Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
e n t e n n i a
Great Lakes Region “Great Lakes Exemplifying Greatness for 100 Years”
E D I T O R E D I T O R
On Friday, September 20, 2024, sorors from across the Great Lakes Region gathered at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio, to commemorate a century of service and sisterhood, “Great Lakes Exemplifying Greatness for 100 Years”. The event kicked off with the Centennial Service Project, designed to uplift communities through two impactful initiatives: addressing period poverty and promting literacy.
The Great Lakes Region aims to distribute 100,000 feminine hygiene kits and 100,000 children’s books throughout 2024. Procter & Gamble generously donated supplies for 1,000 kits. Sorors brought books by African American or Soror authors, contributing to a total of 3,200 books and 7,000 hygiene products packed into 1,100 kits for the Cleveland community.
Great Lakes Regional Director Gwendolyn L. Kirtley and 25th International President Dr. Norma Solomon White joined sorors during the service projects, directed by Great Lakes Representative to the International Program Committee Soror Jackie Davis-Betserai. During the evening, sorors enjoyed a lively fellowship event with International President Danette Anthony Reed, indulging in hors d’oeuvres, games, and music by DJ Lily Jade.
Saturday’s festivities began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Great Lakes Centennial History Museum, anchored by Madam Regional Director, former Great Lakes Regional Directors, and former International Presidents. An in-museum theater featured videos honoring the region’s legacy along with thirty chapter showcased displays from across the region and administrations.
During the Centennial luncheon, International President Danette Anthony Reed gave a warm welcome, highlighting Great Lakes’ place among the storied history of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb joined the celebration via video extolling the many contributions of Alpha Kappa Alpha to the local community, especially the Cleveland Job Corps. The celebration concluded with a community gift presentation, a spirited game of Great Lakes History Jeopardy, and a video of interviews with Great Lakes Centenarians.
This Centennial Celebration honored the Great Lakes Region’s remarkable 100-year legacy of service and impact. And, we look forward to 100 years more!
