63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Minutes...63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Minutes...

63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Minutes

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference

Opening Plenary Session

Friday, March 25, 2016

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Soror Sharon Brown Harriott, South Atlantic Regional Director

Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Supreme Basileus

Soror Patricia Moore Henegan, Cluster VII Coordinator

Soror Utocqua Grissett, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Chairman

Soror Gloria Dudley, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Co-Chairman

Soror Latonya Dilligard Edwards, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Co-Chairman

Soror Tiera Smith, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Undergraduate Co-Chairman

Musical Prelude

Processional & Introduction of Dais/Guest: Upper tier, please hold your applause until I introduce the entire

tier. Soror Beauty Baldwin – South Atlantic Region Hodegos, Soror Constance Gardner – South Atlantic Region

Rules Chairman, Soror Latarsa Williams-63rd South Atlantic Region Conference Registration Chairman, Soror

Earlene Striggles Horne, International Risk Management Task Force Member, Soror Tracy K. Dye, International

Reinstatement Taskforce Member, Soror Karen Bennett, Georgia Connection Chairman, Soror Laurise Thomas –

Florida Connection Chairman, Soror Kimberly Greene - South Carolina Connection Chairman, Soror Tiffany

Moore Russell, International Connection Committee Member, Soror Sylvia Blackmon Roberts, International

Connection Chairman, Soror Jasmine Adkins, International Program Committee Chairman, Soror Carolyn

Randolph – International Nominating Committee Chairman, Soror Theresa House, International Technology

Committee Chairman, Soror Gayle Miles Scott, International Financial Certification Committee Chairman, Soror

Ora Douglass, International Standards Committee Member, Soror Kimberly Willis Green, International

Membership Committee Member, Soror Wanda Scott-Kinney, International Building and Properties Committee

Member, Soror Altoya Felder-Deas, International Chapter Basileus Certification Committee, and Soror Onya

Gardner, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Transportation Co Chairman.

Lower tier, Soror Latarsha Beacham, 62nd South Atlantic Region Conference Grammateus, Soror Elizabeth S.

Young, South Atlantic Region Co-Philacter, Soror Sophia D. Babridge, South Atlantic Region Philacter, Soror

Sylvia Jones, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Security Officer, Soror Vertelle Mitchell Middleton, 12th

South Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Lucretia Payton Stewart, 13th South Atlantic Regional Director, Soror

Sonja Williams Garcia, 14th South Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Irene Westbrooks McCollom, 15th South

Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Ella Springs Jones, 16th South Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Marsha Lewis

Brown, 17th South Atlantic Regional Director & International Strategic Planning Committee Chairman, Soror

Carolyn House Stewart, The 28th Supreme Basileus, Soror Norma Solomon White, The 25th Supreme Basileus

and 8th South Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Eva L. Evans, The 24th Supreme Basileus, Soror Sylvia Sloane

Jones, Cluster 1 Coordinator, Soror Donna Douglas, Cluster 2 Coordinator, Soror Rosa Dean Andrews, Cluster 3

Coordinator, Soror Angie Bobo Onianwa, Cluster 4 Coordinator, Soror Shevawn Broxton Young, Cluster 5

Coordinator, Soror DeVetta Williams Hughes, Cluster 6 Coordinator & South Atlantic Region Chief of Staff and

Soror Gloria Harrison Boozer, Cluster 8 Coordinator.

Primary tier: Soror Patricia Moore Henegan, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Host Cluster VII

Coordinator, Soror Cassandra McCray, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Grammateus, Soror Tiera Smith,

63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Co- Chairman, Soror Gloria Dudley, 63rd South Atlantic Regional

Conference Co-Chairman, Soror Latonya Dilligard Edwards, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Co-

Chairman, Soror Utocqua Grissett, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference General Chairman, Soror Jan

Carpenter Baker, Mid-Western Regional Director, Soror Gerry Watson Coleman, South Atlantic Region

Parliamentarian, Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, Supreme Grammateus, Soror Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme

Tamiochous, Soror Martha Perine Beard, Supreme Parliamentarian, Soror Annalise Anise, Undergraduate

Member at Large, Soror Joyce Henderson, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, Soror Toni S. Kendrick, Great Lakes

Regional Director, Soror Mary Conner, South Eastern Regional Director, Soror Autumn A. Kyles, Second


Supreme Anti-Basileus, Soror Glenda Baskin Glover, First Supreme Anti-Basileus, and Soror Dorothy

Buckhanan Wilson, Supreme Basileus.

Greetings/Welcome: Soror Utocqua Grissett, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Chairman, Mu Iota

Omega

Good morning Sorors!

To my room full of sisters like jewels in a crown vanilla, cinnamon, and dark chocolate brown, Now hear us as

we share Our story in this place in Our glory.

We are beautiful

We are elegant, articulate, and true, and

We are happy you are sharing this experience too.

To Madame Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott,

To Madame Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson

To our First Supreme Anti-Basileus Glenda Glover

To my Cluster VII Coordinator Patricia Moore Henegan

And all others who love and serve Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Since 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. has focused on the lifelong personal and professional development

of each soror, and there is no better place for this growth to occur than at a conference such as this.

Greetings and welcome to this opening plenary session of the 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference Pearls on

the grand Strand: Fulfilling the Promise. I greet you on behalf of the energetic women of Cluster VII who have

worked tirelessly to plan and provide an exciting, informative, fun conference as we take care of the important

business of our dynamic organization.

The sorors of the Charismatic Cluster VII have been anxiously awaiting your arrival and now you have arrived!!

You have arrived on the Grand Strand armed with pearls, pumps, and purpose. As pearls committed to

excellence, we know that you are all prayed up and have been Wild & Fascinated. Let’s now swing into action

and get pumped about Launching New Dimensions of Supreme Service.

I welcome you to enjoy the informative workshops, explore Myrtle Beach, visit the vendors, view the exhibits

and enjoy the many activities that the conference has to offer and remember that you are not alone… you are with

your 3,500 BFFs.

Before I close, I would like to thank each of you for attending our conference and bringing your expertise to our

gathering. You are truly the greatest asset today and tomorrow and we could not accomplish what we do without

your support and leadership.

Again, Sorors on behalf of my dynamic Co-chairmen, visionary Steering Committee, and dedicated Sorors of

Cluster VII Welcome!!!!

Meditation: Soror Joyce Henderson, Mid-Western Regional Director, Zeta Xi Omega

Entrance of the South Atlantic Regional Director, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

Madame Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott entered where sorors were assembled for the 63rd South

Atlantic Regional Conference serenading the body with a rendition of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” with

words written for the South Atlantic Region by Soror Carolyn Hamilton, Cluster IV.

Cluster VII Welcome/Presentation

Sorors were welcomed to the 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference by, Soror (s) Utocqua Grissett, General

Conference Chairman and Patricia Moore Henegan, Cluster VII Coordinator

Sorors of Cluster VII entered the assembly room to “Uptown Funk” as they welcomed sorors to the 63rd SARC

Pearls on the Grand Strand “Fulfilling the Promise.”

Response: Soror Tiffany Moore Russell, 62nd South Atlantic Regional Conference Chairman, Psi Theta Omega


Soror Tiffany gave a rousing response to the welcome of Cluster VII, thanking the sorors of Cluster VII for

providing warm hospitality. We knew that we were welcomed as we arrived to the 63rd SARC to enjoy the

informative and fun conference that you have planned. While we are here we will take an opportunity to take a

journey on the Grandstand.

Safety Procedures: Soror Sylvia Jones, Omega Gamma Omega

Soror Sylvia Jones presented safety procedures for all sorors to exercise while in attendance at the 63rd SARC

Formal Opening of Conference

Soror Sharon Brown Harriott, South Atlantic Regional Director, Presiding

“Sorors I shall officially open the 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference”

Presentation and Adoption of Conference Agenda

Please allow flexibility to move items around as we move throughout the agenda

Soror Sharon moved to adopt the conference agenda by common acclamation.

Appointment of Conference Officers

Soror Cassandra A. McCray Grammateus, Epsilon Chi Omega

Soror Beauty P. Baldwin Hodegos, Upsilon Alpha Omega

Soror Gerry Watson Coleman Parliamentarian, Epsilon Tau Omega

Soror Sophia D. Babridge Philacter, Gamma Nu Omega

Soror Elizabeth S. Young Co-Philacter, Pi Eta Omega

Soror Sylvia Jones Security Officer, Omega Gamma

Omega

Soror Sharon moved to accept the officers by acclamation.

Seating of the Delegates

Rededication Ceremony

Soror Carolyn House Steward, 28th Supreme Basileus

Soror Eva Lois Evans, 24th Supreme Basileus

Report of Rules: Soror Constance Gardner, Chairman, Nu Delta Omega

Soror Constance Gardner presented the rules as printed in the Conference Agenda.

Chapter Roll Call:

Soror Cassandra A. McCray, 63rd South Atlantic Regional, Conference Grammateus, Epsilon Chi Omega

Chapters were recognized by state and asked to let their attendance be known by applauding

enthusiastically.

Adoption of 62nd South Atlantic Regional Conference Minutes

Soror Lartarsha Beacham, Psi Theta Omega, 62nd South Atlantic Regional, Conference Grammateus

It was my pleasure to serve as Grammateus for the 62nd SARC in Orlando, FL

I submit the minutes with the necessary corrections for your approval

There were sorors who submitted corrections

Soror Sharon moved to accept the corrections to the minutes by common consent

Musical Selection

Cluster VII Ensemble

Introduction of the Regional Director

Soror Jan Carpenter Baker, Mid-Western Regional Director, Mu Omega

State of the South Atlantic Region Report

Soror Sharon Brown Harriott

South Atlantic Regional Director

Gamma Nu Omega

To Supreme Basileus Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Members of the Directorate, Former Supreme Basilei,

Former Regional Directors, and Sorors … Good Morning!


Sorors of the Significant South Atlantic Region, on behalf of the Sorors of Cluster VII, I welcome you to the 63rd

South Atlantic Regional Conference on the Grand Strand here in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where over 3,500

sorors and guests are in attendance.

Sorors, I realize that this is not only a Boule year, but also that this year’s Boule happens to take place in our region.

I am so thankful that you have traveled from nearby cities here in South Carolina and from as far away as the Peach

State of Georgia and the Sunshine State of Florida to share your Easter weekend with me for my second regional

conference. I do hope that you find some quality time to spend with your honey do’s and honey don’ts. I also pray

that each of you have a safe journey back home. Over the next few days I hope you will take the time to learn, to

fellowship, to celebrate, and to embrace all that is Alpha Kappa Alpha as we continue to take this journey as “Pearls

on the Grand Strand – Fulfilling our Purpose.” This past year has been a busy one for the South Atlantic Region,

but you continue to be Pearls of Promise…with Purpose…Passion…Perseverance…and Performance.

PURPOSE

Women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated provide leadership, sisterhood and service with purpose.

Since the last regional conference in Orlando, Florida, I have represented this region with undying love,

commitment and compassion while taking a whirlwind tour of not only the region, but also of the entire country

and even abroad.

Shortly after total knee replacement surgery in July, your regional director was conducting the business of Alpha

Kappa Alpha. Your South Atlantic Regional Director endeavors to serve you in the manner in which you so richly

deserve. For the last eleven months, I have traveled thousands of miles throughout the region to attend cluster

conferences, chapter anniversaries, founders’ day activities, directorate meetings, and regional and boule planning

committee meetings just to name a few.

What you give each day is remarkable as we continue to “Launch New Dimensions of Service.” I have seen you in

the trenches; I have stood with you as you led and exhibited our commitment to serve mankind in our communities,

states and the world and demonstrated that we serve with a purpose.

Almost 900 sorors from the South Atlantic Region attended the Leadership Seminar in Chicago, Illinois, where

sorors that stood in line for registration, were greeted by directorate members and were able to tour our Corporate

Offices at 5656 South Stony Island. In addition, Madame Supreme Basileus Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson recognized

the importance of bringing the Undergraduate Summit back into the discussion for the sustainability, longevity,

and the survival of our undergraduate chapters and the sorority. The Undergraduate Summit was first held under

our very own and beloved pearl, Soror Mary Shy Scott, 23rd Supreme Basileus, because continuing our

undergraduate presence and relationships to the sorority were very important to her. These summits continued under

our 24th Supreme Basileus, Soror Eva L. Evans. Thank you, Sorors Dorothy, and Eva, for remembering the

importance of our undergraduates.

I have provided sisterly support of our sister regions by attending regional conferences in the South Eastern Region

led by Soror Mary F. Conner and the Mid-Western Region led by Soror Jan M. Carpenter-Baker. After our Regional

Conference, I will also be attending regional conferences of the Great Lakes Region, led by Soror Toni S. Kendrick,

and the Mid-Atlantic Region, led by Soror Joyce Henderson.

During our fall, Undergraduate Roundup we once again partnered with the International Regional Director, Soror

Gizette L. Thomas, as she joined us at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida, where over 845 undergraduate

sorors, graduate advisors and members were in attendance. During our roundup, we donated 300 backpacks and

over 4,650 school supplies to the Osceola County School District in Orlando, Florida. There were over 840 sorors

in attendance and over 250 undergraduate sorors were from Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs).

I, along with the Cluster Coordinators, hosted the Fall Directorate Meeting in Hilton Head, South Carolina, where

the Directorate was greeted with Southern hospitality and fanfare befitting of a queen.

Our cluster conferences continue to be exemplary affairs. Last year we hosted eight cluster conferences in the great

states of South Carolina (Hilton Head, Bennettsville, and Spartanburg), Georgia (Americus and Duluth), and

Florida (Coral Springs, St. Petersburg, and Ocala) with over 3,600 attendees. The theme was “The Power of the

Pearl Connection” and workshops focused on programs, AKA Connection and membership. We are proud to

announce that the Significant South Atlantic Region donated over 1,500 backpacks to various schools and


community organizations. We continued to host our Sisterly Pep Rallies and focused on "Think HBCU" pride.

