Decades ago, members of Delta Sigma Theta sorority in Hartford fought for civil rights alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. That’s why they’re working to keep his dream alive by awarding scholarships to young women, like Chevannah Hardie, from Hartford, who’s now a freshman at UConn.
“It’s made a huge difference financially. It’s helping me to just pursue my dreams to be a pharmacist, and giving me motivation, that I could be a recipient,” Hardie said.
More than 500 people attended a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford on Monday morning.
It was one of the largest MLK celebrations in the state. With help from sponsor United Technologies, the Hartford Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority has raised more than $200,000 for scholarships in his name.
“The purpose of today’s breakfast is to not only provide scholarships to people in the greater Hartford community, but also to honor Dr. King’s vision, legacy and the dream that these young ladies can continue their education,” Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Chapter President, Veronica Delandro, said.
The sorority also works to make a difference in the Hartford community by mentoring young girls between 8 and 18 years old.
Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra, who attended the event, said their efforts have a big impact on Hartford’s future.
Local
“Great event to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King on his birthday,” Segarra said. “Not only for our city but also for humanity, so it’s a great day to have this event in our city to commemorate that.”
