PrettyGOOD NEWS
A QUARTERLY INSIGHT INTO THE OMICRON PSI OMEGA CHAPTER
WINTER 2023 | ISSUE 6
LAWANDA TURMAN, CHAPTER PRESIDENT
EXTRAVAGANZA!
MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Greetings Sisters! On behalf of our new Ivy Leaf Reporter and Public Relations Chairman, Brandi Myers, I am thrilled to welcome you to the new and improved newsletter for the Omicron Psi Omega Chapter, of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️. We are so pleased to highlight exciting updates and noteworthy Chapter news, as we enthusiastically serve Davidson County! From our community events and chapter activities, to the accomplishments of our individual sisters, this newsletter will continue to allow us to celebrate each other and our benevolent efforts, as we glow and grow in “Service to All Mankind”. We hope that you enjoy the look back on 2023, while you anticipate the look ahead to 2024. Thank you, my sisters, for consistently being the “Care behind the Content” and the “Sister behind the Story”. Enjoy!!
LaWanda Turman
Editor-in-Chief 1
Inspirational CORNER GEAR UP! DON’T GIVE UP! James 1:3-4, The testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:3-4 (NIV) 2023 has had its challenges in our world, nation and yes in our chapter, Omicron Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️. However, now is not the time to give up as we prepare for another year of service to all mankind. Servitude is not a glamorous concept. Who in their right mind would sign up for a life of servitude? And yet that is what God has in mind for his people. He knows how service to others will bless us as well as the community around us. Service is a great way to put aside our self-centeredness and notice how we are connected, even indebted, to others. When we start seeing the genuine needs of others, it deters our own sense of entitlement. None of us became the people we are alone, but by sacrifice and investment of many others from our earliest days. And doesn’t consider what Christ has done for us. Serving others not only reveals the bonds between us, but it also reflects the love of God. Remember when we can’t, God can. He will give you the strength. When you can’t understand, He gives wisdom. We must not get weary in well doing. These times are uncertain, but when we do our part, I am confident that God will do God’s part. SISTERS, LET US GEAR UP AND NOT GIVE UP IN 2024. Happy New Year.
Sisterly,
Lavonia “Bonnie” Henderson CHAPTER CHAPLAIN
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ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF HISTORIC AFRICAN AMERICAN SECTION OF LEXINGTON CITY CEMETERY In 2022, the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office selected the City for the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) Grant to conduct an archaeological survey of the historic African American section of the Lexington City Cemetery. Richard Grubb & Associates (RGA) was selected as the firm to conduct the survey. RGA is a womanowned small business that offers full-service cultural resource management solutions. RGA has become one of the largest and most reputable independent archaeological and historic preservation consulting companies in the east of the Mississippi. The site to be surveyed is approximately 3,800 sf, located in the cemetery's oldest section, and is a vacant space with a singular marker atop a rough stone pyramid that indicates that slaves were buried there before the Civil War. There are no other records related to this site. It took the RGA team approximately two and a half hours to survey the cemetery section. RICHARD GRUBB & ASSOCIATES (RGA) SURVEYING THE SECTION OF THE GRAVESITE
SISTERS ATTENDING THE SURVEYING OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN GRAVESITE.
THE SINGULAR MARKER ATOP A ROUGH STONE PYRAMID THAT INDICATES THAT SLAVES WERE BURIED THERE BEFORE THE CIVIL WAR.
THE COMMUNITY RECEIVING INFORMATION FROM RGA.
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LEADERSHIP Conference
Sierra Toney, along with Tamisha Clark and Chapter President LaWanda Turman, attended the Leadership Seminar in Chicago, Illinois. The city, adorned in pink and green, offered a warm welcome to the attendees. The theme of the seminar was Pathways to SOAR: Expanding Leadership Potential, and Sierra thoroughly enjoyed her time there. Sierra learned that the word “Sisterhood” is a verb and it requires all of us to do actionable work. She even had the opportunity to visit the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Corporate Office and the Chicago Bean in Millennium Park. When asked about attending future leadership conferences, Sierra enthusiastically responded, "Absolutely! Although I traveled alone, I had an amazing time meeting new sisters and making new friends. Just be prepared for a lot of walking if you plan on attending."
ILLUMINATED CREST AT THE CORPORATE OFFICE SISTERS AT THE CLOUD GATE (THE BEAN) IN MILLENNIUM PARK
SISTER SELFIE
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S I E R R A T O N E Y A T T H E A L P H A K A P P A A L P H A S O R O R I T Y , I N C . ®️ CORPORATE OFFICE.
CORPORATE OFFICE “THE IVY CENTER”
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS GAVE A WARM WELCOME BY LIGHTING UP THEIR FERRIS WHEEL WITH OUR SORORITY CREST.
THIS YEAR’S THEME FOR LEADERSHIP IS “PATHWAYS TO SOAR: EXPANDING YOUR LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL.”
CHAPTER PRESIDENT LAWANDA TURMAN, TAMISHA CLARK, AND SIERRA TONEY REPRESENT FOR OMICRON PSI OMEGA AT LEADERSHIP.
