2017 charter day scholarship awards luncheon program3

February 18, 2017 Greetings!

It is with great pride and esteemed pleasure that I welcome you to the Charter Day/Scholarship celebration in honor of the 14th Chartering Anniversary of the Chi Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated!

The purpose of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of “Service to All Mankind". Chi Eta Omega members exemplify dedication, hard work, perseverance, and philanthropy. This dynamic group of women represents the best of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s values and based on their extraordinary service to Central Arkansas is worthy of recognition!

Mission Accepted: From Pearls of Purpose and Beyond is a theme most befitting of this luncheon! This year, we celebrate 14 years from our charter members organizing as the Pearls of Purpose Interest Group to the over 130 members we currently have! Today, we are also celebrating high school seniors and students attending a Historically Black College/University by awarding the Dr. Phillis L. Nichols-Anderson FaithBased Scholarships in honor of the tireless work and commitment to student education, achievement and leadership that Dr. Anderson – Chi Eta Omega Charter Visionary Leader – exhibits!

I am blessed by and amazed at the work Chi Eta Omega members do in our communities – we are consistently searching for innovative and unique ways to ensure our founding purpose is realized in the Central Arkansas community! The last 14 years have been amazing and I am certain that in 2017, we will continue to excel at the aspirations set forth by our international president! Thank you for sharing in our celebration, today!

Always Mission-Driven and Member-Focused,

Kandi N. Hughes, Esq. President Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Chi Eta Omega Chapter Legal Counsel The Pearls Foundation

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Chi Eta Omega Chapter In early 2001, Lenisha Broadway and Nikeba Davis Murry approached Phillis Nichols Anderson, their former graduate advisor, about chartering a chapter in the Conway area. Mrs. Nichols Anderson started working with a small group of sorors, Amber Broadway, Sabreen Al-Uqdah, Keisha Ri’chard Patterson, and Kimberly Gardner and conducted research on the service needs in the Faulkner County and outer Pulaski County areas. With the support of this group, Nichols Anderson wrote the proposal for a new chapter that was submitted and approved by then South Central Regional Director, Mrs. Shirley Fisher, for the formation of an interest group to further explore the possibilities of establishing a chapter in that area.

May 29, 2001 marked the emergence of "The Pearls of Purpose Interest Group." Twenty-six multi-talented Alpha Kappa Alpha women of diverse backgrounds and interests found a common desire and willingness to work together to form a chapter that would serve Conway, Maumelle, Morrilton, Russellville and surrounding communities. Kimberly Bryant Gardner was selected as President of the group and after much dedication and purposeful effort, the Pearls of Purpose Interest Group was chartered as the Chi Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. on February 8, 2003. Ms. Linda White was the Supreme Basileus and Mrs. Carolyn House Stewart was the Supreme Grammateus.

Chi Eta Omega Chapter Presidents: 1st: Kimberly Gardner: 2003-2006 2nd: Nikeba Davis: 2007-2008 3rd: Lenisha Broadway: 2009-2010 4th: Phillis Nichols Anderson: 2011-2014 5th: Nefertari Sims: 2015-2016 6th: Kandi Hughes: 2017-present In 2009, Chi Eta Omega was granted graduate sponsorship of the Theta Mu Chapter located on the University of Central Arkansas where 23 of the 26 charter members were initiated and where Phillis Nichols Anderson served as their Graduate Advisor. In 2011, Chi Eta Omega’s membership reached the 100 member milestone. Chi Eta Omega has grown from 26 sorors representing three chapters to over 150 sorors representing numerous chapters across the United States. Chi Eta Omega's membership consists of a group of dynamic, innovative, and industrious women who value sisterhood and the spirit upon which Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded nearly a century ago.

Chi Eta Omega is dedicated to fulfilling the sorority's purpose of being of "Service to All Mankind" through its programming and volunteerism. In 2009, the PEARLS Foundation was

granted 501 c3 status as the charitable arm of Chi Eta Omega and expanded the chapter’s service area to Central Arkansas. The Foundation’s mission is to support programs that provide opportunities for educational advancement and quality of life improvements for the citizens of Central Arkansas. Having a strong commitment to youth, Chi Eta Omega established the Dr. Phillis Nichols Anderson Faith Based Scholarship in 2004 to honor her for her role in establishing the chapter and for her work with youth. The chapter has given thousands of dollars in scholarship funds annually to deserving youth. Dr. Nichols Anderson is the Principal Officer of the Foundation.

Awards and Honors Chi Eta Omega has won numerous awards and is one of the leading chapters in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The chapter was awarded a Governor’s Citation by Governor Mike Beebe.

