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Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta marks 65th year
By Bob Jackson
HOWLAND
Sixty-five years of sisterhood and public service were proudly celebrated Saturday evening.
The Youngstown Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta sorority gathered at Leo’s Ristorante, 7042 E. Market St., to honor its 65th anniversary with music, dinner and fellowship, and a time of highlighting the local chapter’s accomplishments.
President Susan M. Moorer said that unlike traditional sororities, members do not have to join while they are in college, although you do have to be a college graduate to apply for membership.
“Education first,” said Stephanie N. Jones, chairperson for the event.
Delta Sigma Theta was founded in 1913 and has more than 200,000 members around the world, Moorer said. The local chapter has nearly 45 members, some of whom have been active for 50 years or longer.
“It’s a lifetime commitment,” Moorer said. “It’s not a college sorority. Women get involved, and they stay involved all the way into their 60s and 70s, or beyond.”
Jones said Delta Sigma Theta is a public-service, community-oriented group that aims at promoting economic and educational development, international awareness, physical and mental health, and political awareness.
Scholarship and public service are the group’s top priorities.
Moorer and Jones said the sorority works hard to provide scholarships to students in Youngstown and Warren area schools. Since its inception, the local chapter has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships, they said. The scholarships are open to students entering any field of college study, although there is an extensive application and interview process.
Proceeds from Saturday’s celebration will benefit the Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Fund, as well as voter education and registration, health and financial training programs and mentoring, book reviews, and a countywide art contest involving young people.
Jones said most people don’t realize how active Delta Sigma Theta is in the local community.
Delta goals are to provide positive programs, workshops and trainings in line with the needs of the community for both young people and older citizens, said spokesperson E. Nikki Davis.
Entertainment Saturday evening was provided by Howard and the Five Point Band with a special performance by The Daughters of Bethel.