ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY INCORPORATED THE ...Located just a short 10-minute drive from the Virginia Beach oceanfront, Lynnhaven Mall features six flagship stores, over 175 specialty

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED®

THE MARVELOUS MID-ATLANTIC MESSENGER Sisters on the Move . . . Launching New Dimensions of Service

Mid‐Atlantic Region

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

PAGE

MARD Greetings 1

MARD Takes 2

Regional News 3

International Views 6

Chapter Twitter 13

Cluster Bytes 17

Sisters in Motion 18

MAR Closing Notes 19

Article Submission Guidelines

20

Spring Edition 2016

Volume 2, Issue 1

Virginia Beach, Get Ready for the Pink and Green!!

Soror Joyce Henderson

REGIONAL DIRECTOR

MID‐ATLANTIC REGION

Dear sorors of the Marvelous Mid-Atlantic Region:

Itgivesmegreatpleasuretowelcomeyoutothe63rdMid‐AtlanticRegionalConferenceinVirginiaBeach,Virginia!Sorors,youandmorethan2,500othersororshaveregisteredfortheconference.

TheSororsoftheTidewaterClusterareexcitedandawaityourarrival.Beonthelookoutforweeklyupdatesandour“BeachBlast”e‐blastannouncementsforconferencereminders.

IamproudtoannouncethattheDirectoratehasapprovedthefollowingladiestobecomeaninterestgroup:theCulturedPearlsoftheJamesCity,easternHenrico,NewKentandCharlesCity counties in Virginia, and the Community Leaders Advocating Service and Success(CLASS)ofClevelandandRutherfordcountiesinNorthCarolina.

OnJanuary20‐25,2016,I joinedadelegationofover600sororsattendingthecharteringceremonyforOmegaThetaOmegainDubai.YouwillbepleasedtoknowthechapterBasileusofOmegaThetaOmegahailsfromGreensboro,NorthCarolina.

Thisyear, IhadtheopportunitytoattendsevenFounders’Dayprogramsthroughouttheregion. Sorors, you came together in such style andgraceduring the celebrationof yourFounders, and Iamsoproudofhowweshinedasa region.Continue to representAlphaKappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® in the manner that reflects finer womanhood andsisterliness.

Thank you for your refinedhonor and commitment toAlphaKappaAlpha.Although theVirginiaLegislativeDaywascancelledduetoinclementweather,weplantohostamodifiedVirginiaLegislativeDayatthe2016RegionalConference.TheNorthCarolinaLegislativeDaywilltakeplaceonMay18,2016.ManythankstoourtwoStateCoordinators,SororsMarilynSaulsburgandYvonnePettis,foralloftheirhardworkand“A.C.T.I.O.N.”

Sorors,rememberwestillhaveplaygroundstorefreshandrestore,backpackstogive,andarecord‐attendance-breaking67thBouletoattendinAtlanta,Georgia,inJuly.Remembertopre‐order the new Sorority History Book during the period of May 2‐28, 2016. Do notdelay!

Onafinalnote,theMid‐AtlanticRegionhassixLeadershipFellowsforthe2016year;youwill meet them at the Undergraduate Luncheon during the 63rd Mid‐Atlantic RegionalConference.

SeeyouinVirginiaBeach!

Sisterlyyours,


Greetings from the Regional Director P a g e | 1

Sisters on the Move . . . Launching New Dimensions of ServiceSM

ItiswithsadnessthatIsharewithyouthelossofSororEarlineParmon, North Carolina’s first B l a c k s t a t es e n a t o r . S o r o r Parmon became an Ivy Beyond theWallonMarch15,2016.SororParmonservedasstatesenatorfrom2013to2015,andwasknown forher tenacitywhenit came to social justice and equality. At the time of herdeath, Soror Parmon was a member of Phi Omega Chapter,Winston‐Salem,N.C.

Regional Director’s Takes P a g e | 2

Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Joyce Henderson, joins Soror Destiny Boykin (Undergraduate Member-at-Large) and Soror Autumn Kyles (Second Supreme Anti-Basileus) at the Winter Directorate Meeting.

Ivy Beyond the Wall


63rd

Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference

Conference Highlights

Here are previews of selected events scheduled for the upcoming 63rd MAR Conference being held in Virginia Beach, Virginia, April 21-24, 2016:

Think HBCU℠! Our Historically Black Colleges and Universities are a source of accomplishment and great pride for the African‐American community, as well as the entire nation. Alpha Kappa Alpha’s HBCU initiative within the Launching New Dimension of Service (LNDS) programs highlights these institutions and their contributions to the sorority and society. On HBCU Day, show love and support for your alma mater‐‐ or any HBCU of your choosing -‐ by wearing HBCU t‐shirts and paraphernalia. Date/Time: Thursday, April 21; 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Our Honorary Soror, Rosa Parks, once said,” You must never be fearful of what you are doing when it is right.” The 63rd MARC Public Meeting and Reception, “Let Freedom Ring,” will honor distinguished individuals from the Mid‐Atlantic Region who bravely joined the fight for civil rights during the 1950's and 1960’s. While often putting their own lives in danger, these determined men and women espoused that separate was indeed not equal. We are grateful for their heroic efforts on behalf of millions of African Americans around the country. Date/Time: Thursday, April 21; Reception: 5:00 p.m.‐6:30 p.m.; Public Meeting: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Great leaders inspire greatness in others. Soror Janet Jones Ballard, our 22nd Supreme Basileus, was certainly an inspiration to sorors in the Mid‐Atlantic Region and around the world. Join us in honoring her memory and legacy at the inaugural Janet Jones Ballard Leadership Breakfast. Our keynote speaker is our dynamic 29th Supreme Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson. Don’t miss this exciting program honoring Soror Ballard, as well as past and present Mid‐Atlantic leaders. Date/Time: Friday, April 22; 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

