Delta Sigma Theta: The 25 Most Famous Members
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The Ultimate Guide on the 25 Most Famous Members of Delta Sigma Theta (and Their Achievements)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., founded on January 13, 1913, by 22 dynamic women at Howard University, is one of the largest and most impactful African American sororities in the world. Since its inception, Delta Sigma Theta (DST) has stood for sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action. Throughout the decades, its members have blazed trails across all sectors—from politics and entertainment to education and activism.
In this guide, we’ll celebrate 25 of the most iconic and influential members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., highlighting their incredible achievements and impact on society.
1. Shirley Chisholm
Achievement: First Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress (1968), and first Black woman to seek a major party nomination for President of the United States (1972).
Shirley Chisholm’s legacy as a political pioneer is legendary. A Brooklyn native, Chisholm embodied courage, intelligence, and integrity. Her motto, “Unbought and Unbossed,” symbolized her fearless independence in American politics.
2. Barbara Jordan
Achievement: First Southern African-American woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and a pivotal figure during the Nixon impeachment hearings.
A master orator and legal mind, Jordan was a powerful voice for the Constitution and civil rights. Her 1976 DNC keynote speech remains one of the most lauded in American history.
3. Dorothy Height
Achievement: President of the National Council of Negro Women for 40 years and a major figure in the Civil Rights Movement.
Dorothy Height was often referred to as the “godmother of the women’s rights movement.” She worked side-by-side with Dr. King, Whitney Young, and other civil rights leaders while advocating for racial and gender equality.
4. Angela Bassett
Achievement: Academy Award-nominated actress known for iconic roles in “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “Black Panther,” and more.
Bassett is not only a powerhouse in Hollywood but also an inspiring figure for Black women, known for portraying strong, complex characters and advocating for representation in film.
5. Aretha Franklin
Achievement: The “Queen of Soul,” winner of 18 Grammy Awards, and the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Aretha Franklin’s voice was the soundtrack of a generation. Her membership in DST reflected her commitment to empowering Black communities through both art and activism.
6. Keisha Lance Bottoms
Achievement: 60th Mayor of Atlanta and one of the most prominent mayors in the country during the 2020 protests and COVID-19 pandemic.
Bottoms demonstrated grace and firm leadership in turbulent times. Her journey from city councilwoman to mayor is a testament to dedication and service.
7. Patricia Roberts Harris
Achievement: First African-American woman to serve in the U.S. Cabinet and to lead a law school.
Harris served under President Jimmy Carter as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and later as Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, breaking barriers at every turn.
8. Lena Horne
Achievement: Legendary singer, actress, and civil rights activist who broke racial barriers in Hollywood.
Lena Horne was among the first African-American actresses to sign a long-term contract with a major studio and used her fame to fight segregation and racism.
9. Natalie Cole
Achievement: Grammy Award-winning singer, known for her classic “Unforgettable” duet with her father, Nat King Cole.
Natalie Cole's success carried her father's legacy while establishing her own powerful presence in music, entertainment, and culture.
10. Dr. Alexa Canady
Achievement: First African-American female neurosurgeon in the United States.
Dr. Canady’s achievements in the medical field are nothing short of extraordinary. She became chief of neurosurgery at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan, serving as a pioneer in medicine and role model for women in STEM.
11. Cicely Tyson
Achievement: Emmy Award-winning actress, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, and revered for portraying dignified, strong Black women.
Cicely Tyson’s acting career spanned decades, breaking stereotypes and leaving a lasting legacy on stage and screen. She inspired countless women to embrace their authenticity.
12. Jillian “JJ” Simmons
Achievement: Radio personality, author, and founder of JJ’s I'm Me Foundation, which promotes self-love among young girls.
JJ is a vibrant media voice and motivational figure, empowering women and girls through storytelling, mentoring, and positivity.
13. Dr. Paulette C. Walker
Achievement: 25th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and renowned educator.
Dr. Walker’s leadership helped drive impactful community programs focused on education, health, and public service across the globe.
14. Nikki Giovanni
Achievement: Renowned poet, writer, and activist whose work has influenced generations.
One of America’s most celebrated literary voices, Giovanni used poetry to challenge injustice, celebrate Black culture, and uplift the human spirit.
15. Kimberly Clarice Aiken
Achievement: Miss America 1994 and founder of the Kimberly Aiken Foundation.
Aiken was only 18 when she won the Miss America crown. She later turned her platform into a lifelong mission of service and advocacy for youth homelessness and empowerment.
16. Keshia Knight Pulliam
Achievement: Emmy-nominated actress known for her role as Rudy Huxtable on The Cosby Show and philanthropist.
Pulliam has continued to work in television while focusing on philanthropy and initiatives to empower young women and girls through her foundation, Kamp Kizzy.
17. Carol Moseley Braun
Achievement: First Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate and former U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand.
Her election to the Senate in 1992 was a seismic moment in American politics, breaking ground for women and minorities at the highest levels of government.
18. Vashti Murphy McKenzie
Achievement: First female bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church.
McKenzie is a spiritual trailblazer, faith leader, and advocate for social justice. She embodies the DST values of service and spiritual growth.
19. Suzette Charles
Achievement: Miss America 1984 and accomplished singer and entertainer.
Suzette Charles, who assumed the Miss America title after Vanessa Williams resigned, used her visibility to champion the arts and education.
20. Marcia Fudge
Achievement: U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.
Fudge has a long history of public service, fighting for fair housing, voting rights, and social equity for underserved communities.
21. Cheryl Boone Isaacs
Achievement: Former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—the first African-American to hold the position.
Boone Isaacs played a critical role in advancing diversity in the film industry, helping spark reforms like the #OscarsSoWhite movement.
22. Frances Cress Welsing
Achievement: Psychiatrist and author of The Isis Papers, known for her theories on racism and African-American psychology.
Dr. Welsing brought Afrocentric perspectives to psychiatry, challenging mainstream narratives and offering deep cultural insight.
23. T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh
Achievement: Actress, singer, and writer best known for roles on In Living Color and That's So Raven.
Keymáh uses her art and platform to promote cultural awareness and Black pride, reflecting the Delta spirit in the performing arts.
24. April Ryan
Achievement: Veteran White House correspondent, CNN political analyst, and author.
April Ryan has covered the White House since the Clinton administration and is one of the few African-American journalists with such tenure. Known for her fearless questioning and commitment to truth, she represents Delta Sigma Theta’s legacy of social and political awareness. Ryan’s work has been instrumental in bringing issues affecting marginalized communities to the forefront of national discourse.
25. Dr. Thelma T. Daley
Achievement: Former National President of Delta Sigma Theta and trailblazing educator and counselor.
Dr. Daley’s legacy includes decades of work in educational leadership, mental health advocacy, and global service initiatives empowering women and youth.
Final Thoughts: Famous Delta Sigma Theta Sisters
The illustrious women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. have made monumental contributions across a vast array of disciplines. Whether in politics, education, arts, medicine, or civil rights, they have shattered ceilings, uplifted communities, and inspired generations.
Their collective story is not only the story of a sorority—but a story of the Black woman’s fight for excellence, representation, and justice. Through their achievements, the red and white torch of Delta burns brighter than ever, lighting the way for tomorrow’s leaders.
Let their examples remind us that sisterhood is powerful, service is noble, and achievement knows no bounds when rooted in purpose.
Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.
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