Congratulations to the chapters that won for "The Best HBCU skit" and "The Best Stroll/Step Team" categories.

Yes, Sorors, women of Alpha Kappa Alpha continue to play just as hard as we serve.

I am truly honored to serve as your South Atlantic Regional Director and as I have stated before, I do not take this

privilege lightly. My heart beams with the knowledge that our sisterhood and our service will continue to reign

supreme. Sorors, I ask that you continue to walk with me on this quest toward being a Pearl of Purpose, Passion,

Perseverance, and Performance.

Promises Made . . . Promise Kept, my Sorors.

PASSION

Sorors of the Significant South Atlantic Region, you continue to hold high the torch of service to all mankind with

your overwhelming support and tireless commitment with our current programs: EDUCATIONAL

ENRICHMENT, including our signature program A.S.C.E.N.D., ONE MILLION BACKPACKS, HEALTH

PROMOTION, FAMILY STRENGTHENING, ENVIRONMENTAL OWNERSHIP, and GLOBAL IMPACT.

Sorors, not only have you worked hard with our national programs, but throughout this region you have also shown

your AKA pride and commitment by participating in our IMPACT DAYS.

Following last year’s regional conference, we participated in several Community Impact Days. We participated in

the 1908 Playground Mobilization Day in May, The Longest Day Alzheimer’s Support in June, Mental Health

Awareness Day in July, and Childhood Hunger Awareness Day in October. We continued to conduct MLK Day of

Service activities in January and participated in "Pink Goes Red" for Heart Health Awareness Day in February.

Sorors, you have not only embraced our Supreme Basileus’ vision of "Launching New Dimensions of Service," but

you also have taken the baton and you are winning the race. We have two more years before we reach the finish

line, so I ask you to continue to move forward with the spirit and the passion you continuously display.

Thank you to our regional representative, Soror Thuane B. Fielding, and her committee for keeping us informed

and excited about "LAUNCHING NEW DIMENSIONS OF SERVICE."

We continue to “Take A.C.T.I.O.N. and BE THE VOICE” through our AKA Connection with a focus on Education,

Registration, Mobilization and Participation. Sorors, I applaud you for continuing to take “A Day On Instead of A

Day Off,” as chapters hosted MLK Day of Service activities throughout the region.

Thank you to State Coordinators, Soror Karen Bennet for Georgia, Soror Kimberly Greene for South Carolina, and

Soror Laurise Thomas for Florida. These Sorors must be commended for their tireless efforts to make certain that

we had an active role in the discussion at our State Capitols involving Civil Rights, Social Injustice, and Family

Strengthening and for the hard work they put into making our AKA Days at the Capitol a success. During AKA

Day at the Capitol in South Carolina, we were graced with the presence of Former Secretary of State and

Presidential Candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton. All I can say, sorors, is that was a day we will never forget. I

whole-heartedly thank Soror Sylvia Blackmon Roberts, Chairman, and Soror Tiffany Moore Russell, South

Atlantic Representative to the International Connection Committee, for their leadership and commitment. I would

also like to take this opportunity to recognize sorors serving in the South Carolina House of Representatives who

spent sixteen (16) hours in session to fight the removal of the Confederate flag from the grounds of the South

Carolina State Capitol: Representative Patricia Moore Henegan, House District 54, and our very own Cluster VII

Coordinator; Representatives Mia McLeod, House District 79; and Chandra Dillard, House District 23, who also

serves as South Carolina's Legislative Liaison to the Connection Committee. THANK YOU!!! Sorors, this is a very

important year to make your vote count and to encourage others to do the same. You cannot have a voice if you do

not vote!!! PLEASE BE THE VOICE!!!

The South Atlantic Region is "Wild and Fascinated About EAF" and Alpha Kappa Alpha continues to benefit from

your generosity. This year at Boule we will capitalize the SBH Access and Equity Community Service Endowment.

Thank you for your generous donations and your support in helping me meet this goal.

During Leadership Seminar in Chicago, we were first-place winners in the Large Region Category and showcased

Ten Platinum Chapters during the EAF Parade. Yes, sorors, we are "Wild and Fascinated about EAF!" Thank you

to our EAF Coordinator, Soror Deidre Barrett England, who continues to think of wild and innovative ways to


encourage members to give whole-heartedly toward the sorority’s scholarship initiatives. In 2016, to date we have

17 Platinum. I am confident that we can reach the 20 mark prior to July!

Sorors of the Significant South Atlantic Region, thank you for ensuring that the South Atlantic Region remains on

top and in the lead, not only for having the largest number of financially active members, but also for the

commitment and service that led us to become members of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Remember, we do not have to

reinvent the wheel, but simply put a new perspective on some vital and necessary service initiatives we have been

doing for decades. Let us continue to be fired up with passion about “Launching New Dimensions of Service.”


PERSEVERANCE

The South Atlantic Region experienced a tragic loss last year in which our bond as a sisterhood was important and

necessary to see us through.

On Wednesday, June 17, 2015, the landscape of South Carolina, South Atlantic Region, and our nation was changed

forever. Who would have thought that someone would walk into an African Methodist Episcopal Church and launch

an assault that would take nine innocent lives while they were in prayer service? What is now known as the Emanuel

9 is just one in a string of tragedies that has engulfed our society. Alpha Kappa Alpha stood tall as we ministered

to the families of our fallen sorors and to the other families affected by this tragedy. Rest assured that our beloved

sorority is working systematically and with vigor to address the issues of violence, police brutality and injustice.

The South Atlantic and International regions experienced severe weather the fall of last year. In early October,

South Carolina experienced a historic flooding that shut down interstates, led to at least six deaths, and sent search

crews scrambling to rescue many residents who were trapped by rising waters. The hardest-hit areas in South

Carolina stretched from Columbia, through the middle of the state, to the coast, from Georgetown and down to

Charleston. Much of Columbia and surrounding areas were hit with two feet of rainfall. Governor Nikki Haley

made a verbal declaration request to the federal government, and President Barack Obama signed a state-wide

emergency declaration authorizing federal aid in anticipation of more rainfall.

At every regional conference, we pay respect to our members who have become an Ivy Beyond the Wall, but it is

rare that one of these ivies is an undergraduate member. Soror Taylor Moore, a member of Alpha Beta Chapter at

Fort Valley State University, was involved in a single-vehicle crash near the university’s campus in Georgia. Soror

Moore, twenty-two years of age, was a senior mass communications major. She was a resident of Powder Springs,

Georgia. She was initiated into the Alpha Beta Chapter in the spring of 2014.

Sorors, let us continue to bond and love one another, for we know not when that day will come when we need a

helping hand, a shoulder to cry on, or thoughts and prayers.

“We help each other, for we know there is no other like our sisterhood, Alpha Kappa Alpha.” Thank you for

embracing the sisterly relations initiative and including it in your service to all mankind and toward one another.

Being a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha requires a solemn promise and profound desire to make a difference not

only within our chapters but also within our communities. Be steadfast in your allegiance and eagerly accept

assigned tasks and challenges. Sorors, thank you once again for your participation in International Sisterly Relations

Day on January 15th, "Pink Goes Red" Celebrations in February, Diamond, Golden, and Silver Sorors’ Shower of

Love this month. During the Carolyn House Stewart's Diamond, Golden and Silver Sorors' recognized, Soror

Everette R. Brown from Eta Zeta Omega chapter in Sumter, South Carolina and Soror Carrie Lawrence from

Epsilon Sigma Omega chapter in Florence, South Carolina, as our newest Diamond Sorors.

Thank you, Soror Jahari Soward and your committee, for your sisterly guidance and love as we continue to embrace

the Sisterly Relations initiative by “Nurturing Our Ivy” through recognition, relationships, and respect. We are

The Significant South Atlantic Region: Supreme in Service and Sisterliness!

Membership is alive and well in the Significant South Atlantic Region. As our very own Supreme Grammateus,

Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, emphasized during her tenure as the International Membership Chairman,

"Membership Matters." Also, thank you to Soror Kimberly Willis Greene and her committee for continuing to

make membership a “serious matter.” We are 167 chapters strong with 109 graduate chapters and 58 undergraduate

chapters. Since September 2014, I have approved 26 graduate requests and 36 undergraduate requests. Basilei,

graduate advisors and membership chairmen, please refer to the most current membership intake forwarded to you

in the Fall 2015 mailing. Make sure you utilize the current processes, procedures, and forms necessary to process


your membership intake request. These forms, which are fillable, can be found in the “Members Only” section of

the corporate website. Please use this advance technology to your benefit.

In addition to approving membership intake requests, five of our undergraduate chapters have been reinstated.

Unfortunately, I continue to deal with the unpleasant reality of hazing and other practices that go against our Soror

Code of Ethics, which includes the following: one withdrawal of privileges, three undergraduate chapter

suspensions, four undergraduate chapter member suspensions, and seven suspensions with recommendations for

expulsion.

You will recall, that during our cluster conferences we included a segment on risk management so that we could

continue to strengthen the ties that bind us as undergraduate and graduate members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,

Incorporated. I am calling on sorors in every chapter that sponsors an undergraduate chapter to serve as mentors to

our younger sorors. This effort would enable the undergraduates to understand the dedication, devotion and love

the sixteen founders put into the inception and incorporation of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. We are women of

substance, refinement, and class. Sorors, if you have not created a mentoring program for your undergraduate

chapter, now is the time to do so.

The South Atlantic Region has also conducted numerous evaluations and investigations. To date, Florida's chapter

evaluations are 38 percent complete, Georgia's chapter evaluations are 31 percent complete and South Carolina's

chapter evaluations are 36 percent complete. Remember that all chapters will be evaluated during this

administration. Sorors, thank you for your cooperation and patience during these evaluations and a very special

thank you to Soror Ora Douglas, our South Atlantic Representative to the International Standards Committee and

the members of our South Atlantic Evaluation/Investigative Teams for their commitment and sisterliness.

On a higher note, sorors, the South Atlantic Region welcomed its newest graduate chapters with the chartering of

Omega Gamma Omega in Blythewood, South Carolina with seventy charter members. Omega Gamma Omega

will focus on service to the Blythewood, Columbia, Northeast area. Congratulations, sorors!

I am also proud to announce that we have eight undergraduate sorors who were accepted into the 2016 Leadership

Fellows program. Congratulations to Sorors: Nathalie Bazelais from Zeta Omicron chapter at Florida State

University; Nia Bush from Mu Pi chapter at Spelman College; Briana Kinnel from Lambda Kappa chapter at

Georgia Southern University; Ciara Miller from Sigma Tau chapter at Armstrong State University; Deandra Rucker

from Lambda Kappa chapter at Southern University; Princess Singleton from Nu Alpha chapter at Emory

University; Erica Thomas from Beta Alpha chapter at Florida A&M University; and Destinee Wilson from Lambda

Theta chapter at Clemson University.

The Significant South Atlantic Region continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Sorors, as we welcome new

members into our sisterhood, let us not forget to retain the ones we already have, to reactivate our lost pearls, and

to nurture our undergraduates once they graduate so that they continue their life-long membership in a graduate

chapter. Sorors, our membership is important to the survival of our sorority, and there will always be ups and down

. . . but as Pearls of Promise…perseverance is what strengthens the bonds of sisterhood.


PERFORMANCE

Sorors, I have made every effort to be accessible to you, and I thank you for adhering to my office hours, Tuesday,

and Thursday from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. This schedule allows me to focus on my travel plans for the weekend

and utilize the early evening to devote time for processing paperwork. I am always accessible via email or text as

my schedule permits.

We continue to put our best foot forward with our savvy and stalwart communications and technology team to

ensure that the South Atlantic Region is informed, inclusive, and technologically astute. Since July of last year, we

have disseminated over ninety News Alerts through mass e-blasts, and four Pearls of Promise Newsletters,

including a special pictorial edition of the 62nd South Atlantic Regional Conference. I hope you have had an

opportunity to view our new and improved website, and we will continue to improve our social media initiatives

through our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram sites.

In fact, I hope that you have had an opportunity to download the 63rd SARC app so that you can be kept abreast of

everything that occurs here on the Grand Strand. It is the goal of the Charismatic Sorors of Cluster VII to keep


members Involved, Interested, and Excited during this conference. I hope you have found the Ivy Blitz, a bi-weekly

update on the 63rd SARC to keep you informed about deadlines, events, and activities. During this conference, you

will have free wireless access. Please enjoy it, but use it wisely. Remember, we do not record the business of Alpha

Kappa Alpha. Your smart devices are to be used to promote and showcase the great activities taking place during

this conference by posting pictures and videos to our Twitter page @AKA_SAREGION, Facebook page

AKA.SAREGION, and Instagram page @AKA_SAREGION. Don’t forget to use #63SARC and

#PicturePerfectPearls when posting. My only request is that you hold off in the excitement of social media during

our plenary sessions so that we can focus on the business of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

Last year, the South Atlantic Region launched a new SharePoint site for gathering chapter reports. I hope that you

found this new system convenient and accessible. As we continue to utilize technology for our communications

and operational needs, please note that I will no longer accept hard copies or jump drives for electronic reporting.

Can you imagine 167 chapters sending packets for their chapter reporting? Alpha Kappa Alpha is moving toward

a paperless system and I am confident that all chapters will continue to embrace this new model.

While our communications are instantaneous, it does lead to some challenges. Sorors, please be cognizant of what

you release into cyberspace. We do not use social media to fight our battles, settle petty disputes, share confidential

information, or portray our organization in a hostile or inappropriate manner.

Please visit our regional website at akasouthatlanticregion.org and our social media sites as we continue to make

updates and improvements so that you have the information and resources needed to be successful. We will use

technological advances to benefit our membership. Please continue to accept the challenge and follow us on these

mediums that have taken over the world! We want you online instead of in line.

If you have not already done so, I invite you to text, tweet, and Instagram the good news of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

Today I debut for you the NEW South Atlantic Region Web Site. More features, updated photo galleries and, yes,

the first edition of Southern Conversations.

