NEW ORLEANS - eTradeWire -- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., an international collegiate and community service organization, proudly welcomed four trailblazing women as honorary members during its signature Essence of Sisterhood Brunch held during the 2025 Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans.

This year's brunch, attended by Sorors, affiliates and guests, celebrated the enduring power of sisterhood, service, and scholarship. The 2025 honorary inductees include influential figures from the worlds of entertainment, sports, education, and activism, each recognized for their enduring commitment to empowering communities and advancing social change. Sigma Gamma Rho inducted the following distinguished women as honorary members:

• Maui Bigelow – Social media maven, creator, and influencer whose digital platforms amplify Black women's voices and stories.
• Dr. Kimberly Leary – Harvard associate professor and transformation leader known for her scholarship, mentorship, and work at the intersection of psychology and policy.
• Tasha Page-Lockhart – Stellar Award-winning gospel recording artist celebrated for her inspiring music and advocacy.
• Sheryl Swoopes – WNBA legend, Olympian, and Hall of Famer whose trailblazing career paved the way for generations of athletes.

"These phenomenal women embody excellence, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to empowering others," said Miranda Moore, First Grand Anti-Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. "We are honored to welcome them into our sisterhood and celebrate the unique light they each bring to our legacy."

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The Essence of Sisterhood Brunch has become a beloved tradition to honor women whose work transforms communities locally and globally.

About Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was founded on November 12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana by seven young educators. The sorority has grown to include more than 100,000 members with over 500 chapters in the United States, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Germany, South Korea, U.S. Virgin Islands, and the United Arab Emirates. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is committed to enhance the quality of life for women and their families in the U.S. and globally through community service, civil, and social action. The sorority's slogan, "Greater Service, Greater Progress," represents its mission to promote sisterhood, leadership development, and education.

For additional information and/or press inquiries please contact:

Jamila Walker

Marketing and Communications Manager

communicationsmanager@sgrho1922.org

Jennifer Grant-Buggs

Public Relations Lead

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated

publicrelations@sgrho1922.org