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AKA Debutante Handbook

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Upsilon Omega Chapter, in Collaboration with Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

Richmond, Virginia

Greetings!

Greetings Debutantes:

Congratulations on being selected to participate in the 70th year of the Debutante Project, sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Upsilon Omega Chapter and its charitable arm, Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Incorporated.

Each component of the project is specifically designed to further cultivate your development into a successful community-minded young woman. In addition to having the opportunity to receive scholarship awards to pursue higher education, you will also experience engaging workshops, inspiring community service activities, and memorable sisterly fellowship while getting to know like-minded young women from Richmond and surrounding localities.

Being a debutante is also a commitment. You will be required to devote your time to workshops, activities, rehearsals and community service events. However, the ultimate culminating event will be when you are presented to society at the debutante ball in the presence of your parents, family members and the greater Richmond community. This year our ball will be held on December 20, 2025.

As you begin your journey as a debutante, we encourage you to take advantage of all the project has to offer. Come prepared to learn and participate in each workshop, reach out to meet new friends, have fun at the rehearsals and community service events and make the most of your experience enjoying your shining moment.

The Debutante Class of 2025 will embark upon an exciting journey of development and challenge. Character, determination, and discipline will be our foundation; teamwork, support, and mutual respect are our growth; achievement, dedication, and strength exemplify our promise for the future. The friendships you develop and the memories you will share will bond you together for a lifetime. Our dreams will be reflected as you are presented to society during an evening of elegance. You will go forth with grace, confidence, poise, and empowerment.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Kimya Fitz

2025 Debutante Committee Chairman

Email: debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com

Ms. Oscarina Pollard

2025 Debutante Committee Co-Chairman

About Us……………………………………………………………………..…………….…….2

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® - Upsilon Omega Chapter - Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

Program History……………………………………………………………..…….….……..3

Program Overview and Objectives

Program Expectations…………………………………………………………...………….3

Communication – Attendance - Code of Conduct (Parents, Debutantes, and Escorts) - Workshops Rehearsals - Debutante Bio Information

Debutante Ball Presentation………………………………………………………………5

Debutante Dress Requirements - Hair and Hair Ornaments - Shoe Style - Dress Approval Process

Additional Requirements - General Recommendations - Day of the Ball - Father/Escort/Mother/Guest Attire Tuxedo Vendor

Souvenir Journal Overview………………………………………………………….……7

Ads & Patrons for the Souvenir Journal - Individual Donor Receipts

Souvenir Journal Style Guide………………………………………………………….…9

Ad Layout and Formatting - Patron List - Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation - Usage of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® Symbols - Debutante Journals - Ad & Patron Individual Donor Receipts

Activity Schedule…………………………………………………………….………………12

Financial Obligations…………………………………………………….…………….….14

Participation Fee - Ticket Sales - Table Assignments

Debutante Scholarships and Book Awards…………………….…………………..15 Contact Information……………………………………………………………………..…15

About Us

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED ®

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® had its humble beginnings as the vision of nine college students on the campus of Howard University in 1908. It is the world's oldest college‐based sorority founded by Negro women. Since then, the sorority has flourished into a globally impactful organization of over 365 ,000 college trained members, bound by the bonds of sisterhood and empowered by a commitment to servant leadership that is both domestic and international in its scope.

As Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® has grown, it has maintained its focus in two key areas: the lifelong personal and professional development of each of its members; and galvanizing its membership into an organization of respected power and influence, consistently at the forefront of effective advocacy and social change that results in equality and equity for all citizens of the world.

Its mission is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of “Service to All Mankind”.

Service and sisterhood have been the cornerstone of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® since 1908. With the theme “Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood”, the 2022-2026 administration is focused on six initiatives:

● Strengthen Our Sisterhood

● Empower our Families

● Build Our Economic Wealth

● Enhance Our Environment

● Advocate for Social Justice

● Uplift Our Local Community

UPSILON OMEGA CHAPTER

Since its chartering on October 24, 1925, Upsilon Omega Chapter has given the Richmond community a rich heritage of programs impacting education, arts and culture, health and wellness and social advocacy. The chapter membership of more than 260 Alpha Kappa Alpha women includes metro Richmond’s most prominent and accomplished professionals. During the past 100 years, Upsilon Omega Chapter has delivered on the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® promise of providing service to all mankind.

ZENOBIA’S PROMISE FOUNDATION, INC.

Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc. is a public charitable foundation and the philanthropic arm of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Upsilon Omega Chapter. The Foundation exists to support educational and charitable projects that enrich the lives of the underserved in the Richmond Metropolitan Area and the Commonwealth of Virginia. At the core of the Foundation’s stated purpose is the provision of scholarships for African American students and the support of other educational, scientific, and cultural programs that enrich the lives of the area’s African American community. Named for the first chapter president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Upsilon Omega Chapter, Zenobia Gilpin Henderson, the Foundation is building on the rich legacy of Upsilon Omega Chapter’s 100 years of service to the Richmond Community.

