S.P.A.R.K.
PERCYLYKABIR,2025-2027BIENNIUMCHAPTERPRESIDENT
FromtheDeskofthePresident
and Executive Committee for your unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence. This year has been a powerful testament to what we can accomplish when we lead with purpose, compassion, and a shared vision rooted in service.
Together, we have advanced our programmatic thrust in meaningful ways that have left a lasting impact across the communities we serve. Through intentional programming, advocacy efforts, and community engagement, we have continued to embody the mission of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. uplifting, empowering, and creating pathways for change. Your efforts have not only met expectations, but have exceeded them, reflecting both innovation and heart in every initiative.
I want to pause and acknowledge the countless hours of planning, collaboration, and execution carried out by this Executive Committee. Your leadership behind the scenes ensured that our chapter remained organized, effective, and mission-focused throughout the year. Please know that your hard work does not go unnoticed it is deeply valued and truly appreciated.
Now that we have returned from Grapevine and the 50th Southwest Regional Conference, our chapter has even more to celebrate. Building upon the incredible honors shared during the virtual awards ceremony, Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter proudly brought home additional regional recognitions that further affirm the strength of our collective efforts.
These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication, talent, and passion of our members who continue to carry out the work of this sisterhood with excellence. Whether through scholarship initiatives, service programming, sisterhood engagement, or social action each Soror has played a role in helping HMAC shine across
S.P.A.R.K.
PERCYLYKABIR,2025-2027BIENNIUMCHAPTERPRESIDENT
FromtheDeskofthePresident
We also celebrate the results of the Southwest Regional Elections and extend our congratulations to the newly elected leaders and representatives:
Southwest Regional Director: Nicole Taylor
Regional Representative: Raleigh Fleming Member,National Scholarship & Standards: Monica Brewer Member,National Finance: Veronica Bowdry Member,National Nominating Committee: Aliyah Thomas Chair,Regional Nominating Committee: Jackie Jean Pierre Alumnae Members, Regional Nominating Committee: Briget Nevels, Diane Greenwood, Shantel Conquest Collegiate Member,Regional Nominating Committee: Summer Singleton
Furthermore, we are especially proud to recognize Soror Tracee Fletcher for being selected as one of the three 2027 National Convention Coordinators. This is an incredible honor, and we are confident she will represent HMAC with excellence. We stand ready to support her fully as she takes on this impactful role.
In addition, a huge kudos to the attire committee, HMAC was stylish and polished in the looks the committee procured for the membership. Sorors, the accolades continue to come, but more importantly, the work continues. This year has reaffirmed that HMAC is not only making an impact our efforts are being seen, recognized, and celebrated across the region. As we look ahead, let us carry forward this momentum with renewed purpose. Let us continue to lead with compassion, collaborate with intention, and serve with excellence. I am immensely proud of all that we have accomplished together, and I remain inspired by the collective power of this sisterhood.
Thank you for your service, your leadership, and your heart.
One Voice, One Mission, One Strategy!!
With sincere appreciation and sisterly love,
Soror Percy Ly Kabir Chapter President 2025-2027
NurturetheBondWeShare
As the chapter year comes to a close, Membership Services reflects with gratitude on the many moments that strengthened and reignited the bonds of sisterhood within HMAC. From beginning the year together at the National Convention Sunrise Connect and Virtual Opening Ceremony to gathering for our Membership Retreat, The Rhythm of HMAC, Sistersgiving, Crimson and Cream Connect, and Sisterhood Month Ecumenical services just to name a few, each experience created opportunities to deepen our connections and celebrate the spirit of Delta.
Through service initiatives like Habitat for Humanity All Women Build, fellowship events such as Afro-Fabulous, and warmly welcoming more than 100 visitors throughout the year, our chapter continued to exemplify genuine sisterhood and hospitality. We also proudly celebrated milestones in Delta, honored the legacy of our Founders Day, and shared meaningful moments while pinning new Delta Dears.
Membership Services has remained intentional in creating spaces that build, strengthen, and sustain authentic connections among sorors. Through every gathering, conversation, and shared experience, we were reminded that with each of you, the spark of sisterhood illuminates brightly and continues to light the path forward for our chapter.
As we prepare for a new chapter year, may we continue building upon the relationships, memories, and momentum we created together. United in purpose and rooted in sisterhood, our light will continue to shine brightly for years to come.
