The Ivy Syndicate: is the Official Organ of the T.U.N.E. Administration
AlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Incorporated South Atlantic Region
Soror Tiffany Moore Russell
South Atlantic Regional Director and Editorial Director
Soror Sherri Owens
Communications Chairman
Soror Florida Bridgewater-Alford
Communications Co-Chairman
Newsletter Chairman
NEWSLETTER TEAM
Soror Cheryl Brown
Soror Tameke' Davis
Soror Charmere N. Gatson
Soror Geanine Wester - Lead
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A MESSAGE FROM MADAM REGIONAL DIRECTOR
As we bring this remarkable fouryear journey to a close, we do so not withafarewell,butwithaVictoryTour.
AVictoryTourismorethanaretrospective Itisacelebrationofimpact, of relationships strengthened, and of a legacy that will continue to shape the South Atlantic Region long after The T.U.N.E.administration concludes. Together, we have soared to greater heights transforming challengesintoopportunitiesandaspirationsintoachievements.
Throughoutthesefouryears,theSouthAtlanticRegionhasshownwhat becomes possible when visionary leadership meets unwavering service. We strengthened our sisterhood, expanded our philanthropic reach, invested deeply in our communities, empowered emerging leaders,andelevatedtheworkofAlphaKappaAlphaineverycornerof our region Through every initiative, every conference, every chapter milestone, and every act of service, we remained committed to excellenceandunitedinpurpose.
This Greatest Hits collection honors every member who answered the call,everychapterthatembracedthevision,andeverylifetouchedby your dedication. The victories we celebrate today are not individual; they are shared, collective, and forever woven into the rich legacy of theSouthAtlanticRegion.
As we pass the torch to the next administration, we do so with confidence, knowing the foundation is stronger, the momentum is undeniable, and the future is bright. The story of the South Atlantic Region continues, and because of the work accomplished over these fouryears,thenextchapterbeginsfromapositionofstrength.
Thank you for your commitment, your passion, and your unwavering beliefinthepowerofsisterhoodandservice.LetuscontinuethisVictory Tour with grateful hearts, celebrating where we have been, honoring what we have accomplished, and looking forward to the even greater heightsyettocome
Preserving Our Legacy: South Atlantic Region Repository Opens at USF
One of the lasting achievements of the T U N E administration is the establishment of the South Atlantic Region Repository, a historic partnership with the University of South Florida Libraries Special Collections that will preserve and protect the rich history of our region for generations to come
Launched during the first term of the T.U.N.E. administration, this initiative was created to ensure that the stories, accomplishments and contributions of the Significant South Atlantic Region, its chapters and its members are permanently housed within a respected academic institution Today, that vision has become reality, as the repository is now officially open and accepting artifacts.
More than a collection of documents and memorabilia, the repository serves as a living record of our sisterhood, scholarship and service Each chapter throughout the South Atlantic Region is invited to contribute materials that tell its unique story and document its impact on the communities it serves
To assist chapters in preserving and presenting their histories, South Atlantic Region Archivist Soror Paula Booker Baker and her committee are available to provide guidance on the identification, preparation and submission of artifacts.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of the T U N E administration, the Regional Repository stands as a meaningful investment in our future - ensuring that the voices, achievements and legacy of the South Atlantic Region will be preserved and accessible for generations of Alpha Kappa Alpha women to come
Together, we have not only made history; we have ensured that history will be remembered
ALPHAKAPPAALPHASORORITY,INC
SOUTHATLANTICREGIONTIMECAPSU
HISTORICAL LEGACY
SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTORS
BENCH DEDICATIONS
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 16th South Atlantic
September 22, 2023
Augusta Technical College in Augusta, GA
Dedicated in Honor of Ella Spring Jones
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ 16th South Atlantic Regional Director and her significant service to her community
September 22, 2023
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 12th South Atlantic Regional Director,
Soror Vertelle Mitchell Middleton
August 10, 2024
Trident Technical College - North Charleston in South Carolina
Dedicated in Honor of Vertelle Mitchell Middleton
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ 12th South Atlantic Regional Director and her significant service to her community August 10, 2024
