Dream. Dream. Believe. Believe. Achieve. Achieve.
2025 International Region Awards GUIDE
Carrie J. Clark, INTERNATIONAL Regional Director
Saderia Nicole Hooks, Awards Chairman
Saffiyah Wrightsil, Awards Co-Chairman
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Table of Contents Table of Contents
Greetings
Message from the International Regional Director
Message from the Awards Committee
Our Former International Regional Directors
Getting Started with the Awards Process
Regional Awards Committee Guidelines
Chapter Responsibilities
Regional Awards Process Timeline
Awards Judging Policies
Trophy and Certificate Information
Awards Submission
Awards Entry Fees & Form
Awards Submission Information
Regional Awards Information
Awards Updates
Regional Awards Categories
Regional Awards Criteria
International Committees Awards Information
International Membership Committee Award
International Standards Committee Award
International Program Committee Awards
Awards Submission Cover Sheet
Awards Recognitions
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Message from the Message from the
International Regional Director International Regional Director
Greetings Sorors,
Welcome to the 2025 International Regional Conference Awards season! I am so excited to see the “best of the best” of the International Region displayed through awards submissions from our sorors and chapters.
Your outstanding contributions and achievements deserve to be highlighted, and I invite you to showcase them by entering many of the numerous options outlined in this booklet. Thank you so much to our International Regional Awards Chairman Soror Saderia Nicole Hooks and Co-Chairman Soror Saffiyah Wrightsil for spearheading our process this year
Sorors, please be sure to follow the specific deadlines, guidelines and instructions to ensure a smooth submission process. You have done a marvelous job executing the programs of our sorority and serving your individual communities, and these awards will be a celebration of those accomplishments
I look forward to seeing you in July where we will “Dream. Believe. Achieve. Where Magic Soars!”
In Sisterhood and Service,
Carrie J Clark
Soror Carrie J Clark International Regional Director
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Message from the Message from the International Regional Awards Committee International Regional Awards Committee
Greetings Sorors!
It is my pleasure to serve as the chairman of the Awards Committee and once again play a role in the celebration of magic that is the International Region. We know that our sorors, our chapters, and our service are the magical elements that go above and beyond to address the unique needs of our many diverse communities We also know that the magic of our sisterhood is beautifully captured throughout our region, showing every way in which our sisterhood and service soars from Africa, to Asia, in Europe, in the Caribbean, and North America!
I’m excited to celebrate all of this with this awards season! Whether it’s showcasing individual sorors’ accomplishments or highlighting the amazing work of our chapters, the Awards Committee cannot wait to see how we Dream, Believe, and Achieve in the International Region!
The Awards Committee is looking forward to each awards submission as they are celebrations of our belief in the impactful service that we selflessly render and proof that we can achieve our founders’ dreams of service to all mankind anywhere in the world Your awards submissions do more than showcase what we are called to dothey provide a glimpse into the truly ingenious ways that we serve and participate in our sisterhood around the globe. Nothing is more magical than that!
We encourage each chapter to show us all your magic this awards season so that we can continue to Dream, Believe, and Achieve in the International Regionand Magic truly Soars!
Wishing you all magic-filled moments as you prepare your awards submissions! Thank You for being a part of what makes the International Region Soar!
All the Best,
Saderia Nicole Hooks
Soror Saderia Nicole Hooks Awards Committee Chairman
Former International Regional Directors Former International Regional Directors
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CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
GettingStarted GettingStarted
withthe withthe AwardsProcess AwardsProcess
REGION
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Ingenious
Regional Awards Committee Guidelines Regional Awards Committee Guidelines
The Regional Director will select all members of the Regional Awards Committee and she will appoint a chairman for the committee.
This committee will be responsible for the following: Overseeing the Regional Awards Process. The goal is to encourage and promote entries from the various chapters in the region. These entries, in the form of electronic books, include illustrated and documented accounts of chapter activities that help preserve the history of the chapter.
1. Revising the Awards Booklet annually. Each category should be evaluated yearly for its pertinence to the goals of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®.
2. Establishing a budget in consultation with the Regional Tamiouchos and approval from the Regional Director.
3. Communicating with the Regional Pecunious Grammateus to maintain a record of the Regional Award Fees collected.
4. Establishing the link for awards submissions.
5. Organizing the process for the evaluation of awards. 6. Distributing awards and emailing participation certificates 7 Making recommendations to the Regional Director regarding the awards process and procedure 8.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Chapter Responsibilities Chapter Responsibilities
1.
2
Chapter Basileus should appoint a Chapter Awards Chairman.
Chapter Basileus and Chapter Awards Chairman should review the Current Awards Booklet
4.
3. Chapter Awards Chairman recommends to chapter members the category or categories once the areas to pursue have been decided.
6.
