SORORITY CREST
This image features the distinguished Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated crest, originally designed in 1934 by sorors F. Ailene Marks and Jeanette Triplett Jones. A masterpiece of symbolism and intention, the crest stands as a visual embodiment of the Sorority’s enduring mission of scholarship, sisterhood, service, and social action. At its peak sits Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, whose presence represents intelligence, strategic leadership, and the guiding force behind Delta’s commitment to educating and empowering communities.
Within the shield-shaped emblem are symbols central to Delta Sigma Theta’s identity:
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The torch, representing truth, knowledge, and the light of leadership;
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The sword, symbolizing courage and the Sorority’s readiness to confront injustice;
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The staff, reflecting learning, discipline, and the responsibility of scholarship;
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The prominent Greek letters ΔΣΘ, uniting all members under a shared legacy of purpose.
Encircled by laurel leaves and presented in the Sorority’s official crimson and cream colors, the crest honors both tradition and aspiration. It remains a cherished symbol worn proudly by generations of Delta women, reminding them of the intellectual heritage, moral responsibility, and collective strength that define the sisterhood. More than an emblem, the DST crest is a declaration of excellence and a legacy of leadership that continues to inspire service across the world.
SORORITY FOUNDERS
1913
Osceola Macarthy Adams
Marguerite Young Alexander
Winona Cargile Alexander
Ethel Cuff Black
Bertha Pitts Campbell
Zephyr Chisom Carter
Edna Brown Coleman
Jessie McGuire Dent
Frederica Chase Dodd
Myra Davis Hemmings
Olive C. Jones
Jimmie Bugg Middleton
Pauline Oberdorfer Minor
Vashti Turley Murphy
Naomi Sewell Richardson
Mamie Reddy Rose
Eliza Pearl Shippen
Florence Letcher Toms
Ethel Carr Watson
Wertie Blackwell Weaver
Madree Penn White
Edith Motte Young
The 22 Founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. were extraordinary visionary servant-based-leaders whose brilliance, courage, and unwavering sense of purpose laid the foundation for one of the most influential Black women’s organizations in the world. As collegiate women at Howard University in 1913—during a time marked by segregation, racial violence, gender inequality, and limited opportunities for African Americans—they possessed the foresight to create a sisterhood rooted not only in academic excellence and personal development but also in bold, transformative social action.
Guided by principles of scholarship, sisterhood, and service, the Founders understood that education was a tool of liberation, that unity among Black women was a force for progress, and that collective action could reshape communities and alter the course of history. Their first public act—their courageous participation in the Women’s Suffrage March of 1913—symbolized their commitment to justice and placed Delta Sigma Theta at the forefront of national advocacy. This defining moment signaled their belief that Black women deserved a prominent voice in social, political, and civic spaces.
Over the years, the vision of these 22 trailblazers has continued to shape Delta’s expansive influence in education, civil rights, political engagement, public service, economic development, international aid, and global humanitarian work. The programs and initiatives built upon their ideals uplift communities worldwide, empower future generations of leaders, and reinforce the Sorority’s dedication to advocacy and equity. Their legacy endures through millions of service hours, landmark policy efforts, groundbreaking programs, and the sustained leadership of Delta women across professions and continents.
More than a century later, the Founders’ spirit remains woven into every aspect of Delta Sigma Theta—seen in the Sorority’s national initiatives, in local chapter service, and in the global network of women who carry forward their mission. Their lives and sacrifices affirm that when Black women unite with purpose, intellect, and fortitude, they can transform societies and create lasting change. The 22 Founders’ enduring legacy continues to inspire Delta women to lead, to serve, and to elevate humanity with distinction.
LADY FORTITUDE
1979
This image features Lady Fortitude, the iconic 12.5-foot bronze sculpture commissioned by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and unveiled in 1979 on the campus of Howard University. Created by artist James King, the sculpture stands as a powerful embodiment of the Sorority’s core virtues—strength, courage, hope, wisdom, beauty, and femininity. With her strong forward stride and outstretched arm, Lady Fortitude symbolizes purpose, progress, and the unwavering determination that has guided Delta women since the Sorority’s founding in 1913.
