MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The official newsletter of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Vol. 10

January 2026

President's Corner

Good morning, Seven Pearls Family!

Happy New Year! We’re sending you the warmest wishes as we kick off another amazing year together! A huge shoutout to each and every one of you for being the rockstars that you are during our transition into phase two of our operations. But let’s be real—none of this would’ve been possible without your unwavering support. As we step into this new year, let’s get fired up and set our sights on crushing those professional goals we’ve been dreaming about! With a sprinkle of confidence, a dash of creativity, and a whole lot of motivation, we can tackle any challenge and turn it into a win for our sorority! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this journey together—great things are waiting for us, and we can’t wait to see what we accomplish side by side! Let’s make this year unforgettable!

Always for the Seven,

Linette Y. Caroselli

President/CEO of Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Happy 7th!

On the seventh of each month, the Seven Pearls Foundation will spotlight and award an individual, group or chapter that embodies the grand legacy of our seven illustrious Founders.

Do you know a group or individual deserving of this honor? Feel free to send their name, photo, brief bio and email address to: create@sevenpearls.org.

Criteria for the "Crowning Efforts with Success" Award:

• Open to all professions
• Does not have to be a Soror
• Brief explanation on how the candidate embodies the legacy and vision of the Founders
• Their philosophy on education or sisterhood
• Examples of community service or programs implemented

Crowning Efforts with Success Award

Dr. Mynora J. Bryant is the Foundation's Crowning Efforts with Success Award recipient for January 2026!

We are ecstatic to bestow this honor on our President Emerita, Dr. Mynora J. Bryant. She is the epitome of Sigma Excellence and an inspiration to the power of collaboration, vision and innovation. She began her Sigma journey as an undergraduate in Alpha Phi Chapter, Howard University. She was elected basileus and immediately began community service initiatives. Her Signature project as an undergraduate was the establishment of the Sigma Drop-In program that was approved by the national board of directors after it was presented by Soror Edna Forrest Browne. It was noted that no other undergraduate had received the status of a program being approved. Phi Sigma Chapter, her sponsoring chapter, was given accolades for the work of the undergraduate chapter. That was the first step of Dr. Bryant’s commitment to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, and she became even more involved. Upon graduation from Howard University, she was appointed to various positions in the Northeastern Region and on the international level. Some of the positions include Northeastern Region Area I Coordinator, President of the region’s Joint Council, Acting Undergraduate Chapter Coordinator, acting regional Syntaktes when the Syntaktes was hospitalized, First Anti-Basileus and Second Anti-Basileus in Phi Sigma. She was the first undergraduate of Phi Sigma to become Syntaktes.  

Prior to being elected Syntaktes, Dr. Bryant wrote the criteria for the National Hall of Fame Award. Syntaktes Elizabeth Trigg and her sister Deborah Walsh met with Grand Basileus Alice M. Swain and presented the proposal. Grand Basileus Swain presented the proposal to the board of directors, and it was approved as one of the awards for members of the sorority. 

When she was elected Syntaktes, she inherited an eleven cents budget and developed a strategic plan with her board and the approval of the region to ensure that the region never faced a financial crisis again. She with the Leadership of Dr. Linda D. Simmons, a financial planner established an investment plan with the idea of sustainability. The region was the first to initiate an investment strategy.  

With the board and membership supporting the plan, Dr. Bryant began networking. She chartered the first undergraduate and graduate chapters in New England; chartered the first undergraduate chapter in West Virginia at Marshall University. She established the Philos on the region level and named the first Philo Advisor, Soror Mamie Haywood. She hosted the first international conference in Port-Prince, Haiti that was approved by Grand Basileus Rejesta V. Perry and the national board of directors. She worked with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Caduseus Foundation – Dr. Celestine and Howard University Radio Station (WHUR) to ensure the workshops and all activities were recorded. Attendee received CEU’s presented by the University of Haiti. The theme of the conferences was “Health for All by the Year 2000”. The focus was on AIDS awareness. The National Education Fund, Inc., supported the conference and sent representatives. There was also large contingency of Sorors and a few Philos. 

