C h a t vol 11

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

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

Volume 11 Winter Issue November 2017– February 2018

Tulsa, Tulsa,Oklahoma OklahomaWelcomes Welcomesthe the 88th 88thMid-Western Mid-Western Regional Regional Conference Conference of of Are You Ready For The R.O.D.E.O. Showdown at Alpha Kappa Alpha Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Incorporated theAlpha O.K.Kappa Corral inSorority, Tulsa, Oklahoma?

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

IN THIS ISSUE OF THE C.H.A.T. Regional Director’s Greeting:

Page 3

Regional Director’s Itinerary:

Page 4

Conversation:

Page 6-8

International News You Can Use:

Page 10-16

Highlights:

Page 18-35

New Initiates Fall 2017:

Page 37-45

Graduates:

Pages 47-50

Happenings:

Page 52-70

Acknowledgements:

Page 72-73

Ivy Beyond the Wall:

Page 75-82

Sentiments:

Page 83

Thoughts & Meditation:

Page 85

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Greetings to the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region Sorors

It is with great pleasure that the Editorial Staff and I bring you the 2017 Fall Winter Edition of The C.H.A.T. (Conversations, Highlights, Happenings, and Thoughts)! For the past three plus years, it has been a true labor of love to bring you the Best of the Best throughout our region and this Issue is no exception.

In this Edition the featured Conversation is with our 19 th Mid-Western Regional Director Delorise A. Gines who currently serves as the region’s Historian. Her Conversation will be of interest to ALL Mid-Western sorors as she will provide the historical perspective of our region being the “gateway” of the expansion of our beloved sisterhood. Did you know that the second and 12 th Graduate Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha were chartered here in the Mid-Western Region? Did you know that the fourth and the twentieth Undergraduate Chapters were also chartered here in our region? Did you know that Founder Beulah Burke served as the first Basileus of Beta Omega (Lambda Chapter) and Mu Omega and also served as the first Regional Director of our Region or that Founder Ethel Jones Mowbray was a charter member of Beta Omega and member of Mu Omega? You will see a lot of answers to the “Did You Know” questions and much more interesting facts about our region and the historical significance to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®.

We feature Highlights from our Fall Cluster Meetings and Undergraduate Round. There is a special feature of the Wreath Laying Ceremony for Founder Ethel Jones Mowbray and the 110 th Founders’ Day Celebration in Washington, DC and Philadelphia. Other Highlights and Happenings are the Fall 2017 are Undergraduate MIPs which includes the reinstatement of Xi Eta and Rho Alpha Chapters, Fall 2017 Graduations, Chapter Program features and Sorority News You Can Use. Of course, you will find the achievements and recognitions of sorors and other Happenings (Events) and information regarding the 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference in Tulsa, OK. There is something of interest to every soror in our region. Enjoy!

On behalf of the Editorial Staff of The C.H.A.T. and me, WE wish to thank each of you for a Mighty and Magnificent year and pray that you and yours will have a blessed year!

Sisterly Love and Blessings,

Soror Jan

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Mid-Western Regional Director’s Itinerary – September – January 2018

September 16: 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference Steering Committee Meeting, Tulsa, OK September 20 - 24: Congressional Black Caucus, Washington, DC October 6 - 7: Cluster B & C Meeting, Hyatt Regency, Wichita, KS October 13 – 14: Cluster A Meeting, Denver, CO October 20: Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter Scholarship Event, Overland Park, KS October 27 – 28: Cluster D & E Meeting, Muskogee, OK October 29: 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference Steering Committee Meeting, Tulsa, OK November 1 – 5: Directorate Meeting, Palm Springs, CA November 12: Rho Iota Chapter Final Commitment Ceremony and Luncheon, Kansas City, MO November 12: Pi Xi Chapter Final Commitment Luncheon, Warrensburg, MO November 18: 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference Steering Committee Meeting, Tulsa, OK November 19: Rho Alpha Chapter Final Commitment Ceremony, Luncheon and New Members Showcase, Kansas City, MO November 29 – December 3: AFA Conference, Atlanta, GA December 16: 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference Steering Committee Meeting via teleconference January 6: Mu Omega Chapter Meeting, Kansas City, MO January 11 – 15: 110th Founders’ Day Celebration, Washington, DC and Philadelphia, PA January 20: 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference Steering Committee Meeting, Tulsa, OK

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Conversation With Soror Delorise Gines Mid-Western Region Historian

The history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in the Mid-Western Region is very lush and interesting. In this conversation I had the opportunity to speak with Soror Delorise Gines 19th Mid-Western Regional Director and the Mid-Western Region Historian.

Soror Angie: “Good afternoon Soror Gines how are you this afternoon?”

Soror Delorise: “Good afternoon Soror Angela, I’m doing well and you?”

Soror Angie: “I’m doing well and I would like to thank you in advance for meeting with me this afternoon.” “Our first question is what made you interested in capturing the region’s history?”

Soror Delorise: “My experiences with the sorority at the time. I was mentored by the Second Supreme Basileus Soror Loraine Richardson Green, the story of the founders, their knowledge and skills totally inspired me. There were so many Sorors in Beta Omega in the leadership of the Sorority. In my research all of these Sorors became familiar to me. I just wanted to get to know more about our early beginnings in the region and once I got started I was so fascinated. For example; Soror Beulah Burke chartered the first four chapters in this area. I actually got the opportunity to meet her when she was in her late 80s. I met her during the 1970 Boule in Kansas City.”

Soror Angie: “In your research of the region what did you find the most interesting?”

Soror Delorise: “How so many early leaders Soror Wysdom, Soror Pullman, Soror Frazier-Clark and more are very interesting. To understand the role, of the Sorors from the Mid-Western Region 6

played in the sorority. I was in the class with Soror Rosetta Noland-Webb she was the last

graduate Soror to serve as 2nd Supreme Anti-Basileus.

Soror Angie: “What were some of the challenges you found in recording the region’s history?”

Soror Delorise: “A challenge was getting accurate information. I utilized Boule minutes, issues of the Ivy Leaf and Chapter minutes to cross reference and found discrepancies in names and dates.

I had to do a lot of fact finding. I have been a stickler for accuracy since then, that part is critical to establish timelines. What I also found difficult was finding information on the region’s earliest Regional Directors. Information like who they were, where they went to school and such things like that.”

Soror Angie: “What can our chapters do to assist with mitigating those challenges?”

Soror Delorise: “Chapters need to closely review the minutes for accuracies for examples the spelling of names and places to make sure they are accurate.”

Soror Angie: “How did you put the book together to get a good account as a story?”

Soror Delorise: “I had a vision of the history unfolding like a tapestry but was not sure how to

bring it to fruition. Soror Martha Carpenter assisted me with weaving the book together into that tapestry.”

Soror Angie: “What type of materials do you suggest the chapters must keep in archives?”

Soror Delorise: “Chapters must keep some things about their basic programs. Big platform programs like Fashionettas, Debutante Balls booklets and pictures of contestants. One copy of the item for long term; paper adds up. The information about who officers were during the administration, information about how the Chapter works within the Corporate programs. I received information from two chapters about how they implemented certain programs from the Corporate agenda. I was really surprised as I worked on the history to see how many Sorors served in the military. I have truly enjoyed the work of documenting the region’s history.”

Soror Angie: “How should these materials be stored?

