The Sensational South Atlantic Journal - Christmas 2019

The

Sensational

The South Atlantic Regional Journal Christmas 2019

Joy Faith Peace Love Holy Season

Jesus is the Reason

Good Cheer

Hope

Unity

Rejoice

THE SENSATIONAL SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Contents

Christmas Journal

4 Message from the Regional

Director and Representative 5 Women's Empowerment 6 National Convention Recap

F E AT U R E S : 8 Meet Miss North Carolina 9 She Changed the World 10 Fall State Meeting Cycle 13 Chapter Anniversaries 16 In the Spirit 17 Around the Region 25 Sensational Sorors 28 Contact Guide

JUANITA B. MASSENBURG Regional Director

FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN Isaiah 9:6

PRECIOUS JEMISON Regional Representative DELORIS B. HARGROW Regional Secretary REV. TRISH HARLESTON Regional Chaplain BRIDGETTE WILSON Regional Journalist FRANCES MCIVER Regional Parliamentarian KAYE WEBB Assistant Regional Parliamentarian

BERMUDA LEADERSHIP ROSETTE SIMMONS Coordinator

NC LEADERSHIP SELENÉ H. BRENT State Coordinator ALFREDA BRYANT State Secretary

South Atlantic Region

EVENTS

SC LEADERSHIP MONICA OWENS State Coordinator

JANUARY 3-4, 2020

REGAN SADLER State Facilitator

VA Statewide Founders Day hosted by Chesterfield Alumnae Chapter (Richmond, VA)

JONI WILLIAMS State Secretary

JANUARY 10-11, 2020

VA LEADERSHIP MICHELLE LEWIS State Coordinator KA'MYIA GUNN State Facilitator FANCHON GLOVER State Secretary CASSANDRA MURPHY Regional Photographer

MARCH 7, 2020

Delta Authors on Tour hosted by Charlotte Alumnae Chapter (Charlotte, NC)

MARCH 14, 2020

NC Statewide Founders Day hosted by Johnston County Alumnae Chapter (Raleigh, NC)

60th SAR Region Anniversary Celebration (Durham, NC)

JANUARY 31-FEB.1 , 2020

MARCH 27-29, 2020

SC Statewide Founders Day hosted by Bennettsville-Cheraw & Hartsville Alumnae Chapters (Hartsville, SC)

MONTHLY

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Project HERS hosted by Nu Sigma Chapter (Charleston Southern University - Charleston, SC)

“Monthly Manna” Devotional Call (see page 16) First Sunday evening of the month at 8 p.m.

Season Greetings Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. - Matthew 1:23 (KJV)

Greetings Sorors, It is with joy in our hearts that we present this issue of The Sensational for your reading pleasure and extend holiday greetings to you and your family. Throughout the region our chapters and members have been busy over the last months extending our reach in the community and continuing to serve with purpose and dedication. From the National Convention, to Fall State Meetings, and various trainings our regional leadership team has been working to keep our region relevant and sensational.

Aeo

In this special holiday issue, we invite you to celebrate the milestone anniversaries of chapters; to reminisce on the short, but impactful 54th National Convention; and to be motivated by the stellar accomplishments of sorors who are excelling in their professional lives and volunteer efforts. We are proud of each of you for embodying the principles of our Sorority and during this season particularly, remembering that we are founded on Christian principles. As the year and the decade comes to an end we pray that your hearts will be filled with love, peace and joy.

With much love and appreciation,

Juanita and Precious Regional Director and Regional Representative

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Beverly E. Smith

National President & C.E.O Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated women's empowerment 2019 The 25th Anniversary of Women’s Empowerment, sponsored by Radio ONE was held in Raleigh, NC on April 27, 2019. At this amazing event, among the stars, the vendors and women of all ages there was a woman that took center stage and made an impact that won’t soon be forgotten. That amazing woman was our very own National President & C.E.O, Beverly E. Smith. At this year’s Women’s Empowerment a panel of female leaders of four greek letter organizations were asked to have a profound discussion about the impact and influence that sororities of the Divine Nine have had on women and the community. The other leaders that joined Soror Smith, were Dr. Glenda Baskins Glover, International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Dr. Irish Spenser, March of Dimes Director for National Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and Andrea M. Fleming appointed spokesperson for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. This segment of Women’s Empowerment was a first and one of the highlights of the day.

