THE ENLIGHTENMEN
THE ENLIGHTENMENTTT
THE ENLIGHTENMEN
FEBRUARY 2021 VOLUME 37, ISSUE 2
Strengthening Our Foundation
&
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
LEADERSHIP MOMENT: “LEADERSHIP AND LEARNING ARE
INDISPENSABLE TO EACH OTHER” (JOHN F. KENNEDY/FORBES).
Greetings, my Lovely Lambda Omega Sorors!
Happy Black History and Heart Health Month! I am honored and proud to serve this extraordinary
Chapter. A Chapter that has a rich history and consists of dedicated, dynamic, and distinguished women
who are committed to the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ®. I am humbled by the
love and support you have extended. The last 30-days have afforded me the opportunity to speak and work
virtually with so many of you. Your innovative methods of ensuring that we still serve our communities,
during these COVID restrictive times, have been priceless.
In January, our great sisterhood reached and celebrated 113-years of service to all mankind and embraced
perpetual endurance for 108 years. We are connected by a strong vine, like the ivy, “strong and brave…
because we know one secret how to cling”. As we continue this journey, we must never forget our
sorority’s rich legacy, support our groundbreaking present and strategically formulate a brighter future.
We kicked off the year in high gear! The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Committee once again
conducted a wonderful event in support of the Peninsula SPCA. Thank you for your dedication and out of
the box thinking. The Membership Committee participated in the AKA Reactivation Day 5K: A Race to
the Finish with conducting an A-Kall-Athon on January 15, 2021, where we reclaimed our VIPs (Very
Important Pearls). The Founders’ Day Committee warmed our hearts, as we had the privilege of listening to
the heavenly voice of Soror Shelia Diggs-Jones, as it ignited our remembrance of why we chose to serve
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Last but not least, the Chapter reached a landmark goal with
the capitalization of the Diamond Soror Katherine Johnson Endowment Scholarship.
February will also be filled with outstanding service opportunities. The Pink Goes Red Day for Heart
Health Planning Committee presented an outstanding virtual “Healthy Heart on Purpose” event. We
will continue to change lives by raising awareness of this deadly disease. This month, we also salute our
“visionary pearl”, Soror Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, who was born on February 10, 1887. “Alpha Kappa Alpha
has maintained its statue as ‘the first’ sorority and dutifully paid homage to the woman who gave birth to it”
(Green McNealey, Earnestine, (2017) Priceless Pearls – Dimensions of Sisterhood and Service in Alpha
Kappa Alpha).
The Mid-Atlantic Leadership Institute (MALI) has launched! Please ensure you mark your calendars for
upcoming training dates which will be listed in our Enlightenment. Several “eblasts” have also been sent to
the Region. Please take advantage of these training sessions. This is truly an awesome opportunity to learn
the foundational processes and procedures of our organization.
As we have heard over the years, Programs are the Heart, Leadership is the Foundation and Membership is
the Soul of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. I am so excited to announce the introduction of
the Lambda Omega Quarterly Leadership Moment series. Some of our Former and Current Leaders have
agreed to visit our Chapter meetings to share valuable knowledge from their experiences (lessons learned and
what they would do differently, if they knew what they know now).
“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is inquiry,
pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where
there is sadness, joy” (St. Francis of Assisi).
Sisterly,
Soror Samantha RDL Richards, MPA
Basileus
The Enlightenment page 1
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
Happy New Year Sorors!
Our hearts fluttered with honor and delight as we celebrated our visionary
founders on January 15, 2021 and watched our very own Vice-President Kamala
Harris be inaugurated on January 20, 2021. This year has started out with
overwhelming feelings of joy, remembrance, and promise. As we celebrate Black
History month, let us continue to recall the trials and triumphs of our ancestors,
trod the paths that are less taken, and achieve goals, dreams, and aspirations
unimaginable. For the paths less taken yield the greatest reward for not only you
but all the young women and girls to come.
Our target programs have been busy planning and preparing for upcoming events.
