In addition to her graciousness and kind spirit, Miss Brooks had a vested interest in Iota Phi Theta's success because her son, Bro. Wesley Jennings (4 Alpha 64), was a member of Iota Phi Theta's first Pledge line!

In recognition of her efforts, Miss Brooks was granted the title of "Eternal Sweetheart", a title she wears proudly to this day. A feisty, yet gracious lady in her late 80's (she will never tell us her exact age - when asked, she tells us she is "99 years old!"), Miss Brooks continues to support Iota Phi Theta and is a frequent guest at Iota National Conclaves and workshops. More importantly, she serves as a "Surrogate Mother" to Iota Phi Theta. She considers all Iota Men to be her sons and all Iota Sweethearts to be her daughters! 

The spirit and dedication of Miss Brooks lives today through the Iota Phi Theta Sweetheart Organization and with good reason. As Iota Phi Theta navigated the rocky waters of our early years, the Brotherhood could always count on the support of our Sweetheart organization. Be it serving as hostesses for a national meeting or as a support team at a stepshow, our Hearts have always been there - on the front lines - providing vocal and moral support for the Brothers of Iota. Today, Iota Sweethearts (many of whom are wives of Iota Men) continue to support the organization in a major way.

Like many things about Iota Phi Theta, our Sweetheart organization represents a departure from the norm as practiced by other organizations. Most notably, Iota Phi Theta Sweethearts do not "pledge." They are selected through a specific set of criteria as defined in our Official Sweetheart Directive.

Additionally, the Iota Sweetheart organization is not to be seen or construed as a substitute for a Sorority. In fact, thousands of Iota Sweethearts have gone on to join NPHC sororities. Iota Phi Theta is an avid supporter of the sororities of the NPHC and their activities. To this end, we frown upon any activities by our Sweetheart Organization that might be seen as competitive to or disrespectful of these organizations.

In a Sweetheart Workshop held during the 1999 Iota Phi Theta Conclave, Miss Brooks stated, "The Purpose of Iota Sweethearts is to smile and be gracious on behalf of Iota. Anything else is inappropriate." As in all things, we endorse Miss Brooks' view on this subject wholeheartedly.