There is a saying that people with pride in performance hold themselves accountable for higher standards of

performance. I hope you are enjoying this 63rd SARC conference thus far, and I would like to take this opportunity

to acknowledge and thank to Conference Chairman, Soror Utocqua R. Grissett; Co-Chairmen, Sorors Latonya

Dilligard Edwards, Gloria Dudley, and Alicia Green; Cluster VII Coordinator, Soror Patricia Moore Henegan; and

the sorors of Cluster VII, for their hard work, commitment, sisterliness, and countless hours in making this

conference a success. Thank you, sorors for this wonderful experience on the Grand Strand here in Myrtle Beach,

South Carolina. We have met, we have planned, and now this is the reward. You are to be commended for a job

well done.

There is another group of sorors whom I must acknowledge who are preparing to welcome an estimated 20,000

plus members and guests to the Southern state of Georgia and the city of HOTlanta for the 67th Boule. Thank you,

sorors of Cluster V and Soror Shevawn Broxton Young, Cluster V Coordinator for all that you have done and will

continue to do in preparation of painting the city of Atlanta salmon pink and apple green. Madame Supreme and

the Corporate Office staff have great things to say about your commitment, creativity, and hard work. AKAlades

to our General Conference Chairman, Soror Kim Boyd and Conference Co-Chairmen, Sorors Marjorie H. Young

and Regina Caruthers for your leadership and commitment toward making this Boule a grand affair. We cannot

forget our 13th Regional Director, Soror Lucretia Payton Stewart, who serves as the Honorary Conference Chairman

for her guidance and support. The last time the Boule was held in Atlanta was 1980 when our beloved Soror Mary

Shy Scott, 23rd Supreme Basileus, served as the conference's General Chairman. Madame Supreme Basileus and

Cluster V sorors, Alpha Kappa Alpha members are excited about Atlanta, and we cannot wait to take part in all the

wonderful events and activities you have planned for us. Thank you, sorors!


CLOSING REMARKS Sorors, I come before you once again with a humble heart and sisterly love this morning as the Director of the

Significant South Atlantic Region. Our Ivy Beyond the Wall, Soror Maya Angelou penned the words, “Love

recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, and penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”

Serving as your regional director is an honor and a privilege I hold near and dear to my heart every day. Thank you,


former regional directors, Frederica Wilson, Vertelle M. Middleton, Lucretia Payton Stewart, Sonja Williams

Garcia, Irene Westbrooks McCollom, Ella Springs Jones, and Marsha Lewis Brown for paving the way and for

your love and support of my administration. I extend thanks to Sorors Norma Solomon White and Carolyn House-

Stewart for your support and for representing the Significant South Atlantic Region with style and grace as the 25 th

and 28th Supreme Basileus of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I could not forget the sweet, sweet spirit

of our 23rd Supreme Basileus Soror Mary Shy Scott. We must also pay homage, to Soror Deloris Hamm Oliver, the

9th Regional Director, who was my mentor and friend. Their presence will always be with us.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is ever changing and demands servant leaders with a clear vision, firm

principles, decisiveness, and a profound understanding of the sorority. The South Atlantic Region has groomed and

provided many awesome leaders on the local, regional, and international level. There are three members from the

Significant South Atlantic Region who serve on the 2014-2016 Directorate: Soror Charletta Wilson-Jacks, Supreme

Grammateus; Soror Annalise Anise, Undergraduate-Member-At-Large; and yours truly. Thank you, Sorors

Charletta and Annalise for representing the South Atlantic Region with style and grace. Soror Annalise, we know

you will continue to make us proud as you take on new endeavors and challenges as a college graduate and working

in her chosen field as a Doctor of Pharmacy!

We are fortunate to have four members to serve as International Chairmen: Sorors Marsha Lewis Brown for

Strategic Planning, Carolyn Randolph for Nominating, Theresa M. House for Technology, and Sylvia Blackmon-

Roberts for Connection. I extend a very special thank you to Sorors Thuane B. Fielding (Programs), Tiffany Moore

Russell (Connection) Ora Douglas (Standards), and Kimberly Willis Greene (Membership) for traveling with me

during the Cluster Conference season. International Chairmen and International committee members, please stand

at this time to be recognized.

Thank you to my "POPs," Pearls of Promise, for their commitment to serve, hard work, and tireless leadership.

Yes, I am talking about the Committed, Courageous, and Classy Cluster Coordinators: Soror Sylvia Sloane Jones,

Cluster I; Soror Donna Douglas, Cluster II; Soror Rose Dean Andrews, Cluster III; Soror Angie Bobo Onianwa,

Cluster IV; Soror Shevawn Broxton-Young, Cluster V; Soror DeVetta Williams Hughes, Cluster VI; Soror Patricia

Moore Henegan, Cluster VII; and Soror Gloria Harrison Boozer, VIII. Thank you, sorors, you each hold a very

special place in my heart.

Sorors, I could not do all that I do and keep my sanity without a special group of women who are always available

at my beckoning call or text, who respond with sisterliness and service without complaining, who keep me

organized, and who make me look good.

A very, very special thank you to my Support Staff

Soror DeVetta Williams Hughes, Chief of Staff

Soror Doretha Hibler Glymph, Regional Executive Assistant

Soror Joyce Williams Bell, Regional Administrative Liaison

Soror Margaret E. Suber, Administrative Office Manager

Soror Vivian Brown Dowdy, Regional Treasurer

Soror Ivadella Walters, Regional Financial Secretary

Soror Gerry Watson Coleman, Regional Parliamentarian

Soror Beauty P. Baldwin, Regional Hodegos

Soror Franka H. Young, Regional Communications Officer

Soror Rowena G. Loadholt, Regional Editor-in-Chief

Soror Barbara P. Elliott, Regional Editor

Soror Dianne Williams-Cox, Regional Technology Chairman

Soror Erika Pierre, Regional Technology Co-Chairman

Soror Adelma M. Stanford, Web Mistress

Soror Odessa Striggles Bennett, Regional Protocol Chairman

Soror Kyshia Carey, Regional Protocol Co-Chairman

Soror Kaci Greene, Regional Protocol Co-Chairman

Soror Sarah-elaine Jones, Regional Logistics Chairman

Soror Karen Harrison, Regional Logistics Co-Chairman


Sorors, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and know that all you have done for me is truly appreciated and

will never be forgotten.

To the members of Cluster VII, again thank you for your steadfast commitment, your tireless leadership, and the

numerous hours you have dedicated to making this 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference, a grand success.

Please stand Sorors of Cluster VII, so that we can applaud you on a job well done.

I would not be who I am or able to stand before you today if I did not have the support of my chapter Gamma Nu

Omega in Columbia, South Carolina; my family, friends, and colleagues, including "my babies," Pepper and Misty;

and each one of you. Sorors of the Significant South Atlantic Region, thank you for your love, support, and words

of encouragement during my administration. They have provided me with an extra boost of energy to keep me on

this journey as your South Atlantic Regional Director.

In closing, I ask that you continue to keep me in your prayers as we continue to walk this journey together with

Purpose, Passion, Perseverance, and Performance.

Sorors of the Significant South Atlantic Region, remember…

We are Pearls of Purpose because I believe we are here for a reason and our purpose is greater than our

challenges.

We are Pearls of Passion because purpose is the reason for the journey but passion is the fire that lights the way.

We are Pearls of Perseverance because we will continue to persist in whatever we undertake to maintain a purpose

despite the difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement. “Remember perseverance is the hard work you do after you get

tired of doing the hard work you already did.”

We are Pearls of Performance because you will never know your limits until you push yourself towards them; and

sorors, you keep showing up and showing out!

Sorors, we are the Pearls of Promise and we will continue to hold high the torch of leadership, service, and

sisterhood in the Significant South Atlantic Region.

Promises Made . . . Promises Kept, My Sorors

Sorors behind me, pearls around me and Madame Supreme will you please accept the State of the Region

Report

Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Supreme Basileus stated, “Sorors you have heard the remarkable report of the

South Atlantic Regional Director of the Significant South Atlantic Region what is your pleasure?”

Soror Marsha Brown moved to accept the state of the region for the South Atlantic Region given by our

Significant South Atlantic Regional Director with the highest commendations.

Soror Ella Springs Jones seconded and asked that the sorors of the Significant South Atlantic Region do so with a

standing ovation. The motion passed

Solo: Soror Onya Gardner, Mu Iota Omega

Rise Up

International Committee Reports

Nominating

Soror Carolyn G. Randolph, Chairman International Nominating Committee, Gamma Tau Omega

Music: It’s My Time

Activities of the International Nominating Committee 2015

• Conducted the workshop So You Want to Run for Office (SYWTRFO) at all Regional

Conferences except the International Region

• Conducted the nomination process for election of the International Region Representative to the

International Nominating Committee at International Regional Conference, July 2015

• SYWTRFO workshop presented at The Leadership Training Conference, Chicago, IL, July

2015

• Presentation made at seven (7) Undergraduate Roundups


• Candidate Certification January 7 – 10, 2016 Chicago, IL

• Certification Report • 41 Packages Received

• 37 Packages Certified

• 4 Packages NOT Certified

• Call for Nominations

• Extended on February 4, 2016 for UNDERGRADUATES ONLY

• 2016 Certified Candidates

INTERNATIONAL POSITIONS

• Supreme Grammateus: Charletta Wilson Jacks, South Atlantic Region

• Supreme Tamiouchos: Danette Anthony Reed, South Central Region

Undergraduate Member-at-Large

Taj Brimmer, Mid-Western Region

Aeris Broussard, South Central Region

Antoria Frazier, South Atlantic Region

Shandria Pate, Far Western Region

Deanne Roberts, South Atlantic Region

Victoria Simpson, South Atlantic Region

SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

South Atlantic Regional Director: Sharon Brown Harriott

INC REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Call for Nomination

NORTH ATLANTIC REGION

North Atlantic Regional Director: Meredith Henderson

INC REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Call for Nomination

GREAT LAKES REGION

Great Lakes Regional Director: Toni Kendrick

INC REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

• Monica Bourns

• Nancy Quarles

MID-ATLANTIC REGION

• Mid-Atlantic Regional Director: Joyce Henderson

• INC REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Call for Nomination

FAR-WESTERN REGION

Far Western Regional Director

• Shelby Robinson Boagni

• Juanita Dawson

• Carol R. Dixon

• Linda Gaines Brooks

• Lynette Henley


• Saeida Miller

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

South Central Regional Director

• Janice Montagues-Myles

• Brigid Ann Roberson

• Patricia Roberts

• Katina Semien

• Marian Ann Willard


Felecia Layeni

Kim Powers McCree

Keesha Williams


INTERNATIONAL REGION

INC REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Elected 2015: Mervelle Sage

CENTRAL REGION

Central Regional Director: Kathy Walker-Steele


• Dana Branham

• Joyce L. Nelson

SOUTH EASTERN REGION

South Eastern Regional Director: Mary B. Conner


• Stephanie Barnes Taylor

MID-WESTERN REGION

Mid-Western Regional Director: Jan Carptenter-Baker


• Barbara Anne Washington

International Nominating Committee

Carolyn G. Randolph, Chairman South Atlantic

Mona Calhoun, North Atlantic

LaFrances Williams, Mid-Atlantic

Jennifer Niles, Great Lakes

Stephanie Barnes Taylor, South Eastern

Gabrielle Hicks, Central

Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Supreme Basileus called for nominations from the floor for South Atlantic

Regional Director. Sorors hearing no nominations from the floor by acclamations can we accept Soror Sharon

Brown Harriott for the office of South Atlantic Regional Director.

Applause Connection

Soror Sylvia Blackmon-Roberts, International Connection Committee Chairman, Omicron Kappa Omega

Soror Tiffany Moore Russell, South Atlantic Representative International Connection Committee, Psi Theta

Omega

2014-2016 Connection Goals and Objectives

• Develop a multi-faceted strategic Connection program with a focus on civil rights, social justice, and

voter education, registration, mobilization, and participation.

• Galvanize our diverse membership to become a united force for change through the Take A.C.T.I.O.N.

Program (Advocate, Communicate, Train, Influence, Organize and Network) and our Voter Awareness

Program, Be The VOICE.

• Offer leadership development opportunities that educate sorors on how to seek appointments and be

elected to public offices.

• Increase Black voter participation rates in the 2016 election to mirror or exceed 2008 AND 2012 voter

turnout percentages.

Advocacy Program

Take A.C.T.I.O.N. Voter Awareness Program

Be the VOICE

• Advocate for legislation supporting fairness and the appointment of special prosecutors

• Communicate with others on issues of common interest

• Train community members on the grand jury process

• Influence elected and appointed officials to support legislation that reflects Sorority goals and

community values

• Organize voter registration and education events and mobilize the electorate to participate in the

political process


• Network with others to gain greater insight on how to seek elected and appointed offices and how to

leverage membership size to improve local communities

Take A.C.T.I.O.N.

South Atlantic Best of the Best

Advocacy: Eta Eta Omega (Vero Beach/Ft. Pierce, FL) Due to the increasing numbers of gang activities in St.

Lucie County, the chapter was looking for solutions that would help young people address how to handle

conflicts and violence. Due to the current lawsuit facing Indian River County School District about the excessive

numbers of black males being expelled and suspended, the chapter looked at how both issues could be addressed.

All stakeholders were given an opportunity to participate in the training. The goal of the chapter was to have

stakeholders to invest in this module so that we as a community can provide options for students in handling

conflicts and violence.

Letter Writing Campaigns: Chi Tau Omega (Covington, GA) Sorors participated in two letter writing

campaigns. The first campaign was to lobby the Georgia Legislature to properly fund support for the

Alzheimer’s Association. As a result, the association received its funding. The second campaign was to advocate

for the confirmation of Attorney Loretta Lynch as United States Attorney General. She too was successfully

confirmed.

