Former Delta Foundation President Dies: Remembering the Legacy and Leadership of Hortense G. Canady

Hortense G. Canady served as president of The Delta Foundation from 1997-2000. When she served as 18th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. from 1983-88, she led the Sorority in reactivating the Foundation to fulfill its mission of improving the lives of African American women and their families, while serving as the charitable entity of Delta Sigma theta Sorority, Inc. During the late 1980s, she launched the Diamond Jubilee Endowment Fund, in conjunction with the Sorority’s Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, to benefit The Delta Foundation. The Diamond Jubilee Fund raised more than $300,000. Also, during her tenure as president of The Delta Foundation, she conducted a Millennium Campaign that raised more than $1,000,000. In May 2008, Mrs. Canady joined the members of her local Delta chapter, Lansing Alumnae in contributing funds to establish the Hortense Golden Canady Scholarship Endowment Fund. She and her husband have been continuous major contributors to The Delta Foundation for nearly four decades. Dr. Alison J. Harmon, president of The Delta Foundation, stated: “We are deeply saddened that our shining star, Mrs. Canady, has fallen. Yet, we rejoice and celebrate the privilege of having known her and experienced her awesome leadership. To know her, was to love her. She was the best teacher on the subjects of philanthropy and leadership—strong, effective leadership to advance a progressive agenda for African American women. Her sage counsel and forward thinking will be truly missed.”