Chapter Awards Chairman should identify the award category or categories for which the chapter will submit an entry. A chapter may enter only one scrapbook per award
5. Undergraduate Chapter Basileus should work closely with the Graduate Advisor
7
Chapter Basileus should decide who is going to submit the awards information by the due date and ensure submission of the awards payment at the same time.
Chapter Basileus should ensure that the information submitted on the Awards Entry Form is accurate.
8.
Chapter Basileus or Chapter Awards Chairman should communicate any changes immediately to the Regional Awards Chairman
9.
Chapter Awards Chairman verifies that chapter scrapbooks meet the specifications as stated in the awards booklet.
10.
Chapter Basileus or Chapter Awards Chairman should ensure that the chapter scrapbooks are uploaded by the due date, are in the required PDF format, and are no larger than 500MB.
11.
Chapter Basileus or Chapter Awards Chairman should notify the Regional Awards Chairman of any changes to the awards being submitted prior to the due date
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Regional Awards Process Timeline
Regional Awards Process Timeline
Awards Eligibility Timeframe: January to December 2024
February 23, 2025
Virtual International Region Awards Information Session
February 28, 2025
Chapters will receive the 2025 IRC Awards Booklet
March 23, 2025
Awards Entry Form Due
March 30, 2025
Deadline to submit Awards Entry Fees
April 6, 2025
Chapters will receive the link to upload scrapbooks
May 11, 2025
Final Day to upload scrapbooks
SCRAPBOOKS NOT RECEIVED BY THIS DATE WILL NOT BE EVALUATED
May 12 – 25, 2025
Scrapbooks will be evaluated
July 8 – 9, 2025
Winners announced during the 34th International Regional Conference
Leadership Awards Luncheon & Closing Gala
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Regional Awards Instructions Regional Awards Instructions
Awards Judging Policies
Each chapter should electronically submit the Awards Submission Cover Sheet with each Chapter Awards Submission. Any electronic books not received by the May 9, 2025 deadline will not be evaluated Chapters must adhere to the Awards Process Timeline. Awards will be evaluated by appointed sorors outside of the International Region.
Trophy and Certificate Information
Trophies will be awarded per award category. 1.
In the event of a tie, two trophies will be awarded for that place. 2. The scrapbook entry must receive a minimum score of seventy-five (75) points to win a trophy. This is the Final Score after any penalties have been assessed.
3 A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to each entry. 4. A Certificate of Appreciation will be awarded to each soror serving as an awards judge. 5
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Awards Awards Submission Submission
Regional Awards Fees and Form Regional Awards Fees and Form
AWARDS ENTRY FEES
Entry fees are due on March 30, 2025. There will be NO REFUNDS for submitted fees
AWARD ENTRY FEE
Multiple Award Entries Permitted; One Submission per Single Category
Graduate Chapters
$150
Undergraduate Chapters $100
The Regional Pecunious Grammateus and Regional Tamiouchos are responsible for the receipt, deposit, and bookkeeping of the fees.
AWARDS ENTRY FORM
The Awards Entry Form may be accessed electronically at the Awards Entry Form link. The Awards Entry Form is due on March 23, 2025.
Once you have selected the awards your chapter will be submitting, you will be taken to a summary screen which will display your total amount due. The total will be used when the form transfers you to the payment screen The payment may be sent electronically or by chapter check or money order Chapter checks and money orders should be sent to the Regional Pecunious Grammateus by March 30, 2025:
Questions regarding the electronic form submissions should be directed to AKAIntl.TechHelp@gmail.com Questions regarding the Awards Process should be directed to AKAIntl.Awards@gmail.com
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Awards Submissions Awards Submissions
SubmissionofEntries
AwardsTimeframe:TheawardsactivityrecognitionperiodisJanuaryto DecemberoftheyearbeforetheInternationalRegionalConferenceunless otherwisespecifiedintheawardscriteria.
1
TheAwardsEntryFeealongwiththeAwardsEntryFormmustbesubmitted totheRegionalPecuniousGrammateusnolaterthanMarch30,2025
2
Chaptersmustsubmitanelectronicawardscrapbookforeachaward submittedunlessotherwisenoted Entriesshouldincludeonlyactivities, accomplishments,andprogramsundertakeninthementionedevaluation period
3
Electronicawardsscrapbooksmustbecomputer-generatedandmustadhere totheguidelinesoftraditionalawardentries.Pleaseadheretopagelimits.The AwardsSubmissionCoverSheetmustbeincludedwitheachaward.The coversheetshouldbethefirstorimmediatelyfollowtheCoverPageofthe awardscrapbooksubmission.
4.
ElectronicawardscrapbooksmustbeuploadedinaPDFFileformat.Eachfile mustusethefollowingnamingconvention:AwardName ChapterName Year (Example:OutstandingGraduateChapter EtaBetaOmega 2025)
5.
