“The PROMISE” June 2025
Welcome to June a season of sunshine and a gateway to slowing down, soaking it all in, and savoring the beauty around (and within) us.
As we step into the halfway point of the year, let’s take a moment to celebrate how far we’ve come and the sisterhood that keeps us grounded, inspired, and moving forward. Whether you’re planting new seeds, basking in the sun, or simply catching your breath, remember you are surrounded by sisters who see you, value you, and are cheering you on every step of the way!
This mid-year moment also reminds us of the power of rest and reflection. The second half of 2025 will be full as we prepare to host the MI Cluster and successfully navigate our Re-evaluation. So while we’re taking July and August off from regular chapter meetings and activities, we encourage you to give yourself permission to recharge, realign, and simply BE This pause is an act of care for ourselves and for the community we continue to nurture together And,yes, we'll be “booked and busy,” but let’s also be balanced and well
This month’s newsletter is full of stories of our impact, spotlights on phenomenal sisters, and ways to stay connected and in tune with our shared purpose. As always, we invite you to reach out, speak up, and shine in your own unique way. Here’s to a radiant June full of connection, courage, and just the right dose of sisterly love.
We’ll return in September, refreshed and ready for a powerful season of growth, leadership, and legacy. Until then, stay safe, stay inspired, and stay connected because even in stillness, our sisterly bond remains strong.
I AM My Sister’s Keeper!
Sisterly and in His Service, Robyn
Soror Robyn D Murphy Basileus
Program Updates
May Highlights from the AKAmazing OXO Chapter
I am excited to share some of the impactful activities that took place in the month of May.
Planting with a Twist Koasters & Konversations
Recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Sorors participated in discussions about mental health while creating beautiful coasters, promoting both creativity and awareness.
Partnership with Alpha Rho Omega Chapter focused on environmental conservation. Participants engaged in hands-on learning about planting herbs and vegetables, fostering a deeper connection to our environment. My carrots are on their way!
Health Fair
Advocate for Social Justice and Build Our Economic Wealth committees proudly represented OXO at a successful health fair. We provided valuable resources to the community, including information on voter registration, a list of Macomb County representatives, and various savings strategies.
Soror Kimberley Will Anti-Basileus
May Highlights from the AKAmazing Program Committees, cont.
Youth Leadership Institute
The YLI culminating event took place on May 19th, where students presented their final projects, sharing their experiences and journeys throughout the program. They help prepare CHIPP bags every month.
CHIPP
CHIPP culminating event at Seminole Academy. The children expressed their gratitude for the CHIPP bags and enjoyed learning about OXO and our individual careers. Guest speaker Crystal White provided informative and hands-on education on healthy eating, distributed water bottles and beach balls, and encouraged the children to stay hydrated and active.
OMEGA XI OMEGA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Soror Robyn D. Murphy
Soror Kimberley R. Will Anti-Basileus
Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes Grammateus
Soror Yolanda Crain Anti-Grammateus
Soror Edna Clark Epistoleus
Soror Chao Earle Tamiouchos
Soror Consuelo Martinez Pecunious Grammateus
Soror Shemya Doster Hodegos
Soror Natifa Riley-Cochran Philacter
Soror Michele Graham Parliamentarian
Soror Kea Norrell-Aitch Ivy Leaf Reporter
Soror Pamela Tinsley Historian
Soror Rockelia Mathies Chaplain
Soror Tomara Nolen Member-at-Large
Soror Keia Perry-Farr Former Basileus
Soror Gianna Austin Standards
Soror Helena Jones Risk Management
TheChaplain’sCorner
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Sorors, let’s have a heart-to-heart. I know what it’s like to feel stuck in a place that doesn’t look like the promise. To wake up wondering if this is really what God had in mind. You thought the bloom would happen e of waiting. d: God nce I meet ot eds is for miracle is think you ken places. pose in it to bloom. . en life gives holding on nted: the power g someone’s is pruning
That said, be intentional about blooming where you are planted. I promise God sees you and is with you during your process of becoming.
