THE ENLIGHTENMENTTT
THE ENLIGHTENMEN
THE ENLIGHTENMEN
SEPTEMBER 2021 VOLUME 37 , ISSUE 7
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
LEADERSHIP MOMENT:
“The challenge of leadership is to be strong but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not a bully;
be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly” ~ Jime Rohn
Greetings, my Lovely Lambda Omega Sorors!
Welcome Back! I hope you had an enjoyable summer break with your family and friend. Once again it is
time for us to roll up our virtual sleeves and continue this great work outlined through 113-years of service.
I cannot believe we are in our last four months of 2021, Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service.
This last quarter of the year is always packed with Target Programs, Committee Activities, Impact Days,
Officer Elections, Budget Planning, Chapter Evaluation, and Rekindled Sisterly Relations Interactions. I
know Lambda Omega is up for the task!
First allow me to Thank the 2021 Chapter Retreat Chairman, Soror Ebony Griffin and her outstanding
Committee for conducting an effective, productive and inspiring Chapter Retreat. Truly an impactful
kickstarted! There are exciting things on the horizon for Lambda Omega. Cluster season is opening and the
planning meetings have started for the 69th Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference (MARC), which will be
held in Hampton, VA, in March of 2022. Madam Regional Director, Soror Jennifer King Congleton and
the 69th MAR Conference Chairmen, Soror Glenda Turner and Soror Cynthia Salley Nicholson have
selected the following Operations and Program Committees to be chaired by the Lambda Omega Chapter:
Public Meeting and Kits and Souvenirs. We need ALL Lambda Omega Sorors to join one of the
Committees to ensure that these events will be successful! You will be receiving a google document, asking
you to select your committee of choice. We need all hands-on deck! I am truly leaning on the Shield. We
need you. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
69th MARC PUBLIC MEETING
Soror Samantha RDL Richards, MPA, Chairman
Soror Karen Bazemore-Person, Co-Chairman
69th MARC KITS and SOUVENIRS
Soror April Raines, Chairman
Soror Lakisha Ireland, Co-Chairman
Please keep up the great work and continue to be creative in the ways we serve within this new normal.
We understand that this is a very unusual time for our families and our communities. Some have faced
tremendous difficulties and overwhelming loss. But I am confident that each of you are dedicated to Service
to all Mankind, while we move in Excellence. Please know that we are always here to support you.
Sisterly,
Soror Samantha RDL Richards, MPA
Basileus
The Enlightenment page 1
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
Greetings Sorors,
Welcome back from summer break! I hope you had an opportunity to relax, recharge and
tend to some self-care needs. It is to prepare to execute our 2021 service activities with
continued excellence.
During the August Retreat, we collaborated to brainstorm service activities and
community partnership opportunities, created a draft 2022 program calendar, and
committed to executing valuable activities for areas of need in our community. I do not
know about you, but I thoroughly enjoyed the inspiring dialogue that was strategically
focused on specific goals.
Our target programs have been finalizing 2022 service activities. We are devoted to
concluding our five target programs under the Exemplifying Excellence Through
Sustainable Service program theme with quality, through sisterhood, and in service to our
Newport News community.
We are observing HBCU Week September 19-26. Get ready to “Rep Your School,”
support your favorite HBCU, send the gift of Tide cleanliness to a VSU freshman, and
share the Virginia HBCUs College Virtual Fair event with high school students you know.
Our signature program, #CAP, is starting their last cycle with students. Sorors, encourage
students you know in your family, neighborhood, and local high schools to take advantage
of our amazing program that assists juniors and seniors through the college admissions
process.
Many committees have funds remaining in their budget. As committees meet and plan,
look for opportunities to utilize your budget to impact vulnerable populations through
your program’s activities. Our budget committee works hard each year to prepare an
annual financial plan for our chapter. Committees are expected to use its budget to fund its
service activities with the goal of making a positive impact to those in need in our
community while also preventing excessive strain to our members. That does not mean we
cut quality. We simply want to make sure we work smarter and set realistic, manageable
goals. I encourage you to explore how your committee(s) can fulfill its program goals
within the boundaries of its budget.
Sorors, let’s continue bringing the L.O.V.E as we lead and organize valiantly to engage
with our community. Again, welcome back! I have missed you.
Warm sisterly regards,
Soror Karen Bazemore-Person
First Anti-Basileus
The Enlightenment page 2
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
“MEMBERSHIP IS PEARLFECTION” - SOROR TRACEY MORANT
This month I encourage each member of Lambda Omega to rest, rejuvenate and reconnect. Speaking of
reconnecting, please welcome Soror Erika Calhoun to Lambda Omega. Our Soror reactivated in July,
and we look forward to showing her some Lambda Omega Love.
Relaxation Tips: Breathe, connect with nature, have a massage, enjoy a fall beverage, or try a facial.
