The Grambling Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. held its inaugural Dorothy Height Parade of Hats scholarship luncheon.Irene Thomas served as mistress of ceremonies for this fundraisexr. M. Gail Foster, owner and operator of Martha’s Showcase in Ruston, spoke about women and their crowns (hats) and emceed during the parade of hats.
She said, “The models wore hats from 19th century to 20th century. They did a fantastic jobs.”
Mozallene Holland and Hazel D. Hunter modeled some of their hats. Foster described them as the Jackie O and Chanel look, vintage and transitional. Hunter modeled a hat that can be worn backwards and Holland modeled a yellow hat that would be fitting at a garden party.
Model Liz White was described as “an elegant lady dressed in black” and Dr. Janet Guyden as a “New York diva.”Other models included members of the sorority and pastors’ wives.
Foster said women began wearing hats during the biblical days when Paul told women to cover their heads. This tradition has been continued by African American women.
She said, “Although there was a slump in hats sales, because of the royal wedding this year, hats have made a comeback.”
She shared the Eight Commandments of Wearing a Hat. They spoke of women not wearing hats wider than their shoulders or a shade darker than their shoes. Hats should not compete with jewelry and accessories and should be the focal point of an outfit.
“Always look tasteful and tidy when wearing ‘the hat.’ Remember your bone structure. If a hat doesn’t fit the face, don’t buy it,” said Foster.
Guest and model Sharon Williams said the hat show was classy. “I like to see women looking nice. I own over 100 hats. I wear them every Sunday. I am not dressed until I have a hat on. It completes my outfit,” she said.
The newly-elected Miss Grambling State University, Jamesia Leonard, was recognized. She is a member of Delta Iota, the undergraduate chapter at GSU.
High school seniors Emily Todd, Christian Cray, Jimya R. Boston, Ashley Hassen and Victoria Hill received scholarships for their academic achievement. Jamicia Albritton, chair of GAC’s scholarship committee, presented the awards.
Although this was the group’s inaugural Dorothy Height hat show, GAC member Dr. Dorothy Alexander chaired a hat show in 2005 called Crowns for the Pinkie C. Wilkerson Life Development Center, the group’s foundation.
This year’s show was chaired by Mary Jamerson Davis, Theresa Gray Jacob, Erica Hollingsworth, Beverly Crawford and Kathy Holmes, president.
Hazel D. Hunter, Waneene Dorsey, Patricia Hutcherson and Jamicia Albritton assisted with the decorations. Desserts were provided by Joella Pruitt and Exie Neloms.
Davis said overall, the hat show was a success and was well received by community at large. She said, “It allowed the Grambling Alumnae Chapter to give back to the community that has supported us through the years.”
The Delta GEMS (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully) served the meal. They included Reagan Higgins, Zenephra Wills, Deonca Lewis, Garielle Dupree, Ladeidra Wilson, Mariam Albritton and Dinicia Albritton. Their advisors are Davis and Virginia Calloway.
Delta G.E.M.S., a national signature program Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is geared toward inspiring and enriching adolescent girls aged 14-18. Wilson, a senior at Farmerville High, said, “The hat show was awesome. I liked the different styles of the hats. They were unique.”
Holmes said it was a wonderful experience for the GEMS. “They need to get that exposure and to do community services. That’s what it is all about,” she said.
She said the hat show is one of GAC’s signature programs and will be held annually.