With Sisterly Love,
ASeasonofImpactandaCommitmenttoFinishStrong
ThePowerofOurPurpose–2025-2026YearinReview
As we close another successful sorority year, I extend my deepest gratitude to the HMAC Sorors who made possible every workshop, community service project, fundraiser, and educational event under the PP&D umbrella. Through efforts of our PP&D Committees, HMAC demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose and serve with excellence. I am proud to share a snapshot of the accomplishments achieved through our PP&D Committees this year. Each success reflects countless hours of planning, collaboration, and service in pursuit of our shared mission.
YearInReview
DeltaAcademy
Delta Academy continued its mission of inspiring and empowering young girls during a critical stage of development. This year, the program served 25 participants representing 14 Houston-area zip codes and provided engaging experiences focused on leadership, service, personal safety, cultural enrichment, and self-discovery.
DeltaGEMS
Delta GEMS experienced another outstanding year, serving 47 young women and averaging 36 participants at each session. Representing communities throughout Houston, Pearland, Manvel, Rosharon, Fort Bend County, Cypress, Katy, and surrounding areas, these young women participated in programming designed to prepare them for college, careers, and leadership opportunities.
The committee was also honored as a Southwest Region award recipient, recognizing the dedication, creativity, and commitment of its members to investing in the growth and success of our young women.
KAMERONBRACKINS,2NDVICEPRESIDENTANDPP&D
EconomicDevelopment
The Economic Development Committee remained committed to helping individuals and families build stronger financial futures. Through Money Makeover, 20 participants received practical financial education, while 12 individuals successfully completed the DFree program and took important steps toward debt reduction and financial independence.
EmergencyResponseTeam
The Emergency Response Team strengthened HMAC's culture of safety and preparedness throughout the year. In addition to providing Fire and Safety Training for 61 participants, the committee established an ERT station at chapter events and introduced the National Safety Video at meetings and high-attendance gatherings to increase awareness of emergency procedures.
The Committee was also recognized as a Southwest Region award recipient for its commitment to promoting preparedness, safety awareness, and member well-being throughout the chapter and community.
InternationalAwarenessandInvolvement
The International Awareness and Involvement Committee continued to connect HMAC's service efforts to communities both near and far. Through fundraising initiatives supporting projects in Haiti, Kenya, Eswatini, and Houston, the committee raised more than $10,000. Members also led World AIDS Day programming that engaged more than 160 participants and assembled 1,000 safe sex kits to support community education and prevention efforts.
PhysicalandMentalHealth
The Physical and Mental Health Committee encouraged members and community participants to prioritize wellness while supporting important causes Through participation in the St. Jude Walk and the March of Dimes Walk, HMAC raised a combined $4,500 and mobilized dozens of members in support of healthier futures for children and families. Additionally, the PMH was instrumental in raising $5,000 for the American Heart Association through support of the Red Dress Luncheon initiative.
SocialAction
The Social Action Committee remained at the forefront of civic engagement and advocacy, conducting 16 voter registration activities and registering 254 voters. Supported by 63 Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrars, the committee expanded voter access and education throughout the community while also partnering with Own Every Piece to distribute reproductive health kits and increase awareness of critical resources.
CelebratingaYearofImpact
The accomplishments highlighted here represent far more than statistics. They represent lives touched, communities strengthened, young people inspired, and opportunities created.
As we celebrate all that we have achieved together, we should be proud of the difference we have made. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the mission of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and to the communities we are privileged to serve. Together, we have made this a year to remember and together, we will continue building upon this legacy of excellence.
Kameron Brackins
2 VicePresident nd Chair,PP&D
PAULALYRSE,RECORDINGSECRETARY&DR.KRISTYLOVE,CORRESPONDINGSECRETARY
The Southwest Regional Conference reaffirmed the importance of accurate minutes and timely follow-up in maintaining the integrity of ourchapter'sofficialrecord.
Minutes serve as the legal record of chapter business, and their accuracydependsonwhatiscapturedinthemoment.Sorors,youcan support this effort by limiting side conversations during meetings and speaking clearly into the microphone when addressing the body. These small courtesies ensure that motions, discussions, and decisionsaredocumentedcorrectlythefirsttime.
CommitteeChairs,uploadingyourreportsinatimelymannerisequally essential. Prompt submissions allow the record to remain current and complete, and ensure that follow-up items are tracked and addressed withoutdelay.
Thank you, Sorors, for your continued cooperation in maintaining the accuracy,integrity,andaccountabilityofourofficialchapterrecords.
FromtheReply
One of the key takeaways from the Southwest Regional Conference wastheneedtoeliminateduplicityinchaptercommunication.
Tokeepourmessagingclearandconsistent,allcorrespondencetothe chapter should come from one of two sources: the Corresponding Secretary or the Chapter President. Weekly or biweekly emails will be senttoincludeallchapterinformation,announcements,andreminders inoneplace.
