Chapter History
The Annapolis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., formally known as the Gamma Omicron Sigma Chapter, was chartered on December 9, 1947 by the Eastern Regional Director, Muriel Jenkins. Five members: Sorors Lois D. Randall, Muriel Holland, Ruby C. Simms, Sylvia G. Richardson, and Mary C. Brown, chartered the local chapter.
The members of the Annapolis Alumnae Chapter have carried the torch of the Founders by implementing programs that are mirrored after the National’s Five Point Programmatic Thrust: Economic Development, Physical and Mental Health, educational Development, Political Awareness and Involvement, and International Awareness and Involvement. We have made, and continue to make, significant contributions to the community through seminars, job fairs, college tours, and more than $260,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors presented through the Muriel Holland Scholarship and the Minority Scholars Award, which recognizes students with a high grade point average. Additionally, the Chapter sponsors forums and partnerships with other community agencies to provide awareness and services on HIV/AIDS, Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence; and school supplies for needy students.
Through the chapter's Jean Sparrow Camperships, youngsters are sent to summer camps. The Chapter has supported residents of the Crofton Convalescent Center, the Crofton Baby Pantry, and summer camps for students with juvenile diabetes. Also, contributions were given to the Lighthouse Shelter, the Parole Health Center, the Anne Arundel County Medical Center, Sojourner Douglass College, and the Galesville Community Center. The Betty Shabazz Delta Academy provides academic, social, and technical resources to help prepare young girls to be successful in the 21st century. The Delta GEMS program is a continuum of services that address the needs of young African American women between the ages of 14-18. The goals of the program are to instill in young women the need to excel academically and to sharpen and enhance their academic skills, set goals, and plan for their future beyond high school. Delta GEMS are active in service learning and community service projects. The EMBODI programs address issues facing African American males ages 11-17. In 2015, the chapter implemented the Thelma T. Daley STEM initiative to create an environment to provoke and excite an interest in STEM curriculum and careers in elementary and middle school youth in Anne Arundel County.
Also, at the 52nd National Convention in Houston, TX the chapter's STEM resolution was one of 31 proposed resolutions adopted by the national body as an area of interest and concern for the sorority.
Chapter members have served as guest readers and youth mentors in schools, churches, and organizations throughout Anne Arundel County. Regular contributions are made to the Boys and Girls Club of Annapolis. The Chapter has adopted area families to provide food, clothing, and finances throughout the year. The Chapter holds life memberships in the NAACP, National Council of Negro Women, and the Banneker Douglass Museum. Chapter members are actively involved in efforts to enrich, impact, and serve the communities of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.
