61 st South Atlantic
Regional Conference
Delegate Reports ZETA UPSILON OMEGA CHAPTER
APRIL 2-6, 2014
Members Celebrate 25 and 50 Years at Regional Conference By Soror Crystal Pruitt and Soror Sharon Jackson Jacksonville, FL --Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated celebrated its 61st South Atlantic Regional Conference April 2-6, 2014 in Jacksonville, Florida at the
by Crystal Pruitt
Hyatt Regency Riverfront Hotel and the Prime Osborn Convention Center. Nearly 4,000 members dressed in pink and green came from Florida, Georgia and South Carolina to attend the event. During the conference weekend, members addressed economic, health, social justice and human rights issues as well as contributed more than 25,000 in a gift card collections for students aging out of the foster care system. A beautiful induction ceremony and
reception was held honoring Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Diamond, Golden, and Silver sorors. The mistress of ceremony and chairman was Soror Theresa Waters of Chi Delta Omega Chapter. Soror Sonja Williams Garcia, 14th South Atlantic Regional Director presided over the induction ceremonies. Three distinguished Diamond sorors were recognized that included Soror Marilyn Marks, Gamma Zeta Omega; Soror Ida Wolf Ross, Kappa Omega, and Soror Ruth Wheaton, Gamma Rho Omega. Soror Delores Whitehead representing ZUO was among 32 other Golden sorors who received their crowns. Additionally, 133 Silver Star sorors were honored and paraded their crowns throughout the conference weekend. The following members from Zeta Upsilon Omega Chapter received special recognition for 25 and 50 years of service in the sorority: Joyce A. Bell, 25 years
Lesley Cooper, 25 years Deborah Figgs-Sanders, 25 years Loretta Gilsterap, 25 years Bessie Kirnes, 25 years Sandra Patterson, 25 years Pamela Jones, 25 years Ann Tellis, 25 years Lena Wilfalk, 25 years Sonia Cotton, 25 years Sharon Jackson, 25 years Rev. Keturah Pittman , 50 years Deloris Whitehead, 50 years.
Soror Manitia Moultrie also received the “Guiding Torch” award for her active chapter participation and significant success of implementing the sorority’s International Global Leadership Through ‘Timeless Service program initiatives.
DELEGAT REPORT 61ST SARC
2 economically sound means to save and invest your money in order to change the landscape of this nation. It is of the utmost importance to go to the polls in 2014 “Hats Off To A because your very life depends on it. Soror Stewart delivered Fantastic Legacy” a prolific summary of Soror Because of Soror Norma Scott’s life. Soror Scott often Solomon White and Soror emphasized that as sorors we Ruth Solomon’s love of life should have each other’s back and concern for others instead of stabbing each other their legacy will never be in the back. She also extinguished. Their legacy recognized that in order to has inspired sorors that have chapter programs run Soror Jean Davies and Soror Joi we, too, can make efficiently, egos must be put Davis with Soror Busara Pitts differences in the lives of and Soror Barbara Page Burns aside because membership is others. The legacy parade vital. kicked off the luncheon which showcased family sorors who were dressed alike with Each attendee was given a souvenir gift. fantastic hats. This event represents the very During the breakfast, a PowerPoint best of sisterhood which celebrated the rich showcased pictures of the chapter Basileus traditions amongst related sorors. Each and Soror of the Year. attendee was given a souvenir gift. During the luncheon, a PowerPoint displayed pictures from different families. Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, First Supreme AntiBasileus, responded about sorors living in the spirit of legacy, heritage, and tradition of Alpha Kappa Alpha. She also talked about the significance of being legacy and perpetuating the Alpha Kappa Alpha values and sisterhood from generation to generation. There was also a memorial slide show presentation for Soror Ruth Solomon. The litany tribute that was recited was sentimental and assisted in honoring sorors who were initiated before them. Being a legacy is a heartwarming experience and an ineffable relationship that is bonded through love, pride, and honor.
Solomon White Legacy Luncheon
Mary Shy Scott Leadership Breakfast “Celebrating a Life of Timeless Service” By Soror Joi Davies
This event recognizes a chapter’s Basileus, Soror of the Year, and Leadership Fellow. Our 23rd Supreme Basileus was remembered through scripture Psalm 118:24, song (Sweet, Sweet Spirit), as well as a moving tribute by our 16th South Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Lucretia Payton Stewart. The speaker was Soror Peggy Quince, FL Supreme Court Justice. Soror Quince reminded us that voting is our opportunity to engage in all levels of government. We have to be more than consumers; we must be educated, engaged, and economically sound. To be
Leveraging PR and Communication through Timeless Strategies By Soror Crystal Pruitt Nearly 100 sorors packed the room to participate in the Communications workshop facilitated by Soror Crystal Pruitt along with members from the Regional Communications team. The workshop provided chapters with valuable tips and strategies on how to effectively penetrate the media and maximize social media to heighten Alpha Kappa Alpha’s brand awareness.
