Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on January 13, 1913, by 22 collegiate women at Howard University to promote academic excellence and provide assistance to those in need. The Founders of Delta Sigma Theta envisioned an organization committed to sisterhood, scholarship, service, and addressing the social issues of the time. Since its founding, Delta Sigma Theta has become one of the preeminent service-based sororities, with more than 300,000 initiated members and over 1,000 chartered chapters worldwide. 

As a sisterhood comprised primarily of Black, college-educated women, the Sorority seriously considers the issues impacting the Black community and 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 the strengthening of African American families have evolved. The major programs of the Sorority are based upon the Five-Point Programmatic Thrust: economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health, and political awareness and involvement. 

About the Evanston - North Shore Alumnae Chapter

The principal purposes and aims of the Evanston - North Shore Alumnae Chapter are centered around fostering a community built on elevated cultural, intellectual, and moral standards amongst its members. By establishing a strong foundation of values, the chapter seeks to cultivate an environment where each member can grow personally and professionally. In addition to nurturing individual growth, the sorority places a strong emphasis on engaging in impactful public service programs that benefit the wider community.

Originally chartered in 1948 as the Gamma Omicron chapter and re-chartered in 1975 as the Evanston - North Shore Alumnae Chapter, one of the most significant initiatives of our organization is our annual scholarship program, which is dedicated to promoting and encouraging educational achievement among high school graduates from the Evanston area. Through various fundraising efforts, including our celebrated fashion show benefit—a hallmark event that showcases creativity and community spirit—we have successfully raised and distributed over $300,000 in scholarships to deserving students. This financial support not only eases the burden of educational expenses but also empowers young individuals to pursue their academic and career aspirations.

Moreover, our commitment to supporting youth originated in our highly regarded teen mentoring program known as GRACE (Girls Reaffirming and Achieving Character and Education). The chapter transitioned the focus of the GRACE program to align with the mission and objectives outlined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. by establishing Delta Academy, Delta G.E.M.S. (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully), and E.M.B.O.D.I. (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence). By doing so, we aim not only to enhance the personal development of our youth but also to equip them with the skills and confidence necessary to navigate their futures.