2015 South Central Region Launching New Dimension Overall Program Award 2015 South Central Region Graduate Advisor of the Year: Lenisha Broadway 2014 South Central Region President of the Year: Phillis N. Anderson 2014 Ethel Awards Overall International Program Winner 2014 South Central Region Graduate Chapter of the Year 2014 AKApollo Step Show Winners 2013 South Central Region Graduate Chapter of the Year 2012 Ethel Awards Overall International Program Winner Chi Eta Omega has laid a sound framework for having an amazing impact on not just Central Arkansas, but also the region and through our strategic partnerships, needy communities around the world. In all its years of existence, the chapter has yet to “rest on its laurels”. The chapter has continued to push, to innovate, to partner and to produce women who are leaders both internally and externally.

PEARLS Foundation Mission The PEARLS Foundation is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. The Foundation’s mission is to implement programs that provide opportunities for educational advancement and quality of life improvements for the citizens of Central Arkansas. The Foundation’s resources are used to fund college scholarships, health, economics and other educational programs focused on strengthening families and improving the academic standing of underserved youth in Central Arkansas. The Foundation awards thousands of dollars through the Dr. Phillis Nichols Anderson Faith Based Scholarship annually to outstanding students of color to assist them in pursuing a higher education.

Our Impact is profound. Thousands of families and youth and communities have been equipped with knowledge and increased awareness on issues that affect them through our programs and efforts. Thousands of dollars have been provided to students of color to assist in their pursuit of a higher education.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Chi Eta Omega Chapter

Mission Accepted: From Pearls of Purpose and Beyond Charter Day Scholarship and Awards Luncheon Celebrating 14 Years of Impactful Service Saturday, February 18, 2017 | 12:30 pm | The Little Rock Club - Capitol West Room Welcome Mrs. Kandi Hughes, Esq. | President Opening Prayer Mrs. Keisha Ri’chard-Patterson | Chaplain Musical Selection Lunch Special Honors and Recognition Mrs. Eltrudia Toliver | Hostess Life Members Silver Star Members New Silver Star Members Chi Eta Omega Charter Member Recognition Mrs. Kimberly Gardner | Inaugural Chapter President Induction into The Presidents Ivy League Mrs. Brandi Doan | Historian Recognition of High School Seniors and Remarks Dr. Phillis Nichols Anderson | Charter Visionary Leader PEARLS Foundation Scholarships and Awards Ms. Lenisha Broadway | Graduate Advisor Mrs. LaShawnDa Noel | 2nd Vice President Ms. Apryl Jackson | Scholarship Director Closing Remarks Ms. Amber Broadway | Charter Day Committee Chairman

2017 Alpha Kappa Alpha Silver Star Members Maria Bunting Smedley was initiated on November 15, 1992, Epsilon Iota Chapter, Southern Illinois University, at Edwardsville where she held the position of undergraduate chapter president for two years. Maria went on to earn a BSBA degree, as well as an MBA from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a JD from George Mason University School of Law and is licensed to practice law in Virginia and Arkansas. Maria has a 20+ year career in the Human Resources field and her job travel has allowed her to be a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha within the Central, North Atlantic, Mid-Atlantic, South Eastern, and South Central Regions. As Maria enters her 25th year of being a financially active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Maria has become a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Maria currently serves as the Vice President of the Chi Eta Omega Chapter. Maria is the Vice President of Human Resources and Strategy at Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation and has one son, Jayden.

Stephanie Cooper Tucker was initiated on November 11, 1992, Theta Mu Chapter, University of Central Arkansas, as a part of the “9 Precious Pearls.” She joined Beta Pi Omega Chapter after graduating and transferred to the Chi Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in 2005. Stephanie has been employed at Windstream Communications for 18 years in the Human Resource Department as a Senior Business Analyst in Sales Compensation. Stephanie has been married for 20 years to her wonderful husband, Anthony Tucker, and they have two lovely daughters, McKenzie and Madison. Stephanie’s participation in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Straightright Boxing and Fitness has allowed her the opportunity to give back to the community and help many families and individuals meet essential daily needs.

Stephanie’s hobbies and interests include: running full and half marathons, competing in bodybuilding shows in the Women Physique Master category and placing 2nd and 3rd, traveling, and thrifting. Stephanie’s motto is: “Think Positively, Network, Exercise Daily, Eat Healthy, Work Hard, Build Faith, Worry Less, Never Stop Learning, Volunteer, Be Thankful, Love, and Live.”