JudgeswillreviewthesubmissionsandwilljudgeentriesusingtheAward CommitteeEvaluationSummaryForm(usedforallawardsentries). Documentationsuchasnewsclippings,articles,calendars,lettersonofficial letterhead,citations,awards,pictures,eventprograms,etc.mustbeaddedto theawardscrapbookelectronically.Donotincludeanylinkstoadditional information;theywillnotbeconsidered.
6.
ElectronicawardentrieswillbesubmittedviaalinksenttotheChapter Basileus.
7
AllawardssubmissionsareduenolaterthanMay9,2025.Latesubmissions willnotbeaccepted
Judgeswilldeductpointsfornoncompliancewiththeawardcriteria.Ifyouhave anyquestions,pleasecontacttheRegionalAwardsCommitteeat AKAIntl.Awards@gmail.com.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Regional Regional Awards Awards Information Information
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
NewRegionalAwardCategory:
TheExemplaryChapterAwards
Thisawardwillrecognizethechaptersthatperformedatanexemplarylevelin everyareaincludingchapteroperations,standards,sisterlyrelations,and programservicein2024
InternationalCommitteeAwardCategories:
MembershipBestoftheBestAward(2025)
ThisawardrecognizeschaptersthathaveachievedMembershipGoalsintheir 2024membershipefforts.
InternationalStandardsCommitteeS.O.A.R.Award(2025)
ThisawardwillacknowledgethosechaptersthathaveexhibitedSuccessful OperationalAssessmentReporting
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
2025 Regional Awards Categories 2025 Regional Awards Categories
Graduate and Undergraduate Chapter Awards
Outstanding Chapter Basileus Award
Outstanding Chapter Soror Award
Outstanding Chapter Program Award
Outstanding Program Exhibit Award
International Standards Committee S.O.A.R. Award
Graduate Chapter Awards
Outstanding Graduate Chapter Award
Outstanding Soror Through the Years Award
Outstanding Graduate Advisor Award
Outstanding Chapter Newsletter Award
Membership Best of the Best Award
The Jewel Series Awards
Outstanding Diamond Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding Pearl Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding Golden Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding Silver Soror Jewel Award
Undergraduate Chapter Awards
Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter Award
Outstanding International Scholar Award
Outstanding Chapter Scholastic Achievement Award
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
GraduateChapter
GraduateChapter and and UndergraduateChapter UndergraduateChapter Awards Awards
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Chapter Basileus Outstanding Chapter Basileus
This award is for the Graduate and Undergraduate Basilei who has demonstrated outstanding leadership within her chapter, community, and the sorority. Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below. Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging criteria
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Chapter Soror Outstanding Chapter Soror
(20) Pages
This award is for the Graduate and Undergraduate Soror who has demonstrated outstanding leadership within her chapter, community, and the sorority Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below. Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging criteria.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Exemplary Chapter Exemplary Chapter
This award will recognize the Graduate and Undergraduate chapters that performed at an exemplary level in every area including chapter operations, standards, sisterly relations, and program service in 2024. Chapters must have submitted all required documentation by February 1, 2025 to be considered for this award.
A Submit Chapter Report Book with all completed Reports
Provide proof that you’ve met all required deadlines.
A Submit one copy of Chapter Bylaws
B GRADUATE CHAPTERS must highlight within Chapter Bylaws an existing bylaw waiving the requirement for the first year’s chapter dues for undergraduate sorors who transfer into the graduate chapter immediately upon graduation
A Chapter must enter a minimum of two regional awards categories
B Chapter must apply for the SOAR International Program Award
C Awards Entry Form and Fees must be submitted by the deadline. D. Provide proof of award entry and fees payment.
The chapter must apply for the follwing International Committee Awards:
International Membership Committee Best of the Best
A Submit documentation indicating payment of chapter tax and per capita received on or before February 1, 2024
B Complete and submit the Financial Operations Reports on or before February 1, 2024
C Submit documentation of the chapter’s Platinum or Gold Level Annual EAF Contribution by March 15, 2024
CARRIE
Exemplary Chapter Exemplary Chapter
A Submit documentation indicating payment of International Region chapter tax by March 15, 2024
B Submit documentation of International Regional Conference Assessments payment for each member of the chapter by March 15, 2024
A Submit proof of the chapter’s submission of ONE article to the International Region SOARING PRESS Newsletter in 2024
B Submit documentation that the chapter has passed its most recent Standards Evaluation
