C hevonne Alston

Delta Sigma

On May 1, 2020, Chevonne Herring Alston successfully defended her dissertation at home on a Zoom call. While she missed the opportunity to celebrate at Ole Miss (University of Mississippi) and visit her favorite southern eateries, Chevonne relished the ability to walk upstairs and give her baby, Eliza, and husband, William, a big hug and kiss. Soon after hearing the news, her mother, Bonita Herring, drove by with balloons and lemon Oreos (Chevonne’s favorite cookies). Even in the height of the pandemic, Chevonne was able to celebrate with her mom outside.

Soror Alston was awarded a Ph.D. from the University of Mississippi’s Patterson School of Accountancy in Oxford, MS. Her dissertation titled “Charter Schools: How Does Organizational Quality Differ Between For-Profit and Non-Profit Organization Forms?” While she’d yet to defend her dissertation, her Chair allowed her to be hooded and walk in the 2018 graduation. She was grateful for the opportunity to have family share in celebrating even though there was a little more work to do. Currently, Chevonne works at Governors State University in Illinois where she was hired for a tenure track faculty professor position in 2018. On June 4, 2021, Dr. Alston was notified that she was awarded the Governmental & Nonprofit (GNP) Section’s Outstanding Dissertation Award. GNP is one of the seventeen interest sections under the American Accounting Association (AAA) umbrella. AAA is the largest community of accountants in academia.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Felicia D. Blakeney

Eta Omicron Sigma

Dr. Felicia H.

Robinson

Felicia Hope Robinson, Ed.D., is a proud member of the RADIANT Rock Hill Chapter, Theta Eta Sigma and is the Centennial Rhoer Club Advisor.

Dr. Robinson graduated in 2020 from Gardner-Webb University, where she earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Additionally, she holds a state licensure for Superintendent. Dr. Robinson’s dissertation topic was “A Case Study of the Influence of PBIS on the High School Setting.”

Dr. Robinson has worked in education for over 20 years and is currently teaching high school science. She is the proud wife of Scott Sr., mother of Jessica, her legacy, and Scott Jr., member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Dr. Robinson is a life-long learner who enjoys educating both student and adult learners and helping them apply strategies and content to real-life situations. Dr. Robinson’s doctoral journey was like a roller-coaster ride, full of ups and downs, excitements, tears, and laughter. There were times when she felt like she would never see the light at the end of the tunnel, but because of her support system, she prevailed! While some people give up everything when they work on their dissertation, Dr. Robinson continued to travel to visit her children in college, supporting their needs, football games, and activities. She continued to be an active Soror and Rhoer Advisor. It was not easy, but it helped to keep her grounded. Through her journey, Dr. Robinson learned so much about herself and life. This journey was indeed her purpose, and she looks forward to sharing her knowledge with the world.

Theta Eta Sigma

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Dr. Mynora J. Bryant, 21st International Grand Basileus and the 13th Northeastern Region Syntaktes served as a major influence in Dr. Felicia Blakeney’s decision to purse a Doctor of Education with a specialization in Educational Leadership and Management. Shortly after she completed her tenure as the 19th Northeastern Region Syntaktes, Dr. Bryant continued to encourage Dr. Blakeney to pursue her graduate degree. She reminded Dr. Blakeney that it was important to obtain an advanced degree so that she could expand her career opportunities as a higher education professional.

Initially, Dr. Blakeney was hesitant because it had been 20 years since she had been a college student and now, she would seek to further her education through a fully online program while simultaneously working full-time. Dr. Blakeney successfully maintained a 4.0 cumulative GPA for a Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Leadership for Higher Education and continued this achievement throughout her doctoral program at Capella University. Immediately after her successful oral defense, Dr. Blakeney called her Sigma mentor. Hearing Dr. Bryant say “Congratulations, Dr. Blakeney” was a moment of shared sisterhood that will forever resonate with her. On the day of commencement, Dr. Blakeney ensured Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated was on full display when she was formally hooded. Let one and all know that Sigma’s torch was on fire and lighting the way to heights of great attainment!

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Imaobong Ekanem

Delta Tau Sigma

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Dr. Imaobong Ekanem holds a doctorate degree in Leadership Education.

Her life has been a series of marathons from the birth of her three children, to obtaining a doctorate degree while working two jobs, to physically running 13 marathon distances (26.2 miles) in the U.S.A. and outside the U.S.A (of which three were Marathon World Majors). Dr. Ekanem transformed herself from a 245-pound body to 156 pounds by running.

For her, running is a relationship that she has with herself. It helped her overcome so many challenges in life and in her career. As she continues to evolve, Dr. Ekanem has learned more about herself in her daily runs, be it on the road or in life. Dr. Ekanem was inducted into Sigma Gamma Rho in Spring of 2021. She describes her Sigma journey as great and continues to seek opportunities to serve her community and be there for her sisters.

Dr. Jacki Stennis Moore

Eta Xi Sigma

For Dr. Jacki Stennis Moore, the road to her doctorate was an easy one, that is until after the third major surgery during that time left her unable to remember how to spell. Before that, Dr. Stennis Moore did not have to use spell check or any other wordsmith service. Imagine her surprise when trying to spell cat, and she could not do so. Growing up, Dr. Stennis Moore was a person who was never taught how to read because she was reading as soon as she could talk. Dr. Stennis Moore got through her entire doctorate scholastic program with a 4.0 GPA and was one of the few in her program who got through the comprehensive examination the very first time. In this doctoral program, students only have a certain amount of time to complete the program and because of her surgeries, Dr. Stennis Moore was running out of time. There was no question in her mind that she was not going to finish. She had come too far not to complete her coursework. But how? Dr. Stennis Moore had to go back to the beginning. It took intense concentration, practice, determination, and prayer to reconnect the skills she previously possessed. Finally, she was able to continue, then tragedy almost struck.

Dr. Stennis Moore’s husband almost lost his leg to a flesh-eating disease.

What else could go wrong? Time. Her time to complete her degree had run out and she had to petition the school to grant an extension. It was granted, but then she had no time to hire someone to edit her dissertation, as she had to finish it prior to the semester ending. After all the obstacles she had to overcome, her Doctor of Philosophy in Education – Postsecondary and Adult education was conferred on February 28, 2017.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Jessiica Howell

Gamma Sigma

Dr. Jori L.

Moore

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As a single mother of a seven-year old daughter and an only child with a single mother, Dr. Jessiica Howell learned the importance of determination.

Seeing her mother complete her Masters in her 50’s showed Dr. Howell how it’s never too late to accomplish your goals. She started at Texas Tech University in 1996. Dr. Howell understood that it is not about the length of the journey, but the completion of the journey. This was Dr. Howell’s motivation behind her educational success. Having received her Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral degrees from Texas Tech University, Dr. Howell is honored to be a part of the small percentage of Black Doctoral students at a Big 12 school. With a Ph.D. in Special Education, Dr. Howell’s background has been working with disabled individuals and students who are economically under-served. Her ultimate goal is to open her own non-profit organization that helps individuals with disabilities obtain employment so they can work alongside those without disabilities. As an advocate for individuals with disabilities and who are economically underserved, it is important for her to give back and help those that may be unable to help themselves. For Dr. Howell, obtaining a doctorate this past summer was a bittersweet end to her collegiate experience; however, it’s not the end of her learning. Dr. Howell will continue to increase her knowledge for advocating for others so that she can keep serving those in need and be viewed as an expert in the field of Special Education.

Alpha Sigma Sigma

According to Dr. Jori L. Moore, there are two things that can’t be taken away from someone. These two things are God given talent and knowledge.

Those are the words that rang loudly in her head all of her life. Soror Moore comes from a long line of educators and members of Sigma Gamma Rho. She felt it was her inherent duty not only to become a Sigma woman, but also her duty to gain all the knowledge she could. As a third generation Sigma woman, it wasn’t enough for her to obtain an MBA, but it meant that she had a responsibility to show her two daughters everything you want is within reach. It is attainable! Soror Moore earned her Doctorate is Business Administration and Human Resources Management from Capella University in 2017. Dr. Moore is currently a Human Resources Business Partner for the Eastern Region, Food and Beverage Division of WestRock, Co., a global paper and pulp manufacturer. She has used her talents to teach at the collegiate level, as well as serve as School Board President in her community. Within the sorority, she has held the position of Basileus, Tamiochus, and Grammateus. Dr. Moore truly believes in the words of John Paul Moore who wrote: “If God gives me strength and courage, when the way grows steep and rough, I’ll not ask for other blessings, I’m already blessed enough. And may I never be too busy, to help others bear their loads. Then I’ll keep drinking from my saucer, ‘cause my cup has overflowed!”

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Katherine Washington-Williams

Delta Gamma Sigma

Over Dr. Washington-Williams’ lifetime, she has encountered a stroke, heart attack, two brain surgeries from Arnold Chiara Malformation, Triple Negative Breast Cancer Stage 3B, and the final blow—the death of her mother.

What was her purpose?

She had served over 20 years in the Army; she is an Ordained Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church over 20 years, and she is now Dr. Katherine Washington-Williams.

Where has life taken her?

Life has taken her to the land of Sigma Gamma Rho where she serves as Basileus of Delta Gamma Sigma. Soror Washington-Williams loves her Sorority and her Chapter. She serves with energy, passion, and love— never giving up and always wanting the best for those around her.

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Dr. Washington-Williams is the mother of two sons, Roy and Kevin Williams, two blessed daughters in love, Rhonda and Monique, six grandsons, one granddaughter, and one great grandson. Although she is Dr. WashingtonWilliams, her most prized accolade of all is being called “GRANNY.”

Dr. Kiena Hughley

Alpha Lambda Sigma

Dr. Hughley’s journey to obtain a doctorate began three years after completing an Educational Specialist degree in 2008. She applied to the university where she received two advanced degrees. Admission was denied. Next, Dr. Hughley applied to the university where she received her undergraduate degree. After two years of coursework, the university lost their accreditation, but not before she had made the decision to leave due to scheduling conflicts. Meanwhile, Soror Hughley had applied to a third university, was accepted, and began her second program in less than two years. She began 2020 preparing for a major surgery. During Dr. Hughley’s recovery, she was able to deepen her relationship with God and write her dissertation.

Dr. Hughley defended her dissertation: Disproportionate Representation of African American males in Special Education on April 29, 2020 from her home due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Almost two weeks later, May 10, 2020, she was putting on her robe to participate in commencement ceremony virtually. Dr. Hughley was excited and sad all at the same time because she wanted to be hooded. Dr. Hughley was thankful for Drs. Erica Glover and Andrea Walker, the Sorors who hooded her on her front lawn with additional Sorors as witnesses. This year on May 7, 2021, Dr. Hughley was finally able to walk across the stage at Youngstown State University. As a first-generation college student, Dr. Hughley thanks God that her dream of becoming a doctor was delayed and not denied!

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Kimberly Porter

Iota Nu Sigma

Dr. Porter is passionate about educating young people, especially when it comes to history. Her dissertation was based on Critical Race Theory which, in recent months, has been labeled as “divisive” in this country instead of admitting its truth. At the time that Dr. Porter started the doctoral program, her goal was a curriculum development position in a K-12 school. However, as with other things in life, her focus shifted. Dr. Porter is now in a leadership position in the academic affairs department at her undergraduate alma mater! She is enthusiastic that she still gets to help shape the future by preparing young people to be successful in the real world!

Dr. Lani San Antonio

Mu Phi Sigma

Dr. Lani San Antonio’s doctoral journey started because she vainly wanted those three letters behind her name. She wanted the credentials to move up in her career and become a Director or even a Dean at a university.

Soror San Antonio pursued a Ph.D. so that when she was at those “decision making tables” there was no question as to why she, an Asian female, first generation daughter of immigrants was there. Dr. San Antonio was constantly challenged in classes by faculty to “dig deeper” and “question everything and everyone.” Her dissertation centered on women of color in higher education at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). It was no surprise that the findings weren’t great so Dr. San Antonio looked beyond the research and questioned her environment, colleagues’ attitudes and the policies that were followed. She found herself pushing back against the “it has always been done this way” mentality and her newfound voice was not what superiors wanted to hear. By this point in Dr. San Antonio’s career, she started to join some of those elusive “table” meetings, and it was clear they didn’t want her to speak. In those times, she often felt silenced and defeated. Dr. San Antonio eventually became faculty where there were less constraints and she found her voice again, but it hasn’t been without its challenges.

The ceiling is not fully broken and there are still those that question her presence; however, she reminds herself constantly to keep speaking up because her voice is still needed in higher education. For Dr. San Antonio, she knows that she doesn’t just represent herself around the “table” but all those that are not there with her.

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Dr. Kimberly Porter earned a Doctorate in Education with a concentration in Teaching and Curriculum in 2020. She earned a master’s degree from Northcentral University in 2016 and continued on to pursue her Doctorate in 2020. Dr. Porter was considered a non-traditional student and so, she started her journey to an advanced degree at the University of Akron in 2013, at the age of 50. After moving to Columbus, Ohio, a colleague told her about the online option with Northcentral University in 2014. At that time, Dr. Porter worked full time as an English Language Arts teacher for grades 9-12. After she earned her Master’s, Soror Porter enrolled in the NCU doctoral program. Midway through the program, she was still working full-time and working part-time as an ESL teacher at a local community college.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

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Dr. Margaret Lawler

Epsilon Eta Sigma

As a first-generation college student, Dr. Margaret Lawler could never have imagined receiving a doctorate degree in Education. It was in the summer of 2016 that she was accepted into the Community College Leadership doctorate program at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan. The program was fast paced and very well structured. While in undergrad, Dr. Lawler did not have an opportunity to become a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. This was a dream deferred, but one that resonated with her throughout the years. In the spring 2017, Dr. Lawler decided to fulfill her lifelong dream to become a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. At the time, she was enrolled in a Qualitative Research Methods and Data Analysis course. The course was very time consuming and one of the more difficult courses in the program. Dr. Lawler was up for the challenge to move through the T.O.R.C.H. process while enrolled as a doctoral student. She was willing to accept this challenge because she knew she would be able to develop and grow as a person.

On August 9, 2019, Dr. Lawler successfully defended her dissertation, titled, “Diverse Faculty Recruitment, Selection, and Hiring: Gaps in and Barriers to Diverse Full-Time Faculty at Community Colleges.” Dr. Lawler’s scholarly commitment towards student success and diversifying the workforce on all levels is echoed in the research of her dissertation. Dr. Lawler acknowledges Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated as an instrumental part of her successful dissertation defense and championing her passion in higher education.

Dr. Patrena Benton Elliot As the daughter of a self-educated mother with a 6th grade education, Dr. Patrena Benton Elliot’s mother instilled in her to never let circumstances define her destiny and with this, she defied the odds. Dr. Elliott earned a baccalaureate degree in Communications Studies and a minor in Dramatic Arts from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s in Adult Education from NC Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T). Later, she yearned for more, so Dr. Elliott returned to NC A&T to pursue a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. She will always remember that during the initial admissions reception, the Program Director welcomed the new cohort of students as “doctoral candidates.” Dr. Elliott thought, surely, he knows that this distinction is reserved for students who have completed all requirements except the dissertation. As these thoughts were roaming through her mind, the Program Director addressed it by indicating that he had not made a mistake. He wanted students to know that the Program was committed to their success. They were not seeking to weed students out; just the contrary, they wanted all to excel. Dr. Elliott completed her doctorate in two years while commuting three hours to and from school, working full-time as a CEO of a statewide inter-institutional center and raising a daughter. Dr. Elliott would encourage anyone interested in obtaining a doctorate to make sure to pursue an area of interest you are passionate about and seek a program that has demonstrated a commitment to its students’ success.

Beta Lambda Sigma

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Schnarda Robinson

Eta Sigma

With degrees in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration and Leadership, she is not only an accomplished scholar but an adept businesswoman. An award-winning Senior Management and Program Analyst for the federal government, Dr. Robinson oversees a multi-million dollar capital management program. With over 23 years of leadership and management experience, she has garnered a reputation as a highperformance leader and subject-matter expert. Lauded for her exemplary budgetary and fiduciary oversight skills, Dr. Schnarda’s recommendations have reached the Treasury Department, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the desks of several congressional members.

Dr. Robinson is also Founder of Enlightened Strategies Consulting, LLC. She is the principal advisor and brainchild behind Atlanta’s newest talent and workforce development firm. Through her latest endeavor, she provides career guidance and development services to professionals, senior-level executives, corporations, and agencies. She specializes in employee engagement, leadership, and multi-generational workforce development. Dr. Robinson is currently working on her certification to become a professional business coach. She is the mother of a teenager and a young adult.

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Dr. Schnarda Robinson’s rise from the projects on Chicago’s south side to the top of the corporate ladder is nothing short of inspiring. Recognized for her tenacious attitude and resilient spirit, she knows how to overcome barriers and master challenging circumstances. A gifted writer and star pupil since elementary school, her appetite for learning and achievement started early. Catapulted by her intellectual ability and keen focus, Dr. Robinson excelled in her studies. After graduating with the 14th highest GPA in her class of 384, Dr. Robinson earned a partial scholarship to attend a prestigious university. Student by day and postal worker by night, she struggled with the demands of college and burdens of maintaining a fulltime job. Overwhelmed by the pressure, Dr. Robinson’s grades slipped, and her scholarship was withdrawn. Deterred but not defeated, she transferred to a local community college, changed majors, and embarked on a new course. She successfully earned her Associates degree and graduated with double honors. She eventually earned a bachelor’s degree and went on to secure a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree and a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Tadzia Dennis

Lambda Alpha Sigma

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Dr. Tadzia Dennis started her doctoral journey in January of 2011, hoping to shed light on the lack of African American Women in higher education leadership roles. Previously, Dr. Dennis had earned an associate degree, Bachelor of Science, and two master’s degrees in education. This terminal degree would make degree number five. The requirements for the degree were to pass a three-week intensive writing course with at least a B+. She then had to pass comprehensive exams at the end of regular coursework before starting the dissertation process. She failed one question out of five by one word, which was identified as not scholarly. Dr. Dennis then went through five dissertation chairs, due to sickness and lack of support, before finally getting a chair who helped her complete the goal of obtaining her Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration. Dr. Dennis’ story is unique because of the circumstances that occurred while pursuing this degree. Her father, who was her heart, became ill and passed away in February of 2011.

Interestingly, her father-in-law at the time, passed away in 2003, and told her before his passing that she would be the only doctor in the family.

She was in an abusive marriage, raising two boys, caring for her mom, teaching in the classroom and online while holding down a full-time job.

Dr. Dennis was encouraged and prayed over for this degree. She saw the goal, believed it, and did it!

Dr. Tara Reed

Alpha Pi Sigma

March 21, 2013 is a day that Dr. Tara Reed will never forget. To hear “Congratulations Dr. Reed” was a magical moment! It took Soror Reed seven years to complete her Ph.D. journey. She began at the beginning of 2007 while working full time as a college professor. While writing her dissertation, Dr. Reed had to take an entire year off to deal with life; struggling to balance work, family, relationships, and her health. On top of that, Dr. Reed had to change dissertation chairs three times which delayed her research by months. Dr. Reed completed two specializations at the same time, and it was all worth it in the end!

Dr. Reed learned two valuable lessons during her Ph.D. journey. First, sometimes the road one may take does not look traditional or like anyone else’s path; it is okay to create one’s own destination. Secondly, it doesn’t matter how long it takes to get to the finish line because the only person in the competition is yourself.

The quote that Dr. Reed thinks about by Pele reads, “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing.” As long as one loves what they are doing, the time one puts in is worth it. Here’s to everyone who has struggled, will struggle and continue to struggle. Hang in there! Dr. Reed says that if she can do it so can you and advises anyone to never give up on your purpose!

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Valerie Murphy

Eta Sigma

From the thirty-day stint of neonatal ICU visits of a granddaughter, the demands of a high-profile career, and through a global pandemic, milling through the arduous academic studies at the highest levels, came with many WAVES of anguish and excitement. Dr. Valerie Murphy’s doctoral pursuit was piqued by two lines of thought that started in 2017. First, to have the opportunity to give back to the community through sharing her business and career experiences. Next, with calculated readiness, a reflective notion of having a clear plan or end game to exit corporate America with the credentials to educate.

Choosing to become a doctor requires a clear vision and self-drive.

During Dr. Murphy’s journey, God gifted her two grandchildren and she lost three loved ones; she was inducted into her collegiate athletic Hall of Fame, contracted COVID-19, and joined Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. So, from 2017 to 2020, Dr. Murphy’s journey has produced many WAVES in her life- good and bad, all of which successfully enriched and interconnected her purpose with her academic quest.

Dr. Erica M. Richards-Chew In Spring 2020, Dr. Erica M. Richards-Chew, Life Member, graduated with her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership-Higher Education from Old Dominion University, in Norfolk, VA. In December 2019, she successfully defended her dissertation titled, “Cultural capital, habitus, college persistence and graduation among black immigrant-origin undergraduates.” Being an Antiguan-Jamaican American, she decided to engage in some “mesearch” and investigate the experiences of other Black students who were immigrants or children of immigrants. The Darden College of Education and Professional Studies awarded her the Outstanding Doctoral Student for the student with the highest GPA. Dr. Chew also holds a Master of Education in College Student Affairs and Certificate in Career Counseling from the University of South Florida, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Emory University.

During Dr. Chew’s time in her doctoral program, she wed her husband, Rasul and was an active member of Delta Beta Sigma Chapter in Norfolk, VA. She submitted the first draft of her dissertation proposal after she was given her epidural shot in preparation for her son Langston’s birth.

Currently, Soror Chew is the Graduate Outreach and Advisement Coordinator and MA in Adult Learning instructor at SUNY Empire State College. She currently active in Theta Rho Sigma in her hometown of Bronx, NY.

Theta Rho Sigma

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For Dr. Murphy, the pursuit of a doctoral degree moving in tandem with life proved not easy or casual parallelism. Nothing stops, babies are born, papers are due, loved ones pass on, comprehensive exams are taken, people are celebrated, and late-night studies extend to morning.

Doubt and exhaustion lurk at every milestone and quitting or pressing on become a constant question. Nevertheless, a purposeful turn to faith encouraged Dr. Murphy, and a pause to connect with friends brought back normalcy and focus.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Gwendolyn Long-Wimes

Delta Sigma

Dr. Long-Wimes’ years of teaching mathematics and working in special projects offered through the Mathematics Department of the Chicago Public Schools provided her numerous opportunities. She worked as a teacher on loan to the mathematics department to the director of a special project funded by the state of Illinois to the Manager of Mathematics.

Dr. Long-Wimes was offered a position with the National Science Foundation as the director of a special project being planned for Chicago.

At that time, she was contemplating pursuing a doctorate degree but had not completely decided when to start. After not getting the job due to lack of appropriate credentials, Dr. Long-Wimes was determined to never be turned down for a position because of not having credentials.

She would be turned down for being overly qualified.

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Therefore, Soror Long-Wimes completed her program with a focus on Mathematics. Her dissertation, “A Mathematics Professional Development Model for the Non-Trained Mathematics Teacher,” received the University’s Outstanding Dissertation recognition and Dr. Long-Wimes was invited to speak at a conference at the Upsala University, Sweden on her findings.

Later, Dr. Long-Wimes was hired by a nationally recognized textbook publishing company as their senior national mathematics consultant, a position she held for 12 years. She was the only Ph.D., African-American female, national mathematics consultant in the company.

The success of perseverance.

Dr. Iyanna Liles

Theta Alpha Sigma

Dr. Iyanna Atwell Liles is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist physician in Connecticut. She obtained a bachelor’s degree from Duke University in 2010, where she was welcomed into the Omicron Nu chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated in Spring 2008. Dr. Atwell obtained a medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine in 2014. She completed her Obstetrics & Gynecology residency at the University of Connecticut in 2018. Outside of work, Dr. Atwell is the mother to two amazing and spirited girls. She actively participates in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, holding past positions such as the Connecticut Junior Fellow Chair and District I Junior Fellow Chair. Dr. Atwell has a special interest in women’s health advocacy and has participated in several legislative sessions giving testimony and/or meeting with legislators.

