Sigma Gamma Rho History and Programs

Vocabulary flashcards covering the founding, notable figures, affiliate programs, and national initiatives of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Founding Date and Location of SGRho

Founded in 1922 at Butler University by seven educators; the only NPHC sorority founded at a predominantly White institution.

Original Professional Identity of SGRho

Started as a professional organization for teachers before becoming an incorporated national collegiate sorority on December 30, 1929.

The Seven Founders

Mary Lou Allison Gardner Little, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson, Vivian Irene White Marbury, Bessie Mae Downey Rhoades Martin, Cubena McClure, Hattie Mae Annette Dulin Redford, and Dorothy Hanley Whiteside.

Cubena McClure

A talented artist among the founders who helped design the SGRho pin.

Mary Lou Allison Loving Cup Award

Presented at each Boule to the chapter reporting the most successful program, named after founder Mary Lou Allison Gardner Little.

Project Reassurance

SGRho's signature international service program that evolved from teen pregnancy support into a broader family health and prevention initiative (H3).

Rhosebuds Program

An affiliate program for girls ages 8-11 focused on developing confidence, leadership, character, and service.

Rhoer Club

A teenage affiliate group for girls ages 12-18 providing educational enrichment, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.

Philo Affiliate History

An auxiliary for women who are not Greek-letter members to work alongside SGRho; approved as a National Affiliate in 1976.

Operation BigBookBag

A program established by 18th International Grand Basileus LaRona J. Morris to provide educational supplies to at-risk youth.

Swim 1922 Program

A partnership with USA Swimming providing swimming instruction and water safety education to address racial disparities in swimming.

Project CRADLE Care

An initiative focusing on Black maternal and infant health disparities, conducted in collaboration with the March of Dimes.

Women's Wellness Initiative

Targets women's health issues (like heart health and breast cancer) and works to increase African American women's representation in health studies.

Operation BigVote

Encourages civic participation, voter engagement, and citizenship as part of SGRho's civic empowerment tradition.

Butler University Centennial Recognition

Butler University awarded the seven founders posthumous honorary degrees on May 6, 2022, for SGRho's centennial.

Hattie Mcdaniel

First Black person to win an Academy Award in 1939 (notable member).

Secret Vault at Butler University

The Sigma Gamma Rho 100th Anniversary Time Capsule, preserved at Butler University. Created during the Sorority's 2022 Centennial and closed until 2047 when Sigma Gamma Rho celebrates its 125th anniversary, preserving artifacts, memorabilia, clothing, letters, and regional items.

Robert Lee Brokenburr

A prominent Black Indianapolis attorney, legislator, and civil-rights leader who served as the founders' legal adviser and filed the incorporation papers in December 1922.

Social Environment around Butler at SGRho's Founding

The Ku Klux Klan had significant power and influence in Indiana, and Indiana's Grand Dragon lived across the street from Butler's campus.