The C.H.A.T. 2015 Winter Edition

Table of Contents Letter from the Regional Director (2) Regional Director’s Itinerary( Jan—March) Conversations(5-7) Interview with the First Supreme Anti Basileus Soror Glenda Baskin Glover by Soror Leigha Sledge(5-7)

Highlights(8-19) Fall 2015 Cluster Meetings (8-11) Chapter Anniversaries (12) Celebrating HBCUs (13-15) Fall Fashionetta and Debutante Balls (16-20)

Happenings(20-46) 86th MWR Conference (20-29) News You Can Use: International Committee Articles (30-38) Graduate Activities and Year In Review(39-46)

Acknowledgements(47-51) News Makers: December Graduates (47-48) New Initiates (49-51)

Thoughts and Meditations(52-59) Sentiments (52) Ivy Beyond The Wall (53-54) A Tapestry of History in the Mid-Western Region History Book (55) Spiritual Oversight Committee Meditation(56-57) 1

Special Christmas Message by MWRD Soror Jan M. Carpenter-Baker (58)

s MWRD Letter Greetings Sorors!

Welcome to the Winter Edition of The C.H.A.T.! The editorial staff has again put in many hours in publishing this issue and I am so very grateful for the hard work they have done.

It is hard to believe that we are at the close of another successful year. I am so proud that every chapter in the Mighty and Magnificent Mid-Western Region has done its part in “Launching New Dimensions of Service” programs and initiatives.

The year has been filled with firsts and outstanding accomplishments for our region.

We have grown in number and in strength. We have implemented fantastic programs across the region and have “Raised the Roof” in chapter operations and sisterly relations! I am extremely proud of all we are doing in service in our chapters and communities everywhere on behalf of our beloved sisterhood.

We are pleased to release the Sixth Volume (Winter Edition) of The C.H.A.T.! This edition holds many of this year’s pictures of sorors from throughout the region at various events they attended in 2015. Our featured Conversation is with our First Supreme Anti-Basileus Glenda Baskin Glover as interviewed by our undergraduate member of the editorial staff, Soror Leigha Sledge of Delta Chapter. This edition also contains Highlights from our 2015 Cluster Meetings held in Des Moines, Colorado Springs and Tulsa. There are Happenings from throughout the region and as always, “News You Can Use” from our International Representatives. You will also find in this edition the roll out of our 86th Mid-Western Regional Conference Theme: “New Dimensions in F.L.I.G.H.T. : Carrying the Banner of Sisterhood, Service and Scholarship”. Get ready for a fantastic and exciting F.L.I.G.H.T. experience!

Lastly, there are Soror Accomplishments, Sentiments, and a Thought provoking Christmas Meditation submitted by the Mid-Western Regional Director.

The Editorial Staff and I are so very grateful to all the chapters who submitted pictures and articles for the Winter Edition and we continue to encourage every chapter to submit pictures and articles to be included in upcoming editions. Deadlines and requirements for submissions are included in the back of this newsletter magazine.

I want to personally thank each of you for your continued service to our region and all the support you have given throughout this year. On behalf of the entire staff of The C.H.A.T. and me, WE wish you a very blessed Merry Christmas and a Joyous and Prosperous 2016!

Sisterly Blessings,

Soror Jan 2

Mid-Western Regional Director’s Itinerary January 2016 – March 2016

January 2: Mu Omega Chapter Meeting, Kansas City, MO January 19 - 24: Chartering Ceremony Pearls of Arabia – Dubai, United Arab Emirates January 23: 86th Mid-Western Regional Conference Steering Committee Meeting, Des Moines, IA (Weather Permitting) Conducted by Chairman and Co-Chairman January 29: Meeting with Greek Life – Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas January 30: Alpha Chi Omega Chapter Founders Day – Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Keynote Speaker, Tulsa, Oklahoma February 6: Delta Epsilon Omega Chapter Founders Day – First Supreme Basileus Glenda Baskin Glover, Keynote Speaker, Omaha, Nebraska February 10: Iowa State AKA Day at the Capitol - Des Moines, Iowa February 13: Greater Kansas City Chapters Founders Day – Mid-Western Regional Directory, Keynote Speaker, Overland Park, Kansas February 23: Kansas State AKA Day at the Capitol – Topeka, Kansas February 24-28: Directorate Meeting March 3 – 6: Central Regional Conference – Chicago, Illinois March 10 – 13: South Eastern Regional Conference – Mobile, Alabama (Tentative) March 15 – 20: 86th Mid-Western Regional Conference – Wichita, Kansas March 24 – 27: South Atlantic Regional Conference – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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onversations First Supreme Anti-Basileus Glenda Glover sisterhood is a rich honor and most rewarding.

Soror Leigha: What life experiences would you say personal and professional prepared you for your role as the First Supreme Anti Basileus the Supreme Basileus Elect?

Soror Glenda: Personally, growing up in a civil rights environment taught me that I could overcome any odds. This coupled with a strong spiritual foundation underscores that God has a spiritual plan for each of our lives, and that we must fervently seek His will and His supreme guidance.

Professionally, being educated to overcome barriers and be open minded not to judge others nor be stereotyped, but to be more accepting of people. Within the sorority, there is not a day that has gone by as First Supreme AntiBasileus, in which I have not reflected on my years as an undergraduate and my commitment to excellence has remained the same. My background, training, and my role as President of TSU, has allowed me to be a part of helping develop sorors and students into becoming the world changers that they are capable of becoming.

Early this December I had the amazing opportunity to speak with the First Supreme Anti-Baselius Soror Glenda Glover about her experience and insight about our illustrious sorority. She shared her insight on how young sorors can feel more connected to their graduate sorors and the best way to look for Soror Leigha: How do you balance your roles of leadership opportunities. being the International Vice President of Alpha Soror Leigha: Madame First Supreme Anti Kappa Alpha and the role of President of Basileus, I first want to say thank you so much Tennessee State University? for this amazing opportunity to be able to speak with you today. I would like to begin our interview by asking if thus far what would you say has been the most rewarding aspect of serving as the First Supreme Anti-Basileus?

Soror Glenda: It is simply being given the privilege to serve an illustrious sisterhood. Interacting with and meeting so many sorors and listening to ideas around the country as to how to enhance our

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Soror Glenda: I am asked that question regularly.

Leadership of both organizations is paramount. The two are very related inasmuch as both have the responsibility for the overall leadership and management of organizations. It’s all about time management and ensuring that the individuals who serve in leadership roles be allowed to do their jobs. Leadership is about putting the right people in the right places to support the organization and

contribute to its success. At TSU, I serve as President of the Institution; I don’t plan to be the Vice President of TSU or one of the faculty members. I am currently in the role of First Vice President. In 2018, I don’t plan to be the Executive Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Each person has a job to do and a role to play. MY role is to be the leader, and chart the direction of the organization.

might of the region. It is a somewhat small region with a big-region feel. Sorors are so genuine and family oriented. They practice the real principles of sisterhood. I refer to the region as small but mighty, and you are not intimidated. You have proven that good things come in small packages. I have seen what you have been able to accomplish.

I am also impressed by the leaders you have elected who have done great things for the region.

Soror Leigha: What are the top goals you would like to see accomplished for our organization Soror Leigha: What impresses you most about during the current administration? our Mid-Western Regional Director, Soror Jan Soror Glenda: The top goal at this moment are to Carpenter M. Baker? ensure the programs and the agenda of the current Supreme Basileus are carried out proficiently and efficiently. We have a remarkable program agenda and sorors are excited. I am also excited and doing all I can in my supportive role.

Soror Glenda: I am most impressed by her leadership style. It is very inclusive, fair, and powerful. She has demonstrated a commitment to the Mid-Western Region; but additionally, it is her commitment to God as well as her spiritual foundation that underscores her sound leadership Soror Leigha: What do you feel are the biggest obstacles or challenges facing the sorority ability. today?

Soror Leigha: If you could look into your pink Soror Glenda: Ensuring that legacy remains intact and green crystal ball and see into the future, and that our sisterhood remains united and work where would you see our sorority in the next 50 together for the good of Alpha Kappa Alpha. We years? In the next 100 years? must identify and eliminate those factors, real and perceived, known and unknown, that continue to Soror Glenda: Alpha Kappa Alpha will continue to distract us or divide us from the great work we have be supreme leaders in bringing about the change that is needed for that moment in time. AKA has led done for the last 108 years. us through every single challenge facing the Soror Leigha: Share one of your most decades. I see our members as continuing to memorable moments since becoming the First represent the best of the best every profession – law, business, finance, education, healthcare, Supreme Anti-Basileus.

Soror Glenda: It was at the 2014 Boule when the government, politics, sciences, social work, etc. sorors expressed their confidence in me by electing And we will play an active role in voicing me as First Supreme Anti-Basileus, giving me concerns of the day. I see us truly recognizing privilege to serve our illustrious sisterhood. I vowed who we are and the power of our strength. then and I continue to renew that pledge to do all in Additionally, I see us living up to who we are and my power to lead Alpha Kappa Alpha with integrity, understanding our own independence. We are dignity and honor. The second most memorable independent, self-supporting and self-sustaining. moment was when my daughter got initiated Our members sustain is, meaning we don’t rely (Spelman College, Mu Pi Chapter) . on corporate America or the government or any Soror Leigha: Madam First Supreme Anti- other entity to underwrite our survival. It is this financial independence that sets us apart from Basileus, you have had many opportunities to several other non-Greek organizations. We see what goes on in all of the ten regions. What leverage the fact that we are member driven, impresses you the most about the Mid-Western member supported, and member financed. This Region? makes us the envy of other non-profits.

