vendor Certification

(Download a PDF version of the Prospective Certified Vendor letter)

Dear Prospective Certified Vendor:

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated ("Delta") has registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office ("PTO") and U.S. Customs Office numerous trademarks and services marks (collectively "Marks"), including those listed in the Schedule A worksheet. Delta has several other applications for registration currently pending before the PTO. In addition, Delta has numerous other Marks protected by federal and state common law.

Anyone wishing to design, manufacture, advertise, market/distribute, or sell (collectively "market") merchandise imprinted with Delta's Marks must become certified, which means you must: become familiar with and agree to abide by Delta's vendor's Operating Guidelines and Code of Conduct for Vendors; complete an application; and execute a License Agreement.

Delta authorizes use of its Marks through its Vendor Certification Program. Delta's policy, practices, and procedures for operating its Program, the steps a person or entity must follow to obtain certification, and the standards for operating as a vendor are set out in the following documents: Vendor Operating Guidelines and Code of Conduct for Vendors, Vendor Application, and License Agreement, all of which are attached. Please review the attached documents carefully if you wish to become a certified vendor.

PLEASE NOTE: Persons who wish to use any Delta Mark(s) in connection with any promotion or one-time event are considered vendors and must apply to use Delta's Marks through its Vendor Certification Program. No individual member may authorize use of Delta's Marks. A vendor who markets merchandise not manufactured by it must purchase merchandise only from a licensed vendor/manufacturer. A vendor who supplies any Marks to a manufacturer must ensure that the manufacturer will use the Marks consistently with Delta's standards and will not allow any unauthorized use of Delta's Marks.

You may apply for certification by completing, signing and returning the enclosed License Agreement (including the First Amendment to the License Agreement) and the Application for Vendor's License along with the license fee.

A sample or clear photograph(s)] of the product(s) you wish to market must accompany the application. Vendors renewing their license do not need to send a sample, unless a new product is being sold.

Licenses will be issued for the marketing of products that sustain and enhance the image of the Sorority. The Sorority reserves the right to cancel any license, should the items sold promote a negative image and/or be obviously contrary to the views and standards of this organization.

Please forward the completed documents along with the sample and a check (no personal checks) to:

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC.
P.O. Box 33759
Washington, D. C.  20033-0759

A Credit Card Payment Form is enclosed for your convenience.

Once a complete application is received it will take 30 - 60 days to process. Incomplete submissions and unapproved products will not be processed nor accepted.  

Delta diligently protects its Marks and vigorously pursues persons or entities that violate its Marks and intellectual property rights and vigorously pursues persons and entities that market products bearing Delta's Marks without having obtained authorization.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact Nicole Lenon Johnson at 202/986-2400, ext. 399.

Sincerely,

Roseline McKinney

Roseline McKinney
Executive Director

Delta members have always supported the Sorority’s request that they refrain from patronizing and report unlicensed vendors.  Delta encourages members to continue their vigilance.  Reports should be made to Ms. Lenon and should include the name of the business; contact person and title, if available; address; telephone number; location of sale or display of merchandise; and list of items being sold.