The sculpture honors the legacy of Delta’s 22 Founders, whose vision, resilience, and commitment to public service continue to inspire generations. Lady Fortitude serves as a physical and spiritual representation of their enduring spirit, encouraging Black women everywhere to rise, lead, and overcome challenges with grace and conviction. Positioned prominently at the entrance of Howard’s Fine Arts complex, she stands as both a beacon and a reminder of Delta’s mission—illuminating the path of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action. Today, Lady Fortitude remains one of the Sorority’s most celebrated symbols, reinforcing the belief that Delta women move forward with purpose and leave lasting footprints of fortitude wherever they serve.
NJAC PRESIDENTS
1939 - PRESENT
Gertrude Morris* (1939-1941)
Edna M. Bullock* (1941-1943)
Bertell C. Wright* (1943-1946)
Althea Richards* (1946-1948)
Marcia Williams* (1948-1950)
Marie Carpenter,PhD.* (1950-1952)
Lena Edwards,M.D.* (1952-1953)
Alice Walker Creed* (1953-1955)
Dorothy Herbert* (1955-1957)
Dorothy Gould* (1957-1959)
Alverada Pullie* (1959-1961)
Carole T. Reynolds* (1961-1963)
Ollie Washington (1963-1965)
Alfreda Robinson* (1965-1967)
Myrtis Twyman (1967-1969)
Cornelia Gladden (1969-1971)
Pansy R. King (1971-1973)
Kara Smith (1973-1975)
Catherine Hepburn* (1975-1977)
Daisy Yarbrough (1977-1979)
Josephine Crozier Wilson* (1979-1981)
Mollie Smith (1981-1983)
Sheila Thorpe (1983-1985)
Vashti Holt* (1985-1987)
Felicia Jamison, Ed.D. (1987-1989)
Cheryl Whitley-Crawford (1989-1991)
Pamela Gardner (1991-1993)
Gwendolyn Slaton (1993-1995)
Stephanie Culpepper (1995-1997)
Elizabeth Crook (1997-1999)
Betty Robinson (1999-2001)
Oedies Williams (2001-2003)
Wandra Perry Hartsfield (2003-2005)
Deborah Harman* (2005-2007)
Sharon Foushee (2007-2009)
Vanessa Sifford (2009-2011)
Lisa E. Harris (2011-2013)
Elethia D. Baldwin (2013-2015)
Monica D. Burton,PhD. (2015-2017)
Ericka A. Shoulars (2017-2019)
Dorita Newsome-Dobbins, D.M.D. (2019-2021)
Sharon Hardesty (2021-2023)
Renée Y. Belton (2023-2025)
La Tonya D. White (2025-Present)
*Deceased
This image honors the distinguished lineage of North Jersey Alumnae Chapter Presidents who have guided NJAC with vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the Sorority’s mission since its earliest years. Beginning with Gertrude Morris (1939–1941) and continuing through decades of transformative leadership to the current president, La Tonya D. White, this collection of portraits reflects the remarkable women whose stewardship shaped the chapter’s growth, community impact, and organizational excellence.
Each president brought their own strengths, talents, and priorities to NJAC—from expanding educational programs and scholarship initiatives, to strengthening political advocacy, fostering international outreach, and deepening the chapter’s commitment to social action in northern New Jersey. The progression of photographs—ranging from early black-and-white images to vibrant contemporary portraits—illustrates both the historical journey of the chapter and the enduring spirit of Delta women who lead with fortitude, compassion, and purpose.
Together, these presidents represent more than eight decades of leadership grounded in the values of scholarship, sisterhood, and service. Their combined legacy continues to propel NJAC forward, inspiring future generations to uphold Delta Sigma Theta’s standards of excellence while creating lasting, positive change in the communities they serve.
SCHOLARSHIP BENEFIT RECIPIENTS
This collage highlights generations of Scholarship Benefit Luncheon recipients, reflecting the North Jersey Alumnae Chapter’s enduring commitment to educational advancement and youth empowerment. Each recipient represents not only individual excellence but also the collective impact of NJAC’s investment in academic success through scholarships, mentorship, and community support.
The Scholarship Benefit Luncheon has long served as one of the chapter’s most meaningful traditions, raising funds to support students pursuing college degrees and career aspirations. This event is rooted in Delta Sigma Theta’s Educational Development thrust, affirming the belief that education transforms lives and strengthens communities. The students pictured—confident, hopeful, and inspired—stand as living testament to NJAC’s mission to uplift future leaders. Across decades, the chapter’s scholarship recipients continue to embody the promise of opportunity, the power of perseverance, and the lasting legacy of Delta women who dare to make a difference.
See more images of the NJAC Scholarship Benefit Luncheon
