They Stood Alone - Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Volume 77, No. IThe official organ of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Inc., founded at Butler University, Indianapolis,Indiana, November 12, 1922.International Headquarters1000 Southhill Drive, Suite 200Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628Telephone: 888/747-1922Fax: 919/678-9721www.sgrho1922.orgOffice Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., ESTDr. Mynora J. BryantInternational Grand BasileusRasheeda LibertyInternational Editor-in-ChiefJennifer JonesExecutive DirectorCreative ConsultantDavina Powell, Southeast RegionDesignPowell Graphics & Communication, Inc.PrinterJS DirectPO Box 661, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0661The AURORA is published three times a year. Allmaterials for publication should be addressed tothe attention of The AURORA at the InternationalHeadquarters or sent electronically to theauroramag@sgrho1922.org. The Editor assumes no responsibilityfor unsolicited photographs or manuscripts. Suchdocuments, if to be returned, must be accompaniedby a SASE. All Rights Reserved, postage paid toMilwaukee (Wisconsin) Postmaster.DeadlinesFall-Winter July 15Winter-Spring November 15Spring-Summer March 15Table of ContentsDepartmentsDear Editor 3International Grand Basileus Speaks 4A Word from the Editor 6Directory of Officers 9Beacon of Light 10Significant Sorors 12In The News 16Region News 19Dollars & Sense 23In Review 25Rebuttal 30Chapter Chat 32Message from 2nd Grand Anti-Basileus 55Undergraduate Pulse 57Alumnae on the Move 62Affiliate News 70Omega Rho 72Certified Vendors Listing 75Submission Guidelines for The AURORA 76Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora

Upcoming FeaturesThe editorial team of The AURORAwould like to honor those sororswho have or are currentlyserving our country.Please send the following information totheauroramag@sgrho1922.org no later thanMay 1, 2008:★Full NameMilitary BranchActive Duty (YES or NO?)Years of ServiceTitle or RankMilitary Occupational SpecialtyCurrent Chapter Membership orLast Chapter Affiliation (City, State)Your Life Motto/QuoteEmail AddressColor Head Shot (No Fee Required)

Dear Editor …Dear ______________________Editor,I ______________________noticed in the last issue that the numericorder ______________________of the past grand basilei changed.Why ______________________would we change history?Dear Soror,There was an established group of sorors thatresearched the numeric order of our esteemed pastgrand basilei. As a result of their findings, the2007 meeting of the board of directors confirmedthe order. This information was communicatedfrom the office of the grand basileus to theeditorial team to properly reflect history, notchange it.Dear _________________________Editor,The _________________________board of directors’ page does not haveDear ______________________Editor,I ______________________sent in some documents for a soror torecognize ______________________for the special armed servicesrecognition. ______________________It never appeared.Dear Soror,We received very little response for this feature,however we are advertising it again. When thisoccurs, the editorial team holds this informationin a special features file awaiting more responses.Dear ______________________Editor,I ______________________happened to see your photo this past fallin ______________________Jet Magazine announcing your wedding.Congratulations! ____________________________________________Central ______________________Regionaddress _________________________information for us to correspond withspecific _________________________officers. Has this recently changed?Dear Soror,The board members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Inc. are accessible in many ways, i.e. via nationalheadquarters, address lists sent to basilei annually,etc. Because The AURORA is a publicationthat goes to a broader mailing list than just sorors,certain precautions are taken to avoid unsolicitedmailings, as well as precautions to ensure the privacyof our board members. Information can be obtainedfrom regional officers or national headquarters tocontact board members directly.Dear Soror,Thank you for your congratulatorymessage on my vows. Iwas married this past summerin Aruba to Gregory Liberty.The announcement didappear in Jet Magazine inlate October, as a result of agood soror who has a prominentrole with the publication.The announcement notonly mentioned our nuptials, but gave a wonderfulmention to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Onceagain, thank you for the message I am now officiallySoror Rasheeda S. Liberty.The Editor invites feedback on your publication, whether positive or constructive.Confidentially offer feedback by sending an e-mail to theauroramag@sgrho1922.org orvia mail to the International Headquarters.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora

POWER OF VISION:INNOVATION, COLLABORATIONAND IMPLEMENTATIONGreetings from theInternationalGrand BasileusSororMynora J. Bryant,Ed.D.20 th InternationalGrand BasileusGreetings!Welcome to 2008, the beginning of a new year. Each day, month and yearallows us to start anew as we resolve to make positive changes. As we embracethis New Year, let us not forget our mission and purpose, the essence of ourgreat sisterhood.Our organization has undergone a metamorphosis since its founding in1922. The metamorphosis can be likened to crystal, the only inanimate thingthat grows. As the years pass it changes its lines and shape but continues toretain the same perfect form in accordance with nature’s plan; just as SigmaGamma Rho Sorority retains its mission of service. We have endured becausewe realize, to paraphrase the words of Alice Walker, “To the extent that it ispossible, we must live and make Sigma‘s world today as we wish those membersthat follow to live in it in the future.” Our greatest contribution is to realize thateach of us is privileged to be a member of this great organization and shouldnot take our privilege for granted.In not taking our privilege for granted, we must think change. Change – thevery word may pose a challenge for some of us, but we have had to changehow we think; how we respond to situations; and how we initiate actions outof societal demands. Change may be exciting, different, stressful, or perhapsall of those mentioned, but change we must if our organization is to continuemoving forward.A wonderful truth about change is that it is a natural way of life. Let’s thinkfor a moment where we envision our organization ten years from now. Autumntrees provide and example as their leaves change and fall. The trees wouldbecome stunted and withered if they held on to old, dried foliage. And so it iswith our organization as we continue to fulfill the dream of our founders. Wemust allow ourselves to experience brighter outcomes and new capacities. Itmust be about our organization, not a region, chapter or member.Let us be change agents who follow the prescribed set of practicesknown as a discipline for the purpose of reaffirming our commitment toour organization and to each other. Let us develop and implement a planthat overcomes negative thinking and unproductive behaviors; or perhapsunpleasant memories of plans that didn’t work out that are preventing us fromtrying one more time. Let this be a time that we move forward with zeal andenthusiasm, giving and receiving, committing to purposeful, rewarding goalsthat establish our sorority in all arenas.May this year bring happiness, joy and fulfillment; a year that expectationsflow from your vision, faith, hope and love.Sisterly,Mynora J. BryantInternational Grand Basileus

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, IncorporatedInternational Board of Directors 2006–2008InternationalGrand Basileusand Board ChairmanMynora J. Bryant, Ed.D.Silver Spring, MarylandNortheast RegionINTERNATIONAL FIRSTGRAND ANTI-BASILEUSJoann LovelessGreensburg, PennsylvaniaNortheast RegionINTERNATIONALGRAND ANTI-GRAMMATEUSTiffany HightowerChicago, IllinoisCentral RegionINTERNATIONALGRAND TAMIOCHUSJennifer A. CarterDenver, ColoradoWestern RegionINTERNATIONALEDITOR-IN-CHIEF, THE AURORARasheeda LibertyBrentwood, TennesseeSoutheast RegionINTERNATIONAL SECONDGRAND ANTI-BASILEUSTiana TrimblePeoria, ArizonaWestern RegionINTERNATIONALGRAND GRAMMATEUSJoan WingoChicago, IllinoisCentral RegionINTERNATIONALGRAND EPISTOLEUSGwenette J. Parker, Ed.D.Los Angeles, CaliforniaWestern RegionINTERNATIONAL LEGAL ADVISORDoris A. Randle-HoltGermantown, TNINTERNATIONAL PARLIAMENTARIANFrances Jackson, Ph.D., R.N.Detroit, MISYNTAKTICENTRAL REGIONDeborah Catchings-SmithFlorissant, MONORTHEAST REGIONFelicia D. BlakeneyFalls Church, VASOUTHEAST REGIONJennifer A. GunnJacksonville, FLSOUTHWEST REGIONBrenda Sloan JohnsonHouston, TXWESTERN REGIONLaTonya Theus NelsonPalmdale, CAUNDERGRADUATE CHAPTERCOORDINATORSCENTRAL REGIONPamela D. LeeDetroit, MINORTHEAST REGIONVi EnglesPeekskill, NYSOUTHEAST REGIONGriena H. KnightBirmingham, ALSOUTHWEST REGIONBrenda CantyBaton Rouge, LAWESTERN REGIONRoshoune FranklinLos Angeles, CAYOUTH SERVICES COORDINATORSCENTRAL REGIONAlexandria N. CrumbleIndianapolis, INNORTHEAST REGIONAmneris RodriguezPhiladelphia, PASOUTHWEST REGIONTeresa SegarsBaker, LAWESTERN REGIONPatricia R. KindredGlendale, AZINTERNATIONAL PHILO COORDINATORMae Frances FrazierCapital Heights, MDINTERNATIONAL RHOER COORDINATORMary Ann GollidayFayette, MSINTERNATIONAL SERGEANT AT ARMSSophia E. AtkinsMemphis, TNBoule ChaplainVivian Johnson, Ed.D.Houston, TXINTERNATIONAL PROGRAMCOORDINATORHenry Etta Johnson- O’NealCarrollton, TXCORPORATE LIAISONCarolyn WilliamsWashington, DCINTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OFPAST GRAND BASILEICleo S. Higgins, Ph.D., 10thJacksonville, FlSoutheast RegionAnnie L. Lawrence-Brown,R.N., Ed.D., 13thChicago, ILCentral RegionEvelyn H. Hood, 14thAtlanta, GASoutheast RegionKatie Kinnard White, Ph.D., 17thBrentwood, TNSoutheast RegionCorine J. Green, 18thNorth Las Vegas, NVWestern RegionHelen J. Owens, 20thJackson, TNSoutheast Region–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––EXECUTIVE DIRECTORJennifer JonesInternational Corporate Headquarters1000 Southhill Drive Ste 200Cary, NC 27513-8630Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora

Beacon of LightHOLD FAST THATWHICH IS GOODWe are a generation of people who seekthe best things that life has to offer.We want our children to have moreopportunities than we have had throughoutour lives. We seek the highest paying jobs,even though we have to work limitlesshours to keep them. Diamonds, platinumjewelry, gold, furs, expensive luxury cars,lavish homes, and limitless charge cardsare acquired by most who cannot affordthem. These material goods are veryappealing, but we do not need to ruin ourname, health, credit, or families by seekingsuperficial things that we cannot afford.No matter how much or little we have, weshould cherish who we are and be thankfulfor everything that God allowed us to have.I Thessalonians 5:21 tell us to “Prove allthings; hold fast that which is good.” Whatis that good thing that you are searching forin life?Some of us do not know the most valuablethings that God offers us. We think thata good job; a beautiful home; sportscar; stocks; bonds; and money are thebest things in life, but these things aredispensable. Some of us think that a goodlife involves having a spouse or companion;eating a bowl of our favorite ice cream,with a cherry on top; sitting in front of afireplace, sipping a cup of hot chocolate;getting a gift from that special someone;receiving flowers, perfume, and candy;dancing to your favorite song; steppingjust for fun; hanging with your sorors andother friends; exercising; sitting by the pool;or having a picnic on a sunny day. Gettingspecial things allows us to feel loved.God’s love goes beyond mere materialpossessions. God has proven his love bygiving us the best that he has, Jesus. Fromthe beginning of time, God has shown uslove.God made provisions for each of us fromthe beginning of time. In Genesis 1, the firstbook of the Bible, God gives us examples tolive by. Genesis 1:1 says,” In the beginningGod created the heavens and the earth.”God created the heavens and the earth byspeaking them into existence and that wasgood. God proved that other things couldbe spoken and caused to manifest in ourlives. God said, “Let there be light” andthere was light, which also was good. Hecalled the light day and the darkness night.God said, “Let there be a firmament in themidst of the waters, let it divide the watersfrom the waters. God called the firmamentHeaven.” He spoke good things intoexistence, from the beginning, including:dry lands, which He called the earth; grass;herb yielding seed; fish; and fowl of the10

air. He created man and woman, in his ownimage, and gave us dominion over the earth.We can do as God did. He spoke goodthings.We too need to speak good things, becauseour future depends upon it. The Bible saysthe tongue is a “two edge sword” thatcannot be tamed. It speaks both good andbad. It can bless the Lord and also utternegative words. If you speak negativethings, negative things will occupy your life.Those things that you confess, or meditateon, whether good or bad, are the thingsthat will come to pass in your life. God givesgood things, such as, true love, forgiveness,peace, joy, and mercy. God fulfills all of hispromises and his word never changes. TheBible tells us in Matthew 6:33 to “Seek firstthe kingdom of heaven and all these thingsshall be added unto you.” The things forwhich we work so hard can be added to usby God, if we just give him first place in ourhearts.God desires that we have some of thethings that we desire. If God gave us allof our desires, we would have no need forhim. When we put God first, we can haveother things. God is good and he loves us.One who loves gives of him or herself. OurSeven extraordinary Founders of SigmaGamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated gaveus a strong, proud legacy. They workeddiligently at Butler University in 1922and imagined a sisterhood that was not acarbon copy of other Greek organizations.They wanted something far more importantthan wearing an emblem and colors. Theydesired to make a difference in this worldby educating the masses and helping thosein need. They wanted a strong bond thatcould not be broken, even by death. OurFounders were tenacious ladies full of love,harmony, and true sisterhood, who left aroad map that we can follow. Our Founderstrusted God and included Him in their plans.God ordered their steps 85 years ago andSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. lives withinus this day. “Hold fast to that which isgood.”God is good and He has given us His mostvaluable gift of love, Jesus. He has given usa very special gift of sisterhood that hashelped to make us better than we are alone.Contrary to the world’s way of thinking, weare to seek God first and good things will beadded unto us. I Thessalonians 5:22 advisesus to “Abstain from all appearances of evil.”Speak and meditate on positive things sothat you will have the kind of life that youdesire. God wants to bless you on earth, sochoose this day whom you will serve. Godwill never leave you alone. Wherever youare God is also. Obey the Word of God,because God’s way is best. “Hold fast tothat which is good.”Submitted By,Soror Vivian Johnson, Ed. D.Boule ChaplainSoror Vivian Johnson, Ed. D. isthe daughter of the late Mr. Johnand Soror Janie J. Johnson Jr. Sheis an educator who received aBachelor of Music Educationfrom Henderson State University;Master of Secondary Educationand a Doctorate of EducationalAdministration from theUniversity of Arkansas at Little Rock. Her goal in lifeis to serve God with her whole heart and help othersfulfill their dreams. She is a member of ChristwayMissionary Baptist Church, Boule Chaplain, Chaplainof Theta Sigma Chapter (Little Rock, Arkansas) and aLife Member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 11

