THE HISTORY
Shortly after being chartered, members of the Saint Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (SLMAC) recognized the need to develop and implement program that would prepare high school senior ladies for the challenges of college and womanhood. Since 1998, the program has been implemented successfully each sorority year. It consists of a training component, a passage ceremony, and a formal celebration in which the young women are introduced to the community. The Rites of Passage program focuses on the rich history of the African Culture. The legacy of high achievement left by the ancestors is the foundation of this training. Just as the “Sankofa Bird” teaches us that we must go back to our roots in order to move forward, we reach back and gather the best of what our past has to offer us, striving to achieve our full potential as we move forward.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to assist young ladies who are high school seniors in successfully making the transition from adolescence to womanhood and to better prepare them mentally, spiritually, socially, and financially for life-long learning and community service.
THE PROGRAM
The Journey to womanhood begins in August with the passage culminating in February. Through a variety of workshops, cultural experiences and landmark activities, participants enhance their personal growth and development, cultivate spiritual awareness and develop an appreciation for their cultural heritage. The final passage is marked by the public celebration, the Jabberwock, where the participants publicly display their talents and skills gained through the six-month long training, along with the community celebrates with them as the conclusion of the program.
THE PROCESS
Through regular training sessions, field experiences and guest speakers, participants grow to embody the 7 principles of Kwanzaa (Nguzo Saba). Participants will be involved in activities that are designed to heighten the senses of their experience within the program. In addition, there will be sessions for parents to assist them in guiding their daughters down the path to womanhood.
REQUIREMENTS
- College Bound GPA
- Two letters of Recommendation from Volunteer Organization, Church or School Faculty on letterhead
- Program Fee of $150 (Non-Refundable)
- Last Unofficial Transcript
- Full dedication to the program
CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information about the Rites of Passage Training and the Saint Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. please visit our website at www.dstslmac.com. If interested, please complete all sections of the Mahavavay Interest Application below by October 1, 2024.