S.P.A.R.K.
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President
done the work, laid the foundation, and positioned our chapter for an even more impactful second quarter. The seeds we planted in the first three months are already taking root, and this season invites us to nurture them with intention, unity, and joy
Celebrating Financial Fortitude Month
This month, we proudly celebrate Financial Fortitude Month: Your Money. Your Power. Your Future. We usher in April with renewed fortitude in our pursuit of financial wellness and resilience. Throughout the month, we will empower our members and community with tools, conversations, and resources that strengthen financial confidence and build generational security. This is not just a programmatic focus it is a commitment to our collective future.
Chapter Momentum: The
Foundation
Is Set
As we reflect on the first quarter, it is clear: We have shown up. We have done the work. We have built the groundwork for excellence.
Highlights of Our Strong Start:
Strengthened community partnerships and visibility Habitat 4 Humanity All Women Build – HMAC was able to complete our commitment to not only participate in the physical build, but with a combination of online donations and contributions from our Membership services – Best of the Best and Afro-fabulous event, and raise $10K towards the build Becoming a gold sponsor
American Heart Association – As we continue to participate in planning meetings for the Red Dess Fashion show, we have met our commitment as a $5K sponsor
Robust sisterhood programming that deepened our bonds
Check our chapter's internal calendar and register, join teams, and support events such as the March of Dimes Walk and the To Haiti with Love event.
Our first and second vice presidents, with the aid of the committee chairs, were able to successfully upload ten submissions for awards
S.P.A.R.K.
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President
g g q documents, external audit screening, and letters to list HMAC as financially compliant with the national headquarters.
This month will usher in a flurry of Policy and procedure activities, and it is my expectation that as members, each of you will commit to the process of Policies and Procedures committee has laid out from the virtual amendment webinar to the in-person call meeting, which will conclude with an HMAC celebration caravan to the Houston Panhellenic Greek Picnic.
Every committee, every chair, every Soror has contributed to this momentum. Our chapter is moving with purpose, and the results are already shining through.
Looking Ahead: A Season of Growth
As we enter the second quarter, we do so with confidence. The work ahead is meaningful, but we are prepared. We will continue to build, refine, and elevate together.
Let this season remind us that growth is not only possible, but promised when we remain committed, connected, and courageous
Sorors, thank you for your dedication, your brilliance, and your unwavering sisterhood. This chapter thrives because of the love and labor each of you pour into it. May this month bring renewed energy, renewed focus, and renewed joy as we continue shaping a future rooted in service, scholarship, and sisterhood
Let Your Spark Shine,
Soror Percy Ly Kabir
ChapterPresident2025-2027
DR. LYNELL TIPPEN WRIGHT, 1ST VICE PRESIDENT & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES CHAIR
Small Sparks Create Lasting Change
As humans, we tend to celebrate the most impressive achievements and significant milestones; however, it is usually the tiniest gestures that leave a lasting mark
Giving a warm smile….
Inviting a new member to join a committee…
Sharing a meal with a Delta DEAR….
These seemingly small moments create a strong sense of connection, compassion, and commitment.
Let us be mindful and recall that impact does not always arrive with fanfare. Sometimes, it begins with a single idea, a simple act of kindness, or a decision to just show up. From that spark, energy builds. Confidence grows. Communities are strengthened. Scholars are supported. Sisterhood deepens.
As we spring into April, let us not underestimate the influence of our everyday actions. When one spark meets another, light multiplies. When one heart commits to serve, hope expands.
Each of us carries a spark unique, powerful, and necessary. When we bring our sparks together, we do more than glow. We illuminate pathways for others. This is how lasting change begins.
With Sisterly Love,
Dr. Lynell Tippen Wright
1st Vice President Chair, Membership Services
IMPACT AND ACTION
KAMERON BRACKINS, 2ND VICE
PRESIDENT
AND PP&D
Purpose in Every Program: Sustaining Through the Spring Season
As we transition from a meaningful and energizing Sisterhood Month into the heart of spring, I find myself both proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited about what still lies ahead. March gave us the opportunity to strengthen our bonds, celebrate our shared commitment, and reflect on the power of sisterhood in action. Now, April calls us to carry that same energy forward as we continue the important work of service
From a Program Planning and Development perspective, this is not our wind-down season it is our push forward. I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the care, creativity, and excellence that each of our PPD committees brings to their work. Across our Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, our chapter continues to show up in impactful ways through service to our communities, intentional programming for our youth, advocacy for health and wellness, and our commitment to both local and global engagement This collective effort is what makes our programming not only successful, but meaningful.