C. Submit documentation of submitted Online Presence Evaluation.
D. Submit proof of the chapter’s submission of ONE article to the Ivy Leaf® in 2024
E UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTERS must show documentation that 75% of graduating seniors have transferred to a graduate chapter
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Chapter Outstanding Chapter
Documentation not to Exceed Twenty (20) Pages
This award is for the Graduate and Undergraduate Chapter that has done an outstanding job implementing the International Program Initiatives. Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging criteria.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Awarded to the Graduate and Undergraduate Chapter that has done an outstanding job presenting an original display depicting the chapter’s implementation of the International Program within the local community
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
GraduateChapter GraduateChapter Awards Awards
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Graduate Chapter Outstanding Graduate Chapter
Evaluation Criteria
Documentation
forty (40) pages
This award is for the Graduate Chapter that has done an outstanding job in chapter operations, implementing the international program, membership, sisterly relations activities, and supporting charitable organizations Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below. Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging
CARRIE J. CLARK,
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Soror over the Years Outstanding Soror over the Years
This award is for the Graduate Soror who has demonstrated outstanding leadership within her International Region Chapter(s) and sorority throughout the past ten years To be nominated, the Graduate Soror must have been active with the International Region chapter(s) for the past ten years. Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging criteria.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Graduate Advisor Outstanding Graduate Advisor
Evaluation
Documentation not to exceed twenty (20) pages
This award is for the Graduate Advisor who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in working with the undergraduate chapter, Regional Director, and the graduate chapter. Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging criteria
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Chapter Newsletter Outstanding Chapter Newsletter
This award is for the graduate chapter that demonstrates excellence in communication to chapter membership. Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below. All newsletters must be combined into one PDF document. If the newsletter is published monthly, then all ten newsletters must be included If published less frequently, then every issue must be included with a note indicating frequency
Show evidence of the following elements of newsletter layout:
Eye-catching (overall aesthetic appeal, impact)
B Originality of design (artistry and creativity)
Neatness (finished look)
Show evidence of the following elements of newsletter organization:
Show evidence of the following elements of newsletter content: A Chapter name, address, and dates B Pertinent contact
evidence that the newsletter contains the following information in an ongoing manner:
Alpha Kappa Alpha documents, rules, and protocols
INTERNATIONAL
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
TheJewelSeries TheJewelSeries Awards Awards
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Diamond Soror Outstanding Diamond Soror
This award is given to recognize the achievement of a Diamond Soror in the region. Consideration is based on leadership, support of chapter activities, and implementation of the goals of the sorority Each criterion must be validated with supporting documentation A soror must be nominated by the chapter and only one chapter nominee per year. Only one award will be given at the Regional Conference. The nominee must be present or provide evidence of incapacity.
CARRIE J. CLARK,
Outstanding Pearl Chapter Outstanding Pearl Chapter
This award is given to recognize the achievement of a Pearl Soror in the region Consideration is based on leadership, support of chapter activities, and implementation of the goals of the sorority. Each criterion must be validated with supporting documentation. A soror must be nominated by the chapter and only one chapter nominee per year Only one award will be given at the Regional Conference The nominee must be present or provide evidence of incapacity
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Golden Soror Outstanding Golden Soror
This award is given to recognize the achievement of a Golden Soror in the region Consideration is based on leadership, support of chapter activities, and implementation of the goals of the sorority. Each criterion must be validated with supporting documentation. A soror must be nominated by the chapter and only one chapter nominee per year. Only one award will be given at the Regional Conference. The nominee must be present or provide evidence of incapacity
the page
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Silver Soror Outstanding Silver Soror
This award is given to recognize the achievement of Silver Sorors in the region Consideration is based on leadership, support of chapter activities, and implementation of the goals of the sorority. Each criterion must be validated with supporting documentation. A soror must be nominated by the chapter and only one chapter nominee per year. Only two awards will be given at the Regional Conference. The nominee must be present or provide evidence of incapacity
the page
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Undergraduate Undergraduate Chapter Chapter Awards Awards
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter
This award is for the undergraduate chapter that has done an outstanding job in chapter operations, implementing the International Program, membership, sisterly relations activities, and supporting charitable organizations Documentation should be submitted to support the nominee based on the criteria below. Information may be depicted through photos, certificates, letters, programs, flyers, and any other relevant material to support the various judging criteria.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Outstanding International Scholar Outstanding International Scholar
Evaluation Criteria
This award is for the undergraduate soror who demonstrated outstanding academic achievement during her college years. The official transcript/grade report for the Spring Semester immediately preceding the conference must be submitted to the International Regional Director for the nominee to be considered for the award
The recipient of this award will be identified by the Regional Director. Supporting documentation must be taken from the official transcript/grade report only Sorors who anticipate competing for this award must complete an Award Entry Form
Criteria Description Points
Grade Point Average
The winner of this award will be the soror with the highest cumulative grade point average The recipient must have a semester grade point average above a 3.0 for the semester preceding the Regional Conference to be eligible.