Dr. Atwell volunteers with the Connecticut Maternal Mortality Review Committee as a general OB/GYN physician providing feedback on ways to improve maternal care in the state. Soror Atwell is currently the scholarship chair for the Theta Alpha Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated in Hartford, Connecticut. She is actively involved with her church, often volunteering at events. To promote increased workforce diversity and camaraderie for Black physicians, Dr. Atwell is the membership chair for the Connecticut IMHOTEP National Medical Association. Dr. Atwell loves being involved in the community and giving back in any way she can including participation in health talks, college interviewing, or community service events.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Eta Nu Sigma

At a young age, Dr. Jaysree Roberts’ parents instilled in her the belief that her voice mattered. They listened intently over family dinners as she spoke about her new favorite cartoon or a school event. They encouraged her to find her voice when teenage angst and self-consciousness threatened to silence it. Dr. Roberts carried into adulthood a deep respect for others’ voices and a curiosity about their stories. Her decision to pursue a doctorate in psychology evolved from her love of children and passion for families. Dr. Roberts wanted to create a space for young people to be heard and for them to find meaning in their own stories.

When Dr. Roberts began graduate school, she was eager to experience the transformative work of sitting with someone in their most challenging moments and bearing witness to growth and change. The significance of being a black woman in the mental health field was not initially a part of that envisioning. Its importance and weight would evade Dr. Roberts until after graduate school when she began to work in communities with people whose experiences mirrored her own. The looks of surprise, relief, and excitement on the faces of the families she worked with were a daily reminder of the importance of representation. This recognition intensified her commitment to providing mental health care to communities whose voices are often ignored. As a psychologist, Dr. Roberts strives to instill in her patients the knowledge that their feelings are valid, that their stories are powerful, and that they matter.

Dr. Kellee Hill

Upsilon Sigma

Although she considers herself a nascent scholar, Dr. Kellee Hill’s doctoral journey taught her more about herself, the world of academia, and the overall role she plays in this dynamic culture of learning. Dr. Hill began her doctoral journey at Purdue University, focusing on Food Chemistry/ Microbiology. During that time, she honed her research skills and truly grounded herself in the love of science. However, in the volatile economy, federal funding was subsequently pulled for her lab and research. This loss of funds led Dr. Hill back home to begin her career in education and created a burgeoning passion for STEM education. After working as an educator for a few years, Dr. Hill decided to complete this learning journey that she started a few years prior. In 2015, Soror Hill enrolled in the Educational Leadership Doctoral program at Carson-Newman University, with her research focusing on the impact of STEM education and how it can support student learning across curriculums. Always one for a challenge, her second year in the doctoral program, Dr. Hill enrolled in a grant-sponsored program at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and began working on her second master’s degree. In May of 2019, Dr. Hill graduated twice, which always astonishes her. On May 3, she became Dr. Kellee Hill and on May 10, she became an alumnus of Vanderbilt’s Peabody College. Although this was a whirlwind time for her, Dr. Hill was eternally grateful for her family support system and amazing sorors.

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Dr. Jaysree Roberts

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

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Dr. Khalilah A. Shabazz

Alpha Sigma

Since her childhood days of playing school with teddy bears in her great-grandmother’s basement, Dr. Khalilah A. Shabazz has always been excited to learn. She loved the adventures she could go on in a book, the strategy of unscrambling words or counting the letters needed in the daily newspaper crossword puzzles. Dr. Shabazz’s days consisted of learning in school and that learning continued at home as she watched Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune daily. Dr. Shabazz had a natural desire to be inquisitive and excel academically. Although her great-grandma was college educated, neither her maternal and paternal grandparents or parents were. However, that didn’t deter Dr. Shabazz from enrolling right after high school, which she balanced with mothering her 1-year-old daughter and working part-time. For nearly 20 consecutive years, Soror Shabazz pursued and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Masters and later a Ph.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Today, Dr. Shabazz proudly serves as a college administrator and educator where she can instill the passion of learning in others. Two of the guiding principles of her life are Sankofa – symbolized by a Ghanaian bird that represents continuing to strive forward while never forgetting where you came from and sharing the knowledge you gain with those beside and behind you. The other principles are the words of her dear VIM – Founder Vivian Irene White Marbury – they can take everything from you, but they can never take your intellect. Dr. Shabazz continues to build her intellect, so she can continue to help build her people.

Dr. Kistreia Marche’Robinson Dr. Kistreia Marche’ Robinson is co-owner and medical director of newly opened Wellness Infusion Specialists, PLLC. She is a summa cum laude alumni of Tennessee State University as well as a graduate of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine. From her exposures in medical school, she decided on a career in Anesthesia. In 2008, she completed a residency at Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Robinson currently resides in Houston, Texas and works as a Board-Certified Anesthesiologist in its world-renowned medical center. Her practice focuses on safe ambulatory peri operative patient experiences. She is an active member of the Houston Medical Forum; branch of National Medical Association and American Society of Anesthesiology. Her interests include community service within the Gamma Sigma chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho, Inc. and mentorship.

Wellness Infusion Specialists offers intravenous infusion therapy, allowing you to alleviate the effects of chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, post-partum depression, and suicidal ideation quickly and effectively.

Wellness Infusion Specialists officially opened its doors on September 11, 2021 in Pearland, TX and offers a variety of services for patients.

Gamma Sigma

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Zeta Omicron Sigma

Soror Lateefah A. Stanford, Ph.D. was inducted to Sigma Gamma Rho on May 14, 1999 at Ohio University, and is a proud Life Member 1317. Soror Stanford earned her bachelor’s degree in forensic chemistry from Ohio University in 2001. She went on to earn her doctorate in analytical chemistry at Florida State University in 2006, and was the second African-American in the history of the university to do so. Soror Stanford’s mentorship encouraged numerous under-represented minority undergraduates at Florida State to pursue and receive doctoral degrees in the fields of applied physics, analytical chemistry, electrical engineering and biochemistry at Research I level universities. After earning her doctorate, Soror Stanford began her career as a forensic chemist with the US Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). She now serves as a Low carbon business originator-Western hemisphere for BP, where she supports and develops strategic and business needs for new low carbon technologies and products into commercial solutions. Over the past 15 years, she has maintained a commitment to promoting the advancement of women and minorities in science, math and technology (STEM) disciplines while strategically executing, coordinating and evaluating research. Soror Stanford is a recipient of, and mentor for multiple STEM enrichment programs. Locally, she leads the STEM workshops at West Aurora High School for minority students, along with her BP Products North America colleagues. Her diligent work has planted the seed that will lead to the development of new African-American STEM professionals. Dr. Stanford is truly an exemplary mentor and STEM advocate.

Dr. Makeda Turner

Rho Sigma

“On the surface, Dr. Makeda Turner is seen as being “smart,” because she has a Ph.D. In reality, it is often hard to view herself in that way. Reflecting on her education, Dr. Turner was never seen as the “smart kid.” In fact, all throughout elementary and high school, she was always just in the middle. Being in the middle made it difficult to stand out.

At first glance, most are unaware of her academic journey. No one knows how much Dr. Turner struggled academically in undergrad. She was admitted to college on a conditional basis due to a B average and low standardized test score. During undergrad, she dropped classes, failed classes, and barely passed classes. So, Dr. Turner often asks herself, “how did I become a doctor,” because on paper that wasn’t supposed to happen?

Despite graduating from college with a C average, that did not stop Dr. Turner from applying to graduate school. Soror Turner has always been focused, driven, and willing to work hard for her accomplishments.

She was able to complete her graduate program with a 3.7 GPA, which provided her with the confidence to apply to a doctoral program. As a doctoral student, she managed to juggle being a wife, working full-time, raising two small children, and taking classes all at the same time. No matter how much she struggled academically, Dr. Turner never let her grades define her intelligence. Having resilience and determination is the reason why anyone can call her Dr. Makeda Turner, Life Member #1420!

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Dr. Lateefah Stanford

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Sherna Phillips

Eta Sigma

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Dr. Sherna Phillips spent six years working towards her English doctorate at Morgan State University. While she is grateful and proud, Dr. Phillips (like many 2020 graduates) wishes she could have concluded her studies with a traditional celebration. On March 6, 2020, Dr. Phillips successfully defended her dissertation in Baltimore and returned to Atlanta the next day to a freakishly empty airport. Little did she know, the world was about to shut down, her commencement would be postponed, and she would not be able to attend the rescheduled 2021 ceremonies. Though Dr. Phillips has not been hooded (nor had the opportunity to take pictures in doctoral regalia), she is humbled by the opportunity to share her dissertation as a means of sisterly celebration.

In Dr. Phillips’ dissertation, entitled “Distressing the Damsel With #BlackGirlMagic in the ‘Me Too’ Era (2006-Present): A Discourse Analysis of Black Women in Plays by Marginalized Authors,” she used womanist theories and quantitative discourse analysis to examine the portrayal of Black female characters in dramatic works written by marginalized authors. More specifically, the quantitative discourse analysis charted “requests” for help made by female characters to male characters, noting to what degree Black female “damsels in distress” are deemed worthy of protection compared to their White female counterparts. In addition to a scholarly component, Dr. Phillips’ dissertation also provided a creative response to the research findings through an original screenplay that captures #BlackGirlMagic through a lead Black female protagonist who defies Black female stereotypes and is deemed worthy of protection.

Dr. Donna J. Nicol

Lambda Rho Sigma

Dr. Donna J. Nicol earned her Ph.D. in History and Philosophy of Education from The Ohio State University in 2007. Dr. Nicol was recently promoted to Full Professor in Africana Studies at California State University Dominguez Hills and is the 2021 recipient of the university’s Faculty Excellence in Service Award. She has served as Department Chair since 2017 and was recently reappointed to another two-year term.

Prior to joining the faculty ranks, Dr. Nicol was a secondary social studies teacher for three years and spent seven years in various university administrative positions.

Dr. Nicol’s research focuses on African American educational history, with a specialization in race and conservative philanthropy and African American women’s educational activism. She was featured in the 2021 Al Jazeera English documentary, The Big Picture: A Race for America, which examines how philanthropy shapes education and health outcomes for African Americans.

Her work has been published in numerous academic journals and she is a sought-after anti-racism/DEI trainer for education, government and nonprofit organizations. Her book, Black Woman on Board: Claudia Hampton, the California State University System, and the Fight to Save Affirmative Action, is under contract and due out in 2022.

Soror Nicol joined Sigma in Fall 2006 and is a member of the Lambda Rho Sigma Chapter in Santa Monica, California, where she serves as social action committee chair. Soror Nicol has also served on the sorority’s ad hoc survey research committee and is a historical consultant for Sigma Gamma Rho’s Centennial documentary.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Sonia

Barber

Omicron Sigma

During her tenure as an educator, Dr. Barber has served as an assistant principal, instructional facilitator and presently works as an instructional advisor for K-5 Mathematics in a large urban school district in Memphis, Tennessee. As she reflects on her path to earning a Doctorate degree, she was reminded of what attracted her to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated: Service, Scholarship and Sisterhood, which are the same attributes that influenced me to become Dr. Sonia Perry Barber, BlueAttitude, from Delta Omicron Chapter.

For unto whomsoever much is given, of himself shall be much required.

Luke 12:48

Dr. Tesha Y. Foster

Gamma Phi Sigma

It was always a personal dream for Dr. Tesha Foster to earn her doctoral degree. As a child, she suffered from dyslexia and obesity. She remembers hearing teachers tell her parents that she would have “life-long learning” struggles and may have to repeat several grades. However, one teacher took the time to help her parents and Soror Foster overcome these labels and gave her a lot of confidence. That teacher was the late Soror Charlotte Parker. She told Dr. Foster, “Tesha, you will learn and go on in life to do well,” Dr. Foster never forgot those words and her mother prayed over her daily. As Dr. Foster navigated through having a parent with severe mental health issues and life, she pressed on believing God had better in store for her. Against all odds and the death of one parent and sickness of another parent, Dr. Foster set out to accomplish her dream to obtain a doctoral degree. It was one of the last things Dr. Foster got to share with her mother before her passing. With accomplishing this dream, Dr. Foster is assured that God is rewriting her family’s history!

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A third grade writing prompt encouraged Dr. Sonia Barber to dream about her future when she was asked to write an essay about what she wanted to be when she grew up. “A teacher,” Dr. Barber proclaimed emphatically and years later, she entered Paine College in Augusta, GA, as a Middle Grades Education major. After graduating, Soror Barber secured employment as a classroom teacher and quickly realized that her influence, passion and commitment to education reached far beyond the classroom and she needed to ensure that she outlined a pathway to achieve Greater as she traveled this road in Education. Continuing her education was needed to deepen her understanding of leadership, administration and supervision as she worked tirelessly to increase student achievement for all students in her classrooms. In 2005, she acquired a Master’s in Education and later earned a Doctorate in Education in 2019 at the University of Memphis in Leadership and Policy Studies.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Toni Sturdivant

Alpha Pi Sigma

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Despite losing her mother to lung cancer and experiencing a total of three late-term miscarriages during her doctoral studies, Soror Sturdivant persevered. Dr. Sturdivant reimagined and redesigned the famous doll studies, shifting the research from an interview into a play experience with diverse dolls. Her work that highlights the need for adult intervention in terms of racial messaging, has been featured in numerous scholarly journals including the International Journal of Early Childhood an upcoming piece in the Journal of Negro Education as well as on podcasts such as the award-winning Australia’s national radio podcast, “All in the Mind.” Dr. Sturdivant is on a mission to ensure that Black children know how wonderful they are despite messaging that may say otherwise, by educating educators and parents on the necessity of talking about race, countering anti-Black messaging, and teaching racial/ethnic pride.

Dr. Wanda LeFlore

Alpha Upsilon Sigma

Dr. Wanda LeFlore, Life Member #928, Ruby, and member of the Alpha Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter of East St. Louis, IL did not let a pandemic prevent her from providing mentoring and leadership training to sorors. This academic Doctor of Education made “house calls” via Zoom, GoToMeeting, Teams, and other digital meeting platforms to continue her commitment to service.

During her formative years, Dr. LeFlore lacked proficient resources to nurture her gifts and talents. However, her desire to learn inspired mentors to foster her academic endeavors. She attended Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIU-E) where she joined Gamma Beta, received a B.A. in English, became an adjunct faculty member, campus advisor, and then completed a M.S. in Reading Education. Later, Dr. LeFlore earned another M.S. in Educational Leadership from St. Louis University and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Maryville University.

She retired as principal of a gifted school that was recognized for the prestigious National Blue-Ribbon and National School of Character Awards. Her mantra, “No Gifted Child Left Behind” is the foundation of her platform ensuring that academically talented students receive gifted services.

Dr. LeFlore currently is Board President of the Metro East Literacy Project (MELP), Adjunct Facilitator at CharacterPlus, and Content Editor for The Aurora. She is married to Milton and has two beautiful granddaughters, Alliyah and Amaya.

IS THERE A DOCTOR | FALL/WINTER 2021

Dr. Ebony Green

Lambda Xi Sigma

The EDucated Doctor in the house is Dr. Ebony D. Green, Life Member #904 and Ruby Member who has had continuous membership since her May 26, 1996, induction into Gamma Omega Chapter. In 2016, Dr. Green obtained her doctorate from Wayne State University in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. Her educational career began at Michigan State University, where she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunication, and a Masters in Liberal Studies from University of Toledo. Celebrating her 20th year in higher education, she has served at the University of Toledo, Wayne State University, Ohio University and is currently the new Director of Academic Opportunities and Support in the College of Literature, Science, and Arts at the University of Michigan. Throughout her career, she has mentored young adults through their university experience and strives to be an inspiration to undergraduate members she encounters.

Dr. Green is on fire to serve in the name of Sigma. She has had the privilege to be a leader in many chapters and continues that honor by proudly serving as the Centennial Basileus of Lambda Xi Sigma Alumnae Chapter.

Dr. Zupenda Davis-Shine Dr. Zupenda Davis-Shine received her Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree from Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health. Her degree, specialized in Community Health and Prevention, was conferred in 2013. She has always been passionate about health education, wellness, and disease prevention. Most of her work had been focused on HIV prevention so she enrolled in the doctorate program to research the impact of HIV among women of color. During the process of narrowing down her dissertation topic, she observed that most of the HIV literature was about African-American men who have sex with men (MSM) or African-American heterosexual women. She could not understand why there was a such a dearth of literature about the heterosexual male partners of these women. This curiosity led to her dissertation titled, “African American Heterosexual Men’s Experiences of Emotionally and Sexually Intimate Relationships with Women: Implications for Sexual HIV Risk and Protective Behaviors.” Her research demonstrated the roles that trust, emotional intimacy, commitment, length of association with partners, and concurrent sexual partnerships play in condom use.

Currently, Dr. Shine is the Associate Director of Health Outreach, Promotion and Education (HOPE) at Stockton University where she provides direct oversight of the Student Health Services office; develops and implements integrated student health education strategies focused on holistic health and well-being; and serves on Stockton’s University Resilience Operations Committee (UROC) whose mission is to research, analyze, prepare and recommend a set of operating principles to help guide the University during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Epsilon Zeta Sigma

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Kudos to Dr. Green for the impact she makes on students she crosses paths with.

REGION NEWS

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

The “Captivating” Central region has begun this Centennial year extremely busy. It is imperative to ensure our members and affiliates stay connected. We are focused on several entities but some key initiatives are a vaccination campaign, the CROWN Act, and the expansion of North and South Dakota.

2022 CENTRAL REGION EFFORTS At the start of this year, we kicked off our centennial giving campaign to be used for our signature events which include the Bud Billiken Day parade, our community service project; Operation Big Book Bag giveaway to donate 7,000 bookbags, and the centennial Sunday Brunch celebration. These events will be hosted on August 13-14, 2022. Our goal is to raise $100,000 to support these projects. Through these efforts, we plan to giveaway seven scholarships to college-bound freshmen near the Indianapolis area. To support central’s initiatives please go to https://www.sgrhocentral.com/centennialgiving for more information. Any amount would be greatly appreciated.

CAPTIVATING VACCINATION CAMPAIGN As the COVID-19 pandemic numbers continue to increase due to the delta variant we must seek to keep ourselves, members, and our communities safe. We are encouraging members and affiliates to get vaccinated and/or understand and educate themselves on the importance through data and facts, not assumptions. Through this social media campaign, we are providing resources for vaccination assistance and data while also offering entries for a $100 raffle. Are you vaccinated?

If so, submit your photo with your official vaccination card or an image of you getting vaccinated using the following hashtag: #SGRhoCentralVax. Please note you must be in the region to participate!

THE CROWN ACT: CENTRAL REGION GOLDEN ALERT The CROWN Act is our regional Golden Alert led by the CROWN Coalition. CROWN is defined as “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural hair.” The CROWN Act was created in 2019 to ensure protection against discrimination based on race-based hairstyles by extending statutory protection to hair texture and protective styles such as braids, locs, twists, and knots in the workplace and public schools. Did you know that black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from the workplace because of their hair? Also, black women are 80% more likely than white women to agree with the following statement, “I have to change my hair from its natural state to fit in at the office.” Sorors let’s join and take a stand against hair discrimination in the workplace and schools by joining the movement and getting involved! Learn more at thecrownact.com and sign the petition.

Currently, it is illegal to discriminate against a person in the workplace, schools, and/or at pools because of natural protective styles in all states except; California, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington,

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

NORTH DAKOTA AND SOUTH DAKOTA EXPANSION EFFORTS It has been several years since Central has had chapters in the North and South Dakota areas, however; Soror Elwanda Haynes (Alpha Sigma), the Area Coordinator, has been working hard to begin the efforts to launch chapters at North Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota. Due to the efforts of Area Coordinator Haynes the University of South Dakota featured an article in their student newspaper. To view the article: https://bit.ly/ CRDakota21. Currently, neither university has any Divine 9 organizations chartered on their campuses, but Sigma Gamma Rho is actively working with these universities for the 2021-2022 sorority year. Kudos to Soror Haynes and your team for all your hard work.

We look forward to supporting these chapters soon!

CENTENNIAL CENTRAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING On August 27-28, 2021 the Central Board of Directors met in person for the first time, safely, and abiding by all government/sorority guidance to discuss strategic goals for the new year, centennial and regional conference planning and allocated time for individual professional headshots and group photo sessions.

The board bonded over dinner and conducted a team building activity at Escape the Room. Below see our 2021-2022 board image, “Captivating” greatness!

“The focus for the Captivating Central Region is to move collectively in the spirit as a TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More) for 2021-2022. “Leadership Through Action” will guide us as we strive to Lead in a Captivating Way for the greater good of the sisterhood.” -Centennial Syntaktes Loreal N. Marshall The Captivating Central Region invites all in the name of Sisterhood to “Lead in a Captivating Way” for 2022 and beyond. To remain updated on the Central Region please follow us via our social media outlets (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) @SGRhoCentral.

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Maryland, Delaware, New Mexico, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, and Illinois. The Captivating Central Region will place continued awareness and programming geared towards The CROWN Act.

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

THETA OMEGA SIGMA CHAPTER EXTENDS THEIR REACH WITH CREATION OF NEW NON-PROFIT ARM The Yellow Tea Rose Foundation, Inc. is a 501c3 tax exempt, non-profit organization that serves as the charitable arm of the Theta Omega Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

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The Yellow Tea Rose Foundation, Inc. aims to provide provides programs and services to the most economically and educationally marginalized members of the Rochester community. Through action, education, and service, the foundation seeks to create an equitable Rochester by furthering Sigma Gamma Rho’s motto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”

The newly appointed president Soror Jessica Lewis said, “The Yellow Tea Rose Foundation is proud to serve the Rochester community to help residents, youth and community members reach their full potential. By centering equity, our work will allow all members of the community to reach self-actualization regardless of race, zip code or circumstance.”

The board has appointed a slate of directors for 20212023.

President: Jessica Lewis, ROC the Future and LaLew Public Relations Treasurer: Bridgette Jones-Waters, Rochester Institute of Technology Secretary: August Dunlop, Thermo Fisher Scientific Public Relations Chair: Vanessa Ryland Buntley, Spectrum Programs Chair: Torri Cowans, Blossom Modern Home Care Solutions of Western NY The Yellow Tea Rose Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Theta Omega Sigma looks to address three key areas: poverty, education, and health, all of it “underscored racial equity.”

Lewis continues, “Everything that we do will focus on these areas, which are critically important to the community of Rochester.”

You can support the work of the Foundation by making a charitable donation at www.yellowtearoseroc.org.

DR. HAMLIN CREATES NEW DENTAL EXPERIENCE WITH OPENING OF NEW PRACTICE: CUSP DENTAL BOUTIQUE Dr. Zaneta Hamlin, DDS, FAGD is working to elevate the experience of Black and Brown dentists and patients with her new practice in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Cusp Dental Boutique.

A graduate of Howard University College of Dentistry in 2012, Dr. Hamlin told the Academy of General Dentistry that she wanted to be a dentist because she was “exposed to it,” with her father and uncles all being dentists. It is her goal to bring a different aspect to the field where diversity and inclusiveness can be felt and represented in not only the patients, but the staff and leadership.

“I want my office to have a very different aesthetic and vibe that embodies a compassionate and forwardthinking team,” says Dr. Hamlin. “I want it to be a place where my team, aka my squad, has a sense of ownership. I want both my squad and patients to be proud of the practice. I want people to want to wear the logo and tell their friends about it. I want a fun and active practice. I want there to not just be a clinical and overall well-being component but also a social component.

“I learned what I like and what I don’t like from being an associate over the past 9 years, and I have also witnessed what it looks like to be in a practice with a family. My father has had the same team members since I was 9 years old. These folks have watched me grow up and start my own family, and they are part of our family. That’s what I want for my office.”