Dr. Bryant continued her work and identified the need for a chapter in Montgomery County. She and nineteen Soros were the charter members of Eta Iota Sigma. She was elected charter basileus and the chapter began to meet with public officials and be included in numerous meetings affecting the committee. When she was informed of the initiative of Secretary Rodney Slater, Dr. Bryant immediately submitted her name to attend his conference and placed her chapter’s name on the list as one to participate. She presented the initiative to Grand Basileus Morris and was the primary writer of the grant on behalf of the sorority. The US Department of Transportation approved the submission with an award of $50,000. The sorority received three renewals and was mentioned in a meeting and placed in the Congressional Record for its leadership.

Dr. Bryant was elected First Grand Anti-Basileus and subsequently the 21st International Grand Basileus of the sorority. As First Grand Anti-Basileus she chartered the chapter in Landstuhl, Germany under the administration of Dr. Helen Owens. She introduced the first version of the new intake process TORCH, submitted criteria for members to be designated Cultured Pearls, designed the Cultured pin, and designed the twenty-five-year Philo pin.  

As Grand Basileus, she assisted Syntaktes Felicia Blakeney with the chartering of Kappa Theta Sigma in Korea. She appointed a committee, chaired by Kay Merrill and received approval to become an affiliate of the United Nations. She worked with the legal advisor and established a legal team to assist Syntakti with hazing issues. She published the first full-color Aurora, awarded $10,000 to St Jude’s Hospital, set up a Disaster Relief Fund after Katrina (led by Chair Jackie Mays), and secured Converse internships for undergraduates. She partnered with Heart and Soul Magazine and published the Hattie McDaniel Breast Cancer Awareness brochure at no cost to the sorority. This was approved by the family of Soror McDaniels. She was featured on the Bev Smith nationally syndicated Show during the Congressional Black Caucus.

Her awards are numerous: Blanche Edwards Award, National Hall of Fame Award, Eagle Award, Tea Rose Award, Village Keepers Award, Northeastern Region Hall of Fame Award, Order of Omega, Who’s Who In America, Outstanding Young Women of America, She has been listed in Ebony, Jet, the Atlanta Daily World, the Baltimore Sun, the Daily Southerner, and numerous other papers and magazines.

She received the Outstanding Philanthropist Award from Cheyney University in recognition of establishing a scholarship in the name of Dr. Linda Simmons. Most recently, she received an award from Eta Omicron Sigma Chapter for Invaluable Leadership.

She believes that leaders and members have an opportunity to exchange ideas, evaluate how we can do more, and develop strategies that will create long-term partnerships. Just as a grain of dust is the earth, and a breath of air the atmosphere, and a raindrop waters of the firmament, and a candle flame the quintessence of light and fire – so are we determined to fly like an eagle and uplift mankind. We can change the world only if we take the first step…if we don’t who will? 

It is our esteemed honor to present Dr. Mynora J. Bryant as this month's recipient of the Crowning Efforts with Success Award.

Join us in giving Past IGB Bryant her flowers!

Wellness Spotlight

A New Year with Healthy Intentions

By: Racquel H. Dozier | Founder Lupus In Color

A new year often brings a fresh sense of hope. It feels like a clean page, a fresh slate, an opportunity to reset, refocus, and recommit to taking better care of ourselves. Rather than chasing perfection or setting rigid resolutions, choosing healthy intentions allows us to buils a life that supports our physical, mental, and emotional well being in realistic and sustainable ways.

Healthy intentions are about progress not pressure. They meet you where you are and grow with you throughout the year.

Here are seven intentions you can set for yourself to support a healthier, more balanced life this year.

1.     Intend to Listen to Your Body: Your body is constantly communicating with you. This year, make it a priority to notice signs of fatigue, stress, hunger, or pain, and respond with care instead of pushing through. Res when needed. Adjust when necessary. Listening is an act of compassion for yourself and respect for your health.

2.     Intend to Nourish, Not Restrict: Healthy living isn’t about punishment or extreme rules. Intend to fuel your body with foods that support energy, healing, and joy. Balance is key, nutritious meals, hydration, and flexibility all belong in a healthy lifestyle.

