By: Rev. Angela Lee Price
The oldest historically black college in the state, Simmons College of Kentucky is returning to her original campus on June 28th after 77 years of exile. It is indeed a momentous occasion not only for Simmons College of Kentucky but also for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Xi chapter, the chapter through which I pledged at the University of Louisville. (
In the photo on the left, Xi chapter advisors Beth McAlpine and Wanda Carson posed with me at Louisville Alumnae Chapter's Mahogany Gala IV in 2003. )
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is rejoicing in her heritage and blessing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for His grace and mercy in bestowing upon our sorority another history-making role as a black Greek organization in Kentucky. Deltas from Xi chapter, Louisville Alumnae Chapter, St. Stephen Church, and various chapters within the state and region will participate in the Simmons motorcade and parade and step briefly prior to the Jonathan Butler concert at 6:45 p.m. Thursday. Please celebrate with us and be sure to bring a chair! In the event of rain, the concert will be moved to St. Stephen Church.
Xi chapter sorors posed at Delta Sigma Theta Louisville Alumnae Chapter's Rainbow Brunch in 2004. That's me in the red in the back. Don't hate us because we're beautiful! Celebrate with us on June 28th!From the Xi chapter website...
Xi Chapter is the oldest chapter of any Greek organization in the state of Kentucky. Xi Chapter was chartered on April 15, 1922, in Louisville, Kentucky at Simmons College of Kentucky. Among the charter members were:
Soror Alzada Singleton (organizer of Xi Chapter)
Soror Eunice Singleton
Soror Nannie G. Board
Soror Annie Louise Singleton Newhouse
In 1931, the University of Louisville purchased Simmons University from the National Baptist Convention and renamed the school Louisville Municipal. Along with the purchase, Xi chapter then became a part of the University of Louisville. Because of Jim Crowe laws, African Americans were not allowed to attend classes with the UofL's Caucasian students. Therefore, UofL operated in two locations, the main, and white's only campus, at Belknap, and the black campus at Louisville Municipal. The campuses were later combined in 1951. Xi chapter initiates held and continue to hold leadership positions in the community.
Xi chapter has made a commitment to uphold the tradition of excellence as set forth by the founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the charter members of the Mighty Xi Chapter.
Remember, it is not Mohammad, Buddha, Confucius, nor New Age that saves. Jesus saves!