On Jan. 13, 1913, two collegiate women at Howard University desired to utilize their power of influence by promoting academic excellence and providing assistance to people in need – thus creating Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
Delta Sigma Theta (DST) Sorority Inc. is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world.
Taking off by storm, the first public act performed by the Delta founders involved their participation in the Women’s Suffrage March in Washington, D.C., in March 1913.
Now the sisterhood has more than 200,000 predominately Black college educated women. The sorority currently has more than 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan (Tokoyo and Okinawa), Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Republic of Korea.
This legacy is wrapped up in two women wanting to give back to their community.
“That is what it’s all about,” said Adrienne Cosby president of Delta Sigma Theta Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter and member for 28 years. “Delta has been concerned about not only women, but African-American families for 100 years. Our mission has never changed. It’s to make lives better.”
DST will honor those 100 years during its Centennial Gala Scholarship Fundraiser on Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. by, once again, giving back to their community.
Peggy Averitte, chair of the DST Centennial Gala, said this is an opportunity for the community to support the future of young ladies.
“College costs go up every year. Students need funding. This event allows us to get money to them. It’s a good cause.” Averitte said.
According to Cosby, this event enables students to come back with a testimony. She reports that many women return to explain how the financial support assisted them in finishing college. She’s proud to say youth come back as mature adults thriving in careers as lawyers, doctors and police officers, among other professions.
“We make this community better by supporting our kids. This organization gives that extra desire or that push to encourage youth to better themselves. We ensure the future of Indianapolis by helping our kids,” Cosby said.
Cosby used to be one of those kids, admiring Delta Sigma Theta representatives. She joined the group while in college at Indiana University. Her decision to commit was sparked by seeing DST throughout campus facilitating events. Seeing the ladies on campus connected with the leader already inside of her.
“I felt I was an upcoming leader and wanted to work with other leaders to serve my community,” Cosby recalls. “This organization has made me an even stronger leader. I credit them for giving me confidence to lead other organizations as well.”
Averitte has been a dedicated member for more than 41 years.
“I observed their activities and community outreaches, and it’s something that I wanted to be a part of. I’ve never regretted one minute of it. I could go on and on about my love for this sorority,” she said.
Help fund the future of youth by becoming a sponsor or purchasing a ticket to the Delta Sigma Theta Centennial. For more information email centennial@dstiac.com.
Don’t miss the celebration
– Delta Sigma Theta Centennial Gala
– Featuring musical guest Zapp
– Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown, 350 W. Maryland St.
– Advanced tickets are required, tickets are $100 per person
– For tickets email centennial@dstiac.com.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
The following are prices to purchase a table during the Delta Sigma Theta Centennial Gala.
– $1,000 Pearl Level
– $2,500 Cream Level
– $5,000 Crimson Level
– $7,500 Diamond Level
– $10,000 Platinum Level
– $12,000 Centennial Level