What is a trip to the beach without a beautiful sunset? Put on your prettiest sundress and head to the Sheraton Ballroom—it has one of the best ocean views on the Virginia Beach strip. The Friday Night Event, “Sundresses at Sunset,” features great food, music and special surprises for every guest. Date/Time: Friday, April 22; 7:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Regional News P a g e | 3


63rd

Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference (continued)

Conference Highlights (continued)

S‐K‐Double E, W‐Double E!! The inaugural Mid‐Atlantic Regional Stroll‐Off and Exhibition features eligible undergraduate teams competing for “Most Marvelous” stroll bragging rights. Graduate sorors will be on hand for an exhibition stroll as well. Don’t miss it – you might learn a new stroll or two!Date/Time: Friday, April 22; 9:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Soror Barbara K. Phillips, our 20th Supreme Basileus, was not only a treasure of the Mid‐Atlantic Region, but she also launched the creation of the Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF). Join us as we honor the memory of our soror and the great work she inspired at the Inaugural Barbara K. Phillips “Fascinated with EAF” Breakfast. We are celebrating 36 years of EAF and launching new dimensions of educational excellence. Put on your prettiest fascinator chapeau, join the haute hat brigade and prepare to be inspired by our keynote speaker, U.S. Congresswoman and Soror Alma Adams of the 12th Congressional District (NC). “Hats Off To EAF Chapter Challenge” participants will also be recognized. Date/Time: Saturday, April 23; 7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Let’s Celebrate! As the 63rd MARC comes to a close, join in the celebration at the “Riding the Waves in a Sea of Green Gala.” Put on your prettiest green semi‐formal or cocktail attire, and join sorors and their guests for music, dancing and delicious food in a beautiful beach themed setting. Date/Time: Saturday, April 23; 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Regional News (continued) P a g e | 4

Sisters on the Move . . . Launching New Dimensions of Service SM

63rd

Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference (continued)

Virginia Beach Fun Facts

Since 1930, Forbes Candy in Virginia Beach has produced the finest original saltwater taffy recipe on the boardwalk and on the Outer Banks of

North Carolina. Forbes stores can be found on the Atlantic Avenue oceanfront “strip,” so indulge your sweet tooth!

Virginia Beach loves the “the Sound of Freedom!” Naval Air

Station Oceana is home to the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet fighter jets. These jets can be seen in the skies as our resident “top guns” practice maneuvers and hone their skills to be prepared if duty calls. You may catch a glimpse of these powerful military machines circling the skies, but you will definitely hear them first! Don’t be alarmed…it’s just the Sound of Freedom!

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk dates back to 1888. The impressive 28-foot-wide concrete boardwalk was named in the top "Best American Boardwalks" by USA Today Weekend, Discovery Channel, Southern Living, Coastal Living Magazine, and many others.

Did someone say shopping? Lynnhaven Mall in Virginia Beach is one of the largest shopping malls on the East Coast, offering an enormous selection of new discoveries, unique diversions and delightful indulgences. Located just a short 10-minute drive from the Virginia Beach oceanfront, Lynnhaven Mall features six flagship stores, over 175 specialty shops, a state-of-the-art AMC theater with 18 screens, stadium seating and 17 different eateries.

You can free your wild side with a visit to the Virginia Aquarium! Located just four miles from the Convention Center, the attraction has over 800,000 gallons of one of the best aquariums and animal habitats in the country with hands-on exhibits, nature paths, and marshlands. The Adventure Park also has an eco-friendly zip line and aerial adventure experience in the trees above the scenic Owls Creek. Tippy, Homer and Sheldon, our resident playful river otters, look forward to greeting you!

King Neptune proudly welcomes local residents and visitors alike to Virginia Beach, in the form of a 34-foot, cast bronze statue standing at the gateway to Neptune Park and the threshold of the sea. Virginia-based sculptor Paul DiPasquale also created the bronze statue of Arthur Ashe on Richmond's famous Monument Avenue. King Neptune loves photos, so grab your sorors and your selfie sticks and walk down to 30th Street on the boardwalk.

63rd Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference Highlights and Fun Facts brought to you by Soror Adriane B. James, Tidewater Cluster Coordinator. Thanks for all you do for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®!!

Regional News (continued) P a g e | 5


International Views P a g e | 6

Sisters on the Move . . . Launching New Dimensions of Service

Getting Your “AKA House” in Order:

Successful Chapter Evaluations

International Standards Committee

Chapter evaluations “kicked off” during the Fall 2015 Undergraduate

RoundUps and Cluster Retreats. Thank you to all members of the regional

AKA E-Teams who assisted with this process! Based on information learned from our first round of

evaluations, the International Standards Committee (ISC) thought it would be helpful to give a few

“reminders” as chapters continue to get their “AKA House” in order.

