Thirteen (13) dedicated and outstanding members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. met to formulate ideas and reasons for establishing a chapter in Bermuda. The Charter Members exemplified high ideals and commitment to the Sorority, in addition to their records of public service and their outstanding leadership experiences.
Following a sequence of meetings, Thelma Pettis, South Atlantic Regional Director, came to Bermuda to assist members to finalize the chartering process. It was unanimously voted that Myrna Phillips serve as first President of the new chapter, with all of the Charter Members serving as first officers. Thus, on June 9, 1989, the Bermuda Alumnae Chapter was chartered.
These 13 women deemed it necessary to begin working immediately to combat the economic and social restraints of that era. The impact of BAC during the early 90s was rooted in projects that focused on education and social action. Some of those projects included the Sickle Cell Awareness Health Fair, providing meals to the needy in Victoria Park, and donating books to local schools and the Bermuda Youth Library.
The local membership consists of women who are accountants, artists, attorneys, bankers, doctors, educators, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, etc. Some of the notable programs of the chapter include the Children’s Reading Festival, Delta GEMS (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully) and the Crimson & Cream Secret Santa. Having obtained registered charity status (#596) in 2001, the Bermuda Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta remains dedicated to Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action and strives toward making a positive influence in the lives of those in Bermuda through volunteer advocacy and public service.
Charter Members
(Seated) Connie Cann Williams, Myrna Phillips – President, Thelma Pettis – Regional Director, Karen Ratteray Johnson.
(Standing) Sharon Daniels Michael, Esther Richards Singh, Cheri Coleman Daniels, Lisa Cooke Joynes, Carol Ross DeSilva, Renee Foggo Paynter, Aderonkè Bademosi Wilson, Wendy Bassett, and Tammy Richardson.
(Missing from photo) Andrea Daniels.