Soror Delorise: “The chapters should be using depositories. My Chapter is using the Midwest Genealogy Center in Kansas City, we see how important it is to store the documents correctly.

Right now we are in the process of completing oral histories on every Golden and Silver Soror.

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There should be one copy of the oral history given to the Soror, one to the Chapter and one goes

to the Corporate Office. The depository should be in the area, the establishment should be good at preserving information. Kansas has the University of Kansas which holds all of Delta Chapter’s archives. Published Sorors also should have documents stored there as well so that Sorors can go and view. Chapters do not have to recreate, they can use what is in there area. Look for the entity in your city or your area to see where you can store the documents. Sorors are concerned about giving up their ownership to the documents. We as chapters need professional help in storing our archives.”

Soror Angie: “What should Sorors put on display in the depositories?”

Soror Delories: “We should put on display officers and programs of service. We would not put documents that deal with our rituals or confidential informational in the depository but we want to display our great works in the community on our programs. The International Archives Committee would like each region to have a regional depository. Madam Regional Director would like to establish a depository during her term. The depository should be centralized for the region.”

Soror Angie: “What are the next steps in the archiving process?”

Soror Delorise: “The next would be for chapters to clean up their archives. The storage units should be clean, organized, and forward the appropriate documents to Corporate Office and depositories. Eliminate any duplicate documentation. When transferring old documents to media, talk to someone who can assist you in that endeavor.”

Soror Angie: “Well Soror Delorise I would like to thank you so much for talking with me this afternoon.”

Soror Delorise: “Thank you for the interview. I am so humbled by the assignment of creating the

Mid-Western Region’s History Book I truly loved every minute of it.”

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International News You Can Use

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Calling all Diamond – 1942, 1943; Golden - 1967, 1968 and Silver - 1992, 1993 Sorors!

During the Boule 2018 in Houston, the International Diamond, Golden, Silver Sorors Committee looks forward to supporting Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanon Wilson when she honors and celebrates new Diamond, Golden and Silver Sorors.

The tradition began in 1976 at the Boule in New York when then-Supreme Basileus Bernice I. Sumlin began recognizing sorors who had been members for 50 years. These Sorors were originally called Golden Girls and later called Golden Sorors. Later, those with 25 years’ membership were honored and called Silver Sorors. Soror Sumlin stated that “Sorors just loved the honor and she enjoyed showing gratitude for years of membership.”

During the 1992 Boule in New Orleans, Supreme Basileus Mary Shy Scott presented the first Diamond recognition to 2nd Supreme Basileus Lorraine Greene. Today, there are luncheons, receptions, photo galleries, and galas honoring sorors for their longevity and dedicated service to Alpha Kappa Alpha.

This dedicated service is reflected presently by the DGS sorors who actively participate in the intergenerational programs of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. These expressions of Alpha Kappa Alpha values will live into perpetuity. Some DGS sorors are Life members of the sorority, but continue to share in the Sorority’s financial growth by becoming members of the “Heritage Club.”

Participating in interactive program activities and in the financial stability of the sorority are a noble demonstration of dedication to the ideals and values of this great sisterhood.

If you were initiated in the following years: 1942, 1943, 1967, 1968, 1992, or 1993 we would like to recognize you at the 2018 Boule DGS Soror Luncheon. Your sorors want to honor and celebrate you! Remember that you must: Be an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Register for Boule 2018 Purchase a ticket for the Diamond, Golden, Silver Sorors Luncheon Send a photo as directed on the registration form with appropriate fees.

The International Diamond/Golden/Silver Soror Committee members are working hard to make this celebration one that you will cherish and remember for a lifetime.

Soror Jacquelyn Heath Parker, Chairman, Central Region Soror Ashley Parker, North Atlantic Soror Rebecca V. Graves, Mid- Atlantic Soror Cheryl D. McMichael, South Atlantic Soror Carolyn Hunter, Great Lakes Soror Jo Celeste Pettway, South Eastern Soror Juliea Robinson Nelson, South Central Soror Evelyn Page, Mid-Western Soror Betty Edwards, Far Western Soror Frances Malloy, International 10

"Be the Voice in the 2017 Elections" The International Connection Committee is urging chapters to follow the recommended schedule provided in the Connection Manual to plan “Get Out the or to? to Vote� activities. Currently, we are focusing on Registration and Education. If you have a local election in your community, please feel free to modify the schedule to implement the Participation and Mobilization phases as needed.

Chapters are asked to plan the following activities: in-person Voter Education and Voter Registration events through September 2017; Voter Mobilization and Voter Participation activities from October - December 2017; Voter Education and Registration January - March 2018; Voter Mobilization and Voter Participation April - June 2018; Voter Education and Voter Registration July - September 2018 and concluding with Voter Mobilization and Participation with the November 2018 mid-term elections.

We need all chapters to take A.C.T.I.O.N. to impact local and state 2017 elections and begin our countdown to the 2018 mid-term elections.

1. A few key reminders when conducting registration drives: 2. Retain the newly registered voter's information, i.e., name, phone number or email; 3. Communicate with the new voter periodically 4. Invite the new voter to your voter forum and/or candidate forum 5. Contact the new voter to determine if transportation is needed to the polls or assistance with voting absentee.

For assistance with planning Voter Registration, Voter Education, Mobilization or Participation events, please contact your State Connection Coordinator, Regional Representative to the International Connection Committee or the International Connection Committee Chairman.

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Former Directorate Members: Transformers of the World through Leadership, Service and Scholarship

Soror Peggy Lewis LeCompte, Chairman

Soror Cynthia Finch, Co-Chairman

The Former Directorate Member Coordination Team under the leadership of Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson has undertaken the task of assuring that the outstanding women who have served this sisterhood are consistently recognized on all levels -- cluster, chapter, regional, national and at public as well as work with other committees to develop and implement recognitions. A new standard of recognition has been set for former leaders of our sisterhood – an infinite standard of recognition that will be lasting.

Through of the work of this committee and its collaboration with other committees, our former leaders are more visible and recognizable to members of the sorority. Our goal to assure recognition included the following: reserved seating at sorority and public functions, a Former Directorate Member Pin, a reception for Former Directorate Members, special Former Directorate Member ribbons, and compilation and distribution of Launching New Dimensions of Supreme Leadership to former Directorate members and chapters. Additionally, we conducted workshops at Boule and the Leadership Conference where attendees could interact with Former Directorate Members, learning about events that happened during their years of service and their views on the sorority’s evolution as well as predictions for the future sorority’s.

Your acknowledgement of Former Directorate Members has caused a new-found sense of engagement, increased attendance and renewed enthusiasm by them. They thank you and we thank you.

As we move forward, we will work to complete a Directory of Former Directorate Members and dissemination of an errata sheet for Launching New Dimensions of Supreme Leadership.

Soror Peggy Lewis LeCompte, Chairman, tlodpresident10@aol.com, Central Region Soror Cynthia Finch, Co-Chairman, cynthiajfinch@gmail.com, South Eastern Region

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We Are Known by Our Love Rev. Pamela Bates Porch Spiritual Oversight Committee-Chairman Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated continues to be a beacon of light predicated on a foundation of sisterly love. The Spiritual Oversight Committee is proud to lead the way in setting the tone for our great Sisterhood.