Program History

In the spring of 1953, the Service Committee of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Upsilon Omega Chapter met to discuss ways in which the sorority could best serve families of the Richmond community. The committee agreed to establish a fund to provide shoes to children in need. In the fall of 1953, the Chapter adopted the “Cinderella Contest” and held the first “Cinderella Ball” in the spring of 1954. Proceeds from the project were designated to provide shoes to students on a regular basis and the participant who raised the highest amount of money was crowned “Miss Cinderella”. The contest was a tremendous success that provided many enriching experiences for the high school girls who participated. To date, this fund continues to meet the needs of children in the city of Richmond, as well as in the neighboring counties. Through the years, the format of the “Cinderella Contest” gradually changed, and in the mid-seventies Upsilon Omega Chapter adopted the AKA Debutante Project. Its purpose is to provide enriching experiences for girls who are high school juniors and seniors and contribute to the AKA Shoe Bank fund with a Debutante Ball serving as the culminating activity for the project. Upsilon Omega Chapter established the “AKA Shoe Bank Fund” in September 1954 in an attempt to preserve and financially support its commitment to needy children of Richmond Public Schools.

In 1986, Upsilon Omega Chapter established a policy that allocated a portion of the proceeds from the AKA Debutante Project to provide financial assistance in recognition of academic achievement as well as the purchase of shoes for local students. In 2023, Upsilon Omega Chapter and Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc. collaborated to jointly host this program and will continue to do so. Proceeds from corporate sponsorships, ads, patrons and ticket sales are used to support program components, funding for scholarships and shoes for needy school children.

DEBUTANTE PROJECT OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES

The Debutante Project serves to equip, encourage and stimulate young ladies who are juniors and seniors in high school to pursue higher education, academic excellence, personal development and civic involvement. The program focuses on:

● Enhancing personal, civic and leadership development.

● Provide structured educational workshops.

● Promote camaraderie and positive relationships with other young women.

This Debutante Handbook provides information, requirements and expectations for debutantes participating in the 2025 Debutante Project. An Escort Handbook is additionally available in Appendix A, and debutantes should provide the Escort Handbook to their escort and his parents.

Project Expectations

COMMUNICATION

Communication related to the Debutante Project will primarily occur through electronic mediums, such as email and the GroupMe app. For real-time announcements and/or urgent alerts, a GroupMe chat will be utilized. Therefore, each debutante and her parent/guardian should have a valid email address and mobile number. The GroupMe app is available via the Google Play store or the Apple App store.

ATTENDANCE

Each debutante is expected to attend all workshops and rehearsals as well as community service project(s) and is expected to arrive on time for each event. A reminder will be sent via email approximately a week before each activity/workshop. If the debutante is unable to attend an activity, an email should be sent 48 hours in advance to: debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com.

CODE OF CONDUCT (Parents, Debutantes and Escorts)

1. To respect and abide by the expectations, guidelines, procedures and deadlines outlined in the Debutante Handbook, Escort Handbook provided in Appendix A, by the committee and as noted at debutante orientation.

2. To have respect for other participants (debutantes, family members, escorts, workshop presenters and choreographers) in the program as well as members of the debutante committee.

3. To respect all decisions and deliberations made by the debutante committee.

4. To publicly present in a way that reflects high moral and ethical character by:

a. obeying the law

b. exercising good manners

c. displaying concern for your appearance

d. refraining from profanity, acts of violence or criminal conduct

5. Exhibit respect for other debutantes and students by avoiding demeaning, negative remarks, ridiculing and gossip.

6. Demonstrate high regard for oneself by avoiding derogatory, demeaning and insulting remarks.

7. Be polite, kind, fair, honest and conciliatory.

8. Work diligently to support the programs of the Debutante Project and participate actively and fully in workshops and other activities that enhance personal development.

9. Maintain integrity of financial matters as related to fundraising and financial procedures.

10. Remain current with all financial obligations.

WORKSHOPS

Monthly sessions are planned to give debutantes information, and opportunities to practice life, career and social skills.

1. Cell phones must be silenced and stored away at least five (5) minutes before each workshop begins and should only be accessed during breaks and/or after dismissal.