Soror Glenda: I am impressed by the power and Soror

Leigha:

As

undergraduates,

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should we prepare ourselves to wrap our place in the “Me Box” would be the Bible because it minds around a lifelong commitment of best reflects who I am. The verses on how to be a leader, how to sharpen your mind, and how to membership and service with the sorority? remain grounded. Other intangibles items I will Soror Glenda: My advice to undergraduates is to express as adjectives using the letters in my name. start serving now during your undergraduate years, so that service to our sisterhood will become a part Grateful and generous of who we are. Service should be as natural as Loyal and lively eating and breathing. Also, participate in the mentoring process to assist you in growth and Ethical and experienced development and obtaining leadership expertise. Its Nurturing and non-subjective never too early to participate in the mentorship Determined and dependable process. Mentoring suggests to undergraduates that there is someone who cares about them, and Accomplished and anointed could have powerful effects on undergraduate Soror Leigha: What is one of your favorite students. Select a Soror mentor whom you admire inspirational quotes? and respect for the work they are doing, who has the time and desire to share their knowledge and Soror Glenda: “I can do all things through Christ experience, and support you on your AKA journey. which strengthens me.” (Philippines 4:13). I am reminded of that every day in every challenge. And Additionally, it is most important to always be others who remind me of it also. With the strength financially active so that you will remain on the of the Lord and the power of His might, I believe we forefront of the service projects and the can do all things. commitments of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

What can graduate chapters do to bridge a Soror Leigha: Thank you so much for all of your better relationship with the undergraduate wonderful insight and knowledge. I know all members so they will feel fully connected to our sorors will love to hear about the experiences that have shaped you, your advice to graduates organization? and undergraduates alike, and your thoughts on Soror Glenda: Graduate chapters must first conduct the mighty mid-western region. business and implement programs in such a manner that undergraduates will be excited to become a part of them. Graduate chapters should meet with undergraduates, talk to undergraduates, listen to undergraduates, and set the best possible examples for them. Engagement and mentoring also cannot be overlooked.

Soror Leigha: Madam First Supreme AntiBasileus, there is a sisterly bonding exercise called “Me Box” where you create a box and place inside that box items that reflect who you are. These items can reflect what is important in your life, what or who has influenced you to become the person you are today. Describe 5 items that would be in your “Me Box”.

Soror Glenda: The most significant item that I would

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H

ighlights

Mid-Western Region kicked off its Fall Cluster Meetings in Des Moines, Iowa with the B & C Cluster, representing sorors from Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska, followed by Cluster A meeting on the campus of Colorado College in Colorado Springs, CO. Rounding out the cluster meetings were D & E in Tulsa, OK. More than 350 sorors attended the exciting region’s Fall Cluster Meetings this year.

The overarching theme was “Stepping Out For Service And Standing On Sisterhood”, where each weekend began with Fun Friday Night activities featuring a Line Dance Party in Iowa, Bowling in Colorado, and dinner with the Regional Director in Oklahoma.

On Saturday after welcome and introductions, attendees watched a video message delivered by our Supreme Basileus asking “What Would Ethel Do?” followed by a serious and open discussion lead by the Mid-Western Regional Director, Soror Jan M. Carpenter Baker.

Presentations on the ACSEND Program Cycle II, Membership, Connection, Nominating, Social Media and Parliamentary Procedure were presented respectively by the Regional Committee Representatives, Sorors Zelia Wiley, Lori Simms, Twyla Woods, Barbara Washington, Rhonda Harris and the Mid-Western Region Parliamentarian, Soror Yvette Keesee. As a special request by Soror Jan, the 26th Mid-Western Regional Director Soror Betty Davis Gause, presented information about HBCU/ EAF Campaign initiatives during the Cluster B & C meeting. The Cluster meetings provided many fun sisterly relations activities including celebration of

Fall 2015 Cluster Meetings October birthday’s, sorors getting to know each other and taking selfie’s with their new found friend, shoe fashion show, and an introduction to Mid-Western Regions newest interest group The Cultured Pearls of Springfield, Mo. Soror Jan recognized breast cancer awareness month by wearing pink attire at the Cluster meetings and a special rhinestone breast cancer brooch.

Sorors were asked to donate backpacks with school supplies and/or nonperishable food items focusing on Target I Educational Enrichment: 1 Million Backpack Project and Target III Family Strengthening: Childhood Hunger to donate to an agency/school in the community in which the Cluster Meeting was held. A total of 538 backpacks were donated from the three Cluster Meetings. Presentations of the backpacks were made to King Elementary in Des Moines, IA, Colorado Springs School District in Colorado Springs, CO, and Restore Ministries in Tulsa, OK. Cluster A (Colorado) also participated in Target IV Environmental Ownership: 1908 Acts of Green Initiative.

Soror Carpenter-Baker closed each cluster by thanking sorors for their attendance, donations and applauding them for the work being done in carrying out the international program targets. Special thanks to the host chapters Iota Zeta Omega, Iota Beta Omega, Alpha Chi Omega and the Cluster Coordinators.

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Fall 2015 Cluster Meetings Cluster A

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Cluster B & C

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Cluster D & E

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Chapter Anniversaries Iota Beta Omega Chapter 45th Chapter Anniversary: A Lifelong Commitment to Service

On Saturday Nov. 14, 2015 Iota Beta Omega Chapter celebrated 45 years of service to the Colorado Springs, CO community with an open luncheon entitled A Lifelong Commitment to Service. In true sisterly fashion the luncheon was an open event for the public to share in the outstanding achievements of the Chapter. The Chapter Anniversary Committee Chaired by Soror Joan Thompson did an outstanding job in presenting a wonderful event. The program contained an expressive dance by Soror Desiree Terrell to “Count on Me”, by Whitney Houston and CeCe Winans which brought the audience emotionally to tears and to their feet with thunderous applause. A video tribute presented the many chapter programs over the last 45 years. In the spirit of the Heritage Program and with assistance from the Chapter Archives Committee there was a memorabilia corner which

displayed more than a hundred items and photos.

The highlight of the event was to recognize the Iota Beta Omega Chapter Charter members for having the insight and desire “to keep the candle burning bright” in our community. The Charter members were presented with a Stainless Steel Engraved Souvenir Plate that read Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Iota Beta Omega Chapter Presents to Charter Member. The three remaining Charter Members Juanita W. Roberts, Lillian Mallory and Minnie Ray Hunter were given the opportunity to address the audience giving remarks on how they felt about chartering 45 years ago on November 14, 1970 at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, CO. A common vision of all graduate chapter Sorors is to sponsor an Undergraduate Chapter which finally came to fruition for Iota Beta Omega with the Chartering of Tau Tau Chapter at Colorado State University-Pueblo on November 17, 2013.

At the closing remarks Soror Angela Stevens Basileus encouraged the Chapter to continue the outstanding work and to use the celebration as a precursor to the 50th Golden Anniversary Celebration.

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Think HBCU Celebration

Alpha Chi Omega chapter supported the Black Wallstreet Classic-College and Career Fair representing our Educational Enrichment Target Think HBCU. The College and Career Fair was apart of the Black Wallstreet Classic pre-game festivities.

Metropolitan AKA Chapters, including MWR Director Jan M. Carpenter Baker, took part in the H.B.C.U. Pride Parade sponsored by the Greater KC Lincoln University Alumni Association

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KC Metro Chapters Host Two-Day HBCU Experience & Expo Kansas City, MO - The Kansas City Metropolitan Graduate Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc., Beta Omega, Mu Omega, Xi Tau Omega and Upsilon Rho Omega, hosted the inaugural HBCU (Historically Black College University) Experience, a two day collaborative event featuring an Alumni Reception and Youth Expo. The HBCU Experience was hosted during the National HBCU week and took place at the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City, MO as part the national program agenda of Target 1: Educational Enrichment and Think HBCU. The two day event educated and empowered the Kansas City community on the importance and significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The events include an Alumni Reception with alumni representation from over 25 HBCUs and a Youth Expo with 70 youth in attendance.

Damon Hodges (Southern University), Dr. Deana Ervin (Prairie View A&M University), Dr. Aniika Jackson (Xavier University of Louisiana), Krystal Jolly (Southern University), Terrell Jolly (Alabama State University), Dr. Anthony Lewis (Alabama State University), Holly Long (Howard University), Porshia Mitchell (North Carolina A&T University), Montae Richardson (Dillard University), Shanelle Smith (Fisk University), Tanya Townsend (University of Arkansas Pine Bluff) and Arionne Williams (Howard University) shared their collegiate experiences at their respective alma maters. Youth also participated in an HBCU college fair and received information from 20 HBCUs and community organizations that assist with post-secondary support.

Beta Omega chapter of Kansas City, Missouri was founded in 1920.