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54TH

National Convention NEW ORLEANS I JULY 11-14, 2019

WRITTEN BY SONDRA HINES YATES

W

hat happens when 15,000 Sorors, including sensational South Atlantic members travel to New Orleans for our 54th national convention? The result . . .the good times rolled! Donned in countless variations of crimson and cream, sorors assembled in the Crescent City for fellowship, fun, shopping and of course to conduct Delta business. Unfortunately, the convention was cut short and ended on July 12, 2019 due to the threat posed by Hurricane Barry. However, that did not stop the momentum of Deltas making an impact before leaving the Big Easy. Here are convention highlights:

Host Chapter Reception

Always a convention favorite is the host reception, which kicks off the convention. Because the Big Easy is known for dancing (second line), as well as great food, the evening featured a vigorous portion of both! Amidst a backdrop of food trucks, a live band performance, DJ, dancing and local entertainment, the evening was sensational.

Opening Plenary

The Opening Plenary incorporated ‘Nawlins flavor. Delta leaders strolled in, draped in gorgeous robes. The exciting momentum continued as four awesome honorary Sorors joined our sisterhood: Andra Day (two-time Grammy nominated singer), April Ryan (journalist), Sherrilyn Ifill (President, NAACP Legal Defense Fund) and Dr. Eleanor Traylor (world-renowned author and professor of African-American studies).

Let’s Dance

A threat of rain can’t stop a Delta party! Sorors descended in the French Quarter for spontaneous line dancing, chapter strolls and sorority chants. Onlookers were treated to impromptu performances on Bourbon Street.

Pay-it-Forward

Feeding thousands of attendees is no easy task. Thus, over 20,000 meals were planned to be served through the end of the Convention. Hence, food intended for conference participants was donated and distributed to various organizations throughout the area. Soror Beverly E. Smith, National President & CEO says, “We are delighted Centerplate donated the food we purchased, making it available as a result of us terminating our convention early. With 16,000 attendees and two food functions canceled our sisterhood luncheon and closing Soirée Celebration, there were inordinate amounts of food that would have been wasted.

Kudos to Centerplate!” Despite making a huge food donation, local Delta members jumped into action and volunteered at Barry Relief Kitchen assisting with food prep (chopping vegetables, etc.) to help feed the community. It’s no surprise that Sorors immediately shifted from convention mode to service mode!

Giving Thanks

Our time in New Orleans concluded with a Sunday ecumenical prayer service by the National Chaplain, Soror Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie. Due to the closing of the Convention Center, the event was held in a hotel ballroom and filled to capacity.

Though many Sorors departed when the convention closed, thousands remained through the weekend.

Even though hurricane threats dampened the convention, the spirit of Delta remained vibrant.

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D

A

E

B

F

C

G

H

(A) Newly inducted Honorary Members (l-r) Sorors April Ryan, Sherrilyn Ifill, Andra Day and Eleanor Traylor (B) Beautiful Delta inspired parasol (C) (l-r) Sorors from the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter are ready to conduct Delta business! (D) These sorors are on their way to conduct business but they do it with gorgeous smiles. (E) These beautiful sorors represent true sistersisterhood (F) SAR sorors relaxing in the Membership Services room (G) (l-r) Sorors Massenburg and Jemison working the Welcome Parade in grand style. (H) Live replica of the official national convention logo 7

Meet

MISS NORTH CAROLINA

ALEXANDRA BADGETT Written by Angela T. Clark Pictures provided by the Miss NC Organization

For the first time ever in our country, there is a celebration of everything that is magnificent, wonderful and fantastic about black women. We see the recognition of beauty, intelligence, charisma and social change exemplified in several incredible young women. One of them is Miss North Carolina 2019 Alexandra Badgett. Before she competed in the 2020 Miss America competition this December, we had the opportunity to talk with her.

What will people like about Alexandra Badgett? I am authentically me! I have learned throughout life to accept the imperfections that make me who I am.

You grew up in North Carolina. What did you like most about your childhood? I was surrounded by a beautiful village of people that have shaped me into the person I am today. My mother was never afraid to share me growing up, and from that exposure I was able to witness how diverse this world is and the endless opportunities if you just worked hard enough.