2. Each debutante must remain engaged during each workshop and is encouraged to take notes.

3. Each debutante must listen to the speaker and ask questions.

4. Each debutante must refrain from talking while presenters are speaking.

5. Funds for ticket sales, ads and patrons should be submitted by parents at workshops, activities and rehearsals.

REHEARSALS

Debutante rehearsals are held every Monday beginning October 13th thru December 15th from 7- 9 pm. Rehearsals are held at Thomas H. Henderson Middle School, 4319 Old Brook Road, Richmond, VA 23227. The debutante and father/presenter will begin rehearsing on Monday, October 13, 2025. The choreographer will notify debutantes when Escorts and the Mother/ Mother Figures need to attend rehearsal. Additional rehearsals may be required, and will be communicated in advance. All rehearsals are mandatory for debutantes and participants when scheduled. A final rehearsal will be held on the morning of the ball, December 20th from 10am-12pm at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

DEBUTANTE BIO INFORMATION

A short biography is needed from each debutante. The bio information is utilized in the ball program book, souvenir journal and to introduce the debutante at the ball. To facilitate collecting debutante and escort information, each debutante is requested to complete the Deb Family Information Form. The form can be accessed at: AKA Debutante Bio Information. We are requesting biographical information as well as information on your school and church activities.

Please complete the online form fully with the information exactly as you would like it to appear in the program book, and to introduce the debutante at the ball. All debutantes are asked to complete this form by Monday, October 6, 2025.

Debutante Ball Presentation

This is your night to shine! You are the guest of honor, and all eyes will be on you. You will be able to look back at your photos from this event and smile with pride. The look we are striving for is elegance and timeless. We want you to be radiant! Traditionally, debutantes wear white ball gowns with no train, white satin gloves, and minimal decorations. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to find the dress of your dreams. In years past, debutantes have borrowed, rented, purchased or had dresses made and some have even discovered their perfect gown during sales and seasonal closeouts. There are a lot of options. However, the debutante’s dress and shoes must be approved by the committee prior to purchase but no later than November 1oth.

DEBUTANTE DRESS REQUIREMENTS

Through the years, the Debutante Ball has been unforgettable because of its atmosphere, ambiance and beautiful Debutante attire. In an effort to present an unforgettable affair again for this year’s Debutante Ball, the following is required:

1. The debutante gown should be a full‐skirted gown of SNOW WHITE fabric (satin, peau de soie, chiffon, voile, lace, taffeta, etc.).

2. The skirt of the dress must allow for curtsying and dancing. The length must be short enough to move, but long enough to hide your shoes. The bottom of the dress should not drag the floor.

3. Crinoline skirts can provide fullness to the bottom of the gown.

4. The straps must be at least 1.5 inches wide. Strapless dresses are not permitted.

5. Gowns should not show cleavage, should not be backless, nor should the skirt area be fitted.

6. There should be no dangling sequins, glitter or obvious rhinestone trims. Pearls, lace and ruffles are acceptable. The bodice can have seed pearls, sheer sequins, and/or small transparent/shiny beads.

7. The gown should be accessorized with over‐the‐elbow or wrist‐length white satin gloves according to the sleeve length of the gown. For example, if your gown has ¾ length sleeves or longer, then wrist-length gloves are appropriate. However, if your gown has sleeves shorter than ¾ length, over-the-elbow gloves are appropriate.

HAIR AND HAIR ORNAMENTS

Any style of hair is acceptable, as long as it is neat and well groomed. For safety reasons, no hair ornaments are allowed, including barrettes, jewels, pearls, glitter, tiaras, or pins (natural hair color bobby pins are acceptable). No adornment should be added to the hair.

SHOE STYLE

Shoes should be PLAIN white closed toe pumps of peau de soie, satin, linen, etc. Low to medium heel height (1-2 inches is recommended). Sling back shoe styles are not permitted. Hosiery is recommended, but not required, and socks should not be worn with shoes. The shoes should have a comfortable fit. Tennis shoes/sneakers should not be worn with ball gowns.

DRESS APPROVAL PROCESS

The debutante’s dress must be approved by the Debutante Committee. In order for your dress to be approved, please email a photo of the dress (front and back) to debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com. If your dress requires alterations, please ensure they are completed well in advance of the ball. Remember, please be sure to get approval from the Debutante Committee prior to making your dress purchase.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

● Jewelry should consist of a single string of white pearls (16”, 18" or 20") and small stud white pearl earrings.

● White or flesh toned hosiery is recommended for shoe comfort.

● Nail polish should be white, sheer, French manicure, soft pink, etc.

● Nails should be modest in length.

● Makeup should be soft colors, whites, silvers, champagnes, soft pinks. Heavy dark or bright colors are not recommended.

● Tattoos should be covered.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

● Do not wait to shop for gowns, shoes, gloves and jewelry. Start shopping now!

● Do not wait to shop for tuxedos, suits and gowns for other children, parents, grandparents, etc.

● Refrain from scheduling activities not related to the ball on the day of the ball.

● Schedule hair, nail, eyebrow appointments for everyone prior to the day of the ball. We recommend Wednesday and Friday evening for these appointments, as a practice may be scheduled the Thursday before the ball.

● Debutantes and escorts should eat a full meal prior to putting on their ball attire.

● Several prom dress websites have options to shop by color and full-length gown. However, if you decide to order your dress online, make sure the dress is white and not off-white as most modern wedding dresses are not white.

DAY OF THE BALL

● The dress rehearsal is scheduled for 1oam-12pm on the day of the ball.

