Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter's History

“Columbia (SC) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.” The tree of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. has brought forth many branches and much fruit since its inception at Howard University in 1913. One of these off-springs was conceived in 1940 with the birth of the Beta Beta Sigma Chapter in Columbia, South Carolina. Since that time the seed has grown, has been nourished and has brought forth fruit.

The second alumnae chapter established in South Carolina, Beta Beta Sigma was chartered by Minerva Johnson, Southern Regional Director and was composed of fifteen Delta Women who had previously organized a club in preparation for the local chapter. The chapter was a part of the Southern Region.

The National President was Elsie Austin and the chapter participated in its first National Convention in December 1941 in Detroit, Michigan.

​

In the year of her establishment, Beta Beta Sigma joined other chapters throughout the nation in having as its particular purpose and objective: to establish and maintain a high standard of morality and scholarship among women. But as the sorority grew, and as the need for public awareness and service in ever-widening areas grew, Delta has adapted her program to meet the needs of the times.

​

In 1958 Grand Chapter decided that Graduate Chapters no longer be identified by Greek letters. Beta Beta Sigma became Columbia Alumnae Chapter.

In 1960, the South Atlantic Region was created and Columbia Alumnae Chapter, along with other South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia Chapters became a part of this region — composed of the largest number of chapters of any other region. http://www.dstsouthatlanticregion.org/

Through the years, the Columbia Alumnae Chapter has joined other chapters in its public service program of educational development, economic development, community and international development, housing and urban development, and mental health.

Special local projects have included Black heritage seminars, career fairs, volunteer services at hospitals and homes for the elderly, and tutorial reading programs.

​

Since 1962 Columbia Alumnae Chapter has sponsored a Debutante Cotillion every other year. Young ladies of high standards of morality and scholarship are selected to participate. For a period of six to eight months prior to presentation, they are involved in a wide variety of instructional activities and projects designed to prepare them for successful social, educational and occupational participation.

​

​