Sigma Gamma Rho Pledges $2 Million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by 2028

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., issued a press release today announcing a new commitment to raise $2 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by 2028. The pledge follows the sorority’s recent achievement of being the first NPHC sorority to raise and donate $1 million to St. Jude, supporting efforts to improve survival rates for children facing diseases like cancer and sickle cell.

The announcement comes after the sorority’s 60th International Biennial Boule in Houston, Texas, where Marica T. Harris was elected as the new International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho. With a background in women’s empowerment, youth development, political advocacy, and leadership, Harris will oversee the fundraising campaign for St. Jude.

“Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is proud to further support the incredible work of St. Jude,” International Grand Basileus Harris said, expressing pride in the sorority’s commitment to advancing survival rates for children with catastrophic illnesses. “The progress St. Jude has made for sickle cell patients is inspiring and we look forward to helping continue those advances. We recognize and support how St. Jude embodies our motto, ‘Greater Service, Greater Progress,’ for children everywhere. Its internationally impactful work is deeply meaningful to us and our sorors, who aim to help women and their families reach their full potential.”

Richard C. Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising arm of St. Jude, acknowledged the sorority’s dedication. “Sigma Gamma Rho made history last year as the first sorority in the National Pan-Hellenic Council to raise $1 million for the kids of St. Jude and has now committed to doubling that impact in the years ahead,” Shadyac said. “The members of Sigma Gamma Rho are helping save the lives of children across the globe.”

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has been a leader in researching and improving care for children with cancer, sickle cell disease, and other serious illnesses for over 60 years. According to the press release, donations from groups like Sigma Gamma Rho help ensure that families never receive bills for treatment, travel, housing, or food while their children are in care.