Your “AKA House” is not in order if your chapter finances are not in order! Chapters are strongly

encouraged to read and follow “Financial Fundamentals Guide to Chapter Financial Procedures.”

Bonding: Alpha Kappa Alpha Bylaws, Article VII, Section 7, “require each chapter to bond its Tamiouchos

and Pecunious Grammateus. It is recommended that any other soror handling funds (i.e., check signer, fund

collectors, etc.) also be bonded. For undergraduate chapters, the Graduate Advisor(s) must be bonded and

sign the chapter checks in addition to the two undergraduate chapter officers (Note: Bonding companies

generally do not insure any persons who are under 21 years of age. In such cases, the Graduate Advisor is

the bonded position). Bonds should cover positions and not individuals, i.e. blanket bond. Chapters should

review their bonding coverage annually when the bond is renewed to ensure the chapter coverage is adequate.

Surety bonds may be secured through insurance brokers and should be kept in the chapter files.” (page 15)

Note: The Graduate Advisor position is listed on the undergraduate chapter bond.

Financial Officers Certification: Chapters should ensure that the Basileus, Graduate Advisors, financial

officers and those seeking these positions attend the Financial Officer Certification in order to ensure that

chapter procedures are in accordance with Sorority financial requirements.

Internal Audits: Financial records of the Pecunious Grammateus and Tamiouchos and accounts of

expenditures of officers are examined annually by an internal audit committee appointed by the Basileus

and a written report is provided to the chapter. Copies of the internal audit reports should remain in the

chapter files and be included in the chapter minutes.

Chapter Financial Procedures: Chapters should have detailed financial procedures for handling chapter

finances in accordance with the chapter bylaws and Alpha Kappa Alpha financial guidelines. Copies of

chapter bylaws and/or chapter operating procedures should include an explanation for handling chapter

finances and remain in the chapter’s files.

Additional items needed to help you get your “AKA House” in order:

Minutes: Chapter minutes should be hard-back bound, signed and dated by officers and include monthly

reports presented at the meetings.

Sponsoring Graduate Chapters: Graduate and undergraduate meeting agendas and minutes should reflect

that the joint meetings took place. Mentoring programs need to be developed and documented. Graduate

Advisors’ reports, newsletters, chapter minutes should reflect that all undergraduate chapter records,

property, checkbooks, etc., are kept by the Graduate Advisor during vacation months.

Chapters with Foundations: Such chapters should have copies of “the annual chapter reporting forms to be

filed with Corporate Office and the Regional Director.” (Financial Fundamentals Guide to Chapter Financial

procedures, page 20). The forms are available at www.aka1908.com. Copies of the foundation’s annual

reports should also be kept in the chapter files.

Your International Standards Committee is here to assist you with getting your “AKA House” in order!

Feel free to contact us and be sure to attend our workshop at your regional conference and at Boule.

In Sisterly Service,

Soror Giselé M. Casanova, Chairman

International Views (continued) P a g e | 7


http://www.aka1908.com/

Chapter Logos and Branding

International Communications Committee

The International Communications Committee has received numerous inquiries related to

chapter and region logos and branding.

Below are the official guidelines approved by the Directorate, related to the creation and use of

logos. These guidelines, along with examples are included in the Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Brand

Guidelines located in the Members-Only section of the international website (www.aka1908.com).

1. Chapter and region websites, flyers, banners, posters, or other publications should bear the official

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority coat of arms (shield) or the full name of the sorority.

2. The Launching New Dimensions of ServiceSM logo should be used on all program-related webpages,

flyers, banners, posters, or other publications.

3. Chapters should use no more than two Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority logos on any single webpage, flyer,

poster, banner or other publication. For example:

If a chapter is hosting a local ASCEND Enrichment ProgramSM event, it is recommended that the

banner bear the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority coat of arms and the Launching New Dimensions of

ServiceSM logo or the ASCEND logo.

In the case that a partner logo is required, this may be included in addition to the Alpha Kappa

Alpha coat of arms and program logo.

4. Chapters and regions are permitted to create their own logos with the following guidelines:

The words Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated™ (Inc. is acceptable) must be included along

with the chapter or region.

The logo must use the sorority’s official pink and green colors as indicated in the Brand

Guidelines. The official colors may not be modified.

Logos must positively reflect the sorority’s mission and values.

Chapter logos shall never supersede or replace the sorority coat of arms.

Chapter logos shall never supersede or replace the Launching New Dimensions of ServiceSM logo

or related program initiative logos on program-related publications.

5. When used, the chapter or region logo should always be placed to the right of the sorority’s coat of

arms (shield). In the case where the logos are used vertically, the chapter or region logo should be

placed below the sorority coat of arms.

6. Chapters may create logos for special occasions (significant anniversary, fundraiser, etc.). These logos

must comply with the guidelines above.

In addition, all chapters received copies of the coat of arms and Launching New Dimensions of ServiceSM

logos in the 2014 fall mailing. Please discontinue usage of sorority logos that are found on popular search

engines such as Google, Bing, or Yahoo! The logos tend to be incorrect and contain inaccurate symbols or

wording.