As we “spring into service,” I encourage each of us to remain fully engaged and intentional. Every program we support, every partnership we nurture, and every life we touch should reflect the excellence and impact of our Five-Point Programmatic Thrust Our work is not just about activity it’s about meaningful outcomes and lasting change in the communities we serve.
I also want to encourage us to stay connected and collaborative in these final months. Some of our strongest moments as a chapter happen when we show up for one another and support efforts across committees That collective energy is what elevates our programming and strengthens our sisterhood
As we look ahead, let’s remain focused on finishing strong. There is still important work to be done, and each of us plays a role in ensuring that our service continues to make a difference. I am grateful to serve alongside each of you and inspired by the impact we are making together.
Let’s carry the spirit of sisterhood forward into purposeful action because our work is not done, and our impact is still growing.
Kameron Brackins 2 Vice President nd Chair, PP&D
THE RECORD & THE REPLY
INSIGHTS FROM YOUR SECRETARIES
PAULA LYRSE, RECORDING SECRETARY & DR. KRISTY LOVE, CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
From the Record: Sparking Clarity, Connection & Chapter Excellence
Aswecontinuetomoveforwardunderourbienniumtheme, HMACSPARK:WhereEverySisterSparksChange,weare remindedthatthestrengthofourchapterisreflectednot onlyinwhatwedo butinhowwedocumentand communicateourwork.
ThroughtheofficesoftheRecordingSecretaryand CorrespondingSecretary,weensurethateveryactionis preservedwithintegrityandeverymessageissharedwith purpose.Together,theseroleshelpsparkclarity,connection, andalignmentacrossoursisterhood.
Every meeting tells the story of our chapter’s work and that story is only as strong as the record we keep.
BestPractices:
Speak clearly and be recognized before speaking to ensure contributions are accurately captured Present motions clearly and allow for proper seconding and voting procedures
Avoid side conversations during meetings, as they can interfere with maintaining a complete and accurate record
Remain attentive and engaged to support the structure and flow of the meeting
Ensure that all actions and discussions align with established Policies & Procedures
Accurate minutes are essential to preserving our legacy. When we are intentional in how we participate, we help ensure that the official record reflects the excellence and impact of HMAC.
THE RECORD & THE REPLY
INSIGHTS FROM YOUR SECRETARIES
PAULA LYRSE, RECORDING SECRETARY & DR. KRISTY LOVE, CORRESPONDING
From the Reply
SECRETARY
Communication is the thread that keeps our chapter connected and every Soror plays a role in strengthening that connection.
BestPractices:
Submit announcements and updates through the appropriate channels (e.g., Correspondence Request, Event Request, Marketing Request forms)
Adhere to submission timelines to allow for proper review and dissemination
Provide complete and accurate information to avoid delays
Review weekly correspondence to stay informed of updates, deadlines, and opportunities
Refrain from sharing unofficial or unapproved information outside of established communication channels
Coordinate with committees and leadership to ensure alignment with chapter priorities
When we communicate with clarity and intention, we ensure that every Soror remains informed, engaged, and empowered.
SparkingExcellenceTogether
When our records are clear and our communication is consistent, we create a chapter experience rooted in transparency, trust, and sisterhood.
Let us continue to spark change by honoring both the record and the reply ensuring that our work is not only impactful, but also well-documented, wellcommunicated, and aligned with the excellence that defines HMAC.
C H A P T E R
M E E T I N G
R E C A P
March’smeetingwasbothmeaningful and inspiring as Sorors gathered during Women’s History Month to reflect on the legacy, strength, and impact of women who have shaped history and continue to pave the way forward.Itwasapowerfulreminderof the influence we carry and the importance of uplifting the voices, achievements, and contributions of women in our communities and beyond.
Sorors enjoyed a time of connection and fellowship before transitioning into chapter business. During the meeting, we discussed key initiatives, upcoming events, and opportunities for service that will allow our chapter to continue creating meaningful impact.
11
18
12401 S Post Oak Houston, TX 77045
SISTERHOOD SOUND CHECK
10:30-noon
Holy Family HTX 3719 Navigation Blvd.
