Issuu

SororMaryD.MitesCampbell SororMaryD.MitesCampbell

BASILEUS 2026 - 2027

THE TEAM

Favier

January 1, 2026

April 15, 2026

July 1, 2026

October 1, 2026

April Milton Francois Co-Editor

Sabrina Morgan Newsletter Editor

Amy Dawkins Co-Editor

F R O M M A D A

GreetingsSorors,

As we welcome the month of April, I am reminded of the beauty of renewal, growth,andpurpose.Springinvitesustoreflectonhowfarwehavecomeandto embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. It is in this spirit of gratitude and forwardmomentumthatIgreeteachofyou.

ThismonthholdsspecialsignificanceforGammaZetaOmega.OnApril27,we proudly celebrate 86 years since our beloved chapter was chartered. For more than eight decades, Gamma Zeta Omega has stood as a pillar of sisterhood, leadership,andserviceintheMiamicommunity.WehonorthevisionarySorors who laid our foundation in 1940, and we recommit ourselves to carrying their legacywithexcellence,dignity,andunwaveringpurpose.

As we continue our work through our chapter programs, let us do so with renewed energy and a shared sense of pride. Let us also remain focused as we prepareforIvy08CommunityImpactDayonMay30th.Eachactofservice,each moment of sisterly connection, and each contribution you make strengthens the legacy we celebrate this month.

I extend heartfelt congratulations to our 2026 DPGS Honorees:

• Pearl Soror Frederica S. Wilson – 65 years of dedicated service

• Golden Sorors Fredericka J. Fisher, Shalley Jones Horn, and Pamela Genice Sanders White for 50 years of dedicated service

• Silver Sorors Erika Brown, Astra Reddick Burrows, Miesha Darrough, and Latisha A. Robinson – 25 years of dedicated service

BODY

ONE MISSION ONE MISSION ONE GOAL ONE GOAL ONE BODY ONE

Your commitment and longevity reflect the very best of who we are as Alpha Kappa Alpha women.

Thank you, Sorors, for your dedication, your grace, and your steadfast commitment to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. It is an honor to serve alongside you as we uplift our community and celebrate 86 years of extraordinary impact.

We are One United with “ one mission, one body and one soul, to build one sisterhood, through leadership, service, and collaboration.”

MaryD.MitesCampbell

Withsisterlyloveandappreciation, SororMaryD.MitesCampbell

aAlphaSorority,Incorporated® ChapterBasileus OmegaChapter

SISTERHO the pathway t Branded Relati LEADERSH and Legacy lev

Our Solida

ONE MISSION – Strive for supreme service to all mankind toward building a strong future for our chapter and community cohesiveness

ONE GOAL – Leverage a multifaceted generational approach to enhance our diverse professions that produce local, state, and national recognition of our services to all mankind

ONE BODY– Build a unified sisterhood that exemplifies when e sister succeeds, we all succeed.

RVICE RVICE is given is given tthrough hrough ustomization, ustomization, ural, and ethical ural, and ethical iintegration ntegration LABORATION, LABORATION, tworking, and tworking, and orship enhance orship enhance mmunity and mmunity and ter sustainability er sustainability

As we transition into the vibrant second quarter of the year, it is a season of profound renewal and purpose. As your Chaplain, I want to offer a word of encouragement rooted in the light we bring to our community and the strength we draw from one another.

Theupcomingmonthscallustobemindfulofbothourinternal well-beingandourexternal impact:

April(Health&Environment):WehonorthetemplesGodgaveus.Aswefocuson NationalMinorityHealthMonthandEarthDay,letusrememberthatstewardship beginswithourselves.Nurturingourphysicalhealthandoursurroundingsisanactof spiritualdiscipline.

May(MentalWellness&Mothers):Wecelebratethematriarchswhopavedour wayandprioritizeMentalHealthAwareness.Truestrengthisn’tfoundincarryingevery burdenalone,butinthe"peacethatsurpassesallunderstanding"andthecourageto seekrest.

