Founders' Day 2021

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED®

1908 - 2021

Epsilon Omega Chapter Alpha Delta Chapter Epsilon Kappa Chapter Xi Tau Chapter

2021 VIRTUAL

Founders' Day CELEBRATION & AWARDS PRESENTATION

"A Centennial Celebration of Sisters in Service" February 6, 2021 11:00 AM Lois D. Knight Harrison, Chapter President Bettye M. Adams, Chairman Genia Loving-Clash - Co-Chairman Myrtle E. B. Dorsey Centennial Co-Chairman Claudette Edgerton-Swain Centennial Co-Chairman

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED® EPSILON OMEGA CHAPTER

Message from the President Greetings, Today, we are kicking off the Centennial Celebration for Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (1921-2021)!On behalf of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Epsilon Omega Chapter, it is with great pleasure and excitement that I welcome you to the 2021 Founders’ Day Celebration and Awards. The theme this year is “A Centennial Celebration of Sisters in Service.”

Founders’ Day is a time to reflect on those women who had the vision to start this illustrious sorority on January 15, 1908 at Howard University, 113 years ago. The sorority has evolved to a sisterhood of more than 300,000 members who continue to play a pivotal role in economic issues, education, social justice, civil and human rights, environmental concerns, political activism, and many other critical human-kind challenges.

Our current administration, under the leadership of our International President and CEO, Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, continues to be engaged in global service. One of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated’s signature programs is HBCU for Life: A Call to Action. Epsilon Omega is proud to recognize the Maryland Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the presidents who lead these universities. Today, we celebrate Bowie State University, Morgan State University, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Coppin State University. We salute the leadership of Epsilon Omega’s programs of service for their outstanding accomplishments. We congratulate our milestone members of the chapter who have served Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated for 75 years, 65 years, 50 years, and 25 years. And let us not forget, those chapter members who have transitioned. They have left a tremendous void in our hearts.

This is just the beginning of the yearlong events planned to commemorate the 100 years of service that Epsilon Omega has provided to the Baltimore area. We hope you will join us for our special events, virtually.

Thank you to the Founders’ Day Chairman, Co-Chairman, and the committee for our first virtual Founders’ Day. They have done an exceptional job! Happy Founders’ Day!

Lois D. Knight Harrison Lois D. Knight Harrison President, Epsilon Omega Chapter

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Founders 1908 - 2021

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was founded on the campus of Howard University on January 15, 1908. Its founding made it the first Greek letter organization for college trained women of color. The visionary of Alpha Kappa Alpha was Ethel Hedgeman Lyle. She, along with fifteen other like-minded women formed this great and illustrious sisterhood. The sorority's influence extends beyond the college campus and has a legacy of service that deepens, rather than ends, with college graduation. The goals of Alpha Kappa Alpha program activities focus on challenges that confront our families, communities, government halls and world assembly chambers. After over 113 years of sisterhood and service, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's precepts and principles continue to remain a priceless part of the global experience in the 21st century.

Founders Norma S. Boyd Anna Easter Brown Beulah Burke Lillie Burke Marjorie Hill Margaret Flagg Holmes Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Ethel Jones Mowbray Alice Murray Lavinia Norman Sarah Meriweather Nutter Joanna Berry Shields Lucy Diggs Slowe Carrie Snowden Marie Woolfolk Taylor Harriet Terry

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Epsilon Omega Chapter History The Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was chartered on December 2, 1921. This date marks the beginning of an organization whose programs have provided an on-going and ever-rewarding experience to the lives of the women who fostered it. This date also marks a significant epoch in the life of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the date on which the first graduate chapter of the North Atlantic Region was organized. The Chapter was initially organized as Sigma Chapter, but was later renamed. A small body of 10 women (charter members) started the work of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in Baltimore. They were led by Vivian Carter Mason who had been elected the first president of the chapter. Sorority members Nellie M. Quander, and Evelyn Lightner, President of Alpha Chapter, performed the initiation ceremonies.

Even from her earliest years, Epsilon Omega believed in service to her community.

Throughout its long and illustrious history, Epsilon Omega has been at the forefront for establishing and maintaining outstanding cultural programs for the community which promote and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards for youth and adults alike. The chapter also raises scholarship funds in support of students seeking higher education and supports various local and national charities. Epsilon Omega believes in a strong community involvement and partnerships. The chapter also has a deep commitment to addressing social issues impacting the local community.

