Soror Kelly Price - Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

ExpandingOur Horizons …Sigma Meets SeoulSororKelly PriceThis Is Who She Is …

Volume 76, No. IIThe 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 S. HakeemInternational 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 12International Program Spotlight 13From Him 18Region News 20In The News 23Message from 2nd Grand Anti-Basileus 24Conference Watch 25Outstanding Undergraduate 26Undergraduate Pulse 27Alumnae on the Move 37Affiliate News 52Omega Rho 55Certified Vendors Listing 63Submission Guidelines for The AURORA 64Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora

Dear Editor …Dear ______________________Editor,______________________Hmmm…I must say that I really likethe ______________________changes that have been made to TheAURORA! ______________________I especially like that I candownload ______________________it and read it. Now I don’t haveto ______________________wait for it in the mail, but still get it andread ______________________it again later.______________________In looking over the last two issuesI ______________________love the format. The magazine is veryorganized ______________________and covers a lot of informationand ______________________articles are not so squeezed together.The ______________________graphics intertwined with the text is verygood. ______________________I would like to see more ads such asthe ______________________one about the National Education Fund.These ______________________are very eye-catching and informative.____________________________________________Keep up the good work!______________________Northeast RegionDear ________________________Editor,________________________Just got my AURORA and I MUSTcommend ________________________the reporters. Their ability to write withaccuracy ________________________and feeling is remarkable. Well done!________________________________________________Dr. Patricia Shelton________________________Epsilon Sigma, New Orleans, Louisiana________________________Southwest RegionDear _________________________Editor,_________________________I am also concerned that by the time we getthe _________________________actual AURORA the information is outdated.Is _________________________there a way to get more updated events in ourcommunication? ___________________________________________________________________________Southwest RegionDear Soror,Your concern is a valid one and has beenasked by a few sorors/chapters over the lastmonths. The AURORA is produced threetimes per year. Typically, the first publication iscomplete in October/November, the second inMarch/April and the third July/August. In thelast year, the publication deadlines were pushedto the maximum. This has resulted in thepublication schedule being altered quite a bit.The content of The AURORA is editedin such a way that often dates are removed,along with other older material. In an effort toproduce all submissions received, the editorialteam works to edit them appropriately based onpublication date.To assist with this, chapters are asked to bemindful of the publish date when submittingitems. There is always a recap of the detail inthe back of each AURORA. However, here is theschedule for the remaining issues:Deadline Date Estimated Publish DateNovember 15 March 15March 15 July 15July 15 November 15Rasheeda S. HakeemInternational Editor in Chief, The AURORAThe 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.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora

POWER OF VISION:INNOVATION, COLLABORATIONAND IMPLEMENTATIONGreetings from theInternationalGrand BasileusSororMynora J. Bryant,Ed.D.20 th InternationalGrand BasileusSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. continues to increaseits visibility internationally and foster positiverelationships abroad. The mobility of our membersallows our organization to maximize the implementation of ourmission through global outreach, development and service.As women of color, we must realize that the most importantthing we can do to maximize the sorority’s impact is to askourselves what we really want to project. We must know who weare and what we want to do and then do it! We must constantlybe futuristic thinkers, confident doers and optimistic plannerswho exhibit a sense of community and self-worth. When we addour voice to others, we begin collectively to become strongerand more determined to achieve.To paraphrase Alice Walker, “To the extent that it is possible,we must believe in the world today as we wish everyone to livein the world to come. That can be our contribution. Otherwise,the world we want will never be formed. Why? Because we arewaiting for others to do what we are not doing; and they arewaiting for us, and so on.”To this end, let us remember that our lives are not determinedby what happens to us, but by how we react to what happens;not by what life brings to us but by the attitude we bring to life.A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts,events and outcomes. It is a catalyst … a spirit that createsglobal understanding.Thank you sorors for your commitment to the sorority’sinternational initiative and positive image

Our Thoughts and Prayersare with our Past Grand BasileiDr. Katie K. White&Evelyn Hawkins Hoodduring their time of loss.International Board of Directors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora

A Wordfrom theEditorSororRasheeda S. HakeemInternationalEditor-in-ChiefEveryday, I watch my twelve year-old daughter working onprojects, homework assignments with such diligence. Sheoften tells me, “Mom, this is my job” whenever I tell her sheneeds a job jokingly. When I receive her report card, I am reminded thatshe is an important investment in my life. When I get the tuition bill, Ioften convince myself of the same – she is an investment.When we look around our home and our communities, we can easilyidentify what is important to some by what they invest in. Of course,it is a personal decision for each and every one of us. However, whenwe all stood at our induction, we vowed that we would be invested andcommitted to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.No matter what life brings to us, we must remember that SigmaGamma Rho is something that we must cherish, nurture and invest in.This does not mean that you must sacrifice family, but it may mean thatyou forego a manicure to donate to Project Big Book Bag or postponeyour hair appointment to make it to the chapter meeting.We are at a pivotal point in organization. Our administration hasoutlined a platform – The Power of Vision: Innovation, Collaborationand Implementation. The message is direct. To be a visionary, yousometimes have to think and do things above and beyond the norm.The status quo will no longer do. Dusting off the same Founders’ Dayprogram each year will not do. We need to step it up. Going to the sameschool volunteering each year will not do. We need to add anotherschool to list. Sending the same representatives to conferences will notdo. We need to challenge ourselves to not only send the entire chapter,but sponsor our undergraduate members too. Sitting back thinking ofstrategies to upset the plans will not do. We need to strategize on howto enhance the plans.Just like my daughter looks at school as her job. I look at mymotherhood as stepping out of the box to expose and develop her intosomething greater than I. I am committed to that. At the same time, Iam committed to Sigma Gamma Rho and encourage all of my sororsto be. In this parable, our leaders are like my daughter – committed. Inthis parable, the report card is comparable to the news coverage thatwe have gained, the arenas that we are now in and the partnerships wecontinually announce. In this parable, the tuition bill is a representationof your dues, your building donations, your attendance at regionaland national events, etc. Will you invest? We made a commitmentand we are being challenged to adhere to that commitment with theinvestment of our time and our resources to go above and beyond. Ichallenge each of my sorors to do so.Enjoy another “report card” – this issue of The AURORA.

It’s that time again to showcasethe Top 20Under 40The editorial committee will be reviewing submissions for theyoung, up and coming financial alumnae members of Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc. The following criteria should be submitted forconsideration:Premiering Sigma’sTopUnder 40Centennial Unveiling of Dr.Mary McLeod Bethune BronzeStatueThe Silent StrugglesCoping, Surviving andOvercoming HealthChallenges• Full Name• Date of Birth• Chapter Name and Location (City, State)• Job Title and Employer (NO RESUMES)• Color Headshot (Clear & Concise)• 50 words or less (why this person shouldconsidered)• Sorority Offices Held• Community Participation/Titles Held• Nominator’s Full Name or Name ofEndorsing ChapterThis information is due in its entirety to theauroramag@sgrho1922.orgby June 3, 2007. Photos should be mailed through headquarters with acopy of the electronic submission. Please be advised that if all criteria isnot met above, the submission may become void.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. PartnershipsThe members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority will have direct access todiscounts with the strategic partners as listed.As a member, you will get Liberty Mutual’s lowest possiblerate for car and homeowner’s insurance. To start saving,simply call Liberty Mutual at 1-800-524-9400 Monday-Friday 7AM-11PM (ET), Saturday 7AM-9:30PM(ET) for afree no obligation quote. Please mention your affiliation withSigma Gamma Rho and see how much you can save.The AFLAC ducks were a big hit at the Boule. In order forSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. to receive the benefits of thepartnership and member benefits, our AFLAC representativeshave asked that all inquiries be routed through a centrallocation so they can arrange local representatives andenrollments. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s AFLACcontacts are:Wilfred Coger, 212-908-2577 • E-mail: Wilfred_coger@us.aflac.comSoror Grace Powell, 917-748-4511 • E-mail: Grace_powell@us.aflac.com1-800-flowers.com – As a special benefit for members andfamily you can save 15% on your floral purchases by usingour promotional code SGRHO. Just call 1-800-FLOWERSand save.Heart and Soul Magazine – Subscribenow to Heart and Soul Magazine for aslittle as $7 per year. The magazine willinclude articles on health initiatives. Letsnot be left our by not subscribing. Wecan access our subscriptions by clickingon the banner of the sorority’s nationalwebsite. Please use the code SGR07 whencompleting your subscription application.

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 S. HakeemBrentwood, 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 Brenda CantyBaton Rouge, LAWESTERN REGIONRoshoune FranklinLos Angeles, CAYOUTH SERVICES COORDINATORSNORTHEAST 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 ChaplainVACANTIINTERNATIONAL PROGRAMCOORDINATORHenry Etta Johnson- O’NealCarrollton, TXCORPORATE LIAISONCarolyn WilliamsWashington, DCDEPUTY LEGAL ADVISORTezra WoodyCordova, TNINTERNATIONAL 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., 16thBrentwood, TNSoutheast RegionCorine J. Green, 17thNorth Las Vegas, NVWestern RegionHelen J. Owens, 19thJackson, TNSoutheast Region–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––EXECUTIVE DIRECTORJennifer JonesInternational Corporate Headquarters1000 Southhill Drive Ste 200Cary, NC 27513-8630Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora

Beacon of LightBy: Soror Karen Y. WilliamsI was recently asked to write an article and presenta workshop on the topic of sisterhood. I got theserequests before I found out that my brother wasterminally ill. My brother passed away on February9, 2007 and I was told to come home and see himfor what would be the last time on Friday, February 2,2007. I learned more about sisterhood in those sevendays than at any one point in my life and I’d like to sharesome of my lessons with you.1. Sisterhood is a privilege.I love being a sister. It is nice to be a part of a familyand hold the position that many women hold as a sister:confidante, encourager, financier, caretaker, partner-incrime,motivator, and the list goes on.Often times when a sister does her job well, it looksso easy, it seems as if she is doing nothing at all. In oursorority, we sometimes take our sisters for grantedand allow them do their assigned job with little or nosupport, very little encouragement, and sometimes noteven a thank you.Sisterhood is a privilege, a special gift that God bestowson families. And whether those family ties are biological,adoptive or fraternal, the relationships are special andprecious and should be treated as such.2. Sisterhood requires forgiveness.Mark 11:26: But if ye do not forgive, neither will yourFather which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.My brother knew the severity of his illness and for hisown personal reasons chose not tell me. Well, when Igot to him, I wanted to fuss at him about his choice, butsince our time was limited and we wanted to enjoy it,there was only one option: FORGIVENESS. Forgivenesswas a critical decision that needed to be made rightaway in order to take advantage of the time that Godhad gifted us.SisterhoodWhether we choose to acknowledge it or not, we havea limited amount of time in which to make an impactin this organization. When we harbor unforgiveness,we impede progress. Everyone makes mistakes, dropsthe ball, and messes up. Do we penalize that personforever? When our sister/soror forgets to send herreport, drives members away, speaks too harshly at themeeting, do we belittle, berate, and chastise her to noend? Do we choose to forgive or do we decide to holda grudge that will ultimately destroy the family?I know that often times we pick the latter and holdthe grudge for so long that everyone who remembersthe offending incident has changed chapters, becomeinactive, moved on, or wishes you would simply let itgo. Forgiveness is not easy; it is an act that mimics ourCreator. It is a BIG thing to do, but it is necessary foryour own personal spirit to soar and it is also necessaryfor you to do because if you live more than a day onearth, you will at some point need forgiveness foryourself.Sorors, I implore you that our greatness lies in our abilityto forgive; forgive ourselves and forgive our sisters forpast mistakes and blunders. Error is what makes ushuman; forgiveness is what shows the divine naturethat resides in us. Forgiveness doesn’t come easy, ithas to be massaged and practiced, rehearsed, andsometimes swallowed, but the benefits far outweighthe short-term discomfort that comes along with it.3. Sisterhood requires love.Love your neighbor is not a piece of advice, but itis a command. -BonoUnconditional love is truly hard to find. I loved mybrother unconditionally. We agreed on seeminglynothing and also agreed on everything. Love requiresall of you, all the time knowing you may not everget what you gave back. Isn’t that what makes yourfavorite sister great? She will send you a Christmas10

card faithfully every year knowing that she never getsone from you. You never have to ask for love, it simplydoes.Love is defined in so many ways and is a critical ingredientin so many relationships, but for the purposes of SigmaGamma Rho, let’s use the love definition below.Love- the unyielding commitment to Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc. that manifests itself through a tirelesscommitment to the organization, an unbroken financialcommitment, service to whatever community we canhelp, and the decision to treat each and every memberwith kindness and respect regardless of age or position.Do you LOVE Sigma Gamma Rho? Prove it.4. Sisterhood requires service.“Greater Service, Greater Progress”-Bertha Black RhodaGreat slogan. I think they meant for us to do it. Wecan never become satisfied with OK. We can neverbecome content with the mediocre. We were designedand created for service. It can no longer be acceptedthat more sorors show up for a luncheon or meetingthan the community service project. We can no longertolerate good, the founders said great and I believe theymeant it.We must show up in droves to build the house, passout the food, tutor the children. If we are to everrealize our greatness, we must SERVE. Service when itsinconvenient, annoying, challenging and service when itsnew, fun and exciting.Matthew 23:11: But he that is greatest among you shallbe your servant.The Bible tells us that the greatest among us shall serve.I have never met a soror who didn’t want greatnessassociated with our sisterhood. The equation for whatwe need to do as sisters is simple.SISTERS + SERVICE = GREATNESSLooking forA Few GoodWomen …We are currently lookingfor active members ofSigma Gamma Rho to:✏Solicit and Follow Up withAdvertisers✏Coordinate Special Sections(i.e. From Him, Dollars & Sense)✏Manage FeaturesDedicated to Rodney VernellSoror Karen Y. Williams is adedicated life member ofGamma Phi Sigma chapter inHouston, Texas. In addition toher duties as the SouthwestRegion Anti-Grammateus, she isproud to serve Harris County asVolunteer Deputy Registrar.If interested, please contact:Soror Rasheeda Hakeem attheauroramag@sgrho1922.orgIndicate in the subject line -“Editorial Assistance”Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 11

Soror Oreitha Benion(Delta Sigma, Chicago, Illinois)Elected president of the Chicago Area Alliance of Black SchoolEducators (CAABSE) which is an affiliate of the National Allianceof Black School Educators (NABSE), a network of professionalscommitted to furthering the academic excellence of Chicago PublicSchool children, particularly the children of African descent.Soror Aisha Braveboy(Zeta Tau Sigma, Mount Rainier, Maryland)Elected Democratic State Delegate in District 25 inMaryland.Soror Paulette D. Caldwell(Delta Kappa Sigma, Plainfield, New Jersey)Received her Masters in Human Resources Management fromRutgers University.Soror Patricia Johnson(Beta Omega Sigma, Shreveport, Louisiana)Received her doctorate in Urban Higher Education fromJackson State University in Jackson, MS. Dr. Johnson is currentlyemployed at Grambling State University as a PK-16+ Coordinator;Coordinator of Master’s Program/Educational Leadership;Assistant Professor. She is also the chapter basileus.Soror Alice Sue Cooper Lee(Alpha Alpha Sigma, Baltimore, Maryland)Received the 2006 “SERVICE ABOVE SELF AWARD”presented by the Rotary Club of Woodlawn-Westview.Soror Ebony Y. Smith(Theta Zeta Sigma, Aurora, Colorado)Graduated from Regis University earningher MBA in Marketing Analysis.Soror Vanetta Cheeks-Reeder(Alpha Eta Sigma, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)Elected Assistant Director of the Eastern Region National PanHellenic Council.Soror Carlee Doggan(Eta Xi Sigma, Oak Lawn, Illinois)Featured at Amazon.com as the author of PRINCIPLES. Thebook is a compilation of three individuals who happen to be inthe same family and the impact three different institutions madein their lives. Soror Doggan is an accomplished author and retirededucator from Chicago Public Schools who believes that “Allchildren can learn, given time, opportunity and patience on thepart of their teachers”.Soror Frances Carter Jackson(Rho Sigma, Detroit, Michigan)Appointed as the Director of theDoctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP)program at Oakland University School ofNursing, located in Rochester, MI. SororJackson will have overall responsibilitiesfor admitting students, schedulingcourses, chairing dissertation committeesand general oversight of the program. TheDNP is a clinical doctorate for nurses whowant advanced research training that can be clinically applied.Soror Laurana Springer(Kappa Sigma, New York, New York)Performed at the Gospel Superfest where Clifton Davis and VivicaA. Fox served as guest hosts.Soror Angela Tucker, MD andSoror Trever Thomas(Epsilon Lambda Sigma Cincinnati, Ohio)Mentioned as one of the “Who’s Who of Black Cincinnati” for2006. This recognition highlights those as the ones to knowthroughout the Greater Cincinnati area; Dr. Tucker is a 3rd yearresident for Bethesda Family Practice and Soror Thomas is theNational Recruiter for INROADS.Soror Pearlean Williams(Beta Omega Sigma, Shreveport, Louisiana)Received a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from NovaSoutheastern University. Dr. Williams is currently employed atBooker T. Washington in Shreveport, LA as a Magnet ProgramCoordinator.12