Soror Nneka Beauford(Gamma Sigma, Houston, Texas)Featured in a University of Houston-Clear Lake artexhibition and commissioned to complete three artquilts for the university.Soror Anna Brothers(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Appointed to the position of Curriculum Coach forPreschool for the Illinois State Board of Education.Soror Brothers has also been asked to participatein the People to People Ambassador Program asa delegate of professionals specializing in earlychildhood education.Soror Christina Calbert Outlay(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Accepted a position at Allstate Insurance asa Program Manager in the Allstate FinancialTechnology division of the company. She willcontinue as adjunct faculty at DePaul University’sSchool of Accountancy and ManagementInformation Systems.Soror W. Jeanine Daugherty(Theta Chi Sigma, Oak Park, Illinois)Elected secretary of the NPHCNational Executive Board for2007-2009. Soror Daughertyis also the chapter’s 1st AntiBasileus and the NPHCChicago-chapter’s currentpresident.Soror Carrie Filer Davis(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Honored for her exemplary work and leadership tothe National Women of Achievement. Highlightsof the awards festivities held in Houston, Texasincluded a Certificate of Special CongressionalRecognition by Congressman Al Green and thedeclaration of March 16, 2007 as her “SpecialDay” by the Honorable Bill White, Mayor ofHouston. To commemorate her years of serviceand leadership with the organization, Soror Davisreceived keepsakes in the form of a beautiful whitesatin photograph album adorned with culturedpearls. Dr. Davis was also presented with adouble-stringed white cultured pearl necklace andmatching earrings.Soror Helen Dismukes(Beta Rho Sigma, Denver, Colorado)Celebrated her 96th birthday. Soror Dismukesjoined Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in 1959 inTyler, Texas. She was a teacher for 10 years beforemoving to Denver, CO in 1945. She received herB.S. in Teaching for Elementary School Education.Soror Ayani Good(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Newly admitted member of the Golden KeyInternational Honor Society and has been asked toreturn for the 2007-08 academic year as VisitingProfessor of Human Development in DePaul’sSchool of Education.Soror Jo Ann Hawkins White(Basileus, Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Appointed the National Chairperson of ProjectAfricare for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. SororHawkins White was also a recipient in the Womenof Excellence “Black Pearl Award” given by SecureCare Supportive Services of Chicago at their 14thAnnual Awards Gala.Soror Samantha Holloway(Theta Sigma, Little Rock, Arkansas)Elected as the 40th National Secretary of theNational Black Law Students Association (NBLSA).NBLSA represents over 6,000 black law students atover 200 law schools across the countrySoror Annie Lawrence-Brown,Ed.D, R.N.(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Received the Chicago State University College ofHealth Profession Award for Community Service andServes on the Advisory Board. Dr. Lawrence-Brownwas also appointed to the DuSable Museum Historical12

Committee for Education and was the speaker for theAssociation of Black Nurse Faculty, Inc.Soror Rasheeda Liberty(Upsilon Sigma, Nashville, Tennessee)Named Great Lakes RegionController for RSC EquipmentRental. Liberty is responsiblefor financial directorshipover Alabama, Tennessee,Kentucky, Iowa, Illinois,Wisconsin, Indiana andMichigan. RSC is the premierleader in equipment rental forcommercial, municipal and residential projects.Soror Quanita Mills Fletcher(Beta Omega Sigma, Shreveport, Louisiana)Received a Master of Arts in English andCommunications with a concentration in Folklifeand Southern Culture from Northwestern StateUniversity, in Natchitoches, Louisiana.Soror Jo Ann Robinson(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Nominated to the 2007 edition of Who’s WhoAmong American Teachers and Educators.Soror Sydney Stewart(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Nominated for the Milken Family FoundationNational Educator Awards which is designed toreward elementary and secondary school teachers,principals and administrators who promoteexcellence and innovation in public education.Soror Crystal Thomas(Gamma Sigma, Houston, Texas)Received her Master ofEducation in Curriculum andInstruction from the Universityof Houston-Downtown.Soror Nekima Williams(Gamma Sigma, Houston, Texas)Received her Doctorate of Optometry along withthe International Golden Key Honor from theUniversity of Houston.Soror Helen Wooten-Bryant(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Elected a trustee on the Board of the Retired TeacherAssociation. Soror Wooten Bryant also has been honored bythe N”Digo Foundation with a scholarship named for SororWooten-Bryant. The mother of Rap Artist/Producer KanyeWest has written a book about her son who attended VanderpoelSchool during which time Soror Wooten-Bryant was AssistantPrincipal. Soror Wooten-Bryant is mentioned in the book.Looking for A FewGood Women …We are currently looking for activemembers of Sigma Gamma Rho to:✏Solicit and Follow Up with Advertisers✏Coordinate Special Sections(i.e. From Him, Dollars & Sense)✏Manage FeaturesIf interested, please contact:Soror Rasheeda Liberty attheauroramag@sgrho1922.orgIndicate in the subject line -“Editorial Assistance”Winster/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 13

HonoringWomenof the Cloth• •SororMary Carolyn AllenSororLeatrice J.W. Emeruwa14Soror Mary Carolyn AllenGamma Mu Sigma (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)Assistant PastorHis Church Non Denominational in Guthrie, Oklahoma.Soror Allen became an official minister at the ProgressiveBaptist Church in Tulsa in 1995. She has used her faith asthe foundation and spring board for the various roles she hasheld in Sigma Gamma Rho, in her professional life as pastcoordinator of Job Corps and in her personal life as a cancersurvivor.Rev. Leatrice J.W. Emeruwa, Ed.DAlpha Lambda Sigma (Cleveland, Ohio)Williams Center of Truthwww.williamscenteroftruth.orgRev.leatricejoy-preacherpoet#1@messageofhope.comIn her own words …Never consciously thinking of becoming a minister, it wasn’ta calling I set as a goal. “Baptist born, Baptist bred, gonna bea Baptist til’ I’m dead,” I always thought. But Spirit had otherplans. I finally obeyed and I love the path God has set me on:To share messages of hope and prophecy through prayer andspiritual healing as Jesus did” – with any who so desire.Working as a Religious Science Practitioner – specializing inprayer and spiritual healing with individuals – at the churchI helped charter in 1982, might have started me subliminally.I became interested in theology and studied at Johnnie ColemonInstitute (Chicago) and later with Fellowships of theSpirit (New York), becoming ordained in 1996 as a Spiritualistminister by the latter. I had already founded A.C.M.E. in 1991for religious studies, Black History and creative education;then Ausar Center Church in 1993. At presents, as foundationalminister of Williams Center of Truth, I conduct prayerservice, entertain sermon engagements and maintain a prayerline (216-791-PRAY), while awaiting further guidance fromthe Master.Ironically, I can’t help laughing when I think of my earliestmemories singing “Jesus Loves Me” as a three-year old atsummer Bible school. Never, ever dreaming, expecting ordesiring in my wildest fantasies to become a minister – or soI thought.

Winster/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 15

Cameron elected to National Funeral Directors & Morticians AssociationMs. JeterCameron joins the rank of a selectelite group of leaders expiring tothe presidency of an organizationthat has been around for over80 years. Other officers electedwere Starr Purdue of Macon,Georgia, Treasurer, Althea Pringle,Meridian, Mississippi, Clerk ofthe House, Hall Davis, IV, BatonRouge, Louisiana, President; ErnestJayme Jeter Cameron of JeterMemorial Funeral Home inDetroit, Michigan was electedCorporate Secretary of theNational Funeral Directors& Morticians Association,Inc during the 70th annualconvention in Philadelphia,Pennsylvania.Adams, Greenville, South Carolina, President-elect,Gregory T. Burrell, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, VicePresident and Jayme Jeter Cameron, Detroit, Michigan,Corporate SecretaryThe National Funeral Directors and MorticiansAssociation, Inc is the oldest and largest AfricanAmerican Funeral Service Association worldwide.Headquartered in Decatur, Georgia, NFDMA hascontinued to be the active voice of funeral service.Tulsa Pan-Hellenic Council Selects Robinson as Soror of the YearThe Tulsa Pan-HellenicCouncil has selected GreekCharlotte Robinson of SigmaGamma Rho Sorority, Inc. asthe 2006 Soror of the Year.Greek Robinson is a 1964graduate of Chicago TeachersCollege in Chicago, Illinois.She is a retired Tulsa Publicschoolteacher.She is currently a teachingconsultant at Hawthorne Magnet School and the HolyFamily Cathedral School.She is past president of the Alpha Xi Sigma Chapterof Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and has servedin a number of local and regional capacities to includePhilo Advisor, Status of Women Chair, Rhoer PageantChair and the Regional Time and Place CommitteeMember.Charlotte serves as the Sigma Gamma Rho representativeto the Tulsa Pan-Hellenic Council for four years andhas served as the secretary for the 2004-2006 year.Charlotte has delivered the Christmas boxes for threeyears to the Senior Nursing Center, has provided theregistration to the Greek Undergraduate Summit andworks with the Voter Registration and other events. Shehas supported in word and deed the programs of theNPHC during 2006.Charlotte is the wife of Harold Robinson of Alpha PhiAlpha and they have one son.16

Soror Winifred J. Daugherty has expanded her lovefor Greek life by assuming a leadership role with theNational Pan-Hellenic Council as the national secretary.Daugherty won the office at the 2007 National Pan-Hellenic Conference held on October 16-21, 2007 inDearborn, Michigan.Daugherty is currentlyserving in her third yearas president of ChicagoAlumni Pan-HellenicCouncil. During her timeon the leadership teamof the Chicago chapter,it has become the largestcouncil in the nation. In1999, Daugherty becameactive with the ChicagoChapter of The NationalPan-Hellenic Council.She served as the treasure and vice president for threeyears, consecutively.Daugherty’s Pan-Hellenic activities have only beenstrengthened by her 23 years of service to Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc. Through her tenure as a Sigma,at some point, Daugherty has served in each Sigmachapter office and has always been a trailblazer for oursisterhood. I recently had the opportunity to discuss hernew position on the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Thefollowing is an excerpt from that interview.Reed:Daugherty captures Secretary Office at NationalPan-Hellenic Fall ConferenceBy: Soror Latish C. Reed, Ph.D.What is your vision for your role asnational secretary?Daugherty: In the role of National Secretary, it ismy plan to be part of the team thatundoubtedly will raise the awareness ofNPHC not only on college campuses butwithin metropolitan areas where multiplealumnae/alumni chapters exist. As avisionary and catalyst for encouragingchange, the perception of the importanceReed:and significance of an organization thiscaliber is bound to change with my teammembership.Are you interested in further leadershiproles within the National Pan-HellenicCouncil?Daugherty: Yes, I aspire to become the NationalPan-Hellenic Council President. Since theinception of the National Pan-Hell, therehave only been three Sigmas who have heldthe presidency. I would like to follow in thefootsteps of Soror Bertha Black Rhoda(1944-1946), Soror Edna Douglas (1960-1962) and Soror Dr. Alice M. Swain.Reed:What do you see as the most criticalissue facing the National Pan-HellenicCouncil?Daugherty: The most critical issue is maintaining themost positive image of BGLOs on collegecampuses. We exist on these campusesif the university is in agreement withour mission and our goals. The variouslegal issues that have resulted because ofirresponsibility of students, lack of properadvisement and non-adherence to the policyset for by our respective organization haveleft us in swamp that continuously have uspleading our case of maintaining residencyon the college campuses.Reed:What advice do you have for local chaptersand their involvement in Pan-Hell?Daugherty: Get involved. Help be the catalyst ofchange for our communities. This broaderinvolvement will have a larger impact.There is power in numbers. Let’s show theworld that Sigma is also a very importantpart of the team. We are out there and weare collectively making a difference.Winter/Spring 2008• The Aurora 17

Soror Clara D. Hewitt Receives Honorary DoctorateSubmitted by Past Grand Basileus Helen J. OwensDr. Clara D. Hewitt, Nu Sigma Chapter, Jackson,Tennessee, is a Life Member, former SoutheastSyntaktes, and Undergraduate Coordinator. She wasawarded the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by herAlma Mater, Lane College during the commencementexercises. Soror Hewitt holds a masters degree fromClark-Atlanta University in Atlanta and has completedthe coursework for the Ed.D. at the University ofTennessee – Knoxville.The “Proclamation of Profound Recognition” that wasread by Dr. Wesley Cornelious McClure, President, statedthat Dr. Hewitt was cited for being a loyal daughter andfaithful servant of Lane College during her matriculationas a student and her 55 years tenure as an employee. Shehas served in numerous capacities including, but notlimited to, Head Librarian, Director of TRIO Programs(including Upward Bound, Student Support Service, andTalent Search Programs), Chairperson of the College’sCentennial Celebration, serving as secretary to thefaculty for 20 years, directing the Southern Associationof Colleges and Schools Reaccredidation Self-Study,serving as chair of the College Archives Committee,and any capacity to which she has been called. Throughfederal grants, she has been instrumental in LaneCollege being awarded over $16 million, by writing22 consecutive funded proposals for the Federal TRIOprograms. These funds have redirected the lives ofthousands of low-income students and assisted thecollege in the cultural development of its students.Dr. Hewitt was heralded as “a valuable asset to all facetsof Lane College” during her tenure which includesworking fewer than five presidents. According to Dr.McClure, she has demonstrated the highest level.This is the first day of many newupcoming 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;andJOINING YOUR LOCAL ALUMNAE CHAPTEROF SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC.Remember how your undergraduate sorors were always an integral part ofyour most joyous moments, as well as in finding solutions to some of yourgreatest problems? Membership in your local alumnae chapter will providea whole new level of the same sisterly support and assistance. Are youmoving to a new city or town? Need to know the real 4-1-1 on the companyfor which you have an interview or where the best and worst places areto live? Just moved and need to discover the real-deal shoppingareas? Your local alumnae chapter is just waiting to welcome youand point you in the direction you need.Contact Sigma Gamma Rho Headquarters(888) 747-1922, for chapter names andcontacts in your local area.18

Region NewsSOUTHWEST REGIONShowcases Project Reassurance Program in Dallas, TexasSubmitted by Brenda H. Smith, Southwest Region National Programs ChairThe Southwest region, under the leadership of Southwest Regional Syntaktes Brenda S.Johnson, made a great impression on the Dallas community as they presented layettes, dufflebags, infant toys and gift cards to seventeen teen mothers from the Maya Angelou School inDallas, Texas.The southwest region showcasedtheir premiere program, ProjectReassurance, via dynamicpresentations made during itsregional conference. During theopening session, Soror BrendaH. Smith, Project ReassuranceCoordinator, unveiled theprogram and assured thoseattending that its missionhad been fulfilled. She thenpresented Ms. Angela Butler-Jacobs a representative fromthe Maya Angelou School and school’s counselor with a certificate of participation. Ms. Jacobsthanked Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. Alumnae and Undergraduate Chapters and affiliateswere also recognized and received certificates. At the Annie Neville luncheon, themed “THEC.R.I.B.: Cultivating Talent, Reassuring Teens, and Identifying Strategies for Babies to GrowHealthy”, the 17 recipients and their guests were entertained by outstanding displays of talentfrom the southwest region’s Annie Neville contestants. After the announcement of Miss.Annie Neville, undergraduate sorors, the Project Reassurance Coordinator, UndergraduateChapter Coordinator Brenda Canty and the Regional Syntaktes presented the young mothersand mothers-to-be with engraved duffle bags, complete layettes, infant toys and a fifty-dollargift cards.The project’s success was the result of months of planning and coordinated effort. UCCBrenda Canty, and Philo Coordinator Wanda Nelson worked with undergraduate chaptersand philo clubs throughout the region to prepare layettes. Alumnae chapters donated fundsused to purchase gift cards and beautiful engraved duffel bags displaying: donated by SigmaGamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Southwest Region. The rhoer clubs, under the leadership of RhoerCoordinator Deirdre Harris, donated infant toys. The conference host chapter, Alpha Omicronand its Basileus, Paula Alexander helped identify mothers in need through the Maya AngelouSchool. Soror Chantay Canty, immediate past International Grand Grammateus sponsoredthe Project Reassurance recipients and guests for the luncheon.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 19