100
Chapter Scholastic Achievement Outstanding Chapter Scholastic Achievement
Outstanding
Evaluation Criteria
This award is for the undergraduate chapter with the highest cumulative grade point average for the academic year in the International Region
Selection Criteria
The award recipient is selected based on information from the Regional Director’s records
The Graduate Advisor must submit an official Undergraduate Grade Report, which includes the immediate past Fall/Winter cumulative grade point average of members in the chapter.
The Graduate Advisor must submit official individual transcripts for all members in the chapter.
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
International International Committees Committees Awards Awards Information Information
AlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Incorporated INTERNATIONAL
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
2025 International Committee 2025 International Committee
Awards Categories Awards Categories
International Membership Committee Award
Membership Best of the Best Award (Graduate Only)
International Standards Committee Award
S.O.A.R. Award
International Program Committee Awards
Strengthen Our Sisterhood™ Award
SOAR International Program Award
Generation NEXT Award - Passing the Torch, Upholding the Legacy
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Evaluation Criteria
Awarded to the Graduate and Undergraduate Chapters that have achieved Membership Goals in their 2024 membership efforts
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
S.O.A.R Award S.O.A.R Award
Evaluation Criteria
Awarded to the Graduate and Undergraduate Chapters that have exhibited successful operational assessment reporting.
Operational Reports
The chapter has correctly completed and submitted the Standards Year End Report on the Corporate Office website and in the Standards Resource Guide (latter must be emailed as instruvted on the form to the Regional Director, ISC Chairman, and ISC Regional Representative)
The chapter has correctly completed and submitted to the Regional Director all other required Year End Reports by the desginated due dates (except the finance report will not be counted for the award, due to the February due date)
Soaring to Greater Heights of Ser�ice & Sisterhood® International Awards 2024
Soror Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Basileus
Soror Toria Frederick, International Program Committee Chairman
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
Overview
Service and sisterhood have been the foundation of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® since its founding in 1908. For over a century, Alpha Kappa Alpha has empowered communities and touched countless lives by fostering lifelong learning, supporting the underserved, advancing human and civil rights, and nurturing future leaders. Known for impactful partnerships and social advocacy, the Sorority continues to evolve, addressing pressing needs and expanding its legacy of service.
Under the theme Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®, the 20222026 administration aims to strengthen this legacy. Through six foundational initiatives, with Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM as the “Foundation Initiative,” members work tirelessly to fortify bonds, lead through service, and inspire transformational change across diverse communities. Driven by more than 115,000 active members worldwide, the administration’s efforts center on responding to local and global challenges with purposeful action and advocacy.
This booklet provides chapters with essential information to apply for the prestigious Alpha Kappa Alpha International Awards. Inside, you’ll find detailed criteria for each award category, allowing chapters to highlight their outstanding contributions and commitment to advancing our Sorority’s mission. These awards celebrate chapters that exemplify our principles of sisterhood, service, and leadership. We look forward to honoring the chapters whose dedication inspires us all and who continue to uphold the legacy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
International Awards General Guidelines
Key Factors to note:
The International Program Committee is pleased to present criteria and guidelines for Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood® 2024 International Awards. Each region is responsible for the selection of chapter award recipients using the criteria herein. Information for the Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM Award, The SOAR Award and the Generation NEXT Award should be included in the Regional Awards Booklet or via appropriate communications as approved by each regional director.
• All chapter international award submissions for Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood® must be for in-person activities.
• Award selections for the Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM Award, The SOAR Award and the Generation NEXT Award will be handled by the respective Regional Awards Committee and will follow the process set forth by the Region.
• Award selection for the Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Grant will follow the process outlined by the International Program Committee.
• The International Program Committee will not be involved in the selection of regional Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM Award, The SOAR Award, or the Generation NEXT Award winners.
• The International Program Committee will select the regional winners of the Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Grant.
• The International Sisterly Relations Committee will work in conjunction with the Regional Awards Committee in the selection of the “Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM” Award winners.
• The Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM Award and The SOAR Award will have one graduate and one undergraduate winner for each chapter category size. Award judges should utilize chapter program activity suggestions in this document to determine winners.
• The Generation NEXT is an award for specifically for graduate chapters. A first, second, and third place award will be given per region not based on chapter categories. The entry of the first-place winner from each region will be shared with the Generation Next committee for a chance to win an award/recognition at Boule or Leadership Seminar.
• Each region should determine Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large (if applicable) Chapter Categories.
• Documentation may also include flyers, workshop agendas, pictures, letters, receipts, and any memorabilia from the activity.