The chapter, which consists of approximately 150 active members, is the second oldest graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the oldest graduate chapter in the Mid-Western Region. Soror Carla J. Gunner, Basileus Beta Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated速 Chapter Basileus of the collaborating chapters are Soror Carla Gunner - Beta Omega, Soror Ingrid Hubbard - Mu Omega, Soror Jamie Braden - Xi Tau Omega and Soror Diann West - Upsilon Rho Omega.

The Youth Expo featured guest speaker and Prairie View A&M Alumnae, Dr. Zelia Wiley, and HBCU Alumni panelist Althea Billings (Mississippi Valley State University), Marshaun Butler (Fisk University), Chris Evans (Morehouse University), Gabrielle Hitchens (Florida A&M University), 14

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Alpha Chi Omega Fall Fashionetta Miss Fashionetta Adriane Baker & Mr. Fashionetta Jonathan Harris Alpha Chi Omega Chapter hosted its Miss FashionettaTM and Mr. Fashion Scholarship Cotillion on November 21, 2015 at Greenwood Cultural Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma which was chaired by Soror Tracye Love and Soror Evelyn Page.

WINNERS for this event were: crowned Miss Fashionetta, Adriane Baker and Mr. Fashion, Jonathan Harris. Crowned Jr. Miss and Mr. Fashionetta, Miss Kei'moni Johnson and Mr. JJ Baker and winner of Ms. Congeniality, Miss C'Sayia Williams.

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Mu Omega Debutante Ball Mu Omega Crowns Sydnei Patton Miss Debutante Mu Omega chapter, in conjunction with the Metropolitan Leadership Institute presented the 63rd Annual Debutante Ball, Exquisite Excellence. The ball was held on November 27, 2015 at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel in Overland Park, Kansas. Twenty-five beautiful young ladies were presented to adult society in formal grander.

Patton received $10,000. The first runner up, Brittany Evans received $6,000. Second runner up, Ryan Wilkins received $2,500. Third runner up, Bobbie Robinson received $2,000. Miss Scholarship Jasmine Gray was awarded $7,000, first runner up, Madison McGary, $4,000, second runner up, Brooke Evans, $2,500, and third runner up, Maya Charles and Destin Gee both received $2,000.

During this Debutante Ball season, the debutantes Miss Congeniality, Savaria Goodman received $1,500. participated in a variety of cultural and community activities. Also awarded were book awards to debutantes who met Aside from community service, they participated in a career the criteria of $1,000. fair, an activity with their sponsors, and a tea with their mothers where they presented their individual talents. On The leadership for the 2015 Debutante Ball are Mu the night of the ball, the debutantes, adorned in white, Omega’s chairman is Soror Nikki Johnson, co-chairman performed a traditional waltz with their presenters and Soror Harriett Herbert, Metropolitan Leadership Institute escorts which was choreographed by Mu Omega Soror, President Soror Marilyn Hunter, Soror Ingrid Hubbard, Kristi Smith-High, owner of Kristi’s Dance Academy in Basileus of Mu Omega, and Soror Barbara Washington, Kansas City, Kansas. The black tie event was attended by Esq., Anti-Basileus of Mu Omega. the debutante’s family and friends in support of their endeavors. The evening ended with the crowning of Miss Debutante and various awards. Miss Debutante, Sydnei

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Xi Tau Omega Little Miss AKA The Xi Tau Omega Chapter presented their 24th Annual Little Miss AKA Pageant, “A Dream for Tomorrow Shining Brightly Today” on November 8, 2015 at Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Little Miss AKA Pageant is one of Xi Tau Omega’s signature programs for girls in the 4th and 5th grades. It is a twelve week program designed to help girls become contributing members of society, by focusing on self development, talent, presentation skills, socialization and self respect. Sorors Jasmine Fields and Soror Margaret Thomas served as this year’s pageant Chairman and Co-Chairman.

The pageant which featured nine enthusiastic young ladies opened with an energetic dance routine choreographed by Soror Renita Shelton.

Afterwards, each contestant performed their talent routines, and ended with a question posed

to them for the benefit of the judges.

Miss Brianna Tolbert was crowned Little Miss AKA and Miss Talent. Miss Ariannah Lasker, awarded Little Miss AKA 1st Runner Up and 1st Runner Up for Miss Talent; Miss AVA Campbell, Little Miss AKA 2nd Runner Up; Miss Giovanny Wright, Miss Finance; Miss Jada Woods 2nd Runner Up Miss Talent; Miss Congeniality went to Miss Brittany Jackson; and Miss Citizenship went to Miss Tatiyana Miller.

The other participants were Tarajah Robinson, and Ell’Aijah Brown. In addition to awards for the Royal Court, all participants received a trophy, a large bag filled with gifts, and certificates.

Little Miss AKA and Royal Court L to R Tatiyana Miller, Ariannah Lasker, LMAKA Brianna Tolbert, Ava Campbell, Giovanny Wright, and Brittany Jackson.

Sorors Margaret Thomas, CoChairman, Jamie Braden, Basileus, and Jasmine Field, Chairman.

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Beta Kappa Omega Fall Fashionetta Wichita, KS—On November 7, 2015 Beta Kappa Omega presented our annual Fashionetta Program which focuses on character building and scholarships. The theme for this year was, Keys to L.O.V.E. (Leadership, Optimism, Values, Excellence) & Success. The pageant showcased 18 lovely high school senior young ladies, who are referred to as Pearls, were judged on modeling, talent, GPA, essay writing and community Service.

This fundraising program supplements the college fund of the winners. The top winners this year were: Miss Fashionetta-Nia Tolbert, 1st RunnerUp--Camille Patrick, 2nd Runner-Up—Jordan Atwater, Miss AKA Pearl—Mya Thompson.

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The top winners of Fashionetta Keys to L.O.V.E. & Success were: (L-R) 1st Runner –up Camille Patrick, Miss Fashionetta Nia Tolbert, Miss AKA Pearl Mya Thompson and 2 nd Runner-up Jordan Atwater.

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International Committee Reports: News You Can Use International Archives Committee The International Archives Committee is working Tell your regional representative to the International Archives Committee if any of hard at “Keeping Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s our founders, incorporators or former Heritage R.E.E.L. (Retrieving, Examining, supreme basilei are buried in your city or Encoding to Last). state; We end our first year of this administration on a Take a picture of the gravesite of any member of the identified group and or any historical high wave of excitement. Chapters all over the marker honoring the legacy of sorors and the globe are now better trained and moving forward sorority in general, and forward the photo to in securing valuable historic information from your regional representative oral interviews from the priceless resource of our A historical marker could be a street sign, a golden and diamond members. Riding on this building, a room, garden or similar place wave of excitement we are ready for our next honoring the contributions of members of our sorority. For example, there is graduate student assignment: house located in Berkeley, CA named after Launch a renewed campaign to obtain a Former Supreme Basileus, Soror Ida L. Jackson. commemorative postage stamp featuring our Chapters are urged to reach out to your regional founder, Soror Ethel Hedgeman Lyle; representative for additional information on how Ensure that all of our founders, incorporators they can participate and contribute to these and and former Supreme Basilei are resting in other committee initiatives. gravesites appropriately marked and known “Are you Keeping our Heritage REEL?” to all sorors; International Archives Committee: Ensure that there is at least one historical Soror Mavis Johnson-Collie – Chairman, marker (ex. Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Highway International Region sign) in each region Soror Angela C. Gibson, North Atlantic Region Produce a brochure listing historical markers for Soror Linda S. Henry, Mid-Atlantic Region Soror Stacy L. Grooms, South Atlantic Region all sorors or chapters throughout the world.

Soror Rachel Mallory, Great Lakes Region Our heritage is a rich one. We want to share it Soror Irene Byrd, South Eastern Region with the world.

Soror Gloria Malone, South Central Region Soror Theresa Sanders, Central Region We know sorors will be ecstatic to see the Ethel Soror Crystal Turner, Mid-Western Region Hedgeman Lyle Commemorative Stamp. The Soror Doreathea Johnson, Far Western Region International Archives Committee will work hard Soror Laurel Hewitt-Sewitt, to make that happen. We are also on a mission International Region to ensure that there are other appropriate historical markers in each of our 10 regions which commemorate the sacrifices, dedication Soror Crystal Johnson Turner and positive impact of our members and MWR Representative to the organization worldwide.

International Archives Soror Actions Required: Committee 30

The Connection Report Launching New Dimensions of Connection: Sorors Take A.C.T.I.O.N. Advocate Communicate Train Influence Organize Network

Take A.C.T.I.O.N. Goals and Objectives of the International Connection Committee Develop a multi-faceted strategic Connection program with a focus on civil rights, social justice, and voter education, registration,

mobilization, and participation; Galvanize our diverse membership to become a united force for change through the Take A.C.T.I.O.N. Program (Advocate, Communicate, Train, Influence, Organize and Network) and our Voter Awareness Program, Be The VOICE; Offer leadership development opportunities that educate sorors on how to seek appointments and be elected to public offices; and Increase Black voter participation rates in the 2016 election to mirror or exceed 2012 voter turnout percentages.