During the presentation, the re-launched ZUO website was presented as an example of how the chapter is using an integrated approach to communicate service programs and initiatives. Members applauded with excitement regarding the design, website function and interaction with social media. Throughout the workshop, members shared many best practices and tips on engaging social media as a communications tool. Social media is becoming more widely used
because it is a relatively inexpensive platform for chapters to implement marketing campaigns and community outreach. Social Media Tips:
Retweet, Repost Tag images with names of friends Ensure chapter website is mobile phone capable Use QR codes along with products websites, flyers, applications, attendance, etc., Use email marketing programs to send electronic newsletters and manage email distribution lists
DELEGAT REPORT 61ST SARC
Parade of White Jackets “Celebrating Good Times” By Soror Kyehsa Robinson The Opening Plenary session began on Friday April 4, 2014 with a parade of sorors from all over the South Atlantic Region in their crisp white blazers. Stepping to the tune of “Celebrate Good Times,” the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated marched in style. Following brief words of welcome from a very “H-A-PP-Y” Soror Ruby Moore George, 61st South Atlantic Regional Conference Chairman, Soror Marsha Lewis Brown took the podium. Cluster III began with their Welcome presentation with us landing our pink and green plane in Jacksonville and quickly reminded us of how “Brown delivered” over the past four years. The sorors of Cluster III reminded us all of how Soror Marsha Lewis Brown has lived up to the promises she made four years ago when she assumed office. They highlighted her efforts to help Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated go green by creating electronic newsletters and scannable conference badges, increased utilization of Facebook and Twitter, increased use of technology for conferences, and working hard to have the South Atlantic Region consistently have the largest number of regional attendees.
Following the appointment of conference officers, there was Rededication led by First Supreme Anti-Basilus Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson. We all took a moment to remind ourselves of our life-long commitment to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and Soror Patria Mitchell performed a stirring solo to “I Was Here” by Beyonce. International Committee Reports were last on the agenda for the opening plenary session. We heard from Nominating, Archives, Standards, Technology, Connection, and Timeless History.
3 The report of delegate strength was given by Soror Shields and was as follows: Florida had 152 graduate delegates and 18 undergraduates Georgia had 196 graduate delegates and 12 undergraduates South Carolina had 115 graduate delegates and 13 undergraduates There were 467 graduate and certified delegates and 43 undergraduate delegates, for a total of 510 delegates. There were 1,241 graduate sorors and 86 undergraduate sorors in attendance from Florida. There were 905 graduate sorors and 47 undergraduate sorors in attendance from Georgia. There were 386 graduate sorors and 131 undergraduate sorors in attendance from South Carolina.
10, 177 sorors reside in the South Atlantic Region. There are 107 graduate and 58 undergraduate chapters in the South Atlantic Region. There are 8,987 graduate sorors and 1890 undergraduate sorors in our region. There are 2 new interest groups (one in Georgia, the other in South Carolina). There are 5 suspended undergraduate chapters. There is one inactive chapter.
A total of 2,996 people were registered to attend the conference. The total graduate sorors in attendance was 2,532, undergraduate sorors 264, guests 133, general members 43 for a total of 2,796 people in attendance during our 61st South Atlantic Regional Conference. The State of the South Atlantic Region was delivered by Soror Marsha Lewis Brown and included the following: 173,000 volunteer hours logged in our region 18 percent of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s membership resided in South Atlantic Region.
And lastly there have been 555 new members to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated since 2013. In all, Soror Marsha Lewis Brown essentially reminded us that the promises she made were promises she ultimately kept.