Selma Viewing Activity: Omicron Kappa Omega (Lakeland, FL) hosted a voter education forum on the MLK

Impact Day called: A Day Service, A Day of Unity. Sorors of Omicron Kappa Omega was able to secure an

entire movie theater for the viewing of the movie Selma. During the credits and after the movie, speakers were

scheduled to discuss various topics from the importance of voting, the history surrounding voting and the impact

voting has on the communities we serve. Speakers ranged from the NAACP branch president, City

Commissioner and Clergy members. There were 200 citizens in attendance and 24 sorors participated.

National Voter Registration Day Event: Upsilon Alpha Omega (Lawrenceville, GA) Upsilon Alpha Omega

conducted nineteen (19) voter registration drives. The conducted four on Constitution Day and held six on

National Voter Registration Day. UAO partnered with eleven other community partners to complete the 19

registration drives. UAO was successful in registering 770 new voters.

Photographs of South Atlantic Advocacy at its Best

Selma Viewing

OMICRON KAPPA OMEGA MLK DAY OF SERVICE

UPSILON ALPHA OMEGA

International and South Atlantic Region Connection Committee Members attend the awards program at

the Florida Capitol Honoring Legislator and Florida Supreme Court Justice Member during the Florida

AKA Day at the Capitol Tallahassee, FL Regions # of Letter Writing

Campaigns

AKA Day at the

Capitol Attendees

Selma Viewings and National Voter Registration Day

Activities

North Atlantic 68 654 144

Mid Atlantic 23 513 117

South Atlantic 33 518 188

Great Lakes 555 363 1,354

Central 75 403 20

South Central 25 560 115

Mid-Western 6 164 0

Far Western 3 144 10

South Eastern 17 438 91

International 2 4 0

TOTALS: 807 3,761 2,039

2015 Advocacy Efforts:

Be the VOICE

Voter Education

Voter Registration

Voter Mobilization

Voter Participation

2015 Be the VOICE in Review


2015 Voter Awareness Efforts

Regions # of Voter

Education

Events

# of Voters

Registered

# of Voters Taken to the Polls

North Atlantic 198 4,122 402

Mid Atlantic 223 4008 527

South Atlantic 103 8350 1433

Great Lakes 1,306 195 127

Central 44 1085 93

South Central 100 14,287 681

Mid-Western 36 776 107

Far Western 24 155 0

South Eastern 66 4926 738

International 4 45 0

TOTALS: 2104 37949 4,108

Be the VOICE

South Atlantic Best of the Best Voter Education: Phi Pi Omega (Fayette & Coweta Counties, GA) An open letter was circulated for citizens

and partners with the Fayette County NAACP branch and the letter asked voters to work in conjunction with the

members of the civil suit against the Fayette County Commissioners and School Board regarding redistricting.

The question was about Judge Battens’ decision on district voting versus at-large voting.

Voter Registration: Beta Sigma (South Carolina State University, South Carolina) Beta Sigma sorors

conducted a voter registration drive on the campus of South Carolina State University to educate their fellow

students on the importance of being registered voters. Beta Sigma registered 55 students at one registration drive.

Voter Mobilization/Unique Event: Sigma Omega Omega (Douglasville, GA) The Cluster V Coordinator in

conjunction with the sorors from the Sigma Omega Omega chapter coordinated a voter mobilization campaign

for the Mayoral Election Run-Off. One of the candidates was a soror and member of the chapter. In the previous

election Soror Robinson failed to win the run-off and the sorors noticed the voter turnout decreased for the run-

offs. The chapter and Cluster Coordinator created an electronic message that shared information on both

candidates. Sorors also assisted the candidate with voter outreach activities. Because of the coordinated efforts,

Soror Robinson defeated the incumbent to become the first African-American Mayor of Douglasville, GA.

Voter Participation / Number of Voters Taken to the Polls: Beta Zeta Omega (Orangeburg, SC) Beta Zeta

Omega partnered with several community organizations to mobile voters during the local elections. They worked

with churches to utilize their buses and vans to move the people. Because of the hard work, they provided 950

voters with rides to the polls.

Elected Officials: Soror Rochelle Robinson, Mayor of Douglasville, GA. Soror Rochelle defeated the

incumbent mayor to become the first African-American Mayor of the city. She served thirty years in the Army

and is a member of Sigma Omega Omega Chapter.

Voter Education:

Voter Registration

Voter Mobilization

Voter Participation


Slide Presentation: Displayed photographs of Sorors engaged in Voter’s Registration Day

Beta Sigma – South Carolina State University, National Voter Registration Day

Mu Zeta - Augusta University, National Voter Registration Day

Gamma Theta Omega, Tampa, FL

Kappa Omega – Voter Education Forum

2015 AKA DAY’s AT THE CAPITOL: Photographs of Sorors attending AKA Day at the Capitol

Georgia

South Carolina

Florida

Want to Know More About Connection in 2016?

2016 South Atlantic Regional Conference

Launching New Dimension of Connection: Being the Voice through

Voter Education, Registration, Mobilization and Participation

Saturday, March 26, 2016 (Offered during Session I ONLY)

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

8:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

Take A.C.T.I.O.N.

Launching New Dimensions of Political Service By popular demand and inspired by the International Connection Committee goal; “to offer leadership development

opportunities that educate sorors on how to seek appointments and be elected to public office”, this three-hour development

workshop targets sorors interested in running for elected office, appointed office or work in key campaign positions. Hands-on

training topics will cover four key elements: effective fundraising, marketing/branding, Get Out The Vote (GOTV) strategies

and building coalitions.

South Atlantic Region Connection Committee

Tiffany Moore Russell, International Connection Chairman

Psi Theta Omega Chapter

[email protected]

321-303-3536

South Atlantic Representative

FLORIDA

Soror Laurise Thomas, State Coordinator Senator Geraldine Thompson

Delta Kappa Omega, Tallahassee, FL Florida Legislative Liaison

[email protected] Delta Omicron Omega, Orlando, FL

[email protected] GEORGIA

Rep. Karen Bennett, State Coordinator Representative Carolyn Hugley

Tau Pi Omega, Stone Mountain, GA Georgia Legislative Liaison

[email protected] Gamma Tau Omega, Columbus, GA

[email protected]

SOUTH CAROLINA

Kimberly Greene, State Coordinator Representative Chandra Dillard

Gamma Xi Omega, Charleston, SC South Carolina Legislative Liaison

[email protected] Epsilon Tau Omega, Greenville, SC

[email protected]

Representative Mia Mcleod

South Carolina Legislative Liaison

General Member, Columbia, SC

[email protected]

INTERNATIONAL CONNECTION COMMITTEE

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Supreme Basileus

Sylvia Blackmon-Roberts, Chairman International Connection Committee

mailto:[email protected]








Deidra Albritton-Bundick, North Atlantic Region

An`jou C. Johnson, Mid-Atlantic Region

Tiffany Moore Russell, South Atlantic Region

Nancy Quarles, Great Lakes Region

C. Denise Wright, South Eastern Region

Bakahia Madison, Central Region

Myra Mckenzie-Harris, South Central Region

Twyla Woods-Buford, Mid-Western Region

Gail Atley, Far Western Region

Joyanne Archer, International Region

Chantell Atkins-Barbour, Committee Resource

Risk Management

Soror Earlene Striggles Horne, International Risk Management Task Force, Zeta Rho Omega

Video: Managing our Alpha Kappa Alpha

Music: Twenty Pearls

Video Highlights

2002 Sorority Lawsuit

Sorority Hazing Incidents

Risk Management is anything that jeopardizes the health, safety, and welfare of an individual or an

organization

Hazing is the sorority’s top Risk Management Issue

• It is often perceived as an undergraduate problem, it affects

chapters and members at every level

• Minimizing Hazing Risk: Basic Tenants

• Know your documents and rules

• Just say No

• Manage Our Reputation

• If you see Something, Say Something

• Other Key Areas of Risk

• Reputation

• Finances

• Operations

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Risk Management Plan

• Comprehensive Risk Management Plan Consist of:

Assessing

Evaluating

Managing

Monitoring

• Education is Key: The sorority started implementing educational sessions during the following

conferences

• 2015 Undergraduate Summit

• 2015 Undergraduate Round-Up and Retreats

• Continuing education efforts will be held at Regional Conferences and Boule

• Risk Management begins with you!

Special Thanks to the Risk Management Task Force

International Risk Management Task Force

Soror Susan Simms Marsh, Chairman, North Atlantic Region

Soror Katrina Brent, Mid-Atlantic Region

Soror Earlene Striggles Horne, South Atlantic Region

Soror Valery Tarver, Great Lakes Region

Soror Adrienne Pope-Kelly Washington, South Eastern Region

Soror Nekeidra Brown, Central Region


Soror Nadine C. Bonds, Central Region

Soror Lani Stigler, Mid-Western Region

Soror Erika Randall, Far Western Region

Soror Elisa G. Hodge, International Region

Soror Valarie Hill, Resource Central Region

Soror Noel Marie Niles, Resource Central

Soror Lynda Tarver, Resource Central

Membership

Soror Kimberly Willis Green, International Membership Committee, Psi Omega Omega

Madame Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott, Madame Supreme Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan

Wilson.

Good Morning!

Membership Makes Me Smile! The International Membership Committee has been working diligently to enhance

the sorority’s Membership Intake Process and mentoring program. Our Supreme Basileus’ theme is Launching

New Dimensions of Service. Launching New Dimensions in the Membership Intake Process (MIP) will continue

to be the International Membership Committee's focus.

Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Sisterhood is Multidimensional, Innovative, Lifelong and Engaging! These attributes

support Madame Supremes’ vision to expand our membership during this administration. The following

recommendations have been approved by the Directorate since our last regional conference.

Revision 1: The Membership End-of-Year Report can be submitted electronically.

Revision 2: Our undergraduate chapters now have the ability to utilize the college or university

electronic bulletin boards, also known as message boards or computer forums, to announce

approved Rush meetings or post fliers.

Revision 3: We have created a standardized log to track a graduate chapter soror’s eligibility to sponsor or

co-sponsor a candidate for membership.

Revision 4: The MIP Schedule of Activities for graduate and undergraduate MIP have been revised.

Sunday sessions will begin at 2:00 PM instead of 8:00 AM. Because of the 2014 MIP survey,

the following MIP Workshop topics have been added to the schedule: Soror Code of Ethics,

Use of Alpha Kappa Alpha Logo and Trademark, Social Media, Sisterly Relations, Mentoring,

and Risk Management.

Chapters in the Significant South Atlantic region have worked hard to reclaim our lost pearls! Of the 5,689 sorors

who reactivated in 2015, 610 were reclaimed by chapters in our region.

Sorors, we continue to Launch New Dimensions in Membership. The sorority’s membership as of December 31,

2015 was 65,305 which is a record number! I am pleased to announce that 125 out of 166 chapters in our region

submitted their Membership End of Year Reports by December 31, 2015.

The International Membership Committee has planned dynamic workshops for Regional Conferences and the 67 th

Boule in Atlanta. We invite you to come and participate in the workshop – “Membership Makes Me

S.M.I.L.E.: The Movie (Graduate Sorors Only). This workshop will feature:

Membership Committee Roles and Responsibilities

Graduate MIP Checklist with Timeline

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Mentoring Program

The “Ready for your Close Up: Membership Makes Me S.M.I.L.E.” workshop for undergraduates and certified

Graduate Advisors, focuses on:

Roles and Responsibilities of Members during MIP

Undergraduate MIP Checklist with Timeline

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Mentoring Program

Words of Wisdom from the Undergraduates to Graduate Advisors and

Words of Wisdom from the Graduate Advisor and Undergraduate Sorors


The International Membership Committee would like to strongly encourage sorors to join us in Atlanta

for the 67th Boule. Two exciting workshops have been developed to strengthen our membership intake

process.

Workshop 104 – “Bridging the Gap Between Undergraduate and Graduate Sorors During MIP” will

include a discussion of the roles and responsibilities of the Graduate Advisor, chapter basilei, MIP resource

committee and the Graduate Advisory Council. Sorors will gain a clear understanding of how each member plays

a significant role in MIP.

Workshop 118 – Managing Risk During the Graduate MIP: A Serious Matter – The International

Membership Committee will provide Sorors with the details about Graduate MIP and host a panel discussion on

how to avoid risks that will jeopardize the membership intake process and the sorority.

Mentoring also makes us smile! Mentoring is key to the longevity of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

We will now present the 2016 Alpha Kappa Alpha Regional Mentoring Awards. There were no submissions for

the Graduate to Undergraduate Mentoring Award. The Graduate to Graduate mentoring award winner is Lambda

Epsilon Omega – DeKalb County, GA!

LAMBDA EPSILON OMEGA CHAPTER – DEKALB COUNTY, GA!

Congratulations Sorors! Will members of the South Atlantic Region Membership Committee – please join me on

the floor with Madam Regional Director to congratulate them. Lambda Epsilon Omega will represent the region

as they compete for the International Mentoring Awards which will be presented at Boule in Atlanta.

And speaking of mentoring, Your South Atlantic Regional Awards Committee asked me to announce the winner

of the Lucretia Payton Stewart Outstanding Mentoring Award.

Second Place – Nu Lambda Omega Chapter – Atlanta, GA

First Place – Psi Alpha Omega Chapter – Clayton/Henry County GA

Congratulations Sorors!

The International Membership Committee encourages you to S.M.I.L.E. As Kirk Franklin says, you look so much

better when you smile! Thank you Sorors! When posting smiling pictures on social media, please use the

hashtag: #AKAMembershipMakesMeSmile

Thank you, Madame Regional Director, for allowing this report and thank you Madame Supreme Basileus for the

opportunity to serve! I’d also like to thank International Membership Committee Chairman, Soror Vanessa

Rogers Long, for her support, guidance, and leadership.

Madame Regional Director, this concludes the report of the International Membership Committee.