Rejuvenation Tips: Enjoy a spa day, try therapy, unplug from social media, enjoy a walk, or simply
SMILE.
Reconnection Tips: Join our Sisterly Relations Activities, call a Soror, share a kind word, or
enjoy lunch with a friend.
June’s Secret Soror was Soror Joy Johnson. At an early age Soror Joy participated in the "Very Special Arts" program which gave
her the opportunity to perform alongside individuals with disabilities in various plays. In third grade, she traveled to Belgium for a
production and met "Corky" from the show Life Goes On.
Soror Joy participated in several sports, including soccer, basketball, gymnastics, track, and even took horseback riding lessons
(which were short-lived). Soror Joy’s passion was track and she was on varsity all four years of high school. In college, due to
Soror Joy’s speed, she earned the nickname "Lil Franchise”. She also was one of the wide receivers on an all-girl flag football team.
Soror Joy comes from a very large family. Her maternal grandmother had 12 kids (11 girls, 1 boy), while her fraternal
grandmother had nine kids (and her dad is the oldest)! She's just fine with her two kids, who bring her much joy and are bound to
be smart, successful, and oh so pretty AKA legacies one day!
Thank you, Soror Joy, for sharing with us!
September's Secret Soror
At the tender age of 3 months this Soror played Baby Jesus in her churches Christmas play. While in the 8th grade this Soror
took her first plane ride to Mexico during her Spring Break. In 2008, during a different Spring Break Trip, our Soror went on a
trip to Italy.
Our Soror is very talented as she has played the piano, trumpet and she can tap dance. In addition, she was a drum major while
she was in high school. Who is this talented Soror?
September’s Inspirational Quote: “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few
minutes…. including you!” - Anne Lamott
Soror Lakisha Ireland
Proud Second Anti-Basileus
The Enlightenment page 3
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
Sorors must register in advance for this meeting - click the link below:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvcumvpzwtEtUqdGN9nn0LFdyniFLkmO12
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
CHAPTER BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA
Zoom Meeting
Saturday, September 18, 2021 – 9:00 AM
Soror Samantha RDL Richards, Basileus - Presiding
Call to Order Soror Samantha RDL Richards, Basileus Special Committee Reports
Meditation Soror Ebony Griffin, Chaplain
Greetings Soror April Raines, Hodegos Sisterly Relations Activities and Birthdays
Soror Denise James
Adoption of Agenda
Minutes Soror Emma Flood, Grammateus Unfinished Business
Correspondence Soror Sylvia Hunter, Epistoleus
New Business
Officer Reports
Basileus Soror Samantha RDL Richards Next Chapter Business Meeting
First Anti-Basileus Soror Karen Bazemore-Person Saturday (Zoom) – October 16, 2021, at 9:00 AM
Second Anti-Basileus Soror LaKisha Ireland
Pecunious Grammateus Soror Camille Harvey Dates to Remember/Upcoming Events
(Funds Received/Transmittals) National HBCU Week - September 19-25, 2021
Tamiouchos Soror Carolyn Smith Breast Cancer Awareness Day – October 4, 2021
(Accounts/Operations/Savings)
Graduate Advisor Soror Gail Jenkins Announcements
Adjournment
Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service
Soror Karen Bazemore-Person, Program Chairman
Program Committee Reports:
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action
Target 2: Women’s Healthcare and Wellness
Target 3: Building Your Economic Legacy
Target 4: The Arts
Target 5: Global Impact
Impact Days
September 20, 2021 – AKA HBCU Day Observance
October 4, 2021 – Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Standing Committee Reports
Connection
Courtesy
MIP
Technology
The Enlightenment page 4
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
To obtain credit for attendance you must register in advance for this
Zoom meeting and connect to the meeting on the day of:
By clicking on the link on the agenda on the previous page (Pg.4)
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information on
how to join the meeting.
1. Arrive a few minutes early.
2. DO NOT announce yourself when you join the Zoom meeting, ESPECIALLY if you
are late and the meeting is already underway.
3. Mute your mic or phone during the meeting unless you are called upon to speak.
4. Do not forget to take your mic or phone off mute if you are speaking.
When you take your mic or phone off mute, make sure background noise is kept to a
minimum so you are not distracting others.
When you finish speaking, remember to put your mic or phone on mute.
5. Treat the virtual meeting as if you were meeting face to face:
Don’t interrupt speakers – speak one at a time because it is impossible to understand the
speakers when two or more are speaking at once.
State your name and be recognized by the Basileus before speaking.
Speak loudly and clearly.
Don’t multitask because it rarely works with virtual calls or meetings. To fully participate in
the meeting, eliminate as many distractions as possible, and be focused and committed to the
call.
6. Maintain good computer and phone signal – try to remain in a place where
you have a good phone signal. If you drop the meeting call, do not announce
yourself when you call back in.
Technology team members are still needed!