#CAP delivered an insightful scholarship workshop, and Soror Ebony Griffin
highlighted the programs and her experience at Howard University. Students and
sorors enjoyed the “Name that Famous Bison” game. Pink Goes Red for Heart
Health’s dynamic webinar engaged participants in mindfulness activities and heart
healthy medial and dietary tips. As committees meet this month, pinpoint event
dates through June and submit them by in your committee report by February 28,
2021.
Although the pandemic has restricted us from face-to-face events, Lambda Omega
has actively engaged the community virtually. Our programs are welcoming
sorors to join their committees next month. We are hosting a Committee Expo on
Saturday, March 20th at 8:00 AM. Committee chairmen and representatives will
have an opportunity to share their purpose and promote their initiatives. This will
be a great opportunity for sorors to learn about the work in our chapter and find
your fit on other committees.
As we continue to lead and organize valiantly to engage with our community, let
us do so with love.
Warm sisterly regards,
Karen Bazemore-Person
The Enlightenment page 2
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
“NO MAN IS AN ISLAND ENTIRE OF ITSELF”- JOHN DONNE
As demonstrated in our nation’s capital on January 6th, when one person believed they
were greater than the larger community or organization, chaos, rebellion, and division
led to civil unrest and death. During this time, now more than ever, WE, the ladies of
Alpha Kappa Alpha, Lambda Omega Chapter, must ensure that we protect and honor
our cherished sorority.
During the month of February, I challenge each Soror to familiarize or refresh herself,
with the Soror Code of Ethics. The Soror Code of Ethics can be found on pages 77 -
80 of the Manual of Standard Procedure. Please be prepared to share which words, or
phrases, stood out to you during our chapter meeting. Do any of the following
resonate with you?
*R
*Honor its Founders ole Models *Respect and comply
*High Moral *Avoiding *Being polite
*Work diligently ation *Actively Supporting
*Perpetu
January’s Did You Know was Soror Denise James. Soror Denise is the Co-Chair of
the Sisterly Relations Committee. She loves to travel and at the tender age of seven
she traveled by herself on an airplane for the first time. When she was in Elementary
School she wrote a poem. While in high school she crossed state lines every day to
attend school. Soror Denise has moved 14 times and is open to move again. Our
beautiful Soror also modeled while she lived in Europe.
February’s Did You Know…
She was the first member of her family to attend and graduate from college.
She was the first African American Cashier to work in the cafeteria of Portsmouth General
Hospital, Portsmouth, VA (hospital no longer exists)
Her first airplane ride was on April 7, 1975.
She was the First African American female, on the East Coast, to be certified as a Church Business
Administrator by the National Association of Church Business Administration.
She has traveled to 22+ states.
She has traveled to the U. S. Virgin Islands, Jamaica, and the Dominion Republic.
Lakisha Ireland
Proud Second Anti-Basileus
The Enlightenment page 3
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
Sorors must register in advance for this meeting - click the link below:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0qf-igqTgqGdJI7Qayt8nlOgxmMJhRklRy
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
CHAPTER BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA
Zoom Meeting
Saturday, February 20, 2021 – 9:00 AM
Soror Samantha RDL Richards, Basileus - Presiding
Call to Order Soror Samantha RDL Richards, Basileus Black History Tribute
Meditation Soror Ebony Griffin, Chaplain Golden Soror Audrey Williams/Soror Emma Flood/
Greetings Soror April Raines, Hodegos Soror Donna Phelps-Thomas
Adoption of Agenda Standing Committee Reports
Minutes Soror Emma Flood, Grammateus Awards
Correspondence Soror Sylvia Hunter, Epistoleus Black History & History Committees
Connection
Officer Reports Courtesy
Basileus Soror Samantha RDL Richards EAF
First Anti-Basileus Soror Karen Bazemore-Person Membership
Second Anti-Basileus Soror LaKisha Ireland Nominating
Pecunious Grammateus Soror Camille Harvey Sisterly Relations
(Funds Received/Transmittals)
Tamiouchos Soror Carolyn Smith Unfinished Business
(Accounts/Operations/Savings)
Graduate Advisor Soror Gail Jenkins New Business
Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service Next Chapter Business Meeting
Soror Karen Bazemore-Person, Program Chairman Saturday (Zoom)–March 20, 2021, at 9:00 AM
Program Committee Reports: Dates to Remember/Upcoming Events
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action Pink Goes Red for Heart Health
Signature Program #CAP Soror Pamela Birdsong Friday, February 5, 2021
SM
HBCU Promote and Market Soror April Raines Ethel Hedgeman Lyles’ Birthday
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Target 2: Women’s Healthcare and Wellness Committee Expo
Target 3: Building Your Economic Legacy Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 8:00 AM
Target 4: The Arts
Announcements
Target 5: Global Impact Soror Sherry Hunt and Soror LaKisha Ireland
Lions Club International Soror Joy Johnson
were assigned to the 68th MARC Awards
Committee.
