06/08/2026
What an incredible and memorable experience for Iota Delta!
This past week, six of our collegiate members had the opportunity to attend the 50th Southwest Regional Conference, marking their very first Regional Conference experience since becoming members of this illustrious sisterhood.
Representing Iota Delta were:
🔺 T’Nesha Burton, Chapter President & Delegate
🔺 Briana Hicks, 2nd Vice President & Voting Delegate
🔺 Zoe Davis, Treasurer
🔺 Sha’Nautica Harris, Assistant Treasurer
🔺 Melia Smith, Internal Audit Chair
🔺 Samaria Webb, Recording Secretary
As a chapter, it was truly rewarding to watch these young women fully embrace every opportunity the conference had to offer. From plenary sessions and leadership trainings to networking opportunities and sisterhood events, they remained engaged, attentive, and eager to learn. Most importantly, they returned home with valuable knowledge, resources, and experiences that they are excited to share with the chapter.
The conference kicked off on Thursday with Collegiate Day, where our collegiates proudly represented their respective institutions while connecting with other collegiates from across the Southwest Region. Later that evening, they enjoyed the Denim & Diamonds Welcome Event, where fellowship and sisterhood were on full display.
Friday was filled with opportunities for learning and connection as they attended Opening Plenary, the Sisterhood Luncheon, and the highly anticipated Crimson Bowl. It was a joy to see them proudly represent Iota Delta in their custom-designed jerseys while enjoying the excitement of the step show and celebrating the rich traditions of our beloved sisterhood.
Saturday provided even more opportunities for growth and development through Memorial Observance, the Social Action Luncheon, and the Closing Gala. Throughout the conference, our delegates embraced their responsibilities with professionalism and dedication. Briana Hicks spent countless hours listening attentively to candidate forums, election procedures, and regional business discussions to ensure she could make informed recommendations and decisions on behalf of the chapter.
They also participated in specialized trainings related to their chapter offices and leadership responsibilities. Zoe Davis and Sha’Nautica Harris attended sessions tailored to Treasurers and Assistant Treasurers, gaining valuable insight into financial management and best practices. Melia Smith and Samaria Webb attended sessions focused on their respective roles as Internal Audit Chair and Recording Secretary, while T’Nesha Burton and Briana Hicks participated in leadership trainings designed specifically for Chapter Presidents and 2nd Vice Presidents. Each of them took full advantage of the opportunity to learn from experienced regional and national leaders and bring those lessons back to strengthen Iota Delta.
One of the most impactful experiences for our Iota Delta collegiates was witnessing and participating in the regional election process. As first-time attendees, they had the opportunity to observe firsthand how elections are conducted at the regional level, gaining a deeper understanding of campaign procedures, voting protocols, parliamentary processes, and the responsibilities associated with electing regional leadership. They were able to witness Delta business in action and participate in a process that helps shape the future of our region. Experiences like these reinforce the importance of informed leadership, active participation, and understanding the organizational structure of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Perhaps the most beautiful part of this entire experience is that these six young women are not only chapter leaders, they are all line sisters. From the Chapter President to the Recording Secretary, each of them shares a unique bond that was formed when they crossed into Delta Land together. Attending the 50th Southwest Regional Conference as line sisters made this milestone even more meaningful, as it was their very first Regional Conference experience since becoming members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
To witness them learn together, grow together, worship together, network together, and proudly represent Iota Delta together was truly special. They experienced firsthand what it means to be a part of something greater than themselves while strengthening the sisterhood that began on their journey into Delta. The memories they created, the lessons they learned, and the relationships they built during this conference will undoubtedly remain with them throughout their Delta journey.
Sunday brought the conference to a close with Ecumenical Service, where Soror Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie delivered a powerful, spirit-filled message that inspired and encouraged all in attendance. Following worship, our collegiates began their journey home safely, carrying with them not only new knowledge and leadership tools, but also unforgettable memories, renewed motivation, and a deeper appreciation for the lifelong bond of sisterhood.
While the educational opportunities were invaluable, some of the most meaningful moments came through building connections and strengthening relationships. Our collegiates formed new friendships with sorors from across the Southwest Region, connected with regional leadership, and gained a greater appreciation for the impact and reach of our beloved sisterhood.
We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the Iota Delta alumni we had the pleasure of reconnecting with throughout the conference. Your warm welcomes, encouraging words, hugs, conversations, and genuine support made our collegiates feel seen, appreciated, and loved. The opportunity to interact with generations of Iota Delta women reminded them of the strength, legacy, and enduring sisterhood that make our chapter so special. Thank you for embracing them, encouraging them, and showing them what it truly means to be a part of the Iota Delta legacy. Your kindness and investment in these young women meant more than words can express.
Finally, we would like to recognize our incredible advisory team: Monica Swan-Giles, Primary Advisor; Dr. Dametrice FranSha Anderson, Secondary Advisor; and LaQuita Jones, On-Campus Advisor. Thank you for your unwavering commitment, mentorship, guidance, and support of these young women. The growth and success of our collegiates is a reflection of the care, leadership, and dedication you pour into them every day.
To T’Nesha, Briana, Zoe, Sha’Nautica, Melia, and Samaria, thank you for representing Iota Delta with excellence, professionalism, grace, and pride. We are incredibly proud of each of you and look forward to seeing how you apply what you’ve learned to continue strengthening our chapter.
Congratulations on an amazing first Southwest Regional Conference experience, and thank you for proudly representing Iota Delta at the 50th Southwest Regional Conference! ❤️🔺🐘