June(Heritage&Freedom):AswecommemorateJuneteenth,wereflectonour collectivejourney.Wearethemanifestationsofourancestors'prayers livinglegacies ofresilience,brilliance,andgrace.

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." — Jeremiah 29:11

Sorors, as women of color and sisters of this illustrious organization, you are the architects of change. In the busy-ness of our service, never forget that your worth is inherent, and your light is necessary.

May you move through this season with a spirit of "Excellence without Excuse," but also with a heart full of self-compassion.

Continue to lead with love, serve with joy, and lean on the sisterhood that anchors us all.

build our sisterhood through service, leadership, and collaboration

y g g

Chapter’scontinueddedicationtoupliftingand empoweringthecommunitiesitserves.

ThisdistinguishedhonorreflectstheChapter’s unwaveringfocusonexcellence,leadership,and meaningfulservice,furthersolidifyingitsroleasa pillarofimpactwithinMiami-DadeCounty.

Ivy Rosettes Story on CBS News Miami

In honor of Women’s History Month, CBS News Miami spotlighted the Women Involved in Service to Humanity Foundation, Inc. (W.I.S.H.) and the Ivy Rosettes Mentoring Program, an initiative of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter.

Founded in 1988, theW.I.S.H. Foundation continues to upliftwomen andyouth through mentorship, leadership, and service. Student leaders and chapterrepresentatives shared howthe program is shaping confident, purpose-drivenyoungwomen and making a lasting impact in the community.

Empowering Generations: A Legacy of Leadership, Service, and Sisterhood in Action. “ ”

Sorors of Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter proudly gathered at the 73rd South Atlantic Regional Conference in Orlando, Florida, embracing a dynamic experience filled with sisterhood, service, and shared purpose. From impactful sessions to unforgettable moments of connection, the conference reflected the power of unity and the lasting legacy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®.

is the pathway to our Branded Relationships

Mentorship inAction

Culture,Connection&Mentorship

January 9, 2026

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter proudly partnered with the W.I.S.H. Foundation, Incorporated® to provide the Ivy Rosettes and Emerging Young Ladies with an unforgettable cultural experience at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts During an inspiring evening with Alvin Ailey II, our young ladies were immersed in the beauty of dance and powerful storytelling.

Through meaningful opportunities like this, we continue to pour into our mentees, cultivating creativity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the arts.

weekly FELLOWSHIP AND FUN weekly FELLOWSHIP AND FUN

aunched a dynamic weekly pickleball group that is quickly becoming a highlight of connection and community. Meeting once a week, this inspiring group

Service in Stride

The Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® remains committed to service, scholarship, and sisterhood. This year of 2026 has been filled with impactful moments, and we are excited to share the highlights with you!

VoicesofLegacy

On January 17, 2026, the Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® proudly honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy through the MLK Day of Service With hands and hearts committed to service, we cleaned our streets and painted spaces in need of renewal Together, we continue to uplift our community through action, unity, and purpose.

On January 19, 2026, the Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® participated in the MLK Parade, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As we marched, we reaffirmed our commitment to service, unity, and advancing the work he began.

On January 24th, the Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® volunteered at Georgia Jones Ayers Middle School, assisting with sorting, packing, and distributing items to families. The day also marked FIU’s official school adoption kickoff, reinforcing our commitment to service and community impact

On January 22, 2026, Presidents Kelly Cooper and Raje Clarke delivered a powerful spoken word tribute at the MLK Dinner, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.

February 14th the members of the Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® volunteered with Health in the Hood, where we helped package and distribute fresh food to support families in our community. Through service, we continue to live out our commitment to Empower Our Families by promoting health, wellness, and access to nutritious resources for those we serve. Together, we are making a difference in one act.

February 4th–8th, Soror Victoria and Soror Adriana proudly served as representatives of the NPHC Executive Board at the Southeastern Greek Leadership Association Conference. Joined by Soror Alana, they were surrounded by Greek leaders from across the region and spent the weekend building connections, attending powerful workshops, and gaining valuable insight to bring back to our council community and chapter.

