VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
BETA CHRONICLES HARTFORD, CT
President’s Message Back to Business – Beta Chapter Goals for the Year
Dr. Geraldine McHugh-Williams
Dear Sorors, I trust this message finds you well and rejuvenated. As we step into a new sorority year, it is time to refocus, recommit, and reignite the energy that makes Beta Chapter shine. Our legacy is built on service, sisterhood, and excellence, and together we will continue to strengthen that foundation. Our Goals for the Sorority Year: • Membership Engagement: we will foster deeper connections through meaningful programs, mentorship, and consistent communication. • Community Impact: we will expand our outreach initiatives in education, health advocacy, and economic empowerment, ensuring Beta Chapter remains a beacon of service. • Professional Development: we will provide opportunities for growth through workshops, networking, and leadership training. • Digital Presence: we will elevate our chapter’s visibility with polished, accessible communications across platforms. • Celebrating Legacy: we will honor our history while embracing innovation, ensuring our traditions remain vibrant and relevant. This is our moment to build on past successes and set new standards of excellence. Each of us plays a vital role in carrying forward the mission of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. With dedication, creativity, and unity, we will make this year one of impact and pride. Let’s get back to business. Sorors, together, let’s make Beta Chapter stronger than ever. In Sisterhood and Service, Soror Dr. Geraldine McHugh-Williams
President, Beta Chapter, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.
SY 2025-2026 Executive Team Dr. Geraldine McHugh-Williams, President Mrs. Bonita Brandon, 1 Vice President Ms. Andrea Grant, 2nd Vice President Ms. Joyce Balfour, Recording Secretary Mrs. Nora Brown, Corresponding Secretary Mrs. Wendy Lee, Financial Secretary Mrs Janet Falconer Crawford, Treasurer Mrs. Marva Perrin, Journalist Ms. Judy Williams, Dean of Intake st
www.iotabetahartfordct.org
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
NEWSLETTER HIGHLIGHTS
89th Eastern Region Virtual Leadership Summit - Page 5
President’s Message - Page 1
13th Annual ALLXITY Back-to-School Event - Page 5
Beta's SY 2025-2026 Executive Team - Page 1
Ist Meeting of the Sorority Year - Page 6
Rooted in Sisterhood - 2nd Annual Retreat Page 2
Expanding Beta’s Digital Presence - Page 6
Domestic Violence Awareness Month - Page 3
Beta welcomes newest member - Page 7
Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Page 4
Fundraising.- Page 7.
Upcoming events - Page 7
BETA CHAPTER CELEBRATES 2ND ANNUAL RETREAT Rooted in Sisterhood - Strong roots. True bonds. Real growth
On Saturday, August 30, 2025, Beta Chapter gathered for its 2nd Annual Sisterhood Retreat, hosted at the home of Soror Marva Perrin. With the inspiring theme “ROOTED IN SISTERHOOD – STRONG ROOTS. TRUE BONDS. REAL GROWTH”, the retreat offered members a day of reflection, renewal, and empowerment. The program opened with a heartfelt Blessing delivered by Soror Nora Brown, grounding the day in gratitude and unity. Members then participated in an exercise of mindfulness led by acclaimed yoga instructor and former Beta Chapter FIL, Ms. Chalice Crawford. Visiting from Los Angeles, California, where she now resides and runs her fitness and wellness business, Chalice guided Sorors through practices that encouraged balance, focus, and inner peace.
Sorors and guest facilitators at work
Following the session, attendees enjoyed a warm breakfast and time to relax and converse, strengthening bonds of sisterhood before beginning the day’s workshops. The first workshop was facilitated by Ms. Wendy Arnum, Assistant Director in the Division of Organizational Skills and Development at the University of Connecticut. A seasoned master of her craft, Wendy engaged Beta members in an interactive session that emphasized organizational strategies, personal growth, and collaborative excellence.
www.iotabetahartfordct.org
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
The retreat continued with a soulful meal featuring mac and cheese, fried chicken, fish, collard greens, barbecue ribs, potato salad, and tossed salad. This feast provided not only nourishment but also another opportunity for camaraderie and sisterhood building. Next, Ms. Queenie Collins, a former finance executive in the insurance and aerospace industries, delivered a table-side chat. She offered practical advice on simple ways to generate extra income and explained the differences between a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(6) in obtaining nonprofit tax-exempt status. Former FILs then joined the members for a heartfelt discussion on what it would take to attract younger members to the chapter. Their suggestions were warmly received as Beta addressed strategies to boost membership and create pathways for younger Sorors to join and thrive. The sessions concluded with a spirited rendition of “Boots on the Ground”. As a token of appreciation, the committee distributed clicking fans to all members. The day closed with a shared sense of reflection and recommitment to the sorority, leaving everyone inspired to carry forward the values of sisterhood, service, and growth.
BETA CHAPTER WALK FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS
Powerful walk in On Saturday, October 4, 2025, members of the Beta support of Chapter joined together for a powerful walk in Domestic support of Domestic Violence Awareness. Sponsored Violence by Interval House in memory of Jennifer Dulos, a mother of five whose tragic disappearance in May 2019 brought national attention to the realities of domestic violence, the event honored her legacy while uplifting survivors. Interval House, a vital refuge for women and children in the Greater Hartford region, continues to provide safety, hope, and healing for those escaping abuse. This meaningful walk brought together survivors, advocates, and community members, reminding us all of the importance of standing united against domestic violence.
www.iotabetahartfordct.org
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AND BETA CHAPTER “MAKING STRIDES FOR BREAST CANCER” WALK
Hartford, CT — On Sunday, October 5, 2025, members of Beta Chapter proudly joined the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, a 3–5 mile noncompetitive walk held in Hartford’s historic Bushnell Park. The fall afternoon was filled with energy, hope, and community spirit as participants gathered to honor survivors, remember loved ones, and raise awareness about breast cancer. For Beta Chapter, the cause is deeply personal. Over the years, the chapter has been touched by this illness, and members walked in tribute to women; including Sorors past and present, who have faced breast cancer with courage and resilience. Bushnell Park was transformed into a vibrant hub of support and celebration as community members gathered for a day filled with activities and resources. The event featured a wide array of vendors and informational booths, including breast screening services, alongside food trucks offering diverse options for attendees.