History Book Video Presentation

Highlights:

• Legendary: The First and The Best

• Legendary: Supreme in Service

• Legendary: A Sisterhood Like no Other

• Featured Sorors, Programs, headquarters, Brands all things AKA

• Featured Table of Content of the History Book

• Priceless Dimensions of Sisterhood and Service in AKA Pearls

• Buy more than One! Registration

Soror Latarsa Williams, Conference Registration Chairman, Upsilon Omega Omega

Chapter Registration: Total Active Chapters 137

As of Thursday, March 24, 2016

State Total Graduate Undergraduates Florida 44 33 11

Georgia 54 40 14 South Carolina 39 31 8

Close of Registration Thursday, March 24, 2016


Total Check-In: 2361

Graduate 2128

Undergraduate 215

Guest 18

Delegate report at the close of business on Thursday, March 24, 2016

State Delegates Certified Florida 156

Georgia 236

South Carolina 131

Total Certified 523

Madame Regional Director, this concludes the Registration report for Friday, March 25, 2016

Announcements

Soror Beauty P. Baldwin, South Atlantic Conference Hodegos, Upsilon Alpha Omega

Recess Second Plenary Session

Friday, March 25, 2016

3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Soror Sharon Brown Harriott

South Atlantic Regional Director, Presiding

Call to Order 3:05 pm

Musical Prelude Meditation

Soror Toni L. Kendrick, Great Lakes Regional Director, Alpha Alpha Omega Introduction of Supreme Basileus

Soror Lucretia Payton-Stewart, 13th South Atlantic Regional Director, Kappa Omega Solo

Soror Nicole Pryor-Smith, Eta Eta Omega

State of the Sorority


Our guiding principles continue to be accountability, transparency and productive as we work in unison and in a

sisterly fashion to move our great sorority forward. As we look ahead, it is paramount to hear the state of the

sorority report in a few minutes and be reminded that we have a lot to be proud of.

Sorors our operations are strong

Sorors our membership numbers are expanding

Sorors have taken our programming to a new level, we are approaching the two-year mark

We will celebrate our accomplishments and prepare for the next two years at the 67th Boule to held in

Atlanta, Georgia July 9-14, 2016

Thank you for your record registration and anticipated attendance. As of now we have 15,100 of you

registered with several more thousands in the system

This will likely be the 2nd largest Boule behind the Centennial Boule where we had 22,000 registered.

Thanks to all of you in advance for your hard work, particularly the boule steering committee led by

Chairman Soror Kim Boyd and Co-chairman Soror (s) Regina Brothers, Margie Young and Lucretia

Payton Stewart

A special thanks to your Regional Director, Soror Sharon for also being a part of our executive team.

Applause


Sorors the directorate is committed to bringing to you all matters of importance and concerns of Alpha

Kappa Alpha Sorority, for we believe that an informed membership can make decisions with clarity.

This summer will be to vote on a per capita increase

Detailed information about proposed use of those funds will be presented at the financial forum

The last time we had a per capita increase was twelve years ago

You will hear in a moment from our most competent Supreme Tamiouchos

Our financial health remains very, very strong and on target we want to make sure that we can take care

of the requirements of our growing organization.

You received a video a few weeks ago, announcing this proposed per capita increase because this

directorate believes strongly that you should not come to a Regional Conference and hear about any

increases in your dues for the first time.

Twelve years ago, our membership based was about 42,000 active members

2015 we ended at 65,000 active members

We expect to end this year with 70,000 active members.

More staff is needed to provide our large membership with quality service

We would like to add five additional staff members with this per capita increase.

We will also upgrade our technology systems.

A part of that increase five dollars to be specific will be used to create a fund so that those sorors hosting

Boules will not have to be assessed.

Applause

Madam Regional Director, I am pleased to present the State of the Sorority Report to the SA Region of Alpha

Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Applauses

Madam Regional Director Soror Sharon Brown Harriott asked sorors to stand and greet Madame Supreme

Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson for her hard work over the past 20 + months. Madame Regional

Director asked that the State of the Sorority Report be accepted with acclamation and highest accommodations

State of the Sorority Video displaying highlights of Madame Supremes’ State of the Sorority Message

Music: “Ain’t no stopping us now, We’re on the move 2016!


Program and Program Awards

Soror Thuane B. Fielding, South Atlantic Representative, Gamma Xi Omega, International Program Committee

Soror Jasmine D. Atkins, Chairman, International Program Committee Iota Epsilon Omega

Soror Jasmine: To Madam Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott, Madam Supreme Basileus, Soror

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Good Morning, Sorors of the South Atlantic Region, I am Soror Jasmine Adkins,

your International Program Committee Chairman, and I will be joined by your South Atlantic Representative to

the International Program Committee, Soror Thuane B. Fielding who has done a SIGNIFICANT job of

representing the South Atlantic Region!

Join me in giving her a round of applause! Sorors, we are almost halfway through this administration’s vision of

Launching New Dimensions of Service! We have truly made an impact in every community we serve and I am

delighted to share with you our success. So, without further delay, we are excited to bring you the report of the

International Program Committee.

Soror Thuane: To Madam Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott, Madame Supreme Basileus,

Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Good Morning, Sorors of the South Atlantic Region, a year ago, we stood

before you with the same musical question, Can You Feel It? Today my South Atlantic Region sorors, I know

that you still feel the love for the Launching New Dimension of Service Programs. This is evident in the content

of the information that we are ready to share with you today. Sorors, are you ready to see the proof of that

SIGNIFICANT Love.

Sorors…if you can still feel it turn to the Soror on the left and your right and say, “I CAN FEEL IT!!!”


Target I: Educational Enrichment

Congratulations to all chapters who have implemented the ASCEND Program. Many chapters all over the region

completed cycle I. Presently, we are close to graduation for Cycle II. Cycle II is in full force-here you see a

listing of chapters that have high enrollment (over 20 students) in our Signature Program!! Thank you for all

you are doing with our ASCEND students.

List of chapters with high enrollment over 20 students were highlighted

Photographs of a glimpse of a few ASCEND programs in our Region.

A special thank you to the Chapter Program Chairmen, ASCEND Coaches, and sorors who participated

in our webinar on the ASCEND Program.

One Million Backpacks

South Atlantic Region, let’s look at how we’ve done.

To date, we have contributed 61,297 back packs.

Yearly regional charge is to contribute 42,024 backpacks

We ARE SIGNIFICANT! At this rate, we will most definitely exceed our regional leadership’s goal of

201,822 backpacks by 2018.

Keep those backpacks coming!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Only 140,525 backpacks to go!

Sorors, your support of HBCUs has shown that you understand that HBCUs are our lineage, South

Atlantic Region your love for HBCUs is impressive. You have answered the call-we’ve put our

money where our mouth is, as indicated by these donations. A total of $1,219,028.

THINK HBCU

Sorors, your support of HBCUs has shown that you understand that HBCUs are our lineage, South Atlantic

Region your love for HBCUs is impressive. You have answered the call-we’ve put our money where our

mouth is, as indicated by these donations. A total of $1,219,028.

o Totals in 08 Donations $50,363

o Directly to HBCUs $254,404

o Scholarships to HBCUs $914,261 o Grand Total: $1,219,028

Target II: Health Promotion

Thank you sorors for promoting Health and bringing awareness to Alzheimer’s Disease, Stroke & Heart Disease,

and Mental Illness. Including activities in our most recent Pink Goes Red for Heart Health.

Target III: Family Strengthening This flexible target has allowed chapters to impact many families through our Childhood Hunger, Seasonal

Wraps and Fiscal Fitness initiatives and sorors of South Atlantic Region, I say thank YOU on their behalf.

Childhood Hunger

2015 we served 1,270,099 meals

Seasonal Wraps

Seasonal Wraps Distributed: 22,290

Fiscal Fitness

Financial Workshops/Forums Sponsored: 105

Target IV: Environmental Ownership

Hats off to the South Atlantic Region “Green Agents”

7,215 Sorors Conducted 576 Green Acts

Goal is to execute 1,908 “Acts of Green” each year

AKA 1908 Playgrounds

118 Playgrounds and Community Spaces

23% more than targeted number for

South Atlantic Region

Target V: Global Impact

UN Global Classroom

Partnership with the United Nations Association – thank you for exposing our communities to world

issues!


We have chapters involved in Africare initiatives and other programs designed to make a global impact!

Community Impact Days

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. continues to be excited about our Community Impact Days, with your

help, on these days the world saw and heard us. Thank you!

2016 Boule

Service Project #14: Little Dresses for Africa which allows each of you to participate in a hands-on

service project helping little girls in Africa

The goal is to provide young girls with a dress to wear to attend school and participate in other functions

in their local community

LNDS Program Awards

Thank you to all the chapters for your smooth program operations and for submitting awards applications

Certificates of appreciation will be distributed to all Chapters who submitted for program awards.

Health Promotion Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Sigma Phi, Mercer University Atlanta, GA

Graduate: Nu Lambda Omega, Atlanta, GA

Family Strengthening Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Nu Iota Edward Waters College Jacksonville, FL

Graduate: Nu Lambda Omega Atlanta, GA

Environmental Ownership Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Sigma Chi Nova Southeastern University Fort Lauderdale, FL

Graduate: Psi Theta Omega Orlando, FL

Global Impact Achievement Award

Graduate: Zeta Xi Omega Augusta, GA

Community Impact Day Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Omicron Delta Jacksonville University Jacksonville, FL

Graduate: Rho Zeta Omega Marietta, Georgia

Undergraduate and Graduate Collaboration Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Omicron Delta Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, FL

ASCEND Achievement Award

Graduate: Gamma Rho Omega Jacksonville, FL

One Million Backpacks Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Nu Iota Edward Waters College Jacksonville, FL

Graduate: Gamma Xi Omega Charleston, SC

Overall LNDS Execution Achievement Award

Undergraduate: Sigma Chi Nova Southeastern University Fort Lauderdale, FL

Graduate: Tau Pi Omega Stone Mountain, GA

THINK HBCU Hall of FAME AWARDS

Undergraduate: Mu Pi Spellman College Atlanta, Ga

Nu Iota Edward Waters College Jacksonville, FL

Graduate: Nu Lambda Omega Atlanta, GA

Epsilon Tau Omega Greenville, SC

Individual Soror Winners:

Soror #1 – Soror Phyllis Kitchens, Lambda Epsilon Omega

Soror #2 – Soror Helen Rosemond-Saunders, Epsilon Tau Omega

At this time, I would like to acknowledge the South Atlantic Region Program Committee members, please stand.

Sorors, please thank the South Atlantic Region Program Committee for their excellent support and service.


South Atlantic Region Program Committee

Thaune B. Fielding, Gamma Xi Omega Cluster VI South Atlantic Region Program Representative

Jaconica Barnes, Psi Pi Omega Cluster I

L’loren Dowdell-Smith, Mu Rho Omega Cluster I

Deborah Barnes, Gamma Theta Omega Cluster II

Tiffany Cowart-Hughes, Psi Theta Omega Cluster II

Willetta Richie, Gamma Rho Omega Cluster III

Vickye Vaughns-Geathers, Eta Tau Omega Cluster III

Bronwyn M. Hughes, Co-Chairman Gamma Tau Omega Cluster IV

Sheana Haskins-Browning, Cluster IV

Charmagne Helton, Phi Phi Omega Cluster V

Angela Williams, Tau Omicron Omega Cluster V

Deborah Dawson, Nu Rho Omega Cluster VI

Ova Brown-Gillespie, Omicron Zeta Omega Cluster VII

Andrea Favor, Omicron Omicron Omega Cluster VII

Rhonda Young, Lambda Rho Omega Cluster VIII

Wakita Barksdale, General Member Cluster VIII

International Program Committee

Jasmine D. Adkins, Chairman

Autumn Kyles, Second Supreme Anti Basileus

Alicia Tibbs Tolson, North Atlantic

Crystal D. Lander, Mid Atlantic

Thuane B. Fielding, South Atlantic

Carol Turner, Great Lakes

Pamela V. Bright, South Eastern

Latrice E. Williams, Central

Regina Carrington, South Central

Zelia Z. Wiley, Mid-Western

Juanita Dawson, Far Western

Schalette P. Gudger, International

Audrey cooper-Stanton, Resource

Shanene E. Muldrow, Resource

Thank you, Madam Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott. And Thank You Madam Supreme

Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson. This concludes the report of the International Program Committee.

Thank you for this wonderful opportunity to serve.

Finance Report

Soror Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Tamiouchos, Omicron Mu Omega

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Financial Statement (unaudited All Funds

December 2015

Raglin & Associates audited the financial statement of Alpha Kappa Alpha, May

2015, we received an unmodified clean opinion; this is the highest rating an

organization may received


Finance Video Highlights:

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has reached New Dimensions to avoid new tax penalties an accelerated

time line was implemented saving the sorority over $100,000 for the tax year ending December 31, 2014

As of December 2015, for the fourth year, the sorority has received an unmodified clean opinion of the

financial statement ending December 31, 2014. This was the opinion of the sorority’s certified public

accounting firm Raglin & Associates

At the 2015 Regional Conference that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority was notified by the IRS that our

2012 – 2013 Group tax returns were being audited

We were able to resolve the matter by December 2015, ten months after the notification due to the

efforts of the finance team, prompt response by the chapters who were audited and our cooperation with

the IRS

IRS taxes were approximately $439,000. However, due to our prompt response and cooperation the IRS

did not increase the sample size

The sorority paid a total of $3.3 million dollars for the 2007-2013 back taxes

These expenses were not budgeted. Payment from those funds came from the general operation funds.

The general operation fund is the only unrestricted fund and it accounts for the day to day operation of

the sorority.

