Volume 1, Issue 1

2

Table of Contents

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

3 — Madam Regional

Director Speaks

4 — Madam Regional

Director on the Move!

5 — The Garden of Prayer

6 — Undergraduate Roundup

and Cluster Highlights

15 — Sensational Service

Around the Region

25 — International Committee

Information

48 — Ethel Hedgeman Lyle

Postage Stamp Project

49 — South Central

Leadership Team

64 — Holiday Greetings

The Sensation

Submission Guidelines

The objective of the staff of The Sensation, under the

leadership of our South Central Regional Director

Katina M. Semien, Esq., is to highlight the sensational

happenings of Sorors in the states of Arkansas,

Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas.

Submission Guidelines

Articles are to be emailed with an attached document in

Microsoft Word® format

In the Subject Line of the e-mail, include: Event Title and

Chapter Name

At the top of the document include: Event Title, Chapter

Name, Cluster Name, and the Date of the event

Articles should not exceed 250 words, 12-point font (not

including the heading)

Pictures should be saved in .JPEG and include a photo

caption. One picture per article

Due to space and to ensure that all chapters have an

opportunity to be represented, only one article will be

published per chapter, per issue

Submission Contact and Deadlines

Submission E-mail Address:

akasouthcentral.newsletter@gmail.com

Spring Edition Deadline:

March 30, 2017 (Release Date: May)

Newsletter Editor: Alexis J. Alexander

Graphic Designer: Cassandra Collins

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Dear Sorors of the Sensational South Central Region:

I bring you the warmest holiday greetings! My heart is filled with joy as I have this unique opportunity to serve as your South Central Regional Director. Please know that it is your constant support, service-minded spirit and sensational sisterliness that has carried me through the first months of my administration.

As we continue Launching New Dimensions of Service across the Region and nation-wide, I am proud of our accomplishments and our continued focus on impactful service in our communities. The South Central Region has made significant strides in the last few months, specifically through the sorority’s Be The Voice campaign, The Longest Day

Alzheimer’s Support Activities, Mental Health Awareness Day and of course the One Million Backpacks pro-gram. What a blessing we have been to our communities as we have served in unique and consistent ways! I have highlighted just a taste of what chapters throughout this Region have accomplished in this issue of the Sensation.

The Fall retreat season continues to be a huge success. Our undergraduates showed up and showed out at the 2016 Undergraduate Round-up held in Houston, Texas, and the cluster retreats have been nothing short of outstanding. In my 5 short months in office, I have mostly cherished the opportunity to fellowship with each of you. I have felt the LOVE across this great Region as we continue to sharpen our leadership skills and promote Alpha Kappa Alpha’s programs.

Please enjoy this issue of the Sensation. I have included pertinent information which I encourage you to read thoroughly, including updates from actions taken at the 67th Boule and information about developing your chapter’s Strategic Plan. I am also including the 2016-18 Regional Appointments in this issue of the Sensation. I encourage you to become familiar with the sorors tasked with serving as your resources as you carry out the business of the sorority.

As we prepare to celebrate 109 Years of Service in this illustrious sisterhood, remember to always remain committed to the mission of “service to all mankind”. Sorors, I have heard you. I understand that during this time of change in our country, there are many questions about what we can do as a sisterhood to serve as a beacon of light. My advice to you all is simple – do what we have been doing, but STEP IT UP! Alpha Kappa Alpha has never met a challenge it cannot handle, and that is especially true for this Region. Just because the tides are changing does not mean that our resolve must also change. With that spirit, I encourage you all to seek out the opportunities where we as individuals, as chapters, as clusters, and as a Region, can add DIFFERENTIATED value in the communities that we serve.

Finally, I want to thank you all for trusting and believing in the vision that I have for the Sensational South Central Region. I am excited about working with each of you to ensure that we accomplish the vision. We are undeniably bound by the bonds of sisterhood and empowered by our commitment to serve all.

With Service on my Mind and Sisterhood in my Heart… Sisterly,

Soror Katina M. Semien South Central Regional Director

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Madam Regional Director on the Move!

Association of Fraternity | Sorority Advisors Conference

November 30 — December 3, 2016

Boston, MA

Southern Louisiana Cluster Retreat

December 10, 2016

Lake Charles, LA

Founders’ Day

January 14, 2017

Dallas, TX

Omicron Mu Omega Founders’ Day

January 21, 2017

Dallas, TX

Greater Baton Rouge Founders’ Day

January 28, 2017

Gonzales, LA

Alpha Tau Omega Founders’ Day

January 29, 2017

San Antonio, TX

Alpha Xi Omega Founders’ Day

February 4, 2017

Dallas, TX

Tau Iota Omega Founders’ Day/25th Anniversary

February 11, 2017

Hammond, LA

Zeta Phi Omega Founders’ Day

February 25, 2017

Monroe, LA

Directorate Meeting

March 2-5, 2017

South Central Regional Conference

March 16 — March 19, 2017

Shreveport, LA

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The Garden of Prayer Winter Edition

Matthew 26:36-46

Dear Sisters in Christ,

It is our prayer that you will find a sacred place and time to commune with God. This passage in the Bible tells us how Jesus had to take time away from the chaos and business of the world to pray to his father. C. Austin Miles, a song writer, says the art of meditating on the scripture involves one’s imagination. Instead of just scanning a passage, we must read it, close our eyes, and visualize the scene, perhaps even putting ourselves in the picture. “I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses, And the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the son of God discloses. And he walks with me, and talks with me and he tells me I am his own And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known.”

Sorors, in this edition of South Central Sensation, we have included the Members of the Chaplaincy Committee. Please contact a member on this Committee if you need encouragement or just a prayer. Remember, we are here if you need us!

South Central Region Chaplaincy Committee Soror Linda A. Joseph, Chair Soror Linda M. Hardy, Co-Chair Nu Gamma Omega Chapter Nu Gamma Omega Chapter 5533 Trenton Avenue P.O. Box 3196 Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Cell: (225) 907-4717 Cell: (225) 235-6185 laj5533@bellsouth.net Lindapb23@yahoo.com Soror Anita M. Elliott Brannon Soror Shunqetta Cunningham Beta Pi Omega Chapter Kappa Nu Omega Chapter anitamichelle@sbcglobal.net scunningham1908@gmail.com Soror Karen Gibson Soror Bernadine Johnson Mu Kappa Omega Chapter Nu Gamma Omega Chapter mko_ktg@yahoo.com johns.bern@gmail.com Soror Sabrina Lancaster Iota Xi Omega uniquebrina@gmail.com

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“With Service on my Mind

and Sisterhood in my

Heart”

South Central Region Cluster

Highlights & Chapter News

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Undergraduate Round-Up September 16-17, 2016

Houston, TexasThe exciting city of Houston, Texas provided the perfect setting for the 2016 South Central Region Undergraduate Round-Up held on September 16-17, 2016. Over 790 undergraduate and graduate sorors attended the event. The weekend’s theme, “The Return of the Classic Lady,” set a significant tone. According to South Central Regional Director Katina M. Semien, the theme signifies “the essence of our sisterhood - classic brains, classic beauty and classic service that combine to form our classic sisterhood.” The weekend began with a sisterly stroll-off competition. The Zeta Gamma chapter won the $700

grand prize graciously sponsored by Sam’s Club. Second Supreme Anti-Basileus Keniece Gray and Undergraduate Member-at-Large Victoria Simpson headlined Saturday’s workshops which also included presentations on the sorority’s Program, Standards, Connections, and Risk Management platforms. To round out the powerful event, the undergraduate sorors had the unique opportunity to have a one-on-one Q&A Session with the South Central Regional Director. At this undergraduates-only session, sorors were encouraged to freely ask any questions related to the sorority or their chapters. As we continue Launching New Dimensions of Service through our One Million Backpacks program, the sensational ladies of the South Central Region donated 520 backpacks and over 1,000 school supplies to be donated to schools in Houston, Texas.

On hand to support the undergraduate sorors were Supreme Tamiochous Danette A. Reed, International Regional Director Gizette L. Thomas, former Supreme Basilei Mattelia B. Grays & Faye B. Bryant, and former South Central Regional Directors Polly S. Turner and Gwendolyn. J. Brinkley.

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Northeast Texas Cluster October 7-8, 2016

Frisco, TexasNearly 400 sorors gathered in McKinney, Texas for the Northeast Texas Cluster. With this year’s event theme “Champions of Launching New Dimensions of Service with Service on My Mind and Sisterhood in My Heart,” sorors enjoyed a time of learning and sisterly fellowship. Omega Alpha Omega Chapter serving the Greater Frisco Community hosted the Cluster Retreat. The weekend festivities kicked off with a Think HBCU Friday Night Welcome in “The Village”. Sorors were greeted by classy mannequins adorned in HBCU gear. Many sorors in the Cluster donated personal items to be showcased. On Saturday, sorors were greeted on Champions Way, Sisterhood Lane, Service Way, and HBCU Avenue. With pink and green Olympic style rings as the main focal point of the room, sorors were immediately prepared for a champion filled day. Madam Regional Director kicked off the conference with an electrifying

entrance carrying the torch as the leader of the South Central Region. Sorors had an opportunity to learn about the new administrative goals, state of the region, programs, connection, and standards for the sorority. One of the main attractions for the afternoon was the Champions Luncheon. All Northeast Texas chapters participated in a parade of champions with the Basilei receiving their own gold medal. We were also fortunate to have the 2016 Olympic Shot Put Gold Medalist, Michelle Carter to serve as our keynote luncheon speaker. The “Shot Diva” spoke about her long career in throwing the Shot Put and how she was inspired to win gold in her third trip to the Olympics. Wearing her precious gold medal

around her neck, Ms. Carter stated, “I learned how to be patient, because sometimes things don’t always come when we want it or how we want it, but when it’s your time, it’s your time and at that moment it was my time.” This year Frisco Fastpacs was the recipient of the Cluster’s community service donation, which was over 1,200 backpacks and nearly 5,000 non-perishable food items and school supplies. The Northeast Texas Chapters presented Soror Katina Semien a $400 check towards her EAF scholarship fund as a thank you and welcome as our newly installed South Central Regional Director.

