DELTA GEMS HOLD END OF YEAR PROGRAM
BY C.S.HOWARD
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s GEMS.
The Bradenton Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presented the Dr. Jeanne L. Noble Delta GEMS Institute’s 2019 Rites of Passage and Awards Banquet on Sunday, May 5th at the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota. GEMS, which stands for Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully – offers a road map for college and career planning through activities that provide opportunities for self-reflection and individual growth. Twentytwo young ladies were recognized for academic excellence, community service and leadership. The class of 2019 held their “rites of passage”, a ceremony of their passage from an important stage in their lives to prepare them for the new roles which they will take on. The class of 2019 were Shanice Bing, Aries Cooper, Mercy Deveaux, Eriyan Flemming, Fayth Walker and Destiny Womack. Each chose an African name and presented cherished items to their parents. Fayth Walker was recognized as a seven year Delta Academy/ Delta GEMS graduate. Fifteen GEMS maintained at least a 3.10 GPA, and two students, Destiny Womack and Jamiah Johnson, maintained 4.25 and 4.42 GPAs, respectively. The GEMS accumulated a total of 1,519 community service hours. The sisterhood award, chosen by the GEMS, went to Jamiah Johnson and the spirit awards were presented to Ny’Quieria Scriven, Jaylah Faith Deveaux, Shanice Bing and Jamiah Johnson. Leadership awards were presented to LaShayla Thorne, Destiny Womack and Amara Bailey. Delta Sigma Theta was founded in 1913 on the campus of Howard University to promote academic excellence; to provide scholarships; to provide support to the underserved; to educate and stimulate participation in the establishment of positive public policy; and to highlight issues and provide solutions for problems in communities. The Gems committee members are Angelia Gilley and Dr. Gretta Sancho, co-chairs, Dr. Deangelis BrandonHendriex, Dr. Madge Potts-Williams, Gwen Sermon, Donna Timmons, Dr. Tasha Ward and Peggy Wiggins. Dwana Washington is sorority president.
