November 12

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is a historically African American sorority dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for women and their families through community service, education, and social action. It is a member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) collaborative umbrella composed of historically African American fraternities and sororities, commonly called the Divine Nine.

The sorority was founded on November 12, 1922 at Butler University in Indianapolis, IN by seven courageous educators: Mary Lou Allison Gardner Little, Dorothy Hanley Whiteside, Vivian White Marbury, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson, Hattie Mae Annette Dulin Redford, Bessie Mae Downey Rhoades Martin, and Cubena McClure. At a time when opportunities for African American women in higher education were scarce, these women established a sisterhood grounded in academic excellence and civic responsibility.

Sigma Gamma Rho has since grown into an international organization with a strong legacy of leadership and advocacy.

Some of the most famous members of Sigma Gamma Rho who embody the sorority’s values of sisterhood, leadership, and service include:

• Hattie McDaniel — the first African American to win an Academy Award for her role in Gone with the Wind;
• MC Lyte — trailblazing rapper and voice for women in hip-hop;
• Vanessa Bell Calloway — accomplished actress known for her work in film and television;
• Maritza Correia McClendon — the first African American woman to earn a place on the U.S. Olympic swim team; and
• Deshauna Barber — the first active-duty U.S. Army officer to win the title of Miss USA.

Sigma Gamma Rho’s mission is to empower communities through service, scholarship, and the development of strong sisterhood among women of all backgrounds.