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The Iota Sweetheart
Auxiliary organization (better known as Iota
Sweethearts) are a recognized, respected, and honored tradition of the
Fraternity and have a long history of affiliation with Iota. This
history harkens back to the days of our Founding and the circumstances of
the day.
In the early 1960's at Morgan State University, Iota Phi Theta was blessed to
have an invaluable ally in the person of Ms. Audrey Brooks. Ms. Brooks was a member
of the Morgan State University staff and in this capacity, she
played a crucial "behind the scenes" role for the
Fraternity. In many instances, her actions and influence prevented
the fledgling organization from being victimized by those who would have
seen Iota fail.
The spirit and
dedication of Ms. Brooks lives today through the Iota Sweetheart Auxiliary
and with good reason. As Iota Phi Theta navigated the rocky waters of
our early years, the Brotherhood could always count on the support of our
Sweetheart organization. Be it serving as hostesses for a national
meeting or as a support team at a stepshow, our
Hearts have always been there on the front lines providing vocal and moral
support for the Brothers of Iota. Today, Iota Sweethearts (many of
whom are wives of Iota Men) continue to support the organization in a major
way.
Like many things about
Iota Phi Theta, our Sweetheart organization represents a departure from the
norm as practiced by other groups. Most notably, Iota Sweethearts do
not "pledge.” Additionally, the Iota Sweetheart
organization is not to be seen or construed as a substitute for a
Sorority. In fact, thousands of Iota Sweethearts have gone on to join
NPHC sororities. Iota Phi Theta is an avid supporter of these
sororities and their activities. In keeping with this support and
respect, we frown upon any
activities undertaken by our Sweetheart Organization that might be seen as
competitive to, or disrespectful of, these organizations.
In a Sweetheart Workshop
held during the 1999 Iota Phi Theta Conclave, Ms. Brooks stated, “The Purpose of Iota Sweethearts is to smile and be gracious on
behalf of Iota. Anything else is inappropriate.” As
in all things, we endorse Ms. Brooks' view on this subject wholeheartedly.
Iota Sweethearts hold a special place in the hearts
and minds of the Brotherhood and we are dedicated to their uplift, support,
and respect!
Gamma Upsilon Sweethearts
Spring 2001
Lisa
Eason-Adkins
Stephanie
Nelson-Scott
Candace Means
Candice Brooks
LaCrecia
Reed
Kandis
Jones
Tiffany Rainey
Renee Price
Twanda
Harris
LaKesha
Frazier
Spring 2003
Cassie Hunt
Fakesha
Solomon-Knighten
Portia Benson
Brittany
Harris
Brittany
Walker
Latoya
Barnes
Shakenia Thomas
Toinesha
Lowe
Fall 2003
Stephanie Wallace
Kelis
Hogan
Kirby Washington
Nedra
Fields
Spring 2007
Brittany
Hornes
Jaimmie
Biggers
Janay
Lewis
Brianna Scales
Tamera Malone
Spring 2008
Amber
Hammond
Chanise Boston
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