Sorors, please refrain from resending or forwarding chapter information through separate emails or messages. When information flows from a single source, we reduce confusion, prevent conflicting details, and ensure every member receives the same message at the sametime.
As we apply what we learned in the Southwest Region, keep these remindersinmind:
LookforchapterinformationintheWeeklyCorrespondencerather thanmultipleemails. Submit items for inclusion to the Corresponding Secretary by the posteddeadline.
Direct questions about correspondence to one source for a clear andaccurateanswer.
YoursInDelta, SororLove
In May, the subcommittee presented “HMAC Violet of the Year,” honoring Soror Jasmine Lynch-Williams. Soror Jasmine LynchWilliams embodies the enduring spirit of the Violet of the Year Award through her steadfast service, intentional leadership, and unwavering commitment to sisterhood and community. Through wellness initiatives, grant leadership, and her service as Courtesy Co-Chair alongside Soror Judy Smith, she creates spaces of care, connection, and restoration that leave a lasting impact on the chapter. As Grants Committee Chair, alongside Soror Nerissa Perkins and Soror Karen Smith, she helped secure more than $4,000 in funding while strengthening future grant efforts. Even while navigating significant personal and professional milestones, she has remained deeply engaged in chapter life and continues to extend her impact beyond the chapter through Come Bee Well House and Educate Hearts.
The Awards and Recognition Subcommittee also proudly honored Sorors celebrating 50 years of dedicated service, recognizing their lasting commitment, steadfast leadership, and enduring devotion to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Their legacy of excellence, wisdom, and sisterhood continues to inspire and strengthen the Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter across generations.
As we continue to honor the light that shines within HMAC, let us carry forward the spirit of service, leadership, and compassion that defines us. United in purpose, may we continue to uplift our communities, advance meaningful change, and carry the torch of Delta’s legacy, by lighting the way for others to follow.
(From left to right: Soror JoyLynnis Turner, Soror Cynthia M. Larkin, Soror Brenda Joyce Griggs)
C
H A P T E R M E E
R E C A P
T I N G
We had so much to celebrate during the month of May. in HMAC, our May meetingcelebratedandrecognizedoursororswhohavemadelife-longstrides to the betterment of society and their longevitiy in our organization. The highlight?CelebratingthecentennialbirthdayofourSororLouiseMcGhee!She istrulyashiningexampleforallofustofollow.
AlongwithconductingthebusinessofDelta,werecognizedouramazingMay birthdays. We also conducted our traditional welcome of visiting sorors and encouragedthemtoreturnandmakeHMACtheirhome.
CHAPTER MEETING
TIMES: TIMES: HMACSORORSCOMPLETETALENT HMAC SORORS COMPLETE TALENT DEVELOPMENTIMPACTLAB
DEVELOPMENT IMPACT LAB
HMAC was proudly represented at the Talent Development Impact Lab on Leadership Agility for Disruptive Times, a three-day intensive offered through RiceUniversityExecutiveEducationattheJonesGraduateSchoolofBusiness. The program challenged participants to lead effectively through uncertainty, complexity, and change. Sessions focused on communicating with clarity duringchallengingmoments,practicingadaptivethinkingandflexibledecisionmaking, building resilience in ourselves and those we serve, and leading with emotional intelligence and self-awareness. A key takeaway was the importance of building strong habits — understanding what that looks like in practiceandhowittransformsleadershipagility.
The experience asked a great deal of its participants — their time, travel, full attention, and willingness to be challenged alongside their peers — and our Sorors gave all of it generously. The commitment they demonstrated, both to their own growth and to one another, reflects the spirit of excellence that definesoursisterhood.
Congratulationstoourcompleters:SororsTassandraAllen,PaulaHarris,Kristy Love,TaliaPennington-Dorsey,andCharmaineWilson-Martin.
We celebrate these Sorors as they bring their learning back to HMAC, strengtheningourchapter'sleadershipfortheworkahead.
TalentDevelopmentLab
RecognizedtoRise:ThePowerofthe Recognized to Rise: The Power of the ROOF ROOF
Focus:ROOF(RulesofOrderForm) Focus: ROOF (Rules of Order Form)
This month’s Power Minute continues our HMAC P&P series focused on strengthening chapter excellence through structure, accountability, and informed participation.
Where May emphasized Voice. Validity. Vote., June builds upon that foundation with the principles that ensure every voice is heard with order, respect, and purpose.
1.DefinitionofROOF WhatdoesROOFstandforinchapteroperations?
A. Rules of Official Functions
B. Rules of Order Form
C. Regulations of Officer Framework
D. Rules of Organizational Formalities
2.PurposeofROOF WhatistheprimarypurposeofROOF?