● Debutantes are required to stay after the dress rehearsal at the Convention Center where they will eat, dress and take pictures prior to the ball.

● Parents and escorts are asked to return by 4pm for pictures.

● Flowers are provided for the debutante, parents and escorts just prior to the pictures.

● The presentation generally begins at 6:30pm and may last until 7:30pm, with dinner occurring between 7:30pm – 8:30pm, and music, dancing and mingling from 8:30pm-11:00pm.

● The presentation includes the debs dancing with the fathers/presenters, debs dancing with escorts and the debs dancing alone.

● Personal professional photographers or videographers are not allowed.

FATHER’S/PRESENTER’S ATTIRE

Black tuxedo, white shirt with plain front and wing collar (NOT pleated), black bow tie and cumberbund or vest, black shoes and black socks.

ESCORT’S ATTIRE

Black tuxedo, white shirt with plain front and wing collar (NOT pleated), black bow tie and cumberbund or vest, black shoes and black socks.

MOTHER’S ATTIRE

Long, floor length gown in any color other than white. Tattoos should be covered.

GUESTS’ ATTIRE

ALL guests are expected to dress in tuxedos/black suits and formal gowns.

TUXEDO VENDOR

The preferred tuxedo rental vendor for Escorts and Fathers/Presenters is Men’s Warehouse, 9970 Brook Road, Glen Allen, Virginia 23059 and phone (804)262‐5063.

A representative from Men’s Warehouse will attend a rehearsal to take measurements and deposits for Escorts and Fathers/Presenters. An announcement with the date, time and deposit amount will be provided in advance.

Souvenir Journal Overview

The Souvenir Journal provides a visually lasting memory of your debutante experience. Hence, it is important for this document to be a product of quality - one that may be treasured for years to come. This is a publication in which parents, relatives, friends and businesses have the opportunity to express their thoughts about their special debutantes and receive support from the business community.

To ensure excellent quality printing, debutantes are requested to submit camera-ready ads. Ads must be original, clear, black or color print and not blurred or fuzzy. We are requesting ads be submitted in digital form. Please submit ads as a Portable Document Format (.PDF), Portable Network Graphics (.PNG) or Microsoft PowerPoint (.PPT) files with digital quality photographs.

ADS & PATRONS FOR THE SOUVENIR JOURNAL

Each debutante is required to raise a minimum of $1,000 in ads and patrons for the debutante souvenir journal. Fundraising should be personal and direct with family members, friends, close associates, businesses and organizations, and Debs should not use ‘GoFundMe’ pages to solicit for ads or patrons. Funds raised benefit the Upsilon Omega Chapter Shoe Bank and Scholarship Awards. Please feel free to use our sample solicitation letter as provided in Appendix B as an example.

Ads and patrons should be submitted via the Zenobia’s Promise Foundation website. Subscribers should follow the directions on the site for the submission of funds and the ad/patron files. Debutante Committee members are available to assist with any ad submission issues or concerns.

Ad submissions, patron lists, and the minimum $1,000 are due by November 17, 2025. Ads and patrons received after November 17, 2025 will not be showcased in the souvenir journal.

Pricing of ads and patrons for the 2025 debutante souvenir journal are as follows:

● Full Page - $100

● Half Page - $80

● Quarter Page - $60

● Patron (One or Two Names) - $25

DEBUTANTE AD SUBMISSION PROCESS

Each debutante will be provided a website link for submission of their ads and patrons. All ads are submitted electronically via this site. The website link will be provided to each debutante family. Debutante families may submit ads and patrons via the link, or can share with family, friends and business to submit ads on the debutante’s behalf. To help ensure the timely completion of the debutante souvenir journal, and allow for the journal process to execute smoothly, we ask that you follow the ad submission guidelines and timeline closely. Please do not wait until the last minute to start creating, developing and requesting ads and patrons.

Adherence to the final Ads/patrons deadline is expected. If you have not collected the minimum requirement of $1,000.00 by November 17, 2025, you must personally pay the balance that is due or your debutante will not be presented at the ball.

Souvenir Journal Style Guide

Utilize this Debutante Souvenir Journal Style Guide for detailed ad and patron information, guidelines, instructions, and examples of ads for the souvenir journal.

Please adhere to the final ads and patrons deadline. If you have not submitted the minimum requirement of $1,000.00 in ads and/or patrons by November 17, 2025, then you must personally pay the balance that is due on November 17, 2025.

The Debutante Journal Style Guide is a resource for debutantes and their families to assist with creating ads. The journal showcases debutantes and their many supporters. The journal will be provided digitally to share with family, friends, and supporters. One printed copy of the journal will be provided after the conclusion of the ball. Debutante Journal Committee members are available to assist with questions or concerns related to developing and submitting your ads. We ask that you begin to collect ads and patrons early.