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Southwest/Central Texas Cluster October 14-15, 2016 San Antonio, Texas

The Southwest Central Texas Cluster, hosted by the Alpha Tau Omega Chapter, kicked off the Cluster by “Booting it up for HBCU” during a dinner at the Alamo Café restaurant. After welcoming Madam Regional Director Katina Semien, Cluster Coordinator Precious Coleman, and other VSGs in a “Texas style” Pink Train line; over 50 sorors of the cluster enjoyed a traditional Mexican entrée and a moist bundt cake from Nothing Bundt Cake Bakery. This Sisterly Relations dinner featured an “HBCU Feud Game” and concluded with a great Q&A with Madam Regional Director.

Saturday morning, October 15, 2016, began with a record-number 181 sorors registering at the Doubletree by Hilton. As sorors registered they turned in over 500 stuffed backpacks which were collected in a specially made backpack receptacle constructed by the Warren High School Construction Careers Academy. The backpacks were donated to The Ordinary SA. Sorors enjoyed a wonderful breakfast to ensure a great start to the morning. After a video presentation from Madam Supreme Basileus, Madam Regional Director delivered the State of the Region address. Program, Connection, and Standards presentations were given by Sorors Regina Carrington, Melanie Cowart, and Tasha Philpot. County Commissioner Tommy Calvert, Jr. set the sorors on fire with a stirring call to action for the upcoming election. The cluster chapters graciously donated $1,000.00 in the name of Madam Regional Director to EAF.

After an inspiring and informed day, sorors were presented with an enthusiastic and sisterly welcome from the Beta Psi Omega Chapter to the 2017 Cluster Retreat which will be held in Austin, TX. Special thanks to Soror Melanie Cowart, SWCTX Cluster Pecunious Grammateus, Soror Hilda Penn, Basileus Alpha Tau Omega Chapter, Sorors Montrae Williams and Velma Kemp, Retreat Chairman and Co-Chairman, Alpha Tau Omega Steering Committee Chairman and chapter members for hosting the 2016 SWCTX Cluster Retreat.

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Arkansas Cluster October 28-29, 2016

Blytheville, ArkansasThe Arkansas Cluster took place in Blytheville from Friday, October 28 to Saturday, October 29, 2016. Themed “Launching New Dimensions of Service and Sisterhood: In a Natural State of Mind!” Sorors collected 212 backpacks and 11,237 school supplies that were donated to the Bytheville Public School District, Osceola STEM Academy, and Rivercrest Elementary School. Hosted by Lambda Sigma Omega and under the leadership of Cyntwynet Hopkins, Chapter Basileus and Bobbie Diamond, Cluster Retreat Chairman, sorors were addressed by Arkansas State Representative Monte Hodges as he served as the keynote speaker for the luncheon. During his presentation, he presented Regional Director Katina Semien with an official citation from Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, noting the 2016 Cluster Retreat and recognizing her visit to the state of Arkansas!

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West Texas/New Mexico Cluster November 11, 2016

El Paso, TexasThe West Texas/New Mexico Cluster “Launched New Dimensions of Service” and had the honor of hosting Madam Regional Director Katina Semien’s very first cluster retreat in El Paso, Texas. Soror Dee Dee Hatch-Sanders, WTXNM Regional Cluster Coordinator, along with Soror Doris Taylor, Cluster Retreat Chair, and remaining cluster committee members made sure all 59 Sorors that were in attendance had a fun and informative retreat filled with lots of opportunities for sisterly connections. Eta Phi Omega was the host chapter. The sorors in attendance were charged to “Launch New Dimensions of Service with Service in Their Heart and Sisterhood on Their Minds in the Enchanting Southwest” starting on Friday night with a

Think HBCU social. Here, Sorors showed that they “Got that HBCU Spirit!” by showing their support for several Historically Black Colleges and Universities. On Saturday, Sorors were in for lots of treats as they were delighted to hear several speakers. Soror Nicole Robertson spoke on “LNDS: Setting our Strategy for the Second Half” along with Soror Aja Brooks, New Mexico Connections Coordinator, who spoke on “Launching New Dimensions of Voter Participation: Mobilizing Our Communities to Take Action.” The Luncheon Speaker Dr. Samual “Sam” Morgan, spoke on how to “Rock the Vote” followed by Soror Karen Beamon, who’s address to the Sorors was: “Are You Ready For This? Let’s Get Your AKA

House in Order!” The WTXNM Cluster collected over 100 backpacks for the One Million Backpacks service project to benefit Banks and Travis Elementary Schools of the El Paso Independent School District. Small but mighty, the WTXNM Cluster wrapped up a wondrous retreat by making a $570 donation to EAF in Madam Regional Director Soror Katina’s honor as a gift from all chapters in the cluster. Everyone left fulfilled, refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to serve!

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Southeast Texas Cluster November 11-12, 2016

Pearland, TexasOver 500 registered sorors gathered in Houston, Texas for the Southeast Texas Cluster Retreat, “A Pearl Affair” on November 11-12. Hosted by the Psi Mu Omega Chapter (Pearland, Texas), all participants were lively and engaged with an overall spirit of sisterhood. The weekend festivities kicked off with a Think HBCU Friday Night Welcome at the Norris Center which was well attended and ushered in the retreat with a bang! On Saturday morning, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner gave riveting opening remarks and offered his personal support to the Cluster as sorors prepare for the 2018 Boule. During the morning sessions, sorors had an opportunity to learn about

the new administrative goals of the Sorority following actions taken at the 2016 Boule. In addition to receiving an inspirational State of the South Central Region presentation from South Central Regional Director Katina M. Semien, participants took part in interactive presentations from the International Program, Connection, and Standards Committees. During the luncheon activities, sorors were honored to hear from keynote speaker, Houston City Councilwoman, and Soror, Amanda K. Edwards. Soror Amanda encouraged everyone to stay involved with local affairs through AKA Connection efforts despite the surprising November election results. This year, YMCA Tellepsen, Casa de Esperanza and the Boys & Girls Club of Brazoria County received the Southeast Texas Cluster’s community service donation. The Cluster sorors donated 643 backpacks and countless school supplies to the

recipient organizations. In a fitting closing to the weekend, the Cluster honored Madam Regional Director with a donation towards her EAF scholarship fund. Overall, the retreat was an uplifting event. Sorors reported that they felt rejuvenated and inspired to step up their efforts to serve all mankind in style!

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North Louisiana Cluster November 18-19, 2016

Monroe, LouisianaThe North Louisiana Cluster took place November 18-

19, 2016 on the campus of University of Louisiana at

Monroe. Themed “Launching New Dimensions of

Service in North Louisiana with Service on our Minds

and Sisterhood in our Hearts,” Omicron Iota Omega

and Zeta Phi Omega were the host chapters. The

Friday Night Welcome highlighted the Think HBCU

initiative in which Sorors represented and dressed in

paraphernalia of several different historically black

colleges and universities. The One Million Backpacks

initiative was a focus on Saturday with the collection of

378 backpacks and school supplies. The recipients of

the items are New Vision Learning Academy,

represented by Director Dr. Andrea’ Miller and Riser

Elementary & Middle Schools represented by Ms.

Pauline Waits, Discipline Coordinator. The three

chapters with the highest number of donated backpacks

received a monetary donation for their collections.

Special guests included City of Monroe Mayor Jamie

Mayo, Soror Juanita Woods with the Monroe City

Council, Soror Aisha Clark, Monroe City Court Judge,

and Soror Tari T. Bradford, 22nd South Central

Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,

Incorporated. A moving presentation by International

Connection Chairman, Soror Sylvia Blackmon-Roberts was received well by those in attendance.

She spoke passionately about our need to speak for those in our communities who do not have a

voice, especially after the recent elections. The retreat had over 200 registered Sorors.

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Southern Louisiana Cluster December 9-10, 2016

Lake Charles, LouisianaThe Southern Louisiana Cluster, hosted by Zeta Psi Omega Chapter in Lake Charles, was themed “Launching New Dimensions of Service with Service on our Minds and Sisterhood in our Hearts.” The Friday night reception was held at the historic Capital One Bank building, featuring a welcome of sorors in true Alpha Kappa Alpha style. Sorors will participate in a parade to show their support of their favorite HBCU in HBCU gear. Sorors also participated in the “Mannequin Challenge” which was showcased on social media.