Impact Days Congratulations!
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. International Day of Service
Soror Parnetha Callahan Adjournment
Pink Goes Red Day for Heart Health
Soror Kelli Jones
The Enlightenment page 4
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
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.
Sending Chapter Emails:
Committee Chairmen and Officers can send emails to the chapter,
however, ALL messages should be approved by the Basileus prior to
sending. For instructions on sending messages and/or confirmation that
your name/email has been added to the “permissions list,” email
[email protected].
Committee Reports & Slides:
Thank you in advance for your As a reminder, committee reports, and PowerPoint slides should be
understanding and patience. Technology forwarded to technology for upload (website) or insert (PowerPoint
slideshow) no later than 72 hours prior to executive committee meeting
team members are still needed. If (Saturday prior) or chapter meeting (Wednesday prior).
interested, please email Note: There may be situations where this is not possible, but please notify
[email protected]. Technology in advance!
Training provided.
The Enlightenment page 5
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
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*: March 4, April 8, May 6,
June 3, 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
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
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
Foundation Webinar: Ethel Hedgeman Lyles’ Birthday
Date: February 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2021 Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Time: 8:00PM-10:00PM
(Must attend all four sections). Lambda Omega Chapter Meeting Zoom
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Sanctions/Investigations Webinar:
Date: April 13 & 20, 2021 Committee Expo
Time: 8:00PM-10:00PM Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 8:00 AM
68th Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference
Graduate Advisor Certification: Thursday, March 25 - Sunday, March 28, 2021
Mid-Atlantic/South Atlantic
Date: May 8, 2021 Mid-Atlantic Regional Institute (MALI)
Time: 9:00AM-3:00PM (EST) Track 1: Basileus Pinkprint
(Level 1 & 2) Track 2: Building Blocks
Track 3: Leadership Construction
Financial Officer Certification: Webinar (Refer to "eblast" sent on January 25 & 31, 2021)
OWN THAT RUNWAY
Date: May 22, 2021
Time: 9:00AM-3:00PM (EST)
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday
Correspondence by
Sorors!
Sorors!
Soror Sylvia H. Hunter, Epistoleus Sorors!
The following correspondence was received: February Birthdays
BB&T Bank – Operations Account Statement.
BB&T Bank – Savings Account Statement.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Zeta Epsilon Omega Chapter – 4 Dinetta Hill 19 Shelia Diggs Jones
Sympathy card for the loss of Soror Voncile McDonald and Soror Mamye 8 Tiffany Johnson 20 Margaret Bristow
BaCote. 9 Martha Brooks 20 Celestine Carter
Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks – Happy New Year Greeting Card. 10 Ethel Hedgeman Lyle 22 Karen Jackson
Soror Jerrell Griffin – Thank you for kindness extended to her in the loss 15 Carolyn Brown 22 Carol Jenkins-Mitchell
of her mother. 15 Regina Forrest 24 Viola Pitts
Soror Deborah Jean Leslie –Thank you for the sympathy extended to her 15 Taji Widgeon 26 Mary Tyner
in the loss of her mother. 17Octavia Hicks 26 Shera White
Soror LaTanya Turner – Thank you for the prayers during the passing of
her mother. 17 Jacqueline Williams 27 Tamra Cobb
Peninsula SPCA – Thank you for the $1500 donation and pet supplies. 18 Mamye Bacote 28 Evelyn Ligon-Moton
Newport News Redevelopment and Housing Authority – Thank you for 18 Kimberly Robinson 29 Fredreyonia Johnson
the $300 donation to the Spratley House to purchase soap and other
supplies.