AD LAYOUT AND FORMATTING

The digital journal will be produced in portrait format. All ad files should be submitted in portrait layout (and NOT landscape layout) ready for insertion into the journal. Ads may contain text, graphics, as well as photos. Journal ads should be developed as .PDF, .PNG or .PPT files. Proofread all of your ads for typographical, spelling, and grammatical errors.

All ads should be sized as 8 ½” x 11” when submitted. The ads will be scaled appropriately (full page, halfpage or quarter page) during the journal creation process. Also, ensure the content is appropriate for the ad size and not too cluttered, or not too much white space. Each debutante will have a section in the souvenir journal for their bio, ads and patrons. Be creative in developing ads. Use pictures, borders, graphics and more to build ad pages. An example ad package is provided in Appendix C of this handbook.

PATRON LIST

Patrons are listings of one or two names. All patron names should include a title preceding the name. Example titles include Mr. and Mrs., Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., Dr. and Rev. Master and Little Miss are appropriate titles for children. Note, Deacon and Deaconess titles should not be used as they are titles reserved for church functions.

Patrons are submitted via the website. An alphabetical listing of each debutante’s patrons will be included as the last page of the debutante’s journal package.

SPELLING, GRAMMAR, AND PUNCTUATION

All ads and patrons should be reviewed carefully and double checked to minimize the possibility of spelling, grammatical and/or punctuation errors. Your thorough review and corrections will greatly minimize the work that the debutante committee will have to perform in proofing, editing, and preparing the final digital souvenir journal. Every effort should be made to avoid mistakes.

Please follow the guidelines below before submitting your ads and patron lists.

Spelling

Check for spelling errors by using embedded spelling and grammar checkers in Microsoft, Grammarly, or other applications. Come common errors include:

● Spelling ‘CONGRATULATIONS’ incorrectly. Will often see ‘CONGRADULATIONS’ printed in ads.

● Usage of ‘your’ to replace ‘you’re’. “You’re’ is short for “you are”.

● Usage of ‘it’s’ for ‘its’. “It’s’ is short for ‘it is’ and ‘its’ shows possession.

● The word Debutante is spelled with an ‘e’ at the end.

● Always spell a person’s name correctly. To misspell a person’s name is an insult. If you are not sure of the correct spelling, ask the person.

Grammar and Punctuation

Watch closely for correct grammar and punctuation errors. Review sentences carefully to ensure the subject and verb agree. Remember that singular verbs in the present tense end in ‘s’. (Example: The debutante works on her project each day.) Plural verbs in the present tense do not end in ‘s’. (Example: The debutantes work on their projects each day.)

Capitalization: Be sure to use capital letters only when necessary. Do not capitalize every word in your ads.

Ensure punctuation marks are placed appropriately.

● Commas

○ Use commas after salutations and closing: My Dear Debutante, Love, Good Luck, Sincerely, etc.

○ Use a comma after Congratulations, if it is on the same line as the person’s name (Example: Congratulations, Mary Jane). If Congratulations is on a line by itself, NO COMMA is needed.

● Apostrophes

○ Use apostrophes in contractions. (Example: it’s, can’t, etc.)

○ Also, use apostrophes to show ownership (Example: My daughter’s beautiful smile)

○ The Johnsons (Not the Johnson’s)

● Colons

○ Use a colon between the chapter and verse in the Bible (Example: Proverbs 3:5)

● Underline or Italics

○ Underline or put in italics the titles of books, plays, etc.

● Quotation Marks

○ Use quotation marks to enclose (put around) a person’s exact words or something that you copied from another source. Be sure to give credit to the source. Tell who said it or where you got the information. (Example: “Teaching is to awaken joy in creative expression.” -Albert Einstein)

○ When you use a verse or passage from the Bible, always reference the book, chapter, verse and version. (Example: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 (King James Version))

○ Words that are not standard English, should be enclosed in quotation marks.

○ Enclose titles of poems, stories, songs, etc. in quotation marks.

Suggestion: Always get a trusted friend or relative to proofread your patrons and ads before you submit them. Another person can often see something that you may overlook. Sometimes you are so familiar with the material, it is easy for you to miss something.

USAGE OF ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED ® SYMBOLS

All ads and patrons must correctly use Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® symbols and notation. We identify sorority members by the use of an asterisk following their names, i.e., Mrs. Ruby L. Jones*, Mr. and Mrs.* John R. Smith.

Ads are given in honor of the debutante, therefore, sorority members should not use Soror before their names in an ad for the debutante. An asterisk should be placed after the name of members of AKA in the journal ad. (i.e. Rev. Ivy Lyle*)

The sorority crest should not be used in debutante ads, even if the person providing the ad is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ®.

If technical assistance is needed with developing or submitting souvenir journal ads contact the Debutante Committee Chairman.