On Founders' Day, we pay homage to the Founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and reignite our commitment to the betterment of our community. Thank you for celebrating with us today.

EPSILON OMEGA WAS CHARTERED BY: Vivian Johnson Cook

May Miller

Miriam Curtiss

Brenda Moryck

Erma Bruce David

Louie Reynolds

Lillian Hughes

Georgine Lewis Wilkins

Sadye C. Martin

Annice Creditt Woodford

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2021 Founders' Day Mistress of Ceremony E. FRANCINE STOKES MCELVEEN, ESQ. E. Francine Stokes McElveen, Esq. is an accomplished attorney who became a member of Morgan State’s Alpha Delta Chapter on November 7, 1968. A Life Golden member, she was elected to serve as Epsilon Omega Chapter’s President from 2013 to 2016.

Her administration focused on community outreach and engagement and increasing efficiencies in the chapter’s operations. Notable achievements under her leadership include the chapter’s formal launch of an annual “Back to School Fair” enabling the chapter to distribute nearly 1,000 backpacks.

Annual Community Health and Wellness Fair. The fair provided health screenings and health and wellness information sessions for local Baltimore residents. Leading with a penchant for excellence and accuracy, she implemented an attendance swipe card system to improve chapter meeting attendance and record keeping. Epsilon Omega was recognized at the Boule and the North Atlantic Regional Conference under E. Francine’s leadership by receiving awards in 2016 for the One Million Backpacks Initiative and the Environmental Ownership program.

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Program "A Centennial Celebration of Sisters in Service" Opening Remarks.............................................. Bettye M. Adams Founders’ Day Chairman

E. Francine Stokes-McElveen Mistress of Ceremonies

Welcome................................................ Lois D. Knight Harrison Epsilon Omega Chapter President

Greetings.................................................... Mary Bentley LaMar Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. North Atlantic Regional Director

Selection.............................................. Lift Every Voice and Sing Salute.......................................................... Dr. Tonja Ringgold Target 1 HBCU: A Call to Action

North Atlantic Regional Representative to the International Program Committee North Atlantic Region Program Chair

Salute to Maryland Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Bowie State University (1865)........................ Dr. Aminta H. Breaux Morgan State University (1867).............. Dr. David Kwabena Wilson Why I chose an HBCU? Dai’Shona Jones, Vice President Alpha Delta Chapter

University of MD Eastern Shore (1886).......... Dr. Heidi M. Anderson Coppin State University (1900).................... Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins Why I chose an HBCU? Iyana Arrington, President Epsilon Kappa Chapter

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Program

Legacy and Vision: 113 Years Later........ Jennifer Kirksey, President Xi Tau Chapter

Poetry Reading.............................................. Brittany Wilkerson Alpha Delta Chapter

Introduction of Guest Speaker............ E. Francine Stokes-McElveen Founders' Day Message..................................... Dr. Glenda Glover Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. International President and CEO

Salute to Founders................................ Claudette Edgerton-Swain Founders' Day Hymn.......................................... Arinita Crawford Darlene Taylor, Accompanist

Chapter Awards Presentation............. E. Francine Stokes-McElveen

2021 RECIPIENTS Flossie McClain Dedmond Spirit Award Michelle Robinson Edna Over Campbell Second Mile Award Patricia Sparrow New Soror Award Tracey Blackson

Recognition of 2021 - Diamond Sorors, Pearl Sorors, Golden Sorors, and Silver Stars............................... E. Francine Stokes-McElveen Salute to Outstanding Epsilon Omega Programs Remembrance of Ivies Beyond the Wall....................... E. Francine Stokes-McElveen Closing Remarks....................................... Dr. Myrtle E. B. Dorsey Alpha Kappa Alpha National Hymn...................... Arinita Crawford

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Diamond Sorors

Golden Sorors

75 Years of Membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

50 Years of Membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Geraldine Dorsey

Barbara Avery

Ruthe Sheffey

Joann R. Barber

LaVerne Turner

June King Mary Urquhart Norma Taylor

Pearl Sorors

65-74 Years of Membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Silver Stars

Virginia Vauls

25 Years of Membership in

Clestee Myers

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Edmonia Yates

Kedra Jacox-Paige

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Bowie State University

As Maryland’s first historically black public university, founded in 1865, Bowie State University (BSU) empowers a diverse population of students to reach their potential by providing innovative academic programs and transformational experiences as they prepare for careers, lifelong learning, and civic responsibility.