February 21st the members of the Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® proudly participated in the Dolphins Cancer Challenge 5K, standing in the fight against cancer. Together with our graduate chapter, Gamma Zeta Omega, the immaculate ladies of Delta Eta, ran with purpose, unity, and a shared commitment to supporti honorin

On March 6, 2026, the Sigma Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® proudly participated in Relay for Life to support cancer awareness and raise funds for the fight against cancer. Our chapter sold Icees and popcorn while connecting with the community and supporting an important cause that impacts so many lives.

and Legacy leverages

Our Solidarity

Start a 5 minute course now

LEADEARSH DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

10 January, 2026

Unveiling of the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy

Elevating leadership Empowering excellence

Establishing legacy

With elegance and great anticipation, the Leadership Development Committee proudly unveiled the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy (ILA) during its inaugural Orientation held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Senior Family Center in Miami Gardens

A Distinguished Welcome

Setting the tone for this milestone moment, Miami Gardens Councilwoman Linda Julien, who graciously donated the facility, and Miami-Dade Commissioner Oliver Gilbert made a special visit to welcome the Chapter. Their remarks encouraged Sorors to continue advancing the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® with purpose and passion.

Inside the AKAdemy Experience

Approximately 37 Sorors joined as inaugural participants, marking the beginning of a transformative leadership journey With seamless support from the Technology and Logistics Committees, attendees were introduced to:

The vision and structure of the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy

Opportunities for self-paced, virtual learning Leadership development through intentional, guided experiences

A highlight of the session included Soror Sabrina Jones-Morgan, Executive Director of Instructional Technology, who unveiled the Ivy Link Learning Hub, the official digital home of the AKAdemy providing a live walkthrough on how to access and engage with course content

OVERWHELMINGLY POSITIVE IMPACT

The response to the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy was exceptional. Evaluation results revealed that: 95% of participants agreed the session was relevant, well-organized, and clearly presented. Feedback reflected strong enthusiasm and anticipation for continued engagement in this groundbreaking initiative.

Ivy LEADership AKAdemy

ONE MISSON • ONE GOAL • ONE BODY

Tickled Pink, Growing Greener: Excited to Learn, Ready to Lead

Participants arrived energized, eager to grow as leaders, and excited to begin a journey of intentional development through the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy. From the moment the session began, there was a clear sense of enthusiasm in the room as Sorors embraced the opportunity to learn, reflect, and strengthen the skills neededtoleadwithpurposeandimpact. Attendeeswereespeciallyexcitedaboutthe

The unveiling of the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy represents more than a program, it is a commitment to cultivating leadership, strengthening our sisterhood, and propelling Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter to even greater heights.

flexibility of the Ivy Link Learning Hub and the opportunity to continue their leadership development through engaging, on-demand learning experiences The overwhelmingly positive feedback reflected not only appreciation for the workshop’s structure and content, but also a genuine excitement for what lies ahead as participants prepare to lead, serve, and makealastingdifferenceintheChapterand community

Engagement & Sisterhood in Action

The session was both informative and interactive.

Soror Lori F. Bailey led an energizing icebreaker, followed by a reflective activity that encouraged participants to envision their personal leadership growth.

Attendees also enjoyed thoughtful touches, including: Imprinted keepsake writing pens Exciting door prize giveaways

Leadership Behind the Vision

TheIvyLEADershipAKAdemyisguidedbya dynamicteamofleaders:

SororLindaJ.Johnson,Chairman LeadershipDevelopmentCommittee Superintendent,IvyLEADershipAKAdemy

SororBridgetteTate-Wyche Co-Chairman,LeadershipDevelopmentCommittee AssociateSuperintendent

SororSabrinaJones-Morgan ExecutiveDirectorofInstructionalTechnology

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 @ 7:00 PM

Chapter leaders, we’re moving forward with excellence and service Strategic Planning is our roadmap to operational success.