Chi Eta Omega Chapter Charter Members LaQuinda Alexander (Toney) Sabreen Al-Uqdah Chanda Peyton Bailey (Lewis) Amber Broadway Lenisha Broadway Tamekia Brown Kimberly Bryant (Gardner) Shawn Burgess Melissa Bynum

Rashenda Calloway (Branch) Takecia Cox (Campbell) Nicole Cunningham Nikeba Davis Sherita Durden (Vincent) Denise Henderson LaKetra Pettis Hicks Talesia Hawkins Jasper (Love)

Tina Jordan (Greenwood) Kimberly King Davis Stephanie Lawson Zandra Moore Carla Nelson Misty Nolen Keisha Ri’chard Patterson Shinia Walker JaJuan Chantele Williams

Graduating High School Seniors of Chi Eta Omega Chapter Members Zachary Bobo is a senior at Jacksonville Lighthouse College Preparatory Academy. He plans to attend Ouachita Baptist University. He is the son of Tonya Bobo.

Courtney Larry is a senior at North Little Rock High School. She plans to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. She is the daughter of Tanya Larry.

Morgan Mayberry is a senior at Little Rock Central High School. She plans to attend the University of Central Arkansas. She is the daughter of Kimberly Mayberry.

Zoie Moore is a senior at Little Rock Central High School. She is undecided on where she plans to attend college. She is the daughter of Erica Moore.

Damian "Grant" Patterson II is a senior at Joe T. Robinson High School. He is undecided on where he plans to attend college. He is the son of Keisha Ri’chard Patterson.

Nakiya Smith is a senior at Sylvan Hills High School. She plans to attend Grambling State University or Shaw University. She is the daughter of Jamie Fossett.

Marissa Wallace is a senior at Jacksonville High School. She plans to attend college at Missouri Valley College. She is the daughter of Cesalie Wallace.

Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship The Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship is awarded to members of the Theta Mu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Sorority, Incorporated, at the University of Central Arkansas.

Former Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship Recipients 2011 - $500 Awarded RanĂŠe Davis

2012 - $500 Awarded Chelsea Davis

2014 - $1000 Awarded Alexis Sanders Rachel Parker

2013 - $500 Awarded Ashley Bizzell 2015 - $1000 Awarded Inesha Clark Taylor Wilkes

HBCU Undergraduate Scholarship The HBCU Undergraduate Scholarship is awarded to a college student attending a Historically Black College or University.

Former HBCU Undergraduate Scholarship Recipients 2014 - $500 Awarded Michaela Martin University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

2015 - $500 Awarded Carmen Bryels Arkansas Baptist College

2016 - $500 Awarded Carman Wilson University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Dr. Phillis Nichols Anderson Faith-Based Book Scholarship Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Chi Eta Omega Chapter established the Dr. Phillis L. Nichols Anderson Faith-Based Book Scholarship to support African American high school and college students as they strive to further their education. The PEARLS Foundation manages and distributes the scholarship funds. This scholarship is designed to help those who want to achieve a higher education but who may need financial assistance to do so. The scholarship is named for Dr. Nichols Anderson for commitment to education, mentoring and the role she played in chartering Chi Eta Omega chapter. 2017 marks the 14th year that the scholarship has been awarded.

About Dr. Phillis Nichols Anderson Dr. Phillis Nichols Anderson is a champion for youth and families, an Educational Reformer with more than 25 years of experience in K-16 public education and considers herself a Socially Conscious Entrepreneur. She is the Chief Executive Officer and President of Scholar Made Educational Services, a national Arkansas based nonprofit educational management organization, which provides educational and operational support to schools and organizations.

She also serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Education at Philander Smith College.

Her work as an educator has taken her across the breadth of the country. She spent the bulk of her career working as a teacher and administrator in inner city schools in Little Rock, AR., Washington, D.C. and Prince George's County Maryland. Dr. Anderson has written several successful charter applications and renewal applications for schools in Arkansas, New York and Oklahoma and has assisted in the development of charter applications in Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Former Phillis Nichols Anderson Faith-Based Book Scholarship Recipients 2005 - $750 Awarded Clairessa A. Green Nakia D. Handy Gashen L. Humphrey

2006 - $500 Awarded Tiffany L. Hornes

2007 - $750 Awarded Marshalluna E. Land Brooklyn Elizabeth Johnson Tashanita Mitchell