Sisterly, Soror Rockelia “Rock” Mathies
Soror Rockelia Mathies Chaplain
STANDING COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN
Standards: Soror Gianna Austin
Risk Management: Soror Helena Jones
Bylaws: Soror Michele Graham
Finance: Soror Charo Earle
Program Initiatives: Soror Kimberley Will
Membership: Soror Carla Postell
Archives: Soror Pamela Tinsley
Technology: Soror Raquel Welch
Leadership Development: Soror Donetta Houser-Sly
Courtesy: Soror Shemya Doster
Protocol: Soror Stephanie Edwards
Fundraising: Soror Juanae Stephens
Publicity: Soror Kea Norrell-Aitch
EAF Chairman: Soror Donetta Houser-Sly
Regional Awards: Soror Cathy Carr
Generation Next: Soror Kaitlin McQueen
Sisterly Relations: Soror Tomara Nolen
Social Connections: Soror Regina Askew
Rituals: Soror Pamela Tinsley
Audit: Soror Michella King
PROGRAM INITIATIVES & CHAIRMEN
Strengthen Our SISTERHOOD: Soror Edna Clark
Empower Our FAMILIES: Soror Tracy Lathan
Build Our ECONOMIC WEALTH: Soror Sandra Boykins
Enhance Our ENVIRONMENT: Soror April Sanford
Advocate for SOCIAL JUSTICE: Soror Michelle Williams-Ward
Uplift Our LOCAL COMMUNITY: Soror Jacquelynne Burge
AD HOC COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN
Scholarship Committee: Soror Vesta Rumphy
Social Media: Soror Angel Ingram
Spiritual Oversight: Soror Rockelia Mathies
NPHC REPRESENTATIVES
Soror Michoni Ward
Soror Argentina Abney
Soror Delicia Liddell-Jenkins
Empower Our Families
On May 3, 2025, OXO got together at the Village of Peace Manor in Clinton Township for a meaningful afternoon filled with art, conversation, and sisterly bonding at the “Koasters + Konversations” members only event. Everyone had a great time creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind coasters, each full of personality, while engaging in powerful, open conversations centered around mental health and emotional well-being.
The vibe was warm, welcoming, and full of support as Sorors held space for one another, sharing personal stories and embracing vulnerability in a safe, affirming space. The creative process was not only fun but also a meaningful way to connect more deeply with each other through shared experiences.
We wrapped up with inspiring words from Soror Nathifa Riley-Cochran, who reminded us of the strength we find in community, the importance of understanding our emotions, and the idea that these important conversations shouldn’t end here, they should continue beyond just one afternoon.
“Koasters + Konversations” was so much more than an event. It was a joyful celebration of healing, sisterhood, and the amazing power of showing up for each other.
Soror Tracey Lathan Chairman Soror Stephanie Beatty Co-Chairman
Build Our Economic Wealth
Wear PINK, SPEND GREEN and BUY BLACK
OXO let's get ready for Black Dollar Days 2025! Grab your Soror Squad members, family and friends as we soar while Building Our Economic Wealth one Friday at a time. Sorors are asked to wear pink and spend $19 08 each week with a collective goal of spending
$8MM with black-owned businesses during the month of June #AKAPinkFriday #BlackDollarDays #BuildEconomicWealth
Soror Sandra Boykins Chairman Soror Geralyn Pearson Co-Chairman
Enhance Our Environment
The Enhance Our Environment committees of Omega Xi Omega and Alpha Rho Omega joined efforts to host Planting with a Twist on May 3, 2025 at WCCC: A DIY home gardening event aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental impact.
Approximately 9 OXO Sorors, 10+ ARO Sorors and 18 + general public members were in attendance The event was open to the public, and there was no cost to attend Participants entered the event with curiosity and departed feeling committed, inspired and motivated to continue their home gardening efforts within their local communities.
The event highlighted multiple black- owned businesses (please see below for the advertisements): Garden Resource Program, Urban Garden Education Series and Davis Made.
Soror April Sanford Chairman
Soror Arica Rosado Co-Chairman
Advocate for Social Justice
Did You Know? 16-Year-Olds Can Pre-Register to Vote!
Did you know that in many states, 16-year-olds can pre-register to vote, allowing them to be automatically added to the voter rolls when they turn 18? This powerful step empowers young people to have a voice in the democratic process before they’re even eligible to cast a ballot!
As Advocates for Social Justice, we believe in equipping the next generation with tools to lead, vote, and advocate for their communities Pre-registration is a vital way to build lifelong civic habits and ensure that young people are ready and informed when Election Day arrives.
