C.H.A.T. Vol 12 Spring / Summer

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® Mid-Western Region Newsletter

The C.H.A.T. Conversations ∙Highlights ∙Happenings ∙Acknowledgments ∙Thoughts Volume 12 Final Issue February 2018—July 2018

Farewell Madam Regional Director Saluting A Job Well Done

The C.H.A.T. Conversations ∙Highlights ∙Happenings ∙Acknowledgments ∙Thoughts

IN THIS ISSUE OF THE C.H.A.T. Regional Directors Greeting:

Page 3-4

Conversations:

Page 6-8

Highlights:

Page 10-19

Chapter Charting:

Page 21-22

Acknowledgements:

Page 24-26

Thoughts & Meditation:

Page 28

Farewells:

Page 29-36

Reflections 2014 –2018:

Page 38-60

Members Initiated 2014-2018:

Page 62-66

MWR Communications Committee 2

Greetings to the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region Sorors

Welcome to the Final Issue of The C.H.A.T.! It has been a sincere pleasure to have brought you the many issues as published by the MidWestern Region’s C.H.A.T. Editorial Staff during the past four years. From the very first issue that was published in July 2014 where we rolled out; “Conversation”, “Happenings and Highlights”, And “Thoughts”, we’ve brought you the news from around the region and the sorority. This Final Issue are reflections of everything WE as a region have accomplished over the course of four years of “Launching New Dimensions of Service”. As we end one dynamic Administration led by our Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson and enter into the New Administration of our Supreme Basileus Elect Glenda Baskin Glover, we want to celebrate our successes in this pictorial edition and look forward to welcoming our Mid-Western Regional Director Elect Twyla Woods Buford!

I wish to take this opportunity to thank the many sorors from across this Mighty and Magnificent Region who embraced me with love. Those who blessed me with meaningful conversations, gifts, support and most importantly, YOUR prayers as I served YOU as the Mid-Western Regional Director. I can’t begin to express my gratitude for ALL each of YOU have done for our beloved region, our sisterhood, and me. The journey has been one that I will forever hold dear to my heart and will remain in the landscape of my mind. I have undoubtedly been enriched by the many relationships developed along the way. Each of YOU have been my motivation to serve with commitment, dedication, and sisterly love. There is a song I want to share with you as I bid my “farewell” as the Mid-Western Regional Director and prepare to take on my new role as the 29th Mid-Western Regional Director. The song, and I will only share some of the words, is by Marvin Sapp’s “Never Would’ve Made It”. This expresses my gratitude to each of you and to God who has brought me through the past four years:

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Never would have made it Never could have made it, without you I would have lost it all But now I see how you were there for me And I can say Never would have made it Never could have made it without you I would have lost it all But now I see how you were there for me and I can say I'm stronger, I'm wiser I'm better, much better When I look back over all you brought me through I can see that you were the one I held on to And I never, never would have made it Oh I never could have made it, never could have made it without you Oh I would have lost it all Oh but now I see how you were there for me I am stronger, I am stronger I am wiser, now I'm better So much better As I will soon turn the “keys” of the region over to Soror Twyla, we pray her strength and endurance. We pray God’s blessings of wisdom and knowledge as she leads us to “Greater laurels to win and Greater tasks to begin”. We pray her leadership will be richly blessed!

Lastly, I give thanks to God for placing me on this most wonderful and enriching journey of service to YOU, our region and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. It has been a true blessing and honor to have served and my prayer is that through it all, God has been glorified!

Sisterly Love and Blessings,

Soror Jan

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Conversation with the Mid-Western Regional Director Elect Soror Twyla G. Woods Buford

Interviewer: Soror Twyla, where and when were you initiated?

Soror Twyla: “Iota Zeta Omega Chapter, Des Moines, Iowa November 1978.”

Interviewer: What inspired you to become an Alpha Kappa Alpha woman?

Soror Twyla: “My mother was an Alpha Kappa Alpha Woman. She inspired me by her dedication to the programs of service and the sisterhood. I would listen in awe as she would share stories about the time she spent with past Supreme Soror Hale at Langston.

I would help prepare meals for the chapter meetings that were held in our home and would marvel at the women of character that attended. The purpose aligned with my desire to be of service.”

Interviewer: What have you enjoyed most about being a member of our illustrious sorority?

Soror Twyla: “I have enjoyed the many sisters that I inherited. They have been by my side through the good and the bad. They have worked in the fields with me as we have provided community service and they have prayed with and for me in times of need. I enjoy the recognition of being a member of this illustrious organization.”

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Interviewer: What else would you like Sorors to know about Soror Twyla Woods Buford?

