Delta Sigma Theta History

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was founded on January 13, 1913 by twenty-two collegiate women at Howard University.  These students wanted to use their collective strength to promote academic excellence and to provide assistance to persons in need.   The first public act performed by the Delta Founders involved their participation in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington D.C., March 1913.  Delta Sigma Theta was incorporated in 1930. Since its establishment, Delta Sigma Theta has clearly established itself as a public service organization that strives to confront the problems of African Americans and, hence, all Americans.  A wide range of programs addressing education, health, international development, and strengthening of the African American family have emerged and evolved over the years.  In realizing its mission, Delta Sigma Theta provides an extensive array of public service through its Five-Point Program Thrust of Physical and Mental Health, Educational Development, Economic Development, International Awareness & Involvement, Political Awareness and Involvement.

Delta Sigma Theta Founders

Osceola McCarthy 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