A. To plan chapter events
B. To guide orderly, efficient, and fair conduct of meetings
C. To assign committee responsibilities
D. To track attendance
3.RecognitiontoSpeak Beforespeakingduringachaptermeeting,aSorormust:
A. Begin speaking immediately
B. Be recognized by the Presiding Officer
C. Ask another member for permission
D. Submit comments in writing only
4.MakingaMotion
Whatisthefirststepinpresentingamotion?
A. Debate the issue
B. Call for a vote
C. Obtain recognition and formally state the motion
D. Send it to committee
5.DebateGuidelines
Whichofthefollowingbestreflectsproperdebate?
A. Members may interrupt freely
B. Debate should be respectful, relevant, and directed through the chair
C. Only officers may speak
D. Members may speak multiple times without limitation
6.VotingProcedures
Whendoesvotingoccurduringameeting?
A. At any time members choose
B. Only after discussion has concluded and the Presiding Officer asks “Is there any further discussion?”
C. Before a motion is presented
D. Only at the end of the meeting
7.KnowledgeCheck
WhyisadherencetoROOFimportantinchaptermeetings?
A. It limits member participation
B. It ensures fairness, structure, and respect in decision-making
C. It replaces Policies & Procedures
D. It applies only to leadership
AnswerKey
As this chapter year comes to a close, may we continue to remember that strong chapters are built through informed members, respectful dialogue, orderly governance, and servant leadership.
STRENGTHENINGOURSISTERHOOD:BRINGING STRENGTHENING OUR SISTERHOOD: BRINGING THENATIONALSTRATEGICPLANTOLIFE THE NATIONAL STRATEGIC PLAN TO LIFE
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has always been a beacon of sisterhood, scholarship,service,andsocialaction.Attheheartofourcontinuedimpact is the National Strategic Plan—a powerful roadmap that helps guide our organizationintothefuturewhilestayinggroundedinourrichlegacy. ButwhatdoesthatreallymeanforyouandHMAC?Letʼsbreakitdownina funandmeaningfulway!
WhatIstheNationalStrategicPlan?
Think of the National Strategic Plan as our collective “GPS.ˮ It outlines key priorities and goals that ensure all chapters are aligned, impactful, and positioned for growth. From strengthening membership engagement to expandingourcommunityoutreach,theplankeepsDeltamovingforwardwith purposeandintention.
YourVoiceMatters!
To keep this plan relevant and impactful, we need YOU. Your experiences, insights, and ideas help shape how strategies come tolifeatthechapterlevel.
Thatʼs why the Strategic Planning committee is inviting all members to complete a quick surveydesignedtogatheryourfeedbackand suggestions.
Together,WeBuildtheFuture
LetʼsMakeItHappen—Survey Deadline:10Days!
✅ Shareyourperspective
✅ Helpstrengthenourchapter
✅ Contribute to the future of DeltaSigmaTheta
Pleasetakeafewmomentswithinthenext10 days to complete the survey. Your voice plays a vital role in shaping how we grow, serve,andleadtogether.
When we align our passion with a clear strategy, thereʼs nothing we canʼt accomplish.TheNationalStrategicPlanensuresthateverychapter,every member, and every initiative reflects the excellence and commitment that definesDeltaSigmaTheta.
Letʼscontinuetouplift,empower,andlead—together. Thankyouforyourdedicationandparticipation!
POLICIES&PROCEDURESCOMMITTEE: POLICIES & PROCEDURES COMMITTEE:
LISTENING,LEARNING,ANDIMPROVING LISTENING, LEARNING, AND IMPROVING
Inthespiritofgrowthandcontinuousimprovement,the Policies&ProceduresCommitteerecentlydistributeda chaptersurveytogatherfeedbackonourprogramming, resources,andmemberengagementefforts.
Amongthecommittee'sofferingsreceivingthehighestlevels ofengagementwerePolicyinPracticeduringchapter meetings,theProposedAmendmentVotingGuide,and Policies&ProcedurescontentfeaturedinTheTorch Newsletter.
Basedonthisfeedback,thecommitteeplanstocontinue theseinitiativesduringtheupcomingSororityyear.Ourgoal remainstoprovidepolicies,procedures,andgovernance resourcesthatareaccessible,practical,andrelevantto chapteroperations.
Weappreciatethe30sororswhotookthetimetosharetheir perspectivesandsuggestions.Thefeedbackreceivedwillbe consideredasweevaluatefutureprogramming,resources, andcommitteeactivities.
AscommitteesbeginplanningfortheupcomingSororityyear, weencourageallmembers,chairs,andco-chairstoreview thePoliciesandProceduresdocumentandbeginidentifying recommendationsforupdatesorenhancements.