Proposed 2017-2018 General Operations Budget Recommendations

• Per Capita has not been increased in over 12 years therefore the committee is recommending

the following:

• Dues increase $35.00 graduates, $25.00 undergraduates

Fee History Shows:

• Undergraduate Per Capital Currently $70.00 Proposed $95.00

• Graduate Per Capital Currently $90.00 Proposed $125.00

• General Member Currently $200.00 Proposed $235.00

• Late Fees will remain as 10% of the proposed per capita fees

• Reinstatement fees would increase the same as the per capital fees

• Undergraduate reinstatement fee $100.00

• Graduate reinstatement fee $145.00

• General Member reinstatement fee $285.00

There are no recommendations for increase in the following:

• Membership Intake Fees

• Chapter Taxes

• Charter Fees

• COIP Assessment

Internal Revenue Service

• February 2015 Audit taxes levied were due to: Chapters Unrelated Business Income (UBI)

Reporting

• Unrelated Business Income: Income generated from non-members less the expenditures

incurred to generate the income • Advertising income (selling ads)

FINANCIAL STATEMENT December 31, 2015

(unaudited)

Assets 29,596,809$ Revenue 21,199,900$

Liabilites 5,271,904$ Expenses 21,853,122$

Fund Balance 24,324,905$ Income (653,222)$


Financial Statement (unaudited) - All Funds

December 31, 2015

Balance Sheet Income Statement

Year Revenues Assets Investments

2011 $16.3 $30.5 $11.3

2012 $20.6 $32.8 $14.4

2013 $18.4 $37.4 $16.6

2014 $26.8 $33.1 $16.5

2015 (unaudited) $21.2 $29.6 $14.1

(Figures in Millions)


Growth In All Funds


• Sponsorships

• Sales of products & services

• Rental & royalty income

• Special Fundraising activities

• Contributions/Donations (contributions and donations by corporations and/or

individuals)

Audit Results

IRS Audit Findings • Misreported unrelated business taxable income

• Utilized our annual financial reports to determine taxable income

• Auditor taxed us on sample size of 12 chapters – she identified

• Tax liability $439, 108.88

Initiatives the dues increase will supports: Offset Inflation • $5.00 Boule Fund

• Corporate Office Staffing

• Technology Upgrade

• Corporate Office Infrastructure

Budget Communications

• Budget Book

• Financial Forums

• Webinars in May - Open line for questions A special thanks to the finance committee for all their hard work, and to Madam Supreme Basileus Dorothy

Buckhanan Wilson for the opportunity to serve.

International Finance Committee

Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Tamiouchos

Autumn Kyles, Second Supreme Anti-Basileus

Destiny Boykins, Undergraduate Member At Large

Sharon Brown Harriott, South Atlantic Regional Director

Jasmine Adkins, Program Committee, Chairman

Gerlanda Miller, Central Region

Shaliah Thierry, North Atlantic Region

Ex-Officio Members

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, Supreme Basileus

Glenda Glover, First Supreme Anti - Basileus

Cynthia Howell, Executive Director



Constitution

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®

2016 Regional Conferences

Report of the Supreme Parliamentarian and the International Constitution Committee

To Madam Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott, and to Madam Supreme Basileus, Soror Dorothy

Buckhanan Wilson. Good morning Sorors.

International Constitution Committee Members

Martha Perine Beard, Supreme Parliamentarian

Charletta Wilson Jacks, Supreme Grammateus South Atlantic

Jamila C. Hall, North Atlantic

Barbara Bellamy Warren, Mid Atlantic

Janice McCollom, South Atlantic

Danielle Burns, Great Lakes

Sandra Nelson, South Eastern

Ashlee Sherman, South Central

Dalayna Jackson, Central

Shanna Graves-Robertson, Far Western

Vicki Miles-LaGrange, Mid-Western

Samantha Daniel, International

Summary of Activities

I am pleased to present the report of the Supreme Parliamentarian and the International Constitution

Committee. This report will cover activities since our last report at the 2015 Regional Conference

Committee Focus

Our activities can be categorized in three focus areas:

Education

Review of proposed amendments to our governing documents

Responding to parliamentary inquiries from sorors, chapters, and sorority leadership.

Summary of Education related activities

Education Chapter meetings and Regional and Boule plenary sessions are run more efficiently when members understand

the Sorority’s Constitution and Bylaws, chapter bylaws, and Robert’s Rules of Order, the parliamentary authority

for rules not contained in our International or local documents. For this reason, workshops focusing on

parliamentary procedure were given at:

Graduate Advisors’ Training

International Leadership Candidates

Basilei Certification Institute

2015 Leadership Seminar Workshops

2016 Boule Workshop

A workshop on parliamentary procedure will be presented once again at the 2016 Boule in Atlanta,

Georgia.

Bylaw Amendment Process Changes to an organization’s governing documents should be made after careful thought and consideration. As

a result, a change to the sorority’s Constitution and Bylaws must follow a very specific process:

Proposed amendment presented by a chapter soror

2/3 approval by chapter members

2/3 approval by regional delegates


Review by the International Constitution Committee

Review by the Directorate

Vote by the Boule (2/3 approval needed for adoption)

In the end, the ultimate decision regarding the proposed changes will be determined by the delegates at the

Boule.

Proposed amendments to the government documents may also be submitted by General Members,

International Committees and the Directorate. In the interest of time, the details for these processes will

not be covered during this presentation. But the information is provided in your Constitution and

Bylaws.

The process takes approximately 18 months. As a result, proposed amendments that will be voted on in

Atlanta are ones for which the process began in 2014.

A proposed amendment that is discussed at the 2016 regional conference would be considered at the

2018 Boule in Houston, Texas.

Constitution Committee Forum Several proposed amendments will be submitted to delegates at the 2016 Boule. A forum will be held at this

Regional Conference to give all sorors an opportunity to ask questions regarding the proposed

amendments. Each chapter is strongly recommended to have representation at the forum. Information regarding

the proposed amendments will be sent to chapters in the Spring Mailing and will be included in the next edition

of the Ivy Leaf.

Parliamentary Inquiries The Supreme Parliamentarian spends significant time responding to parliamentary inquiries from sorors, chapter

leadership, and sorority leadership.

The Supreme Parliamentarian has a personal goal of responding to inquiries within three business days.

It is important that sorority leadership be involved in parliamentary questions that arise. As a result, the

chapter Basileus and Regional Director are copied on the response to any parliamentary inquiry that is

answered.

Target Response Time

Involvement of the Chapter Basileus and the Regional Director

2016 Regional Conference Workshop Presentation

The Supreme Parliamentarian has determined that October and November are heavy periods for

parliamentary inquiries. Many relate to bylaw questions involving chapter elections.

Given the number of inquiries received regarding bylaw related questions, the 2016 regional conference

workshop will focus on many of these questions.

As I close, I want to thank Madam Supreme Basileus for the opportunity to serve and all of you for your support.

Soror Martha Perine Beard, Supreme Parliamentarian Beta Epsilon Omega

[email protected]

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED

REPORT OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE

63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference March 25, 2016

The South Atlantic Region Constitution Committee convened Thursday, March 24, 2016. The committee

received proposals to amend the Sorority’s Constitution and Bylaws from Sigma Omega Omega, Douglasville,

GA; and Nu Lambda Omega, Atlanta, GA in 2016, and Pi Alpha Omega, Atlanta, GA, all related to assessing a

sorority-wide Boule hosting fee to offset costs now borne solely by host chapter members. The proposed

amendment does not affect the 2017-2018 budget proposal to be considered by the 2016 Boule that would

include a Boule hosting fee in per capita tax if approved.

After consultation with the Basilei from each chapter, the committee voted to recommend approval of a single,

consolidated proposed amendment to the Constitution and Bylaws jointly submitted by Pi Alpha Omega, Sigma

Omega Omega, and Nu Lambda Omega chapters as follows:



Existing Article/Section: Constitution and Bylaws 2014. Article VII, Finances. Current Language: None

Proposed Amendment: (to be inserted following Section 3) “Each active graduate, undergraduate, and general

member shall be assessed an annual Boule Tax based upon the projected cost for hosting the Boule in excess of

the costs included in the registration fees. The amount of the Boule Tax to be assessed to sorors shall be

presented with the Budget Report and voted on at the Boule.”

Revised Wording: None

Rationale: (1) Boule is an international conference and any and all expenses associated with this international

conference should be borne equally by the entire membership.

(2) This amendment will eliminate the inequity between sorors who live in an area which can

accommodate the Boule vs. those sorors who do not live in such areas and will never pay an

assessment.

(3) When given the option to opt out of serving as a host chapter and (thus) not (be) subjected to the

assessment, this too creates inequality at the local level and may cause friction between sorors in

the various local chapters.

(4) There are additional burdens on the host chapters and their members as they must participate in the

planning for the Boule activities (and) work at the Boule events—in addition to paying their Boule

assessment(s) (and) Boule registration (fees)—without the benefit of attending many Boule

events, plenary sessions and activities.

(5) The local assessment is a deterrent to sorors who move into the area and want to affiliate with a

chapter that is subject to the assessment or to those sorors in the area wanting to reactivate with a

chapter subject to the assessment.

(6) Spreading the cost of Boule among the entire membership may lead to more cities being considered

as potential sites for Boule.

(7) When a soror is on a fixed income due to age, retirement, job layoff, or health related matters,

paying an individual assessment brings additional financial strain on her already limited resources.

An assessment may take this soror, who has been active for numerous years, into a permanent

inactive status. The option of spreading the assessment provides relief to sorors in a category such as

this.

Anticipated Financial Impact: The Boule Tax shall be collected annually, and all sorors would pay the Boule Tax

to meet their financial obligation(s). In years when the Boule does not meet, monies shall be held in an interest-

bearing account. Proceeds from the account shall be used by the sponsoring host chapter (s) to defray the costs of

the next Boule.

Other: All standard operating procedures in conflict with this amendment will be eliminated (MOSP, p. 56, 59-

61).

International Building & Properties Committee

Soror Wanda Scott-Kinney, South Atlantic International Building and Properties Committee, Gamma Nu

Omega

International Building & Properties Committee

Priscilla Tyree Williams, Chairman

Danette Anthony Reed, Supreme Tamiouchos

Aria Johnson Bentley, North Atlantic

Wanda Scott-Kinney, South Atlantic

Joyce L. Walker, Great Lakes

Rae-Ann Spears, South Central

Frances G. Carroll, Resource

Toya D. Harvey, Resource


Agenda

• Corporate Office Renovation Project Team

• Corporate Office Facts

• Project Phases

o Significant Project Definition Phase Findings

• Financial Impact to AKA

• Next Steps

• Contact Information

Corporate Office Renovation Project (CORP) Team


Soror Martha Perine Beard, Supreme Parliamentarian

Soror Priscilla Tyree Williams, Building & Properties Committee Chairman

Soror Nicole Barrett, Deputy Director

Mr. Benjamin Borghese, Facilities Manager

Corporate Office Facts

History of the Corporate Office

• Built in 1984: Construction of 18,000 Square Feet (SF) facility

• Expansion in 1994: Added 9,000 SF third floor; 5,400 SF storage

• Named “The Ivy Center” by Founder, Soror Lavinia Norman

Corporate Office Usage • Total Building Size: 32,400 SF.

• Serves as the international nerve center for the delivery of the sorority’s programs and services

• Houses staff complement of 34 full-time and 2 part-time employees

• Home to the Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF)

Need for Renovation

• Corporate Office is functionally obsolete

• No significant renovation since addition in 1994

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning system has exceeded its useful life

Inefficient

Major failure of important component part this summer

Server Room has insufficient cooling

Windows showing signs of failure

Non-compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act

Inefficient space utilization

Project Phases

Phase I

Procurement of Technical Services: Completed

Phase II

Development of the CORP

Project Definition Phase

Schematic Design

Design Development

Construction Documents

Project Definition Phase Scope

Pre-Design & Programming Phase

Interviews with staff

Development of Building Program


Adjacencies/Relationships

Evaluation of Building Systems & Upgrade Recommendations

Window wall Testing

Asbestos Survey

Code Review

Estimate of Probable Project Costs

Investigation of Project Delivery Options

Phase III

Implementation of the CORP

Project Definition Phase Scope Pre-Design & Programming Phase

Interviews with staff

Development of Building Program

Adjacencies/Relationships

Evaluation of Building Systems & Upgrade Recommendations

Window Wall Testing

Asbestos Survey

Code Review

Estimate of Probable Project Costs

Investigation of Project Delivery Options

Significant Project Definition Phase Findings Exterior

Failure of the gasket system with the window wall (~20% failure rate)

Gap at operable window sash

Typical view of failed gasket system

Corrosion at the exterior

Water infiltration from outside

Interior

Non-compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Non-compliant change in elevation from reception area to 1st floor

Non-compliant water fountain

Non-compliant restrooms

Project Definition Phase Findings

Building Systems

Mechanical Systems (Heating and Cooling)

Existing HVAC with initial construction is passed its useful life

HVAC with the third-floor addition is passed its useful life

Control System is antiquated and no longer efficient

Server Room cooling is insufficient

HVAC Controls are outdated and inoperable

Existing Air Handling Unit

HVAC Controls

Existing Boilers

Building Systems - continued

Electrical System

Main Electrical Switchboard requires further evaluation as components have

reached useful life

Penetrations through floors are not properly sealed

Sufficient power for expansion and suggested upgrades

First floor panelboard

Existing main switchboard


Financial Impact to AKA Estimated Project Costs:

Activity Cost

Construction $4,103,172

Energy Rebates ($53,090)

Professional Services

$514,500

Furniture $660,100

Contingency $266,320

TOTAL $5,491,002

Financial Challenges

CORP will deplete our COIP fund.

Current estimate of total project cost exceeds available funds.

Reduction of the project scope is necessary to match available funding. This will result in

deferring some of deficiencies identified in the Project Definition Report for correction later.

Next Steps

Complete the Project Design

General Contractor Selection

Begin Actual Construction

Contact Information

• Soror Priscilla Tyree Williams

• 919-280-3912

• [email protected]

Dates Activities

Calendar

Year

2016

Design Completion

General Contractor Selection

Construction Start

Calendar

Year

2017

Construction Completion

Owner Occupancy

Regional Committee Reports

EAF

Educational Advancement Foundation

Soror Deirdre Barrett-English, South Atlantic EAF Coordinator, Pi Alpha Omega

Deirdre Barrett England, South Atlantic Region EAF Coordinator, otherwise known as Beggar in Chief shared

EAF’s theme of WE ARE WILD AND FASCINATED ABOUT EAF. WE ARE ALSO FASCINATED WITH

44…THAT IS OUR 44 TH PRESIDENT….SO FASCINATED THAT WE ARE STARTING THE

FUNDRAISING AT THIS CONFERENCE TO ENDOW A FELLOWSHIP IN THE PRESIDENT AND FIRST

LADY’S HONOR.