St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church – Thank you for the hours of dedicated
service to their Outreach Program.
Soror Shirley Bacote – Thank you for the kindness extended to her in the
loss of her husband.
Hampton University Alumni Affairs – Thank you for the $60 donation
for The Mamye Edmonson Bacote Women In Politics Endowed
Scholarship Fund.
The Enlightenment page 7
International
Program Targets
2018-2022
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
Promote and Market
Arkansas Baptist College is our February HBCU Promote and Market Spot Light. HBCU for Life:
A Call to Action Committee will collaborate with #CAP on February 16, 2021.
https://www.arkansasbaptist.edu/
Arkansas Baptist College, originally named the Minister’s Institute, was founded in 1884 by the
Colored Baptists of Arkansas during their annual convention at Mount Zion Baptist Church in
Little Rock. The primary objective of the institute was to raise the educational level within the
Negro Ministry. The secondary objective was to aid the state in making higher education available
to young Negro men and women. Most of the College’s students were trained in the ministry.
Today, Religious Studies continues to be one of the major disciplines of matriculation in College.
In April 1885, the name of the College was changed to Arkansas Baptist College and the location
was moved to 16th and High Street. The current address is 1600 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas. School colors Purple and White, and the mascot is Buffaloes.
Arkansas Baptist College is an urban private Historically Black College located in the historic
Little Rock Central High District. It also neighbors the Wright Avenue District and the famous
Paul Lawrence Dunbar Junior High School.
The College is the only Baptist-affiliated Historically Black college west of the Mississippi and has
a student population of 525. Founded in 1884 as the Minister’s Institute, the College continues to
be supported by the Consolidated Missionary Baptist State Convention. Dr. Regina H. Favors is
the current president.
Soror April Raines,
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action (Promote and Market) Chairman
The Enlightenment page 8
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
TARGET 1- HBCU FOR LIFE:
A CALL TO ACTION
$upport HBCU
Did You Know: The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc® HBCU Endowment Fund will
donate money to establish scholarship funds at each of the nation’s accredited HBCUs. The
schools will use the investment income resulting from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc®
fund to grant scholarships to their students.
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc® HBCU Endowment Fund is managed by the Alpha
Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc® Educational Advancement Foundation, Incorporated (EAF).
EAF’s 501(c)(3) designation allows for tax-deductible donations. Donors may designate their
gift to a specific HBCU.
Through EAF, by the end of the Excellence Administration, the sorority will establish
endowment funds at each of the nation’s accredited HBCUs. The first of these endowments
was announced in February 2019.
Our featured HBCU for the month of February is Arkansas Baptist College. If you would
like to make a donation. Please use the following link:
https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E146389&id=3
Sisterly,
Soror Veronica Boston
Target 1: HBCU for Life: A Call to Action
(Support), Chairman
The Enlightenment page 9
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
SM
TARGET 1- #CAP
College Admissions
Process
Click Here to Register
Soror Pamela Birdsong, Chairman
Soror Emma Flood, Co-Chairman
Soror Natalie King, Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 10
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
TARGET 2- WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE
AND WELLNESS
Nutrition and
Wellness
Click Link Below to Join:
Care for the
Caregivers
The Enlightenment page 11
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
TARGET 5- GLOBAL IMPACT
SOLES 4 SOLES
Soror Parnetha Callahan, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 12
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
TARGET 5- GLOBAL IMPACT
Lions Club
International
Join the Lions Club Committee as we kick off “New VISION for the NEW YEAR!”