Soror Twyla: “I am a strong Christian and believe in the power of prayer. I am an organizer by nature. I believe in timelines, deadlines and punctuality. I am most proud of my two children, grandchildren, great grand child and my HBCU graduate husband. They support me no matter what.”

Interviewer: What where some of the highlights of your work as the MidWestern Regional Representative to the International Connection Committee?

Soror Twyla: “The momentum of the Be The Voice campaign. It galvanized the nation and made Sorors and Communities take notice of the need to be involved in the shaping of our political landscape. It also motivated Sorors to run for local and national offices.”

Interviewer: What knowledge have you gained working alongside the current Regional Director that prepares you for the role as the next Regional Director?

Soror Twyla: “Soror Jan has provided me with an understanding of the need to always govern from a position of knowledge. Know your documents and follow them. Don’t take things personal as some things are strictly business and to enjoy the position as it will allow you to meet and interact with many Sorors across the Region and Nation.”

Interviewer: What drives you to want to lead the Mid-Western Region?

Soror Twyla: “I have been an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha for 40 years and have held every office at least twice in my chapter, chaired every

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committee and served as Graduate Advisor. My experience on the International Level and in my respective communities have inspired me to work at the Regional Level.

Knowing that there are Sorors in this region that are just as capable and that are willing to help serve on an All Star Regional Team are motivation enough to want to be the team captain.”

Interviewer: What is your vision for the region and how will you accomplish it during your tenure as a RD? Soror Twyla: “My vision is that Mid-Western Sorors will work together in purpose and spirit to make a difference in the lives of our families and communities. I have a desire to see our Region continue to be an example of how we implement and support programs of service with efficiency, style and grace, while enjoying the fellowship and the support of each other. We will continue to focus on the strengths, traditions and commitment of our sisterhood which forms the basis of our membership.

Utilizing my God given talents, professional experiences, knowledge of and love for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I will lead by example.”

Interviewer: State one word that best describes your personality.

Soror Twyla: “Dedicated” Interviewer: If you could sit down and chat with one of the Founders, who would it be and why?

Soror Twyla: “Ethel because she was visionary.”

Thank you Soror Twyla. We look forward to you carrying out your vision for the Mighty & Magnificent Mid-Western Region!

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Highlights

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After 40 Years Alpha Kappa Alpha Boule Returns to Houston, TX Houston, TX July 6th – 12th over 19,000 registered Sorors migrated to Houston, TX to attend the 68th Boule. The last time Houston hosted the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Boule was in 1978 under the Leadership of Supreme Basileus Edna Over Gray Campell. Houston, TX has a special place in the history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated not only has it now hosted two successful Boules it is the home of two former supreme basileus of our organization. Soror Mattelia B. Grays. 18th Supreme Basileus and Soror Faye B. Bryant 21 st Supreme Basileus both call Houston home.

The City of Houston, TX showed Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated why they now embody the slogan of “Houston Strong”. Less than a year ago on August 26, 2017 Houston was hit by Hurricane Harvey and flooded almost beyond recognition. There were many concerns that Houston would not be able to accommodate a Boule with over 19,000 attendees, but Houston’s Mayor Sylvester Turner assured the Directorate that Houston can and will be ready. Ready they were! No matter how a Soror arrived in Houston she felt welcomed from the “Welcome Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated 68 th Boule” signage in the Airports and Train Station to illuminating the Highway over passes in pink and green Houstonians rolled out the preverbal Pink Carpet for us.

The George R. Brown Convention Center was the host site for the conference. Sorors were able to participate in the Welcome to Houston Reception on Friday July 6 th sponsored by the Mayor’s Office as a well as the Experience Houston Reception held on Saturday July 7th. There were more than 100 vendors on site. With over 19,000 people in attendance reports reflect that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated spent over $30 Million during the week-long Boule. Sorors engaged in fine dining, resided in 14 different hotels and toured some of Texas most historic landmarks just to mention some activities.

There was much business to attend to during the Boule as this is an election year. Delegates were tasked with voting on Constitution revisions that will affect Sisterly Relations, Cluster meetings, the ability for certain Sorors to hold offices for Basileus or Membership Chairman and the term of office for Regional Directors. During the 68th Boule there was the election of the new Directorate and Installation of Officers at the closing Gala.

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On Saturday July 7th the Hilton Americans Hotel was the site for the Mid-Western Region Suite “The Last Rodeo”. Sorors of the Region came together in true sisterly fashion to thank Regional Director Jan M. Carpenter Baker for her leadership during the last four years and Launching New Dimensions of Service Administration. The Hilton Americans Hotel also was the host area for the Mid-Western Region Gathering which was held Sunday July 8th. Sorors throughout the Mid -Western Region came to mix and mingle. Soros enjoy food, fun and socializing during the Gathering as everyone prepared to conduct the business of the Sorority throughout the week.

