Sorority History

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was founded on November 12, 1922 by seven dynamic schoolteachers. Chartered at Butler University, Sigma Gamma Rho is the only African-American sorority founded on a predominantly white campus. At a time when education was difficult for minorities and women to attain, our founders became educators. These exquisite ladies gave Sigma Gamma Rho the legacy of interest and emphasis in all phases of education. Sigma Gamma Rho was incorporated into the National Pan-Hellenic Council in 1929.
Currently there are over 80,000 Ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho in more than 400 chapters internationally. Since 1922, Sigmas have continually worked to serve their communities through sisterhood, scholarship, and service. The sorority's national programs focus on educational, economic, health, and social issues that affect our communities across the nation and in Africa.
As always, our actions are guided by our belief in "Greater Service, Greater Progress."
Sorority Programs
BigBookBag -
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. works in conjunction with the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Inc. This program's purpose is to provide supplies to needy school children. BigBookBag was developed in 1996 by Past Grand Basileus Dr. LaRona J. Morris.
Wee-Savers -
Through activities such as seminars and trips to various financial institutions, the Wee-Savers program's primary goal is to teach children about personal finance and money management.
Rejesta V. Perry Birthright Program -
Established in the memory of Past Grand Basileus Rejesta V. Perry to provide assistance for infants and children born to mothers who are substance abusers that have AIDS or are HIV positive.
Soles for little Souls -
The Souls for Little Soles Project provides shoes for children in need.
Habitat for Humanity International -
In February of 1994 Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. partnered with Habitat For Humanity International to build low-income housing in various cities.
Mwanamugimu Essay Contest -
The primary goal of this program is to help young people develop their research and writing skills while they learn about the historical and contemporary developments in Africa.
Judie Davis Bone Marrow Recruitment Program -
This program focuses on donor recruitment drives and educating the Black community about the importance of donating bone marrow.
Buckle Up America -
A safety awareness program to educate citizens, particularly parents about the life saving importance of the use of seat belts and child safety seats in automobiles.
Project Reassurance -
Conducted in partnership with the March of Dimes. Chapters sponsor workshops and other activities that assist pregnant teens and educate teen mothers about the importance of pre-natal and post-natal care, and to better understand infant care and child development.
Youth Symposium -
A program that recognizes that the talents and experiences of today's youth can be harnessed to address today's problems. Chapters sponsor a forum for youth and professionals to talk with one another about ways to tackle issues of drugs, teen pregnancies, etc. - held simultaneously by chapters on the second Saturday in March.
Sorority Quick Facts
Founding Date: November 12, 1922
Founding Location: Butler University in Indianapolis, IN
Principles: Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service
Motto: "Greater Service, Greater Progress"
Sorority Colors: Royal Blue and Antique Gold
Mascot: The French Poodle
Flower: The Yellow Tea Rose
Sorority Call: EE-YIP!
Affiliate Groups: Rhoers-high school affiliate group and Philos-Friends to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Sigma Gents-Men who are dedicated to the sorority and/or are married to a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.