The committee recently completed its second project “Calling All Clergy” a profile of clergy within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. The completion of this project was truly a labor of love. The book was was unveiled at the Leadership Seminar in Las Vegas. This compilation book serves as the companion piece to “New Dimensions of Faith” released at the 2015 Leadership Seminar in Chicago. It is available for purchase from the Corporate Office for $20, plus shipping and handling.

Love at every level is the over-arching theme for this committee. Every Soror is an ambassador of our love towards one anover. It is the living legacy of love that has been passed down to us and empowers us to serve one other and make the world a better place for all mankind.

It is this foundational concept of love that continues to strengthen our commitment and resolve to move forward in reaching new heights of accomplishment, while expanding our presence as we strive to "Launch New Dimensions of Service”.

The concept of love is complex and yet simple to put in action. Thinking of others more than self is the driving force for chapters and each member. The example of service is critical to communities, social causes and tacking issues to lift up the underserved and the cornerstone of serving all mankind.

It is the compassion, nurturing, and just plain old sisterly care that make the action of love so spiritual and impactful. Each one reaching one, in sincerity, encouragement and sisterhood will help us achieve greater dimensions of service. It is our Love, that lifts us all!

When we recognize that our love is a great and fundamental component of Serving All Mankind, our new dimensional footprint everywhere our feet shall tread. The answer to our success is our Love!

Our service in this administration is a labor of love.

Rev. Pamela Bates Porch-Central Region Spiritual Oversight Committee-Chairman

Spiritual Oversight Committee posing with the Supreme Basileus with a copy of “Calling All Clergy.

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Honorary Member Showcase Rear Admiral Sylvia Trent-Adams, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.A.N. Acting Surgeon General At the 2016 Boule in Atlanta, the Sorority continued its tradition of inducting Honorary Members with remarkable backgrounds that capture a “vision fair.� Five women captivated the packed auditorium as they were inducted into an elite group: Karen Eubanks Jackson, Susan Denise Page, Judy Smith, Tika Sumpter, and Rear Admiral Sylvia Trent-Adams. This article highlights the career of Rear Admiral Sylvia Trent-Adams.

Rear Admiral Sylvia Trent-Adams was appointed Acting Surgeon General by President Donald Trump in April 2017, the first non-physician to hold the role. She previously served as the Deputy Surgeon General under President Barack Obama.

As Deputy Surgeon General, Trent-Adams advised and supported the Surgeon General regarding operations of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS) and in communicating the best available scientific information to advance the health of the nation. She served as the Chief Nurse Officer of the USPHS from November 2013 through May 2016. In this role, she advised the Office of the Surgeon General and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on the recruitment, assignment, deployment, retention, and career development of Corps nurse professionals.

She has held various positions in HHS, working to improve access to health care for poor and underserved communities. As a clinician and administrator, she has had a direct impact on building systems of care to improve public health for marginalized populations domestically and internationally. Prior to joining the Office of the Surgeon General, Trent-Adams was the Deputy Associate Administrator for the HIV/AIDS Bureau , Health Resources and Services Administration.

Trent-Adams began her career in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health service in 1992. She has published numerous articles, participated in research studies, and presented to a variety of domestic and international organizations and professional groups. Previously, she was a nurse officer in the U.S. Army. She also served as a research nurse at the University of Maryland.

Her clinical practice was in trauma, oncology, community health, and infectious disease. a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Maryland-Baltimore County.

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The induction of honorary members continues to be a highlight of Boule events. Since 1913, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has found it fitting to induct Honorary Members into our illustrious sisterhood who exemplify our core values through their extraordinary achievements. They are women whose lives embody all that we are and all that we aspire to be.

Our Honorary Members touch every corner of the professional spectrum, from astronauts to athletes, physicians to politicians, and scientists to social justice advocates. They hail from all over the world and represent a variety of racial and ethnic groups as well as religious traditions.

The one quality that they all have in common, that is in Alpha Kappa Alpha’s DNA, is the spirit of service and selflessness.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has inducted 135 Honorary Members. They include: Jane Addams (1913), Dr. Sara N. Brown (1920), Marian Anderson (1931), Eleanor Roosevelt (1949), Coretta Scott King (1967), Joan Bernard Armstrong (1975), Maya Angelou (1983), C. Delores Tucker (1994), The Honorable Edith Grace Ssempala (2000), and Ava DuVernay (2014).

Submitted by the Honorary Members and Awards Committee Soror Deidra Y. A. Edwards, Chairman, Central Soror Burnadine Moss Anderson, South Central Soror Sharon F. Bridges, South Eastern Soror Linda H. Gilliam, Mid-Atlantic Soror Jemina Huff, Central Soror Vivian Smith, North Atlantic

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Standards Greetings Sorors! Thank you for all of your hard work and diligent attention to your operations throughout the year. Here are few pointers for your year-end reports and staying on track for the year to come.

Year End Reports This year Year-end Reports are all available electronically. Please remember to save a copy of all the reports for your chapter records. Create a year-end report book or make it a section of your annual bound chapter minutes.

When you do your chapter survey, remember that you need at least 60% participation from your chapter members. Not just for the S.T.A.R. Award, but also to make sure to capture the voice of your chapter.

The Annual Chapter Records Certification Form is required with your year-end report. Utilize this list to keep track of the chapter required documents and forms. This list is also located in your Standards Resource Guide appendices.

Continuing Excellence All of this hard work to prepare for your evaluations, has created new processes and procedures that are part of your chapter’s standard operations. The new year is an opportunity to make sure all your processes are in place. Here are a few things to get you started!

• • • • • • • • •

Chapter minutes for the previous year are signed and ready to be hardbound.

Plan for your annual financial audit (either internal or external).

Get your voucher forms set up for 2018.

Determine if you need a new receipt book.

If applicable, plan your 2018 joint chapter meetings with your undergraduate members.

If needed, change over all your signatory requirements for checks and banking.

Update your officer roster as needed Ensure all chapter members have a copy of the latest chapter bylaws.

Don’t forget to document all your activities in your minutes!

Keep up the great work!

Sisterly, Soror Alires J. Almon Mid-Western Representative International Standards Committee

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Highlights

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110th Founders’ Day Celebration—Kansas City, KS Honoring Founder and Incorporator Ethel Georgiana Jones Mowbray

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Sorors brave the cold to pay honor to Founder Ethel Jones Mowbray at wreath laying ceremony in Kansas City, Kansas Woodlawn Cemetery.

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National Founders’ Day Weekend

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2017 Mid-Western Region Fall Cluster Meetings “Super Soror: Committed to Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service” The Mid-Western Region Fall Cluster Meetings were held October 7 October 14 and October 28 in Wichita, Kansas (Cluster B & C) with host chapter Beta Kappa Omega, Denver, Colorado (Cluster A) with host chapter Epsilon Nu Omega, and Muskogee, Oklahoma (Cluster D & E) with host chapter Alpha Epsilon Omega. The theme was “Super Soror: Committed to Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Service”. This

year’s Friday Fun Night included fun sisterly activities with games, strolling, line dancing and socializing.