Dr. Hamlin currently serves as the president of the Tidewater Dental Association, Membership Chair

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Congratulations Soror Dr. Hamlin and keep representing the Notable Northeastern Region proudly!

THE NORTHEASTERN REGION NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA IS SET TO KICK OFF THE SORORITY’S CENTENNIAL YEAR The Notable Northeastern Region is kicking off the 100-year anniversary celebration of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. with the Centennial New Year’s Eve Gala. If there was ever an event that one would not want to miss, according to the Northeastern Region Executive Board, it’s this one!

The venue alone exudes the elegance one can expect from this event. The Ziegfeld Ballroom was constructed as a grand, single screen movie palace just steps away from the original Ziegfeld Theatre—a landmark unto itself—built by Broadway impresario Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr., in 1927. From its opening night until the curtain fell for seemingly the last time in 2016, the theatre hosted more premieres of Hollywood blockbuster films than any other venue outside of Los Angeles. However, in Fall 2017, the curtain rose once again, this time for a unique second act: as a sophisticated event space inspired by the luxury ocean liners of the 1930s.

Within the first 14 days of sales, the Northeastern Region sold out of the VIP Experience tickets, as Sorors were eager to ensure their spot at what is

slated to be a memorable affair. General Admission tickets are still available for purchase at the website, www.notablesgrhocentennialgala.com. Admission includes Buffet Dinner, Premium Open Bar, a Midnight Champagne Toast, and a performance by a special guest artist that has yet to be disclosed! Music will also be provided the popular DJ Envy, one of the country’s premier disc jockeys and co- host of the nationally syndicated morning radio show, The Breakfast Club.

Attire is all-black formal wear and vaccination status is a requirement per the state of New York’s recent law mandating that all participants in indoor activities must be 100% vaccinated with proof of vaccination card. So come ring in the New Year celebrating 100 years of “Greater Service, Greater Progress” with the Notable Northeastern Region!

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and an Ethics committee member for the Virginia Dental Association, a member of the board for the Chesapeake Care Clinic, and precepts for Virginia Commonwealth University students. In 2017, she was recognized by the Virginia Dental Association in the Virginia Dental Journal as one of the 40 under 40 Dentists.

CONGRATULATIONS TO SOROR AMAYIA CORDOVA ON BEING CROWNED MISS UCONN! Soror Cordova is a Mathematics and individualized Healthcare Analysis major. A Fall 2020 inductee, Soror Cordova also serves as Basileus of the Nu Mu chapter located in Storrs, Connecticut.

CONGRATULATIONS to Soror Katiya Laster on being crowned the 42nd Miss Bennett College!

Soror Laster is a Senior majoring in Journalism and Media Studies and a member of the Nu Nu Chapter located in Greensboro, NC. Job Well Done NER Past Syntaktes Vanetta Cheeks Reeder Soror Vanetta Cheeks Reeder has served as the 35th national president of the National Pan-

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

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Hellenic Council, Inc. (NPHC) since January 1, 2018.

As she concludes her second term, the NER wants to congratulate her on a job well done! She is a leader in the NPHC and Sigma Gamma Rho. She served as past Eastern Region director for NPHC and past Northeastern Region Syntaktes (21st). She is currently a member of the Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter in Philadelphia, PA. We wish her much success in her future endeavors and thank her for all her hardwork and dedication leading the Divine Nine nationally! We are so proud of you Past Syntaktes Cheeks Reeder!

TRAINING FOR LEADERSHIP: IT’S A FACT, NOT FICTION How do leaders become leaders? There are many complex responses to the question. Perspectives on leadership have outlined many concepts regarding how one becomes a leader. Some views assert leaders are simply born with all the qualifications to be a leader. Others maintain individuals become leaders when they are given a title or denoted in some way that they are in charge. Still, other perspectives suggest anyone can be a leader if given the tools and experience matched with personality characteristics. These characteristics focus on strong values, confidence, desire to influence, and the ability to work well with others. If this perspective is valid, providing training, coaching, and experiential learning coupled with personality characteristics can help an individual become an effective leader.

The Sophisticated Southeastern Region has been dedicated to developing our undergraduates and their leadership skills in various ways.

The Sophisticated Southeastern Region developed the Undergraduate Leadership Development Program that subscribes to leadership philosophy by providing training for our best and brightest undergraduates to prepare them for leadership roles in and outside of the sorority. With many challenges our community is facing, from the social injustices to the Pandemic,

the Southeastern Region continues the development of undergraduates in various ways with plenty of excitement. This sorority year, ULDP welcomes its largest cohort of talented undergraduates to train and provide an optimal learning structure to cultivate the future leaders in our sorority and communities.

For the second year, ULDP opened its candidates’ pool to include members of the previous cohort to mentor the new cohort members. Returning ULDP member Soror Tarkia Reese, Beta Epsilon (Benedict College), shared that “ULDP has given me extensive knowledge that I would need not only for the sorority but life. My leadership qualities are more vital because of ULDP. I have gained many skills from being a part of ULDP, such as leadership skills, time management skills, and interpersonal skills. I’m looking forward to seeing the program grow and flourish every day!”

These young women aspire to serve our sorority beyond graduation in various roles at the regional and national levels.

From the one-on-one mentor, whole-group sessions, and attendance to National conferences, ULDP members have been actively learning and building their leadership capacity and tools to better support their chapters as well as their respective states.

Additionally, ULDP members have taken on the baton to help Youth Services Coordinator KristianZani Eatman hosting frequent Poodle Chats.

Undergraduates from across the region join YSC Eatman, ULDP, and UCC Batchelor Judge for Zoom sessions to network, socialize and learn various tools and strategies to enhance the Sigma brand their campus. At the start of the 2020-2021 sorority year, the team hosted a session with tools and strategies for programming during the Pandemic. In addition, ULDP members shared practices that helped them to be successful and increase their social media

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REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

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presence. For example, Theta Gamma Chapter (@thetagammasgrhos) at Tougaloo College continues to capitalize on the use of TikTok videos to communicate about events and market Sigma Gamma Rho. The Sophisticated Southeastern Region’s journey of undergraduate leadership development also included the Undergraduate Chapter Advisors.

The advisors and members of the Undergraduate Advisory Committee participate in monthly calls with the UCC and the Undergraduate Concerns Committee (Soror Chewan Evans, Keisha Graham, Talitha Davis, Toni Gordan, and LaTasha Brown).

Tools and resources include the First 90 Days checklist, developing an undergraduate chapter strategic plan, and successful engagement with campus partners.

Soror Tawanda Jones, the advisor to Gamma Chi (University of Memphis), assisted and supported her undergraduate chapter to a membership growth of 150% within two years. Soror Jones said, “My experience as an advisor has been amazing.

Sure there have been times where I wanted to tear my hair out, but for the most part, I have enjoyed seeing our younger Sorors flourish. I always tell the Gamma Chi Sorors to be the kind of Soror that you want to attract. Sorors Gwen Harper, Nikitia Wilson, Jacqueline Certion, Sonia Barber, Geneva Allen, and my assigned mentor Soror Tanya Batchelor Judge have all been extremely helpful with bouncing ideas off of, being a shoulder to cry on, and encouraging me to keep going. Without these women, I would not have been able to learn as much as I have, nor would I have been able to coach Gamma Chi to become the International Undergraduate Chapter of the Year!!!”

So, for the Sophisticated Southeastern Region, development of its collegiate members has been all FACTS! We are building and equipping our Undergraduates and Advisors with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to soar within our sorority and their communities.

Stay current on activities within the Southeastern Region via Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Follow us @SEREGIONSGRHO.

MEMBERSHIP GROWTH The Super Southwestern Region continues to lead with L.O.V.E. as it grows and expands its reach in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. During the 2020-2021 Sorority year, Alumnae and Undergraduate membership increased 23%. The SWR Philo Affiliates grew 20% and the SWR Rhoer Clubs experienced 3% growth. The Southwestern Sigma Family is growing!

MEMBERSHIP MONDAYS The Southwestern Region Membership Committee has pioneered “Membership Mondays.” This innovative three-part series for the Fall focuses on different areas of R3: Recruitment, Reclamation, and Retention topics.

These sessions are an open forum where Sorors learn about and discuss ideas and best practices.

Attendees have the opportunity to hear from leaders.

Sorors receive helpful chapter resources and have fun during the sessions.

SOUTHWESTERN REGION MEMBERSHIP CONTESTS WELCOME HOME: The Southwestern Region conducted a membership contest from July 1 to December 5, 2021. Transfer Sorors from outside of the region and all reactivating members were entered into a drawing to win a FREE Centennial registration.

BATTLE OF THE YARDS: The undergraduate chapter reclaiming the most alumni members from their “yard” wins bragging rights and a cash prize.

RHOAD TO CENTENNIAL: Chapters and Affiliates were eligible to win cash prizes based on overall growth within their respective Centennial classification.

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REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

REGION NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

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SHOW THE LOVE UNDERSGRADUATE INCENTIVE PROGRAM Congratulations to the recipients of the inaugural Show the L.O.V.E. Grants, an incentive program that rewards undergraduate chapters for operating in L.O.V.E. and excellence. To be eligible for a grant, chapters were evaluated on academic performance, membership growth and retention, community impact, regional engagement and chapter operations.

Through the program, $5,425 was awarded to 32 chapters​! Here are a few highlights of SWR undergraduates’ accomplishments: SCHOLARSHIP: 27 chapters had GPA 3.0 or higher​ Highest GPA: Tau Pi at University of Texas at Dallas 4.0 SISTERHOOD: 14 chapters exceeded 8% membership growth​ 5 chapters had greater than 50% growth​ Largest Chapter: Alpha Lambda at Texas Southern University - 32 members SERVICE: 14 chapters implemented a W.I.S.E.R. program​ 8 mobile libraries installed ​ 1 mobile library in each state​ 1,400 hours logged in G.O.L.D.E.N.​ Gamma Pi Chapter at Louisiana State University logged the most hours- 252 total​ OPERATIONS & REGIONAL ENGAGEMENT: 9 chapters attended 80% of the SWR programs​ 15 chapters attended Alumnae Chapter Meetings & presented their reports​ MOST POINTS EARNED: ​Pi Iota Chapter at Southeastern Louisiana University received the highest scored points and ​an additional award of $500.

SOUTHWESTERN REGION COMMITTEE FAIR & ESSENTIAL TRAINING On September 18, 2021, the SWR hosted a Committee Fair and Essential Training session. Attendees across the region learned how to get involved in regional committees and apply for committee openings. In addition, attendees also participated in Essential Training workshops on Financial and TORCH updates.

SWR PARTNERSHIP – WORKING TOGETHER TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN TRAFFIC SAFETY The Southwestern Region partnered with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, UMOJA, Inc., Ride Sober or Get Pulled Over, and Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving to present the Second hybrid “Working Together to Achieve Success in Traffic Safety” Diversity Traffic Safety Forum. The Forum was held on Friday, September 24, 2021. Syntaktes Miranda Moore was a member of the panel and shared several examples of our sisterhood’s participation in highway safety.

Race

AMAZING

THE

OLYMPIC SWIMMER NATALIE HINDS CHAMPIONS GREATNESS BY DIVING DEEP WITHIN.

By L. Chanel Dickerson

THE AMAZING RACE | FALL/WINTER 2021

he 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials were unfavorable for Natalie Hinds. So, she took a break from swimming and moved to Atlanta to work a normal 9 to 5 job.

However, the champion spirit within compelled her to dive deep.

Born and raised in Midland, Texas, Hinds lived with her parents and sister, Loren. Midland, located in west Texas, is big on football and oil. But Hinds was big on swimming because her big sister was a swimmer. “I started swimming when I was about six or so because my sister swam,” Hinds recalls. “She’s five years older than me so I wanted to do whatever she was doing. Then I fell in love with swimming on my own.”

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By the time she was a preteen, Hinds was swimming on teams, attending meets, and traveling to bigger areas like Dallas, gaining more exposure and experience. Hinds is grateful for the resources that granted her access to the world of swimming. With that gratitude, she attended her first Olympic trial by age 18.

Though she went to trials for the experience, Hinds got a taste of what it takes to go to the Olympics. She placed 40th in a contest where only the top two were accepted to move forward, but this was enough to send Hinds to the University of Florida to continue her swim career.

Hinds graduated from college in time to prepare for the Rio Summer Olympics in 2016 when she was met with disappointment. “Thinking I would make the team in Rio, I failed miserably,” said Hinds. “I did even worse than I did when I was 18. So, I decided to take a break.”

Hinds took a two-year hiatus to relocate to Atlanta and work in digital sports media. However, she received a calling to do more. “I learned a lot about myself. I loved that time of my life,” Hinds remembers. “But I always had a voice that was telling me, ‘You need to at least try again’.”

The voice encouraged Hinds to go elsewhere to experience different circumstances to attract success. Trekking east to Athens, Georgia, Hinds began training at the University of Georgia during the fall of 2018. Combining training with what she learned about her mental health and nutrition during her swimming aperture, Hinds experienced growth and the

maturity necessary to make the 2020 Olympic team.

“I will be listening to that voice for the rest of my life,” said Hinds. “Even if you don’t want to do something, if you have doubts about something, in the end, it always works out some way.”

Because of COVID-19, the experience at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo differed from those in the past.

Limited spectators and empty seats in the stands were a drastic change from the norm. However, Hinds was prepared and more importantly, focused.

“You never can prepare enough until you’re really there, you see there are 20 thousand seats, and there’s nobody in any of them,” said Hinds. “Once you’re able to switch your brain over, it’s not about [the spectators]. It’s about the team. I think it’s easier to compete that way.”

Hinds was with her teammates for 40 days prior to the meet and relied on them for inspiration and they depended on her. With the lack of a crowd, the atmosphere was quiet, intimate, and just as intense.

Going into the finals, Hinds and her teammates were seeded fifth and were not expected to medal. There was a team meeting before the relay, and it was agreed to just swim freely.

“Obviously [we were] focused to do our best without the added pressure of whatever the media says,” said Hinds. “I think that really helped us.” Without anything to lose, the team moved forward. As the race progressed, Hinds realized that the team would medal, citing the grateful moment as surreal.

“The amount of people who try to go to the Olympics and then you cut that down to the people who actually go, then you cut that down to how many people that actually get a medal is pretty special,” said Hinds. Team USA captured the bronze medal

THE AMAZING RACE | FALL/WINTER 2021

during the finals of the 400-freestyle relay.

Balancing a highly competitive drive with sustainable mental health has been expressed as challenging among many athletes. Hinds applies care to herself by distracting negativity and creating outlets to channel her energy.

“Once I started focusing on my mental health is when I saw things change,” said Hinds. “My mental focus, how I talk to myself outside of the pool, things that don’t pertain to swimming. Just everyday things. You have to take care of yourself before you can do anything else.”

Hinds listens to audiobooks and has applied meditation to her everyday routine for the past of couple years. To cope with anxiety, Hinds began weaving and started a business called Loominary Design.

Adding to her playlist, Hinds keeps it light, ranging from old school R&B and jazz, some recommended by her dad.

Artists like Joe, Fred Taylor, Charlie Wilson and Sigma Soror Maysa keep her grooving in a relaxed state.

Winning the bronze medal has given Hinds a new perspective that has transitioned her life onto a new level.

“To be able to reach that dream and then go beyond that is actually a very freeing feeling,” said Hinds. “I also feel more confident because what I thought would work did work.”

Hinds is eager to build upon that confidence to catapult her achievement in future goals, growing her platform to reach others in various benevolent ways.

“It’s up to me what path I want to take,” said Hinds. “Who can I bring along with me?”

“

Once I started focusing on my mental health is when I saw things change.

”

A MOMENT IN HISTORY | FALL/WINTER 2021

A MOMENT IN HISTORY SOROR HATTIE MCDANIEL: A TRAILBLAZER RECOGNIZED IN HER HOMETOWN

by Soror LaDonna Horton

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On March 30, 2021, Soror Hattie McDaniel, a Wichita, Kansas native received a muchdeserved dedication marker at her birthplace, 925 N. Wichita Street. Although the house is no longer there, the marker is placed where her house would be. The Gamma Chi Sigma Chapter (Wichita, KS) was ecstatic to be able to represent Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. at this marker installation.

Soror McDaniel was the first Black woman to win an Academy Award in 1939 for “Gone with the Wind.” She also was the first Black Woman to sing on the radio in the United States and has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Kansas African American Museum worked for over a year for this vision to come to fruition in Soror McDaniel’s hometown. The community can visit this marker and learn more about our beloved Soror, who was loved by many and a trailblazer for generations to come, here: www.tkaamuseum.org/HattieMcDaniel.

Celebrating Sigma Legacy

By Soror Tamala Bullard

It was Spring 1971 when Soror Doris Graham Hunter (Omega Rho) committed to the sisterhood of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. with the Delta Tau Chapter, on the campus of Elizabeth City State University.

Fifty years later and one can imagine that her heart would be happy to see what her one “YES” produced for her family. She loved Sigma and her family loves Sigma just the same.

As the first Sigma in her family, she set a blazing trail of what dedication, passion, and patience in the Sisterhood would yield for the future.

She served in many roles within the organization but being the Advisor for Gamma Chapter at A&T State University gave her #GREATER joy. She was a voice of change and a faithful member of the Delta Sigma Sigma Chapter in Greensboro, North Carolina. She loved developing young Sorors in the organization, and their stories prove she did just that.

Soror Hunter’s legacy of serving continues in the sisterhood at the local, regional, and international levels because we know the value of bearing good fruit. For 34 years (19712005), she served Sigma, and her family has now picked up the Sigma Torch. We will run to see what the end will be.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Soror Hunter’s membership in Sigma Gamma Rho. What a tribute to know she would have now been a Cultured Pearl in our great Sisterhood.

However, her rich Sigma Legacy continues with Sorors, Philos, Rhoers, and Gents.

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First Family SGRho Soror Doris Graham Hunter - Spring 1971 Delta Tau Chapter, 1st Legacy Soror Tamala Bullard - Spring 1992 Rho Chapter, 2nd Legacy Soror Valeria Murphy Leak - Spring 1993 Delta Iota Chapter, 3rd Legacy Soror Tammy Murphy Barr - Fall 1996 Delta Gamma Sigma Chapter, 4th Legacy Soror Venessa Bullard Carr - Spring 2015 Iota Zeta Sigma Chapter, 5th Legacy Soror Sommore Terry - Spring 2018 Omicron Eta Chapter, 6th Legacy Soror Kayla Murphy - Spring 2021 Gamma Chi Chapter, 7th Legacy Soror Umeko Terry Leak - Spring 2021 Delta Gamma Sigma Chapter, 8th Legacy Soror Dorothy Bullard Tyson - Spring 2021 Delta Gamma Sigma Chapter, 9th Legacy Soror Jessica Tyson Howard - Spring 2021 Delta Gamma Sigma Chapter, Rhoer Zori Bullard Carson - Spring 2019 Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter, Rhoer Morgan Leak Spring - 2021 Mu Sigma Sigma Chapter, Philo Audrey Bullard - Spring 2020 Alpha Mu Sigma Chapter, Philo Carrie Percell - Spring 2020 Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter, Philo Adriena McNeil - Spring 2020 Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter, Gent Edward Leak, Gent Nate Barr, Gent Donald Carr, Gent Michael Leak, Gent William Tyson, Sr., Gent Austin Howard

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THE HARDER THEY FALL PREMIERE | FALL/WINTER 2021

U.S. PREMIERE OF THE NETFLIX FILM “THE HARDER THEY FALL”

By Zeretha Washington

Centennial Grand Tamiochus Soror Danette Samilton and National Programs Coordinator Soror Zeretha Washington represented Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. along with other members of the Divine 9 at the Los Angeles Premiere of the film “The Harder They Fall” at the Shrine Auditorium. The significance of Sigma Gamma Rho showing support for this film is the fresh take of an all-Black cast in comparison to the plethora of western movies that have failed to include the representation of Black people.

The movie is about an outlaw who gets his gang back together to seek revenge on his long-time nemesis. While the movie is fictional, it was based on such real-life Black cowboys from American history as Nat Love and Bill Pickett. The movie was director-producer Jeymes Samuel’s directorial feature film debut. His excitement was palpable as he poetically introduced his co-producers Jay-Z (Shawn Carter), James Lassiter, Lawrence Bender, and cast members Regina King, Deon Cole, and Jonathan Majors.

Jeymes Samuel’s big brother singer-song writer, Seal, was on hand to celebrate his younger brother’s success along with Hollywood elite such as Beyonce (who opted to skip the blue carpet entrance), Tina Knowles, Ava DuVernay, Taraji P. Henson, Teyana Taylor, Tiffany Haddish, Swizz Beats, Karrueche Tran, Kehlani, and Evan Ross.

The movie was quite entertaining, action packed, graphic, but comical at times, and loaded with star power! A definite must see.

House/Getty Photographer: Rachel Murray for Netflix

THE HARDER THEY FALL PREMIERE | FALL/WINTER 2021

CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT | SUMMER 2021

C entral REGION

THE GLAMORHOUS GAMMA RHO CHAPTER “SUSTAINING A LEGACY, GUIDING WOMEN OF TRUE CHARACTER”

T

he Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was chartered on February 16, 1974, at Illinois State University. There have been over 230 women of different backgrounds and interests inducted through the undergraduate chapter of Gamma Rho. The first members were inducted by Sorors from the Delta Beta Chapter of Eastern Illinois University, on April 28, 1973. The inductees were Cheryl Brown, Veronica Martin, Juanita White, Delores King, Jetaun Cook, and Diane Hollins. In order to be chartered, it required ten active Sorors. With their goal set on building a chapter on the campus of Illinois State University (ISU), they inducted four more women on October 12, 1973. The inductees were Sorors Linda Daniels, Wilma Alexander, Rhonda Lee, and Audrey Singleton. These women were trailblazers on the ISU campus. They were sophisticated, enthusiastic, and above all, they were pioneers. That is the legacy started 48 years ago, and that is the legacy the chapter sustains today.

Gamma Rho Sorors have progressed and serve or have served many positions at the graduate, regional and national levels. Gamma Rho Chapter is currently the largest undergraduate chapter in the Captivating Central Region and the largest NPHC chapter on the ISU campus. During the last three years, they have inducted three membership classes of at least ten women. On the campus of ISU, Sorors continue to emerge as leaders.

Members have served on the NPHC council in multiple capacities, including President, Vice President, Secretary, and Parliamentarian. Last year the Chapter won six awards from Sorority and Fraternity Life. The Gamma Rho Chapter truly rises to the task of guiding women who have the making of a fine and true character.

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CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT | FALL/WINTER 2021

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

CELEBRATING OUR The Sigma Investment Continues…

The Pursuit of a Ruby!

What footprints are you leaving behind?

Ruby Members are precious gemstones whose 22 years of service and impact most closely link to our next generation’s legacy. Each graced with RHOyalty and unique accomplishments, these featured Rubies’ quests demonstrate resilience, brilliance, sisterhood, leadership and so much more. With honor, we present 22 of our most distinguished jewels.

Rubies

by Dr. Wanda LeFlore and Dr. Janet Timmons

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Tonishia Holloway & Ebony Green

CHAPTER | Rho Sigma & Lambda Xi Sigma

Ruby Members Ebony Green of Lambda Xi Sigma, Athens, OH and Tonishia Holloway of Rho Sigma, Detroit, MI were inducted into the Gamma Omega Chapter in the spring of 1996 along with three other alchemic women at Michigan State University. During their early years, they supported each other through major life events, community service projects, and many long step show practices.

After graduation, they joined separate alumnae chapters. “As I sit back and reflect, the relationship is invaluable amongst us all”, stated Ruby Member Holloway. Both Rubies consider Rho Sigma Chapter “home base” and take pride in knowing it is where the spirit of the Ruby recommendation was born. Although they were not serving in the same graduate chapter, Rubies Holloway and Green connected at the 79th Central Region Conference to celebrate their 24th sorority year and once again, side by side, they entered a new phase of sisterhood as Ruby Members. “Just like our first induction, this is another milestone we will never forget,” said the Rubies. They reflect on how they have grown during their Sigma journey and continue to become stronger sisters each day.

