Dear Esteemed Sorors and Partners,
As I reflect on our collective journey, it is with a profound mix of emotions gratitude for our shared achievements, pride in our experiences, and anticipation for the path ahead.
With heartfelt appreciation, I announce my transition from Editor-In-Chief of the Great Lakes Gazette Newsletter role within our esteemed sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Serving alongside an exceptional team dedicated to excellence has been an honor.
I am delighted to introduce Soror Danielle Crosby, the capable and talented CoChairman of the Great Lakes Newsletter Committee, as the incoming Editor-InChief. Soror Danielle embodies the essence of our cherished theme, "Greater Together," exemplifying passion, dedication, and innovative spirit. I am confident that the Gazette will soar to new heights of success under her leadership.
Concurrently, I embark on a new chapter of my journey, humbled and honored by the appointment to the International Risk Management Committee by our esteemed Madam Supreme, Danette Anthony Reed. Assuming the role of Great Lakes Representative, I am enthusiastic about contributing to our sisterhood on a broader scale while ensuring our region's voice is magnified. This transition has been meticulously planned since September 2023, aligning with the visionary "Greater Together" principles inherent within our beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Soror Danielle and I have crafted a succession plan centered on continuity, growth, and nurturing future leadership within our region.
Our journey has been characterized by collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment to excellence a testament to the strength of our sisterhood. Each milestone and challenge conquered has reinforced our unity and resilience. To each of you who has been part of this extraordinary journey—my deepest gratitude. Your unwavering support, dedication, and commitment to our mission possibilities ahead for our sisterhood.
has been the cornerstone of our shared accomplishments. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together and remain inspired by the
As I bid farewell to my role as Editor-In-Chief, I carry cherished memories, invaluable lessons, and a profound belief in the capable hands that will guide the Gazette into the future.
Thank you for allowing me to serve, learn, and grow alongside you. Though my role may shift, my dedication to our shared values remains unwavering.
With deepest gratitude and warm regards,
Dear Sorors of The Great Lakes Region,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. It is with immense joy and gratitude to express my heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to serve as the Co-Chairman of The Regional Newsletter Committee, and transition into the position of Editor-In-Cheif.
My deepest thanks to Madam Regional Director, Soror Gwendolyn L. Kirtley for entrusting me with this significant responsibility. It is an honor that I do not take lightly, and I am excited to contribute to the continued success and excellence of our region under your leadership.
This smooth transition is made possible with the tremendous work done by Soror Gwen Bush in overseeing our Leadership Succession Plan. Her dedication and guidance have been instrumental in preparing me for this role, and I am truly fortunate to have benefited from her knowledge and expertise.
In addition to expressing my gratitude, I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to Soror Gwen Bush on her new International Position. This achievement is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to our organization. Her continued success not only reflects positively on her but also brings pride to The Great Lakes Region. We are truly fortunate to have such an exemplary Soror amongst us.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Regional Executive Committee for their unwavering support and patience throughout this transitional period. Their assistance has been invaluable, and I am confident that, together, we will uphold Madam Regional Director's vision of working "Greater Together."
As we embark on this journey, I am committed to maintaining the standard of excellence that has been set forth by those who have preceded me. Our mission to
publish the stories of our sisterhood, service, and achievements will continue to be at the forefront of our endeavors.
I am truly honored to serve alongside such dedicated and inspiring Sorors. Together, we will continue to showcase the strength and unity that defines our region. Your support and collaboration are essential as we work towards our common goals.
Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity. I am eager and excited to contribute my best efforts to the success of The Great Lakes Region.