Thank you in advance for your
understanding and patience. If interested,
please email
[email protected].
Training provided.
Soror Danielle Hitchcock, Co-Chairman
Soror Joy Johnson, Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 5
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
Tip 1: When emailing Enlightenment newsletter articles
please be sure to put in Subject Line the following
information:“(month) (year) Enlightenment article
—(committee name)”
Example: January 2021 Enlightenment article-Bylaws
Committee @
Tip 2: Limit word count to 150-200 words. Focus on the
key points of the information you’d like Sorors
to know.
Note: there will be some situations where there’s an
exception to this rule dependent on first approval by the
Basileus and the information being reported
(ex. Golden Soror Bios)
Tip 3: Send your articles in either Microsoft Word or
PDF format (Preferably Microsoft Word)
Note: In your Enlightenment article, include any links that
you would like to be embedded in your article.
(Ex: Zoom, Google forms, etc. )
Tip 4: Submit article by 10 p.m. the Thursday
following the Executive Committee Meeting
to [email protected]
Remaining Dates for 2021*: September 9, October 7,
November 4, December 9
*subject to change
If you have any questions or concerns,
Contact Soror MiKayla Raines, Newsletter Editor/Chairman at
[email protected]
The Enlightenment page 6
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
L A M B D A O M E G A C H A P T E R
BULLETIN BOARD
DATES TO REMEMBER/
CERTIFICATIONS & WEBINARS UPCOMING EVENTS
Chapter Basileus Certification
Saturday, September 18, 2021 Lambda Omega Chapter Meeting
10;00 am-3:30 pm CDT September 18, 2021, at 9:00 AM
Directorate Candidate Certification National HBCU Week
Saturday, September 25, 2021 September 19-25, 2021
2:00-7:00 pm CDT
Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Graduate Advisors Certification Training -Level I and II October 4, 2021
Saturday, October 16, 2021
9:00 am-3:00 pm CDT
Correspondence by
Soror Sylvia H. Hunter, Epistoleus
The following correspondence was received:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Corporate Office – Financial Cards.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Corporate Office - $110 Refund.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Corporate Office - $25 Refund for
Stimulus.
BB&T Bank – Checking Account Statements.
BB&T Bank – Savings Account Statements.
BB&T Bank – Credit Card Statement.
The Hartford - $270 Flat Cancellation EFF.
NC A&T State University – Thank you for the $60 donation for the
William Tucker Scholarship.
Soror Jennifer King Congleton – Thank you for gift bags of favors to
celebrate her birthday.
Soror Mia Bailey – Thank you for the love, gift, and prayers for the
loss of her mother.
Soror Cocheyse Smith – Thank you for the prayers, calls, cards, and
donations.
Soror Kim Freeman – Thank you for the cards, calls, and prayers
during her recent illness.
Soror Betty Moses – Thank you for the cards and calls for the loss of
her sister.
Soror Sylvia Hunter – Thank you for the cards, kind messages, and
money for her retirement.
Raven Bailey – Thank you card.
Ivi Edlow – Graduation Invitation and thank you for your support.
Nia Raines – Thank you for the graduation gift.
Charles Birdsong – Thank you for $50 and the event to celebrate high
school seniors.
Diondre Watkins – Thank you for the graduation gift.
Soror Chandra Oaks Garcia – Registration Confirmation Forms for
Leadership Conference.
Soror Tiffany Johnson – Resignation Letter from being Protocol
Chairman, effective immediately.
Soror Alicia Thornwell – Resignation Letter from being Chairman of
Personal Financial Planning and Asset Accumulation and Credit
Repair and Monitoring Committees, effective November 20, 2021.
The Enlightenment page 7
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
L A M B D A O M E G A C H A P T E R
BULLETIN BOARD
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday
Sorors!
Sorors!
Sorors!
