WASHINGTON, DC WELCOMES DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY’S 51ST

National Convention Expected to Generate More Than $73.7 Million in Economic Impact for the City

 

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the single largest African American women’s organization in the country, will convene in the nation’s capital for their 51st National Convention, July 11 – 17. Attracting nearly 40,000 members, the week-long convention is expected to generate more than $73.7 million to the local economy. Founded on January 13, 1913, Delta Sigma Theta is also celebrating its 100th anniversary throughout the year, which commenced on New Year’s Day then continued in Washington, DC with a Founder’s Day Weekend event. 



DC mayor, Vincent Gray, gives the Deltas a street of their own, renaming New Hampshire Avenue, Delta Sigma Theta Way.

 

“As Washingtonians, we couldn’t be more proud that this impressive organization was founded right here in our city – at Howard University - 100 years ago and has since grown to more than 200,000 members and 900 chapters worldwide,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. “We are pleased to welcome Delta Sigma Theta back to DC to experience all of the great hotels, restaurants, attractions and amenities that make DC a powerful convention destination.”

 

Delegates will participate in various activities throughout DC, including a 5K Health Walk on the National Mall and a special torch ceremony welcome event at the Lincoln Memorial. Wearing their official colors, crimson and cream, the Deltas will attend various luncheons and special events across town as well as business sessions at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Their presence will impact every part of the hospitality sector throughout the city in restaurants, attractions, retail and transportation.

 

“We look forward to once again opening our doors at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to welcome nearly 40,000 women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,” said Gregory A. O’Dell, president and CEO of Events DC. “This is a significant event for the Convention Center as it will serve as the heart of festivities during their week-long celebration, and our team at Events DC has worked tirelessly to provide a memorable celebration for the women of Delta during their National Convention and Centennial Celebration.”     

 

“The women of Delta Sigma Theta are excited to return ‘home’ to Washington, DC,” said Cynthia M. A. Butler-McIntyre, National President of Delta Sigma Theta. “We could not aptly celebrate 100 years of sisterhood, scholarship and service without coming back to the very foundation of our organization. The District of Columbia will always have a special place in the hearts of Deltas around the world. We thank the entire city for opening their arms to us once again.”

 

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (DST) is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world. A sisterhood of more than 200,000 predominantly black college-educated women, the Sorority currently has over 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan, Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Jamaica and the Republic of Korea.

 

For more information, please visit http://www.deltasigmatheta.org. 

 

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There wouldn't be DST event without a party.   Go to 100ShadesofRed.eventbrite.com to learn about one hosted by Boris Kodjoe at The Park. 

New! Deltas Meet President Obama

On Tuesday, July 16, President Obama met with members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated in the Oval Office to commemorate the organization’s centennial anniversary and their 51^st convention.  He acknowledged their long history of community service, mentorship, and advocacy work in communities across the country.

Attendees:      Past National President Mona Bailey,    Past National President Gwendolyn Boyd,        Past National President Frankie Freeman,    Congresswoman and Past National President Marcia Fudge,   Former Labor Secretary Alexis Herman, Member,  National President Cynthia Butler-McIntyre,   Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook, Honorary Delta Sigma Theta member.

White House Staff in attendance: Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor to the President / Heather Foster, Public Engagement Advisor and Director of African American Outreach