Dr. Aminta H. Breaux has served as the visionary 10th president of BSU since July 2017, bringing more than 30 years of diverse higher education leadership experience to the position. As president, she is committed to ensuring that every Bowie student develops an entrepreneurial mindset to achieve success in the rapidly changing workplace and communities.

The Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was initially established at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul campus, on December 12, 1922.

However, as years passed during the 60s and the Civil Rights Movement continued, many members were called to join the Movement. Inevitably, the chapter's membership dwindled, ultimately leading to Eta Chapter's dissolvement at the University of Minnesota in 1964.Subsequently, Bowie State College (now University) was privileged to introduce Eta Chapter on its campus, on January 11, 1969, when 18 young women of Dream Line of 69 became members.

Morgan State University

As the premier public urban research university in Maryland, Morgan is known for its excellence in teaching, research, public service, and community engagement.

Founded in 1867, as the Centenary Biblical Institute, the institution's original mission was to train young men in ministry. It broadened its mission to educate both men and women as teachers. The school was renamed Morgan College in 1890 in honor of the Reverend Lyttleton Morgan, the first chairman of its Board of Trustees, who donated land to the college. Morgan prepares diverse and competitive graduates for success in a global, interdependent society.

Dr. David Kwabena Wilson serves as Morgan's 10th president since July 2010. He has a long record of accomplishments and more than 30 years of experience in higher education administration. His tenure has been characterized by great gains and a momentum of progress for the University.

The Alpha Delta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was issued its charter on March 15, 1926. Epsilon Omega chapter was named the supervising graduate chapter in Baltimore for the newly chartered Alpha Delta. The charter was signed by the Fourth International President, Mrs. Pauline Puryear Sims and International Secretary Mrs. Ruth Weatherless.

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University of Maryland Eastern Shore UMES was founded in 1886 by Methodist Episcopal Church elders as a private school on 16 acres in Princess Anne. Today, they balance their heritage as a historically black, public research institution that has grown to a 1,100-acre campus with a mission to serve a diverse student body representing nearly three dozen nations. UMES offers undergraduate degrees in 38 disciplines and another 16 distinctive graduate programs. UMES provides today's college student ample opportunity to develop into a well-rounded individual capable of assuming leadership in society. UMES is poised and ready to do its part preparing future generations of scholars for the challenges that lie ahead in the 21st century.

Dr. Heidi M. Anderson, a native of Gary, Ind., assumed the presidency of the UMES on Sept. 1, 2018. A three-time graduate of Purdue University. Dr. Anderson came to UMES with nearly two decades of leadership experience in higher education. The presidency appealed to her, because of the university's core values to produce outstanding graduates, who work to make a difference in society by transforming lives.

The Alpha Omicron Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. was chartered at Maryland State College; now UMES on April 7, 1951. Known for raising funds for scholarships and tutoring at local schools, the sorority partners with the Big Sister/Little Sister program in working with local high school girls.

Coppin State University Coppin (CSU) was founded in 1900. The university education serves a multigenerational student population and provides education opportunities while promoting lifelong learning. The university fosters leadership, social responsibility, civic and community engagement, cultural diversity and inclusion, and economic development. CSU provides academic programs in the arts and sciences, teacher education, nursing, graduate studies, and continuing education.

Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins became the 8th President of Coppin on May 26, 2020. He is a champion of public policy issues that foster meaningful dialogue within the landscape of higher education. Delivering dozens of keynote addresses to audiences across North America and China. His research, presentations, and publications have been focused on economic development, enrollment and retention, diversity, African-American male initiatives, first-generation college student success, funding higher education, mentoring, and high-risk college campus behavior. Dr. Jenkins has worked to enhance the quality of the college experience for students.

The Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. was Chartered on September 27, 1969. The chapter was chartered by 16 prestigious, educated, elite women. Dr. Flossie M. Dedmond, Professor at Coppin and Epsilon Omega chapter member was instrumental in chartering Epsilon Kappa.

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Flossie McClain Dedmond Spirit Award The Flossie McClain Dedmond Spirit Award was established in 2003 to commemorate and honor the legacy of Dr. Flossie McClain Dedmond for her many years of spirited service and leadership to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at the national level and the Epsilon Omega Chapter. Dr. Dedmond served as president of Epsilon Omega Chapter and was an active member of numerous committees at the regional and international levels of the sorority.