DEBUTANTE JOURNALS

The debutante souvenir journal provides a lasting memory for the debutantes and their families for years to come. The journal is compiled and includes debutante bios, portraits from the ball, photos from throughout the debutante project, and ads and patrons obtained by each debutante. Each debutante will receive an electronic link to the souvenir journal and one hard copy of the journal after the conclusion of the ball. Souvenir journals for prior year debutantes are available for reference and are provided below:

2022 Debutante Souvenir Journal

2023 Debutante Souvenir Journal

2024 Debutante Souvenir Journal

AD & PATRON INDIVIDUAL DONOR RECEIPTS

Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc. is a public 501(c)3 charitable foundation and the philanthropic arm of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Upsilon Omega Chapter. Ad and patron donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. A receipt is provided upon submission of the ad/patron payment on the website. If any additional assistance is needed contact fundraising@zenobiaspromise.org.

Activity Schedule

The following are important dates to remember including key financial due dates, workshops, and rehearsals.

Day/ Time Activity

Saturday, June 28 3:00 pm Orientation

Saturday, June 28

Sunday, July 27

Sunday, July 27 4- 5:30 pm

Saturday, August 23 3- 5 pm

Saturday, Aug 30

Saturday, Sep 13 9 am - 3 pm

Saturday, Sep 20 7:30 am- 12 pm

Saturday, Sept 20

October TBD

Monday, Oct 6

Saturday, Oct 11 10 am- 12 pm

Monday, Oct 13 7- 9 pm (Student Holiday & Columbus Day)

Monday, Oct 20 7- 9 pm

Monday, Oct 27 7- 9 pm

Commitment Fee Due ($250 Non-Refundable) Payable to: Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

2nd Participation Payment Due ($150) Payable to: Zenobia’s Promise Foundation

Get Acquainted Tea (Moms & Dads are invited)

Fun Day/Game Night (Debutantes only)

3rd Participation Payment Due ($150) [Deadline for refund requests] Payable to: Zenobia’s Promise Foundation

Total You Workshop (Debutantes only)

Community Service: Florence Neal Cooper Smith 5K Walk for Sickle Cell (Escorts are invited)

FINAL Participation Payment Due ($150)

Worship Service (Debs, Moms, Dads and Escorts)

Debutante Bio Form Due

Financial Literacy Workshop (Debutantes Only)

Ball Rehearsal, Day #1 (Debs, Dads)

Ball Rehearsal (Debs, Dads)

Location

Upsilon Omega Chapter Office Interstate Center Conference Room 2108 W. Laburnum Avenue Richmond, VA 23227

East Henrico Rec Center

Strawberry Hill Ballroom 1440 North Laburnum Avenue Richmond, VA 23223

Upsilon Omega Chapter Office Interstate Center Conference Room

Dorey Park 2999 Darbytown Road Richmond, VA 23231

TBD

Debutante Bio Information Form

Upsilon Omega Chapter Office Interstate Center Conference Room

Henderson Middle School 4319 Old Brook Road Richmond, VA 23227

Henderson Middle School

Activity Schedule (Continued)

Day/ Time Activity

Monday, Nov 3 7-9 pm

Sunday, Nov 9 4- 7 pm

Monday, Nov 10 7- 9 pm (Veteran’s Day)

Monday, Nov 17 7- 9 pm

Monday, Nov 24 7- 9 pm

Monday, Dec 1 7- 9 pm

Monday, Dec 1

Monday, Dec 8 7- 9 pm

Sunday, Dec 14 2 - 4 pm

Monday, Dec 15 7- 9 pm

Saturday, Dec 20 10 am- 12 pm

Saturday, Dec 20 6:30 pm- 11:30 pm

Ball Rehearsal (Debs, Dads, Escorts)

Social Graces Workshop (Debs & Escort)

Ball Rehearsal (Debs, Dads, Escorts)

FINAL Ad and Patrons Submission Payable to: Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

Ball Rehearsal

Final Ticket Sales & Table Seating Forms Due Payable to: Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

Ball Rehearsal

Mother and Daughter Brunch (Debs and Moms)

Ball Rehearsal (Debs, Dads, Escorts, Moms)

Ball Dress Rehearsal (Debs, Dads, Escorts, Moms)

Debutante Ball

Henderson Middle School

East Henrico Rec Center

Strawberry Hill Ballroom 1440 North Laburnum Avenue Richmond, VA 23223

Henderson Middle School

Table Seating Form

Henderson Middle School

Tarrant’s West

Henderson Middle School

The Greater Richmond Convention Center 300 E. Main Street Richmond, VA 23219

The Greater Richmond Convention Center

Financial Obligations

PARTICIPATION FEE

Debutantes are required to pay a participation fee of $700.00. A non-refundable commitment fee of $250 is due no later than Saturday, June 28, 2025 in the form of personal check, cashier’s check or money order. Please make all checks payable to Zenobia’s Promise Foundation. You may also request to be invoiced by PayPal for electronic payment. Electronic payments will incur an additional 3% processing fee.