Highlights of Presentation:

Recognize the members of the Executive Board of EAF.

Acknowledged our new Executive Director, Erika Everett.



Recognize the EAF Cluster Committee and EAF Captains of South Atlantic. The EAF Captains get it

done, making fundraising happen in chapters and we recognized many of them at the luncheon.

Nominations are now being accepted for “The Outstanding EAF Captain Award” Deadline is May

16,2016. The Outstanding EAF Captain will be recognized at the Atlanta Boule EAF Breakfast.

Sorors, We are #1 in Fundraising in South Atlantic. We are proud and Madame Regional Director plans to

continue that distinction!

Platinum Chapters of the South Atlantic Region were asked to stand to be recognized. We now have 17

platinum chapters, nearly doubled since last year. But you heard from Madame Regional Director that

we want to increase platinum chapters to 20 by Atlanta Boule!! Platinum Contributions are due by June

15, 2016.

Encouraged Undergraduates!! Get those Youth PAC Scholarship applications in by April 15 and

Marriott Scholarship by May 1, 2016

•


Announcements

Soror Beauty P. Baldwin, South Atlantic Conference Hodegos, Upsilon Alpha Omega

Sorors may claim all lost and found items at the Dais upon adjournment of the plenary session.

Recess

Third Plenary Session

Saturday, March 26, 2016

3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.


Called to order 3:15 pm

Musical Prelude

Meditation: Soror Mary F. Conner, South Eastern Regional Director, Kappa Lambda Omega

Solo: Hali Larkins, Mu Pi


Undergraduate Activities Committee [UCA]

Soror Autumn A. Kyles, Second Supreme Anti-Basileus, Gamma Theta

Soror Annalise Anise, Undergraduate Member-at-large, Beta Alpha

Undergrads Launching New Dimensions of Service!

• Snap shots

• Undergraduates engaged in service projects on campus and in their campus communities

• 2015 Regional Conference

• UAC At Work

• September 17, 2015: The International Program Committee and the UAC held a UNA-USA

Engagement Webinar for undergraduates and Graduate Advisors. The Webinar was a chance

for all undergrads and Graduate Advisors to learn more about the sorority’s partnership with

UNA and options to implement the project.

• Encouraged sorors to follow the UCA Official Instagram Page

• Leadership Seminar . Keep Active Strolling Workshop

• One of the highest scoring workshops of Leadership Seminar!

. Check out our Boule Workshops!

• Own It! Stellar Programs

. Action Strategies from Undergraduate Summit

• Keep Active Strolling

• Undergraduate Summit . August 21-22, 2015 Charlotte, NC

• Undergrads engaged in special dialogue with the Supreme Basileus

• Breakout Sessions provided opportunities for:

o Sharing Candid feedback of Alpha Kappa Alpha Undergraduates

o Establish Best Practices for how the Sorority will Launch New

Dimension of Undergraduate Excellence

Leadership Fellows 2015 were featured

Support the UAC! o Own It Tote - $25

o UAC Webinars

o Boule Workshops

o Undergraduate Luncheon

o Own It Awards!


Undergraduate Activities Committee

Annalise Anise, Undergraduate Member-at-Large, South Atlantic

Destiny Boykin, Undergraduate Member-at-Large, Mid Atlantic

Ryan Cheatham Jackson, North Atlantic

KiMonyca McCoggle, Great Lakes

Jitoria Jones, South Eastern

Lady Henry, Central

Natalie Paul, South Central

Ashley Murphy, Mid-Western

Alana Herbert, Far Western

Philicia Huyler, International

Jacquie Jones, Resource

Jatisha Marsh, Resource

Contact Information

Soror Annalise Anise

(251) 753-5241

[email protected]


South Atlantic Financial Report

Vivian B. Dowdy, South Atlantic Regional Tamiouchos

Iva Walters, South Atlantic Regional Pecunious Grammateus

Kenneth Harris, South Atlantic Regional Accountant

FINANCIAL OFFICERS

DUTIES OF THE REGIONAL TAMIOUCHOS

• Deposit funds received

• Verifies the accuracy and documentation of check requests

• Prepares monthly reports of receipts and expenditures

• Prepares monthly reconciliation of reports to bank statements

DUTIES OF THE REGIONAL PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS

• Checks the regional Post Office Box

• Receipts all funds received

• Prepares a Statement of Funds report detailing a description of funds received

DUTIES OF THE REGIONAL ACCOUNTANT

• Assists with accounting of receipt and disbursement of Regional funds

• Obtains 2nd signature when needed for Regional checks

• Prepares monthly and annual financial reports

• Confirms monthly bank reconciliations

• Works with external auditors

SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

BEGINNING BALANCE

JANUARY 1, 2015 538,149

TOTAL INCOME 1,487,342

TOTAL EXPENSES 1,884,627

ENDING BALANCE

DECEMBER 31, 2015 140,864



SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE

INCOME

Awards Entry Fees 10,200

Conference Assessments 165,290

Conference Fees 20,967

Donations - Corporate &

Others 37,447

Registration Fees 791,295

Sale of Conference Materials 19,274

Vendors' Fees 31,800

TOTAL INCOME 1,076,272

SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE

EXPENSES

Audio Visual 148,382

Awards & Exhibits 6,054

Courtesies & Benevolence 2,603

Donations to Charitable Org 8,000

EAF 10,000

Facilities 107,590

Gifts & Accessories 37,170

Graphics 685

Hall & Exhibit (Decorations) 85,851

Honorarium 7,650

Insurance 1,250

Logistics 80,857

Meals & Entertainment 663,927

Office Supplies 4,353

Photography 6,429

Postage & Delivery 260

Printing 38,896

Protocol 1,737

Registration 16,909

Transportation(Local) 50,767

Travel Expense (Airlines/Hotel) 1,815 1,281,186

NET INCOME (LOSS) (204,914)


SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION - CLUSTERS

INCOME

Registration

Fees 278,520

Vendors' Fees 23,325

Other 2,650

TOTAL INCOME 304,495

EXPENSES 278,452

NET INCOME 26,043

Boule Lunchen Soror Roslyn Mixon-Phillips, South Atlantic Boule Luncheon Chairman, Gamma Rho Omega

South Atlantic Emerald Garden

• Follow the AKA Brick Road

• At the Emerald, it will be a Party in a Party as we celebrate the culture and heritage of our 3

States, Florida, Georgia and South Carolina

• Prizes and surprises await in the Emerald Garden where our own Rose of Sharon will be on

display and Soror Dorothy and other special guest will likely ease on by for a visit.

• Southern Cuisine Meal

Recommendation regarding the 2016 Boule Assessment that will need to be ratified

• Primary funding to support the luncheon program, gathering and hospitality are funded

through these critical assessment dollars. To ensure that our 2016 Hospitality is an extra

special “celebration”, as it will be the first Boule, in which our dear Soror Sharon will serve

as our Regional Director. We recommend for inclusion in the annual budget the Boule

Assessment structure outlined in the fall Ivy Blitz emailed to chapters. Soror Alfra Dean Fisher, Tau Pi Omega, Stone Mountain, GA moved to call for the question, Soror Dawn B. Griffin, Nu

Lambda Omega, Atlanta, GA

Madame Regional Director Soror Sharon Brown Harriott called for the vote

Yes: 550

No: 123

Total Votes Cast 673

2/3: 444

Recommendation passed and will be forward to the International Constitution Committee

Undergraduate Chapters Graduate Chapters

Chapter Size Chapter

Assessment

Chapter Size Chapter

Assessment

1-49 $100.00 1-49 $250.00

50-99 $150.00 50-99 $325.00

100+ $200.00 100-199 $400.00

200-299

300+

$475.00

$550.00


2016 Boule SAR Events Committee Leadership

Soror Roslyn Mixon-Phillips, Luncheon Chairman

Vellce Cumming, Regional Gathering Chairman

Wendy Hall, Hospitality Chairman

Stephanie Cockerm, Luncheon Co-Chairman

Gwen Taylor, Regional Gathering Co-Chairman

Vickie Stuckey, Hospitality Co-Chairman

Thank you Sorors, for your approval!

Lastly, we ask that each Chapter Basileus consider the recommendation of select chapter members to act as

volunteers for the Luncheon, Gathering and or Hospitality Committee. We will also provide Chapter Basilei with

a formal request and response details to which you make recommendations for this exciting committee.

Thank you sorors for your attention and Soror Sharon we each respectively thank you for this awesome opportunity

to serve!


Boule Update

Executive Committee

Kim Boyd, 67th Boule Chairman, Rho Zeta Omega

Regina Crothers, Co-Chairman

Marjorie H. Young, Co-Chairman

Lucretia Payton Stewart, Honorary Chairman

Cheryl Walker, Grammateus

Trish Atwater, Tamiouchos

Eloise Roberts, Pecunious Grammateus

Liaisons

Franka Young, Communications

Sarah-elaine Jones, Events

Virginia Harris, Events

Geri Thomas, Fund Development

Francine Greer, Hostess Chapters

Tremelle Howard-Fishburne, Logistics

Sandra Kenon, Operations-Hospitality/Entertainment Icey Johnson, Operations-Registration

Kyshia Carey, Protocol

Shirlyn Johnson-Granville, Rituals

Ranada Robinson, Service Projects

Shelbia King, Service Projects

Karen Farrell-Rhodes, Transportation

Joy Guilford, Vendors

Presentation

Highlights of Sites of Atlanta

23 Moments of Service, Honoring Mary Shy Scott 23rd Supreme Basileus

Important Deadlines

Souvenir Journal, March 31

Heritage Club, April 1

Legacy Dinner, April 15

Mass Chorus, April 15

Diamond/Golden/Silver Sorors, April 15


Highlights of Scheduled Entertainment

Boyz II Men as well as other artist

For More Information

Link: https://events.aka1908.net

Recommendations

Soror Trudie Carmichael, Chairman, South Atlantic Recommendations Committee, Lambda Epsilon Omega

The Recommendations Committee received no recommendations for this conference.

I would like to thank the SARC Recommendations Committee Members Recommendations Committee Members

Trudie Carmichael, Chairman, Lambda Epsilon Omega Ann Winstead, Co-Chairman, General Member

Rendolyn Amaker, Kappa Kappa Omega

Debra Capers, Delta Eta Omega

JoAnn Coaxum, Phi Omega Omega

Betty Cooper, Iota Theta Omega

Debra Crump, Sigma Omega Omega

Iola Gilliam, Epsilon Beta Omega

Francine Greer, Pi Alpha Omega

Corliss Lawson Moragne, Delta Kappa Omega

Wanda Linnen, Mu Phi Omega

Myra Middleton-Valentine, Chi Delta Omega

Manita Moultrie, Zeta Upsilon Omega

Delores Oliver Calloway, Zeta Tau Omega

Juanita Robinson-McNeill, Tau Chi Omega

Dorice Sherrod-Shumake, Chi Pi Omega

Judith Williams, Lambda Omicron Omega

Bobbinetta Young, Nu Theta Omega

Madam Regional Director we thank you for the opportunity to serve during these past two years.

Resolutions

Soror Clemontine Washington, Chairman, South Atlantic Resolutions Committee, Gamma Sigma Omega

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. South Atlantic Region Conference Resolutions Committee Report

Presented By

Soror Clemontine Washington

To Madam Regional Director, Soror Brown Harriott, Madam Supreme Basileus, Soror Buckhanan Wilson, good afternoon.

The report of the Resolutions Committee

No resolutions were received. However, four resolutions are being presented by the committee.

https://events.aka1908.net/


Resolution I

A RESOLUTION BY THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION OF ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY,

INCORPORATED

MARCH 16, 2016

Whereas, the members of the South Atlantic Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, are deeply

saddened by the untimely deaths of the nine members of Mother Emanuel AME Church located in Charleston,

S.C. on June 17, 2015; and

Whereas, the Mother Emanuel Nine shall always be in our hearts; and

Whereas, the Emanuel Nine fought the good fight and dedicated their lives to serving God; and

Whereas, they were humble servants with great integrity, generosity of spirit, with a love for their families,

church and communities; and

Whereas, they gave their last measure of devotion to their church; and

Whereas, their surviving families shocked the world with their acts of forgiveness, and have spurred the

community and nation to love more deeply; and

Whereas, their acts of forgiveness truly surpass our human understanding and set an admirable example for the

world to follow; and

Whereas, the S.C. House and Senate declared June 17 each year as Mother Emanuel Nine Day; and

Whereas, AKA members realize that words are inadequate to fully express our grief;

Be it resolved by the members of the South Atlantic Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority:

That the members of the South Atlantic Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority express our profound sorrow and

deep regret upon the passing of the nine members of the Mother Emanuel AME Church whose lives were

tragically cut short; and

That the members of the South Atlantic Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha express our deepest sympathy to the

family and friends of the Mother Emanuel Nine;

That the members of the South Atlantic Region urge the states of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina as well our

federal government to continue to enforce laws that discourage such actions of hate and punish those that dare to

seek the lives of others in hope of perpetuating hatred and advocate for the passage of laws that provide funding

to support mental health and gun control, and

Let it be further resolved, that the chapters of the South Atlantic Region, give themselves a moment of silence as

the names of the Emanuel Nine are read aloud.

Our beloved Ivy Beyond the Wall, Soror Cynthia Marie Graham Hurd

Our beloved Ivy Beyond the Wall, Soror Sharonda Coleman-Singleton

Susan Jackson

Ethel Lee Lance

DePayne Middleton-Doctor

South Carolina State Senator Clementa C. Pinckney

Tywanza Sanders

Daniel Simmons

Myra Thompson

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to the families of the Mother Emanuel Nine, who

shall always be in our hearts on behalf of our Regional Director Soror Sharon Brown Harriott and our


International President, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson and the entire membership of the South Atlantic

Region.