Our goal for 2021 is to collect 2,020 pairs of eyeglasses, blue light glasses, and sunglasses
to donate locally and beyond – will you help us with our goal? Visit the link below by
March 15 to pledge your donation(s)! Sorors will be contacted with further details.
www.tinyurl.com/LONewVision
Our collections will take place quarterly, so stay tuned for more information for when
we will be collecting other items (blue light glasses and sunglasses).
We’re also looking for more committee members! SAVE THE DATE for the next
committee meeting, which is being held Sunday, March 21, 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 13
Lambda Omega
Committee Updates
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Membership
Membership Matters
Lambda Omega continues to grow as we reclaimed lost pearls during our reactivation initiative.
The race to reclaim 5,000 is over; however, it is our goal to retain our current pearls and continue to reclaim our lost pearls.
We encourage you to continue to send names of our lost VIP'S (Very Important Pearls) to the membership committee. You
can send the information via email to [email protected].
Soror Brenda Johnson, Chairman
Soror Renae Black, Co-Chairman
Soror Tiffany Geddie-Suggs, Co-Chairman
Connection
A big THANK YOU to the 49 chapter members who registered for the Phirst Pham Town Hall and Legislative
Day. The events on both days were informative and well received. There were over 700 registered participants
and the Town Hall has 15,000 views. If you have not responded to the evaluation form, please do. The
committee is looking for feedback. Other joint events are being considered.
As recommended by the VA Connection Committee, Soror Samantha sent a letter of appreciation to Delegate
Marcia Price for her work in supporting Criminal Justice Reform bills in Special Session. Notes of
support/appreciation to delegates who supported the Special Session legislation would be appreciated. If you
would like to send an email to Delegate Price, please send an email to [email protected].
Keep in mind that there will be Primary elections in June and the General Election in November. The offices on
the ballot will be Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, 100 Delegates, and Constitutional Officers
(Commonwealth’s Attorney, Treasurer, Commissioner of the Revenue, and Sheriff).
The Connection Committee
[email protected]
757-869-1219
The Enlightenment page 14
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Awards
The LO Awards Committee has diligently worked, throughout the month of January, on planning and
assembling award submissions for consideration at the 68th Virtual Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference (MARC).
We are excited to report that a total of 11 award entries were prepared and submitted, for regional award
submissions, prior to the deadline on February 1, 2021.
The following awards have been submitted for judging by the region:
Two Chapter Awards:
Janice Mack (Reactivation)
Doris R. Asbury (Graduate Newsletter)
Seven Individual Soror Awards:
Dorothy Boulding Ferebee (Public Health) - Soror LaTonya Hughes
Annie L. Harvey (Outstanding Graduate Soror) - Soror MiKayla Raines
Clara M. Hines (Humanitarian and Caring Soror) - Soror April Raines
Pauline C. Morton (Alumnae Basileus of the Year) - Soror Delores Forrest
Margaret B. Moss (Outstanding Retired Graduate Soror) - Soror Emma Flood
Evelyn R. Syphax Creative Expression (Outstanding Graduate Writer) - Soror April Raines
Golden Soror Service – Golden Soror Audrey Williams
Two International Awards:
HBCU For Life: A Call to Action
#CAP SM
We know that Lambda Omega is an award-winning Chapter…we execute award-winning programs and we
have award-winning Sorors! Regardless of the outcome, the awards submitted this year were truly stellar!
I’d like to thank my committee for all of their efforts in preparing the awards and working with Sorors on their
submissions. I’d also like to thank Sorors Joy Johnson and MiKayla Raines who graciously utilized their talents
and skills to assist the Committee with the enhancement of each award entry.
If you have an interest in helping our Sorors and Chapter shine and having fun while doing so, please consider
joining the Awards Committee.
May I have the envelopes, please….
Lambda
Omega
1st Place
Sisterly,
Soror Sherry Hunt, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 15
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Protocol
Protocol Points to Remember
Protocol is the responsibility of all members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ®. Adherence to
protocol enhances the Sorority’s operations as well as aids in the creation of a more sisterly environment.