Congratulations to our new Regional Director Elect:
Soror Sharon Brown Harriott
DELEGAT REPORT 61ST SARC
Workshop 14-Global Empowerment: Moving from Discussion to Action Presented by Soror Roslyn Mixon Phillps As part of the presentation Leslie Spencer with AARP Presented on the Healthcare Act and Soror, Phyllis Blake of Georgia Presented on the Legislative Topics. By Soror Jenee Skipper Key legislative issues the sorority is tackling this year includes the following: Voter Supression, Voter ID laws, Election Protection, Redistricting, Restoration of ex felons right to vote, Affordable Healthcare, Bullying, Education and Human Trafficking. Although, Alpha Kappa Alpha is a non partisan organization; as part of our global footprint and action plan we have built and established coalitions with various agencies which share similar interest to include Faith based organizations, NAACP, AARP, USDA, The Divine 9, National Coalition of Negro Women (NCNW) and Environmental Protection Agencies to name a few. Under our signature C.A.R.E.S. campaign designed as a collaborative tool to move our agenda forward; we recognize that collaboration is key because there is power in numbers. AKA has built it’s platform around Advocacy, Registration, Educating and Stimulating it’s members and the general public on relevant issues. Programs to date includes our AKA Connections team ongoing efforts to stimulate the public by providing educational materials world wide, to include the distribution of our C.A.R.E.S. brochure outlinging the key initiatives, A public policy resource guide, AKA Day at the Capital, Take 2 to the polls, Souls to the polls and Creating a comfort zone for those standing in long lines to vote. Under the leadership of our State Coordinator, Soror Valarie Grant Wilson, the South Atlantic Region has registered 2,652 voters to date and through it’s partnership efforts more than 10,000 voters have been registered within the region. As an organization we are continously educating ourselves and increasing our knowledge about issues such as public education, voter id laws and non partisan voter education. AARP-On the Healthcare Act presented by Leslie Spencer. AARP is a nonpartisan organization whose purpose is to tackle tough issues both favorable and unfavorable. If you don’t think there’s “Fun After Fifty” then you don’t know AARP. Contact your local representative at FLAARP@aarp.org for
4 more details and to learn more about the Life Re-Imagined campaign for qualify of life resources. It has been determined that 80% of women will require long-term care because women outlive men and have fewer resources. With that being said, it’s important to know that the state of Florida has decided not to expand Medicaid benefits and services. Additionally, the Supreme Court has declined to get involved and left the coverage decisions at the state level. Please note, it’s not too late to get involved. It takes money to support the cause. We must talk to our legislators. As an additional resource and to learn how the healthcare law works for you and your family. Please access healthlawanswers.org to pull a customized report designed for you. Put in your state, age and a few details to get your customized report.
Things you should know regarding the Marketplace and Healthcare Act Although the enrollment period has ended, education is an ongoing effort.
Special Enrollment closed on March 31, 2014, exceptions made to those with life events. The Marketplace open enrollment is November 15th -February 15th Medicaid open enrollment is October 15th – December 12th. Companies must now justify increases to premiums, spend more on healthcare and less on administrative cost (85 cents on every dollar) now goes to care. No one can be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition. Insurance co. can no longer have Lifetime/Annual coverage limits, they have been eliminated. The plan requires more preventive services such as mammograms, immunizations, pre-screening for cancer and diabetes. Services are provided with no deductibles for the service however, you may pay a deductible for the office visit. Insurance co. can no longer drop your coverage if you get sick. Insurance co. can no longer discriminate against women based on gender. Under the old law women were charged more due to their sex and age.
Preventive screenings for women no longer require a preauthorization. Adult children can remain covered until the age of 26 even if they do not live in your household, are not in school, and are married (coverage does not apply to the spouse). The policy has to offer family coverage but does not apply to those with Medicare Protects guaranteed Medicare benefits for at least 10 years longer than previously before and improves your overall benefits. Lowers the out of pocket prescription cost known as the (donut hole) time period where you have less coverage and pay more cost. Beneficiaries don’t have to do anything to take advantage of the care.
Core set of benefits include Doctors Maternity/Newb Visits orn Care Rehabilitati on
Preventative Care
Prescription Drug Cost
Lab Visits
Mental Health Hospit al Care
DELEGAT REPORT 61ST SARC
Workshop #6 Generation of Timeless Membership: A Lifestyle that Matters By Soror Angela Owens
This event was led by Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, a Silver Star with 37 years in Alpha Kappa Alpha, from the International Membership Committee. During this workshop there was a diverse panel of sorors who describe their experience within Alpha Kappa Alpha from one year to 50 years of membership. The workshop started off by each soror telling about their experience in Alpha Kappa Alpha up to present day. Each soror had a different story to tell some good and some bad but they all felt that Alpha Kappa Alpha was worth the sacrifice. One soror had
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not been active since 1969, two years after her initiation. But it all changed when she moved to a new city and saw a display that the local chapter had in the public library. Since that time she has not looked back but “Blooming where she is planted.”