STATE Iowa – Des Moines

DATE February 10

COORDINATOR Mary Madison

EMAIL Marymadd12@aol.com

Kansas - Topeka

February 23

Kaelyn Seymour

Kaelyn.seymour@gmail.com

Nebraska - Lincoln

March 30

Charlotte Duncan Wagoner

akacee@aol.com

Colorado - Denver

April 8

Deb Parsons Kathy Nesbitt

Dbparsons1@msn.com

Missouri -Jefferson City

April 12

Carol Graves

K_redwine@hotmail.com Cgraves08@att.net

Oklahoma – Oklahoma City

TBD

Cynthia Walker

cynthiaw@lawtonps.org

“Be the VOICE”

Mark your Calendar now to support a day of Advocacy 2016 AKA Day at the Capitol

Objective #3 - RAISE BLACK VOTER TURNOUT: Encourage chapters to conduct activities that will OBJECTIVES: Equip, Educate and Encourage result in raising Black voter Objective #1 - EQUIP AND ENGAGE LOCAL turnout in the 2016 elections LEADERS: Equip Sorority leaders with the tools to same or greater levels as necessary to engage chapter members and the 2012 elections. communities in successful voter education, registration, mobilization and participation activities.

Twyla G. Woods-Buford Objective #2 - SHARE RELEVANT ELECTION Mid- Western Region INFORMATION: Educate the electorate on the importance of voting; share relevant dates for various Representative elections; and provide data and strategies to assist in International Connection planning and executing activities regarding local, state Committee and federal elections.

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Our Governing Documents – Parliamentary Pointers Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has several documents to assist with chapter governance. The primary ones are the Constitution and Bylaws and the Manual of Standard Procedure.

Others include our parliamentary authority, Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, 11th Edition and the various documents that constitute our standing rules – e. g. the Standards Resource Guide, So You Want To Run for Office, and the Membership Handbook.

need a full course load in the semester immediately prior to graduation?

An undergraduate soror who provides written documentation from her institution affirming that she is scheduled to graduate at the conclusion of a given term and does not require full-time status in order to do so will not be obligated to maintain a full-time status in her last term as an undergraduate soror.

An undergraduate soror, who meets this criteria, must submit a written request and documentation to Even with all of these documents, questions may periodically arise from sorors or chapters.

As her Regional Director.

Supreme Parliamentarian, I welcome your questions To ensure that the responses above are properly on topics that may not be clear to you. Individual soror and chapter questions should be submitted by documented, they will be incorporated in the next the chapter Basileus to mbeard@aka1908.com. For update of the Manual of Standard Procedure. The undergraduate chapters, the Graduate Advisor goal of the Supreme Parliamentarian and the should also be copied on the e-mail. To ensure Constitution Committee is to be an effective resource effective communications, responses will be shared to sorors and chapters. with all appropriate parties – the soror or chapter making the inquiry and the Regional Director. The Soror Martha Perine Beard, Registered inquiry will be shared with the Regional Director prior Parliamentarian, National Association of to the response being given to the soror and/or Parliamentarians® chapter.

Below are my responses to some frequently asked International Constitution Committee questions.

Soror Martha Perine Beard, Chairman What is the status of sorors at the January Soror Jamila C. Hall, North Atlantic chapter meeting if dues have not been paid given Soror Barbara Bellamy Warren, Mid Atlantic Soror Janice McCollom, South Atlantic that dues can be paid until February 1 without Soror Danielle Burns, Great Lakes penalty? The fiscal year for the sorority is January 1 Soror Sandra Nelson, South Eastern through December 31. Based on our governing Soror Ashlee Sherman, South Central documents, sorors are not active at the January Soror Dalayna Jackson, Central meeting if their dues have not been processed. Soror Vicki Miles-LaGrange, Mid-Western Soror Shauna Graves-Robertson, Far Western Given that many sorors pay dues at the January Soror Samantha Daniel, International meeting, the Directorate recommends that chapters Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, Supreme Grammateus refrain from voting on significant issues such as membership intake processing, proposed bylaw changes, or other key chapter issues at the January meeting.

Soror Vicki Miles What role can Life Members play in a chapter? LaGrange Sorors who are life members must pay local dues if MWR Representative to they wish to participate in chapter activities. International Bylaws committee Chapters may place stipulations in chapter bylaws to address meeting attendance for national life members who do not pay local dues.

Is there any flexibility regarding the active status for undergraduates who are seniors and do not

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Enhancing the Knowledge Base of the Chapter Basileus Soror Caroline Lattimore, Chairman International Chapter Basileus Committee

Basileus Certification Committee were inspired by Certification the leadership of Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, developed by the International Chapter Basileus Certification Committee, and approved by the Directorate.

“Sorors as well as special people come into your life The International Chapter Basileus Certification and into your chapter for a reason, a season, or a training will include tools, techniques, and resources lifetime. As the Basileus of your Chapter, it is your for new, aspiring, and continuing Chapter Basilei who calling to figure out which one it is. By doing so, you are: 1) active in their chapters and, 2) have always will know as a leader how best to guide, encourage, been in good standing in Alpha Kappa Alpha and collaborate with each member. This thought Sorority, Incorporated. The criteria for participants in process will ultimately become important as you work the training also requires each registrant to: 1) possess good leadership and communication skills, to promote a well run, successful chapter.” have good character, high ethical standards, as well as be an excellent role model for chapter members; 2) have attended a Boule, a Regional Conference, Inspirational thought for the Chapter Basileus Cluster or Round Up; 3) have participated on chapter committees; and, 4) have been of service to the The International Chapter Basileus Certification community and the Sorority with no suspensions.

Committee has designed a curriculum complete with Soror Sabrina E. Williams (North Atlantic) training modules designed especially for certification Soror Altoya Felder-Deas (South Atlantic) of the Chapter Basileus. On July 12, 2016 at the Soror Jacqueline Newman (Great Lakes) Boule in Atlanta, GA, you will be treated to a very Soror Joyce A. Peoples (South Eastern) special certification and training process entitled Soror Jocelyn Mcdaniel (South Central) “Boule Edition of the Chapter Basileus Soror Marcia L. Banks (Central) Certification.” This special edition will include: Soror Betty Davis-Gause (Mid-Western) Soror Dorothy Finnie (Far Western)  Certification for Sorors who currently serve or Soror Denise Mallett (International) aspire to hold the position of Chapter Basileus Soror Villajean Jones (Resource)  Superior training delivered through targeted Soror Gwendolyn Myers (Resource) course modules Soror Evelyn Sample-Oates (Resource)  Review of the Chapter Basileus’ position,   

purpose, and objectives Provide new dimensions of training that will expand your knowledge base Offer encouragement, inspiration, and support for the leader of the chapter Promote technology integration of chapter operations and services

This informative certification curriculum has been established to formally certify members who 1) aspire to become Chapter Basileus, 2) are new or continuing to serve as Chapter Basileus, and 3) seek training and formal credentials as a leader in the Sorority. It is important to note that the vision and standards of training for the International Chapter

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Soror Betty Davis Gause MWR Representative to International Basilei Certification Committee

Human Resources Committee Provides “New Dimensions of Service” The Human Resources Committee functions as a support group for the Supreme Basileus. In addition to recommending to the Directorate the employment of all professional personnel, the Human Resources committee is responsible for making recommendations on all personnel policies, practices, procedures, benefits and salary ranges for the Corporate Office.

In line with these responsibilities, the committee conducted a job audit at the corporate office on April 28, 2015 with an overall objective to insure that the office is appropriately staffed to meet its current and future needs.

Specifically, all job descriptions, organizational structure and talent were evaluated and addressed. Following the results of the audit, Supreme Basileus Wilson was provided with a report including findings and recommendations for strengthening targeted areas, specifically IT, Membership and Finance to support the current and future growth of the organization.

Going forward, the committee recommends a salary survey to benchmark equity and banding with an overall objective to insure that the employees’ pay scale is commensurate with the demands of the market place.

Another responsibility of the committee is to keep the Human Resources Manual current.

The committee has completed review of this document and made recommendations for updates and revisions. The updated Manual including new legal requirements is ready to be reissued as of October 21, 2015.

For the Human Resources Committee, “New Dimensions of Service” emulates the over all goals and mission of our Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buchanan Wilson.

The Human Resource Committee welcomes this opportunity to serve in an effort to address the ongoing needs of growth and continuous improvement for our corporate staff and managers.

International Human Resources Committee Soror Cora B. Davis, South Central Region, Chairman Sorors Marcia Shepherd Baker, North Atlantic Andrea Moten, North Atlantic Marjorie Harris, Young, South Atlantic Cheryl Lewis Smith, Central Region

A New Sign! A New Start!

The 2015 Leadership Seminar was the perfect setting to unveil the new sign for the Corporate Office!

The new sign reflects the coat of arms for the Sorority and the proper name of our headquarters as defined in our international Bylaws.

The sign also proudly displays The Ivy Center, the name bestowed by our beloved Founder, Soror Lavinia Norman. The original sign was removed and placed in the Sorority’s treasured historical artifacts.

As the Corporate Office Renovation Project (CORP) begins Phase II – Development of the CORP, the sign is a reminder of the major changes yet to come.

Our Corporate Office is functionally obsolete. We have prime real estate in the great city of Chicago.