July Birthdays August Birthdays September Birthdays
1 Jasmine Jordan 4 Regina Smith 1 Ebony Butler
4 Phyllis Crudup 7 Garnise Dennis 2 Marie Carrington
5 Shari Huggar 7 Patricia Evans 5 Ajeenah Rashid-Edmonds
5 LaKisha Ireland 10 Natalie Burrell 7 Cocheyse Smith
5 Deadre Johnson 10 Joyce Cofield 10 Dorothy McKelvin
9 Diann Latham 13 Jenine Chapman 10 Cynthia Neely
10 Latonya Dickerson-Hughes 13 Valerie Price 11 Anita Barber Hill
11 LaTanya Turner 14 Margaret Cason 17 Parnetha Callahan
12 Darleen Hart 14 Rachel Whiteman 17 Tiffani Garris
20 Marcia Price 14 Valerie Wilder 22 Karen Wilson
21 Tiffanie Geddie-Suggs 15 Kelli Jones 23 Danielle Hitchcock
23 Hardenia Watkins 15 Laurinda Thomas 25 Berneice Johnson
24 Linda Askew 19 Jamila Shipman 26 Sharon Richardson
26 Sally Ann Howard 20 Joy Johnson 28 Shameka Gerald
29 Pamela Birdsong 21 Brenda Williams 29 Teresa Riddick
29 Towana Boone 24 Pamela Taylor
25 Keisha Cook
25 Clara Hines
25 Laquiche Parrott
26 LaDawn Randall
27 Angela Spranger
29 Renae Black
31 Felicia Barnett
The Enlightenment page 8
International Program
Targets
2018-2022
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
Promote and Market
HBCUs
Promote and Market (Fayetteville State University) & Juneteenth History
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® -Lambda Omega Chapter, HBCU for Life: A Call to Action
Committee had a collaborative promote and market virtual event with Lambda Omega Chapter #CAP and
History Committee, Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association, and Fayetteville State University
Admissions & Athletics Department, and current graduates and students. This event was a virtual HBCU college
fair held on Zoom in which Fayetteville State University promoted its campus and educational programs. A
presentation was given to celebrate the importance of Juneteenth since it was recently named a national holiday.
Everyone was able to engage, interact, and appreciate the importance of promoting and marketing HBCUs,
especially during these times of COVID-19, and the value that Fayetteville State University has to offer. Alpha
Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® Lambda Omega Chapter Program Chairman, Soror Karen Bazemore-Person gave
the welcome for the virtual event. HBCU for Life: A Call to Action Promote and Market Lambda Omega
Chairman, April Raines provided the overview and importance of promoting and marketing HBCU’s. The
HBCU for Life: A Call-to-Action Committee engaged with the participants and presenters.
Lambda Omega HBCU for Life: A Call-to-Action Committee Member, Golden Soror Margaret Lee, and
Golden Soror Norma Gaither (FSU Class of 1969) provided Fayetteville State University trivia questions that
were one of the highlights for this event. Mr. Ryan Castillo from the Fayetteville State University Office of
Admissions presented information and vital facts about Fayetteville State University and gave advice and insight
on the FSU experience. Many Fayetteville State University students and recent graduates shared their
undergraduate journey at FSU and provided their perspectives on their FSU experience and the impact it had on
their lives. Many Fayetteville State University Alumni were in attendance and were engaged with the high
school participants.
Fayetteville State University National Alumni Association President, Richard Kingsberry (Class of 1978) was in
attendance along with fellow FSU Alumni, Jerry Farrior, FSUNAA Hampton Roads Chapter Alumni President
(FSU Class of 1977); Nancy Harris (FSU Class of 1970 & 1986); Karee Brown-Jones, Former FSU SGA
President (Class of 2019); Michael Holly, FSUNAA D.C. Chapter President (FSU Class of 1980), Tiffany
Geddie-Suggs (FSU Class of 1998), and Travis Scales (FSU Class of 2021). Lambda Omega Chapter HBCU for
Life: A Call-to-Action Committee members, Golden Soror Audrey Williams, and Soror MiKayla Raines (Class
of 2017) provided an informative presentation about the history of Juneteenth and its significance. Closing
Remarks were said by Soror Emma Flood, HBCU for Life: A Call to Action (Promote and Market) Committee
Member. Soror April Raines provided acknowledgments.
Soror April Raines,
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action (Promote and Market) Chairman
The Enlightenment page 9
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
Promote and Market
HBCUs
Soror April Raines,
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action (Promote and Market) Chairman
The Enlightenment page 10
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
Promote and Market
HBCUs
Target 1- HBCU for Life: A Call to Action (Promote and Market) Committee will be highlighting Virginia State
University for the month of September. On Wednesday, September 22, 2021, we will adopt Virginia State University
during the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® National HBCU Day and Week.
https://www.vsu.edu
Virginia State University was founded on March 6, 1882, when the legislature passed a bill to charter the Virginia Normal
and Collegiate Institute. The bill was sponsored by Delegate Alfred W. Harris, a Black attorney whose offices were in
Petersburg, but who lived in and represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. A hostile lawsuit delayed opening
day for nineteen months, until October 1, 1883. In 1902, the legislature revised the charter act to curtail the collegiate
program and to change the name to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.
In 1920, the land- grant program for Blacks was moved from a private school, Hampton Institute, where it had been since
1872, to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute. In 1923 the college program was restored, and the name was changed to
Virginia State College for Negroes in 1930. The two-year branch in Norfolk was added to the college in 1944; the Norfolk
division became a four-year branch in 1956 and gained independence as Norfolk State College in 1969. Meanwhile, the
parent school was renamed, Virginia State College in 1946. Finally, the legislature passed a law in 1979 to provide the
present name, Virginia State University.