2008 - $1600 Awarded Kenneth Matthew Martin LaToria Johnson JoNece B. Carter

2009 - $1250 Awarded Ashlee Christian Nicholas Oates

2010 - $1500 Awarded Kenois York Tyneshia Hill

2011 - $1500 Awarded Taylor Luckadue William “Seth� Martin

2012 - $2500 Awarded Taylor Henderson Reagan Graham Angelica Scott

2013 - $2250 Awarded Bailey West Jessica Webster

2014 - $3800 Awarded Patrick Randall Quenton Wyrick Jordan Sanders Cameron Colbert

2015 - $3500 Awarded Greimante Garner Cambria Onick Neka Hunter

2016 - $4500 Awarded Brandon Macon Chisom Umerah Micah Bernard

2017 Scholarship Finalists Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship Rhandi Jackson attends the University of Central Arkansas and is a member of Antioch Baptist Church. Rhandi is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science with an emphasis on Physical Therapy. She plans to pursue a career in orthopedic physical therapy. Rhandi is the daughter of Georgetta James.

Bianca Mahomes attends the University of Central Arkansas and is a member of Longley Baptist Church. Bianca is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Education and plans to become a Registered Neonatal Nurse. Bianca is the daughter of Ray and Robin Mahomes.

HBCU Undergraduate Scholarship Che Alce-Jean Charles is a member of Eighth Avenue Missionary Baptist Church and attends the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB). After graduating from UAPB, he plans to attend dental school and eventually become an orthodontist. Che Alce-Jean is the son of Shirley Alce.

Phillis Nichols Anderson Faith-Based Book Scholarship Finalists Darius Austin is a senior at North Little Rock High School and is a member of New Hope Baptist Church in North Little Rock. He plans to attend Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and pursue a career in business and financial management. Darius is the son of Ronnie and Natasha Tucker.

Nia Jackson is a senior at Little Rock Central High School and a member of Saint Mark Baptist Church. Although Nia is narrowing down her college choice, she plans to pursue a career in visual and performance arts. Nia plans to one day start a dance school/company for black and brown dancers that will be taught by black and brown teachers. Nia is the daughter of Myron and Stephanie Jackson.

Jaida Maxwell is a senior at Jacksonville Lighthouse College Preparatory Academy, one of the schools founded by Dr. Nichols-Anderson. She is a member of Crossroads Freewill Baptist Church. Jaida plans to attend the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas, and become a physical therapist. Jaida is the daughter of April Robbins.

Stephanie Washington is a senior at Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School and is a member of Saint Mark Baptist Church. She plans to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C. and become a civil rights attorney, eventually starting her own lobbyist firm. She desires to be a political analyst for various news networks. Stephanie is the daughter of Oscar and Doris Washington.

Scholarship Selection Process Scholarship essays are scored blindly by multiple scorers based on the guidelines. Winners must meet the minimum grade point average and are determined by the personal statement scores, references, and the interview score.

Charter Day Committee Amber Broadway, Chairman Sabreen Al-Uqdah Phillis Nichols Anderson Lenisha Broadway Kimberly King Davis Nikeba Davis Kimberly Gardner

Branndii Peterson, Co-Chairman Tina Jordan Greenwood Apryl Jackson Cresia Murphy Talesia Love Keisha Ri’chard Patterson Eltrudia Toliver

Scholarship Selection Team Sabreen Al-Uqdah Renee Austin Banks Amber Broadway Lenisha Broadway Deidra Brown Jennifer Colwye

Nikeba Davis Verline Davis Tina Jordan Greenwood Kandi Hughes Apryl Jackson Tranice Johnson LaShawnDa Noel

Joy Parks Branndii Peterson Stacy Croom Raley Dorie Summons Alycea Wilkins Danielle Woods

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Chi Eta Omega Chapter LaQuinda Alexander**

