Elon's Omicron Iota chapter raised a total of $43,868 from 218 donors for its 40th anniversary.
Over 60 sorors of Omicron Iota’s chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. reunited over the 2021 Homecoming and Reunion weekend to celebrate their 40th anniversary and the conclusion of their fundraising initiative.
On May 9, 1981, 14 women came together to launch the Omicron Iota at Elon, making it the first African American Greek Letter organization on campus. Since then, the chapter has been focused on furthering Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s mission of a commitment to public service with a focus on the Black community and the development of its members.
To celebrate their 40th anniversary for the entire year of 2021, the Omicron Iota reunion committee launched a fundraising initiative on Jan. 1. The campaign – named “RED40” after the chapter’s signature color and anniversary year – had a goal of raising $40,000 by Homecoming & Reunion Weekend, at a rate of $4,000 per month. They surpassed their goal by raising a total of $43,868 from 218 donors.
“Omicron Iota’s fundraising campaign originated from the sheer desire to invest in our sisterhood and the black collegiate community,” said Brittany Carroll ’11. “Through intention and devotion to the sisterhood, the alumnae of Omicron Iota have shown our younger sisters that when we stand united, we can accomplish great things.”
The money raised will be split evenly, with half going to the Elon Black Alumni Scholarship fund and the other half to the Delta Sigma Theta undergraduate chapter gift fund at Elon. These designations were voted for by the Omicron Iota sisters. The generous gifts made by sorors, friends and family of the chapter will make a direct impact on many students in the Black community in addition to helping current and future Delta Sigma Theta sorors at Elon. All gifts to the RED40 initiative will also count toward the Elon LEADS Campaign, the university’s comprehensive $250 million fundraising campaign.
“Elon University and Omicron Iota have given each of us so much over the years. The best way to pay tribute is to pay it forward,” said Nneka Enurah ’11. “This gift, commemorating 40 years of [sisterhood], scholarship and service, will make a direct impact on future Black Alumni Scholarship recipients in addition to helping current and future Delta Sigma Theta sisters at Elon.”
Elon’s Office of Annual Giving assisted the sorority with their efforts through logistical support, donor and dollar updates and fundraising guidance while the office of Alumni Engagement provided marketing and event support during Homecoming weekend.
“The sorors of the Omicron Iota chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. raised a truly impactful amount of money,” said Assistant Vice President for University Advancement, Brian Feeley ’03. “It has been a pleasure to support the reunion committee in their remarkable fundraising efforts. We are so thankful for all those who contributed.”
With signature Elon events, such as Rock the Block and the all-alumni tailgate, along with several Omicron Iota events, there were many opportunities to celebrate during Homecoming weekend. Sorors had the opportunity to release their creative energy and reunite with each other during the Friday evening Omicron Iota Paint and Sip. The chapter’s marquee event came on Saturday evening as over 100 individuals gathered in the Lakeside Meeting Room for a ruby affair. The cocktail hour and dinner event included a three-course meal, live music and countless memories shared.
“We haven’t been able to gather in this way in such a long time, so it was even more meaningful to hug a soror and to sing and dance together,” said Kari Taylor ‘09. “We also had a blast seeing each other all dressed up for our formal banquet.”
Sorors, friends and family of Delta Sigma Theta’s Omicron Iota chapter can continue to donate to the RED40 campaign online (note RED40 in the other designation box), using Venmo (@ElonGiving) or with a mailed check, through the end of the calendar year.