Virginia State University has a long history of outstanding faculty and administration. The first person to bear the
title of President, John Mercer Langston, was one of the best-known blacks of his day. Until 1992, he was the
only black ever elected to the United States Congress from Virginia (elected in 1888), and he was the great-uncle
of the famed writer Langston Hughes. From 1888 to 1968, four presidents - James H. Johnston, John M. Gandy,
Luther H. Foster, and Robert P. Daniel served an average of 20 years, helping the school to overcome adversity
and move forward.
On December 10, 2015, the Virginia State University Board of Visitors announced that Makola M. Abdullah,
Ph.D. would become the institution’s president. Dr. Abdullah officially took office on February 1, 2016.
Soror April Raines,
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action (Promote and Market) Chairman
The Enlightenment page 11
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
$upport HBCUs
Donate online at:
HBCU Community Impact Day - Alpha Kappa Alpha Education Advancement Foundation, Inc.
(akaeaf.org)
Our featured HBCU for the month of September is Virginia State University.
If you would like to make a donation. Please use the following link:
https://supportvsu.afford.com/PayNow
Sisterly,
Soror Veronica Boston
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action
(Support), Chairman
The Enlightenment page 12
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
HBCU Week
Sunday, September 19, 2021
Please join us as we kick-off HBCU Week!
Take a moment to review the details below to
start our week!
The Enlightenment page 13
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
HBCU Week
Monday, September 20, 2021
Let’s Do It Again! Help us to achieve $1 MILLION in one day by
donating to your favorite HBCU or click on the link below. Please
send a copy of your donation to [email protected]
https://donate.akaeaf.org/pages/HBCU_Community_Impact_Day
The Enlightenment page 14
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
HBCU Week
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Today is “Rep Your School!” Wear your HBCU paraphernalia
or colors. Even if you did not attend an HBCU, please choose
your favorite HBCU. Take your picture, post on all social
media platforms, and use the hashtags below.
The Enlightenment page 15
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
HBCU Week
Wednesday, September 22, 2021
Show your love and support today by purchasing some TIDE to show your
HBCU Pride! Reminder, the Amazon wish list for Virginia State University,
Freshmen females are listed below. Please share with family and friends.
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1NNL7MXL04NVQ?ref_=wl_share
The Enlightenment page 16
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
HBCU Week
Thursday, September 23, 2021
Please join us as we highlight our Virginia HBCUs via Zoom at 7:00 PM EST. The
registration link is provided below. Please share with all high school students!
Topic: Virginia HBCUs College Fair
Time: Sep 23, 2021, 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Zoom Registration Link
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcof-qoqzosHdV8gLa29esuiz1itsZnixCf
The Enlightenment page 17
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
HBCU Week
Friday, September 24, 2021
This is our grand finale! Please help us close out our HBCU
Week “Reppin” your favorite HBCU with the chant/school
song or pictures posted on all social media platforms.
Please use all the hashtags.
The Enlightenment page 18
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
SM
TARGET 1- #CAP
College Admissions
Process
The # CAPS Committee looks forward to a productive 2021- 22 school year and will invite 11th and 12th grade
scholars in the Newport News School District as well as others in the Hampton Roads area.
Sorors your child is also able to participate as well!
We look forward to having monthly workshops that focus on ACT/SAT, essay writing, financial aid, scholarships,
and much more!
Stay tuned as we will give you updates about our Kickoff and Save the Date for Tuesday October 19, 2021 at 6pm!
Soror Pamela Birdsong, Chairman
Soror Emma Flood, Co-Chairman
Soror Natalie King, Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 19
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 2- WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE
AND WELLNESS
Breast Cancer
Awareness
Soror Aleta Minkins, Chairman
Soror Natalie King, Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 20
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 2- WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE
AND WELLNESS
Care for the
Caregivers
Golden Soror Norma Gaither, Chairman
Soror MiKayla Raines, Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 21
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
TARGET 5- GLOBAL IMPACT
Lions Club
International
Thank you to ALL sorors who participated in the second-quarter sunglasses and
eyeglasses collection! We collected a total of 56 sunglasses and 15 pairs of eyeglasses.
Please stay tuned and be on the lookout for other upcoming activities – we need your
support!
We are still looking for more committee members! Join us at our next Zoom
committee meeting Sunday, October 17, 5:30-6 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99100232412?pwd=cjVmT1dnMzdYWkorVnJMMjZvVThKdz09
Meeting ID: 991 0023 2412
Passcode: 189561
Sisterly,
Soror Joy Johnson, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 22
Lambda Omega
Committee Updates
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Finance
Announcement!
Budget Request Forms for 2022 are due by
September 15th, 2021.
Soror Morgan Byron will be collecting the forms,
her email address is [email protected]
Soror Carolyn Smith, Tamiouchos
The Enlightenment page 23
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Membership
Membership Matters!