Together,wearebuildingacultureofinformedleadership, accountability,andoperationalexcellencethroughoutHMAC.
SororJanaeʼBranch,Chair
SororLynellTippenWright,SeniorChair
DeltaGEMS: Delta GEMS: ACelebrationto A Celebration to Remember Remember
OnMay16,2026,theDeltaGEMSprogramconcludedwithits celebratoryprogram.TheGEMScompletedtheirpost-program survey,sharinginsightsintotheirgrowthandexperience,aswell aslearningaboutthecultureshockanddebunkingsomecollege myths.GEMSwereabletoaskhard-hittingquestionsabout college,suchasthedifferencebetweenabachelor'sand master'sdegree,thegradingpolicy,safetyprotocols,andmore.
Wethenspenttimecelebratingour12seniors,wheretheyshared theirpost-secondaryplans,whichincludeattendingcollegesall acrosstheUnitedStates,fromPrairieViewA&MtoHoward.
OurGEMSareleavingthenesttomakeanimpactontheworld.
JaliyaBranch
TaliaLowery
CorinneHarris
ChloeDavis
SydneyJohnson
AhmiraPierce
JordanJohnson
JocelynSmith
JacePorter
KendallTolbert
ACelebrationto A Celebration to Remember Remember
Explore & Excel Expo
BOWL STEP
SHOW SHOW
On Jun On June 5, 2026, the award-winning HMAC Step Team e 5, 2026, the award-winning HMAC Step Team team brought the heat to Grapevine, Texas and walked team brought the heat to Grapevine, Texas and walked awaywithanincredible1stplacevictory! away with an incredible 1st place victory!
This win was not achieved overnight. It was built on This win was not achieved overnight. It was built on countless hours of practice, discipline, timing, and countless hours of practice, discipline, timing, and unwavering dedication. Fifteen talented sorors stepped unwavering dedication. Fifteen talented sorors stepped onto that stage with unmatched energy, unity, and onto that stage with unmatched energy, unity, and presence, delivering a presence, delivering a performance filled with precision, performance filled with precision, passion,andexcellenceineverystep,beat,andformation. passion, and excellence in every step, beat, and formation.
Behind the scenes, four amazing stagehands played a
Behind the scenes, four amazing stagehands played a critical role in bringing everything together. Their support critical role in bringing everything together. Their support ensured that every transition was seamless, every detail ensured that every transition was seamless, every detail was handled with care, and the team had everything was handled with care, and the team had everything needed to shine at their absolute best. Their contribution needed to shine at their absolute best. Their contribution wastrulyessentialtothisvictory. was truly essential to this victory. Together, this team embodied excellence, teamwork, and Together, this team embodied excellence, teamwork, and resiliencefromstarttofinish.Everymemberplayedavital resilience from start to finish. Every member played a vital role in creating a performance that reflected not only role in creating a performance that reflected not only talent,butalsocommitment,sisterhood,andheart. talent, but also commitment, sisterhood, and heart.
We are beyond proud of this award-winning performance We are beyond proud of this award-winning performance and even more proud of the dedication and unity that and even more proud of the dedication and unity that madeitallpossible. made it all possible. Congratulations again to the entire team on an Congratulations again to the entire team on an unforgettable 1st place win. This is what greatness looks unforgettable 1st place win. This is what greatness looks likewhenpreparationmeetspassion. like when preparation meets passion.
CRIMSONFINANCIALCORNER
IGNITETHESPARK!
YOUR2026GUIDETODUESANDCOMMITTEEREIMBURSEMENTS
Sorors, it’s time to ignite the spark and secure your financial membership for the 2026 fiscal year! Please review the following important dates and deadlines to ensure your dues are submitted on time and without additional fees.
Your HMAC Finance Team
HMACNOTES
Beonthelookout formoremonthly columns,vital information,and evenmore S.P.A.R.K.
TTJUNE 2026
Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter P O Box 56108 Houston, Texas 77256-6108
ABOUT HMAC
The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) was chartered by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , in October of 1974 Since its inception, HMAC has been actively involved in supporting national and local service agencies, all while sponsoring and presenting community workshops, awareness forums and health fairs HMAC members and partners have provided over $750,000 in scholarships, directly benefiting the youth of the greater Houston area
JUNE CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHY: Cassandra Brooks, Canva com, HMAC & Facebook page CONTENT: Percy Ly Kabir, Kristyn Cathey, Monica Hill, Jasmine Price, Matiko Austin, PhD , Santa McKnight, Harlisha Homer, and all contributing Committee Chairs.