Each soror answered one or more of these questions based on their personal experiences. Many of the sorors in the audience could relate to what the speakers addressed. But at the end of the workshop all the sorors on the panel reminded us that Membership does matter and that is it a lifetime of service. Without membership there will be no Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
The second half of the workshop the panel was asked to answer these three questions… 1.
2.
3.
What level of importance does membership in the sorority play in a sorors overall lifestyle over time? What matters to make true the words “It is not for day but for life?” How does a soror move beyond an unsisterly event and keep a positive lens on active membership?
1.
Workshop - Managing Your Pink and Green Anger Part 4: Recognizing the Signs of Potential Conflict
2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Telling others your business without your approval Diminishing others suggestions Lack of transparency Criticism of one’s work when you refuse to work Generational divides Elitism
By Soror Angela Owens This was a very popular workshop that needed two sessions to be run concurrently to handle all the sorors who wanted to attend. Our presenter was Soror Regina Crouthers from Georgia presented a very interactive session. She started off the workshop by asking sorors “Why do you think we have conflict with our organization?” Some of the responses from Sorors were 1. 2. 3. 4.
Not knowing proper protocol Difference in leadership styles Pride, ego, not knowing your role Lack of communication
She also discussed some triggers that may cause conflict within a chapter. Some of the responses from Sorors were:
Finally, we had several groups that role played some scenarios that could have happened in any chapter. There were three soror participating in each scenario- two sorors were having the conflict and one was the mediator. All of the sorors did an EXCELLENT job performing each skit. Conflict can cause a variety of problems within a chapter that could potential cause devastation to membership. We must work together to recognize the triggers, get to the root of the problem and resolve it peacefully and sisterly. Three things that can helps us accomplish this is to have a firm understanding of our Code of Ethics, bylaws and Robert’s Rules of Order.
DELEGAT REPORT 61ST SARC
Session I: Global Leadership Through Timeless Service: The Power of the Pink and Green By Soror Ann White When it comes to making an impact and proving extraordinary service to the community, the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. are transforming lives through Global Leadership and Timeless Service. The presentations presented by the five ladies from the South Atlantic Regional Chapters focused on the various projects that each chapter supported, the challenges they faced, and meeting the task of assuring that they made a positive impact on the communities they served. For example Phi Phi Omega Chapter lead their initiatives under the banner of ”Services are our Signature.” For the past two years they believed their initiatives availed them to being servant leaders, getting involved with real community problems, and making it
The Step Show and Stroll Completion By Soror Ann White
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happen. Simply put, they maximized their sorority workforce by collaborating within the chapter and combining activities so that it would cover more than one platform. For example, they addressed concerns of poverty while feeding the hungry on MLK Day; two write ups for one activity. They used multiple partners for one event. Some of the challenges they faced were budgetary issues and securing strategic partners. But as always, the chapter prevailed and has enjoyed two years of great success. Nu Lambda Omega Chapter, Atlanta’s seconded chartered chapter and largest in the region, had many of the same challenges. They partnered with the Jean Childs Young Middle School to conduct activities for their EYL program. When they spoke of challenges, partnership building, the types of students they dealt with, and budget concerns were high on their list. They were able to work around many road blocks and produce an outstanding program. The young ladies were encouraged to facilitate all aspect of their EYL meetings and activities. Whether serving as Chaplains or introducing speakers, they were in charge. They made sure all aspects of their lessons were connected. If the young ladies were going on
music and dance. The crowd jumped to its feet when Two Chainz rapped and jammed in the aisle when The Commodore’s shouted, “Brick House”! You could hear people saying, “Heeeey” as they did the Dougie and the
Stroll Sorors, Stroll,” is the best way to describe an evening of fun and excitement. The 61st South Atlantic Regional Conference was filled with awarding winning routines and precision. The comedian MC from Orlando kept the crowd engaged with his witty humor and knack for getting the crowd dancing as he highlighted past decades with
Prep! Yes, the ladies were having flash backs to years gone by! But it was the many moves accompanied by the latest sounds from the airwaves and ITunes that proved to be the crowd pleasers; Beyonce’ was well
a field trip, the group would discuss all facets surrounding the field trip location. The chapter made a point of including the families and neighborhood people with the activities that involved the EYL’ers. By doing so, other potential community partners were eager to become involved. The session was highlighted by a surprise visit from our own Regional Director Marsha Lewis Brown. Although she only spoke briefly, her words of encouragement was a fitting highlight for an extremely informative session. In all, approximately 50 Sorors were treated to the many accomplishments that are occurring throughout the Significant South Atlantic Region!
represented! Whether it was the ladies from Beta Alpha with their large ensemble or the threesome from Charleston College, all are to be celebrated for their efforts. Of course for me, I found the most joy from the groups from South Carolina State University and Claflin University, but then again, I am a Benedict College fan and the “South” was defiantly in the “House”! The men of Omega Psi Phi did their thing and even the Alphas put on a cute show, but it was definitely a night for the Pink and the Green!
