Since its founding in 1913 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has clearly distinguished itself as a public service organization that boldly confronts the challenges of African Americans and, hence, all Americans. Over the years, a wide range of programs addressing education, health, international development, and strengthening of the African American family have evolved. In realizing its mission, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. provides an extensive array of public service initiatives through its Five-Point Program Thrust of Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement.
Judith R. Harris Scholarship
The Judith R. Harris Scholarship is for students of color attending Albuquerque and Rio Rancho schools. Judith was an integral part of the Albuquerque Alumnae, always lending a helping hand and embodying the very spirit and essence of the principles of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Incorporated. The award amount varies by year and can be used for college expenses. The scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors, and can be used at two or four-year institutions. Family members of the Albuquerque Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta are not eligible. Scholarship applications are available each spring.
We are now accepting applications for the 2018 Judith R. Harris Scholarship. This scholarship is for students of color attending Albuquerque and Rio Rancho schools. Download the application here, 2018 DST Judith R Harris Scholarship Application. Mail application to: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Albuquerque Alumnae Chapter Attn: Scholarship Committee P.O. Box 27044 Albuquerque, New Mexico 87125. Applications must be postmarked by Friday, January 19, 2018. Late applications will not be accepted.
Economic Development
The mission of the Economic Development committee is to plan, develop, and execute programs that focus on fiscal management, education, and independence along with other financial topics and interests.
The National initiative under Economic Development is Financial Fortitude. This initiative help members of the sorority spread financial education throughout their local communities.
Educational Development
The mission of the Educational Development committee is plan, develop, and execute programs that focus on education, academics and other educational topics for the benefit of the local community, including administering the Judith R. Harris Scholarship.
The National initiatives under Educational Development are the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy, Delta GEMS – Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully, and EMBODI: Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence
International Awareness and Involvement
International Awareness and Involvement seeks to broaden the knowledge and understanding of cultures other than our own, increase interest in international affairs, and aid in the development of a greater appreciation for people of different backgrounds and cultures.
National support goes to the following institutions: Mary Help of the Sick Mission Hospital (formerly Thika Memorial Hospital), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Elementary School (Chérette, Haiti), and Delta House (Mbabane, Swaziland)
Physical and Mental Health
The mission of the Physical and Mental Health committee is to educate and facilitate lifestyle change for the physical, mental, and spiritual well–being of our members and the communities that we serve. They accomplish this goal by raising awareness about the importance and benefits of lifestyle changes that affect longevity, morbidity, and mortality; identifying organizational alliances for the sorority that will work to address pertinent health issues; and developing and implementing health-focused programs within the sorority and the communities we serve.
The National initiative is Healthy Lifestyle: Total Woman: Mind, Body, and Spirit
Political Awareness and Involvement
In 1989, the National Social Action Commission instituted Delta Days in the Nation’s Capital, an annual legislative conference to increase member’s involvement in the national public policy–making process. The annual conference includes legislative briefings, issue forums, and advocacy skills development. Featured speakers include key policy makers, members of the United States Congress, Congressional staff members, and national issues experts. The Albuquerque Alumnae Chapter, in an effort to be more involved in our local government, participates in the Delta Days at the State Capitol in Sante Fe, NM.
The National initiatives are Delta Days in the Nations Capital, Delta Day at the United Nations, and other Social Action programs.
In Our Community
Each year we volunteer our time and talents to several local organizations including the Albuquerque Rescue Mission, Susan G. Komen Foundation, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. We also have signature programs such as our African-American Read–In, Dress–4–Success Clothing Drive and Step–2–Success Shoe Drive. Our Delta Red Carpet events serve to make sure that we help to maintain an arts and culture presence within our community. Look for program announcements on our home page.