Yours in Sisterhood,
Succession planning is a critical aspect of ensuring a smooth transition in leadership roles, and the Great Lakes Regional Newsletter Chairman Succession Plan stands as a testament to the thoughtful and strategic approach taken by Sorors Gwendolyn D. Bush and Danielle E. Crosby. Soror Danielle's journey into the role of Chairman is marked by her dedicated service under the leadership of Soror Gwendolyn on the Regional Newsletter Committee Having proven her commitment and capabilities, Soror Danielle had the honor of being appointed Regional Newsletter Co-Chairman to eventually transition into the role of Chairman As Soror Gwendolyn gracefully transitions out of the Chairman position, Soror Danielle is poised to step into the role seamlessly, thanks to their weekly
The collaboration between Sorors Gwen and Danielle extends beyond the succession planning process Their joint participation in events like the 5G Chapter Leaders retreat, the Northern Ohio/ Western Pennsylvania Cluster Conference and the Regional Ivy Leaf Reporter Seminar highlights their shared commitment to Madam
Regional Director Soror Gwendolyn L Kirtley’s vision of working “Greater Together” Soror Danielle is excited to work under the leadership of Madam Regional Director Soror Gwendolyn L Kirtley, alongside the Great Lakes Regional Executive Committee Chairmen, Cluster Coordinators, and the Regional Newsletter Committee Soror Danielle is determined to uphold and build upon the legacy of excellence set by Soror Gwendolyn D Bush Embracing the spirit of being "Greater Together in the News!”
Nineteen twenty-four was a momentous year...the Harlem Renaissance began; Ellis Island closed as an immigration entry point to the US; the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held; and most of what is now the “Great Lakes Region” was originally part of the North Central territory.
The Great Lakes Region was formally named after being officially recognized at the 1928 Boule. The granddaughter of a former slave was chosen as the first “Regional Director.” Hats off to Soror L. Pearl Mitchell and her cohorts who worked tirelessly to chart the direction of a fledgling sorority founded in 1908, incorporated in 1913 and here we are in 2024, celebrating the Great Lakes Centennial.
We are known as the “GREAT, Great Lakes Region” because we are filled with great women and great leaders. Soror Phyllis Robinson, former Great Lakes Regional Director, coined this term in 1990, the first region with a unique descriptive name.
We are home to the first AKA® Graduate Chapter, Eta Chapter, now known as Alpha Omega, Cleveland, Ohio. Speaking of Cleveland, it was home to the Cleveland Job Corps Center. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® secured a grant through the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 to operate the first Federal Job Corps Center for women. What other region can boast of being home to six (6) International Presidents Sorors L. Pearl Mitchell, Margaret Bowen, Beulah Whitby, Laura Lovelace, Bernice Sumlin, and Eva Evans? The Cluster Concept originated in the Great Lakes Region under Soror Gloria Smith. Under Soror Bernice Sumlin, the Great Lakes Region was the first to give official recognition for membership milestone years.
Our region has hosted eleven (11) of the sorority’s Boules. These, and other accomplishments, contribute to our greatness and in 2024 we are commemorating together like old school, Kool & The Gang: “Let’s all celebrate!”
If you are committed to the vision of our sisterhood, I’m sure you will agree, it is imperative to create enriching experiences and gain valuable insights as we work toward developing leaders. "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he."
(Proverbs 29:18, KJV) This Scripture Reminds Us of The Importance of Vision in Leadership. As we meditate on this, let us affirm:
I am a visionary leader, guiding our sisterhood towards our shared purpose with wisdom and resilience." A leader is not just someone who is in charge; a leader is someone who nurtures, guides, and inspires. Just as Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, "Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you." (1 Timothy 4:14, KJV).
Affirm: "I am a leader, utilizing my unique gifts for the betterment of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® and all mankind." Leadership requires not only strength but also humility and an open heart. "But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." (James 4:6, KJV) Let's affirm: "As a leader, I embrace humility, knowing that it is through grace that I am empowered to lead."
We also want to remind ourselves that leadership is service. In the words of Jesus, “And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:44-45, KJV) Let's affirm: "I am a servant leader, committed to the well-being and growth of those I lead." Sorors, hold on to the fact that strong, effective leadership is rooted in vision, utilization of one's unique gifts, humility, and service to others. So, let us meditate on these scriptures and affirmations, letting them guide us on our leadership journey.
Stay blessed and continue to lead with love and wisdom.
Catching the Vision in 2023
by Collectively Connecting Through Acts of Service
Soaring Together in the Great Great Lakes Region!
Soror Jackie Davis-Betserai, International Program
Committee Great Lakes Regional Representative & Great Lakes Regional Program Chairman akaglprograms@gmail.com
“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. She is the one who gets the people to do the greatest things.“
-Ronald Reagan
The 5G Chapter Leaders Retreat held in Cleveland, OH, in September 2023, emerged as a dynamic and enriching experience for the sorors of the Great Lakes Region. With a focus on empowering chapter leaders, sorors participated in Sisterly Relations Activities, shopping at the Ivy Boutique, and a myriad of workshops. The retreat provided a platform for chapter leaders to enhance their skills and strengthen their bonds. Kicking off on Friday, Madam Regional Director Soror Gwendolyn L. Kirtley extended a warm welcome, setting the tone for a weekend of growth and camaraderie.