Welcome Sorors, Philos, and Rhoers to our new “International Programs Spotlight” section.In future AURORA magazines, you will see where our various regions have placed a spotlight on oneor more of our national programs in their communities. This section will provide our organization withrecognition for those that support our programs.Below is a list of our sorority programs:Project ReassuranceMwanamugimuTheme: “Africa, the foundation of many nations … from Creation to Infinity.”Project Wee SaversProject AfricareNational Marrow Donor ProgramRejesta V. Perry Birthright ProgramOperation BigBookBagHattie McDaniel Cancer Awareness and Health ProgramRe/Max Supreme Properties, Inc.Buckle Up AmericaSt. Jude Children’s Research HospitalInternationalProgramsSpotlightWith the assistance of your regional programs chairperson over the next few months we will work tocompile the criteria for all of our programs in one document. As themes, deadlines, etc. are updated orchanged you will be notified.Please work with the following sorors to assist in getting your articles to this section of the Aurora:Northeast – Soror Roz Dreher90 Telford StreetEast Orange, NJ 07018RozDreher@aol.comWestern – Soror Rhonda Wilson-Knox13620 Cerise Avenue Unit 9Hawthrone, CA 90250Rhonda1knox@aol.comSouthwest – Soror Brenda Smith3244 LambertBaton Rouge, LA 70805Olevia22@bellsouth.netSoror Henry Etta O’Neal2410 Manchester DriveCarrollton, TX 75006susigma@verizon.netAs always, your input/suggestions are always appreciated.Look forward to seeing your featured articles.Sisterly,Soror Henry Etta O’NealSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 13

SororKelly PriceKelly Price, the Daughter of the late Rev. Joseph Priceand Evangelist Claudia Price is the 2nd of threechildren born and raised in Queens, NY. Under thewatchful eye of her mother and the pastorate of her grandparentsBishop Jerome and Evangelist Joni Norman Kelly was nurturedand developed spiritually by being taught the word of God andthe importance of a sustained prayer life through the specialprayer services her grandfather held weekly in addition to Sundayservices and bible study.At an early age Kelly’s musical talents began to dominateher life. While most babies have to be taken from the criband calmed from crying in the middle of the night, Ms Price’smother has been noted telling of the times when the entire housewould be awakened at the sound of a young Kelly singing outin her crib while the rest of the family tried to sleep. AS a youngchild Kelly knew that music was more than just something thathappened on the radio, in church, or even during the commercialson TV. For her it was a part of life that quickly became anecessity for life. She became emotionally dependant on themusic inside of her and quickly learned how to use the music asan outlet to express what she was feeling even when she couldn’tspeak about it. One day after experiencing deep sadness from abook she read for a black history project in school, Kelly wrotea song to express her unexplainable emotions. This was her firstsong. She was 7 years old.Kelly sang on her first recording before the age of 10 and by thetime she was 18 Kelly was recording and touring the world withmulti-platinum pop diva Mariah Carey. Always a quick study,Kelly watched and learned the intricacies of studio and productionwork and soon after began to expand into areas other thanjust background singing. It is these early years of her professionalcareer that Kelly refers to as her formal education. While herclassmates attended college to prepare for their careers she wentto work everyday and studied with the entertainment industry’sbest to prepare for what would soon be her own amazing career.During these years and beyond Kelly has shared her multiplemusical gifts with many artists and reached the number one spoton billboard several times before anyone even knew what the girlbehind the voice and the pen looked like. Throughout her careerKelly has sung for, recorded with, toured with, wrote songs for,arranged and produced music for Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin,Brian McKnight, Ben Tankard, Mary J Blige, Puff Daddy,Brandy, The LOX, Donnie McClurkin, The Williams Brothers,Faith Evans, Karen ClarkeSheard, Yolanda Adams, MASE,Whitney Houston, Mary Mary, The Notorious B.I.G, Richard14

Smallwood, R. Kelly, Eric Clapton, Wynona Judd and thelegendary Ronald Isley just to name a few. Though many recordlabels initially pursued Kelly as a recording artist it was her connectionwith Isley and his relentless persistence that convincedher to begin to use her musical talents for herself resulting in aformal alliance between Isley and Price that birthed her solo careerwith the album Soul of A Woman in 1998 that featured the#1 smash women’s anthem of the year “Friend of Mine”, pennedby Ms Kelly Price. She would follow with the platinum successof Mirror Mirror in 2000, One Family: a Christmas Album in2002 and the critically acclaimed Priceless in 2003.Out of the box Ms Price broke records by reaching Billboard’stop spot twice with the same song and having achieved thatinitial # 1 victory with no music video at television. This hadnever been done by any artist since the format of music videosbecame the major marketing method by which record companiespromote and sell music. Kelly also helped to usher in the rebirthof the Gospel sound in mainstream and R&B markets makingthe sound of a full voice acceptable among younger artists again.This, while also fighting the very real battle of imaging and acceptancein an industry that said “no one wants to look at a fatgirl no matter how good she sounds”.Millions of albums later this award winning, Grammy nominated,singer, songwriter, producer, actress and now author hasonly shown the beginning of who the world will come to knowKelly Price to be. With a new year brings new dimensions anddepths of life. Now with her newly formed label EcclectiSoundsRecords, new author Kelly expands her reach again throughher first gospel LP entitled THIS IS WHO I AM and the firstinstallment of her new book series entitled Inscriptions of MyHeart both slated for release later this year.This Is Who She Is …Meet Soror Kelly PriceInterview Exclusive courtesy ofSoror Passé-RodriguezPerfecting her “Ee-yip” isn’t the only activity Soror KellyPrice has been working on since her induction at our 51stBoule. Since her induction, Soror Price has been travelingthroughout the country performing a concept called “Kelly’sCafé” to promote the release of her latest gospel album, “ThisIs Who I Am.” Because Soror Price believes that messages canbe delivered through various vehicles, she has been singingsongs from her new album, including the first release “Healing”and a soulful remake of Al Green’s hit, “Heaven’s Best(Love and Happiness)”, accompanied by painter Jalani Taylor,and spoken-word artist, Messiah. With the release of “ThisIs Who I am”, it is Soror Price’s intention to change the waypeople perceive churchfolk, and ultimately touch the lives ofeveryone, regardless of their background.In addition to promoting her new album, Soror Price hasbegun writing a series of inspirational books with the firstinstallment titled Inscriptions Of My Heart currently availableon her website and bookstores nationwide. But, I Just Wantto Sing!, a guide to pursuing a career in the entertainmentindustry, is slated for release this year.I was privileged to speak with Soror Price in New York Cityas she spent the evening in preparation for 98.7 Kiss FM’s “ANight of Healing,” a benefit concert held to commemoratelives lost five years ago. Here, Soror Price speaks candidlyabout becoming a Sigma, releasing her new album, and beingan old Southern cook – her alter ego.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: I remember being at your induction inDallas this past July and seeing how humbled and sincerely excitedyou were about joining Sigma Gamma Rho. With as much prideas I have in my sorority, I know that there are other internationalsororities from which you could have accepted honorary membership.What made you decide to accept membership into SigmaGamma Rho?Soror Price: My cousin! My cousin, Bridgette, is a Sigma GammaRho. She’s been after me for years, but my schedule never allowed.I’m also a very, very calculated person. For me it’s not just about beinga part of something. It has to exemplify who I am as a person.Because I trust my cousin and I know who she is, everything shetold me has rung true. I’ve run into so many amazing women who Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 15

all seem to live by the same standard, which is really important tome. In all honesty, that’s the reason why I was so overwhelmed. Ithink I’ve told so many people since the day of my induction, thatit was the most amazing thing for me to be in a room with thatmany women and the emotion for each other; for it to be so pureand so real.I think that overall, we’ve been pitted against each other for themost part and it starts as little as when you’re a little girl. You’retaught to look at another little girl … When I say “taught,” I don’tnecessarily mean your mom or older women in your family aretelling you, “look at that little girl. Hate her because she thinksshe’s cute.” Certain actions. We learn by what we see and thingsthat we hear.I didn’t cry there but I actually broke down when I got off to myselfbecause it was so overwhelming.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: Trust me the response to you becominga Sigma was sincere. We were totally surprised. Between yourinner beauty and your outer beauty, you’re just so cute.Soror Price: I’m just a big kid. It was a dream come true for mebecause I always thought growing up that I would go to college. Iwas going to matriculate. I was going to teach English, though Ireally wanted to be a lawyer. I knew I was going to do somethingthat had me running my mouth all the time because I just love totalk, but it didn’t happen like that. I’ve been singing all my life, butI started singing professionally at the age of 18. I ended up with anopportunity to go back and do something that I always wanted todo. I missed my prom. So I’m thinking for my 34th birthday, I’mgoing to have a prom.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: On another exciting note, how didyou partner with 98.7 to perform at the “Night of Healing Concert”featuring gospel legends like Andre Crouch and RichardSmallwood?Soror Price: They just asked. Interestingly enough, the first singlefrom my album is called “Healing” and from what I understandthey’ve been using the song to promote the night which I’m reallyexcited about. That’s a big deal. To be a part of this; to promotehealing for people that lost so much on 9/11.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: Were you affected by the events ofSeptember 11th?Soror Price: I didn’t lose any family members. We were affectedbecause this is of course where my family is. That day, I was scheduledto be on a plane coming into New York and that flight wouldhave been landing right around the same time that the first planehit the towers. I know everybody has their 9/11 story, but I literallyremember it being so poignant because at about 4 o’clock in themorning, I woke up and told my husband, who’s also my managerthat “I’m tired. I don’t feel like getting up. I’m not getting on the 6o’clock flight.” And generally if I do that, he’d tell me “No, Kelly.You have to go. You’ll get over it. You gotta do this or you gotta dothat.” I expect to have to argue with him at 4 o’clock in the morningabout getting on a plane, but he said “I’m tired too. Don’t worryabout it. I’ll call New York and we’ll have to cancel the meetings.We’ll reschedule for a couple of days.” And at about 8:20, everyphone in my house started ringing. His cell phone started ringing.My cell phone started ringing. I’m looking at the tv and we’re bothsaying at the same time, “Oh my God. The towers are burning.” Itwas just the craziest thing.Sometimes we get too comfortable in our own skin. As Americans,in particular, we feel like “we’re in the land of the free, the homeof the brave” and we don’t have to worry about a lot of things thatpeople who live in the so-called third world countries worry about,but I just think that overall we’re being reminded that we’re all subjectto anything and we need to live knowing that. Not live in fear,but if we live knowing that, we’ll live life better. We’ll be carefulabout how we treat each other. We’ll make sure that we take care ofourselves better too if we want to get anything out of our lives.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: You’re reminding me of when youspoke about growing up in your grandfather’s church.Soror Price: Yes, my grandfather’s church, Full Gospel MissionCOGIC, has been there for more than forty years at the same locationin South Ozone Park, Queens, NY. I grew up in his churchand I did everything from sweeping church floors to cleaningtoilets in the church to directing choirs to singing in the choir toleading devotional worship. Believe me, I did everything you couldpossibly think of. That’s what always happens in a pastor’s family:you have to do whatever needs to be done that nobody would dareto do. We didn’t have a whole lot growing up either. Life was justvery real and very deeply rooted in faith in God. And I believe. No,not “I believe.” I know that that’s the reason why even going intoentertainment, that I was able to stay rooted.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: You’ve proven that over and over inyour lyrics and the image you portray. You bring up a crucial pointas we’re living in this day and age of all the overt vulgarity we seein entertainment. Speaking of entertainment, it’s almost like yourmusical career has come full circle as you’re about to release “ThisIs Who I Am” on. What inspired you to record an album solelyfeaturing gospel music?Soror Price: The gospel album is what I believe I owe God eventhough every album of mine had a gospel song on it because I neverwanted for people to not know where I come from. It’s still so very16

much a part of who I am. I never believed that being an R&B singermeant that I couldn’t be a Christian because I don’t think that myjob dictates that. I think that you can be anything and have any job,but if you don’t live your life right, you’re just not who you say youare. If I wore a clergy collar and I lived a riotous life, then I’m notwho I say I am. But I can be a Christian and I can be somebody wholoves God and loves Jesus Christ and sing R&B music. I don’t dodrugs and crazy things. It’s just a set standard that I have for myselfand I believe that anything that I can’t do in front of my children orputs God or my grandparents to shame, I don’t need to be doing atall. And I feel that if I live by that, then I’m doing all right.We are coming to a time where there is a deep rooted cry frompeople all over the world for truth. Anyone that is not willing tobe truthful and be transparent in their ministry or whatever it isthat they want to call it… It’s gonna come to an abrupt end. Whenyou have people who by age 20 have experienced death up close,misery, turmoil, who have lived a life in 20 years that people beforethem never lived in 85-90 years, they need someone who is willingto be truthful and transparent with them about the things they’vebeen through. They need to understand that even though they’vebeen through all this hell, that they can come out of it and be okay.I can’t get that from you if you want me to look at you and seesomeone who’s smiling all the time and happy all the time, who saysthat they’re saved and believes in Jesus Christ and because of that,nothing will go wrong in their life. That’s not realistic and that’sthe reason why you have a lot of people that won’t even bother withchurch because they feel that church people are phony, which is whyI go overboard to tell people that I’m just human like you are. I amby no means perfect. I sing R&B, I believe in Jesus Christ, I’m aChristian, I go dancing, and I have a good time. I think people havethe wrong perception of what life is supposed to be and it’s my intentionthat if I can change somebody’s mind about that, by who I am,hence the album “This Is Who I Am”, then I have done my job.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: I read your letter addressed to severalchurch leaders where you share your thoughts regarding the unethicalways you feel musicians are sharing the Lord’s word, like musicianswho are known for singing R&B and hip-hop, cross over tosing hit gospel songs. Do you see a remedy in the near future andwhat do you think will help these musicians be honest with themselvesand their ultimate purpose for delivering the Lord’s word?Soror Price: I think that the standard first has to be set inside thechurch. I’ll never make any excuses for anybody that does anythingwrong, but if my example of Godly living is you because you tellme that you live this everyday and you’re a preacher, a minister oran evangelist, and I can clearly look at you and see that it’s in wordonly and you really don’t live it, then my attitude becomes “who areyou to judge me?”I don’t want to misquote the Bible, but I do believe that judgmentstarts in the house of God. A lot of times people will take that andmisconstrue it and think that that’s their free pass to judge everythingand everybody and that’s not true. It starts with those whocall themselves believers. We have to judge ourselves first and if youcan find something in you that’s not right, then it’ll keep you fromputting your mouth so fast on other people.I think that there has to be more love shown to people so that theywill be willing to hear you. You can’t go to a homeless man who’shungry and the whole time you’re feeding him, you’re berating himabout how he ended up homeless in the first place. Our methodshave to change.Being able to grow up in a preacher’s family has given me the opportunityto understand things from that side and while being a partof mainstream entertainment, I can talk about it from this side ofit too. I’ve gone into churches where people didn’t know that I’m apreacher’s kid and saw the way they treated me. I know how peopleshould be treated. I know what it feels like to be mistreated, misjudged,and to be labeled. It’s just not a good thing and if nothingelse, people ought to get love from us and I’ve felt like that from thebeginning of my career. Whether it was gospel or R&B, I wantedto make music that people can feel and felt did something for themafter they heard a song. I always think about people like MarvinGaye and his song “What’s Goin’ On?”. It had a wonderful groove,but when the song was over, you heard something too and I alwayswanted to make that kind of music. I call it the gospel of life.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: Because God has truly blessed youwith the gifts of singing and speaking so articulately, have you everconsidered acting or doing Broadway?Soror Price: I want to do Broadway so bad. That would be atriumphant return to New York. If we get the right opportunity,I’m gonna come stompin’ my way back to New York.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: What about modeling?Soror Price: Yes. We need somebody that looks like me on therunway. I fluctuate between a size 14 and an 18. I know what to doand how to do it. I’ll never let myself get to where I was before. Ipromote healthy living for men and women. A healthy body imageis not trying to be what everybody else looks like, but we do needsome positive full-figured role models who are healthy.Soror Passé-Rodriguez: In addition to working with yourhusband/manager and raising 2 children, what you do in yourspare time?Soror Price: I don’t have much spare time, but I love to cook. Ihate to talk about myself like this, but I cook like an old Southernwoman. I’ve been cooking my whole life. Growing up and beingin the house with just the girls and my mother working two andthree jobs, I was cooking dinner for the family at 7 and makingThanksgiving dinner by the time I was 13. The only thing I lovemore than cooking is watching people eat my food. I get high offof watching people eat my food; where they get so stuffed that theycan’t move.Be sure to visit Soror Price’s website at www.kellyprice.com toobtain information on “This Is Who I Am,” her books, and herphoto gallery. Before you leave her page, show this Soror somelove by dropping her a line and joining her fan club. Yes, shereads every single email that comes her way.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 17

