Client Spotlight: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

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Organized in 1922 and incorporated as a national collegiate sorority in 1929, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was founded by seven young 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
Cubena McClure

Through Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service, it has grown into an international service organization with women from every profession.

“Sigma Gamma Rho offers its members opportunities to develop their unique talents through leadership training and involvement in sorority activities. Sorority activities provide an atmosphere where friendships and professional contacts are developed which often lead to bonds that last a lifetime.” — DeAna B. Wilkins, Public Relations Chair

Its mission is to “enhance the quality of life for women and their families in the U.S. and globally through community service, civil and social action,” with a goal of greater progress in education, leadership development, and health awareness.

Alpha Lambda Sigma Alumnae Chapter

Cleveland’s local chapter was chartered on June 20, 1942, the first graduate chapter established in Ohio.

Celebrating 100 Years

Recently celebrating its 100-year anniversary, sorority members came home in June and November to celebrate on Butler University’s campus.

25 × $10KScholarships created by the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund (NEF) and the Sorority, named for current and past presidents (Grand Basilei).

Locally, the chapter celebrated its Centennial by:

  • Displaying celebratory yard signs throughout the city
  • Marching in the Warrensville Memorial Day Parade
  • Hosting a gala with community leaders
  • Showcasing a blue and gold float in the 11th Congressional District Labor Day Parade
  • Sponsoring a tent at Luke Easter Park with water, hand sanitizer, and reusable grocery totes
“I imagine our Founder’s inaugural meeting envisioning equality and opportunity for women and their children. Today, we work to continue the mission by voting, educating the community and advocating for fundamental rights. Through these actions, we aim to make an impact in our community for the next 100 years.” — Anita Laster Mays, 2022–2024 Chapter President

Learn More

Visit their national website, centennial website, or find them on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

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