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Jackets
LET’S GO The members of the Omicron Psi Omega Chapter provided a meal for the Lexington Senior High School Junior Varsity Football team. During the gathering, we had enlightening conversations about HBCUs, fraternities/sororities, and their goals. The team also shared valuable insights about their positions on the team. It was a heartwarming experience to see how appreciative the team was for the meal. As a chapter, we are committed to giving back to our community and supporting the youth in any way we can. We believe that investing in the next generation is crucial to building a better future for everyone. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Lexington Senior High School Junior Varsity Football team and supporting them in any way we can. We believe that by working together, we can make a difference in the lives of the young people in our community and create a brighter future for all. Overall, we were thrilled to feed 45 athletes, coaches and trainers.
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BIG HAT Brunch
The Omicron Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️held a successful Big Hat Brunch event on September 23rd at the Richard Childress Racing Museum in Davidson County. The event was graced by the presence of International First Vice President Mrs. Charletta Wilson-Jacks, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Mrs. Nadine Vargas-Stewart, and Northern Carolina Cluster Coordinator Dr. Iman Moore. Attendees were treated to a delightful surprise to also see our former 15th Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Dr. Caroline L. Lattimore and our Mayor of Lexington, Mr. Jason Hayes. The Big Hat Brunch is an annual tradition that brings together Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️ members to celebrate the achievements of women and have sisterly engagement. It provides a platform for sisters to network, socialize and engage in meaningful conversations. The day was filled with fun activities, including raffle draws, sisterly games, Photo Booth fun, and great music. The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by International First Vice President Charletta Wilson-Jacks, who spoke eloquently on the theme of the event, "Putting on our Big Hats" to serve our community. In conclusion, the Big Hat Brunch event was an enormous achievement, and the Omicron Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️, are forever grateful! The keynote address delivered by International First Vice President Charletta Wilson-Jacks was inspiring, and her message of putting on our big hats not only to look pretty, but to first handle our sorority business with serving our communities, will undoubtedly resonate with attendees for a long time. Thank you to all of our guests, including the Tau Epsilon Sigma Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Karlton Jones and Band, Above and Beyond Catering, the Childress Racing Museum, and all of our wonderful sisters who came out to support!
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THE OMICRON PSI OMEGA CHAPTER WITH INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT MRS. CHARLETTA WILSON-JACKS, MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR MRS. NADINE VARGAS-STEWART, NORTHERN CAROLINA CLUSTER COORDINATOR DR. IMAN MOORE, AND FORMER 15TH MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR DR. CAROLINE L. LATTIMORE.
OUR INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, MRS. CHARLETTA WILSON-JACKS POSING FOR THE CAMERA. OUR INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, CHAPTER PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT WITH THE TAU EPSILON SIGMA ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY, INC.
FORMER CHAPTER PRESIDENTS WITH OUR INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, NORTHERN CAROLINA CLUSTER COORDINATOR, AND FORMER 15TH MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR.
CHAPTER PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT, INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, AND MAYOR OF LEXINGTON, MR. JASON HAYES.
OMICRON PSI OMEGA CHARTER MEMBER, JESSE CRUMP WITH OUR SISTERS BILLIE AND CHEVON.
CHAPTER PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT, WITH MR. STEVE HARTZOG OF THE CHILDRESS RACING MUSEUM.
INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, FORMER 15TH MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR, AND INTERNATIONAL CHAIRMAN OF GRADUATE ADVISORS MRS. TRACY WATKINS.
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CHAPTER RETREAT
G.R.O.W.
Together
The Center for Design Innovation in WinstonSalem, NC was the perfect backdrop for our latest chapter retreat, which followed our Sunday worship service at the United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church. The theme of our retreat was “G.R.O.W. Together”, which stands for gain, rejoice, own, and work. During our time together, we focused on project management fundamentals, learned strategies for having difficult conversations, and identified ways we can improve as both a chapter and as sisters. We also took the opportunity to share our thoughts on what we admire about our chapter, as well as areas where we can improve. Overall, it was a highly successful retreat with great food and sisterly love! We are already looking forward to our next one. Omicron Psi Omega is ready and excited to continue growing together!
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OMICRON PSI OMEGA DONATES FOOD TO LOCAL MINISTRIES
The Omicron Psi Omega Chapter donated food to Davidson First Hope Ministry and First Baptist for Thanksgiving. First Hope was in dire need of food, having been unable to operate its food pantry for several weeks due to a lack of supplies. Fortunately, our donation, along with contributions from two other organizations, helped them reopen the pantry. We also provided enough food to First Baptist to feed seven families, including turkeys, green beans, potatoes, corn, cereal, pinto beans and gravy. Our efforts are not stopping there, as we plan to provide more food to families in need for the upcoming Christmas holiday. The Omicron Psi Omega Chapter is proud to be able to assist local organizations in need during the holiday season. We understand the importance of giving back to our community and are committed to making a positive impact in any way we can. We hope that our efforts inspire others to do the same and spread kindness and generosity throughout the world. Let us all come together to make this world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.
