Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, established in 1913 by 22 collegiate women at Howard University, has been a cornerstone of academic excellence, public service, and social action for over a century. With a mission focused on the constructive development of its members and public service, Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. continues to leave an indelible mark through its unwavering commitment to service and sisterhood.
Cheryl Brown, a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. for 44 years and the President of the newly chartered Fayette County Alumnae Chapter, embodies the essence of leadership and service. Cheryl joined Delta Sigma Theta in 1980 as an undergraduate at what is now Clark Atlanta University. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Because of my affiliation and association with this organization, I believe I’ve made the lives of so many people better through the programs and opportunities we have.”
The Fayette County Alumnae Chapter was officially chartered on April 27, 2024, with a clear focus: to serve the entire community. Cheryl emphasizes, “The needs of the county have grown, and to have a chapter solely committed to enhancing the lives of the citizens where we live, work, educate, and raise our families is a tremendous opportunity.”
Delta Sigma Theta Inc.'s mission is driven by the Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, which guides all its community initiatives:
- Economic Development: Empowering the community with financial literacy through webinars and seminars, as well as promoting women-owned businesses in the community. Upcoming initiatives include Retirement Planning 101, a seminar scheduled for February 1st, offering strategies across generations for financial stability, and key concepts for retirement planning.
- Educational Development: Youth-focused programs such as Delta Gems (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully for ages 14-18; a Delta Academy for ages 11-14; and EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence) encourage academic achievement, goal-setting, and leadership development.
- International Awareness and Involvement: From global initiatives in South Africa, Kenya, and Haiti to local efforts like their recent World AIDS Day webinar and "Dining with the Deltas" fundraiser, the chapter provides financial support while remaining globally and locally connected.
- Physical and Mental Health: Promoting holistic wellness through initiatives like virtual healthy cooking classes and workshops focused on encouraging a healthy lifestyle for the total woman – mind, body, and spirit.
- Political Awareness and Involvement: Through voter registration drives, education on public policy, and non-partisan initiatives like Stroll to the Polls, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority empowers communities to engage actively in the democratic process.
With a calendar full of service opportunities, the Fayette County Alumnae Chapter has already partnered with Toys for Tots, the Fayette Senior Center, and Bloom. Scholarships are another cornerstone of their impact. Applications for the 2025 academic year are already available for high school seniors in Fayette County. The deadline for submission is March 3rd. Funds raised by the chapter directly support programming and scholarships, ensuring resources flow back into the community.
Cheryl Brown hopes to inspire future generations by demonstrating the importance of serving others. “What you do for others, outside of yourself, is how you make the greatest impact,” she shares. Fayette County’s evolving needs have amplified the importance of having a dedicated chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., working tirelessly to uplift and inspire.
For those considering membership in a Greek-letter organization, Cheryl offers sage advice: “Do your research. Find out what the organization is about and see if its mission, goals, and activities resonate with you. Membership is about more than wearing certain colors; it’s about how you want to be in the world we live in.”
To learn more visit www.deltasigmatheta.org and follow on social media: Facebook @Fayette County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Instagram @DSTFCAC.