On Wednesday, Hillsborough County took a moment to celebrate and acknowledge the community contributions of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The county's Board of County Commissioners recognized the sorority during their meeting, where they announced the declaration on Wednesday, as "The Nineteenth Annual Delta Day." This proclamation was made to honor the tireless work of the sorority's members, particularly from local alumnae and collegiate chapters in Tampa, as per Hillsborough County.
With community service and support at the forefront of their mission, the two alumnae chapters, Tampa Alumnae and Tampa Metropolitan Alumnae, as well as Kappa Iota and Tau Iota collegiate chapters from the University of South Florida, and the University of Tampa respectively have made significant impacts within Hillsborough County. Karen Padgett Beard, President of Tampa Alumnae Chapter, was present to receive this special recognition from the board. "We are so proud to be able to be change agents to make…Hillsborough County, where we live, a better place for everyone," Beard said, according to a statement obtained by the Hillsborough County's newsroom.
The sorority, with its rich history of fostering education, activism, and professional excellence amongst African American women, has been a pillar in the community, working on various projects ranging from educational programs to health initiatives. This day was not only a nod to the sorority's current efforts but also a reflection of their longstanding commitment to societal enrichment and empowerment at a local level.
Moreover, alongside the honor to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the Board posthumously presented the Ellsworth G. Simmons Good Government Award to Louis G. Betz Jr., a significant personality who passed away earlier in January, His family accepted the award on his behalf.
