Iota Rho Chapter crest

Est. December 2, 1972

Our Legacy

The first Black sorority chartered at UNC Charlotte — built by thirteen phenomenal women whose vision still guides us today.

Iota Rho Chapter members in red on the steps of UNC Charlotte
52+
Years of Service

Our Story

A Legacy of Firsts

On December 2, 1972, thirteen extraordinary women answered the call of sisterhood and service — chartering the Iota Rho Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Their courage made history: Iota Rho became the first Black sorority at the institution.

From that moment forward, our sisters have set a standard of academic excellence, cultural pride, and unwavering service. We honor "The Phenomenal 13" by carrying their torch into every classroom, every community partnership, and every act of advocacy.

Charter Members

The Phenomenal 13

The thirteen founding sisters whose vision and tenacity established Iota Rho on December 2, 1972.

  1. 01Phaedra Berry
  2. 02Carla Bradley
  3. 03Vernetta Conley
  4. 04Charlene Costner
  5. 05Patricia Hubbard
  6. 06Claudia Jordan
  7. 07Maudine McFadden
  8. 08Cynthia Mullen
  9. 09Barbara Roseboro
  10. 10Linda Ross
  11. 11Jacqueline Stevens Sanders
  12. 12Marie Todd
  13. 13Barbara Washington