The second installment of $150 is due no later than July 27, 2025, the third installment of $150 is due by Aug 30, and the balance of $150 is due by September 20, 2025. Cash will not be accepted. The debutante’s first and last name should be included on all payments, and the participation fee must be paid in full prior to the start of rehearsals. If the participation fee is not paid in full, the debutante will not be allowed to attend rehearsal.

June 28, 2025 - $250 Non-Refundable Commitment Fee

July 27, 2025 - $150 Due

August 30, 2025 - $150 Due September 20, 2025 - $150 (no refunds after this date, max refund $450)

The participation fee includes:

● All costs associated with debutante and escort activities

● Four tickets to the ball (debutante, escort, debutante’s mother and father)

● A link to a digital version of the souvenir journal

● One hard copy of the souvenir journal

TICKET SALES

All guests age 3+ must have a ticket to the ball. Tickets may be purchased with personal checks, money orders, cashier’s checks or via the electronic ticketing platform. Personal checks, money orders, cashier’s checks should be made payable to: Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc. The price of each ball ticket is $95.00 per guest. Tickets will be available for sale online beginning on July 1, 2025. Each debutante will receive a personalized ticket ordering link to share with their guests. All ticket sales are non-refundable.

TABLE ASSIGNMENTS

Each debutante will have one primary table. Primary tables are assigned by the committee in the order in which they are paid in full. Partial tables/seats from one debutante may be combined with partial tables/seats from other debutantes to fill a full table. Once the final number of debutantes has been confirmed, additional seating may be available based on space at the venue.

If families of two or more debutantes wish to be seated in close proximity, please send a written request to debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com by December 1, 2025. Verbal requests or communications will not be accepted.

Online ticket sales will end on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 11:59p.m. You must submit the Ball Table Seating Form for guest table assignments no later than Monday, December 1, 2025.

Each debutante will receive 4 complimentary seats to the Debutante Ball (one for the debutante, one for the escort, one for the debutante’s mother, and one for the debutante’s father).

Debutante Scholarships and Book Awards

All debutantes are eligible to apply for a scholarship or book award during their senior year of high school. These awards are administered by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Upsilon Omega Chapter, in collaboration with Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

The debutante must complete the scholarship application in order to receive scholarship or book award consideration. Scholarship applications are typically available for completion in the Spring of each year. All debutantes are notified by the Scholarship Committee once the application is available, and must submit the application in accordance with the specified guidelines.

Contact Information

For general questions … Kimya Fitz, Debutante Committee Chairman

Email: debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com

Oscarina Pollard, Debutante Committee Co-Chairman

Email: debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com

For ad/patron questions … Tiffany Owens, Debutante Committee Technology

Email: technology@zenobiaspromise.org

The debutante project is a treasured memorable experience and will create a lifetime of memories for your debutante and family!

Appendix A

Escort Handbook

This handbook provides information, expectations and requirements for escorts. Debutantes should share this information with their escort and his parents/guardians.

Upsilon Omega Chapter would like to thank the escorts for agreeing to participate in this year’s Debutante Project and look forward to working with you over the next few months. We hope you will enjoy the experience and understand these moments in time will be memorable.

DEBUTANTE BALL OVERVIEW

What is a Debutante Ball? A Debutante Ball is a formal ball where young women are introduced to society by their parents or guardians. It is the culmination of months of educational, cultural, and community service activities that will enhance their lives. Debutantes are asked to choose a young man who will enhance her qualities as she is presented to society. She selected you! These guidelines are designed to provide pertinent information to escorts and their parents, and share specific information that govern the debutante ball and all activities.

The success of the debutante ball depends on the full cooperation and commitment from all participants. Although escorts are required to devote their time to rehearsals, the ultimate commitment is the one escorts will make on December 20, 2025, at the Debutante Ball in the presence of parents, family members and the greater Richmond community.

Even though she selected you, we ask that you carefully read this information in its entirety with your parents to ensure you are able to fully commit to this process and adhere to the expectations outlined.

ESCORT REQUIREMENTS:

● We strongly recommend the escort to be a trusted friend or family member who is willing and able to commit to the entirety of the debutante project, and be reliable and supportive of the debutante throughout the process.

● Escort must have reliable transportation.

● Escort must attend all required rehearsals, tuxedo fitting, and dress rehearsals.

● Please double check the required dates with your parents before fully committing.

● Escort (or his parents) must commit to paying applicable tuxedo rental fees.

● Escort must commit to returning the tuxedo.

● Escort and parent should have a reliable email address.

REHEARSALS

Debutante rehearsals are held every Monday beginning October 13th thru December 15th from 7- 9 pm. Rehearsals are held at Thomas H. Henderson Middle School, 4319 Old Brook Road, Richmond, VA 23227. The debutante and father/presenter will begin rehearsing on Monday, October 13, 2025. The choreographer will notify debutantes when escorts and the mother/mother figures need to attend rehearsal, which is generally in early November. Additional rehearsals may be required, and will be communicated in advance.