Members walk in tribute to women, including sorors past and present Before the walk began, attendees participated in a lively exercise class to warm up. Along the route, cheerleaders from area high schools lined the path, offering encouragement and enthusiasm that carried walkers forward. The Making Strides walk continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, advocacy, and hope in the fight against breast cancer. Beta Chapter’s presence underscored its commitment to supporting this worthy cause and honoring the women whose lives have been touched by the disease.
Guests enjoyed a variety of giveaways ranging from popcorn and lunch boxes to umbrellas, awareness pins, and the everpopular pens. Live music added energy to the atmosphere, while WFSB, one of Hartford’s television stations served as host, amplifying the festive spirit and drawing crowds into the heart of the city.
www.iotabetahartfordct.org
Walking in groups in search of victims
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
BETA CHAPTER ATTENDS 89TH EASTERN REGIONAL VIRTUAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT On August 15–16, 2025, Beta Chapter proudly participated in the 89th Eastern Regional Virtual Leadership Summit. The event was thoughtfully organized and provided an engaging platform for learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Members left the summit feeling energized and motivated, ready to carry forward the lessons and strategies shared into the upcoming sorority year.
BETA CHAPTER SUPPORTS 13TH ANNUAL ALLXITY BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENT
Sunday August 24th, 2025 Once again, Beta Chapter was proud to participate in the 13th Annual AllXity Back-to-School Backpack and School Supplies Giveaway. Sorors McHughWilliams and Williams represented the chapter by manning a booth and engaging with families throughout the day. Soror and MOI Perrin provided the tee shirts (compliments of Thrivent Financial Services) worn by all volunteers. The event drew hundreds of families, each welcomed with resources to ensure children are prepared for a successful school year. Beyond backpacks and essential school supplies, children received toiletries, clothing, sneakers, and even personal care services haircuts for boys and braiding for girls. This community-centered initiative truly offered something for every child, reinforcing the importance of education, confidence, and readiness as the school year begins. Beta Chapter was honored to stand alongside partners and families in support of such a worthy cause. www.iotabetahartfordct.org
Sorors McHughWilliams and Williams working the back-toschool event
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
BETA CHAPTER OPENS SORORITY YEAR WITH FIRST MEETING On Saturday, September 14, 2025, Beta Chapter gathered for its first meeting of the 2025–2026 sorority year. The afternoon was marked by fellowship, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to the work of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. In a special moment of the meeting, the chapter paused to welcome LOMEPA Mavis Chappell, who surprised members to homemade delights and shared a riveting book summary on former sprinter, Marion Jones. Her thoughtful presentation sparked meaningful reflection and conversation among the membership, setting a tone of learning and engagement for the year ahead. Following this uplifting interlude, the chapter turned its attention to the business of the Sorority. Members discussed upcoming initiatives, reaffirmed their dedication to service, and began planning for a year filled with impactful programs and community outreach. The meeting served as both a celebration of sisterhood and a reminder of the important work that lies ahead. Beta Chapter looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence, empowerment, and service throughout the 2025–2026 sorority year.
September’s Chapter Meeting
EXPANDING OUR DIGITAL PRESENCE Beta Chapter is excited to share that we’ve expanded our social media footprint! In addition to connecting with us on Facebook and Instagram, you can now find Beta Chapter on LinkedIn. We are also proud to announce the launch of our official website: www.iotabetahartfordct.org. These platforms will serve as dynamic spaces to highlight our chapter’s initiatives, celebrate achievements, and engage with our community. Join us on LinkedIn at Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. – Beta Chapter and explore our new website to stay informed and inspired.
www.iotabetahartfordct.org
VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
Soror Mavis Chappell enjoys some of the gifts given to her by her new sisters
BETA CHAPTER WELCOMES NEW MEMBER, MS. MAVIS CHAPPELL Hartford, CT — October 11, 2025 — Beta Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. proudly welcomed Soror Mavis Chappell into its sisterhood during a formal induction ceremony held on Saturday. The occasion marked a significant moment for the chapter as members celebrated the addition of a new Soror with warmth and enthusiasm.
FUNDRAISING
In October, Beta Chapter proudly participated in the Eastern Region’s fundraiser, joining sisters across the region in support of our shared mission. In addition, members engaged in the African American Expressions initiative, contributing with enthusiasm and purpose to further strengthen our community impact.
Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a meal described as “fit for queens,” underscoring the spirit of fellowship and celebration that filled the day. Chapter members expressed their excitement about Soror Chappell’s induction and shared their anticipation for the many contributions she will bring to the organization. The event highlighted Beta Chapter’s ongoing commitment to growth, unity, and service, while honoring the traditions that strengthen its bonds of sisterhood.
UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2025
November 22nd, 2025 … 35th Annual Apple for the Teacher Award Luncheon November 25th, 2025 … St. Monica’s Episcopal Church Thanksgiving food drive. Turkey giveaway. December 14th, 2025 … Seniors’ Holiday Party at Faith Manor
December 17th, 2025 … Holiday Gift Wrapping for Families at St. Monica’s Church
African American Expressions Fundraising Catalog December 25th, 2025… Christmas Day Eastern Region- Double December 26th 2025 - Jan 1st, 2026… Kwanzaa Good Popcorn Fundraiser www.iotabetahartfordct.org