




ome to May, Sorors, ... Your beautiful April SHOWERS of LOVE birthed May FLOWERS blooming with Spring’s Renewal!
Sorors, my heart is SO full! I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of each of you and how you “showed up and showed out” at the 94 Great Lakes Regional Conference in Pittsburgh, PA with record OXO attendance! Additionally, OXO won six (6) awards in recognition of our OUTSTANDING presence and programming in Macomb County! I even had another Basileus approach me and say she was glad we were in a different category than her chapter. Ha! We did that! Congratulations to individual winners Sorors Keia Perry-Farr and Michelle Williams-Ward! th
During our May chapter meeting, our delegates will provide a “brief” report of various plenary sessions and workshops. I’m sure they will also share how the “Pearls Who Twirl Soror Squad” delegates got everyone up doing “Boots On the Ground”
Pink Tea Roses to Sorors Cyd Grace, Edna Clark, Shemya Doster, Donetta Houser-Sly, and Tomara Nolen for the dedication and sisterly service you provided to our guests and OXO Sorors both on the “Soror Shuttle” and the OXO luncheon! Also, Sorors April Sanford, Tracy Latham, and Stephanie Beatty are given crowns of ivy for the outstanding International programming initiatives they hosting this month!
As I close, I pray for every Mother, Auntie, Grandmother, Godmother, and Bonus Mom. May you experience the life described in Proverbs 31 where your family praises you and calls you blessed! I know I say that about YOU!
I AM My Sister’s Keeper!
Sisterly and in His Service,
To EVERY Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, Sister as well as all other impactful women in our lives, THANK YOU for caring for and loving us unconditionally!
Matters of the Heart speak to those quiet, deep places within us The places that remain unseen and shape how we feel, relate, trust, and show up in the world. Matters of the Heart are not just romantic thoughts or sentimental feelings. These are the matters within the soul that affect every area of our lives: how we love, how we forgive, how we heal, etc.
Many individuals walk through life carrying silent heartbreak, wounds from childhood, betrayals, abandonment, rejection, grief, and more, and unfortunately, life gets so busy that we end up managing life the best we can with these matters buried deep inside. However, if our hearts are left unhealed, it can leave us guarded in ways that God never intended for us, disconnected, or stuck in cycles we were never meant to live in Yet, it is important to know that healing is possible and wholeness is within reach.
Here are a few gentle practices to begin the journey: Honor Your Emotions – Permit yourself to be honest about what's in your heart. Suppressed emotions don't disappear; they get buried and resurface later Name your pain so you can begin to release it without shame The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
1. Speak Your Story Healing grows in safe spaces. Share your truth with someone who will listen without judgment. Whether it's with a trusted friend, soror, therapist, or faith leader, speaking your truth out loud has the power to lighten the emotional load Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed... James 5:16
2. Forgive to Be Free Forgiveness isn't forgetting what happened to you or letting someone off the hook. It's a much deeper internal work that is intentional, and ultimately, it's about releasing you. It's choosing freedom for yourself, even if the other person never apologizes It doesn't make what happened right, but it gives you permission to start making progress. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32
3. Protect Your Peace – Boundaries are not walls. They're doors that you control. Give yourself permission to say no when your heart needs space. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23
5
4. Turn Towards God – Invite God into the parts of your heart you've hidden even from yourself His love can reach what you thought was too broken to heal. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Here's the beautiful truth: when your heart begins to heal, it changes how you show up in the world You listen with more empathy and compassion, respond with patience, and choose grace over judgment. Your healed heart becomes a safe place for you and the individuals connected to you.
Additionally, your healing has the power to break generational behaviors. It will nurture your family, uplift your friends and Sorors, and inspire the community When you are intentional about healing from the inside out, you will become a living example of resilience, grace, and hope. You'll find that your light will shine even brighter, and others will be drawn to it, not just because of what you've overcome, but because of the peace you carry.
And I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. Ezekiel 36:26
With Sisterly Love,
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
Internal Audit: Soror Michella King
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
Scholarship Committee: Soror Vesta Rumphy
Social Media: Soror Kayla Collins
Spiritual Oversight: Soror Rockelia Mathies
Soror Michoni Ward
Soror Argentina Abney
Soror Delicia Liddell-Jenkins
Empowering families is about equipping them with the tools, resources, and support needed to thrive, both individually and as a unit. In today’s rapidly changing world, families are the cornerstone of society, and empowering them can lead to healthier, happier, and more resilient communities.
