For students going off to college, acquiring adequate funding can be an arduous task, particularly for those in urban areas.
The Prince George’s County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta sorority attempted to ease that burden Sunday, awarding 25 students over $75,000 in financial support for undergraduate degrees during the chapter’s 42nd annual Scholarship Benefit Fashion Show and Luncheon.
“Every year our events are so special because we find the best and the brightest students and are able to provide them with support to attend the colleges of their choice,” said M. Greta Wiggins-Lewis, the chapter president. “Not only have we exceeded the $75,000 mark, but we have actually gone over $1,000,000 and are now even more able to better facilitate student need.
“For this particular scholarship, we not only provide assistance for high school students going off to college, but also to the ones already studying, which greatly coincides with our organization’s mission,” she said. “Our organization is like a quilt, where we all come together and support, in hopes of making the world a better place.”
The “Timeless Threads” event at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt featured exotic furs, feathers and fun leopard prints, under the direction of fashion media correspondent Onyachi Chuku. The show was replete with renowned designers, runway models and the jazz sounds of top D.C. musician Marcus Johnson.
“The majority of all of the featured models are African American, who come in all shapes in sizes,” Chuku said. “During this event we thought it was important to highlight what true Black beauty looks like and the many ways we represent ourselves. Positive representation is important and that representation is also one of the reasons why I chose to become a Delta. Seeing positive women doing dynamic things in the community is contagious. From education to economics — that truly struck a heavy chord with me. … I feel that drive, I believe in that drive and I embody that drive with all of my sisters around me as well.”
Maryland State’s Attorney Angela Alsobrooks, a candidate for Prince George’s County executive and member of Delta Sigma Theta, also spoke at the event.
“The people in this room are successful because of organizations like Delta Sigma Theta, which has been thriving for over 105 years,” Alsobrooks said. “When nobody would support us, we have supported each other and that is what this event continues to be about — building up one generation after the other.”
