Quarterly Newsle-er of the SigniямБcant South Atlan8c Region Volume 2, Issue 2 - Winter 2016
CONGRATULATIONS MADAME SUPREME
PURPOSE
PASSION
PERSEVERANCE
PERFORMANCE
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
REGIONAL NEWS
SIGNIFICANT NEWSMAKERS
CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS
PAGE 5
PAGE 15
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
A Message from the Regional Director Happy New Year to all Precious Pearls of the Significant South Atlantic Region! 2016 is here and each day affords us opportunities to stay focused, energized, and committed as we fulfill our promises to our great sisterhood, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Every soror must realize and remember her role as a Precious Pearl in our South Atlantic Region’s strand of more than 10,000 pearls as we strive to keep the South Atlantic Region “first in service and sisterhood.” My Precious Pearls, can you believe that we have completed our first year of “Launching New Dimensions of Service”, our 2014 – 2018 International Program? Please be reminded that your 2015 End of the Year Reports must be uploaded to our new SharePoint site. Each chapter should have reflected on how your sorors engaged themselves in fulfilling the requests and requirements of each target area. Sisterly evaluation, discussion, and planning will benefit every Precious Pearl as you keep the excitement, energy, and cooperative spirit flowing while “Launching New Dimensions of Service” throughout 2016! The year is moving on and there is much to do! Your support and attendance at your state “AKA Day at the Capitol” has been phenomenal. We must maintain a visible, involved, and influential presence in the political world through our sorority’s Connection program. Every Precious Pearl is needed to keep our Significant South Atlantic Region strand “Connected!” The sorors of Cluster VII are working most diligently and sisterly to host you at the 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, March 23-27, 2016. They are eagerly awaiting your arrival! Be sure to view the conference information on our South Atlantic Regional website. My Precious Pearls, I know you’re coming to get reenergized as you attend the plenary sessions and workshops to get valuable information and updates. There are so many other activities that you can choose to attend, such as the breakfasts, luncheons, and other special. If you haven’t already registered, don’t delay! Remember that we must adhere to deadlines in order to assure that every soror is afforded the most enjoyable, sisterly fellowship possible. Don’t forget that the Significant South Atlantic Region, spearheaded by the sorors of Cluster V, is hosting the 67th Boule in Atlanta, Georgia, July 9 -14, 2016. Your response to the registration information has been exceeded all expectations. I truly expect 5,000 members from the Significant South Atlantic Region to join the sorors of Cluster V. Get ready to come and fellowship with sorors from across the globe as South Atlantic Region’s Precious Pearls extend true southern hospitality to all attendees! Note that a new edition of the South Atlantic Region Website will be launched prior to the regional conference to further aid you in staying abreast of news, activities, events, and information that I need to share with you. My Precious Pearls, continue to keep me in your prayers as I strive to lead and represent you as God so graciously allows me to. Love, 2
PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
MADAME REGIONAL DIRECTOR ON THE MOVE Eta Eta Omega Founders’ Day Ft. Pierce, FL February 21, 2016
Psi Chapter Spring Luncheon Columbia, SC Saturday, April 2, 2016
SC AKA Day at the Capitol Columbia, SC February 22-23, 2016
Great Lakes Regional Conference Buffalo, NY April 6-10, 2016
Directorate Meeting Atlanta, GA February 25-28, 2016
Theta Gamma MIP Luncheon Columbia, SC April 6, 2016
South Eastern Regional Conference Mobile, AL March 10-11, 2016
National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Columbia, SC Chapter Columbia, SC April 16, 2016
Mid-Western Regional Conference Wichita, KS March 16-18, 2016
Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference Virginia Beach, VA April 20-24, 2016
South Atlantic Regional Conference Myrtle Beach, SC March 22-27, 2016
Union County NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet Union, SC May 7, 2016
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
Chartering of Omega Theta Omega Chapter - Abu Dhabi, Dubai
Gamma Theta Omega 75 Anniversary - Tampa, FL
Zeta Upsilon Omega 60th Anniversary - St. Petersburg, FL
Delta Eta Omega Ribbon Cutting - Albany, GA Association of Fraternity & Sorority Advisors - Ft. Worth, TX
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
The Significant South Atlantic Region congratulates its own… Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson on Receiving the Honorary Doctor of Human Letters degree (L.H.D.) from her alma mater, Benedict College in December 2015.
ATTENTION BASILEI AND IVY LEAF REPORTERS The South Atlantic Region Communications Committee would like to reach out to and stay in contact with chapter Ivy Leaf Reporters regarding important news, upcoming events and programs on the regional and local level. Please submit your chapter’s Ivy Leaf Reporter’s contact information including the following: Name Chapter School if Undergraduate Chapter Community Service Area(s) Cluster Email Address Phone Number Term of Office Send the following information to sa.commofficer@gmail.com with the subject heading Ivy Leaf Reporter. 5
PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE Welcome to Microsoft® Office 365
Alpha Kappa Alpha has successfully Deployed 288 Chapter Licenses – So…what's next?
3. Additional resources and courses are available online:
Sorors,
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We are pleased to announce that all chapters that requested the complimentary Microsoft® Office 365 productivity suite have received their licenses. In 2016, Office 365 licenses will be auto assigned to all chapters.