We have had an amazing year in reclaiming our lost pearls. As we return back from
our summer break, we would like to welcome the following Sorors who have
reactivated/transferred to Lambda Omega:
Dorothy Thomas, Garnise Dennis, Bridgette Thompson Bryan, Taneila Jones,
Addie Farrow Gaskill, Raven Webb, Dee Jean Mendez, Nicole Robinson,
Pamela Watts, Fern Richardson, Noelle Baker, Gwendolyn Stokes Clash,
Shameka Gerald, Mia Bailey, Kelly Davis Howard, Channel Wills, Tamarra
Crawford Williams, Alisha Simmons Brown, and Stacey Bryant.
Lambda Omega Sorors, let's give them a sisterly welcome!
Soror Brenda Johnson, Membership Chairman
Soror Renae Black, Membership Co-Chairman
Soror Tiffany Geddie-Suggs, Membership Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 24
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Connection
Sorors,
The committee is preparing for the November 2nd election. There are dates and information
that you should know to prepare your voting plan.
Please:
- Look for and share the Promote the Vote emails and social media posts with information to
prepare to vote starting on September 13th. Early absentee voting starts on September 17th.
- Consider volunteering on National Voter Registration Day on September 28th. Various
locations will be available to participate with VA BLOC. Please respond to the contact
information below.
- Virginia now has Sunday voting. Newport News and Hampton will have voting on October
24th. Let’s STROLL TO THE POLLS in our colors and post pictures on Sunday, October
24th.
- Check your status, register family members, and make changes before the
deadline on October 11th before 5:00 pm.
- Ask a committee member if you have any election questions.
The Connection Committee
757-869-1219
[email protected]
The Enlightenment page 25
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Connection
On September 10, 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris along with
Delegate Marcia Price meets with students at Hampton University in
Hampton, Virginia.
Best day ever making an impact with Vice President Kamala Harris talking
about #VotingRights and my bill the #VotingRightsAct of #Virginia to
amazing #HBCU students during #HBCUWeek!
The Connection Committee
757-869-1219
[email protected]
The Enlightenment page 26
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Archives
Soror Joyce Cofield, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 27
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Courtesy
Hodegos Corner
Condolences
Pearl Soror Clara Hines (14th Mid-Atlantic Director) daughter Soror Rosilyn Hines Taylor (Ivy Beyond
the Wall) went to be with our Lord.
Soror Tiffany Johnson father-in-law, Mr. William Johnson went to be with our Lord. Cards were
mailed on behalf of Lambda Omega Chapter.
Soror Freda Gist requested prayer for her mother Ms. Carrie Combs went to be with our Lord.
Pearl Barbara Faglin Bates Manly became an Ivy Beyond the Wall on August 8, 2021. She went to be
with our Lord. Cards were mailed to her daughters, family, and Xi Omega Chapter on behalf of
Lambda Omega Chapter.
Soror Angela Hines-Williams great aunt went to be with our Lord. A card was mailed on behalf of
Lambda Omega Chapter.
Soror Shari Huggar’s uncle went to be with our Lord. We sent condolences and traveling mercies. A
card was mailed on behalf of Lambda Omega Chapter.
Prayer Requests
Soror Ebony Butler was hospitalized in the month of July and is recovering.
Soror Karen Bazemore-Person had routine surgery in June and is recovering.
Soror Keisha Cooks’ mother, Soror Marcia Black’s sister, Soror Tiffany Johnson’s aunt, and also the aunt
of Soror Renea Black, Mrs. Vernadine Hampton, was hospitalized.
Golden Soror Jacqueline Ortiz’s oldest daughter, Francesca Ortiz was hospitalized.
Soror Joyce Cofield's 88-year-old mother, Mrs. Goldie Cofield fell and broke her hip and had
surgery.
Mrs. Goldie Cofield was transported to a rehabilitation facility for her hip rehabilitation.
Soror Brenda Anderson Johnson requested healing prayer for her son Ramon.
Golden Soror Mary Tyner had a stroke and was admitted and was hospitalized. She is in the The
Gardens at Warwick Forest for rehabilitation.
Soror Angela Hines-Williams asked for prayer for her mother and family. Her family has endured
several deaths this year.
Golden Soror Magaline “Maggie” Macklin had major surgery and is at home resting. God, we ask that
you give Golden Soror Maggie complete healing.
Soror Karen Hinton’s son Christopher Cain had surgery and is recovering well.
Soror Joyce Cofield’s mother, Mrs. Goldie Cofield is currently recovering from pneumonia. Her mother
received prayers and cards, and thanks Lambda Omega Chapter for caring about her.
Golden Soror Berniece Johnson requesting prayer for her youngest son. She is also a caregiver to her
husband. Please continue to pray for her.
Soror April Raines, Hodegos
The Enlightenment page 28
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Courtesy
Hodegos Corner
Congratulations
Lambda Omega Chapter sorors and May and June 2021 graduates were recognized and
courtesies were extended $25.00 for high school and $50.00 for college. Cards and checks were
mailed on behalf of Lambda Omega Chapter.