Finally, chapters must request usage of the sorority coat of arms for published or printed materials including

but not limited to candy bars, umbrellas, tents, banners, posters, clothing, etc. when not being furnished by

an authorized AKA vendor. Please submit a sample to [email protected] to request usage permission and

if approved, a high resolution copy of the logo will be provided to the manufacturer. You do not have to

request permission to use the coat of arms on your chapter website, flyers (except those used as part of the

sorority’s official Membership Intake Process), banners, posters or other published materials related to an

official sorority activity.

Please contact [email protected] for any questions pertaining to branding or logo usage

guidelines.

Soror Leona H. Dotson, Chairman – Far Western Region



http://www.aka1908.com/

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Managing Chapter Financial Operations

International Finance Committee

Greetings, sorors from the International Finance Committee,

We are busy preparing for regional conferences where we will facilitate the finance workshop, “Managing

Chapter Financial Procedures Utilizing Financial Fundamentals.” This workshop is designed for all chapter

financial officers and Basilei; and it will review financial fundamentals required for effective chapter

financial operations. This interactive workshop will cover the responsibilities of the financial officers and

how to be efficient in the planning, handling, and reporting of chapter's finances.

Sorors, each region has established time for a financial forum with the expressed purpose of discussing

proposed 2017 & 2018 budgets that will be voted on at the 2016 Boule in Atlanta. At this forum,

participants will have an opportunity to ask questions about the proposed budget and other questions related

to the financial operations of the sorority. Members of the Directorate and the International Finance

Committee will be in attendance to provide budget details. Chapter Basilei, chapter financial officers and

other interested sorors are encouraged to attend.

If your chapter has not done so already, we remind chapters, that it is imperative that each chapter file their

Statement of Financial Position and Budget Reports through our online financial reporting system. These

reports are required each year to ensure the tax status of the chapter and the international body is not

jeopardized.

“New Dimensions in Finance” continues to be a priority as we work to improve our chapter financial

procedures and practices.

The 2014 – 2016 International Finance Committee


Autumn KylesMid-Atlantic Region

Destiny BoykinsMid-Atlantic Region

Sharon Brown HarriottSouth Atlantic Region

Jasmine AdkinsNorth Atlantic Region

Gerlanda MillerCentral Region

Shaliah ThierryNorth Atlantic Region

Danette Anthony Reed Chairman

South Central Region

Jasmine AdkinsNorth Atlantic Region

Gerlanda MillerCentral Region

Shaliah ThierryNorth Atlantic Region


Preparing Officers and Ensuring Financial Readiness

Financial Officer Certification Committee

The Financial Officer Certification Committee focuses on assisting and training current and aspiring chapter

officers in the proper implementation and execution of chapter financial procedures. It is our goal to

enhance the core competencies of participants. The designation focuses on reporting, internal controls, due

diligence, qualifications, financial roles and responsibilities, and the use of technology in conducting

financial operations. The certification workshop takes a hands-on, interactive learning approach, where

participants learn through the use of presented materials, interactive scenarios, and case studies.

The Financial Officers Certification Committee offers this full-day workshop at each Regional Conference,

the Leadership Seminar, and the Boule. During the 2015 Regional Conference season 453 sorors

participated in the workshop, becoming trained as certified chapter financial officers. For the first time,

during the 2015 Leadership Seminar in Chicago, Illinois, the Committee conducted two consecutive

workshop sessions, training a record number of over 100 participants at one event.

All sorors are eligible to obtain this certification, which signifies a high level of understanding of the

financial practices of Alpha Kappa Alpha Chapters. Sorors who successfully complete this training earn

the designation of Certified Chapter Financial Officer. Sorors who attain this designation remain certified

for 4 years.

The Financial Officers Certification Committee is Launching New Dimensions to ensure current and future

chapter financial officers are fully trained to accurately and appropriately conduct chapter financial

business, and have access to resources (the committee members) when questions arise as they conduct the

financial affairs of the chapter. Not only does the Committee conduct a full-day workshop at Regional and

International Conferences, committee members have also developed and presented financial workshops for

individual chapters to train their members and discuss appropriate financial procedures; and committee

members have also held webinars hosted by Regional Leadership Institutes.

As a result of the Financial Officer Certification Committee and its workshops, chapter financial officers

are more knowledgeable and more confident in their interactions with chapter members. They are prepared

for the accurate management of chapter funds that are acquired and disbursed, as we Launch New

Dimensions in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

Financial Officer Certification Committee Members (pictured above):

Tamara Lewis, Lezell W. Murphy, CPA, Jaquilla Ross, Tonette Echols,

Gayle Miles Scott, CPA (Chairman), Tara McDowell, Candice Milligan



We Came, We Saw, We Continue. . .

International Leadership Training Committee

We Came. . .The International Leadership Training Committee answered the call of Supreme Basileus,

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson by Launching New Dimensions of Leadership using the 4D Approach. This initiative

incorporates training in sorority leadership and development; professional development; community/civic

leadership and development; and personal development into the inner workings of our sorority. The changing

needs of our sorority and society are being addressed while identifying and training members of our organization

who desire to lead. Please be reminded that Sorors seeking certification to run for Directorate positions and the

International Nominating Committee can only complete their certification at Boule or Leadership Seminar.

Directorate Candidate Certification is comprised of 10-12 modules, depending on the position and Nominating

Committee Candidate Certification is comprised of 2 modules.

We Saw. . .Sorors, we appreciate your more than 75% response to the 2015 Leadership Seminar evaluation.

