The women of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated are celebrating 101 years of sisterhood, leadership, and service. With the motto “Greater Service, Greater Progress”, these women have lived up to those words through their various national programs and positive impact on the community. In honor of Founder’s Day, here are five notable women of SGRho.

Fantasia Barrino-Taylor

Fantasia Barrino-Taylor rose to fame as the winner of the third season of American Idol. Her powerful voice and raw talent captured the hearts of millions around the world.

After winning American Idol in 2004, Fantasia released her debut album “Free Yourself” which was certified platinum. She has since released several successful albums and singles, earning multiple Grammy nominations and awards. In addition to her music career, Fantasia has also made a name for herself in the world of acting, appearing in Broadway productions such as “The Color Purple” and TV shows like “American Dreams” and “Empire”.

Fantasia was announced as an honorary member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated in November 2022. She also enrolled as a student at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio.

Deshauna Barber

Deshauna Barber is not your typical beauty queen. In 2016, she made history as the first Miss USA to be actively serving in the military at the time of her pageant win. Born into a military family, Deshauna followed in her parents' footsteps and joined the United States Army Reserve at the age of 17.

She later went on to earn her bachelor's degree in business management at Virginia State University. While a student at Virginia State, she became a member of the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated in 2009.

Wendy Raquel Robinson

Wendy Raquel Robinson is a well-known actress, best known for her roles as Regina Greer on “The Steve Harvey Show” and Tasha Mack on “The Game”. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Wendy discovered her passion for acting at a young age and went on to attend Howard University's School of Fine Arts.

Robinson is also a dedicated philanthropist. In 1996, she co-founded the Amazing Grace Conservatory, a school that primarily serves children ages 5 to 18 who come from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds in the areas of art and media production. Robinson currently serves as the artistic director.

Wendy was announced as an honorary member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, incorporated in 2022 during the organization’s Centennial Boule.

MC Lyte

MC Lyte, born Lana Michele Moorer, is a legendary female rapper and one of the pioneers of hip-hop. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1970, MC Lyte began her music career at a young age and released her first single “I Cram to Understand U” at just 12 years old.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, MC Lyte continued to make a name for herself in the male-dominated world of hip-hop. She released several successful albums including “Lyte as a Rock” and “Eyes on This”, which featured hits like “Paper Thin” and “Cha Cha Cha”. Her clever lyrics, smooth flow, and powerful delivery made her stand out amongst her peers and cemented her place in hip-hop history.

Outside of her career, MC Lyte is also known for her philanthropy and activism. She founded the Hip Hop Sisters Foundation, which provides scholarships to youth pursuing higher education, and has been involved in various campaigns promoting literacy, HIV/AIDS awareness, and mental health. She did vocal work for several media projects and events such as the BET Awards.

MC Lyte is an active and honorary member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and has been for multiple years.

Kelly Price

Kelly Price is an acclaimed singer and songwriter.  She started her career doing background vocals for renowned artists like Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin before launching her solo career with her debut album “Soul of a Woman” in 1998. The album featured the hit single “Friend of Mine” which topped the U.S. R&B charts.

Throughout her career, Price has been nominated for several musical awards at events such as the Grammys.  Outside of her music career, Price has also been involved in television and theater. She has made appearances on shows like “R&B Divas: Los Angeles” and “American Idol”. She also served as a judge on BET's “Sunday Best.”

Price became an honorary member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated in 2006.