Region NewsWESTERN REGIONSouthern California Joint Council Awards $9000 in ScholarshipsSubmitted by Zeretha Washington, Theta Epsilon Sigma BasileusThe Western Region’s Southern California Joint Council hosted the first annual Lamp ofLearning Scholarship Luncheon. The Joint Council consists of undergraduate chapters,Gamma Kappa, Mu Alpha, Omicron Rho and Epsilon Phi. The graduate chapters are SigmaSigma, Gamma Tau Sigma, and Theta Epsilon Sigma. The luncheon was held at CaliforniaState University, Dominguez Hills and was attended by Sorors, Philos, Rhoers, family andfriends.The purpose of the luncheon was to award funds to hard working young ladies graduatingfrom high school and bound to a four year accredited University or College. The Sororswere as excited as the recipients because many of the chapters fundraised all year long inpreparation for this one day.For example, Omicron Rho of Cal State Dominguez Hills and Mu Alpha from UCLA bothheld successful talent pageants which required male students to be intelligent, articulate andtalented to take home the title of Mr. Rhoyalty and Mr. UCLA. The winner of OmicronRho’s Mr. Rhoyalty Pageant and Mu Alpha’s Mr. UCLA pageant each took home a $500scholarship. The bio of each winner was read at the scholarship luncheon.On the graduate level, sorors from Theta Epsilon Sigma of Culver City organized foursuccessful fundraisers including a comedy night and a spa trip to Mexico which led to thechapter presenting four scholarships for a total of $5000. Gamma Tau Sigma chapter of LongBeach held, in addition to other events, a Jazz Brunch fundraiser that allowed them to giveout $2000 to three of their Rhoers who are headed off to college. Sorors from the Los Angelesgraduate chapter Sigma Sigma were also successful in their fundraising efforts which led to a$1000 scholarship for a spectacular young lady. In fact all of the young ladies that receivedscholarships that day were exceptional on an academic and personal level. It was a proudday for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., the students and their families. The sorors of theSouthern California Joint Council are gearing up for another successful year of communityservice and fundraising with the goal of giving out more money next year.20

NationalPan-HellenicCouncilConventionReunitesDivineNineBy Soror Darlene HouseBrothers and sisters fromthroughout the country cameto the Motor City region foran extended family reunion. Theyenthusiastically answered the callto attend the National Pan-HellenicCouncil (NPHC) 64th BiennialConvention October 17 – 21, 2007in Dearborn, Michigan. Therewere 272 delegates in attendanceincluding 184 voting delegates and88 non voting delegates. They trulyembodied the theme “WorkingTogether to Achieve Educational,Social, Economic and PoliticalEmpowerment”.During the Pre-ConventionReception, as part of his greetings,the 32nd National President Dr,Michael Bowie acknowledgedsupport of Sigma Gamma RhoSorority, Inc. Grand Basileus Dr.Mynora J. Bryant and presenceof the organization’s ExecutiveDirector Jennifer Jones. Rho SigmaBasileus Jacquelyn M. Moore wasthrilled to meet and greet manysorors visiting area. Notable amongthem was Central Region SyntakesDeborah Catchings Smith andSoror W. Jeanine Daughty who waselected as secretary for the newadministration.NPHC First Vice President JenniferJones relayed a cordial welcomeand stressed the importance ofeffective chapter management plusbuilding your chapter brotherhoodand sisterhood. An ongoingtheme Jones shared at the PublicMeeting was the following: “Withmembership comes responsibility.I don’t care what color you wear, ifnot you who? If not now, when?”NPHC Second Vice PresidentDarius R. Foster acknowledgedthat undergraduates receivedWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 21

substantial support fromBowie and his administration.Everyone benefited fromopen lines of communication.During the Convention, manymeaningful sessions were heldfor undergraduates and theirleaders including UndergraduateLeadership Institute and AdvisorsInstitute. Bowie stated that ourfuture was in good hands based onthe outstanding leadership fromundergrads.The diverse Conventionactivities afforded manyopportunities for conductingbusiness efficiently andspending quality social timewith new and old friends. Unityand community service wereepitomized by and far more thanmere buzz words among membersof the Divine Nine. The majorConference community outreachproject involved collecting moneyfor purchasing school uniforms toassist needy public school children.The Convention events concludedwith a soul-stirring Omegaand Ecumenical Service. Thecontributions and self-less supportof Sigma Gamma Rho Past GrandBasileus and NPHC LeaderAlice M. Swain received specialrecognition. Bowie also remindedparticipants about the importanceof remembering our sharedheritage reflecting significanceof religion to Divine Nineorganization founders. By keepingthis heritage in mind, everyoneshould always treat all brothersand sisters with respect.22

Employee Stock OptionsSubmitted by:Lillie M. Hibbler-BrittBasileus, Beta Omicron Sigma ChapterMany employers offer their workers the chance to literally “own partof the company.”It’s good to have options.In this case, we’re talking about employee stock options, which many companies offer workers asa perk of employment. In a typical plan, management grants its workforce the right to buy stockat a specified price (the exercise price) by a certain time (the expiration date). In many cases, theopportunity to buy the stock extends for up to 10 years. If the company is doing well, the fair marketprice (the price of the stock on a securities exchange) could be above the exercise price, creatingprofit for the worker.“The attractiveness of an employee stock-option plan depends on the performance of the company,”says Angela Sheridan, Supervisor of ESOP/Restricted Stock Department of Wachovia Securities.“There could be a very large differential between the exercise price and the fair market price.” Afteran employee buys stock from the company, he or she is free to sell all or some of the shares througha financial advisor or brokerage company.Once management grants a stock-option package, vesting requirements vary, with some companiesallowing employees access to options immediately, while others might require a waiting period ofseveral years. Expiration periods are typically shortened after an employee leaves the company.In all cases, however, shares acquired through an employee stock-option plan remain the propertyof the employee.Taxing DifferencesThere are two types of employee stock-option plans. Incentive stock options are usually reservedfor upper management, while nonqualified stock options may be available to all workers. Most ofthe differences between the two relate to taxes.In a nonqualified plan, tax is due in two installments. For instance, let’s assume you exercised yourright to buy 100 shares of the company’s stock at $50 per share on the same day that it is tradingat $75 per share. In that case, you would immediately owe income tax on a $2,500 gain. If you soldyour stock at $100 per share at least a year later, you would then pay tax at long-term capital-gainsrates (currently 15 percent) on the difference between the fair market price at the time of sale ($100)and the fair market value at the time of exercise ($75).With incentive options, all tax is deferred until the stock is actually sold. However, the alternativeminimum tax (AMT) often applies to sales of stock acquired through incentive plans. Participantsin incentive stock-option plans (also known as qualified plans) should consult their accountant tosee if the AMT applies to their situation.Winster/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 23

Exercising Stock OptionsCompanies offer employee stock options for two main reasons. First, money paid by employees topurchase shares goes directly into the company’s coffers. Second, stock options can be an enticingemployee benefit. If the exercise price of the option is lower than the company’s fair market price atthe time of purchase, employees are free to sell and make an immediate profit — or hold the stockin hopes of a higher profit in the future.Employees can purchase their stock options in three ways:• Same-day sale. This is also known as a “cashless exercise.” The employee arranges to sellshares immediately after they are acquired. Money to exercise the stock options is actuallyborrowed from the brokerage firm, but the loan is quickly repaid using proceeds from the saleof the stock. Same-day sales often are made to “lock in” a profit resulting from a significantdisparity between the exercise price and the current fair market value.• Cash exercise. In this scenario, the employee uses his or her own money to pay for shares,and then either holds or sells the shares.• Sell-to-hold. An employee may opt to sell some of the shares to pay for the purchase. Ofcourse, this strategy only works if the underlying stock has appreciated, thus creating a largecapital gain upon exercise. For example, an employee could buy 500 shares of stock at $10per share, immediately sell 200 shares at a $25 market price to pay the bill, and then hold theremaining 300 shares.Ask QuestionsThere is another factor that employees should consider before exercising a right to buy theircompany’s shares. As with company-sponsored retirement plans like a 401(k), it can be easy forworkers to acquire a significant amount of their employer’s stock. But in some cases, those holdingscould come to represent a disproportionate share of the worker’s entire stock portfolio.While individual circumstances vary, many experts agree that it is too risky to place more than about10 percent of a portfolio in the stock of any one company, even your own. Of course, employeesmight feel that their close association with their company gives them a “heads up” on its prospects.Still, putting too many financial eggs in one basket is not a sound investment strategy.Wachovia Securities is not a legal or tax advisor. However, we as FinancialAdvisors will be glad to work with your accountant, tax advisor and/orattorney to help you meet your goals. Past performance is no guarantee offuture results.This article is provided by courtesy of Lillie M. Hibbler-Britt, AssociateVice-President Investments with Wachovia Securities in Charlotte, NC. Lilliewelcomes your comments, and you can reach her at 704-348-9575 or 877-819-5270. The accuracy and completeness of this article are not guaranteed. Theopinions expressed are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily thoseof Wachovia Securities or its affiliates. The material is distributed solely forinformation purposes and is not a solicitation of an offer to buy any securityor instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. Wachovia Securities,LLC, Member New York Stock Exchange and SIPC, is a separate nonbankaffiliate of Wachovia Corporation. ©2006 Wachovia Securities, LLC.Investments in securities and insurance products: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOTBANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE24

Victoria RowellThe Women WhoRaised MeWilliam Morrow, 339 pp. $25.95“The Women Who RaisedMe is a quilt and each womangave me a piece of herself to sewtogether, to make me whole.” --Victoria RowellMuch more than just anothertrip down memory lane, SororVictoria Rowell’s memoir takesreaders on an unforgettablejourney. They travel withthe talented author throughrecollections of her days as a foster child and meet womenwho made lasting impressions.These previously unsung heroines were women of diverseraces and religious affiliations. Rowell eloquently sharestheir stories and backgrounds as well as revealing howthey influenced her. The women taught Rowell pricelesslife lessons she still values. Rowell celebrates the types ofwomen many people take for granted. Her book is in essencea tribute to every woman who helped her grow into theaccomplished actress, philanthropist and mother she is now.her past to influence decisions impacting her future.While earning the distinction of being the first actor toconsecutively perform on two shows for six years in the twodifferent mediums of daytime and primetime TV, Rowellalso earned her Writers Guild of America membership card.Rowell co-wrote an episode of Diagnosis Murder and inspireda Young and the Restless storyline which both reflected herpassion for ballet.The Women Who Raised Me shares the personal truthsof a grateful daughter who refused to be held back bychallenges. “I was never meant to be raised by one mother,but many,” Rowell concluded. Support was gained frommany others as well including grandmothers, aunts, mentors,teachers, foster workers and sisters. Readers are encouragedto reflect on their memories and become involved in linkedactivities such as writing, interviewing, researching andphotojournalism. Then, they will undoubtedly discovertheir own personal truths.Along the way, Rowell spent the most time as a fosterchild living with Agatha Armstead. This black Bostonianand owner of a Maine farm was also the person that tooka talented young girl on her first explorations of ballet byimprovising an enamel door knob for the practice barre.Initially just trying to please the only foster mother shecalled “Ma”, Rowell eventually leaped on to stages with majordance companies including the American Ballet Theatre andBallet Hispanico.Rowell believes experiences as a foster child plus “theburdens of loneliness and anxiety” prepared her for dealingwith the demanding world of performing arts. In herbook, Rowell relays insights reflecting a sensitive spirit andintuitive mind. She learned to forgive things that could notalways be easily explained and keep moving on with her life.In stead of forgetting where she came from, Rowell allowedp(Left to Right) SororsUolanda Davis-Campbell,Darlene House and AlleanH. House greeted SororVictoria Rowell.pSoror Victoria Rowell read an exciting passage from herbook, The Women Who Raised Me.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 25

Nannie JohnsonMary LittleVivian MarburyBessie MartinCubena McClure Hattie Redford Dorothy Whiteside26

They stood alone.Soror Brittany KnowlesSeven courageous ladies who had a visionThey would and could die forI imagine that they were afraid…Young school teachers in uncharted territory/Up against a nationThat was not accepting of anything that they stood 4.They battled racism, sexism and blatant hatred.At a time when the Klan was 4 million members strong,When black men were degraded/ emasculated and outcaste,And black women were treated even worse.And yet they chose to continueThe first and only sorority to be establishedAt a predominately white university…They Braved riots and attacksSacrificed their lives and timeTo create a firm foundationAnd a true image of sisterhood….Yes, I imagine that they were terrified…But they kept Christ as their guidesAnd pressed forth, because we were worth it.Stood tall in the face of adversityAlienationAnd small numbersThey organized and worked first…Held conventions and played later.So that some 80 years afterwardOur generation can claimThe status of being the last created but best designed.But do we believe it?We are so proud of our founders…But can we be proud of ourselvesWould they be proud of us??Ladies,We are so much more than big linesClub partiesAnd strollingWe are more than chantsHand signsCallsAnd paraphernaliaMore than which fraternity loves usMore than what a sorority calls us…And more than any person who does or does notknow who we are.We are quality…We are beneficial programsMembers who work for SigmaAnd ladies with a vision that will not becompromisedWe are heads held highA strong legacyAnd a foundation that will not be movedWe were set apart from the beginning…Strong and courageous like our foundersFighting the nation that rises against US…Battling apathyConfrontationAssimilationAnd lack of integrityWe are forming stronger bondsTraining up our youthAnd becoming the epitome of the legacy that ourfounders left.I have never been more proud to be a memberof Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,INCORPORATED!Have you?Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 27

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the rebuttal“Why is the registration fee at my Sigmaconference so high?”Conference planning is easy … that is, if you areonly an attendee. All you have to do is committo being a participant by registering early or ontime, making your housing accommodations,arranging your transportation, and attending thesessions. Now from the planning perspective,there is nothing to anticipate except the hope thatyou will stay at the contracted hotel, register forthe conference, and attend the sessions. And, alsohaving knowledge of your past track record ofmeeting attendance and patterns!You may ask, “what does my participation from lastyear or the year before have to do with this year’sconference?” When preparing for a conference,event planners must use historical conference data(sleeping room counts, room block patterns, foodBy Sonia HarrisIt is an industry-accepted practice for the sponsoringorganization to offer an “early bird” housingrate as an incentive to attendees who plan aheadby securing their conference rooms 2-3 monthsin advance. Some of our Sigma conferences dooffer early-bird hotel rates. CAVEAT EMPTOR!When hotel issues arise after not having bookedwithin the contracted room block (which couldspan several hotels for a citywide event), the eventplanner and sponsoring organization are less ableto assist you in resolving the housing issue.Be sure to give your input by offering suggestionsfor improvement or commendations for successon any post-conference survey you may begiven. When the sponsoring organization meetsand/or exceeds its contracted room block, itWhen you decide to:1) use the Internet to secure a room witha lower rate at the SAME hotel as theconference,2) accommodate more persons in yoursleeping room than the hotel’s policyallows,3) attend complimentary socialfunctions (with or without meals) duringthe conference but fail to register,4) use sleeping rooms outside thecontracted hotel,and beverage orders, meeting room quantities,actual attendees, etc.) in order to best negotiate therates and fees for the upcoming conference. Howyou “participate” with the conference really doesmake a difference!When it comes to housing accommodations, eventplanners encounter two detrimental occurrencesbest described by Dave Kovaleski of MeetingNews as rooms outside the block and roomsoutside the contracted hotel. Both occurrences arebooked through means other than that which thesponsoring organization designates.the sponsoring organization:does not receive credit for thoserooms or persons since they areoutside of the official count.Although it is possible to track thosewho go outside of the contracted roomblock or hotel, it is a time-consumingtask for the event planner or sponsoringorganization to manually comparethe hotel’s arrival list with the event’sregistered attendee list.HELPS negotiations for future conferences bystrengthening their credibility. This can translateinto LOWER HOUSING RATES and possiblymore meal functions included with the conferenceregistration rate.So the next time you get “sticker-shocked” withthe high cost of your Sigma conference registrationfee, ask yourself whether or not your actions were apositive impact on the conference!30

