A fresh and unique sorority catered to women receiving online degrees from reputable colleges and universities is on the rise.
Formed in Nov. 2019 at Strayer University, Sigma Chi Psi Sorority, Inc. strives for excellence in ways similar to other Black sororities: "a trifecta of sisterhood, charity, and lifelong friendships," according to The MinorityEye.
“We're an organization of educated women who are committed to contributing to communities through philanthropic work," their mission statement reads. “We encourage intellectual growth and success by offering networking opportunities, skill-building workshops, 2nd language lessons, retreats, and various charitable events in the hopes of creating an everlasting bond between members and a foundation of lasting friendships."
The co-founders, Hildra Anna Jeanetta Starks and Stephanie Robinson established the non-profit, Greek-lettered organization after realizing how sequestered women feel when not attending in-person classes.
“For some women, attending online classes can be a very isolating experience," Starks said. "These women who are wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters are also often attending to careers and families while bettering themselves through continuing their education online. With all that goes into earning a degree, it’s a shame to lose out on the bonds that come from getting to know your fellow students and the networking opportunities that often arise from those relationships."
Both Starks and Robinson had the vision to allow students to take a break from life's demands by promoting social engagement.
“That is what motivated me to found the sorority. Even though they are attending school virtually, women still deserve to build deep bonds with their classmates, participate in social and charitable events, and band together to harness their collective networking power throughout their careers,” Starks added.
Initially, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the enactment process, but through perseverance and an optimistic outlook, the privately-owned sorority came to life and was federally registered in 2020.
The society personified their vision by choosing pastel colors to represent their sisterhood, ultimately referring to their sisters as “The Beautiful Jades of Sigma Chi Psi.”
“Scholarly jades of unity. We are the women you want to be. The elite that can’t be beaten. Mint, green, lavender, and oh so sweet orange-gold. We are the selected. We will remain bold. We are committing to serving others through the charity work we do. We will genuinely bond with sorors old and new,” artist Egypt English proclaimed in their introductory video.
The introduction of the organization even amassed an outpouring of well-wishes from prominent figures. Celebrities like actor Taye Diggs, singer T-Boz of TLC and R&B singer Mya, offered their support in a Facebook Watch video.
One University of Phoenix sister shared why joining the sorority was a decision she’s proud of and is encouraging others to follow suit.
"I have built long-lasting bonds with my line sisters that I never thought was possible. The intake process is very fun and exciting. You will learn a lot about yourself and your line sisters!" member Toni Marie said.
Robinson conveyed the importance of sisterhood and the impact it could make in online communities.
“As our education system continues to evolve with the world’s technological advancements, more and more people may choose to get their education online, leaving a gap in their social experience,” she said. “We want to continue the many benefits of the sororities and fraternities that have been around for hundreds of years.”
Don’t worry ladies— the sorority has a brotherhood, too. Gamma Sigma Gamma Inc. was established on January 20, 2021, and is accepting applications.
While the organization is dedicated to online universities, they are still open to accepting students attending technical and community colleges.
To learn more about Sigma Chi Psi Sorority, Inc., visit their website.