Friday evening featured a standards workshop presented by Soror Gail Forrest, followed by a captivating panel discussion led by current and former Great Lakes Regional Directors. The shared wisdom and experiences from these esteemed leaders enriched the sorors, offering valuable insights into effective leadership within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. ®. Saturday morning commenced with a breakfast, fostering a sense of unity among the sorors.
The day unfolded with a series of empowering workshops. Soror Veronica Carter delivered a Finance Presentation, Soror Jessica Price-Smith covered Bylaws, Soror Gwendolyn D. Bush led a Communication Styles workshop, and Soror Charlene Free explored Fostering Healthy Relationships. During lunch, Sorors had the honor of hearing from Soror Charletta WilsonJacks, First Supreme Anti-Basileus of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® who delivered a presentation on Leadership within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®.
Madam Regional Director facilitated a question and answer session, engaging chapter leaders in open and honest conversations about navigating challenges that may arise within their chapters. Soror Judy Cunningham and Soror Tracee Bell Thomas led a workshop on End of Year Reporting, ensuring that chapter leaders were well-equipped to fulfill their reporting responsibilities. The day concluded with Madam Regional Director providing a comprehensive Retreat Summary and Wrap-Up, encapsulating the essence of the retreat's learnings.
As sorors traveled home safely, the 5G Chapter Leaders Retreat left an indelible mark, fostering a spirit of sisterhood, empowerment, and leadership excellence within the Great Lakes Region.
October
October 28, 2
WestVirginiaState Univ Institute,WV25112
Gwendolyn L. Kirtley Regional DirectorD Intern
Lambda Mu Chapter hosted our annual Mr. Pink Panther Scholarship Pageant. The event concluded our successful AKA Week, themed “AKAwood”, a nod to Hollywood. The chapter chose the contestants out of a group of student applicants. The contestants paired with chapter members to help refine their performance. The contestants showcased their leadership abilities, engaged in fundraising, and campaigned before the event. The audience enjoyed the spectacular night. The contestants participated in four entertaining rounds of skits and talent shows. The title of Mr. Pink Panther was given to student Darek Valderrama, who received a scholarship from the chapter!
"Greater Together" "Greater Together" "Greater Together"
LANGFORD-MORRISENTERS2023 MICHIGANWOMEN’SHALLOFFAME
CURRY RECEIVES 2023 CRAIN’S CLEVELAND
CURRY RECEIVES 2023 CRAIN’S CLEVELAND BUSINESS EXCELLENCE IN HR AWARD BUSINESS EXCELLENCE IN HR AWARD
RANDOM ACTS OF SISTERLINESS
AKA PALS
Detroit, MI - Alpha Rho Omega Chapter held its annual June breakfast, “A Legacy of Black Excellence - AKAnda Forever”, on Sunday, June 11th, to honor the achievements of its members. The event, organized by Chairman Soror Donna Northern, Co-Chairman Soror Lisa Taylor and the amazing June Breakfast committee delighted guests with a beautiful jewels celebration, a lively and entertaining musical program and Ivy Beyond the Wall tribute. The event celebrated the collective strength of the organization, emphasized the importance of unity, empowerment, and embraced the accomplishments of Alpha Rho Omega chapter and its sisterhood.
DIAMOND SOROR
BERNICE HOLLEY BOND AND FAMILY CELEBRATING AT JUNE BREAKFAST
Detroit, MI - On Saturday, July 22nd, Alpha Rho Omega chapter members joined others in the community at Belle Isle in Detroit, MI, for the Gift of Life Minority Organ Tissue Transplant Education Program (MOTTEP) 2023 Life Walk/Run event. The Alpha Rho Omega team, led by Soror Staci Reed, was recognized for their fundraising efforts, raising awareness about organ donation and for being the largest team. The chapter has been a long-time supporter of MOTTEP, a non-profit organization aiming to reduce the number and rate of ethnic minority Americans in need of organ and tissue transplants.