On Tuesday July 10th Beta Omega, Beta Sigma Omega and Sigma Sigma Omega Chapters from the Mid-Western Region were recognized as Platinum Status Chapters during the Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF) - Denim Diamonds and Donor Breakfast. Tuesday was also the Region Luncheon. Sorors engaged in a sisterly game of AKA Trivia, dining music and setting picture taking to an all new high. Madam Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson was present to address the Region thanking everyone for their support of the Launching New Dimensions of Service platform and congratulating Director Jan M. Carpenter Baker on a job well done. Madam Regional Director gave a teary and heartfelt thank you to the many Sorors of the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region. Madam Regional Director Carpenter Baker and Regional Director (Elect) Twyla Woods—Bufford took the opportunity to publicly acknowledge each other’s hard work, their friendship and unwavering commitment to the Mid-Western Region and our illustrious sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

The 68th Boule concluded on Thursday July 12th. The closing session included the unveiling of the 2018-2022 Program “Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service” under our newly installed Madam Supreme Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover.

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Mid-Western Region Brought The R.O.D.E.O. Showdown to the O.K. Corral in Tulsa, Ok. What a time was had as nearly 650 sorors from across the region and beyond packed their best western gear and converged on Tulsa, Oklahoma for the 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference at the Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center. Sorors were welcomed by host chapters of Cluster E led by Soror D’Elbie Walker, Conference Chairman, and Co-Chairmen Soror Katherine Bracy and Soror Jilda Motley. The conference theme was “R.O.D.E.O. Showdown at the OK Corral: Representing Our Dimensions of Excellent and Outstanding Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service.”

The “showdown” began with certification workshops, Community Service Projects where sorors volunteered to “Reach Out and Do Everything Outstanding” at the Broken Arrow Neighbors’ Food Pantry by sorting and packing non-perishables. Throughout the weekend a total of 1006 backpacks, 422 nonperishable food items, 3 gift cards totaling $105.00 and 521 school supplies were donated. Information tables were provided by our Corporate Health Partners NAMI, American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association and the Broken Arrow Fire Department conducted Hands On CPR Training. Thursday, sorors enjoyed EAF Bingo, Pamper Me Pink, and the Regional Director’s Dinner “Kicking Up Our Boots & Pearls RODEO Style” set in the rustic setting of the Post Oak Lodge which ended with a hayride.

The conference was opened on Friday by Mid-Western Regional Director, Jan M. Carpenter-Baker, which included the Parade of Chapter Flags, a welcome video of Soror Jan riding in on a horse and a rousing rodeo welcome by the Sorors of Cluster E decked out in decorated pink cowboy hats! The South Atlantic Regional Director Soror Sharon Harriott Brown blessed the attendees with a soul-stirring meditation, followed by greetings from the conference chairmen, introduction of 16

the dais and roll call of the chapters. Soror Shaliah Thierry, Former Second Supreme Anti-Basileus gave an exciting participatory introduction of the Regional Director who gave the State of the Region Report highlighting numerous accomplishments. Soror Jan concluded the report with a highly spiritual praise signing to Lauryn Hill’s rendition of “His Eye is on the Sparrow”.

Rededication was conducted by the 25th Supreme Basileus Norma Solomon White. The Second Plenary Session included the State of the Sorority given by Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, International Committee reports and award presentations. Soror Jan presented Madam Supreme with the “Outstanding International President’s Award” bestowed on her by the Mid-Western Region for her dynamic leadership. It was announced that our next Regional Director would be Soror Twyla Woods Buford from Beta Omega Chapter, Kansas City, MO and our Nominating Representative would be Soror Takia Steele from Rho Alpha Chapter at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. We celebrated by “Remembering Our Diamond, Golden and Silver Sorors Exceptional Oath to Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service” with an induction ceremony and special tribute to our 2018 Diamond Sorors Gwendolyn Newkirk and Voltie Nelson. During the Public Meeting, awards were presented to Tulsa, Muskogee and Broken Arrow’s outstanding individuals and community organizations who represented the mission of our LNDS program. The sorority received proclamations from the mayor’s office of the city of Tulsa and Broken Arrow. The Governor’s Office proclaimed March 14-18 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Week. The meeting was followed with an old fashioned ice cream social. The final “showdown” of the evening included the undergraduate step show competition and mixer which featured a performance by the Golden Steppers composed of sorors 55 years and older.