Saturday’s events took place at the Isle of Capri Casino Hotel, with 458 registered sorors. The program will open with Honorable Mayor Bob Hardy, City of Westlake Louisiana; greetings from Southern Louisiana Cluster Coordinator A. Denise Graves; Welcome by Soror Judith Washington, Basileus of Zeta Psi Omega; and video presentations by Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson and Supreme Tamiouchous Danette Wilson Reed. The State the Region will be given by South Central Regional Director Katina M. Semien followed by a Launching New Dimensions of Service presentation by Soror Regina Carrington, International Program Committee and Soror Tasha Philpott, International Standards Committee.

The afternoon session featured the Honorable Mayor Randy Roach of Lake Charles, Chapter Roll Call from Soror Halley Norris, Southern Louisiana Undergraduate Cluster Coordinator; Welcome from Soror Altha Jordan Green, and Guest Speaker Attorney Marshall Simien. The retreat ended with a presentation by Soror Brenda Williams, Louisiana Connection Coordinator and the One Million Backpacks Service Project. Oak Park Elementary, Molo Middle Magnet, and Deridder High School (Deridder, LA) are the recipients of the 800-plus backpacks donated.

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Sensational Service

Austin, TX – Beta Psi Omega volunteered at the Susan G. Komen Austin Race for the Cure Breast Cancer fundraiser on Sunday, September 25, 2016. Members of Beta Psi Omega, along with members from Delta Xi and Beta Kappa chapters served breakfast at the Survivors’ Tent during and after the race. Some members of Beta Psi Omega also ran in the race to honor loved ones and chapter members who are currently fighting breast cancer, those who lost their battle with the disease, as well as survivors. The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is a signature event Beta Psi Omega Chapter participates in annually.

Lake Charles, LA – Zeta Psi Omega in partnership the chapter’s foundation, Women of Excellence Educational & Charitable Foundation, were the recipients of a $6000 grant funded through the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury Human Services Department. Funds are used to provide financial assistance to 25 eligible low income ninth through 12

th grade

students enrolled in Title I schools the opportunity to participate in ASCEND. Student participants in this workshop will receive academic enrichment and life skills to support their journey to college or vocational training. This is the third year that the chapter has received the grant from the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury.

Dallas, TX – Alpha Xi Omega hosted a Presidential Debate Watch Party on October 19, 2016 at 1011 Grill and Event Center. Over 100 chapter members, elected officials and Dallas citizens attended “Be The Voice” hosted by the Connections and Sisterly Relations committees. Basileus Kassie Gossom provided opening remarks and an explanation about the Sorority’s “Be The Voice” initiative. Several elected officials and community leaders were in attendance including John Warren, Dallas County Clerk; Zachary Thompson, Director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, Attorney Rhonda Hunter, the first African American Woman President of the Dallas Bar Association, and Soror Audrey Moorehead, Chairman of the Dallas Democratic Coalition. Information was distributed about early voting locations, where to verify voting eligibility, and other informational documents from the Dallas County Elections Office.

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Sensational Service

Ruston, LA — On October 20, 2016, the Theta Lambda Chapter held an event called Pink POWER, during AKA Week, in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event was located in the Student Center of Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana. Theta Lambda provided three breast augmentations (one with no cancerous lumps, one with fibrocystic tissue, and one with cancerous lumps) for students to feel the difference and know what to look for on themselves. Theta Lambda

also provided baked goodies and pamphlets on how to perform a Self-Breast Examination. Twenty-two Louisiana Tech University students attended the event. The goal of the event was to inform students about Breast Cancer and ways to treat or prevent it.

Plano, TX — Chi Zeta Omega in conjunction with Pearls of Service, Incorporated hosted its 3rd annual Think HBCU Day Party Fundraiser on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at Blue Martini. The event yielded over 300 attendees and five local vendors to bring awareness to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and raise funds to award a scholarship to HBCU Alumni Organizations within the Dallas area. It truly was a “party with a purpose” with music, delicious food and examples HBCU paraphernalia on display throughout the venue. All proceeds from the event were donated in the form of scholarships to two deserving schools. There was a panel discussion on the “Relevancy of HBCUs” moderated by Dr. Ryan Mitchel, alumnus of Florida A&M University and the featured panelist Kimberlie Page, President of Grambling State University North Dallas Alumni Chapter. At the conclusion of the event, Chi Zeta Omega Chapter awarded Florida A&M University $7,000 for raising the most money and Grambling State University $7,000 for having the most in attendance at the event. Fourteen thousand in total from this fun-filled day party will be used to bridge the financial gap of deserving students attending at these fine institutions.

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Sensational Service

Waco, TX — Delta Alpha Omega helped to led a city-wide voter registration campaign, during the months of August and September culminating with over 1,000 registrants. This exciting outcome comes at the heels of active ongoing campaigns within the faith-based community, multiple high schools, libraries, neighborhood association meetings, county fairgrounds, community college/technical schools, and Baylor University. Activities included a voter educational component that informed citizens of the voting process and

pitfalls. Citizens received information on voting equipment, voter requirements, as well as timelines. The chapter partnered with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Iglehart Chapel, Second Baptist Church, Carver Park Church, McLennan Community College, The Waco Chapter of the NAACP, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Baylor University, Waco Independent School District, Carver and Sharondale Homeowner’s Association. This is by far the strongest collaborative effort in the recent local history to unify the community’s purpose and direction

Baton Rouge, LA — Nu Gamma Omega held the Citizens United Community Forum on September 18, 2016 at the Carver Branch Library. The forum served as an element of the sorority’s #BeTheVoice campaign. Sgt. Myron Daniels, President of the Magnolia State Police Officers' Association and Det. Charles Dotson, Vice- President provided information on community policing. Dr. Bridgette Wade provided mental health awareness tips. Mayoral and Metro Council candidates discussed pertinent issues and each of their platforms, in respect to help rejuvenate the city in the wake of nationally broadcasted hardships. Mayoral candidates included: Darryl Gissel, Braylon Hyde, C. Denise Marcelle, and Sharon Weston-Broome. Metro Council candidates were Terri Terrell Anderson, Daniel Banguel, Councilwoman Erika Green, Corey Smith, and Councilwoman Tara Wicker. A scholarship was presented by the Global Impact Committee to Vincent Honey, President of the McKinley High School Youth and Government Club for Model UN. The forum was moderated by Soror Damona Barnes, along with the AKA Connections and Health Promotions committees chairmen, Danielle Staten and JoAn Fisher-Ranel.

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Sensational Service

Shreveport, LA — On Saturday, October 1, 2016 Sigma Rho Omega wore green and members pledged to wear green over the next few days in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, from October 2-8, 2016. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. has partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness to inform the public and advocate to eliminate stigmas and misperceptions of mental illness. The chapter utilized its Facebook page and the hashtags #IAmStigmaFree #AKAImpactDay #AKA1908 and #SRO to share the message. The chapter also made a financial donation to the Northwest Louisiana NAMI office to help fund research and treatment. Since the partnership began in 2014, the chapter has assisted with a mental health screening held by the local NAMI office at the Martin Luther King Health Center in Shreveport and attended a movie event hosted by NAMI. The movie featured was entitled “Silver Linings” in which the characters’ roles highlighted classic symptoms of mental illness and its effect on family members. Soror Ivory Rosenthal-Davis is the Health Promotions Chair and Soror Kelli Collins is the Basileus.

Texarkana, Texas – Kappa Xi Omega is actively involved in local community activities. Members of the chapter along, with coordinator Soror Cassandra Rhone, recently received recognition as a partner with Texarkana Independent School District’s Partners in Education. Other annual projects include the Heart Walk, Alzheimer’s Awareness Observance Day, Annual Valentine Dance, Phenomenal Mothers Brunch, Faith Assembly Church Back to School Celebration, and Henry’s Child Development Center Easter & Christmas gifts. The chapter works with the Salvation Army where we served in honor of Childhood Hunger Awareness Day, the Susan G. Komen Race for the

Cure and participation in “Get Out and Vote” Drive.

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Sensational Service

Franklin, LA — Iota Eta Omega held its 2

nd annual Sisterly Relations Luncheon

entitled “AKA Under Konstruction: Building Bonds between Sorors” on June 11, 2016 in celebration of sisterhood. The event was hosted by the Sisterly Relations committee. The guest speaker, Dr. Lisa Green-Derry of the Alpha Beta Omega, gave a dynamic talk while sitting in a circle of sisters about loving your sister and being connected as women of color. Each activity allotted time for debriefing and reflection. Event organizers were Soror Taylor Dupree (Chair), Soror Carlice Johnson (Co-Chair), Soror Brittanee Davis, and Soror Candy Caesar. Soror Monica Harding serves as Basileus.

Baton Rouge, LA — Gamma Eta Omega collaborated with Beta Psi (Southern University) and Eta Kappa (Louisiana State University) chapters in a partnership with ‘It Takes A Village BR’ on Sunday, October 16, 2016 for Childhood Hunger Awareness. Sorors sorted and distributed clothing which had been donated to the organization. Further, a meals were prepared onsite and served. Recipients were homeless and underprivileged persons who participated in the event under the interstate overpass in Downtown Baton Rouge. The chapters conducted

a sisterly relations activity on Friday, October 14, 2016 to strengthen the bonds of sisterhood while addressing the national target. Sorors packaged 150 snack and 150 toiletry bags for distribution. The snack bags contained healthy food and beverage items while necessary personal hygiene items completed the toiletry bags. School supplies were also distributed. ‘It Takes A Village BR’ is a nonprofit organization devoted to serving the Greater Baton Rouge community. They assist local less fortunate individuals and families through their community outreach project on Sundays which includes meal service and clothing distribution.

