Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Founded:            November 12, 1922

Where:                Butler University (Indianapolis, Indiana)

Colors:                Royal Blue & Antique Gold

Mascot:               Poodle

On November 12, 1922, seven educators came together to form an organization for African-American women who were interested in every phases of education.  Founded on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is the only historically black Greek lettered sorority founded on a predominately white campus.  Not wanting to join an organization that was started in the surrounding of its own culture, derived from changes and conflict or built on the foundation of a fraternity, these 7 pearls built an organization for women who are strong, independent and have a desire to serve and educated the community.  Standing on the motto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress” the pretty poodles of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. live up to the phrase “Last Created, Best Designed”!

Recognizing a need for diversity and excellence in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, the sorors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated decided to bring the legacy to Francis Marion University.  The Xi chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho was chartered on April 23,1994.  The founding chapter members were Gardenia (Dena) Sharper – who was originally inducted in the Beta Iota chapter of Allen College on February 13,1993 – Mishell Cummingham, Kimberly Ervin, April Nephew, and Adria Scott, all whom were inducted on April 23,1994.

What makes Sigma Gamma Rho different from the other sororities at Francis Marion University is our quality of membership.  Each member works hard to give leadership, service, and resources toward removing barriers and inequity so that all people of America especially members of the black community may develop their potential and exercise full citizenship.  Sigma Gamma Rho’s commitment to service is expressed in its slogan “Greater service, Greater Progress.” The sorority has a proud history of offering support to the Pee Dee Region.   Operation Big Book Bag is just one of many task that the Xi chapter participates in on a yearly basis.  At the beginning of each school year the ladies of the Xi chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho collect school supplies to be donated to local area schools.  Their community service involvement range from mentoring young women, to donating time and energy to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.  Service and progress have always been hallmarks of the Sorority, and with the passing of last living founder Vivian W. Marbury (1900 –2000) each member will be poised for progress and focused on Service well into the 21^st Century.