Before you became Miss North Carolina, you held the state teen title in 2012. What do you like about being Miss North Carolina? Being able to meet so many people across the state. I have had the opportunity to visit cities I would have never thought to visit before having this job. Visiting those communities and being able to serve as a role model for individuals across the state is a joy.

One of the common threads between our organization and the Miss America system is the commitment to public service. What do you like about being a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.? The sisterhood! Being surrounded by so many empowering women continuously inspires me. I have sisters all over the world! (continued on page 26)

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REGIONAL SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE

“She Changed the World: Breaking Barriers” Feature and pictures provided by Tayon Dancy

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elta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was a partner for the commemorative event with the NC Social Action team in an event called She Changed the World. Given Delta’s direct involvement in the Women’s suffrage March in 1913 and the continued involvement for the plight of women it was key that the NC Social Action Team lead the way to be in the forefront.

The year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.

As part of a national campaign to commemorate this historic event, North Carolina’s Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is coordinating a campaign titled “She Changed the World: NC Women Breaking Barriers” March 2019, continuing through November 2020.

American women were granted the right to vote with the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified on August 18, 1920, after a 72-year fight by suffragists. The 19th Amendment did not resolve the issue of suffrage for many women of color, who continued to battle for voting rights for decades. This event acknowledged North Carolinian women who played a pivotal role in breaking down barriers not only in North Carolina but also the nation.

p (l-r) Sorors Dena King, Mabel Watson, Shan-Tika Watkins, Juanita Massenburg, Tayon Dancy, Chanel Ratliff, Shenita Cunningham

uTwo participants re-enacting the women suffarage movement

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p Soror Rhonda Briggins, National Co-Chair of Social Action Commission (center) is talking with a few sorors at the event.

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VA FALL STATE MEETING

September 20-21, 2019 • Newport News, VA Pictures taken by Cassandra Murphy

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October 18-19, 2019 • HIckory, NC

NC FALL STATE MEETING

Pictures taken by Demetrics Davis

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SC FALL STATE MEETING

October 25-26, 2019 • Georgetown, SC Pictures taken by Sharon Wigfall

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Charlottesville Alumnae Chapter Celebrating 50 years

Ft. Bragg Area Alumnae Chapter Celebrating 23 years

Happy Anniversary 2 0 1 8

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2 0 1 9

Georgetown Alumnae Chapter Celebrating 50 years

Chesterfield Alumnae Chapter Celebrating 25 years

Elizabeth City Alumnae Celebrating 65 years

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Greenwood Alumnae Chapter Celebrating 50 years

Kinston Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 60 years

Loudoun County Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 10 years

Goldsboro Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 54 years

Lynchburg Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 80 years

Shelby Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 37 years

Sumter Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 72 years

Norfolk Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 90 years

Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 60 years

Prince William County Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 35 years

Raleigh Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 80 years

Spartanburg Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 58 years

Wilmington (NC) Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 80 years

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Xi Iota Chapter University of South Carolina Upstate Celebrates 40 years

The 2020 Call to Conference is now available!

Visit our regional website to see what the 29th Regional Conference is all about!

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The greatest gift written by dr. Rev. Dr. trish harleston

“… and the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13

SUBMIT PRAYER REQUESTS TO sarprayerline@ gmail.com

Join us for Monthly Manna.

A moment of meditation and prayer to guide us through the month.

First Sunday evening of each month at 8 p.m.

Call In Number (515) 739-1020 Access Code: 457798

During the Christmas holiday season, many of us will spend a great deal of time shopping for gifts, wrapping gifts in elaborate paper and bows, scheduling gift exchange activities, and opening gifts with wonder and in awe in an expression of gratitude to friends and family and co-workers.

But during these days leading up to Christmas Day, many of our sorors will find it difficult to join in the excitement of the season. Many of our sorors and their families will struggle with the thought of purchasing less gifts this year because of the loss of one who was at the top of their Christmas gift list. For some, what was previously the beauty of gift giving has now become the burden of gifting.

Christmas is the season that symbolizes the greatest gift ever given to (wo)mankind, the gift of a Savior. The gift of Jesus was the ultimate gift of love toward us. As we celebrate this season, let us acknowledge the greatest gift given unto us, as we share this great gift with others.