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Sensational Service

Gonzales, LA — Soror A. Denise Graves featured in the 67th

Boule Exhibit Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Pioneering Sorors Open Doors – Education Division. In 2010 Soror Graves became the first African-American female to serve as Assistant Superintendent for the Ascension Parish Public Schools in the 139 year history of the system. Subsequently, Graves was appointed as Interim Superintendent in March 2016, thus becoming the first African-American female to serve in that position. The Ascension Parish School Board, the largest employer in the parish, supports over 22,000 students in 27 schools. Ascension Parish has been an “A” rated school district for four consecutive years and currently ranks fourth in the state in academic achievement. Soror Graves has been an Ascension School Board employee for 35 years and has served as Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, Director of Human Resources, Director of Middle Schools, Middle School Principal, High School Assistant Principal, Secondary Teacher and Athletic Coach. Soror Graves, a Silver Star and Life Member, was initiated in the Eta Delta Chapter at the University of Texas at El Paso in Spring of 1979. Soror Graves was recently appointed as the Southern Louisiana Cluster Coordinator by South Central Regional Director, Katina Semien. She is a member of Phi Sigma Omega chapter. A. Denise Graves is Heritage Club member who frequently attends Regional Conferences, Cluster Retreats, Leadership Seminars and Boules when possible.

San Marcos, TX — Phi Xi Omega along with Sigma Epsilon started their day early on Saturday, October 1, 2016 by participating in the Keep San Marcos Beautiful and Nature Monthly Hot Spot Cleanup. The event involved cleaning the San Marcos downtown community by picking up trash and recycling debris such as cigarettes, paper products, cups, cans, glass, and other trash. With participating local organizations present, 17 bags of trash; 15 bags of recycling; and 1.5 bags of cigarette butts were collected in total. The Keep San Marcos Beautiful Hot Spot Clean Up takes place on the first Saturday of each month. The Habitat Conservation Plan and Keep San Marcos

Beautiful have partnered to focus on an area of litter that will effect the San Marcos River with a concentration on little pieces of litter that aquatic life will mistake for food.

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Sensational Service

Killeen, TX — Mu Theta Omega Chapter, serving the Killeen/Central Texas areas, supported the 2016 Childhood Hunger Awareness Day by donating more than $500 worth of food and seasonal wrap items to the Central Texas Youth Services (CTYS) Option House. The seasonal wrap items included socks, shirts, pants and jackets. The CTYS Option House is a facility that provides emergency and supportive housing, food, medical screening and counseling to children ages 3-17 within our community. The CTYS Option House staff personnel were beyond grateful for the support from the ladies of Mu Theta Omega and

we were glad to provide service to all mankind.

Plaquemine, LA — Tau Kappa Omega celebrated UN Day by partaking in a sisterly relations activity at PF Changs Restaurant in Baton Rouge on October 24, 2016. In addition to indulging in cultural cuisine, sorors were provided information regarding the UN/AKA partnership, programs offered, as well as flyers and mementos with UNA-USA logos on them. Attendees were also awarded prizes in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Allegra Lockett spearheaded the Africare Initiative by soliciting donations for the cause during dinner. Tia Mills served as the chair of the event and Sandra Williams served as the co-chair. Soror Carmen Harrison is Basileus.

West Monroe, LA – On Saturday, October 2, 2016, Omicron Iota Omega, in conjunction with Lincoln Elementary School, hosted its 13

th

annual health fair. The theme was “Launching New Dimensions of Service through Health and Wellness”. This signature event afforded the chapter the opportunity to service over 200 adults and children by providing information and resources to promote informed decisions. Over 40 health care professionals, health providers and agencies, Louisiana Delta Community College, and the University of

Louisiana at Monroe, provided services as: screenings for diabetes, BMI, bone density, BP checks, cholesterol checks, financial planning, affordable health care information, dental hygiene consults, medication counseling, vision exams, and flu shots. Adult Sessions included Pediatrics 101 (Dr. Camille Perkins), Faces of Mental Illness (Martha Phillips, APRN, MHNP), and Real Talk: About Men’s Health (Dr. Thomas Williams). The children’s sessions included topics of Robotics, Chess, and Boxing. ULM School of Pharmacy students offered sessions about prescription medication abuse and managing the effects of diabetes. A Blood and Voter Registration drives were held also. The President of Omicron Iota Omega is Dr. Naomi R. Smith and the Health Committee Chairperson is Zelda Clark, RPh, AE-C.

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Sensational Service

Lafayette, LA — On June 25, 2016, Eta Chi Omega hosted a community health fair. The chapter collaborated with numerous community partners to provide free blood pressure and glucose screenings and physician consultations. Community partners provided educational and community resource materials. Healthy snacks, face painting and balloons were provided for children attendees. Raffle prizes were given, voter registration was offered, as well as hands-only CPR demonstrations. Collaborative partners included Amedisys Hospice & Home Health Care, SWLA Center for Health Services, Family First Home Mortgage Company, Red Door Realty, Walgreens, Immaculate Heart of Mary Health Ministry, Acadiana Area Human Services District, State Farm, The Diabetic Kitchen, Acadiana Black Nurses Association, Cassandra Pillette, M.D., and The Children’s Eye Clinic. The event was covered by the

local television news media.

New Orleans, LA — On October 27, 2016 the Omicron Lambda Omega chapter hosted the “Great Debate”. The event was held at the Jazz Market. Over 150 students were in attendance from St. Mary’s Academy, St. Katherine Drexel Academy, and St. Augustine High School. The purpose of the event was to bring awareness and to stress the importance of the upcoming Presidential Election that will take place on November 8, 2016. A mock debate was held in which Clarsey Hawkins from St. Katherine Drexel portrayed Democratic Presidential Nominee Hilary Rodham Clinton and Allen Miller from St. Augustine High School portrayed Republican Presidential Nominee Donald Trump. During the mock debate both students were given different topics to discuss which also included them providing creditable facts that supported their arguments. Damon “the Commander” Singleton, a meteorologist with WDSU News hosted The Great Debate. Students were also educated on

the voting process and the importance of voting in every election. At the conclusion of the debate Clarsey Hawkins was declared the winner of the Mock Debate. Several community leaders as well as elected officials were in attendance including Nadine M. Ramsey, District “C” Councilmember, Judge Terri F. Love; Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal and Judge Tracey Flemings-Davillier, Section B, Orleans Parish Criminal District Court.

Marshall, TX — In the month of October, Nu Omega chapter was recognized at the North East Texas Cluster Retreat as the chapter that donated the most items for the cluster service project. On October 4, 2016 the chapter partnered with the Marshall Police Department for National Night Out Against Crime. Soror Angela Fitzpatrick opened the program with the singing the National Anthem. Sorors distributed Voter Information Fact Packets to community members using the official AKA Be The Voice Sign as the cover sheet. In November, members will continue distributing voter information packets throughout the community and recite the Be The Voice Pledge at the monthly chapter meeting. Additionally, to help increase voter turnout, each chapter member will vow to take at least one other person with them to the polls during early voting or on Election Day.

23

Sensational Service

DeSoto, TX — The Upsilon Lambda Omega Chapter, in conjunction with the Pearls of the Ivy Foundation, held its 7

th Annual Ladies Who Launch. The annual

event was held on Saturday, September 24, 2016 at the DeSoto Civic Center. Over 75 individuals were in attendance at this free community event. “Open House: Your Pathway to Home Ownership” was the theme. Panelists included real estate brokers and mortgage lender experts who educated and provided information to the audience. Participants received information on how to purchase a home, how to lower your property taxes and information on how your credit purchases can impact your credit score. The 2016 Community Leadership Recognition Award was presented to the CEO of the Cedar Hill Action Team (C.H.A.T.), nonprofit organization. C.H.A.T. provides youth educational and enrichment programs that influence school and life success strategies. The chapter presented a monetary donation to C.H.A.T. and the Community Baptist Church Day Rehabilitation Center. All attendees were encouraged to bring toiletry items that would benefit the chapter’s Family Strengthening Service Project. A total of 163 items were collected.

Shreveport, LA — Soror Renee’ Ellis, Delta Lambda Omega, is the recipient of the prestigious Virginia Shehee Most Influential Woman Award. This award goes to a woman who donates many hours to community projects including helping children, families and nonprofit businesses serving as a catalyst for positive impact in improving the community. Soror Ellis is the second recipient of this award. She received an engraved crystal emblazoned image at a sold-out luncheon that was a fundraiser for students with life-long disabilities. Her overall theme in her life’s mission is “There Are No Limits When Love is the Focus.” Soror Ellis has served on Regional Conference, Executive, Education, Shoe Bank, and Volunteer committees among others. She is a veteran educator of twenty-four years, a graduate of Xavier University in New Orleans and a master’s degree in educational leadership. She is married to Dr. Cedric Ellis who is also an administrator in the Caddo Parish Public School System.