RECIPIENTS: 2003 Justyne B. Boyd *

2012 Sylvia M. Johnson

2004 Anne B. Roberts

2012 Cheryl O. Robinson

2005 Laverne A. Turner

2013 No Award

2006 Evelyn C. McLeod *

2014 Beverly G. Reid

2007 Annamaria B. Joyner

2015 Adeline Hutchinson

2008 Wynola W. Cunningham

2016 Cylia Lowe-Smith

2009 No Award

2017 No Award

2010 Reona J. Thomas *

2018 Claudette Edgerton-Swain

2011 No Award

2019 Karen E.P. Foster

2012 Karenthia A. Barber

2020 Phillis H. Doggett

- 2021 Winner -

*Deceased

Michelle Robinson has been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated since 2010. She became a member initially in Iota Upsilon Chapter at Syracuse University. She has been an active member of Epsilon Omega Chapter since 2015.

Michelle has been an avid supporter of Target 1, HBCU for Life; Target 2, Women’s Healthcare and Wellness, and Target 4, The Arts! She was a donor supporting Target 1 for the “Back to School Project”. Michelle served as an Impact Leader for Breast Cancer Awareness. In this capacity, she shared information, identified services, encouraged identification of the disease, and celebrated remission. In support of Target 4, she created the Rising Stars showcase and Trivia Night focused on Harlem Renaissance. Michelle was appointed Fundraising Chairman for the Ivy & Peals for Excellence, Incorporated foundation. Michelle regularly attends Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, International, Regional, Cluster Conferences, and chapter retreats.

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Edna Over Campbell Second Mile Award The Edna Over Campbell Second Mile Award was established in 2003 to commemorate and honor Edna Over Campbell for her many years of service and leadership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated for which she served as an officer at the local, regional and international level. Edna served as Epsilon Omega Chapter President, North Atlantic Regional Director, National Treasurer and 12th International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

RECIPIENTS: 2003 Helen E. Dupree*

2012 No Award

2004 Margaret H. Jackson*

2013 No Award

2005 Lois D. Knight Harrison

2014 Paula R. Tolson

2006 Geraldine S. Curry

2015 E. Francine Stokes McElveen, Esq.

2007 Audrey M. Bennett

2016 Sheila E. Tidline

2008 Jan Wood Carter

2017 No Award

2009 No Award

2018 No Award

2010 Elizabeth E. Craig

2019 No Award

2011 Shirley Taylor Hill

2020 No Award

*Deceased

- 2021 Winner Patricia Sparrow has been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Omega chapter since 2010. She has served as the Ivy Leaf Reporter since 2015. In this capacity, she has elevated the standard of our monthly newsletter and featured pictorial essays of various chapter activities, upcoming events, birthday celebrations, retirements, and births.

She has served as the Chairperson of the Public Relations Committee; Co-Chairperson of the Membership Committee, Sisterly Relations Committee, Connections Committee, and Retreat Committee.

Patricia was also tasked with organizing and implementing reclamation activities as well as the annual Chapter Fun Day. Ms. Sparrow regularly attends Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, International, Regional, Cluster Conferences, and chapter retreats. In the community, she is an active member of New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

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New Soror Award

The New Soror Award was established in 2020 to recognize new members of Epsilon Omega Chapter that have been a member less than five years and demonstrated outstanding commitment and engagement to the goals and programs of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

- 2021 Winner Tracey Blackson has been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. since 2016. During her tenure, she has been actively involved in Target 2, Women’s Healthcare and Wellness; Target 3, Building Your Economic Legacy, and Target 5, Global Impact. She serves as the Chairperson for the “Reboot Your Body—Lifelong Habits for Healthy Living “Workshop; Co-Chair, Healthy Snack Challenge, a member of the Membership Committee and Sisterly Relations Committee.

Tracey has participated in a number of chapter activities including but not limited to AKA Day at the Races, Founders' Day, Martin Luther King Day of Service, Playground Restoration Day, and Community Shred Day. Tracey regularly attends Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, International, Regional, Cluster Conferences, and chapter retreats.

