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.
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated was organized on November 12, 1922
in Indianapolis, Indiana by Mary Lou Allison Little and six teachers:
Dorothy Hanley Whiteside, Vivian White Marbury, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson,
Hattie Mae Dulin Redford, Bessie M. Downey Martin and Cubena McClure.
The charter members are the Founders of Sigma Gamma Rho. The group became an
incorporated national collegiate sorority on December 30, 1929,
when a charter was granted to Alpha chapter at Butler University.
The first three years were devoted to organizing.
The first call for a national boule (convention) was held
in Indianapolis, December 27-29, 1925. The second was held in
Louisville, Kentucky at which time Fannie O'Bannon became the grand basileus.
The first grand basileus, Mary Lou Little, wrote the sorority pledge.
The pin was designed by Cubena McClure. The slogan, "Greater Service,
Greater Progress," was written by Bertha Black Rhoda, a past grand
basileus. Members of the Delta chapter in Louisville, Kentucky wrote
the words of the sorority hymn which has since been set to music by
Zenobia Laws Bailey of Chicago. Fannie O'Bannon, the second grand
basileus, designed the sorority coat of arms.
SIGMA FACTS
FOUNDERS:Mary Lou Allison Little,Dorothy Hanley Whiteside, Vivian White
Marbury, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson, Hattie Mae Dulin Redford, Bessie M. Downey
Martin and Cubena McClure
FOUNDING DATE: November 12, 1922.
MOTTO: "Greater Service, Greater Progess."
GRAND BASILEUS: Dr. Mynora J. Bryant
COLORS: Royal Blue & Gold
FLOWER: Yellow Tea Rose
MASCOT: French Toy Poodle
PUBLICATION: The Aurora
AFFILIATES: Rhoers and Philos
PROMINENT SORORS
CIVIC PROGRAMS