Why It Matters
Increases Youth Participation: Studies show that pre-registered teens are more likely to vote when they turn 18.
Encourages Civic Responsibility: Getting involved early teaches the importance of government, policies, and how voting affects real-life issues like education, justice, and healthcare
Streamlines the Process: No last-minute stress—teens are already registered and ready to go!
✅ Michigan Voter Pre-Registration Requirements
To pre-register to vote in Michigan, you must:
Be at least 16 years old.
Be a U.S. citizen.
Be a resident of Michigan.
Not be currently serving a sentence in jail or prison
⚠ Important: While you can pre-register at 16, you must be 18 years old by Election Day to vote in an election.
✅How to Pre-Register in Michigan
1. Go to Michigan.gov/Vote
2. Click “Register to Vote”
3. Fill out your information name, birthdate, Michigan driver’s license/state ID (or the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number)
4 Submit—and you’re in the system!
✅Spread the Word!
Whether you’re a student, educator, parent, or community leader—share this information! Preregistration is an easy, but powerful act that lays the foundation for lifelong civic participation. Let’s build a generation that votes, speaks up, and takes action.
Soror Michelle Williams-Ward Chairman
Advocate for SocialJustice
Soror Michelle Williams-War Chairman
S i s t e r l y R e l a t i o n s
JUNE THEME Summer Fun
THIS MONTH FOCUSES ON ALLOWING SORORS TO WIND DOWN AND INCREASE INTERACTION
SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES
1.Dress down at Chapter Meeting with paraphernalia
2.Dress in paraphernalia representing the year of initiation to chapter meeting
3.Chapter Reactivation “reunions” and cookouts
4.Chapter meeting Sisterly Relations activity: Group Sorors and allow them to plan the summer vacation of their dreams
5.Chapter end of the year activity for AKA Soror Squads
6.Ice Cream Social hosted by the Chapter to celebrate year end accomplishments
STANDARDS
An important Annoucement from the Standards Committee Please have all survey requestssubmitted to Standards at least two weeks in advance.
Requests can be sent to akaoxostandards@gmail.com
We are committed to soaring to higher standards. Our surveys provide valuable feedback that is used to identify needs, make data driven decisions to improve our programs and enhance the experience of the community that we serve. Below are common survey questions used to gather measurable and actionable feedback.
How did you here about this program?
How satisfied were you with this event?
How satisfied were you with the logistics?
What part of the event did you enjoy best?
How would you rate the length of the program?
Would you attend this type of event again?
Please include the following along with your request.
Title Date
Questions specific to your event are encouraged A copy of the approved flyer
The event was relazing, peaceful, and something I’d like to do again!
-Soror Stacey Banks
This yoga class was everything! Tonjie is an amazing instructor. I had so much fun okanning this event, and, to see it being executed was amazing!!
Soror
Kaitlin M. McQueen GenerationNEXT Chairman
TheGenNEXTandSisterlations Yogaeventwasawonderful experienethatallowedmeto mentallyconnectwithSororsbothandphysicallythrugh thepracticeofyoga.Itwasa peaceful,upliftingsessionthat leftmefeelingrelzed,refreshed, andreenergized.
-SororMicheleGraham
Soror Kaitlin McQueen Chairman
Soror Samaria Doles Co-Chairman
Soror Gloria Johnson-Ware Co-Chairman
Sorors, as shared in our May chapter meeting if you wish to make an amendment to our chapter bylaws or standing rules please complete the proposed amendment (change request form) located in the Dropbox 2025 OXO
AKA Chapter/ Current Bylaws folder
Submission no later than: August 1st, 2025
Email submission to: akaoxoparli@gmail com
Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised defines bylaw as a document adopted by an organization and contains the basic rules for governing itself. Bylaws define the primary objectives of an organization and describe how that organization will function.
BYLAW TIPS
1. Bylaws are designed to facilitate smooth operations and the business of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, incorporated and its chapters.
2. Bylaws should be written clearly and to the point. The specific areas to be addressed should be clearly outlined and not open to interpretation.
3 Chapter bylaws should be used frequently as reference guide to chapter operations
4 Chapter bylaws must never conflict with the sorority’s Constitution and Bylaws
5. Chapter bylaws should be designed to provide clarification and additional details around matters of interest to the chapter.