Sow A Seedto bloom a blessingMake a donation of $1,000or more to become a partof the tree of golden leaveslocated in theInternational HeadquartersBe a Part of the FoundationSend your $1,000 individual or chapter donation to:Seven Pearls Foundation1000 Southhill Drive, Ste 200Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 31

SGR CHAPTERChat • SGR • SGRRhoTown TechBy: Soror Erica M. DeanWebmistress, Rho Sigma Alumnae Chapter-Detroit, MichiganBlessed to secure membership in Detroit’s Rho Sigma Alumnae chapter in March 2006, I was happy for theopportunity to use my technology skills on behalf of Sigma Gamma Rho. My first task as webmistress was toredesign and maintain our chapter’s existing site, which is not as easy as one may think. It seemed that everyother month, Rho Sigma’s internet home went through a complete makeover, brought upon by midnightrevelations and a desire to make the site look its absolute best.It was during these times that I visited a wide variety of websites for both NPHC and non-NPHCorganizations. Of course, I wanted to see what others were doing, while at the same time helping Rho Sigmaattract more visitors to our site. I looked at how Sigma Gamma Rho chapters throughout the nation were usingour color scheme, add-ons such as photo galleries and calendars, and the use of password-protected pages,which is becoming a must-have website tool. Fast forward one year late, and here I am working harder than everin RhoTown, which is scheduled to play host to Sigma Gamma Rho’s International Boule in 2008. Wanting torevise our website yet again, I was able to summarize what I think it takes to build a great web presence for yourchapter.1. Sigma Gamma Rho Website Design ProtocolBefore I could even lay the groundwork for Rho Sigma’s website in 2006, two illustrious Sigma women,Soror Claudia M. Clark (2004-2006 chapter basileus) and Soror Jacquelyn M. Moore (current chapterbasileus), directed me to the Sigma Gamma Rho Website Design Guidelines document, located onSigma Gamma Rho’s national website under the “Sorors Only” section. Within this document, I foundimportant information that discussed how a Sigma Gamma Rho website should reflect “Greater Service,Greater Progress”, showing our chapters, sorors, and the sorority as a whole in a positive light. Anyonewho has a hand in creating your chapter’s website should be aware that refusing to adhere to the presentedguidelines and protocol could result in a request for the removal of the website from the Internet. Bottomline: You never know who is visiting your site, so make it right!2. Overall ThemeWhat to make your chapter stand out in the crowd? Why not develop a chapter theme? I have seen thisthroughout our sorority and it can really help guide the design of your website. Example: Unofficially,I decided to nickname our chapter, RhoTown. Since we are located in Detroit, Michigan, the home ofMotown, it was really easy to apply that to our chapter…and it sounds good when you say it, too. Next,I found a little piece of clip art that could alter using graphics editing software to reflect not only RhoSigma, but Sigma Gamma Rho as a whole. I call her “Ms. Rho”, and she can be found throughout ourweb pages. I also bring out “Ms. Rho” whenever I have an opportunity to create a flyer or other artworkfor the chapter as part of the Rho Sigma Promotion Team (RSPT), excellently lead by Soror DarleneHouse, Rho Sigma Publicist.32

3. Website Design and Hosting IssuesOkay, you have the guidelines, your theme, and even a chapter icon. Now, the hard part begins. Youneed to actually layout and design your website. If your chapter can afford it, you can hire an outsideagency to do this for you. Low on cash? Then it would be best to use companies like Yahoo or Tripod(Rho Sigma’s preferred website host) which offer free, ad-based websites that you can design online. Ifyou do not want to design “on-line”, there are software programs that you can use for this purpose, such asMicrosoft Front Page or Adobe Dreamweaver. After you have completed your pages, you can upload thefiles to the host’s online server.Note: “Ad-based” is just what it says: this means that visitors to your website will not only see yourchapter’s information, but ads for bicycles, vacations, home loans, and more. Usually, such ad-basedwebsites give subscribers a very long web address that may or may not be that easy to remember.This means that if you want a nice, neat, personalized web address or domain name (Example:ww.rhosigmadetroit.org), you will have to pay for it. Again, it is a matter of chapter preference, but mostof the “free” web hosting providers offer monthly or yearly plans that include a domain name of yourchoosing.4. Website Maintenance is Very, Very ImportantThe main key to having a great website is routine maintenance. A good website is has to be looked afterand taken care of. Links need to be checked for smooth navigation. Events need to be updated. Chapterrosters should be revised (Examples: name changes through marriage or even divorce; committeechanges, etc.). What about old pictures? Now, I’m not perfect. Not only am I the webmistress, but I am afull-time teacher as well. Website maintenance is hard work, but I try to stay on top of things by devotingat least 2-3 evenings per week for Rho Sigma business. The hardest part so far has been the developmentof the Photo Gallery. Right now, I have pictures posted from Slide.com, but for the upcoming 2007-2008sorority year I will be working more closely with dedicated Rho Sigma Epistoleus Dana Hughes to developa current online photo gallery. One word of advice: Become buddies with your chapter epistoleus-sheis a great resource for information both past and present regarding your chapter. Looking back, I thinkI called Soror Hughes everyday once I became a member and she always took time out to aid in thedevelopment of the website and gave me hard copies of our chapter’s history, event calendars, flyers,and more. I can remember meeting with her at Wayne State’s Undergraduate Library where she broughtalmost every piece of Rho Sigma information she could find. Thanks again, Dana (smile).Whenever I have the occasion to do so, I always tell people that my favorite part of being in Sigma GammaRho is the role I have in helping my chapter gain more exposure. Lately, it has been great receiving emailsregarding Rho Sigma membership and membership transfer, both important factors in chapter growth andsurvival. As the 2007-2008 sorority year approaches, I will continue to look for ways to make Rho Sigma one ofthe Internet’s best. Welcome to RhoTown. (www.rhosigmadetroit.org)With both a BA in Elementary Education and M.Ed in Education-K12 Instructional Technology fromWayne State University (Detroit, MI), Soror Erica M. Dean fell in love with technology at the age of8, when her parents bought her a Nintendo Entertainment System … instructing her to “hook it up” tothe television by herself.Today, at the age of 29, Soror Dean is a 6-year veteran of the Detroit Public School System, where shecurrently teaches Computer Applications …”hooking up” computers, VCRs, and more at Warren G.Harding Elementary School.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 33

NATIONAL EDUCATION FUNDANNOUNCESSCHOLARSHIP AWARDSThe Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc.is pleased to announce 24 scholarships for 2007-2008, totaling$19,150. Each winner is congratulated.$2000Seven FoundersScholarshipMia Ross-WrightParsons School of Design, NY$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipChristopher BenjaminSt. Petersburg College, FL$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipBreeahna BrittClark-Atlanta University, GA$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipMaureen GoreCentral University ofBridgeport, CT$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipCassandra LedetPrairie ViweA&M University, TX$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipLauren SimpsonXavier University, OH$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipImarohe StokesFisk University, TN$750NEF ScholarshipCarmen FosterUniversity of Maryland, MD$1000Seven FoundersScholarshipPhillip GreenFlorida A&M University, FL$700Beatrice W. FoxScholarshipCentral Region)Alexandria CrumbleButler University, IN$700Lizzie B. MillerScholarship(Southwest Region)Janice GaiterUniversity of Texas –San Antonio, TX34

$750NEF ScholarshipVivian JolleyMorehouse College ofMedicine, GA$750NEF ScholarshipSheena MollisonChicago State University, IL$750NEF ScholarshipMartinique PerkinsUniversity of Alabama, AL$750NEF ScholarshipShanique RobersonUniversity ofTexas-Austin, TX$750NEF ScholarshipCortney VassUniversity ofNorth Carolina, NC$550Sally A. WilliamsJessica DurantHuston-TillotsonUniversity, TX$500NEF ScholarshipBrittany ButterworthColby-Sawyer College, NH$500NEF ScholarshipLaurie CocoClark University, MA$500NEF ScholarshipCharmaine DavisXavier University, OH$500NEF ScholarshipValerie LottPrairie ViewA&M University, TX$500LoVett Hood ScholarshipRamon PadillaDallas TheologicalSeminary, TX$700Laura J. HawkinsScholarship(Northeast Region)Leatha GrahamUniversity of District ofColumbia, DC$500Inez Thomas ColsonScholarshipTeCresa MajetteSavannah State University, GAWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 35

Boule Call from the International Grand BasileusGreetings!Our International Biennial Convention is scheduledfor all sorors, affiliates and guests to converge on Detroit,July 18-24,2008, at the Detroit Marriott at the RenaissanceCenter.Detroit, “D”, Motown, Hockey town and theMotor City are the nicknames that are used to definethis city. Detroit, a busy border crossing, a cosmopolitaninternational city and a blue-collar town with soul; thehome of the Motown sound; the stomping ground ofall things auto, and the headquarters of Ford MotorCompany, General Motors and Daimler Chrysler. Thisbusy diverse city is inviting all sorors and affiliates tocome and experience its “Detroit” culture. Join us as wecontinue to celebrate eighty-five years of existence; explore endless possibilities for the future; andchart the direction that we envision to remain a viable and competitive organization.Rho Sigma Chapter, its undergraduates and affiliates, and the national boule committee areplanning a meeting that provides educational enlightenment; recognition of personal and chapterachievements; strategic planning, networking and entertainment. It is our firm belief that yourattendance to this grand event will be written in your book of remembrances.Detroit is the place to be July 18-24, 2008. Register early and take advantage of on-lineregistration at http://www.sgrhoI922.orglboule2008/index.html or complete the registrationform.Our theme for the Boule is “Vision: The Foundation of Endless Possibilities.”I look forward to your attendance at our 52nd International Boule in Detroit, so don’t miss it!Sisterly,Dr. Mynora J. BryantDr. Mynora J. Bryant21st International Grand BasileusWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 37

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Candidate for International Grand BasileusJoann LovelessDelta Phi Sigma – Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaNortheast RegionProfession: Graphic Services & Identity Manager,Westinghouse Electric CompanyOrganization Affiliations• Member, Macedonia Baptist Church• Advisory Board Member, Healthy Teens, Inc.• Board Member, Alliance for Career Education• Member, Westinghouse Community Giving GrantApproval Committee• 35 Years of Leadership and Involvement withCommunity & Company United Way OrganizationsSorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus, Anti-Basileus, Epistoleus• Regional: Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator,Nominating Committee Chair• National: Editor in Chief, The AURORA;International First Grand Anti-BasileusCandidate PlatformIn addition to my 30 years of membership in our greatsisterhood during which I’ve served in local, regional andnational leadership roles, I have also served diligentlyand faithfully for the last four years as international firstgrand anti-basileus and therefore am most equipped withthe ability and knowledge to establish continuity of effortand focus for our international sisterhood for the nextbiennium. Additionally, having been blessed to have hadprofessional leadership positions over the last 10 years thatincluded global responsibilities and access, I’ve attainedpractical knowledge and resources which will proveinvaluable in leading our global organization.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 47

Candidate for International First Grand Anti-BasileusBonita M. HerringDelta Sigma – Chicago, IllinoisCentral RegionProfession: Coordinator, Contract Training Development& Sales (Chicago State University)Organization Affiliations• Vice President, 87th Street Stony Island Chamber ofCommerce• National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners• Chicago Area Alliance of Black School Educator(CAABSE)• Learning Resource Network (LERN)• National Association of Realtors; MainstreetOrganization of Realtors• St. Alibe Women’s Club, Usher Team and “Sisters inSpirit” MinistriesCandidate PlatformAs immediate past Executive Director of Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc., I have worked with seven grand basileiand administration. This provided a unique opportunityto learn total sorority structure. Through experiences,I have learned that open communication is the key inworking successfully with membership. I am preparedto use my knowledge and resources for “Greater Service,Greater Progress.”Sorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus – Beta Rho Chapter; Grammateus,2nd Anti-Basileus, 1st Anti-Basileus, Basileus – DeltaSigma Chapter; Membership Chair• Regional: First Chairman of the Life MemberLuncheon (2005) and numerous committeememberships, including bylaws and membership• National: Executive Director for 23 years, NationalOperations Workshop PresenterCandidate for International First Grand Anti-BasileusPatricia H. HillerAlpha Kappa Sigma – Austin, TexasSouthwest RegionProfession: High School Business TeacherSorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus, Anti-Basileus, Parliamentarian,Grammateus• Regional: Southwest Regional Syntaktes,Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator, TamiochusCandidate PlatformMy leadership experiences stands on record in local,regional and international levels. Positive leadershipexperience is of utmost importance when considering acandidate for one of the top two positions in the sorority.In addition, my professional experience and educationachievements should translate beneficially to the membersof the sorority.48

Candidate for International First Grand Anti-BasileusJacquelyn M. MaysDelta Pi Sigma – Macon, GeorgiaSoutheast RegionProfession: Commerce/Industrial BusinessOrganization Affiliations• Board Chair, Higher Excellence Learning Center• Member, New Hope Baptist Church• Member, New Hope Baptist Church FinanceCommittee• Ministry Leader, New Hope Singles Ministry• Personnel Committee, New Hope Baptist Church• Member, League of Women Voters• Member, Retired Teachers Association of Georgia• Member, Northeast High School Touchdown ClubSorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus, Anti-Basileus, Parliamentarian,Grammateus, Epistoleus• Regional: Southeast Regional Syntaktes,Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator, Epistoleus,Election Committee Chair• National: Grand EpistoleusCandidate PlatformMy fellowship with Sigma Gamma Rho, Inc. beganin 1978 when I joined the Delta Pi Sigma Chapter.Membership has provided opportunities to serve aschapter basileus and all other elected offices, regionalepistoleus, undergraduate chapter coordinator, regionalsyntaktes and international grand epistoleus, as wellas numerous committee chairs at all levels. Currently,I serve as the chapter parliamentarian, region electionschair, National Health and Welfare committee chair,Resolutions committee chair, and member of the nationalelections committee. As a dedicated and involvedindividual who is motivated by hard work and giventhe opportunity to serve as international first grandanti-basileus, I can measure up to Sigma excellence inparticipation, dedication, experience and involvement.CANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL ANTI-GRAMMATEUSTiffany D. HightowerEta Xi Sigma – Oak Lawn, IllinoisCentral RegionProfession: Discharge Planner/Mental HealthProfessionalOrganization Affiliations• Member, Christian Poets’ Society• Member, Allen Metropolitan Christian MethodistEpiscopal Church• National Association for Female Executives• Employee Council Riveredge Hospital• Representative, Jason Foundation, Inc.• Secretary, Quality Assurance Riveredge HospitalSorority Offices Held• Local: 2nd Anti-Basileus, Anti-Grammateus• Regional: Anti-Basileus, Resolutions Chair• National: International Grand Anti-GrammateusCandidate PlatformI have been surrounded by the women of Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc. since the age of three. I was a Rhoer,undergraduate soror and proudly matriculated into analumnae chapter. I have served in numerous committeesand held numerous offices, including the office of antigrammateuson the local, regional and international level.I do possess the computer skills and technical knowledgerequired to hold this office. I definitely feel that myexperience and knowledge of the sorority and this officeis exceptional. Thank you for your consideration and Iwill continue to uphold the hallmarks of “Greater Service,Greater Progress.”Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 49

CANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL GRAMMATEUSChantay P. CantyGamma Phi Sigma – Houston, TexasSouthwest RegionProfession: Senior Procurement Associate, ExxonNeftegas LimitedOrganization Affiliations• Life Member, National Black MBA Association• American Institute of Parliamentarians• Association of Fraternity Advisors• Exxon Mobil Young Leaders• Order of Eastern Star, Pride of East EndCandidate PlatformI believe my past experience and knowledge asInternational Grand Grammateus during the 2004-2006administration is sufficient for this office which I seekre-election. Having served in this capacity previously,I am knowledgeable of our financial systems/software,vouchering process, bank/investment accounts, and otherfinancial matters.Sorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus, 1st Anti-Basileus, 2nd Anti-Basileus,Bylaws Committee Chair• Regional: IT Team Facilitator/Webmaster,Grammateus, Assistant Anti-Grammateus• National: International Grand GrammateusCANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL GRAMMATEUSJoan WingoDelta Sigma – Chicago, IllinoisCentral RegionProfession: Special Education TeacherOrganization Affiliations• CEC Council for Exceptional Children• PTA Parent Teacher Association• PAC Parent Advisory Council• CAABSE Chicago Area Alliance of Black SchoolEducators• Trinity United Church of ChristSorority Offices Held• Local: Grammateus• Regional: Regional Tamiochus• National: International Grand Grammateus,International Grand TamiochusCandidate PlatformAs the current International Grand Grammateus, I haveprovided information that bridges the gap between theoffice of Grand Grammateus, national headquarters, andthe Grand Tamiochus. I have provided detailed reportingto the national body in order to keep them informed onour financial status. My years as a financial officer onthe local, regional, and national level gives me invaluableknowledge to ensure that Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Inc. continues to build well into the next century.50

CANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL GRAND TAMIOCHUSDeborah J. DanielsMu Sigma – Baton Rouge, LouisianaSouthwest RegionProfession: Principal/EducationOrganization Affiliations• Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society• Secretary, EBR Parish Elementary Principal’sAssociation Secretary• Louisiana Association of Principals• National Association of Elementary School Principals• St. Mark United Methodist Church, Former FinanceChairperson, Liturgical Dancer, Choir Member,Singles Ministry Secretary, Pastor Parish Relationssecretary, United Methodist Women former financialsecretary and treasurer, Chairperson of Ida BranchStudy Group, United Methodist Women DistrictCommunication Chairperson• Order of Eastern Stars, Secretary, Treasurer, RuthSorority Offices Held• Local: MIP Chair, Basileus-Beta Alpha, Grammateus,1st Anti-Basileus-Mu Sigma• Regional: Regional Tamiochus, Area II CertifiedT.O.R.C.H TrainerCandidate PlatformI have and still hold key offices within the sorority thatrequire knowledge of policies and procedures to performthe duties that are encumbered upon me to promote theorder of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.CANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL GRAND TAMIOCHUSBarbara L. EiknerAlpha Xi Sigma – Tulsa, OklahomaSouthwest RegionProfession: Banking and FinanceOrganization Affiliations• Member, Leadership Tulsa• Member, Rudisill Friends of the Library• Life Member, University of South Carolina AlumniAssociation• Former Board Chair, Tulsa Vision 2025 Sales TaxOverview Committee• Former President, Tulsa Pan-Hellenic Council• Former President, Tulsa Economic DevelopmentCorporation• Former President, Hutcherson YMCA• Former President, Tulsa Women’s FoundationSorority Offices Held• Local: Anti-Basileus, Anti-Grammateus, Epistoleus,Grammateus, Tamiochus• Regional: Anti-Grammateus, Epistoleus, NortheastHistorianCandidate PlatformMy membership in Sigma Gamma Rho began February1974 as a charter member of Zeta Theta at the Universityof South Carolina. With over 30 years of bankingexperience, I am confident that my skills will improve andenhance Sigma Gamma Rho’s financial position, controlsand fiscal reporting.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 51

CANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUSFelicia D. BlakeneyEta Iota Sigma – Chevy Chase, MarylandNortheast RegionProfession: Public RelationsOrganization Affiliations• Member, Syracuse University Alumni Association• Member, Mother Cabrini High School AlumnaAssociation• Member, Westphalia United Methodist Church,Upper Marlboro, MD• Member, AFA-American Fraternal AssociationCandidate PlatformI seek to serve Sigma by ensuring her history is accuratelydocumented by utilizing a variety of preservationmethodologies. Additionally, I will utilize public relationstraining and bilingual skills tirelessly, to ensure Sigmais promoted and visible via local, regional, national andinternational media venues.Sorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus – Beta Omicron Sigma, Anti-Basileus– Beta Omicron Sigma & Delta Nu Sigma• Regional: Northeast Regional Syntaktes,Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator, EpistoleusCANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL GRAND EPISTOLEUSWinifred J. DaughertyTheta Chi Sigma – Oak, Park, IllinoisCentral RegionProfession: Senior Programmer Analyst/InformationTechnology ProfessionalOrganization Affiliations• National Secretary, National Pan-Hellenic Council,Inc.• President, National Pan-Hellenic Council Inc. ofChicago• Vice President, Lamp of Learning Foundation, Inc.• Board Member, Sankofa Foundation, Inc.• Member, Black Data Processing Association (ChicagoChapter)• Member, Southern Illinois Alumni Association• Regional: Area IV Coordinator, Sergeant At Arms• National: Information Technology Team Member,Resolutions Chair, and Protocol Team MemberCandidate PlatformAs a life member and 23-year member of this illustriousorganization, I have served in many leadership roleswithin and outside of Sigma. Keeping the sorority’sarchived history current is important for educating themembership and the public. It is with this zest that Ibring willingness, experience and desire to serve as grandepistoleus.Sorority Offices Held• Local: Basileus & Charter Member, 1st Anti-Basileus,Parliamentarian – Theta Chi Sigma Chapter, 1stAnti-Basileus, 8th Anti-Basileus, 9th Anti-Basileus,Corresponding Grammateus – Delta Sigma Chapter,Basileus, Anti-Basileus, Tamiochus, Parliamentarian– Nu Psi Chapter52

Association ofFraternity AdvisorsAnnual ConferenceDecember 2007Winster/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 53

If you wear a seat beltevery time youget into a vehicle,you’re more likely to:54Sigma Gamma RhoSorority Inc.is a proud partner ofBuckle Up America.Get to where you’re going on time.Wearing a seat belt isn’t just a good idea, it’s the law, and manyStates are conducting heightened enforcement of their seat belt laws.Hold onto your hard-earned cash.Seat belt tickets can mean hefty fines and, in some places, points onyour license.Prevent disabling injuries and scarring.Every 15 seconds, someone is injured in a traffic crash. If you’re notbuckled up, you could be thrown through a window, sent skiddingalong the pavement or be crushed under a vehicle in a crash.LIVE!Someone is killed in a crash every 13 minutes. However, seat beltssave over 11,000 lives each year, and they can help you maintaincontrol of your car in a crash.So, buckle up on every trip. Every time.

Message from theInternationalSecond GrandAnti-BasileusSororTiana TrimbleGreeting Sorors,Welcome back to another year charged with excitement and the abilityto use and think with our HEARTS! Through Honor, Education, Action,Representation and Training, we can ensure we focus our mindsetto not only contribute positively to our own chapters, but to also topositively promote the cause of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.In order for us to successfully incorporate the HEART concept, weneed to keep two key words in the forefront of our minds and efforts:consistency and organization. If we incorporate the characteristicsof these two words in our chapter and national activities, we cannotfail in moving our sorority in a positive direction. For years, oursorority has been well-known and well-regarded for our nationalprograms and initiatives. Therefore, to maintain that level of respectand for the ongoing accountability of Sigma Gamma Rho, it is ourduty to consistently carry out those programs and initiatives in anorganized manner. One of the easiest ways to do this is to pass alongour knowledge and lessons learned to those who will come after us.Instead of starting over every year with the activities and initiativeswe plan to incorporate into our upcoming events, we should look towhat we have done successfully in the past and add to that. We shouldeven look at what did not work so well and find a way to make it better.Instead of “reinventing the wheel,” we can build upon the things we dowell and change the things we do not do so well. In the end, throughgreater consistency and organization, we will be successful in movingthe name of Sigma Gamma Rho forward.Through the characteristics of H.E.A.R.T, here are some tasks that Ipresent to you.Honor: With the goals of “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” let’shonor our founders’ vision and take the challenge of change withinour sorority and make it great!Education: “Take time to think, it is the source of power.” Our numberone goal as collegiate Sorors is to graduate! Make sure you take thetime to keep up with your studies and go higher than expected.Action: As undergraduate leaders, let’s go further then what istraditionally expected from us. Let’s make a positive voice within ourorganization, campuses and community. Let’s encourage each otherto go for the higher positions in our Sorority. “How can you make adifference?”Representation: Let’s put our name out in the community; find atleast one new organization that your chapter can network with. Ifyou haven’t done so already, become involved in the programs andactivities on your campus. Remember the saying – “out of sight, outof mind?” The more we network amongst our peers, the greaterchance we have of increasing our membership and growing as anorganization.Training: Lets do what is RIGHT! Our sorority is on fragile groundright now, and it is our mission to put us back in a “safe zone.” This isnot only amongst our membership intake program, but as workingwomen of Sigma. As sisters, it is our duty to prepare our incomingSorors as members and officers. If we do not work together in ourmotives to change, then we will some day fall apart.“We are our Sister’s Keeper!”In Sigma,With all of my HEART!Winster/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 55

It’s wrongIt’s prohibitedIt’s unlawfulDon’t Do It!And it will not be tolerated bySigma Gamma Rho Sorority. As outlined inthe Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority IncorporatedPolicy on Hazing:"... Any person who engages or participatesin, encourages, aids or assists in hazing is inviolation of the Sorority’s policy against hazingand subject to:• Disciplinary action by the Sorority, includingpermanent expulsion and loss of privileges ...• Criminal prosecution in accordance with local,state and federal criminal codes ..."56

Epsilon DeltaFlorida State University, Tallahassee, FloridaA Greater Service State of MindThe Epsilon Delta chapter conducted Project Reassurance by collecting donations of babyitems. Parents of the children who attend Downtown Kids, a daycare center, were suppliednumerous new and lightly used items. The chapter was able to donate a variety of productssuch as baby items (bottles and clothes), toys, children’s’ books, etc., to the women residingat the Brehon Institute.Also, two of the graduating members will continue to serve the community in their imminentoccupations. Cheron McKinnie will be serving her country as a nurse in the United StatesNavy. Ashley Holloway will be instructing underprivileged and underserved youth as ateacher in the philanthropy, Teach for America.Contact: Lauren White, BasileusEpsilon PhiCalifornia State University, Northridge, CaliforniaIt’s So Hard To Say GoodbyeSoror Jessica Burnett of Epsilon Phi and the Sorors of Theta Epsilon Sigma would like tosend a heartfelt congratulations to Sorors Candice Barrow, Christina Bragg, and GwendolynThomas who were are all graduating members. All three will be transferring to ThetaEpsilon Sigma Chapter in Culver City, California for the 2007-2008 sorority year. In theirfour year tenure on campus they each left their mark on the campus by serving as NPHCofficers, and the Black Student Government as well as the community service projects andactivities hosted by the chapter. They continue the proud legacy of transitioning from hardworking undergraduate sorors to successful and productive graduate sorors. Soror Burnettis a graduating senior.Contact: Zeretha Washington, Theta Epsilon Sigma BasileusGamma ZetaIndianapolis, IndianaSome Sigmas Can’t Be StoppedFresh off the announcement of receiving Undergraduate Chapter of the Year for the thirdconsecutive year in a row at the Central Region Conference. Gamma Zeta never stalledin their Sigma stride. With the recent recruitment of three new member the chapter burstthrough the summer continuing in their efforts of “Greater Service, Greater Progress”in preparation of the upcoming school year. With the school year in full bloom, GammaZeta exploded by hosting 12 events before the Founders’ Celebration was due to begin.Gamma Zeta started off the semester hosting Project Operation Big Book Bag ensuringthat needy students receive the necessary school supplies for learning.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 57

Other events hosted by the chapter included the Walk for Juvenile Diabetes, Clean UpWomen; cleaning the parks of the Indianapolis community, the Annual Alpha Sigma FunFest, and the rally to support the Jena 6 in which the ladies of Gamma Zeta showed theircare for social injustice. With the ball in full motion you can be assured that the ladies ofGamma Zeta will continue in their efforts of “Greater Service, Greater Progress” and wecan’t be stopped.Contact: Soror K. Fedderman-Morris58Gamma ThetaMontclair State University, Montclair, New JerseyHattie McDaniel Breast Cancer Charity DinnerThe glorious and oh soglamorous Gamma ThetaChapter has been doingextraordinary work oncampus since its revival backin spring of 2006. Sevenoutstanding sorors, ShontaeGray, Micale Dort, AntequaAnderson, Shirley Demarais,Beverly Adegbite, LaurenCarter, and Keisha Bloise,honored legendary soror,Hattie McDaniel with a Breast Cancer Charity Dinner hosted with the NAACP. The dinnerconsisted of a full course meal served buffet style, poetry by local talent, praise danceperformances, an astounding rendition of Amazing Grace sung by Soror Dort and the mostspecial portion of the evening a motivational speech by guest speaker, Soror Dianthe DawnMartinez.The night, shared by students, faculty, and of course, sorors was very moving and stillhas the campus community talking to this day. When given the chances to help out thecommunity Gamma Theta is always first in line, this is why the seven young ladiesworked diligently night and day to prepare this event and also to raise over $1000 to donateat the Annual Breast Cancer Walk at Military Park in Newark, New Jersey. Gamma Thetaunderstands that there can only be greater progress if there is greater service. Expect greatthings from the Gamma Theta chapter in the name of Sigma. EE-YIP!Contact: S. Denise Gray, Anti-GrammateusLambda DeltaUniversity of Georgia, Athens, Athens, GeorgiaLambda Delta Welcomes New MembersThe lovely ladies of the Lambda Delta Chapter are excited about the newest additions to

their chapter. The chapter proudly welcomes Juliet Okoroh and Kemi Mustapha into theSigma sisterhood. Juliet and Kemi hit the ground running and are already demonstratingtheir prowess as Sigma women. Juliet was very much excited after a trip to New Orleansin which she assisted in building a playground for the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Inaddition, Juliet opted to continue the Sigma love by working with issues of global concernin conjunction with a study abroad program in Tanzania (East Africa). Kemi on the otherhand launched into Sigma success by attending the Southeast Regional Conference inJackson, Mississippi. She came back with innovative ideas concerning the direction ofSigma at the University of Georgia and in the Athens community as a whole. LambdaDelta is extremely proud of their newest members as they demonstrate their ability touphold the sorority’s motto of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”Contact: Juliet Okoroh, EpistoleusMu NuUniversity of Miami, Coral Gables, FloridaMu Nu is Making MovesThe elegant ladies of the Mu Nu Chapter said goodbye to three members who graduated.Sorors Lattisha Rowe, Dione Occenad and Christele Francois have truly exemplifiedsisterhood, scholarship and service. Mu Nu has participated in a number of activities oncampus and in the community. During each activity, sorors implemented the ideals andgoals of Sigma Gamma Rho.Honors they received: Attaining the highest GPA for the National Pan Hellenic Organizations;Order of Omega, which recognizes the top 1% of the Greek Community based on leadership,scholarship, and character; Rho Lambda, an honor given to Greek women who haveexhibited the highest qualities of leadership and service; Senior Spotlights in the yearbook,an honor open to only 20 people on campus; and Iron Arrow, the University of Miami’shighest attainable honor. Lattisha Rowe and Dione Occenad are attending MorehouseMedical School in Atlanta and Christele Francois is attending Mercer Pharmacy School,near Atlanta. The chapter would like to congratulate three new members: Marjorie Pierre,Dainielle Martin, and Rahel Callender who will carry on the motto of “Greater Service,Greater Progress.”Contact: Rahel Callender, Anti-GrammateusOmicron BetaUniversity of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, IllinoisOn the Move, Bringing Sigma back in StyleOmicron Beta signaled the bluetiful return of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Thechapter was the first Black Greek letter organization to be registered on the campus. Springinductions of Sorors Shannon Burke, Jasmine Donnelly and Corntee Smith brought muchneeded sisterly support to Soror Jasmine Shaffer. Soror Shaffer worked diligently with SororLarissa Smith, a graduate student on campus, and Soror Aisha Knight, 4th Anti-Basileus ofWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 59

