CHAPTER HISTORY

The Little Rock Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated traces its origin to March 28, 1942, when it was first established as a mixed chapter—Gamma Gamma Mixed Chapter. This chapter included both undergraduate members from Philander Smith College and graduate sorors residing in Little Rock. Soror Sue Cowan Williams, a former Southern Regional Director, was authorized by Grand Chapter to establish the chapter. Soror Hazel Bowers served as the chapter’s first president.

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In its early years, the chapter hosted impactful community-centered programs, including Sunday afternoon vespers, town hall meetings on local issues, Founders Day celebrations, classical vocal and organ concerts, and a Jabberwock. Notably, the chapter also contributed books and supported youth literacy through a reading program at the Colored Branch Library.

 

In 1950, when Philander Smith College earned full accreditation, the college president requested that undergraduate members form a separate campus-based chapter. As a result, on April 6, 1950, the Gamma Gamma Chapter became the official collegiate chapter, and the graduate chapter was renamed Delta Epsilon Sigma, with Soror Hazel Bowers continuing her leadership as the first president of the newly formed alumnae chapter.

 

Following a national mandate to revise chapter naming conventions, Delta Epsilon Sigma was officially renamed Little Rock Alumnae Chapter in 1956.

 

Since that time, LRAC has proudly served the central Arkansas community for over 83 years under the visionary leadership of 24 presidents. The chapter has expanded its reach through a variety of programs aligned with Delta Sigma Theta’s Five-Point Programmatic Thrust. Initiatives have included supporting the Little Rock Battered Women’s Shelter, tutoring students at P.A.R.K. (Positive Atmosphere Reaches Kids), and mentoring youth through the Delta GEMS and Delta Academy programs. LRAC’s signature scholarship initiative, Delta Presents, has honored and awarded scholarships to hundreds of high-achieving African American high school seniors in the area.

 

The Little Rock Alumnae Chapter continues to be a leading force for public service, cultural enrichment, and civic engagement. Members of the chapter have distinguished themselves locally, statewide, and nationally. Notably, Soror Lottie Shackleford served as Mayor of Little Rock and later as Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee. In 2000, LRAC was proud to celebrate the election of Soror Morlin McCoy as National Secretary of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Most recently the chapter celebrates the election of Soror Crystal T. Barker as the 28th Southwest Regional Director of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

 

Today, the chapter has grown to over 400 dedicated members who remain committed to the Sorority’s mission of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action.