On January 29th and February 10th, the Strategic Planning and Chapter Standards committees presented workshops designed to equip Chapter leaders with the necessary skills to plan effectively and strategically for the year. The virtual orientation and hands-on sessions provided officers and committee chairmen/cochairman with tools, instruction, and guidance to prepare relevant operational guidelines and navigate the electronic operational guidelines form The key

takeaway for the participants was that good intentional planning will propel Gamma Zeta Omega to realize the vision and mission to be this community’s unique, premiere sisterhood to serve all mankind. An average of 52 sorors attended the sessions, and highly favorable evaluation results indicated that the training objectives were achieved

Congratulations to the prize winners from both sessions for their engagement and participation: Sorors Diana Barry Frazier, Klemie Christie, Bria Brown, Marie Civil, LaShinda Moore, Stephenia Willis, and Shelia Cohen. They will receive a gift card during the April Chapter meeting. Thanks to our chaplain, Soror Tiqkia Barrow, for setting the tone with inspiring meditations and to Basileus Mary D. Mites Campbell for her behind the scenes support. Many thanks to Sorors Dorothy Blake and Linda J. Johnson, Strategic Planning Co-Chairmen and cofacilitators Many thanks to Soror Ericka Thomas for her sisterly technological support during the video conferences. We are looking forward to a banner year in Gamma Zeta Omega as we strive to be supreme in service to the Miami-Dade County community!

Soror Etta Maria Brown serves as the chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee, and the Chapter Standards Committee is chaired by Soror Martha Johnson-Rutledge

2026 Operational Guidelines Submissions

As of March 30th, 85% (40) of officers and committee chairmen had submitted their 2026 goals and objectives

We have 12 more to go and are still accepting forms using this link: 2026 Committee and Officer Operational Guidelines Thank you to the chapter leaders listed below who submitted their forms timely Chairmen/officers not listed must contact their liaison immediately Thank you, sorors, for ensuring that we reach 100% of our goal, as required by our Chapter Bylaws

Office / Committee

Audit

Awards

Basileus/Executive

Build Our Economic Wealth

Bylaws/Parliamentarian/Assistant Parliamentarian

Chaplain/Assistant Chaplain (Spiritual Emphasis)

Chapter Standards

Connection and Social Action/Advocate for Social Justice

Donor Relations

Empower Our Families (Program)

Enhance Our Environment (Program)

Epistoleus/Anti-Epistoleus

Ethics

Exhibits

First Anti-Basileus/Rituals

Former Basilei Council

Generation Next

Graduate Advisory

Grammateus/Anti-Grammateus

Historian/Archives

Hodegos/Anti-Hodegos

IVY Leaf Reporter / Public Relations

Leadership Development

Medical Response (IVY Health)

Membership/Mentoring

Newsletter Editor

Nominating

NPHC Representative

Pecunious Grammateus/Anti-Pecunious Grammateus

Philacter/Anti-Philacter

Risk Management

Scholarship

Second Anti-Basileus/Program

Senior Citizens

Sergeant-at-Arms

Strategic Planning se ogy ur Local Community . Foundation, Inc.