• The attached cover sheet should accompany each award submission.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Name of Chapter:
Basileus Name:
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
2024 International Awards Cover Sheet
Region:
Chapter Location (City, State):
Basileus Email:
Basileus Signature: Phone Number:
(For Undergraduate Chapters Only)
Graduate Advisor Name:
Graduate Advisor Email:
Graduate Advisor Signature: Phone Number:
Chapter Size Category (As designated by the Region.) Graduate
Check the appropriate box related to the award category entry*
Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM Award
SOAR International Program Award
Generation NEXT Award - Passing the Torch, Upholding Our Legacy
*Note: Each region reserves the right to request documentation of program activities for verification and confirmation purposes
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
International Awards Criteria
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
International Awards Criteria
Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM
Strengthen Our SisterhoodTM serves as the administration’s “Foundation Initiative” as we strengthen our bonds to support our service mission. This award will be given to the chapter that has demonstrated an increase in chapter participation, engagement and overall improvement in sisterly relations.
Judging Criteria (70 points)
• The process of group formations (10 pts)
• Creative Soror Squad topics, activities and areas of interest (10 pts)
(20 points) Provide documentation of implementation of Soror SquadsTM. Please include:
(20 points) Provide documentation of implementation of Fall Membership Reactivation and New Member Engagement. Please include:
• Evidence of reactivating and new member activities (15 pts)
• Use of internal/external communication (5 pts)
(10 points) Provide documentation of implementation of “We Are One” AKA Service Day. Please include:
• Inclusion of Inactive and General Members (5 pts)
• Evidence of Community Service effort and impact (5 pts)
Please include:
• Number of reactivated sorors (5 pts)
(15 points) Describe outcome and overall impact of initiative implementation to chapter or chapter members.
• Proven increase in engagement of chapter members (multi-generational, new member, reactivated) (5pts)
• Overall improvement in sisterly relations (5pts)
(5 points) Overall presentation, creativity, neatness and appearance of overall activity
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
International Awards Criteria
The Soar A�ard
Judging Criteria (125 points)
The SOAR Award represents the best of the best in Chapter Programs. The Soar Award will celebrate achievement and community impact for chapter programs that support all five Program Initiatives: Empower Our FamiliesTM, Build Our Economic WealthTM, Enhance Our EnvironmentTM, Advocate for Social JusticeTM and Uplift Our Local CommunitiesTM.
(20 points) Documentation of program implementation of AKA CHIPPTM (Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack). Please include:
• Overview of chapter execution including partner organization or school (5pts)
• Number of Power PacksTM and number of weeks bags were distributed (5pts)
• Number of children enrolled in the CHIPPTM program (5pts)
• Demonstration of overall impact and benefit to youth and community (5pts)
(20 points) Documentation of program implementation of Youth Leadership Institute (YLI). Please include:
• Number of youth in the program (5pts)
• Execution of module activities (5pts)
• Demonstration of youth leadership (5pts)
• Demonstration of overall impact and benefit to youth and community (5pts) (15 points) Program implementation of Build Our Economic WealthTM. Please include:
• Evidence of participation in Black Dollar Days (5pts)
• Execution of Sister Circles and/or Support Women Entrepreneurs (5pts)
• Describe other chapter activities that impacted members and/or community’s economic wealth (5pts)
(15 points) Program implementation of Enhance Our EnvironmentTM. Please include:
• Evidence of participation in tree planting (5pts)
• Execution of Community and Home Gardens, Waste Reduction and/or Shredding and Electronic Recycling Day (5pts)
• Describe other chapter activities that impacted our environment (5pts) (15 points) Program implementation of Advocate for Social JusticeTM. Please include:
• Evidence of participation in Voter Education, Registration, and Mobilization (5pts)
• Execution of Candidate Forums and/or Public Servant’s Guide (5pts)
• Provide evidence of chapter participation in the AKA Public Policy Forum, AKA Day at the Capitol, or similar event (5pts) (15 points) Program implementation of Uplift Our Local CommunityTM. Please include:
• Detailed description of one (1) signature local program
• Describe the specific community need addressed by the program
• Demonstration of overall impact and benefit to the local community (10 points) Indicate partnerships or collaborations with other organizations and chapters including undergraduates where applicable (10 points) Overall presentation, creativity, neatness and visual appearance of program activity
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
International Awards Criteria
Generation NEXT A�ard
-Passing the Torch, Upholding our LegacyGeneration NEXT is dedicated to celebrating graduate chapters which have effectively engaged chapter members 40 years old and under.
Judging Criteria (50 points)
(10 points) Provide documentation of Implementation chapter Generation NEXT committee (with a chairman under the age of 40)
(10 points) Provide documentation that 20% of chapter membership is 40 and under
(10 points) Provide documentation that 10% of chapter membership that is 40 & under holds a leadership role, (I.e. event chairman, committee chairman/cochairman)
• February- Help a Golden, Pearl, Diamond Soror Day
• March – Support women by donating to your local women’s shelter
• April - Sisterhood Garden Tea
• May - Generation NEXT Gets Fit
• August/September- Back to School Drive
• October- World Mental Health Day
• October/November- Your Vote Matters
• December- HO HO HO Toy Drive
(10 points) Provide documentation of completion of at least 1 of the 4 Generation NEXT spring events
(10 points) Provide documentation of completion of at least 1 of the 4 Generation NEXT fall events
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
International Awards Processing
The ordering and delivery of International Program Awards is currently handled through the respective regional awards representative or designee. The Corporate Office covers the cost of International Program Awards for regional conferences. A blank prop award will be sent to each region for regional conference photos. The International Program Committee Representative, Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie, will order all International Program Awards for all regions from Quality Laser Designs, the approved vendor. All questions can be submitted to Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie via email at program@aka1908.com.
