north atlantic region the pr mise atlantic region! ! alpha kappa alpha sorority, inc. m!sa"...

NORTH ATLANTIC REGION ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC.

Message from the Regional Director

The Pr mise

!International Standards Committee 2

EAF 3

Health Award 4-6

Graduate Advisors’ Program 7-9

WINTER 2014

As I pen this message to you, I am ever mindful of how blessed we are to be living at this time, in the history of our beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha. The old expression that “the world is getting smaller,” has never rung truer than now because we have seen our sisterhood move to the forefront on so many issues! Not only are we helping to teach the skills to alleviate hunger on the local levels, but we are also providing help to our fellow man, in the global arena. We are diligently teaching how to obtain economic security and we are also guiding our emerging young leaders toward a brighter tomorrow. As we have done throughout our 106 years, we will continue to combine our strengths, our knowledge, our talents and our treasures to serve our fellow man! !As I look forward to the remaining months of my tenure as your Regional Director, I proudly reflect on the wonderful four years that I have been blessed to serve with you. I offer the following special kudos to you for:

1. Sending in your End of the Year Reports on time.

2. Fairing well on the chapter evaluations. Special kudos to

Rho Theta Omega and Tau Theta, for receiving the rating of “outstanding” on the evaluations.

3. Planning and executing outstanding Cluster Leadership Meetings and unforgettable Regional Conferences.

4. Accepting responsibility for all tasks I have asked you to complete.

5. Helping our Undergrad Sorors transition into Graduate Chapters upon graduation.

6. Supporting my goals and vision for you have truly Captured the Promise. !

Again this year, many of us will commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through service and honoring of our local active military, veterans, and their families. Still others of us will be volunteering at many agencies and facilities that give aid and assistance to our fellow citizens, who rely on our support. No matter where you serve during the MLK Weekend, please remember that even the smallest act of kindness can be paramount to those in need.

!Undergraduates Corner 10-11

Protocol 12-13

Love Your Sister Day 14

2013 MIP 15-17

!Special Moments 18-23

Ivies Beyond the Wall 24

Reminders 25

Upcoming Dates 25

Dear Sorors, !Happy New Year and Happy Founders Day! I pray daily for our combined strength, as we continue to serve all mankind! Our Founders could not possibly have envisioned the great works and services we have given through the years. Theirs was a historical time when many were barely one generation removed from slavery, so to establish an illustrious “service organization” like this was probably unthinkable to many. Yet, the sixteen of them forged on and all of us are the beneficiaries of their mission and vision! !

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In this Issue

Constance R. Pizarro North Atlantic Regional Director

THE PROMISE WINTER 2014

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Chapter Sustainability

!Many chapters have begun the planning process for the upcoming year. As you go through this process, be mindful of the “Three Pillars of Sustainability”, which includes the Individual Soror – Chapter – Sorority. Sustainability as

defined by Webster is the capacity to endure through renewal, maintenance, and sustenance. It’s a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged. !Effective chapters create a sisterly environment to reclaim and retain its members, develop leaders and utilize committees to plan and execute the work of the chapter. As the individual soror and the chapter obligate itself to sustainability; it is only logical to conclude that the sorority will achieve sustainability. Some of the tools for chapter sustainability and leadership can be found in the puzzle below. !The chapter Standards Committee must work collaboratively with the various operating and program committees to ensure the chapter is employing measurable activities that promote sisterhood and service. When we achieve chapter sustainability, we will remain relevant for many years to come, thus protecting our legacy of sisterhood and service. !As we come to the end of the year, chapters should SET their SITE on meeting one of their 2013 goals to be a "Best of the Best" chapter. The criteria for "Best of the Best": Chapters must submit to both the International Standards Chairman and Regional Representative the 2013 Standards End of the Year Report electronically (via email), timely (by December 31, 2013), accurately, legibly typed with handwritten signatures, and with a maximum chapter participation count of at least fifty percent or more. Reports must also be sent to the Regional Director. This year the International Standards Committee looks forward to every chapter achieving “BEST of the BEST”! !Soror Joyce Henderson, Chairman International Standards Committee !Soror Kimmie Jackson, North Atlantic Regional Representative

Throughout the region, we are preparing to attend our 83rd North Atlantic Regional Conference hosted by the Sorors of Cluster III, in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC. This year’s theme is A New York State of Mind. It is going to be as exciting and informative as it would have been if it were being held in the “Big Apple!” There are many institutes, workshops and forums that will be packed with valuable information about our programs of service and the intricate workings of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Conference registration materials are on our website now. I am really looking forward to seeing you there. !When we began this journey together almost four years ago, I asked you to Capture the Promise with me, so that our region could be even more notable than it had ever been before. You did so, by working smarter and harder to serve our fellow man! I could not be prouder of all that we have accomplished and all that is yet to come. Thank you for your unwavering support Sorors and I pray God’s special blessing upon you and your loved ones! !!Soror Connie


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North Atlantic Region EAF News Bulletin

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN... ANNUAL EAF MEMBERSHIP!

EAF Membership Dues made easy since 2009. Membership dues are sent Electronically when processing the sorority per capita. Please don’t forget to submit your Chapter Contributions directly to EAF using the submittal form.

Silver Level

Gold Level– the chapter contributes an additional $500-$999 over and above the applicable Silver Level from any unrestricted source not earmarked for an endowment.

Platinum Level– The chapter contributes an additional unrestricted contribution over and above the Gold Level ($1,000 graduate chapters and $500 undergraduate chapters).

To be recognized at Regional Conference, Chapter contributions for Silver, Gold or Platinum Levels must be postmarked no later than Feb- ruary 15, 2014.