Our Corporate Office is located in the heart of the African-American community along a major commercial corridor and within a few blocks of the future location of President Barack Obama’s library.

Our Corporate Office is the crown jewel of Alpha Kappa Alpha and it is our duty, obligation, and responsibility to ensure her perpetuity.

This renovation project will upgrade and improve our most valuable investment and build upon the legacy that former Supreme Basilei and sorors over the years have entrusted with us.

Exciting times lie ahead for The Ivy Center!

International Building & Properties Committee Soror Priscilla Tyree Williams, Chairman – MidAtlantic Soror Danette Anthony Reid, Supreme Tamiouchos – South Central Soror Arla Johnson-Bentley – North Atlantic Soror Wanda Scott-Kinney – South Atlantic Soror Joyce L. Walker – Great Lakes Soror Rae-Ann Spears – South Central Soror Frances G. Carroll, Resource - Central Soror Toya T. Harvey, Resource - Central

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International Honorary Members and Awards Committee “SORORS, BE IN THE KNOW?” The Honorary Members and Awards Committee’s (IHMAC) primary goal is to provide sorors with all of the information needed to recommend honorary members and/or submit recommendations for our International Achievement Awards. We accomplish this goal through workshops, e-blasts, and newsletters. Below are some things every soror should know.

HONORARY MEMBERS

Founders’ Graduate Service Award (soror) Ethel Hedgeman-Lyle Undergraduate Service Award (soror) International Service Award (female) Septima Poinsette Clark Award (female) Loraine R. Green Service Award (soror) Carey B. Preston Leadership Award (soror) Rosa Louise Parks/Coretta Scott King Award (female) Who can nominate an International Achievement Award recipient?

Chapters may nominate an International Achievement Award recipient.

Who are our Honorary Members?

Alpha Kappa Alpha has more than 130 3. How are International Achievement Award honorary members including Coretta Scott recipients selected?

The IHMAC reviews all nominations and makes King, Rosa Parks, Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya recommendations to the Directorate. A twoAngelou, Alicia Keys, Zina Garrison, Mae C. third vote of the Directorate is required to Jemison, and Brandy Norwood. The full list approve a nominee for an International of our honorary members can be found in the Achievement Award.

Manual of Standard Procedure.

Who can nominate an Honorary Member?

Former Supreme Basilei, Members of the Directorate, International Committee Chairmen, the International Honorary Members/Awards Committee, and Chapters can nominate an Honorary Member.

How are Honorary Members selected?

The IHMAC reviews all nominations and makes recommendations to the Directorate.

A two-third vote of the Directorate is required to approve a nominee for honorary membership.

INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

1. What are the International Achievement Awards?

The International Achievement Awards recognize men and women (including financial sorors) who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavor, rendered unselfish and outstanding service to humanity, and demonstrated Alpha Kappa Alpha’s belief in “Service To All Mankind”.

The eight awards are listed below.

Anna Eleanor Roosevelt Medallion of Honor (male or female)

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Sorors, we want YOU to “Be In The Know”!

Sisterly, Soror Deidra Y.A. Edwards Chairman International Committee

Honorary

Members

and

Awards

Retirement is a Serious Matter

401(k) plans can be intimidating, so the International Investment Committee has done the legwork for you. Here's what every woman should know about their 401(k).

It is a Retirement Fund A 401(k) is a retirement savings plan sponsored by your employer; it is named for the section of the tax code that governs this type of retirement plan. It allows you to invest a piece of your paycheck toward your retirement before taxes are taken out. Taxes are deferred, meaning they are not paid until the money is withdrawn from the account.

With a 401(k), you can control how your money is invested and most plans offer a variety of options, such as mutual funds composed of stocks, bonds, and money market investments.

Is My Money Safe?

Qualified retirement plans, such as 401(k)s are protected by a federal law called the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). It sets minimum standards for employers that choose to set up retirement plans, and for the administrators who manage them for you. So never be afraid that an employer could steal your money, or fail to release your funds, if you move on to another job. It’s easy to transfer funds into a 401k with a new employer, or open a rollover IRA that you manage on your own.

instance, if you earn $50,000 per year and contribute 3%, or $1,500, your employer would also contribute $1,500 on your behalf. You would have $3,000 in total contributions and have received a 100% return on your $1,500 investment. In most cases, there also are restrictions like you cannot tap into your employer’s contributions until they are vested.

Vesting is the amount of time you must work for your company before gaining access to its payments to your 401(k); your contributions, on the other hand, vest immediately. There are also rules about when you can withdraw your money and penalties for pulling funds out before retirement age.

What about the Stock Market?

Most retirement plans will invest in stocks and 2015 has been the year of volatility. But it is important to remember that investing, especially for retirement, is a long- term strategy.

Retirement account balances will fluctuate with stock markets, but it is generally best to not let short-term market movements drive changes that impact your long-term goals.

In short, 401(k)’s are a safe and great way to invest for retirement. Choosing not to invest in your employer sponsored 401(k) could be equivalent to leaving money on table. While it may be hard to voluntarily kiss goodbye a bigger chunk of your paycheck to invest in a 401k, you will be thanking yourself at your retirement party!

International Investment Committee Soror Karla Hall, Chairman – North Atlantic Soror Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Tamiouchos – South Central Soror Kari Gray Smith – South Central Soror Beverly Fields – North Atlantic

What is Matching and Vesting?

Often employers will match your contributions to your 401(k) up to a certain amount.

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Undergraduates Activities Committee Dear Sorors, Welcome to a new academic semester and service year for Launching New Dimensions of Service!

The Undergraduate Activities Committee (UAC) has been working tirelessly to develop new ideas to improve the affairs of undergraduates. Since the 2015 Leadership Seminar and Undergraduate Summit, we have worked together with the Directorate, Regional Directors, and international committees, to ensure you see many of the Undergraduate Summit action strategies come to fruition on your respective campuses.

One of the key pieces of feedback the Undergraduate Activities Committee has received is the desire of our undergraduates to stay informed about sorority affairs that impact and enhance the undergraduate experience.

Starting this winter, the UAC will publish monthly regional newsletters to all undergraduate Basilei. We are also continuing our quarterly webinars for all undergraduate sorors and Graduate Advisors.

Soror Annalise Anise, Beta Alpha Undergraduate Member-at-Large, South Atlantic aanise@aka1908.com Soror Destiny Boykin, Delta Alpha Undergraduate Member-at-Large, Mid-Atlantic dboykin@aka1908.com Soror Ryan Cheatham Jackson, Alpha North Atlantic Regional Representative ryancheathamjackson@yahoo.com Soror Lady Henry, Epsilon Iota Central Regional Representative lhenry@siue.edu KiMonyca McCoggle, Xi Great Lakes Regional Representative kimonycamccoggle@gmail.com Soror Ashley Murphy, Kappa Pi Mid-Western Regional Representative atmurphy@ksu.edu

Soror Jitoria Jones, Pi Zeta South Eastern Regional Representative jzjones@myapps.muw.edu Soror Alana Herbert, Lambda Sigma Far Western Regional Representative adherbert@gmail.com Soror Natalie Paul, South Central Regional Representative nataliepaul@bellsouth.net Lastly, the 2016 Leadership Fellows Application Soror Philicia Huyler, Tau Nu has just gone live! If you are interested in attending the 2016 Leadership Fellows Program International Regional Representative in Seattle, Washington, please make sure to apply today in the members only section of philiciahuyler@live.com www.aka1908.com by December 31, 2015 at Soror Jacquie Jones, Resource 11:59pm EST. Good Luck, sorors! jones@mychesterlawyer.com Please feel free to reach out to any Soror Jatisha Marsh, Resource Undergraduate Activities Committee Member with any questions, concerns or comments. jatishamarsh@yahoo.com Thank you Sisterly, Your Undergraduate Activities Committee

Soror Autumn Kyles, Gamma Upsilon Omega Second Supreme Anti-Basileus, Mid-Atlantic akyles@aka1908.com 37

Soror Ashley Murphy MWR Representative to International Undergraduate Activities Committee

Welcome to Microsoft® Office 365 Alpha Kappa Alpha has successfully Deployed 288 Chapter Licenses – So…what's next?

Sorors, We are pleased to announce that all chapters that requested the complimentary Microsoft® Office 365 productivity suite have received their licenses. In 2016, Office 365 licenses will be auto assigned to all chapters.

By using the username and password provided in the Welcome Guide, chapters will gain access to great Getting Started online offerings, including:

audio or video, and create tasks right within their notebooks.

Additional resources available online:

and

courses

are

Blogs – to keep up-to-date on the latest Office 365 support news Forums – to find existing answers to relevant issues, or ask a new question Troubleshooting – step through questions to locate specific information

Welcome to Office 365 Video- Learn what’s included in Office 365: Make your journey Stay tuned for more resources and to productivity more meaningful by enhancements in 2016 that will continue to viewing online tutorial videos improve the operational efficiency of our The Microsoft® Online Virtual Academy: See chapters. Our goal is to make your digital how Microsoft® Office’s productivity and experiences exceed your expectations. If you collaboration solutions can help improve have any questions or concerns please contact your chapter operations and help you do the International Technology Committee at office365@aka1908.com or your job more effectively and efficiently technology@aka1908.com.