• •
By using the username and password provided in the Welcome Guide, chapters will gain access to great Getting Started online offerings, including: • Welcome to Office 365 Video- Learn what’s included in Office 365: Make your journey to productivity more meaningful by viewing online tutorial videos • The Microsoft® Online Virtual Academy: See how Microsoft® Office’s productivity and collaboration solutions can help improve your chapter operations and help you do your job more effectively and efficiently • Microsoft ® training on Office Online applications such as Word, Excel, OneNote®, PowerPoint, Skype for Business, SharePoint, and more helpful courses.
Blogs – to keep up-to-date on the latest Office 365 support news Forums – to find existing answers to relevant issues, or ask a new question Troubleshooting – step through questions to locate specific information
Stay tuned for more resources and enhancements in 2016 that will continue to improve the operational efficiency of our chapters. Our goal is to make your digital experiences exceed your expectations. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the International Technology Committee at office365@aka1908.com or technology@aka1908.com. International Technology Committee Soror Theresa House, Chairman
Quick Tips: 1. Have a tablet, Surface Pro, iPad or other mobile devices? Click HERE to set up Office 365 on all your devices. 2. Make Life Easier-Capture your chapter meeting notes: With OneNote®, use your finger, stylus, or mouse on any touchcapable or on touch device. Users have the ability to convert ink to text, record audio or video, and create tasks right within their notebooks.
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
FALL 2015
INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT COMMITTEE
Retirement is a Serious Matter 401(k) plans can be in1mida1ng, so the Interna1onal Investment Commi=ee has done the legwork for you. Here's what every woman should know about their 401(k). when you can withdraw your money and penalties for pulling funds out before retirement age. What about the Stock Market? Most retirement plans will invest in stocks and 2015 has been the year of volatility. But it is important to remember that investing, especially for retirement, is a long- term strategy. Retirement account balances will fluctuate with stock markets, but it is generally best to not let short-term market movements drive changes that impact your longterm goals.
It is a Retirement Fund A 401(k) is a retirement savings plan sponsored by your employer; it is named for the section of the tax code that governs this type of retirement plan. It allows you to invest a piece of your paycheck toward your retirement before taxes are taken out. Taxes are deferred, meaning they are not paid until the money is withdrawn from the account.
In short, 401(k)’s are a safe and great way to invest for retirement. Choosing not to invest in your employer sponsored 401(k) could be equivalent to leaving money on table. While it may be hard to voluntarily kiss goodbye a bigger chunk of your paycheck to invest in a 401k, you will be thanking yourself at your retirement party!
With a 401(k), you can control how your money is invested and most plans offer a variety of options, such as mutual funds composed of stocks, bonds, and money market investments. Is My Money Safe? Qualified retirement plans, such as 401(k)s are protected by a federal law called the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). It sets minimum standards for employers that choose t o s e t u p re t i re m e n t p l a n s , a n d f o r t h e administrators who manage them for you. So never be afraid that an employer could steal your money, or fail to release your funds, if you move on to another job. It’s easy to transfer funds into a 401k with a new employer, or open a rollover IRA that you manage on your own.
International Investment Committee Soror Karla Hall, Chairman – North Atlantic Soror Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Tamiouchos – South Central Soror Kari Gray Smith – South Central Soror Beverly Fields – North Atlantic
What is Matching and Vesting? Often employers will match your contributions to your 401(k) up to a certain amount. For instance, if you earn $50,000 per year and contribute 3%, or $1,500, your employer would also contribute $1,500 on your behalf. You would have $3,000 in total contributions and have received a 100% return on your $1,500 investment. In most cases, there also are restrictions like you cannot tap into your employer’s contributions until they are vested. Vesting is the amount of time you must work for your company before gaining access to its payments to your 401(k); your contributions, on the other hand, vest immediately. There are also rules about
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016 INTERNATIONAL ARCHIVES COMMITTEE
The International Archives Committee is working hard at “Keeping Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Heritage R.E.E.L. (Retrieving, Examining, Encoding to Last).
A historical marker could be a street sign, a building, a room, garden or similar place honoring the contributions of members of our sorority. For example, there is graduate student house located in Berkeley, CA named after Former Supreme Basileus, Soror Ida L. Jackson.
We ended our first year of this administration on a high wave of excitement. Chapters all over the globe are now better trained and are moving forward in securing valuable historic information from oral interviews from the priceless resource of our golden and diamond members. Riding on this wave of excitement, we are ready for our next assignment: •
Launch a renewed campaign to obtain a commemorative postage stamp featuring our founder, Soror Ethel Hedgeman Lyle;
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Ensure that all of our founders, incorporators and former Supreme Basilei are resting in gravesites appropriately marked and known to all sorors;
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Ensure that there is at least one historical marker (ex. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Highway sign) in each region
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Produce a brochure listing historical markers for all sorors or chapters throughout the world.