One way to empower families is through education. By providing access to quality education and resources, families are better prepared to make informed decisions about their health, finances, and overall well-being. Parents who are equipped with knowledge about child development, nutrition, and financial literacy can make better choices that positively impact on their families’ future.
Additionally, creating supportive environments for families whether through community programs, access to healthcare, or affordable housing helps alleviate stressors that can weaken family structures. When families have access to stable resources, they can focus on nurturing relationships, fostering emotional well-being, and creating a positive home environment.
Ultimately, empowering families means creating opportunities for growth, supporting their needs, and helping them navigate the complexities of modern life. Strong families lay the foundation for a stronger, more connected society. By investing in families, we are investing in a better future for all.
Omega Xi Omega chapter consists of Sorors of different age ranges, careers, degrees, and life experiences. One goal we all have in common is to build wealth and financial security. Below is a set of finance tips tailored specifically for women at different life stages to keep in mind to decrease financial challenges and increase your financial fitness.
1 Start budgeting early – Use apps or spreadsheets to track spending and build discipline
2. Build an emergency fund – Aim for 3–6 months of expenses.
3. Start investing ASAP – Even small contributions to a Roth IRA or 401(k) matter thanks to compounding.
4. Tackle student debt strategically – Prioritize high-interest loans and explore refinancing.
5. Negotiate your salary – Women often start lower; negotiating can compound over your lifetime.
1. Increase retirement contributions – Try to max out a 401(k) or IRA if possible.
2. Build multiple income streams – Consider side hustles or investments (stocks, real estate).
3. Protect yourself – Health insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage are key.
4. Plan for family (if applicable) – Maternity leave, child care, and future education costs can be budgeted.
5. Start estate planning – A will and basic legal documents protect your assets and dependents.
1. Review and rebalance investments – Adjust your risk tolerance and portfolio.
2. Prioritize debt elimination – Pay off high-interest debt to free up cash flow.
3. Focus on career advancement – Consider leadership roles or entrepreneurship.
4. Teach financial literacy – If you have children, instill smart money habits early.
5. Start planning for long-term care – Look into insurance or savings options for future health needs.
1. Max out retirement catch-up contributions – You can contribute more after age 50.
2. Downsize if it makes sense – Lower housing costs = more financial freedom.
3. Revisit estate plans – Ensure wills, trusts, and beneficiaries are up to date.
4. Plan your legacy – Charitable giving, gifts to children, or mentorship.
5. Stay engaged with your finances – Never hand off financial control entirely, even in a partnership.
WehopethesetipswillhelpyoubecomeempoweredtostrategicallyBuildYourFinancialWealth!
Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Spending Time in Nature
5.
**Clean Air**: Trees purify the atmosphere by absorbing pollutants and odors, including ammonia and ozone, through their leaves and bark.
**Protection from Ultraviolet Rays**: With skin cancer being the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, trees can block up to 50% of harmful sun rays when planted in school areas, safeguarding children from direct sunlight exposure.
**Trees Provide Food**: Trees serve as a source of nourishment for humans, birds, and various wildlife
**Sources of Inspiration**: Traditionally, trees have been favored spots for building treehouses and providing individuals with a peaceful retreat, fostering creativity.
**Healing Properties**: Research indicates that patients who can view trees from their hospital rooms tend to heal more quickly and experience fewer complications compared to those without such views.
**Beautify Spaces**: Trees help to soften the sounds of traffic and enhance the dull, grey aesthetics of parking lots and concrete walls
**Bringing People Together**: Studies reveal that areas with more trees near urban structures or businesses attract more visitors, encouraging outdoor activities and investment in public transport. 7
**Increase Happiness**: A 2019 study found that individuals exposed to greenery, such as trees or bushes, report higher levels of happiness, better social interactions, and a greater sense of fulfillment compared to those in less green urban settings.
**Decrease in Depression and Anxiety**: Environments rich in nature contribute to reducing mental distress
**Stronger Cognitive Functioning**: A 2019 study shows that spending time in nature enhances working memory and attention-related tasks.
**Improved Mental Health**: Sunlight exposure can boost serotonin production, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression
**Stress Reduction**: Environments that reflect nature incorporating plants, flowers, or trees can lower cortisol levels associated with stress.
