Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is a historically African American sorority that has been a beacon of empowerment, leadership, and community service since its founding. Established on November 12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, Sigma Gamma Rho was created by seven visionary women who saw a need for an organization that would address the specific needs of African American women while promoting the values of scholarship, service, and sisterhood. The founders—Beulah E. Burke, Dorothy L. Overstreet, and others—developed Sigma Gamma Rho into an influential sorority that continues to impact communities across the globe.

Core Values of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority

The core values of Sigma Gamm Rho Sorority are centered on enhancing the lives of its members and the broader community. The sorority’s principles—sisterhood, scholarship, and service—guide every initiative, program, and event. These values are not just ideals but a way of life for Sigma Gamma Rho members.

Sisterhood: At the heart of Sigma Gamma Rho is the concept of sisterhood. The sorority provides a strong network of support, offering a community where women from all walks of life can bond, grow, and thrive. The sense of sisterhood that Sigma Gamma Rho fosters extends beyond shared experiences at college campuses and into real-world interactions, allowing members to form lifelong friendships and professional connections.

Scholarship: Education has always been a cornerstone of Sigma Gamm Rho mission. The sorority encourages academic excellence among its members, supporting them in their educational and professional pursuits. Sigma Gamma Rho also provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students to help alleviate the financial burden of education. By prioritizing academic achievement, the sorority empowers women to achieve their full potential.

Service: Sigma Gamma Rho is deeply committed to serving communities. The sorority’s initiatives focus on addressing social issues, from health disparities to education reform. One of its signature programs is the “Project Reassurance” initiative, which focuses on childhood obesity prevention, and the “Operation BigBookBag” program, which provides school supplies to underprivileged children. Members of Sigma Gamma Rho actively participate in various charitable activities, striving to make tangible improvements in their communities.

Finer Womanhood: This principle emphasizes the importance of maintaining dignity, integrity, and excellence in all aspects of life. Members of Sigma Gamma Rho are expected to be leaders and role models who embody the values of the sorority. Finer Womanhood encourages women to strive for personal growth while upholding the sorority’s standards of service, academic achievement, and ethical behavior.

Impact and Contributions of Sigma Gamma Rho

Throughout its more than 100 years of existence, Sigma Gamma Rho has made significant contributions to the African American community and beyond. The sorority has consistently been a source of strength and empowerment for women, promoting leadership and public service. Many Sigma Gamma Rho members have gone on to achieve success in various fields, including law, business, education, medicine, and politics. These women are not only leaders in their professions but also activists who fight for social justice, equality, and the empowerment of women and minorities.

Notable members of Sigma Gamma Rho include civil rights activist Dr. Dorothy Height, actress and philanthropist Sheryl Lee Ralph, and political leader and educator Dr. Joan Morgan. These women have used their platforms to advance causes related to racial equality, women’s rights, and community development, continuing the sorority’s legacy of impactful change.

Sigma Gamma Rho has also created a strong international presence, with chapters in several countries, including the United Kingdom and the Caribbean. This global network allows members to connect with sisters around the world and collaborate on projects that address pressing global issues such as education, health, and human rights.

Sigma Gamma Rho Today

Today, Sigma Gamma Rho continues to be a leader in promoting scholarship, service, and sisterhood. The sorority’s annual events, such as the national leadership conference and community outreach programs, provide opportunities for members to engage with each other, learn from experts, and contribute to their communities. The sorority’s leadership and programs continue to evolve, ensuring that Sigma Gamma Rho remains relevant and impactful for future generations.

Conclusion

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. has proven to be a powerful force for positive change since its founding in 1922. Through its unwavering commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, service, and finer womanhood, the sorority has empowered generations of women to lead, excel, and make a difference in their communities. With over 100 years of history, Sigma Gamma Rho remains dedicated to its mission of uplifting women, advocating for social justice, and fostering the intellectual and personal development of its members. The sorority’s legacy of leadership and service will continue to inspire future generations of women to make meaningful contributions to society.