“My sisters have me at every turn and becoming a Ruby Member with Soror Holloway reminds me that I am never alone,” said Ruby Member Green. Next year they are excited to celebrate another monumental milestone together, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated’s Centennial Celebration in Indianapolis, Indiana. These Ruby Sisters continue to enjoy the moment and look forward to becoming Cultured Pearls together.

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

Diane Meadows

CHAPTER | Upsilon Sigma

Chandra Jacobs-Evans

CHAPTER | Zeta Delta Sigma

Ruby Member Chandra Jacobs-Evans is a proud member of the Zeta Delta Sigma Chapter in Arlington, Texas. She became a Ruby during the virtual Special Boule in 2020 representing the So Sophisticated Southwestern Region. Her Sigma journey began in the fall of 1997 through the Nu Iota Chapter at the University Texas at Arlington. She has been “financially” and “physically” active since her induction and has served locally and regionally in leadership positions. Ruby Member Chandra Jacobs-Evans proudly works in the Dallas Independent School District as a High School Counselor. She believes we are lifelong learners and should seek to learn something beneficial for self and others daily. Her proudest moment in Sigma is when she became Life Member #1094. “Since a Ruby represents nobility, purity, and passion, achieving Ruby status supports my dedication and love for this great organization.”

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Ruby Member Diane Meadows of the Upsilon Sigma Chapter in Nashville, TN cheerfully shares three reasons why becoming a Ruby Member and the “title” Ruby are extremely special to her.

1) My ninety-six year old retired (35 years) educator (over 50-year legacy) Soror/Mother’s name is “Ruby Dees.”

2) Life Membership is amazing, but there is something extra special about that “Ruby” name/title for me!

3) There is nothing more “Blue-t-ful” than the thought of two Ruby Red stones in the crest that signifies the true blood line between “this” precious mother and daughter sisterhood “Blood Line.”

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

Franceilia Belt-Hamilton

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CHAPTER | Zeta Delta Sigma

Dr. Fenobia Dallas

CHAPTER | Gamma Psi Sigma

Ruby Member Franceilia Belt-Hamilton is a member of the Zeta Delta Sigma Chapter in Arlington, TX. On April 25, 1993, she began her Sigma journey as a founding charter member of the Nu Lambda Chapter at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, AR. She later served in the Theta Sigma and Eta Lambda Sigma Alumnae Chapters. She is the current chairperson of the Awards and Achievement Committee and serves on the Technology and Rhoer Club Committees. Serving eighteen years as a Community Service Leader, she continues to make an impact in her community by paving the way for youth and adults. As Third vice-president of the T. Mathis – Hawkins Section of National Council of Negro Women, Ruby Member Belt- Hamilton was able to reestablish a youth section in NCNW and chair and execute its annual scholarship program. Through countless hours of planning and program development as her Church Youth Director and service in other organizations, she has facilitated many women’s outreach programs and has made it her mission to provide enrichment opportunities that create lifelong memories for our youth. A devoted educator, she completed her M. Ed. in Educational Leadership in 2021 from Northcentral University. Ruby Member Belt-Hamilton was recognized as a 2021 Pioneer of the Future Scholarship recipient by the university, and sees her mission as “continuing to lead and pave the way for others to succeed.”

Ruby Member Fenobia Dallas is a member of Gamma Psi Sigma of Saginaw, MI. She feels blessed that she had an opportunity to serve in three SGRho regions. Dr. Fenobia Dallas was inducted in Alpha Upsilon in 1976, at Fisk University in Nashville, TN and welcomed to the Southeast Region. After graduation, she joined the U.S. Navy, and served as public affairs officer at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, becoming a member-at large in the Western Region. She transferred to the Navy Recruiting District in Detroit, Michigan and Rho Sigma in the Central Region became her next Sigma home. Dr. Fenobia Dallas served as chapter advisor at Michigan State University (Gamma Omega) and Wayne State University (Alpha Eta). Her next assignment was at the Navy port in Adak, Alaska, where Sigma connections were suspended because of military duties. After serving the Navy for seven years, the LT resigned her commission and returned to Nashville. Upsilon Sigma welcomed her back to the Southeast Region, and she became advisor to her home chapter, Alpha Upsilon. When Dr. Fenobia Dallas moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, she joined Gamma Theta Sigma, advised Zeta Iota at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and completed her master’s degree. She pursued her doctorate at Michigan Technological University and became a member-at large in Central Region. Later Dr. Fenobia Dallas helped reactivate Zeta Gamma Sigma (East Chicago, Indiana) and Theta Delta Sigma (Flint, Michigan), and served Gamma Psi Sigma (Saginaw, Michigan) and Zeta Kappa Sigma (Lansing, Michigan). She served as Central Region’s Tamiochus and Grammateus and became a Life Member in 2004, and a Ruby Member in 2018.

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

CHAPTER | Zeta Delta Sigma

Kimberly Arnold

CHAPTER | Iota Gamma Sigma

Ruby Member Leonesea Morgan is a member of Zeta Delta Sigma in Arlington, Texas. When she walked into the Education & Social Services Magnet (ESSM) building she did not anticipate how education and SGRho would influence her life. As high school Valedictorian, she left ESSM at Townview in 1996 desiring to change lives through mathematics education. Strongly influenced by her high school education cluster coordinator, Soror Q.S. Robertson, and her sister Ruby Member Chelsea McNair, she joined SGRho and helped charter a chapter on the University of Tulsa campus. As a result of her love and commitment to education and service, she took the motto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress” to heart by winning awards at Tulsa such as Top Ten Freshman, Top Ten Senior, Association of Black Collegians Woman of the Year, Mortar Board, and more. Immediately following college graduation in 2000, she joined Soror Q.S. Robertson in Zeta Delta Sigma Chapter of Arlington, Texas and became a mathematics instructor at her former high school. Although Ruby Member Leonesea Morgan has held many jobs including secondary mathematics teacher, instructional coach, and is currently Director of Mathematics, her favorite title is servant leader. As a 17-year-old, it was her desire to go out in the world to change lives, but ultimately the lives changed her. She states, “Although I spent over 23 years servicing the community with SGRho and mathematics education, God is not done with me yet!”

Ruby Member Kimberly Arnold is a member of the Iota Gamma Sigma Chapter in Athens, GA. It was the fall of 1996 when she made the lifelong commitment to join SGRho. While attending the University of Georgia, the current step mistress, Yolanda “Doll” Rogers, of the Lambda Delta Chapter explained that becoming a part of the sisterhood would be forever. Soror Rogers described the sisterhood as a marriage and Ruby Member Kim Arnold took that knowledge to heart. She has paid her dues every single year, making this year her 25th consecutive year of membership. Since her induction she has held various offices and was a charter member for her current chapter (Iota Gamma Sigma) in Athens, GA. During the 78th Southeastern Region Conference in Biloxi, MS, Ruby Member Kimberly Arnold noticed several members that joined SGRho around the time she joined were receiving Ruby Recognition. After verifying the requirements of 22 years of membership, she applied for Ruby Recognition and was honored during the 2020 Virtual Boule. Committed to “Great Service, Greater Progress”, Ruby Member Kimberly Arnold, Life Member #1665 serves as Membership Chair and Co- advisor of the Lambda Delta Chapter at UGA, her alma mater.

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Soror Leonesea Morgan

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

Taniqua Hunter

CHAPTER | Nu Beta Sigma

Soror Taniqua Hunter joined as a solo initiate of the Nu Tau Chapter on the campus of Hofstra University. Upon graduation she transferred into her advising alumnae chapter, Eta Nu Sigma Chapter.

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She began to take on leadership roles and expand the reach of Sigma to the Brooklyn and Queens communities. She has served as Chaplain and various committee chairs. Most of her Sigma experience has been serving as a Graduate Advisor, particularly to her undergraduate chapter, Nu Tau. Being able to guide and develop future undergraduate members of Hofstra, was the sole reason she transferred into Eta Nu Sigma. Ruby Member Hunter served as Basileus from 2008-2012. She has also served on various national (Swim 1922) and regional committees (Bylaws and Recommendations) lending her talents to the sorority. Soror Hunter is a past board member of The Seven Pearls Foundation as the Northeastern Region Representative and Secretary.

A Ruby and Life Member, Soror Hunter had the pleasure of becoming a Charter Member of the Nu Beta Sigma Chapter servicing Queens, New York in 2020. She currently serves as the chapter Parliamentarian.

Taniqua loves order and efficiency. Her goal is to help members understand and properly utilize Robert’s Rules of Order. In 2019, Soror Hunter became a Registered Parliamentarian (RP) of the National Association of Parliamentarians (NAP). She looks forward to leading the chapter’s Bylaws committee and helping Sorors to feel more empowered and knowledgeable about their rights and responsibilities.

Teneshia Richards-Brooks

CHAPTER | Alpha Alpha Sigma

Ruby Member Teneshia Richards-Brooks is a member of the Alpha Alpha Sigma Chapter in Baltimore, Maryland— the chapter where leaders get their start. This Ruby and now proud Life member is also currently serving her second term as the Grammateus for the “Notable” Northeastern Region. Soror Richard-Brooks’ journey to Ruby began during her senior year at the College of Notre Dame, when she was inducted through the Gamma Mu Chapter in Baltimore, Maryland on December 5, 1998. When Soror Richard-Brooks graduated, she transferred to Alpha Alpha Sigma Chapter; it’s here where she led several committees and held various officer’s positions throughout the years.

Soror Richards-Brooks thought it was only fitting that she share her Ruby acceptance speech: “First giving honor to God who is head of my life and has kept me in MY right mind in this sisterhood over the past 22 years. Thank you to my dad who came to every Crab Feast and supported everything SGRho, my mom who pushed me to run for regional office and encouraged me to be the change I wanted to see. My sister and nephew, who remind me to be greater daily. To the amazing Sigma women over the years that helped to mold me, from the sorors who brought me into the sisterhood, to Cinema 16, my Gamma Mu family, Alpha Alpha Sigma chapter sorors, my A3ForLife Grant family, the Transformers, the Regional Grammatei team, the Northeastern Regional Board, my amazing Team Redford, and the financial officers of the Northeastern region! To my Sigma Gent, thank you for loving me and supporting everything Sigma. Next up, Cultured Pearl!”

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

CHAPTER | Alpha Phi Sigma

Lynette Moragne

CHAPTER | Alpha Eta Sigma

Ruby Member Shantana Robinson has been in the business of Sigma Service for 22 years! Her Sigma resume includes holding numerous officer positions including two terms as Chapter Basileus. Dr. Robinson joined the former Mu Phi Chapter of SGRho at Southwest Texas State University now named Texas State University during the 1998 fall semester. She served in various capacities over the years including Time and Place and National Programs Chair for the Southwestern region. Dr. Robinson has grown in the sisterhood and had the pleasure of being in leadership positions that allowed her to foster others. Dr. Robinson who also had a radio show titled, “Savvy Sistas” is a business owner and strategist who has contracts with numerous agencies. She is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and Sisters of the Academia. Dr. Robinson is a believer that you are only as big as your dreams, so dream big! She lives by the following motto, “Be happy with who you are today, who you were yesterday, and who you will become tomorrow. Live your life as if it’s GOLDEN!”

Ruby Member Lynette Moragne was inducted April 9, 1993, at Beta Delta Chapter at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. She joined Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter in Philadelphia the following year and began a steady path of serving the sisterhood. Reserved and contemplative, Ruby Member Moragne looks back fondly at her Sigma experiences. Early morning meetings, meetings after the meeting, late night bonding at conferences, carpools to service events, and two finger taps given and received, were moments filled with laughter, love and support that made the Rhoad to Ruby status an amazing journey. Experienced sorors encouraged Ruby Moragne to lead local committees in Alpha Eta Sigma. She served on regional committees, which progressed to appointments as both Northeastern Region Scholarship and National Scholarship Committee Chairwoman. She became Life Member #632 in 2007.

This was an important milestone on her Sigma journey solidifying her commitment to Sigma. She has served Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter as Anti Grammateus, Tamiochus, and the 22nd Basileus from 20122016. She also served as the Northeastern Region Anti-Grammateus and currently serves as Vendor Chair. Ruby Moragne is presently a dedicated National Education Fund Advocate and serves on the Centennial International Education Initiatives committee. Forever grateful for the opportunities to develop new skills and share talents, she mentors and encourages younger members to step up, serve, and lead our sisterhood. Soror Moragne received Ruby recognition in 2015 at the 73rd Northeastern Region conference.

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Shantana Robinson

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

Davina Powell

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CHAPTER | Upsilon Sigma

As a 19-year-old, standing in Soror Wanda Anthony’s basement in a borrowed white dress, holding a candle saying THE words that commit you to Sigma, it’s difficult to really understand the gravity of them. All Soror Davina Powell knew was that she wanted IN. She wanted to be like the leaders on her campus. The women of the Epsilon Xi Chapter at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the Spring of 1994 were leaders on the campus of 43,000 students. They had a network that was unmatched. Most important to Soror Powell’s 19-year-old mind at the time was when the beat dropped at the party, they WORKED THE DANCE FLOOR! They ran that campus and Soror Powell wanted IN!! Soror Powell believes Sigma has brought her some of her very best friends and brought her women who taught her that she can love you and not like you. Time has taught Soror Powell that those words said in that white dress did indeed matter. It’s been more than 22 years since she was pinned. April 30, 1994 to be exact. Soror Powell was told that day that she was chosen because she was quality. She believes her responsibility was to serve her community and make “more like me,” she said. Since then, Soror Powell has gone from attending inductions to helping revise the program that develops new members. She has gone from voting for leaders to being elected and appointed to offices. Soror Powell specializes in supporting successful leaders and has gently guided Sorors to their successes and shook her head as others have failed. Her most beautiful memories include inducting new members and watching them thrive. Her greatest joy has been each time she’s been able to welcome family members into the sisterhood. Soror Powell’s love letter to Sigma will be being part of the team bringing the July centennial celebration. Soror Powell hopes that if nothing else, she’s done what she was charged to do at her induction. Serve and make more like her.

Annette A. Wilson

CHAPTER | Mu Mu Sigma

Soror Annette A. Wilson was officially recognized as a Ruby member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. in a ceremony held at the 55th Biennial Boule in National Harbor, Maryland July 2014. She was inducted as an undergraduate Soror into the Epsilon Delta Chapter at Florida State University May 27, 1976. Currently Soror Wilson is an active Life and Charter member of the Mu Mu Sigma Alumnae Chapter in Tallahassee, Florida.

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

CHAPTER | Theta Alpha Sigma

Marizen Sawyer

CHAPTER | Beta Omicron Sigma

Ruby Member Natasha C. Holmes, Theta Alpha Sigma Chapter, Hartford, CT serves as Centennial Basileus of her Chapter, and has held every elected role on the local executive level. Inducted May 8, 1993, she is one of eight charter members of the University of Connecticut’s Nu Mu Chapter, the state’s first chapter. Ruby Member Holmes balances being a Soror, wife, mother of three, and coding professional for one of the largest insurance agencies in the nation.

Under her leadership, Theta Alpha Sigma has seen tremendous growth in membership and community partnerships. Ruby Member Holmes is a charter member and financial secretary of the Greater Hartford National Pan-Hellenic Council. She has received numerous awards and brought greetings on behalf of our 23rd NER Syntaktes and Sisterhood at the 2020 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Regional Conference. She has also served internationally on the National Rhosebud Committee. Her work and love for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority never ceases.

Ruby Member Marizen Sawyer, Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter, Charlotte, NC was inducted into Sigma in spring 1999 through the Nu Rho Chapter (University of North Carolina at Charlotte). She graduated with a degree in English and spent several years as a high school English teacher. She went on to earn a MS in Library and Information Studies. Ruby Member Sawyer credits her leadership positions at the Chapter level as leading to her current passion for graphic design.

Regardless of her office, She shows dedication to and involvement in promoting chapter events and developing marketing materials. Now a stay-at-home mother, she maintains a commitment to lifelong learning and works continuously to develop her abilities. With the results of her efforts evident within the Sorority at the national, regional and local levels, Ruby Member Sawyer has helped Sorors with the branding and marketing for their events, campaigns and beyond. One of her greatest honors to date is working on a few projects for Centennial. She expresses: “Sorors will probably never know that I made it, but when something I created makes them smile and sit up a little taller, when they share a flyer on social media with excitement and pride – there is no better feeling.”

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Natasha C. Holmes

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

Tondrea Spivey-McWright

CHAPTER | Iota Lambda Sigma

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Ruby Member Tondrea C. Spivey-McWright, Iota Lambda Sigma Chapter, Germantown, TN began her journey into Sigma over 22 years ago at Buffalo State College, State University of New York where she majored in Secondary Education with a concentration in English.

Since kindergarten she wanted to be a teacher, coming home every day to teach her little sister what she learned. This passionate start laid the foundation for her to join a Sisterhood built on educating future generations of students. Dr. Spivey-McWright was inspired to join Sigma based upon the history of seven educators but most closely predicated upon the ladies carrying Sigma forward. Her prophytes Belinda Duncan, Brande Hunt-Newsome, Camille JosephVarlack, Melon Yeshoalul, Romunda Harris-Fonsville, Trina Duncan, and Zarineth Gomez embodied Sigma in such a way that most young ladies wanted to join. Five were chosen: Josephine Torres, Tondrea Spivey, Kareen Henry, Allison Henry, and Njeri Pennycooke; they were known as “The Willings” Spring 1998. Dr. Spivey-McWright has dedicated her life to young people and presently serves as the Centennial Southeastern Regional Rhoer Coordinator. In addition to being a proud Ruby Member, Dr. Spivey McWright is also Life Member #1487. She looks forward to many more years of service and becoming a Cultured Pearl.

Jodi Jacobs

CHAPTER | Theta Rho Sigma

Ruby Member Jodi Jacobs, Theta Rho Sigma, Bronx, NY is every Sigma! She was born on July 22nd, yes 7/22. Dr. Jacobs became a member of SGRho at Boston University June 1999. Being the 1st SGRho at her institution, she understood the need to create Sigma where there is a void. After moving through several states, transitioning through her premedical and doctoral training; Dr. Jacobs not only stayed financially and socially active, but laid way to Sigma at every institution. She has advised chapters in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Atlanta. She has served her Notable Northeastern Region as Awards Chair from 2011-2015 and current NER Area 4 Coordinator since 2018. She became a Life Member on her 10th Sigmaversary and a Ruby on her 22nd. Today, Dr. Jacobs is proud to have assisted in bringing in over 50 women (who have brought in 100s more), 40 reactivation and the chartering of over 5 chapters in New England and Northern Atlanta. As area coordinator she prides herself in having a personal relationship with EVERY chapter in her area. She spends her days teaching at the College of Westchester School of Health, The University of Bridgeport Continuing Education, running her busy healthcare clinic and being wife and mother of two lovely Sigma legacies. “This is where I was made, this is where is home, and home is where my heart is.”

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

CHAPTER | Theta Rho Sigma

LaShaunda Ewing

CHAPTER | Epsilon Lambda Sigma

Ruby Member Alisa Washington, Theta Rho Sigma Chapter, Bronx, NY is essential--both in her Chapter, where she currently holds the position of Basileus, as well as, in the community. Ruby Member Washington, a supervising nurse in one of the busiest hospitals in New York City, leads and motivates her staff daily as they remain on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. No stranger to hardwork, perseverance, and determination, she is motivated to serve the community not only through her career but also through Sigma.

Early mornings and long nights have never stopped her from being present for chapter members when needed. Lovingly she calls and sends text messages to Sorors, including those who are inactive to check on them. For many Sorors in her Chapter, Ruby Member Washington’s light has been motivation to continue to do the work of Sigma. Inducted through “Too Fly, Alpha Pi” NYC Metro Chapter in Spring 1992, and working collectively to charter Theta Rho Sigma, Ruby Member Washington will be celebrating her 30th Sigmaversary during Centennial year. She is innovative, resourceful, a team player, but above all -- a true sister.

Ruby Member LaShaunda Ewing, Epsilon Lambda Sigma Chapter, Cincinnati, OH has been active since her induction in spring 1992 at Wilberforce University and will celebrate 30 years of service during Centennial. During her undergraduate years, she was a Basileus and NPHC President. Ruby Member Ewing has held several offices and Committee Chair Positions in the Epsilon Lambda Sigma Chapter, where she is currently a Centennial Basileus. She has been the Central Region Music Directress since 2016 and is a member of the International Music and Arts committee. She is Life Member #1084. She believes that Greater Service will always bring about Greater Progress in the sisterhood, our community, and this world as we live our core principles of SGRho! She helped establish the Chapter’s 501c3, the E. Kathleen Cooke Foundation, which is led by Dr. Terri Hurdle. Ruby Member Ewing knows that the Chapter’s and sisterhood’s success is dependent upon encouraging and supporting each member. She often urges our sisters to walk while afraid. She was a “Watch the Yard” feature showcasing Graduate Chapter Presidents.

She recently finished a Platinum Level Leadership of Giving pledge with Ramona Covington and the Central Region Centennial Giving Campaign. Ruby Member Ewing earned a BS in Computer Science/ Mathematics, a MA in Teaching from the College of Mount St. Joseph, and a Masters Certificate in Project Management from George Washington University. She is employed with Archer Daniels Midland as a Sr. Business Intelligent Solution Analyst.

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Alisa Washington

CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

L. Chanel Dickerson

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CHAPTER | Delta Sigma

Angela Cottman

CHAPTER | Nu Eta Sigma

Ruby Member L. Chanel Dickerson, Delta Sigma Chapter, Chicago, IL joined Sigma Gamma Rho during the spring of 1999 at Prairie View A&M University. She considers Sigma Gamma Rho membership as one of her greatest investments. Joining in the 90s provided a backdrop that was an eclectic decade for Black Greek lettered organizations. Pledging was banned by the Council of Presidents of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, redefining the membership intake process. She had a work-study job in the Office of Student Activities which offered a unique peripheral view of campus organizations, including fraternities and sororities. This afforded Ruby Member Dickerson an opportunity to appreciate the Council’s perseverance and the essence of a constitution and bylaws. This appreciation was followed by a call to leadership. Consequently, she served as undergraduate Anti Basileus, Membership Chairperson, NPHC Vice President, and Basileus – all indicative of Sigma’s “Greater Service.”

According to Ruby Member Dickerson: “Joining the sisterhood was a mutual agreement and I promised to always give my best to further its cause. I believed that if I did right by her, she would do right by me.

The law of sowing and reaping has never failed as I’ve always found a harvest in Sigma. Twenty-two years later, I still hold a zealous desire to give in the name of Sigma, staying true to my promise. In the spirit of Luke 6:38, I have witnessed the joys of “Greater Progress”.

Ruby Member Angela Cottman, Nu Eta Sigma Chapter, Schertz, TX was made in the Notable Northeastern Region, reactivated in the Sophisticated Southeastern Region, and transferred to the Super Southwestern Region. She became a member of SGRho in spring 1998 at Norfolk State University. She joined Sigma because she wanted to make a difference by empowering and educating women and children in the community. Ruby Member Cottman served as the Undergraduate Chapter Basileus and National Pan Hellenic Council President. She was a previous winner of the Annie Neville Talent Competition for the Northeastern Region and a 2nd place winner at Boule. In the Southeastern Region, Ruby Member Cottman, an Air Force Service Member, performed roles such as Basileus, Rhoer Advisor, HIV/AIDS Educator, and South Carolina St. Jude Walk Team Captain. After relocating to Texas due to promotion and reassignment, she assumed her current position as Analysis, Certification, and Training Program Manager at the Air Force Personnel Center Airman and Family Readiness Operations Division. Ruby Member Cottman is a Charter Member of her Chapter and Epistoleus. She is thankful for her Sigma journey and experiences and looks forward to mentoring more young women in our beautiful sisterhood.

