Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on January 13, 1913, by 22 collegiate women at Howard University to promote academic excellence and provide assistance to those in need. The Founders of Delta Sigma Theta envisioned an organization committed to sisterhood, scholarship, service, and addressing the social issues of the time. Since its founding, Delta Sigma Theta has become one of the preeminent service-based sororities, with more than 350,000 initiated members and over 1,050 chartered chapters worldwide.
As a sisterhood comprised primarily of Black, college-educated women, the Sorority seriously considers the issues impacting the Black community and boldly confronts the challenges of African Americans and, hence, all Americans. Over the years, a wide range of programs addressing education, health, international development, and the strengthening of African American families have evolved. The major programs of the Sorority are based upon the Five-Point Programmatic Thrust: economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health, and political awareness and involvement. For more information on the history and other areas of interest of this dynamic organization, visit the official website of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Chapter History
The San Antonio Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was chartered on August 16, 1933 as the Psi Sigma Chapter, marking a historic milestone in the growth of Delta Sigma Theta in Texas. The chapter’s establishment was spearheaded by Founder Myra L. Davis Hemmings, a distinguished educator and member of the Alpha Chapter, who was teaching English in San Antonio at the time. Her vision and leadership brought Delta’s commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action to the San Antonio community.
The charter members of Psi Sigma Chapter were:
- Founder Myra Davis Hemmings
- Ruth Ann Bellinger
- Inez Bumbrey
- Vessie Hill Brown
- Bella Holley Cameron
- Irene Trulove Holley
- Lillian Thompson
- Silicia Ware Weston
- Bernice Whitfield
- Arlyne Bumbrey Wyatt
In addition to their leadership in chartering the chapter, Bella H. Cameron, Irene T. Holley, and Lillian Thompson became the first initiates of Psi Sigma Chapter, symbolizing the chapter’s early growth and commitment to expanding Delta’s reach in the community.
From its inception, Psi Sigma—renamed the San Antonio Alumnae Chapter in 1958—has remained steadfast in advancing Delta’s mission through impactful public service programs, educational initiatives, and advocacy efforts. For over nine decades, the chapter has been a beacon of leadership and service in San Antonio, honoring the legacy of its founders while addressing the evolving needs of the community.