Eta Xi Sigma Alumnae in recruiting the new members while executing a calendar of eventsthat promoted the “Greater Service, Great Progress” mission of the sorority.The ladies of Omicron Beta presented programs on the campus such as the Hattie McDanielBreast Cancer Awareness Campaign, a sexual awareness forum, “Step-a-RHObics”, movienights, “Let Us Upgrade Your Resume and Curriculum Vitae”, “Sisters United in Service”community service and Operation BigBookBag where SoRHOrs collected school suppliesthat were donated to Frutos De Maes Orphanage in El Salvador, Brazil. Members of OmicronBeta have supported the events of the Eta Xi Sigma Rhoer Club and Eta Xi Sigma AlumnaeChapter. These sorors have represented themselves and the sorority well and presented SigmaGamma Rho Sorority sponsored activities one of the golden highlights of campus life.Contacts: Soror Jasmin Donnelly, Basileus and Soror Aisha Knight, AdvisorXi MuUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AlabamaA Step AheadThe exhilarating ladiesof Xi Mu Chapter haveproven themselves to bejust so. They have not onlyexcelled in the community,but on the stage as well. Itis evident that service isof the utmost importancedue to their involvementin several service eventsranging from study sessionsto Project Big Book Bag,Habitat for Humanityand even volunteeringfor community events inBirmingham.Amidst their service, thechapter also found time to win the first place in the 2007 National SWAC MEAC StepCompetition. They also were first place winners of their campus Homecoming Stomp DownStep Show for the fourth year in a row.Contact: Jasmine Phillips, Epistoleus60

DON’T LET INTERESTEDYOUNG WOMEN,PHILOS, & RHOERSSETTLE FOR PASS AROUNDS!NEF ScholarshipAward WinnersPlease PrintNameAddressE-mail Address52ndInternationalBouleDetroit, Michigan • July 18-24, 2008They StoodAloneCandidatePreviewsCheck the appropriate category:o Rhoer o Philoo Inactive Sororo Membership Candidateo OtherGive them this formto get their ownpersonal,home-deliveredcopy ofThe AURORA*o Yes! Send me the next three issues ofThe AURORA for $25.00.*$20 subscription fee applies to ordersof 5 or more paid at the same time.City/State/ZipMail with your cashier check/money order to:Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Attn: The AURORA1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200Cary, NC 27513-8628Subscription will begin 4-6 weeks after receipt of payment_____________________Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 61

Alpha Rho SigmaWaco, TexasKites GaloreMany of Alpha Rho Sigma’s service projects areenjoyable for all ages, and it was no different fornumerous participants earlier this year. For nearlythirty years, members of Alpha Rho Sigma haveincluded the Annual Kite Flying Project in its calendarof community events. It is an event that more than afew look forward to each year.Over sixty young boys and girls ages five tothirteen, and out for break, took part in the KiteFlying Project. The endeavor took place at SouthWaco Recreational Center. Participating students,several members of Alpha Rho Sigma, and thestaff of South Waco Recreational Center, of whichCrystal Anthony is Director of Recreation, eagerlytook advantage of the brisk winds. A multitude ofkites were launched for a morning of energy andfun.Up, up and away soared numerous kites onbeautiful, clear, windy, morning in our “City onthe Brazos” river. As the crisp air kept kites galoresuccessfully in the air, entertainment, and pleasurewere the key words for Crystal Anthony, SammieCaldwell, Alta Heggins, Gwendolyn Lee, VernaLivingston, Edna Trotter, recreation staff, and energeticyoungsters alike.After the event, please young boys and girls wereheard saying to several members of Alpha Rho Sigma,“See you next year, Sigma Gamma Rho folks!”Contact: Edna D. Trotter, EpistoleusAlpha SigmaIndianapolis, IndianaAlpha Sigma chapter celebrated 85 years of SigmaGamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in true Sigma fashion. TheFounders’ Weekend was kicked off with GreaterService as sorors came together to give back tothe Indianapolis community. Visiting sorors fromMichigan, several undergrad sorors in Indiana, rhoers,and several interested ladies all joined Alpha Sigmaat the Coburn Place to put on a fun festival for thechildren. The Coburn Place is a Safe Haven thatprovides safe and affordable housing for batteredwomen and children trying to start anew. The childrenenjoyed food, games and most of all lots of fun. Thesounds of their laughter and the smiles on their faceshelped to set the mood for what was going to be agreat Founders’ Weekend.After leaving the community service event, it wastime to get dressed up to enjoy an Evening of Jazz.Alpha Sigma chapter hosted its Annual Evening ofJazz on the campus of Butler University. The eveningincluded live jazz music featuring Clifford Ratliff &Friends as well as a nice dinner.The next morning was time to worship as Sororsgathered for church service at Mt. Pleasant MissionaryBaptist Church. But Founders’ Weekend would not becomplete without true reflection; therefore, Sororsweathered the cold to visit the gravesites of 5 of the7 founders buried at Crown Hill Cemetery. Sororsreflected on where Sigma started and where it is 85years later.Contact: Soror Melissa Williams, EpistoleusAlpha Xi SigmaTulsa, OklahomaSelects Anita Hairston ScholarThe Alpha Xi Sigma Chapter of Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc. has selected Tiffany Peters, a 2007graduate of Central High School, Tulsa and enteringfreshman of Oklahoma State University majoring inMarketing as its 2007 Anita Hairston Scholar. Mrs.Anita Hairston was the first African- American tograduate from the University of Tulsa with a Masters inEducation and was a Life Member of Sigma GammaRho and a dedicated community activist.62

Tiffany Peters is the daughter of Dasonda Bruner.She ranked second in a class of 155 at Central HighSchool and was the 2007 Salutatorian.Ms. Peters was a member of the Varsity BasketballTeam, Varsity CrossCountry Team, VarsityTennis Club and NationalHonor Society, whereshe ser ved as VicePresident. She servedas parliamentarian ofDistributive EducationC l u b s o f A m e r i c aand a member of theNational Technical HonorSociety. Ms. Peters alsoworked with JuniorAchievement.Ms. Peters was alsoawarded the Superintendent’sScholarship,David Fist Scholarshipand t he Ac ademicOpportunity Award. Thescholarship chairpersons for Alpha Xi Sigma areMarcene Mackey and Signee House Bland. WyvonneE. Marshall is President.Contact: B. L. EiknerBeta Omega SigmaShreveport, LouisianaHonors Four with Scholarshipsin Georgia, Darnisha Bush and Tiffany Cooper, afreshman at Boosier Parish Community Collegein Bossier City, Louisiana and Maegan Shanks, afreshman at Centenary in Shreveport, Louisiana,were recently honored with scholarships from BetaOmega Sigma. Each young lady received $500 fromthe chapter to use toward their education. Cake andpunch was served after the presentation to sororsand parents. Members of the sorority mingled withthe parents of the awardees to get better acquaintedand to give them an overview of the sorority and theservice it provides to the community. Sorors ReginaLouis Jackson and Helen D. Green are the co-chairsof this event. Dr. Patricia Johnson is the chapterbasileus.Not only has the chapter successfully providedscholarships, they have also supporting two majorservice projects. Beta Omega Sigma and DeltaLambda chapter participated in Shreveport’s AnnualSickle Cell Anemia Can Shake. This citywide eventraises money to support the SCDA of NorthwestLouisiana and is a yearly event that brings out thecompetitive nature of all sororities and fraternities.The chapter has been participating in this event since1977. This year’s chair was Soror Earlene Mullen.The chapter also provided community service toMooretown Elementary PDS in Shreveport and wasthe recipient of Operation Big Book Bag donations.Sorors visited the school, bringing book bags, artsupplies, and other school supplies. Principal MelvinAshley was on hand to accept the donations and tothank members of the sorors for their dedicationand donations. Sorors Regina Louis Jackson and Dr.Patricia Johnson were in charge of coordinating thisevent.Contact: Regina Louis Jackson, EpistoleusDelta SigmaChicago, IllinoisRandi Armand, a freshman at Tuskegee UniversityA Blue Carpet AffairDelta Sigma-Chicago Alumnae honored elevencommunity leaders who exemplify the sororityslogan – “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Theseleaders in service walked the “blue carpet” and werephotographed while they received a prestigiousRhomania Torch Award.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 63

2007 Torch Awardees are:• Hermene Hartman (Founder and President– N’DIGO Foundation) – Torch for JournalismWarren• Warren Ballentine (Attorney) – Torch for Justice• Terisa Griffin (Vocalist) – Torch for Fine Arts• Dr. Elton X. Tinsley (Specializes in Plastic andCosmetic Surgery) – Torch for Medicine• Hubert Jackson (Educator) – Torch for Youth• Annette Gurley (Administrator-Chicago PublicSchools) – Torch for Education/Secondary• Stephanie Dunn (Administrator – Chicago PublicSchools) – Torch for Elementary• Tio Hardiman (Community Activist to ReduceViolence) – Torch for Peace• W. Bill Williams (VP Diversity Sales – ChicagoConvention & Visitors Bureau) – Torch forBusiness• Clarence N. Wood (President/CEO Jane AddamsHull House) – Torch for Community Service• Carolyn Palmer (Retiring Principal, SpencerSchool) – Torch for Lifetime AchievementA special monetary presentation was made toDelta Sigma Rhoers who graduated. Rhoer graduateswere Arian Arlie (North Park University, Chicago), KiaBenion (Georgia Tech, Atlanta), Erica Pickett (NorthernIllinois University) and Elana Wroten (Chicago StateUniversity).Terisa Griffin, an awardee, provided entertainmentfor the 300 gathered. The evening ended with adessert reception and fellowship with friends andmembers of other area chapters.Chairman Dew applauded the work done by hercommittee and thanked all attendees for their supportof this Rhomania Torch Award Presentation.Eta Chi SigmaLas Vegas, NevadaIn Motion with the Mission of SigmaThe elegant ladies of Eta Chi Sigma continuethe dynasty of sisterhood of Sigma Gamma RhoSorority, Inc. and have displayed true dedication andcommitment this sorority year.Congratulations go to Soror Arcola Staffordand Vivian Jackson who joined the legacy of lifemembership.In honor of Sigma Week, the chapter hosted itsFirst Annual Sigma Tea. More than 25 women fromthe community attended the tea, which includedundergraduates, sorors who will be reactivating, andprospective candidates for the graduate chapter.In addition, sorors attended church services atMountaintop Faith Ministries.Sorors were proud to host the 55th regionalconference. They worked very hard to make it amemorable occasion for all. During the conference,the chapter collaborated with Green Valley HighSchool, the local community and members of theregion to collect a total of 175 pairs of shoes andtotal of $2500 in donations for Soles for Little Souls.Ms. Punam Mathur, Vice President of Communityand Diversity Affairs for MGM Mirage Resorts, wasthe public meeting keynote speaker and matchedthe donation about for a total of $5000. The totaldonation was given to Shade Tree Shelter, a localshelter for women and children.The chapter also worked very hard to fulfill themission of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.” Sororsvolunteered for two annual community serviceevents. Members braved the wind to volunteer for theannual Aide for AIDS in Nevada AIDS Walk. Membershelped register participating runner and walkers. Inaddition, members of Eta Chi Sigma, undergraduates,family, and friends volunteered for the annual KomenBreast Cancer Walk. The Sigma team not only walkedthe 5k race, but they were able to generate over $600in donations.Contact: Renee McConey, EpistoleusEta Nu SigmaThe chapter welcomed new inductees - ElisaCapters, Thandi Edwards, Charlotte Perry and ShelleyPinks to their growing membership. The chapter alsohosted its annual Golden Mother’s Day ScholarshipJazz Brunch at the Yale Club in Times Square,NYC. Among the chapter’s honorees was MoniqueGreenwood, former Editor-in-Chief of Essence, whowas honored as Mother of the Year. Maria Martinez,New York City representative of Pretty Amazing, was64