Denise Merritt

CHAPTER | Alpha Upsilon Sigma

Ruby Member Denise Randle Merritt, Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chapter, E. St. Louis, IL is Life Member #1698, a Veteran, AUS Debutant, Rhoer, and a legacy of her Chapter. She is the elected Centennial 4th Anti-Basileus and is ready to reignite the PSI Chapter “flame” at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIU-C). Ruby Member Merritt brings a plethora of experiences and a repertoire of tools to lead PSI Chapter into the Centennial. She states that, “It felt right to entertain the opportunity to lead the reactivation of an undergrad chapter and create a positive image on a campus that has long awaited the return of our sorority.” Leading the Way with a wealth of experience on all three levels of SGRho, Ruby Member Merritt, previously served as Basileus, Anti Basileus, and Undergraduate Chapter Advisor. Also, on the regional and national levels she served on the Basileus Bootcamp, Technical Team, and Online Submission committees. A Consulting Manager for a Big 4 Accounting firm, Ruby Member Merritt leads a team of IT Financial Auditors. Serving at work and in the community, she proudly represents on all platforms. A strong family legacy that has embraced Ruby Member Merritt with sisterhood, scholarship, and service incudes her daughter, Gamma Beta Basileus Dana Merritt; sister, Soror Belinda Broadus; and other relatives. She was motivated to join Sigma after serving as a Rhoer President and making her debut in the AUS Annual Debutante Cotillion. She leads her Sigma journey by, “Keeping God First, Communication, and Self-Control as staples in her life.”

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CELEBRATING OUR RUBIES | FALL/WINTER 2021

NATIONAL EDUCATION FUND | FALL/WINTER 2021

SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY NATIONAL EDUCATION FUND, INC. The Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. National Education Fund (NEF) has been giving scholarships to deserving students pursuing Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral level degrees since its inception.

Past NEF Scholars have been educators, STEM professionals, public servants, politicians, musicians, singers, and many other career categories. NEF, as well as our scholarship donors, believe that education is our future and knowledge is power.

NEF provides monetary support to students based on their need and helps them achieve their educational goals. To be eligible, students must be attending school in the United States, and be a graduating high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student. All students, whether they identify as female, male, or non-binary, are considered for scholarships. Applications must include a resume, two letters of recommendation, financial aid documentation, a letter of interest, and a photo. NEF supports all students who meet the qualifications and encourage them to apply for scholarship opportunities.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2020-2021 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS!

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SEVEN FOUNDERS SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

ALEASA PARKER Spelman College

NOAH ARTIS North Carolina A&T University

JAEL COLBOURNE Howard University

TREVION IVORY Prairie View A&M University

ASHANTI AGEE Auburn University

CIRE JOHNSON North Carolina Central University

MIKIYA BROWN Tennessee State University

NATIONAL EDUCATION FUND | FALL/WINTER 2021

NEF GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

FREDERICK HURT Northern Illinois University

JAYA CARTER Howard University

MIA SHAW Texas State University

NEF LIFE MEMBER SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

MARCIELA RODRIGUEZ University of California at Berkeley

MORGAN GEORGE The Ohio State University

INEZ T. COLSON SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

LOVETTE HOOD MINISTERIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

MONIQUE WINT Savannah State University

DENERICK SIMPSON Savannah State University

KAMRYN NELSON Howard University

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ALEJANDRA HOUSE University of Texas at Arlington

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NATIONAL EDUCATION FUND | FALL/WINTER 2021

RUBEN T. BUSSY LAW SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

PHILO SALLIE A. WILLIAMS SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

JASMINE MARCH BANKS-OWENS Howard University

KENISHA WICKS Huston-Tillotson University

JENNIFER WHEATLEY SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

BEVERLY PETERSWESTBROOKS Clark Atlanta University

SHERITHA RAYFORD Emory University

CLAUDIA CHAMBLISS University of Mississippi

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ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

ALPHA ETA SIGMA Philadelphia, PA

The Accomplished Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter continued its tradition of executing Operation BigBookBag by collaborating with the New Options More Opportunities (NOMO) Foundation for its 2021 donation. The NOMO Foundation’s mission is to provide children and teens with prevention and early intervention healthy lifestyle information. The alignment of goals made NOMO an ideal partner for this year’s donation effort. Alpha Eta Sigma has implemented Operation BigBookBag each year since the program’s inception. The impact of the chapter’s effort is immediate as Philadelphia is one of the country’s largest and poorest cities. Many Philadelphia families often need a helping hand to prepare their children for learning. Ensuring public school students start the year with appropriate supplies is an honor chapter members and affiliates take seriously. Soror Nicole Jones, Committee Chair, facilitated the donation of 71 bookbags filled with over $1,400 worth of supplies and 100 cases filled with pencils, masks, sanitizer, deodorant and other items donated by chapter members, Philos and supporters. Basileus DeVita R. Jones and several chapter members represented at NOMO Foundation Headquarters to support the social distanced pep rally. During this event, families were offered encouraging words as well as an opportunity to pick up the donated items. Soror Jones looks forward to implementing the second phase of Operation BigBookBag mid-year to ensure students have the necessary supplies to complete the school year.

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

ALPHA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER Longview, TX

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The Astonishing Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter celebrated its charter anniversary. Eighty years ago, on March 1, 1941, Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter became the third chapter in Texas. The chapter was chartered in Longview, Texas by seven amazing women: Soror Mary S. Greenwood (Southwestern Regional Syntaktes), Soror Willia Higler, Soror Isaiah Murphy, Soror Lonnie Quick, Soror Marion Tillis, Soror Zephur Brown, and Soror Isannah Bell.

What better way to celebrate Alpha Gamma Sigma milestone than to have a “Sigma Sip & Seek” vision board party where Southwestern Region UCC, Soror LaTisha Brandon, was the special guest. AGS also donated COVID-19 packages to the Marshall Manor Nursing Home, THRIVE-360, a teen development program for middle school-aged teens in Longview, TX, and added more members to the Sigma family! During Spring 2021, Alpha Gamma Sigma inducted two members, reactivated Lambda Nu Chapter (Stephen F. Austin University-Nacogdoches, TX) with three Sorors and one Soror at Kappa Upsilon Chapter (Jarvis Christian College-Hawkins, TX). Finally, AGS’s undergraduate chapter, Beta Kappa (Texas College-Tyler, TX) inducted four members. What a way to celebrate 81 years.

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

ALPHA PHI SIGMA CHAPTER San Antonio, TX

Alpha Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 75 Years Of Rhoyalty The Alpha Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., San Antonio, Texas held their Virtual Gala Celebrating 75 years of Rhoyalty on June 19, 2021. Sorors dressed in beautiful African attire and enjoyed the soothing music and singing of Naybu. Guest speaker Constable Kathryn Brown, Bexar County Pct. 4 commended Alpha Phi Sigma on a job well done for 75 years of “Greater Service, Greater Progress” and challenged the chapter to keep striving for excellence while serving the San Antonio Community.

During the event, a total of $3,150 in scholarships were awarded to deserving students. The chapter presented their annual $1000 Academic Excellence Scholarship, $750 75th Diamond Scholarship, and 6 Memorial Scholarships in memory of Sorors loved ones. Again, congratulations to scholarship recipients and best wishes as they begin their college journey.

Thank you, Alpha Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter, for your service and helping to make a difference in the lives of others in the community. Alpha Phi Sigma would like to express sincere thanks to Sorors, UCC Brandon, Dr. Stokelin, Constable Kathryn Brown, Naybu, Divine Nine Brothers & Sisters, Scholarship Winners and Guests!

ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER Indianapolis, IN

With the new sorority year started, it’s time to #AskAboutAS. At the Alpha Sigma Alumni Chapter in Indianapolis, Indiana, they got the ball rolling by hosting an Operation BigBookBag event. For this national project, they partnered with the Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. of the Indianapolis Alumni Chapter.

Then to show love and appreciation for the Illustrious Founders of Sigma Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma donated school supplies to Diggs Academy and IPS School #83, where the Founders educated. The event exceeded $1,000 in donation. Alpha Sigma was able to supply masks, hand sanitizers, and Kleenex to IPS School #83. The donation of personal protection essentials assisted in maintaining a clean environment for students and staff.

Alpha Sigma will continue to give their best efforts to the Indianapolis community, and uphold the highest standards for the sorority. Stay on the lookout for more to come from Alpha Sigma Chapter and remember to always #AskAboutAS.

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Special guests from the Southwest Region, Madame UCC LaTisha Brandon and Regional Chaplain Dr. Deirdre Stokelin provided inspirational uplift and encouragement. Alpha Phi Sigma was excited to see guests, scholarship recipients, and Divine Nine Brothers and Sisters grace them with their presence in virtual style.

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

ALPHA XI SIGMA CHAPTER Tulsa, OK

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Education: The Passport To The Future Alpha Xi Sigma Chapter Of Sigma Gamma Rho Presents 2021 Anita Hairston Scholars The Alpha Xi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. celebrated the 25th Year of the Anita Hairston Scholarship Award at the Rudisill Regional Library. In 1996, the award was named in honor of the late Mrs. Anita Hairston, founder of the Tulsa Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho and community activist. Mrs. Hairston was the first African American to graduate with a master’s degree from the University of Tulsa in 1952. She served as a founding member of the Tulsa Links, active in the Urban League, NAACP and in 1945 founded the Alpha Xi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.

Since 1996, over 75 students have been scholarship recipients of the Anita Hairston Scholarship, Sigma Gamma Rho Senior Stipends, Anna B. House Scholarship, and the Philo Affiliate Scholarship exceeding $150,000 of gifts.

The 2021 Awardees are Natalya Jones, daughter of Alan and Maya Blount, a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and is currently attending Coffeyville Community College; Tyla Wilson, daughter of Leon and Toshia Wilson, graduate of Booker T. Washington High school and is currently attending Tulsa Community College, and Aria N. Welch, daughter of Nikia Welch, graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and currently attending Tennessee State University.

These ladies were instrumental in years success: Alnetta Morris, Basileus; Sharmein Hooks, Philo President; Wyvonne E. Marshall, Philo Coordinator; Melanie Rathod, Public Relations Chair; Barbara E. Thompson, Scholarship Chair; Camena Patrick, Melanie Rathod and Thesha Zeigler, Scholarship Committee Members.

BETA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER Tallahassee, FL

Beta Delta Sigma Chapter Answers The Call To Help End Food Insecurities Food insecurity has always been a challenge to communities nationwide. Many students do not receive home cooked meals on a consistent basis and depend upon school meals to provide much needed nourishment. It is for these reasons and so many more, that the Beta Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter answered the call to help end food insecurities.

BDS continues to partner with local food banks, and they have provided more than 200 tons of food to the Tallahassee/Big Bend community since the start of the pandemic. Their partnerships with Second Harvest of the Big Bend and Farm Share continues to thrive. Fresh fruits, veggies, meat, eggs, protein products and shelf stable items have been distributed to families that would have otherwise gone without food.

As families fight to hold back tears, they thanked the volunteers. Beta Delta Sigma members continue to receive God bless you greetings as they safely place grocery items in the trunks of vehicles. This effort continues to be a labor of love! In addition, the chapter has distributed well over 500,000 reusable masks to members of the community during the pandemic. The science-based evidence of wearing masks, washing hands, eating a healthy diet and receiving the vaccination will aid in the fight against COVID-19. They are proud to provide these services and more to promote healthy living of their community.

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

BETA OMICRON SIGMA CHAPTER

The Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. continues to be on the move in Charlotte, NC. The chapter inducted the largest T.O.R.C.H. class within the Northeastern Region. These ladies, known as “The Essential (Twenty) Ones”, have made great strides within the chapter by volunteering for various committees, learning by asking questions and continuing to grow as members. In addition, Beta Omicron Sigma continues to put community service at the forefront of its work and the members take great pride in helping those in the community. The chapter was recognized by the Northeastern Region as a “Golden Chapter” for performing 2,500+ service hours. The chapter also participated in the March of Dimes March for Babies virtual walk/run. BOS members and affiliates proudly worked together to raise over $5,699 in support of families in the Greater Charlotte area. These funds will be used to help women throughout their pregnancies by eliminating health inequities. During the 2021 Special Boule, Soror Labecky Roe was the recipient of the Dr. Annie Lane Lawrence Mental Health Achievement Award for her outstanding work in autism awareness. Rhoer Alexis Wiggs was recognized as Sigma Gamma Rho’s Rhoer of the Year. Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter ended the sorority year successfully by achieving its goal of being impactful on local, regional, and national levels. As Centennial approaches, BOS members are beyond excited to see what else is to come.

DELTA ETA SIGMA CHAPTER Kansas City, KS

The Delta Eta Sigma was chartered in Kansas City, KS on September 19, 1973. The members are celebrating 48 years of service in the community and the largest growth in the midst of a global pandemic. As back-to-back winners of the Membership Grant, in 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 sorority years, the members recognize just how important it is to remember just because you may not be as large as the others, your torch shines just as bright.

Meet their members and see that they are small in numbers yet large in greatness!

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Charlotte, NC

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER Chicago, IL

Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter kicked off the sorority year with Operation BigBookBag. On Saturday, August 7, 2021, for the second-straight year, Delta Sigma partnered with and participated in Leo High School’s, “Annual Back to School Jam.” The event, serving the Gresham community, provided meals, toys, sports equipment and PPE. Under the leadership of Civic Chair, Erika Davis, Delta Sigma collected 510 new bookbags filled with school supplies and distributed 320 bookbags at the event.

Delta Sigma was excited and extremely proud to participate in this event.

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Delta Sigma donated an additional 150 bookbags filled with supplies, to Leo High School, Julian High School and William H. Brown STEM Magnet School. Delta Sigma’s ongoing commitment is to ensure that students in underserved schools have bookbags filled with necessary school supplies to be successful. The empowering symbolic nature of a new bookbag, filled with essential supplies, is an important means of helping students succeed.

The “Annual Back to School Jam” aligned perfectly with the Operation BigBookBag initiative to address the needs, challenges and issues faced by at-risk, school-aged children. Delta Sigma was honored to be in a position to provide much needed help and hope to the community.

EPSILON TAU SIGMA CHAPTER Missouri City, TX

The Elite Ladies of Epsilon Tau Sigma Alumnae Chapter celebrated 40 years of service and sisterhood. ETS has always strived to uphold the legacy of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. with excellence through the chapter’s service initiatives in the Missouri City, Texas community. Decorated in royal blue and gold, Maggiano’s Little Italy was prepared to welcome chapter members and honorees who have added excellence to the history of the chapter. The highest recognition of Soror of the Year was bestowed upon Soror Pamellia Anthony, the chapter’s Philo Advisor. Past Basilei Kimberly McGowen The Elite Ladies of Epsilon Tau Sigma Alumnae Chapter celebrated 40 years of service and sisterhood. ETS has always strived to uphold the legacy of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. with excellence through the chapter’s service initiatives

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

EPSILON TAU SIGMA CHAPTER (cont’d)

in the Missouri City, Texas community. Decorated in royal blue and gold, Maggiano’s Little Italy was prepared to welcome chapter members and honorees who have added excellence to the history of the chapter. The highest recognition of Soror of the Year was bestowed upon Soror Pamellia Anthony, the chapter’s Philo Advisor.

Past Basilei Kimberly McGowen and Zanovia Gatson were honored for having the most active years in Epsilon Tau Sigma. Soror Carol Harris was acknowledged for having the most active years in Sigma. Centennial Basileus Dion Henry and past Basilei were recognized for their leadership and desire to see ETS grow both individually and collectively.

The past 18 months have been challenging for everyone in all aspects of life. Looking around the room at ETS’s beautiful members, it is evident that Epsilon Tau Sigma’s 40 years was one of victory.

ETS is still standing strong as living examples of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”

Soror Athena (Reed) Jones 40th ETS Charter Day Chairwoman Past International 2nd Grand Anti-Basileus

ETA SIGMA CHAPTER Atlanta, GA

The Ladies of Eta Sigma Chapter have stood strong in the acts of Greater Service to end last sorority year and begin the 21-22 Sorority Year. Eta Sigma awarded 17 scholarships to nine recipients at the end of the 2020-2021 sorority year. Eight of the recipients will be beginning undergraduate studies at higher learning institutions such as Morehouse, Georgia State and St. John University. The chapter also provided one Graduate scholarship to a Doctoral Candidate who is attending Clark Atlanta University. They are proud of each recipient and the chapter sends warm wishes for a wonderful school year.

Eta Sigma kicked off the 2021-2022 school year by volunteering for three Operation BigBookBag related events in the Atlanta Metro area. Sorors supported these events with school supply and financial donations along with volunteering time to make each event a success.

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

ETA SIGMA CHAPTER (cont’d)

The Eta Sigma chapter, along with other visiting Sorors, participated in the Divine 9 Run/Walk with the Greater Atlanta NPHC which funds and supports local scholarships. The Sorors represented as “One Sigma” with the largest number of participants for all of the D9 organizations. Way to go Sorors and a special shout-out to Soror Natasha Thomas, NPHC representative, who took the lead in this effort.

The Eta Sigma Chapter was excited to perform a modified “Happy Birthday!” celebration to one of their many chapter treasures. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. 14th International Past Grand Basileus, Soror Evelyn Hawkins Hood was excited and beamed with joy at seeing Sorors at her doorstep to wish her Birthday Blessings!

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GAMMA CHI SIGMA CHAPTER Wichita, KS

Dress for Success Dress for Success is an important part of any city to benefit women trying to get back on their feet. Gamma Chi Sigma Alumnae Sorors and Philos participated in collecting and dropping off everything from shoes, clothing, purses and jewelry. Gamma Chi Sigma Alumnae family were excited to participate in the service activity as COVID-19 has limited donations to this organization. Since COVID restrictions has limited how the members serve its community, this was a way to give back to the community.

Socks Anyone?

As they continue to serve the community in the midst of the pandemic, the Gamma Chi Sigma Alumnae Chapter decided to organize a sock drive and it was a huge success. The chapter surpassed its 1,922 goal and collected 2,112 pairs of socks. The Urban League of Wichita location was the drop off site where the community could donate socks. The donations were distributed to three locations, a men’s, women’s and children’s shelter.

Sorors, Philos, Rhoers, churches, individuals and local Wichita community organizations helped Gamma Chi Sigma exceed their goal. With the need being great for socks in shelters, the chapter recommend making the sock drive an annual event to help the Wichita Community. Gamma Chi Sigma members thanks the community for helping them exceed their 1922 goal!

Kansas Beat the Virus With everything going on in the world, Gamma Chi Sigma wants to get back to a new normal. Gamma Chi Sigma Alumnae Chapter along with their Philo’s and Rhoers participated in the grant called Kansas Beat the Virus.

This allowed them to help educate the Wichita community while encouraging testing and vaccination. Two discussions were held on how they feel COVID-19 has affected the Wichita community. In addition, Gamma Chi Sigma partnered with Wichita Black Nurses Association who administered COVID-19 vaccines. The chapters’ partnership with Wichita Black Nurses Association, allowed them to distribute 100 bagged incentives for those who were getting vaccinated. The bags included. but was not limited to water, Dillon’s gift cards and snacks.

During a video presentation, Dr. Val Brown, Jr., husband of Soror LaTrisha Brown, talked about the importance of testing if one experience symptoms. Chapter members also provided vaccination literature within the community by placing door hangers on front doors of their neighbors. The grant allowed Gamma Chi Sigma the opportunity to educate the community with information to help end the pandemic.

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IOTA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER Athens, GA

The Illustrious Iota Gamma Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is traveling down the RHOad to Centennial with community service on their minds! Iota Gamma Sigma partnered with the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Xi Mu Nu Chapter to donate bookbags to the Purko Tribe located in Kenya, Africa. The bookbags were filled with school supplies, notes of encouragement and children’s books.

IOTA PHI SIGMA CHAPTER

IOTA SIGMA CHAPTER Richmond, VA

The lasting impacts of the pandemic are prevalent in the school system and impacted everyone in unimaginable ways. Iota Sigma has become innovative in methods to serve and educate. Although they adapted, in-person serving gives an indescribable feeling of joy and accomplishment. They are happy this feeling is back! Along with undergraduates from the Epsilon Zeta Chapter at Virginia Commonwealth University, the Iota Sigma Chapter kicked off the sorority year with their annual Operation BigBookBag event! Sorors collected, organized, and packed school supplies for 1,900 students attending the first-ever Richmond Virtual Academy. They assisted in ensuring every learner received school supplies and curricular materials appropriate for their grade level.

This event was extra special to The Iota Sigma Chapter because their incredible and brilliant sister, Dr. Cyndi Robinson, currently serves as the principal of Richmond Virtual Academy!

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“The “Iconic” Iota Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was charted January 2005 in Nacogdoches, Texas. It was recently reactivated in January 2021 with five members and was able to induct two women in March. During these challenging times of COVID-19, meetings were held virtually while working to reestablish a presence in the East Texas area. Members participated in Regional Conference and Special Boule during the 2021 sorority year.

The chapter hosted a Virtual Mixer for interest in May and August and look forward to hosting many more as the chapter work toward increasing membership so they can make a positive impact in their community driven by sisterhood, scholarship, and service!

Iota Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter Leadership Board consists of: Basileus: Debbie Suell Tanner Anti-Basileus: Kassondra Perry Weaver Grammateus: Angela Martin Terry Anti-Grammateus: Veronica Chimney Tamiochus: Jamyia Barrett Epistoleus: Veronica Whitaker Parliamentarian: Chelsi Ellison

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Nacogdoches, TX

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

IOTA SIGMA CHAPTER (cont’d)

In addition to this event, the Iota Sigma Chapter adopted a family for the school year. The National Programs committee was notified by a local mental health and intensive in-home care organization about a family with four school-age children in need of school supplies and clothing. Led by co-chair Sorors Alexis Fort and Christina Tillery, the National Programs committee immediately implemented a strategy to help the family. Sorors committed to purchasing an outfit, shoes and school supplies. As a result of quick action and passionate Sorors, each child started their first day of school year with new clothes and a backpack filled with school supplies.

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Bloomington-Normal, IL

Let’s R.O.C.K. (Redefining Our Chapter Kulture) with KES With a combined population of 130,000, Bloomington-Normal, IL is home to Kappa Epsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter. As the chapter members prepare to celebrate their 15th anniversary, they reflect on & celebrate an EPIC and successful sorority year. Kappa Epsilon Sigma proved that “Small but Mighty” isn’t just a cliché; it’s the way they R.O.C.K.!

KES began the year with a strategic planning meeting that determined the chapter’s focus for sorority year.

Growth, Reorganization, Engagement and National Thrust were the four key focal points laid out for the year.

With chapter and individual goals set, KES hit the ground running, ready to serve Sigma.

KES is proud to have exceeded their membership goal in a town where school and careers keep women and their families mobile. KES membership grew from seven to twenty, largest in chapter history, in less than two years! The reorganization plan included new ways to recruit and reactivate. The Kappa Epsilon Sigma Rhoer Club was reactivated, and KES has held two induction classes, yielding a quarter of their membership.

With the commitment to become thoroughly engaged with the organization on all levels, Basileus Kesha Richardson encouraged Sorors to seek opportunities to serve outside of the chapter. Kappa Epsilon Sigma has four of their own executive board members who serve their region as well.

LM Doni Walker, Central Region Anti Grammateus LM Kesha Richardson, Central Region Conference Planner Soror Jenae Davis, Central Region Recommendations Committee & Awards and Achievement Committee Soror Marissa Jones, Central Region Communications Committee COVID-19 forced the organization to pivot to a completely new way of serving the community and KES accepted the challenge of serving virtually with the focus on National programs. KES held a “Virtual Juke Joint” benefitting March of Dimes. Several other highlights of how KES R.O.C.K.ed out those goals include: Project Cradle Care: Partnered with the McLean County Health Department for a Virtual Safe Sleep Seminar. A crib and swing were raffled to a 1st time mother!