Baldwin, LA — Based on one of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Target: Family Strengthening, Phi Rho Omega worked aggressively to assist in the Childhood Hunger Initiative. The chapter partnered with Chez Hope, a nonprofit organization established to serve victims of domestic violence in the Southern region parishes of Louisiana on October 29, 2016. The young children housed at Chez Hope were in great need of healthy, nutritional snacks. The women of Phi Rho Omega Chapter stuffed and donated book sacks filled with packs of granola bars, raisins, fruit snacks and water; then, they offered volunteer hours in order to raise money for the shelter at St .Mary Parish’s Harvest Moon Festival.

Together, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority was well represented this weekend, and was supreme in service to all mankind.

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Sensational Service San Antonio, TX — In recognition of The Longest Day, members of Alpha Tau Omega partnered with The Grace Place Alzheimer’s Activity Center. Soror Shawanda Roberts, Target II: Health Promotion chairman, explains that the center is designed to provide solutions to seniors and their caregivers by providing hot nutritious meals, companionship, and Alzheimer’s care. On June 20, 2016, Sorors spent the day serving refreshments while offering conversation and playing fun counting and card games to help stimulate the minds of participants. Additionally, the chapter made a monetary donation to The Grace Place Alzheimer’s Activity Center in support of the center’s mission of promoting the dignity and independence of seniors living with Alzheimer's disease. In conjunction with the day of service Sorors, raised funds and participated in

the Longest Day Walk in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association.

Lafayette, LA -- Epsilon Beta hosted a debate party with their sponsoring graduate chapter, Eta Chi Omega, and several other organizations: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Theta Nu Chapter, UL Lafayette’s Black Male Leadership Association, and the University’s African American Alumni Chapter on September 26, 2016—the first debate of the season. Students and faculty of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the Lafayette community were able to get information on a number of different candidates, both in-state and presidential. Louisiana Representative for District 44, Vincent Pierre, was a guest speaker. The goal of this collaborative event was to encourage young voters to make their way to the polls and vote. “This is really about our future," says Basileus Gabrielle T. Semien. "Historically, young people have one of the lowest turnout rates, and so as a chapter, we’re trying to make the University of Louisiana at Lafayette go against that. Alpha Kappa Alpha has recognized the need to bring awareness to this pressing issue, as we've been change agents in the African American and worldwide communities for now 108 years. We want to continue to “Be the Voice” of our generation.”

Forth Worth, TX — Beta Mu Omega and Beta Tau Lambda of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity hosted Community Conversations on October 22, 2016 at the Tarrant County Administration Building. Community Conversations provides Fort Worth residents with the opportunity to learn about key community issues and to provide dialog about what can we do to foster change. Topics included: diverse leadership, strong

connections between diverse groups, a culture of constructive dialogue, community improvement, and voting. Bob Ray Sanders served at the moderator and panel guests included: City Councilwoman Gyna Bivens, Texas State Representative Ramon Romero, Tarrant County Commissioner Roy Brooks, Tarrant County Precinct Judge Lisa Woodard, Tarrant County Democratic Chairwoman Deborah Peoples, and Tarrant County Constable Candidate Kelicia Lyons.

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International

Committee

Information

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The #AKAUG Konnection: UAC 101 Greetings Sorors,

On behalf of the Undergraduate Activities Committee (UAC), welcome back to another year of opportunity to excel on our campuses, in our classrooms, and in our communities! It is very important to us that undergraduates know who we are and the purpose of our committee. As the undergraduates’ liaisons to the Directorate, the UAC is here to vocalize and support your needs.

The UAC will work to ensure undergraduates have the resources needed to humbly serve others and inspire others to serve through the implementation of Launching New Dimensions of Service

SM

(LNDS) program targets, Community Impact Days, and all other initiatives that enable our Sorority to be supreme in service to all mankind. We believe access to these resources will help establish strong foundations for meaningful undergraduate careers and life-long membership.

The UAC is ready to serve. Each committee member brings a unique skillset that will help our committee thrive. We are civil servants, campus leaders, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, Dean’s

List scholars, and chapter officers; future CPAs, CEOs, JDs, MBAs, MDs, PhDs, journalists, nurses, teachers, and presidents who recognize the importance of doing our part today to ensure a better tomorrow. As a committee, we speak more than five languages; have study abroad experience on four continents, completed internships and fellowships, conducted research and so much more.

We plan to leverage our diverse experiences to create, plan, and implement effective programs. Additionally, our collaboration with other International Committees will enable us to exceed our goals and implement an undergraduate platform that focuses on LNDS execution, improved sisterly relations, and professional development.

In order for us to accurately relay undergraduates’ needs to the Directorate, we need to connect with undergraduates. We are looking forward to engaging through a series of webinars, conference workshops, chapter meeting discussions, and much more.

Let’s start by joining together to help ensure a strong turnout at the polls in the upcoming elections. Encourage others to #BeTheVoice. Utilize your resources, including social media, to promote voter engagement through voter registration drives, debate watch parties, and other educational events. Please consult with your Connections Committee Chairman for further guidance.

If you have questions, concerns, or good news to share, connect with us! A committee directory can be found on our national website and in this Ivy Leaf. Be sure to follow our UAC social media pages and #AKAUG to stay connected.

From the UAC to all of our sorors, thank you for the opportunity to serve. We are looking forward to serving Alpha Alpha! Yours in Sisterhood, Soror Keniece Gray

Undergraduate Activities Committee Chairman

UAC Members

Keniece Gray (GL)

Victoria Simpson (SA)

Antoria Frazier (SA)

Taylor Allen (NA)

Nia Doaks (MA)

Taylor Flake (SE)

Gabrielle Semien (SC)

Elizabeth Adetiba (C)

Brooklyn Gumby (MW)

Lay’la Rogers (FW)

Nichelle Curry (Int.)

UAC Resources

Kiana Abram (FW)

LaVern Tarkington (FW)

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International Protocol Committee During the 67

th Boule, the Delegates voted for

the International Protocol Committee (IPC) to become a standing committee. The IPC is excited to continue to be responsible for protocol at all international events, serve as a resource to regions and chapters as needed, and other duties as assigned by our Supreme Basileus. At the Boule, the IPC was responsible for managing the dais, holding rooms, and reserved seating for all conference events at the Georgia World Congress Center and off-site venues and escorting and transporting our sorority leadership (VSGs) and public guests (our VIPs) to ensure that they were moving efficiently throughout our days in Atlanta and had the assistance they needed for a successful Boule. The committee implemented a team concept as conceived by our Supreme Basileus, assigning IPC members to lead the work for each of these tasks. This gave the teams the opportunity to focus on their particular work. This team concept can certainly be utilized at the regional, chapter and cluster levels. There are 13 members of the IPC and we could not have done the protocol work of the

Boule without sorors from Atlanta and around the country and Caribbean who volunteered in escorting the VSGs and VIPs and assisting with reserved seating. The IPC is truly grateful to each soror who gave up some of their conference time and volunteered with the committee. Thanks to each of you…as the song says, ‘we help each other.’ As we embark on the next two (2) years we will support Launching New Dimensions of Service with protocol excellence. We want to continue to recognize and support our VSGs and ensure that they are treated with respect. We will update our workshops to assist sorors and continue to improve the knowledge base of protocol for sorors. We will be working to have consistency across regions. While each region has its traditions, we want to ensure that the protocol tasks are carried out in an efficient manner as the business of Alpha Kappa Alpha is conducted. Each of us is excited and humbled to serve on the International Protocol Committee and extend sincere thanks to Madam Supreme for this opportunity.

Soror Velena L. McRae South Central Representative.

International Protocol Committee

Soror Sharon M. Bowman Chairman, International

Protocol Committee

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31

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The Strategic Partners Committee has been working diligently to identify, develop, and maintain relationships with a variety of organizations to support the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The Committee prepared classy marketing materials that outline the Sorority’s history, current program targets and demographics, and provide a concise value proposition for organizations to partner with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, support our programs of service, or sponsor our international conferences. In addition, we developed a presentation focused on the unique value proposition for the Boule, which included reaching thousands of female consumers in key demographics. The outreach was successful in raising funds in support of the Boule and developing “win-win” relationships with corporate partners. During the Boule, the Committee presented a workshop entitled “Raising Funds Smart: Creative Fundraising & Strategic Partnerships.” The workshop addressed traditional and online fundraising concepts that chapters can use on the local level. Look out for the committee’s workshop during the upcoming Leadership Seminar. The Strategic Partners Committee looks forward to continue playing our part in supporting the sorority’s programs of service, and expanding the sorority’s operations through strategic partnerships and corporate sponsorships! Respectfully submitted, Soror Laura Wilkinson, North Atlantic Region Chairman

Soror Kimmie Jackson, North Atlantic Region

Soror Gwendolyn M. Bynum, Great Lakes Region

Soror Tammy Fussell, Great Lakes Region

Soror Kendra Howard, Great Lakes Region

Soror Rose Jackson Flenorl, South Eastern Region

Soror Lorraine Griffin Johnson, Central Region

Soror Aida Smith Parker, Far Western Region

Strategic Partners Committee

34

Sorors made a wide-reaching and powerful

impact at the 67th Boule in Atlanta, Georgia as

we executed 23 Moments of Service in honor

of our beloved Twenty-Third Supreme

Basileus, Dr. Mary Shy Scott. Our presence

and service to all mankind was felt around the

world. Sorors lend a helping hand around the

Atlanta area through activities plan throughout

the week. We ended the first half with an

unprecedented number of touchdowns. This is

your half-time report.

