S.P.A.R.K.
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President
Happy May! As we step into a new month, my heart is full of gratitude for the dedication, discipline, and sisterly excellence you continue to pour into our chapter. This season invites us to reflect on how far we’ve come while joyfully preparing for the exciting milestones ahead in our regional and organizational calendar.
Celebrating Chapter Programming Excellence
What an incredible spring it has been! Kudos to every committee and every soror who has planned, executed, and completed impactful programming with creativity and purpose From youth centered initiatives to community engagement, social action awareness, wellness activities, and sisterhood focused events, you have shown what it means to serve with intention. Your thoughtful planning, timely reporting, and polished delivery continue to elevate our chapter’s reputation across Houston and throughout the Southwest Region
Looking Ahead: Southwest Regional Conference
We are gearing up for an inspiring 2026 Southwest Regional Conference! This is our chance to deepen our understanding of sorority governance, strengthen our leadership skills, and connect with sorors across the region in meaningful fellowship Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, come with open minds and ready hearts. Don’t forget to register for pre conference sessions and join our chapter’s Call to Conference meeting on Wednesday, May 20th. Soror Lynell Wright will share additional details.
Virtual registration opens Tuesday, May 5, at 12:00 pm EDT and closes Friday,May 15,at 11:59 pm EDT.
Delta Internal Development Training
Mark your calendars for our Delta Internal Development: Compliance and Parliamentary Procedures Training on Thursday, May 14, at 6:30 PM CST. This essential session will strengthen our shared understanding of:
• Compliance expectations for alumnae chapters
• Parliamentary procedures that support orderly and equitable meetings
• Best practices for documentation, reporting, and governance
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President
May is a month of alignment, preparation, and forward motion. As we ready ourselves for conference season and deepen our operational foundation, let us continue to embody the spirit of excellence that defines who we are. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to service, scholarship, sisterhood, and social action. Together, we are building a legacy rooted in strength, accountability, and purpose. Let Your Spark Shine,
DR. LYNELL TIPPEN WRIGHT, 1ST VICE PRESIDENT & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES CHAIR
Nurture the Bond We Share
May invites us, as members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, to pause and intentionally nurture the bonds that define our sisterhood. Guided by our Membership Services theme, “Every Spark Keeps the Sisterhood Glowing,” we are reminded that each connection—every act of kindness, every shared moment—adds light to the collective brilliance of HMAC.
As grandmothers, mothers, daughters, sisters, nieces, aunties, and granddaughters, we are woven together through generations of strength, wisdom, and grace. We honor the women who have shaped us those present in our lives and those who have transitioned—whose enduring legacy continues to illuminate our path and inspire our purpose.
May also brings the joy of graduation, a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and promise. These milestones reflect not only personal success, but the lifelong bonds formed with friends, mentors, and institutions —connections that, like Delta, sustain, ground, and uplift us across time.
Within HMAC, our sisterhood is a living flame ignited, nurtured, and sustained by each of us. Let us continue to nurture the bond we share with intention and love, honoring our legacy, celebrating our milestones, and ensuring that every spark keeps our sisterhood glowing today and for generations to come.
With Sisterly Love,
Dr. Lynell Tippen Wright 1st Vice President Chair Membership Services
IMPACT AND ACTION
KAMERON BRACKINS, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT AND PP&D
A Season of Impact and a Commitment to Finish Strong
AAs we enter the final stretch of our sorority year, May offers us a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the power of our collective efforts while remaining focused on the work still ahead. This season is not only about looking back—it is about finishing strong, together.
Throughout the year, the Program Planning & Development committees have remained committed to advancing our mission through impactful programming, thoughtful engagement, and service to our community. From initiatives that promoted health and wellness, to efforts that encouraged civic awareness and global advocacy, to programs that supported youth development, economic empowerment, and initiatives that promote safety and emergency preparedness, PP&D’s work has reflected Delta’s enduring legacy of sisterhood and service in action.
We have remained intentional about prioritizing community-based outreach and creating opportunities that deepen member engagement. Each effort has contributed to HMAC’s broader story of impact. Our success is made possible by the dedication, creativity, and consistency of our PP&D committee members and leadership. Each contribution seen and unseen has played a role in moving our chapter forward. It is this shared commitment that allows us to not only meet the moment, but to make a meaningful difference
As we close out the sorority year, we are reminded that our impact is not defined by a single event, but by the collective momentum we build over time. There is still important work to be done, and I encourage each of us to remain engaged, present, and intentional in supporting the programs and initiatives that lie ahead
At the same time, we look forward to the opportunity to reflect more fully on all that has been accomplished. A comprehensive year-in-review highlighting the breadth and impact of PPD programming will be presented in June. Until then, let us continue to move with purpose, support one another in sisterhood, and finish this sorority year with the same excellence and dedication that has defined it.