Chapters are urged to reach out to your regional representative for additional information on how you can participate and contribute to these and other committee initiatives. “Are you Keeping our Heritage REEL?” International Archives Committee: Soror Mavis Johnson-Collie – Chairman, International Region Soror Angela C. Gibson, North Atlantic Region Soror Linda S. Henry, Mid-Atlantic Region Soror Stacy L. Grooms, South Atlantic Region Soror Rachel Mallory, Great Lakes Region Soror Irene Byrd, South Eastern Region Soror Gloria Malone, South Central Region Soror Theresa Sanders, Central Region Soror Crystal Turner, Mid-Western Region Soror Doreathea Johnson, Far Western Region Soror Laurel Hewitt-Sewitt, International Region
Our heritage is a rich one. We want to share it with the world. We know sorors will be ecstatic to see the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Commemorative Stamp. The International Archives Committee will work hard to make that happen. We are also on a mission to ensure that there are other appropriate historical markers in each of our 10 regions which commemorate the sacrifices, dedication and positive impact of our members and organization worldwide. Soror Actions Required: •
Tell your regional representative to the International Archives Committee if any of our founders, incorporators or former supreme basilei are buried in your city or state;
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Take a picture of the gravesite of any member of the identified group and or any historical marker honoring the legacy of sorors and the sorority in general, and forward the photo to your regional representative
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
INTERNATIONAL CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE Our Governing Documents – Parliamentary Pointers Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has several documents to assist with chapter governance. The primary ones are the Constitution and Bylaws and the Manual of Standard Procedure. Others include our parliamentary authority, Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, 11th Edition and the various documents that constitute our standing rules – e. g. the Standards Resource Guide, So You Want To Run for Office, and the Membership Handbook.
and do not need a full- course load in the semester immediately prior to graduation? An undergraduate soror who provides written documentation from her institution affirming that she is scheduled to graduate at the conclusion of a given term and does not require full-time status in order to do so will not be obligated to maintain a full-time status in her last term as an undergraduate soror. An undergraduate soror, who meets this criteria, must submit a written request and documentation to her Regional Director.
Even with all of these documents, questions may periodically arise from sorors or chapters. As Supreme Parliamentarian, I welcome your questions on topics that may not be clear to you. Individual sorors and chapter questions should be submitted by the chapter Basileus to mbeard@aka1908.com. For undergraduate chapters, the Graduate Advisor should also be copied on the e-mail. To ensure effective communications, responses will be shared with all appropriate parties – the soror or chapter making the inquiry and the Regional Director. The inquiry will be shared with the Regional Director prior to the response being given to the soror and/or chapter. Below are my responses to some frequently asked questions.
To ensure that the responses above are properly documented, they will be incorporated in the next update of the Manual of Standard Procedure. The goal of the Supreme Parliamentarian and the Constitution Committee is to be an effective resource to sorors and chapters. Soror Martha Perine Beard, Registered Parliamentarian, National Association of Parliamentarians® International Constitution Committee Soror Martha Perine Beard, Chairman Soror Jamila C. Hall, North Atlantic Soror Barbara Bellamy Warren, Mid Atlantic Soror Janice McCollom, South Atlantic Soror Danielle Burns, Great Lakes Soror Sandra Nelson, South Eastern Soror Ashlee Sherman, South Central Soror Dalayna Jackson, Central Soror Vicki Miles-LaGrange, Mid-Western Soror Shauna Graves-Robertson, Far Western Soror Samantha Daniel, International Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, Supreme Grammateus
What is the status of sorors at the January chapter meeting if dues have not been paid given that dues can be paid until February 1 without penalty? The fiscal year for the sorority is January 1 through December 31. Based on our governing documents, sorors are not active at the January meeting if their dues have not been processed. Given that many sorors pay dues at the January meeting, the Directorate recommends that chapters refrain from voting on significant issues such as membership intake processing, proposed bylaw changes, or other key chapter issues at the January meeting. What role can Life Members play in a chapter? Sorors who are life members must pay local dues if they wish to participate in chapter activities. Chapters may place stipulations in chapter bylaws to address meeting attendance for national life members who do not pay local dues. Is there any flexibility regarding the active status for undergraduates who are seniors
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
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INTERNATIONAL CHAPTER BASILEUS CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE Enhancing the Knowledge Base of the Chapter Basileus Soror Caroline Lattimore, Chairman “Sorors as well as special people come into your life and into your chapter for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. As the Basileus of your chapter, it is your calling to figure out which one it is. By doing so, you will know as a leader how best to guide, encourage, and collaborate with each member. This thought process will ultimately become important as you work to promote a well run, successful chapter.”
The International Chapter Basileus Certification training will include tools, techniques, and resources for new, aspiring, and continuing chapter Basilei who are 1) active in their chapters and, 2) have always been in good standing in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. The criteria for participants in the training also requires each registrant to: 1) possess good leadership and communication skills, have good character, high ethical standards, as well as be an excellent role model for chapter members; 2) have attended a Boule, a Regional Conference, Cluster or Round Up; 3) have participated on chapter committees; and, 4) have been of service to the community and the sorority with no suspensions.