The 2010-2014 Educational Advancement Foundation’s theme “Creating Global Opportunities for Success,” applies to the worldwide community that we serve and members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

YPAC Service Awards

Service Awards are one-time/one-year awards to Sorors and undergraduate chapters implementing program initiatives of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.:

¡� Emerging Young Leaders (EYL) Initiatives

¡� Health Initiatives

¡� Global Poverty

¡� Economic Security Initiative

¡� Social Justice and Human Rights Initiative

¡� Internal Leadership Training for External Service Initiative This is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate chapters to experience grant writing and community service.

Applications available on-line at www.akaeaf.org

Must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2014.

Fall Edition 2013

Volume 1, Issue 1

Graduate Chapter Contribution Guide

Undergraduate Chapter Contribution Guide

Members� Amount�

1Ͳ50�members� �$��100.00��

51Ͳ100�members� �$��200.00��

101Ͳ150�members� �$��300.00��

151Ͳ200�members� �$��400.00��

201�+�members� �$��500.00��

Members� Amount�

1Ͳ10�members� �$��25.00��

11Ͳ25�members� �$��50.00��26Ͳ50�members� �$��100.00��

51+�members� �$��150.00��

YPAC Scholarships

The Youth Partners Accessing Capital (YPAC) is a one year/one time only scholarship. To be eligible for a scholarship, the applicant must meet the following criteria: �� Be an active undergraduate member of Alpha Kappa

Alpha Sorority, Inc. at an accredited campus based degree granting institution.

�� Continuing a program of education in this or any other degree granting

institution. �� Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (at least a B average).

�� Must demonstrate leadership, volunteer, and civic services.

Applications available on-line at www.akaeaf.org. Must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2014.

CONTRIBUTE TO EAF NOW

WANTED...Qualified applicants for the Alice S. Marriott Scholarship (students interested in careers in hospitality). Please see the scholarship criteria and application materials on the EAF website. The deadline for applications is May 1, 2014. Our goal is to increase the number of qualified applicants for both the Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships program. The Undergraduate Scholarship application deadline is April 15, 2014. The Graduate Scholarship application deadline is August 15, 2014.

The continuing success of the Educational Advancement Foundation is incumbent upon the support received from annual membership dues, individuals, corporations and organizations whose missions are compatible with those of EAF. First Step: Every chapter should appoint an EAF Chapter Captain or EAF contact that the Regional Coordinator can share information for immediate dissemination. Chapters are encouraged to have an EAF committee to help facilitate their EAF fundraisers/activities. Second Step: Endowments Contributions are essential to EAF’s work, enabling us to generate the investment income that funds our scholarships and community assistance awards. The Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc. offers an opportunity for members, organizations and corporations to leave a lasting legacy through its Endowment Program. An endowment is a restricted, invested fund from which the interest and dividends earned are used for scholarship and other awards. The principal is never touched, thereby providing a "scholarship" nest egg for years to come. Special donor stipulations may be used to establish the fund to support a personal commitment, honor a loved one or support a specific profession. It’s Easy as 1-2-3: x� Initiate $1,000 - $4,999 (Temporarily restricted) x� Established $5,000 (draws interest, becomes permanently restricted) x� Interest Applied $5,000 - $19,999 (No awards made) x� Capitalized $20,000 (awards made based on investment income interest and dividends) Third Step: Support the Capture the Promise endowment scholarship fund in recognition of her leadership in North Atlantic Region. Donate to EAF TODAY and reference Soror Constance Pizarro Endowment Fund, 5656 S. Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637.

Alpha Kappa Alpha

Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc.

Carolyn House Stewart President

Submitted by Alicia Tibbs Tolson North Atlantic Regional Coordinator

Barbara F. Sutton Executive Director


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ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED 2014 Health Partner Award

!!

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s four health partners seek to recognize chapters from each region that have committed to enhancing the goals and objectives of their organization through “service to all mankind” as well as improving the health status of the local communities. The awards are established to provide recognition for the development and implementation of excellent health promotions during the 2013 calendar year. !Name of Chapter: ______________________________________________________________________ !Chapter Location (City/State):________________________________________________________ !Phone Number :_(_____)______________Email:____________________________________ !Basileus Name:__________________________________________________________________________ !Program Chairperson’s Name:_________________________________________________________ !E-‐mail:___________________________________________________________________________________ !Graduate _________Undergraduate_____________ Region _______________________________ !National Partner Organization_________________________________________________________ All entry forms must be received on or before February 15, 2014.

Submit form to the Regional Program Representative: !

• The points system will determine nominee’s at the Regional Level. • The top 3 chapters from each region will be recognized during each Regional Conference. • The regional nominees will be selected based on the criteria below by the Regional Program

Representative and the Regional Program Committee. • Programs where the primary contribution of the chapter is \inancial will not be considered. • All entries will only be accepted electronically. • The national health partner will select the 1st place winner which will be presented during the 2014

Boule. • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and its partners reserve the right to use submitted applications,

in whole or in part, for training and technical assistance purposes.


NA – NorthAtlan:[email protected] SC – [email protected]

MA – [email protected] SE – [email protected]

SA – [email protected] MW – [email protected]

GL – [email protected] FW – [email protected]

C – [email protected] I – [email protected]

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ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED !AWARDS JUDGING CRITERIA !!!

