PhD at 17, Soror at 19: Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman Makes History as Youngest Member of Sigma Gamma Rho’s Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter

She earned her doctoral degree at just 17 years old, and now, at 19, Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman is making history once again. The globally recognized scholar, educator, and youth advocate has officially joined Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter, becoming the youngest member in the chapter’s nearly 100-year history.

Dr. Tillman, just 19 years old, was inducted on November 1, 2025, as part of the Fall 2025 membership class known as the 14 Phases of RhOyalty, under the leadership of Chapter President Jeanine Donaldson and Vice President Nicole Riouse. The formal presentation of the class took place on December 13, 2025, at D.A. Banquets & Events in Calumet City, Illinois, where the Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter welcomed 14 new members into Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

As one of the earliest chapters in Sigma Gamma Rho’s history, the Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter has long been committed to fostering academic excellence, civic engagement, and leadership development throughout the Chicago community. That legacy will continue as the chapter prepares to celebrate its 100-year anniversary on May 21, 2027, marking a century of service, scholarship, and sisterhood.

Dr. Tillman’s journey to Sigma Gamma Rho is nothing short of extraordinary. A globally recognized child prodigy, she began her college education at the age of 10 and earned her doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from Arizona State University by age 17. She was named Outstanding Graduate Student at ASU and delivered a commencement address before more than 20,000 attendees, cementing her place as a powerful voice for youth achievement and educational equity.

Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Dr. Tillman serves as an advisor on STEAM education for the Akuapem people in Ghana, working under the leadership of His Royal Majesty Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III. She is also the founder and CEO of the Dorothyjeanius STEAM Leadership Institute, which empowers young people through science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics education.

Holding double master’s degrees in Environmental Sustainable Science from Unity College, Dr. Tillman works alongside President Kari Steele of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago on the Space to Grow program, an initiative transforming schoolyards into sustainable green spaces that support education and community resilience.

Her accolades include the 2025 Ever Upward Award from Excelsior University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in humanities, as well as 40 Under 40 honors from WVON and Black Enterprise. Guided by her personal motto, “Leading by Examples of Excellence,” Dr. Tillman continues to inspire audiences around the world.

As she begins her journey within Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Dr. Tillman looks forward to serving on scholarship committees and supporting initiatives that uplift young women and advance the sorority’s mission. Her induction stands as a powerful reflection of Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter’s enduring commitment to leadership, service, and excellence across generations.

Watch The Yard congratulates Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman and the entire Fall 2025 Membership Class of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter, on this historic moment.

Read this article to learn about the entire line.