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"CALLING SISTER SCHOLARS: Join Us for 2026–2027!"
 The DREF Sister Scholars Advisory Council (SSAC) is gearing up for another productive year of research, publications, presentations, and scholarly engagement.
 SSAC brings together established scholars from inside and outside of academia, who lend their expertise to research and initiatives addressing critical issues affecting African American women and communities. Join a network of volunteer scholars, builders, and leaders who are members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., who are committed to using research, knowledge, and collective expertise to support the Black community.  Visit https://deltafoundation.net/sister-scholars-advisory-council/read more about the opportunity to join the Council.  The first meeting will be October 22, 2026 @  8 p.m. ET | 7 p.m. CT | 6 p.m. MT | 5 p.m. PT.  Email: sisterscholars@deltafoundation.net to express your interest in attending and joining. #DST1913 #DREF #SisterScholarsAdvisoryCouncil #DREFResearchMatters, #BlackWomenScholars , #ResearchForChange

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On this Motivational Monday, be reminded that September is Suicide Prevention Month, but every month matters when someone is having challenges. 🖤 The national theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide" is a call to action to "Start the Conversation". As DREF Aligns Advocacy and Action we recognize that for Black communities, talking about mental health is an act of care, courage, and connection. Too many of us carry pain in silence—but you do not have to face it alone.
 DREF's Sister Scholars Advisory Council developed a report and several resources that help communities understand  and  learn more about this topic. Visit :https://deltafoundation.net/disparitytoequity/ to access "From Disparity to Equity: A ROAD MAP FOR CLOSING BLACK HEALTHCARE GAPS".
 There is no single cause for suicide. Depression and other mental health conditions are often assumed to be the cause, but many people manage these conditions successfully and not everyone who attempts suicide has a diagnosis. Specialists broadly agree that identifying and supporting those most vulnerable, rather than relying on crisis care alone, is one of the most effective prevention strategies available. Your story matters. Asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.
#DST1913, #DREF, #SuicidePreventionMonth #BlackMentalHealth #BlackMentalWellness #988Lifeline #YouAreNotAlone #MentalHealthMatters #HealingInCommunity

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DREF celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month 2026  which takes place from September 15 to October 15, 2026, celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. #DST1913, #DREF,  #CelebrateDiversity #HispanicHeritageMonth #HispanicPride #CulturalHeritage

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September is recognized as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Awareness Month to honor the history, legacy, and impact of the nation's more than 100 HBCUs, nationally. The month aims to encourage students to enroll in HBCUs, raise scholarship funds, and build employment pipelines into corporate America and other sectors. 
  DREF celebrates HBCU Awareness Month by honoring the institutions that cultivate excellence, empower generations, and uplift Black communities. Support an HBCU today!  #DST1913, #DREF,  #HBCUAwarenessMonth, #HBCUPride, #BlackExcellence,#EmpowerBlackStudents

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As fall arrives, DREF welcomes a season of reflection, renewal, and community. May this new season inspire us all to celebrate the strength, brilliance, and resilience of Black women—and continue building a future where every Black woman can thrive.#DST1913,#DREF, #BlackWomenLead, #FallIntoPurpose, #CommunityPower, #FallVibes

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DREF recognizes World Alzheimer's Day .  The 2026 theme: "The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters" emphasizes the critical importance of recognizing early symptoms, seeking timely medical intervention, and reducing the stigma attached to dementia. 
  DREF's partnership with Alzheimer's Association, last year, included three webinars  to increase awareness about Alzheimer's and Dementia and share updates on research and treatment. In addition includes the importance of participation in clinical trials, and provide resources for caregivers. Visit https://deltafoundation.net/alzheimersassociation/ to learn more. #DREF, #DST1913,  #WorldAlzheimersDay #AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #ClinicalTrials #AlzheimersAssociation

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Creating Possibilities…
Improving Lives

“Research Matters: Creating Possibilities to Achieve Health and Wellness for All of Us” focuses on outreach and education to African Americans about the significant role biomedical research plays in addressing health disparities.

As we continue to explore health equity issues, DREF is proud to partner with the Alzheimer’s Association. The three planned webinars are designed to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.

DREF awards scholarships and internship opportunities to student applicants entering college or continuing their academic programs. Students must meet both academic and community service requirements.

The Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) supports DST Chapters, Individuals and Families by providing a comprehensive Financial Health & Wellness Webinar Series.

Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF)

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. established the Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) as a public charity supporting scholastic achievement, public service programs, and research initiatives focused upon African American women.

VISION The DREF vision is to Create Possibilities and Improve Lives.

MISSION The Delta Research and Educational Foundation (DREF) identifies issues affecting Black women, their families, and communities of the African Diaspora globally, and creates solutions through research, programming, and funding in support of charitable and educational programs of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and other collaborative organizations.