Soror Kelly Price - Amazon Web Services
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Soror Kelly Price - Amazon Web Services
Soror Kelly Price This Is Who She Is … Expanding Our Horizons … Sigma Meets Seoul Sow A Seed to bloom a blessing Make a donation of $1,000 or more to become a part of the tree of golden leaves located in the International Headquarters Be a Part of the Foundation Send your $1,000 individual or chapter donation to: Seven Pearls Foundation 1000 Southhill Drive, Ste 200 Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628 Volume 76, No. II The official organ of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., founded at Butler University, Indianapolis, Indiana, November 12, 1922. International Headquarters 1000 Southhill Drive, Suite 200 Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628 Telephone: 888/747-1922 Fax: 919/678-9721 www.sgrho1922.org Office Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., EST Dr. Mynora J. Bryant International Grand Basileus Rasheeda S. Hakeem International Editor-in-Chief Jennifer Jones Executive Director Creative Consultant Davina Powell, Southeast Region Design Powell Graphics & Communication, Inc. Printer JS Direct PO Box 661, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0661 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 SASE. All Rights Reserved, postage paid to Milwaukee (Wisconsin) Postmaster. Deadlines Fall-Winter Winter-Spring Spring-Summer July 15 November 15 March 15 Table of Contents Departments Dear Editor 3 International Grand Basileus Speaks 4 A Word from the Editor 6 Directory of Officers 9 Beacon of Light 10 Significant Sorors 12 International Program Spotlight 13 From Him 18 Region News 20 In The News 23 Message from 2nd Grand Anti-Basileus 24 Conference Watch 25 Outstanding Undergraduate 26 Undergraduate Pulse 27 Alumnae on the Move 37 Affiliate News 52 Omega Rho 55 Certified Vendors Listing 63 Submission Guidelines for The AURORA 64 Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora Upcoming Features Soror Kelly Price This Is Who She Is … Page 14 Expanding Our Horizons … Sigma Meets Seoul Seo uth K S ul, o orea Page 23 In the Next Issue Be A Part of The Action Best Practices for Managing Sigma Business Real issues face our chapters on a day to day basis – growing membership, managing different viewpoints, building visibility and insuring financial viability. Learn the best practices for managing Sigma Business from the best resources, our sorors. If you have a best practice you would like to share, please submit your name, your position if applicable, chapter name and location to [email protected]. Honoring Women of the Cloth If you or one of our fellow, active sorors, is a woman of the cloth. We would like to meet them in a special feature highlighting their precious gift of ministry. Submit the following information – color headshot, chapter name, ministry role, organization name, a 50-word or less paragraph introducing them. No resumes, please. Dear Editor … D_ea_r_E_d_ito_r, _ _ _ _________ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ r, I o _ _ t i a _ d m _ ____a_lso_co_n_ce_rned th __________ e k D_ea_r_E___ li _ y ll _ a _ re _ I say_th_a_t ___ th_e_a_ct_ua_l _AURO ___a_t _by__th_e _tim_e_w_e_g_et ___R_A__th_e _in_formatio ___H_m_m_m_…I_m_u_st__been m_ad_e _to_T_h_e __ ____n _is_o_utd_a_ted. Is th er _ _ e e _ v _ a a _ h _ w _ t _ a a _ y _ th _ _ to _ _ es _ g g _ et _ n a _ _ h m c _ _ o re _ e th____ _ u pd _ n _ _ a ca te _ _ d I _ _ ev t co _ _ a en m _ _ th ts m _ _ e u _ ___in__ou_r ___n_ica_tio_n?___ ially _lik___ _ _ _ _ A_U_R_O_R_A_! _I _es_pe_c __it. Now__I _do_n’_t _ha_ve_ _ _ _ ________ _________ _ d _ a re _ _ d _ n _ _ a _ _ t i _ _ d _ _ a _ lo _ d_o_wn___ _____S_o_uth_w_est R eg __________ l g_et_it_a_nd_ il st t _ u b _ , _ il a _ ____io_n ____ m _ e _ th _ in _______ to__w_ait_fo_r_it____ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ r. te _ re_a_d_it_a_ga_in_la___ e last _tw_o _iss_ues____ Dear Soror, th __ ___In_lo_o_kin_g_o_ver__e_maga_zin_e _is_v_ery___ Your concern is a valid one and has been by a few sorors/chapters over the last __at.__Th____ inform_a_tio_n __ asked I_lo_v_e _th_e _form months. The AURORA is produced three lo_t _of___ a s er _ v _ co _ d _ n a _ _ ed z i _ o_rg_an___ g_eth_er_. __ times per year. Typically, the first publication is to d ze _ ee _ qu _ s _ o s _ ot _ n _ in October/November, the second in a_n_d _art_ic_les_a_re___ ed with_th_e _te_xt_is_v_er_y complete March/April and the third July/August. In the in __ T_h_e _gra_ph_ic_s_in_te_rtw___see mo_re_a_ds_s_uc_h _as_ last year, the publication deadlines were pushed to __ g_oo_d_. I__wo_uld__lik_e__o_nal E_du_ca_tio_n_F_un_d_. to the maximum. This has resulted in the ati __ schedule being altered quite a bit. ve._ publication th_e_o_ne_a_bo_ut_th_e_N__tc_hing a_nd__info_rm ti a _ _ _ The content of The AURORA is edited _ ca _ e_ ey _ y _ er _ v _ re _ a _ e T_h_es___ ___ in such a way that often dates are removed, _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ with other older material. In an effort to _________p _the g_oo_d_w_ork_!______ along produce all submissions received, the editorial u _ _____K_ee_p __st_R eg_io_n_________ team works to edit them appropriately based on ea _ publication date. _____N_o_rth___ D_ea_r_Ed _i_tor,______________ _____ ___Ju_st_go_t_m_y_AU __R_OR __A_an_d_I__M_US_T___ co_m_m_en_d_the __rep_ort __ers_. _T_he_ir _ab_ili_ty_to_wr __ite_wi_t_h ac_cu_ra_cy__an_d_fee_lin g i s ____rem __arka __ble_. _Well done! ________________ ______ ________ _____D_r._P_atr_ici_a_Sh __elt_on____ _____Ep_sil_on__Si_gm_a,__N_ew__Orleans_, _Lo_ui___ ______sian __a _____So_uth we st R _____eg_ion ____________ To assist with this, chapters are asked to be mindful of the publish date when submitting items. There is always a recap of the detail in the back of each AURORA. However, here is the schedule for the remaining issues: Deadline Date November 15 March 15 July 15 Estimated Publish Date March 15 July 15 November 15 Rasheeda S. Hakeem International Editor in Chief, The AURORA The Editor invites feedback on your publication, whether positive or constructive. Confidentially offer feedback by sending an e-mail to [email protected] or via mail to the International Headquarters. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora POWER OF VISION: INNOVATION, COLLABORATION AND IMPLEMENTATION Greetings from the International Grand Basileus S igma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. continues to increase its visibility internationally and foster positive relationships abroad. The mobility of our members allows our organization to maximize the implementation of our mission through global outreach, development and service. As women of color, we must realize that the most important thing we can do to maximize the sorority’s impact is to ask ourselves what we really want to project. We must know who we are and what we want to do and then do it! We must constantly be futuristic thinkers, confident doers and optimistic planners who exhibit a sense of community and self-worth. When we add our voice to others, we begin collectively to become stronger and more determined to achieve. Soror Mynora J. Bryant, Ed.D. we must believe in the world today as we wish everyone to live 20 International Grand Basileus waiting for others to do what we are not doing; and they are th To paraphrase Alice Walker, “To the extent that it is possible, in the world to come. That can be our contribution. Otherwise, the world we want will never be formed. Why? Because we are waiting for us, and so on.” To this end, let us remember that our lives are not determined by what happens to us, but by how we react to what happens; not by what life brings to us but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events and outcomes. It is a catalyst … a spirit that creates global understanding. Thank you sorors for your commitment to the sorority’s international initiative and positive image Our Thoughts and Prayers are with our Past Grand Basilei Dr. Katie K. White & Evelyn Hawkins Hood during their time of loss. International Board of Directors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora E veryday, I watch my twelve year-old daughter working on projects, homework assignments with such diligence. She often tells me, “Mom, this is my job” whenever I tell her she needs a job jokingly. When I receive her report card, I am reminded that she is an important investment in my life. When I get the tuition bill, I often convince myself of the same – she is an investment. A Word from the Editor When we look around our home and our communities, we can easily identify what is important to some by what they invest in. Of course, it is a personal decision for each and every one of us. However, when we all stood at our induction, we vowed that we would be invested and committed to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. No matter what life brings to us, we must remember that Sigma Gamma Rho is something that we must cherish, nurture and invest in. This does not mean that you must sacrifice family, but it may mean that you forego a manicure to donate to Project Big Book Bag or postpone your hair appointment to make it to the chapter meeting. Soror Rasheeda S. Hakeem International Editor-in-Chief We are at a pivotal point in organization. Our administration has outlined a platform – The Power of Vision: Innovation, Collaboration and Implementation. The message is direct. To be a visionary, you sometimes have to think and do things above and beyond the norm. The status quo will no longer do. Dusting off the same Founders’ Day program each year will not do. We need to step it up. Going to the same school volunteering each year will not do. We need to add another school to list. Sending the same representatives to conferences will not do. We need to challenge ourselves to not only send the entire chapter, but sponsor our undergraduate members too. Sitting back thinking of strategies to upset the plans will not do. We need to strategize on how to enhance the plans. Just like my daughter looks at school as her job. I look at my motherhood as stepping out of the box to expose and develop her into something greater than I. I am committed to that. At the same time, I am committed to Sigma Gamma Rho and encourage all of my sorors to be. In this parable, our leaders are like my daughter – committed. In this parable, the report card is comparable to the news coverage that we have gained, the arenas that we are now in and the partnerships we continually announce. In this parable, the tuition bill is a representation of your dues, your building donations, your attendance at regional and national events, etc. Will you invest? We made a commitment and we are being challenged to adhere to that commitment with the investment of our time and our resources to go above and beyond. I challenge each of my sorors to do so. Enjoy another “report card” – this issue of The AURORA. It’s that time again to showcase the Top 20 Under 40 The editorial committee will be reviewing submissions for the young, up and coming financial alumnae members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. The following criteria should be submitted for consideration: Premiering Sigma’s Top Under 40 Centennial Unveiling of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Bronze Statue The Silent Struggles Coping, Surviving and Overcoming Health Challenges • Full Name •Date of Birth • Chapter Name and Location (City, State) • Job Title and Employer (NO RESUMES) • Color Headshot (Clear & Concise) • 50 words or less (why this person should considered) • Sorority Offices Held • Community Participation/Titles Held •Nominator’s Full Name or Name of Endorsing Chapter This information is due in its entirety to [email protected] by June 3, 2007. Photos should be mailed through headquarters with a copy of the electronic submission. Please be advised that if all criteria is not met above, the submission may become void. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Partnerships The members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority will have direct access to discounts with the strategic partners as listed. As a member, you will get Liberty Mutual’s lowest possible rate for car and homeowner’s insurance. To start saving, simply call Liberty Mutual at 1-800-524-9400 MondayFriday 7AM-11PM (ET), Saturday 7AM-9:30PM(ET) for a free no obligation quote. Please mention your affiliation with Sigma Gamma Rho and see how much you can save. The AFLAC ducks were a big hit at the Boule. In order for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. to receive the benefits of the partnership and member benefits, our AFLAC representatives have asked that all inquiries be routed through a central location so they can arrange local representatives and enrollments. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s AFLAC contacts are: Wilfred Coger, 212-908-2577 • E-mail: [email protected] Soror Grace Powell, 917-748-4511 • E-mail: [email protected] 1-800-flowers.com – As a special benefit for members and family you can save 15% on your floral purchases by using our promotional code SGRHO. Just call 1-800-FLOWERS and save. Heart and Soul Magazine – Subscribe now to Heart and Soul Magazine for as little as $7 per year. The magazine will include articles on health initiatives. Lets not be left our by not subscribing. We can access our subscriptions by clicking on the banner of the sorority’s national website. Please use the code SGR07 when completing your subscription application. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated International Board of Directors 2006–2008 INTERNATIONAL GRAND TAMIOCHUS Jennifer A. Carter Denver, Colorado Western Region International Grand Basileus and Board Chairman Mynora J. Bryant, Ed.D. Silver Spring, Maryland Northeast Region INTERNATIONAL FIRST GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS Joann Loveless Greensburg, Pennsylvania Northeast Region INTERNATIONAL GRAND ANTI-GRAMMATEUS Tiffany Hightower Chicago, Illinois Central Region INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, THE AURORA Rasheeda S. Hakeem Brentwood, Tennessee Southeast Region INTERNATIONAL SECOND GRAND ANTI-BASILEUS Tiana Trimble Peoria, Arizona Western Region INTERNATIONAL GRAND GRAMMATEUS Joan Wingo Chicago, Illinois Central Region INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUS Gwenette J. Parker, Ed.D. Los Angeles, California Western Region INTERNATIONAL LEGAL ADVISOR Doris A. Randle-Holt Germantown, TN SOUTHWEST REGION Brenda Brenda Canty Baton Rouge, LA INTERNATIONAL PARLIAMENTARIAN Frances Jackson, Ph.D., R.N. Detroit, MI WESTERN REGION Roshoune Franklin Los Angeles, CA SYNTAKTI YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATORS CENTRAL REGION Deborah Catchings-Smith Florissant, MO NORTHEAST REGION Amneris Rodriguez Philadelphia, PA NORTHEAST REGION Felicia D. Blakeney Falls Church, VA SOUTHWEST REGION Teresa Segars Baker, LA SOUTHEAST REGION Jennifer A. Gunn Jacksonville, FL WESTERN REGION Patricia R. Kindred Glendale, AZ SOUTHWEST REGION Brenda Sloan Johnson Houston, TX INTERNATIONAL PHILO COORDINATOR WESTERN REGION LaTonya Theus Nelson Palmdale, CA UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER COORDINATORS CENTRAL REGION Pamela D. Lee Detroit, MI NORTHEAST REGION Vi Engles Peekskill, NY SOUTHEAST REGION Griena H. Knight Birmingham, AL Mae Frances Frazier Capital Heights, MD INTERNATIONAL RHOER COORDINATOR Mary Ann Golliday Fayette, MS INTERNATIONAL SERGEANT AT ARMS Sophia E. Atkins Memphis, TN Boule Chaplain VACANT IINTERNATIONAL PROGRAM COORDINATOR Henry Etta Johnson- O’Neal Carrollton, TX CORPORATE LIAISON Carolyn Williams Washington, DC DEPUTY LEGAL ADVISOR Tezra Woody Cordova, TN INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF PAST GRAND BASILEI Cleo S. Higgins, Ph.D., 10th Jacksonville, Fl Southeast Region Annie L. Lawrence-Brown, R.N., Ed.D., 13th Chicago, IL Central Region Evelyn H. Hood, 14th Atlanta, GA Southeast Region Katie Kinnard White, Ph.D., 16th Brentwood, TN Southeast Region Corine J. Green, 17th North Las Vegas, NV Western Region Helen J. Owens, 19th Jackson, TN Southeast Region ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Jones International Corporate Headquarters 1000 Southhill Drive Ste 200 Cary, NC 27513-8630 Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora Beacon of Light By: Soror Karen Y. Williams Sisterhood I was recently asked to write an article and present a workshop on the topic of sisterhood. I got these requests before I found out that my brother was terminally ill. My brother passed away on February 9, 2007 and I was told to come home and see him for what would be the last time on Friday, February 2, 2007. I learned more about sisterhood in those seven days than at any one point in my life and I’d like to share some of my lessons with you. 1. Sisterhood is a privilege. I love being a sister. It is nice to be a part of a family and hold the position that many women hold as a sister: confidante, encourager, financier, caretaker, partner-incrime, motivator, and the list goes on. Often times when a sister does her job well, it looks so easy, it seems as if she is doing nothing at all. In our sorority, we sometimes take our sisters for granted and allow them do their assigned job with little or no support, very little encouragement, and sometimes not even a thank you. Sisterhood is a privilege, a special gift that God bestows on families. And whether those family ties are biological, adoptive or fraternal, the relationships are special and precious and should be treated as such. 2. Sisterhood requires forgiveness. Mark 11:26: But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses. My brother knew the severity of his illness and for his own personal reasons chose not tell me. Well, when I got to him, I wanted to fuss at him about his choice, but since our time was limited and we wanted to enjoy it, there was only one option: FORGIVENESS. Forgiveness was a critical decision that needed to be made right away in order to take advantage of the time that God had gifted us. 10 Whether we choose to acknowledge it or not, we have a limited amount of time in which to make an impact in this organization. When we harbor unforgiveness, we impede progress. Everyone makes mistakes, drops the ball, and messes up. Do we penalize that person forever? When our sister/soror forgets to send her report, drives members away, speaks too harshly at the meeting, do we belittle, berate, and chastise her to no end? Do we choose to forgive or do we decide to hold a grudge that will ultimately destroy the family? I know that often times we pick the latter and hold the grudge for so long that everyone who remembers the offending incident has changed chapters, become inactive, moved on, or wishes you would simply let it go. Forgiveness is not easy; it is an act that mimics our Creator. It is a BIG thing to do, but it is necessary for your own personal spirit to soar and it is also necessary for you to do because if you live more than a day on earth, you will at some point need forgiveness for yourself. Sorors, I implore you that our greatness lies in our ability to forgive; forgive ourselves and forgive our sisters for past mistakes and blunders. Error is what makes us human; forgiveness is what shows the divine nature that resides in us. Forgiveness doesn’t come easy, it has to be massaged and practiced, rehearsed, and sometimes swallowed, but the benefits far outweigh the short-term discomfort that comes along with it. 3. Sisterhood requires love. Love your neighbor is not a piece of advice, but it is a command. -Bono Unconditional love is truly hard to find. I loved my brother unconditionally. We agreed on seemingly nothing and also agreed on everything. Love requires all of you, all the time knowing you may not ever get what you gave back. Isn’t that what makes your favorite sister great? She will send you a Christmas card faithfully every year knowing that she never gets one from you. You never have to ask for love, it simply does. Love is defined in so many ways and is a critical ingredient in so many relationships, but for the purposes of Sigma Gamma Rho, let’s use the love definition below. Love- the unyielding commitment to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. that manifests itself through a tireless commitment to the organization, an unbroken financial commitment, service to whatever community we can help, and the decision to treat each and every member with kindness and respect regardless of age or position. Do you LOVE Sigma Gamma Rho? Prove it. 4. Sisterhood requires service. “Greater Service, Greater Progress”-Bertha Black Rhoda Great slogan. I think they meant for us to do it. We can never become satisfied with OK. We can never