Inspirational thought for the Chapter Basileus The International Chapter Basileus Certification Committee has designed a curriculum complete with training modules designed especially for certification of the chapter Basileus. On July 12, 2016, at the Boule in Atlanta, GA, you will be treated to a very special certification and training process entitled “Boule Edition of the Chapter Basileus Certification.” This special edition will include: • • • • • •
Soror Sabrina E. Williams (North Atlantic) Soror Altoya Felder-Deas (South Atlantic) Soror Jacqueline Newman (Great Lakes) Soror Joyce A. Peoples (South Eastern) Soror Jocelyn Mcdaniel (South Central) Soror Marcia L. Banks (Central) Soror Betty Davis-Gause (Mid-Western) Soror Dorothy Finnie (Far Western) Soror Denise Mallett (International) Soror Villajean Jones (Resource) Soror Gwendolyn Myers (Resource) Soror Evelyn Sample-Oates (Resource)
Certification for sorors who currently serve or aspire to hold the position of chapter Basileus Superior training delivered through targeted course modules Review of the chapter Basileus’ position, purpose, and objectives Provide new dimensions of training that will expand your knowledge base Offer encouragement, inspiration, and support for the leader of the chapter Promote technology integration of chapter operations and services
This informative certification curriculum has been established to formally certify members who 1) aspire to become chapter Basileus, 2) are new or continuing to serve as chapter Basileus, and 3) seek training and formal credentials as a leader in the Sorority. It is important to note that the vision and standards of training for the International Chapter Basileus Certification Committee were inspired by the leadership of Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, developed by the International chapter Basileus Certification Committee, and approved by the Directorate.
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE Human Resources Committee Provides “New Dimensions of Service” The Human Resources Committee functions as a support group for the Supreme Basileus. In addition to recommending to the Directorate the employment of all professional personnel, the Human Resources Committee is responsible for making recommendations on all personnel policies, practices, procedures, benefits and salary ranges for the Corporate Office. In line with these responsibilities, the committee conducted a job audit at the corporate office on April 28, 2015, with an overall objective to insure that the office is appropriately staffed to meet its current and future needs. Specifically, all job descriptions, organizational structure and talent were evaluated and addressed. Following the results of the audit, Supreme Basileus Wilson was provided with a report including findings and recommendations for strengthening targeted areas—specifically, IT, Membership and Finance to support the current and future growth of the organization. Going forward, the committee recommends a salary survey to benchmark equity and banding with an overall objective to insure that the employees’ pay scale is commensurate with the demands of the market place. Another responsibility of the committee is to keep the Human Resources Manual current. The committee has completed review of this document and made recommendations for updates and revisions. The updated manual, including new legal requirements, is ready to be reissued as of October 21, 2015. For the Human Resources Committee, “New Dimensions of Service” emulates the over all goals and mission of our Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buchanan Wilson. The Human Resource Committee welcomes this opportunity to serve in an effort to address the ongoing needs of growth and continuous improvement for our corporate staff and managers. International Human Resources Committee Cora B. Davis, South Central Region, Chairman Marcia Shepherd Baker, North Atlantic Andrea Moten, North Atlantic Marjorie Harris, Young, South Atlantic Cheryl Lewis Smith, Central Region
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INTERNATIONAL HONORARY MEMBERS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE
“SORORS, BE IN THE KNOW!” The Honorary Members and Awards Committee’s (IHMAC) primary goal is to provide sorors with all of the information needed to recommend honorary members and/or submit recommendations for our International Achievement Awards. We accomplish this goal through workshops, e-blasts, and newsletters. Below are some things every soror should know.
• • • • • •
HONORARY MEMBERS
2. Who can nominate an International Achievement Award recipient? Chapters may nominate an International Achievement Award recipient.
1. Who are our Honorary Members? Alpha Kappa Alpha has more than 130 honorary members including Coretta Scott King, Rosa Parks, Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, Alicia Keys, Zina Garrison, Mae C. Jemison, and Brandy Norwood. The full list of our honorary members can be found in the Manual of Standard Procedure.
3. How are International Achievement Award recipients selected? The IHMAC reviews all nominations and makes recommendations to the Directorate. A two-third vote of the Directorate is required to approve a nominee for an International Achievement Award.
2. Who can nominate an Honorary Member? Former Supreme Basilei, Members of the Directorate, International Committee Chairmen, the International Honorary Members/Awards Committee, and Chapters can nominate an Honorary Member.
Sorors, we want YOU to “Be In The Know”! Sisterly,
3. How are Honorary Members selected? The IHMAC reviews all nominations and makes recommendations to the Directorate. A two-third vote of the Directorate is required to approve a nominee for honorary membership.