Although gift-giving brings joy for the season, the gift of love brings joy for a lifetime. I exhort each of you to share a gift that you didn’t have to purchase this year – share the gift of love, share the gift of communication, share the gift of forgiveness, share the gift of peace, share the gift of time, share the gift of a kind and encouraging word with a soror.

This Christmas remember that each of us have the capacity to make Christmas Merry for someone else by offering to them the greatest gift that has ever been given unto us.

Have a Merry Christmas and Share a Merry Christmas!

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Charlotte Alumnae Chapter New Adult Scholarship is Launched

Awarding college scholarships is nothing new for Charlotte Alumnae. The chapter annually gives college scholarships during May Week activities. However, on Saturday, June 8, 2019, CAC wrote a new chapter. Fulfilling a vision of president Melody Harris, CAC awarded six new scholarships to female adult students, at its inaugural Scholarship Gala, announcing its Advancing the Dream Scholarship for Adult Non-Traditional Students. Developed for those 25 and older, each scholarship winner is pursuing or continuing a degree at an accredited four year college/university within the chapter’s service area. Hence, recipients can be enrolled as a full or part-time students, including online or traditional face-to-face classes. CAC recognized the need of adults who desire to boost their education, career and upward mobility opportunities.

Thus, the chapter worked diligently to bring this project to fruition, including fundraising efforts. To raise money, the chapter engaged in an aggressive campaign to secure corporate sponsorships and sold tickets to Delta members, friends, the community, etc. The collective efforts were triumphant! In total, $73,643 in college scholarships was awarded during a lavish sold-out gala.

Charleston Alumnae Chapter Poverty Simulation

The Charleston Alumnae Chapter was pleased to host a Poverty Simulation in collaboration with the Palmetto Community Action Partnership at the Delta Life Center on Saturday March 16, 2019. The Economic Development Committee coordinated the event and was pleased to have 48 participants from our youth initiatives: EMBODI, Delta Academy, Delta Gems, Sorors and volunteers. Participants were grouped as families and encountered serious challenges the impoverished face daily such as affordable housing, meeting monthly bills, securing employment without adequate childcare, public transportation as the only means of travel, finding adequate health care and obtaining public assistance as soon as it is needed. During our evaluation discussion participants were served a “poverty lunch” and shared reflections of how challenging the plight of poverty is even in a simulation exercise. The consensus was that we should be more empathetic with our fellow community members and take every opportunity to be of service.

photo taken by Mark A. Purnell

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Fairfax County Alumnae Chapter Voter Registration Drive

Fairfax County Alumnae Chapter held a Voter Registration Drive at Heritage Fellowship Church’s Community Picnic on July 20, 2019 in Reston, Virginia.

Chapter members registered new voters as well as provided information to attendees on absentee balloting, ID requirements and their designated polling locations.

Fayetteville Alumnae Chapter

Hosted First PowHERful Shero Luncheon The Fayetteville Alumnae Chapter launched a one-of-a-kind event to empower and inspire the mentees and contestants in the upcoming Jabberwock Scholarship Pageant. Each contestant/mentee had the opportunity to sit and have lunch with leading women from the local community; which included local doctors, educators, chief of police, judges and other female pioneers from the community. The PowHERful Shero Luncheon was an inspiring, cultured event designed to acknowledge the local sheroes, while empowering the young mentees, as well as, the sorority. This event created a positive atmosphere for women and young girls from all walks of life. The honor and celebration of the contributions of these women pioneers have had a major impact in local politics, education, the medical field, the justice system, and the community. Most importantly, this event allowed the young mentees to establish a relationship with local role models.

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Loudoun County Alumnae Chapter

Hosts Meet & Greet for School Board Candidates Loudoun County Alumnae Chapter (LCAC) continues to educate voters and support the call for change in Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) as it relates to equity and the achievement gap of minority students. In October, LCAC and the NAACP co-hosted a meet and greet for the School Board Candidates. The forum promoted a space for the public to engage in stimulating discussion with the candidates. Topics such as lack of teacher diversity, advanced placement opportunities and lack of accountability were discussed. These efforts follow LCAC’s "Black Student Achievement Gap" panel discussion and Call to Action for LCPS Equitable Resources which was held in February 2019.

