2026-2027 OACDST GEMS APPLICATION

GEMS APPLICATION 2026-2027
Greetings Potential Delta G.E.M.S.,

You are invited to participate in an exciting mentoring program for the 2026-2027 school year. The Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. offers this opportunity to young ladies who are interested in joining our Dr. Jeanne L. Noble Delta G.E.M.S (Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully) Institute.

An exciting year has been planned for you. The Delta G.E.M.S program is designed for females in grades 9-12 between the ages of 14-18 years old. The objective of the Delta G.E.M.S. program is to serve as a motivational tool which targets female teenagers in an effort to increase knowledge and awareness of issues and concerns that affect young women in our society today.

Applications must be submitted no later than Saturday, August 1, 2026. Please be sure to complete ALL of the components of the application. Failure to submit all parts of the application will exclude you from consideration.

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact:

Shanel Brown, Co-Chair Nikea Coffee, Co-Chair Ruquiyah Gillens, Co-Chair
(863) 438-1207 (407) 504-0214 (407) 440-1575

OR

EMAIL: gemsoacdst@gmail.com

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance. We look forward to your participation in the program.

Sincerely,

Sherri King Tina Brown Watts

Chapter President Program Planning & Development Chair

G.E.M.S. Program Information
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a non-profit international sorority, whose purpose is to provide service and programs to promote human welfare. The Delta G.E.M.S. Institute, formally known as Delteens, is a youth community service program of the Orlando Alumnae Chapter, which began in the early 70’s. In 2006, the program was renamed to Delta G.E.M.S (Developing Effective Leadership through Achieving, Growing, Empowering Myself Successfully), which is an extension of the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy program. The Delta G.E.M.S. Program’s name and content were changed to become consistent with other teen programs sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Delta G.E.M.S. primary focus is on teen girls between the ages of 14-18 and/or in grades 9-12 and to help them develop strong leadership skills.

The goals for Delta G.E.M.S. are:

•         To promote positive societal interactions

•         To develop effective written and oral communication skills

•         To encourage self-confidence, self-motivation, and self-discipline

•         To foster meaningful public service; including mentoring and networking

•         To strive for intellectual enrichment

•         To assist with the exploration of various career paths and means for obtaining them (college and/or vocational skills training)

•         To support talents in academics, technology, sports, and fine arts

•         To maintain moral values and personal pride while experiencing the crossroads of life

The mission of the Delta G.E.M.S. Committee is to provide young ladies with a firm structural program that will enhance their self-esteem, academic achievement, leadership skills, and cultural awareness. This, in turn, will provide them with the opportunity to develop emotionally, socially, and intellectually and be prepared to take an active role in their success as they face the challenges of the world.

The goals and objectives of the Delta G.E.M.S. Committee will be accomplished through a series of workshops, monthly meetings and community service activities using the following framework:
- Economic Development
  - College and Career Preparedness
  - Money Management
- Educational Development
  - Emergency Preparedness
  - Leadership
  - Reading Clubs
  - Social Media & Information Literacy
  - STEM
  - Black History
- International Awareness
  - World Health Day Observance
- Physical and Mental Health
  - Developing Character
  - Anti-bullying
- Political Awareness & Involvement
  - Civic Responsibilities
  - Stop Human Trafficking
  - Juvenile Justice
  - Social Action
  - Dr. Martin Luther King Day Observance
The Delta G.E.M.S. logo is likened to a gemologist who can see, through the use of certain tools, the hidden treasure in unpolished jewels. Delta G.E.M.S. uses the polished jewels as a symbol of the facets that shine and glow within our young African-American women.

G.E.M.S. Participation
Criteria for Participation:

The application process for participation into the DELTA G.E.M.S. Institute is held once a year and each participant MUST be a female between the ages of 14-18 years old and in grades 9-12. The following criteria will be used to determine eligibility:

Application Requirements:
1. Upload a 250-500 word, typed essay in response to (1) of the following TOPICS:
  1. In your opinion, what is a significant issue that negatively impacts your generation? What can you do to confront this issue and help?
  2. In your opinion, what is a significant development that positively impacts your generation? What can you do to contribute to this development
2. Request (1 )Letter of Recommendation from any of the following:
  1. Teacher or School Counselor
  2. Employer
  3. Minister/Church leader
  4. A Sponsor/advisor of any affiliation/organization
  5. A member of a Greek sorority or fraternity
3. Upload an OFFICIAL copy of the 4th Quarter Final Report Card with Final GPA (must have at least a 2.5 GPA)
4. Upload a recent picture
5. 15-25 minutes of uninterrupted time to complete this electronic form.

If accepted for participation, youth and a parent/ guardian MUST attend the Student/Parent orientation scheduled for August 27, 2026. The location is TBA.

Code of Conduct

Participation in the DELTA G.E.M.S. organization requires a strong level of commitment and responsibility. All members are to adhere to a “Code of Conduct,” which consists of policies and procedures that governs the organization. The “Code of Conduct” addresses in detail: officers, attendance, participation, academic and disciplinary guidelines, voting, prerequisites for awards and recognition, etc. The “Code of Conduct” will be provided to every member of the program.