become content with the mediocre. We were designed and created for service. It can no longer be accepted that more sorors show up for a luncheon or meeting than the community service project. We can no longer tolerate good, the founders said great and I believe they meant it. We must show up in droves to build the house, pass out the food, tutor the children. If we are to ever realize our greatness, we must SERVE. Service when its inconvenient, annoying, challenging and service when its new, fun and exciting. Looking for A Few Good Women … We are currently looking for active members of Sigma Gamma Rho to: ✏ Solicit and Follow Up with Advertisers ✏ Coordinate Special Sections (i.e. From Him, Dollars & Sense) ✏ Manage Features Matthew 23:11: But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. The Bible tells us that the greatest among us shall serve. I have never met a soror who didn’t want greatness associated with our sisterhood. The equation for what we need to do as sisters is simple. SISTERS + SERVICE = GREATNESS Dedicated to Rodney Vernell Soror Karen Y. Williams is a dedicated life member of Gamma Phi Sigma chapter in Houston, Texas. In addition to her duties as the Southwest Region Anti-Grammateus, she is proud to serve Harris County as Volunteer Deputy Registrar. If interested, please contact: Soror Rasheeda Hakeem at [email protected] Indicate in the subject line “Editorial Assistance” Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 11 Soror Oreitha Benion (Delta Sigma, Chicago, Illinois) Soror Patricia Johnson Elected president of the Chicago Area Alliance of Black School Educators (CAABSE) which is an affiliate of the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE), a network of professionals committed to furthering the academic excellence of Chicago Public School children, particularly the children of African descent. (Beta Omega Sigma, Shreveport, Louisiana) Received her doctorate in Urban Higher Education from Jackson State University in Jackson, MS. Dr. Johnson is currently employed at Grambling State University as a PK-16+ Coordinator; Coordinator of Master’s Program/Educational Leadership; Assistant Professor. She is also the chapter basileus. Soror Aisha Braveboy Soror Alice Sue Cooper Lee (Zeta Tau Sigma, Mount Rainier, Maryland) Elected Democratic State Delegate in District 25 in Maryland. (Alpha Alpha Sigma, Baltimore, Maryland) Received the 2006 “SERVICE ABOVE SELF AWARD” presented by the Rotary Club of Woodlawn-Westview. Soror Paulette D. Caldwell Soror Ebony Y. Smith (Delta Kappa Sigma, Plainfield, New Jersey) Received her Masters in Human Resources Management from Rutgers University. (Theta Zeta Sigma, Aurora, Colorado) Graduated from Regis University earning her MBA in Marketing Analysis. Soror Vanetta Cheeks-Reeder (Alpha Eta Sigma, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) Elected Assistant Director of the Eastern Region National Pan Hellenic Council. Soror Carlee Doggan (Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois) Featured at Amazon.com as the author of PRINCIPLES. The book is a compilation of three individuals who happen to be in the same family and the impact three different institutions made in their lives. Soror Doggan is an accomplished author and retired educator from Chicago Public Schools who believes that “All children can learn, given time, opportunity and patience on the part of their teachers”. Soror Frances Carter Jackson (Rho Sigma, Detroit, Michigan) Appointed as the Director of the Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Oakland University School of Nursing, located in Rochester, MI. Soror Jackson will have overall responsibilities for admitting students, scheduling courses, chairing dissertation committees and general oversight of the program. The DNP is a clinical doctorate for nurses who want advanced research training that can be clinically applied. 12 Soror Laurana Springer (Kappa Sigma, New York, New York) Performed at the Gospel Superfest where Clifton Davis and Vivica A. Fox served as guest hosts. Soror Angela Tucker, MD and Soror Trever Thomas (Epsilon Lambda Sigma Cincinnati, Ohio) Mentioned as one of the “Who’s Who of Black Cincinnati” for 2006. This recognition highlights those as the ones to know throughout the Greater Cincinnati area; Dr. Tucker is a 3rd year resident for Bethesda Family Practice and Soror Thomas is the National Recruiter for INROADS. Soror Pearlean Williams (Beta Omega Sigma, Shreveport, Louisiana) Received a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Williams is currently employed at Booker T. Washington in Shreveport, LA as a Magnet Program Coordinator. International Programs Spotlight Welcome Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers to our new “International Programs Spotlight” section. In future AURORA magazines, you will see where our various regions have placed a spotlight on one or more of our national programs in their communities. This section will provide our organization with recognition for those that support our programs. Below is a list of our sorority programs: Project Reassurance Mwanamugimu Theme: “Africa, the foundation of many nations … from Creation to Infinity.” Project Wee Savers Project Africare National Marrow Donor Program Rejesta V. Perry Birthright Program Operation BigBookBag Hattie McDaniel Cancer Awareness and Health Program Re/Max Supreme Properties, Inc. Buckle Up America St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital With the assistance of your regional programs chairperson over the next few months we will work to compile the criteria for all of our programs in one document. As themes, deadlines, etc. are updated or changed you will be notified. Please work with the following sorors to assist in getting your articles to this section of the Aurora: Northeast – Soror Roz Dreher 90 Telford Street East Orange, NJ 07018 [email protected] Southwest – Soror Brenda Smith 3244 Lambert Baton Rouge, LA 70805 [email protected] Western – Soror Rhonda Wilson-Knox 13620 Cerise Avenue Unit 9 Hawthrone, CA 90250 [email protected] Soror Henry Etta O’Neal 2410 Manchester Drive Carrollton, TX 75006 [email protected] As always, your input/suggestions are always appreciated. Look forward to seeing your featured articles. Sisterly, Soror Henry Etta O’Neal Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 13 K elly Price, the Daughter of the late Rev. Joseph Price and Evangelist Claudia Price is the 2nd of three children born and raised in Queens, NY. Under the watchful eye of her mother and the pastorate of her grandparents Bishop Jerome and Evangelist Joni Norman Kelly was nurtured and developed spiritually by being taught the word of God and the importance of a sustained prayer life through the special prayer services her grandfather held weekly in addition to Sunday services and bible study. At an early age Kelly’s musical talents began to dominate her life. While most babies have to be taken from the crib and calmed from crying in the middle of the night, Ms Price’s mother has been noted telling of the times when the entire house would be awakened at the sound of a young Kelly singing out in her crib while the rest of the family tried to sleep. AS a young child Kelly knew that music was more than just something that happened on the radio, in church, or even during the commercials on TV. For her it was a part of life that quickly became a necessity for life. She became emotionally dependant on the music inside of her and quickly learned how to use the music as an outlet to express what she was feeling even when she couldn’t speak about it. One day after experiencing deep sadness from a book she read for a black history project in school, Kelly wrote a song to express her unexplainable emotions. This was her first song. She was 7 years old. 14 Soror Kelly Price Kelly sang on her first recording before the age of 10 and by the time she was 18 Kelly was recording and touring the world with multi-platinum pop diva Mariah Carey. Always a quick study, Kelly watched and learned the intricacies of studio and production work and soon after began to expand into areas other than just background singing. It is these early years of her professional career that Kelly refers to as her formal education. While her classmates attended college to prepare for their careers she went to work everyday and studied with the entertainment industry’s best to prepare for what would soon be her own amazing career. During these years and beyond Kelly has shared her multiple musical gifts with many artists and reached the number one spot on billboard several times before anyone even knew what the girl behind the voice and the pen looked like. Throughout her career Kelly has sung for, recorded with, toured with, wrote songs for, arranged and produced music for Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Brian McKnight, Ben Tankard, Mary J Blige, Puff Daddy, Brandy, The LOX, Donnie McClurkin, The Williams Brothers, Faith Evans, Karen ClarkeSheard, Yolanda Adams, MASE, Whitney Houston, Mary Mary, The Notorious B.I.G, Richard Smallwood, R. Kelly, Eric Clapton, Wynona Judd and the legendary Ronald Isley just to name a few. Though many record labels initially pursued Kelly as a recording artist it was her connection with Isley and his relentless persistence that convinced her to begin to use her musical talents for herself resulting in a formal alliance between Isley and Price that birthed her solo career with the album Soul of A Woman in 1998 that featured the #1 smash women’s anthem of the year “Friend of Mine”, penned by Ms Kelly Price. She would follow with the platinum success of Mirror Mirror in 2000, One Family: a Christmas Album in 2002 and the critically acclaimed Priceless in 2003. Out of the box Ms Price broke records by reaching Billboard’s top spot twice with the same song and having achieved that initial # 1 victory with no music video at television. This had never been done by any artist since the format of music videos became the major marketing method by which record companies promote and sell music. Kelly also helped to usher in the rebirth of the Gospel sound in mainstream and R&B markets making the sound of a full voice acceptable among younger artists again. This, while also fighting the very real battle of imaging and acceptance in an industry that said “no one wants to look at a fat girl no matter how good she sounds”. Millions of albums later this award winning, Grammy nominated, singer, songwriter, producer, actress and now author has only shown the beginning of who the world will come to know Kelly Price to be. With a new year brings new dimensions and depths of life. Now with her newly formed label EcclectiSounds Records, new author Kelly expands her reach again through her first gospel LP entitled THIS IS WHO I AM and the first installment of her new book series entitled Inscriptions of My Heart both slated for release later this year. This Is Who She Is … Meet Soror Kelly Price Interview Exclusive courtesy of Soror Passé-Rodriguez Perfecting her “Ee-yip” isn’t the only activity Soror Kelly Price has been working on since her induction at our 51st Boule. Since her induction, Soror Price has been traveling throughout the country performing a concept called “Kelly’s Café” to promote the release of her latest gospel album, “This Is Who I Am.” Because Soror Price believes that messages can be delivered through various vehicles, she has been singing songs from her new album, including the first release “Healing” and a soulful remake of Al Green’s hit, “Heaven’s Best (Love and Happiness)”, accompanied by painter Jalani Taylor, and spoken-word artist, Messiah. With the release of “This Is Who I am”, it is Soror Price’s intention to change the way people perceive churchfolk, and ultimately touch the lives of everyone, regardless of their background. In addition to promoting her new album, Soror Price has begun writing a series of inspirational books with the first installment titled Inscriptions Of My Heart currently available on her website and bookstores nationwide. But, I Just Want to Sing!, a guide to pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, is slated for release this year. I was privileged to speak with Soror Price in New York City as she spent the evening in preparation for 98.7 Kiss FM’s “A Night of Healing,” a benefit concert held to commemorate lives lost five years ago. Here, Soror Price speaks candidly about becoming a Sigma, releasing her new album, and being an old Southern cook – her alter ego. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: I remember being at your induction in Dallas this past July and seeing how humbled and sincerely excited you were about joining Sigma Gamma Rho. With as much pride as I have in my sorority, I know that there are other international sororities from which you could have accepted honorary membership. What made you decide to accept membership into Sigma Gamma Rho? Soror Price: My cousin! My cousin, Bridgette, is a Sigma Gamma Rho. She’s been after me for years, but my schedule never allowed. I’m also a very, very calculated person. For me it’s not just about being a part of something. It has to exemplify who I am as a person. Because I trust my cousin and I know who she is, everything she told me has rung true. I’ve run into so many amazing women who Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 15 all seem to live by the same standard, which is really important to me. In all honesty, that’s the reason why I was so overwhelmed. I think I’ve told so many people since the day of my induction, that it was the most amazing thing for me to be in a room with that many women and the emotion for each other; for it to be so pure and so real. I think that overall, we’ve been pitted against each other for the most part and it starts as little as when you’re a little girl. You’re taught to look at another little girl … When I say “taught,” I don’t necessarily mean your mom or older women in your family are telling you, “look at that little girl. Hate her because she thinks she’s cute.” Certain actions. We learn by what we see and things that we hear. I didn’t cry there but I actually broke down when I got off to myself because it was so overwhelming. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: Trust me the response to you becom- ing a Sigma was sincere. We were totally surprised. Between your inner beauty and your outer beauty, you’re just so cute. Soror Price: I’m just a big kid. It was a dream come true for me because I always thought growing up that I would go to college. I was going to matriculate. I was going to teach English, though I really wanted to be a lawyer. I knew I was going to do something that had me running my mouth all the time because I just love to talk, but it didn’t happen like that. I’ve been singing all my life, but I started singing professionally at the age of 18. I ended up with an opportunity to go back and do something that I always wanted to do. I missed my prom. So I’m thinking for my 34th birthday, I’m going to have a prom. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: On another exciting note, how did you partner with 98.7 to perform at the “Night of Healing Concert” featuring gospel legends like Andre Crouch and Richard Smallwood? Soror Price: They just asked. Interestingly enough, the first single from my album is called “Healing” and from what I understand they’ve been using the song to promote the night which I’m really excited about. That’s a big deal. To be a part of this; to promote healing for people that lost so much on 9/11. 16 Soror Passé-Rodriguez: Were you affected by the events of September 11th? Soror Price: I didn’t lose any family members. We were affected because this is of course where my family is. That day, I was scheduled to be on a plane coming into New York and that flight would have been landing right around the same time that the first plane hit the towers. I know everybody has their 9/11 story, but I literally remember it being so poignant because at about 4 o’clock in the morning, I woke up and told my husband, who’s also my manager that “I’m tired. I don’t feel like getting up. I’m not getting on the 6 o’clock flight.” And generally if I do that, he’d tell me “No, Kelly. You have to go. You’ll get over it. You gotta do this or you gotta do that.” I expect to have to argue with him at 4 o’clock in the morning about getting on a plane, but he said “I’m tired too. Don’t worry about it. I’ll call New York and we’ll have to cancel the meetings. We’ll reschedule for a couple of days.” And at about 8:20, every phone in my house started ringing. His cell phone started ringing. My cell phone started ringing. I’m looking at the tv and we’re both saying at the same time, “Oh my God. The towers are burning.” It was just the craziest thing. Sometimes we get too comfortable in our own skin. As Americans, in particular, we feel like “we’re in the land of the free, the home of the brave” and we don’t have to worry about a lot of things that people who live in the so-called third world countries worry about, but I just think that overall we’re being reminded that we’re all subject to anything and we need to live knowing that. Not live in fear, but if we live knowing that, we’ll live life better. We’ll be careful about how we treat each other. We’ll make sure that we take care of ourselves better too if we want to get anything out of our lives. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: You’re reminding me of when you spoke about growing up in your grandfather’s church. Soror Price: Yes, my grandfather’s church, Full Gospel Mission COGIC, has been there for more than forty years at the same location in South Ozone Park, Queens, NY. I grew up in his church and I did everything from sweeping church floors to cleaning toilets in the church to directing choirs to singing in the choir to leading devotional worship. Believe me, I did everything you could possibly think of. That’s what always happens in a pastor’s family: you have to do whatever needs to be done that nobody would dare to do. We didn’t have a whole lot growing up either. Life was just very real and very deeply rooted in faith in God. And I believe. No, not “I believe.” I know that that’s the reason why even going into entertainment, that I was able to stay rooted. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: You’ve proven that over and over in your lyrics and the image you portray. You bring up a crucial point as we’re living in this day and age of all the overt vulgarity we see in entertainment. Speaking of entertainment, it’s almost like your musical career has come full circle as you’re about to release “This Is Who I Am” on. What inspired you to record an album solely featuring gospel music? Soror Price: The gospel album is what I believe I owe God even though every album of mine had a gospel song on it because I never wanted for people to not know where I come from. It’s still so very much a part of who I am. I never believed that being an R&B singer meant that I couldn’t be a Christian because I don’t think that my job dictates that. I think that you can be anything and have any job, but if you don’t live your life right, you’re just not who you say you are. If I wore a clergy collar and I lived a riotous life, then I’m not who I say I am. But I can be a Christian and I can be somebody who loves God and loves Jesus Christ and sing R&B music. I don’t do drugs and crazy things. It’s just a set standard that I have for myself and I believe that anything that I can’t do in front of my children or puts God or my grandparents to shame, I don’t need to be doing at all. And I feel that if I live by that, then I’m doing all right. We are coming to a time where there is a deep rooted cry from people all over the world for truth. Anyone that is not willing to be truthful and be transparent in their ministry or whatever it is that they want to call it… It’s gonna come to an abrupt end. When you have people who by age 20 have experienced death up close, misery, turmoil, who have lived a life in 20 years that people before them never lived in 85-90 years, they need someone who is willing to be truthful and transparent with them about the things they’ve been through. They need to understand that even though they’ve been through all this hell, that they can come out of it and be okay. I can’t get that from you if you want me to look at you and see someone who’s smiling all the time and happy all the time, who says that they’re saved and believes in Jesus Christ and because of that, nothing will go wrong in their life. That’s not realistic and that’s the reason why you have a lot of people that won’t even bother with church because they feel that church people are phony, which is why I go overboard to tell people that I’m just human like you are. I am by no means perfect. I sing R&B, I believe in Jesus Christ, I’m a Christian, I go dancing, and I have a good time. I think people have the wrong perception of what life is supposed to be and it’s my intention that if I can change somebody’s mind about that, by who I am, hence the album “This Is Who I Am”, then I have done my job. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: I read your letter addressed to several church leaders where you share your thoughts regarding the unethical ways you feel musicians are sharing the Lord’s word, like musicians who are known for singing R&B and hip-hop, cross over to sing hit gospel songs. Do you see a remedy in the near future and what do you think will help these musicians be honest with themselves and their ultimate purpose for delivering the Lord’s word? Soror Price: I think that the standard first has to be set inside the church. I’ll never make any excuses for anybody that does anything wrong, but if my example of Godly living is you because you tell me that you live this everyday and you’re a preacher, a minister or an evangelist, and I can clearly look at you and see that it’s in word only and you really don’t live it, then my attitude becomes “who are you to judge me?” I don’t want to misquote the Bible, but I do believe that judgment starts in the house of God. A lot of times people will take that and misconstrue it and think that that’s their free pass to judge everything and everybody and that’s not true. It starts with those who call themselves believers. We have to judge ourselves first and if you can find something in you that’s not right, then it’ll keep you from putting your mouth so fast on other people. I think that there has to be more love shown to people so that they will be willing to hear you. You can’t go to a homeless man who’s hungry and the whole time you’re feeding him, you’re berating him about how he ended up homeless in the first place. Our methods have to change. Being able to grow up in a preacher’s family has given me the opportunity to understand things from that side and while being a part of mainstream entertainment, I can talk about it from this side of it too. I’ve gone into churches where people didn’t know that I’m a preacher’s kid and saw the way they treated me. I know how people should be treated. I know what it feels like to be mistreated, misjudged, and to be labeled. It’s just not a good thing and if nothing else, people ought to get love from us and I’ve felt like that from the beginning of my career. Whether it was gospel or R&B, I wanted to make music that people can feel and felt did something for them after they heard a song. I always think about people like Marvin Gaye and his song “What’s Goin’ On?”. It had a wonderful groove, but when the song was over, you heard something too and I always wanted to make that kind of music. I call it the gospel of life. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: Because God has truly blessed you with the gifts of singing and speaking so articulately, have you ever considered acting or doing Broadway? Soror Price: I want to do Broadway so bad. That would be a triumphant return to New York. If we get the right opportunity, I’m gonna come stompin’ my way back to New York. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: What about modeling? Soror Price: Yes. We need somebody that looks like me on the runway. I fluctuate between a size 14 and an 18. I know what to do and how to do it. I’ll never let myself get to where I was before. I promote healthy living for men and women. A healthy body image is not trying to be what everybody else looks like, but we do need some positive full-figured role models who are healthy. Soror Passé-Rodriguez: In addition to working with your husband/manager and raising 2 children, what you do in your spare time? Soror Price: I don’t have much spare time, but I love to cook. I hate to talk about myself like this, but I cook like an old Southern woman. I’ve been cooking my whole life. Growing up and being in the house with just the girls and my mother working two and three jobs, I was cooking dinner for the family at 7 and making Thanksgiving dinner by the time I was 13. The only thing I love more than cooking is watching people eat my food. I get high off of watching people eat my food; where they get so stuffed that they can’t move. Be sure to visit Soror Price’s website at www.kellyprice.com to obtain information on “This Is Who I Am,” her books, and her photo gallery. Before you leave her page, show this Soror some love by dropping her a line and joining her fan club. Yes, she reads every single email that comes her way. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 17 You’re the Key to our Health (and more) Running households, companies, organizations and countries; serving as breadwinners, nurturers, confidants, and lovers. As if sistas didn’t have enough responsibilities, unfortunately, there is more. African-American men, your grandfathers, fathers, husbands, grandsons, sons, brothers, cousins, uncles, nephews, beaus, friends and all other males in between, are desperately in need of your help, quite frankly in saving our lives. It is now common knowledge that African-American males are the least healthy of all groups. With the rise of prostate cancer, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, HIV/AIDS and obesity, we are threatened with healthrelated issues even more. Yet, with all of this, African-American men still are the least likely of all humans to visit a physician. As educated women, you are well familiar with some of the reasoning: the distrust based on some of early experiments, the undeniable machismo associated with black males, the high level of uninsureds, you’ve heard them all. The fact remains, however, that we are dying in record numbers from illnesses and diseases that are preventable, treatable, and, in many cases, curable. Some would think 18 that this phenomenon is limited to undereducated and underprivileged Brothers; that is simply not true. The mystery as to why Black Men do not seek routine medical treatment runs across all ages, all incomes, and all education levels. In 2000, Kappa decided to make prostate cancer education its top health issue. After a chance meeting with famed actor and humanitarian, Harry Belafonte, himself a prostate cancer survivor, the fraternity was prepared to commit the resources necessary to make a meaningful difference in this area. The facts were overwhelming: •It is the second leading cause of death among AfricanAmerican men; approximately 6,100 were expected to die from it in that year alone. •African-American men have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the world. •African-American men die from it at a rate of almost 3 times that of Caucasian men. Yet, the most alarming fact was, with annual examinations and early detection, the dreaded disease was almost 100% curable. That is, if we had routine physicals. The sad fact is, by the time it is detected, it is usually too late. So with Mr. Belafonte on board as our national spokesperson and considerable funding from Anheuser-Busch, Inc., Kappa took to the road visiting more than a dozen cities across the country, providing education regarding prostate cancer. The plan was simple: spread the word via barbershops, pool halls, bars, and simply, neighborhood corners for men to join us at town hall meetings at area churches to “chat and chew” about the disease and how it can be prevented. We expected to gather 2000-2500 men per session as we rotated to targeted major cities across the country. Our first session produced about 500 men, the next 300, before we moved to the third location, we restrategized; our plan wasn’t working. Then it hit us, we needed to involve Sistagirls! So we called on our sorors and other women to help us get their men out to these invaluable gatherings. Mr. Belafonte went even further asking our sistas to “just say no” until their men said “yes.” At our next session there were nearly 2000 men in attendance and that trend continued throughout our travels. Once again, by finding it out the hard way, we realized we simply could not do it without our fierce and ferocious (when need be) Black Women. The reason for the black man’s dependency on our women may never truly be known, but the facts are clear: You’re the Key to our Health; You’re the Key to saving our lives. And so I offer this heartfelt appeal from a concerned brotha to the sorors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. You are our grandmothers, mothers, wives, grand daughters, daughters, sisters, cousins, nieces, boos, fiends and all other lovely black women in between, do what you do, what you always do, what you have done since 1922 … take care of your men. We wouldn’t have it any other way! In the end, it will be best for us all, and that, simply put, is “All Good!” Richard Lee Snow is the 8th, and current, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. As such, he is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a staff of thirteen (13) and an annual operating budget of 2+ million dollars. Snow is the only person to serve on both the North-American Interfraternity Council, Inc. and National Pan-Hallenic Council. He is the immediate past Chairman of the Board of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, Inc. and sits on the Boards of the Urban League of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau as well as the Advisory Boards of Washington (DC), Little Rock, and Milwaukee Conventions Bureaus. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 19 Regi on News NORTHEAST REGION YELLOW TEA ROSE NEWS Submitted By: Racquel Dozier, Northeast Region Epistoleus The Northeast Region started off the new Sorority Year running strong. Each chapter has worked diligently to get the Service train running with Love and True Sisterhood. As a region sorors have also worked to have fun at what they do. The Northeast Region has worked together in efficient and positive action to support one another and work towards the Power of Vision. The Northeast Region Syntaktes has traveled high and low to support the sorors of the Northeast Region. Syntaktes Blakeney traveled to the Alpha Alpha Sigma Chapter Annual Crab Feast. Here Sorors of Alpha Alpha Sigma and Syntaktes Blakeney met Kweisi Mfume. What a great time all had in Maryland at this fun occasion. Syntaktes Blakeney and Sorors of Iota Sigma and Epsilon Zeta Chapters welcomed R&B/ Gospel singer, Soror Kelly Price to Richmond, Virginia. Soror Price attended an event honoring the pastor of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, one of the Syntaktes Blakeney with Kwesi largest churches in Richmond, Mfume Alpha Alpha Sigma and shared her amazing Crab Fest testimony through the gift of song. Soror Price let all in attendance know that she is a proud Sorors of Iota Sigma Chapter Sigma Woman. Sorors from Iota Sigma, Kappa Sigma, Delta Nu and Epsilon Zeta Chapter with Sigma and Eta Nu Sigma along with Syntaktes Blakeney joined Syntaktes Blakeney & Soror Price in Richmond, Virginia Event together in NYC for a stomping good time with Soror Price. Supporting once again and serving as hostesses at Kelly’s Café right before Soror Price’s CD dropped. The crowd was stunned by the Royal Beauty of the Mighty Sigma Women. All who were present showed true grace and poise at the event. Kappa Sigma, Eta Nu Sigma, Delta Nu Sigma and all the undergraduates and affiliates of New York City, participated in the African American Day Parade in Harlem, NY. This parade is recognized as the largest Black parade in America and covers more than twenty-eight blocks from 111th street to 142nd street on Adam Clayton-Powell Boulevard. The event show-cases music, poli-tics, art, social con sciou sness, literature, history and more. Sorors were out in full force to represent the Royal Blue and Gold in a Mighty way. Sorors served as Hostesses at NYC Kelly’s Café Event 20 NYC Sorors at the African American Parade, Pictured with Past Regional Syntaktes Inez Vanable Regi on News Breast Cancer Awareness NE Region Sorors of the Northeast Region did not forget about service to our communities. Chapters across the region supported their local Making Strides Breast Cancer Walks. Walking for sorors, family and friends chapters walked for the cause in Sigma Stride. Members of Pi Alpha and Delta Nu Sigma Chapters raised $1200 when they participated in the Westchester County, NY Breast Cancer Walk. Members and affiliates of Iota Sigma, Tau, & Epsilon Zeta chapter raised over $500 when they participated in the Richmond, VA Breast Cancer Walk. Iota Alpha Sigma, Theta Phi Sigma and Gamma Nu Sigma Chapters walked together for the Breast Cancer Walk in Newark, NJ; Iota Alpha Sigma exceeded their original goal of $1112.22, and raised 2,000.22. Other chapters who participated in local walks include Delta Beta Sigma and Eta Iota Sigma Chapters. The Northeast Region is ready to continue in positive and efficient action using a Strategic Vision as a Gateway to Excellence. Join us for our events region wide. Find out more information about Northeast Region activities and accomplishments by visiting our website at http:// www.sgrhoneregion.org. Sorors walked all over the NE Region for Breast Cancer Research SOUTHWESTERN REGION NEWS Efficient and Effective Leadership Brings Positive Results Submitted by Shirley Hudson-Bell, Southwestern Region Epistoleus Excitement abounds in the realms of the Southwestern Region, as the Regional Syntaktes, Brenda S. Johnson worked efficiently and effectively bringing about positive results at the Executive Committee Meeting/Training. The meeting was held at the Hilton Hobby Airport Hotel in Houston, Texas. The Summer Executive Committee Meeting/Training was targeted for T.O.R.C.H. Trainers, Area Coordinators, and Regional Committee Chairpersons. Members of the Southwestern Region Leadership Team were in attendance at the meeting as well. This meeting helped to build and solidify the foundation that Sorors have to be productive and progressive members of the Sorority. The implant to be productive members was placed in the mind of each Soror from the individual workshops. The workshop highlights included Budget Forms, Responsibilities of Officers, Committee Chairman, and Area Coordinators, T.O.R.C.H. Certification, and Protocol. The facilitators were Brenda S. Johnson –Regional Syntaktes, Brenda Canty -Undergraduate Coordinator, Deborah Daniels- Regional Tamiochus, LaShonda Johnson- Regional Grammateus, Karen Y. WilliamsRegional Anti-Grammateus, and Janet Armand- Protocol Chairperson. Positive results were explicit at the Area Meetings. Seven area meetings were conducted as leadership workshops where time was spend in training. The area coordinators are Deidre Harris, Loretta Jernigan, Daphne DeBeau, Alta Heggins, Daisy Hall, Vivian Johnson, Shirley Roland, and Deneisha Johnson. The area meetings focused on the Syntaktes Update, T.O.R.C.H. Training, Finance, and Advisors Workshops. Philos interacted with one another in their workshops at the area meetings. At this time, Sorors and Philos fully utilized yet another opportunity to donate baby items to Project Reassurance. The Executive Committee Meeting/Training and the Area Workshops were very successful, effective, and productive. Attendance at each workshop could be seen in the number of sorors and philos that participated. Sorors and philos expressed how educational and informative each workshop was and that this experience will be placed in their “memory bank”. Accolades are given to the sophisticated ladies of the Southwestern Region. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 21 Plan Now for the 52nd International Boule Detroit, Michigan Summer 2008 22 Distinguished Honor Bestowing On Past Grand Basileus Evelyn H. Hood Among hundred of Sigma sorors and friends during the 2006 May Weekend at Clark Atlanta University, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s Past Grand Basileus Evelyn H. Hood, was honored by the Clark Atlanta University Alumni Association as its Wall of Fame Inductee. This prestigious community service award was presented at the Alumni Service Awards Luncheon. Past Grand Basileus Hood served as Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority from 1976-1980. It was for this national service that she was awarded a place on Clark Atlanta University Alumni Association’s Wall of Fame. During the program, on behalf of the Sigma Sisterhood, Soror Effie Turner eloquently read a resolution of praise and thanks from our own International Grand Basileus, Dr. Mynora J. Bryant. Dr. Bryant wrote of the total dedication of Soror Hood to the principles of Sigma Gamma Rho and the noteworthy accomplishments of her administration. In Soror Hood’s acceptance remarks she described her life as a journey centered around making a positive difference in the world. She thanked especially her husband, family, sorors, and friends for their encouragement as she traveled toward her goals. Today, we her Sigma Sisters acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments made during her tenure and celebrate with her the place of honor awarded her on the Clark Atlanta University Wall of Fame. Her portrait hangs in the Carl and Mary Ware Academic Center located on the campus of ClarkAtlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia. Written by: Soror Annette Hampton- Eta Sigma Chapter & Soror Anita Bartlett Spann- Upsilon Sigma Chapter Expanding Our Horizons … Sigma Meets Seoul Kappa Theta Sigma Chartered in Korea On January 6, 2007, the Kappa Theta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc was established in Seoul, South Korea. Presiding over the chartering ceremony was the Grand Basileus Dr. Mynora J. Bryant, lst Grand AntiBasileus Joann Loveless, Executive Director Jennifer Jones, and the Northeast Region Syntaktes Felicia Blakeney. The founding Sorors are Basileus Mattii Minor of Seoul, Korea, Anti- Basileus Hazel Johnson of Seoul Korea, Anti- Grammateus Djuna Underwood of Tokyo, Japan, Parliamentarian Marlischa Thompson of Osan, Korea and Epistoleus Rosalind Jones of Daegu, Korea. Currently Soror Courtney Jenkins, who is working in Seoul, Korea, will become the first to transfer into the chapter upon completion of her studies. The newly established chapter will come under the auspices of the Northeast Region. The chartering event was followed by a reception and attended by all Greek Organizations in the area. Submitted by Soror Rosalind Jones (Front L-R Chapter Basileus Mattii Minor, Grand Basileus Dr. Mynora J. Bryant, 1st Grand Anti-Basileus Joann Loveless, Northeastern Regional Syntaktes Felicia Blakeney Rear L-R Chapter members Soror Rosalind Jones, Soror Djuna Underwood, Soror Hazel Johnson, and Executive Director Jennifer Jones) (Not pictured is Chapter charter member Marlischa Thompson) Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 23 Greeting Sorors, Message from the International Second Grand Anti-Basileus It is my honor to congratulate you on another successful sorority year of great community service and fundraising. Like always we know how to get DOWN TO BUSINESS! I hope you have chosen to use your H.E.A.R.T. through honor, education, action, representation, and training. Remember if we adhere to these five values then we will continue to further bring the HEARTS of the undergraduates together because we “are as one.” To further our aim of Greater Service, Greater Progress in community service, I would like to share with you some of my favorite community service projects and fundraisers. Please bring these ideas back to your chapters, for these could be great options for your chapter to succeed in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Community Service - Big Brother, Big Sisters: Mentor youths around your area. - Feed the Homeless: Put together sack lunches. - Hygiene Kits for the Homeless: Put together bags of toothpaste, toothbrushes, travel size hygiene products. You could also request donations for these products from different organizations or stores. -Children’s Hospitals: Possibly reading to the children or helping with their community services. Soror Tiana Trimble - Food Banks: Help put together groceries for families in need. - National/ Local Walks and Marathons: Help clean, run booths/ check-in, or pass water out to the participants. Fundraisers - Collect Change at your campus: A “Change Drive,” for local, regional, or national community services. - Entry fee events: Parties, pageants, etc.. - Partnering with local restaurants: If you help advertise and bring in customers to a particular restaurant they will give a percentage of what they make during a given time frame. - Car Wash: Clean cars for donations. Make sure you join [email protected] so that your chapter can share events, community service projects, and fundraisers that have proven successful. Again, thank you all for your hard work. In