HERstory
Ms. Audrey S. Brooks, the Eternal Sweetheart, of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc. and the inspiration of Iota Sweethearts, Inc.
May 23, 1921- December 27, 2003
In the early 1960′s at Morgan State University (then Morgan State College), Iota Phi Theta was blessed to have an invaluable ally in the person of Ms. Audrey S. Brooks. Ms. Brooks was a member of the Morgan State staff, working for the registrar’s office, and in this capacity, she played a crucial “behind the scenes” role for the fraternity. She was a vital resource in assisting the Brothers through a time of adversity in their early growth and development. In recognition of her efforts, Ms. Brooks was granted the title of “Eternal Sweetheart” shortly after the fraternity’s official founding September 19, 1963.
The spirit and dedication of Ms. Brooks continued for many years through the Iota Sweethearts. As the fraternity navigated the rocky waters of the early years, the Brotherhood could always count on the support of the sweethearts. Be it serving as hostesses for regional meetings and national conferences or as a support team at a step show, Iota Sweethearts have always been there on the front lines providing vocal and moral support for the brothers of Iota.
Iota Phi Theta and Iota Sweethearts have enjoyed a special relationship unlike any other in the fraternal world. The relationship, based on mutual respect, honor, commitment and dedication between Brothers and Sweethearts, individually as well as to the fraternity in general, has resulted in the positive growth and development of members and the organization over the years.
As Iota Phi Theta continued to grow, so did Iota Sweethearts. More than just a support system for the fraternity, Iota Sweethearts evolved into a sisterhood that provides an atmosphere for hundreds of women to develop on a collegiate and professional level. On September 26, 2014, Iota Sweethearts became an incorporated organization. With the creation of the Iota Sweethearts, Inc. in 2014 and the disbanding of the Iota Sweethearts Auxiliary in 2015, the leadership of both Iota Phi Theta and Iota Sweethearts, Inc. agree that the historical relationship formed between the Brothers and the Sweethearts must continue through the organizational ‘binding’ of both Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. and Iota Sweethearts, Inc.
Iota Sweethearts, Inc. continues to foster the intellectual, spiritual, social and professional development of its members, contributes to advancement of our communities locally and nationally, and will never forget the purpose set forth by our Eternal Sweetheart, the late Ms. Audrey S. Brooks.
Learn more about our history by visiting our national website at www.iotasweetheartsinc14.com