Narrative (10 points): The chapter should summarize the purpose of the project/initiative, e.g. what issues they sought to address and the strategies employed; a brief explanation why the project is deserving of recognition; highlight the principal results and impacts achieved to date. Include resources obtained from the national partner. (One page limit) !Event Goals and Objectives(15 points): Describe the purpose(s) of the project and what it seeks to accomplish through the sorority's national partnership with the organization. !Partnerships(15 points): Identify the organizations that partnered with the chapter on the event (s). The role of the project partners should be articulated, along with the length of the relationship with project partners. !Originality and Creativity (15 points): This criterion represents the originality and creativity of the event(s). If a chapter is submitting a program that primarily uses materials or program elements developed by another organization, the chapter must have substantially built on or added new program components. !Program Implementation (25 points): Describe how the event was implemented and executed. For example, applicants should include the agenda(s) from the program(s), the target audience, the number of sorors and participants in attendance, speakers, event format, etc. !Media(10 points): Explain how the event information was disseminated for both pre-‐ and post-‐media coverage. Copies of media products should be provided. Include photos or other visuals that depict or otherwise tell the story of the initiative. !Evaluation (10 points): Provide concrete evidence of up to three (3) major accomplishments/achievements of the program or initiative. The evaluation should include, but need not be limited to, the required program report forms. !

Maximum # of Points: 100

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GRADUATE ADVISORS’ CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

GENERAL INFORMATION

2014 REGIONAL CONFERENCES AND 2014 BOULE

Authority: Article III, Section 22, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Constitution and Bylaws and the results of sorority litigation.

Who must receive Graduate Advisor Certification?

• Candidates for advisor to an undergraduate chapter !• Members of the chapter graduate Advisory Committee !• Sorors in chapter leadership positions (Optional) !

What is the Graduate Advisor Certification?

• LEVEL I – training for candidates for Graduate Advisor and Graduate Advisory Committee members and sorors in leadership positions who have never been certified

• LEVEL II – training for candidates for Graduate Advisor and Graduate Advisory Committee members and sorors in chapter leadership positions who are seeking recertification

What forms and documents are required for Graduate Advisor Certification?

• From Soror to Basileus of local chapter:

¬ Application and Affidavit

¬ Documentation supporting conference attendance at one of the last two Boules or one of the last two Regional Conferences

• From Soror to Graduate Advisor Certification Program: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Inc., International Graduate Advisor Certification Committee, c/o Starlac McGhee, P.O. Box 669, Byron GA 31008

¬ Original Graduate Advisor Certification Application and Affidavit

¬ A sealed Official Transcript or Letter (with raised seal) from college or university showing soror is at least a five year post baccalaureate graduate

¬ Copy of the cashier’s check or money order payable to Corporate Office in the amount of $40 for training document fees

• From Soror to Corporate Office: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, 5656 S. Stony Island Avenue, Attn: GACT, Chicago, IL 60637

!!

Graduate Advisors: Global Leaders Certified for Timeless Service

! !THE PROMISE WINTER 2014

7

• Copy of Graduate Advisor Certification Form

• Cashier’s check or money order payable to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in the amount of $40.00 (NO PERSONAL CHECKS)

Which sorors DO NOT need to submit an official transcript or Official letter showing she is at least a five year post baccalaureate graduate?

• Sorors applying for Level II recertification

• How will the soror know that she has been approved for the certification training?

• The soror will receive a confirmation e-mail from the Graduate Advisor Certification Committee OR

• The soror will receive an e-mail of denial of training if documents are received after the postmark deadline, OR are incomplete, incorrect, or cannot be verified.

What does the fee include?

• The $40.00 fee will include a training package containing the following:

Graduate Advisors’ Certification Manual Undergraduate Membership Intake Manual General Information for the Collegian Fiscal Fitness Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Anti-Hazing Handbook !

What is the deadline for sending documents to the Graduate Advisors' Committee and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Corporate Office?

• The absolute postmark deadline for sending documentation and fees is February 15, 2014

Additional Information

• Soror must be registered for the conference at which the Graduate Advisor training is to be received.

• Certification and recertification expire after 3 years.

• If a soror cannot attend the certification training on the dates/location originally indicated on her application, she may transfer her registration to a subsequent Regional Conference (at the discretion of the Regional Directors), Boule, or Leadership Conference provided it is within the same calendar year. Soror must submit a request for transfer in writing within 6 weeks following the original conference date. Request should be submitted to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., International Graduate Advisor Certification Committee, c/o Starlac McGhee, P.O. Box 669, Byron Ga 31008. !

NO ON SITE REGISTRATION !!!Graduate Advisors: Global Leaders Certified for Timeless Service

! !


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GRADUATE ADVISOR CERTIFICATION APPLICATION CHECKLIST

COMPLETED PART I: APPLICATION COMPLETION!Complete Sections I & II of the Graduate Advisor Certification Application NOTE: Signature in Section II must be completed in the presence of a Notary Public

!Have application notarized in Section III of the application form.

!After notarization, submit application to Basileus or Grammateus for completion of Section IV, Chapter Verification Statement. Include documentation supporting conference annotated in Section II.

PART II: APPLICATION SUBMISSION!Submit documentation to Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated, International Graduate Advisor Certification Committee, c/o Starlac McGhee, PO Box 669, Byron GA 31008 as follows: • Original Graduate Advisor Certification application and affidavit

• A sealed official transcript or letter with raised university seal from college/university

• A copy of cashier’s check or money order in the amount of $40 payable to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated !

Submit documentation to Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated, 5656 S Stony Island Avenue, Attn: GACT, Chicago, IL 60637, • Cashier’s check or money order in the amount of $40 payable to: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc (NO PERSONAL CHECKS)

• Copy of Graduate Advisor Certification Application & Affidavit !Maintain a copy of all documentation submitted for your records.

Postmark deadline for submission of all documentation FEBRUARY 15, 2014. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!

! !

Graduate Advisors: Global Leaders Certified for Timeless Service


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Stay CONNECTED!!! Visit www.aka1908.com and... !

Update your Roster of Officers form! This form must be updated for the correct Basilei to receive the necessary information from your respective representative. It can be updated online or by mail. !Attention Basilei! All IUAC correspondence must be forwarded to each active chapter member... Be sure to call in each month for more updates. !