Henrico County Alumnae Chapter

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Outreach On Saturday, September 28, 2019, Henrico County Alumnae Chapter (HCAC) supported one of our nine Charitable Partners, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, during the Greater Richmond St. Jude Walk/Run. HCAC has partnered with St. Jude, for several years, to increase awareness for childhood cancers and sickle cell disease.

HCAC sponsored the hospitality tent and served refreshments to over 700 event attendees. HCAC also created a walk/run team and met their fundraising goal by donating $1500 to St. Jude ranking them 18th out of the 84 teams. With a few days left to secure more donations, they were confident that they would exceed their goal and create an even greater impact. This year was especially significant for HCAC as they honored the memory and legacy of Maya Smith, who recently lost her battle with brain cancer. Maya was the daughter of chapter member, Melissa Smith.

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Norfolk Alumnae Chapter

Celebrates 90 years of serving the community The Norfolk Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated celebrated 90 years of “Honoring Our Heritage, Cherishing Our Sisterhood, and Serving Our Community” with a gala on September 21, 2019 with the 24th National President Cynthia M.A. Butler McIntyre as the guest speaker.

In keeping with the sorority’s mission of public service, the chapter initiated monthly service projects to highlight this monumental occasion. Formerly known as Mu Sigma, Norfolk Alumnae Chapter is the first graduate chapter in Virginia.

During the late 1920s, it was a rarity to find more than ten Deltas in one city; however, there were eleven Delta members living in neighboring towns who were anxious to form a graduate chapter. Under the leadership of the late Soror Ethel Pannel, Mu Sigma Chapter was chartered in September 1929, in Norfolk.

Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Celebrates 60 years of serving the community

The Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter (NoVAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., marked 60 years of service in 2019.

Chartered on May 17, 1959 by 13 trailblazing women, NoVAC has made a difference in the communities of Northern Virginia.

NoVAC celebrated its 60th anniversary throughout the 2018-2019 sorority year. The chapter celebrated their Diamond Anniversary with an array of sparkling activities and events from September to June. The chapter went all out for the $60 for 60 Years Campaign!

Each NoVAC member was asked to contribute $60 during the anniversary year. Contributions exceeded the original goal of $14,000 and ended with an impressive $24,000! NoVAC also acknowledged and paid tribute to the 13 visionary women that birthed this sensational chapter. Chapter President Jameece Pinckney recognized the charter members and presented a framed copy of the original charter to charter member Sorors Izzetta Callahan and (late) Nellie Quander. Soror Quander passed away shortly after the event. The 60th anniversary was an opportunity for NoVAC and its many supporters to celebrate a legacy of success as they shine like diamonds!

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Oxford-Henderson Alumnae Chapter E.M.B.O.D.I. Seminar

The Oxford-Henderson Alumnae Chapter in partnership with the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity hosted its 2nd EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence) Seminar on Saturday, September 28th with 54 young men in attendance from the chapter’s service areas. With a focus on fiscal management, character, ethics, and leadership, the young men were empowered by a motivational speaker and seminar leaders who addressed the following topics: Money Matters, Minding My Own Business and First Impression. At the conclusion of the program, Zeta Alpha Chapter formed a mentoring cluster to serve as a conduit to wrap-up the day.

Richmond Alumnae Chapter

Hosts College Admissions Scholarship Fair The Delta House Foundation, Incorporated, in partnership with the Richmond Alumnae Chapter, is one of the 27 locations across the country selected to host the RVA Infinite Scholars College Admissions/Scholarship Fair.Last year, students who attended the scholarship fair (the only one in Virginia) had the unique opportunity to visit and connect with 65 college recruiters and five ROTC college programs. The students who attended last year were awarded, collectively, over 21 million dollars. Bringing the total amount awarded at the RVA location to almost 88 million dollars. Soror Thelma Y. Pettis, Board Chair for the Delta House Foundation, Inc. and past South Atlantic Regional Director said, “hosting the fair is a rewarding experience and a huge endeavor that couldn’t be accomplished without the help of soror Anna M. Gee, Coordinator of the fair along with the RVA Infinite Scholars Scholarship committee and our dedicated volunteers and members of Richmond Alumnae Chapter.”