**Physical Health Benefits**: Engaging in gardening activities promotes cardiovascular health.
**Mindfulness**: Nature encourages a spirit of present living, allowing individuals to fully embrace their surroundings.
UnderstandingtheSAVEAct:WhatItMeansforUsasWomen,Voters,andAdvocates
AsmembersofAlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Inc.,ourcommitmenttosisterhood,scholarship,andservicecompels ustostayinformedandengagedinissuesthataffectourcommunities.OnesuchissuecurrentlybeforeCongressis theSAVEAct(SafeguardAmericanVoterEligibilityAct).Whileitmaysoundstraightforward,itcarriessignificant implications—particularlyforwomen,communitiesofcolor,andcivicengagementorganizationslikeours.
WhatistheSAVEAct?
TheSAVEActisaproposedfederallawthatseekstoamendtheNationalVoterRegistrationActby requiringdocumentaryproofofcitizenship—suchasabirthcertificateorpassport—foranyone registeringtovoteinfederalelections.Proponentsargueitisawaytopreventnoncitizensfromvoting.
However,thisbillcomesintheabsenceofwidespreadevidenceofnoncitizenvotingandcouldleadto majorobstaclesforeligiblevoters.
WhyShouldWeBeConcerned?
1.BarriersforMarginalizedCommunities:Manyeligiblevoters—especiallywomen,elderly individuals,low-incomecitizens,andpeopleofcolor—maynothaveimmediateaccesstothe typesofdocumentationrequiredbytheSAVEAct.Thiscreatesariskofdisenfranchisingpeople whoalreadyfacevotingchallenges.
2.DisproportionateImpactonBlackWomen:AsBlackwomen,weareoftenthebackboneofour familiesandourcommunities.Wearealsoamongthemostconsistentandpowerfulvoting blocsinthenation.Thislegislationcoulddisproportionatelyaffectourabilitytoregisternew votersandsupportcivicparticipationinunderservedareas.
3.ChillingEffectonVoterRegistrationDrives:OrganizationslikeAlphaKappaAlphaandour OmegaXiOmegaChapterplayacrucialroleinvotereducationandregistration.TheSAVEAct couldcreateconfusionandfear,discouragingcivicorganizationsfromconductingoutreachin vulnerablecommunities.
WhatCanWeDo?
StayInformed:LearnthefactsabouttheSAVEActandfollowitsprogressthroughCongress.
EducateOthers:Usechaptereventsandplatformstoeducateourfamilies,neighbors,and networksabouttheirrightsandwhatdocumentstheymayneedifthisbillpasses.
ContactYourLegislators:AsengagedcitizensandSororscommittedtoadvocacy,wemustcall, write,andmeetwithourrepresentativestoexpressourconcernsandopposelegislationthat couldsuppressvoterparticipation.
ProtectOurLegacy:Votingrightsareacornerstoneofourfightforequality.AswomenofAlpha Kappa Alpha,wemusthonorthelegacyofourFoundersandcivilrightsiconsbystandingfirm againstanythingthat limitsdemocraticparticipation.
Letusremainvigilantandactive—becausewhenweshowup,weshowout.Together,wecanprotectthepowerof thevoteandensureeveryvoiceisheard.
Soror Angel Ingram
Soror Kaitlin McQueen
Madam Basileus Robyn D. Murphy
Soror Kea Norrell-Aitch
Soror Meliah Tinsley
Soror Michonni Ward
Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes
Soror Corri Wofford
OXO Sorors WITH A Legacy:
Soror Latasha Davidson
Soror Charo Earle
Soror Stephanie Edwards
Soror Ebony Pullins-Govantes
Soror Pamela Tinsley
Soror Michelle Williams-Ward
Soror Gloria Ware
Kimberley R. Will
Chapter operation documents serve as evidence of all activities necessary to demonstrate compliance with our operational and programming objectives. They provide the framework for evaluating adherence to established guidelines for effective chapter operations.
Creating a process to capture monthly documentation ensures the retention of records in accordance with our guidelines and demonstrates evaluation preparedness.
It’s critical for each chapter officer and chairman to bring printed copies of the following documents to each chapter meetings:
Chapter reports
Chapter Program and pictures from public events
Chapter newsletter
Strategic plan
Risk management plan
Chapter membership roster
Providing printed documents during each chapter meeting demonstrates our proactive efforts to audit and evaluation preparedness. To meet this goal all signed reports should be provided to the Grammateus. All other documents should be provided to the standards committee chairman.
On April 19th, the Generation Next Committee successfully hosted the You’re Up Next! Panelist Discussion, an engaging and informative session designed to empower Sorors with the knowledge and confidence to step into chapter leadership roles.