Introducing the "UndergradCorner"! Your IUAC is working steadfastly to make accessing information about

AKA Undergraduates Worldwide easier. Visit www.aka1908.com and log into the "Members Only" section. There you will find the old UAC Blog, however, after

clicking the link you will find contact information for all the committee members, dates and times for upcoming conference calls, information on upcoming

conferences and special programs. Log on now! !Undergraduate Programs - December • End of Year Reports due the 31st!

• Partner with Angel Tree • HIV/AIDS Awareness Month

• Monthly Basilei Call! - NEW CALL-IN NUMBER! Please see the attachment for the minutes from this month's

call! !January

• Emerging Young Leaders Retreat • MLK Day of Service, Sunday and Monday (19th-20th)

• Partner with other Greeks for GLAD (Greeks Learning to Avoid Debt)

• Monthly Basilei Call! - NEW CALL-IN NUMBER! !Good Luck on Finals!


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Good Luck on Finals!

!Chapter of the Month: We need more submissions! Protocol Tip of the Month: Remember the Regional Director is always

addressed as Madame Regional Director unless you are in private.

Governing Documents Tip: Withdrawal of Privileges may include the inability to vote.

Sisterly Relations Tip: For sisterly relations you can do either Secret Santa or a holiday party with your chapter. Encourage your members to invite alumni members of the chapter so it's similar to a reunion (pending graduate advisor consent). !

Thanks for reading! Here's an inspirational quote to leave you with... !"A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."- Nelson

Mandela RIP !!FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! @AKA_UAC

!From your International Undergraduate Activities

Committee!


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Pretty

pr

op

er

PROTOCOL

The North Atlantic Region has been extremely busy CAPTURING THE PROMISE by serving our communities through various events such as the EAF Sa-lute to Excellence Luncheons; strengthening our leadership at events such as the Leadership, Cluster and North Atlantic Regional Conferences; and honoring and preserving our great sisterhood at our Founders’ Day programs. It has been an honor and privilege for the North Atlantic Regional Protocol Committee to serve as a resource and work side by side with so many Sorors to maintain proper protocol. The success of these events wDV made possible through the dedication and teamwork of the Sorors involved and the communication between those Sorors and their Cluster Protocol Representatives. Each event had its own unique signature and the North Atlantic Regional Protocol Committee assisted in areas such as GDLV, VSG and reserved seating, escorting, holding rooms, script writing, courtesies and hospitality. In addition to serving as a resource and liaison to chapters for specific events, the North Atlantic Region Protocol Committee hosted a webinar for chapter protocol chairmen to receive important protocol information. It was a very informative webi-nar and it provided an avenue to encourage continued dialogue and education for all Sorors regarding proper protocol.

IMPORTANT PROTOCOL UPDATES The Official Guide to Alpha Kappa Alpha Protocol was revised in November 2013. There are three new protocol updates of which every soror should be aware: 1. The order of rank at the chapter level has changed if

both the Supreme Basileus and the Regional Director are present. The revised order of rank is as follows: Chapter Basileus, Supreme Basileus, Regional Director of the Chapter’s Region, First Supreme Anti-Basileus, Second Supreme Anti-Basileus, Other Directorate Members, Former Supreme Basilei, Other Former International Officers and Former Regional Directors, Executive Director, Former Chapter Basilei, International Committee Chairmen, Former Executive Directors, Honorary Members, International Committee Members and Sorors. (p. 23)

2. Chapters are REQUIRED to obtain written approval from Corporate Office AND the International Honorary Members and Awards Committee Chairman PRIOR TO inviting an Honorary Member to sorority events. (p. 27)

3. The �Very Special Guest (VSG) Guide no longer includes a list of the VSGs and their hotel rooms. However, it should include a welcome letter from the Protocol Chairman, an overview of the VSG Guide contents, an agenda of special events and transportation information, local information (such as hotel/conference center courtesy areas, local hotel addresses and telephone numbers, airline and taxi telephone numbers, and local amenities) and hotel and conference center maps and floor plans. (p. 45)


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Protocol Promise Newsletter Committee: Soror Juanita Gillon Madden, North Atlantic Region Protocol Chairman Soror Leah T. Dixon, Cluster III, Chairman Soror Helen Drew, Cluster III, Co-Chairman Soror Lisa Foust, Cluster I Soror Asua Ofosu, Cluster II Soror Sobande F. Afolabi, Cluster IV Soror Pleshette Vonner, Cluster V

THE ROLE OF THE REGIONAL PROTOCOL COMMITTEE DURING THE NORTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE

The Regional Protocol Committee during a Regional Conference is very robust. From the time that the location for the conference is determined until after the Regional Director leaves the site of the confer-ence, the committee is busy working behind the scenes. Here are some of the various activities and duties of the committee members:

µ�Attend various conference planning pre-meetings to discuss everything from logistics to worship service.

µ�Review and confirm that the items needed for the ritualV are secured. µ�Members work with the Conference Planners and the Conference Chairmen to ensure that all

protocol functions are executed appropriately according to the Official Guide to Alpha Kappa Alpha Protocol.

µ�Provide the Very Special Guests (VSG) guide to the registration committee. µ�Once notified by the Regional Director, we work with the Very Special Guests travel

itineraries.

The various Protocol Subcommittees perform the following duties and have the following responsibilities:

µ� The Dais Committee is responsible for making sure that the Very Special Guests are seated appropriately DQG�IRU�SreparLQJ the dais seating chart and dais introductions.

µ� The Holding Room Committee is responsible for monitoring the holding room areas. µ� The Reserved Seating Committee is responsible for ensuring that the VSGs are seated in the

designated area. µ� The Escorts for VSGs are determined by the Regional Director. The Escort is similar to a

church adjutant by making sure that the VSGs are in the appropriate location at the appropriate time. These committee members ensure that from the moment the VSGs arrive until the time they leave that certain courtesies are bestowed upon them.