Motto

“I believe I can succeed, and because I believe... I have!”

Section 1: Applicant Information
Student Name

First NameMiddle Name or InitialLast Name
Student Age, as of 7/1/2026
Student Date of Birth

MonthDayYear
Date
Address (include apartment number, city, state and zip code)

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code
Student cell phone (will be used for Band app communication)
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Student Email (will be used for frequent communication)
example@example.com
Student T-shirt Size
High School Name
Grade for the 2026-2027 school year
Cumulative GPA
Are you a participant in the free/reduced lunch program?
This will be my ____ year participating in the Orlando Alumnae Chapter Delta G.E.M.S. program.
How did you hear about the program?

Parent/Guardian Information
Parent/ Guardian Name (First, Last)

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Home Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Work Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Cell Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Email (for frequent communication)
example@example.com

Personal Information
Is your mother a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority?
Have you participated in our Delta Academy program?
Do you currently have a sibling participating in a Delta G.E.M.S. program?
If yes, please give name:
Have you participated in any Delta Sigma Theta sponsored activities (i.e., Jabberwock, etc.)?

Section 2: Applicant Questions
What are your favorite and least favorite subjects? Explain why.
Describe your strengths and areas for development. Include any special talents such as singer, dancer, or instrumentalist.
What are your future goals after graduation?
List all extracurricular or after-school activities
Do you have any hobbies and/or interests? If so, describe.
Why do you want to be a participant in Delta G.E.M.S.?
Signature of Applicant

Section 3: Applicant Essay
Upload a typed, 250-500 word essay (include your name and a title) to one of the following prompts:1) In your opinion, what is a significant issue that negatively impacts your generation? What can you do to confront this issue and help? OR 2)In your opinion, what is a significant development that positively impacts your generation? What can you do to contribute to this development?

Section 4: Transportation Information
How will your child travel to and from Delta G.E.M.S. meetings and activities? (Please Note: The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Orlando Alumnae Chapter does not provide transportation and is not responsible for your child’s travel to or from the Delta G.E.M.S. program.)

Other
Do you have any additional persons (other than parent/guardians & emergency contacts listed on this form) who are approved to transport your child? If yes, please list (this may include a sibling, grandparent, family friend, etc.):
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Section 4: Emergency Contact Information

TWO contacts MUST be provided
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Home Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Cell Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Home Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Cell Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Section 6: Authorization for Medical Treatment
PARENT AUTHORIZATION FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCY TREATMENT

In case of medical emergency, I understand every effort will be made to contact parents or guardian of the child. In the event I cannot be reached, I hereby give permission to the physician selected by authorized representative(s) of the Orlando Alumnae Chapter to hospitalize, secure proper treatment for and to order injection, anesthesia or surgery for my child.
Student Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

Section 7: Consent Forms
STUDENT/PARENT AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE

We have read and agree with all the information provided for the Delta G.E.M.S. program sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. If (our/my) child is selected for participation into the Delta G.E.M.S. program, please accept (our/my) signature(s) as (our/my) consent to have her participate. You may count on (us/me) for support and assistance whenever appropriate.
Student Name

First NameLast Name
Student Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
PARENT/GUARDIAN STATEMENT OF CONSENT

I voluntarily give my daughter (the student whose name is listed above) permission to participate in the Delta G.E.M.S. program. I am authorized to give permission for the student to participate in the program. My child’s participation in the Delta G.E.M.S. program is completely voluntary. Delta G.E.M.S. is committed to providing the best possible climate for maximum development and achievement of goals for all student participants. The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Orlando Alumnae Chapter and its related entities will make every effort to protect the welfare of the Delta G.E.M.S. participants; however, the program committee members are not responsible for ensuring the physical, mental, social and medical health of program participants. As a parent/guardian, I am responsible for the welfare of my child. The Delta G.E.M.S. committee may suspend a student’s participation if their behavior does not reflect the spirit of the program.
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
CONSENT TO PHOTOGRAPH

I voluntarily give permission for my daughter (the student whose name is listed above), to be photographed and videotaped. My signature gives consent to the use of her likeness in any publication, educational material, advertising, news media, and World Wide Web materials that the Delta G.E.M.S. /Orlando Alumnae Chapter may utilize and produce. I understand and agree that such materials, including all negatives, positives, digital images, and prints shall become and remain the sole property of the Delta G.E.M.S. /Orlando Alumnae Chapter and I shall have no right or title to such items. I further understand and agree that these materials may be kept on file and used by the Delta G.E.M.S. /Orlando Alumnae Chapter for potential future use. I agree to release the Delta G.E.M.S. /Orlando Alumnae Chapter from any and all liability arising from or in connection with the taking, use, publication, or dissemination of such materials. Copies of these photos may be distributed to the parent upon request.
Parent /Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

Section 7: Consent Forms Cont'd
WORKSHOP PERMISSION

I grant permission of my daughter, {studentName32} , to participate in the workshops presented to the participants of the Delta G.E.M.S. program sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter. I understand that most of the workshops are listed in the Delta G.E.M.S./Orlando Alumnae Chapter yearly calendar.
If you have any objectionable topics, please list them and sign below:
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
FIELD TRIP PERMISSION

As the parent/guardian of, {studentName32}, I hereby give consent for her to attend field trips with Delta G.E.M.S. Program sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

My daughter and I understand that she is to comply with all rules and regulations established by all representatives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

I understand that precautions will be taken to ensure my daughter’s safety. I, therefore, will not hold the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. or any representatives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. responsible for any complication, injury, or illness experienced by my daughter.

