Alpha Kappa Alpha vs. Delta Sigma Theta — What's the Difference?
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By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on November 26, 2023
Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) and Delta Sigma Theta (DST) are historically Black sororities founded at Howard University. AKA was founded in 1908 and emphasizes service and culture; DST was founded in 1913 with a focus on public service and empowerment.
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Difference Between Alpha Kappa Alpha and Delta Sigma Theta
Table of Contents
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Comparison Chart
Founded in
1908
1913
Emphasis
Service and culture
Public service and empowerment
Main Color(s)
Salmon pink and apple green
Crimson and cream
Motto
"By Culture and By Merit"
"Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom"
Notable Event
First Black sorority
Participated in Women's Suffrage March
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Compare with Definitions
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Known for its distinctive salmon pink and apple green colors.
Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha proudly wear their colors during formal events.
Delta Sigma Theta
Emphasizes public service and social activism.
Delta Sigma Theta members often spearhead community service projects.
Alpha Kappa Alpha
An organization emphasizing academic excellence among its members.
Alpha Kappa Alpha offers scholarships to support its members' educational pursuits.
Delta Sigma Theta
Has a significant presence both nationally and internationally.
Delta Sigma Theta boasts a multitude of chapters around the world.
Alpha Kappa Alpha
The first historically Black sorority founded in the U.S.
Alpha Kappa Alpha has its roots at Howard University from 1908.
Delta Sigma Theta
Advocates for the empowerment and betterment of Black communities.
Delta Sigma Theta continuously works on projects that uplift and empower.
Alpha Kappa Alpha
A sisterhood emphasizing service and culture.
Through Alpha Kappa Alpha, many women have been involved in cultural enrichment programs.
Delta Sigma Theta
A historically Black sorority established in 1913.
Delta Sigma Theta was founded shortly after AKA, enriching the HBCU experience.
Alpha Kappa Alpha
A sorority with numerous chapters across the globe.
Alpha Kappa Alpha has extended its reach with chapters in multiple countries.
Delta Sigma Theta
Recognizable by its crimson and cream colors.
The crimson and cream of Delta Sigma Theta is a prominent sight at many college campuses.
Common Curiosities
What colors represent Delta Sigma Theta?
Crimson and cream.
Are they present outside the U.S.?
Yes, both sororities have chapters internationally.
What are Alpha Kappa Alpha and Delta Sigma Theta?
Both are historically Black Greek-letter sororities founded at Howard University.
What's a notable event from Delta Sigma Theta's early history?
They participated in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington, D.C.
What's a key focus of Alpha Kappa Alpha?
Service to all mankind and promoting culture.
Do both sororities offer scholarships?
Yes, both AKA and DST have scholarship programs for members and non-members.
When were they founded?
Alpha Kappa Alpha in 1908, and Delta Sigma Theta in 1913.
Are these the only Black sororities?
No, they are two of the "Divine Nine" historically Black Greek-letter organizations.
What are the main colors of Alpha Kappa Alpha?
Salmon pink and apple green.
How do the sororities differ in their mission?
While both focus on service, Delta Sigma Theta has a strong emphasis on public service and empowerment.
Do they have undergraduate and graduate chapters?
Yes, both sororities have chapters that cater to undergraduate students and alumni.
Where are their headquarters?
Alpha Kappa Alpha is headquartered in Chicago, IL, and Delta Sigma Theta in Washington, D.C.
Have any famous individuals been members?
Yes, both sororities boast many accomplished members in various fields.
Can anyone join these sororities?
Membership criteria vary, but typically involve academic achievement, commitment to service, and alignment with the sorority's values.
Are they involved in community service?
Absolutely, both AKA and DST have a rich history of community involvement and service projects.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.