MARCH OF DIMES WALK
8:45-noon
26 TO HAITI WITH LOVE VIRTUAL-THON Noon-3 p.m.
TMC Helix Park 1885 Old Spanish Trail
9
Griot Gardens 6806 Long Point Rd. #1
MAY CHAPTER MEETING
10:00 AM The Collective 12401 S Post Oak Houston, TX 77045
16
ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM 10-noon Houston City CollegeNortheast Campus
A P R I L S O R O R S
Jennifer Agnew Scott - 04/01
Lisa Critchlow - 04/04
Marilyn Stanley - 04/04
Kathy Reece Crump - 04/08
Dione Burke - 04/10
Toni Randle - 04/10
Melvinie Davis - 04/15
Tiffany McLaughlin - 04/18
Shiquina Andrews - 04/19
Terri Lynch - 04/20
Mi'Angila Graham - 04/22
Fraulyn Baisey - 04/23
Deatra Bennett - 04/26
Rosalind Guidry - 04/26
Rikitra Cephus - 04/28
Matiko Austin - 04/29
In March, the subcommittee presented “Look Who is Sparkling in HMAC: Sisterhood in Action,” celebrating Soror Andrea Riles-Frazier for her meaningful impact through intentional engagement, relationship-building, and leadership within the chapter. She consistently encourages participation and fosters inclusion, ensuring Sorors feel supported and connected
Her leadership is also reflected in the creation of AfroFabulous: A Love Supreme, an Arts & Letters initiative she led from concept to execution. The event celebrates Black love through artistic expression and has become an annual program, reflecting her lasting impact within HMAC
As we 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.
Sisterly appreciation,
Jacqre' Stewart, Chair and Carnetta Griffin-Daniels, Co-Chair
A sneak peek at the upcoming HMAC Recognition and Awards: May - HMAC Delta Dear Award and HMAC Violet of the Year
P&P: P&P: POWER MINUTE POWER MINUTE
Articles9-12 Articles 9-12
Installations, Membership Intake (MIT) (MIT)
1)Whichcommitteeisresponsiblefor presentingtheslateofcandidatesfor chapter officers?
A Executive Committee
B Nominating Committee
C. Finance Committee
D. Program Planning Committee
2)Whenmaynominationsfromthe flooroccur?
A. At any time during the meeting
B Only after the Nominating Committee presents its report
C. Before the meeting begins
D. Only if approved by the Regional Director
3)Whatisthetypicalmethodused whenmorethanonecandidateis runningforthesameoffice?
A. Voice vote
B. Show of hands
C Ballot vote
D Decision by the Executive Board
4)Whatvoteisrequiredfora candidatetobeelectedtooffice?
A Plurality vote
B. Two-thirds vote
C. Majority vote
D Unanimous consent
5)Whatistheprimarypurposeofthe InstallationofOfficersceremony?
A To publicly introduce officers
B. To formally install elected officers into their respective roles and responsibilities
C To approve the annual budget
D. To assign committee leadership
6)MembershipIntakeactivitiesare guidedbywhichofthefollowing?
A. Chapter bylaws only
B. Regional preferences
C The Administrative Procedures for Membership Intake (APMI) and the Membership Intake Program (MIP)
D. Executive Committee discretion
7)AccordingtotheChapter PreparationGuideforMembership Intake,whichofficerisexplicitly identifiedasaccountableand responsibleforallaspectsofthe chapter,includingtheMembership IntakeProcessandMembershipIntake Program?
A Membership Intake Coordinator
B. Regional Director
C. Chapter President
D Executive Committee Fill in the Blank
8)Whyarestrictproceduresrequired forMembershipIntake?
A To shorten the intake process
B. To maintain the integrity, safety, and values of the Sorority
C To increase chapter size quickly
D To allow local chapter flexibility
9)Whenarenominationsfromthe floorpermittedinaccordancewith HMACPolicy&Procedures?
A. At any time prior to elections
B. During the election meeting
C At the designated nomination meeting(s), such as March or April, but not on the day of elections
D. Only by Executive Committee approvalA During the meeting only
B. Prior to the meeting, according to chapter guidelines
C. After the meeting
D Only during elections
2026 IS THE 2026 IS THE
Y YEAR OF ELECTIONS! EAR OF ELECTIONS!
We voted in Special Elections and Primary Elections at the beginning of the year. There are still several elections between now and the November Election. As Deltas, we have an obligation to stay informed and encourage our community to participate in the political process. Check out these quick and easy messages you can send to your loved ones to get them ready for each upcoming election.