Kameron Brackins
nd
2 Vice President
THE RECORD & THE REPLY
INSIGHTS FROM YOUR SECRETARIES
PAULA LYRSE, RECORDING SECRETARY & DR. KRISTY LOVE, CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Accurate recordkeeping begins with confirming a quorum at the start ofeachmeeting,asitdetermineswhetherthechapterisauthorizedto conductofficialbusiness.
Aquorumistheminimumnumberofmembersrequiredforthechapter to take official action, including making motions, voting, and adopting decisions.
When aquorum isestablished, the chapter proceeds with the agenda and conducts official business accordingly. If a quorum is not established, this is also documented, along with any limitations on conductingbusiness.
This process ensures that all chapter actions are properly validated, accuratelyreflectedintheofficialrecord,andalignedwithestablished procedures.
Thank you, Sorors, for your continued cooperation in maintaining the accuracy,integrity,andaccountabilityofourofficialchapterrecords.
From the Reply
As we approach the close of the sorority year, we are also stepping into a season of reflection, transition, and intentional planning for the yearahead
. Committee Chairs, now is the time to begin mapping out your calendars with efficiency and purpose. Consider key programmatic dates,requiredleadtimesforsubmissions,andhowyoureventsalign with our chapter goals. Planning ahead ensures smoother execution and allows our committees—Technology, Finance, and Marketing—to fullysupportyourefforts.
Members, your engagement remains essential to the success of HMAC. Supporting chapter events through attendance, volunteering, and promotion strengthens our collective impact and keeps our sisterhoodthriving.
As we move into the summer planning months, keep these reminders in mind:
Submit all event and meeting requests early to avoid scheduling conflicts
Utilize a shared Committee Working Calendar as a tool for coordination and collaboration. Be mindful of deadlines for correspondence, marketing, and approvals. Stay connected by regularly reviewing Weekly Correspondence and Chapter updates.
Let’s finish strong and prepare with intention for an impactful new sorority year.
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12401 S Post Oak Houston, TX 77045
THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM
10:00 am -noon Houston City College - NE 555 Community College Dr
EXPLORE & EXCEL EXPO
12PM - 3PM
New Faith Church 4315 Fuqua
THE NOVEL IDEA BOOK CLUB
10AM - 11:30AM
Holy Family HTX 3719 Navigation
MAY WEEK CHURCH SERVICE & SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON
10:15AM - 5PM Westbury UMC 5200 Willowbend
HMAC CALL TO CONFERENCE
7PM - 8PM Virtual Meeting
BOOTS ON THE BLOCK
C H A P T E R M E E T I N G
R E C A P
The month of April is known as the season of renewal, growth, and awakening. In HMAC,ourAprilmeetingcelebratedandrecognizedoursororswhosetenacityhas impacted us all. We also highlighted several programs that have provided support andsisterhoodthroughoutthecityofHouston.
Along with conducting the business of Delta, we recognized our amazing April birthdays. We also conducted our traditional welcome of visiting sorors and encouragedthemtoreturnandmakeHMACtheirhome.
M A Y S O R O R S
Gloria Hays - 05/01
Monica Hill - 05/02
Santa McKnight - 05/02
Autumn Boyd - 05/03
Tempestt Bell - 05/05
Nina Starnes - 05/05
Cynthia Larkin - 05/06
Markita Phillips - 05/06
Meagan Smith - 05/09
Morgan Smith - 05/09
Arlincia Howell - 05/15
Luella Frazier - 05/16
Chassidy Ingram - 05/17
Adrienne Finley - 05/18
Jasmine Price - 05/18
Sedra Jackson-Patrick - 05/20
Louise McGhee - 05/20
M A Y S O R O R S
Moniiki Mason - 05/21
RaLonda Brown - 05/22
RaShonda Brown - 05/22
Opal White - 05/23
Ebony Williams - 05/28
Sonia Gordon-Jordon - 05/29
Ashley Williams - 05/30
Melissa Atkins - 05/31
Besetta Curry - 05/31
Akwete Hines - 05/31
In April, the subcommittee presented “Look Who is Sparkling in HMAC: Creativity on the Rise,” celebrating Soror Kristie King for more than 23 years of dedicated service defined by intentional leadership, authenticity, and a sustained commitment to excellence. Her ability to translate innovative ideas into purposeful action fosters collaboration and engagement that strengthen sisterhood within HMAC. Her leadership in organizing the D4Women In Action redistricting town hall, demonstrates her capacity to transform vision into impactful programming. Collectively, her creativity and leadership enhance chapter initiatives while reflecting the excellence and ingenuity that define HMAC and reinforce its legacy of service.
