MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The official newsletter of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Vol. 8

November 2025

FOUNDERS' DAY EDITION

President's Corner

Good morning, Seven Pearls Family!

As I reflect on my Sigma Journey for my 31st Sigmaversary on Founders' Day, one thought comes to mind: Sisterhood. It is the sisterhood of this organization that has kept me active and involved all of these years. My journey began on the campus of Bloomfield College (Gamma Theta Metro Chapter) in New Jersey. As fate would have it, several Sigma women were in my classes. What drew me was the way they carried themselves with class and walked in their truth as proud, unique, and beautiful Black women seeking an education while serving our local community. And let, me tell you, they were always on point and well put together! As I researched the sorority, it was the profound journey of the Founders that sealed the deal: braving an atmosphere of oppression only to persevere and encourage other young ladies to do the same. They understood the assignment.

As I grew in Sigma, I traveled to places I never knew I would go, met exhilarating people, developed leadership skills and made a difference I didn't realize I could. But more importantly, it was the relationships that I was blessed to obtained that impacted me the most. It was women like Christine E. Trigg, Andrea C. McElroy, Dr. Mynora J. Bryant, Deborah Walsh, Patricia Glaze, Minnye McElroy, Dr. Felicia D. Blakeney, Racquel Dozier, Terri Lyons, Inez Vanable, Virginia Price-Booker, Cynthia Horner, Paulette Waite, Sharonda Braithwaite and a plethora of sorors who have touched my life with their wisdom from job advise to the rearing of my children and to keeping my sanity when the world felt like it was falling apart.

I will always appreciate the love and support of this sisterhood when my dear husband passed away suddenly and when my daughter now soror, became ill. It was my sisters that got me though the pain, fear and grief of life. In moments of despair, they motivated me to remain strong and reminded me whose and who I was.

We shared moments of joy as well celebrating our triumphs and accomplishments.

For the sorors who check in on me just to say, "Hey, girl, how are you doing?" out of the blue. That means more than you know. I encourage all of us to do this. Check on each other. Love on one another. You never know, you can be the shining beacon that is needed that day. We are our sisters' keeper in various ways; we should all be inspired with the special mission of adjusting each other's crowns.

On this Founder's Day, let us reflect on the legacy of our Seven Pearls. This month is all about them and the organization they established on November 12, 1922.

Let Sigma forever reign!

Always for the Seven,

Linette Y. Caroselli

President/CEO of Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Ruby & Life Member #917

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

Soror Denise Smith-Martinez is the Foundation's Crowning Efforts with Success Award recipient for November!

Soror Smith-Martinez is a dedicated educator, community leader, and lifelong learner with over two decades of experience in public education and civic engagement. She currently serves as Chair of the Human Relations Commission for the City of Clarksville and is the Chaplain of the Iota Pi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in Clarksville, Tennessee. Her unwavering commitment to service is evident in her leadership roles at the local, regional, and national levels.

A Life Member of the sorority, Soror Smith-Martinez has held numerous leadership positions, including Chapter President, Vice President, Parliamentarian, and Social Action Chair. Nationally and regionally, she has served on both the Bylaws and Recommendations Committees. She is also a charter member of the Alumnae Chapter of the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Greater Clarksville, where she has served as President, Vice President, Undergraduate Liaison, and Parliamentarian.

Professionally, Soror Smith-Martinez has made a significant impact as an educator in Clarksville, Memphis, Ashland City, and Washington, D.C., teaching Math, Social Studies, and English at the middle and high school levels. She has served as an Instructional Coach and RTI Data Coach in D.C., and was named a Distinguished Classroom Teacher in Clarksville. Her professional contributions also extend to educational policy and training—she has presented at numerous state-level conferences through the Tennessee Department of Education and recently led training for Educational Support Personnel at Fort Campbell schools. Additionally, she has worked with Pearson Educational Services in both Tennessee and Washington, D.C.

Soror Smith-Martinez earned her Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in Human Development and Learning and a minor in Sociology from the University of Memphis. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change at Lipscomb University.