Think HBCU Expo: The Think HBCU Expo

provided over 775 guests with a HBCU

Experience. Nearly 500 students received a

glimpse of college life. There were 57 Black

Colleges, Universities, Sororities, Fraternities

and other organizations on-hand to provide

valuable information about their schools,

admission requirements, scholarships and

financial aid. Our Supreme Basileus, Soror

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, encouraged

students to take this opportunity to learn about

the benefits of attending a HBCU. Our former

Second Supreme Anti-Basileus, Soror Autumn

Kyles, shared her experience about college life

at a HBCU. The students were entertained

with a marching band and step shows. They

marked the occasion by taking pictures at the

HBCU photo booth. Sorors, let’s keep the

chains moving. Observe HBCU week in

September and continue to expose students to

HBCU opportunities.

Stop Hunger Now: Sorors lined up to pack

102,168 meals for the Stop Hunger Now

organization. The meals were distributed

throughout Atlanta. Your chapters can feed

more people. Volunteer at your local food

shelters or conduct food drives.

Boule Collections: Our support of the

collection service projects was phenomenal.

Sorors saved a little space in their luggage to

bring pillowcase dresses, backpacks, seasonal

wraps and eyeglasses to Boule.

Our offense was second to none when it

comes to impacting children and families

across the world. We donated 53,452 items.

Your generosity was magnificent!

AKA One Million Backpacks: We continue to

move the chains closer to our goal of One

Million Backpacks by 2018. Sorors donated

4,962 backpacks filled with school supplies for

students in the Atlanta area. We can meet our

goal by 2018 if every soror donates 5

backpacks per year over the next two years.

Little Dresses for Africa: Thanks to all of the

chapters and sorors who helped us exceed our

goal of 29,000 pillowcase dresses in honor of

our Twenty-Ninth Supreme Basileus, Soror

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson. The pillowcase

dress making parties and sisterly relations

activities really during spring training really

made a difference for girls in Africa. We

showed off a few of dresses with a Pillowcase

Dress Fashion Show featuring our sorors’

daughters and granddaughters. The Little

Dresses for Africa project is not only sending

dresses but also sending hope. We partnered

with AFRICARE and our International AKA

Chapters to distribute 41,070 pillowcase

dresses to girls in South Africa, Nigeria and

Liberia.

Eyewear Recycling Project: Sorors donated

3,708 gently-used eyeglasses. They spent

one day cleaning and repairing the eyeglasses

for distribution by the Georgia Lions

Lighthouse. The recycled eyewear was

distributed in the US and Internationally.

Seasonal Wraps: We collected 3,712 hats,

gloves, scarves and other winter

accessories to help families in need stay

warm this winter.

Ascending to New Dimensions of Service at the Atlanta Boule

35

Boule Collection Breakdown by Region Region # Backpacks #Seasonal Wraps #Eyeglasses #Little Dresses

Central 968 390 311 2,402

Far West 211 210 162 3,106

Great Lakes 439 170 289 2,270

International 56 55 41 688

Mid Atlantic 172 100 154 5,150

Mid-Western 129 97 156 2,177

North Atlantic 823 410 710 5,123

South Atlantic 1,001 1,700 1,100 8,250

South Central 753 210 375 3,670

South Eastern 410 370 410 5,234

Not specified 3,000

Total: 4,962 3,712 3,708 41,070

Health Promotion: Sorors you continue to

score the extra points and earn those field

goals in Health Promotion – Target 2!

Heart Health and Stroke Prevention: Our

Center for Healthy Living and Global Impact

provided opportunities for Sorors to learn more

about how they can assist our communities in

eradicating heart disease and strokes by

increasing the “Power to End Stroke” activities

in our communities through Hands-Only CPR

training, Zumba and healthy eating

demonstrations. We are so proud to report that

279 Sorors were trained in Hands-On CPR at

Boule. We want to continue to work with our

partners, the American Heart Association and

American Stroke Associations (AHA-ASA) in

our second half.

Alzheimer’s Awareness: We continue to

build momentum by running the ball down the

field in increasing engagement and awareness

during the Longest Day by educating our

communities and ourselves about Alzheimer’s

disease and providing resources for caregiver

support! Let’s continue to reach those 1st

downs to educating our communities about the

warning signs and treatment for Alzheimer’s

disease. We are ready for the touchdown with

the Alzheimer Association cheering us on!

Mental Health Awareness: Touchdown on

STIGMA Free! At the National Alliance on

Mental Illness (NAMI) Bebe Moore

Campbell Book Reading and Candlelight

Vigil, close to 100 participants got a chance

to hear and discuss the readings of Soror

Campbell’s book, 72 Hour Hold, a fictional

book about a family’s struggle with

confronting and living with mental illness. We

had a one-on-one conversation with a young

women living with mental illness and her

daily battle to live a full rich life with bi- polar

disorder and depression. Participants took

the STIGMA free pledge and vowed to help

living awareness to mental illness in their

Ascending to New Dimensions of Service at the Atlanta Boule

36

communities. We were also entertained through song and music.

You could find Sorors stacking up yards all over Atlanta with our launching new dimensions of service projects. We built a playground with KaBOOM, assembled hygiene kits for at-risk children, restored and refreshed and renewed six playgrounds. We conducted seminars and clinics on Home Foreclosure Prevention, HIV screening, ASCEND Financial Freedom Boot Camp, Childhood Hunger and fed kids at two local Atlanta summer camps. Our 22,000 sorors executed “Acts of Green” by disposing of paper, glass and plastic products in recycle bins throughout the convention center.

The half-time show of service to all mankind received high-ratings at Boule. Let’s take this momentum and successful programs into the second half as we inspire 20,000 ASCEND Students to reach their maximum potential, promote HBCUs, provide students with One Million Backpacks, work with our health partners, American Heart Association, American Stroke Association, Alzheimer’s Association and the National Alliance o n Mental Illness, to increase awareness, impact 20,000 children and families annually through our family strengthening programs, refresh, r estore and renew 1908 playgrounds and make a global impact through our exclusive United Nations Association ASCEND Model UN program and AFRICARE partnership. It’s Game time!

Program Activities:

AKA ThinkHBCU Day will be on Friday, September 23, 2016. On this day chapters and sorors are asked to raise awareness and demonstrate HBCU pride in any of the following ways:

Represent your HBCU by wearing your HBCU paraphernalia and posting a picture to social media with the hashtags #thinkhbcu #aka1908

Donate to the AKA '08 campaign to help us continue to raise funds for these institutions

Share HBCU Fun Facts with your community

Designate chapter scholarship funds for HBCU Scholarships

Mental Illness Awareness week: October 2-8 – chapters are asked to wear green, promote awareness via social media campaigns and take photos with city/town land marks that "go green" during the week.

Childhood Hunger Awareness Day: October 16, 2016

Chapters are asked to provide food to local food banks, donate food to family shelters or an “adopted” family, volunteer at food pantries, conduct food drives and feed the homeless. In addition, include healthy snacks and seasonal wraps to donations for the One Million Backpacks initiative.

UN DAY: Monday, October 24th

Observe UN Day annually by hosting educational activities. UNA-USA chapters are available for co-sponsorship and speakers in many local communities.

Ascending to New Dimensions of Service at the Atlanta Boule

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37th Annual Leadership Fellows Program New Dimensions of Authentic Leadership

May 24-28, 2016 - Seattle, Washington

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Greetings Sorors!! We are pleased to share that the Leadership Fellows Committee selected 37 outstanding undergraduates to participate in the 2017 Leadership Fellows. Every Region had Leadership Fellows and the demographics were as follows: 8 South Atlantic, 4 Mid-Atlantic, 6 North Atlantic, 5 South Central, 3 Central, 4 Southeastern, 3 Great Lakes, 2 Far Western, 1 Mid-Western and 1 International. Additionally, 10 of the 2016 Leadership Fellows are from the following HBCUs: Howard, Hampton, Spelman, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Prairie View A&M, Tuskegee, LeMoyne-Owen, Florida A&M, and Delaware State. Madam Supreme Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Soror Eva L. Evans, 24th Supreme

Basileus in addition to Soror Adriane Brown, President and Chief Operating Officer from Intellectual

Venture were our keynote speakers. Additionally, the Leadership Fellows Committee, members of

our Directorate, Committee Chairmen or International Committee members all served as Faculty.

Leadership Fellows curriculum consisted of interactive workshops such as Social Media Savvy,

Business Etiquette, Branding, Communicating for Impact, Protocol, AKA Membership for Life,

Personal Fiscal Responsibility, Health, Dining Etiquette, Conflict Resolution, Mental Health and a

myriad of other topics to advance the Fellows’ personal, professional and sorority acumen. Our

esteemed faculty were simply awesome at delivering the workshop content!

A crucial portion of the leadership development program requires that the Fellows study a business

case and present on the issues and offer solutions. The Fellows presentations were superb! We

also left the hotel to embark upon a great community service project that involved cleaning up a

church playground, and painting and weeding their vegetable garden – this was a great

collaborative effort with Delta Upsilon Omega Chapter. The Leadership Fellows 2016 Choir set the

tone at our Worship service and then they were asked by Madam Supreme to perform during the

fifth plenary session at Boule!