Mid-Western Regional Director Jan M. Carpenter Baker started each meeting dressed as a “Super Soror” including cape and mask. She took pictures with all chapters before starting the meeting. After greetings and introductions by the cluster coordinators and host chapters led by Soror Tanesha Forte, Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson welcomed us via video. Soror Jan officially greeted attendees and provided the regional updates. Presentations, included highlights from the Leadership Risk Management Summit

by Risk Management Task Force Committee Representative Soror Lani Stigler, Emotional Wellness and Program Best Practices was presented by Soror Zelia Wiley, Representative of the International Program Committee Protocol by Regional Protocol Chairman, Soror Meredyth Vick, Nominating Procedures by International Nominating Committee Representative Soror Barbara Washington , and Sisterly Relations by International Sisterly Relations Representative Soror Anika Wilson who encouraged us to recognize and value the contributions of each Soror as we acknowledge 110 years of service. A combined total of 1284 Backpacks were

distributed to local after school programs and agencies in each city. Meetings closed out with remarks by Madam Regional Director and group pictures.

Cluster A 26

Cluster B & C

Cluster D & E

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2017 Mid-Western Region Undergraduate Round-Up “Super Soror: Committed to Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service!”

More than 240 “Super Soror” Undergraduates, Graduate Advisors and Graduate Advisory Council Members from across the Mid-Western Region attended the 2017 Mid-Western Region Undergraduate Round-Up hosted by the members of Delta Tau Chapter at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Basileus Soror Kori Clay and the Delta Tau sorors greeted attendees wearing pink and/or green PJs for the Friday Night “Pa-Jan-A-Jam” where they danced, sang Karaoke, took pictures and played games.

Sorors gathered at the Holiday Inn Executive Center on Saturday, August 19 with the excitement of being “Super Sorors” to learn and engage in dialogue. The program included a Welcome by Soror Kori Clay, Greetings by Soror Brooklynn Gumby, Mid-Western Region’s UAC Representative, Meditation by Soror Taj Brimmer, Mid-Western Region’s Representative to the International Constitution Committee, Introductions by Soror Kristen Stinnett, Basileus of Upsilon Chapter, Roll Call by Soror Darian Dozier, Basileus of Theta Xi Chapter and Grace

by Soror Jasmyn Flowers, Basileus of Gamma Beta Chapter.

Presentations were given by Soror Antoria Frazier, Undergraduate Member-At-Large along with Soror Brooklynn Gumby on “FLOURISH”, “Campus Environment/Racial Tension and Conflict Resolution” by Ms. Brittani Fults, Education and Prevention Coordinator at UMC, “Emotional Wellness” by Mr. Tim Harlan, Esq., President of the Columbia NAMI, Nominating by Soror Barbara Anne Washington, MWR Representative to the International Nominating Committee and a very 28

informative panel discussion on “Graduate School-Pursuing A Higher Education� by Graduate Advisors Botswana Blackburn, PhD, Sheritta Strong, MD, Suzette Beck Ramsey, MS, and Antoinette Landor, PhD. The day also included Sisterly Relations Activities presented by the members of Eta Tau Chapter and more than 500 backpacks were donated to the Columbia School District.

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Mu Omega celebrates 93 years of SERVice by Being of SERVice in the Community

On May 6, the members of Mu Omega chapter trekked across the Kansas City area to perform community service activities to celebrate being of service to all mankind for 93 years.

The chapter was chartered on May 10, 1924 and traditionally celebrates its birthday every year during its May chapter meeting. This year, in honor of the chapter’s theme: SERVE – Sisters Engaged and Ready to Volunteer in Excellence – members left their chapter meeting armed with a renewed spirit to serve the community.

Members participated in four different service projects with each project being in line with the program targets which included: Educational Enrichment Health Promotion Family Strengthening Environmental Ownership Global Impact

Mu Omega concentrated its efforts on Family Strengthening, Environmental Ownership and Global Impact. Sorors also partnered with reStart, Inc. which provides housing and supportive services to help homeless men, women, youth and families move toward independence and self-sufficiency with the goal of ending homelessness. They prepared welcome packages to homeless persons that enter one of reStart’s many locations to assist homeless persons and teens with housing, financial empowerment education and ending hunger.

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Other sorors cleaned up the highway with the chapter’s partnership with the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Adopt A Highway program. Members spent the afternoon picking up debris and litter on Kansas Highway 7 between mile marker 18 and 19. The chapter has committed to keeping the area adjacent to the highway clean by physically picking up trash 3-4 times each year.

Also under Environmental Ownership chapter members cleaned and beautified the playground at Kiddie Kollege as part of Ms. Wilson’s Playground 1908 program under the adopt, clean and beautify 1,908 playgrounds throughout the world. Many chapter sorors have served on the school’s board of directors and assisted the school in becoming a non-profit entity. The current director of the school is Mu Omega Member Flora Anderson. Kiddie Kollege has provided quality daycare and pre-school services for more than 50 years to students in the Kansas City, Kansas African American community.

Finally remaining Sorors grouped together to prepare pillowcase dresses for the Little Dresses of Africa program which are sent to little girls and women throughout Africa. In 2016 Alpha Kappa Alpha donated more than 53,000 dresses to support the Global Impact target.

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Theta Upsilon Omega Celebrates 48 years of Service

Theta Upsilon Omega sorors with Judge Irma Newburn 3rd from left. Iola Gray ,Dr. Cheryl Monts, Judge Irma Newburn, Jacqueline Achong, Nell Gradney, Tiffaney Hamilton, CaSaundra Harris, Gwendolyn Monts. Back row: Arlie Hampton, Willetta Walker, Andrea Farmer, Cynthia Walker, Tiffiney Dimery, Jamie Hatcher, Dr. Regina Deloach, and Dr. Jamie Polk.

Theta Upsilon Omega Chapter celebrated 48 years of service on November, 2016 with a breakfast at the CETES building on Cameron University’s campus.

Following the breakfast, the public was invited to continue the celebration with the theme Be the Voice: Women on the Move. The Honorable Irma Newburn, Lawton’s first black female judge, was the speaker. Judge Newburn voiced staggering statistics on incarcerated women. She gave thoughts/comments on minimizing the impact on children of incarcerated women, their families and communities.

Refreshments and a Meet and Greet followed the program.

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Pearls of Legacy Providing Service to All Mankind Pearls of Legacy officially became an Interest Group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. on April 19, 2017. The group immediately began research community service opportunities in the Broken Arrow community.

June / Family Strengthening On June 17, Pearls of Legacy formed a partnership with Broken Arrow Neighbors; an interfaith organization that provides basic needs emergency assistance to disadvantaged people in the Broken Arrow area. Our first activity was to adopt two raised garden beds. Sorors gathered together and planted a variety of vegetables in the beds.

Our partnership began with a tour of the Broken Arrow gardens and an explanation of the role we would play in providing servicing the area. We maintained and nurtured the beds; watering and weeding and providing lots of love. Vegetables produced went to the Broken Arrow community.

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Educational Enrichment In addition to the Broken Arrow Neighbors partnership, the Pearls of Legacy began a partnership with Margaret Hudson school for unwed high school Mothers. We supported a fund raiser held by Margaret Hudson on June 17. Pearls of Legacy member, Soror LaQuisha Jackson was a member of the faculty at Margaret Hudson. Because of State of Oklahoma budget cuts, Margaret Hudson program was discontinued in July.

July – Leadership Development/Networking Pearls of Legacy members began attending the Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce Successful Women’s Luncheon. Each meeting provided networking opportunities for the membership which has expanded to include invitations to work with other community organizations, including the Broken Arrow Bring Back the Roses Committee.