The Awards and Recognition Subcommittee also proudly recognized Sorors celebrating 25 and 50 years of dedicated service, honoring their enduring commitment, leadership, and unwavering devotion to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Their legacy of excellence, wisdom, and sisterhood was acknowledged as a source of inspiration that continues to guide and strengthen HMAC across generations.
(from left to right: Soror Frances Montgomery-Thompson, Soror ValresaWhite,SororMarlaDavis)
In May, the subcommittee will present the HMAC Violet of the Year Award, honoring a Soror whose leadership, service, and sustained commitment exemplify dignity, grace, and excellence. Her impact is reflected through meaningful engagement, consistent involvement, and a dedication that strengthens the chapter and uplifts the sisterhood. She embodies the values of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., upholding the Nine Cardinal Virtues with integrity and purpose.
(from left to right: Soror Sharita Warfiled, Soror Alicia Rushing, Soror Chandai Phillps, Soror Melvinie Davis,Soror Karen Smith,Soror Charlita Blossom,Soror Debra Allen,Soror GlidaMarcus,SororBenitaRussell,SororKathyReece-Crump)
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- Awards and Recognition Subcommittee Chair Carnetta Griffin-Daniels - Awards and Recognition Subcommittee CoChair
Articles13-16 Articles 13-16
Articles13-16:Representation, Articles 13-16: Representation,
Verification&Amendments Verification & Amendments
1.Representation
Who is authorized to officially represent the chapter in external or formal matters?
A. Any financial member
B. Only the President (or her designee) represents the Chapter
C. Any member present at a meeting
D. Committee members only
2.Verification
What is the primary purpose of the verification process prior to conducting chapter business?
A. To assign committee roles
B. To confirm attendance only
C. To ensure members are in good standing and eligible to vote
D. To record meeting minutes
3.Amendments(Process)
What is required before a proposed amendment can be voted on by the chapter?
A. Immediate discussion and vote
B. Approval by one officer
C. Submission according to guidelines and proper notice to members
D. Verbal agreement among members
4.AdoptionofAmendments
Which of the following is necessary for amendments to be officially adopted?
A. Simple discussion
B. Informal consensus
C. Established voting threshold and quorum requirements
D. Approval by committee chairs only
5.KnowledgeCheck
Why are Articles 13–16 critical to chapter operations?
A. They focus only on event planning
B. They ensure structure, accountability, and integrity in governance
C. They apply only to new members
D. They are optional guidelines
Answer:Thankyouforraisingthisquestion.Yes proposedamendments8,9and13were approvedduringthe2025Convention.Toensurefulltransparency,thechapterhasalready receivedthecompletesetofproposedamendmentselectronicallyviaemailinApril.Those documentsincludealladditions,andrationalestatementsintheirentirety.
Becausetheseamendmentsfromthe2025NationalConventionwereincorporateddirectlyintothe amendmentlanguageandrationale,thefullcontextisalreadyreflectedinthematerialsthatwere shared.Atthistime,therearenoadditionaldocumentsorseparaterecommendationlistsbeyond whatwasincludedintheAprildistribution.
Ifanychaptermemberwouldlikeclarificationonhowaspecificrecommendationinformeda particularamendment,thePoliciesandProceduresCommitteeishappytowalkthroughthat connectionandprovideadditionalexplanationasneeded.
2.DuringtheAprilGeneralChapterMeeting,itwasnotedthattherewasaquestionregardingthe chaptersfinancialobligationstoDEFCinrelationtotheMOUagreementapprovedinOctober2025. AccordingtotheOctober2025minutes,itwasclarifiedthattheMOUwouldtakeeffect immediatelyuponapprovalduringthecurrentsororityyear.Basedonthis,doesthechapterhavea financialobligationtoremitthe20%toDEFCasoutlinedintheagreementapprovedbyvote?