New!! We added a Mock Interview workshop, Post-Collegiate Planning workshop, Leadership

Fellows Pajama party and fitness walk to our curriculum/agenda. All was very well received!!

2017 Leadership Fellows Program – look for the Fall Mailing and email blast to

Undergraduates, Basilei and Graduate Advisors regarding the application process and

deadline. We look forward to receiving your applications!

Sisterly in Service, 2014-2016 Leadership Fellows Committee — Soror Elicia Pegues Spearman, Chairman, North Atlantic Region ~ Soror Monique Brown, Central Region ~ Soror Courtney Renee Buckhanan, Central Region ~ Soror Felecia Collins-Wylie, South Central Region ~ Soror Toya Corbett, Mid-Atlantic Region ~ Soror Lynnette Heard, Great Lakes Region

38

2016 Leadership Fellows – Seattle, Washington

South Central Region Leadership Fellows

AALIYAH GLOVER University of Arkansas

at Pine Bluff

GABIRELLE SEMIEN University of Louisiana at

Lafayette

JOURDAN KERL Prairie View A&M

University

BRIA WHITAKER

University of North Texas

BRITTNEY WASHINGTON

University of Arkansas-Fayetteville

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Let the Construction Begin!

Computer-generated view of the reception area of the renovated Ivy Center.

The 67th Boulé in Atlanta was the perfect venue to present the renderings for the renovated

Corporate Office! Five renderings were displayed for the nearly 22,000 attending sorors to get a glimpse of how the renovated spaces within The Ivy Center will look like at completion.

With The BOWA Group as the general contractor and the design team led by FGM Architects, the CORP project is on target. The Corporate Office staff is expected to move to its temporary location in September and construction is slated to begin in October. The City of Chicago’s Department of Buildings has committed its cooperation to expeditiously process all permits to facilitate a construction process that is void of potential delays. The announcement of the location of President Barack Obama’s Library across the street from our Corporate Office secures our place in Chicago’s real estate historical landscape. The corporate headquarters of the first sorority established by African-American, college-trained women will be neighbors with the library of the 44

th and first African-American President of the United States of America! Talk about providence!

Exciting times lie ahead for The Ivy Center!

The 2014 – 2016 International Building & Properties Committee

Soror Priscilla Tyree Williams, Chairman

Soror Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Tamiouchos

Soror Arla Johnson-Bentley, North Atlantic Region

Soror Wanda Scott-Kinney, South Atlantic Region

Soror Princess “Faith” Singleton, South Atlantic Region

Soror Joyce L. Walker, Great Lakes Region

Soror Toya T. Harvey, Esq., Resource – Central Region

Soror Frances G. Carroll, Resource – Central Region

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The Intergenerational workshop 107 “Legacy of Love” panel shared experiences and expertise of Diamond/Golden/

Silver and Undergraduate Sorors with a new millennium focus on the present and future.

During the 1976 Boule, in New York, Supreme Basileus Bernice I. Sumlin, began honoring Sorors who had been members fifty (50) years. These Sorors were originally called, Golden Girls and later called Golden Sorors. Later Sorors 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 2

nd Supreme Basileus, Soror Lorraine Richardson Greene. Following

there were luncheons, receptions, photo galleries, and galas honoring Sorors who have given dedicated service to Alpha Kappa Alpha. During the 2016 Boule in Atlanta, Georgia, the International Diamond, Golden, Silver Sorors Committee supported Supreme Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson when Diamond, Golden, and Silver Sorors inducted in the years 1940, 1941, 1965, 1966, 1990 and 1991 were honored and celebrated.

DYNAMIC, GIFTED, SUPREME SORORS

International Committee Members

Soror Ashley D. Parker - North Atlantic

Soror Rebecca V. Graves - Mid Atlantic

Soror Cheryl D. McMichael - South Atlantic

Soror Carolyn Agee Hunter - Great Lakes

Soror Jo Celeste Pettway - South Eastern

Soror Juliea Robinson-Nelson - South Central

Soror Evelyn Page - Mid Western

Soror Betty L. Edwards - Far Western

Soror Frances Molloy – International

Soror Jacquelyn Heath Parker, Chairman – Central

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67th

Boule – Bylaw Changes: What all Sorors should know

Robert’s Rules of Order defines bylaws as a document adopted by an organization which contains the basic rules for governing itself. Bylaws include the primary purpose of an organization and describe how that organization will work. Changes to our sorority’s bylaws can only be done after a very thoughtful and deliberate process that takes approximately 18 months. It begins at the chapter level and ends at the Boule. After a proposed amendment is approved by 2/3 of the members present and voting at a chapter meeting, the proposed amendment must also receive a 2/3 approval of the delegates at the regional conference. Proposed changes from the regional conferences are reviewed by the International Constitution Committee and the Directorate, before the proposed amendment is submitted to the Boule for review and vote. Amendments receiving a 2/3 positive vote at the Boule become effective at the close of the Boule. A proposed amendment may also be recommended by the Directorate or a standing or special committee. At the 67th Boule in Atlanta, Georgia, ten proposed amendments were approved. One amendment involved the Directorate; two amendments related to new standing committees; four amendments related to the Membership Intake Process; two amendments impact chapter operations; and one amendment clarifies the requirement for active status for an undergraduate soror. Amendment impacting the Directorate. The approved change documents the current procedure whereby the Directorate periodically meets via conference call. (Article I – Section 5) Amendments related to standing committees. Two long standing special committees – Leadership Development and Protocol – were approved for elevation to standing committees. (Article 1 – Section 15) Amendments related to the Membership Intake Process. Chapters may now set guidelines to determine “active” status for a soror who wishes to sponsor or co-sponsor a candidate for membership (Article III – Section 11); the bylaws now confirm that a co-sponsor must meet the same criteria as a sponsor (Article IV – Section 31); the number of co-sponsors has been reduced from three to two (Article IV – Section 31); and the information read at chapter meetings during the MIP will focus on the candidate, rather

than the sponsor. (Article IV – Section 31) Amendments related to chapter operations. Unless extenuating circumstances occur, a chapter meeting must be held face-to face, not electronically (Article III – Section 11); and to be a candidate for Tamiouchos and Pecunious Grammateus, a candidate shall certify that she has not been sanctioned (l) legally or (2) internally by another organization for misappropriation of funds.(Article III – Section 22) Amendment defining the active status of an undergraduate soror. The amendment aligns all documents to indicate that an undergraduate must maintain a C+ grade point average for the semester and cumulatively. (Article VI – Section 4a) The Constitution and Bylaws, Manual of Standard Procedure, and the Membership Intake Process Manual will be updated to incorporate the changes resulting from the ten approved amendments. Sorors are encouraged to remain up-to-date and knowledgeable on all information contained in our governing documents. Questions regarding the sorority’s bylaws may be addressed by the Chapter Parliamentarian or Basileus to the Office of the Supreme Parliamentarian at mbeard@aka1908.com.

Soror Martha Perine Beard

Supreme Parliamentarian

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In thinking about what I would write as a topic for the regional newsletter from the Spiritual Oversight Committee, it took me a couple of days to think about what would be appropriate to share with my sorors. With everything going on

in the world, the turmoil, social unrest and chaos, where the world seems out of control the answer is simplistic and complex. The answer is Love. In a time where social injustice and intolerance run rampant, as the world becomes smaller and more disconnected. We need the support of one another, and the simple action of love is the solution to the complexity of our world’s problems and concerns. Our organization is predicated on a foundation of sisterly love, love of community, and love in action through service all mankind. It is this foundational concept that continues strengthens our commitment and resolve to move ever forward in reaching new heights while expanding our presence through New Dimensions of Service.

The idea of love is complicated and yet simple to put in action. It is easy to love those who love you and support you. The intricate part of love in action is to reach out to those who do not share these same feelings. It is the compassion, nurturing, and just plain old sisterly care that makes the action of love so spiritual and impactful. Each Soror is an ambassador of our love toward one another. It is the living legacy of love passed down to us, and that continues to empower us to love and serve one another. We must then take that same love out into the world and transform it for the better. We will continue to recognize that our love is a great and fundamental component of Service to All Mankind and our new dimensional footprint everywhere our foot shall tread. The answer is Love! Rev. Pamela Bates Porch Spiritual Oversight Committee-Chairman Life Member-Silver Star Launching New Dimensions of Service

What the World Needs Now is Love

Spiritual Oversight Committee-Chairman

Rev. Pamela Bates Porch

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The Former Directorate Member Coordination Team: Launching

New Dimensions of Recognition and Identification 2014-2016

Soror Peggy Lewis LeCompte, Chairman

The Former Directorate

Members Coordination

Team has been focused and

diligently working to

accomplish the vision and

charge of this administration

to recognize those who have

served as international

officers of the sorority.

Promoting the importance,

value and rich legacy of

Former Directorate Members (FDMs) has

been accomplished through developing a

structured seating protocol for Former

Directorate Members at special events and

meetings, updating a listing of administrations

and positions by year and the development of

special recognition items for Former

Directorate Members in particular, a special

pins and special ribbons.

Reserved seating was available for Former

Directorate Members at the 2015 Leadership

Conference and the 2016 Boule. This seating

arrangement has the added advantage of

allowing the membership to easily find those

sorors who served the sorority through the

years. In addition, the seating gives the

membership the opportunity to add to their

history by taking pictures and speaking with

the “living legends” in our sisterhood.