18You’re the Key toour Health(and more)Running households, companies,organizations and countries; servingas breadwinners, nurturers,confidants, and lovers. As if sistasdidn’t have enough responsibilities,unfortunately, there is more.African-American men, yourgrandfathers, fathers, husbands,grandsons, sons, brothers, cousins,uncles, nephews, beaus, friendsand all other males in between, aredesperately in need of your help,quite frankly in saving our lives.It is now common knowledgethat African-American males arethe least healthy of all groups.With the rise of prostate cancer,hypertension and cardiovasculardiseases, HIV/AIDS and obesity,we are threatened with healthrelatedissues even more. Yet,with all of this, African-Americanmen still are the least likely of allhumans to visit a physician. Aseducated women, you are wellfamiliar with some of the reasoning:the distrust based on some ofearly experiments, the undeniablemachismo associated with blackmales, the high level of uninsureds,you’ve heard them all. Thefact remains, however, that we aredying in record numbers from illnessesand diseases that are preventable,treatable, and, in manycases, curable. Some would thinkthat this phenomenon is limitedto undereducated and underprivilegedBrothers; that is simply nottrue. The mystery as to why BlackMen do not seek routine medicaltreatment runs across all ages, allincomes, and all education levels.In 2000, Kappa decided to makeprostate cancer education its tophealth issue. After a chance meetingwith famed actor and humanitarian,Harry Belafonte, himselfa prostate cancer survivor, thefraternity was prepared to committhe resources necessary to make ameaningful difference in this area.The facts were overwhelming:• It is the second leading causeof death among African-American men; approximately6,100 were expected to diefrom it in that year alone.• African-American men havethe highest incidence of prostatecancer in the world.• African-American men diefrom it at a rate of almost 3times that of Caucasian men.Yet, the most alarming fact was,with annual examinations andearly detection, the dreaded diseasewas almost 100% curable.That is, if we had routine physicals.The sad fact is, by the time itis detected, it is usually too late.

So with Mr. Belafonte on boardas our national spokesperson andconsiderable funding from Anheuser-Busch,Inc., Kappa took tothe road visiting more than a dozencities across the country, providingeducation regarding prostatecancer. The plan was simple:spread the word via barbershops,pool halls, bars, and simply, neighborhoodcorners for men to joinus at town hall meetings at areachurches to “chat and chew” aboutthe disease and how it can beprevented. We expected to gather2000-2500 men per session as werotated to targeted major citiesacross the country.Our first session produced about500 men, the next 300, before wemoved to the third location, we restrategized;our plan wasn’t working.Then it hit us, we needed toinvolve Sistagirls! So we calledon our sorors and other women tohelp us get their men out to theseinvaluable gatherings. Mr. Belafontewent even further askingour sistas to “just say no” untiltheir men said “yes.” At our nextsession there were nearly 2000men in attendance and that trendcontinued throughout our travels.Once again, by finding it out thehard way, we realized we simplycould not do it without our fierceand ferocious (when need be) BlackWomen. The reason for the blackman’s dependency on our womenmay never truly be known, but thefacts are clear: You’re the Key toour Health; You’re the Key to savingour lives.And so I offer this heartfeltappeal from a concerned brothato the sorors of Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Inc. You are ourgrandmothers, mothers, wives,grand daughters, daughters, sisters,cousins, nieces, boos, fiends andall other lovely black women inbetween, do what you do, whatyou always do, what you havedone since 1922 … take care ofyour men. We wouldn’t have itany other way! In the end, it willbe best for us all, and that, simplyput, is “All Good!”Richard Lee Snow is the 8th,and current, Executive Director andChief Operating Officer of KappaAlpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. As such,he is responsible for managing theday-to-day operations of a staff ofthirteen (13) and an annual operatingbudget of 2+ million dollars. Snowis the only person to serve on boththe North-American InterfraternityCouncil, Inc. and National Pan-HallenicCouncil. He is the immediatepast Chairman of the Board of theNational Coalition of Black MeetingPlanners, Inc. and sits on the Boardsof the Urban League of Philadelphia,Philadelphia Convention and VisitorsBureau as well as the AdvisoryBoards of Washington (DC), LittleRock, and Milwaukee ConventionsBureaus.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 19

Region NewsNORTHEAST REGION YELLOW TEA ROSE NEWSSubmitted By: Racquel Dozier, Northeast Region EpistoleusThe Northeast Region started off the new Sorority Year running strong. Each chapter has workeddiligently to get the Service train running with Love and True Sisterhood. As a region sorors havealso worked to have fun at what they do. The Northeast Region has worked together in efficient andpositive action to support one another and work towards the Power of Vision.Syntaktes Blakeney with KwesiMfume Alpha Alpha SigmaCrab FestThe Northeast Region Syntaktes has traveled high and low to supportthe sorors of the Northeast Region. Syntaktes Blakeney traveled tothe Alpha Alpha Sigma Chapter Annual Crab Feast. Here Sorors ofAlpha Alpha Sigma and Syntaktes Blakeney met Kweisi Mfume.What a great time all had in Maryland at this fun occasion.Syntaktes Blakeney and Sororsof Iota Sigma and Epsilon ZetaChapters welcomed R&B/Gospel singer, Soror KellyPrice to Richmond, Virginia.Soror Price attended an eventhonoring the pastor of St. Paul’sBaptist Church, one of thelargest churches in Richmond,and shared her amazingtestimony through the gift ofsong. Soror Price let all in attendance know that she is a proudSigma Woman. Sorors from Iota Sigma, Kappa Sigma, Delta NuSigma and Eta Nu Sigma along with Syntaktes Blakeney joinedtogether in NYC for a stomping good time with Soror Price.Supporting once again and serving as hostesses at Kelly’s CaféSorors of Iota Sigma Chapterand Epsilon Zeta Chapter withSyntaktes Blakeney & Soror Price inRichmond, Virginia Eventright before Soror Price’s CD dropped. The crowd was stunned by the Royal Beauty of the MightySigma Women. All who were present showed true grace and poise at the event.Kappa Sigma, Eta Nu Sigma, Delta Nu Sigma and all the undergraduates and affiliates of New YorkCity, participated in the African American Day Parade in Harlem, NY. This parade is recognizedas the largest Black parade in America and covers more than twenty-eight blocks from 111th streetto 142nd street on Adam Clayton-Powell Boulevard.The event show-cases music, poli-tics, art, socialc o n s c iou s ne s s,literature, historyand more. Sororswere out in fullforce to representthe Royal Blue andGold in a Mightyway.Sorors served as Hostesses at NYC Kelly’sCafé EventNYC Sorors at the African AmericanParade, Pictured with Past RegionalSyntaktes Inez Vanable20

Plan Now for the52ndInternationalBouleDetroit, MichiganSummer 200822

Distinguished Honor Bestowing On Past Grand Basileus Evelyn H. HoodAmong hundred of Sigma sororsand friends during the 2006 MayWeekend at Clark Atlanta University,Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s PastGrand Basileus Evelyn H. Hood,was honored by the Clark AtlantaUniversity Alumni Association asits Wall of Fame Inductee. Thisprestigious community serviceaward was presented at the AlumniService Awards Luncheon.Past Grand Basileus Hood served as Grand Basileus ofSigma Gamma Rho Sorority from 1976-1980. It was for thisnational service that she was awarded a place on Clark AtlantaUniversity Alumni Association’s Wall of Fame. During theprogram, on behalf of the SigmaSisterhood, Soror Effie Turnereloquently read a resolution ofpraise and thanks from our ownInternational Grand Basileus, Dr.Mynora J. Bryant. Dr. Bryantwrote of the total dedication ofSoror Hood to the principlesof Sigma Gamma Rho and thenoteworthy accomplishments ofher administration.In Soror Hood’s acceptanceremarks she described her lifeas a journey centered aroundmaking a positive differencein the world. She thankedespecially her husband, family,sorors, and friends for theirencouragement as she traveledtoward her goals.Today, we her Sigma Sistersacknowledge the outstandingaccomplishments made duringher tenure and celebrate with her the place of honor awardedher on the Clark Atlanta University Wall of Fame. Her portraithangs in the Carland Mary WareAcademic Centerlocated on thecampus of Clark-Atlanta University,Atlanta, Georgia.Written by:Soror Annette Hampton- Eta Sigma Chapter &Soror Anita Bartlett Spann- Upsilon Sigma ChapterExpanding Our Horizons … Sigma Meets SeoulKappa Theta Sigma Chartered in KoreaOn January 6, 2007, the Kappa Theta Sigma Chapter ofSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc was established in Seoul,South Korea. Presiding over the chartering ceremony wasthe Grand Basileus Dr. Mynora J. Bryant, lst Grand Anti-Basileus Joann Loveless, Executive Director Jennifer Jones,and the Northeast Region Syntaktes Felicia Blakeney.The founding Sorors are Basileus Mattii Minor of Seoul,Korea, Anti- Basileus Hazel Johnson of Seoul Korea,Anti- Grammateus Djuna Underwood of Tokyo, Japan,Parliamentarian Marlischa Thompson of Osan, Korea andEpistoleus Rosalind Jones of Daegu, Korea. Currently SororCourtney Jenkins, who is working in Seoul, Korea, willbecome the first to transfer into the chapter upon completionof her studies. The newly established chapter will comeunder the auspices of the Northeast Region. The charteringevent was followed by a reception and attended by all GreekOrganizations in the area.Submitted by Soror Rosalind Jones(Front L-R Chapter Basileus Mattii Minor, Grand BasileusDr. Mynora J. Bryant, 1st Grand Anti-Basileus JoannLoveless, Northeastern Regional Syntaktes Felicia BlakeneyRear L-R Chapter members Soror Rosalind Jones, SororDjuna Underwood, Soror Hazel Johnson, and ExecutiveDirector Jennifer Jones) (Not pictured is Chapter chartermember Marlischa Thompson)Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 23

Greeting Sorors,Message from theInternationalSecond GrandAnti-BasileusSororTiana TrimbleIt is my honor to congratulate you on another successful sororityyear of great community service and fundraising. Like always weknow how to get DOWN TO BUSINESS! I hope you have chosen to useyour H.E.A.R.T. through honor, education, action, representation, andtraining. Remember if we adhere to these five values then we willcontinue to further bring the HEARTS of the undergraduates togetherbecause we “are as one.” To further our aim of Greater Service, GreaterProgress in community service, I would like to share with you some ofmy favorite community service projects and fundraisers. Please bringthese ideas back to your chapters, for these could be great options foryour chapter to succeed in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Community Service- Big Brother, Big Sisters: Mentor youths around your area.- Feed the Homeless: Put together sack lunches.- Hygiene Kits for the Homeless: Put together bags of toothpaste,toothbrushes, travel size hygiene products. You could also requestdonations for these products from different organizations orstores.-Children’s Hospitals: Possibly reading to the children or helping withtheir community services.- Food Banks: Help put together groceries for families in need.- National/ Local Walks and Marathons: Help clean, run booths/check-in, or pass water out to the participants.Fundraisers- Collect Change at your campus: A “Change Drive,” for local, regional,or national community services.- Entry fee events: Parties, pageants, etc..- Partnering with local restaurants: If you help advertise and bring incustomers to a particular restaurant they will give a percentage ofwhat they make during a given time frame.- Car Wash: Clean cars for donations.Make sure you join sgrho_undergrads@yahoo.com so that your chaptercan share events, community service projects, and fundraisers thathave proven successful.Again, thank you all for your hard work.In Sigma,With all of my H.E.A.R.T!24

Conference WatchSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Regional ConferencesCentral Regional ConferenceJune 8-10, 2007Kansas City, MissouriSoutheast Regional ConferenceJune 15-17, 2007Jackson, Mississippi*Please note the board meetings and special committee meetings may be held theThursday prior to conference datesSAVE THE DATESorors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. andFraters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.Joint Founders’ Day CelebrationNovember 2007More details to come …NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL64th Biennial National ConventionOctober 16-21, 2007Hyatt Regency, Deaborn, MichiganSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 25

Alexandria CrumbleSince the 2005 reactivation of Alpha Chapter, reintroducingSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. to the campuscommunity has faced much opposition. Now the solemember of Alpha Chapter, Soror Alexandria Crumblecontinues to strive for Sigma in her heart and on her campus,to uphold the foundational principles of the sorority,and to exhibit the excellence that the founders so humblyexuded. A 5th Year Professional Doctor of PharmacyCandidate, she has held several executive positions, servedin several leadership roles on campus, and made countlesssacrifices to help ensure the viability and longevity ofAlpha Chapter.fOutstandingUndergraduateSigma SororSubmitted by: Soror Shurika Perry, AdvisorSoror Alexandria Crumble: An Accomplished Soror• Black Student Union~5th Year, PastExecutive Member• Butler University Gender Commission,Campus Climate Sub-committee~2nd Term• Butler University’s Voices of DeliveranceGospel Choir, President~3rd Term• Coca-Cola Foundation Scholar• Dr. John Morton Finney Scholar• Lilly Endowment Scholar• Mattie Rice Coney Scholar• National Society of Collegiate Scholars• NFL/Sargent Jeanette L. Winters Scholar,• Phi Eta Sigma Leadership Fraternity• R. Efroymson Scholar• Ralph M Reahard Scholar• Urban League Scholar• Top 10 Outstanding Woman~2nd Year• Reaffirming Ethnic Awareness andCommunity Harmony, Past President• Student Government Association. Former VPof Diversity• University Terrace Apartments~ResidenceLife, Staff Assistant~4th Year, Past ResidentAssistant• Volunteer Center, Web Developer~2nd Term26f

Alpha PhiHoward University, Washington, DCExemplifying SuccessThe lovely ladies of Alpha Phi began the yearwith welcoming new students to the universityat the freshman move-in. With the high vibeof school spirit, music, a table with sororsgreeting new students with smiles and coolrefreshments, the day was a success. Manyevents have been implemented such as MovieNight. A book club has been started in whichstudents were able to discuss the new genre ofurban books and selected a book to read anddiscuss at the next book club meeting.Alpha Phi was able to hold an “Indiana Luv”hospitality suite during Homecoming towelcome all sorors and Greeks to the university.The step team dazzled the audience that weekstepping in 1950’s Rhoyal Blu and Antique Goldpoodle skirts which placed the team in secondplace at a step show at Frostburg University.Nonetheless, the chapter is celebrated Founders’Week, entitled 84 years of amiable essence withprograms geared to enrich the minds and thesouls of individuals. Some of the programs are“RhOad to Graduate School”, “RHOlax withYoga”, and “Sigma Euphoria” which focused onnutrition.Alpha Phi chapter has exceeded since 1939 andwill continue to uphold the legacy of the chapterand the organization.Alpha Phi Chapter has plot on HowardUniversity’s yard decked in Blu and yellow.Every first Friday of the month sorors relax,chant, and step around the plot while sportingparaphernalia and relaxing with fellow membersof the NPHC.Contact: Soror Rashida Walters, Anti-BasileusAlpha Phi members in their 1950s stepshow gearSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 27