ALPHA RHO OMEGA CHAPTER SORORS VOLUNTEERING AT THE MOTTEP 2023 LIFE WALK/RUN EVENT
CARLYN J ROBINSON, ALPHA RHO OMEGA CHAPTER BASILEUS
Ann Arbor, MI - Delta Psi Omega Chapter recently celebrated 75 years of service with the theme, “Honoring 75 Years of Service and Sisterhood: Looking Back & Moving Forward.” International Regional Director Carrie Clark and U.S. Senate candidate Hill Harper joined more than 250 sorors, family, and friends attending. The weekend celebration began with a Meet & Greet, a Golf Tournament & Scholarship Fundraiser for the Pearls and Ivy Foundation, and an Underground Railroad Tour. The festivities continued with a phenomenal Gala including speaker Michigan Supreme Court Justice Soror Kyra Harris Bolden who challenged sorors to reflect on the successes of our founders and forge forward more dedicated and committed to serve with deep conviction. The festivities concluded with a Brunch and Ecumenical Service celebrating the history of the chapter. Sorors Pat Manley and Debra Butler organized this memorable weekend.
ThetaLambdaOmegaPresents: Fashion!PureFashion!
Troy, MI - On September 9, 2023. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Theta Lambda Omega Chapter hosted the 40th Fashion Show Luncheon fundraiser at the Somerset Inn in Troy, Michigan. Emerging Black designers and Black-owned boutiques were the focus of this year’s event. The fête also featured a gourmet meal, vendor pop-up shops, live classical singing performances, a professional dancer, a DJ, a raffle, and a presentation of a video projector to the Center for Pontiac Entrepreneurship as part of the chapter’s service project for the event. All guests took home a fashion design inspired silk scarf to thank them for supporting the event.
SORORS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY JOINED THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY GALA
Trotwood, OH - On Friday, December 15, Soror Yvette Page of Tau Lambda Omega Chapter in Trotwood, OH, was sworn in as the city’s new mayor. Soror Yvette will begin her first term as mayor in January 2024. In 2017, Soror Yvette started her second term as a Trotwood City Council member for Ward. She became vice mayor in January 2022. Initiated at Pi Chapter (Fisk University), Soror Yvette earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics Management before moving to Ohio. She is a Silver Star and has been in the sorority for over 48 years. She also serves on the music and social justice committees. Soror Yvette retired after working over 37 years for Reynolds American Incorporated. Vice Mayor Page is also vice president of Phillips Temple CME Church Missionary Society and a member of the Mass Choir. She is the mother of three children and a grandmother of four.
Pittsburgh, PA - On Sunday, November 12, 2023 sorors of Alpha Alpha Omega Chapter came together at Homewood AME Zion Church for a meaningful worship experience in observance of “Gratitude Sunday”. Reverend William Hogans delivered an inspiring message on "A Place of Gates and Gateways," emphasizing the importance of keeping the gates of gratitude open. Then Chapter President, Soror Emma Lucas-Darby, shared a wonderful message highlighting the service of women in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc® and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve communities and cherish sisterhood. The gathering served as a fantastic celebration of the season of gratitude. In a generous gesture, AAO sorors extended invitations to the entire Homewood AME Zion Church for a repast and fellowship, fostering a sense of community and connection beyond the sorority.
&themanyGreatLakesSororswho supported
All articles must be submitted by your chapter’s Ivy Leaf Reporter Articles submitted by individual chapter members will be returned to the chapter Please use the on-line submission process found on the Great Lakes Region website
In the case of General Members, articles must be submitted to the General Members Liaison, Soror Cathy McCall.
Please keep in mind the following guidelines:
First, make sure your articles are newsworthy We encourage stories describing any truly remarkable accomplishments of chapters and Sorors
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When in doubt about submission guidelines, please email akaglrnewsletter@gmail.com.
All articles must be submitted via the on-line submission process
There is no charge for any information submitted by the chapter Ivy Leaf Reporter. Please submit all photos or graphics as a .jpeg. Include a caption for each photo, not to exceed 5 names. We reserve the right to edit articles for space and accuracy. If articles are submitted exceeding the word maximum, they will be edited.
When in doubt about submission guidelines, please email akaglrnewsletter@gmail.com
All articles must be submitted via the on-line submission process.
We hope you continue to submit articles that embody who we are as members Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
We look forward to receiving your Chapter’s next submission!