Furthermore, the image of the Sorority in the larger community is greatly enhanced if each member
demonstrates a command of protocol.
Protocol for Alpha Kappa Alpha Communications
Communication plays a key role in ensuring our sorors are informed and feel connected to Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Communication brings us together and enables us to share information
instantaneously with more people – within and outside our sorority, and without regard to distance or
geographic boundaries. With technological advances that allow for accelerated, wide-spread distribution, sorors
must exhibit heightened sensitivity to what is being communicated and assume additional responsibilities for
keeping private Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority information private. Sorors should use and refer to the Soror Code
of Ethics as a guide for conduct when interacting face-to-face, corresponding in any written form, videotaping
or recording, and when using any form of electronic media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, LinkedIn, etc.)
Always use discretion when using social media (e.g. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Blogs, YouTube,
Pinterest, Linked In, GroupMe, etc.). These forums are open to the public and should not be used to
discuss information that is private and intended for active members of the Sorority. Sorors should not post
information discussed or pictures from plenary sessions of conferences, chapter meetings, committee meetings,
Rituals, and other closed Sorority events. Additionally, sorors should refer to the Social Media Policy.
The Official Guide to Alpha Kappa Alpha Protocol, 2020, p. 33 and 35
The Protocol Committee continues to strive for EXCELLENCE by remaining committed to ensuring all
Sorors are confident in their knowledge and understanding of The Official Guide to Alpha Kappa Alpha
Protocol. The Protocol Committee meets via phone conference at 8:00 pm on the second Tuesday of
each month, with the exception of August. (See Lambda Omega Website- Calendar of Events).
If you are interested in assisting the Protocol Committee reach our goals and objectives, we welcome you to
attend!
Soror Tiffany Johnson, Protocol Committee Chairman
Soror Keisha Cook, Protocol Committee Co-Chairman
The Enlightenment page 16
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Sisterly Relations
Soror Ebony Griffin, Co-Chairman
Soror Denise James, Co-Chairman
Courtesy
Hodegos Corner
Condolences
Pearl Soror Clara Hines our 14th Mid-Atlantic Regional Director’s daughter Shevawn Thompson
(Ivy Beyond the Wall) went to be with the Lord.
Madam Basileus Samantha RDL Richards’ cousin Darryl Jones went to be with the Lord.
Soror Tresserlyn Kelly’s mother Dorothy Lawson went to be with our Lord.
Prayer Requests
Healing Prayer for Soror Camille Harvey.
Undergoing Surgery Prayer for Soror Sheila Diggs Jones.
Dear God, I pray for the helping of the entire world to be free from the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Please help everyone to be free from this terrible, infectious disease. Pray for the effectiveness of
the vaccine with zero side effects. May God comfort you and bring peace to your heart during
this difficult time. Dear God, for those that have lost loved ones, our deepest sympathy, and
prayers that God will bless and comfort them. Amen
AKAlades
Soror Sherry Hunt and Soror LaKisha Ireland was appointed by our Mid-Atlantic Regional
Director Jennifer K. Congleton to the Mid-Atlantic Awards Committee.
Soror April Raines, Hodegos
The Enlightenment page 17
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Credentials
Credentials Committee Request Form
Using the following URL, please complete and submit the Credentials Request Form
if you desire to receive a personal informational report reflective of the Credentials
Committee 2020 documentation: https://forms.gle/8pCyC7YKHUn3c4TXA
Reminders from the committee:
If there’s an error or an omission on your Credentials Report, the committee will
correct your attendance records. Please be mindful, however, that committee
credit can only be given if the chairman/sponsor has submitted the attendance
form for the activity or the committee meeting.
The deadline to submit your request form is Sunday, February 28, 2021. If you
have questions, please contact me at [email protected].
Again, we ask that you submit the request form only if you are interested in
receiving a report.
With appreciation,
Soror Darleen Hart
Chairman, Credentials Committee
The Enlightenment page 18
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
STANDING COMMITTEE
UPDATES
History
“Our History...Our Time, Our Voice!”