Epsilon NuSan Antonio, TexasWelcomes New MembersThe Epsilon Nu chapter welcomes two new members into Sigma sisterhood, JaniceGaiter and Suh Hughart. These ladies are excited and ready to bring their dedicationand Sigma spirit into the chapter. The chapter has had the experience of attendingtheir first Southwest Regional Conference in Austin, Texas and Boule in Dallas, Texasduring this past summer to gain valuable knowledge about the different businessoperations of the sorority on a regional and national level. The ladies are lookingforward to establishing Sigma presence throughout the San Antonio community andcollege campuses.Contact: Monica Pete, AdvisorEpsilon ZetaVirginia Commonwealth University, RichmondService in SisterhoodThe Epsilon Zeta chapter has had an exciting semester, beginning with taking secondplace in Virginia Commonwealth University’s block step show. Epsilon Zeta continuesto show that we truly are “The Last Created, Best Designed.” The ladies of Epsilon Zeta,in the true spirit of Greater Service, Greater Progress, have put on many successfulprograms including their first Greek Unity Cookout, which was designed to unitethe Greek community, and a program tastefully called Sex for Chocolate, which wasdesigned to educate college students on the issues surrounding sex education in a waythat they could have fun and attain knowledge simultaneously. These ladies havealso been involved in several ventures to enhance the Richmond community fromvolunteering for Habitat for Humanity at the Central Virginia Food Bank to helpingthe freshman move onto campus.In celebrating Founders’ week, Epsilon Zeta celebrated the 84th anniversary of SigmaGamma Rho by having church service with their very own charter member, SororLynda D. Moore. Epsilon Zeta also sponsored a program called Education 101: Back tothe Basics which is geared towards helping college students build on the fundamentalsof college life such as stress management, time management, the cost of skipping classand college cooking. The women of Epsilon Zeta continue to embody all that Sigmawomen are and should be.Contact: Soror Danielle McManus, Epistoleus28

Eta UpsilonRutgers University, Brunswick, New JerseyElectrifying Eta UpsilonFive dynamic young women were born into Sigma by way of the Electrifying EtaUpsilon Chapter. These five young women are Kanika Roberts, Afua Antwi, LaurenYoung, Nadege Joseph, and Ashley Green. Sorors Roberts, Joseph, and Green arelegacies and Soror Antwi is a former Delta Kappa Sigma Rhoer. Since being inductedinto the sisterhood, the ladies have achieved a cumulative chapter GPA of 3.0. Twicea month the chapter volunteers at the local food bank. The ladies of Eta Upsiloncontinuously seek to provide service through various projects to Rutgers University andthe surrounding community. The chapter advisor is Nikkol Green and the sponsoringgraduate chapter is Delta Kappa Sigma of Plainfield, New Jersey.Contact: Noah JosephGamma EpsilonKent State University, Kent, OhioThe Alumni Soror ReunionAlumni sorors from Gamma Epsilon Chapter at Kent State University (KSU) reunitedduring Homecoming 2006. Alumnisorors attended and supported theBlack Alumni event on SaturdayOctober 14 in Kent, Ohio. TheBlack Alumni event was held at the11th Frame / Kent Lanes on SouthWater Street. This event providedalumni sorors the opportunity forsome fun, relaxation, and catchingup with old friendsContact: Nicolette Warren-WhiteGamma IotaPaul Quinn College, Dallas, TexasTwo Is Company, Threes A CrowdThe Glamorous Gamma Iota chapter wanted to make sure the students at Paul QuinnCollege were not “dum-dums”. Soror Kamisha Knight-Johnson and Chenae Washingtonhanded out dum-dums and lifesavers candy as they talked to the students about the“Buckle Up America” campaign. The theme for the program was “Don’t be a Dum-Dum,Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 29

Gamma ZetaIndianapolis, Indiana Metro ChapterUpholding SigmaThe Sigma women of Gamma Zeta are exemplifying progress in sisterhood, scholarshipand service on their campus, in addition to their community. Gamma Zeta started theyear with events that show the exuberant side of a Sigma woman. These ladies hostedsuch events as a Bowling Night and a Carwash, which rose over $130 for the chapter.Gamma Zeta also takes pride in giving back to their community. For instance, GammaZeta has been involved in several community service initiatives such as Covering forKids, the Julian Center, and the Walk for Diabetes. The ladies provided helping handswherever they were needed. Gamma Zeta also participated in other various events,including a university hosted Involvement Fair, Undergraduate Summit hosted by AlphaSigma Chapter, Black Greek 101 hosted by the University of Indianapolis, and the AreaVII Meeting in Frankfort, KY.Gamma Zeta had its Illustrious Founders’ Week. The week consisted of a Movie Night,Friday Fun Night, Community Service at the Coburn Place and a Sorors Only Day withour Graduate Chapter Alpha Sigma. The chapter also hosted a Banking InvestmentSeminar, a Night Out with Gamma Zeta, and an Adopt-a-Family Christmas collection.The week was a success and could not have happened without the women who startedit all.In addition to Founders’ Week, Gamma Zeta helped their campus and communityby participating in the “Jam the Jaguars Bus Event,” here the ladies helped load andunload canned goods to give to the unfortunate. Gamma Zeta will continue to upholdSisterhood, Scholarship, and Service.Soror Endia Scalan, EpistoleusLambda TauStony Brook University, Stonybrook, New YorkThe Joy of Originality - Lambda Tau wins StRHOlling CompetitionOn the campus of Stonybrook, Delta Sigma Theta challenged all Greek letteredorganizations to compete in a stroll competition. This competition featured tworounds and two first place prizes (first place fraternity and first place sorority). Thesophisticated sorors at Lambda Tau “rhose” to the occasion.In round one, Lambda Tau averaged 10 points above their competition and eliminateda local sorority with the infamous “table top” stroll.In round two, SoRHOrs brought the drama. With a quick reworking of their rhoyal blueand gold outfits, sorors pinned up their hair and got ready for war. Sorors strolled to aSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 31

Theta LambdaUniversity of Virginia, CharlottesvilleSpring into SigmaThe members of Sigma Gamma Rho are known for creating programs that helpcommunities both locally and nationally. Theta Lambda has participated in numerousevents and programs that have benefited the communities of the University of Virginiaand Charlottesville. These events and programs include the national programs of SigmaGamma Rho and newly created events by Theta Lambda.Before giving thanks to anyone, God is first and foremost in all that is done. ThetaLambda and Alpha Iota Omega Christian Fraternity, Inc. held a Day of Praise in whichthe university community was invited to come and spend an evening celebrating inthe Lord. The ladies then hosted a Greek Unity Luncheon, inviting all of UVA’s NPHCGreeks out for some fellowship and fun to show that brotherhood and sisterhood comein all colors. Theta Lambda partnered with EMC Talent Group to host “Battlegrounds”,UVA’s first hip-hop dance and freestyle rap competition. The event was raved as a hugesuccess with performances “so huge they could hardly be contained within the wallsof the building”Theta Lambda took Operation BigBookBag to a whole new level. It was not youraverage collection of school supplies; it was a 12 hour lock-in at Clemons Library from8pm-8am. The ladies devoted their entire night to collect school supplies for localchildren. This was more than a collection of school supplies; it was a collection of time,effort, and cooperation of the University of Virginia and the Charlottesville communityat large. The next day the school supplies were donated to a local community center.The 1st Sigma Send-off was held for the graduating members of Theta Lambda, EbonyMcCracken, Ericka McCracken, Nakita Johnson, Rasheda Bowman, and SheronicaBarcliff. A closed program was to pay tribute to the good times, the funniest moments,and the heart-felt emotions shared with the graduating members. It was a time ofreflection while looking towards the future. All of the graduating members will bedearly missed but their devotion and creativity will never be forgotten as members ofSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.Contact: Soror Justina FoggieSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 35

Pride ComethBefore the FallAuthor AnonymousWe walk with our heads held highAnd our call can be heard afarBut when they tear apart the piecesAre we really who we say we are?We call each other SororsSaying you will always have my backBut when it comes to my processCan I really trust you with that?We pride ourselves on our quality ofsisterhoodAll for one, one for allBut beware of the traditionalexpectationsBecause PRIDE COMETH BEFORETHE FALL.36

Alpha Mu SigmaWinston Salem, North CarolinaStaying Close to the CommunityAlpha Mu Sigma has been busy promoting“Greater Service, Greater Progress” in the WinstonSalem community. Alpha Mu Sigma sponsoredits 5th Annual E. Jerry Jones Spring Festival GolfTournament. The tournament raises scholarshipfunds for deserving high school students. This year’sscholarship recipient was Carmen Stackhouse, asenior at Glenn High School.Additionally, several ladies participated in the2006 Winston Salem State University HomecomingStep Show. Sadio-Tene Lloyd and Dakisha Payne-Williams of Alpha Mu Sigma and Margaletta Smith ofDelta Sigma Sigma along with some of the chapter’schildren performed an outstanding Wizard of Ozthemedshow. This was Sigma Gamma Rho’s first“repRHOsentation” in a WSSU step show in fouryears.Alpha Mu Sigma participated in a ProjectHomestead’s Women’s Build project. On this day,several ladies helped to physically build a home foran anxiously waiting family.The chapter would also like to take a moment torecognize Soror Earline Sutton for being the recipientof the 2006 Alpha Mu Sigma Alumnae Chapter Sororof the Year Award. This award was presented to her atthe chapters Founders’ Day banquet. She has beencalled diligent, faithful, patient, motherly, kind, andloving. Alpha Mu Sigma is certainly proud to havesuch an illustrious woman as a dedicated member.Finally, Alpha Mu Sigma welcomes its three newestmembers: Talia Scott, Jonee’ Taylor, and ShantelleWilliams. These ladies have proven that they areworthy to be called by that great name, Sigma, andwill certainly make her proud.Contact: Candace Gorham, EpistoleusAlpha Omicron SigmaDallas, TexasDoing AMAZING things in DallasThe ladies of the Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapterare doing amazing things in Dallas. Alpha OmicronSigma has actively contributed to community servicethrough The American Care Foundation with theBack to School Celebration. They worked with theAmerican Care Foundation to educate children onobstacles they have to face by being children intoday’s society. Alpha Omicron Sigma also supportedthe Arlington Alumnae Chapter, Zeta Delta Sigma,in a Health/Career Fair. The ladies were involvedin a Greek Forum held on the campus of SouthernMethodist University. The sorors used their creativestrengths in an AIDS Arms for Life walk in UptownDallas. Did you know that every 21 seconds someoneis diagnosed with diabetes? Alpha Omicron Sigmadoes, and the ladies were active in the AmericanDiabetes Association’s premier fund-raising event,America’s Walk for Diabetes. The sorors were alsoactive in both philo and rhoer activities.Alpha Omicron Sigma, taking a breath after hostingthis past Boule, continue to have bonding events thatbuild sisterhood within the chapter. The sorors ofthe Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter continue to be anexample of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”Alpha Omicron Sigma Chapter membersBeta Epsilon SigmaColumbia, South CarolinaBeta Epsilon Sigma started the year strong.Beta Epsilon Sigma had their annual rededicationceremony. The members talked about when theyjoined Sigma, what brought them to Sigma in the firstplace and what they have learned from Sigma. It wasa great reminder. BES also participated in the SouthCarolina First Ladies Walk for Breast Cancer. It wasan invigorating morning that brought the Columbiacommunity together for a worthy cause. BES alsoSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 37

campus of University of North Carolina at ChapelHill. The chapter thoroughly enjoyed the opportunityto plan, host, and facilitate different aspects of themeeting. It was a great opportunity for the chapterto give back to the sorority and bond with their greatsisterhood.Ronetta Walker, Public Relations DirectorDelta Kappa SigmaPlainfield, New JerseySigma Newschapter. Delta KappaSigma continues tomake strides in servingthe community. Thechapter conduc tedOperation Big BookBag and donated bookbags filled with schoolsupplies to WomenAware, a local batteredwomen’s shelter. The chapter also participated in theWalk for Autism. For the past few years the chapterhas walked for “Sydney’s Dream Team” and made anadditional donation to Autism research. Delta KappaSigma also participated in collecting coats for CentralNew Jersey’s NPHC Coat Drive. Over 300 coats werecollected and donated to Goodwill.Contact: Noah JosephDelta Psi SigmaSeattle, WashingtonDelta Kappa Sigma Chapter inducted its newestmember, Soror Ajaiah Roulette. Soror Rouletteis a recent graduate of Rutgers University – NewBrunswick, College of Engineering. Ajaiah was firstdrawn to Sigma as an undergrad and continuedin her pursuit of Sigma upon graduation. She hasmuch talent and creativity and her contributions tothe chapter and the sorority will hopefully be great.Delta Kappa Sigma has also reactivated two sorors.Soror Cynthia Browning-Smalls and Soror TraceyEdwards, both by way of Eta Upsilon Chapter - RutgersUniversity, bring a revived spirit and dedication to theWorking and Playing Hard in SeattleIt has been a wonderfully busy season for theladies of Delta Psi Sigma in Seattle.The ladies participated and co-sponsored the Rallyfor Hope, a citywide event celebrating young peopleand Christian music of all kinds. The day started offrainy, but the clouds cleared once the music startedand a good time was had by all.The ladies held a family barbeque with membersof Omicron Zeta (University of Washington). Sorors’families and friends were also on hand to enjoy eachother’s company and food. Interested young ladiesfor both the undergrad and grad chapters wereinvited to view what true sisterhood looks like.In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness,members of Delta Psi Sigma and Omicron Zetaparticipated in the Annual Breast Cancer Walk. Therain did not stop these sorors from fulfilling theirpledge to walk and raise awareness.Finally, Delta Psi Sigma hosted the Pacific NorthwestArea meeting. Sorors from all over the area came outto get updates on the sorority business, reconnectand fellowship Thanks to Syntakes Nelson and UCCFranklin for coming to the Pacific Northwest.Contact: Arizona ProctorSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 39

40Delta SigmaChicago, IllinoisStarting the Year Anew, Bonding with SororsDelta Sigma started the year with a weekendfilled with fun, education and training at the chapterretreat. On Friday, chapter members enjoyed anevening of food, games and fun. They participatedin a pajama party, sang songs, and shared stories toupdate sorors on their summer. Saturday includeda full day of workshops that were designed tohelp members become more acquainted withsorority protocol and to help build unity withinthe chapter. Workshops on the agenda included:“True Colors-Team Building; Valuing Differences;Creating Unity,” “Recruiting a Sigma Woman-Whatis the Sigma Image?,” “Protocol: What is it? – Howdoes it affect me?,” “Conflict Resolution-Is it Good orBad?,” “Preparing for Leadership-Tips for Members,”“Chapter Communication-How can I stay informed,”and “Parliamentary Procedure-Having Your Say.”To start the sorority year in Chicago, chaptermembers participated in a civic activity. Delta Sigmarepresented with an abundance of blue and gold atThe 23rd Annual Chicago United Negro College Fund(UNCF) Walk, Run, Bike, and Skate –a-thon. Sororsthat came out bright and early to set up the tent for thisevent included Kirsten Alley, Civic Chairperson; BonitaHerring, Basileus; and Michelle Neal, Parliamentarian.Members of the chapter walked the distance toraise money for the organization whose motto is“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” The chapter’sparticipation in this event is an effort to continue thevision of our Founders-a focus on education, serviceand progress.Contact: Jameelah Morgan, EpistoleusEpsilon Lambda SigmaCincinnati, OhioSigma’s Torch Shines Throughout CincinnatiSorors of Epsilon Lambda Sigma kicked off theyear cruising the Ohio River for a good cause.Epsilon Lambda Sigma, along with Phi Beta SigmaFraternity, Inc., hosted “The Midnight Voyage” at B& BRiverboats in nearby Newport, Kentucky. A portion ofthe event’s proceeds benefit Operation Big Bookbagand other area youth programs. Of the 216 guests inattendance, 124 were sorors.September marked the third year for EpsilonLambda Sigma and the Cincinnati African AmericanFirefighters (CAFA) Operation Big Book Bagcollaboration to benefit Parham Elementary Schooland the Families Forward program. Items such asbook bags, notebooks, pencils and pens were handdeliveredto the school to children eagerly waiting touse them.Congratulations goes out to the Cincinnati GradStep Team as they pummeled their competition,taking 1st place in step shows at the University ofCincinnati and Wilberforce University and 2nd placeat Central State University. They collected over $2,000in prize money in a week’s time and representedSigma well in their tribute to the Founders.November not only marked 84 years of “GreaterService, Greater Progress,” but the E. Kathleen CookeUnsung Heroine Scholarship Luncheon as well. Theweekend started with a Meet and Greet and endedwith a rededication ceremony on the evening ofNovember 11. This annual tribute recognized andhonored 8 area women and their commitment toserving the people of Greater Cincinnati, upholdingour beloved motto “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”Soror Loveless was the speaker of the day and theevent was supported by sorors throughout Ohio andKentucky. Soror Mother Love also participated in thecelebration. Sorors also supported undergraduatechapters Nu Gamma and Pi Upsilon in their honoringof Founders’ Day.Contact: Charmaine J. Davis, Epistoleus