Soror Smith-Martinez continues to inspire others through her commitment to service, leadership, and education—empowering communities, advocating for equity, and shaping the next generation of changemakers.

It is our esteemed honor to present Life Member Denise Smith-Martinez as this month's recipient of the Crowning Efforts with Success Award.

Join us in giving Soror Smith-Martinez her flowers!

Introducing Our New Health Segment

Wellness Spotlight-

Shining a Light on Diabetes

November is National Diabetes Month

By: Racquel H. Dozier | Founder Lupus In Color

November marks National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness, share facts and encourage everyone to take charge of their health. According to the Centers for Disease Control over 38.4 million Americans live with diabetes and approximately 830 million people worldwide have diabetes. Millions more may be living undiagnosed. This month we invite you to pause, learn and take small empowering steps toward a healthier tomorrow, for yourself, your loved ones and your community.

Understanding Diabetes 

Diabetes is defined by the World Health Organization as, “a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar), which leads over time to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves.”

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leaves the body unable to regulate blood sugar. It was previously described as juvenile diabetes, but can occur at any age. People with Type 1 Diabetes require daily insulin to survive. It is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors and is not preventable.

Prediabetes

This type is the stage before Type 2 diabetes. Your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be officially diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes happens when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it. Type 2 Diabetes can be caused by a combination of genetics, lifestyle factors (such as being overweight and physical inactivity) age and ethnicity. It is often preventable or delayable. Management often begins with healthy lifestyle changes and oral medications. Insulin may be needed later as treatment.

Lesser Known Types of Diabetes 

There are several lesser known forms of diabetes that many may not know about. Let’s talk about them a little below.

●    LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults) is often called Type 1.5 diabetes. This is an autoimmune diabetes that appears in adulthood. It can start looking like Type 2, developing slowly and initially responding to oral medications. Over time, however, the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells similar to Type 1 and insulin becomes necessary.

●    Gestational Diabetes develops during pregnancy when hormones interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. This form of diabetes usually resolves after birth, but it increases the mother’s risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes later in life. Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes may also face higher risk of obesity and diabetes in the future.

●    MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young) is a genetic form of diabetes caused by mutations in a single gene. It can be misdiagnosed as Type 1 or Type 2.Those with MODY are usually diagnosed before age 25 and have a strong family history of diabetes. They may not always need insulin.

●    Secondary Diabetes comes from a medical condition or medications. Causes can include pancreatitis, cushing’s syndrome, cystic fibrosis or medications like steroids.

●    Type 3c Diabetes known as Pancreatogenic Diabetes, develops after pancreatic disease, injury or surgery. In this form, the pancreas can no longer produce enough insulin and digestive enzymes. It can be confused with Type 2 Diabetes, but it needs specialized treatment because it affects both digestion and blood sugar regulation.

●    Type 3 Diabetes has been suggested by researchers to refer to insulin resistance within the brain as linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Although not recognized as an official diagnosis, studies show that insulin resistance may impair brain function and memory.

Understanding these less common forms of diabetes helps to reduce misdiagnosis, improve treatment, and empower people to ask better questions about their health. It’s important to know that Diabetes isn’t one-size-fits-all, each type has its own cause, pattern and treatment approach. This awareness is the first step to prevention and proper care.

Dispelling Myths. Facts -vs- Fiction 

Myth #1: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Fact: Eating sugar doesn’t directly cause diabetes. However, excessive calories from sugar and other foods, can lead to weight gain, a major risk factor for Type 2 Diabetes.

Myth #2: Type 2 diabetes is not as serious as Type 1.

Fact: All types of diabetes are serious. If poorly managed both Type1 and Type 2 can lead to severe health complications like heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.

Myth #3: People with diabetes must eat special “diabetic” foods.

Fact: A healthy meal plan for people with diabetes is essentially a healthy meal plan for everyone! It emphasizes non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limits added sugars and processed foods. It’s all about moderation, balance and portion control.

Myth #4: Only overweight people get Type 2 Diabetes.