Sorors and Rhoers participated in the annual Youth Symposium Rhoers attended the Swim 1922 Clinic

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KAPPA EPSILON SIGMA CHAPTER (cont’d)

In lieu of their Annual Daddy Daughter Scholarship Dance, KES held a scholarship donation drive throughout the month of Rhovember!!

Kappa Epsilon Sigma advises the largest Undergraduate chapter in the Central Region - Gamma Rho. The GlamoRhous Gamma Rho Chapter located at Illinois State University were the recipients of six awards at the university’s Greek Life banquet, one of the awards going to Soror Shelley Reed-Brooks for Advisor of the Year.

Speaking of awards…

KES ended the year in winning fashion by earning several awards at the 81st Central Regional Conference. Kappa Epsilon Sigma was crowned Ruby Chapter of the Year and also took home 1st place for chapter Scrapbook!

Life Member of the Year went to Soror Kesha Richardson and Miss Kh’Mara Bowie earned the Rhoer of the Year Award.

LAMBDA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER Pomona, CA

Lambda Gamma Sigma (LGS), under the leadership of Basileus MaLynda F. Cooper, is on the move for Sigma shifting into a much-anticipated Centennial year. Organization and Local Stay at Home orders did not stop LGS from Leading, Growing and Serving the Pomona Valley Community while new ways to serve, connect and celebrate were embraced. LGS worked with Pomona African American Advisory Alliance to present Voter Registration Townhall Meetings, participated in the many virtual National Essential Programs, presented social media campaigns for Human Trafficking, and celebrated their 11th Chapter Anniversary virtually.

Significant attention was also focused on Membership - Reclamation, Retention and Recruitment. Under the direction of 1st Anti-Basileus Patrice King, LGS exceeded membership goals for the 3R’s and Lambda Gamma Sigma had the pleasure of inducting seven amazing women which accelerated the journey towards the RHOad to Pearl Status with 54 Sorors! Next stop – Diamond Status!

LGS kicked it up a notch when it came to Affiliates. Five courageous women, under the guidance of new Philo Advisor Phelisha Licerio, were welcomed to the Philo sisterhood marking the first Philo chapter chartered in the Pomona Valley. LGS Rhoers and Rhosebuds continued growth and gained four new members each.

During the 69th Western Region Conference, Lambda Gamma Sigma was recognized with Rhoer Affiliate Individual Award, Rhoer Advisor of the Year, and Outstanding Chapter Performance.

Centennial year promises to be impactful, memorable and transformative. Lambda Gamma Sigma is ready to Lead, Grow and Serve in excellence.

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Kappa Epsilon Sigma has made a huge impact in the Bloomington-Normal community and contributed so much to our illustrious sisterhood. Don’t let the chapter size fool you, when it comes to serving Sigma they are mighty!

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LAMBDA IOTA SIGMA CHAPTER Goodlettsville, TN

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With a new commitment for community service, Lambda Iota Sigma began the 2021-2022 sorority year partnering with members of the Nashville National Pan Hellenic Council to provide school supplies to the Nashville International Center for Empowerment. This humanitarian effort was in preparation for welcoming 415 Afghans anticipating resettling in the city. Lambda Iota Sigma volunteered with other Greeks to receive drive through donations. Additionally, they contributed school supplies for middle school students, as part of the Operation BigBookBag initiative. Understanding the importance of voting, the Chapter partnered with the Nashville NPHC volunteering at various locations across the city to encourage people to register to vote and assist registered voters with updating their personal information during the National Voter Registration Day. Responding to the National St. Jude Run/Walk campaign, the Chapter focused on sponsoring teams to help meet the $1,922 goal. Several Sorors participated in the city-wide walk/ run, others created personal fundraising pages via social media to help meet the established goal. For Lambda Iota Sigma, the journey never ends for their motivation is strengthened by serving others.

LAMBDA RHO SIGMA CHAPTER Santa Monica, CA

As a part of the Operation BigBookBag initiative, Lambda Rho Sigma Alumnae Chapter partnered with Harbor Community Health Center to distribute backpacks and much needed school supplies to families in surrounding communities. LRS was very pleased with the turnout of the event. Observing how eager the young scholars were to start the new school year was nothing short of amazing. According to HCHC, a total of 600 backpacks were distributed and roughly 9001000 people were in attendance. What a great way to kick off the 2021-2022 Centennial Year!

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LAMBDA UPSILON SIGMA CHAPTER Plano, TX

Lambda Upsilon Sigma, a Sesquicentennial Chapter with more than 160 members, continued giving by showing appreciation to chapter educators. During the chapter retreat and kick-off meeting, two educators whose continued dedication to the Founders and principle of scholarship, were shown appreciation in honor of Operation BigBookBag. Soror Brittney Smith, an elementary school educator, was awarded backpacks filled with supplies for her classroom. Soror Angela Hawkins, a secondary educator, received a $75 gift card to purchase supplies for her education initiative. The final activity will be held in the spring. Lambda Upsilon Sigma is committed to carrying the torch for educators and supporting scholarship initiatives for our most diverse and underserved communities.

MU CHI SIGMA CHAPTER Stockton, CA

After a year of following COVID-19 guidelines while working, attending school and conducting meetings virtually, the ladies of Mu Chi Sigma Alumnae Chapter decided to start the 2021-2022 sorority year off in person with an Operation BigBookBag BBQ. Supported by chapter members and NPHC family, the chapter collected school supplies and backpacks to support many students with the greatest need in the service area of Stockton, CA. While being safe and managing chapter functions virtually was definitely needed during the last year, it was nice to see people in person. The outpouring of support received for the OBBB initiative was amazing. Never let the size of your chapter dictate what you are capable of doing. Mu Chi Sigma may be small chapter, but they are making a BIG impact!

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The Lambda Upsilon Sigma Chapter of the Super Southwestern Region, under the leadership of Basileus Paula Forest and Anti-Basileus Sharlandria Shaw, has worked tirelessly with Community Service Committee members and chairpersons to promote, encourage, and support educators and scholars in the community.

To kick off the Operation BigBookBag four-part series, they supported the Dallas Suburbia chapter of the National PanHellenic Council’s Back to School Drive by donating folders and pencil boxes. Part two was their participation in the Dorm Room Drive to aid young men in their dorm room living, sponsored by Sigma’s own Dr. Keisha N. White. For this drive, linen, blankets, and towels were donated.

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

MU KAPPA SIGMA CHAPTER Waukegan, IL

The Mu Kappa Sigma Alumnae Chapter is celebrating its five-year anniversary. The chapter was chartered on September 30, 2016 in Waukegan, Illinois. Through the vision of the 11 notable sorors, Roberta Jeter, Robyn Simmons, Sheresa Matthews, Doris Hardy, Pearl Jackson-Lawson, Amber-Gloria Janae Norwood, Taterial McClendon, Lisa Freelon-Gilbert, Julie Thorn, LaTasha Mitchell, Kimberly Hardy-Green, Mu Kappa Sigma Alumnae Chapter was born.

They were committed to being a positive force in their community by uplifting and empowering through areas of service, education and leadership. Mu Kappa Sigma members strive to encourage girls and lead with sisterhood. Let’s give members of this “Mu” Chapter their props for sustainment. Happy Five-Year Charterversary, Mu Kappa Sigma!

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Baton Rouge, LA

The Magnificent Mu Sigma Chapter had an impactful summer promoting safety, diversity and unity. In July, members participated in the second in person/virtual traffic safety forum. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC), UMOJA, Inc. and the Southwestern Region partnered for the “Working Together to Achieve Success in Traffic Safety” initiative. Syntaktes Miranda Moore was a panelist sharing examples of the sorority’s participation in highway safety over the past 20 years. Other speakers included UMOJA Executive Director Luther Perry, the Honorable Sharon Weston-Broom, Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Parish, and Grambling City Police Chief Tommy Clark, president of the LA Police Chief Association. Since 2001, Mu Sigma has partnered with Buckle Up America, LHSC and alumnae chapters from the New Orleans area to educate residents on the dangers of impaired driving via the annual Bayou Classic and other local safety events.

In August, Mu Sigma Sorors joined Divine Nine organizations at a welcome reception for the new Louisiana State University President and Chancellor, Dr. William F. Tate IV. In a historic appointment, Tate is the first black president of LSU and the first black president of a Southeastern Conference school. He has extensive qualifications for the role, with an extensive background as an educator and a list of academic accomplishments that include earning a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from the University of Maryland. Dr. Tate is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Members of Mu Sigma were excited and honored to represent Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. on this memorable and historic occasion.

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MU TAU SIGMA CHAPTER Killeen, TX

This year Mu Tau Sigma Alumnae Chapter in Killeen, TX set a goal on how to best support the Operation BigBookBag Campaign. Three local entities were identified as targets for 75 book bag giveaways. The chapter conducted a donation drive for backpacks and school supplies. The donations received were divided amongst the three agencies. First, the local chapter of the NAACP received 25 book bags that were distributed at its annual Back to School Backpack Giveaway event. Chapter members along with members of other D9 organizations helped to fill donated bookbags with school supplies and organize by grade levels.

Mu Tau Sigma Chapter members were also present the day of the event to help distribute the bookbags to families with children of all ages. In July and August, chapter members made in-person donations to the other identified agencies within the community. The chapter donated 25 backpacks to a local youth emergency shelter and 25 backpacks to an emergency homeless shelter. This past year has been a challenge for the entire world; however, parents, teachers, and students have endured an incredible amount of added stress due to the modified school year or lack of a school year in some places, among other stressors. In light of the country continuing to be in the middle of a historic pandemic, Mu Tau Sigma Chapter continues to strive to operate in excellence while serving the community with “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”

NU BETA SIGMA CHAPTER Queens, NY

On July 22, 2021, Sorors conducted mock interviews with women in the WIN program who were seeking employment. With interview prep, they empowered the women by assisting them in finding employment opportunities. Thus, creating the life they want to live. Sorors received positive feedback that women were prepared for interviews and valued time with the members of the chapter.

On August 27, 2021, the Nu Beta Sigma chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. donated 100 bookbags and school supplies to the students who are homeless or in foster care at SCO Family of Services in Jamaica, NY. Sorors accepted donations for four weeks, packed bags with school supplies, and distributed items to students and their parents. Students also received a pair of Bombas socks. The chapter donations calculated to over $6,700. Since chartering in 2020, Nu Beta Sigma Chapter has partnered up with SCO for Operation BigBookBag and a holiday toy drive.

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THETA ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER

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Hartford, CT

On Thursday, July 22, 2021, the Greater Hartford National Pan-Hellenic Council was chartered. Greetings for this auspicious occasion were brought by the National President of the NPHC Council and Past Notable Regional Syntaktes, Soror Vanetta Cheeks-Reeder. Also, in attendance as part of the dignitaries was the Notable Centennial Northeastern Region Syntaktes, Soror Thomasina Gore Esq., chapter Soror and Notable Centennial Northeastern Region Epistoleus, Soror Terrika Foster-Brasby. In addition to becoming an NPHC-GH Charter member, Theta Alpha Sigma chapter Centennial Basileus, Life Member Natasha Holmes, was sworn in as the Financial Secretary of the Executive Board along with Ashanti Martin of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as President, Alisa Collins of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. as 1st Vice-President, Stephen Wilson of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. as 2nd Vice-President, Trevor Ford of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (not pictured) as Treasurer, Anthony Reid of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. as Recording Secretary, Crystal Hamer of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. as Corresponding Secretary, Jamal Chambers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. as Parliamentarian, and Charon Smalls of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as Chaplain.

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ZETA DELTA SIGMA CHAPTER Arlington, TX

Zeta Delta Sigma would like to extend a warm “Welcome Home” to our recent reactivating members!

East Chicago, IN

Sorors of Zeta Gamma Sigma Chapter are on fire to serve the East Chicago community. A pandemic was no match for this chapter on a mission last year, as the membership committee led by Soror Anyahlyn Dillon successfully doubled the chapter’s membership, boosting the chapter to Ruby status. They welcomed reactivated Sorors and ushered in the largest ZGS T.O.R.C.H. class of six ladies into the sisterhood: Sorors Devon Asberry, Sharonne Brown, Emily Coates, Cherese Gregory, Dominique Israel, and Ayesha Patterson. ZGS also celebrated two Sorors who dedicated themselves as Life Members, Sorors Kimberly Balkcom and TaShena Melton.

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ZETA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER

ALUMNAE ON THE MOVE | FALL/WINTER 2021

ZETA GAMMA SIGMA CHAPTER (cont’d)

The chapter made great strides in service to the community. Grace Beyond Borders, an organization that supports homeless people, was gifted $700 worth of personal care items, and a mention of the donation was featured in the local newspaper. ZGS contributed $1,700 to the Special Boule community service project, enough to purchase personal care kits for 52 foster children, and donated $600 to Carmelite Home, an organization that cares for children in crisis when their home suffered fire damage. In addition to caring for others, members cared for their own chapter sorors and families who struggled due to COVID-19, raising over $500 to provide meals and funding for medication. Under the leadership of Basileus Quinnesia Mayfield Bell, ZGS weathered the storm and is positioned to succeed in preparation for the chapter’s 40th chartering celebration and Sigma’s highly anticipated Centennial Celebration in 2022.

ZETA OMEGA SIGMA CHAPTER Randallstown, MD

As the 2021-2022 sorority year got underway, the Zeta Omega Sigma Alumnae Chapter, under the direction of Basileus Clarrissa Taylor-Jackson, hit the ground running for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This year the soon-to-be Pearl Chapter located in Baltimore County set out to answer the charge from International Grand Basileus Rasheeda S. Liberty to help the sorority raise $1 million for the national partner. Led by team captain Soror Deborah Levi, with her incredible enthusiasm and fundraising tactics, the chapter was on the move and raised well over $10,000 for St. Jude in the Metropolitan Baltimore area.

With the final numbers tallied, Zeta Omega Sigma Chapter earned the top fundraising spot within D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) among Area 1 teams of the Northeastern Region. For the second time, Zeta Omega Sigma was among the top fundraising teams for the St. Jude partnership in the sorority.

Each year, the chapter not only aims to raise money and walk/run for this worthy cause, but to continue to help the hospital work to end childhood cancer.

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BETA KAPPA TEXAS COLLEGE BETA KAPPA CELEBRATES SPRING 2021 The “Bodacious” Beta Kappa Chapter welcomed four new sorors into the chapter!

The chapter was chartered on November 13, 1970 at Texas College (TC) in Tyler by Sorors Hattie Carter, Winifred Collins, May Lee Benton, and Willie Mae McGruder. Beta Kappa was reactivated in 2019 by seven sorors: Terah Akande, Martika Coffer, Leslie Garcia, Chasmyn Green, Myah Hollins, Bennita Lott, and Jasmine Weatherall. The ladies continued to preserve the legacy in spring 2021 by welcoming Sorors La’Javia Collins, Alexia Nance, Shadaisha Reason, and Kiahna Williams to the chapter.

Members of Beta Kappa have made their presence known by promoting the sorority at events with the TC National Pan-Hellenic Council, volunteering at a local church as well as Wiley College in Marshall for Operation BigBookBag, pRHOtect Yourself event with the local police department, and a virtual mental health awareness event with their sponsoring chapter, the “Astonishing” Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter, Longview.

UNDERGRADUATE PULSE | FALL/WINTER 2021

KAPPA UPSILON JARVIS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

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KAPPA UPSILON IS BACK! It’s an exciting time to celebrate! After 15 years, the “Classy” Kappa Upsilon Chapter reactivated on March 28,2021! The Kappa Upsilon Chapter was reactivated by Soror Alyssa JacksonRaspberry led the effort. Kappa Upsilon was chartered at Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Texas, on November 17, 1972 by Sorors Janice Hope, Bobby Horn, Delores Menefee, Almeta Horn, Alberta Mabry, and Barbara Mitchell.

Kappa Upsilon is sponsored by the “Astonishing” Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter of Longview.

LAMBDA DELTA THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA MEET UGA’S HOMECOMING QUEEN 2020 Soror Jasmine Gresham, a fourth year Health and Physical Education major in the Department of Kinesiology, is the University of Georgia’s (UGA) 2020 Homecoming Queen. Gresham is a spring 2021 initiate of Lambda Delta Chapter, and currently serves as the epistoleus. In addition to her sorority duties, she is a resident assistant, was recently elected as the vice president of the Student Government Association by the student body, and serves as a student ambassador for the Mary Frances Early College of Education.

She reflected, “One UGA experience I will always remember is when I won Homecoming Queen. I felt so humbled, privileged, grateful, and loved.

Additionally, as a Black woman, I felt incredibly honored to win the first year after our college was named for Mary Frances Early, the first Black graduate of UGA. I hope that one day I can tell her that I would not have been able to get this honor without her sacrifices.”

Gresham has been a fantastic addition to the chapter and is expected to graduate in May of 2022.

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LAMBDA NU STEPHEN F. AUSTIN UNIVERSITY

What better way to celebrate Lambda Nu than to reactivate the chapter! After 17 years, it was reactivated on March 28, 2021, by Sorors Desiree’ Kuykendall, Nykeria O’Guin, and Raven Rayson! Since its reactivation, Lambda Nu has made its presence well known to the campus by promoting sorority at events with the SFA National Pan-Hellenic Council, Poodle Clothing Drive for Hurricane Ida victims, assisting with the mobile book library at a local elementary school, SFA Black Student Convocation, and SFA Involvement Fair. Cheers to many more years!

NU NU BENNETT COLLEGE FOR WOMEN THE RENEWAL OF THE RHOSES On March 7, 2021, the Nu Nu Chapter celebrated the reactivation of its charter on the campus of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, North Carolina. The chapter was chartered on September 25, 1993 by members Serena Cole, Deidre B. Cooper, Dana Whaley, Brooke Walker, and Dionne Walker. The Nu Nu Chapter is sponsored by the Delta Sigma Sigma Alumnae Chapter, under the direction of Basileus/Area III Coordinator, Soror Tammie Pinchback, and Anti-Basileus/Advisor to the Nu Nu Chapter, Soror Sonja Eley-Ghee.

Members of the chapter have been very instrumental in promoting community service projects for Bennett College students, and community outreach events to educate the local community. Some of their events include: Virtual Poodle Storytime, Dancing with the Poodles, Care Packages for the Interactive Resource Center, Your Voting Rights Matter, The Panel, Sigma Toy Drive, contributing to the Special Boule Project, Youth Symposium, and Operation BigBookBag.

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LAMBDA NU REACTIVATES AND CELEBRATES 30 YEARS Members of the “Luxuriant” Lambda Nu Chapter celebrated the anniversary of their chapter, chartered in 1991. Thirty years ago, on March 9, 1991, Lambda Nu Chapter was chartered on the campus of Stephen F. Austin University (SFA) by six sorors: Tavier Galloway (Parks), Evijuana Woodrow (Bynum); Betrice Powers (Thompson), Veronica Hill (Chimney); Marlow Upshaw (Adjankara), and Sonja Estes (Busha). Lambda Nu is sponsored by the “Astonishing” Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter of Longview, Texas.

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TAU UPSILON FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY RHOAD CLEAN-UP WITH TAU UPSILON The ladies of the Truly Undeniable Tau Upsilon Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated hosted their first service event and road cleanup of the semester on September 12, 2021. This clean-up took place on Tau Upsilon’s Adopt- A-Road Street, where trash is thrown daily. Since being back in person, Tau Upsilon’s first event had a great turn out. Greek organizations such as Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, and Sigma Iota Alpha, Incorporated, along with students who donated service hours came out to support the lovely Poodles with cleaning roads. With all hands-on deck, this community service event was actively engaging, and allowed Tau Upsilon to meet new faces and grow with the Florida Gulf Coast University community.

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For more updates on service and events involving the Truly Undeniable Tau Upsilon Chapter, follow the members on Instagram, @fgcupoodles

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7 LUMINARIES IN SPORTS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Luminaries In

SPORTS

By Adrienne Redd Gadling & Dr. Morlena T. Robinson

Dr. Renae Myles Payne

r. Myles Payne has worked with the University of Miami since October of 2019. She was hired as the senior associate athletic director for administration and designated the chief diversity officer.

She oversees the departmental policies and procedures, managing the strategic plan, an $8.7 million travel budget, and supervises swimming, diving, golf, and cheer & dance for the Hurricanes.

These are just a few her robust responsibilities as an athletic administrator. Her career spans 24 years with stops at the University of Connecticut, the University of Pittsburgh, San Jose State University, Delaware State University, Southwest Baptist University, Alabama A&M University, and Winthrop University. She is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi where she participated in track & field. She received her master’s degree from Northwestern State University Louisiana, and her doctoral degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She is the vice president of MOAA (Minority Opportunities Athletic Association) and has served on several university, conference, and NCAA committees. In 2019, Renae was honored by Women Leaders in College Sports as the Administrator of the Year in Division I. She became a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated on March 25, 1995 at the University of Southern Mississippi, Eta Tau Chapter.

Dr. Renae’s internet presence: Twitter @DrNaeNae Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/renae-mylespayne-ed-d-23900219 University Website https://miamihurricanes.com

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Sigma women are sensationally dynamic and diverse! They represent from a bevy of career fields, while exhibiting excellence throughout the world. The best, the brightest, the most talented, and the fastest women are also members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated! This issue features Seven Sigmas who are trail blazers in the sports industry, and redefining the culture. They are coaches, and world class athletes who have defied the notion of what was deemed physically impossible. Reading and learning about these powerful seven is inspiring! Their quest in reshaping history and paving the way for athletes and women everywhere is truly remarkable.

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Danielle Lynch

thletic leadership and diversity strategist, Soror Danielle Lynch, is enthusiastic about making diversity accessible for leaders and organizations. She is a lifelong learner, an educator, and truly a “coach of coaches” with twenty years of collegiate experience. Soror Lynch focuses on extracting the lived experiences of individuals to help guide communities in learning the mechanisms of equity and justice and applying them to achieve tangible results.

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She is an experienced collegiate administrator, leader, and has ample involvement as a collegiate coach. This is her first year as the Associate Athletic Director at Susquehanna University. As the director of compliance and game day management, Soror Lynch oversees five sports and acts as the NCAA Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Designee, Title IX Resource, and Student Athlete Welfare Coordinator.

Prior to working at Susquehanna University, Soror Lynch was the first head coach in program history at Penn State Harrisburg coaching men and women indoor and outdoor track & field and cross-country teams for eight years. As the 2019 Capital Athletic Conference (CAC) Women’s Indoor Coach of the Year, Soror Lynch helped thrower Cameron Yon reach the pinnacle of college athletics when he won the NCAA Division III Outdoor National Championship in the Discus Throw. Yon is the first student-athlete in school history to win a national title, while Soror Lynch is the first coach at Penn State Harrisburg to achieve the feat.

In addition to her coaching role, Soror Lynch also served as Penn State Harrisburg’s Senior Woman Administrator, Student-Athlete Welfare Coordinator, Title IX designee, Athletics Diversity & Inclusion designee and sits on the following university committees: Senior Athletic Leadership Committee, Development Committee for Athletics, SAF (Student Activity Fee), Chair of the Athletic Title IX Committee, and the WEcAREFoodPantry. Furthermore, she was Chair of the Northeastern Athletic Conference (NEAC) Senior Woman Administrators and Vice-Chair of the NEAC Cross Country Coaches.

At Penn State Harrisburg, Soror Lynch was the facilitator for the Multicultural Academic Excellence Program (MAEP) and a coordinator for the Multicultural Graduation Celebration. She brought thought leaders in the areas of social justice, diversity, gender, inclusion, antiracism, power, and privilege to provide training and continuing education. Soror Lynch is an NCAA and GreenDot bystander intervention facilitator and an ONETEAM LGBTQ facilitator.

