About our organization
ABOUT US
The Distinguished Ladies of Essence Incorporated (DLOE Inc.) is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization committed to expanding access to higher education for college-age students from underserved communities who face significant financial barriers. Founded in 2025, DLOE Inc. operates on the belief that talent and potential exist in every community, and that financial hardship should never prevent motivated students from earning a college degree. DLOE Inc. provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students attending accredited two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Beyond financial assistance, the organization delivers a holistic support model that includes mentorship, academic encouragement, and connections to campus and community resources. This comprehensive approach helps students not only enroll in college but persist through graduation and transition successfully into their careers. Since its inception, DLOE Inc. has awarded two scholarships to students from underrepresented communities. Recipients demonstrate strong academic achievement, high retention, and a commitment to community service. Many are first-generation college students for whom tuition, books, and living expenses would otherwise be unattainable. DLOE Inc. is governed by a dedicated board of directors and supported by donors, partners, and volunteers who share a commitment to educational equity. The organization maintains strict fiscal responsibility and transparency, ensuring that funds are used efficiently to maximize student impact. Looking ahead, DLOE Inc. seeks to scale its scholarship program, expand wraparound student services, and build strategic partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations. Through sustained investment and collaboration, DLOE Inc. aims to create long-term, transformative change by empowering students to achieve academic success, enter the workforce, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large
Our Origin and Purpose
Founded by a remarkable group of women, all proud Cheyney University alumni. The roots of our organization trace back to the 1980s, when we first formed lasting connections as members of "Omega Essence," an entity dedicated to fostering friendship and unity among its members. Over the years, even as the original organization dissolved, our shared sense of sisterhood endured and grew stronger. In the wake of the loss of our beloved sister, Patricia, we found renewed purpose. Transforming our grief into meaningful action, we established scholarship initiatives to honor her legacy and ensure her impact would continue to inspire others.
Overcoming Challenges and Strengthening Our Mission
Throughout our journey, The Distinguished Ladies of Essence, Inc. encountered significant challenges. The passing of one of our founding members, Dayna Dember, was a particularly profound moment in our history. Rather than diminishing our spirit, this loss deepened our commitment to the mission that first brought us together. Our resolve only strengthened, uniting us further in our shared dedication to our cause.
Our Ongoing Commitment
Through enduring collaboration, dedicated effort, and unwavering mutual support, The Distinguished Ladies of Essence, Inc. continue to represent the ideals of fellowship, service, and excellence. We remain steadfast in our mission to empower our members and uplift the community through purposeful engagement and strong, lasting connections.
Our Scholarships and Endowment Funds
- DLOE, INC. Scholarship Fund
- The Patricia D. Richardson Scholarship
- The Dayna Dember Scholarship
- DLOE, INC. Endowment Fund
- Mentorship Programs
Our Mission
Our mission is to honor our alma mater Cheyney University of Pennsylvania; the Nation's first HBCU by establishing a lasting legacy while continuing to provide sustained support to marginalized, low-income, and first-generation students. Through our efforts, we aim to create pathways to opportunity, success, and the realization of dreams.
Memorial scholarships
THE PATRICIA D. RICHARDSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
July 14, 1962 - November 27, 2017
The Patricia D. Richardson Memorial Scholarship was created to honor Patricia Denise Richardson affectionately known as "Pat". We wanted to create an everlasting legacy to our dear sister who departed this earth way too soon. Its intent is to offer additional financial resources to Cheyney University of Pennsylvania students that have a passion for succeeding but may need extra help to do so. Education and helping others were always very important to Patricia. This scholarship is a way to show appreciation for her love, dedication and work ethic and memorialize her passion for greatness. It is a vehicle to honor her by contributing to the education of Cheyney students majoring in social work and business and those who will be future leaders and innovators of tomorrow. Our hope is that through their success Pat will live on and the recipients of this scholarship will pay it forward to the next generation.