The members of the International Leadership Training Committee acknowledge your resounding request for

handouts at all workshops and we plan to implement this and other enhancements at Boule 2016, Leadership

Seminar 2017, and Boule 2018. Thanks to the International Technology Committee, your Alpha Kappa Alpha

profile now includes a printable transcript of your regional and national training. Check out your new and

improved profile by logging into the members-only section at www.aka1908.com and looking at all of your

“AKAmplishments.”

We Continue. . .to Offer New Learning Opportunities at Boule 2016. Complete various certifications during pre-conference sessions!

Engage in an array of forums and workshops at the first-ever Leadership Training Day!

Serve as Facilitators and Scanners!

Sorors will be asked to volunteer to serve as facilitators and scanners during the Boule registration process. See

below for clarification of roles as we look forward to Boule 2016 and the numerous opportunities to polish our

pearls as we enhance our knowledge.

Presenter: Develops and presents the workshop in addition to creating the handouts and other workshop

materials

Moderator: Presides over the workshop, introduces the presenters, leads the group discussions, and

manages the flow of information

Facilitator: Introduces presenter(s) or moderator(s), monitors the time, and closes the workshop by

providing expression of appreciation to the presenter or moderator

Scanner: Scans badges to document workshop attendance

See you at Boule 2016 in Atlanta, GA!

Soror Linda Groomes Walton, Chairman Far Western

Soror Jacquita Wright-Henderson North Atlantic Soror Bettina Benoit Durant South Atlantic

Soror Benita Evans Lefft South Atlantic

Soror Debra Davis South Eastern

Soror Kia Johnson South Central

Soror Kiahna Davis Central

Soror Julie Hickman Mid-Western



http://www.aka1908/

“Nurturing Our Ivy”

Sisterly Relations Committee

The Sisterly Relations Committee is happy to report the resounding success of the first year’s journey to

strengthen sisterly relations at the local, regional and international levels. During the year, sorors

enthusiastically and wholeheartedly embraced “nurturing our ivy” by supporting the First International

Sisterly Relations Day; attending our regional conference and leadership seminar workshops; exhibiting

model behaviors; and displaying our sorority’s core values.

After the sisterly celebration, it will be time to turn your attention to our ongoing workshop series, “Just

Like a Sista.” In keeping with the series goal to provide activities that will be useful to assisting chapters in

the development of effective sisterly relations programs,

the regional conference and boule workshops have been

designed to focus on a key component of strengthening the

sisterly bonds - maintaining harmony when faced with

discord. The content of the workshops will address this area

by offering a healthy prescription for effective relationships

in an interesting, informative, and interactive manner.

Sorors will not want to miss the ending workshop which

will feature the sharing of lessons learned and bring to life

the words of our Sisterly Relations Chant: “I’ll teach you

and you teach me, we’ll exchange information on how to

be.”

The Sisterly Relations Committee wants to remind sorors that the mission to renew the values of care,

kindness and mutual respect must become a way of life. It must be not only special activities, but

spontaneous actions; not only major observances, but meaningful occurrences; and not only monthly events,

but monumental evolution.

We thank you for taking this journey with us and uplifting the mantra, “sisterhood begins with me.”

Soror Wilma Holmes Tootle, Chairman

Sisterly Relations Committee

Soror Mary Bentley Lamar – North Atlantic

Soror Ade’Leake Gore – Mid-Atlantic

Soror Jahari Soward – South Atlantic

Soror Sheila Hill – Great Lakes

Soror Peggy Earnest – South Eastern

Soror Suzann Canady - Central

Soror Shirley Fisher – South Central

Soror Anika Wilson – Mid-Western

Soror Marsha Overton-Dodson – Far Western

Soror Maria Encarnacion – International

Soror Lyah Beth LeFlore – Resource



United Nations Association Grant Awarded to Alpha Psi

Omega Chapter

Alpha Psi Omega Chapter, located in Wilmington, NC, has been awarded a mini-grant by the United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These funds of $2, 275 will be used to implement “The Road to Paris” Project. Only ten grants were awarded to all sororities.

“The Road to Paris” Project is a strategic campaign and process to help set a Solutions Agenda with business, financiers and governments that will support and complement the historic United Nations climate change conference. “The Road to Paris” Project was launched during the World Climate Summit in 2013 at the Conference of the Parties (COP19) held in Warsaw, Poland. The decision was made to create a bottom-up public/private initiative to provide practical and impactful solutions to help solve climate change during COP21.

“The Road to Paris” Project is timely in that it coincides with the Paris Climate Summit, supports the sorority’s implementation of Cycle II of the Achievement, Communications, Self-Awareness, Communication, Engagement Networking and Developmental Skills (ASCENDSM), and links well to Target IV of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s

Launching New Dimensions of Service – the environmental playgrounds and greens project.

Additional local collaboration of this project is being developed with The Greater Wilmington, NC Chamber of Commerce, The New Hanover County Public School System, and Region “O” Council for the Advancement of Minorities in Engineering (ROCAME).

Alpha Psi Omega Chapter celebrates 84 years of service to mankind in the spring of 2016. The Rev. Dr. Rachel D. Stephens currently serves as Basileus of Alpha Psi Omega Chapter.