Fact: While being overweight is a major risk factor, many other factors are involved, including age, family history, and ethnicity. Many people at a normal weight still develop Type 2 diabetes.

Pearl of Prevention 

Empower your health through awareness and action. It’s important to schedule an annual wellness checkup, including blood work that measures your A!C (average blood sugar over 2-3 months).Speak with your healthcare provider about your personal risk. For Type 2 diabetes , early detection of prediabetes can often be reversed with healthy lifestyle changes. Early detection and education are your best allies in prevention in Type 2.

Action Steps for a Healthier You

 ●    Move More: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate -intensity activity most days of the week. Even a brisk walk makes a difference.

●    Eat Mindfully: Focus on adding more fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to your plate. Drink water instead of sugary beverages.

●    Stay Hydrated: Water helps regulate blood sugar and supports overall health.

●    Manage Stress: Chronic stress affects blood sugar. Practice deep breathing, journaling, or meditation.

●    Know the Signs: Be aware of the common diabetes symptoms, such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, or slow-healing sores. Don’t dismiss them, talk to your doctor and be honest.

●    Connect and Learn: If you or a loved one has diabetes, seek out resources, support groups or a certified diabetes care and education specialist. Know you are not alone!

Gentle Reminder 

Your health is your foundation. Take a moment this month to educate yourself, make one small positive change, and check in with yourself. Your health is wealth, and you deserve to feel your best. Be proactive, be informed, and be kind to your body. Small consistent healthy choices today are the greatest investment in your long-term well-being.

Don’t forget November 14 is World Diabetes Day, a global day of awareness, World Diabetes Day (WDD) is the world’s largest diabetes awareness campaign reaching a global audience of over 1 billion people in over 160 countries. It is marked every year on the 14th of November, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. Find out more about diabetes and World Diabetes day at https://worlddiabetesday.org/



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.

To all of the Veterans in the Seven Pearls Family:

Thank you for your service,

protecting our democracy, families and country!

Partners Welcome for Girls Mentoring Program

Thank you everyone that has volunteered to be mentors for our Pearls of Wisdom program. It is off to a phenomenal start and is sure to make a powerful impact in the Fayetteville community!

The Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc. is seeking partners for our Pearls of Wisdom Empowerment Institute! This isn't just any program; it's a golden opportunity for young ladies in high school to equip themselves with the tools and resources they need to blossom into productive citizens. Join us on an amazing transformative journey where scholars evolve into remarkable women, embodying our Founders' vision of empowerment and community upliftment. With a focus on STEM, we’re ready to help our young ladies not just navigate, but effectively through life’s challenges! When one pearl shines, we all shine!

If interested, contact the President/CEO, Linette Caroselli at president@sevenpearls.org.

If interested in volunteering whether virtually or in person, click the Volunteer Here button for our volunteer form below.

Help us Crown the Moments!

*Program conceived & in development by members of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc. BOD.

Veteran Spotlight:

A Salute to Virginia Price-Booker, US Navy

Virginia Price-Booker’s military journey is nothing short of inspiring! Starting her remarkable path in the JROTC during her high school years, she quickly advanced to abbreviated boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, showcasing her determination and commitment to serving her country. From her assignment at the 314 NAVMARCORSEN in St. Louis to her training at the Naval Air Station in Meridian, MS, and then a transformative tour at Elmdorf Air Force Base in breathtaking Anchorage, Alaska, each step of her journey was filled with growth and resilience. Her time in Japan, although marked by personal tragedy, exemplified her strength and unwavering spirit, leading to her honorable retirement after completing her contract on November 7, 1987. Virginia’s accolades, including three Good Conduct Awards, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Rifle Expert (2) Armed Forces Medal, highlight not just her dedication but also the profound impact of her service.