Microsoft® training on Office Online applications such as Word, Excel, OneNote®, PowerPoint, Skype for International Technology Committee Business, SharePoint, and more helpful Soror Theresa House, Chairman courses.

Quick Tips: Have a tablet, Surface Pro, iPad or other mobile devices? Click HERE to set up Office 365 on all your devices.

Make Life Easier-Capture your chapter meeting notes: With OneNote®, use your finger, stylus, or mouse on any touchcapable or on touch device. Users have the ability to convert ink to text, record

Soror Danielle Sidney Mid-Western Region Technology Chairman

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Chapter News– Graduate

Kansas City - Xi Tau Omega Chapter, partnered with Blue Hills Church of the Nazarene to host a community event themed “Strengthening The Family Matters” where they offered a one stop shop for over 100 families. They were able to provide seasonal wraps of coats, scarves, hats, socks, and other clothing items for men, women, and children, distribute special made backpacks where 100 school aged children were able to go around to different tables to fill them with healthy snacks, serve sack lunches in support of Childhood Hunger initiative, offer informational booths on financial literacy session, home ownership information, health checks, voter registration, and AARP. Four lively workshop sessions on various subject matters to benefit the family as a whole, along with live entertainment featuring KC Marching Sizzlers Drill Team. Soror Jennifer Malone and Soror Shaunta Huff served as Chairman and Co-Chairman of the event.

Xi Tau Omega Serves 100 Families during “Strengthening The Family Matters”

Upsilon Rho Omega Donates 400 lbs of Nonperishable Food to Pantry Of Love

Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter partnered with Second Baptist Church, of Olathe, KS to implement Target 3 - Family Strengthening/ Community Impact Day-Childhood Hunger Awareness Day. Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter contributed $800.00 and over 400lbs of non-perishable food items to the Pantry of Love at Second Baptist Church. Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter supports the food pantry as part of the sorority’s target to eliminate childhood hunger.

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Mu Omega Recognizes Childhood Hunger Awareness Day

On October 16th, Mu Omega chapter held a public forum in recognition on Childhood Hunger Awareness Day. The forum was entitled, Addressing and Ending KC’s Childhood Hunger Epidemic. Mu Omega sorors, along with citizens of the Kansas City community gathered together to participate in a panel discussion about childhood hunger in the city and what is and can be done to abolish it. Guest speakers on the panel were Soror Grace Boswell, Director of Administration and Operations at Restart, Inc., and Paula Pratt, Director of Community Engagement at Harvesters, Inc. After each panelist provided an overview of their organizations, attendees were then able to ask questions about ways they could help in the fight against childhood hunger.

Restart is an agency whose goal is to end homelessness in the Kansas City area. Harvesters, is a community food network which feeds the hungry and works towards ending hunger. Mu Omega’s Family Strengthening chairman is Soror Jamila Edwards and

Mu Omega Omega Presents 2015 Community Partnership Award On November 12, 2015, Mu Omega Omega Chapter awarded Mr. Jason Spatz, Store Manager at a local Walmart Supercenter, with our 2015 Community Partnership Award for his commitment to provide support for community-based programs. Mr. Spatz was acknowledged for assisting with our “Fill-the-Gap” campaign, which cultivates relationships with local businesses in Aurora Colorado and our Aurora Middle School students and teachers. The campaign provided for approximately 72 brand new backpacks donated by The Ivy Community Fund, Inc., in partnership with Mu Omega Omega, Aurora Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mr. Spatz and his team at Walmart donated school supplies. The backpacks were filled with the school supplies and donated to several students in need.

United Nations Day 2015 United Nations Day 2015 was celebrated on Oct. 24 th jointly by Beta Omega and Mu Omega Chapters and their ASCEND members. How UN Affects Us and How Can We Help was the theme of the program, sponsored by Target V: Global Impact.

This informative and interactive program introduced and provided information to the ASCEND members about the Sister City Association of Kansas City and the work of Della Lamb Center in resettlement of many refugee families.

Two members of the Beta Omega ASCEND group, Madison McGary and Erika Robinson, also participated in the Mu Omega Debutante Season and were presented on Friday, Nov. 27th to adult society.

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Iota Zeta Omega Chapter Supports Blank Children’s Hospital Annual Festival of Trees With Over $1,000

Members of Iota Zeta Omega Chapter participated again in Blank Children’s Hospital 32nd Annual Festival of Trees and Lights. Participating in this activity helps the Chapter meet its Family Strengthening goals and helps the hospital raise funds to provide services for chronically ill children as well as support their families. Soror Helen Bothwell provides the leadership each year. The theme for the Chapter’s vignette this year was “Teatime At Christmas”, which attracted a $1,000 donor to underwrite the creation. The 2015 Festival of Trees event raised over $500,000 with record setting attendance of over 20,000. The display is featured on the C.H.A.T. cover.

Alpha Chi Omega Support the Community With Program Targets

Alpha Chi Omega chapter members, friends and family came to "WALK IT OUT" in support of our 16th Annual Breast Cancer W.A.L.K and Health fair which was held at the North Regional Health & Wellness Center on October 3rd. This event was chaired by Soror Anne Hurd and proceeds raised will benefit Oklahoma Project Woman and Soulful Survivors Alpha Chi Omega Chapter is also participating in the City of Tulsa’s “Adopt-A-Spot” Clean-up Program. The chapter adopted an area in North Tulsa which is located between 46th Street North and 56th Street North on Martin Luther King Blvd and will continue to clean and restore this area throughout the year. The chapter was featured in the Tulsa People magazine.

Alpha Chi Omega Chapter delivered Thanksgiving Baskets on behalf of the chapter this holiday season. They were able to bless several families in the community.

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27th Mid-Western Regional Director Chief Justice Vicki Miles LaGrange Assists in Federal Judicial Library in Oklahoma Soror Vicki Miles-LaGrange, Chief United States District Judge, is the co-founder of the Federal Judicial Learning Center and Museum (Learning Center) of the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma. Soror Miles-LaGrange took part in an opening ceremony for the new center on November 18th. The Learning Center is located in the historic U. S. Post Office and Courthouse in downtown Oklahoma City. The center serves students from the 3rd grade to the post-graduate level of study as well as the general public. The purpose of the center will be to promote an understanding of the role of the federal courts and to advance the importance of the law in American society. The theme of the center is “The Rule of Law Keeps Us Free justice scales�.Visitors have the opportunity to participate in mock trials in an interactive moot courtroom setting. Soror LaGrange currently serves as the MWR Representative to the International Bylaws Committee.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://squareup.com/market/alpha-chi-omega/internationalfounders-day-celebration. Or you can contact Soror Gerri Webb by email at garoybry@aol.com . The ticket sale deadline is January 23, 2016. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

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Mid-Western Region

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2015 Year In Review

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Mid-Western Region

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2015 Year In Review

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A

cknowledgements Newsmakers -December Graduating Seniors

Soror Whitney Swain Beta Beta Chapter University of Central Oklahoma B.S. Degree in Community and Public Health Hometown: Midwest City, Oklahoma

Soror Janice Stallings Basileus, Pi Xi Chapter University of Central Missouri B.S. in Sociology/Child and Family Development Hometown: Los Angeles, California

Soror Kathryn Blair Southwest Missouri State B.S. in Human Resource Management Springfield, Missouri Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri

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Soror Audrianna Higginbotham Delta Tau Chapter, University of Missouri– Columbia Trulaske College of Business Bachelors of arts in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing Hometown: Chicago, Illinois Next Step: To move to Atlanta, Georgia and participate in the Macy’s Executive Development Program beginning March 1, 2016.

Soror Shakeya Stanley Epsilon Alpha Chapter Wichita State University, Wichita, KS B.S. in Sport Management Hometown: Kansas City, KS

Soror Erica Danielle Holliday Bachelors of Science Criminal Justice Missouri Western State University Hometown: St. Louis, MO

Soror Chante Mitchell Basileus, Upsilon Chapter Washburn University B.S. Communications Studies/ Leadership Studies Hometown: Topeka, Kansas 48

Fall 2015 New Undergraduate Members

Delta Chapter welcomes (left to right) Sorors D’Amor Rimson, a Senior from Kansas City, MO with a major in Mathematics, Soror Aspen McDaniel, a Junior from Lawrence, KS with a major in Sociology & Health Management, and Soror Asha Musau, a Senior from Shawnee, KS majoring in Marketing to the University of Kansas campus, Lawrence, KS.

The Upsilon Chapter welcomes Soror Kristen Stinnett to the campus of Washburn University.

Soror Kristen is a sophomore, majoring in Legal Studies. She hails from Wichita, KS. Her future goal is to become a lawyer.

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Fall 2015 New Graduate Members

Jefferson City, Mo. - Gamma Epsilon Omega Chapter welcomes new members Soror Sylvia L. James Wilson, Director of Alumni Affairs, Lincoln University, Soror Christine M. Woods, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and First Lady of Urban Empowerment Church in Columbia, Mo, and Soror Dawnelle R. Collins, Life Enrichment Director.

On November 22, 2015, Mu Omega Omega Chapter, Aurora Colorado, proudly welcomed eight new sorors.

