Press Releases and Media
PRESS RELEASES
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. Announces the Passing of Board Member Trustee Dr. Annie Lawrence-Brown
October 14, 2024
Washington, D.C. — The Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. (SGRNEF) family mourns the loss of an extraordinary leader and trailblazer, Dr. Annie Lane Lawrence-Brown, who passed away on October 12, 2024. Dr. Lawrence-Brown, a cherished board member, passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy of service, leadership, and excellence.
Born on February 13, 1924, in Madisonville, Virginia, Dr. Annie Lawrence-Brown celebrated a centennial milestone earlier this year. Her life was a testament to perseverance, passion, and commitment, as she dedicated herself to improving the lives of others through her work in nursing, education, and community service.
Dr. Lawrence-Brown’s journey began at the prestigious Freedman’s Hospital School of Nursing at Howard University, where she developed a lifelong love for nursing. She furthered her education by earning an additional nursing degree from DePaul University, distinguishing herself as a leader in the healthcare field.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Lawrence-Brown was a dedicated member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Dr. Lawrence-Brown served as the 13th International Grand Basileus from 1971 to 1976 where she provided leadership and vision for decades including being part of the original discussions around the formation of the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. (SGRNEF). As a devoted Trustee of the SGRNEF, she championed educational initiatives, ensuring that future generations would have access to the tools they need to succeed. Her stewardship of the Fund was instrumental and has since helped provide over $1 million in scholarships to students across the country.
Her impact on the community and the world of education will be felt for generations to come. Her life's work exemplifies the mission and values of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. (SGRNEF) Dr. Lawrence-Brown is remembered for her dedication to service, her pioneering spirit, and her unwavering commitment to mentoring and empowering others. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
The Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund Board of Trustees, Fund Fellows, Advocates and the community at large, extend heartfelt condolences to Dr. Lawrence-Brown's family and friends. We honor her memory and the monumental contributions she made to our organization and society at large.
About the National Education Fund, Inc. The National Education Fund, Inc. provides educational opportunities and support to underserved communities, enhancing the development of future leaders. For more information, visit www.sgrnationaleducationfund.org
For additional information and/or press inquiries, contact
Chandrai “CJ” Jackson-Saunders, PR & Marketing Chair
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc.
Cell: 202-491-8421 email: nefmarketing@sgrnationaleducationfund.org
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. (NEF) honors the life and legacy of
The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas)
Houston, TX – July 20, 2024. It is with our deepest sorrow that Juanita S. Love, President & CEO, the Board of Trustees, Fund Fellows, and Advocates of the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. mourn the passing of The Honorable Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), a remarkable leader and advocate for education reform and equity. Her contributions to our nation, particularly in education, have left an indelible mark on our communities and will continue to inspire generations to come.
Throughout her distinguished career in Congress, Congresswoman Lee tirelessly championed initiatives aimed at improving educational opportunities for all Americans. Her unwavering dedication to ensuring access to quality education, regardless of background or circumstance, reflected her belief in the transformative power of learning.
Beyond her legislative achievements, Congresswoman Lee was a beacon of hope and resilience. Her passion for advocacy and ability to unite people for a common cause was evident in every endeavor she undertook. Congresswoman Lee championed educational initiatives as a powerful force for positive change in our country. Her legacy will endure through the lives she touched and the policies she helped shape. In honoring her memory, let us renew our dedication by expanding SGRNEF scholarship opportunities for all.
As the board members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. plan to convene in the great city of Houston, Texas in advance of the 60th Biennial Boule of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., please join me in extending our deepest condolences to Congresswoman Jackson Lee's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May her legacy continue to guide and inspire us all.
For additional information and/or press inquiries, contact
Chandrai “CJ” Jackson-Saunders, PR & Marketing Chair
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc.
Cell: 202-491-8421 email: nefmarketing@sgrnationaleducationfund.org
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund Inc. (SGR-NEF) celebrates the Centennial Birthday of Dr. Annie M. Lawrence Brown
This Trustee, Founder, Lifetime Board Member of the NEF and
Past International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Turns 100 years young!
NORTH CAROLINA - February 12, 2024 – Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. (SGR-NEF) proudly commemorates the 100th birthday of Dr. Annie M. Lawrence Brown, an esteemed Trustee, Founder, Lifetime board member of NEF, and Past International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Dr. Brown stands as a beacon of light for her dedication to education and stewardship.
In recognition of Dr. Brown's Centennial Birthday and her unwavering commitment to SGR-NEF's mission, we are honored to announce the establishment of the Dr. Annie M. Lawrence Brown Stewardship Award. This prestigious award, presented biennially beginning in 2024, will provide scholarship recipients with $1000.00 to further support their educational endeavors and the NEF's Mission of "Opening Doors to the Future." Trustee Juanita Love, President & CEO of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority National Education Fund, Inc. (SGR-NEF), proudly presents this award, acknowledging 'Dr. Brown's invaluable contributions to our organization and the community."
NEF remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate barriers for deserving individuals through access to scholarships, leadership development, and community enhancement programs. With a focus on providing financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds and offering educational programs that enrich lives, SGR-NEF continues to empower individuals to pursue their dreams and shape their futures. As we celebrate Dr. Brown's remarkable legacy, decades of service, leadership, and impact, we invite all to join us in honoring her enduring contributions to education and empowerment. To help celebrate this occasion, please donate to our general scholarship fund: https://sgrnef.networkforgood.com/.
For Additional Information, contact Chaundrai Jackson-Saunders, Northeastern Region Trustee
Dr. Annie M. Lawrence Brown
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