3.     Intend to Move in ways that Feel Good: Movement should be supportive, not exhausting or painful. Whether it’s walking, stretching, dancing, yoga, or gentle exercise, choose activities that feel sustainable and enjoyable. You will be more apt to do things more if you enjoy it. Remember, consistency matters more than intensity.

4.     Intend to Protect your Mental Health: Mental health is just as important as physical health. This year, commit to checking in with yourself emotionally. Set boundaries, seek support when needed, and create space for calm through practices like journaling, meditation, prayer, or quiet reflection.



5.     Intend to Prioritize Preventive Care: Schedule checkups, screenings, and follow-ups. Keep track of medications, symptoms, or changes in your body. Preventive care empowers you to stay informed and proactive about your health rather than reactive.

6.     Intend to Build Community and Connection: Health thrives in connection. Intend to nurture relationships that uplift and support you. This can include family, friends, support groups, faith communities, or wellness spaces. You don no6t have to navigate life, or your health alone.

Intend to Give Back when you Can: Whether through blood donation, volunteering, advocacy, or simple acts of kindness, giving back strengthens both personal and community well-being. Contribution to something greater than yourself can boost purpose, gratitude and emotional health. 

Moving Forward with Grace

A healthy life is not built in a single month or through perfect habits. It is shaped through daily choices, compassion for yourself, and the willingness to adjust along the way. As you step into this new year, allow your intentions to guide you, not guilt, comparison or unrealistic expectations you.

Here’s to a year rooted in care, balance, and intentional living, for your health and the health of others. 

Health Disclaimer

This article is meant to inform and empower, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns regarding your health, screenings, or symptoms. Everyone’s health journey is unique. Learn your body, listen to your body, and get personalized guidance from a qualified professional.

About the Author

Racquel H. Dozier uses her 21-year journey with her own chronic illnesses and her professional experience in social work and patient leadership to empower, educate and inspire those living with chronic illnesses. She inspires patients to live empowered and resilient lives through education and support.

Honoring National Blood Donor Month



January is National Blood Donor Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need for blood donations, especially during winter when supplies are often low. Blood donation is a power act of community care. One donation can help save multiple lives, support medical treatments, and strengthen our healthcare system. 

If you are eligible and able, donating blood can be a meaningful way to begin the year by giving back. And even if you cannot donate, you can still participate by encouraging others, sharing awareness, or learning how blood donations impact patients every day. Health is not only personal it is collective.

A Mother's Nightmare- A Cautionary Tale

By: Linette Caroselli

Seven Pearls President/CEO

The narrative I am about to share is both personal and profoundly important, as it underscores a critical issue that transcends race, gender, and socioeconomic status—one that affects families from all walks of life. It is a heart-wrenching account of physical abuse, psychological manipulation, and the harrowing realities of rape and sex trafficking, which often occur in silence and can happen right in our neighborhoods. Following the tragic loss of her father, my eldest daughter became an easy target for a trafficker lurking on the internet. Exploiting her vulnerabilities and emotional distress, this individual forged a deceptive bond with her, ultimately leading to her abduction when he convinced her to leave our home. It is a stark reminder that we must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting our children, as the threat of exploitation is ever-present and can manifest in the most unsuspecting ways.

My daughter's harrowing experience was due to the manipulative tactics employed by traffickers, particularly those known as "Romeo pimps," who exploit trust and affection to perpetrate abuse, leading victims into a cycle of exploitation such as prostitution. This horrific journey led her to endure a year and a half of unimaginable suffering. During this dark period, she was sold multiple times between traffickers in major cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas, illustrating the pervasive and mobile nature of this crime. However, her incredible courage to escape and seek help from a police officer led her to the Phoenix Dream Center, a vital resource that facilitated her recovery and eventual reunion with her family. While her path to healing remains challenging, it is essential to recognize her transformation from victim to survivor, a testament to resilience and strength. Unfortunately, justice for many traffickers remains elusive, emphasizing the necessity for collective vigilance and support. It is crucial for our community to unite in raising awareness and advocating for the protection of vulnerable individuals, ensuring that no one else has to endure such trauma. By fostering a spirit of sisterhood and mentorship, we can empower survivors and work together to create lasting change in the fight against human trafficking.

