Chapter History

Beta Kappa, the original chapter, was chartered on October 26, 1937 in Newport News, VA. It became the Gamma Iota Sigma Chapter on February 5, 1947. The Charter members were Marian Palmer Capps, Clara Pannell, Ethel Pannell, Sallie Watkins Roberts, Dorothy Roles Watkins, Olivia Williamson, and Christine Jefferson Haynes. In 1960 the Gamma Iota Sigma Chapter became The Newport News Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Since its inception, the chapter has been a constant source of service and support to the residents of Newport News, Hampton, and communities southeast of Williamsburg. Today the chapter has over 170 dedicated members.

The Newport News Alumnae Chapter is dedicated to the provision of public service to the residents of the community.  The chapter’s programs and projects are designed to address the needs, concerns and issues identified within the community. 

Chapter Programs and Projects include:  Carver Reading program, Community Free Clinic, Delta Academy, Delta GEMS, EMBODI, Sickle Cell Anemia, St. Augustine Church Feeding, Thanksgiving & Christmas Baskets, United Negro College Fund and United Way, and Voter Registration Drive just to name a few.  In addition, over $30,000 in scholarships are given each year to qualifying college bound Newport News high school seniors. Those deserving recipients are recognized at the Annual May Week Scholarship Luncheon. Click here for more information.