A prolific athlete, in 2018 she won the 200m at the Colgate Women’s Games for the thirty plus division and in 2020 was the Winner of the Lion Leadership Award through the Penn State Diversity Educational Equity Committee. Soror Danielle Lynch is a charter member of the Alliance for Women’s Coaches, an NCAA Women’s Coaching Academy Graduate, a Women Leaders in College Sports Member, and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Additionally, she is a member of the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA), a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Professionals of Central Pennsylvania, as well as a member of the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE). Soror Lynch is also an active charter member of the Greater Harrisburg Chapter of The National Council of Negro Women.

After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Anthropology from Rutgers in 2003, where she was a national qualifier in the Women’s 400IH, Soror Lynch earned her Master of Science in Education from Bucknell in 2010 and is a licensed teacher. She is currently a Doctoral Candidate in the Lifelong Learning in Adult Education program at Penn State University with a research focus on the life experiences of Black male professional athletes during the current social justice movements. Soror Lynch, who has a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, was featured in CNN’s “Go There” where she and her husband addressed the challenges of raising Black children in today’s America. She currently resides in Harrisburg, PA with her husband, Tony, her daughter, Olivia, and son, Anthony.

7 LUMINARIES IN SPORTS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Yolett McPhee-McCuin n the span of just three years, head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, commonly known as Coach Yo, has turned The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) into an exciting team on the rise. The energy around the city of Oxford, where the school is located, is palpable, due in part to Coach Yo’s positive attitude and generous spirit with fans and supporters.

The swift turnaround is even more impressive when taking stock of where the Rebels were when she took over. Coach Yo was named the Rebels’ ninth head coach on April 4, 2018, the first black female head coach in Ole Miss women’s basketball history.

Soror McPhee-McCuin spent the previous five seasons transforming the Jacksonville University Dolphins into a perennial power in the Atlantic Sun Conference. During her tenure as head coach, Soror McPhee-McCuin led the Dolphins to a 94-63 record (50-24 in ASUN play). Prior to her time at Jacksonville, Soror McPhee-McCuin was an assistant at Clemson University from 2011-13, where she was recognized as one of the top assistants in the nation by National Women’s Basketball Insider, and solidified her reputation as one of the best recruiters in the country, spearheading the No. 16 class in the nation in her final year at Clemson, which included five McDonalds All-America nominees.

Before her stint at Clemson, Soror McPhee-McCuin was on staff at Pittsburgh for two seasons in 2009 and 2010.

Her coaching career also includes stops at Portland, Frank Phillips College and Arkansas-Pine Bluff, where she earned her master’s degree in physical education with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Soror McPhee-McCuin received her bachelor’s in business management and administration from the University of Rhode Island (URI) in 2004, playing in 56 games over her junior and senior years and helping URI advance to the 2003 A-10 title game.

In addition to her collegiate coaching duties, Soror McPhee-McCuin has served as the head coach for Bahamian national team since 2013. Her crowning achievement was the first Caribbean Basketball Confederation title for Bahamas in 10 years after a win over Jamaica to qualify for the 2016 CentroBasket Championship, and McPheeMcCuin became the first female coach to win a CBC title.

In the span of just three years, head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, commonly known as Coach Yo, has turned The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) into an exciting team on the rise. The energy around the city of Oxford, where the school is located, is palpable, due in part to Coach Yo’s positive attitude and generous spirit with fans and supporters. The swift turnaround is even more impressive when taking stock of where the Rebels were when she took over. Coach Yo was named the Rebels’ ninth head coach on April 4, 2018, the first black female head coach in Ole Miss women’s basketball history.

Soror McPhee-McCuin was the first Bahamian woman to sign a Division I letter of intent to play basketball, becoming a trailblazer in the process for other aspiring athletes from her home country. She is the first Bahamian woman to coach at a Division I program and was the first black female head coach at Jacksonville University.

Soror McPhee-McCuin is also part of two Halls of Fame across both her playing and coaching career. In 2016, she was inducted into the Bahamian Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2013, she was inducted into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame and was one of 10 recipients of the Pathfinder Award for their distinguished achievement outside of New England.

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“I am extremely humbled and grateful for the opportunity to be the women’s basketball coach at the University of Mississippi,” Soror McPhee-McCuin said. “Once I stepped on campus, there was no doubt in my mind that Ole Miss had the potential to be a force to reckoned with -- not only in the SEC, but nationally as well.”

7 LUMINARIES IN SPORTS | FALL/WINTER 2021

An active member of the coaching community, Soror McPhee-McCuin is a member of the “So You Want to be a Coach” program through the WBCA, and she holds membership in the Women of Color Association. In 2013, McPhee-McCuin joined the Center of Coaching Excellence’s yearly class.

Throughout her coaching career, McPhee-McCuin has had a large impact in every community in which she has coached. She developed a foundation in the Bahamas called Back2Basics, which helps the development of children through education and athletics. Coach Yo also puts an emphasis on teaching, developing and inspiring through character-building and leadership development, as best evidenced by her trademark motto #NoCeilings, which serves as a rallying cry both within the program and to those familiar with her in the basketball community.

Coach Yolett and her husband Kelly McCuin, have two daughters: Yasmine and Yuri.

Ciara L. Taylor

iara L. Taylor is in her 12th year as an athletic trainer at Oak Mountain High School (OMHS) located in Birmingham, Alabama.

She provides healthcare via her employer ATI Physical Therapy. Prior to OMHS, Ciara was the assistant athletic trainer at Alabama State University.

Ciara is currently the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Secondary School Athletic Trainers’ Committee (SSATC) District IX representative and Southeast Athletic Trainers Association SSATC Chair. She is also the Vice Chairman of the Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers. Ciara is a proud member of Chi Sigma Alumnae chapter where she presently serves as Social Chair.

Ciara is an alumna of Southern Illinois UniversityCarbondale where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training in 2005. Upon graduation, Ciara served as a graduate assistant with the Health and Human Performance Department at Northwestern State University located in Natchitoches, Louisiana. She earned her Master of Science degree in Sport Administration in 2007. Ciara is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Sports Management with an emphasis in Sports Medicine at the United States Sports Academy. ​ hroughout her athletic training career, Ciara has T earned the following honors: Outstanding Student in Sport Administration, Alabama Athletic Trainers Association (ALATA) High School Athletic Training Award, Top 5 finalist for Training and Conditioning Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award, and the NATA Foundation Jerry Rhea Scholarship. Ciara is married to Tyrell Taylor and they have a six-year-old daughter named Chloe.

7 LUMINARIES IN SPORTS | FALL/WINTER 2021

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oror Regina Wright, a two-time graduate of Troy University, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training and a Master of Science degree in Kinesiology with a coaching concentration. This young, yet experienced Athletic Trainer has a passion for sports, healthcare, and the betterment of youth via athletics and wellness. She has served as a certified and licensed Athletic Trainer for more than four years and currently provides services in two states.

Regina Wright

Soror Wright diligently assists with Signing Day events, game day management between athletes and coaches, as well as providing treatment to nonstudent athletes, teachers, and band members. As a skilled healthcare professional and provider, she establishes a positive rapport to gain the trust of student athletes and parents, thus, making it easier for them to participate in prescribed treatment plans and injury management.

A Spring 2014 initiate of the Omicron Pi “Brickhouse” Chapter in Troy, Alabama, where she currently resides, Soror Wright actively serves on the Alabama Athletic Trainers Equality and Diversity Council. She is pursuing another Master of Science degree in Sport Management with the goal of becoming an Athletic Director. During her spare time, she competes in powerlifting meets, serves in her community, and spends time with family, friends, and her Frenchie puppy, Diesel.

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Temeka Samuels oror Temeka Samuels was named Associate Athletic Director/Senior Women Administrator at Alcorn State University in July 2021. She was wellequipped with career experience in collegiate athletics and professional organizations.

Before her appointment at Alcorn State, Soror Samuels oversaw internal and business operations for athletics at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Because of her wealth of experience, Soror Samuels provided the financial infrastructure that led to the creation of the UAPB Sports Radio Network, which was a television show with an 18-state broadcast. In addition, under Soror Samuels leadership, UAPB saw the installation of digital technology that led to the automated streaming of various men and women’s team games.

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She is also well versed in sport injuries, game day chaos, and the management and prevention of injuries in athletes, in their respective sports. Additionally, she is personally responsible for the health and athletic longevity of over five hundred high school student athletes. Equipped with five years of experience in athletics at the secondary level, Soror Wright is also accountable for keeping student athletes on their playing fields at more than four different schools, across two states. Her efforts have resulted in student athletes signing to play athletics at the collegiate level, and as of last year, a “triple crown” three-time state champion in all varsity boys sports, a ten-time cheer state champion, and a first-time cheer national champion.

7 LUMINARIES IN SPORTS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Before joining UAPB, Soror served as the Club Director at the Houston Boys and Girls Clubs, overseeing youth programs.

Soror Samuels also functioned as a ticket operations manager for Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, overseeing operations for the Colorado Rapids of the MLS, and the Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League (NLL). Prior to working with KSE, Soror Samuels worked in ticket operations with the Houston Rockets.

In 2015, Soror Samuels was selected to attend the Learfield Sports Minority Academy, making her one of 12 individuals to attend the academy. Held in partnership with the Minority Opportunity Athletic Association (MOAA), the Learfield Sports Minority Academy is designed to promote minority growth and advancement in the collegiate multimedia and sponsorship sector.

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A native of Saginaw, Michigan, Soror Samuels, holds a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine-exercise science from Eastern Michigan University (2003) and a bachelor’s in athletic training from Saginaw Valley State (2005).

She earned her master’s in sports administration from Central Michigan University in 2007.

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oror Marie Richardson was recognized by the National Black Marathoners Association as a Seven Continents Half Marathon Finisher in 2017 (blackmarathoners.org). The inspiration to achieve this transpired when she participated in the International Summit in Bermuda. From there, she completed half marathons (13.1 miles) at Easter Island in South America where she discovered the Moai Statues.

She has also ventured through New Zealand, Iceland, and Japan. Her most memorable half marathon was in Tanzania where she felt her ancestral roots. She was also captivated by the pristine surroundings as her race started at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Her seventh half marathon was in Antarctica, where she endured weather at 15 degrees and had to walk in snow, mud, ice, and gravel. Soror Richardson has completed half marathons (and one full marathon) in all 50 states.

In 2021, she finished 14 races with Indiana being her 50th state. She currently holds the record of being the third woman of color to complete half marathons in all seven continents and the 11th woman of color to complete half marathons in all 50 states. Within the Divine 9, she is one of two women to have both of these accomplishments.

Soror Richardson is an avid scuba diver and has incorporated her passion of scuba diving in her visit to six continents. She has served as a librarian for over 20 years, and she enjoys the biographies of African American women. She was inducted into the Alpha Upsilon Chapter at Fisk University in 1977.

Marie Richardson

Beta Omicron Sigma Philo Affiliate Charlotte, NC The BOS Chapter proudly submits this reflection by Philo Kim Guy: “What Being A Philo Means To Me” I have been a Philo since 2003. It has been a pleasure to serve alongside this great Sorority and the dynamic women of the Northeastern Region, the Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter of Charlotte North Carolina. The ladies of this chapter are quite an inspiration. They are entrepreneurs, motivators, educators, and strong role models. You can see their strength and determination in everything they do, and as Philos, I believe, we strive to embody these same characteristics. Not that Philos aren’t also dynamic, but as “friends” of the Sorority, the Philos help to build up the lives of those we touch. Whether it be through community outreach, the mentoring of young women, providing scholarship opportunities, or donating our time and talents, we all have so much to offer. Together, so much more can be accomplished for the good of mankind, rather than trying to go it alone.

Philos have the opportunity to travel, receive training, and bond with sisters across the regions and nationally. We are friends with each other, and in keeping the lines of communication open, we produce “good fruit” and provide service-oriented leadership!

The impact of the Philo Affiliate on my life cannot be understated. “Never look down on a person, unless you are uplifting them.” This is what we should strive to accomplish daily. The Philo Affiliate provides me with the satisfaction of knowing that it is not an impossible dream, but a reality in the making. Let’s enjoy the ride!

In Friendship, Philo Kim Guy Northeastern Region Beta Omicron Sigma Charlotte, North Carolina

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AFFILIATE NEWS

AFFILIATE NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

AFFILIATE NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Gamma Tau Sigma Philo Affiliate Long Beach, CA In 2005, after many years of having an inactive Philo Affiliate, Soror Joysteen Toliver was appointed Philo Advisor and was granted the opportunity to reactivate the GTS Philos. Five ladies joined and the group eventually grew to 12 members. In 2008, Philo Humphrey won the Western Region Lady Philo Pageant and later competed in the National Lady Philo Pageant, taking home 1st place.

The GTS Philos collaborated with the alumnae chapter on every national project with monetary support and/or attendance. Their community service projects included a Salvation Army Clothing and Toiletry Bag Drive, New Underwear Drive, and the New Beginnings Women/Children’s Shelter Bedding Giveaway, to name a few.

The affiliate remained active until 2016 and was revived once again by Soror Toliver in 2019. Three ladies were inducted: Philo Kim Anderson, Philo Micshall Jones, and Philo April Moore. In 2020, Dr. Monica Brown, Western Region Philo Coordinator, was appointed GTS Philo Advisor. Two Philos were inducted in Fall 2020, Philo Alea Pettigrew and Philo Winnie Ferguson. In Spring 2021, four additional Philos were inducted, Philo Susan Preuitt, Philo Teliscia Robinson, Philo Lacresia Holdman, and Philo Adrianne Wilson.

The GTS Philo Affiliate was awarded the 2021 Philo Affiliate of the Year at the 69th Western Regional Conference. In July 2021, Soror Georgette Glass was appointed GTS Philo Advisor and the affiliate welcomed three Philo transfers to the GTS Family: Philo Tenisha Laux, Philo Akira Thurman, and Philo Dorothy Cunningham.

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The GTS Philos are kicking off the 2021-22 year strong with 11 members and have already raised money for St. Jude and participated in an Essential Program by donating 600 boxes of crayons for Operation Big Bookbag in September.

GTS is so proud to celebrate the amazing things that this affiliate will accomplish through Centennial and beyond.

Lambda Gamma Sigma Philo Affiliate Pomona, CA On March 20, 2021, the LGS Philo Affiliate was chartered by five phenomenal women: Philo Linda Jones (President), Philo Angela Brown (Vice President), Philo Sheri’aka Kaigler (Recording Secretary), Philo Wanda Richardson (Treasurer), and Philo Marleena Sims-Clark (Financial Secretary).

Since their chartering, the LGS Philos have been steadfast in forming and developing sisterly bonds despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic. They supported the March of Dimes program, participated in the virtual Western Region Philo Conference, and attended Saturday Strategy sessions where they received further enrichment and instruction on how to grow and manage a successful Affiliate.

For the remainder of 2021, the GTS Philos plan to host fundraising activities and membership recruitment, as they continue supporting the alumnae chapter in community service.

AFFILIATE NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Gamma Phi Sigma Rhoer Club Affiliate Houston, TX The GPS Rhoer Club proudly promotes this moment in the spotlight for Rhoer Kori Weaver! She is a young lady with multiple achievements and talents of which are worthy of praise! On November 28, 2020, Rhoer Kori transitioned from Rosebud to Rhoer. Just days later, she proved that she has excellent fundraising ability by raising over $400 in the GPS Rhoer Club’s Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser! However, her greatest achievements by far have been in academics! In May 2021, Rhoer Kori was accepted into the Fort Settlement Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society. The criteria for the NJHS include scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. She further demonstrated her academic excellence by earning the award for highest GPA in the Gamma Phi Sigma Rhoer Club at the End of Year Awards Ceremony! Way to go, Rhoer Kori!

Rhoer Kendall Williams recently won her bid to become Junior High School Student Government Association President! She had already shown her leadership skills as a Rhoer in her role as Chaplain, an office she now holds for the 2nd year in a row! A straight A student, Rhoer Kendall plays piano, sings with the school choir and is a PE Pal where she supports the physical education class for special needs students! She recently auditioned and was cast as a choir extra in in an upcoming film, Recession Proof. Rhoer Kendall was recently selected to participate in the LeadHERship academy at Prairie View A&M University, a program designed to identify future female leaders to expose them to HBCUs and equip them with the leadership skills they will need for their future endeavors. Congratulations Rhoer Kendall!

Other Rhoers in the GPS Rhoer Club spotlight this month are just as impressive!

The current reigning Rhoer of the Year, 9th grade Kelsey Stephens, another Rhoer with a 4.0 GPA, recently completed her certification for CPR! Senior Rhoer, Tianna Redo was accepted into The National Society of Leadership and Success, a fitting move for this conscientious college-bound scholar!

The GPS Rhoer Co-Advisors, Soror Gwendolyn Goins, and Soror Dr. Latresha McBride, along with all Sorors of GPS are proud of these young ladies and every GPS Club Rhoer! The Rhoer Club Advisor’s goal to inspire all Rhoers to become comfortable with leadership is in full swing!

Gamma Phi Sigma Rhoers (L-R): Rhoer Kori Weaver Rhoer Kelsey Stephens Rhoer Tianna Redo Rhoer Kendall Williams

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The GPS Rhoer Club is walking boldly into the 2021 Sorority Year boasting a strong affiliate of high-achieving young ladies! Already this Sorority year, the Club has experienced Rhoers stepping up to take on leadership roles in the organization as well as at school and in the community.

AFFILIATE NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Lambda Gamma Sigma Rhoer Club Affiliate Pomona, CA During the 2020-21 Sorority Year, the LGS Rhoer Club exhibited high standards of character and reputation in the Pomona, CA community and nationwide. They mailed greeting cards and homemade Christmas ornaments to nursing residents at Country Oaks Care Center. LGS Rhoers fundraised for St. Jude and March of Dimes, donated $200.00 to OBBB at Founder Marbury’s Public School #87 in Indianapolis, and participated in Sleepout for Homeless Youth Awareness with Foothill Family Shelter, which serves homeless families. LGS Rhoers hosted several virtual bonding activities: a workout session with fitness trainer Soror Dyanna Crane, a Dance and Self-Love Workshop with dancer/choreographer Soror Sheree Rome, Valentine’s Day Pajama Party, and Paint Party.

Four LGS Rhoers submitted one-minute PSA videos for the 2021 National Youth Symposium. Rhoers discussed their challenges during COVID-19, how they overcame those challenges, and shared their dreams for the future. They also submitted videos performing the National Rhoer Stroll. Their videos were featured on the International Youth Symposium Video that was distributed to registrants!

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The LGS Rhoer Club received two 2021 regional awards. Rhoer Kianna King won Western Region Rhoer Affiliate Individual Award and Soror Shelly Williams achieved Western Region Rhoer Advisor of the Year.

The 2021-22 goals include implementing two national programs (OBBB and Project Cradle Care), participating in St. Jude and March of Dimes fundraising, recruiting new members, hosting bonding activities, performing community service, and attending the upcoming Centennial Celebration!

Lambda Gamma Sigma Rosebud Club Pomona, CA The LGS 2020-2021 Sorority Year was filled with new experiences and opportunities for service and growth for every Rhosebud! They participated in a wide range of community service projects, including aiding nursing home residents at a local care center, participating in programs such as Soles for Little Soles, Sleep Out for the Homeless, and the 2021 Youth Symposium. The girls attended regular Club meetings online, which provided a venue to continue building lasting connections with other Rhosebuds.

Before COVID-19, LGS Rhosebuds participated in both the Pomona Christmas and the Cal Poly Rose Parade Float Decorating Contests. During the pandemic, the virtual classroom experience and a host of other online activities kept the Rhosebuds busy! They enjoyed baking and decorating their cookies at a virtual Christmas Cookie Decorating activity and participated in a Valentine’s Day Pajama Party featuring a virtual painting session! Both events were a lot of fun! A successful Popcorn Fundraiser closed out a year of growth and promotion!

LGS Rhosebuds are on the move for the 2021-2022 Sorority Year! Their goals are to increase membership, participate in more learning and bonding activities, and increase their understanding and participation in community service projects.

AFFILIATE NEWS | FALL/WINTER 2021

Lambda Omega Sigma Rhosebud Club Spring, TX The Lambda Omega Sigma Rhosebud Club under the guidance of Advisor Benjamin willingly gave their time and service. The Rhosebuds were tasked with creating greeting cards for the Angel of Love Assisted Living Home. Angel of Love has three locations in North Houston with a total of 31 residents. Each home received a basket filled with toiletries as well as a card for each resident. Their gifts were greatly appreciated.

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Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the home coordinator was very eager to accept these gifts on behalf of the residents. The Rhosebuds received a beautiful thank you card from Angel of Love expressing their heartfelt appreciation for the thoughtful and kind gesture. By conducting simple acts of service, the Rhosebud Club has gained a new sense of pride from knowing that they have brightened another person’s day.

OMEGA RHO | FALL/WINTER 2021

DR. STEPHANIE WALLS

Carpenter

Birthdate: November 14, 1948 Omega Rho: September 1, 2021 Dr. Stephanie Walls Carpenter Leaves a Legacy of Scholarship, Service, and Sisterhood

Dr. Stephanie Walls Carpenter gracefully strolled into the halls of Omega Rho on September 1, 2021. She was born to the union of the late Mrs. Norma Slack Walls and the late Mr. James Clark Walls on November 14, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri. She was a proud graduate of East St. Louis School District 189 and matriculated through Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville earning her B.S. and M.S. degrees. A renowned educator and member of Mensa International (non-profit high IQ society), Dr. Carpenter was the perfect candidate for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree she earned from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. She began her educational quest as a teacher at the same elementary school she attended as a child. Her impeccable work ethic and strong leadership propelled her career from teacher to Deputy Superintendent of Schools. She retired from East St. Louis School District 189 in 2006 after thirty-one years of meritorious service.

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Dr. Carpenter, affectionately known as “Steffie,” was initiated into the Gamma Beta Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in 1969.

Her strong dedication to sisterhood, service, and scholarship provided her with countless opportunities to donate money, wisdom, and time to women aspiring to become a member of the Sigma sisterhood.

One of Dr. Carpenter’s greatest inspirations was her Cultured Pearl Fifty Year Sigma Recognition in 2020. Beginning her journey as a Rhoer then a Gammette, she often reminiscenced about her volunteer experiences and how it fostered her SGRho tenure.

As Life Member #634, Dr. Carpenter received numerous awards, recognitions, and citations in the fields of community service and education. A few of her most coveted awards include the ESL NAACP Lifetime Achievement, the Emma L. King, the Alpha Phi Alpha Community Champion, and the Phi Delta Kappa Kappan of the Year awards.

Dr. Carpenter was a God-fearing devoted member of The Church of God in Christ Congregational that was founded by her grandfather the late Bishop Slack. Her Spiritual Legacy and her final contribution to students was in the form of a scholarship named after her mother, The Mother Norma L. Walls Scholarship Fund established in 2015 for the National Youth Department of The Church of God in Christ Congregational.

The Sigma Legacy of Dr. Carpenter includes several nieces, great nieces, and her sister the late International Grand Basileus Dr. LaRona J. Morris, also a trailblazer and scholar. These phenomenal sorors were inseparable and were often seen at community and SGRho events “leading the way!” Forever in our hearts, rest in peace Dr. Carpenter.

SOROR CARMENIA JONES

Anderson

The Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. mourns the loss of Soror Carmenia Jones Anderson. As a 1949 graduate of Ned E. Williams High School in Longview, Texas, she enrolled at Prairie View A&M University and received a Bachelor of Arts degree, Education in 1953.

As a retired elementary educator, she exemplified a love of teaching and mentoring youth. Soror Anderson became a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. through the Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter, Longview, TX, in 1955 and remained active until her death; this chapter was a natural fit for her because of her love for scholarship, sisterhood, and service.