Resolution was accepted by a moment of silence as the names of the Emanuel Nine are read aloud.

Resolution II

IN SUPPORT OF THE RESTORATION OF THE VOTING RIGHTS ACTS

Whereas, The Supreme Court decided, 5-4, that the pre-clearance formula in Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act

was unconstitutional under the 10th Amendment, which gives states the power to regulate elections. The Court

ruled that the coverage formula was “based on 40-year-old facts having no logical relation to the present day.”;

and

Whereas, the 1965 Voting Rights Act has been key to preserving the right to vote for people of color who live in

states that have a history of racial discriminatory voter laws; and

Whereas, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., South Atlantic Region members are dedicated to educating and

registering voters, and

Whereas, voting is a fundamental right that is preserved to all citizens of the United States;

Whereas, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. supports congressional legislation to strengthen the Voting Rights

Act.

Therefore, be it resolved that the members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc., South Atlantic Region Urge Congress

to pass legislation that strengthens the Voting Rights Act to prevent discrimination in voting procedures in states

that have a history of discriminatory practices.

Resolution was accepted by common consent

Resolution III

HOST CHAPTERS ACCOLADES

Whereas, the Sorors of Cluster VII greeted us with warm, southern charm, showcasing their Sunday Best through

implementation of informative, well executed plenary sessions that have allowed the sorors to become engaged,

motivated, and inspired as they return to their respective communities to provide service to all mankind.

Whereas, all sorors should express heartfelt thanks to Cluster VII sorors for the courtesies and splendidly bona

fide hospitality shown during the 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference, for truly we were stimulated and

uplifted.

Now, be it resolved, the sorors assembled this day, March 26, 2016, stamp their approval of excellence by giving

Cluster VII a standing ovation with rousing applause for Excellence in registration, sisterly relations activity,

public meeting, plenary sessions, breakfasts, luncheons, dinners and workshops.

Resolution was accepted by a standing ovation for the sorors of Cluster VII

Resolution IV

Regional Director Accolades

Whereas, our personable, efficient and most capable Madam Regional Director, Sharon Brown Harriott, has led

the Significant South Atlantic Region into a new age of communication with her Tech savviness;

Whereas, Soror Sharon has provided the sorors of South Atlantic Region lines of electronic communication

through Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pearls of Promise News Alert, Regional Blogs, and the Ivy Blitz under


auspices of Launching New Dimension of Service, by our 29th Supreme Basileus, Soror Dorothy Buckhanan

Wilson;

Whereas, Soror Sharon continues to set records and achieve greatness throughout the South Atlantic Region and

Internationally;

Whereas, Soror Sharon continues to expand the South Atlantic Region’s presence as a result of having over 100

chapters implement the ASCEND program in their communities.

Whereas, Soror Sharon has been recognized in the field of education by numerous organizations including the

National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc.;

Whereas, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott continues to lead with PURPOSE in creating a sisterly atmosphere,

Passion in serving others, PERSERVANCE in honoring our ideals, and PERFORMANCE in serving the South

Atlantic Region with distinction and honor.

Now therefore, be it resolved that the Delegates and Sorors assembled after the adoption of this resolution stand

to extend our love and appreciation for a job well done, to Soror Sharon Brown Harriot, 18 th South Atlantic

Regional Director this 26th day of March 2016.

Promises Made, promises kept. Check, check, check!!!!

Resolution was accepted by standing ovation with Highest Acclamation!

2014 -2016 SAR Committee / Resolutions

Soror Clemontine Washington, Chairman, Gamma Sigma Omega

Soror Valerie Brant Wilson, Co-Chairman, Eta Eta Omega

Delta Iota Omega Angela Cola

Kappa Zeta Omega Fannie Davis

Iota Omega Omega Alfred Mae Drakesford

Theta Xi Omega Benita Epps

Mu Upsilon Omega Shirley Green-Brown

Kappa Kappa Omega LaNetta Henry

Nu Tau Omega Alzena Robinson

Sigma Alpha Omega Lisa Love

Epsilon Chi Omega Cassandra A. McCray

Pi Delta Omega Marvelle McIntyre-Hall

Iota Pi Omega Charlotte Owens

Gamma Rho Omega Brenda Simmons-Hutchins

Epsilon Beta Omega Mary Ann Washington Deku

Pi Alpha Omega Cassandra Whitfield

Psi Theta Omega Lavon Williams

This ends the report of the Resolutions Committee.

Soror Sharon, on behalf of the members of the committee, thanks for giving us the opportunity to serve during

your administration


Registration

Soror Latarsa Williams, South Atlantic Conference Registration, Upsilon Omega Omega

Close of Registration Friday, March 25, 2016

Total Registered Total Checked In

3512 3187

Graduate 2768 2603

Undergraduate 609 566

Guest 135 18

Philacter Report

Soror Sophia D Babridge, South Atlantic Philacter Emeritus, Gamma Nu Omega

Total collected Friday, March 25, 2016: $650.75.

Soror Deirdre Barrett-English, South Atlantic EAF Coordinator, Pi Alpha Omega announced the total funds

raised for EAF during the 2016 SARC was $27,000.

Tellers

Soror Starlac McGhee, Chairman South Atlantic Tellers Committee, Gamma Pi Omega

TELLER’S REPORT

63RD SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE

MYRTLE BEACH, SC

March 26, 2016

Madam Regional Director

This serves as the report of the Elections and Tellers Committee. There were no elections conducted during

this conference. Therefore, we have no results to report. The members of the Tellers and Elections Committee

appreciate the opportunity to serve under your leadership.

Respectfully,

Starlac McGhee

Chairman, SARC Elections Committee

Time and Place

South Atlantic Region, 63rd South Atlantic Regional Conference, Myrtle Beach, SC

Dates and locations subject to Regional Director approval

2016 Undergraduate Roundup and Retreat, August 26-27, 2016 Savannah, Georgia

2016 Cluster Conferences

Cluster I October 28-29, 2016 Mu Rho Omega West Palm Beach, FL

Cluster II November 11-12, 2016 Omicron Kappa Omega Lakeland, FL

Cluster III October 21-22, 2016 Zeta Iota Omega Brunswick, GA

Cluster IV September 30-October 1, 2016 Sigma Omicron Omega Fort Walton Beach, FL

Cluster V October 7-8, 2016 Lambda Iota Omega Gainesville, GA

Cluster VI September 16-17, 2016 Gamma Xi Omega, North Charleston, SC

Cluster VII September 9- 10, 2016 Chi Lambda Omega, Hartsville, SC

Cluster VIII October 14-15, 2016 Epsilon Beta Omega Spartanburg, SC

Regional Conference Schedule


2017 Cluster IV March 22 – 26 2017 Atlanta, GA

2018 Cluster I Florida

2019 Cluster VIII South Carolina

2020 Cluster VI Georgia

2021 Cluster III Florida



Time and Place Committee

Lisa Patterson George, Upsilon Xi Omega, Chairman

Stephanie Tillman, Lambda Xi Omega, Co-Chairman

Nicole Agbonkhese, Psi Theta Omega

Marva Bradford, Zeta Rho Omega

Sundra P. Byrd, Epsilon Beta Omega

Katina Johnson, Upsilon Sigma Omega

Beverly Kelly-Swann, Kappa Kappa Omega

Shelbia King, Tau Epsilon Omega

Gladys Lee, Kappa Eta Omega

Felecia Leggett, Chi Gamma Omega

Janice Lyle, Nu Delta Omega

Charlotte Owens, Iota Pi Omega

Carolyn Shortt, Nu Theta Omega

Shalah Sweeney, Omicron Zeta Omega

Cheryl Walker, Xi Beta Omega

Fredna Wilkerson, Eta Tau Omega

Dorothy Wilson, Gamma Sigma Omega

Presentation of Chapter Awards & Individual Awards

Soror Karen Harris Hawkins, Chairman, South Atlantic Regional Awards Committee, Pi Delta Omega

Soror Peggy Smalls, Co-Chairman, South Atlantic Regional Awards Committee, Lambda Epsilon Omega

Soror Frances Fields, Co-Chairman, South Atlantic Regional Awards Committee, Epsilon Chi Omega

Scrapbooks and Exhibits Undergraduate Chapters

• Delores H. Oliver Service to Mankind Award

• 1st Place Lacei Sams, Mu Pi, Spelman College, Atlanta GA

• 2nd Place Khalia Johnson, Sigma Sigma, Clayton State University, Morrow, GA

Freddie L. Groomes-McLendon Caring Award

• 1st Place Barbara S Wilson, Laila K. Abdi, Lambda Kappa, Georgia Southern University,

Statesboro, GA

Frederica S. Wilson Sisterly Relations Award

• 1st Place Amber M. James, Lambda Kappa, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro,

GA • 2nd Place Brittany Braclet, Nu Iota, Edwards Waters College, Jacksonville, FL

Georgia Schank Innovative Award

• 1st Place Sigma Chi, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL

• 2nd Place Zeta Upsilon, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL

Homie Regulus Basileus Award

• 1st Place Toni Jennings, Tau Pi, Oglethorpe University, Atlanta, GA

• 2nd Place Shoshanna Robinson, Sigma Phi Mercer University, Atlanta, GA

Lucretia Payton-Steward Guiding Torch Award

• 1st Place Morgan Coleman, Eta Mu Chapter, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA

Mary Shy Scott Fine Arts Award

• 1st Place Lakeitha Haynes, Alpha Pi, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA

• 2nd Place Adria Johnson, Nu Iota, Edwards Waters College, Jacksonville, FL

Mayme E. Williams Outstanding Undergraduate Soror Award


• 1st Place Shardi Pettis, Iota lambda, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

• 2nd Place Shoshanna Robinson, Sigma Phi, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA

Norma S. White Scholar Award

• 1st Place Alpha Pi, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA

• 2nd Place Lambda Kappa, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA

Odessa S. Nelson New Member Award

• 1st Place Briane Chriss, Eta Mu, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA

• 2nd Place Lamani Adkins, Mu Pi Spelman College, Atlanta, GA

Vertelle M. Middleton Most Promising Undergraduate Soror Award

• 1st Place Danielle Robinson-Pierre, Iota Lambda, Gainesville, FL

Marsha Lewis Brown Service Delivered Impact Award

• 1st Place Eta Mu, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA

• 2nd Place Sigma Chi, Nova Southeastern, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Sonja W. Garcia Image Award

• Iota Lamda, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Chapter Arts and Crafts Exhibit

• 1st Place Nu Iota, Edward Waters, Jacksonville, FL

• 2nd Place Sigma Chi, Nova Southeastern, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Individual Arts and Crafts Exhibit

• 1st Place Lacei Sams, Sigma Chi, Nova Southeastern, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Attendance

• 1st Place Omicron Delta, University of Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL

• 2nd Place Nu Iota, Edward Waters, Jacksonville, FL

Cluster IV Invitation to the 64th South Atlantic Regional Conference

Announcements

Soror Beauty P. Baldwin, South Atlantic Region Conference Hodegos, Upsilon Alpha Omega

Recess

Closing Plenary Session

Sunday, March 27, 2016

11:15 a.m.-12 noon


Musical Prelude

“He Arose”

Final Registration

Soror Latarsa Williams, South Atlantic Regional Conference Registration, Upsilon Omega Omega

Registration on Saturday, March 26, 2016

Registered Checked In

3512 3288

Graduate 2768 2678

Undergraduate 609 592

Guest 135 18

Florida 243

Graduate 214

Undergraduate 29

Georgia 323

Graduate 278


Undergraduate 45

South Carolina 289

Graduate 271

Undergraduate 18

Delegates 855

Graduate 763

Undergraduate 92

That concludes the registration report, Thank You

Thank you, Soror Teresa

Final Philacter Report

Soror Elizabeth S. Young, South Atlantic Conference Co-Philacter, Pi Eta Omega

Madam Regional Director the final Philacter’s report:

Total funds collected each day of conference and total

Friday – $650.75

Saturday- 383.00

Total $1033.75

Madam Regional Director we thank you for this opportunity to serve.

The funds are designated for Movers for Mom connected to Target III: Family Strengthening to assist women whom are displaced due to domestic violence to help them as they continue to transition.

Unfinished Business

There was no unfinished business.

Acknowledgements

Madam Regional Director, Soror Sharon Brown Harriott

Sorors I would like to Personally thank all of you for taking time on a holiday weekend to come and join us for the 63rd

SA Regional Conference. I am especially indebted to the sorors of Cluster VII, would you stand if you’re are here.

Cluster VII sorors you have worked hard and I know I, as well as the South Atlantic Region, appreciate your sacrifice

and service.

I would like to thank our former South Atlantic Regional Directors for always supporting me. I appreciate you, I love

you, and I do realize that I stand on your shoulders.

Soror Annalise Anise has joined serving as our Undergraduate Member-at-large. Sorors let’s please give her another

give round of applause. She has been an excellent representative of what finer womanhood looks like. Madam Regional

Director, requested a photograph be taken with Soror Annalise Anise immediately after the Closing Plenary session.

Soror Charletta Wilson Jacks, Supreme Grammateus, she has also served us well, we look forward to all things in the

future.

Announcements: Soror Beauty P. Baldwin, South Atlantic Conference Hodegos, Upsilon Alpha Omega

Madam Regional Director

Announcements Final Report

Pink spiral notebook lost this morning with a gold trim, if anyone has found that, please see me and I will give

you the telephone number of the person it belongs to.

Umbrella

Scarf


Soror Beauty reminder sorors that anything left with her will go with her or be donated to Goodwill

Soror Beauty stated that she will be around for 3 minutes upon the adjournment of the session

IPad

Madame Regional Director, thank you for the opportunity to serve

Closing Prayer: Soror Elizabeth E. Yates, Gamma Rho Omega, South Atlantic Region Spiritual Oversite Chairman

Madam Regional Director requested that soror Elizabeth Yates pray for the soror who became ill after the Saturday,

March 26, 2016 Third Plenary Session.

Conference Adjournment

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