Officer / Chairman

Marie Civil

Yvonne Young

Mary D Mites Campbell

Tiqkia Barrow

Linda J. Johnson

Tiqkia Barrow

Martha Johnson-Rutledge

Vanessa Byers

Thomasena Mitchell

LaShinda Moore

Latasha Cogdell

Althea Coleman

Karen Moore

LaGloria Diaz

Veranika Johnson

Juanita Miller

Qwinn Fisher

Danielle Taylor

Latasha Cogdell

Elizabeth Favier Bellamy

Faith Brown

Naja Barnes

Linda Johnson

Gina White

Deborah Varnadore-Simmons

Sabrina Morgan

M Dianne Williams

Stephenia Willis

Raquel McKinnon

RuNaia Jackson

Deborah Dorsett

LaShinda Moore

Shelia Cohen

Althea Coleman

Deborah Hobbs

Etta Maria Brown

Laurestine Porter

Sabrina Morgan

H Leigh Toney

Jacquelle Sconiers

Strategic PlanningLiaison

Dorothy Blake

Leah Swilley-Watts

Linda J Johnson

Anthenisia Jackson

Althea Coleman

Anthenisia Jackson

E Maria Brown

Bria Brown

Dorothy Blake

Leslie Cooper

Linda J Johnson

Patricia Moore

Althea Coleman

Donnesha McBride

Martha Johnson-Rutledge

Latasha Cogdell

Yvonne Young

Marie Civil

Linda J Johnson

Regina McDade

Jacqueline Moise Gibbs

Leah Swilley-Watts

Latasha Cogdell

Kendra Jackson

Yvonne Young

Bernida Desir

Anthenisia Jackson

Kendra Jackson

Dorothy Blake

Bernida Desir

Donnesha McBride

Leslie Cooper

Martha Johnson-Rutledge

Patricia Moore

Regina McDade

Linda J Johnson

Yolette Mezadieu

Bernida Desir

Yolette Mezadieu

E. Maria Brown

The Leadership Development Committee presented the first-ever virtual Executive Committee Boot Camp on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., via Zoom. The goals of the one-hour training experience were to 1) equip Executive Committee members to prepare, participate, and lead with confidence, and 2) build shared understanding and stronger decision-making among Executive Committee leaders. The “Three Ps” framework was shared as the basis of the workshop: Prepare, Participate, Pack The presentation emphasized that serving on the Executive Committee is not a passive role, but it is about governing, making sound decisions, and protecting the integrity and future of the chapter. A total of 26 Executive Committee members attended the working session and interacted with real-life scenarios, quick polls, and discussions to make the experience practical and relevant. The total attendance, including other interested sorors and Leadership Development Committee members, was 39

overall, the workshop was well received, with participants feeling it strengthened their understanding and confidence in participating in Executive Committee discussions and decisions

Door prize winners included Soror Elizabeth Bellamy, who was the first to register and attend, and to Spin the Names winners Sorors Naja Barnes, Deborah Hobbs, and Ericka Thomas. Gift cards were presented to the lucky participants at the March chapter meeting.

The

Seats are still available for the Ivy LEADership AKAdemy, and we invite you to secure your place in our first official cohort!

Don’t miss this opportunity to be among the first Sorors to embark on this dynamic leadership ourney. Participants will begin their first course th month, gaining access to powerful tools, strategie and insights designed to elevate your leadership mpact within our chapter and beyond.

Foradditionalinformation,pleasecontact SororLindaJ.Johnson,Superintendent,or SororBridgetteTate-Wyche,AssistantSuperintendent.

is given through customization, cultural, and ethical integration

FEBRUARY14

The Emerging Young Ladies (EYL) experienced an inspiring evening at the Arsht Center’s Knight Concert Hall, where they attended a powerful performance by Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance. Through the artistry, passion, and cultural torytelling on stage, the girls were xposed to excellence in the performing rts while gaining a deeper appreciation or creativity, discipline, and selfxpression. This enriching experience einforced the program’s commitment to roadening horizons and inspiring young eaders through the arts.

Empowering the Next Generation

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Youth Symposium brought together middle and high school students for an engaging and thought-provoking experience centered on leadership, innovation, and purpose. Hosted by Madie Ives Preparatory Academy in partnership with the W.I.S.H. Foundation, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter, the event created a dynamic space for young minds to explore the intersection of technology and social impact.

AI and the Dream: A Bold Conversation

Grounded in the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr , the symposium encouraged students to connect innovation with service. The program emphasized Dr. King’s enduring message of moral leadership, inspiring youth to lead with integrity, think critically, and remain committed to creating positive change in their communities. The day served as a reminder that the dream continues now in the hands of the next generation

AI and the Dream: A Bold Conversation

Under the powerful theme “AI and the Dream: The Audacity of Authentic Intelligence,” students were introduced to the evolving role of artificial intelligence in shaping their futures. Through meaningful discussions, participants examined how AI influences everyday life from careers to classrooms while also reflecting on the ethical responsibility to use technology in ways that uplift communities and promote equity.