August / Educational Enrichment Our partnership with Broken Arrow Neighbors afforded Pearls of Legacy the opportunity to participate in their Back to School program. Pearls of Legacy donated school supplies and backpacks to Broken Arrow Neighbors - Assistance with Dignity program on August 19. BAN is a comprehensive community service resource center that provides the following services: food pantry, financial assistance, WIC, SNAP, food for kids, holiday programs, outreach services, and school supplies to name a few. Sorors collected 75 backpacks and purchased $625 worth of school supplies.

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September / Health Promotions Several sorors participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. The series of runs and walks raises significant funds and awareness for the breast cancer movement. Pearls of Legacy donated $265 to this cause.

To address the Mental Health Initiative, Pearls of Legacy adopted the Brookdale Cedar Ridge, an assisted living and memory care facility. Sorors have visited the facility and met some of the residents. As we collect seasonal wraps, Brookdale Cedar Ridge requested our assistance in providing socks to the residents.

October / Family Strengthening (Global Impact Day) Sorors donated $91 to purchase snacks for students of two of our sorors who teach in the Broken Arrow and Union school districts; Soror Tamarah Danzy (Union School District) and Soror LaQuisha Jackson.(Broken Arrow School District). Healthy snacks were provided for their students in recognition of Child Hunger Awareness Day. A total of over 50 students were served by the donation.

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New Initiates Fall 2017

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ALPHA KAPPA CHAPTER

New Member of Alpha Kappa City Wide Chapter Denver, CO Soror Erin Sadler

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DELTA CHAPTER

New Members of Delta Chapter University of Kansas Sorors Aleah Estes, Shalice Lott, Jessica Thompson, Toni Thenstead and Carolina Barnes

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GAMMA BETA CHAPTER

New Members of Gamma Beta Chapter

University of Nebraska-Omaha and Creighton University Sorors Chelsey McLaurine and Bria Williams

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PI XI CHAPTER

New Members of Pi Xi Chapter University of Central Missouri Sorors Maria McCollough, Lisa Miller, Ebone’a Turner, Karia Tucker, Tiana Key, Yanikah Primer, Skyy Thomas, and Peyton Taylor

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RHO IOTA CHAPTER

New Members of Rho Iota Chapter Missouri Western State University Sorors Arniecea Johnson, Alexis Williams, Jasmine Lowery, Tannis Hamilton and Taylor Jackson

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KAPPA PI CHAPTER

New Members of Kappa Pi Chapter, Kansas State University Sorors Allyson Sanders, Alexis Collier, Jasmine Gray, Bricelis Jimenez and Olivia Taylor

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RHO ALPHA CHAPTER

New Members of Rho Alpha Chapter University of Missouri-Kansas City Sorors Jonesya Bass, Jazmine Clark, Taylor Clark, Marchuan Gully, Alexis Hudspeth, Ashley Jackson, Kyra Moore, Taelor Morris, Uzoamaka Ofodu, Janelle Olawaiye, Jamie Powell, Christina Rice, Genel Rollins, Chrysteene Smith, Takia Steele and Brianna Wright

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XI ETA CHAPTER

New Members of Xi Eta Chapter Colorado State University— Blouder, CO Sorors Christasia Chavis, Janae Brown, Daiszha Cooley, and Michelle Nwagwu

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THETA UPSILON OMEGA CHAPTER

Theta Upsilon Omega Chapter Lawton, OK Sorors Tamara Johnson, Sarah Cooper, LaTarsha Freeman, Ashley Gordon and Mary Jenkins-Williams

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Graduates

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Soror Nina Hunter Chapter: Pi Xi Chapter Graduate of University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Mo Degree: Bachelor of Science Sociology

Soror NaPorsha Williams Chapter: Pi Xi Chapter

Graduate of University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Mo Degree: Digital Media Production emphasis in Journalism

Soror Yanikah Primer Chapter: Pi Xi Chapter Graduate of University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Mo Degree: Bachelor of Science in Psychology

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Congratulations Graduates

Soror Sheritha Williams Beta Beta Chapter University of Central Oklahoma B.S. Organizational Leadership Graduation Date: May 5, 2017

Soror Jasmyn Flowers Gamma Beta Chapter University of Nebraska-Omaha B.S. Construction Management

Soror TyJanae Smith Upsilon Chapter Washburn University B.S. Social Work Graduation Date: December 2017 48

FALL 2017 GRADUATIONS DELTA TAU CHAPTER University of Missouri-Columbia Soror Briana Wilson

Soror Alexandria Porter

Soror Shaletta Norwood

Soror Ashlei Eaton

KAPPA PI CHAPTER Kansas State University Soror Loren Breckenridge Soror Taj Brimmer

EPSILON ALPHA CHAPTER Wichita State University Soror Aneesa Redd

Soror Gabrielle Jones

PI XI CHAPTER University of Central Missouri

Soror NaPorsha Williams

Soror Nina Hunter

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FALL 2017 GRADUATIONS Beta Beta Chapter University of Central Oklahoma Soror Raedeisha Wood

Soror Taletha Henderson

Alpha Iota Chapter Lincoln University Soror Jacquelyn Starks

Soror Erika Spencer

Soror Collette Alexander

Rho Alpha Chapter University of Missouri-Kansas City Soror Janeysa Bass

Soror Jazmine Clark

Soror Brianna Wright

Alpha Zeta Chapter Langston University Soror T’ara Howard

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Happenings

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ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED ® 88TH MID-WESTERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE EAF FUNDRAISER

1 for $15 2 for $25 You may place your order with Soror Jauqua Wilkins for immediate purchase at jauqua@gmail,com or you may place your order when you register for the 88th Mid-Western Regional Conference

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For more information regarding the 88th MidWestern Regional Conference, you may access the Registration Link, Packet and Awards Packet on the akamidwestern.org website under the EVENTS tab.

Other Resources: Registration: 88mwrcregister@gmail.com Technology/Registration Issues: dmckelvywalker1124@yahoo.com Hotel: Call Direct: 918-307-2600 Awards/Exhibits: Stoutermire@gmail.com See YOU in Tulsa!

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National Pan-Hellenic Council Lawton Fort Sill, Oklahoma Black Heritage Banquet

Sorors from left: Bettye Gaines, Patricia Jackson, Gwendolyn Monts, Cheryle Sherman, Iola Gray, Lou Reese and Dr. Regina Deloach.