She loved attending sorority conferences all over the United States and frequently served as a delegate representing her local chapter. She received numerous awards including Sigma of the Year. She served in several positions for the chapter such as Basileus, 1st Anti-Basileus, and Fundraiser Chair. This amazing Sigma woman is truly missed.

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OMEGA RHO | FALL/WINTER 2021

SIGMA GAMMA RHO CERTIFIED/REGISTERED

VENDORS

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Aaron Givens Varsity Apparel 3831 Valie Ave. Florissant, MO 63034 aaron@varsityapparelstl.com 501-920-4497 www.varsityapparelstl.com

Brad Aboff Stuart Consulting Group, Inc. 341 Carswell Ave. Holly Hill, FL 32117 brad@nsemblem.com 386-236-2230 www.nsemblem.com

Cherene Pugh Skoozzz, LLC 1105 Pointe Cove #205 Lake Mary, FL 32746 administrator@skoozzz.com 321-710-2260 www.skoozzz.com

Abdul Rehman Greekian, LLC 5900 Balcones Dr. Suite 4686 Austin, TX 78731 greekianllc@gmail.com 605-743-0701 www.greekian.com

Brandi Wallace Sacred Heart Collections 3824 Cedar Springs Rd, #1078 Dallas, TX 75219 brandi@sacredheartcollections.com 1-800-317-0273 www.sacredheartcollections.com

Clarissa L. Parrish Pressed to Impress, LLC 3390 Chichester Ave. #2364 Upper Chichester, PA 19061 pressedtoimpresscustomdesigns@gmail.com 215-798-8080 www.pressedtoimpresscustomdesigns.com

Adrienne Mays Recycle Me Mom, LLC 190 Aubrey Mays Rd. Forsyth, GA 31029 recyclememom@gmail.com 478-955-6552 www.recyclememom.com

Brandon McNeal The King McNeal Collection 747 E Mulberry St. Kankakee, IL 60901 mr.mcneal1@gmail.com 815-351-9188 www.kingmcneal.com

Constance or Tiphanie Rockingham Beyond Perfection Boutique 101 Lanaghan Drive PO Box 4529 Fairview Heights, IL 62208 drctrock@yahoo.com 618-960-5556 www.greekhood.com

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AJ Akoto Prime Heritage PO Box 19623 Memphis, TN 38181 info@primeheritage.com 901-774-5554 www.primeheritagegifts.com

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Camile Strokes Custom Fitz 1317 Edgewater Dr. Suite #1986 Orlando, FL 32804 info@custom-fitz.com 863-602-8152 www.customfitzgreek.com

Alonda Stevenson My Favorite Vendor 872 Walker Rd. Suite B Dover, DE 19904 alondas@zoeticcouture.com 267-679-7095 www.shopmyfavoritevendor.com

Candic Dixon RENEE MARIE 7515 Jefferson Hwy #247 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 info@reneemarie.com 225-435-9551 www.reneemarie.com

Alonda Stevenson Zoetic Couture 5228 Greene St. Philadelphia, PA 19144 zoeticcouture@yahoo.com 267-679-7095 www.zoeticcouture.com

Carla P. Green The Greek Café, LLC 6380 Cliffdale Rd. #25382 Fayetteville, NC 28314 thegreekcafellc@gmail.com 910-227-5297 www.thegreekcafeapparel.com

Amber Artega Studio Divine 344 Whitestone Dr. Fayetteville, NC 28312 amarissa_85@yahoo.com 904-568-0894 www.etsy.com/your/shops/D9Fanaticz/onboard

Cassandra Miller Buffalo Dallas Merhcandise & Apparel 4611 Greer Circle, Suite J Stone Mountain, GA 30083 buffalodallas4611@gmail.com 770-491-0502 www.buffalodallas.com

Amber H. Bunch ZAS Boutique PO Box 491091 College Park, GA 30349 zasboutique@zetaalphasigma.org 404-953-1928 www.zetaalphasigma.org

Cecilia “Cece” Smith Ideas By Cece, LLC 8819A Delridge Way SW Seattle, WA 98106 ideasbycee@gmail.com 425-272-5903 www.ideasbycecellc.com

Ashley Jones BBUB Greek 352 Cleveland Place Suite 104 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 bbubgreekgifts@gmail.com 757-839-4259 www.bbubgreekgifts.com

Cerese Dolman Cerese D, Inc. 1425 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd. Suite 40 Atlanta, GA 30318 info@ceresed.com 404-392-7313 www.ceresed.com

Ashonta Clarke On the Front Rho 2061 Wildcat Trail Crandall, TX 75114 onthefrontrho@gmail.com 229-886-8162 www.onthefrontrho.com

Chad Stewart Premier Design Studios 10611 S. Oakley Chicago, IL 60643 sales@thepremierdesignstudios.com 773-879-7458 www.thepremierdesignstudios.com

B

Bob Tucker Computer Digital Imaging, Corp.

3440 N. Knox Chicago, IL 60641 bobtucker@cdi-corp.com 773-205-2960 www.cdi-corp.com

Chante Powell Admired Creations, LLC 190 Cypress Grove Court New Orleans, LA 70131 admiredcreationsllc@gmail.com 504-717-1994

D

Dan L. Morgan, Sr. Morgan & Morgan Marketing P.O. Box 637 Schertz, TX 78154 morganmorganmktg@yahoo.com 210-219-3206 www.djmorgansgear.com Danielle Render DVN Co., LLC 2070 Attic Pkwy NW Suite 302 Kennesaw, GA 30152 danielle@dvn.co 404-234-7707 www.dvn.co Deniece Brooks Sassy’s Gifts 14001C Saint Germain Dr, Suite 250 Centreville, VA 20121 sassysgifts1@gmail.com 1-888-536-0312 www.sassysgifts.com Denise Carranza Trevco 32450 N. Avis Dr. Maddison Heights, MI 48071 dcarranza@trevcoinc.com 248-526-1400 www.trevcoinc.com Derius Brown BGreek Apparel, Inc. 5962 Zebulon Rd. Suite 230 Macon, GA 31210 sales@bgreekapparel.com 404-710-4139 www.bgreekapparel.com Devon McPherson Alumni Apparel Chicago, LLC 2856 192nd St. Lansing, IL 60438 alumniapparelchicago@gmail.com 773-600-4153 www.alumniapparelchicago.com Dianna Weatherspoon Bey Silver Spoon Accessories & More, LLC 2368 Britt St. Grayson, GA 30017 dwbey69@yahoo.com 770-256-3102 www.silverspoonaccessories.com Donald D Brown 550 Strong PO Box 12064 Florence, SC support@550strong.com 843-620-1500 www.550strong.com

Jai Huntley Jai By Jai, LLC 97 Apt B Mariners Cove Rd. Hampton, VA 23669 jaihuntley@yahoo.com 816-724-8947 www.jaibyjai.com

Keith Cook Design and Expressions, LLC 5604 Lake Crest Way Richmond, VA 23227 designsandexpressions@gmail.com 804-203-2880 www.designsandexpressions.com

Eddie Kim Big Boy Headgear, Inc. 5073 Bristol Industrial Way Buford, GA 30518 eddie@bigboygear.com 470-655-1888 www.bigboygear.com

Jamell Satchell Elementum Brands 6564 Loisdale Court Suite 600 Springfield, VA 22150 jamell.satchell@elementumbrands.com 202-400-1567 www.ivydoghouse.com

Khristie Landrew Utopia Creations (Simply Greek) PO Box 538 Independence, LA 70443 admin@utopiacreations.com 985-606-2420 www.shopsimplygreek.com

Elecisha Pope-Bradford Rhoyal Distinction, LLC 608 Nottingham Court.

Locust Grove, GA 30248 rhoyaldistinctionllc@gmail.com 678-367-8144 www.rhoyaldistinction.com

Janece Kerr The Couture Soror PO Box 201493 Chicago, IL 60620 thecouturesoror@gmail.com 773-536-9689 www.thecouturesoror.com

Kiffany Seaforth Kiffany, LLC 8611 Concord Mills Blvd. #358 Concord, NC 28027 kiffany@kiffanycreations.com 704-491-7174 www.kiffanycreations.com

Eric Marquis Eric Marquis, LLC 2114 Melholland Rd. Lawrence, KS 66047 epmarquis@gmail.com 415-371-9415 www.ericmarquis.com

Janice Warfield West Coast Design Solutions 7107 Kester Ave. Apt. 113 Van Nuys, CA 91405 russojdw@yahoo.com 818-430-9951

Kim Koennecke Vantine Imaging, LLC 5000 Wings Way Hamilton, NY 13346 kimkoennecke@vantine.com 315-824-3200 www.vantineimaging.com

E

Erika Thomas Believe Accessories Inc. 2342 Warm Springs Rd. Columbus, GA 31904 believeaccess12@gmail.com 706-289-2074 www.believeaccessories.com

Jazmine Humphrey Madi’s Kloset, LLC (My Greek Boutique) 315 N Bowman Rd. Suite 13 Little Rock, AR 7211 info@mygreekboutique.co 501-295-6006 www.mygreekboutique.co

F

Jermaine Delmar Turner Turn 2 Wood, LLC 456 Roserush Lane Jacksonville, FL 32225 turner.delmar1@gmail.com 314-393-8256 www.turn2wood.com

G

Jessica Hill Direct Wholesale Outlet 1404 South Shelby St. Louisville, KY 40217 jessica@dwoutlet.com 502-634-1780 www.varsitycolorsgreek.com

Frederick Ocean Ocean Apparel, LLC 104 East Main St. Bennettsville, SC 29152 lamonocean@yahoo.com 910-206-5758 www.greekattire.com GameTime Sidekicks, LLC GameTime Sidekicks, LLC 2339 West Beaver Creek Dr. Powell, TN 37849 tyler@gametimesidekicks.com 865-384-7548 www.gametimesidekicks.com Geraldine & Roland Jones Creative T-Shirts & Imaging (Raleigh Tees) 4909 Alpinis Dr. Suite 113 Raleigh, North Carolina 27616 raleightshirts@gmail.com 919-850-0421 www.123raleightees.com Gwen White SGRho Store 1247 Westminster Dr. Dr Cincinnati, OH 45229 sgrhostore@gmail.com 513-549-1422 www.sgrhostore.com

H

Hao Wu Gratia International, LLC PO BOX 577112 Chicago, IL, 60657 gratiapearl@gmail.com 312-612-0169 www.gratiapearl.com

J

Jacquelyn Toles The Exclusive Touch, LLC 2579 Noble Rd. Cleveland Heights, OH 44121 jtoles@extouch.com 216-206-0351 www.extouch.com

Johnny King, II Royal Work (Divine Gift Accessories) 72 Palmero Way Marvel, TX 77578 jking@aroyalwork.com 346-253-6342 www.divinegiftaccessories.com Joseph Tantillo Express Design Group, Inc. (Greekgear.com) 6 Commerce Dr. Freeburg, IL 62243 jtantillo@inarush.com 618-539-9998 www.greekgear.com Josh Buchholz KH Sports Fan 23827 W. Industrial Dr. S. Plainfield, IL 60585 jmb@kindredhearts.com 815-230-2700 www.khsportsfan.com

K

Kamilah Ballard BCE Shoe 810 Watterson Curve #327 Birmingham, AL 35173 bceshoes@gmail.com 205-773-0351 www.bceshoes.com

Kim Savage Savage Promotions, Inc. PO Box 7606 300 S. Front St. Steelton, PA 17113 kim@savage-promotions.com 717-939-1152 www.savage-promotions.com

L

Lady Bell All Sewn Up 1430 Joh Ave. Suite J Baltimore, MD lbell@getallsewnup.com 410-242-3550 www.getallsewnup.com LaVonne McDowell Rare Case LLC (Distinctive Specialties) 7925 N Tyron St., Suite 113 Charlotte, NC 28262 rarecasellc@gmail.com 704-281-7228 www.distinctivespecialties.com Lawrence Greco Campus Greek 682 McDonnell Dr. Unit 109 Tallahassee, FL 32310 greekshop850@gmail.com 850-224-3728 www.campusgreekshop.com Lunden Gregory Sankofa’s Gift 660 E. 170th St. South Holland, IL 60473 constanley89@gmail.com 312-927-3917 www.sankofasgift.com Lynnise Davis Madam37 211 J St. Suite. 337 Sacramento, CA 95816 info@madam37.com 213-357-0513 www.madam37.com

M

Maddi Anarumo BaubleBar 16 Madison Square West, Floor 5 New York, NY 10010 madison.anarumo@baublebar.com 765-414-5154 www.baublebar.com

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Dr. Marilyn Mitchell-McCluskey McCluskey and Associates 118 Cut Log Rd. Cedartown, GA 30125 dr.marilyn.mccluskey@gmail.com 443-243-9082 www.ilovegreekstuff.com

SIGMA GAMMA RHO CERTIFIED/REGISTERED

VENDORS

Marea Munro Hopeless RHOmantic, LLC PO Box 1268 Greenbelt, MD 20768 hopelessrhomantic@yahoo.com 302-898-5516 www.hopelessrhomantic.com

Monica Allen Allen Pro Graphics (stuff4GREEKS/Zeus’ Closet) 1339 Marietta Blvd. Suite C Atlanta, GA 30318 customerservice@s4g.com 404-792-2526 www.s4g.com

Margaret Murray Greek Orriginals, LLC 1448 E. 52nd St. PMB #324 Chicago, IL 60615 greekorr5@gmail.com 708-334-9857 www.greek-orriginals.com

Moriah Banks Official Para Connect 312 Woodward Ridge Dr. Mount Holly, NC 28120 moriahbanks65@gmail.com 704-345-5593 www.officialparaconnect.com

Marian Murphy Professional Sorors 2685 Bronsons Way Twinsburg, OH 44087 mairpm@aol.com 330-606-7075 www.facebook.com | ProSo Sorority

Mykela Marshall Fashionably Greek, LLC 3578 Oaktree Dr. Suite B Semmes, AL 36575 fashionablygreek@gmail.com 251-490-3265 www.befashionablygreek.com

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Mark Wiggins M. Wayne Designs 10208 Bushman Dr. Apt. 412 Oakton, VA 22124 mwaynedesigns@gmail.com 571-212-8486 www.mwaynedesigns.com

N

Najla Williams Sorority Intimates & Clothing Company, LLC 28610 Hwy 290 Ste F09 #191 Cypress, TX 77433 sororityintimates@gmail.com 479-936-0999 www.sororityintimates.com

Patricia Watson Hood Adjacent Tees 8608 Glenn Hannah Court Windsor Mill, MD 21244 patricia@hoodish.org 443-896-3286 www.hoodish.org

R

Regina Caldwell Arm Candy By Gina 3309 Pecan Shadow Way Mesquite, TX 75181 armcandybygina@yahoo.com 214-498-8796 www.armcandybyginaco.com Rita McCain M3 Embroidery & Apparel, LLC (M3Greek) 3761 Pennridge Dr. Bridgeton, MO 63044 info@m3greek.com 314-837-0022 www.m3greek.com

S

Samuel Achuko Kelechi African Authentics, LLC 13500 Yellow Poplar Lane Brandywine, MD 20613 keleafrica@gmail.com 301-455-1459 www.keleafrica.com

Mary Sanders Christian Advisory 4889 Galleon Xing Decatur, GA 30035 christianadvisory@yahoo.com 678-300-4155 www.christianadvisory.com

Natasha Beals Cultivated Rhoyalty 4325 W. 95th St. Apt. 14 Oak Lawn, IL 60453 natasha@beautifulawakening.us 708-495-4236 www.beautifulawakening.us

Selena Young Define Me Greek, LLC PO Box 222 San Leandro, CA 94577 definemegreek@gmail.com 510-682-6778 www.definemegreek.com

Megan Jones Custom Ink 2910 District Ave. Suite 3 Fairfax, VA 22031 licensing@customink.com 703-910-5018 www.customink.com

Nic’cole Graves Trinity Designs, Inc. 5680 Highway 6 #169 Missouri City, TX 77459 ngraves@trinitydesignsinc.com 1-800-593-1823 www.trinitydesignsinc.com

Semiyat Sanusi Pari Envy 1401 W Fort St. Suite 321123 Detroit, MI 48232 info@parienvy.com 313-355-2364 www.parienvy.com

Melissa Howard Elegant Jewelry PO Box 153 Morrow, GA 30260 melissahoward212@gmail.com 404-736-4852 www.elegantgreekjewelry.com

Nicola Kennedy Kelly Grace Accessories 634 Rocky Branch Ln. Columbia, SC 29209 kellygracee2017@outlook.com 803-783-8156 www.kellygraceaccessories.com

Sharlene Martin Greatly Tenacious Treasures, LLC Five Greentree Centre 525 Route 73 Suite 104 Marlton, NJ 08053 shamlet686@gmail.com 347-247-3325 www.etsy.com/shop/GTTreasuresShop?ele=shop

Mellodie Powell Diva Starr 11026 Harness Way Indianapolis, IN 46239 divastarrboutique@gmail.com 815-501-1814 www.divastarr.com

Nikesha Duplessis D IX Couture, LLC 423 Avenue Palais Royal Covington, LA 70433 d.ix.couture@gmail.com 504-345-6217

Sherae Martin Sorority Sisters Paper Studio 305 Campbell Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117 supportteam@sororitysisterspaperstudio.com 501-563-7974 www.sorority-sisters-paper-studio.myshopify.co

Micaela Chappelle Ms. Capri’s Unique Apparel & Gifts, LLC 900 Long Blvd. Apt. 396 Lansing, MI 48911 info@mscapriuniqueapparel.com 616-268-2652 www.mscapriuniqueapparel.com Michael Gallagher Our Amendments, Inc. (Sorority Shop) 274 Shoemaker Rd. Pottstown, PA 19464 mike@sororityshop.com 484-948-3767 www.sororityshop.com Miracle Wanzo Four Twigs, LLC 30 N Gould St. Suite R Sheridan, WY 82801 admin@fourtwigsllc.com 707-731-3769 www.fourtwigsllc.com

Niyoki S. Yancy TrueBlue’s Rhoyalties 218 48th Ave. Bellwood, IL 60104 trueblue1922@aol.com 1-888-746-1922 www.joyoforiginality.com

O

Oluwafeyisayo Fasuyi Esmies Closet, Inc.i 16 Chestnut Rd. Amityville, NY 11701 esmiescloset@gmail.com 516-252-7324 www.esmiesclosetinc.com

P

Pataskity Publishing, LLC Pataskity Publishing, LLC 207 Hudson Trace Suite 102 Augusta, GA 30906 send4anablair@gmail.com 706-250-3956 www.pataskitygreekstore.com

Sherry Ann Sturgeon-Wilson KO’s Blue Store, LLC 2031 NW 59th St. Miami, FL 33142 kobluestore@gmail.com 786-623-6995 www.etsy.com/shop/kosbluestorellc Stefanie Caruthers Sisterblu 4309 N. 111th St. Kansas City, KS 66109 piperdavis1@yahoo.com 913-530-9141 www.sisterblu.com Stephanie Haskins Ooh Soo Crafty 1213 Oleander Lane Waxhaw, NC 28173 oohsoocrafty@gmail.com 917-549-1040 www.oohsoocrafty.com

T

Toni Preston Creative Expressions 1957 Chase St. Gary, IN 46404 info@creativeexpressionsllc.com 219-718-9917 www.creativeexpressionsllc.com

Taja Jacobs Finer Bling, LLC 11000 Burlington St. Apt. 405 Southgate, MI 48195 finerbling@gmail.com 313-320-7922 www.itsfinerbling.com

Tonya Richardson Greek Lyfe Charges, LLC 3924 Captain Drive Atlanta, GA 30341 info@greeklyfe.com 404-353-4087 www.greeklyfe.com

Tamika Smith The Crossing Box, LLC PO Box 311401 Brimingham, AL 35231 thecrossingbox@gmail.com 205-317-2760 www.the-crossing-box.myshopify.com

Toya Stiger Renee’s Beautiful Designs 105 Thistledowns Drive Toney, AL 35773 reneesbeautifuldesigns@gmail.com 256-479-0289 www.etsy.com/shop/ReneesBeautifulDesig

Tanikka Clemons Beyond the Burning Sands 24470 5 Mile Rd. Redford, MI 48239 beyondtbs1@aol.com 313-532-1315 www.beyondtheburningsands.net

Trey Ham GFSI, LLC 9700 Commerce Pkwy Lenexa, KS 66219 trey.ham@hanes.com 913-693-3261 www.gearforsports.com

Timothy Jenkins Divine Greekwear 7077 Watercrest Pkwy Apt. 4151 Dallas, TX 75231 timothy.jenkins1992@hotmail.com 469-994-8676 www.divinegreekwear.com

Trina Hawkins Trina’s Giftes Hands 17210 Quiet Covey Court Missouri City, TX 77489 trinasgiftedhands@gmail.com 832-617-0443 www.trinasgiftedhands.com

Tivona Taylor Vogt Need Nalia?

9557 Two Notch Rd. Suite F Columbia, SC 29223 neednalia@yahoo.com 803-708-2961 www.neednalia.com

V

Valeaka Freeman CBPI, Inc. 4726 147th St. Midlothian, IL 60445 valeaka888@gmail.com 708-926-2965 www.cbpi.boutique

Vickie & Eric Roney Vizorre Fashions and Designs, LLC 2610 Dawson Rd. Suite #13 Albany, GA 31707 vizorre.info@yahoo.com 770-855-1418 www.vizorre.com

W

Wanda Smith Nana Hook PO Box 203 Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 nanahook110@gmail.com 240-463-9788 www.nanahook.com

Z

Zahir A. Coney, Sr. City Greeks, LLC 606 E Locust Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19144 citygreeks@gmail.com 215-240-2006 www.citygreeks.com

#

3 Sisters Embroidery, LLC 3 Sisters Embroidery, LLC 5410 NC 55 Suite W Durham, NC 27713 3sistersgreek@gmail.com 919-572-6864 www.monstergreek.com

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Stephanie Lino SBR Enterprises 9029 Airport Blvd. #881123 Los Angeles, CA 90009 sbrenterprises05@gmail.com 310-770-5214 www.etsy.com/shop/euniquethagreek

AURORA THE

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES The Aurora is published three times a year. Submission guidelines are as follows: Submission Deadlines: Fall/Winter - September 30 | Spring - February 28 | Summer - April 1

116 | THE AURORA

Submissions for Alumnae on the Move, Let’s Give ‘Em Their Props, Undergraduate Pulse, Affiliates, Omega Rho, and Beacon of Light must be 250 words or less. End-of-the year reports and newsletters are not acceptable.

Before submitting an article, please check for spelling errors, repetitions in the text, look for inconsistencies, and ensure that all information is factual and references the names of persons when giving direct or indirect quotes.

Include contact name, chapter name, location, school, city, state, and suggested headline.

All submissions are subject to editing and potential exclusion based on timeliness of content.

Submissions should be written in reporter format, excluding words such as “we,” “our,” and “us.”

Please send high resolution photos that are at least 300 DPI in JPEG format (photos and images should ideally be 1MB in size or higher). Please ensure that the photos are labeled and identification of the people in the photo(s) is provided.

Please avoid sending photos from social media as they are usually compressed to web resolution.

Please send original photos whenever possible. All digital photos should be taken with a camera that is at least 3 megapixels or higher, and set on the highest quality/resolution setting.

Please do not crop or otherwise modify photos. The original version has the highest quality.

Using a smartphone? Please turn it sideways for group shots. Get as close as possible to the subject, and avoid using your phone’s zoom function. When emailing photos from a smartphone, please be sure to send the original size or the largest available size.

THE AURORA SUBMISSION PORTAL

Photo pricing is as follows: Submission of one color/black & white photo: $10 Submission of two or more color/black & white photos (up to five): $7/photo Content can be submitted to The Aurora Submission Portal (QR code on this page). Electronic photos may be submitted to theauroramag@sgrho1922.org.

Once submissions are confirmed, electronic payment information will be provided.

AURORA THE

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. 1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200 Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID RALEIGH, NC PERMIT #2483