Field trips are subject to change, and notification is at the discretion of Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

Picture, Letter of Recommendation, and Transcript Uploads
Please upload a recent picture. The picture will help us get to know and identify the participants prior to our first session. It is important to us that we know each young lady by name and face early in the program.
Picture

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Request (1 )Letter of Recommendation from any of the following:

- Teacher or School Counselor
- Employer
- Minister/Church leader
- A Sponsor/advisor of any affiliation/organization
- A member of a Greek sorority or fraternity

Once you submit their name and email they will receive your request to submit a letter of receommendation on your behalf. Please notify them in advance of your request!
Recommender

First NameLast Name
Email of Recommender
example@example.com
Letter of Recommendation #1

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Upload an official copy of your 4th quarter report card. An unofficial transcript with current GPA from your school counselor may be used too. We must be able to see your name and GPA within the upload.
Report Card

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Section 8: Delta G.E.M.S. Code of Conduct Statement
I will cooperate with all adults in charge. I will be sensitive to the needs of each participant. I will respect the people and places with which I come in contact.

I will adhere to the Delta G.E.M.S. dress code.

I will participate in required activities & discussions, be on time for all scheduled activities, and be open to new ideas. In the event I must miss an event, I will contact a member of the Delta G.E.M.S. Committee at least 24 hours ahead of the activity.

I understand that obscene language and the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal or unauthorized drugs, and fighting will not be tolerated. Such usage during the activity may result in immediate dismissal from the program.

I will remember that I am a member of a program sponsored by the women of Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and I must abide by a high standard of conduct. My behavior will reflect the high values and expectations for conduct described in this code of conduct and lady like etiquette.

I will be responsible for all my personal belongings.

I understand that I will receive two warnings for unacceptable behavior. After two warnings, my parent/guardian may be notified. I understand if I am sent home early due to any misconduct, it will be my parent’s responsibility to provide transportation regardless of the time of day or night. I also understand that any additional costs for transportation will be my parent’s responsibility.

I understand that more than (2) absences may result in me being dropped from the program and may also prohibit me from being able to participate on any field trips.

I understand that my attitude and behavior are central to the success of this activity sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Therefore, for the good of this activity, as well as for myself and my fellow group members, I agree to abide by the statements above:
Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
As the parent/guardian, I understand and agree with the above responsibilities fully accepted by my daughter. Should it be necessary, I will provide transportation for my daughter regardless of the time or day or night. I will not hold Orlando Alumnae Chapter or its members responsible if my daughter is sent home early due to misconduct.
Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

THE CONTRACT (The First Meeting)
OAC DELTA G.E.M.S.

I will respect everyone else’s privacy.

There is to be no teasing or prying.

Each individual has the right to decide whether to share private thoughts during Delta G.E.M.S. meetings or discussions.

Anybody who wants to simply sit and listen may do so, with the understanding that participation is beneficial but voluntary.

I will show everyone respect.

There will be no teasing or scolding. The idea is for the whole group to arrive at its goals, but each individual will progress at a different rate.

I will uphold the family confidentiality.

There will be no telling.

What happens and what is said within the group stays within the group.

Group members should feel free to discuss their thoughts and feelings knowing they need not feel bashful or shy, or worry that friends or people outside the group will find out things they’d rather keep private.

I will trust my group members.

There will be no blaming and no lying.

I promise to make my best effort to be honest, accepting that no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes from time to time.

I will show up on time for group meetings and activities.

I will complete all my homework assignments.

I will listen to others without interrupting.

I will be positive and try to encourage everyone in my group.

If you agree to all the above, sign below.
Student Name

First NameLast Name
Student Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
Should be Empty:

GEMS APPLICATION 2026-2027

G.E.M.S. Program Information

G.E.M.S. Participation

Section 1: Applicant Information

Parent/Guardian Information

Personal Information

Section 2: Applicant Questions

Section 2: Applicant Questions cont'd

Section 3: Applicant Essay

Section 4: Transportation Information

Section 4: Emergency Contact Information

Section 5: Applicant Health Information

Section 6: Authorization for Medical Treatment

Section 7: Consent Forms

Section 7: Consent Forms Cont'd

Picture, Letter of Recommendation, and Transcript Uploads

Section 8: Delta G.E.M.S. Code of Conduct Statement

THE CONTRACT (The First Meeting)