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 15th South Atlantic Regional Director,
Soror Irene Westbrooks McCollom
January 26, 2025
Edisto Memorial Gardens in Orangeburg, South Carolina
Dedicated in Honor of Irene Westbrooks McCollom
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ 15th South Atlantic Regional Director and her significant service to her community
January 26, 2025
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 14th South Atlantic Regional Director,
Soror Sonja Williams Garcia
April 16, 2025
University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida
14th South Atlantic Regional Director
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ
Historical Legacy Bench for Sonja Williams Garcia
A Special Bench Dedication and Ceremony dedicated by the Beta Alpha Chapter and Alumni
Director th Soror Norma Solomon White
25th International Basileus and 8 South
Atlantic Regional
October 16, 2025
Beta Alpha Plot on FAMU Campus, in front of Will Packer Amphitheater in Tallashassee, Fl
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of
Marsha Lewis Brown
January 27, 2026
Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida
Legacy Bench for Marsha Lewis Brown
17th South Atlantic Regional Director Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ FSU Alumna Class of 1973
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 18th South Atlantic Regional Director,
Soror Sharon Brown Harriott
January 24, 2026
Columbia College in Columbia, SC
Dedicated in Honor of Sharon Brown Harriott
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ
18th South Atlantic Regional Director for her life of significant service to her community and chartering
Upsilon Zeta Chapter January 24, 2026
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 5th South Atlantic Regional Director,
Soror Odessa Nelson
February 11, 2026
Gamma Nu Omega Sorority House, Columbia, S.C.
Dedicated in Honor of Odessa Nelson
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ 5th South Atlantic Regional Director for her life of significant service to her community February 11, 2026
Bench Dedication and Ceremony
held in honor of 19th South Atlantic Regional Director,
Soror Carolyn Gause Randolph
March 1, 2026
Columbus Museum Galleria in Columbus, Ga.
Dedicated in Honor of Carolyn Gause Randolph
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ 19th South Atlantic Regional Director
For her significant contributions to the sorority, to the South Atlantic Region, and to the Columbus, Georgia community while reminding us to always “Move in Love.”
March 1, 2026
April1,2026
BarnettPark inOrlando,FL
On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, South Atlantic Region, gathered in Orlando with community leaders to honor South Atlantic Regional Director, The Honorable Tiffany Moore Russell, Esq., with the installation of a distinguished legacy bench at Barnett Park.
This dedication - the last bench dedication under the TUNE Administration - stands as a powerful tribute to her groundbreaking achievements, her trailblazing leadership, and the enduring impact she continues to make across both the sorority and the greater Orlando community, where she serves as Orange County Clerk of the Circuit Courts.
This momentous occasion celebrated a visionary leader whose influence reaches deeply across Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, and the University of South Florida, reflecting her unwavering commitment to service, empowerment, and transformational leadership.
Updates to Regional History Book
Rooted in Significance Rooted in Significance
Under the T.U.N.E. Administration, the South Atlantic Region published a vibrant, full‑color, hardcover SAR history book that brings 72 years of legacy to life through rich photographs and timeless moments. More than a historical reflection, it stands as a visual celebration of the sisterhood, service, and pride that have shaped our region’s remarkable journey.
$2M+
SOUTHATLANTIC REGIONEAF:
FOURYEARSOFSOARINGIMPACT, SCHOLARSHIP,ANDSERVICE
The South Atlantic Region continues to exemplify excellence in support of the mission of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc. (EAF). Over the past four years, the region has expanded scholarship opportunities, strengthened undergraduate support, and elevated fundraising efforts to historic levels — all while building a lasting legacy of educational advancement and philanthropic impact.
FourYears of Soaring Impact, Scholarship, and Service
2023: Empowering Future Leaders
In 2023, the South Atlantic Region placed a strong emphasis on undergraduate leadership development and scholarship awareness. Through Carolyn G. Randolph (CGR) Fellowship assistance, the region supported 22 undergraduate students with fellowship awards to attend the EmpowerHer Leadership Symposium, creating meaningful opportunities for leadership training, mentorship, and personal growth.