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

A Senior Citizens

by Soror Juanita Miller SAFETY

FORUM

Areyouaproud‘SeniorSoror?’Ifyoubelievethatyouare,thencomeondown…asthis maybejusttheCommitteeforyou!Stepout,liketheclassy,sassySororsofourchapter's SeniorCitizensCommittee,andjoinus.

OnJanuary14 ,theChapter'sSeniorCitizensCommitteememberssetouttoshareNew Yearenergy,welcomingsmiles,andtheircollectiveenthusiasm.Theresidents(guests) werealldelightfullyreceptive.ThevenueselectedwastheClubhouseatTheHamletat WaldenPond,a55+community,locatedinthenorth-centralareaofMiamiGardens.This communityisideallysuitedforthevolunteerservicesthatourcommitteeand organizationcanoffer.

ChairwomanSororAltheaColemanwarmlywelcomedguests,sharedtheagenda,and introducedourguestpresenter,Dr.DawnGrace-Jones.Also,onhandforthiscommunity initiative,andtowelcometheWaldenPondresidentsandguestspeaker,wasBasileus,Dr. MaryMitesCampbell,whoenthusiasticallyendorsedthespeaker'smessage.

Dr. Grace-Jones is both an attorney and a registered nurse. She is a passionate advocate for people and a truly phenomenal woman, driven by her personal desire to help others. Her resume is impressive… She earned a B.S. in Nursing from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University and became an ICU nurse at Jackson Health System. However, she felt the need to do more, so she set out on a quest to earn her Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami, all while working as an Emergency Room nurse and caring for her growing family. She is a member of the Florida Bar Association and has earned numerous professional and judicial designations during her professional career. We are also pinky proud to call her Soror.

Dr. Grace-Jones' very enlightening message was both timely and enjoyable. She covered topics that included nutrition, exercise, accident prevention, self-care, and estate planning. Her presentation style was warm and participatory. The guests and sorors joined the interactive segment, especially the topic about the importance of “Senior Safety”.

The 2026 Senior Citizens Committee inaugural day event was one for the Gamma Zeta Omega books!!

Committee Fair 2026

Connecting, Collaborating, and Committing: 2026 Committee Fair a Success

On March 7, 2026, the chapter came together for an engaging and informative Committee Fair, where participation, energy, and sisterhood were on full display With a strong showing from multiple committees, the event created a vibrant space for Sorors to explore opportunities to serve, lead, and connect

Showcasing Service. Inspiring Commitment.

Each committee thoughtfully curated their booth to highlight their programs, initiatives, and community outreach efforts, giving attendees a clear view of the impactful work taking place across the chapter From service-driven initiatives to strategic programming, committees showcased how their efforts align with the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®

Sorors were invited to engage directly with committee representatives, ask questions, and learn how they could get involved Many committees offered on-the-spot sign-ups, making it easy for members to commit to areas that match their interests and passions The spirit of collaboration was evident, as committees also emphasized opportunities to partner across teams to maximize impact.

IMPACT IN ACTION

SEVERALCOMMITTESPARTICIPATEDINCLUDING:

CONNECTION AND SOCIAL ACTION

COMMITTEE

Addingtotheexcitement,severalboothsincludedgiveawaysandthoughtfultokensofappreciation, creatingafunandwelcomingatmosphereforallwhoattended.

The2026CommitteeFairwasmorethananinformationalevent,itwasapowerfulreminderthatwhenwe cometogetherwithpurpose,westrengthenourabilitytoserve,lead,andupliftourcommunity.