On Saturday, sorors rose early for the Leadership Breakfast to “Recognize Outstanding Driven Enthusiastic Chapter Officers”. Chapter Officers and attendees received an energizing charge by Supreme Basileus. Sorors left to attend and participate in the various workshops and forums to boost their educational knowledge of Alpha Kappa Alpha processes. The Undergraduate Awards and Honors Luncheon presented “Realizing Our Dreams of Education and Opportunity” which was so eloquently delivered by our Second Supreme Basileus Soror Keniece Gray. The captivating Legacy Parade began the final plenary session. A resolution to establish a new award in honor of Regional Director Soror Jan M. Carpenter titled “Living the Fruits of the Spirit Award” was acknowledged with a standing ovation.

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The closing conference gala A Night at the R.O.D.E.O. “Rocking Our Denim & Pearls Elegantly in Oklahoma” was an amazing event as graduate sorors and guests donned their finest and “chic” denim apparel and boots along with pearls, all while rocking out to the R & B sounds of Charlie Redd and the Full Flava Kings Band. The undergraduates had a great time in participating in an undergraduate gathering to chat, stroll and enjoy refreshments. Sunday, the conference closed out with the Ecumenical Service “Relying on God’s Devine Empowering Omnipotence” with the message delivered

by Soror Daphne Braswell who spoke on forgiveness and dutiful work. A Gospel Brunch followed where sorors and guests enjoyed the smooth sounds of Gospel music saxophone artist Vearl Tolbert. This brought the final 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference “R.O.D.E.O. Showdown” to a wonderful end!

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Highlights of the Mid-Western Regional Conference Showdown at the O.K. Corral in Tulsa, Ok.

Please click on the links to the right where you will find all of the pictures from the 86th MWRC taken by Artis Photography. You are free to download any of the photos for your own memories. Thank you for allowing your conference publicity team to serve you.

Day 1 Password: AKATulsa https://artis.smugmug.com/AKATulsa Day 2 Password: Second https://artis.smugmug.com/2ndDay Day 3 Password: Third https://artis.smugmug.com/3rdDay Day 4 Password: Fourth https://artis.smugmug.com/4thDay You may also copy and paste the link to your browsers.

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Chapter Charting

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Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega Chapter of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma makes history as Alpha Kappa Alpha’s first four letter chapter

Charter members of the first four letter chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega Chapter with Mid-Western Regional Director Jan M. Carpenter-Baker and Basileus Katherine Bracy

On Saturday, April 14, 2018, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®, made history with the chartering of its first four letter chapter, Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega, in the Mid-Western Region, City of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. A special chartering ceremony was lead by Mid-Western Regional Director, Jan M. Carpenter Baker, at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Convention Center in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, surrounded by 22 charter members and approximately 100 sorority members who had traveled as far as California, Texas and New Jersey to witness the historic event.

Charter members include: Carole Andrews, Katherine Bracy(Basileus), Nuceka Bracy- Chatman, Vonda Burrell, Elaine Buxton, Yolanda Crooms, Tamarah Danzy, Dr. Loretha “Toby” Earles, Gloria Nicole Gordon, Robyn Harrison, LaQuisha Jackson, Brenda Lewis, Alisia Myers, Dr. Dion Owens, Evelyn Page, Violet Patterson, Dr. Emily PattersonHarris, Gwynell Patterson-Wilson, Isabelle Phillips, Lynetria Rhodes-Johnson, Sydney Staten, Lucile Thierry, Sabrina Ware, and Danette Williams.

The first Alpha Kappa Alpha greek lettered graduate chapter “Alpha Omega” was established in 1917 in Cleveland Ohio. As a result of the tremendous growth of this premier service organization, now 110 years later, Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega Chapter became the 1017th chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and the 46 th chapter in the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region.

On April 19, 2017, the group was approved by our eighteen member board of directors to begin the chartering process by establishing the official interest group, The Pearls of Legacy – Broken Arrow, OK. From that date forward the group has made an impact on the Broken Arrow community working tirelessly to establish a foundation for a graduate chapter that would be viable and sustainable for years to come.

They conducted service programs in the areas of 1) Educational Enrichment – Providing backpacks and school supplies to the Broken Arrow Neighbors, and donating Books to Second Chance Program; 2) Health Promotion – Donating and participating as a team in the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Walk. Support and Adoption of Alzheimer/ Dementia residents at Brookdale Cedar Ridge Assisted Living Facility, where they donated toiletries and seasonal wrap items. Providing monthly health education tips on various health issues of concern especially to the African American female population; 3) Family Strengthening – donating canned goods to the Broken Arrow Neighbors Food Pantry.