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NORTHERN CAROLINA CLUSTER The Heritage CONNECTING
OF OUR NC & VA SISTERHOOD
Our chapter recently had the opportunity to attend the 2023 Northern Carolina Cluster in Cary, NC, hosted at the Embassy Suites by Hilton. This event was an excellent opportunity for us to stay informed of the latest regional developments within our sorority, including upcoming workshops, programs, and more. We were treated to a special surprise this year, including performances by the Shaw University marching band, cheerleaders, and their royal court. One of the most important takeaways from the event was to focus on long-lasting change when serving our communities and to avoid "majoring on the minor," as our Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, Mrs. Nadine Stewart, emphasized. Additionally, we were encouraged to prioritize our mental health by taking breaks, practicing gratitude, breathing, performing selfchecks, focusing, and keeping our goals in mind. Overall, it was an awesome and inspiring event!
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PAINTING DAVIDSON COUNTY PINK & GREEN On December 9th, the Omicron Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️made their first debut in the Thomasville Christmas Parade. The festive event saw the chapter spread holiday cheer throughout the streets of Thomasville. We gave out candy to revelers of all ages. Beyond the fun and excitement, the chapter's participation in the parade was a chance to demonstrate their commitment to community service and involvement. The Omicron Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️is thrilled to continue promoting joy and serving their community throughout the holiday season.
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On December 15th, 2023, the Fall 2019 members of the Omicron Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️, celebrated 4 years of “Service to All Mankind”. Fourteen ladies, along with family and friends, made a donation to Lexington Senior High School students as part of their service project. “Thank you to Lexington Senior High School Principal; Dr. J. Porter, Student Services; Ms. Tonya Withers, and Lexington City Schools Community Engagement Coordinator; Dr. Kasey Lanier Wilkie for their assistance with setting this up,” stated Jenele Terry. We were able to donate: 36 - Clear Backpacks 19 - 45 Supply Kits 4 - White 3 Ring Binders 4 - Packs of College Ruled Paper 3 - 3 Subject Notebooks 3 - 18 Packs of No.2 Pencils 3 - Pencil Pouches 3 - 4 Pack Pocket Folders 2 - 4 Pack 1 Subject Notebooks Thank you to everyone that made a donation to our service project. -DIVYne Destiny Fall 2019
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THE COLOR PURPLE TOWN HALL MEETING WITH OPRAH
On December 20th, a staggering 66,000 people tuned in to Oprah's Zoom town hall meeting to discuss and promote the upcoming movie, The Color Purple. The meeting brought together a multitude of black organizations to share their enthusiasm and inspiration for the movie. Among them was our very own International First Vice President, Mrs. Charletta Wilson-Jacks, representing Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®️. The meeting also featured a quick soulful performance by the renowned gospel artist, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, singing “I Surrender All”. Overall, it was an exceptional meeting that left Oprah in tears of joy.
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Celebrations
PRAISE REPORTS AND
Birthdays
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Bonnie Henderson - 3rd Frances Williams - 19th Melissa Woodruff - 25th Camille Poe - 28th
LaSonya Tuttle - 1st Antoinette Penn - 11th Cynthia Brown - 21st
Brandi Myers - 2nd Taylor Hayes - 13th Claudia Warren - 19th Antionette Sheppard - 26th
AKAversaries Tenaé Howard Clodfelter Fall 2008 (15 years) #11 Pearl of Obsession Omicron Kappa Appalachian State University
Cynthia Brown Fall 1978 (45 years) Beta Rho Shaw University
Billie Porter Fall 1971 (52 years) Pi Fisk University
Rithia Ford Fall 1963 (60 years) Gamma Delta Johnson C. Smith University
Kenya Shear-Jones Fall 1997 (26 years) Gamma Lambda Winston-Salem State University
Latasha Barknight Fall 2003 (20 years) Sigma Mu High Point University
Ebony Jason Fall 2005 (18 years) Beta Rho Shaw University
Sierra Toney Fall 2020 (3 years) Alpha Phi North Carolina A&T State University
Pamela Mitchell Fall 1998 (25 years) Gamma Lambda Winston-Salem State University
La’Keisha Bowen Fall 1995 (28 years) Theta Alpha East Carolina University
LaWanda Turman Fall 2007 (16 years) Pi Tau Omega Southfield, Michigan
Rolanda Cathcart Fall 1997 (26 years) Omicron Psi Omega Lexington, NC
Tenaé Clodfelter Howard will become the principal of North Davidson Middle School starting January 1, 2024! Congratulations!
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Sisters enjoying homecoming together!
Chapter President LaWanda Turman and Monique Johnson attend Awards Day at Ledford High School.
Ivy Beyond the Wall HONORING THE MEMORY OF OUR BELOVED SISTERS
We would like to pay tribute to Sharon Anderson-Jones, our sixth chapter President, and Linda Terry, one of our chapter's charter members. In addition to their devoted Service to Mankind, they also served as role models for us as true Alpha Kappa Alpha Women. Our hearts are with their families and our chapter as we mourn the loss of these dear sisters. They will be greatly missed.
Linda Terry
Sharon Anderson Jones
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