Process Responsibility
Coordinate with the International Program Regional Representatives to:
1. Provide contact information and shipping address of the Regional Awards Representative or designee. Also provide the due date when the prop award is needed for the regional conference.
2. Ship prop award to the Regional Awards Chairman or designee for regional conference photos.
3. Complete excel spreadsheet with regional awardee information and verify with International Program Committee Regional Representative.
4. Place an order with the vendor (Quality Laser Designs) at curtis@qualitylaserdesign.com and receive a markup for approval. Provide the shipping address and contact information of the Regional Awards Representative (or designee) to the vendor.
5. Send questions and troubleshoot issues and concerns with the vendor.
Regional Awards Representative or International Program Regional Representative sends to Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie at program@aka1908.com
Quality Laser Designs (Vendor) or Corporate Office (Shipping Department)
Regional Awards Committee send to International Program Committee Regional Repreentative and Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie
7. Verify receipt of engraved awards with Regional Awards Representative or designee.
8. Send award replacement requests to Quality Laser Designs.
Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie at program@aka1908.com
Soror Nicole Barrett (Corporate Office) at nbarrett@aka1908.com or Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie at program@aka1908.com
6. Mail engraved chapter awards to Regional Awards Representative or designee. From vendor (Quality Laser Designs)
Soror Nicole Barrett (Corporate Office), Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie, or International Program Regional Representative
Forward a copy to Soror Nicole Barrett (Corporate Office) at nbarrett@aka1908.com and Soror Victoria Morris-Ivie at program@aka1908.com
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring
to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Ser�ice Grants
Uplift Our Local Community Grants were established to celebrate and amplify your local community signature programs. A signature program is defined as:
- A program that is unique and distinctive to your chapter- Consistent and sustainable over time-Addresses a clear, specific need in your community- The impact within the community is measurable -
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
Guidelines for Submission:
Uplift Our Local Community Ser�ice Grants
• The Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Grant submission must include the following: 1) application, 2) video, and 3) proposed budget. Deadline for submission is May 1, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET.
The application (2 pages) must be completed and signed by the chapter basileus.
The video format can include mp3, mp4, or mov. Mobile phone video is acceptable. The video should be up to 3 minutes max. (The video does not need to be professionally edited.)
Budget submissions must: 1) Include the total funds for the project/activity, 2) Delineate the use of requested funds, and 3) List the funds from other sources (if applicable).
• Applications will be submitted to and evaluated by the International Program Committee.
• This is a one-time award.
• Ten (10) Semi-finalists will be selected representing one chapter from each region. First, Second, Third place finalists will be announced at the 2025 Leadership Seminar in Anaheim, CA.
Video Judging Criteria (100 points);
(20 points) The Rationale of the Program
• Award winners will submit a final report to the International Program Committee that includes the actual budget expenditures, and accomplishments within 90 days of completion of project/activity.
• Demonstrates the need and purpose of the program, and the community it serves.
(10 points) Creativity
• Creativity may include unique visuals, storytelling techniques, or innovative presentation styles that make the program stand out.
(10 points) Clear Content
• The video is well-structured with a clear storyline. Ideas are arranged logically and strongly support the program’s focus.
(40 points) Action Planning & Collaborations/Partnerships
• Action Planning (20 points). Focus on program execution, budget, and resources.
• How was the program executed?
• What were the budgetary/fundraising needs?
• What resources did you use?
• Collaboration/Partnerships (20 points). Focus on the community collaboration/ partnerships formed and the benefits/key learnings of their participation.
• What collaboration/partnerships were established?
• How did their role in the program enhance the overall outcome/impact?
(20 points) Community Impact
Describe the overall short-term and long-term improvements as a result of the program. Where possible, provide specific metrics such as the number of people served or measurable improvements in the community.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Name of Chapter:
Basileus Name:
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Grant (Page 1)
Region:
Chapter Location (City, State):
Basileus Email:
Basileus Signature: Phone Number:
(For Undergraduate Chapters Only)
Graduate Advisor Name:
Graduate Advisor Email:
Graduate Advisor Signature: Phone Number:
Check the appropriate box
Chapter Program Participation
Graduate
Individual
Undergraduate Collaboration/Partnership
Please answer the following:
Name and Description of the Program
Describe the rationale for the program and how the funds will be used.
