HoCo Makes History with Nation's First Center to Support D9 Organizations, including CAC-DST

Howard County, Md., reached a historic milestone on Feb. 21 with the grand opening of the High Ridge Center in Ellicott City. The pioneering facility is dedicated to supporting the public service and collaborative efforts of the National Pan-Hellenic Council’s Divine Nine (D9) organizations. The new center is a powerful testament to the collective commitment of the D9 organizations to foster public service and strong leadership that positively impact the Howard County community.

The Columbia (MD) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (CAC-DST) joins fellow D9 organizations in continuing a long tradition of dedicated community service that will be highlighted at the building. Serving as a centralized hub, the facility will facilitate high-impact public service activities such as high school mentorship, food drives, and voter education programs.

“Delta was the first African American sorority or fraternity to start a chapter in Howard County in 1971, and we are one of the largest Pan-Hellenic chapters in the county,” said CAC-DST First Vice President Samantha Phillips-Chester during the grand opening of the center. “We are elated to be a part of this momentous occasion to show that our work in the county continues to be recognized.”

CAC-DST President Eugenia Woodson emphasized the shared mission of service that brought the groups together. “We are absolutely thrilled to partner with our fellow D9 organizations and continue the great tradition of public service that is the hallmark of our respective organizations,” she remarked.

The grand opening of the High Ridge Center is a testament to the outstanding leadership and bold vision of Howard County Executive Dr. Calvin Ball, alongside supporters from the Howard County Council and D9 volunteers.

U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, a beloved member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., attended the grand opening and commended Dr. Ball’s leadership and the profound significance of the collaboration among the D9 organizations.

“Our unity is what brought us here,” she said to a thunderous applause. “This is a site to be seen, a sight to behold, the first of its kind in the nation.”

Dr. Ball, recognizing that this achievement was born from teamwork, stated that the building’s opening was a true team effort. “We would not be here without all of you — your time, talents, and treasure,” he told the attendees, highlighting the spirit of collaboration that will define the center’s future.