This remarkable woman embarked on her journey with Sigma Gamma Rho on July 31,1970, where she was warmly welcomed into the Alpha Delta Chapter. While juggling her service in the United States Navy and her studies at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, she remained a steadfast member. Price's determination shone brightly as she returned on leave to complete her degree, proving that she could navigate both the seas and her studies with flair! After retiring from the Navy, she landed back in St. Louis, ready to dive into her sorority life once more. With a colorful career that includes time at the United States Post Office, Price has donned many hats—local and regional chapter offices, and even a seat on the board of directors for SPEAR Foundation, Inc. Currently, she serves as the Treasurer for the Seven Pearls Foundation Inc., where her financial savvy keeps the spirit of giving afloat! As proud Life Member #445, a Ruby member, Cultural Pearl, and proud Poodle in Boots, Price-Booker embodies the essence of sisterhood, showing us all that when we uplift each other, we truly shine like the pearls we are!

Let us celebrate the extraordinary contributions of women like Price-Booker, who have paved the way for future generations! Together, we can honor their legacy by reflecting on the importance of leadership and service in our own lives and uplifting our communities. Join us in supporting initiatives that empower women and girls, reinforcing our commitment to social change and a brighter future for all!

Treasured Memories of Our Seven Pearls

The legacy of our illustrious Founders continues to thrive within the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc., reminding us that even though they have transitioned, their impactful presence remains alive in our hearts and minds. We are profoundly grateful to the sorors who have embraced the opportunity to share their treasured memories for this newsletter, as it is through the art of storytelling that we can preserve these invaluable narratives. By documenting and passing down these stories, we not only honor the memory of our Seven Pearls but also create a tapestry of experiences that enrich our community and foster a sense of belonging. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of sharing our journeys and reflections, empowering each of us to connect more deeply with our shared heritage and mission. As we continue to celebrate and uphold the values of our Founders, let us commit to ensuring that their legacies are cherished and conveyed to future generations, thus uplifting women and advancing social progress together.

Pearl Vivian Irene White-Marbury

Treasure Box One

The Central Regional Conference was meeting in Indianapolis, IN. Soror Pat Daniels was the Regional Syntaktes. The National Board had just met with the National NPHC to abolish pledging, and it was a hot and controversial topic. I was assigned to escort Founder Marbury to her hotel room. She was surrounded by a huge crowd of mostly undergraduate members who just wanted to touch her (This was way before cell phones). We weren't able to walk very fast because of the crowd.

Someone yelled out a question. They asked Founder Marbury if she agreed with the decision to abolish the pledge process. Founder Marbury stopped moving. She stood still, then she spoke.

She said, no she wasn't in favor of it. But she also never thought we would hurt each other. If we were going to hurt each other, then pledging had to go. You could have heard a pin drop. After a few seconds, she continued walking and I took her to her room.

Treasure Box Two

I was the Central Regional Syntaktes. I was in Indianapolis for the area meeting. We were meeting in a community center. It had snowed that morning in Indianapolis. So I'm in the meeting and from where I was standing, I could see the parking lot. The members, who were facing me, could not see the lot. A SUV pulled up, all the way to the door of the building. A young white man got out of the passenger rear seat. I was sure he wasn't coming to my meeting, so I continued talking.

The young man went to the passenger front seat and opened the car door. He picked up a woman and started walking to the building. The driver had hopped out and was holding the door open to the building. It took me a few seconds to realize he was holding Founder Marbury. He carried her into the building. I stopped talking and was standing there staring with my mouth open. Quite naturally, the sorors turned around to see what I was staring at, and like me, were stunned to see this young white man carrying our Founder.

He brought her into the room and set her on her feet. He then announced that he was one of her neighbors and that she wanted to come to the meeting but was afraid to drive in the snow, so he and his brother volunteered to bring her. He went on to say that when she was ready to return home, to call him and they would come back and get her. One of the sorors said she would take her home, but they insisted on coming back for her.

Treasure Box Three

It was 1986. The Boule was in Seattle, Washington. Alpha Sigma brought Founder Marbury to the Boule. The immediate past national president of Delta Sigma Theta lived in Seattle. She came to the public meeting and brought Bertha Pitts Campbell, the last living founder of Delta Sigma Theta with her. So on the stage, at our public meeting were these two founders. It was amazing.