How long have you been facilitating this program?
Identify the people and communities that will benefit from this program.
How will additional funding help extend the program impact?
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Name of Chapter:
Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®
Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Grant (Page 2)
Region:
Chapter Location (City, State):
Name any collaborative partnerships and/or chapters involved with the program.
Describe any recognition associated with the program to include: national/local press, social media highlights, and external awards.
Instructions:
Please read all instructions carefully before submitting your application, video and budget. All documents submitted become the property of the Program Committee. It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit a complete proposal packet. The International Program Committee will not assume responsibility for or attempt to join materials submitted separately.
• The Uplift Our Local CommunityTM Grant submission must include the following: 1) application, 2) video, and 3) proposed budget.
• Applications will be submitted to and evaluated by the International Program Committee. Deadline for submission is May 1, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET.
• The video format can include mp3, mp4, or mov. Mobile phone video is acceptable. The video should be up to 3 minutes max. (The video does not need to be professionally edited.)
• The submitted budget must:
Include total funds for the project/activity.
Delineate the use of requested funds.
• Videos will be evaluated based on how clearly you show the rationale of the program, creativity, action planning, collaboration and/or partnership(s) (if applicable), and the overall community impact.
List funds from other sources (if applicable).
• This is a one-time award.
• Ten (10) Semi-finalists will be selected representing one chapter from each region. First, Second, Third place finalists will be announced at the 2025 Leadership Seminar in Anaheim, CA.
• Award winners will submit a final report to the International Program Committee that includes the actual budget expenditures, and accomplishments within 90 days of completion of project/ activity.
• Submit the 1) application, 2) video, and 3) proposed program budget by the deadline via the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/reguest/kGQg9Gg6WVnLavJ4IV7X
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Awards Awards Submissions Submissions
CoverSheet CoverSheet
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Chapter Award Submission Cover Sheet Chapter Award Submission Cover Sheet
CHAPTERNAME: CHAPTERLOCATION:
CHAPTERLEVEL: GRADUATE UNDERGRADUATE
PLEASEINDICATETHEAPPLICABLEAWARDFORTHISCOVERSHEET CHAPTERSCANONLYSELECTONEAWARDATATIME (IFYOUINTENDTOSUBMIT9AWARDS,YOUMUSTCOMPLETE9COVERSHEETS)
REGIONALCOMMITTEEAWARDS
GRADUATE AWARDS
EXEMPLARY GRADUATE CHAPTER
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE ADVISOR
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CHAPTER
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CHAPTER BASILEUS
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CHAPTER PROGRAM
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CHAPTER PROGRAM EXHIBIT
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE CHAPTER SOROR
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE SOROR THROUGH THE YEARS
OUTSTANDING DIAMOND SOROR
OUTSTANDING PEARL SOROR
OUTSTANDING GOLDEN SOROR
OUTSTANDING SILVER SOROR
UNDERGRADUATE AWARDS
EXEMPLARY UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER
OUTSTANDING UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER
OUTSTANDING UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER BASILEUS
OUTSTANDING UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER PROGRAM
OUTSTANDING UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER PROGRAM EXHIBIT
OUTSTANDING UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER SOROR
OUTSTANDING INTERNATIONAL SCHOLAR
OUTSTANDING CHAPTER SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM COMMITTEE AWARDS SOAR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM AWARD STRENGTHEN OUR SISTERHOOD AWARD GENERATIONNEXT AWARD (GRADUATE ONLY)
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS COMMITTEE AWARD SOAR AWARD
INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE AWARD MEMBERSHIP BEST OF THE BEST AWARD (GRADUATE ONLY)
BASILEUSSIGNATURE: DATE:
GRADUATEADVISORSIGNATURE: DATE:
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Award Announcements Award Announcements
Soaring International Program Awards 2024
Outstanding Graduate/Undergraduate Chapter Program Award
Outstanding Graduate/Undergraduate Program Exhibit Award
International Standards Committee S.O.A.R. Award
Outstanding Graduate Advisor
Outstanding Soror Through the Years Award
Outstanding Chapter Newsletter Award
International Membership Committee Membership Best of the Best Award
Outstanding Diamond Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding Pearl Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding Golden Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding Silver Soror Jewel Award
Outstanding International Scholar Award
Outstanding Chapter Scholastic Achievement Award
Outstanding Graduate Chapter
Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter
Exemplary Graduate Chapter
Exemplary Undergraduate Chapter
Outstanding Graduate Soror
Outstanding Undergraduate Soror
Outstanding Graduate Basileus
Outstanding Undergraduate Basileus
® Ingenious
AlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Incorporated INTERNATIONAL REGION
CARRIE J. CLARK, INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
2025 International Region Awards GUIDE