To further support educational advancement, the region hosted a highly successful “Know Before You Apply” Scholarship Webinar in November for undergraduate members. The webinar provided valuable guidance on scholarship opportunities, application preparation, and strategies for success
2024: RAISING THE BAR FOR PHILANTHROPY
Building on its momentum, the South Atlantic Region increased the Cluster Challenge goal to $15,000 per cluster in 2024, inspiring chapters across the region to soar even higher in support of EAF initiatives
The results were extraordinary
Between September and December 2024 alone, the region raised an impressive $68,073.85 for the Cluster Challenge campaign. During the 71st Boule, the South Atlantic Region earned recognition as the largest contributing region. Additionally, the region also supported the EAF car raffle sales, culminating in an exciting and memorable moment when the winning EAF car raffle ticket was selected from Orlando, Florida — further highlighting the region’s exceptional participation, generosity, and commitment to support educational advancement.
2025: Historic Giving and Expanded Scholarship Support
In 2025, the South Atlantic Region achieved one of its most successful fundraising years to date During the regional conference plenary session, members raised a record-breaking more than $60,000 in support of EAF programs and scholarships.
The region also expanded its scholarship and fellowship impact by providing:
$9,150 in scholarships through Cluster Endowments, including the South Atlantic Region Endowment
$3,000 in fellowship awards for the 44th Barack and Michelle Obama Fellowship
$1,000 in fellowship support for the Morehouse HBCU Fellowship
Additionally, the region introduced the highly successful and creative EAF Bear Campaign during Leadership activities in 2025 The campaign quickly became a favorite among members while increasing awareness and excitement surrounding EAF giving initiatives
2026: CONTINUING A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
In 2026, the South Atlantic Region continued its commitment to educational advancement by awarding more than $14,485 in scholarship awards to 16 deserving college students throughout the region. These scholarships represent more than financial support — they are investments in future changemakers who embody scholarship, leadership, and service.
As the region looks toward the future, it remains on track to surpass an extraordinary milestone of $2 million in donations raised in support of EAF initiatives and scholarship programs over recent years.
From empowering undergraduate leaders to breaking fundraising records, the South Atlantic Region under the dynamic leadership of Crystal L. Pruitt, EAF Coordinator continues to demonstrate the transformative power of collective giving and purposeful service. Through unwavering commitment, innovation, and generosity, the region is truly soaring to greater heights — creating brighter futures and leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP
$812,500!
MOTIVATIONALWEDNESDAY
SARBOUTIQUE
INTOINSPIRATION
WELLNESS WINS:
60-Day Health Prioritization Challenge
May 1 - June 30, 2024
In 2024, the Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) South Atlantic Region launched the SAR Wellness Wins Challenge, promoting health, fitness, and whole-person transformation among chapters in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Physical Activity:
Group walks, community fitness days, and active steps challenges.
Preventive Care:
Mental and physical health advocacy forums, including community-led "Women Soaring Together" panels.
Sisterhood Bonds:
Shared participation where local graduate and undergraduate chapters hosted "Get Fit" events to promote healthy living while strengthening connections.
During the 70th South Atlantic Regional Conference, sorors participated in the "Black Book Brigade" service project by donating books by black authors to be shared with Florida children through churches and other private organizations – a response to efforts in Florida to remove books about the African American experience from school classrooms and libraries. The value of the books donated is estimated at $8,000.
Additionally, sorors wrote letters to Florida legislators regarding proposed legislation that threatened to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at postsecondary institutions. Thank you to the Region Program Committee, led by Soror Sherell Crawford, for leading this effort.