Kimberly King Davis**

Akia Johnson

Yana-Janell Scott* ***

Sabreen Al-Uqdah**

Nikeba Davis**

Tranice Johnson

Chelsea Shaw

Beverly Arbor***

RanĂŠe Davis

Shana Jones

Nefertari Sims* ***

Sharrika Ashley

Verline Davis***

Tanya Larry

Maria Smedley* ***

Danielle Atkins

Brandi Doan

Sabrina Lewellen

Brittnee Smith

Renee Austin Banks

Tierra Donson-Jones

Marquita Little

Whitney Spencer

Brittany Bailey

Sonja Burns Easley

Talesia Love**

Karmin Sproles

Charla Bailey

LaTasha Egwuatu

Devae Lucas

Tonya Sproles

Charmaine Beasley

Rhonda Ervin

Susie Matheny

LaJoyce Starks

Joycelyn Bell

Kathryn Evans

Kimberly Mayberry***

Shaikiesha Stocker

Ashley Bizzell

Tyhitia Flenory

Dephanie McAllister ***

Johnasha Stuart

Tonya Bobo

Jaime Fossett

Bridgette McBride

Talia Sullivan

Cara Boyd

Christy Fulton

Moniek McIntyre

Dorie Summons

Stephanie Broadnax

Kimberly Gardner **

Angelia McKenney

Monica Talbert

Amber Broadway**

Kimberly Gault

Suzette McLaurin

Jacqueline Taylor

Jacquetta Broadway

Tina Jordan Greenwood**

Mia Meadows

Teri Todd***

Lenisha Broadway**

Miesha Hall

Tanisha Minter

Eltrudia Toliver

Deidra Brown

Regina Hampton***

Avery Alia Moore

Rica Toney

Krystle Browning

Faron Harris

Elizabeth Moore

Stephanie Tucker***

Shana Bryant

Liz Harris

Erica Moore

Tyla Vanzandt

Shawn Burgess**

Nakita Harris

Cresia Murphy

Cesalie Wallace

Tamara Burton

Demetria Bailey Hawkins

Kelsey Newman

Danita Waller-Paige***

Persephone Butler

Gwendolyn Hayes***

Chandra Neyland

Antoinette Weathers

Andrea Bynum

Kimberly Hendricks

Phillis Nichols-Anderson* ***

Kimberly Westbrook

Fatimaah Carmicheal

Dierdre Henley

Keema Nolen

Shirley White-Hunter

Kasey Carolina

Tanica Howard

Rachel Parker

Tayler Wilkes

Desirae Cavaness

Kandi Hughes

Joy Parks

Alycea Wilkins

Shantell Collier

Crystal Hunter

Keisha Patterson**

LaShawnDa Williams-Noel

Jennifer Colwye

Kafi Hunter

Branndii Peterson

Tonya Willingham***

Kimberly Cooney

Latoyya Hunter

Yolanda Pettis

Chemia Woods

Chandra Conway

Apryl Jackson

Hollie Porter

Danielle Woods

Staci Croom-Raley

Kimberlee Jackson

Kenya Ray

Whitni Young

Janice Daniels***

Vanessa Jefferson

Nia Robinson

Cierra Zeno

Brittney Davis

Erikka Johnson

Yana Hampton Scott

(*Life; **Charter Member; ***Silver Star)

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated 2014-2018 International Program Target I: Educational Enrichment - Members engage in the sorority’s signature youth enrichment program, ASCEND℠ with efforts designed to motivate, engage and assist high school students in reaching their maximum potential. ASCEND℠ will focus on Achievement, Self-Awareness, Communication, Engagement, Networking and Developmental Skills.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will promote the learning process by providing substantial support to students through AKA One Million Backpacks℠. Support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) is a priority as Alpha Kappa Alpha launches a national campaign, Think HBCU℠ to highlight HBCUs and their contribution to the sorority and society.

Target II: Health Promotion - Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority promotes health awareness in three areas: The Alzheimer's Disease and Caregiver Support Program generates awareness and support for Alzheimer's programming and research. Stroke and Heart Disease Awareness focuses on a major stroke prevention awareness campaign with emphasis on hypertension management, diet and exercise. Mental Health is highlighted as members bring attention to the mental illness among diverse populations with low utilization of mental health services.

Target III: Family Strengthening - Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Family Strengthening Programs target critical issues facing many families, including lack of food, shelter and financial means.

Community based Childhood Hunger Initiatives are launched in partnership with local agencies, food banks and community pantries. The Family Seasonal Wraps℠ Program is a major initiative to collect and donate hats, gloves, socks, scarves, coats, sweaters and other seasonal wraps for families in need. Fiscal Responsibility Programs are initiated as members work with partner organizations and families to help increase their understanding of budgeting, basic financial planning and benefits of home ownership.

Target IV: Environmental Ownership - The AKA 1908 Playground Project℠ ensures children have safe and inviting places to play. Sorority members work to restore and renew 1,908 existing community and school playgrounds with its Restore, Refresh and Renew Project℠.

Through its Acts of Green Program℠ members promote environmental sustainability by encouraging recycling, litter prevention and waste management through daily green efforts in local communities.

Target V: Global Impact - Sorority members implement the UNA-USA Global Classrooms Project to prepare today's youth for an increasingly global and complex society. Alpha Kappa Alpha members work in partnership with the UNA-USA (United Nations Association) to expand understanding of the UN, its mission and focus. Through its renewed Africare partnership, Alpha Kappa Alpha Chapters implement youth hunger initiatives on the continent of Africa.