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Rock Hill Alumnae Chapter

Presents Donation to Clinton College Clinton College has received support from one of the oldest Black Greek-letter sororities in the United States. Just recently, several members from the Rock Hill Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated presented a check of $769.84 to Clinton College – the only historically black college in York County. During the presentation, Clinton College President Dr. Lester A. McCorn met with the Chapter President Sherille Barber, First Vice President Marilyn Martin, Second Vice President Tiffany Huggins, chapter member Melloney Cook, and South Atlantic Region co-chair Marion Payne. Barber said Rock Hill Alumnae Chapter, which has been serving York County since 1958, chose to donate to Clinton College because they wanted to invest in a local HBCU. Their donation is part of a larger national initiative by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. to support HBCUs across the country.

Roxboro Alumnae Chapter Walks in the Relay for Life

The Roxboro Alumnae Chapter participated in the Person County Relay for Life held on the Person High School Football Field. The chapter is honored to have beautiful sorors who are survivors of cancer. The chapter decided as a show of support to stand in this fight with those who have been affected. Members of the chapter also walked a lap to support the cause. Many in the audience applauded the numerous survivors proudly leading the way. The Relay for Life is a yearly event in Person County and chapter members meet on the 50-yard line as a gesture of sisterhood.

Luminarias are lit later that evening to remember those we’ve lost, celebrate cancer survivors, and show there is a light even through this darkness.

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Voorhees College

SAR supports the GAP fund In support of Delta’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Initiative, the South Atlantic Region (SAR) Education Awareness Committee (EAC) selected Voorhees College to be awarded a check for $5,000. The funds will support the GAP fund which was created to assist students with a financial need due to account balances that prevent them from returning the following semester or graduating. Lisa McCloud, South Carolina State Chair for the EAC said the organization did an evaluation of all HBCUs in South Carolina and Voorhees appealed to their mission. “This was an opportunity to recognize a smaller institution that is accomplishing great things. Many people may not know about Voorhees, but this institution has already done so much in just a short time,” McCloud said.

President W. Franklin Evans said Voorhees recognizes and appreciates their contributions. “Voorhees can better serve our students because of this gift.” Evans said.

Shelby Alumnae Chapter

Promotes Social Action with NAACP The Shelby Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in conjunction with the Cleveland County Branch of NAACP co-hosted the Candidates Forum on September 22, 2019 at Canaan Baptist Church in Shelby, NC. Local elections were held on November 8th.

The chapter presented the local NAACP Branch with a check in support of their work in the community. The chapter meets annually with the NAACP to renew memberships and support the programs of the local NAACP Branch.

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BERMUDA | NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA

Williamsburg Alumnae Chapter Walk to Help Prevent Death by Suicide

Williamsburg Alumnae Chapter partnered with the Virginia Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in helping to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. On September 15, 2019 chapter members were among over 70 teams who walked in the “Out of Darkness” Community Walk. The event drew over 600 participants throughout the area. According to statistics, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in Virginia. As a result of the event nearly $43,000 in total was raised in donations for the local chapter. Proceeds from the event will help fund AFSP’s research, education outreach, advocacy and support for those affected by suicide.

Special Dedication

Soror Evelyn McNeill Omega Omega November 24, 2019 Evelyn McNeill was a beautiful soul and committed member of the South Atlantic Photography Team. Soror McNeill was initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. through the Beta Kappa Chapter at Livingstone College in 1973. She was a member of the Greensboro Alumnae Chapter. Thank you for all that you did for our region. We miss you and LOVE YOU!!

- SAR Information + Technology Team

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Sensational Sensational SORORS SORORS CHANDLER VAUGHN In June 2019, collegiate Soror Chandler Vaughan spent a memorable four weeks at the University of Bristol, U.K., in the Fulbright Summer Institute.

“Since Bristol is abundant in resources and history related to colonialism, racial justice and slavery, and environmental sustainability, I gained an insider’s view of the social worlds of the U.K.”, she says. During her overseas stint, Soror Vaughan participated in seminars on arts, activism and transatlantic enslavement.