Providing healthy snacks to two schools in Broken Arrow supporting Childhood Hunger Awareness Day; and 4) Environmental Ownershipship - Adopted two above ground beds during the Broken Arrow Neighbors “Come Grow

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Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega Chapter Members seated( L-R)Sorors: Lucille Thierry (charter member), Danette Williams(Charter member), Alisia Myers (Charter Member), Yolanda Crooms (Charter Member), Brenda Lewis (Charter Member), Katherine Bracy (Charter Member), Violet Patterson (Charter Member), Nuceka Chatman Bracy (Charter Member), Sydney Staten (Charter Member), Gloria Nicole Gordon (Charter Member), Carole Andrews (Charter Member), Isabelle Phillips (Charter Member), Sydney Staten (Charter Member). Standing (L-R) Sorors: Vonda Burrell (Charter Member). Dr. Dion Owen (First New Member), Tamarah Danzy (Charter Member), Evelyn Page (Charter member), Sabrina Ware (Charter Member), Dr. Emily Patterson-Harris (Charter Member), LaQuisha Jackson (Charter Member), Gwynell Patterson-Wilson (Charter Member), Elaine Buxton (First New Member), Robyn Harrison (Charter Member). with Us� project where they were responsible for planting vegetables and fruits as well as maintaining the gardens throughout the summer.

A highly exhilarating luncheon celebration was held after the chartering ceremony, where members of the Broken Arrow community came out to recognize and congratulate the charter members including the Honorable Mayor Craig Thurmond, Broken Arrow Neighbors Executive Director, Kim Goddard, and Oklahoma State Representative Regina Goodwin. A special greeting via video was presented by Supreme Basileus Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson.

The women of Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega are committed to continue their outstanding service to the Broken Arrow, Oklahoma community, the Mid-Western Region and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority IncorporatedÂŽ.

Alpha Alpha Alpha Omega currently has 24 members.

Basileus.

Soror Katherine Bracy was elected as the first chapter

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Acknowledgements

Newsmakers

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Senator Anatasia Pittman Announces Candidacy for Lieutenant Governor

Senator Anatasia A. Pittman announced her candidacy for Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma at Cameron University in Lawton on April 10, 2018. Senator Pittman hosted a public forum entitled “Education is the Key to Economic Development”.

Local Teachers, Pastors, Civic and Community Leaders were in attendance.

Pi Xi’s Tiana Key Awarded Scholarship Congratulations to Soror Tiana Key of the Preeminent Pi Xi Chapter at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO. She is the recipient of our Pi Xi Scholastic Scholarship for Fall 2017. She earned a 4.0 for the semester and 3.75 cumulative. Soror Tiana is a double major and minor at UCM. Her majors are International Studies and Political Science and her minors are Business Administration and World Language and Culture.

This summer she will travel to Jamaica and Tanzania, both are trips she was selected to attend. After her 2019 graduation, Soror Tiana aspires to work in the immigration field in refugee resettlement. She also has desires to further her career with the United Nations.

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Redd Named President of Comanche County Bar Association Soror Jasmin Redd of Theta Upsilon Omega Chapter has been named President of Comanche County Bar Association of Lawton Oklahoma. She was initiated into Pi Mu Chapter at Baylor University in 2009. Soror Redd graduated from Washington and Lee University School of Law in 2015 and is licensed to practice in Texas and Oklahoma. She is currently a staff attorney at Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. in Lawton.

Soror Deidra Willis Joins Yoplait Yogurt Team Soror Deidra Willis, Tau Psi Omega Chapter is a Systems Engineer for Fruit Snacks for General Mills in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Featured on all her company’s social media sites in January, Soror Deidra shares what she loves about her job. Specifically working with “unique equipment on a challenging complex system making sweet, tasty products with a talented group of people.” Most recently Soror Deidra has been promoted to Senior Systems Engineer I and is relocating to Los Angeles to join the Yoplait Yogurt team. Congrats Soror Deidra!

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Soror Diana Henry is Awarded Courageous Love Award Soror Diana Henry, member of Tau Psi Omega Chapter, received the COURAGEOUS LOVE AWARD at the January 28th Unitarian Universalist Society recognition ceremony in honor of her outstanding work in addressing social justice issues in the Iowa City Community and schools. Much respect and high regard for her service was expressed by so many people in attendance.

Congratulations!

Pictured: Soror Diana Henry receiving Courageous Love Award form Rev. Steven Protzman.

Congratulations to Soror Victoria Cameron On her retirement Iota Beta Omega would like to congratulate Soror Victoria Cameron on her retirement from the United States Navy Reserves on June 15, 2018 after serving 20 years.