Chapter Twitter P a g e | 13


Pink and Green Spotlight on: Psi Psi Omega Chapter

PSI PSI OMEGA ZUMBA FUNDRAISER GETS HEARTS PUMPING AS OUR PINK WENT RED

Hearts were pumping on February 5, 2016, as members of Psi Psi Omega hosted an evening of Zumba. The event was attended by over 100 guests at the local Sport & Health Club to benefit the chapter’s fundraising

efforts. Sorors, families and friends packed the gym for 90 minutes and followed the dance fitness moves of several Zumba instructors for a high-energy, calorie-burning workout. The chapter raised funds that will benefit community service programs and the chapter’s scholarship fund.

The Health Committee provided heart and stroke awareness as well as other health-related materials to guests, in addition to heart healthy snacks and beverages to keep guests hydrated for the workout.

PSI PSI OMEGA CHAPTER EXPANDING OUR TERRITORY OF SERVICE

Psi Psi Omega Chapter was invited to participate in and make a presentation to Touch Hearts Christian Center’s (THCC) Community Service Day on January 31, 2016 in Garrisonville, V.A. Participants in the program included ministers from the surrounding counties of Fauquier, Fredericksburg, King George, Mineral, and Stafford, Virginia. Community service organizations who participated included Man-Up, Inc., THCC Community Day Care Center and Girl Scouts of America.

Soror Crystal Jones, Ivy Leaf Reporter, was the speaker for this occasion. As a graciously confident and captivating speaker, Soror Jones provided a slight history of our great organization, current targets, and projects recently completed in Stafford County. Those projects include: cleaning up a senior citizens’ area on Martin Luther King’s Day of Service; donating 30 pairs of jeans for the Jeans for Teens Project via our reuse and recycle initiative; donation of coats, hats, gloves, as well as future efforts, such as playground cleanup and providing a bench area for the Senior Citizen’s home. As Soror Jones described the projects, she explained how they are interwoven with the Alpha Kappa Alpha targets, and mentioned the vast number of partnership and collaboration opportunities among the various ministerial and service organization to be of services in the areas of Stafford and Fauquier counties and Quantico, V.A. The presentation also provided the opportunity to introduce Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® and specifically, Psi Psi Omega Chapter, to our community.

“PINK AND GREEN SPOTLIGHT” will be a recurring column in The Messenger, and it

will feature a chapter that has submitted multiple events showing their great work and

community service. The inaugural spotlight is on PSI PSI OMEGA in Garrisonville,

Virginia. We encourage chapters to submit descriptions of any and all chapter projects that

are in line with International targets and initiatives. We will be more than happy to

spotlight one chapter in each issue.

Chapter Twitter (continued) P a g e | 14


Pink and Green Spotlight (continued)

PSI PSI OMEGA ANSWERS LIFE'S MOST PERSISTENT AND URGENT QUESTION

Psi Psi Omega Chapter answered Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s question of “What are you doing for others?” by serving residents and shoppers at Touch Hearts Christian Ministries (THCM) Senior Center, Stafford County and Community Touch’s Noah’s Ark Thrift Store, Fauquier County.

Sorors and friends assisted with grounds beautification at the THCM Senior Center and pledged a bench for future use by the center residents. In Fauquier County, participants assisted the staff of the Noah’s Ark Thrift Store to prepare the store for shoppers by front-facing, stocking and designing displays intended to encourage purchase of the store’s merchandise.

PSI PSI OMEGA CHAPTER DONATES TO TOYS FOR TOTS

Each year, the U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” program collects new, unwrapped toys for children for the holidays. During the holiday season, community groups across the nation host “Toys for Tots” drives. Psi Psi Omega Chapter participated in this endeavor.

Psi Psi Omega Chapter members collected toys which were given as gifts to needy children so that they, too, could experience one of the true joys of Christmas. On December 12, 2015, after the chapter’s year-end meeting, Basileus and Anti-Basileus, Sorors Nadine Beach and Rhonda Cunningham-Still, respectively, presented the Marines with four overflowing boxes of toys!

As many of our chapter members are veterans, this particular cause hit close to home. The “Toys for Tots” program allowed us to spread good cheer to those who need it the most and to continue being of great service to the community

Kappa Delta Omega Participates in Local Food Drive

Kappa Delta Omega Chapter of Martinsville, Virginia donated over 100 boxes of cereal to the Community Store House in Ridgeway, Virginia as part of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. The Community Store House is open for donations Monday through Saturday and distributes food to local needy families each Thursday. Accompanying the chapter members were students from the chapter's ASCEND Program. This project also ties in with AKA’s international initiative to combat childhood hunger.

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Pictured from left to right are: Sorority members Kimberly Matchett, Dreama Dalton, Carol Wills, Denise Fultz, Judy Hodge, Helen Howell and Virginia Hoover (President); ASCEND students Miranda Jones, Jasmine Long and Tyoshla Redd; Sorority members Carolyn Rinaldi, Catherine Seay, Tammie Carter and Mary Pritchett.



Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Chapter Co-Sponsored

Williamsburg-James City County HBCU College Fair

On Saturday, November 21, 2015, high school students from Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, as well as high school students throughout the Peninsula and Hampton Roads regions, were invited to take part in the Williamsburg-James City-County (WJCC) HBCU College Fair. The WJCC HBCU College Fair was co-sponsored by Lambda Lambda Omega Chapter and the WJCC Schools Foundation. Participants were offered informational sessions on the admissions and financial aid processes. Representatives of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) from Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland and West Virginia were present to provide information on their respective schools for this first-time event.