Sorors of Theta Upsilon Omega attended the Pan-Hellenic Council Black Heritage Banquet on February 25, 2017 at Cameron University Lawton, Oklahoma. Dr. Kevin McPherson, Executive Director of C.A.R.E for Change, Inc. of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma was the speaker for the banquet. The theme was “The Crisis in Black Education.” Dr. McPherson believes it is important to spend time finding solutions for the crisis. One solution to the crisis in black education is to start reading again. He suggested two books: “The Mis-Education of the Negro” by Carter G. Woodson and “Solutions for Black America”

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Epsilon Nu Omega Recognizes High School Senior Girls Denver, CO – Epsilon Nu Omega held its 41 annual Senior Girls Reception & Scholarship Awards Ceremony on April 23, 2017. The event recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding college-bound high school seniors. This year’s Dr. Seuss inspired theme was “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” The event was highlighted by a rousing speech from keynote speaker, Dr. Khadijah Breathett, a noted cardiologist, and an inspirational musical selection from Soror Renee Davis, of Alpha Kappa Chapter. Sixteen young ladies from Denver area high schools were honored for their scholastic, leadership and community service achievements and six scholarships were presented including the HBCU Scholarship Award, to Aryonne Gibson, and the Rosanna M. Hill Champion of Service Award to Kaelynn Gomez. Soror Chloe Frazier was the event chair and Soror Leah Andrews-Willis served as Scholarship Committee Chair. Sorors from Alpha Kappa Chapter served as hostesses. st

(l-r) Scholarship Chair, Leah Andrews-Willis; ENO Basileus, Dawn Frazier and 2017 Senior Girls Chair, Chloe Frazier (The Summit Conference & Event Center, Aurora, CO – 4/23/17)

In a separate event, held on May 11, 2017, members of Epsilon Nu Omega celebrated 17 young ladies during the chapter’s 15 annual Alternative Senior Girls Recognition Ceremony. This year’s event was held at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library and honored graduating seniors attending Emily Griffith High School and the Contemporary Learning Academy. Both of these Denver Public Schools offer curricula for students who are at risk of not graduating or prefer a nontraditional route for secondary education. Words of inspiration were presented by Beza Jobira, a 2010 Alternative Senior Girls honoree. Ms. Jobira is a first-year student at the University of Colorado Medical Center, proving that there are many paths to success! Honorees were presented certificates and enjoyed fellowship and refreshments with chapter members following the ceremony. The annual event was originated and co-chaired by Sorors Judith Alexander and Loretta Richardson. Soror Dawn Frazier is the Basileus of Epsilon Nu Omega Chapter. th

Members of Epsilon Nu Omega (front row) pose with 2017 Alternative Senior Girls honorees (Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, Denver, CO – 5/11/17)

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Iota Beta Omega Chapter ASCEND Program

The Iota Beta Omega Chapter ASCEND program continues to inspire and engage students from across the Colorado Springs area. The ASCEND program has grown in numbers, currently serving students representing over eleven local high schools. Some 2016-2017 ASCEND highlights include: Attendance at the Educating Children of Color Conference African-American Youth Leadership Conference Workshops hosted by Sorors: Self-Awareness College Informational Engagement Networking Developmental Skills Designing a student led service learning project

The 2017-2018 year will consist of many of the topics and events from last year, with the addition of Model UN, cultural/arts outing, finance, creating apps and implementation of a student created service project. This September included a college preparation checklist and resources for scholarships. Students also interviewed a recent Howard graduate to gain knowledge about the HBCU experience. Iota Beta Omega recently Implemented an online survey to gain feedback from students on an ongoing basis.

Students have described the experience as one they look forward to each month! The chapter appreciates the opportunity to work with a dynamic group of young people and will strive to become the premier educational enrichment program for youth.

Soror Dawn-Antoinette Thomas, Lead ASCEND COACH

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ASCEND PROGRAM A Step Beyond the Tassel A Step Beyond the Tassel- is a program design to assist students with Advance placement classes as well as concurrent courses. The program encourages middle school and elementary students with science and engineering projects. This program challenges middle and high school students. The goal was to encourage students to push the limit for their education, keep up their academics and prepare them for college or a job after graduation. Students had the opportunity to hear from school and community leaders about working hard academically and about the options they have for their education. Students were encouraged to take AP classes, to work hard and not let anyone tell you that you’re not academically prepared to take the more rigorous classes. It was also letting the students know

that you do not wait until it is time to go to college to decide what you are going to study.

This is a program that made students think about their future and to know what they have to do to get ready for college. They have to be prepared.

Students need to be A Step Beyond the Tassel to be prepared for college. This was a college prep workshop for the November academics of ASCEND. There were 11 girls, 7 boys and 6 Sorors in attendance.

Sorors Willette Walker, Teresa Johnson, Cheryl Monts, Gwendolyn Monts, Cynthia Walker and Iola Gray 66

Upsilon Theta Omega Chapter donated gift cards to the Wings of Hope Family Crisis Center in Stillwater, Oklahoma to purchase black hair products and toys for kids in the center.

Xi Tau Omega Chapter donated Blessing Baskets filled with a variety of personal care items to the Senior Residents of the Destiny Towers Senior Housing Complex in Kansas City, Missouri. The Manager second from left was very grateful for the gifts for the residents.

Xi Tau Omega Chapter held their 3rd Family Strengthening Community Outreach Event “Breakfast and Blankets�

No Child Hungry, No Child Cold . Free breakfast was served to South Community residents. Health checks were provided. 150 backpack s filled with healthy snacks were distributed to school aged children. All adults and children received blankets.

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Theta Upsilon Omega Chapter, Lawton Oklahoma collaborated with John Adams Elementary on December 8, 2017. Sorors read Christmas stories to and decorated sugar cookies with kindergartners .

Sorors participating were Cheryle Sherman, Cheryl Monts, Andrea Farmer, Iola Gray and Patricia Jackson.

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Sigma Sigma Omega Going Above and Beyond in Service

Sigma Sigma Omega Chapter and members gave away winter hats and gloves to students at the Positive Tomorrows Christmas Carnival.

Sigma Sigma Omega played host to a special birthday student at Positive Tomorrows - a school that is for homeless students.

December - Sigma Sigma Omega hosts their annual Reactivation Social. This is a time of food, fellowship and fun as we invite inactive members to come "back home". We had a great time and look forward to seeing our newly reactivated members ready to get back to work in January.

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Mid-Western Region Cluster D & E (West / East OK) held in Muskogee, OK in October. Sigma Sigma Omega members hung out Friday night with some dancing and listening to live music.

On Saturday, they attended the meeting to be informed of what is going on with the sorority.

Over 60 backpacks were donated by the chapter. Other chapters also brought backpacks and over 250 backpacks were donated to a deserving local school.

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Acknowledgements

Newsmakers

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Mu Omega Chapter Member Debra Johnson Celebrates 23 Years of Service at Blue Cross and Blue Shields of Kansas City

Congrats to Soror Amber Lane Sigma Sigma Omega as she received the generation under 30 award for HealthCare in Oklahoma last night. #generationunder30 #socialwork #AKA1908

Congrats to Sigma Sigma Omega Soror Danielle England-Daughty for being honored! She is a dedicated teacher (she was grading papers at our last chapter meeting) and this is well deserved. #AKA1908 #SSO1990

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Congratulations to Soror Mautra Jones on being appointed by Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin on the Office of Juvenile Affairs Board of Directors.

Soror Mautra currently serves as the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and External Affairs for Langston University.

Congratulations to Soror Barbara Anne Washington on her election as a Missouri State Representative. She was sworn Into office on January 10, 2018 and will serve the 19th District for the State of Missouri.

Congratulations to Soror Rina Neal who was elected on the Junction City, KS/Geary County USD 475 School Board.

Soror Rina was sworn into office on January 8, 2018.

Congratulations to Soror Kristen Harris on receiving the Kansas City Black Achievers Award presented by the KC Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)

Congratulations to Soror Veronica Ford on receiving the Black Achiever of the Year Award from the Greater Kansas City Black Achiever’s Society

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Ivy Beyond the Wall

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Nell Rose Antoine Gradney Alpha Epsilon Omega Chapter

Lawton, Oklahoma- Soror Nell Rose Antoine Gradney became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on July 21, 2017 at the age of 79. Soror Gradney was initiated in Theta Upsilon Omega Chapter in 1994. She served in various capacities to include Assistant Grammateus, Hodges, Membership Committee and Nominating Committee.