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Epsilon Omega Chapter Presidents 1921 Vivian Carter Mason *

1965 Elsie B. Sessoms *

1924 Vivian Johnson Cook *

1969 A. Bernice S. Hunley *

1928 Edna Over Campbell *

1973 Virginia Burton Vauls

1930 Erma Bruce Davis *

1977 Idell S. Pugh *

1933 Willa Maye R. Burch *

1980 Gilda Jones Garrett *

1936 Mabel Locks Frisbee *

1985 Heloise B. Frazier *

1940 Edna Over Campbell *

1989 Gloria B. Jones *

1944 Lillian Parrott Murphy *

1993 Jean Batts Owens

1947 Mildred J. Seaborne *

1997 Nancy H. Bennett *

1952 Anita Wheatley *

2001 Cardrienne P. Griffin *

1953 Emma Gaskin Bright *

2005 Cheryl L. Frazier

1956 Flossie M. Dedmond *

2009 Angela C. Gibson

1958 Verniece W. Reynolds *

2013 E. Francine Stokes McElveen, Esq.

1960 Gladyce Bradley Jones *

2017 Dr. Tonja L. Ringgold

1963 Flozella R. Clark *

2021 Lois D. Knight Harrison *Deceased

Ivy Beyond the Wall Members of Epsilon Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated who have passed away between January 1, 2020 - December 31, 2020

Clara Adams

Felecia Myers Irick

Twanza Anthony

Audrey Highsmith

Gwendonlyn Browne

Shirley T. Hill

Greta L. Gordy Burnett

Marcia Martin

Clementine Carr

Camilla Booth Peterson

Jewel Chambers

Ann V. Young

Geraldine Curry

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Thank You to Our Vendors Entrepreneurship and the Black Dollar 365

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By Tony Pearson (410) 456-6860 Post 263 American Legion 151 Winters Lane, Catonsville, MD linmarkpearson@yahoo.com

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Epsilon Omega Chapter 2021 Chapter Officers President

Lois D. Knight Harrison

Vice President - Program

Jan Wood Carter

Vice President - Operations

Audrey Bennett

Recording Secretary

Sharone Brinkley-Parker

Assistant Recording Secretary

Marguerite Marshall

Treasurer

Erinn Gross

Assistant Treasurer

Shante Barnes

Financial Secretary

Erica Waters

Assistant Financial Secretary

Myrtle E. B. Dorsey

Sergeant at Arms

Tracey Blackson

Assistant Sergeant at Arms

Kedra Jacox-Paige

Parliamentarian

E. Francine Stokes-McElveen Esq.

Assistant Parliamentarian

Trebbie Stephens-Dickerson

Corresponding Secretary

Brenda White

Hostess

K. Courtiney Jacobs

Ivy Leaf Reporter

Tangila Sanders

Graduate Advisors Alpha Delta - Darlene Taylor Epsilon Kappa - Bettye M. Adams Xi Tau - Ann Barnes-Mobley

Members-At-Large Cheryl Frazier Kedra Jacox-Paige Claudette Edgerton-Swain Michelle Robinson

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2021 Founders' Day Committee Bettye M. Adams - Chairman

Genia Loving-Clash - Co-Chairman Heather Boles

Arinita Crawford

Tia Goodson

Tonja Ringgold

Darlene Taylor

Grace Spencer

Frances Parks

Kimberlee Pelzer

Tangila Sanders

Merchelle Halsey

Sheila E. Tidline

Morgan Dowell

E. Francine Stokes-McElveen

Deborah McCrimmon

Catrina Sally-Thomas

Trebbie Stephens-Dickerson

Karen Foster

Myrtle E. B. Dorsey

Sharone Brinkley-Parker

Maya Gilmore

Claudette Edgerton-Swain

Sylvia Miller

Michelle Robinson

Nina Hopkins-Nash

Latasha Harrison

Brenda White

Cynthia West

Kedra Jacox-Paige

Lois D. Knight-Harrison

2021 Awards Committee Carmen Queen-Hines, Co-Chairman Nina Hopkins-Nash, Co-Chairman Corliss Alston Bernice J. Beaird Tiffany M. Harris Frances Parks Janet K. Williams

The Founders' Day Worship Service will be held Virtually Sunday, February 7, 2021 at 11AM REGISTER IN ADVANCE

https://tinyurl.com/2021WorshipService 16

Thank You to Our Corporate Sponsors

McArthur McArthurStephen Stephen He/Him/His Community Engagement 5260 Western Avenue NW, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Call + Text (703) 986-4454

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