News Article - 3 minute read

Sigma Mu Mu Chapter Supports NAACP Loudoun Branch Freedom Fund Gala Scholarship Fundraiser

On October 22, 2022, Sigma Mu Mu Chapter, Third District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., attended the NAACP Loudoun Branch Annual Freedom Fund Gala at the Lansdowne Resort in Leesburg, VA.  This yearly event commemorates the excellence of NAACP members, volunteers, and community partners while raising scholarship funds that benefit local youth.  Sigma Mu Mu’s attendance continued its support of the NAACP local branch and contributed to the thousands of dollars raised to financially assist Loudoun County student college education pursuits.  The gala was a well-attended festive occasion that marked the return of NAACP Loudoun in-person celebrating after a two-year halt due to the covid pandemic.

Loudoun County NAACP Branch President, Pastor Michelle Thomas, opened the program by welcoming the 225 attendees, including US Representative Jennifer Wexton (10th District of VA) and Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Ms. Kay Cole James.  She then recognized Ms. Wexton and Ms. James for their service and significant contributions to Loudoun County, VA, and thanked everyone for civil rights progress that has been made during the past eight decades.  Keynote speaker Ms. Robin N. Hamilton, an Emmy Award-winning television host and producer, spoke about the gala’s theme “The Power of Us”, and used civil rights progress as an example of change powered by communities acting together.  The program culminated with the presentation of awards to community partners and NAACP supporters, including the coveted Marie Medley Award.  The Marie Medley Award is named in remembrance of the NAACP Loudoun Branch's first president and is awarded to an active NAACP member in good standing who performs above and beyond normal responsibilities.  Ms. Lauryn Mitchell was honored as the 2022 Marie Medley Award recipient for planning and executing the NAACP Loudoun Branch’s First Annual 5- on-5 Basketball Tournament, which raised $5000 for the organization’s College Scholarship Fund. The event concluded with closing remarks and a benediction by Pastor Thomas.