Answer:Thankyouforyourquestion.AspartofstrengtheningourpartnershipwiththeDelta EducationalandCharitableFoundation(DECF),DECFhasestablishedanaccountspecificallyfor futurecollaborations.InalignmentwithMOUasour501(c)(3)partner,weareobligatedtoremit 20%ofallfundsdepositedintothataccountandviceversawhenweworkdirectlyontheir fundraisingactivities.
Forthe2026SparksandSpursfundraisingcycle,nofundsweresubmittedtoDECF.Thiswas intentionalandbasedonprocessreadiness notareflectionoffundraisingoutcomes.Beforedeposits canbemadeonbehalfofsponsors,wemustfinalizetheadministrativestepsrequiredtoensure properhandling,documentation,andcomplianceforallcontributions.Thatsetupworkiscurrently underway.Asaresult,therewerenoqualifyingfundsthatneededtoberoutedthroughDECFatthis time.
Aswemoveforward,thenewaccountstructurewillallowustoseamlesslyprocessfuture sponsorshipsandensurefullcompliancewithourMOU.
HMACLeadswithPurposeintheFightAgainst CardiovascularDisease
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women. While awareness remains low, the Go Red for Women initiative aims to change this. This year, The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,IncorporatedservedasastrategicpartneralongsidetheMontgomery andNorthHarrisCountyAmericanHeartAssociationinitsGoRedforWomen Initiative.
LeadershipattheTable:HMACʼsRoleontheELT
Through representation on the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), HMAC members played a critical role in shaping the Red Dress program of events. AmongHMACʼsimpactfulcontributionswastherecommendationtoelevatethe traditional runway experience by featuring physicians and healthcare professionals—an idea that brought both symbolism and substance to the stage. With respected professionals such as Dr. Paulraj Samuel and Dr. Oluwatosin Fatusin walking the runway, the moment served as a visual testament to representation, trust, and the importance of culturally aligned healthcareleadership.
InvestinginImpact:CircleofRed&Sponsorship
HMACʼs commitment extended into philanthropic leadership through participation in the Circle of Red donors and as a proud centerpiece sponsor. These contributions underscored a shared investment in advancing research, education, and equitable health outcomes for women particularly African American women, who are disproportionately impacted by cardiovascular disease.
Educating&Empowering:HealthinFocus
Members of HMACʼs Physical and Mental Health Committee were actively engaged during the luncheonʼs informational sessions, providing insight into the intersectionof heart health andthe livedexperiencesof AfricanAmerican women.Theirpresenceensuredthattheconversationmovedbeyondstatistics toaddresssystemicdisparities,culturallycompetentcare,andtheimportance ofearlyawarenessandprevention.
LookingAhead:BuildingToward2027
Red represents our sisterhood and serves as a national call to action for womenʼs heart health. HMAC remains committed to advancing the conversationinthefightagainstcardiovasculardisease.AsHMACcontinuesto leadwithpurposeandpassion,onetruthremainsclear: When women come together—with knowledge, with intention, and with heart, weareunstoppable. LetʼsGoRed,Together!!
•AliyahThomas,SuburbanHouston–FortBendAlumnaeChapter
LOOK WHO’S SLATED
RegionalNominatingCommittee
BLAZING SOUTHWEST REGION
2028CandidatesforChair
AshleyCoffey,BayAreaHoustonAlumnaeChapter
SimonaDunn,SuburbanHouston–FortBendAlumnaeChapter
JackieJeanpierre,EastHarris–Chambers–LibertyCountyAlumnaeChapt
Dr.DanetteSaylor,RiverParishesAlumnaeChapter
2028AlumnaeCandidates(ThreePositions)
Dr.BridgetN.Nevels,DallasAlumnaeChapter
DianeGreenwood,SuburbanHouston–FortBendAlumnaeChapter
Rev.Dr.HeidiLovett,KatyAreaAlumnaeChapter
2028CollegiateCandidate
SummerSingleton,GammaAlphaChapter–XavierUniversityofLouisian
Southwest Virtual Candidate Forum
Learn more about the slated candidates by attending the Southwest Virtual Candidate Forum. May 11, 2026, 7:30 PM CDT | 8:30 PM EDT Additional details will be shared soon
CONNECTION
COLLEGIATE CONNECTION
OnSaturday,April11,2026,wehadtheabsolutepleasureof hostingourannualendofyearCollegiateConnectionevent, “Brunch,Bonds,&Beyondˮforourgraduatingseniorsfrom TexasSouthernUniversityandtheUniversityofHouston.
