Delta Sigma Theta Celebrates 50 Years at Duke University
The Lambda Omega Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. marked a powerful milestone last month. More than 250 alumni, students, and guests gathered at Duke University to honor the chapter’s 50th anniversary.
Founded on April 5, 1975, this sorority was the first Black sorority at Duke. Eight bold young women created a space for sisterhood, service, and leadership at a time when Black students were still new to the university. Their legacy now spans five decades.
A Weekend of Connection and Celebration
The celebration weekend brought together generations of Delta women. It kicked off on April 4 with a career panel connecting current students and alumnae. That evening, a lively welcome cookout set the tone for a weekend filled with pride and reflection.
The biggest highlight was a sold-out gala at the Durham Hilton, held exactly 50 years after the chapter’s founding. Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams issued a special proclamation naming April 5 as “Lambda Omega Day,” receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.
Keynote by Trailblazing Senator Angela Alsobrooks
Another powerful moment came when Angela Alsobrooks, a 1993 Duke graduate and member of the chapter, took the stage. Alsobrooks, now the first Black U.S. Senator from Maryland and the third Black woman ever elected to the U.S. Senate, served as the keynote speaker.
She spoke of perseverance, leadership, and the importance of community. Her words struck a chord with everyone in the room, especially those aware of how far the chapter and its members have come.
A Legacy of Service, Leadership, and Uplifting Communities
Lambda Omega’s 50th anniversary was more than a party — it was a statement. Chapter member Noelle Ghoram, a 2014 graduate, noted how the event reflected the group’s ongoing strength. “We’re thriving,” she shared. “That was a recurring theme at the celebration.”
Delta Sigma Theta is part of the “Divine Nine,” a group of historically Black Greek letter organizations. There are currently seven of these groups at Duke, but Lambda Omega paved the way for many of them.
Honoring the Past and Building the Future
The anniversary wrapped up with a memorable group photo on the steps of Duke Chapel and a heartfelt goodbye reception. It wasn’t just about looking back — it was about reaffirming the chapter’s promise to uplift and lead for years to come.
Nichole Ogojiaku, a 2013 Duke alumna and chapter member, summed it up best: “It was a tribute to the trailblazing Black women at Duke and a reaffirmation of the chapter’s ongoing impact on communities across the nation.”
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