About The Ithaca Alumnae Chapter of DST
Chapter History
On February 2, 1980, in St. James AME Zion Church, Ithaca Alumnae Chapter was chartered by the National Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Rev. W. Pender III, St. James’ pastor gave the Welcome, Soror C. Armstead, Delta’s Eastern Regional Director, was guest speaker and the late Mr. James Gibbs gave the Community’s Response. The sixteen chapter founders began Ithaca Alumnae Chapter with a solemn pledge to foster high ideals in the moral, social and intellectual like of the community. The chapter began its commitment to service at St. James AME Zion Church, and we remain dedicated to serving the Ithaca, NY; Tri-County- Elmira, Corning, & Horeseheads; and Cortland, NY areas.
ITHACA ALUMNAE CHAPTER CHARTER MEMBERS
Myrtle Bell, N. Yolanda Burwell, Earlene Carr, Eloise Curry, Otelia Duboise, Ida Futch, Dorothy Garner, Shirley Harrell, Joycelyn Hart, Mary Knox, Shiriki Kumanyika, Violet McGirth, Vashti Peagler, Marjorie Penalver, Eleanor Rice, Ernestine Walker
Presidents Address
Welcome to All!
It is my heartfelt pleasure to welcome you to the official website of the Ithaca Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. We are so glad you are here and invite you to explore the programs, events, and initiatives that reflect our commitment to service, scholarship, and sisterhood.
Ithaca Alumnae Chapter is small but mighty. Our chapter is comprised of dedicated women from diverse backgrounds and professions who are united by the Sorority’s core values of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action. Our strength lies not in numbers alone, but in purpose, passion, and impact.
For over 45 years, we have proudly partnered with local organizations to support and uplift the Ithaca community. Guided by Delta Sigma Theta’s Five Point Programmatic Thrust, our chapter remains intentional in creating meaningful programs that respond to community needs while honoring the vision and legacy of our 22 Founders.
Through the continued support of our community and successful fundraising efforts, we invest in educational opportunities, service initiatives, and programs that empower those we serve. We take great pride in making a meaningful local impact while advancing the Sorority’s broader mission.
If you are interested in partnering with us or learning more about our work, I welcome the opportunity to connect. Thank you for visiting our website. We look forward to building relationships and working together in service.
Dr. Tracy Hudson
President, Ithaca Alumnae Chapter
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Chapter Officers
1st Vice President
Recording Secretary
1st Vice President
Debbie Beausejour
Treasurer
Recording Secretary
1st Vice President
Kelly Kirby
Recording Secretary
Recording Secretary
Recording Secretary
Zenobia Lee-Nelson
Financial Secretary
Financial Secretary
Recording Secretary
Malinda B. Smith
Audit Chair
Financial Secretary
Audit Chair
Gwen Bain