Sisterly Chapter Reminder for the 63rd

Mid-

Atlantic Regional Conference:

Bring your backpacks to the beach! The 63rd MARC Community Service Project will be a backpack collection for schools throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region. How can children focus on solving a math problem or memorizing a new word when they are trying to ignore the persistent pangs of hunger? Sorors should fill their donated backpacks with healthy, non-perishable, low sugar snacks for students. Donate a snack-filled backpack and help provide food to over one million families (250,000 families per year) or households that include children. Snacks could include:

Applesauce or fruit cups Snack-size crackers and pretzels Trail mix Nutritious snack or breakfast bars Raisins or dried fruit

Date/Time: Thursday, April 21; 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. drop off. Cost: N/A

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Western Carolina Cluster Continues a Legacy of New

Dimensions

It doesn’t get any better than sorors gathered to honor the founding of our great sisterhood. Ask any of the over 300 Alpha Kappa Alpha women present at the Sheraton Airport Hotel in Charlotte, N.C. for the Western Carolina Cluster Founders’ Day Celebration under the theme “Celebrating Our Founders: A Legacy of New Dimensions.”

Undergraduate and graduate sorors from across the Cluster, as well as visiting sorors from as far as Atlanta, Georgia, linked pearls and received greetings from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Joyce Henderson, via a beautifully written letter that encouraged all to provide world class service within their local communities and to take advantage of the opportunity to reinvigorate their individual dedication to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®

.

Supreme Grammateus and Secretary of the EAF Board of Directors, Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, served as the keynote speaker. She proudly exclaimed to all that “clearly, you decided to follow the pink and green brick road, came over the rainbow and landed in a pot of ivy. You are the cream of the crop. I’m going to click my heels and now that I am an honorary member of the Western Carolina Cluster…there’s no place like home.” She charged all present to analyze the real meaning of the celebration of the founders and to continue to define their purpose as Alpha Kappa Alpha Women.

The celebration also included chapter recognition on behalf of an International Program Target III community service project. Approximately 350 homeless kits were created and donated by each of the cluster graduate chapters to support agencies within their local communities including AHOPE Day Facility, Cabarrus Victim’s Assistance Network, Family Crisis Council of Rowan County, Mt. Zion Restoration Church-AS ONE Ministries, Second Calvary Baptist Church and Urban Ministries.

Also in attendance was Soror Patrice Wright, Western Carolina Cluster Coordinator. The steering committee was led by Soror Laura A. Johnson; and the following chapter Basilei facilitated the day’s events: Sorors Kelly Dargins (Alpha Lambda Omega), Sandra Morgan (Gamma Gamma Omega), Lillian Morgan (Delta Xi Omega), Terry Scott (Lambda Upsilon Omega), LaCourtney Setzer (Xi Phi Omega), A. Renee Grisham (Rho Psi Omega), and Beverly Tribble (Zeta Mu Omega).

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Soror Elizabeth Sellers Named 2015 Greek of the Year

by the National Pan Hellenic Council of Peninsula

Soror Elizabeth Sellers is a Silver Star and Life Member of Alpha Kappa Sorority, Inc.® celebrating 25 years of service to all mankind. She began her journey in the fall of 1979 when initiated into Alpha Psi Chapter at Tennessee State University (HBCU). In 2011 she joined Lambda Lambda Omega Chapter in Williamsburg, VA, where she is currently the Financial Officer and Membership Chairman. Soror Sellers has participated in chapter activities that have directly impacted the Williamsburg community and surrounding area. She has shown outstanding leadership as Chairman of the Sorority’s Programs and has represented the chapter as a delegate to major Sorority conferences.

Soror Sellers is currently a Financial System Analyst, with more than 34 years of experience in budgeting and accounting at the Department of the Army (civilian). She is also actively involved in the community, serving as a Deacon at the Restoration Christion Church.

She has been married to her college sweetheart, Lorenzo, for 36 years, and they have two children, Anthony 33 and Christopher 31.

Lambda Lambda Omega Chapter is pleased to honor Elizabeth Sellers as their 2015 Greek Soror of the Year. She was honored at the chapter’s Riverwalk Jam and the NPHC of Peninsula’s Greek of the Year Awards Banquet, both held in Williamsburg.

Soror Tanya Weaver’s Participation with the American

Diabetes Association to Benefit Our Undergraduates*

On Tuesday, January 26, 2016, Soror Tanya Weaver participated in the first meeting in the Hampton Roads area with the American Diabetes Association to begin dialogue on how to bring awareness to college campuses for those students living with diabetes and those who do not know they have the disease. Representatives from Hampton University, Christopher Newport University, Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, Regent University, and Tidewater Community College attended. The American Diabetes Association regional representative spoke on new incentives and promotions to encourage students living with diabetes to be more proactive and vocal about the disease to their peers. One incentive is for students wearing insulin pumps to have pump colors that represent their schools, sororities, and/or fraternities. Soror Tanya Weaver, of Gamma Delta Omega Chapter, Portsmouth, V.A., is among the first in the Hampton Roads area to receive the “pink and green” insulin pump. The pink and green pump is the first sorority-colored pump thus far. Soror Tanya has been asked to be a part of the college tour to help promote dialogue about diabetes on college campuses. Soror Tanya has been living with the disease for more than 48 years as a Type 1 diabetic. She is a graduate of two (2) HBCUs and looks forward to being a part of the initiative on college campuses, especially HBCU campuses, where diabetes is at higher rates.

