Private, not-for-profit organization: Aimed at providing assistance and support via established programs in local communities globally.
Global presence: Over 1,000 collegiate and alumnae chapters in the United States, Canada, Japan, Germany, Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Bahamas, Jamaica, West Africa, Southern Africa, UAE, and South Korea.
Membership events:
Biennial national conventions with over 10,000 members attending.
Regional conferences held in non-convention years.
51st National Convention (Centennial) in DC saw over 38,000 attendees.
Mission Statement
College-educated women: Focus on constructive development and public service.
Primary focus: Black community.
Our Founders and Historical Timeline
1913
Foundation: Founded at Howard University.
Public service: First act was participating in the 1913 Suffrage March.
1921 - May Week
Higher Education Promotion: Focus on education programs for Negro women.
1925 - Jabberwock
Cultural and fundraising initiative: Implemented by local chapters for charity, scholarships, fostering inter-organizational cooperation.
1930 - Incorporation
Legal Status: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was incorporated.
1937 - National Library Project
First national program: Established a traveling library serving rural Southern areas.
1941 - Career Development
Employment support: First sorority to offer career counseling and development for Black women.
1953 - National Headquarters
Establishment: First Black Greek Letter Organization to establish a national headquarters.
1963
Health Initiative: Opened Mary Help of the Sick Mission Hospital in Thika, Kenya.
1977 - Distinguished Professor Endowed Chair (DPEC)
Support for education: Funds a professor and unique program at relevant institutions.
1992
Habitat for Humanity Partnership: Built homes in the U.S. and Africa.
2003
UN Recognition: First Black Greek-letter organization named a Non-Governmental Organization by the UN.
2013
Centennial Celebration: Marked 100 years of the Sorority's existence.