Soror Deidra Y. A. Edwards Chairman International Honorary Members and Awards Committee
International Achievement Awards 1. What are the International Achievement Awards? The International Achievement Awards recognize men and women (including financial sorors) who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavor, rendered unselfish and outstanding service to humanity, and demonstrated Alpha Kappa Alpha’s belief in “Service To All Mankind”. The eight awards are listed below. • •
Ethel Hedgeman-Lyle Undergraduate Service Award (soror) International Service Award (female) Septima Poinsette Clark Award (female) Loraine R. Green Service Award (soror) Carey B. Preston Leadership Award (soror) Rosa Louise Parks/Coretta Scott King Award (female)
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt Medallion of Honor (male or female) Founders’ Graduate Service Award (soror)
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
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INTERNATIONAL BUILDING AND PROPERTIES COMMITTEE: A New Sign! A New Start! The 2015 Leadership Seminar was the perfect setting to unveil the new sign for the Corporate Office! The new sign reflects the coat of arms for the Sorority and the proper name of our headquarters as defined in our international Bylaws. The sign also proudly displays The Ivy Center, the name bestowed by our beloved Founder, Soror Lavinia Norman. The original sign was removed and placed in the Sorority’s treasured historical artifacts. As the Corporate Office Renovation Project (CORP) begins Phase II – Development of the CORP, the sign is a reminder of the major changes yet to come. Our Corporate Office is functionally obsolete. We have prime real estate in the great city of Chicago. Our Corporate Office is located in the heart of the African-American community along a major commercial corridor and within a few blocks of the future location of President Barack Obama’s library. Our Corporate Office is the crown jewel of Alpha Kappa Alpha and it is our duty, obligation, and responsibility to ensure her perpetuity. This renovation project will upgrade and improve our most valuable investment and build upon the legacy that former Supreme Basilei and sorors have entrusted with us over the years. Exciting times lie ahead for The Ivy Center! International Building & Properties Committee Soror Priscilla Tyree Williams, Chairman – Mid-Atlantic Soror Danette Anthony Reid, Supreme Tamiouchos – South Central Soror Arla Johnson-Bentley – North Atlantic Soror Wanda Scott-Kinney – South Atlantic Soror Joyce L. Walker – Great Lakes Soror Rae-Ann Spears – South Central Soror Frances G. Carroll, Resource - Central Soror Toya T. Harvey, Resource - Central
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
WINTER 2016
INTERNATIONAL UNDERGRADUATE ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE Welcome to a new academic semester and service year for Launching New Dimensions of Service! The Undergraduate Activities Committee (UAC) has been working tirelessly to develop new ideas to improve the affairs of undergraduates. Since the 2015 Leadership Seminar and Undergraduate Summit, we have worked together with the Directorate, Regional Directors, and international committees, to ensure you see many of the Undergraduate Summit action strategies come to fruition on your respective campuses. One of the key pieces of feedback the Undergraduate Activities Committee has received is the desire of our undergraduates to stay informed about sorority affairs that impact and enhance the undergraduate experience. Starting this winter, the UAC will publish monthly regional newsletters to all undergraduate Basilei. We are also continuing our quarterly webinars for all undergraduate sorors and Graduate Advisors. Please feel free to reach out to any Undergraduate Activities Committee Member with any questions, concerns or comments. Thank you Sisterly, Your Undergraduate Activities Committee Soror Autumn Kyles, Gamma Upsilon Omega Second Supreme Anti-Basileus, Mid-Atlantic akyles@aka1908.com - (248) 910-8481  Soror Annalise Anise, Beta Alpha Undergraduate Member-at-Large, South Atlantic aanise@aka1908.com (251) 753-5241
(816) 462-9804
Soror Jitoria Jones, Pi Zeta South Eastern Regional Representative jzjones@myapps.muw.edu (662) 820-0137
Soror Destiny Boykin, Delta Alpha Undergraduate Member-at-Large, Mid-Atlantic dboykin@aka1908.com (919) 738-3305
Soror Alana Herbert, Lambda Sigma Far Western Regional Representative adherbert@gmail.com (323) 302-3292
Soror Ryan Cheatham Jackson, Alpha North Atlantic Regional Representative ryancheathamjackson@yahoo.com (301) 938-0082
Soror Natalie Paul South Central Regional Representative nataliepaul@bellsouth.net (504) 559-8185
Soror Lady Henry, Epsilon Iota Central Regional Representative lhenry@siue.edu (618) 979-1954
Soror Philicia Huyler, Tau Nu International Regional Representative philiciahuyler@live.com (242) 445-1035
KiMonyca McCoggle, Xi Great Lakes Regional Representative kimonycamccoggle@gmail.com (313) 320-4993
Soror Jacquie Jones, Resource jones@mychesterlawyer.com (610) 202-4683
Soror Ashley Murphy, Kappa Pi Mid-Western Regional Representative atmurphy@ksu.edu
Soror Jatisha Marsh, Resource jatishamarsh@yahoo.com (850) 212-8259 
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IMPORTANT NOTICE : POSTMARK DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 20. Mary Shy Scott Leadership Breakfast information was incorrect in the registration booklet. Contacts: Soror Beverly Woods and Soror Nia Johnson Send photos and forms to email address (sarcmssleadershipbreakfast2016@gmail.com)
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South Atlantic Region Celebrates the Chartering of a Omega Gamma Omega to Serve the Blythewood–Columbia, NE Community