Soror Channell Willis gave birth to a beautiful baby boy (Indigo J. Willis) on June 14, 2021.
Soror Sylvia Hunter retired with 38 years of service from Newport News Public School, and 40
years total.
Soror Veronica Boston passed her National Parliamentarian Exam, and is now a certified
Parliamentarian.
Soror Theronette Brown’s granddaughter Amaya C. Patterson was sworn in as the student
representative to the Newport News School Board for 2021-2022 schoolyear.
Soror Jacqueline Williams shared that her Honey Do Edward Williams has been appointed the
Head Women’s Track and Field Coach at Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia.
AKAlades/Announcements
Please send all health, praise reports, prayer request, condolences, graduations, and
congratulations notices to Soror April Raines [email protected].
I would like to provide timely acknowledgments.
Soror April Raines, Hodegos
The Enlightenment page 29
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
History
September is Founders day for ASALH.
Please join us for our Founders Day Program featuring, ASALH, William Tucker
1624 Historical Society and First Baptist Church East End
History Committee
Golden Soror Audrey Williams, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 30
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
History
Sorors,
October is Hispanic Heritage Month and November is American Indian
Heritage Month. If you have a story about a personal connection to the
Hispanic Heritage or American Indian Heritage Month, the History
Committee would love for you to share your story to be used in the
October and November Enlightenment.
Please contact Golden Soror Audrey if you are interested in sharing
@[email protected] or 757 303-6170 (cell).
History Committee
Golden Soror Audrey Williams, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 31
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
History
pass·ing (racial identity)
/ˈpasiNG/
By Soror Donna Phelps-Thomas, Lambda Omega History Committee
Often out of necessity or of preferred lifestyle…PASSING; Black is Beautiful, for some.
I was in my late teens when I first heard the term passing. I wasn’t exactly sure what this meant, but I came to
find out that passing, in terms of racial identity, meant a biracial or multiracial person presenting themselves as
white and receiving the benefits of white privilege.
Oh yes, passing is controversial, but there wouldn’t need to “pass” if institutional racism did not exist. Classism
and Colorism (remember the “Paper Bag” test?) -- leftovers from slavery are likely contributors of passing.
Passing has been an issue in the African American community but it impacts all people of color. In many cases,
people passed to escape the cycle of poverty while others passed because of self-hatred, which is a psychological
issue. “Passing” can help families advance in social status, but it can also lead to estrangement and self-destruction.
Years ago, I became fascinated with this topic and tried to learn as much as I could about the subject. Black is
Beautiful, right? Then why anyone would want to pass as a different race other than their own? So, this brings
me to ask, if given the opportunity, would you pass?
Imagine a long history of watching educated members of your family being oppressed and struggling to find
work. BUT they were denied simply because of their beautiful, melanated skin. Although you possess “one
drop,” (the one-drop rule was devised by whites to keep the race pure regardless of skin color) you have a lot less
pigment than other members of your family. Would you take advantage of the situation and pass as a member of
another race? Read on…
Several years ago, when I was stationed at Scott Air Force Base, I purchased a book called One Drop: My Father’s
Hidden Life – A Story of Race and Family Secrets, by Bliss Broyard. One Drop is the story of Anatole Broyard.
Anatole was born in the French Quarter in the 1920s and his family moved to New York where his parents
resorted to “passing” to obtain work to support the family. Anatole began passing at a young age and lived most
of his life as a white man until two months before his death when he told his children he was Black. Bliss,
Anatole’s daughter, tells the story of her father and her journey to learn about the “Black” side of her family.
Earlier I mentioned two possible reasons for passing. This story explores both of those reasons.
Although reasons behind passing are deeply individual, the history of African Americans passing as white can be
categorized by the following time periods: the antebellum era, post-emancipation, Reconstruction through Jim
Crow and the present day. [1] I don’t know how prevalent “passing” is today, but whatever one chooses, they
should be authentic. So again, I ask, if given the opportunity, would YOU pass?
Reference
1. Hobbs, Allyson (2014). A Chosen Exile: A History of Racial Passing in American Life. Cambridge, Massachusetts
and London, England: Harvard University Press. ISBN 978-0-674-36810-1.
History Committee
Golden Soror Audrey Williams, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 32
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
SPECIAL COMMITTEE
UPDATES
EAF
Educational Advancement Foundation Scholarships
for Undergraduates and Graduates
Undergraduate Scholarships
https://akaeaf.org/scholarships
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Scholarship-Application-Instructions.pdf
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Undergraduate-Scholarship-Fact-Sheet.pdf
Graduate Scholarships
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Graduate-Scholarship-Fact-Sheet.pdf
https://donate.akaeaf.org/scholarship-login
Youth Partners Accessing Capital (Y.P.A.C.)