Congratulations to Soror Gloria Johnson On Her Retirement Iota Beta Omega would like to congratulate Soror Gloria Johnson on her retirement from the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing and thank her for more than 24 years of service.

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Thoughts & Meditation

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As women we often reflect on our accomplishments and our challenges. Sometimes, we are excited by all that we have achieved. However as driven successful women, we also meditate on our failures or dwell on what we could have done better. Sisters remember Lamentations 3:22-23 promises that the love of our Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end they are new each morning. We have an opportunity every morning to wake up and start anew, excited about the possibilities our Lord and Savior has provided for each of us that have faith. If we just take the time to think of all the Lord has done of use in the past 365 days, I know everyone can find something to be excited about!

Psalms 118:24 remind us that "This is the day which the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it" KJV. How can we not rejoice if we really reflect on what God had done for us individually and collectively. However, we all know that trouble comes, the devil is real and sometimes life can get really tough. In those times it can be difficult to see and hear from God. But that is when we get the opportunity to truly exhibit sisterhood and service. We get the chance put in work, offer encouragement, provide support, share God's word and love unselfishly. Those are the things that strengthens our bonds and allows or organization to be great. Make a commitment in 2018 to nurture the vine of Alpha Kappa Alpha that has grown and continuously thrived for 110 years. Let people see and know the God in you!

Beta Sigma Omega would like to recognize our Spiritual Oversight Team, Soror Carolyn Gray and Soror Loraine Liggins. This glorious Spiritual team provides a monthly hour of prayer call for Sorors the first Monday of every month at 6:30am, “Plug Into the Hour of Prayer�. This spiritual team hosts a weekly Sunday CHAT to line up the prayer list for the week, they visit the sick and offer prayer and food during all holiday seasons. Thank you Soror Carolyn and Soror Lorraine for your spiritual uplift and providing the mediation for the Spring CHAT

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Regional Farewell Soror Tanesha D. Thompson Lead Cluster Coordinator and Cluster C Coordinator

As my term as the Lead Cluster Coordinator ends, I want to thank Madame Regional Director, Soror Jan M. Carpenter Baker, for trusting in my abilities and giving me the opportunity to serve in this capacity. It has been a valuable experience and honor to be a part of a leadership team that led in excellence and with service in mind.

The Mid-Western Region is not only rich in history and knowledge, but it is one of the most creative and hardworking regions in this organization! Our region’s accomplishments over the past four years have been impressive and it was truly a team effort. There have been so many opportunities for growth and learning, fun and exciting times and noteworthy moments and it was accomplished with YOUR help and dedicated work! Our magnificent region IS the MOST HOSPITABLE region (and YES, I have confirmed this) and I appreciate all the love, support and encouragement I received across the states!

Thank you Mu Omega for stepping in and answering the call! Thank you fellow 2014-2018 Cluster Coordinators (Sorors Alicia, Angela, Chandra, Chaunte, Colleen, Michelle & Michele) for being amazing to work with, share from and laugh together as we raised the roof! Thank you to my Sweet T’s (Sorors Lani, LaTeisha, Tamara), the Sweat Shop (Sorors Ashley, Christina, Danielle, Erica, Jamila, Salatha, Sonya), Carpenter Sisters (Sorors Sandra, Martha) and my babysitters (Grandma Soror Benita & Soror Nikki) for working behind the scenes EVERY STEP of the way as if they had the appointment so I could be AMAZING! Even though I am going to miss being a Cluster Coordinator, I am singing “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang as I type this message and y’all know I am singing it loud and off key! Sing with me as we “celebrate” our Regional Director, this administration, all of our chapters and each other!

“Celebrate good times, come on! (Let celebrate)!”

Sisterly,

Soror Tanesha Thompson

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Regional Farewell Soror Alicia Harvey—Cluster A

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Cluster A Coordinator for the last four years. I have had the opportunity to learn, to grow, and to work on many initiatives and projects to move the Magnificent Mid-Western Region and our sorority forward. I want to acknowledge my chapter, Epsilon Nu Omega, and all of Cluster A for their support. When I called, YOU ANSWERED! Special thanks to Madam Regional Director, Jan M. Carpenter Baker for her guidance, support and leadership, and for the other wonderful Cluster Coordinators that I was blessed to serve with. Here’s to the next chapter in AKA everyone!

Sisterly,

Soror Alicia D. Harvey Cluster A Coordinator

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Regional Farewell Soror Angela Williams—Cluster B To the fabulous sorors of Cluster B, it has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your cluster coordinator for the past 2 years. You are an amazing group of women who have risen to any challenge that is placed before you. You showed up and showed out for the 2017 Undergraduate Round-up and for the 89th Mid-Western Regional Conference Welcome in Tulsa. I was humbled and appreciative of all your support.