honored for her contribution to women in domesticviolence shelters. The chapter’s very own RhoerCoordinator, Nashira Washington was honored asSoror of the Year for work she has done to guide theRhoer Club. The chapter awarded three graduatinghigh school seniors with scholarships in the amountof $500, $750 and $1000.The members focused on providing service tothe communities of Brooklyn and Queens. Chaptersorors and rhoers were on hand at the Mary McLeodBethune School for New York Cares, the city’s annualvolunteer initiative in its schools. The chapter hasalso begun collecting new and gently used toiletriesthrough its partnership with Pretty Amazing. Theitems will be donated to women in domestic violenceshelters throughout the sorority year.Young women throughout New York City’s collegesare actively seeking membership into our sororityto continue the legacy of our illustrious sisterhoodon their campuses. Dozens of women at BrooklynCollege and Queens College were excited by thechapter’s attendance at their respective NPHC paneldiscussion and open house.Eta Nu Sigma helped to welcome sorors from NewYork and out of state for its annual Founders’ Day partyat Fashion 40 Lounge in Times Square, NYC. Hundredsof people joined in celebrating the sorority’s 85 yearsof sisterhood, scholarship and service. Members ofthe NPHC also joined in celebrating the legacy of thatour Seven Pearls beganEta Omicron SigmaWaldorf, MarylandSouthern Maryland Sorors Striving TowardsSuccessSince the chapter’s reactivation a year ago, theladies of Eta Omicron Sigma have been diligentlyworking within the community. The chapter membersparticipated in the annual Susan G. Komen BreastCancer Walk. In support of the troops, the chapteronce again participated in Operation Care Packageat Fort Belvoir Army Post in Northern Virginia. Asalways, a Sigma’s work is never done as the ladieswent on to host a booth at the Juneteenth Festivalheld at Westlake High School in Waldorf, Maryland.The festival highlighted everything from retired NegroLeague players to Zydeco dancers. The sorors sparkedan interest amongst the crowd with their display ofthe chapter’s memorabilia. If anyone was hungrythey could have found the chapter at Chick-Fil-Aholding a fundraiser. The ladies were striking at theSister II Sister Sorority Luncheon held at The Camelotin Upper Marlboro in which the chapter’s basileus,Rebecca Hatcher sat on the planning committee forthis event. In the midst of all of the happenings withinthe chapter, the chapter members were not to busyto partake in two Sigma professional developmentworkshops which enhanced the current knowledgeof organizational procedures. For a true Sigma womanknows that knowledge is power and encourages it.The sisters of Eta Omicron Sigma are on the movewith more upcoming events that will leave a mark ofsuccess in the communities in Southern Maryland.Contact: Soror Jasmine Hillyer, EpistoleusEta Xi SigmaOak Lawn, IllinoisScholarship Recipients Given Pearls of WisdomThe gracious ladies of Eta Xi Sigma AlumnaeChapter hosted a standing room only Pre-Mother’sDay luncheon and Fashion show scholarshipfundraiser. This annual event has become a goldenopportunity for sorors, invited guests and scholarshiprecipients to unite in celebration of achievementin education, motherhood and sisterhood. JasmenMickey (Eta Xi Sigma Rhoer) and LaSheda Wallace(Eta Xi Sigma Rhoer) were two of seven recipientswho were awarded $1000 scholarships at the event.A special yellow rose tribute honored all the mothersin attendance and the audience enjoyed a rousingfashion show and lively entertainment.The scholarship recipients and their parentsparticipated in a summer “Pearls of Wisdom”orientation workshop presented by the scholarshipcommittee led by Soror Irma Dobbins. The goal of theworkshop was to prepare the students for a successfultransition to their first year of college and beyond, bypromoting positive changes in their attitude andbehavior. The second goal of the workshop was toprovide parents with useful information that willassist them in their continuing roles as mentor, guideWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 65

and advisor to their college students. The recipientscompleted modules designed to arm them with theskills and knowledge necessary to have a successfulbeginning in college.Contact: Linda D. Brown, EpistoleusGamma SigmaHouston, TexasThe Legacy ContinuesGamma Sigma has maintained its status as one ofthe premier alumnae chapters in the sorority. At theSouthwest regional conference, Gamma Sigma won2nd place in the scrapbook competition with a lovelyquilted Sigma cover. Soror Nneka Beauford is trulycommended for her first-time effort on the scrapbook.This chapter will definitely be one to watch at thenext regional conference. They are also beginning thesorority year with ten newly inducted rhoers.Gamma Sigma chapter has strived to be livingmodels of Greater Service, Greater, Progress.Continuing an annual tradition, the chapter volunteeredat the Houston International Festival. Sorors continueto participate monthly in the Third Ward OutreachMinistries Food Distribution. In conjunction withGamma Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter, sorors decorateda blue truck, walked and carried banners and handedout school supplies and treats in the 1st Back2SchoolParade and Educational Expo. As a joint effort withOmega Psi Phi Fraternity, sorors hosted a Back-to-School Jam where they also gave out items to helpstudents.In addition, Gamma Sigma does its best tostrengthen the bonds of sisterhood through variousactivities. There are plans to host a monthly Soror’sNight In.. Some themes include a book club, movienight, games, beauty regimes, wine & cheese and craftnights. A special thanks goes out to Soror ShawntaeNix for coordinating these activities.Contact: Soror Nneka K. Beauford, EpistoleusGamma Upsilon SigmaMonroe, North CarolinaMother’s Day Scholarship BrunchThe ladies of Gamma Upsilon Sigma AlumnaeChapter held their annual Mother’s Day ScholarshipBrunch at the Charleston House on the Plaza. Fourmagnificent honorees were nominated as OutstandingMothers of the Year and were awarded plaques fortheir participation. The honorees were Sannyu F.Carlton, Carolyn C. Carter, Sandra C. Williams andW. Mae Williams. These women in conjunction withthe members of Gamma Upsilon Sigma workeddiligently to produce another quality and elegantoccasion. Reverend Shelia A. Council of CatawbaPresbyterian Church was the dynamic guest speakerand Reverend Elaine Asbury was the featured soloist.The members of Gamma Upsilon Sigma AlumnaeChapter are proud to end a year of achievement bypromoting “Greater Service, Greater Progress” throughsisterhood, scholarship and community service.Contact: V. Diane Carlton, BasileusIota Tau SigmaLafayette, LouisianaFounders’ DayIota Tau Sigma was definitely on the move duringthe Founders’ Day weekend. The chapter inductedsorors, Michelle Garner, Lauren Hite, and CassandraJohnson. Following, the chapter attended theLafayette NPHC’s Pan Day in the park. The chapteralso participated in the induction ceremony for newmembers of Pi Epsilon. In honor of Founders’ Day,Iota Tau Sigma, Epsilon Alpha Sigma, and Pi Epsilon66

gathered for Mass at Our Lady of Wisdom in Lafayette,Louisiana. The group held a ceremony in memory ofthe Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s founders and thenconcluded the day with lunch. Iota Tau Sigma wouldlike to thank our soror, Dr. Patricia Shelton for her loveand presence during the weekend activities.Founders’ Day CelebrationNew Inductees: Cassadara Johnson, Lauren Hite, andMichelle GarnerMu SigmaBaton Rouge, LouisianaRecognizing Academic AchievementMu Sigma Chapter awarded almost $5000 inscholarships for the 2006 – 2007 sorority year.Four outstanding high school graduates wereawarded financial support: Katie Dotie (CommunityScholarship), Dorian Williams (Rhoer Club andDebutante Queen Scholarships), DeAndrea Mills(Debutante First Princess Scholarship), and KyraDuhe’ (Debutante Second Princess Scholarship).Undergraduate scholarships were also awardedto sorors maintaining the highest academic gradepoint average in their respective chapters. Monetaryawards went to Soror Demetria Jackson – Beta AlphaChapter at Southern University, Soror Nika Carter– Gamma Pi Chapter at Louisiana State Universityand Zakendra Clovis – Pi Iota Chapter at SoutheasternLouisiana University. All recipients were recognized ata reception at the Mu Sigma sorority house.The Baton Rouge Pan Hellenic Council held theirannual Polaris Award Banquet for unsung heroes.During this ceremony, Baton Rouge area fraternitiesand sororities were recognized for their communityservice and achievements. Mu Sigma competedagainst all affiliated Greek organizations and outshinedall by receiving the community service award for theiroutstanding work in the local community. Nationalservice projects recognized were Project Reassurance,Buckle Up America Campaign, Wee Savers, SigmaYouth Symposium, March of Dimes, Habitat forHumanity, and Project Big Book Bag. Two Mu Sigmasorors were also honored during the program. SororTobrina Jackson was recognized as Mu Sigma’snominee as Soror of the Year and Soror DorothyHaysbert was recognized for 59 years of membershipin Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority.Soror Myrtle Martin Moran, a Cultured Pearl, hasbeen selected as a Silver Magnolia by the GreaterBaton Rouge Women’s Council because of her hardwork in the Baton Rouge community and dedicationto education for 33 years. Soror Moran worked tointegrate Baton Rouge parks and became the firstAfrican American woman to serve as chairperson ofthe East Baton Rouge Parish Recreation and ParksCommission. She was also involved as a Girl ScoutTroop leader and joined the effort to open CampMarydale, the local Girl Scouts camp, to black scouts.Mu Sigma Chapter nominated Soror Moran for thishonor.Contact: Adrian Colar, EpistoleusRho SigmaDetroit, MichiganRho Sigma Shines Throughout CommunityShining like beacon lights, Rho Sigma sororswere radiating throughout the Metropolitan Detroitcommunity. In diverse ways and settings, theysupported many people involved in making aWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 67

68difference and achieving positive results. The listincluded a young future Sigma Gent and seasonedcentenarian Rho Sigma Torchbearer.Rho Sigma sponsors cheered Timothy Campbell,son of Soror Uolanda Davis-Campbell, on when histeam competed in the National Junior WheelchairBasketball JV Championship. The Sterling HeightsChallengers found that the competition was fierce forits 14 member coed team of young athletes rangingin age from 10 to 18 years old. They strived to bevictorious leaping beyond 20 other teams from acrossthe nation but finished in second place. Nonetheless,everyone was proud of everything the team hadachieved and looked forward to a bright future for theexceptional young athletes.Rho Sigma Torchbearer and Civic Leader LouisianaHines, the oldest resident on record for the city ofDetroit, was thrilled to see the crowd at her 109thbirthday luncheon. A contingent of sorors greeted themother of Soror Allean H. House and grandmother ofSoror Darlene House who strutted in wearing a goldsuit. Hines is the oldest resident on record for the cityof Detroit.Rho Sigma sorors were also on hand to supportSoror Victoria Rowell, acclaimed actress and author,and Yolanda Adams, Grammy award-winningrecording artist, when they visited the area for specialappearances at a Shrine of the Black MadonnaBookstore signing and 50 Million Pound Challengerespectively. Thanks to Sorors Ava Jackson andRamona January, a team of sorors was recruited towork as volunteers for the Challenge.Rho Sigma supported many other MetropolitanDetroit major events including International BlackExpo and NAACP National Conference. Sorors Davis-Campbell and Dana Hughes were cited for relatedefforts.Contact: Darlene House, Rho Sigma PublicistTheta Epsilon SigmaCulver City, CaliforniaAll Work and No Play – No WayThe sorors of Theta Epsilon Sigma had an extremelyproductive and successful 2007 sorority year. Thechapter completed all of the national programs,fundraisers and many community services thatfocused on issues that sorors had the most passionfor. As the sorority year drew to a close and the hardworking sorors grew weary the chapter focus turnedto the importance of sisterhood and bonding.The sorors of Theta Epsilon Sigma let their hairdown for a fun filled evening of dinner and bowlingfor a bonding extravaganza. The pictures on thechapter website www.sgrhoculvercity.com say itall, that indeed a good time was had by all! On aseparate occasion the chapter’s anti-basileus, SororValerie Gray, hosted a Taco Night at her home. It wasthe end of the year and a great time to reflect onthe year’s accomplishments and successes. It alsogave the sorors of Theta Epsilon Sigma some muchneeded time to fellowship which can positivelyimprove morale and the overall well being of thechapter in preparation for the activities for this year.As a volunteer community service based organization,Theta Epsilon Sigma Chapter will continue to strive forexcellence while implementing and collaborating oninnovative projects but this chapter will only continueto shine and improve if there is also as much of afocus on the sisterhood.Contact: Soror Zeretha Washington, BasileusTheta Pi SigmaInland Empire, CaliforniaSetting GoalsThe sophisticated ladies of Theta Pi Sigma had onegoal in mind and that was to increase membershipby at least half by recruiting inactive sorors as wellas transferring undergraduates. In the true spirit of“Greater Service, Greater Progress” that goal wasaccomplished with 7 sorors transferring or becomingactive in Sigma again.Theta Pi Sigma didn’t stop there as another goalon their “Greater Service, Progress” list was to createa Rhoer club. With the hard work and diligence ofSoror Benisha Carr the Rhoer Club coordinator thatgoal was successfully accomplished with two Rhoerinductions. Theta Pi Sigma now has a 12-memberRhoer club. These young Rhoers have turned out tobe very eager young ladies as they have participatedwith the Alumnae chapter in the LA AIDS Walk; MartinLuther King Day Parade held in Riverside, California

as well as actively participating in the annual YouthSymposium.Contact: Andrea Joubert, EpistoleusUpsilon SigmaNashville, Tennessee26th Annual Scholarship LuncheonThe ladies Upsilon Sigma Alumnae Chapter hostedtheir 26th Annual Scholarship Award Luncheon. Thisevent was held at the beautiful Millennium MaxwellHouse Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.The theme for this occasion was Power of Vision:Innovation Collaboration, Implementation. Thirtydeserving high school students in the Nashville areawere honored and recognized for their exceptionalacademic accomplishments and for their ambitions toseek higher education. Scholarships and book grantswere awarded in the names of esteemed membersof Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, inc. who have greatlycontributed to both the sorority and the community.The recipient of the Pearl Allen Bryant Scholarshipwas Amanda R. Walker. The recipient of the HattieJohnson Bond Book Grant was Shannon E. Portis.Book grants were also awarded to JaWueya A. Yanceyand Demlesi Sirah Mdam.Many educators and counselors, school and Boardof Education officials, civic and social leaders, as wellas parents and family members were in attendance toacknowledge the diligence and accomplishments ofthe honorees. The keynote speaker, Reverend HowardJones, Jr. gave an empowering message and challengeto the students and those in attendance.This event was truly a celebration of the spirit ofexcellence and high scholastic achievement. Withthe education of youth and leadership developmentas only a few of the hallmarks of the organization, thechapter will continue to acknowledge the youth inthe Nashville area as they eagerly anticipate the 27thScholarship Award Luncheon.Contact: Soror Natasha Wilkins. ProgramCommittee MemberZeta Delta SigmaArlington, TexasOver 50 youth from the community showedup to view the winners of the 4th Annual PoetryContest sponsored by the chapter. The winners wereannounced at the end of the annual Youth Symposiumsponsored during Sigma Week and co-hosted withthe Dr. Martin Luther King Recreation Center. Theprogram featured Dianne “Ms. Community” Gibson,Councilman Leo Chaney, Jr., Young Life Ministries,Michael Washington and Ron Price, DISD Board. Theevent also featured a performance from “The Vision”step team from Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center. The1st place winner, Jesika Jones from Townview Center,dramatically read her poem which corresponded tothe theme: Who am I … Its an Identity Crisis! She won$100, along with a certificate and gift. The ladies ofSigma Gamma Rho showed their support by wearingblue t-shirts displaying the sorority’s motto “GreaterService, Greater Progress”. Sigmas, Rhoers, youth,parents and friends made this program a success.The chapter also held their 2nd Annual MissBlue and Gold Scholarship Pageant at the DeSotoCivic Center. This elegant event provided a $1000scholarship opportunity to high school seniors andcollege students. The ladies that participated in thepageant were judged on poise, talent, congeniality,formal wear and academics. The crowd was filled withfamily, friends and community and all those who werein attendance were wowed with the variety of talentand the overall styling and production of the show.Ashley Culberson of West Mesquite High School wascrowned Miss Blue and Gold and she will receive a$1000 scholarship to help finance her educationalendeavors at the University of North Texas. The ZetaDelta Sigma chapter is looking forward to next year’sprogram. Sigma Gamma Rho is dedicated to providingservice to the community and ladies of the Zeta DeltaSigma chapter are shining examples of our sorority’smotto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”Contact: Jasmine Stewart, EpistoleusWinter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 69