Eta Iota SigmaChevy Chase, MarylandEta Iota Sigma Elects Its Youngest BasileusIf you are not acquainted with Soror NatalieBennett, “Get Ready”, as this Sigma is soaring upward.At age 26, Natalie is the youngest soror to serve asbasileus to Eta Iota Sigma Alumnae Chapter.Soror Natalie Bennett with mother and soror, GloriousBennett.Since Natalie’s induction as a Mu Omegaundergraduate at George Mason University, Virginiain 1999, she has served as tamiochus, anti-basileusand basileus.In 2002, Natalie received her degree in IntegrativeStudies. He later transferred to the Eta Iota Sigmagraduate chapter where she served as the 1st Anti-Basileus and Undergraduate Advisor under theleadership of the former basileus, Deborah Walsh.Natalie’s vision for the chapter focuses onmembership development, community relationsand promoting Sigma. She serves as the basileusto the International Grand Basileus, Dr. Mynora J.Bryant and the Northeast Region Syntaktes, FeliciaBlakeney.If you are wondering how this accomplishedsoror got her start, she is a Sigma legacy. Natalie isthe daughter of Willie and Glorious Bennett. SororGlorious Bennett is a former member of Tau Chapter(1966) and current member of Iota Sigma.During her teens, Natalie was a member of theRhoer Club, was named Miss Northeast RegionRhoer, and was a Sigma debutante. At the 1996Boule, she won 1st runner up in the InternationalRhoer Pageant.Presently, Natalie is pursuing a Masters inManagement at the University of Maryland. She isemployed as the Administrative Coordinator in theOffice of Development and Communications for theDC College Access Program, a non-profit organizationthat assists District of Columbia public high schoolstudents to enroll and graduate from college.Contact: Robin Goudy, EpistoleusEta Nu SigmaBrooklyn & Queens, New YorkWith the start of the sorority year, Eta Nu Sigmaassisted the Brooklyn and Queens communities ofNew York via Operation Big Book Bag. Eta Nu SigmaChapter partnered with Safe Horizon, an organizationthat assists women and families of domestic violence,to donate over 40 filled book bags to the children ofthree of their shelters. The sorors of Eta Nu Sigmabegan each session by discussing the history ofSigma Gamma Rho as well as the significance ofOperation Big Book Bag.Founders’ Day would not have been completewithout a party to celebrate Sigma Gamma Rho’s 84years of Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service. Workingwith area undergraduate and graduate chapters, thetheme, “The Legacy: 84 Years of Bringing Sexy Back”,could not have rung truer as countless sorors helpedto commemorate the founding of our illustrioussorority at Fashion 40 Lounge in Times Square.Members of the NPHC were also in attendance tohelp celebrate Founders’ Day.Contact: Djenny Passé-Rodriguez, EpistoleusEta Omicron SigmaWaldorf, MarylandReviving Sisterhood and Service in SouthernMarylandThe Eta Omicron Sigma Chapter is affirming thata chapter need not hold seniority to create visibilityand enhance the needs in the community. TheSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 41

chapter has not been reactivated for a full year andhas already left an imprint in the community provingthat with dedication and determination much can beaccomplished within a short time. The chapter heldits first Operation Big Book Bag at the Sam’s Club,which was a great success. Items were donated tostudents at Mattawoman Middle School. The sororsparticipated in bagging food donations at the SHAREFood Warehouse. The chapter made Sigma historyas they were the first chapter to ever participate inthe P.G. County Safe Passage Program’s DomesticViolence Walk. There was a soror only chill out at Red,Hot and Blue. In celebration of Founders’ Day a dinnerwas held at Jasper’s restaurant. The chapter will hosta bowling tournament. This chapter is definitelyfull of vibrant, innovative, eager sorors who areworking diligently to provide for the neighborhoodsin Southern Maryland by showing what “GreaterService, Greater Progress” means.Regions’ Area I Workshop/Meeting at Holiday InnFinancial Plaza. Area 1 Coordinator Loretta Jerniganserved as hostess. Presidents of Eta Psi Sigma andBeta Omega Sigma chapters showcased one of thesorority’s national projects – Project Reassurance bypresenting two baskets of baby needs to Sutton’sChildrens Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at ChristusSchumpert Health System.Workshops presented were Membership Intakeby the Southwest Regions’ Undergraduate ChapterCoordinator Brenda J. Canty, Financial Procedurespresented by Deborah Daniels and Sorority Protocolpresented by Janet E. Armand. Regional SyntaktesBrenda Sloan-Johnson ended the meeting witha dynamic presentation of goals for the 2006-2008 administration. The administrative theme:“The Journey Begins and Ends with US, IncreasedMembership, Increased Responsibility.”Contact: Loretta C. JerniganEta Rho SigmaBuffalo, New YorkReactivated and Ready To Go!Eta Rho Sigma was reactivated this year by fivediverse and dedicated sorors representing theWestern New York and Southern Ontario, Canadaareas, who have united to spread their message ofsisterhood, scholarship and service to others. Thesorors have already made their presence felt in theregion by donating needed items to Haven House, a“haven” for victims of domestic violence.Contact: Soror Jasmine Hillyer, Epistoleus42Eta Psi SigmaShreveport/Minden AreaMembers of the Eta Psi Sigma chapter ofShreveport/Minden area hosted the SouthwestFrom l to r: Sorors Romunda Harris-Fonville, Della Harris,Alexis Smith, Shawn Rich, Jeannine Hunte, and FatimaMorrell.

Eta Rho Sigma Sorors Jeannine Hunte (l.) and Shawn Richwith Soror Tonya Lee Williams.During the Toronto International Film Festival,the sorors showed their support to Soror TonyaLee Williams (“The Young & The Restless”) at a“First Fridays” event in the city. Soror Williams waspromoting the ReelWorld Film Festival (http://www.reelworld.ca), which she hosts every springin Toronto. The festival creates a forum where theworks of racially and culturally diverse film and videomakers are displayed to the world. The ReelWorldFoundation also provides training programs andapprenticeships to give opportunities to tomorrow’sfilm makers in Canada.For more information about Eta Rho Sigma Chapterand its programs, go to their website at http://www.geocities.com/sgrho_etarhosigma.Contact: Jeannine Hunte, EpistoleusEta Xi SigmaOak Lawn, IllinoisRenewed … Restored … Ready !The sorority year for Eta Xi Sigma includes a goldenagenda for service, sisterhood and scholarship. EtaXi Sigma Alumnae chapter celebrated 14 years inthe sorority. The legacy of service and scholarship bythe illustrious members of the chapter continues tohonor the vision of our seven founders and promotethe sisterhood of our sorority.Renewed sorors bonded at an all inclusive spa andchapter retreat to recommit and rededicate their bestefforts for participation in the chapter’s communityservice and national projects. In celebration ofthe chapter’s 14th year anniversary, sorors cametogether at the annual Sigma Roundup picnic invitingfamily and guests to join in fun, fellowship andsupport of the Operation Big Book Bag project. Theyouth in attendance received book bags filled withage appropriate school supplies and great sigmafellowship was had by all.Restored sorors entered the sorority year withenthusiasm for the calendar of events and upcomingnational projects and community service events.Sorors have participated in the Fall Festival and GivingThanks projects in partnership with the James JordanBoys and Girls Club of Chicago. The presence ofsorors in the affected community has made a socialand economic difference in the lives of many families.There is great appreciation for the ladies in royal blueand gold who are preserving the standards of ourgreat sorority.The newest members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.from Eta Xi Sigma (left to right) Danielle Green, TamikaOliver, Anika Gary, Basileus JoAnn Hawkins White, BrandieFranklin, Pamela Sanner, and Ericka Patterson.Ready to work for Sigma is the common goal inthe marketing of our sorority by Eta Xi Sigma. Themembership committee led by Soror Sydney J.Stewart; members of Eta Xi Sigma Alumnae Chapterand Basileus JoAnn Hawkins White have excelledin the recruitment, retention and reactivation ofsorors. The chapter has reactivated 15 sorors andinducted six members into the sisterhood of SigmaGamma Rho Sorority, Inc. The new inductees ofEta Xi Sigma are Danielle Green, Brandie Franklin,Anika Gary, Tamika Oliver, Ericka Patterson andPamela Sanner. These new sorors bring a diverse andoutstanding background of academic achievementsand professional careers to enhance the “GreaterSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 43

Service, Greater Progress” motto of Sigma GammaRho Sorority, Incorporated. “We don’t achieve successby accident, we achieve success through our works”.Contact: Linda D. Brown, EpistoleusGamma Phi SigmaHouston, TexasSigma Galveston, Texas, Soror Carolyn Crockett,Basileus, Gamma Sigma, Houston, Texas Dr. DarlyLott, Basileus, Bobbie Williams, Alpha Psi SigmaChapter and undergraduates from Mu EpsilonChapter. Beaumont, Texas. Special Kudos wereacknowledged to those sorors who sold abovethe requested number of tickets required for eachchapter member. Recognized sorors were JaniceSexton, Karen Williams, Janice Walker and of coursebasileus, Sarah Alexander. This event was chaired byDr. Gwendolyn Y. Ward.Contact: Janice M. Sexton, EpistoleusGamma Pi SigmaMilwaukee, Wisconsin44Sorors, undergraduates, philos and rhoers from GammaPhi Sigma, Gamma Sigma (Houston, Texas), AlphaTheta Sigma (Galveston, Texas), and Alpha Psi Sigma(Beaumont, Texas) in attendance at the Ensemble Theaterpresentation, “Get Ready.”Scholarship and CelebrationGamma Phi Sigma held its first scholarshipfundraiser by entertaining sorors, undergraduates(Delta Alpha), philos, rhoers and the Houstoncommunity with a fantastic musical at the EnsembleTheater. The musical was “Get Ready” by JoePlummer. Set in the 1980, Get Ready is the backstageshow biz saga of an “old school” singing group namedthe “Doves” that gave a look at all of the frustrationsand anxiety of a singing group that struggles amongstthemselves, backstage and in private, yet pulls it alltogether for their big comeback show. (reminisce ofThe Five Heartbeats or Temptations).Broderick Jones, a former Debonaire, was superbas the production’s worldly wisdom as Knobby, thefeisty, savvy, irascible oldster who knows his wayaround. and helps the group with their moves.The chapter was host to special guest in theaudience. There were Bishops and their wives whowere attending the International Christian MethodistEpiscopal Convention in Houston. The delegationwas from the United States, Africa, Haiti and Jamaica.Dr. Elnora Palmer Hamb the International Presidentof the Women’s Missionary and Rita Washington,Missionary President, Southeast Texas Region werealso in attendance.Other sorors in attendance were Alpha ThetaCarl Thomas Meets Sigma Gamma RhoWhat do you get when you add Carl Thomas anda splash of RHOyal Blue? You get the 8th Annual FallGala, “RHOyal Explosion”. Gamma Pi Sigma chaptercelebrated founders day with their 8th Annual FallGala, “RHOyal Explosion”. Gamma Pi Sigma sororsworked the room adorned in their beautiful RHOyalBlue, greeting more than 400 guests. If you missedthis event, you missed out on a treat. Guests enjoyedsoulful sounds from Carl Thomas, casino style gamingand a soul food buffet. The Fall Gala is the chapter’ssignature event that only gets better and better yearafter year. Plans for next year’s Gala are already in theworks. State Farm Insurance served as the corporatesponsor for the Gala, providing guests with insuranceinformation as well as employment opportunities.This Milwaukee Alumnae chapter is also makingWisconsin history as the first chapter to charter aPhilo Club. They welcomed nine women into theirGamma Pi Sigma Philo Club. The members are asfollows: Wanda Baylis, Tamara Walker, Joyce Nelson,Cassandra Perrine, Frances Jackson, Chandra Morris,Bertha Lipsey, Katrilla Cottingham, and CharlieMorris. Truly a chapter on the move, Gamma PiSigma chapter is relentless in community not onlyshowcasing their ability to market the sorority butalso blazing new trails.Contact: Evann D. Franklin, Epistoleus

Gamma Tau SigmaLong Beach, CaliforniaCelebrating Scholarship, Sisterhood, and ServiceThe ladies of Gamma Tau Sigma in Long Beach,California continue in their diligence towards “GreaterService, Greater Progress” by spearheading manyprograms and activities within the community. Withservice as the main theme, the chapter kicked off thesorority year with Operation Big Book Bag, providingschool supplies and backpacks to children housed atthe Midnight Mission Outreach Facility in Inglewood,California. Yet Gamma Tau Sigma does not stop therein serving the community. The chapter is dedicated tomany programs, such as feeding the homeless, bonemarrow drives conducting various food drives, and ofcourse the national projects.Embracing sisterhood, Gamma Tau Sigma activelyparticipates in various bonding events that rangeanywhere from a day at the spa, to road trips, tocelebrating one another’s accomplishments suchas graduation, retirement, or birthdays. The chapteris proud to announce its participation in hostingthe annual Founders’ Day Banquet, which is heldin conjunction with neighboring graduate andundergraduate chapters.Service and sisterhood cannot be completewithout scholarship, an ideal that Gamma Tau Sigmafully supports with its involvement in local afterschool tutoring programs and its Rhoer Club. Inaddition, the chapter also gives away scholarships tooutstanding college bound high school students.With “Greater Service, Greater Progress” alwaysin the forefront, the ladies of Gamma Tau Sigma arelooking forward to a wonderful sorority year filledwith scholarship, sisterhood, and service.Contact: LaToya Thurman, EpistoleusIota Eta SigmaTroy, AlabamaIota Eta Sigma holds Rhomania AwardsBanquetIota Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter recognized theachievements of sorority members at the annualawards banquet. This year’s banquet “An Eveningof Elegance” was held in the Troy University TrojanCenter. Members were recognized for the followingachievements for the 2005-2006 year: AlumnaeSoror Yolanda Walker was voted by her peers as the2006 Alumnae Soror of the Year. Soror JenniferGarrison received the 2006 Iota Eta Sigma Imageand Leadership Award. Iota Eta Sigma also inductednew members - Sorors Shemekia Foster, ReginaJones, Jennifer Garrison and Darleen Hill.The 2006 Undergraduate Academic ExcellenceAward winners were: Sorors Lynell Boswell, HenriettaCrandle and ReShondra Johnson. Paris Anderson andTenika McCarter for Superior Academic UndergraduateAchievement. The 2006 Omicron Pi Undergraduateof the Year was Soror Henrietta Crandle.Contact: Tracia Holland, EpistoleusIota SigmaRichmond, VirginiaService Through Sisterhood, Love and HardWorkThe Incomparable Ladies of Iota Sigma Chapterare truly exemplifying the founding principles of thissorority. After returning from a short summer break,the chapter was refreshed and ready to work. Westarted by promoting the name of Sigma Gamma RhoSorority, Inc. at the 2nd Street Festival in Richmond,VA. This is an annual event to celebrate the past when2nd Street was the heart and soul of Richmond’sAfrican-American community. During the festival wedistributed information about our service programs,Rhoers Club, Philos Club and supplied needy childrenwith school supplies and reading books. This was inan addition to the kick off of Operation Big Book BagProject where 15 foster children were supplied withnew book bags and school supplies.It was a “priceless” event when Iota Sigma attendedSt. Paul’s Baptist Church to support our newlyinducted Soror Kelly Price as she performed for PastorLance Watson’s 21st anniversary ceremony. It washere were Soror Price announced to the congregationthat she truly feels the love that her sorors showher everywhere she goes and that she is happy toa member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. IotaSigma was the first chapter to welcome Soror Price totheir town with open arms.With the spirit of service fresh in the air, the IotaSigma family, including sorors, philos, Rhoers andfriends assisted in raising over $500 to continue theSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 45