The panel featured three dynamic leaders: Madam Parliamentarian, Soror Michele Graham, Soror Gianna Austin, Chairman of the Standards Committee, and Soror Helena Jones, Chairman of the Risk Management Committee. Each panelist brought a wealth of experience, insight, and encouragement to the discussion, offering invaluable guidance to Sorors interested in becoming more involved in chapter leadership.
Throughout the session, Sorors were guided through the ins and outs of leadership with thoughtfully curated questions focused on essential skills such as time management, effective communication, and balancing personal and professional obligations. The discussion also delved into various leadership styles, how to navigate chapter dynamics, and how to make meaningful contributions while maintaining selfcare and boundaries.
Attendees walked away feeling inspired, equipped, and ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. Whether new to the chapter or seasoned in service, the “You’re Up Next!” panel served as a motivational reminder that every Soror has something powerful to offer and that the time to lead is now.
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Business is introduced or brought before the assembly by the motion of a member A motion can be introduced as a single request, or it may follow the presentation of a report of an officer, a board, a committee report, or other communication.
A motion is a proposition that something be done. It is a formal proposal by a member, in a meeting, that the chapter take a certain action.
Motions are classified as main motions, secondary motions and bring-back motions They are either debatable or undebatable
A main motion is on which independently presents an idea for consideration. It introduces a subject to the assembly. A secondary motion includes subsidiary motions, privileged motions and incidental motions. The secondary motion must be disposed of before proceeding with the original motion
Subsidiary motions: help dispose of a main motion and are made while the main motion is pending For example, wording of a main questions is amended or if the main question is referred to a committee for further consideration, to limit or close a debate or to lay the main questions aside temporarily
Privileged motions: motions that are so vital that they take precedence over all other motions. For example, a situation affecting the right of the assembly (such as noise, inadequate ventilation, etc ) a member can raise a question of privilege which allows her to interrupt the meeting and state an urgent request or motion; a member can recess for a specified time; or a member can propose to adjourn the meeting
Incidental motion: are motions that grow out of another motion that is already under consideration
To amend a motion is to change the wording of a motion, by inserting or adding, or by striking out, or by cutting and inserting, one or more words or one or more paragraphs. When the entire motion is replaced by another, the amendment is called a substitute.
The Handling of a Motion
A motion is handled as follows:
A member rises and addresses the presiding officer for recognition
The member is recognized
The member proposed a motion (“I move that….”)
Another member seconds the motion
The presiding officers states the motion to the assembly
The assembly can now debate the motion. Only one person at a time may speak. They must be recognized by the presiding officer. Preference should be given to:
The member that made the motion
A member who has not spoken yet to the motion
The presiding officer should try to alternate between those who are in favor and those that oppose the motion
The presiding officer takes the vote on the motion. Voting can be done by voice, show of hands or ballot
The presiding officer announces the results of the vote.
Sorors please attend every chapter meeting with your governing documents. The recently provided, 2024 Constitution and Bylaws, 2024 Manual of Standard Procedure and the chapter bylaws.
Soror Michele Graham, Parliamentarian
OXO/ARO PLANTING W/ A TWIST Koasters & Konversations Fundraising
Finance
Cluster Kickoff Mtg May Chapter Meeting
Happy Mother’s Day EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING YLI Final Presentation & CHIPP Packing
Archives Leadership Development Scholarship
Chairmen Meeting By-laws Risk Management
CHIPP Final Ceremony Seminole Academy
Soror Dwan McGrady May 16th
Soror Angel Ingram May 18th
Soror Samaria Doles May 25th
Soror Cynthia Miree-Coppin May 20th
Soror Delicia Liddell-Jenkins May 25th
Soror Raquel Welch May 29th
Soror Corri Wofford May 29th
Soror Juanae Stephen May 28th
Diana
May 30th 23
May
May 5, 1991
May 19,
May 22, 2022
SororEdnaClark
Best of the Best in Chapter Programming
Margaret Davis Bowen Outstanding Graduate Basileus - Small Chapter
Soror Keia Perry-Farr
Madelyn M. Hairston Giddens Caring and Sharing2nd Place
Soror Michelle Williams-Ward
Wilbretta P. Johnson Great Communicator2 Place nd
2024 Best of The Best Membership Reports
Soaring to Greater Heights 2024 Reactivation WinnerSmall Chapter
Soror Gianna Austin
Soror Donetta Houser-S
Soror Nathifa Riley-Coc
Soror Tuanda Ward-Holm
Soror Robyn D. Murphy
Soror Pamela Tinsley
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