(From left to right, Soror Marcellette Ellis-Goodwin, Soror NaKia Gatewood, Soror Denise Caleb, Soror Darcell Carter, Soror Nichelle Rogers, Soror Ericca McCutcheon, Soror Staci Bogin and Soror Niche’ Caldwell)

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On Sunday, November 8, 2015, five women were initiated into the sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and joined Iota Zeta Omega Chapter and their service to the Des Moines community.

We welcome Soror Quanda Brown, Retired Sargeant First Class, U.S. Army; Soror Tramaine Miller-Harris, Legal Assistant, Debbie G. Baker Law Firm of Fayetteville, North Carolina; Soror Angel Eason, Residence Hall Director, Iowa State University; Soror Chanel MillerPhillips, Lab Technician, American Red Cross National Testing Lab; and Soror Lindsay Cannaday, Commercial Lending Associate Team Lead, Bankers Trust Company.

Beta Kappa Omega Chapter, Witchita, Kansas, Welcomes New Members: Soror Monica N. Barnes, Soror Khajriyyah N. Adkins, Soror Andrie D. Krahl, Soror Jessica R. Brown, Soror Carmeletha Conley, Soror LaTrice D. Brown and Soror Vallery Fields.

Beta Omega Chapter Welcomed eleven New Members: Soror Xandria Andrews , Soror India Thornton, Soror Dana Jackson, Soror Ieshia McDonald, Soror Ruth Terrell Soror Candy Johnson, Soror Tracie Nash,, Soror Jessikha Williams, Soror Jennifer Pegues, and Soror Shelia Williamson on December 20, 2015.

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T

houghts and Meditations Sentiments Congratulations

Condolences to Soror Patricia Norwood Wilson, Beta Omega, on the passing of her mother

Alpha Chi Omega Chapter congratulates Soror LaVerne Ford Wimberly who was honored at the Xi Tau Omega Chapter Sigma Gamma Rho Founders Day Celebration for "Service Matters in Education."

Condolences to Sorors Deborah Stringfield, Deborah Horne, Jessica Horne, Danita Robinson Alpha Chi Omega Chapter congratulates Soror Xi Tau Omega Chapter, on the loss of their Jerica Wortham, CEO of JParle' on a successful father, father in-law and uncle, Thomas Horne.

2nd Annual Scholarship Gala.

Condolences to Soror LaCoya Harris, Xi Tau Omega, on the loss of her brother.

Congratulation to Soror Elisia Perry, Xi Tau Condolences to Soror Danielle Johnson, Xi Tau Omega, on her recent marriage and birth of her Omega, on the loss of her grandfather.

Condolences to Soror Khadijah Watson, Xi Tau new baby.

Omega, on the loss of her grandmother.

Congratulation to Soror Penny Rice, Xi Tau Omega, on the release of her new book “Ode to Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter Woe, What Happened to Baby Jane Doe� the book can be purchased on Amazon.com and Condolences to Soror Angela Herman, Upsilon Barnes & Noble in January 2016.

Rho Omega, on the transition of her Mother Soror Lucinda Herman.

Condolences Delta Epsilon Omega Condolences to our 26th MWRD Soror Betty Davis Gause, Iota Zeta Omega, on the transition Condolences to Soror Lessie Rodriguez, on the of her nephew transition of her mother.

Condolences to our 28th MWRD Soror Maggie Mu Omega Chapter W. Green, Beta Sigma Omega, on the transition Condolences to Sorors Cheryl Carson, Sharon of her Sister-In-Law Hayes, Wanda Thomas, Chalia Fowler and Taylor Hayes, on the transition of their Beta Omega Chapter Grandmother, Aunt and Great-Grandmother.

Condolences to Soror Jesse Horne, Beta Omega, Condolences to Soror Mary McConnell, on the transition of her Aunt on the passing of her husband Condolences to Soror Gina Mercer, Beta Omega, Condolences to Sorors Harriett Herbert and on the passing of her mother, Soror Monteel Karen Jacobs, Mu Omega Chapter, transition of their Aunt - Golden Soror Catherine Trigg Mercer Condolences to Soror Ashley Black, Beta Please Keep Our Sorors in Your Prayers Omega, on the passing of her father Condolences to Soror Beverly Adams, Beta Omega, on the passing of her sister in law Condolences to Soror Ramona Davis, Beta Omega, on the passing of her mother in law 52

Ivies Beyond the Wall Tribute to Soror Monteel Wilson Mercer

Soror Monteel Victoria Wilson Mercer “The Epitome of Life “ became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on November 8, 2015 . Soror Monteel was born June 12, 1935 in Grenada, Mississippi to the union of Eugene Money Wilson and Lloyd Brown Wilson. .

Soror Monteel attended Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri along with four other siblings, making history by having five siblings to attend Lincoln University at the same time. She graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Vocational Home Economics and General Science. A proud active alumni member of LU, her proudest moment was attending her Class of 1957 Golden Anniversary during the 2007 Homecoming Celebration.

Soror Monteel was a Silver Star and Legacy member joining the sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated into the Beta Omega Chapter, Kansas City, Missouri. She served on numerous committees and supported the chapter’s programs including being a member of the Educational Advancement Foundation. Soror Monteel worked tirelessly for Beta

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Omega’s fundraising events, Scholarship, Constitution and Bylaws, Sisterly Relations, Debutante Ball, and the Telephone Committee. She enjoyed serving on the telephone committee as she was able to spend time talking with other chapter members. She enjoyed attending many Mid-Western Regional Conferences and Boules with her legacy daughter Soror Gina Mercer especially during her daughter’s tenure as Basileus of Beta Omega chapter. Soror Monteel gave many years of service to all mankind through the Beta Omega Chapter.

Soror Monteel had a tenured career in teaching which included work as an Home Economist for the Jackson County (Missouri) Poverty Program, Director of Carver Day Care Center, and many with the Kansas City, Missouri Public Schools. She was the first African American Dietitian for two Kansas City hospitals. Soror Monteel thoroughly enjoyed taking pictures with various celebrities, wearing her iconic church hats, and sharing countless family stories. But her love for cooking was her true passion!

She would host High Teas, Harvest Teas, Gumbo Festivals, and Soup Festivals and would bake cookies for a number of college students.

Through the years, Soror Monteel was active in numerous community and civic organizations. Soror Monteel leaves to cherish her memory daughters, Cheryl Mercer Davis, Soror Gina R. Mercer, Benita Mercer Brown (Michael), all of Kansas City, Missouri.

Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Lucinda Herman

Soror Lucinda L. (Boldridge) Herman, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, December 2, 2015. She was born on September 10, 1939 in Atchison, KS, to Adrian and Decima (Ferguson) Boldridge.

Soror Lucinda was married to Arthur E. Herman of San Francisco California, who preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memory a daughter, Soror Angela M. Herman, of Overland Park, KS who is a member of Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter.

Soror Lucinda received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Ottawa University, Ottawa, KS, and a Master s of Social Work from the University of Kansas. In addition, she completed specialized training at the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.

She was a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and a Board Certified Clinical Supervisor. Soror Lucinda was a Charter Member of Upsilon Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporate® and served in many capacities until 2002.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Doris Darlene Boldridge, Marian L. Henderson, and Lillian A. Thompson. She leaves behind two sisters, Dorothy M. Hill (Seymour) of Kansas City, MO; Goldie V. Brown (Mickey) of Atchison, KS; and three brothers, Adrian Boldridge, Jr. (Cheryl), Atchison, KS; Leon A. Boldridge (Sandy), New River, AZ; and George A. Boldridge (Cynthia), Jacksonville, FL; an aunt, LaVeta M. Ferguson, Lansing, KS; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Ivy Beyond the Wall Soror Catherine Allee Hector Trigg

Soror Catherine Allee Hector Trigg was born to Jacob Hector and Birdie Shackleford Hector on September 1, 1922, in Beaumont, Texas. She graduated from Goliad High School in Goliad, Texas. To fulfill her ambition to influence young minds, she came north to attend Pittsburg University in Pittsburg, Kansas, where she received her teaching degree.

While attending college, she joined the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. She began her elementary teaching career in Kansas City, Kansas. She retired from the Kansas City, Missouri School District after 42 years of dedication to the instruction of 4th, 5th and 6th graders.

Soror Catherine married the tall, handsome Estus Trigg on April 18, 1948 in Olathe, Kansas. To join this union was born two daughters, Ninette Yvonne Trigg Harrison and Altha Naria Trigg Sood and one son, Michael Estus Trigg. Between times as a busy teacher, wife and mother, she was an active member of the Missouri State Teachers Association, a member and officer of the National Association of Parliamentarians and a member and officer of the National Association of Business and Professional Women.

She also belonged to the group Les Modernes. For several years she worked as a neighborhood advocate as treasurer with the Palestine Neighborhood Development Corporation.