Shortly after traveling to the 54th National Convention in New Orleans, Soror Vaughan was off to Champaign, Ill and spent six days as a representative attending LeaderShape Institute, a national leadership program. Soror Vaughan, a rising Junior, majoring in Policy Studies, is active on the campus of Elon University: Isabella Cannon Leadership Fellow; Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society; Black Student Union - Vice President for Community Outreach & Activism, PP&D Chair and chapter Recording Secretary for the Omicron Iota Chapter.

GWENDOLYN BINGHAM Lieutenant General Gwendolyn Bingham is a native of Troy, Alabama, graduating from Army ROTC as a Distinguished Military Graduate from the University of Alabama in August 1981 and commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Quartermaster Corps. She has a Master’s degree in Administration, Central Michigan University and a Master’s degree in National Security Strategy and Resources, National Defense University.

Lieutenant General Bingham has served in several leadership positions. She was deployed in April 2010 in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom serving as Special Assistant to the Commanding General, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, Camp Arifjan, Kuwait; Kabul and Kandahar, Afghanistan. She has been a trailblazer serving as the first woman to hold numerous positions as General Officer including the Army’s 51st Quartermaster General and Commandant of the US Army Quartermaster School, Fort Lee, Virginia; Commanding General, White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico; and as Commanding General, Tank-Automotive and Armaments Life Cycle Management Command, Warren, Michigan. On June 30, 2016, she was confirmed by the Senate for promotion to Lieutenant General and assigned to the Pentagon as the Army Assistant Chief of Staff, Installation Management.

Lieutenant General Bingham is the recipient of numerous decorations including the Distinguished Service Medal. She is one of only two African-American women in the history of the Army attaining the rank of Lieutenant General (3-star), serving our nation for over 38 years and retired September 1st. Soror Bingham has been a Delta for 41 years and is a member of the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter.

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Sensational SORORS VANESSA BURTON Soror Vanessa Evans Burton was sworn in as District Court Judge for the 16B Judicial District in Robeson County, North Carolina by North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Cheri Beasley on May 24, 2019. She is the first woman to serve as an assistant district attorney in Robeson County and recently completed 30 years of service making her the longest serving assistant district attorney. She is also admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States.

She serves as the chairperson of the Robeson County Bar Association Continuing Legal Education and Professionalism Committee. In 2018, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper appointed her to the North Carolina State Board of Examiners for Nursing Home Administrators. She is a graduate of UNC at Chapel Hill and Wake Forest School of Law. She was initiated in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. through the Kappa Omicron, a Golden Life Member of the sorority and a charter member of the Lumberton Alumnae Chapter.

(continued from pg. 8) For the first time ever some of the top pageant competitions all have African American winners. Why do you think that is important? Representation is so important. Serving as the 2nd African American state titleholder in North Carolina, it’s vital young people not only see someone that looks like them, but understand regardless of your background and where you come from you can achieve your goals.

What is the one thing you want people to come away thinking about after reading this article?

I love my job but my journey doesn’t end after the crown. I never started in this organization because I liked competing in pageants. This organization provides scholarship money for college and an opportunity to give back to my community in ways I couldn’t never imagined. I pride myself in continuously remaining true to who I am and not conforming to who people expect me to be. I have found so much joy in mentoring and advocating for others and will hold these values close for the rest of my life.

Alexandra was not only a Top 15 finalist but also the National recipient of the $3000 Equality and Justice scholarship for the 2020 competition.

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Sensational SORORS

congratulations

Elected officials and appointments DONYEL BARBER Soror Donyel Barber was elected to the City Council of Gastonia, North Carolina - Ward 6 in November 2019. Soror Barber is a current member of the Gastonia Alumnae Chapter.

VIRGINIA AFRICAN AMERICAN ADVISORY BOARD We would like to congratulate the following sorors will were appointed by Virginia Governor Ralph Northam to the Commonwealth’s first African American Advisory Board: Hope F. Cupit (Lynchburg Alumnae) President and CEO, Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project, Inc. Dr. Monica Motely (Danville Alumnae) Founder and CEO, The Motley Consulting Group and Research Faculty, Virginia Tech Center for Public Health Practice and Research Yvette Robinson, Past Regional Director (Petersburg Alumnae) Retired Professor of Agriculture, Virginia State University Yvonne Lewis (Virginia Beach Alumnae) Community and Social Activist 27

T he Sensational South Atlantic Region

REGIONAL DIRECTOR Soror Juanita Massenburg 17sardmassenburg@gmail.com REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE Soror Precious Jemison 24sarrjemison@gmail.com

Contact Guide HOW CAN WE DIRECT YOUR CALL?

