Chapter Earns Top Prize with Initiative to Expand Access for Underserved Communities

A student-led vision to strengthen community support systems earned Alabama A&M University’s Delta Delta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. the top prize in the third annual Miles Blackwell Foundation Community Service Pitch Competition.

The winning team received $5,000 to implement its proposal, “Delta Bridge: Access in Action,” an initiative focused on expanding access to essential resources and building sustainable support networks for underserved individuals and families in the Huntsville area.

Hosted Feb. 24 at MB Solutions Inc., the competition brought together registered student organizations from across campus to present innovative service ideas designed to address community needs. Each team delivered a timed presentation outlining its proposed project, impact goals and implementation plan, with judges selecting winners based on creativity, feasibility and community benefit.

The Delta Delta Chapter’s proposal stood out for its emphasis on bridging gaps in access to services while fostering long-term engagement with local communities. The project will be implemented during the 2025-26 academic year with full funding from the foundation.

Second place and a $3,000 award went to the Gamma Mu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for its proposal, “The Ivy Impact,” which aims to expand outreach, education and resource support across the community.

Third place and $2,000 was awarded to the Sigma Beta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. for “The Unseen Sister Project,” an initiative designed to support women whose needs are often overlooked through targeted resources and awareness efforts.

Scholarship awards were presented during a women’s basketball game on March 5, recognizing the students’ commitment to service and leadership both on and off campus.

The Miles Blackwell Foundation established the competition to encourage student organizations to transform ideas into actionable service projects that benefit surrounding communities. While Miles Blackwell was not a student at Alabama A&M, his legacy inspired the creation of the foundation, which focuses on advancing service, leadership and educational opportunities for young people.

In addition to the annual pitch competition, the foundation supports a range of community initiatives throughout the year, including outreach programs, holiday drives and scholarships for students pursuing higher education.

Now in its third year, the competition continues to grow as a platform for Alabama A&M students to develop and launch impactful service initiatives. Winning teams will begin implementing their projects in the coming months, using foundation support to bring their ideas to life and create lasting change in the community.

Foundation leaders say the continued partnership with Alabama A&M reflects a shared commitment to empowering students and strengthening communities through service-driven innovation.