[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 143 (Thursday, November 20, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1644-E1645]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING MRS. BONITA M. HERRING, INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS OF SIGMA 
                        GAMMA RHO SORORITY, INC.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOBBY L. RUSH

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 20, 2014

  Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate and honor, Mrs. Bonita 
M. Herring on the occasion of her re-election as the 24th International 
Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Sigma Gamma Rho 
Sorority Inc. is a leading international, non-profit community service 
organization founded by seven African American educators November 12, 
1922, on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana.
   The mission of Sigma Gamma Rho is to enhance the quality of life 
within the community through public service, leadership development, 
and the education of youth. With more than 500 chapters in the United 
States, Bermuda, Virgin Islands, Germany, and Korea, Sigma Gamma Rho 
Sorority, Inc. has grown tremendously in Sisterhood, Scholarship, and 
Service.
   Mrs. Herring embodies the highest ideals of Sigma Gamma Rho 
Sorority, Inc. She has served her community locally, regionally, and 
nationally with vigor and grace for over 40 years. Mrs. Herring's 
leadership and interpersonal skills are unparalleled. She has served on 
a myriad of boards, such as the Southeast Chamber of Commerce of 
Illinois and the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, and as 
Director of Recruitment for the College of Education at Chicago State 
University.
   As the newly re-elected International Grand Basileus, Mrs. Herring 
represents the highest ideals of Sigma Gamma Rho which is encapsulated 
in the words of their motto: ``Greater Service, Greater Progress.'' 
Mrs. Herring also served as the 22nd International First Grand Anti-
Basileus from 2008-2012 and as Executive Director of the sorority for 
23 years. She is the only Soror of Sigma Gamma Rho to hold the 
distinction of serving as both Executive Director and International 
Grand Basileus.

[[Page E1645]]

   Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Herring is the recipient of a Bachelor of Arts 
degree in English from the University of Illinois-Chicago and a Masters 
of Arts degree in Communications and Training from Governors State 
University. Mrs. Herring is married to Mr. Chester Herring, a Certified 
Public Accountant. They have one daughter, Ms. Chevonne Herring who is 
also a Certified Public Accountant and member of Sigma Gamma Rho 
Sorority, Inc.
   Mrs. Herring lives by the mantra, uttered by Harriet Tubman, ``Every 
great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you 
the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to 
change the world.'' Mrs. Herring's passion and impact on society are 
immense. She has cultivated a rich legacy as a woman that is fair, 
dedicated, business oriented, and honors the importance of the power of 
kindness and sisterly support.
   Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the achievements of 
International Grand Basileus Bonita M. Herring. Her commitment to Sigma 
Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and indeed this nation is commendable. I am 
privileged to enter these words into the Congressional Record of the 
United States House of Representatives.

                          ____________________