You are the epitome of service a sisterhood. My fellow Cluster Coordinators, thank you for the memories. Wondering through the streets of Chicago feeding the homeless, April Fools jokes on sorors at the Regional Conference and most of all the support and laughter that we have shared over the last 2 years.

Thank you to my chapter, Psi Chi Omega, for your unwavering support and encouragement during my tenure as Cluster Coordinator. A special thank you to Soror Candiss Williams and Soror Keisha Thomas for standing in the gap when my Cluster Coordinator duties prevented me from fulfilling my role as Basileus. Psi Chi Omega sorors I am blessed to have you as my sisters. Lastly, Madam Regional Director, Jan M. Carpenter Baker, thank you for the opportunity to serve as a Cluster Coordinator during your administration. The experience has been an enriching one, showing me a glimpse of the dedicated, passionate and resilient sorors of the MidWestern Region. It was a privilege to take this journey with you.

Sisterly,

Soror Angela D. Williams Cluster B Coordinator

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Regional Farewell Soror Chaunte’ Gilmore—Cluster D To the Magnificent Midwestern Region, I’ve enjoyed my tenure serving as Cluster D Coordinator. This has been a rewarding experience and I’ve enjoyed traveling across the region working alongside the most dynamic women in our sisterhood!

Thank you for welcoming me at Cluster meetings, Regional Conferences, and special events throughout the region. I personally have to thank the Beta Sigma Omega Chapter for being so supportive; I would also like to personally thank Soror Anika Wilson for being my rock the last two years and pushing me past my limits.

To my fellow Cluster Coordinators, Sorors Chandra, Angela, Tanesha, and Alicia, I love you all to the moon and back! We worked hard, planned excellent events, and worked our fingers to the bones. I wish you all much success in your personal lives and future endeavors with the sorority.

To Madame Regional Director, Soror Jan M. Carpenter Baker, thank you from the bottom of my heart for appointing me Cluster D Coordinator. I pray I made you proud and helped the region, thank you for your guidance, and provision. I pray God’s blessings in every aspect of your life!

Sisterly Submitted,

Soror Chaunte’ Gilmore Cluster D

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Regional Farewell Soror Chandra Petty—Cluster E

Thank you, Thank You, Thank You. Serving as the Cluster Coordinator for Cluster E has been immensely rewarding and the greatest learning experience to date during my time in the Sorority. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful Sorors throughout the region that I might otherwise may have never gotten a chance to know.

Thank you to my chapter, Alpha Chi Omega for love and support as well as the greatest group of Cluster Coordinators that I had the opportunity to work with.

Madam Regional Director, Jan M. Carpenter Baker, thank you so much for believing in me, challenging me and granting me this appointment. It has been my pleasure to serve!!!

Sistely,

Soror Chandra Petty Cluster E

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Regional Farewell

Madam Regional Director, I would like to thank you for the appointment to serve on the 68th Boule Tellers Committee as a representative of the MidWestern Region. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and development opportunity. The outstanding leadership, communication and guidance of Soror Brenda, Soror Donna and Soror Staci was top tier.

Again thank you, Sisterly,

Soror Chantell Garrett 68th Boule Tellers Committee

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Regional Farewell Soror Rhonda Harris Regional Communication Officer I am so proud to have been able to serve as your Regional Communications Officer, sharing the good news and highlighting all of the many accomplishments of service by the chapters in this Mighty and Magnificent Region through the various national and local media channels, including the Ivy Leaf, The C.H.A.T. Newsletter, regional website, and social media outlets for the last four years.

My most rewarding moments have been first and foremost, being able to meet and connect with all of your smiling faces in the region and being a part of capturing and sharing your moments of service; second, having the opportunity to work with such professional and dedicated women on the International Communications Committee, the C.H.A.T. editorial staff, and the Social Media and Technology Administrators. I thank the communications committee and CHAT editorial staff for all your hard work.

Together we showed how our region shines!!

Thank you Madam Regional Director, Jan M. Carpenter Baker, for entrusting me to serve as your communications coordinator. Your leadership in this region has been undeniable!! I hope that I have served you well, and look forward to the next journey. Lastly, I thank my chapter, Xi Tau Omega, for all of your support.