MarjorieYoung(Chairman),ReginaCrothers,VirginiaCummings-Lang,JoleneButtsFreeman, CharmereGatson,EarleneStrigglesHorne,JaniceMcCollom,CanvetiesMorgan,LakishaRichards, AndreaRobinson,FrankaH Young
Parents, Students and Community you are invited to join us for a FREE Spaghetti Dinner as we come together to combat childhood hunger at Havana Magnet School Cafeteria 1210 Kemp Rd, Havana, FL 32333
GREATEST HITS GREATEST HITS 2025
2 2 5 5
LEADERSHIP FELLOWS LEADERSHIP FELLOWS
2025 DENNY’S WINNERS
In addition to providing financial support and partnership with our “No Kid Hungry” community service project, Denny’s also awarded two scholarships and two smallbusiness grants to our members.
Congratulations to our Denny’s Hungry For Education scholarship winners: Soror Samiah Lewis of Mu Pi Chapter at Spelman College and Soror Charity Cloud of Tau Pi Chapter at Oglethorpe University.
And congratulations to our grant winners: Soror Bernadette Birch of Lambda Epsilon Omega Chapter, owner of Over and B’yond Events; and to Golden Soror Linda Long of Zeta Tau Omega Chapter, founder of Sojourners with Healing Hearts, a nonprofit that works to reduce and eliminate the detriment of breast cancer in the lives of African American families.
In true fairy‑tale fashion, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Zeta Xi Omega Chapter, added a touch of magic to its journey as members traveled to California aplacewheredreams,leadership,andimaginationcome tolife.
With the poise of royalty and the determination of every Disney heroine who ever dared to dream bigger, Zeta Xi Omega was honored as the First Place Winner in the Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI) under the Empower Our Families Program Initiative. This shining achievement came with a $2,000 award, proving that when purpose meetspreparation,wishesreallydocometrue.
Continuing its storybook legacy, the Chapter was also celebrated for its unwavering commitment to education, earning the distinguished title of Platinum Chapter with the Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF) a recognitionworthyofitsownhappilyeverafter.
Glowing from an unforgettable moment at the 2025 Leadership Seminar in Anaheim, California! South Atlantic Regional Director Tiffany Moore Russell and SAR Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF) Coordinator Crystal Pruitt accepted the award on behalf of the region we won 1st place for the largest region donating to EAF and 1st place amongst all regions for donating the most contributions to EAF! Congratulations to Clusters III, V and VII for Platnium recognition. They hit $50,000 for their endowments!
GREATEST HITS GREATEST HITS
Keziah Eagar ersity of Central Florida
Payton Jackson Clafin University
Congratulations
During the EAF Luncheon at the 2024 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® 71st Boule, the South Atlantic Region was recognized for its outstanding EAF achievements. Several chapters, clusters, and individual members were also honored.
Congratulations to Harriet Brown Birk, the 2024 EAF car raffle winner from Orlando, Florida.
Special thanks to all who purchased tickets. Proceeds from the Raffle will go to EAF for its scholarship and community assistance awards program.
In keeping with the Undergraduates Excelling in Leadership, five South Atlantic undergraduate members have been recognized as international Leadership Fellows.
International International
LEADERSHIP FELLOWS PROGRAM
KieraDaughtry
Senior Chemistry Major Spelman College
KyndallShaw
MadisonMeeks
Biochemistry/Chemistry Major College of Charleston
RoshelleThompson
Sophomore Biochemistry/Chemistry Major College of Charleston Senior Psychology, Criminology and Spanish Major Florida State University
DanaezhaWade
Members of the South Atlantic Region walked away with many awards from the EAF luncheon. South Atlantic Regional Director Soror Tiffany Moore Russell received two Constance K. Holland Overall Achievement AwardsonbehalfoftheSouthAtlanticRegion;anumberofplatinum-level SAR chapters participated in the platinum parade; and several sorors were recognized as EAF Women of Excellence for their significant contributionstoEAF.
T H U A N E B . F I E L D I N G
SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR-ELECT
Congratulations to Soror Thuane B. Fielding, who will step into the spotlight as the newest charttopper on the rise! We wish you continued success, inspired vision, and a SIGNIFICANT leadership run that stays at the top of the charts!