Networking and Donorship enhances community and chapter sustainability

Cancer impacts far more than the individual facing the diagnosis it touches families, friends, co-workers, and entire communities The emotional, physical, and financial challenges can be overwhelming and often extend far beyond treatment In the face of these realities, coming together in support, remembrance, and hope is more important than ever

Thiseffortwasabeautifulexampleofcollaborationand sisterhoodinaction ParticipantsincludedSororsfrom GammaZetaOmegaChapter,ourundergraduateSorors fromDeltaEtaandSigmaPiChapters,aswellas membersoftheIvyHealthandIvyRosettesCommittees Together,wewalkedwithpurpose tosupportloved oneswhocontinuetofightcancer,tohonorthe memoriesofthosewehavelost,andtostandinfaith believingthatonedaytherewillbeacure

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, more than 40 Sorors, friends, and family members proudly participated in the Dolphins Cancer Challenge at Hard Rock Stadium Representing Team Hurricanes – AKA, our walkers completed the 5K alongside hundreds of others committed to advancing cancer research and raising awareness Notably, Team Hurricanes – AKA was the only sorority represented with a team at this year’s challenge, making our presence even more meaningful

Throughthecollectivegenerosityanddedicationofour teamandsupporters,TeamHurricanes–AKAraisedan impressive$4,07539forcancerresearch,morethan doublingouroriginalfundraisinggoalof$2,000 Everydollarraisedandeverysteptakenreflectedthelove, strength,andcommitmentofoursisterhoodand com

We extend heartfelt thanks to every participant and supporter, especially those who exceeded the individual fundraising goal of $250

A special congratulations goes to our top fundraiser, Soror Janice SpannGivens, for her outstanding efforts

We also extend sincere appreciation to our dedicated organizers and leaders: Team Captain Soror Anthenisia Jackson, Soror Danielle Taylor, Soror LaShinda Moore, and Soror Kedemah Dean. Their leadership and commitment helped make this effort a tremendous success TOGETHER, WE WALKED NOT ONLY FOR TODAY, BUT FOR A HEALTHIER TOMORROW.

Miami-Dade Chapter of the Miami-Dade Chapter of the National Pan-Hellinic Council, Inc. National Pan-Hellinic Council, Inc.

A Night of Elegance and Legacy A Night of Elegance and Legacy

THE MIAMI-DADE CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL, INC. COMMEMORATED 85 YEARS OF UNITY, SERVICE, AND IMPACT WITH A STUNNING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION GALA. THE EVENING BROUGHT TOGETHER DISTINGUISHED GUESTS, COMMUNITY LEADERS, AND MEMBERS OF THE DIVINE NINE FOR A CELEBRATION ROOTED IN HISTORY AND ELEVATED IN STYLE.

Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future

WITH THE THEME “REALIZING THE FUTURE WHILE REFLECTING ON THE PAST,” THE GALA BEAUTIFULLY CAPTURED THE JOURNEY OF PROGRESS AND PURPOSE. ATTENDEES WERE REMINDED OF THE ENDURING LEGACY OF SERVICE WHILE EMBRACING A FORWARD-FOCUSED VISION FOR CONTINUED IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY.

An Unforgettable Atmosphere An Unforgettable Atmosphere

SET AGAINST A SOPHISTICATED BACKDROP OF SHIMMERING LIGHTS AND CITYSCAPE ELEGANCE, THE EVENING EXUDED CLASS AND CELEBRATION. FROM THE DÉCOR TO THE AMBIANCE, EVERY DETAIL REFLECTED THE SIGNIFICANCE OF 85 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE.

Unity in Action Unity in Action

THE EVENT SHOWCASED THE STRENGTH AND UNITY OF THE DIVINE NINE, HIGHLIGHTING THE POWER OF COLLABORATION ACROSS ORGANIZATIONS. IT WAS A POWERFUL REMINDER OF WHAT CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED WHEN PURPOSE-DRIVEN INDIVIDUALS COME TOGETHER IN SERVICE AND SISTERHOOD/BROTHERHOOD.