ON YOUR MARK, SET, RUN! ON YOUR MARK, SET, RUN!
REGIONAL NOMINATING COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES REGIONAL NOMINATING COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES GUIDELINES FOR RUNNING FROM THE
FLOOR GUIDELINES FOR RUNNING FROM THE FLOOR
The Race is on for leadership positions: But before members take their marks, they must carefully follow the official Running from the Floor GuidelinesandInstructions set by the RegionalNominatingCommittee.
Q:CanIrunfromthefloor?
A: Any Soror who meets the eligibility requirements is able to run from the floor. If a Soror was not slated by the Regional Nominating Committee, yet they meet the all of the eligibility requirements they may run from the floor.
The Chair of the Regional Nominating Committee will announce a designated time when the online application portal reopens before the Regional Conference. Members wishing to run from the floor must complete and submit their applications no later than the end of the plenary session that includes the presentation of the Nominating Committee Report.
During the conference, the presiding officer will issue a formal “Call for Nominations” from the floor. At that moment, any member seeking to run must have a voting delegate nominate her, as only voting delegates may make such nominations.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Candidatesrunningfromthefloormustmeetallqualificationsandresponsibilities outlinedinArticleIX,ElectionsandVoting,Sections10(A)and10(B)ofthe organizationʼsConstitutionandBylaws(2025Edition).Tobeeligible,themembermust: BefinancialwithbothachapterandtheGrandChapterfromthefirstdayofthe precedingRegionalConferencethroughtheendoftheupcomingterm. BepresentattheRegionalConferencewheretheelectionwilltakeplace. HaveattendedatleasttwoofthelastthreeNationalConventionsandtwoofthe lastthreeRegionalConferencesbeforehernomination. BeavailabletotraveltoRegionalandNationalmeetingsandfulfillalldutiesofthe office.
NationalHeadquartersstaffwillverifyeachapplicantʼseligibilityandnotifyboththe applicantandtheChairoftheRegionalNominatingCommitteebeforetheplenary concludes.
Continuedonnextpage
REGIONAL NOMINATING COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES REGIONAL NOMINATING COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES
GUIDELINES FOR RUNNING FROM THE FLOOR GUIDELINES FOR RUNNING FROM THE FLOOR
continued
APPLICATION PROCESS
Allapplicationsmustbecompletedelectronicallyusingthesystemprovidedonthe nationalwebsite.Thefullonlineapplication:ComponentsIthroughIV,mustbe completedandaccompaniedbyaconfirmationreceiptandallrequiredsupporting documents.SubmissionsmustbereceivedbeforetheendofPlenaryI;late applicationswillnotbeaccepted.
AnelectroniccopyoftheCandidateFinancialReportForm(CFRF)inExcelformatcan alsobeaccessedviatheMemberPortal.
CAMPAIGN RULES AND RESTRICTIONS
TheRegionalNominatingCommitteehasissuedstrictcampaignregulationstoensure afairelectionprocess: Nocampaigningordistributionofmaterials(printorelectronic)mayoccurbeforea candidateʼsnameisofficiallyrecognizedandeligibilityconfirmed. Anypre-emptivecampaigning,includingactionsbymembersofthecandidateʼs CoreCampaignTeamwillresultinimmediatedisqualification. Membersmaynotacceptmonetaryorin-kinddonations;requestchaptercontact listsfromNationalHeadquartersorestablishcampaignwebsites. IndividualsdisqualifiedforcampaignviolationsbeforetheRegionalConferenceare barredfromrunningfromthefloorentirely.
Asmembersprepareto“runfromthefloor,ˮattentiontodetailiseverything. Withdeadlinesfirmandeligibilitystandardshigh,potentialcandidatesare encouragedtoreviewtheofficialdocumentscarefully,followallsubmission instructionsprecisely,andupholdtheintegrityof theelectionprocess.Afterallinthisrace,readinessisnʼtjustaboutspeed, butprecision. 2025-2027
NominatingCommittee-HoustonMetropolitanAlumnaeChapter
SISTERHOOD MONTH SISTERHOOD MONTH
at at TheFortBendChurch The Fort Bend Church
On March 15, 2026, HMAC began Delta Week with a spirit-filled Ecumenical Service at The Fort Bend Church, setting a sacred tone of reflection, gratitude, and unity. Sorors gathered adorned in red and pearls, not only in worship, but in a shared moment of renewal drawing strength, joy, and connection from one another. We extend heartfelt appreciation to Sorors Sonya Stevenson, Claire Stevenson, and Cydney Stevenson for their gracious hospitality and for cultivating an atmosphere that warmly embraced our sisterhood. Soror Kabir presented a Love Offering collected from the sorors in attendance to The Fort Bend Church in support of programming for the Children’s Ministry.