An updated document, New Dimensions of

Supreme Leadership: 1908-2016, which

highlighted the Supreme Basilei their

administrations and accomplishments during

their administration was distributed at the

Former Directorate Members Reception

which was held during Boule 2016 and will be

sent to chapters in the Fall mailing.

There is still an opportunity for you to help us

locate and document Former Directorate

Member’s family members and identify those

who are sorors. Send all information to Soror

Peggy Lewis LeCompte at

tlodpresident10@aol.com.

Finally, at the 2015 Leadership Seminar held

in Chicago, sixty-three Former Directorate

Members in attendance received a beautifully

designed pin which was presented during a

Ribbon Pinning Ceremony written for the

occasion. Sixty-seven Former Directorate

Members and five Former Executive Directors

received pins during the 2016 Boule.

Ribbons labeled Former Directorate Member

were provided at the 2015 and 2016 Regional

Conferences and at the 67th Boule.

Recognition of these powerful leaders is a

way to strengthen our knowledge base and

recognition of former leaders. Their

commitment to our great sisterhood is a

legacy that must be remembered. The vision

of our Supreme Basileus Soror Dorothy

Buckhanan Wilson, has launched “New

Dimensions” of identifying, recognizing and

knowing how these former leaders impacted

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

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Strategic Planning: Does Your Chapter Have its Roadmap?

Goal: Every Alpha Kappa Alpha chapter will have a Strategic Plan by December 31, 2016.

There are many reasons why every Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority chapter should have a Strategic

Plan. A Strategic Plan is the roadmap that allows a chapter to examine its strengths, weaknesses,

opportunities and risks through a structured approach. If your chapter already completed a

Strategic Plan, you are ahead of the game. If your chapter has begun the process of developing

its Strategic Plan, we congratulate you for the first steps in achieving the goal of having a plan in

place by December 31, 2016. If your chapter has not yet begun, it is not too late to start.

Consider making strategic planning a topic at your chapter retreat or an upcoming chapter

meeting.

A Strategic Plan will assist chapters:

To assess the internal & external environment that impacts the chapter

To formulate clear and realistic goals, objectives and action steps to maximize chapter

programs

To represent the views of the major stakeholders of the chapter

Ensure all sorors are knowledgeable of chapter’s vision and mission

Identify and propose considerations and recommendations for the continued success,

relevance and viability of the chapter

The Supreme Basileus charged the International Strategic Planning Committee to encourage and

support chapters to develop their Strategic Plans. During the 2015 regional conferences, the

Committee presented the workshop entitled “Launching Your Chapter’s Strategic Plan: Why,

When and How”. At the 2016 regional conferences, the Committee presented the workshop

entitled “Strategic Planning: Execute and Evaluate for Success”. Both workshops provided

guidance with toolkits to assist and encourage chapters to develop their Strategic Plans. The

Committee also wrote, “The Guide to Chapter Strategic Planning” which all chapters received a

copy in the 2015 Fall Mailing from the Corporate Office. The diagram below reflects the

elements of the Strategic Planning Process.

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Chapters are encouraged to review the 2010-

2020 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Strategic

Plan, adopted by the 2010 Boule (posted in

the Members Only section of the Sorority’s

website). A Chapter should (1) define its

objectives consistent with Alpha Kappa Alpha

Sorority’s Guiding Principles outlined in the

Sorority’s, 2010-2020 Strategic Plan; (2)

solicit member input on goals and objectives,

mission and vision; and (3) develop a process

and timeline for evaluating progress toward

goals.

SORORS have an opportunity via a survey

entitled “YOUR OPINION COUNTS!” to

provide input for the next decennial Alpha

Kappa Alpha Sorority Strategic Plan. The

survey will be delivered to your email very

soon. Your response to the survey

questions will help the Committee in the

assessment of the effectiveness of the

Sorority’s 210-2020 Strategic Plan and the

effectiveness of the Sorority’s current

operations and programs according to our

mission. Your opinion does matter so; please

take the time to complete “YOUR OPINION

COUNTS!”

Please contact a member of the

International Strategic Planning Committee

with questions.

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ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED

International Strategic Planning Committee

Soror Name Region Email Mobile

Telephone

Soror Marsha Lewis Brown, Chairman

South Atlantic marshalewisbrown@hotmail.com 813-786-5753

Soror Rita Butler Holliday North Atlantic rbholliday@nuxiomega.org 908-208-7595

Soror Kendra Gillespie Mid-Atlantic Kendra_gillespie@hotmail.com 202-230-1431

Soror Regina L. Randall Great Lakes randallpeal@aol.com 614-917-3117

Soror Juanita Sims Doty South Eastern jsdoty@comcast.net 601-566-9039

Soror Jacqueline Watson South Central jjwatsonpc@msn.com 713-256-5223

Soror Estelle M. Black Central Eblack7735@comcast.net 815-979-7422

Soror Jarnell Burks-Craig Central Jarnell2@sbcglobal.net 317-627-8899

Soror Margaret A. Evans Mid-Western Cevans1@kc.rr.com 816-547-1041

Soror E. Lavonne Lewis Far Western Elewis2499@aol.com 702-528-0496

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More than 80 Sorors attended Alpha Kappa

Omega’s inaugural Leadership Development

Summit, “Finding the Leader in You!” Saturday

October 1, 2016 at the Thurgood Marshall School

of Law on the campus of Texas Southern

University

The Summit began with a video welcome by the

South Central Regional Director, Katina Semien.

The Sorors were then led with the first charge of

the day “The Art of Leadership” by the keynote

speaker, our very own Soror Josephine

Matthews-Rice Ed. D, who serves as the

Assistant Superintendent of Leadership

Development for the Houston Independent

School District. The half-day training

development workshops were facilitated by our

very own Alpha Kappa Omega Sorors Allison

Bell presenting, “Leading a Multi-Generational

Organization: Communicating & Motivating;”

Soror Paula Harris led “Navigating Conflict using

Self-Developing Skills;” and, Soror Lisa Brooks

and former Supreme Tamiouchos Berna Greer

conducted a critical financial literacy training,

“Understanding the Numbers Game.” Sorors

were given foundational instruction in reading

and comprehending the chapter’s financial

reports and budget development.

All Leadership workshops were targeted to

provide a comprehensive package of leadership

training with a planned curriculum that equips

Sorors not only for service in Alpha Kappa Alpha

but that was transferable to any area of a Sorors

life. From these workshops Sorors were trained

to identify their conflict handle, stay focused and

resolve issues while keeping their Pink, cool and

Green. Training Sorors from the committee level,

communication and motivation skills were

specifically targeted in each workshop to build

internal talent, cultivate and encourage

leadership talent with the chapter to sustain high

performing and impactful chapter programming.

The goal of the Leadership Academy is to plan,

develop, and facilitate the chapter’s leadership

training program. From 21 years old to 101

years and more, WE ARE Alpha Kappa Omega,

a multi-generational organization. Summit

attendees left with a greater understanding of

how the multi-generations view change, and

varying views towards leading, interacting, and

building together.

The Leadership Academy is very pleased with the dutiful efforts and diligent commitment of each committee member to plan, design, develop, and execute a superior conference. Special thanks to the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and Sam’s Club for their generous support and gracious donations in support of this conference. The Leadership Academy is led by Chairman, Soror Karen Grays, Chairman and Co-Chairman Soror Tishauna Washington.

2016 Leadership Development Summit Committee

“LEADERSHIP MATTERS!”

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Ethel Hedgeman Lyle U. S. Postage Stamp Project

t's time to honor the central person whose vision launched a Sorority for African-American women with the purpose of service to mankind. In 1908, because of the leadership, determination, savvy political and intellectual skill of Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® was founded. She identified and recruited talented young ladies who worked with her to get the job done. Her legacy has been far reaching. She was an outstanding educator and civic leader. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle was the first college-trained African American teacher in Oklahoma and was exemplary in her methods and service. In 2015, in recognition of her extraordinary achievements, a state highway was dedicated in her honor in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Today, with over 283,000 members, this 108-year-old Sisterhood has touched every corner of the United States and nearly every continent in the world, conducting service projects that have impacted generations of people. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle has made significant impact on the American culture through her noteworthy and enduring contributions to our society and history. It is time to honor this civic visionary, and have her join the ranks of other remarkable and historic figures of America and the world, by having her image appear on a U.S. postal stamp. We need your help to make it happen. HOW? By engaging the global community and your centers of influence, including elected officials, White House contacts, entertainers and our networks to assist us in this petition drive. We want there to be no doubt as we make this illustrious woman’s achievements known, as we make our application to the United States Postal Service Stamp Selection Committee. We are compiling her bio and the impact of her vision and good works on the world and will include compelling information to assist in promoting this effort. This e-petition will be used as part of our application for the stamp. Everyone is encouraged to sign the petition, and get family members and friends to go online and join us in this effort by also signing the e-petition. We need over 100,000 signatures to be considered. Advanced earlier under the leadership of International Presidents Dr. Mary Shy Scott and Dr. Eva L. Evans, International President Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson has determined its time to Launch New Dimensions of Service by having hard copy mail delivered all over this world, stamped with the image of the premier Founder of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Ethel Hedgeman Lyle. Let’s do it! It's time! Courtesy of: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/ethel-hedgeman-lyle-u-s-postage-stamp-project

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