(Blythewood, SC) - On Saturday, December 12, 2015, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® chartered its newest graduate chapter, with 70 charter members. The Omega Gamma Omega Chapter will focus on service to the Blythewood, Columbia, NE area. The chartering ceremony and chartering celebration program were held at the Medallion Center. Von Gaskins, of WIS-TV, served as the mistress of ceremonies at the program brunch, with over 350 in attendance. Omega Gamma Omega Chapter was formed after the chapter’s president, Marshalynn Franklin, along with Alvera Butler, Tracy Footman, Yvette Graham, and Octavia Hamilton-Hankins began discussions in November of 2012 about a charter for an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® graduate chapter to support advocacy and service in the Blythewood–Columbia, NE community. In less than three years, the group of five grew to 70 members. The Omega Gamma Omega Chapter will honor its commitment of service by continuing to support the sorority’s established programs within the community, to include, educational enrichment, health promotion, family strengthening, environmental ownership, and global impact. As an interest group, the members sponsored a community health fair at Polo Road Elementary School, held a coat drive and donated coats to the community, donated backpacks filled with school supplies to Dent Middle School, donated books to second grade students at three Richland Two elementary schools, donated funds to help provide food for the Richland School District Two High School Backpack Program, helped with improvements to the Blythewood Park playground, participated in Relay for Life and donated clothes and toiletry items to persons impacted by the recent historical flood. Find us on Twitter (@BwoodAKA) and Facebook to remain abreast of our activities and events. 19
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NEWSMAKERS Soror Rochelle Martin-Robinson Becomes First African-American Female Mayor in Douglasville, GA Congratulations to Soror Rochelle Martin-Robinson who won the election against incumbent Mayor Harvey Persons, 62 percent to 38 percent. The 20year resident of the area served on the town’s city council from 2002 to 2006. Robinson’s win comes during a time of change for the town, whose racial presence has shifted over the years. White residents served as the majority of the population by 64 percent in the 2000 Census. In 2010, Douglasville’s population was Black by 56 percent, while 36 percent was White. Soror Martin-Robinson is an ordained minister, a wife, and mother of three. She is also Veteran of the United States National Guard. Soror Joy Jackson-Guilford Receives Award for Distinguished Achievement in Science (Atlanta, GA) - On October 16th, The Morris Brown College Board of Trustees honored Soror Joy Jackson-Guilford, a 1990 graduate of Morris Brown College with The Drs. Griffin/Hightower/ Billings Award for Distinguished Achievement in Science. The award was given during The 8th Annual Tower of Strength Gala and honors a person who has received advanced training in science, has achieved distinction in their field and has generously donated their time, talents and/or financial support to Morris Brown College. Soror Joy received her B.S. in Biology from Morris Brown College and completed her Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Ph.D. in Pharmacology/Toxicology with an emphasis in Neuroendocrinology in 1995 and 1998, respectively from Florida A&M University. She is currently employed with Abbvie, Inc., the biopharmaceutical division of Abbott Laboratories where she serves as a Regional Manager for the Medical Science Liaisons in Neuroscience. She is one of two AfricanAmerican managers in the Medical Affairs Division and is the only African-American manager in the Neuroscience Division. She serves as the Chairman of AKA for MBC, is a member of the Morris Brown College Board’s Focus Group, and has donated significant time and financial support to the institution. She was initiated in Gamma Gamma chapter at Morris Brown College in November of 1987 and currently serves as the Basileus of Chi Tau Omega Chapter.
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Soror Sonya Hunte Honored by The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (Atlanta, GA) - The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter honored Soror Sonya Hunte on September 26, 2015 at the annual "Unsung Heroines" Awards Gala. She received the Unsung Heroine award for her work in serving as the President of the National Association of Social Workers, Georgia Chapter along with other civic impact. Sonya Hunte serves as the Employee Engagement Coordinator for the Atlanta Public Schools where she manages the wellness initiatives for 6,100 employees who in turn empower 50,000 students. Elected in 2013 as the President of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Georgia Chapter, her love for disenfranchised communities and people is both recognizable and contagious. Sonya has exercised fourteen years of professional expertise on several boards and committees to include the Public Affairs Subcommittee for the Atlanta Committee of Dedicating Opportunities to Ending Homelessness (DOEH); a ten city pilot, derived from President Obama’s, 2010 Opening Doors Plan. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the Pennsylvania State University and a Masters in Social Work from Boston College. Dorothy B. Wilson Receives Distinguished Alumni Award (Savannah, GA) – On November 12, 2015, Soror Dorothy Boston Wilson was presented the Cyrus G. Wiley Distinguished Alumni Award in recognition of her achievements and contributions to the community. Soror Cheryl D. Dozier, president of Savannah State University, presented Soror Wilson this award for her outstanding service as an alumnus who have shown extraordinary support and loyalty to Savannah State and who has become an exemplary example of the ideals espoused by the university. Soror Wilson, who earned her Bachelors and Masters in Business Education from Savannah State, is a Diamond Life Member of SSU National Alumni Association. She proud matriarch of two generations of SSU graduates. Soror Wilson has distinguished herself throughout the community serving in leadership positions with the Greenbriar Children’s Center, Inc., Department of Family & Children Services, Chatham County Retired Educators Association, Georgia Retired Educators Association and the Gamma Sigma Omega Chapter.