Affiliate NewsALPHA XI SIGMA RHOERSCletta Shumate Johnson Selected Sigma Rhoer Advisor of the YearCletta Shumate Johnson was selected as the Rhoer Advisor of theYear at the 2007 Southwestern Regional Conference of SigmaGamma Rho Sorority, Inc in Dallas, Texas. Soror Johnson is aLicensed Professional Counselor and School Psychologist in privatepractice. She is married to Joseph Johnson and is the mother of staterepresentative Jarbar Shumate.The Rhoer Club is the youth organization of Sigma Gamma RhoSorority and the Alpha Xi Sigma Chapter has 18 members. Thisclub is focused on education, cultural development and leadershiptraining for girls between the ages of 13-18. Sigma Gamma Rhohas over 25 chapters and advisors in the Southwestern Region whichincludes Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana.Officers of the Rhoer Club are President-Leah Phillips, VicePresident -Linda Watson, Recording Secretary- Racquel Jenkins,Correspondent Secretary- Che’la Nalls, Treasurer-Kamri Anderson,Chaplin-MyKeisha Gardner, Historian- Sharmin Jackson,Parliamentarian-Jerishia McBee and Sergeant -At-Arms-LatashaRosiji.Co-advisors of the Rhoer Club are Charlotte Robinson and MaryWalker and the president of the chapter is Wyvonne E. Marshall.Contact: B. L. EiknerBETA RHO SIGMA RHOERSDenver, ColoradoRhoers Moving Forward“The Beginning of Greatness” was the theme of Beta Rho Sigma’sDenver Alumnae Chapter’s 43rd Annual Debutante Ball. Withmore than 250 people in attendance, 15 lovely senior Rhoer Clubmembers made their spectacular debut to the Denver community.Rhoer Yoshanni Ford-Boone was crowned Queen and also receivedthe Talent Award, Rhoer Jasmyn McGill received the Princessand Ms. Congeniality Award, and Rhoer Jennifer Williamsonreceived the honor of Duchess. Other awards were presented toRhoer Breeahna Britt – Rhoer of The Year, Rhoer Michaela Jones– Community Service, Rhoer Ashley Filer – Essay, and Rhoer TiarraWhitaker – Highest GPA. Special recognition was also given toRhoer Tashara May who received the Sisters in Service ExecutiveBoard Scholarship.Through their involvement in the Rhoer Club, this year’s debutantesalong with the other 26 Rhoer Club members participated incultural, educational, social and community service activitiesdesigned to enrich their lives. The Beta Rho Sigma ChapterRhoer club won the Outstanding Rhoer Club Scrapbook whichdocumented and displayed the success of these activities.Congratulations to Rhoer Breeahna Britt who has been selected toreceive one of the $1,000 Seven Pearl Scholarship from the NationalEducation Fund of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Contact: Soror Jennifer A. Carter, ReporterETA XI SIGMA RHOERSOak Lawn, IllinoisReady To Serve, Ready To Grow!The Rhoer Club was honored as the Rhoer Club of the Year at the67th Central Region Conference held in Kansas City, Kansas. SororKeisha Cohen, rhoer advisor, works diligently with the Rhoer Clubcommittee to assist the rhoers in being positive and staying activelyinvolved with community service projects.The Rhoer Club had four members to graduate from high schooland will be making the transition to college. This past fall,Rhoer Aviance Irish began attending St. Xavier University, RhoerJasmen Mickey began attending Virginia State University, RhoerDominique Smith began attending North Central University andRhoer LaSheda Wallace began attending Jackson State University.Rhoers Jasmen Mickey and LaSheda Wallace each were recipients of$1000 scholarships from Eta Xi Sigma Alumnae Chapter.Rhoer Kristian Calbert was inducted into the National JuniorHonor Society and Rhoer Calbert was also selected as a People toPeople United States Ambassador and will travel to Australia inJuly 2007.Contact: Soror Linda D. Brown, co-advisor and Soror Ayani Good,co-advisor70

Affiliate NewsTHETA EPSILON SIGMA RHOERSCulver City, CaliforniaHard Working ButterfliesThe Rhoer Club of Culver City had a productive and extremely busy2006-2007 year. The club had an awesome time at their Shakey’sPizza fundraiser attended by sorors, family and friends. The Rhoersdecided to shake their tail feathers with a dance fundraiser thathad everyone partying like it was 1999. The club spent time doingtheir annual community service with the Junior Blind and joinedforces with the Southern California Joint council to make the YouthSymposium a success. The Western Regional Conference was alsoattended by four rhoers from the club. Attending the conferencegave the young ladies an opportunity to get some leadership skillsand network with other rhoers for fundraising and communityservice project ideas. The rhoers were sad to see this year end butlook forward to a fall Rhoer Round Up and a calendar that will keepthem twice as busy as this past year.Contact: Zeretha Washington, Theta Epsilon Sigma BasileusETA XI SIGMA PHILOSOak Lawn, IllinoisReactivated, Renewed, Ready!The Philo Club of Eta Xi Sigma was reactivated and ready to workas “friends of Sigma”. The esteemed group of ladies waited theirturn to wear the white and gold as five members were inducted ina ceremony and celebrated for their commitment by family andsorors of Eta Xi Sigma. The new inductees are Deborah Barr, JoycePhilpott Moore, Krystal Sanner, Marie White and Debra Williams.Carrie Jordan, the reactivating philo, was nominated to retainher past position as president. The energetic and willing workinglady Philos are planning to have a spectacular year of fellowship,community service and partnership with the Rhoer Club and EtaXi Sigma Alumnae Chapter.Contact: Soror Linda D. Brown, co-advisor and Soror Ayani Good,co-advisorT h e N a t i o n a l E d u c a t i o n F u n dBe A Part ofthe SolutionGiving is not limited to aseason. Contributions tothe National Education Fundcan be given all year longby individual donations,chapter fundraisers,estate planning and theUnited Way Donor ChoiceProgram.Sigma Gamma RhoSorority, Inc. - NEFc/o Lora VannPO Box 18616Indianapolis, IN 46218Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 71

Soror Lillian Cook MitchellGamma Phi Sigma Chapter - Houston, TexasOmega Rho - September 24, 2007Soror Lillian Cook Mitchell, was a member of Gamma Phi Sigma Chapter for over thirtyyears. She served on numerous committees of Gamma Phi Sigma Chapter and was also basileusof Epsilon Tau Sigma.Soror Mitchell was a member of Top Ladies of Distinction, National Women of Achievement,Court of Calanthe, Founder of Maymie Lewis Court, Former Director of 500 Voice City WiseCrusade, and Chairlady of the Women’s District Task Force.She was well known as a musician and singer in the city of Houston and her services werealways requested for all kinds of occasions.Soror Louise G. DeanGamma Upsilon Sigma Chapter - Monroe, North CarolinaOmega Rho - April 17, 2007Soror Louise G. Dean was born on January 19, 1927 to the late Alexander and SophiaGomillion. She was predeceased by three siblings.Soror Dean was educated in the public schools of Charlotte, North Carolina. She received a BSDegree in education from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina and a Masterof Science from North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina. She taught inthe Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools and other North Carolina public schools for forty-seven (47)years before retiring.Soror Dean was married to the late James Dean. To this union was borna daughter, Nevonia Dean. Soror Dean and her daughter were inseparable and shared a love andpassion for exquisite high fashion and modeling.Her civic and professional affiliations were many but first among them was her membership inSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.. Her membership and service in Sigma spanned more than fiftyyears. She held membership in both Beta Omicron SigmaCharlotte, North Carolina and Gamma Upsilon Sigma Monroe, North Carolina.She held various offices in each respective chapter. She received the prestigious National RejestaV. Perry Birthright Award for her work while working with pregnant teens. She also received thecovetenant Sigma of the Year Award.72

We will forever remember her style, her grace and dedication to Sigma Gamma RhoSorority, Inc. and will continue to emulate her work in Sigma with the same enthusiasm anddignity as portrayed by our late soror, Louise G. Dean.Soror Lavenia Smith YoungBeta Omicron Sigma Chapter – Charlotte, North CarolinaOmega Rho – April 29, 2007Mrs. Lavenia Smith Young affectionately called “Mama Lou,” passed away at home on Sunday,April 29, 2007. She was born on January 23, 1913 in Greenville County, South Carolina, theonly child of Nathaniel and Alberta Smith and Robert and Annie Smith. She attended Greenvillecity schools, Boggs Academy and Brainerd Institute in Chester, South Carolina. She received aB.S. Degree in education from Johnson C. Smith University and attended Temple University forgraduate studies.Mrs. Young was a teacher with Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools for over thirty-five years. Afterretirement she volunteered as school librarian for Our Lady of Consolation Catholic School.Lavenia was a member of Our Lady of Consolation Church for over fifty years and before herillness, she was a member of the Rosary Society, Catholic Daughters of America, and the RetiredTeachers Association. She was a Life Member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and served asBasileus in her chapter. She received numerous awards for her service to the sorority.She and her husband Otis Young enjoyed gardening together. She was most proud of herOrchids. She also had a love for travel and needlepoint.Her granddaugher, Teresa Abdum-Muhaymin, preceded Mrs. Young in death. She leavesto cherish her memory, her husband of 67 years, Otis L. Young; her daughter, Diane YoungAlexander and son-in-law, Dr. J. Eugene Alexander Jr.; grandson, John Eugene Alexander III andwife Tonya; granddaughters, Tamara Alexander (a soror) and Stacey Alexander of New York City;great-granddaughter Jaelin Alexander; nephew James R. Brockman and wife Alfreda of Marlton,NJ; and a very special care giver Mr. Jahlil Houston.”Lavenia Young was a member of the Beta Omicron Sigma Charlotte Alumnae Chapter.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 73

Where ismy AURORA?The AURORA is produced atleast three times per sororityyear for all financial membersat the time of print. Thepublication is mailed over a10-15 business day time span.With this, the delivery of yourpublication is largely dependentupon your local post office.To ensure the delivery of yourpublication:u Make sure a Change ofAddress/Informationform has been properlyfiled with the GrandGrammateus and/or theInternational Headquarterswith your current address.A remittance form sentby your chapter is notsufficient.u Make sure that a forwardingaddress card has been filedwith the United States PostOffice when relocating.u Remit dues and inductionfees timely to be included inthe database extract usedfor the mailing list.If you have not receivedyour publication, contact theInternational Headquartersand/or the Grand Grammateusto verify your mailing addressand financial status.

Certified/Registered VendorsA Greek Affair, LLCAlison Moxley234 Macdonough StreetBrooklyn, NY 11233Accessories UnlimitedJackie Bunch2362 McCutcheon RoadColumbus, OH 43219After CrossingAllison BoatnerP.O. Box 44446Detroit,MI 48244-0446(313) 898-6757www.aftercrossing.comChez PoodlePhi Sigma, c/o Aida Dunn7431 Blair Road NWWashington, DC 20012-1861(202) 882.1039dnl2@erols.comwww.chezpoodle.orgDeference ClothingSamuel Coleman5610 Ruthelen StreetLos Angeles, CA 90062DoomWear DesignsAlain Uyidi14 Mulholland CourtMission Viejo, CA 92692www.doomwear.comExquisite EssentialsTara Reliford172 Hana RoadEoison, NJ 08817Greek Expressions & ApparelJoshua Rice2047 Windmeade DriveClarksville, TN 37042Greek.Expressions@yahoo.comGreek Mystique, Inc.Phil PerryPO Box 443Antioch, TN 37011-0443www.greekcalendars.netGreek OriginalsJanice MoorePO Box 221Jonesboro, GA 30237Gwen’s GemsGwendolyn BrownePO Box 1852Baltimore, MD 21203-1852(410) 664-9751It’s All GreekCandace Richards5615 W. Hadley StreetMilwaukee, WI 53210(414) 745.8178I’ve Got It!, LLCMattie NesmithPO Box 32206Charleston, SC 29417www.ivegotit.orgJoyce's SpecialtiesJoyce SilerPO Box 15057Durham, NC 27704(919) 477-1272 / (919) 477-0182www.14plus.comKB’s Craft DesignsKathy Bingham1729 N. Elmer St.South Bend, IN 46228Morgan & Morgan MarketingDan & Josie Morgan8200 Pat Booker Road #1453San Antonio, TX 78233www.morganswear.comNana HookWanda SmithPO Box 203Upper Marlsboro, MD 20772Oh So FlyyDiana Benson8104 Tapscott CourtPikesville, MD 21208Paddle ProsKimberly Skinner1509-T24 Clermont RoadDurham, NC 27713www.paddlepros.netPia International, LLCPia MillicanPO Box 481232Charlotte, NC 28269www.pretty-in-anything.comPretty ImpressiveCrystal Smith2252 19th StreetYuma, AZ 85364www.prettyimpressiveonline.comReal Greek ApparelJoe Temple7750 North MacArthur #120-269Irving, TX 75063realgreekapparel.comStatianeryLoren Statia3260 Ground Pine DriveMarietta, GA 30062The Greek HouseCervantes, Marina2433 Durant Ave #EBerkeley, CA 94704The GREEK SHOPLINDA & JOE RIVERA426 LANSDOWNE RD.FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314(910) 860-1191www.greekshopnc.comThe Jewelry ChickValencia Bey9544 South Winchester AvenueChicago, IL 60643www.thejewelrychick.comUniCell, LLCDia Collins-Jackson3069 Cumberland Road, Ste 102Fayetteville, NC 28306www.unicellonline.comWalk For MeMorlena Robinson267 Edgecombe Avenue, #5NNew York, NY 10031walkforme.comSet Yourself Apart … The AURORA is currently seeking website and/or emailaddress information for all vendors to increase your sales. Advertising opportunitiesare also available. Please contact the staff at theauroramag@sgrho1922.org.Winter/Spring 2008 • The Aurora 75

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES. Email submissions directly to theauroramag@sgrho1922.org 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 orless. 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.+DEADLINESSSSSPHOTOSPhoto Pricing is as follows:Group Image - $25Individual Image - $15PHOTOS CANNOT BE ACCEPTEDELECTRONICALLY!Photos should be in FULL COLORWhen submitting photos, please presenta copy of the article and cashier check/money order to:Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.ATTN: The AURORA Magazine1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200Cary, NC 27513-862822222November15(Mar-Jul Events)Spring IssueFeature WritersMarch15(Jul-Nov Events)Summer IssueWANTEDRegional News (from each Regional Epistoleus)Outstanding Undergraduate NominationsSister’s Keeper QuestionsJuly15(Nov-Mar Events)Winter IssueBook Reviews (preferably of soror writers)If you are not currently receiving The AURORA, please verify your mailing address with NationalHeadquarters and/or submit the form established by the Grand Grammateus.76

Sigma Wants YouConsider Throwing Your Hat In …Nominations for National Office will be taken from the floorat the 2008 Boule.To be considered, be ready to present the following:1. A Completed Proposed Candidate Application2. Academic Credentials/Proof of Degree (Official and Sealed)3. A Candidate PlatformAll materials need to be ready for presentation to theNational Nominating Committee at the2008 Boule in Detroit, Michigan.

The Power of 1ONE4 EACH4 REGISTER4 TAKETo VoteSigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., joins the eight co-memberorganizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council in reachingout to its combined black Greek-letter organization membershipof more than 1.5 million in unification and collaboration for anationwide Voter Mobilization Campaign. We encourage every memberto use and multiply the “Power of One.”Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGEPAIDMILWAUKEE, WIPERMIT No. 1982Address correction requested