fight against breast cancer for the Making StridesAgainst Breast Cancer event. The chapter is happyto say that everyone walked and completed the 3.1miles course TOGETHER! After a strenuous walk, thechapter celebrated Iota Sigma style by having a familybrunch.To un-“wine” for the month, we toasted at theAnnual Jazz and Wine Tasting Soiree to benefit theElizabeth Johnson Scholarship Fund on October 27.This event was a success. The event raised $350 forscholarships to benefit local area children.Iota Sigma and Tau chapters sponsored SigmaSpooktacular, a trademarked event for Iota Sigma thatprovides a safe trick or treating event for area children.This event consisted of face painting, movies, gamesand the Sorors regressing back to the hula-hoop era!Iota Sigma began the month of November off byintroducing young people in the concept of saving andinvesting through Project Wee Savers. The Ladies ofIota Sigma diligently assist the National Pan-HellenicCouncil- Metro Richmond chapter in the EasternRegional Conference. Soror Margaret Osei, NPHC-MR 1st Vice President, actively assisted in planningthe conference along with the other members of theNPHC; Soror Marian Martin conducted a workshop onparliamentary procedures; Soror Racquel Dozier wasthe speaker during the Ecumenical Ceremony whereshe spoke very eloquently; and Soror Trina Davis setthe spiritual mood giving the prayers during severalsessions and presenting the awards during the awardceremony. The entire chapter of Iota Sigma workedtogether in completing the souvenir journals for theEastern Regional NPHC Conference which was heldin Richmond.Sorors of Iota Sigma attended a special Founders’Day worship service at Highland Park United MethodistChurch where Soror Lynda Moore officiated. Thetheme of this event was “A Sisterhood UnbrokenBonded Together for Life.” After the service, IotaSigma honored the undergraduate sorors of Tau andEpsilon Zeta Chapter, for their continued contributionsto Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Each memberwas awarded Iota Sigma Undergraduate PulseCertificates.Find out more about our events on our website athttp://www.sgrhoneregion.org.Contact: Trina Davis, EpistoleusKappa SigmaNew York, New YorkKappa Sigma Founders’ Day CelebrationKappa Sigma Chapter celebrated Founders’Day at the World Famous Alhambra Ballroom inHarlem, New York. The members of Kappa SigmaChapter, along with affiliates and guests dined on ascrumptious meal and danced the afternoon away.Guests were treated to a Fashion Show Extravaganza;the theme for the event was “Remembering theTime.” The selected theme captured the essence ofhistory, fashion, and music from the time eras of 1920to 2006. It was choreographed by our very own SororLaura Edmundson and the commentator was SororAlfrae Johnson-Ragins.Soror Rosa Walker was honored with theprestigious Sigma of the Year Award. Soror Walkeris a dedicated member of Kappa Sigma Chapterand is known for her humble and gracious spirit.Soror Mary A. Douglas, Kappa Sigma Chapter’s PhiloAdvisor received the Community Service Awardfor her outstanding community service endeavors.Basileus Tonya Holloway presented awards to PhiloJosephine Flowers and Rhoer Vanessa Velesquez. Allguests were favored with our “Yellow Tea Rose” incelebration of Kappa Sigma’s 70th Anniversary.To celebrate Founders’ Day, over a dozen sororsworshipped at Grace Congregational church inHarlem, NY. Kappa Sigma Sorors, Johnson-Ragins,Minor and Ward, members of the congregationextended warm words of welcome to sorors as theycelebrated 84 years of service. Immediately followingthe service sorors gathered for a small repast in thechurch’s fellowship hall and then dined at Londell’sa famous Harlem Restaurant.Contact: Cheryl Riley, Founders’ Day Committee ChairNortheast Region Member At LargeKatina F. WebsterMartinsburg, West VirginiaBreaking Barriers through EntrepreneurshipCongratulations to Soror Katina Webster, Memberat Large for the Northeast Region, who one monthprior to Boule, opened a Color Me Beautiful Kiosk inApple Blossom Mall located in Winchester, Virginia.46

As one of very few black-owned Color Me BeautifulKiosks serving both the general and ethnic market,she did exceptionally well! During Boule, SororWebster shared her cosmetics, her beauty tips andtalents with Sorors from every region. She also hadthe distinct honor of personally attending to themake-up of the Grand Basileus, Dr. Mynora J. Bryantas well as all past Grand Basilei in attendance. Itwas an experience that will never be forgotten! BySeptember, Soror Webster’s business flourished.When the opportunity came for her to relocateher business to her own community in downtownMartinsburg, she took it! By faith, she was able to rentan 800 sq.ft storefront. On October 8, 2006, SASHAY“The Unique Boutique” was born.SASHAY brings a touch of “city life” home toMartinsburg. The boutique features stylish hats,handbags, hand crafted jewelry, accessories and, ofcourse, Color Me Beautiful/Flori Roberts skincare andcosmetics. Sashay is a member of the local Chamberof Commerce and the Christian Business Directory.Along with her husband, Soror Webster hopes tobecome a catalyst for change in a community that isbecoming more and more diverse and sophisticatedeveryday. The needs and the face of the communityare changing and Soror Webster intends to be anintegral part of that history making process!For more information about SASHAY “The UniqueBoutique”, contact Soror Katina Webster at www.radiant_forever@yahoo.comRho SigmaDetroit, MichiganCelebrating Founders and FashionsRho Sigma turned the spotlight on our illustriousseven founders and four innovative forces in Detroit’sfashion design community. Soror Deanne Saffoldchaired a committee of hard workers including sororsClaudia Clark, Uolanda Davis-Campbell, BrendaHamilton, Darlene House, Valerie Hunt-Barker, AvaJackson, Ramona January, Precios Johnson, PamelaLee, Carmen Sims, Kim Taylor and Fannie Williams.Soror Floria Willis shared her poetry and wasjoined by the highly-energetic Body Rhythm DanceTheatre in a tribute to our founders acknowledgingour roots and proud heritage. The Theatre wasfounded in 2004 by Shirley Bryant. Its dancers areof various ages, ethnicity and backgrounds. Theyunite for training in African, Modern, Dunham, Jazz,Ballet and Horton dance techniques. The companymission is to encourage and promote growth ofdance for children and adults in Detroit metropolitancommunities.Another program highlight featured Detroitdesigner fashions modeled by sorors Zhe Clampitt,Addie Douglass, Gwendolyn Lewis, Jamie McKinney,Eukila Robinson, Aisha Ruffin, Kim Taylor and FannieWilliams. As commentator Soror Davis-Campbellpointed out, the motor city automotive capital of theworld was also the home of world class fashions.Everyone took note of diverse Detsitti, B’DazzlingKnit Collection, Elegant and Kreative Fashions by EvaFullwood and Flo Boutique’s “Second Life and Naji’sCollection”.Other program participants included sorors DanaHughes (MC), Charlotte Wilson (singer), JacquelineMoore (basileus), Martha Cooper (invocation andbenediction) and Brenda Hamilton (scholarshipchair/presenter). Three young women were awardedscholarships during the luncheon.Contact: Darlene HouseTheta Epsilon SigmaCulver City, CaliforniaTheta Epsilon Sigma Working It in Culver CityThe proud members of Theta Epsilon Sigmaalumnae chapter started the sorority year on theright foot with Operation Big Book Bag. Continuingin the tradition of “Greater Service, Greater Progress,”Theta Epsilon Sigma provided back packs filled withschool supplies to young children living in a FamilyCrisis Center. The children were overjoyed with thesupplies, and it was the beginning of greater thingsto come for the chapter.Buckle Up America proved to be successful forthe chapter and the residents of Culver City alike.During this project, the chapter members passed outinformative fliers about the importance of wearing asafety belt to different venues throughout the CulverCity area. Many community members were verypleased that the chapter was informing the publicwith such important information.Chapter members not only donated their time butalso clothes, canned goods, and hygiene kits to theSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 47

Greater Missionary Starlight Baptist Church. All ofthese items were handed out at the annual rally.Last, but certainly not least, the chapter collaboratedwith the local chapters of the joint council to host the2nd Annual Founders’ Day Weekend Celebration. Thecelebration consisted of a rededication ceremonialluncheon on Saturday and a Founder’s Day picnic.Sorors from all over the Los Angeles area thoroughlyenjoyed themselves. At the weekend activities ThetaEpsilon Sigma sorors were joined by their Neos, whowere inducted, Sorors Altovise Abner, ChrissheleGriffin, and Ebony Jones.Contact: Soror Ashley WillisTheta Phi SigmaJersey City and the Oranges, NJHabitat for Humanity Day of ServiceTheta Phi Sigma Alumnae Chapter recently cametogether in a collaborative effort with membersof the National Pan-Hellenic Council of EssexCounty (NPHCEC) to serve people in need byvolunteering with Newark’s Habitat for Humanity(HFH). According to HFH staff, utilizing volunteersand other community resources such as gifts anddonations allows the program to allocate funds toconstruction and management needs while reducinglabor costs. Led by HFH Project Manager Fred Powell,volunteers caulked walls, laid sheet rock, sweptdusty floors, hauled debris and hammered nails asthey pitched in to assist with the redevelopmentof the City of Newark – a community vying toprovide quality homes for everyone and improvethe neighborhood, one house at a time. Residentsand staff were on hand to reaffirm to volunteers thesignificance of their contribution to the continuationand success of HFH Newark. For more information onTheta Phi Sigma, please visit their website at www.SGRhoThetaPhiSigma.org.Contacts: Sorors Deanine Johnson andKiameesha Evans, EpistoleusPsi Sigma Alumnae Chapter are prime examples of thetrue meaning of “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”These ladies began the sorority year by participatingand making monetary contributions to the 9th AnnualWalter E. Brandon Sickle Cell walk, Philadelphia AIDSwalk and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundationwalk. Theta Psi Sigma also donated canned goods tothe Atlantic City Rescue Mission and toiletries to helpassist the citizens of Buffalo, New York. In addition,the chapter donated book bags filled with schoolsupplies to the students of Leeds Middle School aspart of Operation Big Bag.These determined and dedicated women alsobegan working with the Teenagers in Charge (TIC)program by mentoring. This program’s mission“is to help teens build their self-esteem, heightentheir cultural and community awareness and mostimportantly, teach teens how to take charge of theirlives.” Theta Psi Sigma attended TIC’s open houseand began by getting to know the teenagers oneon one. The event quickly turned into a talent showwith TIC members dancing and sorors performingsteps and party walks for the teenagers. TIC memberswere thrilled to have Theta Psi Sigma members inattendance and stated they could not wait until thenext event.Look out for these service-driven sorors of ThetaPsi Sigma.Contact: Soror Tamika McNair, EpistoleusTheta Zeta SigmaAurora, ColoradoTheta Psi SigmaChester, PennsylvaniaService Never CeasesUnder the direction of Basileus Jazzmea Houghtonand 1st Anti Basileus Nicole Scott, the sorors of ThetaTheta Zeta Sigma supported Sable Elementary School withsupplies and book bags48

Sigma SharesThe new school year approached and the membersof Theta Zeta Sigma and its Rhoer Club took sometime to remember needy students in their Auroracommunity. Sable Elementary has more than 73%+of their students on a free or reduced lunch programthat have a need for backpacks and other schoolsupplies. Sable Elementary student body consistsof 54% Hispanic/Latino, 24% African American,11% White/Anglo and 11% Other (Native American,Asian American, International Students, PacificIslander). Sorors and Rhoers said yes to the proactiveapproach in training, equipping and empoweringthe parents at Sable. “Often, the parents lack thesupplies and materials needed to support literacy athome and to reinforce strategies teachers use in theclassrooms”, said Mr. Pagan. So, Theta Zeta Sigmaaccepted the challenge to assist Sable Elementary.When the parents finish their training, they willreceive their personal“Home Toolkit” withschool supplies to assisttheir son/daughter athome.Through Theta ZetaSigma’s fundraisingefforts and in so manyother ways, sororsa n d r h o e r s h a v eshown themselves tobe caring individualswho are committedto public service. TheyDr. Gesna M. Scott waspresented the Corine J. GreenAnchor Award by Past GrandBasileus Corine J. Green andSoror Ollie Smith.Zeta Delta Sigmahave definitely shownthese students whatthey can do through“ G r e a t e r S e r v i c e ,Greater Progress.”A Season To RememberMore than 60 members of the DeSoto, Texascommunity attended the Zeta Delta Sigma AnnualCareer & Health Fair. More than 15 vendors were onhand to reach out to the community. Blood Pressuretests, dental health packets and financial advisingwere just a small fraction of the opportunities thatattendees could benefit from. Zeta Delta Sigma alsodonated more than 75 packets of school supplies forOperation Big Book Bag during the event.Zeta Delta Sigma Supporting Operation Book BagZeta Delta Sigma also celebrated the Inaugural ZetaDelta Sigma High School Stepshow. The event, held inconjunction with the Singing Hills Recreational Centerproved to be a success with more than 200 guestsattending. High school teams from Dallas, Garland,Arlington, Irving and Mesquite participated. The topstep team, LD Bell High School was awarded $300.Soror Letrice Chanel served as DJ and Paul Jones ofOmega Psi Phi was the emcee. A cheering squad anddouble dutch team provided the intermission events.Yung Texas Ballaz, a local rap group also performed.As a result of the event funds were raised for theSigma Gamma Rho Scholarship Fund.Zeta Delta Sigma also celebrated Founders’ Daywith a weekend full of fun and sisterly bonding. Thesorors enjoyed a sister to sister event at the CrownePlaza suites. The sleepover included food, fun andgames. Zeta Delta Sigma hosted a Founders’ DayCelebration at the University of Texas at Arlington.The exquisite event included members of the AlphaOmicron Sigma chapter of Dallas, Texas and theUT Arlington undergraduate chapter. Soror Q. S.Robertson and Soror Shirley Roland were recognizedfor their establishment of the Zeta Delta SigmaChapter Arlington, Texas. To conclude, Zeta DeltaSigma attended the Antioch Missionary BaptistChurch with sorors of Alpha Omicron Sigma anddined at the famed Billy G’s Soul Food Restaurant inDallas, Texas.Contact: Jasmine StewartSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 49

50Zeta Eta SigmaPontiac, MichiganAims soaring upwards until they reach the skyThe Zeta Eta Sigma Chapter has been busy carryingthe torch of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.The first ‘Gospel Celebration – Music for the Soul’in Bloomfield, Mi was held. This celebration actedas the conclusion to the 2006-2007 ScholarshipContest where Miss Latoya Patterson, a MichiganState University Freshman was recognized with a$500 scholarship. Almost 100 supporters filled theroom, including fellow Greeks, family, friends andlocal pastors including Pastor Charles K. Benderof Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Pontiac,MI. Zeta Eta Sigma’s Gospel Celebration was filledwith great food, awesome praise dances, solos, andinstrumental numbers performed by the talentedmembers of the community and lovely sorors. PastorDouglas P. Jones was honored for his outstandingservice to the community with a regal royal blue andgold plaque. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc – ZetaEta Sigma Chapter blessed the community and sentthem home filled with the spirit.The Zeta Eta Sigma chapter has not only servicedthe community, but has also done great thingswithin the chapter. Membership has increasedby 50%. Thanks to the dedication and loyalty ofa Sigma woman to Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta EtaSigma has welcomed two transfer soror from the PiNu undergrad chapter and three reactivated sororsfrom the Pontiac area. Welcome sorors: TysharaLawson, Monisha Harris, Liz Bond, Naomi Burton,and Marquita Primm.With extra Sigma hands and the holiday seasonapproaching the chapter plans on contributing tomany families in need.There is a lot to be done, but … ”Greater Services,Greater Progress”!!Contact: Kimberly BanguilZeta Omega SigmaBaltimore County, MarylandA Rhoyal Legacy ContinuesThe Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter, ZetaOmega Sigma, inducted Soror Eunique Gray (shownon the far right), the seventh member of Sigma inher family. The induction ceremony was held at thePikesville Hilton in Baltimore County, Maryland. SororGray proudly joins five of her family members whoare all active with the Zeta Omega Sigma Chapter.These members (l to r), include the Basileus andLife Member Sandra Mitchell (aunt), Bernice LegrosBarry (aunt), Life Member Dr. Cheryl Simmons-Gray(mother), Theresa Blanks (aunt) and Kimberly-Mitchell-Corpew (cousin). The first sorority memberfrom the Simmons family is a great aunt, Soror WillaSimmons-Hammons who resides in central Region.Zeta Omega Sigma introduces their four newest sorors (lto r): Sorors Eunique V. Gray, Katrina Robinson, CynthiaJordan, Esq., and Kimberley N. Moore. Their excitement,enthusiasm, and creativity promise to help propel ZetaOmega Sigma to heights of even greater attainment.They are shown at Hebbville Elementary School where thechapter’s Wee Savers program was launched.