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CHAPTER NEWS Mu Zeta Fills Backpacks Against Childhood Hunger (Augusta, GA) - On November 17, 2015, the Mu Zeta Chapter at Augusta University volunteered at the Faith Food Factory, a branch of Golden Harvest Food Bank. For approximately two hours, the chapter packaged 73 boxes that contained 584 meals for children who receive free or reduced lunch. These packages are a part of the Golden Harvest Food Bank Backpack Program, which bridges the weekend meal gap by providing elementary school children with meals to take home each Friday. The event was an overall success. Gamma Sigma Omega Hosts Fish Fry to Honor an Ivy Beyond the Wall (Savannah, GA) - On Friday, November 13, 2015, the Gamma Sigma Omega Chapter Sisterly Relations Committee of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated hosted their first Sonic Soror’s Fish Fry honoring Soror Annie Coats Jackson, an Ivy Beyond the Wall. Soror Sonya Jackson, daughter of Soror Annie Jackson, opened her home and set the stage for an enjoyable and relaxing afternoon under an old majestic oak tree. The Sonic Sorors, comprised of GSO members who are 60 plus years of age, were treated to an afternoon of food, games, gifts and music. Georgia State Senator Lester G. Jackson, son of Soror Annie Jackson, stopped by and greeted each member as they listened to jazz and R&B music and enjoyed seafood. The menu began with a southern classic, shrimp and grits and ended with a southern standard, red velvet cake. There was fried fish, hush puppies and more shrimp, cooked to perfection by an on-site chef from Beaufort, SC. This sisterly feast was to show gratitude to those members who have sustained our beloved organization through their commitment, service and character. GSO is under the leadership of Soror S. Renee Grant. Pi Delta Omega Holds 1908 Playground Ribbon Cutting and Bench Dedication (Miami, FL) - Pi Delta Omega completed the 1908 playground renovation project with its Bench dedication and ribbon cutting on Saturday, December 19, 2015. Through the partnership with Chapman and the Homestead Homeless Assistance Center, a 14-year-old playground was restored, renewed and refreshed with the assistance of the chapter's $1,500.00 donation. The playground equipment was completely replaced, grass was planted around the play area and the scooters were repainted. The children at the Homeless shelter were so excited to have a safe and beautiful 22
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playground in which to play and the parents appreciated the new bench provided by Pi Delta Omega Chapter. Chi Tau Omega Provides Seasonal Wraps Youth Groups and NCNW (Covington, GA) - In addition to assisting Rainbow Covenant Ministries with their monthly food distribution, Chi Tau Omega also distributed seasonal wraps to the children of families receiving food for the holiday season on December 5, 2015. With the generous seasonal wrap donations from the chapter Sorors and the Newton County Branch of the NAACP, along with monetary donations from St. Paul A.M.E Church’s Youth Group, Covington, GA and the Rockdale/Newton Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), the organizations were able to provide over 500+ seasonal wraps (hat and glove sets, scarves and socks) to the Newton/Porterdale Community. The seasonal wraps that were left from the Rainbow Covenant Ministries Food Distribution were taken to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office and donated to children who were visiting their incarcerated parents. The excitement and appreciation shown by the children and parents made it a rewarding experience for all. Nu Rho Omega Celebrates 35 Years of Service (Hinesville, GA) - Nu Rho Omega recently hosted a gala to celebrate 35 years of service. The chapter was chartered December 13, 1980, with 17 charter members. Charter members in attendance were Sorors Celestine VarnedoeJackson, Cardell Hunt, Shirley Osgood, Deborah Robinson, Bertha Thorpe, Janice Taylor, Dwinda Wilson.
Eta Alpha Omega’s “Stuff the Bus” (Rock Hill, SC) - One Million Backpack Initiative, “Stuff the Bus,” earned Eta Alpha Omega’s Chapter Recognition from the Rock Hill School District Three Board of Trustees for collection efforts and for providing 800 backpacks filled with supplies that were donated to the district. 23
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Pi Beta Omega Celebrates 30 Years of Service: 30 Years and 20 Pearls (Newberry, SC) - On April 27, 1984, Pi Beta Omega Chapter celebrated 30 years of service by hosting a Fashion Show Luncheon on November 7, 2015. More than 100 people were in attendance. Following a delicious meal provided by the Mid-Carolina Country Club, several sorors, including the Basileus, Soror Lisa Toland, modeled the latest fashions provided by Via 1215, a department store which is located in historic downtown Newberry, SC. Guests were provided lovely door prizes and a souvenir champagne flute. All charter members were recognized, along with Silver and Golden Sorors, and other special guests. The celebration concluded with an original poem “AKAtude,” written to express the chapter’s gratitude for the community’s support over the years. The poem was written by the Anti-Basileus, Soror Toriah Caldwell. Pi Beta Omega Chapter was chartered on November 16, 1985. Tau Epsilon Omega’s Tri-Cities Holiday Outreach (East Point, GA) - On December 16, 2015, TEO donated ten $50 gift cards to Tri-Cities High School. As a Partner in Education, the chapter sup-ported their fundraising efforts to help families experiencing homelessness during the holiday season. Mr. John Gianoulidis, owner of the College Park restaurant, Kafenio, matched the gift card donations up to $750. In total, the Holiday Outreach project collected $2,495 in gift cards! The chapter received a message of gratitude from Mr. Dan Sims, Principal of the high school. Nu Lambda Omega Celebrates 35 Years of Sisterhood, Service and Stewardship (Atlanta, Georgia) - This year, Nu Lambda Omega Chapter celebrated 35 years for service in the Metropolitan Atlanta area. Celebration activities began with chapter members collecting and providing school uniforms for 41 students at Hamilton Holmes Elementary School, Parklane Elementary School, M. Agnes Jones Elementary School, Continental Colony Elementary School, Centennial Academy, and students living within Odyssey Villas. A phenomenal celebration luncheon was held at the Twelve Hotel – Atlantic Station with a theme of “35 Shades of Pink” with guests adorned in various hues of pink and pearls. A special memorial tribute honoring all Ivy Beyond the 24