Soror Gradney graduated in 1961 from Prairie View A&M College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. Her first teaching assignment was in Carthage, Texas. After her career in education, she ventured into social work in Missouri and Texas where she worked tirelessly and successfully as an adoption specialist.

In 1989, Soror Gradney and her family became members of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where she served faithfully as youth leader, Sunday school teacher, and most recently on the Mother’s Board.

Soror Nell is survived by her husband Donald; daughter Nicole and son-in-law Jason Fisher; stepdaughter Brenda Smith-Keene and son-in-law Jeff Keene; stepdaughter Soror Aprille Dawn; stepson Leland and daughter-in-law Yolanda Gradney; and her sister Joan Anderson. Soror Nell was also blessed with five grandchildren.

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Lillian R. Benefee Beta Sigma Omega Chapter

Soror Lillian R. Benefee was born August 5, 1934 in Muskogee, Oklahoma to Sarah Roberson & George Harris. Her early education was spent in the Haskell City Schools, Haskell, OK and High School- Booker T. Washington, Tulsa, OK. After graduation, she went on to attend Langston University - Langston, OK. receiving a

Bachelors degree in Business Management. She also

pursued her Graduate studies at University of Central Oklahoma.

Soror Lillian later married Maurice Benefee, Sr. who preceded her in death. She was a faithful 50

plus year member of the The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Oklahoma City, OK. Her service in her church consisted of being a member of the Aisle and Sanctuary Carpet, First Church Building Fund Project Organizer, 1984 Junior Warden, Senior Warden, Vestry Member, Convention Delegate for many years.

Soror Lillian’s received many honors and awards including: Douglas High School Homecoming Decoration Awards. The Langston University Homecoming Decoration Awards and Business Leadership Award Recognition. She was a member of Beta Sigma Omega Chapter, Phi Delta Kappa, American Association of Retired Persons NAACP, Urban League Guild, League of Women

Voters, LINKS of Oklahoma City, Hannah's Helpers (Hannah Diggs-Atkins Political Campaign).

During the course of her adult life, she was employed with the Oklahoma City Public Schools, Pre-School Teacher, Street Department store, Langston University, State Capital of Oklahoma Tour Guide and Benefee's Wedding and Upholstery.

As a life time resident of the State of Oklahoma, Lillian Russell Benefee spent her life contributing to the lives of men, women and children through beautification and cultivating services in education and personal avocations in the work place. For over thirty years, Maurice and Lillian Benefee jointly provided marriage and bridal decorations and coordination to citizens statewide; particularly

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Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Lillian R. Benefee citizens from the north east side of Oklahoma City. Within their business ventures, they also provided homecoming decorations for legendary and historical Douglass High School as well Langston University. This contribution extended throughout the 1970's, and well into 2010. Within the wedding and decorating business, the Benefees' ran a successful custom drapery and upholstery operation fitting city wide home and business with furnishings to enhance and beautify their living and work place. As an educator with Oklahoma City Public School System.

Soror Lillian is survived by her Care takers and sons: Arthur Houston and Shun Walton, Bishop George (Larna) Scott (Brother), Charles Pollard (Tina), David Hawkins ( God Son), Deloris Riley

(God Daughter), Maurice Benefee, Jr. ( Step Son), El Rosa (Metbzie) Benefee-Edwards (Step Daughter), and host of relatives.

Soror Lillian became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on September 6, 2017

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Diane Matthews-Jenkins Beta Sigma Omega Chapter

Soror Diane Matthews-Jenkins was born November 9, 1951 to Doris Matthews and Alexander Coulter in Oklahoma City, OK. Soror Diane relocated to Atlanta, GA where she spent most of her life. She attended school in the Dekalb School System.

Soror Diane was well known for her generosity, graciousness, and kind and loving spirit. She had a beautiful smile, she had an inner peaceful beauty and whenever she walked into a room, everyone was drawn to her. Her personality was radiant, colorful and full of life. She was a member of Beta Sigma Omega.

Soror Diane is survived by her daughter Alexandra Doris Jenkins, son Albert Daniel Jenkins III,

sister Linda Ford-Powers and brother Dennis Matthews.

Soror Diane became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on August 30, 2017

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Golden Soror Martina Julia Creuzot Cox Beta Sigma Omega Chapter

Soror Martina Julia Creuzot Cox was born on February 13, 1927 to Angele Charbonnet Creuzot and Percy Creuzot, D.D.S in New Orleans, LA. She graduated from Xavier Prep in 1943. She attended Fisk University in Nashville, TN and graduated in 1947 as a sociology major. While attending Fisk University, she was initiated into the PI Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated 1944 and was selected for Who's Who Among Students in Universities and Colleges. Soror Martina was an active member of the university choir, where she played the cello. Fisk University is also where she met the love of her life and future husband, Frank B. Cox, D.D.S., whom she married on December 26, 1948.

Before coming to Oklahoma City, Soror Martina was a welfare visitor in New Orleans on the staff of the public welfare department. After relocating to Oklahoma City, her social work continued with Oklahoma County Health Association's Mobile X-ray Project at Douglass High School. She was an active member of several civic-minded and social organizations such as Jack and Jill of America, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Beta Sigma Omega Chapter, Tes Trams, Oklahoma City Chapter of Links, Incorporated, YWCA board member (where she spearheaded the annual Soul Food Bazaar for many years), Urban League Guild, Panel of American Women, and Corpus Christi Catholic Church, where she was a member of Lady's Auxiliary St. Peter Claver.

Soror Martina was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and cousin. She will be especially remembered for being a hostess extraordinaire, culinary artist (known for her gumbo and other Creole cuisine), skilled seamstress and her love for family and God. Soror Martina is survived by children, Honorable Kevin Creuzot Cox (Carless), Tobi Fae Cox, M.B.A., Kerry Christopher Cox, M.D., Kerwin Cedric Cox, and Thais Cox Goodwin, M.B.A. (Terry); grandchildren, Kerry Christopher Cox, Jr. (Candiss), Kyle Edmonds Cox (Shontell), Kevin Michael Cox, Kenneth Creuzot Cox, Keith Creuzot Cox, and their mother, Kathy M. Cox, and Millicent Nicole Bowie; great-grandchildren, Hunter-Aiden Kyle Cox, Kerry Christopher "KC" Cox, III, Kameron Steele Cox, Katherine Marie Cox, and Kenley Rhea Cox; and cousins, Betty Hawkins Noakes, Wanda James Hutchinson, and Carl Lewis.

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Golden Soror Katherine Idleburg Mu Omega Chapter

Golden Soror Katherine Idleburg began her life and legacy in the Greater Kansas City community. She was born May 25, 1931 to Thomas and Ethyl Kearse in Kansas City, Missouri. She lived in Kansas City Kansas, from 1958 to August 2016. She was a proud graduate of Lincoln High School and went on to matriculate and earn her Bachelor of Arts and Master’s Degree from the University of Kansas located in Lawrence, Kansas. While attending KU, she was introduced to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and was initiated into Delta Chapter in 1949, setting the stage for a lifetime commitment of scholarship, sisterhood and service. Golden Soror Idleburg had been a member of Mu Omega Chapter for many, many years and obtained the distinct honor of becoming a Golden Soror in 1999 commemorating outstanding commitment and dedication to Mu Omega and Alpha Kappa Alpha.

