Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, was founded on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 12, 1922. From seven young school teachers, Sigma Gamma Rho has become an international service organization comprised of 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. Sigma women are dedicated to helping each other. Their personal success is recognized in the Aurora, the official publication of the sorority, and through various awards.
In a time when education for African-Americans was difficult to attain, the Founders of Sigma Gamma Rho became educators. They believed that the self-respect, knowledge and discipline gained through study would help individuals to recognize their duty and responsibility for their society. Thus, Sigma Gamma Rho was founded on the precept of education and continues to promote and encourage high scholastic achievement.
In addition to annual scholarships awarded by local alumnae chapters, in 1984 the National Education Fund was created. The Fund was designed to insure perpetual support for its commitment to education and for research in education, health, and related fields.
Sigma Gamma Rho's commitment to service is expressed in its slogan, "Greater Service, Greater Progress." The sorority has a proud history of offering service wherever chapters exist, including OPERATION BigBookBag, a program designed to address the needs, challenges and issues that face school-aged children who are educationally at-risk in local homeless shelters and extended care hospitals. The objective is for chapters to provide their local homeless shelters and children�s hospitals with educational materials, equipment and services. Other national programs include Wee Savers, Project Reassurance and Habitat for Humanity through which Sigma Gamma Rho has built seven homes across the United States in Florida, Wisconsin, California, Texas, and the District of Columbia.
The service of Sigma Gamma Rho from a global perspective includes Project Africa and the Mwanamugimu Essay Contest. Through active participation in programs and through networking with other organizations such as the National Council of Negro Women, the National Urban League and the NAACP, Sigma's legacy of service to improve the quality of life for all mankind continues.
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority's aim is to enhance the quality of life within the community. Public service, leadership development and education of youth are the hallmark of the organization's programs and activities. Sigma Gamma Rho addresses concerns that impact society educationally, civically and economically.
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