µ� The Transportation Committee is responsible for travel arrangements for Very Special Guests. µ� The Advanced Protocol Committee works with the Regional Protocol Chairman to precede the

conference schedule by one or two hours in order to ensure that each room of the facility is ready for the intended purpose and monitors multiple events of the conference. It is also the responsibility of the Advanced Protocol Committee to go to each room to ensure that the amenities are appropriate for each VSG.

Although some of these roles require training, being a member of the Protocol Committee can be a very rewarding experience and we welcome volunteers. Please contact your Chapter Protocol Chairman to see how you can assist with the 2014 Regional Conference.


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14


2013 MIP

Alpha Delta

Epsilon

Iota Gamma

Iota Alpha Omega

Nu Mu

Lambda Beta

An AKA……

Pi Epsilon

Alpha Mu

15

Eta

Rho Kappa

20 Pearls….

Gamma Epsilon

Delta Iota

Theta Nu

Lambda Gamma

Rho Theta


Tau Alpha

16


…And

I fi

nally

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n A

KA Xi Nu

Pi Theta Omega

Tau Theta

Lambda

Pi Iota Omega

Rho Upsilon

Tau Delta Omega Tau Sigma Newly Chartered

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Special Moments in Sorors’ LivesACCOMPLISHMENTS !

Soror Tara Barnes was named one of Maryland’s Leading Women by the Daily Record newspaper. Honorees are women age 40 or younger who are recognized for the tremendous accomplishments they have made so far in their career. They were judged on professional experience, community involvement and a commitment to inspiring change. Rho Xi Omega

Soror Jennifer Langston was inducted into Psi Chi International Honor Society at the University of Baltimore. Rho Xi Omega

Social Justice/Human Rights Committee (Initiative for Youth Champion) and Soror Bonita Dancy ( Judicial Champion), who were honored at the A Step Ahead Foundation’s Awards Ceremony. Rho Xi Omega

Soror Alison Riddle-Fletcher was installed as the 90th president of the National Dental Association. She is the 6th woman to hold this position. Soror Alison and her husband, former NDA President Nathaniel Fletcher (84th NDA President), are the first couple to both hold this position. Rho Xi Omega

Soror Donna J. Showell was honored by Burlington-Camden Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity as one of its African American Women Achievers. Theta Pi Omega

Soror Melanie Burney has been re-elected to a third term as a vice president in the Newspaper Guild of Greater Philadelphia/Local 38010. Theta Pi Omega

Soror Sharon L. Hopson was honored with Camden Youth Leadership Award of Service by Camden Mayor Dana L. Redd. Theta Pi Omega

Soror Judi-Lynn Willis has been named to the Trustee Board of the Lawnside Education Foundation. Theta Pi Omega

Soror Lisa James-Beavers was admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court with other members of the Judicial Council. Admittance means that she will be able to argue cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. Soror Lisa will continue to serve in her current position as an Administrative Law Judge in New Jersey. Theta Pi Omega

Soror Mary Jelks becomes a Golden Soror. She was initiated on November 30, 1963, Gamma Eta Chapter, Knoxville College in Knoxville, TN. Upsilon Tau Omega

Soror Edythe Crump becomes a Golden Soror. She was initiated on December 5, 1963, Gamma Psi Chapter, Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. Upsilon Tau Omega

Soror Saunjah Powell-Pointer was named 2013 Corporate Advocate of the Year by the Pennsylvania/New Jersey/Delaware Minority Supplier Development Council. Phi Theta Omega

WEDDINGS & ANNIVERSARIES !Soror Lauren Williams married Brandon Middleton-Pratt on November 2, 2013 in their hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Psi Omega

Soror Tracey Spain, married Dwayne Holmes, on October 26, 2013, in Falls Church, VA. Omicron Gamma Omega

Soror Roberta Hubbard and Honey-Do John celebrated 60 years of marriage. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Terri Dean and Honey-Do Rick Dean celebrated their Thirtieth Wedding Anniversary on October 8, 2013. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Mary E. Houston, Basileus, and Honey-Do, Reverend Gordon S. Houston, Sr. celebrated their Fortieth Wedding Anniversary on June 2, 2013. Rho Theta Omega


B IRTHS Soror Ginelle McPherson and

Honey-Do Frederick McPherson welcomed Vivienne Marie McPherson to their family on March 27, 2013. Epsilon Omicron Omega

ACCOMPLISHMENTS Soror Janine Roberts recently became

certified as a Progressive Care Nurse through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. Omicron Gamma Omega

Soror Janza Reese was selected as the Basilei Council Secretary for 2014. Omicron Gamma Omega

Soror Dorothy J. Phillips, who recently retired from Waters Corporation in Milford, Mass was elected to serve her first three-year term as director-at-large of the American Chemical Society (ACS), the world’s largest scientific society. Psi Omega

Soror Sheryl Nelson was named Executive Director of Human Resources at Baltimore City Community College Rho Xi Omega

Golden Soror Edythe Crump

Golden Soror Mary Jelka

Soror Ginelle McPherson

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Special Moments in Sorors’ LivesACCOMPLISHMENTS !