6. Chapter bylaws should be written to address broad-based issues, which impact the greatest crosssection of chapter members. Areas of narrow concern should be avoided.
7. Chapter bylaws should not be used to stifle the democratic process or the rights of members.
8. Bylaws are to be distributed to each financially active chapter member. All Sorors should have a personal copy of the bylaws for frequent reference.
9 A Soror should not attend chapter meetings without the governing documents including the Constitution and Bylaws, Manual of Standard Procedure and the chapter bylaws
10. When discussing or referencing bylaws, always refer to the article, section and page number. 11. There is only one Constitution. Local chapters have bylaws.
12. All Sorors should be educated on the use and interpretation of chapter bylaws. This is not the sole responsibility of the parliamentarian.
13. Chapter bylaws should be aligned clearly with the sorority’s bylaws.
14. Changes to the sorority and chapter bylaws can only be made by 2/3 votes cast and through a process where all members have been duly notified about the changes and the upcoming vote.
15 The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated bylaws supersede chapter bylaws At the next chapter meeting please be sure to pick up the chapter bylaws and sign for verification of receipt
Soror Michele Graham, Parliamentarian
Congratulations Class
of
Congratulations Class of
Jacquelyn Hunter
2025 OXO Scholarship Recipient
Cass Technical High School Graduate
Attending Grand Valley State University
Nursing Major
to the Jaw-dropping Sorors born in June!
June 4th
June 14th
June 27th
June 9th
June 18th
June14th
June 22nd
June 30th
Soror Ebony Pullins- Govantes
Soror Kelli Hackel
Soror Arica Rosado
Soror Sandra Boykins
Soror Melanie Harris-Farmer
Soror Kayla Collins
Soror K’Lynn Thomas
Soror Yolanda Crain
June
June
June
Silver Star Soror
Soror Stephanie Beatty June 20, 1992 Beta Mu
Soror Stacey Banks
6, 2021
Soror Kayla Collins
June 6, 2021
Soror Michele Graham June 6, 2021
Soror Edna Clark June 6, 2021
Soror Tuanda Ward- Holmes June 6, 2021
Soror Nathifa Riley-Cochran
June 6, 2021
Soror Tomara Nolen June 6, 2021
Soror Delicia Liddell-Jenkins
6, 2021
Soror Rockelia Mathis
6, 2021
Soror Consuelo Martinez June 6, 2021
Soror Kaitlin McQueen
June 6, 2021
Soror Ernestine Tracey Latham
June 6, 2021
Soror Vesta Rumphy June 6, 2021
Soror April Sanford June 6, 2021
Soror Michella King
June 1, 2008 Lambda Pi Omega
Basileus: basileus@aka-oxo.com
Anti-Basileus: akaoxoantibasileus@gmail.com
Grammateus: akaoxogrammateus@gmail.com
Anti-Grammateus: akaoxoantigrammateus@gmail.com
Epistoleus: akaoxoepistoleus@gmail.com
Tamiouchos: akaoxotamiouchos@gmail.com
Pecunious Grammateus: akaoxopg@gmail.com
Hodegos: akaoxohodegos@gmail.com
Philacter: oxophilacter@gmail.com
Parliamentarian: akaoxoparli@gmail.com
Ivyleaf Reporter: akaoxoivy21@gmail.com
Historian: akaoxohistorian@gmail.com
Chaplain: akaoxochaplain@gmail.com
Member-At-Large: akaoxomemberal@gmail.com
Protocol: akaoxoprotocol1@gmail.com
Standards: akaoxostandards@gmail.com
Membership: akaoxomembers@gmail.com
Chapter Evaluation: akaoxoevaluation@gmail.com
OXO NPHC Representatives: oxoakanphcrep@gmail.com
Soror Edna Clark Editor
On June 8th we will be taking Chapter Photos at Mt. Clemens HS!
Please arrive "camera-ready" at 1:30pm at the Media Center. Sorors, you can choose to wear either solid pink or solid green, preferably as close to Salmon Pink or Apple Green as possible. However, don't stress! Any solid color of pink or green will pop! I am also asking you to wear nude-colored shoes for the photo.
Below is the "look!"