Pearl Hattie Mae Dulin Redford

Treasure Box Four

I remember Founder Redford who was a regular attendee at our Central Region conferences. When I was on the National Board of Directors, I believe I was the UCC of Central Region. (When) Founder Redford passed away. The Boule was in Chicago, IL. We were bussed to Indianapolis for the funeral. I still have the funeral program. 

-Soror Frances Jackson

Soror Frances Jackson is a member of Rho Sigma Chapter in Detroit, Michigan. She has served as the National Parliamentarian, Central Regional Syntaktes, Central Region UCC and Basileus of Rho Sigma Chapter. She is also a Cultured Pearl. Soror Jackson was inducted at Alpha Eta Chapter at Wayne State University in Detroit on March 14, 1970. She has been a member of Sigma Gamma Rho for more than 55 years.

Pearl Vivian Irene White-Marbury

Treasure Box Five

Sorors from Kappa, Delta Omega, Xi Xi and Nu Gamma were welcomed to her (Founder Marbury) home. As the chapter historian at the time of one of the oldest chapters, I had questions since this was prior to the internet. She explained that Kappa at Wilberforce was chartered so quickly after the establishment of the organization because Founder Allison (Gardner Little) had a friend on campus and they were communicating about the organization. Kappa was chartered April 1923, and the article (see below) reinforces what was shared. Her friend, Homer Woods (Wheeler) was a National Organizer for Sigma and supported the establishment of chapters. We questioned why (the name) Kappa (was chosen) since it was the second chapter and not following the Greek alphabet. Marbury indicated that she was not sure and that was the agreement with Allison and Woods.

The time with her fostered my passion for history and exploring single letter chapters. She was kind and welcoming.

-Soror Zaria Davis

Can you identify a future International Grand Basileus in this cherished Founder memory?

Welcome Parliamentarian Perry!

New Board Member

Introducing a new face to the Seven Pearls Foundation Inc. Board of Directors! Please join us in welcoming Soror Ceresh Perry, a shining star of sisterhood in Sigma! From her induction in the vibrant Spring of 2017 through the Lambda Delta Sigma Chapter in Anne Arundel County, MD, to her current home in the Mu Omega Sigma Chapter in Fredericksburg, VA, Soror Perry embodies the warmth and community spirit that makes our sisterhood so special! Can we talk about her incredible journey? She’s not just a member; she’s a powerhouse! Serving as the Parliamentarian for the LDS Chapter in 2018-2019 and then stepping up as the Northeastern Region Parliamentarian from 2020-2024, Soror Perry has made waves with her leadership! To her amazing role as 2nd Vice President of Membership with the Marian J Martin Blue and Gold Gavel Electronic Unit of Parliamentarians from 2019-2022, and now, she’s rocking it as President! Talk about dedication to uplifting our communities and empowering women and girls of color!

This phenomenal lady is excelling as the Data Management Lead at the Program Executive Office, Enterprise Business Systems – Convergence with the Department of the Army, and she has some credentials from her time as the Enterprise Architecture Lead over at the Pentagon. Stellar!

She’s not just a tech whiz; she’s also a proud graduate from North Carolina Central University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, and guess what? She is currently working on obtaining a master’s degree in business Analytics! When she’s not busy slaying the data game, you’ll find her relaxing with her family, diving into a good book, or working out to stay her most healthy. And as if she wasn't already awesome, she’s a newly minted Professional Registered Parliamentarian with the National Association of Parliamentarians—now that's dedication to lifelong learning! Soror Perry embodies the spirit of empowerment and community engagement that the Seven Pearls Foundation champions, inspiring women and girls of color to reach for the stars!

So, let’s rally together, support Soror Perry, and continue to uplift each other as we chase our dreams and serve our communities!

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 also be a Life Member. Interested candidates may send their resume and a letter of interest to Linette Caroselli at president@sevenpearls.org.

Position is open until vacancy is filled.

Community Contributions

We want YOU to be a part of the Morning Announcements community!

Each issue of Morning Announcements is available on our website at sevenpearls.org, where you can explore past newsletters, stories, and exciting opportunities.

Contact: create@sevenpearls.org