Sigma, With all of my H.E.A.R.T! 24 Conference Watch Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Regional Conferences Central Regional Conference June 8-10, 2007 Kansas City, Missouri Southeast Regional Conference June 15-17, 2007 Jackson, Mississippi *Please note the board meetings and special committee meetings may be held the Thursday prior to conference dates SAVE THE DATE Sorors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and Fraters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Joint Founders’ Day Celebration November 2007 More details to come … NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL 64th Biennial National Convention October 16-21, 2007 Hyatt Regency, Deaborn, Michigan Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 25 f Outstanding Undergraduate Sigma Soror Alexandria Crumble Since the 2005 reactivation of Alpha Chapter, reintroducing Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. to the campus community has faced much opposition. Now the sole member of Alpha Chapter, Soror Alexandria Crumble continues to strive for Sigma in her heart and on her campus, to uphold the foundational principles of the sorority, and to exhibit the excellence that the founders so humbly exuded. A 5th Year Professional Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate, she has held several executive positions, served in several leadership roles on campus, and made countless sacrifices to help ensure the viability and longevity of Alpha Chapter. Submitted by: Soror Shurika Perry, Advisor Soror Alexandria Crumble: An Accomplished Soror •Black Student Union~5th Year, Past Executive Member •Butler University Gender Commission, Campus Climate Sub-committee~2nd Term •Butler University’s Voices of Deliverance Gospel Choir, President~3rd Term •Coca-Cola Foundation Scholar •Dr. John Morton Finney Scholar • Lilly Endowment Scholar •Mattie Rice Coney Scholar •National Society of Collegiate Scholars •NFL/Sargent Jeanette L. Winters Scholar, •Phi Eta Sigma Leadership Fraternity f 26 •R. Efroymson Scholar •Ralph M Reahard Scholar •Urban League Scholar •Top 10 Outstanding Woman~2nd Year •Reaffirming Ethnic Awareness and Community Harmony, Past President •Student Government Association. Former VP of Diversity •University Terrace Apartments~Residence Life, Staff Assistant~4th Year, Past Resident Assistant •Volunteer Center, Web Developer~2nd Term Undergraduate Pulse Alpha Phi Howard University, Washington, DC Exemplifying Success The lovely ladies of Alpha Phi began the year with welcoming new students to the university at the freshman move-in. With the high vibe of school spirit, music, a table with sorors greeting new students with smiles and cool refreshments, the day was a success. Many events have been implemented such as Movie Night. A book club has been started in which students were able to discuss the new genre of urban books and selected a book to read and discuss at the next book club meeting. Alpha Phi was able to hold an “Indiana Luv” hospitalit y suite during Homecoming to welcome all sorors and Greeks to the university. The step team dazzled the audience that week stepping in 1950’s Rhoyal Blu and Antique Gold poodle skirts which placed the team in second Alpha Phi members in their 1950s step place at a step show at Frostburg University. show gear Nonetheless, the chapter is celebrated Founders’ Week, entitled 84 years of amiable essence with programs geared to enrich the minds and the souls of individuals. Some of the programs are “RhOad to Graduate School”, “RHOlax with Yoga”, and “Sigma Euphoria” which focused on nutrition. Alpha Phi chapter has exceeded since 1939 and will continue to uphold the legacy of the chapter and the organization. A lpha Phi Chapter has plot on Howard University’s yard decked in Blu and yellow. Every first Friday of the month sorors relax, chant, and step around the plot while sporting paraphernalia and relaxing with fellow members of the NPHC. Contact: Soror Rashida Walters, Anti-Basileus Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 27 Undergraduate Pulse Epsilon Nu San Antonio, Texas Welcomes New Members The Epsilon Nu chapter welcomes two new members into Sigma sisterhood, Janice Gaiter and Suh Hughart. These ladies are excited and ready to bring their dedication and Sigma spirit into the chapter. The chapter has had the experience of attending their first Southwest Regional Conference in Austin, Texas and Boule in Dallas, Texas during this past summer to gain valuable knowledge about the different business operations of the sorority on a regional and national level. The ladies are looking forward to establishing Sigma presence throughout the San Antonio community and college campuses. Contact: Monica Pete, Advisor Epsilon Zeta Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Service in Sisterhood The Epsilon Zeta chapter has had an exciting semester, beginning with taking second place in Virginia Commonwealth University’s block step show. Epsilon Zeta continues to show that we truly are “The Last Created, Best Designed.” The ladies of Epsilon Zeta, in the true spirit of Greater Service, Greater Progress, have put on many successful programs including their first Greek Unity Cookout, which was designed to unite the Greek community, and a program tastefully called Sex for Chocolate, which was designed to educate college students on the issues surrounding sex education in a way that they could have fun and attain knowledge simultaneously. These ladies have also been involved in several ventures to enhance the Richmond community from volunteering for Habitat for Humanity at the Central Virginia Food Bank to helping the freshman move onto campus. In celebrating Founders’ week, Epsilon Zeta celebrated the 84th anniversary of Sigma Gamma Rho by having church service with their very own charter member, Soror Lynda D. Moore. Epsilon Zeta also sponsored a program called Education 101: Back to the Basics which is geared towards helping college students build on the fundamentals of college life such as stress management, time management, the cost of skipping class and college cooking. The women of Epsilon Zeta continue to embody all that Sigma women are and should be. Contact: Soror Danielle McManus, Epistoleus 28 Undergraduate Pulse Eta Upsilon Rutgers University, Brunswick, New Jersey Electrifying Eta Upsilon Five dynamic young women were born into Sigma by way of the Electrifying Eta Upsilon Chapter. These five young women are Kanika Roberts, Afua Antwi, Lauren Young, Nadege Joseph, and Ashley Green. Sorors Roberts, Joseph, and Green are legacies and Soror Antwi is a former Delta Kappa Sigma Rhoer. Since being inducted into the sisterhood, the ladies have achieved a cumulative chapter GPA of 3.0. Twice a month the chapter volunteers at the local food bank. The ladies of Eta Upsilon continuously seek to provide service through various projects to Rutgers University and the surrounding community. The chapter advisor is Nikkol Green and the sponsoring graduate chapter is Delta Kappa Sigma of Plainfield, New Jersey. Contact: Noah Joseph Gamma Epsilon Kent State University, Kent, Ohio The Alumni Soror Reunion Alumni sorors from Gamma Epsilon Chapter at Kent State University (KSU) reunited during Homecoming 2006. Alumni sorors attended and supported the Black Alumni event on Saturday October 14 in Kent, Ohio. The Black Alumni event was held at the 11th Frame / Kent Lanes on South Water Street. This event provided alumni sorors the opportunity for some fun, relaxation, and catching up with old friends Contact: Nicolette Warren-White Gamma Iota Paul Quinn College, Dallas, Texas Two Is Company, Threes A Crowd The Glamorous Gamma Iota chapter wanted to make sure the students at Paul Quinn College were not “dum-dums”. Soror Kamisha Knight-Johnson and Chenae Washington handed out dum-dums and lifesavers candy as they talked to the students about the “Buckle Up America” campaign. The theme for the program was “Don’t be a Dum-Dum, Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 29 Undergraduate Pulse Be a Life Saver – BUCKLE UP!” Soror Knight-Johnson represented the NPHC-Paul Quinn Council at the NPHC Southwest Regional Conference in Baton Rouge, LA. She was one of the two delegates from her school and served on the elections committee. The hardest working undergraduate in the Fallas area will have etiquette seminars, fundraisers, and a make-up workshop during Founders’ Week. They are striving to help boost the self-esteem of the ladies on campus and prepare the peers for life after graduation. Gamma Mu The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland Sigma at its Best The Glamorous Ladies of the Gamma Mu have represented the sorority in many ways during this school semester. They began the school year by helping students at The Johns Hopkins University move back into their dorms. They were the only NPHC organization to signup to help with the move-in process. Soror Fornati Bedell and Soror Darcella Bland participated in the Walk for Diabetes in Baltimore, Maryland. In addition, Soror Darcella Bland participated in the BELIEVE Project at the College of Notre Dame of Maryland by helping to paint bathrooms, hallways, and stairwells at Lake Clifton-Eastern High School. They also hosted a party to kick off the school year at The Johns Hopkins University, which was a great success. To celebrate eighty-four years of excellence, the Gamma Mu hosted various events for Sigma Gamma Rho Founder’s Week. It all began when they participated in a tribute to the beautiful founders at a celebration given by Alpha Alpha Sigma chapter in Baltimore, Maryland. They hosted a “Sigma Treat Giveaway” where they gave out delicious sweets and information on influential sorors of Sigma Gamma Rho. They also held an HIV/ AIDS awareness forum that was open to the surrounding college community to discuss the global AIDS crisis. They represented Sigma Gamma Rho by hosting the Second Annual Multicultural Greek Block Show at The Johns Hopkins University. Also, the members of the Gamma Mu at The Johns Hopkins University have been involved in the protest of a racist themed Halloween party entitled “Halloween in the Hood”. The Black Student Union (BSU) has decided to take action against this event and other incidents of racism that have happened on campus. Soror Morgan Fletcher is a member of the Executive Board for the BSU and the Gamma Mu chapter has been in full support of her and the efforts of the BSU. Contact: Morgan Fletcher 30 Undergraduate Pulse Gamma Zeta Indianapolis, Indiana Metro Chapter Upholding Sigma The Sigma women of Gamma Zeta are exemplifying progress in sisterhood, scholarship and service on their campus, in addition to their community. Gamma Zeta started the year with events that show the exuberant side of a Sigma woman. These ladies hosted such events as a Bowling Night and a Carwash, which rose over $130 for the chapter. Gamma Zeta also takes pride in giving back to their community. For instance, Gamma Zeta has been involved in several community service initiatives such as Covering for Kids, the Julian Center, and the Walk for Diabetes. The ladies provided helping hands wherever they were needed. Gamma Zeta also participated in other various events, including a university hosted Involvement Fair, Undergraduate Summit hosted by Alpha Sigma Chapter, Black Greek 101 hosted by the University of Indianapolis, and the Area VII Meeting in Frankfort, KY. Gamma Zeta had its Illustrious Founders’ Week. The week consisted of a Movie Night, Friday Fun Night, Community Service at the Coburn Place and a Sorors Only Day with our Graduate Chapter Alpha Sigma. The chapter also hosted a Banking Investment Seminar, a Night Out with Gamma Zeta, and an Adopt-a-Family Christmas collection. The week was a success and could not have happened without the women who started it all. In addition to Founders’ Week, Gamma Zeta helped their campus and community by participating in the “Jam the Jaguars Bus Event,” here the ladies helped load and unload canned goods to give to the unfortunate. Gamma Zeta will continue to uphold Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service. Soror Endia Scalan, Epistoleus Lambda Tau Stony Brook University, Stonybrook, New York The Joy of Originality - Lambda Tau wins StRHOlling Competition On the campus of Stonybrook, Delta Sigma Theta challenged all Greek lettered organizations to compete in a stroll competition. This competition featured two rounds and two first place prizes (first place fraternity and first place sorority). The sophisticated sorors at Lambda Tau “rhose” to the occasion. In round one, Lambda Tau averaged 10 points above their competition and eliminated a local sorority with the infamous “table top” stroll. In round two, SoRHOrs brought the drama. With a quick reworking of their rhoyal blue and gold outfits, sorors pinned up their hair and got ready for war. Sorors strolled to a Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 31 Undergraduate Pulse mix of reggae, hip hop and R & B and figuratively slaughtered the competition. The judges deliberated and it was a unanimous decision that the Strolling Crown belonged to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. Lambda Tau Chapter. Contact: Shola Akintobi Area IV Coordinator Nu Eta University of Nevada, Las Vegas HBCU Homecoming Experience 2006 Last year over 400 students along with their families, faculty, and staff participated in the 1st HBCU Homecoming Experience celebration. This event initially began as a mere concept when members of the Nu Eta Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated decided they wanted more out of their homecoming experience. They envisioned a homecoming where the events showcased included those found at the homecoming events of black college and universities such as Howard, and Grambling. The HBCU Homecoming Experience was patterned after the traditional homecoming experiences found at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Last year’s events included the Mr. & Miss HBCU Homecoming Pageant and Fashion Show, Soul Food Café, and the Black Arts & Goods Market. The success of these events spread quickly throughout the community and has elicited much anticipation from past participants as well as newcomers. This year’s HBCU Homecoming Experience focused on its signature events: the Mr. & Miss Pageant and Fashion Show and the Sigma Soul Kitchen. The Mr. & Miss Pageant and Fashion Show featured clothing by local vendors, as well as models from the UNLV community. The Sigma Soul Kitchen featured an awa rds ceremony that honored Nu Eta Sorors past and present (l to r): Ramona businesses and organizations who Sanders, Zarinah Washington, Quortni Scott, Denesha Stamps, Shaneka Giscombe, Carmesha have contributed to the success of its events. Thompson, and Kimberly Evans, Nu Eta advisor Contact: Soror Shaneka Giscombe Epistoleus 32 Undergraduate Pulse Omicron Rho California State University, Dominguez Hills, Carson, California Continuing the Legacy “Sigma Gamma who?” is no longer a question on the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills. The Omicron Rho chapter is RHOllin out the RHOyal blue carpet for community service, fundraising and neos. Omicron Rho welcomed Sabrina Escobedo and Raina Neal into the sisterhood. The admirable ladies of Omicron Rho kicked off Founders’ Week with two fundraisers. Their “Sigma Sweets” bake sale satisfied the sweet tooth of campus students before, in between and after classes. The undergrads had plenty of support from their advising chapter Theta Epsilon Sigma, fellow Greeks and friends at their second fundraiser “Shakey’s Night.” Celebrations continued with a Skate Night at World On Wheels in Los Angeles in conjunction with 100 Black Men. Sorors skated to old and new school jams. The week ended with a successful informational with bountiful inquiries and compliments from young ladies interested in the RHOyal blue and gold. Founders’ weekend included a bluetiful luncheon in collaboration with the Joint Council, where sorors rededicated themselves to Sigma. Founders’ Week was a fabulous celebration filled with fellowship, dedication and remembrance. Omicron Rho isn’t finished yet, as the ladies gear up to serve their fellow students during finals week by offering a study night, Coffee Breaks, and study kits. Contact: Briahna Baker Pi Epsilon University of Louisiana, Lafayette The Universit y of Louisiana at La fayet te’s Pi Epsi lon Chapter welcomed six new members – Lacey Anglin, Isa’ Martinez, Toni Semien, Sarhadia Luxeus, Christina Bashful, and Kolby Robinson. They were welcomed into Sigma by Basileus L ad av i a S avoie, A nt i-B a si leu s Bernadette Marks, and members of the advising chapter, Epsilon Alpha Sigma. Through long hours of hard work and Pi Epsilon Inducts New Members Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 33 Undergraduate Pulse endurance and the help of Soror Daphne DeBeau and Epsilon Alpha Sigma Chapter, Sorors Brenda Sloan Johnson, Brenda Canty and LaShonda Johnson, the chapter had a very successful year. With eight active members, Pi Epsilon kicked off Founders’ Weekend with participation in the annual Heart Walk, church service and a dinner celebration in Opelousas, Louisiana hosted by Epsilon Alpha Sigma Chapter. The chapter implemented the Sis Program that helps college females who are in college and having difficulties in academic areas. This program is geared towards the improvement of academics in African American women. The chapter is looking forward to planning and implementing future events in the Southwest Region. Contact: Ladavia Savoie, Basileus Tau Chapter Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia One Soul Soror Working Hard in the Name of Sigma Tau Chapter was chartered on the campus of Virginia Union University on Tuesday, January 29, 1929. As the oldest chapter in the Northeast, Tau was brought back to life on April 28, 2006 with the induction of Soror Tinia R. Sealey. Since the beginning of the school year, Soror Sealey has been very hard at work and with only ONE current member, it has been challenging but productive. Soror Sealey revamped the sorority plot and provided snacks and water to those registering for classes. Tau Chapter completed a meet and greet and participated in the breast cancer walk along with its alumnae chapter, Iota Sigma, and contributed to the $500 that was raised. In conjunction with Iota Sigma Chapter, Soror Sealey successfully worked with and held the annual Sigma Spooktacular, a safe trick-or-treating alternative for the community. Founders’ Day was celebrated as Soror Sealey received the Iota Sigma Undergraduate Pulse Certificate for outstanding works. Tau Chapter had an interactive session on “Abolish the “N” word. Soror Sealey was also a major participant at the Eastern Regional NPHC conference serving as a voting delegate for the NPHC of Virginia Union University. Soror Sealey has done all of this while still upholding a strong GPA, which maintains her place on the Dean’s List. As Soror Sealey prepares for graduation, she continues to keep the campus in the palm of her hand through scholarship and service. For Soror Sealey, running a one-woman show has had its ups and downs of course, and no one can do it alone. Behind the scenes, Iota Sigma, surrounding undergraduate chapters and advisors has helped with everything. A special thanks goes to Iota Sigma for keeping Tau Chapter in line and being true sorors. Visit the Tau chapter website at http://www.angelfire.com/va3/tau/ for more information on chapter events. Contact: Soror Tinia Sealey, Basileus & Soror Tameka Winston (Co-Advisor) 34 Undergraduate Pulse Theta Lambda University of Virginia, Charlottesville Spring into Sigma The members of Sigma Gamma Rho are known for creating programs that help communities both locally and nationally. Theta Lambda has participated in numerous events and programs that have benefited the communities of the University of Virginia and Charlottesville. These events and programs include the national programs of Sigma Gamma Rho and newly created events by Theta Lambda. Before giving thanks to anyone, God is first and foremost in all that is done. Theta Lambda and Alpha Iota Omega Christian Fraternity, Inc. held a Day of Praise in which the university community was invited to come and spend an evening celebrating in the Lord. The ladies then hosted a Greek Unity Luncheon, inviting all of UVA’s NPHC Greeks out for some fellowship and fun to show that brotherhood and sisterhood come in all colors. Theta Lambda partnered with EMC Talent Group to host “Battlegrounds”, UVA’s first hip-hop dance and freestyle rap competition. The event was raved as a huge success with performances “so huge they could hardly be contained within the walls of the building” Theta Lambda took Operation BigBookBag to a whole new level. It was not your average collection of school