2021 - The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity
Over the course of world history, historians have
recognized and understood how political leaders possess
the power, if we are not vigilant and knowledgeable, to
“rewrite and revise history in real-time.” The evolution
of the Black family in the United States of America has
been a complex, intricate, and evolving facet in the
development of the history of this nation.
The attempt to destroy and minimize the institution of
the family in 17th Century America for slaves to the
constant challenges of 21st Century America continue to
demonstrate how the institution of the Black family,
however, fragile or unconventional, continues to
function as a political fortress in modern America.
Please join us as members of the Lambda History
Committee reflect on the theme, “2021 - The Black
Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity” as we
observe and celebrate Black History Month!
Soror Audrey Williams, Chairman
The History Committee
The Enlightenment page 19
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
SPECIAL COMMITTEE
UPDATES
EAF
https://akaeaf.org/history
February is EAF Month
History
The Educational Advancement Foundation was founded in 1980 by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an
organization with a rich and distinguished history of service that spans nearly a century. Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority, Inc. ® was the first Greek-letter organization of its kind. The organization pioneered mobile health
clinics in America, has been a leader in the fight against illiteracy and has the distinction of being one of only a
handful of women's organizations to operate a federally funded Job Corps. But, ever since Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority, Inc. ® awarded its first scholarship in 1914 ($10 to a liberal arts student at Howard University), one
program of service has endured scholarships.
Creating the Educational Advancement Foundation was the method by which Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Inc. ® sought to ensure that there would always be support for education, its oldest program of service. Today,
the Foundation, a financially strong and viable organization, is a powerful tool for good, pooling the resources of
others who share this vision of providing a perpetual source of support for education. Commemorating more than
30 years of service.
This year's Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference challenge request is for $19.80 from all registered conference
attendees. EAF was founded in 1980 and we are proud to celebrate 40 plus years of promoting lifelong learning.
Attendees and non-attendees may participate, now or during the conference via the website
https://donate.akaeaf.org/
Click other and add $19.80 in the square box*
Designation:
Dropdown box click Other
Other: Type in MARC-Lambda Omega Chapter
Additional Information:
You may click on One-time gift or Recurring gift
Sorors you may also mail in your checks made payable to AKA Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc.
Memo Line: 2021 MARC Challenge-Lambda Omega. Below is the mailing address. Please email me your name
and amount to [email protected] for our Lambda Omega EAF contribution documentation.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc.
5656 South Stony Island Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60637
Toll-free: 800.653.6528. Web: www.akaeaf.org
Phone: 773-.947.0026. Fax: 773-947-0277
Email: [email protected]
Soror April Raines, EAF Captain
The Enlightenment page 20
February 2021
Vol 37 Issue 2
SPECIAL COMMITTEE
UPDATES
Golden Soror
Relations
Glimpses of Gold
Golden Soror Norma Gaither
A Caring, Worldview of Service
As a small-town girl growing up in North Carolina in a family with seven siblings, myself being in the middle, I had
very limited life experiences. I attended church and did my best in school, but mostly just read a lot. After graduation,
I serendipitously found my way to Fayetteville State Teacher’s College, now a University (FSU) where I majored in
English. During my college years, three remarkable events happened that impacted the trajectory of my life: I was
selected to live in a dormitory for high achieving girls, I was invited to join the Delta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority in 1968, and I got married to my high school sweetheart, Lovett Gaither.
After graduation in 1969, I joined my husband who was already serving in the U.S Air Force. We then started a life of
untold adventures as a military family. Through the decades that followed, the spirit of service to others began to take
shape. We foster parented my three younger siblings until each graduated from high school, then later raised two
children of our own, (Silver Star Soror) Kendra and Lovett Jr. We welcomed a daughter-in-law, Hendrea, and are
now celebrating three of the most amazing grandchildren ever!
