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the women of sigma gamma rho
Founded on November 12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was established by seven visionary educators committed to scholarship, sisterhood, and service.
What began as a sisterhood of educators has grown into an international organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities through its guiding principle, Greater Service, Greater Progress. Today, the Sorority continues to champion education, leadership, health, and opportunities for women and girls around the world.
Our Sorority
OUR CHAPTER
Chartered in Berkeley on November 30, 1947, the Beta Theta Sigma Alumnae Chapter proudly serves communities throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Our members are women of purpose who bring the Sorority's commitment to Greater Service, Greater Progress into the communities where we live, work, and lead.
We are a chapter of action. Our sisterhood is measured not by what we announce, but by what we accomplish—students supported, families empowered, communities strengthened, and opportunities created.
What Guides Us
Sisterhood
Cultivating genuine, lasting relationships among women united by purpose, mutual support, and a commitment to service.
Scholarship
Advancing educational opportunities and helping students overcome barriers to academic achievement.
Service
Addressing community needs through meaningful, hands-on engagement and lasting partnerships throughout the Bay Area.
Leadership
Empowering women and young people to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose.
Our Story
Chartered November 30, 1947
Berkeley, California
On November 30, 1947, the Beta Theta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was chartered in Berkeley, California, establishing the Sorority's first chapter in Northern California and beginning a legacy of sisterhood, scholarship, and service.
Through the pioneering efforts of Soror Evelyn Coleman (Draper) and Soror Marie Spann (Ivey), ten visionary women came together to establish a chapter that would create opportunities, strengthen communities, and carry the ideals of Greater Service, Greater Progress into the San Francisco Bay Area.
Their undertaking was both bold and purposeful. At a time when opportunities for Black women were limited by systemic barriers, these women laid a foundation rooted in education, leadership, and service. Nearly eight decades later, their vision continues to guide the work of Beta Theta Sigma.
Our Charter Members
Ten visionary women laid the foundation for Beta Theta Sigma:
Soror Gladys Boone
​Soror Ceola A. Coleman
Soror Evelyn Coleman
Soror Gertrude Barrett Davis
Soror Vallie Doyle (Boswell)
Soror Ann King
Soror Illistine Smith
Soror Marie Spann (Ivey)
Soror Rebecca Thomas (Brown)
Soror Vivian Vincent
The Legacy Continues
Nearly eight decades after its founding, Beta Theta Sigma continues to honor the vision of our charter members through purposeful leadership, meaningful service, and an unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. Each generation builds upon the foundation laid before it, ensuring that our legacy is not simply remembered, but carried forward.
Our legacy began in 1947. Our service continues today.
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