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Wall members was presented to remind us that their presence will always be intertwined into Nu Lambda Omega’s legacy. Nu Lambda Omega Chapter’s basilei (former and current) were also honored for their outstanding service (in order of service): Sorors Fannie H. Gilliam (Ivy Beyond the Wall), Iris D. Palmer, Gloria Strong, Carol Johnson Davis (Ivy Beyond the Wall), Mary Lynn Watkins, Regina W. Crothers, Markita J. Grant, Jean D. Hickman, Cynthia R. Parks and Dawn Beatrice Griffin. Special guests included Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, Supreme Grammateus, Soror Lucretia Payton-Stewart, 13th South Atlantic Regional Director, and Soror Shevawn Broxton Young, Cluster V Coordinator. Sorors Josephine Dillard and Seressa Allen, served as Event Chairman and Vice Chairman, respectively. Soror Dawn Beatrice Griffin is the current Basileus of Nu Lambda Omega Chapter. Gamma Rho Omega Members Mentor and Bond with Youth at Brentwood Boys & and Girls Club (Jacksonville, FL) - Twice a month, members of Gamma Rho Omega descend on the Boys & Girls Club in Brentwood to help high school students prepare for life after graduation as a part of their ASCEND program. Sorors tutor and mentor the youth, teach them communication skills and how to handle personal finances, as well as write resumes. They show them how to be successful on college entrance exams and in job interviews. They also guide them as they ponder college and career plans and counsel them on issues at school, home and with their friends. And they provide frequent hugs. If one of the youth gets off track or fails to participate, lead coach Ruby George tells them, with a grin, “I’m going to come over there and hug you.” The goal for the 40 volunteers is to build relationships with the teens, be role models and show them not only the challenges ahead, but the possibilities. Gamma Rho Omega was featured on Jacksonvill.com. You can see the full article at http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2016-01-31/story/sorority-members-mentor-bond-youthbrentwood-boys-girls-club#.Vq-pYpiWryM.email. Sigma Omicron Omega Provides Tutoring Program to Local Church (Fort Walton Beach, FL) – Sigma Omicron Omega mentors around 75 kids and young adults in a program they call the Training Institute every Monday from 5 to 6 p.m., at the Gregg Chapel AME Church’s Life Center. The church also feeds, picks up and drops off students at their homes. The children are being trained on life skills management. In many cases, these youth don’t have the benefit of two-parent households, so the church offers them many role models to stand in the gap. In addition to the members of Sigma Omicron Omega, the church is looking for additional mentors. This program is a community-wide effort. You can see the full article on nwfdailynews.com at http://www.nwfdailynews.com/article/20160131/NEWS/160129073. 25
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In Memoriam: South Atlantic Region Ivy Beyond the Wall Cluster I Betty Mearers (Pi Delta Omega) June 12, 2015 Gwendolyn Quarterman Smith (Tau Theta Omega) June 29, 2015 Marjorie J. Alexander Williams (Eta Eta Omega) July 27, 2015 Betty Burnett McDonald (Chi Psi Omega) January 7, 2016 Zanobia Jefferson (Eta Eta Omega) January 2, 2016 Cluster II Arlene Chears (Gamma Theta Omega) August 25, 2015 Nancy Andrews (Gamma Theta Omega) December 31, 2015 Cluster III Wanda Baldwin Harrell - May 10, 2015 Jacquelyn B. Dukes - September 28, 2015 Geraldine Chapman Culbreath - January 14, 2016 Cluster IV Lilaine West Munroe-Brown - August 31, 2015 Claudia Renee Burks - September 4, 2015 Bertha Walker Thompson (Delta Eta Omega) September 18, 2015 Dr. Sybil Collins Mobley - September 29, 2015 Barbara Scarborough Wright - December 18, 2015 Brenda Jean Blackmon - January 20, 2016 Cluster V Anna Haynes Neal - June 10, 2015 Iris Carr (Kappa Omega) June 12, 2015 Sheryl Warner - July 14, 2015 Gloria America Reeves Poe (General Member) July 23, 2015 Roselle Wright (Kappa Omega) July 30, 2015 Bettie Sparks Calloway (Gamma Pi Omega) August 25, 2015 Florence Marie Jackson - August 9, 2015 Barbara N. Tucker - August 22, 2015 Janice Ogletree - August 31, 2015 Taylor Moore (Alpha Beta) September 3, 2015 Daisy M. Wooden - September 18, 2015 Thelma Bell (Kappa Omega) December 6, 2015 Clara Harvey - December 28, 2015 Cluster VI
Judy Faust (Nu Tau Omega) July 24 2015 Cluster VII Catherine Hines Greene - September 8, 2015 Marquita Renee Jackson (Epsilon Chi Omega) September 17, 2015 Ethelyn B. Nance (Gamma Nu Omega) February 15, 2016 Cluster VIII Ethelyn "Frankie" Young Gallman (Pi Beta Omega) June 17, 2015 Corrie McGee Colte (General Member) August 1, 2015 Calla Roddey Moffet Wright (Eta Alpha Omega) July 7, 2015 Vivanne Plarza Brown - December 18, 2015 Barbara Jean Hudson Tyus - December 21, 2015 Sallie Ann Brown (Pi Zeta Omega) January 5, 2016 Margaret Mack (Kappa Zeta Omega) January 25, 2016
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PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER
FALL 2015
63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Myrtle Beach, SC March 23-27, 2016
67th Alpha Kappa Alpha Boule Atlanta, GA July 9-15, 2016
PEARLS OF PROMISE NEWSLETTER Soror Franka H. Young, Regional Communications Officer Soror Rowena Loadholt , Editor-In-Chief Soror Barbara Elliott, Editor
The deadline for the Spring Newsletter is April 1, 2016. Please send your individual articles and photos to sa.commofficer@gmail.com with the subject heading PoP Newsletter. 27