Wekickedthingsoffbywelcomingoursevenseniorsfrom DeltaGamma(TSU)andtwofromZetaSigma(Universityof Houston)inattendancetoourAprilchaptermeeting,giving themafirsthandlookatwhatlifeasanalumnaemembertruly feelslike.Fromchapteroperationstosisterlyconnection,it wasameaningfulopportunitytobridgethegapbetween collegiateandalumnaeexperiencesandhelpthemenvision theirnextchapterwithinthesisterhood.
Followingthemeeting,weheadedtoStateFareKitchenfora brunchfilledwithlaughter,storytelling,andgenuine connection.Theenergywasunmatchedasconversations flowed,bondsdeepened,andmemoriesweremade.During thistime,wealsosharedmoreaboutHMACasachapterand whattransitioningintoalumnaelifewithinHMAClookslike offeringclarity,connection,andasenseofbelongingbeyond thecollegiateexperience.ThreeofourcurrentCollegiate Connectionmemberssharedtheirpersonaljourneys transitioningintoHMACfromcollegiatelife.Itwaspowerful forourseniorstohearrealstoriesfromwomenwhohave recentlynavigatedthatsameshiftandarenowthrivinginit.
Eventsliketheseremindushowimportantitistointentionally createspaceforourgraduatingseniorstofeelseen, supported,andexcitedabouttheirtransition.Thesisterhood doesnʼtendaftercollege,itevolves,andthiswasabeautiful exampleofthat.
Atimewasdefinitelyhad,andwecanʼtwaittowelcome theseamazingwomenintoalumnaelife!
BRUNCH, BONDS & BEYOND
Heart
OnApril18,2026,theGEMSheldourannualdayof communityservice.Thisyear,theGEMSvotedtovolunteer ataseniorlivingestatetoplaygamesandconnectwiththe residentsthere.AtBraeswoodEstates,theGEMSledan intensegameofbingo,engagedinconversationswiththe residents,includingreceivingsomegemsfromthem,and gaveeveryoneatokenofappreciation.Therewere27GEMS inattendanceand7committeemembers.
Ourlastprogramsessionforthe2025-26programyearwill beSaturday,May16th,2026,wherewewillcelebrateallof ourparticipants,includingour14seniors.Additionally,as partofourMaysession,wewillbetalkingaboutcollegelife andthestudentexperience.Ifyouareacurrentchapter member,areriskmanagementtrained,andareinterestedin sharingsometipsandtricksforourGEMS,pleaseemail CarnettaGriffin-Danielsatdeltagems@hmac.orgwithyour name,collegename,andchapterofinitiationbyMay9th, 2026.
AServant’sHeart A Servant’s Heart
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
AwaitingPickup!
Thismessageservesasafinalreminderthatseveralladiesʼpolosremain unclaimedfromApril2025.
Ifyouorderedapolo,pleasemakearrangementstopickupyouritemduringthe nextGeneralChapterMeeting.Ifyouhaveclaimedyourshirt,Thankyou!
AnypolosnotclaimedbytheJuneChaptermeetingwillbeconsideredadonation. Ifyouareuncertain—neverfear!AcompletelistwillbeavailableattheRegistration andMembershipServicestables.Donʼtletyoursparklesitunclaimed.
Ifyoubelieveyouorderedapoloshirtorareunsure,pleasecheckthelistbelow.
Shana August
Tempestt Bell
Annie Benifield
Dione Burke
Megan Byrd
Krissy W Davis
Mia E Davis
Keisha Fields
Majorie Gibson
Christina Gibson
Debra Grisby
Candance Williams DonʼtLetYourSparkleSitUnclaimed:
Ruby Adams
Sarita Booker
TriCia Guidry
Marla Davis
Mylana Jackson
Sonya Johnson
Jewel Johnson
Valarie Landry
Paulette Randle
Linda Shankle
Christian Sherrod
LaKenya Spriggs
Tracy Singleton
Nicole Thomas
Jan Matthews Di Tubbs
Michelle McCain
Kaysah L Melancon
Katessa Moody
Charmaine Perry
Donna White
Monique Williams
Stacie Wright
TriCia Guidry
HMACNOTES
Be on the lookout for more monthly columns, vital information, and even more S.P.A.R.K.
O R C H
TTMAY 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
MAY 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,