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Youth-PAC-Fact-Sheet.pdf
Youth Partners Accessing Capital (Y.P.A.C.) Service Award
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Youth-PAC-Fact-Sheet.pdf
Community Assistance Awards
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Community-Assistance-Award-Application-Instructions.pdf.pdf
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Community-Assistance-Award-Fact-Sheet.pdf
Alice S. Marriott Scholarship Fund
https://akaeaf.org/uploads/files/Alice-S.-Marriott-Scholarship-Fund-Application-Instructions.pdf
Soror April Raines, EAF Captain
The Enlightenment page 33
September 2021
Vol 37 Issue 7
SPECIAL COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Golden Soror
Relations
Glimpses of Gold
Golden Soror Dorothy McKelvin
Real Estate Expert
Golden Soror Dorothy (Dot) McKelvin was initiated 51 years ago, in 1970, into Alpha Beta
Chapter, Fort Valley State College (University), Fort Valley, GA. Soror Dot has served Lambda
Omega as Business Manager and as Co-Chairman of the Sisterly Relations Committee. She has
also served on the following committees: HBCU for Life, Adopt-a-Spot, and Personal Financial
Planning and Credit Repair/Monitoring. She currently serves as a member of the Board of
Directors for the Twenty Pearls Foundation.
Soror Dot was born in Swainsboro, GA, and is the oldest of five siblings. She graduated as
valedictorian of her high school class along with another classmate. It was the first time the school
had ever had two valedictorians in a graduating class, with identical grade point averages. Soror
Dot received a degree in Mathematics from Fort Valley State College (University). She began her
career as a middle school teacher in Richmond Public Schools before moving to Newport News
and working as office manager in her former husband, Dr. Henry McKelvin’s veterinary practice
(Mercury Animal Hospital). She later began a career in real estate after receiving her real estate
license in 1984 and later her broker’s license. Soror Dot has had a successful real estate business
over the past 30 years as evidenced by being multiple recipients of the Outstanding Salesmanship
Award. Other achievements include a graduate of the Realtor Institute, an Accredited Buyer
Representative, a Certified Virginia Housing Development Authority instructor, and a Member
of Rose and Womble’s Director’s Club.
Soror Dot is the proud mom of Silver Star Soror (Dr.) Nicole McKelvin. Soror Nicole attended
NC A&T State University and North Carolina State University, School of Veterinary Medicine.
An active member of her community, Soror Dot has served on the Board of Directors for the
Boys and Girls Club and the YWCA. She currently serves as a board member for Menchville
House and the Hampton Roads Association of Real Estate Brokers.
Soror Dot loves tennis and in her earlier years, she participated in the St. Augustine Episcopal
Church’s annual tennis tournament where she won 1st and 2nd place trophies. She also played in
a tennis league and loves all types of card games.
Her advice to younger sorors is “Always be true to yourself. Don’t let anyone else define who you
are.”
The Enlightenment page 34
September 2021 Vol 37 Issue 7
CHAPTER DIRECTORY
MAILING ADDRESS:
Lambda Omega Chapter
PO Box 120273
Newport News, VA 23612
Website: Lambda Omega Chapter (lambdaomegaaka.org)
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Facebook
Instagram: Lambda Omega (@lambdaomega_aka)
BASILEUS EPISTOLEUS PHILACTER
Soror Samantha RDL Richards Soror Sylvia Hunter Soror Natalie King
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
FIRST ANTI-BASILEUS IVY LEAF REPORTER DIRECTORY
Soror Karen Bazemore-Person Golden Soror Phyllis Crudup Soror Kelsey Holloman
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
SECOND ANTI-BASILEUS GRADUATE ADVISOR MEMBERSHIP
l
S
G
r
i
o
s
Soror LaKisha Ireland Soror Brenda (Love) Johnson
i
n
o
a
r
J
k
n
e
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
GRAMMATEUS ARCHIVIST NEWSLETTER
Soror Emma Flood Soror Joyce Cofield Soror MiKayla Raines
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
ANTI-GRAMMATEUS BUSINESS MANAGER NOMINATING
Soror Pamela Taylor Soror Evelyn Ligon-Moton Soror Cherise Jennings
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
TAMIOUCHOS CHAPLAIN PUBLICITY
Soror Carolyn Smith Soror Ebony Griffin Golden Soror Phyllis Crudup
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
ANTI-TAMIOUCHOS HISTORIAN TECHNOLOGY
Soror Dakota Holman Golden Soror Audrey Williams Soror Danielle Hitchcock/
[email protected] [email protected] Soror Joy Johnson
[email protected]
PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS HODEGOS
Soror Camille Harvey Soror April Raines VIRTUAL TEAM
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
ANTI-PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS PARLIAMENTARIAN
Soror Morgan Byron Soror Jerrelle Griffin
[email protected] [email protected]
The Enlightenment page 35