supplies; it was a 12 hour lock-in at Clemons Library from 8pm-8am. The ladies devoted their entire night to collect school supplies for local children. This was more than a collection of school supplies; it was a collection of time, effort, and cooperation of the University of Virginia and the Charlottesville community at large. The next day the school supplies were donated to a local community center. The 1st Sigma Send-off was held for the graduating members of Theta Lambda, Ebony McCracken, Ericka McCracken, Nakita Johnson, Rasheda Bowman, and Sheronica Barcliff. A closed program was to pay tribute to the good times, the funniest moments, and the heart-felt emotions shared with the graduating members. It was a time of reflection while looking towards the future. All of the graduating members will be dearly missed but their devotion and creativity will never be forgotten as members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Contact: Soror Justina Foggie Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 35 Pride Cometh Before the Fall Author Anonymous We walk with our heads held high And our call can be heard afar But when they tear apart the pieces Are we really who we say we are? We call each other Sorors Saying you will always have my back But when it comes to my process Can I really trust you with that? We pride ourselves on our quality of sisterhood All for one, one for all But beware of the traditional expectations Because PRIDE COMETH BEFORE THE FALL. 36 Alpha Mu Sigma Winston Salem, North Carolina Staying Close to the Community Alpha Mu Sigma has been busy promoting “Greater Service, Greater Progress” in the Winston Salem community. Alpha Mu Sigma sponsored its 5th Annual E. Jerry Jones Spring Festival Golf Tournament. The tournament raises scholarship funds for deserving high school students. This year’s scholarship recipient was Carmen Stackhouse, a senior at Glenn High School. Additionally, several ladies participated in the 2006 Winston Salem State University Homecoming Step Show. Sadio-Tene Lloyd and Dakisha PayneWilliams of Alpha Mu Sigma and Margaletta Smith of Delta Sigma Sigma along with some of the chapter’s children performed an outstanding Wizard of Ozthemed show. This was Sigma Gamma Rho’s first “repRHOsentation” in a WSSU step show in four years. Alpha Mu Sigma participated in a Project Homestead’s Women’s Build project. On this day, several ladies helped to physically build a home for an anxiously waiting family. The chapter would also like to take a moment to recognize Soror Earline Sutton for being the recipient of the 2006 Alpha Mu Sigma Alumnae Chapter Soror of the Year Award. This award was presented to her at the chapters Founders’ Day banquet. She has been called diligent, faithful, patient, motherly, kind, and loving. Alpha Mu Sigma is certainly proud to have such an illustrious woman as a dedicated member. Finally, Alpha Mu Sigma welcomes its three newest members: Talia Scott, Jonee’ Taylor, and Shantelle Williams. These ladies have proven that they are worthy to be called by that great name, Sigma, and will certainly make her proud. Contact: Candace Gorham, Epistoleus Alpha Omicron Sigma Dallas, Texas Doing AMAZING things in Dallas The ladies of the Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter are doing amazing things in Dallas. Alpha Omicron Sigma has actively contributed to community service through The American Care Foundation with the Back to School Celebration. They worked with the American Care Foundation to educate children on obstacles they have to face by being children in today’s society. Alpha Omicron Sigma also supported the Arlington Alumnae Chapter, Zeta Delta Sigma, in a Health/Career Fair. The ladies were involved in a Greek Forum held on the campus of Southern Methodist University. The sorors used their creative strengths in an AIDS Arms for Life walk in Uptown Dallas. Did you know that every 21 seconds someone is diagnosed with diabetes? Alpha Omicron Sigma does, and the ladies were active in the American Diabetes Association’s premier fund-raising event, America’s Walk for Diabetes. The sorors were also active in both philo and rhoer activities. Alpha Omicron Sigma, taking a breath after hosting this past Boule, continue to have bonding events that build sisterhood within the chapter. The sorors of the Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter continue to be an example of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter members Beta Epsilon Sigma Columbia, South Carolina Beta Epsilon Sigma started the year strong. Beta Epsilon Sigma had their annual rededication ceremony. The members talked about when they joined Sigma, what brought them to Sigma in the first place and what they have learned from Sigma. It was a great reminder. BES also participated in the South Carolina First Ladies Walk for Breast Cancer. It was an invigorating morning that brought the Columbia community together for a worthy cause. BES also Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 37 sponsored an October Fest for the community. The undergrads, Beta Epsilon, Zeta Theta, Iota Eta and BES had games for the youth and prizes and food. The philos sold fried fish plates. BES celebrated Founders’ Day with an annual brunch. Soror Liza Tucker was awarded Sigma of the Year. Asia Casey was awarded Rhoer of the Year and Deloise Jones was awarded Philo of the Year. Contact: Deneitra V. McElrath, Historian Beta Lambda Sigma Raleigh, NC Celebrating 57 Years of Excellence The ladies of Beta Lambda Sigma have kept quite busy this past sorority year. The chapter attended its Area III meeting, participated in Grandparent’s Day, and the George Colburn Walk-A-Thon. They also supported Nu, one of its sponsored undergraduate chapters, in their Annual Homecoming Greek Campus Cookout and the chapter joined forces with Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF) for the Walk to Cure Diabetes. The JDRF’s Walk to Cure Diabetes is family-friendly walk this is held at Nortel in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. The Raleigh Alumnae Chapter was one of the 500,000 people at JDRF’s 200 Walk sites nationwide this year who made a difference in the lives of people with Type 1 diabetes. The Raleigh alumnae sorors and friends had a great time enjoying the entertainment, food, and fun. The event provided the opportunity for people to come together in a healthy activity for a worthy cause, and, most importantly, Beta Lambda Sigma was a part of the cure by raising money to help find a cure for diabetes. The chapter celebrated the sorority’s 84th Founders’ Day at the Garner Road YMCA. The celebration included a tribute to our seven founders and the honoring of two sorority members for their outstanding work in the community and dedication to the sorority. The honors awarded at the 84th Founders’ Day celebration included the Yellow Tea Rose Award and the Golden Cup Award. Effie Saunders was honored with the Golden Cup Award and Virginia Wall with the Yellow Tea Rose Award. Saunders, an educator in the Wake County Public School system has been 38 a member of the sorority for more than 30 years and was honored for her professional achievements and dedication to the sorority. Wall, a retired educator in the Wake County Public School system, was honored for her dedication and outstanding work to the community at large. Beta Lambda Sigma Chapter continues to support the Glory to Glory Ministry in Raleigh, NC. The ministry is a place where HIV positive women are housed. The chapter donates supplies on a monthly basis to help sustain the house and visits the house monthly. For information about Beta Lambda Sigma chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. or its events, please visit them on the web at http://www.geocitites.com/raleighsgrho. Contact: Rachel Morris, Basileus Beta Pi Sigma Durham, North Carolina Establishing a Bond through Service The Beta Pi Sigma chapter hosted its annual Operation Big Book Bag service event with The Good Samaritan Inn. The Good Samaritan is a shelter for homeless women and children located in Durham, North Carolina. The two organizations thoroughly enjoyed the experience and will be collaborating for future service projects in the Durham community. The ladies of Beta Pi Sigma truly believe that with “Greater Service” there can be “Greater Progress”. Getting Back to the Roots of Sisterhood Beta Pi Sigma Chapter The ladies of Beta Pi Sigma hosted their annual Area III meeting. The meeting was held on the campus of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The chapter thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to plan, host, and facilitate different aspects of the meeting. It was a great opportunity for the chapter to give back to the sorority and bond with their great sisterhood. Ronetta Walker, Public Relations Director Delta Kappa Sigma Plainfield, New Jersey Sigma News chapter. Delta Kappa Sigma continues to make strides in serving the community. The c ha p t e r c o nduc te d Operation Big Book Bag and donated book bags filled with school supplies to Women Aware, a local battered women’s shelter. The chapter also participated in the Walk for Autism. For the past few years the chapter has walked for “Sydney’s Dream Team” and made an additional donation to Autism research. Delta Kappa Sigma also participated in collecting coats for Central New Jersey’s NPHC Coat Drive. Over 300 coats were collected and donated to Goodwill. Contact: Noah Joseph Delta Psi Sigma Seattle, Washington Delta Kappa Sigma Chapter inducted its newest member, Soror Ajaiah Roulette. Soror Roulette is a recent graduate of Rutgers University – New Brunswick, College of Engineering. Ajaiah was first drawn to Sigma as an undergrad and continued in her pursuit of Sigma upon graduation. She has much talent and creativity and her contributions to the chapter and the sorority will hopefully be great. Delta Kappa Sigma has also reactivated two sorors. Soror Cynthia Browning-Smalls and Soror Tracey Edwards, both by way of Eta Upsilon Chapter - Rutgers University, bring a revived spirit and dedication to the Working and Playing Hard in Seattle It has been a wonderfully busy season for the ladies of Delta Psi Sigma in Seattle. The ladies participated and co-sponsored the Rally for Hope, a citywide event celebrating young people and Christian music of all kinds. The day started off rainy, but the clouds cleared once the music started and a good time was had by all. The ladies held a family barbeque with members of Omicron Zeta (University of Washington). Sorors’ families and friends were also on hand to enjoy each other’s company and food. Interested young ladies for both the undergrad and grad chapters were invited to view what true sisterhood looks like. In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness, members of Delta Psi Sigma and Omicron Zeta participated in the Annual Breast Cancer Walk. The rain did not stop these sorors from fulfilling their pledge to walk and raise awareness. Finally, Delta Psi Sigma hosted the Pacific Northwest Area meeting. Sorors from all over the area came out to get updates on the sorority business, reconnect and fellowship Thanks to Syntakes Nelson and UCC Franklin for coming to the Pacific Northwest. Contact: Arizona Proctor Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 39 Delta Sigma Chicago, Illinois Starting the Year Anew, Bonding with Sorors Delta Sigma started the year with a weekend filled with fun, education and training at the chapter retreat. On Friday, chapter members enjoyed an evening of food, games and fun. They participated in a pajama party, sang songs, and shared stories to update sorors on their summer. Saturday included a full day of workshops that were designed to help members become more acquainted with sorority protocol and to help build unity within the chapter. Workshops on the agenda included: “True Colors-Team Building; Valuing Differences; Creating Unity,” “Recruiting a Sigma Woman-What is the Sigma Image?,” “Protocol: What is it? – How does it affect me?,” “Conflict Resolution-Is it Good or Bad?,” “Preparing for Leadership-Tips for Members,” “Chapter Communication-How can I stay informed,” and “Parliamentary Procedure-Having Your Say.” To start the sorority year in Chicago, chapter members participated in a civic activity. Delta Sigma represented with an abundance of blue and gold at The 23rd Annual Chicago United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Walk, Run, Bike, and Skate –a-thon. Sorors that came out bright and early to set up the tent for this event included Kirsten Alley, Civic Chairperson; Bonita Herring, Basileus; and Michelle Neal, Parliamentarian. Members of the chapter walked the distance to raise money for the organization whose motto is “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” The chapter’s participation in this event is an effort to continue the vision of our Founders-a focus on education, service and progress. Contact: Jameelah Morgan, Epistoleus Epsilon Lambda Sigma Cincinnati, Ohio Sigma’s Torch Shines Throughout Cincinnati Sorors of Epsilon Lambda Sigma kicked off the year cruising the Ohio River for a good cause. Epsilon Lambda Sigma, along with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., hosted “The Midnight Voyage” at B& B Riverboats in nearby Newport, Kentucky. A portion of the event’s proceeds benefit Operation Big Bookbag and other area youth programs. Of the 216 guests in 40 attendance, 124 were sorors. September marked the third year for Epsilon Lambda Sigma and the Cincinnati African American Firefighters (CAFA) Operation Big Book Bag collaboration to benefit Parham Elementary School and the Families Forward program. Items such as book bags, notebooks, pencils and pens were handdelivered to the school to children eagerly waiting to use them. Congratulations goes out to the Cincinnati Grad Step Team as they pummeled their competition, taking 1st place in step shows at the University of Cincinnati and Wilberforce University and 2nd place at Central State University. They collected over $2,000 in prize money in a week’s time and represented Sigma well in their tribute to the Founders. November not only marked 84 years of “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” but the E. Kathleen Cooke Unsung Heroine Scholarship Luncheon as well. The weekend started with a Meet and Greet and ended with a rededication ceremony on the evening of November 11. This annual tribute recognized and honored 8 area women and their commitment to serving the people of Greater Cincinnati, upholding our beloved motto “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Soror Loveless was the speaker of the day and the event was supported by sorors throughout Ohio and Kentucky. Soror Mother Love also participated in the celebration. Sorors also supported undergraduate chapters Nu Gamma and Pi Upsilon in their honoring of Founders’ Day. Contact: Charmaine J. Davis, Epistoleus Eta Iota Sigma Chevy Chase, Maryland Eta Iota Sigma Elects Its Youngest Basileus If you are not acquainted with Soror Natalie Bennett, “Get Ready”, as this Sigma is soaring upward. At age 26, Natalie is the youngest soror to serve as basileus to Eta Iota Sigma Alumnae Chapter. (1966) and current member of Iota Sigma. During her teens, Natalie was a member of the Rhoer Club, was named Miss Northeast Region Rhoer, and was a Sigma debutante. At the 1996 Boule, she won 1st runner up in the International Rhoer Pageant. Presently, Natalie is pursuing a Masters in Management at the University of Maryland. She is employed as the Administrative Coordinator in the Office of Development and Communications for the DC College Access Program, a non-profit organization that assists District of Columbia public high school students to enroll and graduate from college. Contact: Robin Goudy, Epistoleus Eta Nu Sigma Soror Natalie Bennett with mother and soror, Glorious Bennett. Since Natalie’s induction as a Mu Omega undergraduate at George Mason University, Virginia in 1999, she has served as tamiochus, anti-basileus and basileus. In 2002, Natalie received her degree in Integrative Studies. He later transferred to the Eta Iota Sigma graduate chapter where she served as the 1st AntiBasileus and Undergraduate Advisor under the leadership of the former basileus, Deborah Walsh. Natalie’s vision for the chapter focuses on membership development, community relations and promoting Sigma. She serves as the basileus to the International Grand Basileus, Dr. Mynora J. Bryant and the Northeast Region Syntaktes, Felicia Blakeney. If you are wondering how this accomplished soror got her start, she is a Sigma legacy. Natalie is the daughter of Willie and Glorious Bennett. Soror Glorious Bennett is a former member of Tau Chapter Brooklyn & Queens, New York With the start of the sorority year, Eta Nu Sigma assisted the Brooklyn and Queens communities of New York via Operation Big Book Bag. Eta Nu Sigma Chapter partnered with Safe Horizon, an organization that assists women and families of domestic violence, to donate over 40 filled book bags to the children of three of their shelters. The sorors of Eta Nu Sigma began each session by discussing the history of Sigma Gamma Rho as well as the significance of Operation Big Book Bag. Founders’ Day would not have been complete without a party to celebrate Sigma Gamma Rho’s 84 years of Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service. Working with area undergraduate and graduate chapters, the theme, “The Legacy: 84 Years of Bringing Sexy Back”, could not have rung truer as countless sorors helped to commemorate the founding of our illustrious sorority at Fashion 40 Lounge in Times Square. Members of the NPHC were also in attendance to help celebrate Founders’ Day. Contact: Djenny Passé-Rodriguez, Epistoleus Eta Omicron Sigma Waldorf, Maryland Reviving Sisterhood and Service in Southern Maryland The Eta Omicron Sigma Chapter is affirming that a chapter need not hold seniority to create visibility and enhance the needs in the community. The Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 41 chapter has not been reactivated for a full year and has already left an imprint in the community proving that with dedication and determination much can be accomplished within a short time. The chapter held its first Operation Big Book Bag at the Sam’s Club, which was a great success. Items were donated to students at Mattawoman Middle School. The sorors participated in bagging food donations at the SHARE Food Warehouse. The chapter made Sigma history as they were the first chapter to ever participate in the P.G. County Safe Passage Program’s Domestic Violence Walk. There was a soror only chill out at Red, Hot and Blue. In celebration of Founders’ Day a dinner was held at Jasper’s restaurant. The chapter will host a bowling tournament. This chapter is definitely full of vibrant, innovative, eager sorors who are working diligently to provide for the neighborhoods in Southern Maryland by showing what “Greater Service, Greater Progress” means. Regions’ Area I Workshop/Meeting at Holiday Inn Financial Plaza. Area 1 Coordinator Loretta Jernigan served as hostess. Presidents of Eta Psi Sigma and Beta Omega Sigma chapters showcased one of the sorority’s national projects – Project Reassurance by presenting two baskets of baby needs to Sutton’s Childrens Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Christus Schumpert Health System. Workshops presented were Membership Intake by the Southwest Regions’ Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator Brenda J. Canty, Financial Procedures presented by Deborah Daniels and Sorority Protocol presented by Janet E. Armand. Regional Syntaktes Brenda Sloan-Johnson ended the meeting with a dynamic presentation of goals for the 20062008 administration. The administrative theme: “The Journey Begins and Ends with US, Increased Membership, Increased Responsibility.” Contact: Loretta C. Jernigan Eta Rho Sigma Buffalo, New York Reactivated and Ready To Go! Eta Rho Sigma was reactivated this year by five diverse and dedicated sorors representing the Western New York and Southern Ontario, Canada areas, who have united to spread their message of sisterhood, scholarship and service to others. The sorors have already made their presence felt in the region by donating needed items to Haven House, a “haven” for victims of domestic violence. Contact: Soror Jasmine Hillyer, Epistoleus Eta Psi Sigma Shreveport/Minden Area Members of the Eta Psi Sigma chapter of Shreveport/Minden area hosted the Southwest 42 From l to r: Sorors Romunda Harris-Fonville, Della Harris, Alexis Smith, Shawn Rich, Jeannine Hunte, and Fatima Morrell. Eta Rho Sigma Sorors Jeannine Hunte (l.) and Shawn Rich with Soror Tonya Lee Williams. During the Toronto International Film Festival, the sorors showed their support to Soror Tonya Lee Williams (“The Young & The