*Printed with written permission from Soror Tanya Weaver.

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Soror Elizabeth Brooks Edwards, September 25, 2015

Zeta Mu Omega, Gastonia, NC

Soror Lillian Wray Corprew, December 20, 2015

Zeta Mu Omega, Gastonia, NC

Soror F. Elaine Trivers, February 11, 2016

Zeta Chi Omega Chapter, Arlington/Alexandria, VA

Soror LaVerne Talley Alebiosu Croprew, February 25, 2016

Kappa Gamma (charter member), Old Dominion University

Who Knew?

Within this issue of The Messenger is the answer to this question:

“What is the theme for the 63rd Mid-Atlantic Conference Public Meeting?” Do you remember where you saw it? Well, we have a great deal for you!!

The first three sorors to contact the Editor of The Messenger with the correct answer will receive a prize at the Regional Conference!! Just e-mail Soror Joyce Putman at [email protected] with the answer, and she will contact the first three sorors who respond correctly to let you know you’ve won and how you can pick up your prize. If you are not attending the Conference, arrangements will be made for you to receive your prize.

It pays to read The Messenger, so please read each issue to see what exciting things are happening in your region!!

Ivies Beyond the Wall Past the wall she made her mark, And lit the sky with her brilliant light. On forward, never turning backwards, Greater things to do in sight.

Excerpted from a poem written by Soror Joyce Putman in memory of IBTW Ardelia Hunter, Zeta Chi Omega (2014)

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All articles/submissions should be provided by the chapter’s Basileus or the Ivy Leaf Reporter

(preferred). Any article/submission missing the deadline for a particular issue will be held and placed

in the next issue of the Messenger if feasible.

All articles/submissions must be newsworthy. We will allow publishing of chapter events, soror

accomplishments, advanced academic degrees (e.g., Masters, Juris Doctor, Ph.D.), etc., as long as it

meets the other criteria set forth in these guidelines.

Submissions will be in the form of a Microsoft Word document only. Photos are to be in high

resolution (at least 300 dpi or dots per inch) to best illustrate highlights of the event. If you are

uncertain of a photo’s resolution, make sure that the photo is as crisp as possible; check the

properties of the picture for the dpi count. If the image is blurred or otherwise compromised, it will

not be accepted for use in the Messenger.

When using excerpts from other sources, you must provide the correct citation for the source. We

want to insure that proper credit is due to the source of any material that we present in The

Messenger. In the event that an entire submission is from another source, we reserve the right to

determine whether it should be included in the newsletter as a special insert or not included. The

newsletter is intended to showcase the activities and accomplishments of the Mid‐Atlantic Region

and its members.

The Newsletter Team does not accept articles sent in the body of an e‐mail message. Please adhere

to our request and send your articles in Microsoft Word form.

Articles should be no more than 375 words in length. Each article must include a heading, and

accompanying photos must have a caption identifying the persons in the photo. Where there are

more than five individuals in the photo, it will be sufficient to note the chapter name(s) involved.

The words in the heading and the photo caption are not included in the word count.

When a photo is sent without an article, the photo must have a caption describing the activity being

seen. The description of the activity should be no more than two sentences. If there is no caption,

the photo will not be used.

When submitting the name of an Ivy Beyond the Wall, please give the full name, the date the soror

passed and the current chapter affiliation. If you know the chapter/year where the soror was

initiated, we will accept that information as well. While we would like to note the passing of our

sisters, due to space limitations we cannot publish articles for each Ivy Beyond the Wall.

The Mid‐Atlantic Region Messenger staff reserves the right to edit all articles/submissions and

photos for size and content. We may shorten or embellish a submission where deemed necessary,

but will keep the tone and intent of the original submission.

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Mid‐Atlantic Region Administrative Staff

Soror Brenda Andrews – Executive Assistant (EA) – [email protected]

Soror Saundra McCullough‐Cobey – EA, Administration (Scheduler) – [email protected]

Soror Cassandra Borden – EA, Administration –

[email protected] Soror Connie Green – EA, Operations (MIP) –

[email protected]

Soror Amirah Salaam – Personal Assistant – [email protected]

Soror Yvette Darnaby – Personal Assistant – [email protected]

Soror Kim Kendricks – Special Advisor – [email protected]

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®

MID-ATLANTIC REGION


5911 Edsall Road, Unit 411

Alexandria, VA 22304

Cell: 703.901.4091

E‐Mail: [email protected]

MAR WEBSITE: HTTP:/MIDATLANTICAKA.ORG/

SUBMIT YOUR ARTICLES FOR THE

MARVELOUS MID-ATLANTIC MESSENGER TO: [email protected]

Chapters should send their chapter newsletters to: [email protected]

Mid‐Atlantic Regional Communications Officer

Soror Ayana Hernandez ([email protected])

MARVELOUS MID-ATLANTIC MESSENGER NEWSLETTER TEAM

Editor: Soror Joyce PutmanProduction Staff Soror C. Starr Garrett

Soror Robin GreenProduction Advisor Soror Ayana HernandezTechnical Advisor Soror Gloria Bell

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