The ladies of chapter realize the importanceand special bond that legacy holds and in a special“legacy ceremony” held during the induction dinnerreception these dynamic sorors vowed to continueto past the torch down the family line.Contact: Sandre Mitchell, BasileusZeta Tau SigmaMount Rainier, MarylandChristmas Toy Drivehealth care and public safety, Soror Braveboy workedthe campaign trail. She was the highest vote receiveramong the District 25 candidates.We congratulate Soror Braveboy on her victory.Because of her experience as an attorney, knowledgeof the legal system and commitment to serving thecommunity, we know that she will represent herconstituents well.Soror Tracee Goode was highlighted in TheGazette for her work assisting adults with accessingcollege, including admissions, financial aid and careercounseling.Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter donated over $200 ofschool supplies to Shepherd’s Cove. The homelessshelter provides services to women and childrenin need of emergency shelter and assistance withgetting back on their feet.The chapter participated in the Diabetes Walk,hosted by the American Diabetes Association. Thechapter raised over $500 to fund ongoing research,education and advocacy efforts. Over 20 millionchildren and adults live with Type 1 and Type 2Diabetes everyday.In recognition of Founders’ Day 2006, Zeta TauSigma Chapter sorors along with other Washington,DC metropolitan area sorors participated in worshipservices at Grace Christian Church and a rededicationservice and reception later that day.Contact Name: Tracee Goode, Epistoleus e-mail– TraceeGoode@hotmail.comStep Show Winners2006 Kathleen Cooke Unsung Heroine LuncheonSigma enters the House of DelegatesElection Day, was a long day, as we awaited theMaryland House of Delegate results for District 25representing Prince George’s County, Maryland.Sorors of the Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter spent countlesshours assisting Soror Aisha Braveboy with her firstrun as delegate to represent our community. Withher message of creating quality housing, education,Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 51

Affiliate News52BETA EPSILON SIGMA RHOERSColumbia, South CarolinaThe sorors of Beta Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma RhoSorority, Inc. would like to give a heartfelt congratulations to theirrhoer, Skye DeSon Robinson Dunbar for an article printed in theSt. Luke’s Times entitled “Our Problem: Children vs. Adults”.This article reminds adults that children are watching and learningfrom everything they do and in order to be a positive influence onchildren, adults must treat the children with respect and in turn, thechildren will treat them with respect. Well said, Skye!Contact: Deneitra V. McElrath, HistorianEPSILON LAMBDA SIGMA RHOERSCincinnati, OhioNew ButterfliesThe ladies of the Epsilon Lambda Sigma Rhoer Club are proud toannounce their newest members: Blanche Booker, Tiana Dunham,Ronisha Jones, Bryana Sanders, and Dachari Strong. Along withreturning rhoers Alexis Flowers, Marsharika Montgomery andCharnae Thompson, the rhoers are on the move for Sigma.Congratulations goes out to Rhoer Candace Moore as she will beattending Wright State University next fall.Contact: Soror Charmaine J. DavisIOTA ALPHA SIGMA RHOERSHackensack, New JerseyChartering ExtravaganzaIntroducing the newest Rhoer Club of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Inc. … Iota Alpha Sigma Rhoers! These young ladies were charteredin Irvington, New Jersey. Along with the Rhoers, six sophisticatedladies were inducted to charter a Philo Club thus adding to theSigma Family.Inducted were 23 young ladies from Irvington and Paterson, N.J.Rhoers who have been inactive have transferred into the Iota AlphaSigma Rhoer Club bringing the total membership to 43 youngladies. The ceremonies were followed with a short program and aluncheon reception. Each new rhoer was presented with several giftsand yellow daisies.The Mayor of Irvington, the Honorable Wayne Smith was onhand to congratulate and meet the new Rhoers. Some of theactivities scheduled for the year included a Breast Cancer Walk,Miss Rhomania Pageant, various community services, a youthsymposium and a Broadway play.To this end, the Iota Alpha Sigma Rhoer Club has been approvedby the NJ State Superintendent for Paterson, N.J. and the SectorSuperintendent to be an official extracurricular program at PatersonPublic School Number Thirteen where the advisor, Soror LinetteY. Caroselli teaches English to eighth graders. If the program issuccessful, it will be approved for the entire city of Paterson. SororAndrea C. McElroy is the co-advisor and liaison for the rhoersresiding in Irvington.Contact: Soror Linette Y. CaroselliIOTA ETA SIGMA RHOERSTroy, AlabamaIota Eta Sigma holds Rhomania Awards BanquetThe Iota Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter recognized the achievementsof the Rhoer Club at the Trojan Center Ballroom.Members were recognized for the following achievements for theyear:Mwanamugimu Essay Contest - 1st place Aliyah Holland and 2ndplace Amber Walker. Who’s Who Awards winners: Most Dependable- Porshia Hall and Jureka Marcus, Best Personality - Paige Foremanand Shameya Boykins, Leadership Awards - Ashley Mallory andMeagon Bean, Spirit Awards - Kim Collins and Tara Youngblood.2006 Rhoers of the year honors were received by Cameron Deboseand Starshia Andrews. Medals of Academic Excellence for A&BHonor Roll: Starshia Andrews, Jamilya Coleman, Cameron Debose,Porshia Hall, Erica Henderson, Allison Holland, Shaquetta Jonesand Cinnamon Wilson. Academic Excellence Medal for making AllA’s was received by Alexis Carter.Contact: Tracia Holland, EpistoleusTHETA EPSILON SIGMA RHOERSCulver City, CaliforniaThe Rhoer Club of Culver City, CA hit the map in 1992 andhas been successfully going for 14 years. The 2006-2007 year isno exception for Theta Epsilon Sigma’s Rhoer club because theseyoung ladies have started off with a bang. The Rhoers have attendeda Youth Summit, elected officers, had a successful Shakey’s Nightfundraiser, volunteered at the Junior Blind Foundation for theHalloween Carnival, and participated with the Southern California

Affiliate NewsJoint Council’s Founder’s Day Weekend Celebration.There are currently eight active rhoers and a Rhoer roundup isscheduled. Look out Culver City, the Western Region Rhoer clubof Theta Epsilon Sigma is doing G-R-E-A-T things!Contact: Soror Sonya BatteyTHETA ZETA SIGMA RHOERSAurora, ColoradoTheta Zeta Sigma Rhoers Partners with Local News StationThe members of Theta Zeta Sigma Chapter Rhoer Club have beencommitted to their community to collect coats for individuals inneed. A plea from their local television station (7 NEWS) to receiveassistance in meeting a huge request of coats for children and adultsfor the winter, inspired the rhoers to take action. Over 100 coats werecollected to meet their goal to keep Colorado residents warm.Contact: Leah Wiggins-Marshall, EpistoleusRhoers on the MoveXI SIGMA RHOERSSpartanburg, South CarolinaThe young ladies of the Xi Sigma Rhoer Club are distinguishingthemselves academically, in leadership roles and other positiveactivities. Rhoer Club President, Ashley Byers spent 15 days inEurope with the Spartanburg High School Orchestra during thesummer of 2006. As a student leaders, Ashley and fellow RhoerKeisha Clawson, traveled with Spartanburg High School leaders toPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, Boston, Massachusetts and WashingtonDC during the 2006-07 school year.Keisha maintains a 3.83 GPA and Ashley a 3.8 GPA. These juniorsare ranked 118 and 124 respectively in their class of 642. Ashleyregularly attends regional and national conferences to represent theRhoer Club, including the 2006 Boule in Dallas, Texas.Both young ladies will be installed in the Spartanburg High SchoolBeta Club.Contact: Evelyn P. TiceKAPPA SIGMA PHILOSNew York, New YorkCongratulations were in order to Philo Josephine Flowers whoreceived the Philo of the Year Award at the Kappa Sigma Chapter ofSigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated’s 70th Annual Founder’sDay Celebration.Kappa Sigma Philos donated over 50 school books to individualstudents and over 100 school books and supplies to the Tonya S.Holloway Learning Center. Tonya S. Holloway is the basileusto the Kappa Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Incorporated.Contact: Philo Yvonne E. Dixon, HistorianXI SIGMA PHILOSSpartanburg, South CarolinaPhilo Tameka Evans was crowned Queen of the Mae R. ScholarshipPageant at the Southeast Regional Conference. From there sherepresented all of the philos of the Sourtheast Region at the Boulewhere she was named and crowned as the winner of the NationalPhilo 1st Lady.In celebration of one of the annual local projects, Xi Sigma Philosawarded book scholarships to three young people:Willie Lynch, Jr. – South Carolina State UniversityAudrey Gary – Greenville Technical CollegeLuonne Humphrey – Spartanburg Technical CollegeThe philos traveled and attended the South Carolina area meetingthat was located at Frances Marion College in Florence.At the 51st Boule, seven members of Xi Sigma philos received their25-year membership pin. They were:Philo Melba Blakely 31 yearsPhilo Joan Brightharp 25 yearsPhilo Mary Byers 31 yearsSpring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 53

Affiliate NewsPhilo Lelia M. Collins 25 yearsPhilo Brenda Foster 28 yearsPhilo Dorothy Littlejohn 25 yearsPhilo Dobbie S. Williams 31 yearsA certificate was presented to:Philo Phyllis Hosley 21 yearsPhilo Elretha Wade has completed requirements for becoming amember of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).This qualifies Philo Wade to be called upon by the SC EmergencyResponse Team or by FEMA. This course was offered by theEmergency Preparedness Community Project.Contact: Reena M. Tucker, ReporterDON’T LET INTERESTEDYOUNG WOMEN,PHILOS, & RHOERSSETTLE FOR PASS AROUNDS!Give them this form to get their own personal,home-delivered copy of the AURORA Magazineo Yes! Send me the next three issues of the AURORA magazine for $15.00Please PrintNameAddressCity/State/Zip54ExpandingOur Horizons …Sigma Meets SeoulSororKelly PriceThis Is Who She Is …Subscription will begin 4-6weeks after receipt of paymentCheck the appropriate category:o Rhoer o Philo o Inactive Sororo Membership Candidate o OtherMail with your cashier check/money order to:Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.Attn: AURORA Magazine1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200Cary, NC 27513-8628

Soror Julia B. Rogers BennettXi Sigma Chapter, Spartanburg, South CarolinaOmega Rho - April 26, 2006Soror Julia B. Rogers Bennett was born to the late James and Fannie B. Rogers on January 29, 1918. She was thewidow Freddie Bennett Sr. She is survived by a daughter Soror Helen Bennett and, a son Freddie and his wife Georgia,all of Spartanburg, SC.Soror Bennett graduated from Allen University and the South Carolina State College (University) with degrees inElementary Education and advanced degrees in Special Education. She taught fifth grade and special education classesfor forty-two years in Spartanburg County before retiring in 1981. Soror Bennett was a pioneer in the Special Educationsector having established a premier demonstration/teaching classroom for public school special education students. Shereceived recognition and citations for this and other accomplishments in education from Women of the Upstate, AllenUniversity Alumnae, Spartanburg Progressive Men’s Club and Spartanburg County School District Seven.Soror Bennett was a member of Sigma Gamma Rho for 65 years – and until the last four years of her life was an activemember of Xi Sigma Chapter. She played such a vibrant role in the development and activities of Xi Sigma that newinductees thought of her as a “founding member” of the chapter. Her second proudest moment was the pinning of herdaughter, Helen, as her “sister.”Soror Bennett’s life was one of dedication to her family, dedication to her students and diligence in any activity orproject she pursued. Sweet, frank, strong, honest, earnest, compassionate, adventurous, insightful and “a sister until theend” are words usually stated when Mrs. Bennett’s name is mentioned.Soror Olivia Doyle BoswellOmega Rho - August 14, 2006Soror Olivia Doyle Boswell passed away in Oakland, California after a long illness. Throughout her life, she was wellknown and very involved in the Bay Area community. She held many local, state and national offices in numerous civic andfraternal organizations. Soror Boswell was a charter member of Beta Theta Sigma chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Inc in 1947. Her dedication and love for the sorority was legendary among her family and friends.Soror Boswell attended LeMoyne College in Memphis, Tennessee, later the University of California in Berkeley. Mrs.Boswell retired from the Naval Supply Center after thirty-three years of service. She leaves two sisters, Woodred DoyleSavage and Gwendolyn D. Poston - Wade, to cherish her memories.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 55

Soror Marian Eugenia Bianchi DeBerryZeta Tau Sigma Chapter; Mt. Rainier, MarylandOmega Rho - April 17, 2006Soror DeBerry was born in Holly Hill, South Carolina on November 15, 1906, and entered Omega Rho on April 17,2006. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics from Howard University in 1929 and a Master of ArtsDegree from the District of Columbia Teachers’ College. She also had an opportunity to study in Europe. For over 40years Soror DeBerry served the District of Columbia as a Mathematics educator at several junior high and high schools.Soror DeBerry adopted each and every Soror of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority from her onset as a member. She wasa charter member of Phi Sigma Chapter in Washington, D.C. which was formed on August 13, 1938, along with hersisters, Beatrice, Luther and Ethel. Her sister, Martha later joined the sorority and her niece, Lynn Armstrong Patterson,continues the legacy as an honorary member.She was also a charter member of Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter in Mt. Rainier, Maryland. Soror DeBerry served the sororityfaithfully for almost 68 years in many capacities such as Northeast Region Epistoleus, Basileus, Epistoleus, Tamiochus,and chairperson of various committees. Soror DeBerry was the recipient of many honors including induction into theNortheast Region’s Hall of Fame and recognition as a “Cultured Pearl.”Soror DeBerry was a member of many organizations including the Phillis Wheatley YWCA Board of Directors,Howard University’s Women’s Club, National Association of University Women, Top Ladies of Distinction, NationalCouncil of Negro Women and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. She was a foundingmember of the District of Columbia Council of Teachers of Mathematics.An excerpt from a poem written by her describes much of her life:Hear me, Oh God, my life is touched,With wisdom of passed passionFor all of my life is such,That I might be compassioned56

Soror Esther E. Elkins GilesXi Sigma Chapter, Spartanburg, South CarolinaOmega Rho – August 21, 2006Soror Esther E. Elkins Giles was born to the late Clarence and Elizabeth Suber Elkins on August 3, 1914. She was thewidow of Gary Thomas Giles. She is survived by two children, Soror Saundra G. Gaffney of Spartanburg, South Carolinaand Leslie R. Giles, Sr. of Naples, Florida.Soror Giles was educated at Cummings St. School in Spartanburg. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Benedict Collegein Columbia, South Carolina and a Masters of Education degree from New York University. She served Macedonia BaptistChurch faithfully as a deaconess, W.L. Wilson Gospel Choir and the Susie Joyce Missionary Circle. Professionally, SororGiles was a retired Spartanburg County school teacher.In addition to active membership in the Xi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho, Soror Giles was a member of Prideof Spartanburg Chapter #98 OES.Soror Addie HaggensDelta Gamma Sigma ChapterSoror Addie Haggens was a dedicated and committed soror until her illness and was a charter member of Delta GammaSigma and also a life member at the time of her death. Soror Haggens has traveled all over the world representing our chapterand Sigma Gamma Rho.Many of the more seasoned sorors will remember her. She and Soror Evelyn Durham usually traveled together. SororRivera and her daughter, Glenda, joined the sorority at the same time. Soror Haggens was well loved and respected in thecommunity. She will be missed.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 57