AROUND THE CONFERNCE
State of the Sorority Third Plenary Session By Soror Denise Smith On April 5, 2014, I attended the Third Plenary Session, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. At this meeting we had a pleasant surprise visit from our Supreme Basileus Carolyn House Stewart. She addressed us and shared the State of the Sorority message with us, she also parted with a special gift for our outgoing Regional Director, Soror Marsha Lewis Brown. The day was electrifying, we were anticipating the news of who would be our new Regional Director. There were three candidates running for the position, and the majority of the votes went to elect Soror Sharon Harriet. She will be installed as Regional Director of the Significant South Atlantic Region at the Boule’ Conference in Charlotte, NC. Our business meeting started with the Program Director’s reporting their end of year reports. Overall, many of the reports showed our sisterhood to be a viable force to get things done for the betterment of all mankind, both here in the USA and abroad in other countries. The Respect For Our Mission Program is sustained by our participation in the chapter, regional and national events. Stats show that in 2013 our timeless service and work with our partner organizations is an example of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s commitment to creating shared value as we impact the communities we serve. Our statistics reflected that we had 1.5 million volunteer hours, over 6 million persons benefitted, Chapter contributions - $5 million, and external funding to chapters were close to $4 million. Other programs include Sisterhood and Scholarship, Economic Security, Vitality and Health, Innovative Programs, Collaborative Partnerships and Environmental Stewardship which has helped families and communities gain power over their futures and gain improved nutrition and income. In spite of all the progress in these area there remains over 870 million people who still go hungry. We especially have a great concern for women and their well- being and economic development, they are the main caregivers for the family and so many of them put others’ needs before their own. The highlight of the Convention came when chapters from Cluster ll, presented the conference invitation to Orlando. Soror Tiffany Moore Russell is the General Conference Chairman and encouraged sorors to attend the 62nd South Atlantic Regional Conference to be held in Orlando 2015 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel.
DELEGAT REPORT 61ST SARC
Workshop: Archiving Your Treasures through Digital Preservation By Soror Denise Smith
On April 5, I attended the workshop on “Archiving Your Treasures through Digital Preservation” This was an interesting workshop given by Soror Andrea Robinson. She spoke on ways of using the concept of a digital repository, and to policies and practices about preserving and providing access to archival electronic records. Soror Andrea, stressed the importance of communicating effectively with Basilei, the historian and various committee members, in the chapter, in order to know who, what, where and, why the events took place. It would be a good practice to title and label all photos as soon as possible in order to have the correct
8 information, date, and time. Also, you will need to adhere to the guidelines given by our National Office before items are submitted. Knowing what to preserve and how you plan to do this is very important, in order not to discard the wrong items. Things to be preserved are the Chapter Charter, History, Members, Financial Reports, Annual Chapter Reports/Books, Oral Interviews, Photos, Announcements and Programs from activities. Soror Andrea, noted the importance of knowing how you plan to preserve and transport these items, and knowing the best method that suits your chapter. You will have to make decisions like, whether or not to invest in acid free paper, or if you will be using sleeves to store items that are of a fragile nature. Finally, you will need to consider where and how these items will be warehoused and stored on the computer, DVD, drop box, gmail, and I-cloud or in a storage unit, or in your Soror’s garage. If you choose the latter,
It has been our pleasure to serve as your Delegates for the 61stSouth Atlantic Regional Conference of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
you should be well informed that the elements of climate change and various temperatures would have an adverse effect on the very items that you are trying to preserve. Please keep in mind that you should utilize your committee and that more than “yourself” should know the rules and procedures for that particular program. As makers and shakers of this great community in St. Petersburg, Fl, ZUO is on the frontline of community enrichment and involvement, so we should consider partnering with some of the local museums and libraries, as a way of displaying, sharing and putting our rich accomplishments, history, and awards on exhibits for all to see.