THE DAYNA DEMBER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
February 13, 1962 - August 6, 2024
The Dayna Dember Memorial Scholarship honors our sister Dayna, whose dedication was instrumental in founding The Patrica D. Richardson Memorial Scholarship. Remembered for her passion of helping others, we continue to uphold her legacy. Inspired by the impact of our friend, we strive to advance learning and support others, keeping Dayna’s memory alive through each initiative. This scholarship is dedicated to continuing her commitment and passion for education and literacy.
Cheyney University History (est. 1837)
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania: The Oldest HBCU in the Nation
If you are interested in learning about the history and legacy of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States, you cannot ignore Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, the oldest HBCU in the nation. Founded in 1837 as the Institute for Colored Youth, Cheyney University has a remarkable story of resilience, excellence and innovation that spans nearly two centuries.
The Beginnings of Cheyney University
Cheyney University owes its existence to Richard Humphreys, a Quaker philanthropist who was born on a plantation in Tortola, an island in the British West Indies. Humphreys came to Philadelphia in 1764 and became concerned about the struggles of free people of African descent to make a living and gain education in a discriminatory society. He was also inspired by the news of a race riot against free African Americans in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1829.
Humphreys decided to bequeath $10,000 (equivalent to $293,133 in 2022) to establish a school to educate people of African descent and prepare them as teachers. He charged thirteen fellow Quakers to design an institution "to instruct the descendants of the African Race in school learning, in the various branches of the mechanic Arts, trades and Agriculture, in order to prepare and fit and qualify them to act as teachers ..."
The school was founded as the African Institute in February 1837 and renamed the Institute for Colored Youth (ICY) in April 1837. In its early years, it provided training in trades and agriculture, which were the predominant skills needed in the general economy. The school was located in Philadelphia and had several locations over the years.
The Move to Cheyney
In 1902, the ICY was relocated to George Cheyney's farm, a 275-acre property 25 miles west of Philadelphia. The land was donated by the prominent Cheyney family, who were also Quakers and abolitionists. The name "Cheyney" became associated with the school in 1913, though the school's official name changed several times during the 20th century.
The school became Cheyney State Normal School in 1914, Cheyney Training School for Teachers in 1921, Cheyney State Teachers College in 1926, Cheyney State College in 1959 and Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 1983. The school also expanded its academic offerings beyond teacher education to include liberal arts, sciences, business, communications and more.
The Legacy of Cheyney University
As the oldest HBCU in the nation, Cheyney University has a rich heritage and a proud alumni network. Some of the notable graduates include:
- Ed Bradley, a correspondent for the CBS program "60 Minutes"
- Bayard Rustin, a prominent civil rights activist and organizer of the 1963 March on Washington
- Pedro Rivera, Pennsylvania Secretary of Education
- Robert W. Bogle, publisher and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune, the oldest newspaper continuously owned and operated by an African American
- Dr. Audrey F. Bronson, a member of the PA State System of Higher Education’s Board of Governors, ordained minister and retired educator
- Dr. Gladys Styles Johnston, former Chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Thaddeus Kirkland, State Representative and Mayor of Chester, PA
Cheyney University is also a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. It offers baccalaureate degrees in more than 30 disciplines and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Today, Cheyney University welcomes students from a variety of races, cultures and nationalities who receive educational instruction far beyond the vision of Richard Humphreys. The university's mission is "to prepare confident, competent, reflective, visionary leaders and responsible citizens" who can contribute to a global society.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheyney_University_of_Pennsylvania
: https://cheyney.edu/who-we-are/the-first-hbcu/
: https://aaregistry.org/story/cheyney-university-founded/
: https://www.the1hbcu.com/cheyney/
The DLOE Memorial Scholarship, Inc Board of Directors
- Belinda Henderson -. President
- Charlene Edwards - Vice President
- Sylvia Garner - Treasurer
- Sharon Crawford Elliott - Recording Secretary
- Tracey Connors - Corresponding Secretary
Help our cause
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission.
Please complete the "Drop us a line" form below.
We would love to hear from you!!