A Celebration to Remember A Celebration to

GUESTS ENJOYED AN EVENING FILLED WITH CONNECTION, REFLECTION, AND JOY. AS STORIES WERE SHARED AND MEMORIES HONORED, THE GALA SERVED NOT ONLY AS A MILESTONE CELEBRATION BUT AS AN INSPIRATION FOR THE CONTINUED WORK AHEAD.

e Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter proudly ed initiative, a meaningful collaboration Citizens Committee and the Technology ationsCommittee. agingsessionbroughtSororstogetherfor mpowering our senior members with oconfidentlynavigatetoday’stechnology. vices to exploring helpful tools, the withcuriosity,connection,andgrowth. ningwithpatienceandexpertise,creating environment. In true sisterly fashion, our thefavor—sharingtheirenergyandjoyby

LLLL LL

We are proud to celebrate our very own Basileus Dr.Mary MitesCampbell for her invitation to serve as the Plenary/Keynote Speaker at the 2nd World Nursing Research & Practice Conference 2027, to be held in Bangkok, Thailand. There will also be a virtual session held on Zoom.

Madam Basileus was selected for this honor in recognition of her outstanding contributions to United Nurses 2027 (2nd Edition), an accomplishment in its own right.

DR. MARY MITES-CAMPBELL

This opportunity will afford her a distinguished platform to share her expertise and inspire nursing professionals and educators globally!

Make us proud!

LLLL LL

SOROR GEANINE WESTER

We are proud to congratulate Soror Geanine Wester on being featured by VoyageMIA in recognition of her outstanding contributions to our community through her EmpowerHER organization.

Through dedication, compassion, and tireless effort, Soror Geanine has made a meaningful difference in the lives of so many. This well-deserved recognition highlights not only her hard work, but also the positive impact she continues to create every day and is a testament to the respect and appreciation she has earned throughout the community

Congratulations on Your Recognition!

LLLL LL

With grateful hearts, we are happy to announce the birth of Soror Raquel McKinnon’s grandchild, Raiyaan Jalil Austin Born on January 16, 2026, and weighing in at 6lbs 5 oz, he is a bundle of great joy and brings new life to their family.

SOROR RACQUEL MCKINNON

Raiyaan is also the son of legacy Soror Rada We give thanks for this beautiful blessing and look forward to showering them with love and support from our community. Please join them in celebrating this precious new beginning and in holding Soror Raquel and family in your prayers as they begin this wonderful journey together

Congratulations, Grandma!

LLLL LL

At a private gathering surrounded by family, former co-workers, and close friends, Soror Etta Maria Brown celebrated her well-earned retirement from the State of Florida’s Department of Children and Families after nearly 34 years of dedicated service.

Throughout her distinguished career, Soror Brown exemplified commitment, excellence, and an unwavering passion for serving others. Her work has left an indelible mark on the community and on all who had the privilege of working alongside her More than a milestone, her retirement reflects a legacy, one defined by leadership, resilience, and purpose.

As she closes this extraordinary chapter, we celebrate not only her years of service but also the countless lives she has impacted along the way May this new season bring her rest, joy, and the freedom to embrace all the things she loves most.

Soror Maria, your contributions will continue to inspire for years to come. Wishing you a retirement that is as beautiful, fulfilling, and exceptional as the legacy you leave behind. Congratulations, you have truly earned this moment!

Honoring a Legacy of Service!

SOROR ETTA MARIA BROWN

LLLL LL

Our lovely pearl Soror Lois Hogan Oliver was recognized as part of a celebration of Women's History Month. The event was held by the Church of the Open Door, United Church of Christ, as they honored its members in their 90s on March 1, 2026

Soror Lois was initiated into the Beta Alpha Chapter at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in 1957 and served as Basileus of BA during 1959-1960. As a life member she has remained active in the Gamma Zeta Omega chapter, serving on numerous committees, including chairing a committee, and having one of the activities mentioned in the Ivy Leaf. Soror Lois has also served as Chaplain for the chapter.

SOROR LOIS HOGAN OLIVER

She is currently a member of the Senior Citizens Committee and contributes in any way she can, despite being physically unable to participate.

Soror Lois believes that sorors should maintain an attitude of growth in the sisterhood, with a spirit of service, relating in a sisterly manner while working together and providing service to our communities. Soror Lois is the mother of Soror Eunice Hogan.