DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY

National President, Dr. Louise A. Rice

Dear Sorors and Friends of Delta,

As we steadfastly progress to finalize plans for the incoming Delta year, I am very excited and enthusiastic about what we will accomplish in our global communities. Sharing information, keeping the communication portals open, and providing consistent service in our communities will indeed be essential to fulfilling our awesome agenda. Therefore, I sincerely say, “Welcome, sorors and friends of Delta, to the Sorority's website” —an extremely important venue for making pertinent information accessible to all members of our Sisterhood, as well as to our dedicated supporters.

There is a very simple, yet true expression that states, “Information is power,” and that is certainly my intent—to empower individual sorors, chapters, and the Delta leadership with the information and resources needed to conduct effectively the business of the Sorority and to provide exceptional volunteer service. The use of technology and the Delta website will assist us tremendously in disseminating news and information. You are invited to visit our website often. There are historical items that we want to share, inspirational notes, and updates from national officers and chairpersons that will also be shared. Our calendar of events will be broadened to reflect what the 950-plus Delta chapters are sponsoring—giving a look at the “big picture” of what local chapters are making happen throughout the world via their programs and activities.

I encourage everyone to keep Social Action as a top priority agenda item, especially, the 2004 General Election. We must emphasize the importance of voting to our families, our neighbors, and all persons in our communities. Now is the time to intensify efforts in voter education and voter registration . We must be vigilant in monitoring and educating ourselves and others in our communities on the issues that will certainly have a long lasting impact not only on our lives, but also the lives of future generations. Chapters are encouraged to sponsor community forums, provide transportation to the polls, and serve as poll watchers and in other volunteer positions. We must all attend community forums, ask candidates the “hard questions” and be vigilant in monitoring the elections process on all levels of government. Most importantly, “WE CANNOT AFFORD TO IGNORE ELECTION 2004.” VOTE!

This is a great time in Delta. It is a time for us to be a catalyst for change in our nation. There are serious matters challenging African American families on which we must focus. The issues that I have identified for the Sorority's national agenda (external) encompass all aspects of Delta's Five-Point Program Thrust:

• Unequal educational opportunities

• A lack of political activism at all levels

• Unemployment issues and economic prosperity

• Health and health care challenges

• Meaningful access to technology—closing The Digital Divide

• Increased understanding and knowledge of international affairs

I cannot close this, my first official letter on our website, without saying thank you, my dearly beloved sisters, for placing your faith in me by electing me as the 23rd National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I am very grateful and honored that you chose me to serve you.

It's time to get busy! As you uphold your commitment to Delta, remember that we are a Sisterhood Devoted to Scholarship and Service! Best wishes for a stellar 2004-05 Sorority year.

Sincere regards,
Louise A. Rice, Ph.D.
National President