Soror Jessie Bell Miller HunterXi Sigma Chapter, Spartanburg, South CarolinaOmega Rho – June 24, 2006Soror Jessie Bell Miller Hunter was born to the late Furman and Bessie Miller on February 7, 1923. She was the widowof William Rufus Hunter. Soror Hunter is survived by a son, William S. Hunter of Taylors, South Carolina and Richard F.Hunter of Durham, North Carolina and a surrogate daughter, Betty M. Cooper of Charlotte, North Carolina.Soror Hunter taught school for more than thirty-five years. During her long and blessed life, Mrs. Hunter was involvedin a number of community, civic, educational, political, social and religious organizations. They included the SpartanburgHealth Planning Committee, the Spartanburg Human Relations Commission, Southside Neighborhood Action Partnership,St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic Board, American Association of University Women and the Julia Chapter of the Eastern Starunder the A&A S.R. Masons. During the more than forty-five years of membership at Mt. Moriah Church membershipshe served faithfully and with dedication until the end.Soror Altamease “Measie” Bryant LittlesBeta Kappa Sigma; Tampa, FloridaOmega Rho - August 7, 2006God’s promise of love was given to the late Melville and Maude Threadcraft Bryant with the birth of Altamease WinifredBryant on August 3, 1913 in Fernandina Beach, Fl. Altamease chose a life of love, faithfulness, and joy. Her greatest joy camefrom playing the piano, educating anyone with a desire to learn, and sharing pictures and stories of her grandchildren.58

She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida, a Masters of Arts in Englishfrom Hampton Institute, a Masters of Science in Library Science from North Carolina Central University in 1958, and postgraduate studies at Columbia University in 1947-1948.On May 27, 1954, Altamease was united in holy matrimony to Perry L Littles of Lake Wales, Florida.In 1933, her career began as an elementary school teacher in Nichols, Florida. After eight years, she moved to LakeWales, Florida, and began teaching at Roosevelt High School, becoming the school librarian in 1955, remaining in thatposition until retirement. Mrs. Littles also worked as a coordinator of Adult Education from 1966-70, where she helpedmany students accomplish their high school GED. She left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched, and wasloved and admired by her students. They will fondly remember her as “the librarian who insisted on students using correctgrammar at all times.”She served faithfully on numerous committees, boards, and clubs where she received many awards and recognition.Affiliations included: Girl’s State Chairman; American Legion Auxiliary, 1960-; Executive Board Civic Club, 1965-; TrophyRecipient for work with students-Roosevelt High School; Roosevelt Student Council Advisor; member of A.L.A.; FloridaEducation Association; Polk County School Association (Regional Secretary, 1970-72); Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.(Basileus, 1967-72); Sorority’s Distinguished Service Award, 1972; and member of the sorority for over 70 years; Daughterof Elks Club: Entre Nous.On Monday August 7, 2006, Altamease B Littles departed this life. She leaves many relatives, friends, sorors, and lovedones to cherish her memory.Soror Helen Naomi Nottage-CookAlpha Eta Sigma Chapter, Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaOmega Rho - September 14, 2006Helen Naomi Nottage-Cook- Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter Philadelphia, PA In 1944, Helen, her sister, Grayce Nottageand Essie Thomas founded the Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter of the Sorority of Sigma Gamma Rho, at Cheyney State College.Helen to this day states that although she is listed in the Aurora Magazine as the founder of that chapter, that the recordsneed to be corrected to include Grayce and Essie, since they all began the chapter together. She passed away on September14, 2006 peacefully in her sleep at the age of 95.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 59

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. mourns the passing ofSoror Lena King Lee, Alpha Alpha Sigma Chapter‘She stood very tall’Educator was one of first black women in General AssemblyBy Frederick N. RasmussenSun ReporterAugust 26, 2006Lena K. Lee, an educator and attorney who was one of the first African-American women electedto the Maryland General Assembly, died in her sleep Thursday evening in her home in the 1800block of Madison Ave., where she had lived since 1940.She had celebrated her 100th birthday last month.The daughter of a coal miner, Mrs. Lee taught in the city schools, earned a law degree in her 40sand wasn’t elected to state office until she was 60. But her life and devotion to public service werepraised yesterday by a number of political and civic activists.U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings recalled that he wouldn’t be in politics had it not been for Mrs.Lee. He was elected in 1982 to Mrs. Lee’s seat in the old 39th District (now the 44th).“When she was passing the baton in 1982, she said to me, ‘I’m getting up in age and I’m lookingfor someone who is a woman and a lawyer. And even though you’re a lawyer but not a female, you’lldo,’” he said. “She raised money and campaigned for me. That’s how I started in politics.”“Some people come along in life, and they touch you and then move on. Her touch changed mylife,” Mr. Cummings said. “Lena always said, ‘Don’t be about celebrity. Be about service.’”Mrs. Lee was born Lena King in the coal mining community of Sumter County, Ala., where herfather, Samuel Sylvester King, was a miners’ activist. In addition to being a miner, he worked as achauffeur and butler to earn extra income for his family. ›60

Mrs. Lee was raised in Alabama, Illinois andPennsylvania, where her father moved his family whileseeking work as a miner. He became prosperous enoughto send Mrs. Lee, her sister and her brother to privateboarding schools operated by black churches.She graduated in 1925 from high school in Tarentum,Pa., third out of a class of 70, and was awarded ascholarship to Cheyney Training School for Teachers inCheyney, Pa., now Cheyney University of Pennsylvania,near Philadelphia.Mrs. Lee began her teaching career in Annapolis andmoved to Baltimore in 1931, where she taught sixth gradein city schools while she continued her education.She earned a bachelor’s degree from what is now MorganState University in 1939. Because blacks were forbidden atthat time from attending graduate school at the Universityof Maryland, College Park, she traveled each weekend toNew York City by train, earning a master’s degree in 1947from New York University.Mrs. Lee later enrolled at the University of MarylandSchool of Law. When she earned her degree from there in1951, she became the third African-American woman tograduate from the school, after Juanita Jackson Mitchelland Dr. Elaine Carsley Davis.She was admitted to the Baltimore and Maryland barsin 1952 and continued working as an educator whilepracticing law. She was principal of Henry H. GarnetElementary School, at Division and Lanvale streets, from1947 until she retired in 1964.As a member of the American Federation of Teachers,she also pushed for teachers’ rights.Mrs. Lee was married for many years to Robert R. Lee,a Baltimore businessman who owned the Biddle Theaterand died more than 40 years ago, friends said.“I was married to a man who felt you had to be veryforward about your rights,” Mrs. Lee told Crisis magazinein a 1996 interview. “You were made to feel that as anagitator you were above certain activities. He was with meall the way, pushing.”Legislative prioritiesWhen she was 60, Mrs. Lee turned her attention tothe House of Delegates and won a seat in the former 4thDistrict. (It later became the 38th, then 39th and is nowthe 44th.)“She stood very tall in the House of Delegates and wasvery active in civil rights and many other good causesthroughout her life,” the Rev. Marion C. Bascomb, formerpastor of Douglas Memorial Community Church, saidyesterday.In Annapolis, colleagues referred to Mrs. Lee as “TheKiller” and “The Fearless One,” for her instinctualferreting out of bad bills.“I am a legislator who dedicates most of her timeto fighting bad law. I’m always telling my colleagues,especially the blacks, that their greatest duty is to smell outthe snakes and kill bad laws in committee; if not, then onthe floor,” she told The Evening Sun in 1976.“I do not spend even one-tenth of my time getting apiece of legislation through. First, I’m not one of the ‘in’crowd. Second, getting one bill through eats up one’svitals. Third, the administration bills take precedent, andare usually the ‘biggies’ in the interest of the state, althoughwe often find it best to kill some of them,” she said.She added: “No legislator is infallible and when hepasses a bad law he should be the first one to work for itsrepeal.”In 1970, she founded the Maryland Legislative BlackCaucus, and in the Crisis magazine interview, she said,“There was a need to huddle together. There’s still a needand we don’t realize it. We think we’ve made it. I oftenwonder where we’re going.” ›Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 61

‘Quite a lady’A diminutive and energetic woman, Mrs. Lee’s face washighlighted by large horn-rimmed glasses and a thick headof dark hair.“She was quite a lady,” said former state Sen. Julian L.Lapides. “For someone who lived to be 100, she couldappreciate the tremendous strides that were made onbehalf of racial equality during her lifetime. And she wasresponsible for many of those changes.”He added: “And her many accomplishments were ininverse proportion to her size.”“I was always very impressed by Lena’s willingness tospend time with younger folks to share her experiencesso they could avoid some of the pitfalls she encounteredduring her lifetime,” Court of Appeals Chief Judge RobertM. Bell, said yesterday.“Her advice was, ‘You do things because they’re the rightthings to do, and when you’re doing the people’s business,it’s best to be a leader rather than a follower.’ And she didit fearlessly and with certainty and gusto,” he said.In 1972, Mrs. Lee proposed a bill that would haveeliminated the Maryland State Board of Censors. Foryears, it had been presided over by Mary M. Avara, aSouth Baltimore bail bondswoman, who was once called“America’s Mother Superior of Censors.”“The Censor Board is one of the political plums. ... Itis purely a political patronage thing,” Mrs. Lee told TheEvening Sun at the time.“There is no one person who has the right to say tome that ‘you should not see this picture at all.’ They havegotten in a darkroom and had a sadistic delight in seeingall the goodies of the picture for themselves and thenthey tell me I should not see it,” she said. The board waseventually abolished in 1981.Named in her honorThe House of Representatives voted in December toname a post office at 1826Pennsylvania Ave. in her honor, and Mrs. Lee attendedthe dedication ceremony in June.“She had a wonderful sense of humor. She was 99 thenand said to the crowd, ‘I turned over the reins 25 years tooearly,’” Mr. Cummings said with a laugh.Mrs. Lee had served on the City RedevelopmentCommission, the Urban Renewal and HousingCommission, the Advisory Council on Higher Educationin the State, the board of governors of the Barrett Schoolfor Girls, the Women’s Committee for Civil Rights andthe Provident Hospital board.“Up until the end of her life, she was in full possessionof her faculties and memories. Her voice was as strong as itwas during her days in Annapolis,” said Larry S. Gibson, aUniversity o f Maryland law professor.“We had a celebration at the central Pratt Libraryrecently, and she stood up without a cane and spoke for20 minutes without any notes. She was truly a remarkablewoman,” he said.Mrs. Lee was a longtime member of Sharp StreetUnited Methodist Church.At her request, there will be no services or memorials,said Louise Michaux Gonzales, a Baltimore lawyer andMrs. Lee’s property guardian.Surviving are a nephew, Dr. Ronald King of Owensboro,Ky.; and several step-grandchildren. X62

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.comArt AddiktionMichael Booker, Jr.3917 West Camp Wisdom Rd, Ste110Dallas, TX 75237www.aftercrossing.comBeyond the Burning SANDS, LLCTanikka Davis28402 Smile RoadLiVonia, MI 48154(734) 425.1315Bound by the BrownDerrick & Marilyn McCluskey3522 Barker DriveHephzibah, GA 30815(706) 799.6394www.bigtop.comButterflies Are FreeLaJune Davis-Wiley9149 S. MerrillChicago, IL 60617(773) 221-9433www.butterfliesarefree2.comChez PoodlePhi Sigma, c/o Aida Dunn7431 Blair Road NWWashington, DC 20012-1861(202) 882.1039dnl2@erols.comwww.chezpoodle.orgColor Me BeautifulSkin Care/CosmeticsKatRina Webster392 Quality TerraceMartinsburg, WV 25401(410) 913.1862www.colormedirect.com/katrinaELITE COLLECTIONCAROLYN MCNEIL1441 HUNTINGTON DR - 3200SO PASADENA, CA 91030(626) 799-4344 / (213) 840-0347Exquisite EssentialsTara Reliford172 Hana RoadEoison, NJ 08817Fourteen Karat Plus, Inc.Larry Suarez10272 Antlers RidgePrairie, MN 55347(770) 463-0004www.14plus.comGreek Celebration, LLCLaSandre & Robert Ernest2409 Oakmere DriveHarvey, LA 70058Greek Expressions & ApparelJoshua Rice2047 Windmeade DriveClarksville, TN 37042Greek.Expressions@yahoo.comGreek Mystique, Inc.Phil PerryPO Box 443Antioch, TN 37011-0443www.greekcalendars.netGreek OrRiginalsMargaret Murray1448 E. 52nd St., PMB #324Chicago, IL 60615(773) 978-2550Greek UnityVickie Ford3810 University AvenueColumbus, GA 31907(706) 565.9008bernardfordjr@cs.comGwen’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.orgJostens, IncElizabeth Lent148 E. BroadwayOwatonna, MN 55060(507) 455-6418Joyce'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 46228Kreative KlothesPeggy Hoffman3886 Beech DriveYpsilanti, MI 48197kreativeklothes@provide.netNana HookWanda SmithPO Box 203Upper Marlsboro, MD 20772Nezz Art, LLCCharmayne Nesbitt204 Caesar WayHuger, SC 29450-9695Nesbu2@peoplepc.comNubian NationWilson Harris III7525 S Vincennes AveChicago, IL 60620Pia International, LLCPia MillicanPO Box 481232Charlotte, NC 28269www.pretty-in-anything.comPretty ImpressiveCrystal Smith2252 19th StreetYuma, AZ 85364www.prettyimpressiveonline.comProfessional SororsMarian Murphy2685 Bronsons WayTwinsburg, OH 44087(330) 405-2944Schaffe Wooden TreasuresSchaffe SmithPO Box 11361Champaign, IL 61826(217) 278.7779Schaffes@soltec.netSouthern ApparelJoshua Mitchell5500 1st Ave NorthBirmingham, AL 35212(205) 381.2803www.southernapparel.netStatianeryLoren Statia3260 Ground Pine DriveMarietta, GA 30062The Burleson GalleryMike Burleson20630 S. Leapwood Ave. #BCarson, CA 90746(706) 565.9008www.burlesongallery.comThe GREEK SHOPLINDA & JOE RIVERA426 LANSDOWNE RD.FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314(910) 860-1191www.greekshopnc.comThe Jewelry ChickValencia Bey9544 South Winchester AvenueChicago, IL 60643www.thejewelrychick.comThe T-Shirt Corner, Inc.Landon RobinsonPO Box 1520Lithia Springs, GA 30122(404) 933.9120lrobinson@thetshirtcorner.comUniCell, LLCDia Collins-Jackson3069 Cumberland Road, Ste 102Fayetteville, NC 28306www.unicellonline.comWalk For MeMorlena Robinson267 Edgecombe Avenue, #5NNew York, NY 10031walkforme.comWJ Sportswear GearWayne Jackson4041 W Wheatland Rd, Ste#156-371Dallas, TX 75237wjsportswear@juno.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.Spring/Summer 2007 • The Aurora 63

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.64

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.

This is the first day of manynew upcoming experiences:– Being officially on your own;– Seeking or beginning your new career;– Planning a definitive future with that “man of your dreams;”– Starting and raising a family;andJOINING YOUR LOCAL ALUMNAE CHAPTEROF SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC.Remember how your undergraduate sorors were always an integral partof your most joyous moments, as well as in finding solutions to some ofyour greatest problems? Membership in your local alumnae chapter willprovide a whole new level of the same sisterly support and assistance.Are you moving to a new city or town? Need to know the real 4-1-1on the company for which you have an interview or where thebest and worst places are to live? Just moved and needto discover the real-deal shopping areas? Your localalumnae chapter is just waiting to welcome you andpoint you in the direction you need.Contact Sigma Gamma Rho Headquarters,(888) 747-1922, for chapter names andcontacts in your local area.Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.1000 Southhill Dr., Suite 200Cary, North Carolina 27513-8628PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGEPAIDMILWAUKEE, WIPERMIT No. 1982Address correction requested