Soror Tammy Williams received the 2013 Realtor of the Year Award by the New Jersey Association of Realtors. Pi Theta Omega

Soror Tamika Boone received her degree as a Registered Nurse (Accelerated Track) from the JFK Muhlenberg Synder School of Nursing. Beta Alpha Omega

Soror Andrea Hughie has accepted a promotion as Patient Care Director of the Pediatric Intensive Care department at Columbia University Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital in New York City. Beta Alpha Omega

Soror Karen Dean, Principal of Lankenau High School, was selected by the The Schoolmen's Club of Philadelphia to receive the Commitment to Education Award. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Maxine Johnson was appointed to Pastor the St. Paul AME Church in Harrington, DE on June 15, 2013. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Mary E. Houston, Basileus was recognized as one of Philadelphia's Most Influential African-American Leaders of 2013 by the Philadelphia Tribune in September 2013. The Philadelphia Tribune is the nation's oldest African-American newspaper. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Kimberly E. Houston, Esq. was promoted to Manager, International Tax Division, PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Erika N. Houston received a promotion to Manager in the Procurement Department at CIGNA. Rho Theta Omega

Soror Kendra Brown transitioned from her role as Analyst at the Securities and Exchange Commission to Special Assistant to Representative Maxine Waters. Upsilon Epsilon Omega

Rho Xi Omega celebrates its “Silverbration” Year !Chartered on December 3, 1988, Rho Xi Omega Chapter celebrated 25 years of service to the BalBmore Community during its “SilverbraBon” year. At “The Spirit of Giving,” held on November 21, 2013, Rho Xi Omega awarded $25,000 over and above current year budgeted program funds to 19 key programmaBc partners. These organizaBonal partners span Rho Xi Omega’s community service efforts over the years at the local, naBonal and internaBonal levels. On December 6, 2013, Rho Xi Omega hosted “Sipping PreUy,” a fun evening of reflecBon and sisterly relaBons for Chapter sorors. On December 7, 2013, Rho Xi Omega hosted its Gala “SilverbraBon: An Evening of Elegance.” Over 360 guests enjoyed dinner, dancing,

and fun in celebraBon of Rho Xi Omega’s legacy in the BalBmore community. Very Special Guests included: Supreme Grammateus Soror Susan Simms Marsh, InternaBonal Regional Director Soror Evelyn Sample Oates, former North AtlanBc Regional Directors Soror Erma Barron and Soror C. Edith Booker, Soror Stephanie Rawlings-‐Blake, Mayor, City of BalBmore, and Soror Joan PraU, Comptroller, City of BalBmore. Rho Xi Omega Charter Member Sorors Karen C. Barland and Robin OU served as Chairman and Co-‐Chairman for the SilverbraBon Year.

Soror Kendra Brown

Rho Xi Omega’s Silverbration Gala Committee enjoys “An Evening of Elegance

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Gamma Epsilon Had an Award Winning Year !The 2013 North Atlantic Regional Conference was nothing short of a joyous occasion for the members of the Gamma Epsilon Philadelphia City Chapter. Gamma Epsilon sorors were honored for their accomplishments and contributions to the sorority in the Philadelphia community. Soror Samaiya Minor, our graduate advisor, was named Graduated Advisor of the year. Gamma Epsilon also won the following awards: !Best of Class Award for Standards Capturing the Promise through Chapter Exhibit 1st Place Technology Chapter of the Year 2nd Place Promise Award Social Justice & Human Rights Award Emerging Young Leaders Award !In addition to the chapter’s acknowledgement on a regional level, the chapter was also honored at the 2013 Leadership Seminar in Montreal for the Pearls of Power Award, which recognizes chapters with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above that have covered all program initiatives with additional service programs for 2012, and have representation in leadership positions across campus.

(Gamma Epsilon sorors pictured here with Soror Samaiya Minor, Graduate

Advisor of Gamma Epsilon)

Soror Chantee Receives the EAF Scholar AwardSoror Chantee Steele, former Basileus of the Gamma Epsilon Philadelphia City Chapter and recent graduate of Drexel University, received the Educational Advancement Foundation Scholar Award at the 2013 Leadership Seminar. This award is given to sorors who have demonstrated excellence and achievement in their academics, as well as volunteerism, leadership and campus involvement. The EAF Scholar Award is especially fitting for Soror Chantee, as she has much to be proud of from her undergraduate career. She achieved excellence not only as a soror and as the Basileus of Gamma Epsilon (2012-2013), but also as president of the National Association of Black Accountants and making it on the dean’s list with a 3.7 GPA. Additionally, Soror Chantee received the 2012 4.0 Club Award, Drexel Sister of the Year Award, 20 Pearls NABA Scholarship Award, NGLA Greek Leader of Distinction Award, Soror Spotlight Award, Order of Omega Award, and certificates of Merit and Professional Development. Congratulations soror Chantee!

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Golden Soror Mary Gladys Jones, retired educator, was recently honored by the "Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore", with the renaming of the "Volunter of the Year Award" for her. A past winner of the award and dedicated community leader, Soror Jones is the co-founder of the Fruitland Community Center's afterschool program. The program serves as a beacon of education for the limited resource families in the area. The program is housed in the 100 year old former "Colored" Elementary school. The building was dubbed the Ivy AKAdemy when Delta Sigma Omega Chapter adopted the center as an ongoing program.

The Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of the Year Award will be presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding, sustained and unselfish contributions to community service, and whose vital ideas and personal sacrifices exemplify thc ideal of service to the community.

Delta Sigma Omega Golden Soror Honored


On Saturday, November 2, five participants of Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter's EYL program put down their cell phones and ignored social media long enough to enjoy a day of laser tag fun and team building at Shadowland Family Entertainment Center in Alexandria, Virginia. Following laser tag, the young ladies were treated to lunch at Johnny Rockets. EYL Chairman, Soror Christina Cruse and Program Chairman, Soror Danaeka Spear had the privilege of escorting and bonding with the

chatty participants.