Restless”) at a “First Fridays” event in the city. Soror Williams was promoting the ReelWorld Film Festival (http:// www.reelworld.ca), which she hosts every spring in Toronto. The festival creates a forum where the works of racially and culturally diverse film and video makers are displayed to the world. The ReelWorld Foundation also provides training programs and apprenticeships to give opportunities to tomorrow’s film makers in Canada. For more information about Eta Rho Sigma Chapter and its programs, go to their website at http://www. geocities.com/sgrho_etarhosigma. Contact: Jeannine Hunte, Epistoleus Eta Xi Sigma Oak Lawn, Illinois Renewed … Restored … Ready ! The sorority year for Eta Xi Sigma includes a golden agenda for service, sisterhood and scholarship. Eta Xi Sigma Alumnae chapter celebrated 14 years in the sorority. The legacy of service and scholarship by the illustrious members of the chapter continues to honor the vision of our seven founders and promote the sisterhood of our sorority. Renewed sorors bonded at an all inclusive spa and chapter retreat to recommit and rededicate their best efforts for participation in the chapter’s community service and national projects. In celebration of the chapter’s 14th year anniversary, sorors came together at the annual Sigma Roundup picnic inviting family and guests to join in fun, fellowship and support of the Operation Big Book Bag project. The youth in attendance received book bags filled with age appropriate school supplies and great sigma fellowship was had by all. Restored sorors entered the sorority year with enthusiasm for the calendar of events and upcoming national projects and community service events. Sorors have participated in the Fall Festival and Giving Thanks projects in partnership with the James Jordan Boys and Girls Club of Chicago. The presence of sorors in the affected community has made a social and economic difference in the lives of many families. There is great appreciation for the ladies in royal blue and gold who are preserving the standards of our great sorority. The newest members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. from Eta Xi Sigma (left to right) Danielle Green, Tamika Oliver, Anika Gary, Basileus JoAnn Hawkins White, Brandie Franklin, Pamela Sanner, and Ericka Patterson. Ready to work for Sigma is the common goal in the marketing of our sorority by Eta Xi Sigma. The membership committee led by Soror Sydney J. Stewart; members of Eta Xi Sigma Alumnae Chapter and Basileus JoAnn Hawkins White have excelled in the recruitment, retention and reactivation of sorors. The chapter has reactivated 15 sorors and inducted six members into the sisterhood of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. The new inductees of Eta Xi Sigma are Danielle Green, Brandie Franklin, Anika Gary, Tamika Oliver, Ericka Patterson and Pamela Sanner. These new sorors bring a diverse and outstanding background of academic achievements and professional careers to enhance the “Greater Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 43 Service, Greater Progress” motto of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. “We don’t achieve success by accident, we achieve success through our works”. Contact: Linda D. Brown, Epistoleus Gamma Phi Sigma Houston, Texas Sigma Galveston, Texas, Soror Carolyn Crockett, Basileus, Gamma Sigma, Houston, Texas Dr. Darly Lott, Basileus, Bobbie Williams, Alpha Psi Sigma Chapter and undergraduates from Mu Epsilon Chapter. Beaumont, Texas. Special Kudos were acknowledged to those sorors who sold above the requested number of tickets required for each chapter member. Recognized sorors were Janice Sexton, Karen Williams, Janice Walker and of course basileus, Sarah Alexander. This event was chaired by Dr. Gwendolyn Y. Ward. Contact: Janice M. Sexton, Epistoleus Gamma Pi Sigma Milwaukee, Wisconsin Sorors, undergraduates, philos and rhoers from Gamma Phi Sigma, Gamma Sigma (Houston, Texas), Alpha Theta Sigma (Galveston, Texas), and Alpha Psi Sigma (Beaumont, Texas) in attendance at the Ensemble Theater presentation, “Get Ready.” Scholarship and Celebration Gamma Phi Sigma held its first scholarship fundraiser by entertaining sorors, undergraduates (Delta Alpha), philos, rhoers and the Houston community with a fantastic musical at the Ensemble Theater. The musical was “Get Ready” by Joe Plummer. Set in the 1980, Get Ready is the backstage show biz saga of an “old school” singing group named the “Doves” that gave a look at all of the frustrations and anxiety of a singing group that struggles amongst themselves, backstage and in private, yet pulls it all together for their big comeback show. (reminisce of The Five Heartbeats or Temptations). Broderick Jones, a former Debonaire, was superb as the production’s worldly wisdom as Knobby, the feisty, savvy, irascible oldster who knows his way around. and helps the group with their moves. The chapter was host to special guest in the audience. There were Bishops and their wives who were attending the International Christian Methodist Episcopal Convention in Houston. The delegation was from the United States, Africa, Haiti and Jamaica. Dr. Elnora Palmer Hamb the International President of the Women’s Missionary and Rita Washington, Missionary President, Southeast Texas Region were also in attendance. Other sorors in attendance were Alpha Theta 44 Carl Thomas Meets Sigma Gamma Rho What do you get when you add Carl Thomas and a splash of RHOyal Blue? You get the 8th Annual Fall Gala, “RHOyal Explosion”. Gamma Pi Sigma chapter celebrated founders day with their 8th Annual Fall Gala, “RHOyal Explosion”. Gamma Pi Sigma sorors worked the room adorned in their beautiful RHOyal Blue, greeting more than 400 guests. If you missed this event, you missed out on a treat. Guests enjoyed soulful sounds from Carl Thomas, casino style gaming and a soul food buffet. The Fall Gala is the chapter’s signature event that only gets better and better year after year. Plans for next year’s Gala are already in the works. State Farm Insurance served as the corporate sponsor for the Gala, providing guests with insurance information as well as employment opportunities. This Milwaukee Alumnae chapter is also making Wisconsin history as the first chapter to charter a Philo Club. They welcomed nine women into their Gamma Pi Sigma Philo Club. The members are as follows: Wanda Baylis, Tamara Walker, Joyce Nelson, Cassandra Perrine, Frances Jackson, Chandra Morris, Bertha Lipsey, Katrilla Cottingham, and Charlie Morris. Truly a chapter on the move, Gamma Pi Sigma chapter is relentless in community not only showcasing their ability to market the sorority but also blazing new trails. Contact: Evann D. Franklin, Epistoleus Gamma Tau Sigma Long Beach, California Celebrating Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Service The ladies of Gamma Tau Sigma in Long Beach, California continue in their diligence towards “Greater Service, Greater Progress” by spearheading many programs and activities within the community. With service as the main theme, the chapter kicked off the sorority year with Operation Big Book Bag, providing school supplies and backpacks to children housed at the Midnight Mission Outreach Facility in Inglewood, California. Yet Gamma Tau Sigma does not stop there in serving the community. The chapter is dedicated to many programs, such as feeding the homeless, bone marrow drives conducting various food drives, and of course the national projects. Embracing sisterhood, Gamma Tau Sigma actively participates in various bonding events that range anywhere from a day at the spa, to road trips, to celebrating one another’s accomplishments such as graduation, retirement, or birthdays. The chapter is proud to announce its participation in hosting the annual Founders’ Day Banquet, which is held in conjunction with neighboring graduate and undergraduate chapters. Service and sisterhood cannot be complete without scholarship, an ideal that Gamma Tau Sigma fully supports with its involvement in local after school tutoring programs and its Rhoer Club. In addition, the chapter also gives away scholarships to outstanding college bound high school students. With “Greater Service, Greater Progress” always in the forefront, the ladies of Gamma Tau Sigma are looking forward to a wonderful sorority year filled with scholarship, sisterhood, and service. Contact: LaToya Thurman, Epistoleus Iota Eta Sigma Troy, Alabama Iota Eta Sigma holds Rhomania Awards Banquet Iota Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter recognized the achievements of sorority members at the annual awards banquet. This year’s banquet “An Evening of Elegance” was held in the Troy University Trojan Center. Members were recognized for the following achievements for the 2005-2006 year: Alumnae Soror Yolanda Walker was voted by her peers as the 2006 Alumnae Soror of the Year. Soror Jennifer Garrison received the 2006 Iota Eta Sigma Image and Leadership Award. Iota Eta Sigma also inducted new members - Sorors Shemekia Foster, Regina Jones, Jennifer Garrison and Darleen Hill. The 2006 Undergraduate Academic Excellence Award winners were: Sorors Lynell Boswell, Henrietta Crandle and ReShondra Johnson. Paris Anderson and Tenika McCarter for Superior Academic Undergraduate Achievement. The 2006 Omicron Pi Undergraduate of the Year was Soror Henrietta Crandle. Contact: Tracia Holland, Epistoleus Iota Sigma Richmond, Virginia Service Through Sisterhood, Love and Hard Work The Incomparable Ladies of Iota Sigma Chapter are truly exemplifying the founding principles of this sorority. After returning from a short summer break, the chapter was refreshed and ready to work. We started by promoting the name of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. at the 2nd Street Festival in Richmond, VA. This is an annual event to celebrate the past when 2nd Street was the heart and soul of Richmond’s African-American community. During the festival we distributed information about our service programs, Rhoers Club, Philos Club and supplied needy children with school supplies and reading books. This was in an addition to the kick off of Operation Big Book Bag Project where 15 foster children were supplied with new book bags and school supplies. It was a “priceless” event when Iota Sigma attended St. Paul’s Baptist Church to support our newly inducted Soror Kelly Price as she performed for Pastor Lance Watson’s 21st anniversary ceremony. It was here were Soror Price announced to the congregation that she truly feels the love that her sorors show her everywhere she goes and that she is happy to a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Iota Sigma was the first chapter to welcome Soror Price to their town with open arms. With the spirit of service fresh in the air, the Iota Sigma family, including sorors, philos, Rhoers and friends assisted in raising over $500 to continue the Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 45 fight against breast cancer for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event. The chapter is happy to say that everyone walked and completed the 3.1 miles course TOGETHER! After a strenuous walk, the chapter celebrated Iota Sigma style by having a family brunch. To un-“wine” for the month, we toasted at the Annual Jazz and Wine Tasting Soiree to benefit the Elizabeth Johnson Scholarship Fund on October 27. This event was a success. The event raised $350 for scholarships to benefit local area children. Iota Sigma and Tau chapters sponsored Sigma Spooktacular, a trademarked event for Iota Sigma that provides a safe trick or treating event for area children. This event consisted of face painting, movies, games and the Sorors regressing back to the hula-hoop era! Iota Sigma began the month of November off by introducing young people in the concept of saving and investing through Project Wee Savers. The Ladies of Iota Sigma diligently assist the National Pan-Hellenic Council- Metro Richmond chapter in the Eastern Regional Conference. Soror Margaret Osei, NPHCMR 1st Vice President, actively assisted in planning the conference along with the other members of the NPHC; Soror Marian Martin conducted a workshop on parliamentary procedures; Soror Racquel Dozier was the speaker during the Ecumenical Ceremony where she spoke very eloquently; and Soror Trina Davis set the spiritual mood giving the prayers during several sessions and presenting the awards during the award ceremony. The entire chapter of Iota Sigma worked together in completing the souvenir journals for the Eastern Regional NPHC Conference which was held in Richmond. Sorors of Iota Sigma attended a special Founders’ Day worship service at Highland Park United Methodist Church where Soror Lynda Moore officiated. The theme of this event was “A Sisterhood Unbroken Bonded Together for Life.” After the service, Iota Sigma honored the undergraduate sorors of Tau and Epsilon Zeta Chapter, for their continued contributions to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Each member was awarded Iota Sigma Undergraduate Pulse Certificates. Find out more about our events on our website at http://www.sgrhoneregion.org. Contact: Trina Davis, Epistoleus 46 Kappa Sigma New York, New York Kappa Sigma Founders’ Day Celebration Kappa Sigma Chapter celebrated Founders’ Day at the World Famous Alhambra Ballroom in Harlem, New York. The members of Kappa Sigma Chapter, along with affiliates and guests dined on a scrumptious meal and danced the afternoon away. Guests were treated to a Fashion Show Extravaganza; the theme for the event was “Remembering the Time.” The selected theme captured the essence of history, fashion, and music from the time eras of 1920 to 2006. It was choreographed by our very own Soror Laura Edmundson and the commentator was Soror Alfrae Johnson-Ragins. Soror Rosa Walker was honored with the prestigious Sigma of the Year Award. Soror Walker is a dedicated member of Kappa Sigma Chapter and is known for her humble and gracious spirit. Soror Mary A. Douglas, Kappa Sigma Chapter’s Philo Advisor received the Community Service Award for her outstanding community service endeavors. Basileus Tonya Holloway presented awards to Philo Josephine Flowers and Rhoer Vanessa Velesquez. All guests were favored with our “Yellow Tea Rose” in celebration of Kappa Sigma’s 70th Anniversary. To celebrate Founders’ Day, over a dozen sorors worshipped at Grace Congregational church in Harlem, NY. Kappa Sigma Sorors, Johnson-Ragins, Minor and Ward, members of the congregation extended warm words of welcome to sorors as they celebrated 84 years of service. Immediately following the service sorors gathered for a small repast in the church’s fellowship hall and then dined at Londell’s a famous Harlem Restaurant. Contact: Cheryl Riley, Founders’ Day Committee Chair Northeast Region Member At Large Katina F. Webster Martinsburg, West Virginia Breaking Barriers through Entrepreneurship Congratulations to Soror Katina Webster, Member at Large for the Northeast Region, who one month prior to Boule, opened a Color Me Beautiful Kiosk in Apple Blossom Mall located in Winchester, Virginia. As one of very few black-owned Color Me Beautiful Kiosks serving both the general and ethnic market, she did exceptionally well! During Boule, Soror Webster shared her cosmetics, her beauty tips and talents with Sorors from every region. She also had the distinct honor of personally attending to the make-up of the Grand Basileus, Dr. Mynora J. Bryant as well as all past Grand Basilei in attendance. It was an experience that will never be forgotten! By September, Soror Webster’s business flourished. When the opportunity came for her to relocate her business to her own community in downtown Martinsburg, she took it! By faith, she was able to rent an 800 sq.ft storefront. On October 8, 2006, SASHAY “The Unique Boutique” was born. SASHAY brings a touch of “city life” home to Martinsburg. The boutique features stylish hats, handbags, hand crafted jewelry, accessories and, of course, Color Me Beautiful/Flori Roberts skincare and cosmetics. Sashay is a member of the local Chamber of Commerce and the Christian Business Directory. Along with her husband, Soror Webster hopes to become a catalyst for change in a community that is becoming more and more diverse and sophisticated everyday. The needs and the face of the community are changing and Soror Webster intends to be an integral part of that history making process! For more information about SASHAY “The Unique Boutique”, contact Soror Katina Webster at www. [email protected] Rho Sigma Detroit, Michigan Celebrating Founders and Fashions Rho Sigma turned the spotlight on our illustrious seven founders and four innovative forces in Detroit’s fashion design community. Soror Deanne Saffold chaired a committee of hard workers including sorors Claudia Clark, Uolanda Davis-Campbell, Brenda Hamilton, Darlene House, Valerie Hunt-Barker, Ava Jackson, Ramona January, Precios Johnson, Pamela Lee, Carmen Sims, Kim Taylor and Fannie Williams. Soror Floria Willis shared her poetry and was joined by the highly-energetic Body Rhythm Dance Theatre in a tribute to our founders acknowledging our roots and proud heritage. The Theatre was founded in 2004 by Shirley Bryant. Its dancers are of various ages, ethnicity and backgrounds. They unite for training in African, Modern, Dunham, Jazz, Ballet and Horton dance techniques. The company mission is to encourage and promote growth of dance for children and adults in Detroit metropolitan communities. Another program highlight featured Detroit designer fashions modeled by sorors Zhe Clampitt, Addie Douglass, Gwendolyn Lewis, Jamie McKinney, Eukila Robinson, Aisha Ruffin, Kim Taylor and Fannie Williams. As commentator Soror Davis-Campbell pointed out, the motor city automotive capital of the world was also the home of world class fashions. Everyone took note of diverse Detsitti, B’Dazzling Knit Collection, Elegant and Kreative Fashions by Eva Fullwood and Flo Boutique’s “Second Life and Naji’s Collection”. Other program participants included sorors Dana Hughes (MC), Charlotte Wilson (singer), Jacqueline Moore (basileus), Martha Cooper (invocation and benediction) and Brenda Hamilton (scholarship chair/presenter). Three young women were awarded scholarships during the luncheon. Contact: Darlene House Theta Epsilon Sigma Culver City, California Theta Epsilon Sigma Working It in Culver City The proud members of Theta Epsilon Sigma alumnae chapter started the sorority year on the right foot with Operation Big Book Bag. Continuing in the tradition of “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” Theta Epsilon Sigma provided back packs filled with school supplies to young children living in a Family Crisis Center. The children were overjoyed with the supplies, and it was the beginning of greater things to come for the chapter. Buckle Up America proved to be successful for the chapter and the residents of Culver City alike. During this project, the chapter members passed out informative fliers about the importance of wearing a safety belt to different venues throughout the Culver City area. Many community members were very pleased that the chapter was informing the public with such important information. Chapter members not only donated their time but also clothes, canned goods, and hygiene kits to the Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 47 Greater Missionary Starlight Baptist Church. All of these items were handed out at the annual rally. Last, but certainly not least, the chapter collaborated with the local chapters of the joint council to host the 2nd Annual Founders’ Day Weekend Celebration. The celebration consisted of a rededication ceremonial luncheon on Saturday and a Founder’s Day picnic. Sorors from all over the Los Angeles area thoroughly enjoyed themselves. At the weekend activities Theta Epsilon Sigma sorors were joined by their Neos, who were inducted, Sorors Altovise Abner, Chrisshele Griffin, and Ebony Jones. Contact: Soror Ashley Willis Theta Phi Sigma Jersey City and the Oranges, NJ Habitat for Humanity Day of Service Theta Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter recently came together in a collaborative effort with members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Essex County (NPHCEC) to serve people in need by volunteering with Newark’s Habitat for Humanity (HFH). According to HFH staff, utilizing volunteers and other community resources such as gifts and donations allows the program to allocate funds to construction and management needs while reducing labor costs. Led by HFH Project Manager Fred Powell, volunteers caulked walls, laid sheet rock, swept dusty floors, hauled debris and hammered nails as they pitched in to assist with the redevelopment of the City of Newark – a community vying to provide quality homes for everyone and improve the neighborhood, one house at a time. Residents and