Soror Catherine served Mu chapter’s Parliamentarian under several administrations and served as the chapter’s Chairman of the Bylaws Committee. She reached the pinnacle of Golden Soror and was very proud of this accomplishment. She was the Aunt of Sorors Harriett Herbert and Karen Jacobs, both members of Mu Omega Chapter. She leaves to celebrate her homegoing: daughters, Ninette (Freddie) Harrison of Kansas City, Missouri, and Altha Sood of Raytown, Missouri; son, Michael Trigg of Kansas City, Missouri; 3 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

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“Announcing – History Book Release” Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Mid-Western Region A Magnificent Tapestry of Sisterhood and Service

- Threads of Love, Sisterhood and Service ,

Excerpt………From the mountain top, they saw the promise of sisterhood and service entwined with love, weaving a tapestry that has impacted local communities and ultimately the world.

The Mid-Western Region History Book Committee has been hard at work, compiling the rich history of our Region and you will want to have a copy of this document.

Packed with the historical beginnings of the Mid-Western Region that includes chapter charterings, conferences, the history of our leadership, those who have served on a Regional, National and International levels, pictures depicting activities, anniversaries and events at the chapter, local and state levels, those who have served in public office and much more.

Excerpt…….The area perfectly situated at the edge of the more populous areas of the East and South and at the edge of the land dominated of the North and West became the Mid-Western Region, the thread that enabled Alpha Kappa Alpha to weave its way across the country.

“A Tapestry of History in the Mid-Western Region – Threads of Love, Sisterhood and Service” will be released at the 86th Mid-Western Regional Conference. Sorors….reserve your copy today along with your Registration (limited quantity will be available). The cost of $25 is minimal to the rich history that lies within the pages of this collectable edition.

To Reserve your copy of “A Tapestry of History in the Mid-Western Region – Threads of Love, Sisterhood and Service”, please send your $25 check or money order to: Soror Patricia A. Mitchell Mid-Western Region Pecunious Grammateus Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® 9829 Overhill Road Kansas City, MO 64134 We are asking every chapter to Pre-Order two (2) books! If you should have any questions, please feel free to contact: Soror Delorise Gines via email: dgines@kc.rr.com

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Spiritual Oversight Committee Meditation The words ring out everywhere! It’s the happiest time of the year! There is laughter, hearty Ho, Ho Ho’s, invitations to parties and get togethers; family dinners; gifts to wrap and open. Everyone is all smiles and loving and kind.

Yes, it is a joyous time. After all, it is the most wonderful time of the year.

change your grieving in the midst of all the celebrating into your celebrating in the midst of grief. The first thing you must do is to remember that grief is not a place. It is not a destination. It is a journey. Our loss means that one is passing “through the valley of the shadow of death” not setting up residence. Here are other things you should do:

Well at least it is suppose to be. But for many it is a time of dread, fear and deep, deep sorrow.

They are the ones entering this season carrying a  loss – a broken relationship; financial down turn, a change in health or the illness of a loved one.

And then there are the ones facing this first “holiday Season” where a loved one will no longer be seated at the table; will no longer give or receive a gift; will no longer laugh at the baby’s antics or Uncle Sanguine’s jokes. So much has changed. Now, the ringing bells along with the  children crying and the traffic make many want to scream and just go find somewhere to hide out until it is all over. Inside, your stomach is tied in knots. Your head is pounding; you wish it were all over. Is there some way to skip November and December – just take it out of the calendar altogether and go straight to January?  Whether it is the death of a loved one, not enough money, abuse or a decline in health, you have suffered a loss. That loss brought pain, confusion, fear, and a myriad of other emotions. The phenomena we call grief is our response to loss. It is defined as the loss of something or someone deeply cherished and valuable. Grief is a part of life – a part of what it means to be human. We were created with a great capacity for love and affection. Because we love, we grieve. Perhaps the most important thing we should remember about grief is that it is a God given process that is normal, natural and necessary.

Acknowledge your loss – your grief- do not deny it or try to side step it.

When God turned His back on Jesus when He was on the cross, that hurt. It was the first time, ever, that Jesus had been separated from the Father. And so He cried out, “Why have You forsake me?”

Adjust and cutback on activities at holidays.

Do things differently—start new trade tions. Every inch of the house does not have to be decorated nor do you have to prepare the thanksgiving meal – let some one else do it and you contribute.

Keep a journal A journal is important because: A journal is not only a record of events that touch and transforms us; it is a private space in which we can meet our selves in relationship to others and to God. Susan A. Muto, Pathways of Spiritual Living, pp 94-95 Journal writing is for me a form of prayer.

Talking to paper was the only way I knew to talk to God, and it proved to be an ideal form of prayer because it gave me a way to see what was goingon in my heart.

Renita J. Weems, Listening for God, p. 54

Yes, these losses do challenge the joy of the season. But there is hope. It is possible to

Journaling

can

be

summed

up

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this: “Write it down” or “write it out”. You may think, “Oh, I can never forget…”, but you will. There are so many competing thoughts, responses, and coincidences that only by taking time to “be with” and write down your thoughts can you process them. Admittedly, some of our thoughts are menacing, even accusatory, but by writing them down on paper in black and white, we can encounter them and with God’s help diffuse them.

In a journal, you can respond in a way that you could never respond verbally. Journals are an avenue for the brutal honesty that is a part of good grief work. Renita Weems insists that journals give grievers “some place to tell the truth” (p. 56). What we first explore on a journal page, we may, in time, be able to disclose to another family member, friend, minister or clinician.

Taken from ABC’s of Healthy Grieving

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

Ask for help In 2 Corinthians 1:4, it says [God] comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Your Sorors are God’s hands, arms, eyes and feet.

And your Spiritual Oversight Committee members are available to help also.

“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken or my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion for you.

Isaiah 54:10 Prepared by Soror Delorise Gines Spiritual Oversight Committee Mid Western Region

Special Christmas Message From Mid-Western Regional Director Jan Carpenter-Baker

The Advent of Christmas It was in 2007 when my father was serving as the interim pastor to our family church in Kansas City, Kansas and he wanted to engage the members of the church in a new Christmas tradition. He began preparing for a special project that all members would be able to participate in months before Christmas. Dad enlisted me to assist him with the project. He began teaching the congregation about Advent.

My part in this project was to compile the stories of each member and to develop an Advent booklet that would display their memories and stories about their favorite Christmas with family and friends. Each Sunday leading up to the designated timeline in which all stories were to be submitted, Dad would tell a different story about Christmas and the meaning of Advent. Advent is the period of four Sundays and weeks before Christmas (or sometimes from the first of December to Christmas Day).

Advent means 'Coming' in Latin. This is the coming of Jesus into the world. Christians use the four Sundays and weeks of Advent to prepare and remember the real meaning of Christmas.

with the memories of my childhood Christmases.

Christmas Eve was always spent at church and we would make the hour and a half long trip back home with nothing but the bright stars shining in the darkness. I remember always looking out the window to see if I saw the star in the East and then see if I could catch a glimpse of Santa and his reindeer and sled. I mostly thought of the baby Jesus being born and the lovely songs that celebrated the birth…Silent Night, Holy Night, It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, We Three Kings, Away in the Manger, Angels We Have Heard On High, Christ Is Born On Christmas Day, Go Tell It On The Mountain and so many more songs we would sing. When Christmas Day came, we would awake early to see what gifts were left for us by Santa Claus and then we would travel to our grandparents’ farm in Lawrence, Kansas where many of our family members would gather to fellowship with one another. Before dinner began, we prayed and sang the Lord’s Prayer followed by Happy Birthday to Jesus! As I grew older, the real meaning of Christmas became even more important to me and celebrating the Advent has become a daily part of my own life. I share with you, my favorite biblical scripture which describes Christmas in its true essence, the celebration of Christ’s birth found in Luke 2: 1-21 (NIV)…Glory to God in the Highest!

As you and your family gather this Christmas, I encourage you to share wonderful memories of Christmas past. Share your favorite scriptures depicting the birth of Christ and share your feelings about the true meaning of Christmas with one another. I pray that the Joy, Peace, Hope, Faith, and Love of Christ always rest and abide with you and yours. May you have a Merry and Blessed Christmas and a very Prosperous New Year!

As the stories were submitted to me, I took each and read them very carefully and gained a new insight of those who were sharing their stories. Most were sprinkled with childhood memories filled with love; feasting, gifts and each was ended by an unwavering gratefulness for Christ’s birth and their own salvation with their Sisterly Love and Blessings, favorite biblical scripture. I was so blessed by each memory shared and it flooded my own mind Soror Jan

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Format for submitting articles, acknowledgements and photos 

Articles need to be submitted by the Ivy Leaf Reporter to MWRAKA@gmail.com in word format. Include a headline. If photos are included, paste your photo in the document with captions. Include who is in the photo from left to right, where it was taken and date.

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Limit the article not to exceed 300 words. Who, What, When, Why, Where.

Email all the photos that go with the article separately in jpeg or png format. Action photos are preferred.

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Categories of like acknowledgements should be listed together. Include names, chapter, dates of occurrence, etc. The staff reserves the right to edit submittals.

Newsletter Submission Deadline  Fall Issue - September 5  Winter Issue – December 5  Spring Issue - March 5  Summer Issue – May 5 The C.H.A.T Editorial Staff: Soror Jan M. Carpenter Baker, Mid-Western Regional Director Soror Rhonda Harris, Chairman, Mid-Western Communications Committee Soror Joy Barnes, Editor-In-Chief Soror Leigha Sledge Soror Angela Stevens Soror Jennifer Stevenson

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