A final rehearsal will be held on the morning of the ball, December 2oth from 10am-12pm. All rehearsals are mandatory for debutantes and participants when scheduled. Be sure there are no conflicts with sports, other practices, church or school activities.

TUXEDO RENTAL

The preferred tuxedo rental vendor for escorts and fathers/presenters is Men’s Warehouse. A representative from Men’s Warehouse will attend a rehearsal to take measurements and deposits for escorts and fathers/presenters. An announcement with the date, time and deposit amount will be provided in advance.

Men’s Warehouse 9970 Brook Road Glen Allen, Virginia 23059 (804)262‐5063

ESCORT’S ATTIRE

Black tuxedo, white shirt with plain front and wing collar (NOT pleated), black bow tie and cumberbund, black shoes and black socks.

GUESTS’ ATTIRE

ALL guests are expected to dress in tuxedos/black suits and formal gowns.

DAY OF THE BALL

● The dress rehearsal is scheduled for 1oam-12pm on the day of the ball.

● Escorts have only 4 hours to travel, rest a bit, eat, dress, makeup and return to the venue.

● Parents and escorts are asked to return by 4pm for pictures.

● The presentation generally begins at 6:30pm and may last until 7:30pm, with dinner occurring between 7:30pm – 8:30pm, and music, dancing and mingling from 8:30pm-11:00pm.

● The presentation includes the debs dancing with the fathers/presenters, debs dancing with escorts and the debs dancing alone.

● Personal professional photographers or videographers are not allowed.

TICKETS TO THE BALL

As an escort, you do not need to purchase a ticket to the Debutante Ball. However, any guests of the escort, including parents, are required to purchase a ticket to the event. Please request your debutante’s personal ticket sales link for purchasing tickets to the ball. Tickets must be purchased for all guests ages 3+ and must be purchased by Monday, December 1, 2025.

ESCORT ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

Debutante Rehearsals Oct 13-Dec 15 (Mondays)** 7pm Henderson Middle School

Community Service Event Saturday, Sept 20, 2025 7:30am Dorey Park (Varina)

Escort Rehearsals Early Nov - Dec 7pm Henderson Middle School

Social Graces (Deb & Escort) Sunday, Nov 9, 2025 3:00pm Eastern Henrico Recreation Center

Dress Rehearsal Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 10:00am

DEBUTANTE BALL

Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 6:30 pm

The Greater Richmond Convention Center

** Escorts are also invited to attend the worship service and community service activities. The finalized dates will be shared with all participants.

Again, thank you for being a part of this year’s AKA Debutante Ball sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Incorporated®, Upsilon Omega Chapter and Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Incorporated.

If you have any questions, feel free to email the Debutante Committee anytime at debutanteprojectuo@gmail.com.

Sample Solicitation Letter- Debutante Project 2025

Sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Upsilon Omega Chapter, and Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Incorporated

Debutante Dawn Daisy

1908 Ivy Leaf Lane Richmond, VA 23223

June 1, 2025

Name of Person or Business 555 Business Street Richmond, VA 23223

Dear Sir or Madam

My name is Debutante Dawn Daisy, daughter of Dan and Dana Daisy. I am a junior at Alpha High School.

This year I have been selected to participate in the 2025 Debutante Project. The Debutante Project offers its participants an opportunity to obtain a scholarship toward their college education. As a participant, I am asking for the support of my family, friends, church members, and community members to make a donation to this Debutante Program scholarship effort. The Debutante Project was developed for young ladies who are high school juniors and seniors in order to equip, encourage, and stimulate them to pursue higher education, academic excellence, personal development and civic involvement.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Upsilon Omega Chapter, is collaborating with Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Incorporated, the Chapter’s 501(c) 3 charitable foundation to sponsor the 2025 AKA Debutante Ball.

This project raises funds through the collection of ads and patrons which are published in a souvenir journal at the conclusion of the Debutante Ball. In order to be properly recognized in the souvenir journal for the Debutante Ball, please remit your contribution by November 17, 2025.

You may place an ad in my honor or alternatively, you may participate as a patron. Contributions can be submitted via check or money order payable to Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Inc.

Ad and patron prices for 2025 are as follows:

Ads

Patrons

[ ] Full Page $100 [ ] Single and Two Names $25

[ ] Half Page $80

[ ] Quarter Page $60

Receipts to individual donors will be sent upon request and donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Dawn Daisy

Sample Debutante Journal Ad Package Appendix C

Ms. Lisa Townes

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® Upsilon Omega Chapter, President

Mrs. Josefa Bethea Wall

Zenobia’s Promise Foundation, Board Chair

Mrs. Kimya Fitz

Debutante Project Committee, Chairman

Ms. Oscarina Pollard

Debutante Project Committee, Co-Chairman