Farewell and sisterly love to all,

Soror Rhonda Harris Regional Communications Officer C.H.A.T. Editorial Staff

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Regional Farewell Soror Angela N. Stevens Editor-In-Chief, The C.H.A.T. To the wonderful Sorors of the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region I want to say it has been a true honor and privilege to serve as your Editor-In-Chief of The C.H.A.T. for the last two years. I have enjoyed working with the Ivy Leaf Reporters sharing the Chapters news throughout the Mid-Western Region.

I would like to thank the Editorial Staff Soror Jasmine Barnes, Soror Arlicia Franklin, Soror Charese Jones, Soror Crystal Turner, Jennifer Stevenson and Joy Barnes it has been great working with each of you. To Soror Rhonda Harris Regional Information Officer I thank you for your mentorship and guidance it has been a true pleasure working with you for the last four years on The C.H.A.T. To Madam Regional Director Soror Jan M. Carpenter-Baker I thank you from the bottom of my heart for entrusting me with your publication. I have enjoyed capturing every possible moment of your administration on film and in print. Again, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve.

Sisterly,

Soror Angela N. Stevens Editor-In-Chief, The C.H.A.T.

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Reflections 2014-2018 “Raising the Roof in the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region�

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Founder Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Memorial Highway Dedication Eufala, Oklahoma August 7, 2015

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17th Supreme Basileus Larzette Golden Hale Memorial Marker Dedication Langston, Oklahoma October 21, 2016

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13th Supreme Basileus Laura T. Lovelace Wreath Laying Ceremony 87th Mid-Western Regional Conference Denver, Colorado March 30, 2017

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Rooted in the Mid-West Honoring Our Loving Legacies The Mid-Western Region made history with the dedications of the final three Loving Legacy Memorials in Kansas City, Kansas on Saturday, May 19! Every state was represented; Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado and Oklahoma! We dedicated the Memorial Marker for Founder and Incorporator Ethel Georgina Jones Mowbray at the Woodlawn Cemetery co-sponsored by the Mu Omega Chapter of Kansas City, Kansas and the region, the Community Garden and Bench honoring the 12th Supreme Basileus Edna Over Gray Campbell at the Friends of Yates Center and Women's Shelter for Domestic Violence sponsored by the Metropolitan Leadership Institute, Inc. Foundation of Mu Omega Chapter. The bench for Founder Beulah Elizabeth Burke was dedicated at the Sumner Academy of Arts and Science (formerly Sumner High School where she taught), (sponsored by Beta Omega Chapter of Kansas City, Missouri).

You can view the video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHE-n4pVdAs

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Honoring Our Loving Legacies

Beta Omega Chapter

1924 Mu Omega Charter signed

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Mid-Western Region Leadership Fellows

Soror Leigha Sledge Soror Sydney Jamison

Delta Chapter

Delta Chapter

Leadership Fellow 2016

Soror Mackenzie Hall Theta Chapter Leadership Fellows 2015

Soror Darian Dozier Theta Xi Chapter Soror Brooke Buckner Delta Chapter Leadership Fellows 2017

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Mid-Western Region Leadership Fellows

Soror Jordan Danso Delta Tau Chapter 2018 Leadership Fellow

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Undergraduate Round-Up

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Fall Cluster Meetings

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Mid-Western Regional Conference Reflections - 85th MWRC 2015

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Mid-Western Regional Conferences Reflections—86th MWRC 2016

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Mid-Western Regional Conference Reflections—87th MWRC 2017

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Reflection of Our Diamond Sorors

Soror Mary Lou Greenard Miles

Soror Vivian Dotson Jones

Soror Julia Hicks Hill 53

Reflection of Our Diamond Sorors

Soror Mary Louise Greenwood

Soror Ruth Thomas

Soror Gwendolyn Newkirk Soror Voltie Nelson, not pictured 54

Mid-Western Region AKA Day at the State Capitols “BE THE VOICE”

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Educational Enrichment

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Pink Goes Red in the Mid-Western Region

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One Million Backpacks ThinkHBCU Environmental Ownership Alzheimer's Family Strengthening Childhood Hunger ASCEND

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Members Initiated 2014-2018

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Membership Makes Me Smile

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The C.H.A.T Editorial Staff: Soror Jan M. Carpenter Baker, Mid-Western Regional Director Soror Rhonda Harris, Chairman, Mid-Western Communications Committee Soror Angela Stevens, Editor-In-Chief Soror Jasmine Barnes Soror Arlicia Franklin Soror Charese Jones Soror Crystal Johnson Turner

On behalf of your Regional Communication Team, it has been a pleasure to serve you! Soror Charese Jones, CHAT Editorial Staff, Soror Angela Stevens, Editor In Chief, Rhonda Harris, Regional Communication Coordinator and Jauqua Preston, Social Media Administrator

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