U s e t h is g u id e t o h e lp d e t e r m in e wh o to c o n t a c t wh e n y o u h a v e q u e s t io n s .

REGIONAL SECRETARY Soror Deloris Baker Hargrow sarsecretaryhargrow@gmail.com

PUBLIC RELATIONS Soror Kimberly Bracy kimberly.bracy@gmail.com

STATE COORDINATORS & FACILITATORS

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

REGIONAL JOURNALIST

Soror Bridgette Wilson sarjournalistwilson@gmail.com

Soror Melita Pope Mitchell sarnc2020@gmail.com

REGIONAL CHOIR Soror Rosette Simmons Bermuda State Coordinator bdacoordinator@gmail.com Soror Selené Hudson Brent NC State Coordinator nccoordinatorbrent@gmail.com Soror Monica Owens SC State Coordinator sccoordinatorowens@gmail.com Soror Regan Sadler SC State Facilitator scfacilitatorsadler@gmail.com Soror A. Michelle Lewis VA State Coordinator vacoordinatorlewis@gmail.com Soror Ka'Myia Gunn VA State Facilitator vafacilitatorgunn@gmail.com

Soror Shellena Atlas satlasdst2010@gmail.com

CHAPLAIN’S PRAYER REQUEST Soror Trish Harleston sarprayerline@gmail.com

PROTOCOL & TRADITIONS Soror Pamela Murphy Lewis pamela050476@gmail.com

TECHNOLOGY Soror Rhonda Long sartechteam@gmail.com

REGIONAL NEWSLETTER AND JOURNAL

If your chapter has news and would like to announce it in the Regional Journal, please email the Regional Journalist at sarjournalistwilson@gmail.com

REGIONAL WEBSITE

SOCIAL ACTION

If you have any questions regarding the website, email sarjournalistwilson@gmail.com

Soror Dena King denaking@gmail.com

Find South Atlantic Region On:

For additional contact information, visit

www.dstsouthatlanticregion.org

INFORMATION + COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

Serving with Purpose, Serving with Dedication, Keeping it Sensational” Many thanks to the Information and Communications Team for helping to pull this journal together.

We are also thankful to the many sorors across the region who also contributed to this issue.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

WHEN SUBMITTING ARTICLES, BE SURE TO ADHERE TO THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES: o Third-person narrative o Topic-oriented (tell how the program

served with purpose and dedication)

o Microsoft Word format

(don’t add any additional design elements like borders or fonts)

o Limit three high-resolution digital photos

(JPEG format, 300 dpi)

o Submit photos separately.

REGIONAL JOURNALIST Bridgette Wilson

JOURNAL ADVISOR Michelle Lewis

o Don’t embed the photo into the Microsoft Word document o For photos – identify people, left to right, and or add captions o Journalist reserves the right to edit and cut copy o Please provide contact info (phone number, and email)

EDITORS Kimberly Bracy, Angela T. Clark, Colette Fladger, Paige Hairston, Vyce Johnson, Sharon Wigfall, Tisha Lowe, Lisa Harris-Hampton, Sondra Hines Yates

PHOTOGRAPHERS Cassandra Murphy Tarsha Burroughs Venita Seward

DOWNLOAD PAST ISSUES OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL JOURNAL

for each article submitted

JOURNAL ARTICLES ARE REQUESTED IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: o Feature Topic – (500 word maximum)

Articles submitted for this section should align with the issue topic and provide tips, action items and resources.

o Around the Region – Chapter News & Event

(150 word maximum) – articles submitted for this section should include unique chapter programs. Please use clear action photos.

o Sensational Sorors and Sensational Scholars (150 word maximum)–

Articles submitted for this section should highlight the soror’s recent accomplishment and also provide a headshot or action shot of the soror.

Next Issue: Spring 2020 Submission Deadline: April 30, 2020 Submit your chapter news to sarjournalistwilson@gmail com

www.issuu.com/thesensational

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Serving

WITH PURPOSE AND DEDICATION...

KEEPING IT SENSATIONAL