I now stress to parents to be more vigilant about what their children are doing. Know their friends. Monitor their social media accounts and talk openly with them; no subject is taboo. Listen to their concerns. Diligence and attentiveness are key. Be a present parent.

By sharing this story, I aim to raise awareness among parents and caregivers, encouraging open dialogues about these dangers, fostering a sense of community, and reinforcing the necessity of education and empowerment in safeguarding our children and families.

10 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Sex Trafficking

 1. Sex trafficking is a form of human trafficking – the use of force, fraud or coercion to get another person to provide labor or commercial sex.

2. Traffickers maintain power and control over their victims through physical, psychological, or substance abuse. Oftentimes, traffickers will make victims use drugs, first to loosen them up, then, once they are addicted, they develop a dependency on the substance. Traffickers will take away identification, social security cards, birth certificates, anything to strip the victim down to nothing and so she or he has to rely on the pimp.

3. Victims of trafficking can be women or men, girls or boys of any race, ethnic background and economic status.

4. Perpetrators often lure victims into trafficking by over-promising them great opportunities to earn money, food, or even shelter.

5. Victims can be sold into trafficking by boyfriends, husbands, parents, or any trusted persons. Victims can be coerced, forced, or threatened with fraud.

6. Traffickers often “condition” their victims with starvation, confinement, beatings, physical abuse, rape, gang rape, threats of violence to the victim or the victim’s family, forced drug use and/or threat of shaming their victims by revealing their activities to their family or friends. Victims suffer from forced abortions, drug related health issues, diseases, dehydration, malnourishment or other serious problems. Foreign victims are often threatened with deportation.

7. Teenagers are especially vulnerable to becoming victims of trafficking. Runaways are usually picked up within 48 hours of being away from home. The most common recruiting locations are high schools and middle schools, social media and online gaming sites, foster homes and group homes.

8. Victims may suffer from trauma bonding, a psychological phenomenon in which the victim experiences positive regard for their perpetrator. This can be because a basic need such as food, shelter, or feelings of belonging was met.

9. There are many forms of trafficking, including domestic servitude, forced labor and agricultural work, coerced commercial sex, pornography, stripping, live-sex shows, mail-order brides, and human organ harvesting.

10. Trafficking can occur anywhere. Any suburb, any town, and within any city.

Anywhere that may have vulnerable youth, possibly already abused or neglected, the trafficker will find these situations.

Traffickers look for anybody seeking attention, someone posting a lot of selfies for example. Have your kids turn off geolocation on all apps and devices.

The qualities that significantly reduce the likelihood of human trafficking encompass various elements that align closely with the mission of the Seven Pearls Foundation, which seeks to empower women and girls through the establishment of stable and supportive environments. Stability within family dynamics and educational settings plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of security and belonging, while the cultivation of personal goals nurtures ambition and resilience. Additionally, the presence of a positive social support network, including peer support, enhances community engagement and reflects the Foundation's commitment to sisterhood. By fostering these protective qualities, families and communities can create an environment that not only shields individuals from the risks of human trafficking but also promotes personal growth and empowerment. Practical resources, such as community workshops, mentorship programs, and family counseling services, can help nurture these essential qualities, reinforcing our collaborative approach to social change. Together, we can take collective responsibility in preventing human trafficking while uplifting vulnerable populations, and we invite you to engage with the Seven Pearls Foundation’s initiatives to make a meaningful impact.

About the Author

Linette Caroselli is a 31-year Life Member of Sigma and currently serves as the Foundation's President/CEO. Using experience from past leadership roles and her professional expertise as an educator, she teaches parents and other educators about Human Trafficking helping our children remain safe and communities knowledgeable.

Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc. is seeking a talented Legal Advisor to serve on our Board of Directors! You must be well versed and licensed in Real Estate or Corporate Law. You must be a Life Member to serve on the Board of Directors. Interested candidates may send their resume and a letter of interest to Linette Caroselli at president@sevenpearls.org.

Position is open until vacancies are filled.

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Contact: president@sevenpearls.org