Golden Soror Idleburg has served the sorority and chapter in numerous capacities. She dutifully served as the chairman of the Telephone Committee and actively participated on the Program, Membership, Protocol and Connection Committees and served in the many activities and events held by the chapter. She was also enthusiastic about attending our monthly chapter meeting and encouraged others to attend this wonderful gathering of sisterhood. Not many would take the time to make sure that all Senior Sorors arrived safely to chapter meetings and to other events hosted by the chapter. Golden Soror Idleburg would make sure that everyone who wanted or needed a ride had an opportunity. She would personally arrive at the homes of our Sorors, pick them up, and drive them to and from chapter functions. As an Adult Sunday School Teacher, Retired Elementary Educator and Life-Long Learner, she attended numerous workshops and training sessions that enhanced her sorority life, personal life and training for external service. She participated in collaboration with other community based organizations such as the MLK Day of Service – Voter Registration, Voter ID Forum, Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure” and the Annual Senior Prom held at the Vernon Multi-Purpose Center to name a few. Golden Soror Idleburg turned a love for crafts into an unforgettable gift for the receivers of her many creations and designs of simply beautiful handmade greeting cards.

Golden Soror Idleburg. In 2013, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Mu Omega Chapter of Kansas City, Kansas, proudly recommended Golden Soror Katherine Idleburg for the Mizura C. Allen – Outstanding Golden/Senior Soror Award at the 83rd Mid-Western Regional Conference held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was dearly loved and will truly be missed by the sisterhood.

Golden Soror Katherine Idleburg Ivy Beyond the Wall - September 22, 2017.

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Lucy E. Alexander Beta Sigma Omega Chapter

Soror Lucy E. Alexander was born March 12, 1921 to Willa Green and Jordon E. Rose in Jefferson City, MO. She was a very active member of Beta Sigma Omega Chapter until failing

health.

Soror Lucy was a true enthusiast about life and living well. She was enthusiastic about Black History and participated in activities and events wearing her African Attire at every event in celebration of Black History. She was enthusiastic about exercise and taught exercise classes for the young and old. Her love for life and people was an inspiration to all who crossed her path.

Soror Lucy was a long time member of the Beta Sigma Omega Chapter.

Soror Lucy is survived by son, Leroy O. Alexander, Jr., Grandchildren: Allen Parks, Jalinda Simmons, James Alexander, Kapiolani Alexander, Danielle Bowens Mason, Montia Carter. Great

Grandchildren: Aliyah Murphy, Joshua Simmons, William Mason, and Thaddeus Mason.

Soror Lucy became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on November 2, 2017

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Sentiments

Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Andrea Elaine Kent Delta Upsilon Chapter

Soror Andrea Elaine Kent was born March 17, 1965 in Memphis, Tennessee to parents Charles Kent and Evelyn Wade Kent. She attended Kindergarten through grade 4 in the Kansas City, Mo. School District, then grades 5-7 in Richmond, Va. She completed her education in the Hickman Mills District graduating from Ruskin High School in 1983. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications from Central Missouri State University where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Delta Upsilon Chapter. After graduating from CMSU, She worked at WXEX Channel 8, in Richmond, VA., later at the Discovery Channel in Bethesda, Maryland, followed by a position in Human Resources with Manpower Staffing in Washington, D. C. along with H.R. Management Certification from the American University. Returning to Kansas City, she began a career with the Hertz Corporation during which time she obtained the Schurm Institute’s Senior Professional and HR certification and a Master’s in Conflict Mediation Dispute Resolution from Baker University, Baldwin Kansas. She had an 18 year career with Hertz.

She will be sorely missed along with her brothers, the late Cue Dellis and Alexander Kent, by her mother Evelyn Wade Kent, father Charles E. Kent, daughter Alaina Kent, stepmother Verna Kent, sister Cecilia Caldwell, sister-in-law Candace Kent and a host of beloved relatives and friends.

Soror Andrea became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on Saturday, November 18, 2017

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August – December Sentiments Sorors Tiece Dempsey and Marsha Dempsey Herron, Sigma Sigma Omega Chapter, on the transition of their father, Mr. Wayne Dempsey Soror Joanne Davis, Beta Sigma Omega Chapter, on the transition of her mother Soror Gladys Jacqueline Dudley Mitchell Phillips. Delta Lambda Omega Chapter Sorors Bobbie Jean and Linda Saulet, Mu Omega on the transition of their husband and father Mr. Harold Saulet Soror Harriett Johnson, Alpha Iota Omega on the transition of her husband Mr. Larry Duane Johnson, Sr. Soror KaJaun Cummings, Mu Omega on the transition of her mother Mrs. Darlene Cummings-Hill Soror Tracye Love Chandler, Alpha Chi Omega on the transition of her brother Mr. Timothy DuJuan Love, Sr. The Carpenter and Baker Families on the transition of their loved one Mr. Robert J. Baker, Jr. Sorors Winifred Edwards, Xi Tau Omega and Taj Brimmer, MWR Representative to the International Constitution Committee on the transition of their brother and father respectfully, Mr. Johnathan E. Brimmer,

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Thoughts & Meditation

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T he AKA Beautitudes When I think about our sisterhood, I think about how our organization would look if we used the Beautitudes as our template for working with each other in kindness.

Highly-favored are those sorors who are poor in spirit, for they will measure the size of their sisters’ hearts rather than what they acquire materially. They will be thankful for the gifts that each member brings to the organization.

Highly -favored are those sorors who mourn, for they will understand the need to comfort their sisters, realizing that behind every soror there is a story to tell of their struggle. We have a duty to lift our sorors up in prayer.

Highly-favored are those sorors who are meek, because they realize the humility and unselfishness. For these sorors focus on what is good for the organization and honor the vision of our Founders.

Highly-favored are the sorors who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they will study and respect their documents, which provide the standard cornerstone for our organization and honor the vision of the founders.

Highly-favored are those sorors who are merciful, for they will show acts of kindness in their speech, they will exhibit cooperation and they will remain open and amendable to new ideas.

Highly-favored are those sorors who are peacemakers, for they will promote peace and understanding among members, mending relationships for the good of the chapter.

Highly-favored are those sorors who may feel persecuted for reasons unknown by their sisters, for they will seek ways to bring closure to their feeling by embracing sisterly care, support and love in all they meet in the sisterhood.

Give and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. Luke 6:38 Soror Alicia D. Givens Xi Epsilon Omega Chapter

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Format for submitting articles, acknowledgements and photos

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Articles need to be submitted by the Ivy Leaf Reporter to MWRCHAT@gmail.com in word format. Include a headline. If photos are included, paste your photo in the document with captions. Include who is in the photo from left to right, where it was taken and date.

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Limit the article not to exceed 300 words. Who, What, When, Why, Where.

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Email all the photos that go with the article separately in jpeg or png format. Action photos are preferred.

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Categories of like acknowledgements should be listed together. Include names, chapter, dates of occurrence, etc. The staff reserves the right to edit submittals.

Newsletter Submission Deadline •

Summer Issue – June 5

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Fall Issue - September 5

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Winter Issue – December 5

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Spring Issue - March 5 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

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