“Fond greetings to all you dear Deltas, I love you.”
FOUNDER WINONA CARGILE ALEXANDER
By Soror Karen Richardson
Winona Cargile Alexander, one of the original twenty-two founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., was born June 21, 1893 in Columbus, Georgia. She was the second oldest of four daughters born to Reverend Charles and Fannie Cargile. Raised in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Winona accepted Christ at an early age and fervently embraced the tenets of Christian faith.
She graduated salutatorian of her class in 1910 from Ballard Normal High School in Macon, Georgia and enrolled at Howard University in the fall of the year. While at Howard she was involved and an officer with several activities and clubs: Class Vice President, YWCA Cabinet, Alpha Phi Literary Society, Classical Club secretary, Secretary/Treasurer of Social Science Club, German Club, and NIKH Board (Yearbook Staff). A historic day occurred at Howard University on January 13, 1913, when Winona Cargile along with twenty-one of her female classmates established Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She served as the sorority’s first Custodian of Alpha Chapter.
Alexander graduated cum laude from Howard and taught school in Missouri for one year before becoming the first person of color to enroll at New York School of Philanthropy, now known as the Columbia University School of Social Work. Upon completion of the program, she accepted a position in Jacksonville, Florida as a Social Worker for Colored Indigents with the Duval County Welfare Board.
In 1917, she married Edward Alexander, a Jacksonville attorney. To this union, six children were born. She became active with Laura Street Presbyterian Church and was later ordained an Elder. She held membership with now Woodlawn Presbyterian Church for over 65 years.
Her involvement and participation with Alpha Iota Sigma, now known as Jacksonville Alumnae was truly a wonderful blessing. Her beautiful smile, charming spirit and sparkling personality was welcome warmth to all. She remained a dedicated and active member until health issues slowed her pace.
Founder Winona Cargile Alexander died on October 16, 1984 at ninety-one years of age. Her son, James S. Alexander, of Silver Springs, Maryland, and other relatives and friends, survive her. Her life was truly a testament of her faith, values and belief.
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