During Lovett’s time of service, we traveled far and wide; touching down and sometimes vacationing in such places as
Hawaii, Spain, England, the Philippines, Turkey, and Korea. We made temporary homes in Michigan, California,
Iran, Massachusetts, and Japan before settling in Virginia in 1985. I gained rich experiences in these places and with
the people we encountered along the way. I was able to develop a worldview of how one could be of service to all
mankind even when you did not speak the language.
Though my travel experiences were rich and rewarding, I was separated from the sorority I had pledged to serve in
perpetuity. During those times there were only a few chapters abroad and never where we were stationed. When my
daughter joined the sorority, it inspired me to reengage. I reactivated in the Lambda Omega Chapter in 2001 and
have maintained active involvement in many aspects. I am now a Life Member. I have chaired several committees
including Scholarship, Standards, MLK Day of Service, Little Dresses for Africa service project (my favorite), and
currently, Care for the Caregivers. I also had the privilege to serve as Chapter Basileus (2010-2012).
My career path as an educator involved classroom teaching, college admissions counseling, and a high school
guidance directorship. My educational base from my HBCU, Fayetteville State, laid the foundation for me to earn a
Master’s degree in education from the University of Southern California, and an Educational Specialist degree from
the College of William and Mary. My retirement from Newport News Public schools in 2009 opened the door for me
to expand my life experiences through serving others. In addition to the membership at Ebenezer Baptist Church, I
have been an active volunteer with Sentara Orthopedic Hospital. I am also a member of the FSU Alumni Association,
Retired Educators groups, and a Community Bible Study program.
So, my young Sorors, my message to you is that by anchoring yourself in service to others for the right reasons, you
will create a legacy of a life well-lived, purposeful, and pleasing to God.
The Enlightenment page 21
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
SPECIAL COMMITTEE
UPDATES
National Pan-Hellenic
Council
National Pan-Hellenic Council of the
Peninsula 2021 Upcoming Virtual Events
NNAC (DST): “Live Fierce, Go Red For Women” Digital Luncheon; 2/5/21 from
12:00pm-1:00pm
LLO (AKA): “Pink Goes Red” Sweat Sessions;
2/6/21 beginning at 11 am
ABZ (ZPB): Bling and Jeans Virtual Valentine’s Party; 2/12/21 from 9 pm-12
midnight; cost 20.00
ABZ (ZPB) and PBS: “Who Do You Love” Comedy Show;
2/13/21; 7:00pm
NNAC (DST): Go Red for Healthy Hearts and
Nutrition; 2/13/21 from 1-2pm.
DAC (DST): “Adjusting to the Unknown: Staying
Uplifted During Difficult Times”; 2/27/21 beginning at 11 am
H-NN (KAP): Raffle with online ticket purchase; winner announced on 3/6/21
HAC (DST): Virtual 5K Delta Dash; 3/20/21-3/21/21; 9am-9pm; 35.00 registration
LLO (AKA): Car Campaign Scholarship Fundraiser; drawing 5/1/21; 10.00 tickets
Follow NPHC social media accounts for detailed information on upcoming events.
NPHC of Peninsula nphcofpeninsula
Soror Lakisha Ireland, Chairman
The Enlightenment page 22
February 2021 Vol 37 Issue 2
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
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i
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s
Soror Lakisha Ireland Soror Brenda (Love) Johnson
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[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 [email protected]
[email protected] [email protected]
PUBLICITY
TAMIOUCHOS CHAPLAIN Golden Soror Phyllis Crudup
Soror Carolyn Smith Soror Ebony Griffin [email protected]
[email protected] [email protected]
TECHNOLOGY
ANTI-TAMIOUCHOS HISTORIAN [email protected]
Soror Dakota Holman Golden Soror Audrey Williams
[email protected] [email protected] VIRTUAL TEAM
[email protected]
PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS HODEGOS
Soror Camille Harvey Soror April Raines
[email protected] [email protected]
ANTI-PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS PARLIAMENTARIAN
Soror Morgan Byron Soror Jerrelle Griffin
[email protected] [email protected]
The Enlightenment page 23