Mid-Hudson Valley – On the beautiful and clear evening of Saturday, August 9, 2013, the ladies of Iota Alpha Omega Chapter hosted their first wine tasting fundraiser. The Chapter raised over $3200 with all proceeds benefiting the Chapter’s AKA Community Scholarship Fund. The Fund provides one (1)

Betty E. White Scholarship and two (2) Book Awards to local high school students, annually. Held at the prestigious Robibero Family Vineyard in New Paltz, New York, under the blanket of a star filled and moonlit sky, over ninety (90) guests, donned in white attire, sampled varieties of white and red wines, dined on food catered by Glad 2 Caterers and danced to the hottest sounds of DJ Sean, member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated – Kappa Upsilon Lambda Chapter. Creatively, the Committee raffled off baskets. Each of the four (4) baskets, decorated in pink and green, contained a bottle of wine, packs of crackers, two (2) wine glasses, four (4) scented candles, a decorative wine bottle cork and a bottle opener. Winners of the raffles took home the elegantly adorned baskets. Iota Alpha Omega Chapter’s wine tasting event was chaired by Soror Omega Alston. The Committee consisted of the following Sorors: Kathy Davis, Pat Davis, Telka Howard, Sandra J. Jackson, Kim Jarratt, Nadia Natasha Rahaman, Loretta Taylor and Alita Zuber. The highly successful wine tasting event will be held annually. Congratulations Sorors on an extraordinary event!

Iota Alpha Omega’s Wine Tasting Raises Thousands

Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter’s EYL Participants Enjoy Laser Tag Outing

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2013 Yuletide Jazz Brunch !On December 8, 2013, Upsilon Delta Omega Chapter held its 2013 Yuletide Jazz Brunch at Auletto Caterers in Deptford, NJ. The Brunch is the chapter’s annual fundraising gala to support its college scholarships, which are awarded each spring to young women who exhibit scholastic excellence in their high school careers and have been accepted to 4-year colleges and universities for the coming fall semester. This year’s event was planned to host 300 guests and included a lavish brunch buffet. While an unexpected winter storm hit on the morning of the event, the chapter pushed through and the event went on. The program featured great music by Philadelphia’s Blind Date Band, a “Pink Carpet” Photo Experience, and vendors offering a range of exquisite items including jewelry, fine art, paraphernalia, and clothing and other personal items. Additionally, in the last quarter of the year, the chapter co-sponsored a community education workshop on Human Trafficking with three other chapters with over 100 attendees and coverage in the local media. UDO also launched the new school year for its Emerging Young Leaders with an interactive ice cream social. The girls spent time learning about the program and getting to know the chapter and each other. The chapter also welcomed six new sorors into the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in October. All and all, it was a very productive quarter for Upsilon Delta Omega.

Iota Alpha Omega’s Annual Soup Kitchen Feeds Hundreds !On Saturday, September 21st, 2013, numerous Iota Alpha Omega Chapter Sorors and fifteen (15) community volunteers participated in the Chapter’s 23rd Annual Soup Kitchen at Beulah Baptist Church, located in Poughkeepsie, NY. The Reverend Jesse V. Bottoms is the pastor. The event was chaired by Soror Paulette Sibert. The Sorors of Iota Alpha Omega Chapter and volunteers served a scrumptious lunch to over ninety-five (95) men, women and children.

The lunch consisted of cheesy, baked ziti, saucy, thick meatballs, buttered and cheesy garlic bread, ice tea/milk/water and an assortment of ice cream flavors. Volunteers also prepared twenty (20) take-out meals for some of the attendees.

Most of the food, drink and dessert items were donated by Antonella's Pizza Cafe, Longobardi’s Restaurant, Panera Bread, Stewart Shops, and Chapter Sorors: Telka Howard & Valerie Murphy.

Iota Alpha Omega Chapter continues to lead the Mid-Hudson Valley in providing exceptional Global Leadership Through Timeless Service.

!AKA is With You ~ Iota Alpha Omega Chapter Birthday Service Project

!On December 6th, 2013, Iota Alpha Omega Chapter celebrated her forty-

forth (44th) birthday. To mark this auspicious occasion, Iota Alpha Omega Chapter participated in “AKA Is With You” ~ Chapter Birthday Service Project spearheaded by Soror Vanessa Rice, Anti-Basileus & Program Committee Chairperson.

A total of twenty-two (22) sorors donated nearly 100 gifts to the women and children at Grace Smith House – Domestic Violence Shelter (Poughkeepsie, NY). The staff remembered our service programs rendered this year and in previous years and truly appreciated our thoughtfulness this Holiday Season. We were able to gift the mothers beautiful sleepwear, hats, gloves, scarfs, make-up, beauty scented lotions, shampoos; to the children we gifted board games, crafts items, clothes, movies, books and headphones; to the shelter we donated curtains, dishware and gift cards. Each item was

labeled – “From the Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Iota Alpha Omega Chapter – AKA Is With You” and a holiday card was included from the Chapter.

On Friday, December 20th, the items were delivered to the Grace Smith House for the residents to enjoy.


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AKA Sorority and Beacon HS National Honor Society bring H.O.P.E. to the Mid Hudson Valley

On Friday and Saturday, November 15th & 16th, 2013, the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated - Iota Alpha Omega Chapter(graduate chapter), in conjunction with the National Honor Society Chapter at Beacon High School, participated in our 4th Annual Project H.O.P.E. (Help Other People Excel) - Operation H.E.A.R.T. (Helping to Empower Area Residents Together). Project H.O.P.E. was a day in which we gave H.O.P.E. to the communities we serve. Project H.O.P.E. allowed us to work together to address HUNGER in our area.