Senior Pastor and Founder, Reverend Byron C. Stevenson, delivered an inspirational message taken from the text 2 Kings 4 in which Elisha helps a poor widow. This powerful text reminds us that at all times, especially in difficult times, to cry out to God in faith, take inventory of what we already possess, and recognize that true abundance is found in living with the knowledge that we are a blessed people.
With clarity and conviction, Rev. Stevenson affirmed that when we follow God’s instruction with precision and obedience, provision will meet us at every step. In that shared space, the message resonated deeply strengthening not only our individual faith, but our collective resolve as a sisterhood grounded in purpose. As we move into Delta Week, we are renewed and inspired—anchored in faith, connected in spirit, and committed to carrying these lessons into our service and sisterhood.
SISTERHOOD MONTH SISTERHOOD MONTH
at TheFortBendChurch The Fort Bend Church
at
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
On Saturday, March 21, we welcomed four energized and enthusiastic sorors to HMAC during the New Member Orientation session.
Sorors Katrina Aganekwu, JoLynnis Moore-Turner, Krystal Simmons and Bianca Rainwater Goldman joined us to learn about HMAC's history and to discuss their Delta experiences and service interests.
Many thanks to Sorors Susan Moore-Fontenot, Necie Green, Jan Matthews and Lynell Wright. Their informative and warm presentation styles got everyone involved. The new members had questions, and we had answers. What an awesome team!
We ended the session with a question - Where would you like to serve in HMAC? Each new member identified where they wanted to serve and signed up for a committee (some chose two or three) on the website. Committee chairs be on the lookout for your new members!
New members left informed, ready to serve, and with nice goodie bags. If you are a new member and weren't able to attend this session, no worries, we'll hold additional sessions in the future.
A DIVINE 9 KIND OF SERVICE
BLUERIDGE METHODIST
On Sunday, March 22, 2026, BlueRidge Methodist Church, led by Senior Pastor Ross Adams, held its First Annual D9 Sunday. In his sermon, “Walking Humbly, Living Fruitfully” (Micah 6:8 NIV), Pastor Adams emphasized fellowship and unity across the D9 organizations and within our communities.
HMAC was proudly represented by Sorors Stephanie Adams, Deborah Guillory, Terri Lynch, Daphne Moss, Donna Scott, and Lynell Wright. Their presence exemplified sisterhood in action, as they stood in unity to support Pastor Adams, brother of Sorors Adams and Guillory.
As Sisterhood Month comes to a close, we are reminded that our bonds are not confined to a season, but are a lifelong commitment to uplift, support, and serve with excellence.
SUNDAY FUNDAY WITH HMAC: SUNDAY FUNDAY WITH HMAC:
AnAfternoontoRemember An Afternoon to Remember
The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. hosted a vibrant and engaging Sunday Funday on March 22 at The Puttshack and it was truly an afternoon to remember.
genuine love and encouragement.
With great food, engaging activities, and an undeniable spirit of unity, Sunday Funday reminded us of the importance of taking time to nurture our sisterhood beyond meetings and service.
HMAC continues to create intentional spaces where sorors can connect, grow, and thrive—and this event was a beautiful reflection of that mission.
We look forward to many more moments of sisterhood and connection in the months ahead!
SUNDAY FUNDAY WITH HMAC: SUNDAY FUNDAY WITH HMAC:
AnAfternoontoRemember An Afternoon to Remember
SafetyTechniqueswith Safety Techniques with ERT & Delta GEMS ERT & Delta GEMS
HMAC at DDNC HMAC at DDNC
CRIMSON FINANCIAL CORNER
IGNITE THE SPARK! YOUR 2026 GUIDE TO DUES AND COMMITTEE REIMBURSEMENTS
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
Be on the lookout for more monthly columns, vital information, and even more S.P.A.R.K.
TTAPRIL 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
APRIL 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,