May Week 2026: A Week of Service, Sisterhood, and Scholarship

Greetings to the members and supporters of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton community. It is with great pride and a profound sense of purpose that the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter (HHIBAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. announces the successful completion of May Week 2026. This annual observance serves as a cornerstone of our organization’s commitment to public service, allowing us to highlight the academic achievements of our youth while addressing critical needs within our local and international communities.

The tradition of May Week was established at the second National Convention of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 1920. For over a century, chapters across the globe have dedicated this time to emphasizing the importance of higher education and professional development. In the Lowcountry, our chapter continues this legacy by curating a series of events that align with our Five-Point Programmatic Thrust: Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement.

A Week of Purposeful Engagement

Our 2026 May Week schedule was designed to provide valuable resources to the public while fostering a spirit of collaboration. From financial literacy to social advocacy, the week offered diverse opportunities for residents of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Hardeeville to engage with experts and community leaders.

Note: Our chapter remains dedicated to serving the community through a structured and impactful series of annual programs.

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter operates with the understanding that even a small, dedicated group of women can achieve significant results through strategic partnerships and collective action. By focusing our efforts on specific areas of need, we strive to empower those we serve and create lasting change in our region.

International Awareness: Hurricane Relief for Jamaica

As an organization with a global reach, HHIBAC recognizes the importance of supporting our neighbors beyond our local borders. This year, a significant component of our May Week initiatives was the Hurricane Relief Drive for Jamaica. Through our International Awareness and Involvement committee, we partnered with local organizations to collect essential supplies and financial contributions for those impacted by recent natural disasters.

The response from the community was overwhelming, demonstrating the generosity and compassion that define the Lowcountry. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to this cause, ensuring that we could provide tangible support to families in need. This initiative serves as a reminder that our mission of service knows no boundaries.

Empowering the Community through Education and Advocacy

Education is at the heart of everything we do. During May Week 2026, we hosted a series of public webinars aimed at providing residents with the tools they need to achieve financial stability, improve their health, and engage in social action. These sessions were offered free of charge, ensuring that vital information was accessible to all.

Economic Development: Dollars & Divas

Our "Dollars & Divas" webinar focused on financial literacy and wealth-building strategies. Participants were guided through the complexities of investment, savings, and estate planning. In an era of economic uncertainty, providing our community with sound financial advice is a key component of our empowerment efforts. You can learn more about our ongoing initiatives in this area on our Programs page.

Physical and Mental Health: Heart & Stroke Awareness

The health and well-being of our community members are of paramount importance. In collaboration with healthcare professionals, we hosted a webinar dedicated to heart health and stroke prevention. This session provided actionable advice on lifestyle changes, early detection, and the importance of regular medical screenings. We invite you to explore more health resources through our Physical and Mental Health Awareness committee.

Political Awareness and Involvement: Social Action in the Lowcountry

Our commitment to social justice and advocacy was reflected in our Social Action webinar. This session addressed critical issues such as voting rights, community representation, and legislative advocacy. By encouraging our neighbors to take an active role in the political process, we aim to ensure that the voices of the Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Hardeeville communities are heard at every level of government. For more information on our advocacy work, please visit our Political Involvement and Awareness page.

Celebrating Excellence: The Scholarship Award Ceremony

The culminating event of May Week 2026 was our Scholarship Award Ceremony, held at the historic Campbell Chapel AME Church. This ceremony represents the pinnacle of our Educational Development efforts, as we recognize the outstanding achievements of local high school seniors.

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter is honored to support the next generation of leaders through our annual scholarship program.

This year, we were honored to award scholarships of up to $1,500 to deserving students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to community service. These awards are more than just financial assistance; they are an investment in the future of our community. Seeing the drive and determination of these young scholars reinforces our dedication to providing mentorship and support as they pursue higher education.

Campbell Chapel AME Church provided a dignified and welcoming setting for this celebration, allowing families, educators, and community leaders to come together in support of our youth. We extend our sincerest congratulations to the Class of 2026 and look forward to their future successes.

Our Enduring Commitment to the Lowcountry

The success of May Week 2026 is a testament to the strength of our sisterhood and the unwavering support of our community partners. As we look back on a week filled with service and scholarship, we are reminded of the mission that drives the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter. We remain steadfast in our efforts to address the unique challenges facing our region, from educational disparities to health inequities.

We invite all professional Black women in the area who are members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and are looking for opportunities for sisterhood and service to reach out to us. Whether you are a prospective transfer member or looking to reactivate your membership, we welcome your talents and dedication to our cause. You may find more information about our chapter's leadership on our Executive Board page.

Join Us in Service

The work of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter does not end with May Week. Throughout the year, we host various programs, including our Delta Academy, Delta GEMS, and other initiatives, all designed to mentor and empower our youth. We encourage community members, parents, and local businesses to partner with us as we continue to make a meaningful impact in the Lowcountry.

If you would like to learn more about our upcoming events, or if you are interested in supporting our scholarship fund, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always eager to collaborate with those who share our vision for a stronger, more equitable community.

For inquiries or to sign up for our newsletter, please visit our Contact page. Together, we can continue to serve, lead, and empower.

In Sisterhood and Service,

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Hardeeville since 2012.