Through Project H.O.P.E., we Helped Other People Excel by replenishing thirteen (13) area food pantries with nearly three hundred (300) non-perishable food items each. We are proud to announce that the following food pantries were recipients of the donated food i tems: Dutchess Outreach, Incorporated (Poughkeepsie), Dutchess County Community Action Partnership Center (Beacon and Poughkeepsie locations), House of Refuge International Ministries (Newburgh), Solid Rock Church of God (New Windsor), Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church (Beacon), Full Gospel Center (LaGrangeville), Trinity United Methodist Church (LaGrangeville), St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church (Beacon), St. Paul’s United Methodist Church (Middletown), First United Methodist

Church (Newburgh), the Beacon Lions Club (Wappingers Falls) and Beulah Baptist Church (Poughkeepsie). !Through the efforts of the following numerous food collection sponsors: Beacon High School, Rombout Middle School, Glenham Elementary School, Sargent Elementary School, South Avenue Elementary School, Forrestal Elementary School, Beacon City School District Board Office, Howland Library, Christ Methodist Church, Beacon Ambulance Corps, Greenhaven Correctional Facility, Iota Alpha Omega Chapter members, Newburgh Free Academy ROTC and Student Council, Debro Chapter #10A- Order of the Eastern Stars, Collection, Cub Scout Pack 122, Marist College – Black Students Union, we collected over 3,700 non perishable food items and over 200 personal hygiene items between September 23 - November 14, 2013. And, through the generosity of Fishkill Farms, over 3000 pounds of apples were donated.

On Friday, November 15, 2013, our food collection sponsors delivered their donated food items to Downstate’s QWL building. Over 70 volunteers sorted all of the food items and packed them into boxes donated by Guardian Self Storage and McCollister United Van Lines. In addition to sorting the food and packing food, our volunteers prepared our boxes, putting them together and securing them with packaging tape donated by the aforementioned sponsors.

On Saturday, November 16, 2013, at 8am, our volunteers arrived and were greeted with breakfast donated by Panera Bread (Fishkill). Volunteers organized and packed boxes and secured many of the boxes with additional tape.

Beginning at 11:30am, representatives from each pantry arrived at their designated time to pick up their food items. As representatives from each food pantry arrived with their banner, photos were taken with team members who packed for that particular food pantry. The volunteers assisted representatives with loading the packed boxes into their vehicles for transportation.

Over two days, over 100 volunteers from Beacon High School, Arlington High School (House of 2016 and 2015), Wappingers Junior High School, Myers Corners Elementary School, and individuals from the local community assisted with making Project HOPE a huge success!

In keeping GREEN, each food pantry also received thirty (30) reusable shopping bags donated by Super Stop and Shops (Burnette Blvd, Wappingers Falls and Fishkill), Hannaford’s, Target and Covanta Energy.


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! !Ivies Beyond the Wall

In Loving Memory A Pearl Lost But Not Forgotten

16th Supreme Basileus , Julia Brogdon Purnell

Always so good, unselfish and kind. Few on this earth her equal will find. Honorable and upright in all her ways, Loyal and true to the end of her days.

You are not forgotten, Soror Julia Brogdon Purnell

Soror Marita Carroll !Soror Marjorie Kay Omicron Xi Omega

Charter Member !Golden Soror Jacqueline Johnson

Delta Sigma Omega !Soror Barbara Sandifier !

Soror Greta Shepard !Soror Naomi J. Small

Theta Pi Omega

CONSTANCE R. PIZARRO 2 Rolling Road Phone: (732) 873-0679 North Atlantic Regional Director Somerset, NJ 08873 Fax: (732) 873-5238 Email: [email protected]

Office Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET

Monday and Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. ET (MIP questions only)

The Pr mise

Reminders!1. To be recognized as a Diamond, Golden, or Silver

Honoree at the 2014 Boule, sorors must have been

initiated in 1938-1939 (Diamond), 1963-1964

(Golden) or 1988-1989 (Silver). All honorees

must be registered for the 2014 Boule and mush

have a ticket to the luncheon.

2. Chapters with foundations are encouraged to

review and comply with the recently distributed

guidelines from Corporate Office. If you have any

questions, contact Soror Delores McKinley,

Supreme Tamiouchos.

3. Undergraduate/Graduate relations

• Provide two mentors for every undergraduate

• Council members should attend

undergraduate chapter events (i.e. meetings,

programs, fundraisers, MIP)

• Include section for undergraduate chapter

updates in graduate chapter newsletter

• Open communication lines between Graduate

Advisor and Graduate Chapter Basileus

4. All submissions for The Promise should be emailed

to [email protected]

January 12, 2014 - Metropolitan Founders’ Day Hosted by Cluster 1 of the North Atlantic Region and the Northern Virginia chapters of the Mid-Atlantic Region. Bethesda North Marriott and Conference Center 5701 Marinelli Road, Bethesda, MD 20852 !January 18, 2014 - Cluster IV Founders’ Day Hosted by Iota Epsilon Omega Chapter The Sheraton Mahwah Hotel Crossroads Corporate Center 1 International Blvd. Mahwah, NJ Keynote speaker - First Supreme Anti Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wlson !January 20, 2014 National Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service and America’s Sunday Supper 3pm-6pm at Largo Community Church 1701 Enterprise Road, Mitchellville, MD 20721 !February 15 - Cluster III AKA Day at the Capitol !February 22 - Cluster III Founders’ Day Hosted by Delta Rho Omega Chapter New York Marriott Hotel at the Brooklyn Bridge 333 Adams Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Keynote speaker - 28th North Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Wilma Holmes Tootle !February 23 - Cluster V Founders’ Day Hosted by Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel 1 Monarch Place, Springfield, MA 01144 Keynote Speaker - North Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Constance R. Pizarro !March 1 - Cluster II EAF Salute to Excellence !April 24 - 27 - 83rd North Atlantic Regional Conference Hosted by Cluster III Wardman Park Hotel Washington, DC !

Upcoming EventsTHE PROMISE WINTER 2014

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