staff were on hand to reaffirm to volunteers the significance of their contribution to the continuation and success of HFH Newark. For more information on Theta Phi Sigma, please visit their website at www. SGRhoThetaPhiSigma.org. Contacts: Sorors Deanine Johnson and Kiameesha Evans, Epistoleus Psi Sigma Alumnae Chapter are prime examples of the true meaning of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” These ladies began the sorority year by participating and making monetary contributions to the 9th Annual Walter E. Brandon Sickle Cell walk, Philadelphia AIDS walk and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation walk. Theta Psi Sigma also donated canned goods to the Atlantic City Rescue Mission and toiletries to help assist the citizens of Buffalo, New York. In addition, the chapter donated book bags filled with school supplies to the students of Leeds Middle School as part of Operation Big Bag. These determined and dedicated women also began working with the Teenagers in Charge (TIC) program by mentoring. This program’s mission “is to help teens build their self-esteem, heighten their cultural and community awareness and most importantly, teach teens how to take charge of their lives.” Theta Psi Sigma attended TIC’s open house and began by getting to know the teenagers one on one. The event quickly turned into a talent show with TIC members dancing and sorors performing steps and party walks for the teenagers. TIC members were thrilled to have Theta Psi Sigma members in attendance and stated they could not wait until the next event. Look out for these service-driven sorors of Theta Psi Sigma. Contact: Soror Tamika McNair, Epistoleus Theta Zeta Sigma Aurora, Colorado Theta Psi Sigma Chester, Pennsylvania Service Never Ceases Under the direction of Basileus Jazzmea Houghton and 1st Anti Basileus Nicole Scott, the sorors of Theta 48 Theta Zeta Sigma supported Sable Elementary School with supplies and book bags Sigma Shares The new school year approached and the members of Theta Zeta Sigma and its Rhoer Club took some time to remember needy students in their Aurora community. Sable Elementary has more than 73%+ of their students on a free or reduced lunch program that have a need for backpacks and other school supplies. Sable Elementary student body consists of 54% Hispanic/Latino, 24% African American, 11% White/Anglo and 11% Other (Native American, Asian American, International Students, Pacific Islander). Sorors and Rhoers said yes to the proactive approach in training, equipping and empowering the parents at Sable. “Often, the parents lack the supplies and materials needed to support literacy at home and to reinforce strategies teachers use in the classrooms”, said Mr. Pagan. So, Theta Zeta Sigma accepted the challenge to assist Sable Elementary. When the parents finish their training, they will receive their personal “Home Toolkit” with school supplies to assist their son/daughter at home. Through Theta Zeta Sigma’s fundraising efforts and in so many other ways, sorors and rhoers have shown themselves to be caring individuals who are committed to public service. They have definitely shown Dr. Gesna M. Scott was these students what presented the Corine J. Green they can do through Anchor Award by Past Grand “Greater Ser vice, Basileus Corine J. Green and Soror Ollie Smith. Greater Progress.” Zeta Delta Sigma A Season To Remember More than 60 members of the DeSoto, Texas community attended the Zeta Delta Sigma Annual Career & Health Fair. More than 15 vendors were on hand to reach out to the community. Blood Pressure tests, dental health packets and financial advising were just a small fraction of the opportunities that attendees could benefit from. Zeta Delta Sigma also donated more than 75 packets of school supplies for Operation Big Book Bag during the event. Zeta Delta Sigma Supporting Operation Book Bag Zeta Delta Sigma also celebrated the Inaugural Zeta Delta Sigma High School Stepshow. The event, held in conjunction with the Singing Hills Recreational Center proved to be a success with more than 200 guests attending. High school teams from Dallas, Garland, Arlington, Irving and Mesquite participated. The top step team, LD Bell High School was awarded $300. Soror Letrice Chanel served as DJ and Paul Jones of Omega Psi Phi was the emcee. A cheering squad and double dutch team provided the intermission events. Yung Texas Ballaz, a local rap group also performed. As a result of the event funds were raised for the Sigma Gamma Rho Scholarship Fund. Zeta Delta Sigma also celebrated Founders’ Day with a weekend full of fun and sisterly bonding. The sorors enjoyed a sister to sister event at the Crowne Plaza suites. The sleepover included food, fun and games. Zeta Delta Sigma hosted a Founders’ Day Celebration at the University of Texas at Arlington. The exquisite event included members of the Alpha Omicron Sigma chapter of Dallas, Texas and the UT Arlington undergraduate chapter. Soror Q. S. Robertson and Soror Shirley Roland were recognized for their establishment of the Zeta Delta Sigma Chapter Arlington, Texas. To conclude, Zeta Delta Sigma attended the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church with sorors of Alpha Omicron Sigma and dined at the famed Billy G’s Soul Food Restaurant in Dallas, Texas. Contact: Jasmine Stewart Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 49 Zeta Eta Sigma Pontiac, Michigan Aims soaring upwards until they reach the sky The Zeta Eta Sigma Chapter has been busy carrying the torch of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. The first ‘Gospel Celebration – Music for the Soul’ in Bloomfield, Mi was held. This celebration acted as the conclusion to the 2006-2007 Scholarship Contest where Miss Latoya Patterson, a Michigan State University Freshman was recognized with a $500 scholarship. Almost 100 supporters filled the room, including fellow Greeks, family, friends and local pastors including Pastor Charles K. Bender of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Pontiac, MI. Zeta Eta Sigma’s Gospel Celebration was filled with great food, awesome praise dances, solos, and instrumental numbers performed by the talented members of the community and lovely sorors. Pastor Douglas P. Jones was honored for his outstanding service to the community with a regal royal blue and gold plaque. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc – Zeta Eta Sigma Chapter blessed the community and sent them home filled with the spirit. The Zeta Eta Sigma chapter has not only serviced the community, but has also done great things within the chapter. Membership has increased by 50%. Thanks to the dedication and loyalty of a Sigma woman to Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Eta Sigma has welcomed two transfer soror from the Pi Nu undergrad chapter and three reactivated sorors from the Pontiac area. Welcome sorors: Tyshara Lawson, Monisha Harris, Liz Bond, Naomi Burton, and Marquita Primm. With extra Sigma hands and the holiday season approaching the chapter plans on contributing to many families in need. There is a lot to be done, but … ”Greater Services, Greater Progress”!! Contact: Kimberly Banguil Zeta Omega Sigma Baltimore County, Maryland A Rhoyal Legacy Continues The Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter, Zeta Omega Sigma, inducted Soror Eunique Gray (shown on the far right), the seventh member of Sigma in 50 her family. The induction ceremony was held at the Pikesville Hilton in Baltimore County, Maryland. Soror Gray proudly joins five of her family members who are all active with the Zeta Omega Sigma Chapter. These members (l to r), include the Basileus and Life Member Sandra Mitchell (aunt), Bernice Legros Barry (aunt), Life Member Dr. Cheryl Simmons-Gray (mother), Theresa Blanks (aunt) and KimberlyMitchell-Corpew (cousin). The first sorority member from the Simmons family is a great aunt, Soror Willa Simmons-Hammons who resides in central Region. Zeta Omega Sigma introduces their four newest sorors (l to r): Sorors Eunique V. Gray, Katrina Robinson, Cynthia Jordan, Esq., and Kimberley N. Moore. Their excitement, enthusiasm, and creativity promise to help propel Zeta Omega Sigma to heights of even greater attainment. They are shown at Hebbville Elementary School where the chapter’s Wee Savers program was launched. The ladies of chapter realize the importance and special bond that legacy holds and in a special “legacy ceremony” held during the induction dinner reception these dynamic sorors vowed to continue to past the torch down the family line. Contact: Sandre Mitchell, Basileus Zeta Tau Sigma Mount Rainier, Maryland Christmas Toy Drive health care and public safety, Soror Braveboy worked the campaign trail. She was the highest vote receiver among the District 25 candidates. We congratulate Soror Braveboy on her victory. Because of her experience as an attorney, knowledge of the legal system and commitment to serving the community, we know that she will represent her constituents well. Soror Tracee Goode was highlighted in The Gazette for her work assisting adults with accessing college, including admissions, financial aid and career counseling. Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter donated over $200 of school supplies to Shepherd’s Cove. The homeless shelter provides services to women and children in need of emergency shelter and assistance with getting back on their feet. The chapter participated in the Diabetes Walk, hosted by the American Diabetes Association. The chapter raised over $500 to fund ongoing research, education and advocacy efforts. Over 20 million children and adults live with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes everyday. In recognition of Founders’ Day 2006, Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter sorors along with other Washington, DC metropolitan area sorors participated in worship services at Grace Christian Church and a rededication service and reception later that day. Contact Name: Tracee Goode, Epistoleus e-mail – [email protected] Step Show Winners 2006 Kathleen Cooke Unsung Heroine Luncheon Sigma enters the House of Delegates Election Day, was a long day, as we awaited the Maryland House of Delegate results for District 25 representing Prince George’s County, Maryland. Sorors of the Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter spent countless hours assisting Soror Aisha Braveboy with her first run as delegate to represent our community. With her message of creating quality housing, education, Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 51 Affiliate News BETA EPSILON SIGMA RHOERS Columbia, South Carolina activities scheduled for the year included a Breast Cancer Walk, Miss Rhomania Pageant, various community services, a youth symposium and a Broadway play. The sorors of Beta Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. would like to give a heartfelt congratulations to their rhoer, Skye DeSon Robinson Dunbar for an article printed in the St. Luke’s Times entitled “Our Problem: Children vs. Adults”. This article reminds adults that children are watching and learning from everything they do and in order to be a positive influence on children, adults must treat the children with respect and in turn, the children will treat them with respect. Well said, Skye! To this end, the Iota Alpha Sigma Rhoer Club has been approved by the NJ State Superintendent for Paterson, N.J. and the Sector Superintendent to be an official extracurricular program at Paterson Public School Number Thirteen where the advisor, Soror Linette Y. Caroselli teaches English to eighth graders. If the program is successful, it will be approved for the entire city of Paterson. Soror Andrea C. McElroy is the co-advisor and liaison for the rhoers residing in Irvington. Contact: Deneitra V. McElrath, Historian Contact: Soror Linette Y. Caroselli EPSILON LAMBDA SIGMA RHOERS Cincinnati, Ohio Troy, Alabama New Butterflies Iota Eta Sigma holds Rhomania Awards Banquet The ladies of the Epsilon Lambda Sigma Rhoer Club are proud to announce their newest members: Blanche Booker, Tiana Dunham, Ronisha Jones, Bryana Sanders, and Dachari Strong. Along with returning rhoers Alexis Flowers, Marsharika Montgomery and Charnae Thompson, the rhoers are on the move for Sigma. The Iota Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter recognized the achievements of the Rhoer Club at the Trojan Center Ballroom. Congratulations goes out to Rhoer Candace Moore as she will be attending Wright State University next fall. Mwanamugimu Essay Contest - 1st place Aliyah Holland and 2nd place Amber Walker. Who’s Who Awards winners: Most Dependable - Porshia Hall and Jureka Marcus, Best Personality - Paige Foreman and Shameya Boykins, Leadership Awards - Ashley Mallory and Meagon Bean, Spirit Awards - Kim Collins and Tara Youngblood. 2006 Rhoers of the year honors were received by Cameron Debose and Starshia Andrews. Medals of Academic Excellence for A&B Honor Roll: Starshia Andrews, Jamilya Coleman, Cameron Debose, Porshia Hall, Erica Henderson, Allison Holland, Shaquetta Jones and Cinnamon Wilson. Academic Excellence Medal for making All A’s was received by Alexis Carter. Contact: Soror Charmaine J. Davis IOTA ALPHA SIGMA RHOERS Hackensack, New Jersey Chartering Extravaganza Introducing the newest Rhoer Club of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. … Iota Alpha Sigma Rhoers! These young ladies were chartered in Irvington, New Jersey. Along with the Rhoers, six sophisticated ladies were inducted to charter a Philo Club thus adding to the Sigma Family. Inducted were 23 young ladies from Irvington and Paterson, N.J. Rhoers who have been inactive have transferred into the Iota Alpha Sigma Rhoer Club bringing the total membership to 43 young ladies. The ceremonies were followed with a short program and a luncheon reception. Each new rhoer was presented with several gifts and yellow daisies. The Mayor of Irvington, the Honorable Wayne Smith was on hand to congratulate and meet the new Rhoers. Some of the 52 IOTA ETA SIGMA RHOERS Members were recognized for the following achievements for the year: Contact: Tracia Holland, Epistoleus THETA EPSILON SIGMA RHOERS Culver City, California The Rhoer Club of Culver City, CA hit the map in 1992 and has been successfully going for 14 years. The 2006-2007 year is no exception for Theta Epsilon Sigma’s Rhoer club because these young ladies have started off with a bang. The Rhoers have attended a Youth Summit, elected officers, had a successful Shakey’s Night fundraiser, volunteered at the Junior Blind Foundation for the Halloween Carnival, and participated with the Southern California Affiliate News Joint Council’s Founder’s Day Weekend Celebration. Rhoer Club, including the 2006 Boule in Dallas, Texas. There are currently eight active rhoers and a Rhoer roundup is scheduled. Look out Culver City, the Western Region Rhoer club of Theta Epsilon Sigma is doing G-R-E-A-T things! Both young ladies will be installed in the Spartanburg High School Beta Club. Contact: Soror Sonya Battey THETA ZETA SIGMA RHOERS Aurora, Colorado Theta Zeta Sigma Rhoers Partners with Local News Station Contact: Evelyn P. Tice KAPPA SIGMA PHILOS New York, New York Congratulations were in order to Philo Josephine Flowers who received the Philo of the Year Award at the Kappa Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated’s 70th Annual Founder’s Day Celebration. Kappa Sigma Philos donated over 50 school books to individual students and over 100 school books and supplies to the Tonya S. Holloway Learning Center. Tonya S. Holloway is the basileus to the Kappa Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Contact: Philo Yvonne E. Dixon, Historian The members of Theta Zeta Sigma Chapter Rhoer Club have been committed to their community to collect coats for individuals in need. A plea from their local television station (7 NEWS) to receive assistance in meeting a huge request of coats for children and adults for the winter, inspired the rhoers to take action. Over 100 coats were collected to meet their goal to keep Colorado residents warm. Contact: Leah Wiggins-Marshall, Epistoleus XI SIGMA RHOERS Spartanburg, South Carolina Rhoers on the Move The young ladies of the Xi Sigma Rhoer Club are distinguishing themselves academically, in leadership roles and other positive activities. Rhoer Club President, Ashley Byers spent 15 days in Europe with the Spartanburg High School Orchestra during the summer of 2006. As a student leaders, Ashley and fellow Rhoer Keisha Clawson, traveled with Spartanburg High School leaders to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Boston, Massachusetts and Washington DC during the 2006-07 school year. Keisha maintains a 3.83 GPA and Ashley a 3.8 GPA. These juniors are ranked 118 and 124 respectively in their class of 642. Ashley regularly attends regional and national conferences to represent the XI SIGMA PHILOS Spartanburg, South Carolina Philo Tameka Evans was crowned Queen of the Mae R. Scholarship Pageant at the Southeast Regional Conference. From there she represented all of the philos of the Sourtheast Region at the Boule where she was named and crowned as the winner of the National Philo 1st Lady. In celebration of one of the annual local projects, Xi Sigma Philos awarded book scholarships to three young people: Willie Lynch, Jr. – South Carolina State University Audrey Gary – Greenville Technical College Luonne Humphrey – Spartanburg Technical College The philos traveled and attended the South Carolina area meeting that was located at Frances Marion College in Florence. At the 51st Boule, seven members of Xi Sigma philos received their 25-year membership pin. They were: Philo Melba Blakely 31 years Philo Joan Brightharp 25 years Philo Mary Byers 31 years Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 53 Affiliate News Philo Lelia M. Collins 25 years A certificate was presented to: Philo Brenda Foster 28 years Philo Phyllis Hosley 21 years Philo Dorothy Littlejohn 25 years Philo Elretha Wade has completed requirements for becoming a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). This qualifies Philo Wade to be called upon by the SC Emergency Response Team or by FEMA. This course was offered by the Emergency Preparedness Community Project. Philo Dobbie S. Williams 31 years Contact: Reena M. Tucker, Reporter DON’T LET INTERESTED YOUNG WOMEN, PHILOS, & RHOERS SETTLE FOR PASS AROUNDS! Give them this form to get their own personal, home-delivered copy of the AURORA Magazine o Yes! Send me the next three issues of the AURORA magazine for $15.00 Please Print Name Address City/State/Zip Soror Kelly Price This Is Who She Is … Expand Our Horiz ing Sigma Me ons … ets Seoul Subscription will begin 4-6 weeks after receipt of payment 54 Check the appropriate category: o Rhoer o Philo o Inactive Soror o Membership Candidate o Other Mail with your cashier check/money order to: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Attn: AURORA Magazine 1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200 Cary, NC 27513-8628 Soror Julia B. Rogers Bennett Xi Sigma Chapter, Spartanburg, South Carolina Omega Rho - April 26, 2006 Soror Julia B. Rogers Bennett was born to the late James and Fannie B. Rogers on January 29, 1918. She was the widow Freddie Bennett Sr. She is survived by a daughter Soror Helen Bennett and, a son Freddie and his wife Georgia, all of Spartanburg, SC. Soror Bennett graduated from Allen University and the South Carolina State College (University) with degrees in Elementary Education and advanced degrees in Special Education. She taught fifth grade and special education classes for forty-two years in Spartanburg County before retiring in 1981. Soror Bennett was a pioneer in the Special Education sector having established a premier demonstration/teaching classroom for public school special education students. She received recognition and citations for this and other accomplishments in education from Women of the Upstate, Allen University Alumnae, Spartanburg Progressive Men’s Club and Spartanburg County School District Seven. Soror Bennett was a member of Sigma Gamma Rho for 65 years – and until the last four years of her life was an active member of Xi Sigma Chapter. She played such a vibrant role in the development and activities of Xi Sigma that new inductees thought of her as a “founding member” of the chapter. Her second proudest moment was the pinning of her daughter, Helen, as her “sister.” Soror Bennett’s life was one of dedication to her family, dedication to her students and diligence in any activity or project she pursued. Sweet, frank, strong, honest, earnest, compassionate, adventurous, insightful and “a sister until the end” are words usually stated when Mrs. Bennett’s name is mentioned. Soror Olivia Doyle Boswell Omega Rho - August 14, 2006 Soror Olivia Doyle Boswell passed away in Oakland, California after a long illness. Throughout her life, she was well known and very involved in the Bay Area community. She held many local, state and national offices in numerous civic and fraternal organizations. Soror Boswell was a charter member of Beta Theta Sigma chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc in 1947. Her dedication and love for the sorority was legendary among her family and friends. Soror Boswell attended LeMoyne College in Memphis, Tennessee, later the University of California in Berkeley. Mrs. Boswell retired from the Naval Supply Center after thirty-three years of service. She leaves two sisters, Woodred Doyle Savage and Gwendolyn D. Poston - Wade, to cherish her memories. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 55 Soror Marian Eugenia Bianchi DeBerry Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter; Mt. Rainier, Maryland Omega Rho - April 17, 2006 Soror DeBerry was born in Holly Hill, South Carolina on November 15, 1906, and entered Omega Rho on April 17, 2006. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics from Howard University in 1929 and a Master of Arts Degree from the District of Columbia Teachers’ College. She also had an opportunity to study in Europe. For over 40 years Soror DeBerry served the District of Columbia as a Mathematics educator at several junior high and high schools. Soror DeBerry adopted each and every Soror of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority from her onset as a member. She was a charter member of Phi Sigma Chapter in Washington, D.C. which was formed on August 13, 1938, along with her sisters, Beatrice, Luther and Ethel. Her sister, Martha later joined the sorority and her niece, Lynn Armstrong Patterson, continues the legacy as an honorary member. She was also a charter member of Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter in Mt. Rainier, Maryland. Soror DeBerry served the sorority faithfully for almost 68 years in many capacities such as Northeast Region Epistoleus, Basileus, Epistoleus, Tamiochus, and chairperson of various committees. Soror DeBerry was the recipient of many honors including induction into the Northeast Region’s Hall of Fame and recognition as a “Cultured Pearl.” Soror DeBerry was a member of many organizations including the Phillis Wheatley YWCA Board of Directors, Howard University’s Women’s Club, National Association of University Women, Top Ladies of Distinction, National Council of Negro Women and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. She was a founding member of the District of Columbia Council of Teachers of Mathematics. An excerpt from a poem written by her describes much of her life: Hear me, Oh God, my life is touched, With wisdom of passed passion For all of my life is such, That I might be compassioned 56 Soror Esther E. Elkins Giles Xi Sigma Chapter, Spartanburg, South Carolina Omega Rho – August 21, 2006 Soror Esther E. Elkins Giles was born to the late Clarence and Elizabeth Suber Elkins on August 3, 1914. She was the widow of Gary Thomas Giles. She is survived by two children, Soror Saundra G. Gaffney of Spartanburg, South Carolina and Leslie R. Giles, Sr. of Naples, Florida. Soror Giles was educated at Cummings St. School in Spartanburg. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina and a Masters of Education degree from New York University. She served Macedonia Baptist Church faithfully as a deaconess, W.L. Wilson Gospel Choir and the Susie Joyce Missionary Circle. Professionally, Soror Giles was a retired Spartanburg County school teacher. In addition to active membership in the Xi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho, Soror Giles was a member of Pride of Spartanburg Chapter #98 OES. Soror Addie Haggens Delta Gamma Sigma Chapter Soror Addie Haggens was a dedicated and committed soror until her illness and was a charter member of Delta Gamma Sigma and also a life member at the time of her death. Soror Haggens has traveled all over the world representing our chapter and Sigma Gamma Rho. Many of the more seasoned sorors will remember her. She and Soror Evelyn Durham usually traveled together. Soror Rivera and her daughter, Glenda, joined the sorority at the same time. Soror Haggens was well loved and respected in the community. She will be missed. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 57 Soror Jessie Bell Miller Hunter Xi Sigma Chapter, Spartanburg, South Carolina Omega Rho – June 24, 2006 Soror Jessie Bell Miller Hunter was born to the late Furman and Bessie Miller on February 7, 1923. She was the widow of William Rufus Hunter. Soror Hunter is survived by a son, William S. Hunter of Taylors, South Carolina and Richard F. Hunter of Durham, North Carolina and a surrogate daughter, Betty M. Cooper of Charlotte, North Carolina. Soror Hunter taught school for more than thirty-five years. During her long and blessed life, Mrs. Hunter was involved in a number of community, civic, educational, political, social and religious organizations. They included the Spartanburg Health Planning Committee, the Spartanburg Human Relations Commission, Southside Neighborhood Action Partnership, St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic Board, American Association of University Women and the Julia Chapter of the Eastern Star under the A&A S.R. Masons. During the more than forty-five years of membership at Mt. Moriah Church membership she served faithfully and with dedication until the end. Soror Altamease “Measie” Bryant Littles Beta Kappa Sigma; Tampa, Florida Omega Rho - August 7, 2006 God’s promise of love was given to the late Melville and Maude Threadcraft Bryant with the birth of Altamease Winifred Bryant on August 3, 1913 in Fernandina Beach, Fl. Altamease chose a life of love, faithfulness, and joy. Her greatest joy came from playing the piano, educating anyone with a desire to learn, and sharing pictures and stories of her grandchildren. 58 She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, a Masters of Arts in English from Hampton Institute, a Masters of Science in Library Science from North Carolina Central University in 1958, and post graduate studies at Columbia University in 1947-1948. On May 27, 1954, Altamease was united in holy matrimony to Perry L Littles of Lake Wales, Florida. In 1933, her career began as an elementary school teacher in Nichols, Florida. After eight years, she moved to Lake Wales, Florida, and began teaching at Roosevelt High School, becoming the school librarian in 1955, remaining in that position until retirement. Mrs. Littles also worked as a coordinator of Adult Education from 1966-70, where she helped many students accomplish their high school GED. She left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched, and was loved and admired by her students. They will fondly remember her as “the librarian who insisted on students using correct grammar at all times.” She served faithfully on numerous committees, boards, and clubs where she received many awards and recognition. Affiliations included: Girl’s State Chairman; American Legion Auxiliary, 1960-; Executive Board Civic Club, 1965-; Trophy Recipient for work with students-Roosevelt High School; Roosevelt Student Council Advisor; member of A.L.A.; Florida Education Association; Polk County School Association (Regional Secretary, 1970-72); Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (Basileus, 1967-72); Sorority’s Distinguished Service Award, 1972; and member of the sorority for over 70 years; Daughter of Elks Club: Entre Nous. On Monday August 7, 2006, Altamease B Littles departed this life. She leaves many relatives, friends, sorors, and loved ones to cherish her memory. Soror Helen Naomi Nottage-Cook Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Omega Rho - September 14, 2006 Helen Naomi Nottage-Cook- Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter Philadelphia, PA In 1944, Helen, her sister, Grayce Nottage and Essie Thomas founded the Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter of the Sorority of Sigma Gamma Rho, at Cheyney State College. Helen to this day states that although she is listed in the Aurora Magazine as the founder of that chapter, that the records need to be corrected to include Grayce and Essie, since they all began the chapter together. She passed away on September 14, 2006 peacefully in her sleep at the age of 95. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 59 Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. mourns the passing of Soror Lena King Lee, Alpha Alpha Sigma Chapter ‘She stood very tall’ Educator was one of first black women in General Assembly By Frederick N. Rasmussen Sun Reporter August 26, 2006 Lena K. Lee, an educator and attorney who was one of the first African-American women elected to the Maryland General Assembly, died in her sleep Thursday evening in her home in the 1800 block of Madison Ave., where she had lived since 1940. She had celebrated her 100th birthday last month. The daughter of a coal miner, Mrs. Lee taught in the city schools, earned a law degree in her 40s and wasn’t elected to state office until she was 60. But her life and devotion to public service were praised yesterday by a number of political and civic activists. U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings recalled that he wouldn’t be in politics had it not been for Mrs. Lee. He was elected in 1982 to Mrs. Lee’s seat in the old 39th District (now the 44th). “When she was passing the baton in 1982, she said to me, ‘I’m getting up in age and I’m looking for someone who is a woman and a lawyer. And even though you’re a lawyer but not a female, you’ll do,’” he said. “She raised money and campaigned for me. That’s how I started in politics.” “Some people come along in life, and they touch you and then move on. Her touch changed my life,” Mr. Cummings said. “Lena always said, ‘Don’t be about celebrity. Be about service.’” Mrs. Lee was born Lena King in the coal mining community of Sumter County, Ala., where her father, Samuel Sylvester King, was a miners’ activist. In addition to being a miner, he worked as a chauffeur and butler to earn extra income for his family. › 60 Mrs. Lee was raised in Alabama, Illinois and Pennsylvania, where her father moved his family while seeking work as a miner. He became prosperous enough to send Mrs. Lee, her sister and her brother to private boarding schools operated by black churches. She graduated in 1925 from high school in Tarentum, Pa., third out of a class of 70, and was awarded a scholarship to Cheyney Training School for Teachers in Cheyney, Pa., now Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. Mrs. Lee began her teaching career in Annapolis and moved to Baltimore in 1931, where she taught sixth grade in city schools while she continued her education. She earned a bachelor’s degree from what is now Morgan State University in 1939. Because blacks were forbidden at that time from attending graduate school at the University of Maryland, College Park, she traveled each weekend to New York City by train, earning a master’s degree in 1947 from New York University. Mrs. Lee later enrolled at the University of Maryland School of Law. When she earned her degree from there in 1951, she became the third African-American woman to graduate from the school, after Juanita Jackson Mitchell and Dr. Elaine Carsley Davis. She was admitted to the Baltimore and Maryland bars in 1952 and continued working as an educator while practicing law. She was principal of Henry H. Garnet Elementary School, at Division and Lanvale streets, from 1947 until she retired in 1964. As a member of the American Federation of Teachers, she also pushed for teachers’ rights. Mrs. Lee was married for many years to Robert R. Lee, a Baltimore businessman who owned the Biddle Theater and died more than 40 years ago, friends said. “I was married to a man who felt you had to be very forward about your rights,” Mrs. Lee told Crisis magazine in a 1996 interview. “You were made to feel that as an agitator you were above certain activities. He was with me all the way, pushing.” Legislative priorities When she was 60, Mrs. Lee turned her attention to the House of Delegates and won a seat in the former 4th District. (It later became the 38th, then 39th and is now the 44th.) “She stood very tall in the House of Delegates and was very active in civil rights and many other good causes throughout her life,” the Rev. Marion C. Bascomb, former pastor of Douglas Memorial Community Church, said yesterday. In Annapolis, colleagues referred to Mrs. Lee as “The Killer” and “The Fearless One,” for her instinctual ferreting out of bad bills. “I am a legislator who dedicates most of her time to fighting bad law. I’m always telling my colleagues, especially the blacks, that their greatest duty is to smell out the snakes and kill bad laws in committee; if not, then on the floor,” she told The Evening Sun in 1976. “I do not spend even one-tenth of my time getting a piece of legislation through. First, I’m not one of the ‘in’ crowd. Second, getting one bill through eats up one’s vitals. Third, the administration bills take precedent, and are usually the ‘biggies’ in the interest of the state, although we often find it best to kill some of them,” she said. She added: “No legislator is infallible and when he passes a bad law he should be the first one to work for its repeal.” In 1970, she founded the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, and in the Crisis magazine interview, she said, “There was a need to huddle together. There’s still a need and we don’t realize it. We think we’ve made it. I often wonder where we’re going.” › Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 61 ‘Quite a lady’ A diminutive and energetic woman, Mrs. Lee’s face was highlighted by large horn-rimmed glasses and a thick head of dark hair. “She was quite a lady,” said former state Sen. Julian L. Lapides. “For someone who lived to be 100, she could appreciate the tremendous strides that were made on behalf of racial equality during her lifetime. And she was responsible for many of those changes.” He added: “And her many accomplishments were in inverse proportion to her size.” “I was always very impressed by Lena’s willingness to spend time with younger folks to share her experiences so they could avoid some of the pitfalls she encountered during her lifetime,” Court of Appeals Chief Judge Robert M. Bell, said yesterday. “Her advice was, ‘You do things because they’re the right things to do, and when you’re doing the people’s business, it’s best to be a leader rather than a follower.’ And she did it fearlessly and with certainty and gusto,” he said. In 1972, Mrs. Lee proposed a bill that would have eliminated the Maryland State Board of Censors. For years, it had been presided over by Mary M. Avara, a South Baltimore bail bondswoman, who was once called “America’s Mother Superior of Censors.” “The Censor Board is one of the political plums. ... It is purely a political patronage thing,” Mrs. Lee told The Evening Sun at the time. “There is no one person who has the right to say to me that ‘you should not see this picture at all.’ They have gotten in a darkroom and had a sadistic delight in seeing all the goodies of the picture for themselves and then they tell me I should not see it,” she said. The board was eventually abolished in 1981. Named in her honor The House of Representatives voted in December to name a post office at 1826 62 Pennsylvania Ave. in her honor, and Mrs. Lee attended the dedication ceremony in June. “She had a wonderful sense of humor. She was 99 then and said to the crowd, ‘I turned over the reins 25 years too early,’” Mr. Cummings said with a laugh. Mrs. Lee had served on the City Redevelopment Commission, the Urban Renewal and Housing Commission, the Advisory Council on Higher Education in the State, the board of governors of the Barrett School for Girls, the Women’s Committee for Civil Rights and the Provident Hospital board. “Up until the end of her life, she was in full possession of her faculties and memories. Her voice was as strong as it was during her days in Annapolis,” said Larry S. Gibson, a University o f Maryland law professor. “We had a celebration at the central Pratt Library recently, and she stood up without a cane and spoke for 20 minutes without any notes. She was truly a remarkable woman,” he said. Mrs. Lee was a longtime member of Sharp Street United Methodist Church. At her request, there will be no services or memorials, said Louise Michaux Gonzales, a Baltimore lawyer and Mrs. Lee’s property guardian. Surviving are a nephew, Dr. Ronald King of Owensboro, Ky.; and several step-grandchildren. X Certified/Registered Vendors Greek Celebration, LLC LaSandre & Robert Ernest 2409 Oakmere Drive Harvey, LA 70058 Greek Expressions & Apparel Joshua Rice 2047 Windmeade Drive Clarksville, TN 37042 [email protected] A Greek Affair, LLC Alison Moxley 234 Macdonough Street Brooklyn, NY 11233 Accessories Unlimited Jackie Bunch 2362 McCutcheon Road Columbus, OH 43219 After Crossing Allison Boatner P.O. 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Please contact the staff at [email protected]. Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 63 SUBMISSION GUIDELINES . . . . Email submissions directly to [email protected] or via the national website. All documents should be submitted using MicrosoftWord + . . . Submissions for Alumnae on the Move,Undergraduate Pulse and Affiliates must be 250 words or less. End of the year reports and newsletters are not acceptable. Include contact name, chapter name, location,school, city, state and 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.” Indicate chapter name in the subject line of all electronic submissions. DEADLINES PHOTOS S Photo Pricing is as follows: Group Image - $25 Individual Image - $15 S PHOTOS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED ELECTRONICALLY! S Photos should be in FULL COLOR S When submitting photos, please present a copy of the article and cashier check/ money order to: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. ATTN: The AURORA Magazine 1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200 Cary, NC 27513-8628 November 15 March 15 July 15 (Mar-Jul Events) Spring Issue (Jul-Nov Events) Summer Issue (Nov-Mar Events) Winter Issue D E T N A W 2 Feature Writers 2 Regional News (from each Regional Epistoleus) 2 Outstanding Undergraduate Nominations 2 Sister’s Keeper Questions 2 Book Reviews (preferably of soror writers) If you are not currently receiving The AURORA, please verify your mailing address with National Headquarters and/or submit the form established by the Grand Grammateus. 64 Where is my AURORA? The AURORA is produced at least three times per sorority year for all financial members at the time of print. The publication is mailed over a 10-15 business day time span. With this, the delivery of your publication is largely dependent upon your local post office. To ensure the delivery of your publication: uMake sure a Change of Address/Information form has been properly filed with the Grand Grammateus and/or the International Headquarters with your current address. A remittance form sent by your chapter is not sufficient. uMake sure that a forwarding address card has been filed with the United States Post Office when relocating. uRemit dues and induction fees timely to be included in the database extract used for the mailing list. If you have not received your publication, contact the International Headquarters and/or the Grand Grammateus to verify your mailing address and financial status. This is the first day of many new upcoming experiences: – Being officially on your own; – Seeking or beginning your new career; – Planning a definitive future with that “man of your dreams;” – Starting and raising a family; and JOINING YOUR LOCAL ALUMNAE CHAPTER OF SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC. Remember how your undergraduate sorors were always an integral part of your most joyous moments, as well as in finding solutions to some of your greatest problems? Membership in your local alumnae chapter will provide a whole new level of the same sisterly support and assistance. Are you moving to a new city or town? Need to know the real 4-1-1 on the company for which you have an interview or where the best and worst places are to live? Just moved and need to discover the real-deal shopping areas? Your local alumnae chapter is just waiting to welcome you and point you in the direction you need. Contact Sigma Gamma Rho Headquarters, (888) 747-1922, for chapter names and contacts in your local area. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. 1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200 Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628 Address correction requested PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MILWAUKEE, WI PERMIT No. 1982