Sigma Gamma Rho held its’ first step show at ABAC on Nov. 8. Stepping, also known as step dancing, is where clapping, footsteps and speaking combine to form a rhythm. The step show took place in Gressette Gym and was performed by the regional undergraduates of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.
Step shows are very important in Black Greek life. “Stepping is something that our organization uses to express ourselves. Our style and techniques of stepping are something that sets us apart from the other sororities,” member Jireh Jones said, “It’s also an interesting way to present our history to others, and it’s very fun to do.”
The step show not only was Sigma Gamma Rho’s first public event at ABAC but also served as an introduction to the new members.
The four new members of ABAC’s chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho are Tamara Stubbs, Jhonelle Chambers, Brittney Burks and Jireh Jones. Mrs. Charlotte Woods is the ABAC Campus Advisor and Sharon Daniels is the undergraduate advisor for ABAC’s chapter. The new members were introduced as the first Divine 9 Organization at ABAC.
Each of the members was excited but also felt the pressure of being the first here on campus.
Jones explained, “Being the first divine nine Greek organization on campus means that we have to build our legacy. The legacy started with the step show. I was very nervous and anxious only because I wanted our legacy to mean something. For instance, if our show did not go well, then that would be our legacy. So, we all worked very hard to make sure that the show went smoothly.”
The show began with the newest members stepping in masks.
Through spoken word and dance, the members recited Sigma Gamma Rho’s slogan, official colors (royal blue and gold) as well as the official mascot (poodle). After they performed as a group, each member took off their mask to formally introduce themselves to the cheering crowds.
Although it’s one of the newest sororities on campus, Sigma Gamma Rho proved it has a strong community and history behind it. Family, friends as well as past and present members from neighboring schools, came out to support the step show.
After the step show concluded, the new members were welcomed and congratulated. The hard work of the newest chapter showed. Chambers remarked that the show was stressful but great. “A lot of friends and family came out and that support helped.”
Sigma Gamma Rho’s next event will be a canned goods food drive from Nov. 19-21.
All can goods and non-perishable items will be donated to the ABAC Food Pantry. Sigma Gamma Rho is also hosting a meet and greet on Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Hall multipurpose room.
Jones encourages those on campus to come. “This will give the ladies here at ABAC the opportunity to come and meet us and gain more knowledge about our great sorority.”
