The Ivy Vine Times
LEAD 2GETHER
March 2026 Newsletter Greetings,
As we embrace the spirit of Women’s History Month, we pause to honor the extraordinary women whose courage, intellect, and vision shaped the path we proudly walk today. Our beloved Founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® dared to imagine a sisterhood committed to scholarship, service, and the uplift of all mankind at a time when opportunities for Black women were scarce. Their brilliance and bravery continue to illuminate our purpose 118 years later.
In that same spirit of trailblazing leadership, we also celebrate the remarkable women who established our own Gamma Theta Omega Chapter. Our charter members laid a foundation of excellence in Tampa that has endured for generations. Their commitment to service, sisterhood, and civic engagement created a legacy that we are privileged to carry forward. Because of their vision, Gamma Theta Omega stands today as a pillar of leadership, compassion, and impact in our community.
This month, as we reflect on the women who changed history, let us also recognize the women within our chapter who continue to make history every day. Through your service, your advocacy, your mentorship, and your unwavering dedication, you embody the very essence of what our Founders intended.
May we honor their legacy not only with our words, but with our actions uplifting one another, strengthening our communities, and advancing the mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha 2gether!
With sisterly love and service,
Soror Deidre R. Jones
First Anti- Basileus News LEAD 2GETHER
Pulse of the Pearl
March marks International Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the limitless capabilities and global contributions of women. Within Gamma Theta Omega, that influence isn’t just historical. It’s happening right now!
Our Sorors are on fire, blazing a powerful path of service as we uplift and build within our community. Here is a snapshot of how we’ve set our community ablaze this month:
Empowering Youth: Mentoring the next generation of female leaders through intentional outreach.
Building Wealth: Hosting workshops focused on financial legacy and economic sustainability.
Uplift the Local Community: Providing vital resources and education to improve community wellness and engagement.
Advocating for Justice: Facilitating intergenerational forums to increase awareness and engagement.
We don't just witness history; we create it. Through every act of service, Gamma Theta Omega continues to transform hope into action.
With sisterly love and service,
Soror Patrice Joseph
Second Anti-Basileus News
LEAD 2GETHER
March:AMonthofPurpose,Progress,and PowerfulWomen
March serves as a meaningful season of awareness, reflection, and intentional action. Across communities and organizations, we recognize initiatives such as National Youth Art Month, National Social Work Month, and National Reading Month, underscoring the importance of creativity, service, and education. However, most notably, March stands as a global tribute to Women’s International Month, a time dedicated to honoring the impact, resilience, and advancement of women across all sectors.
This observance calls us to focus on key priorities that align seamlessly with our mission and legacy: celebrating pioneering women leaders, advancing gender equity, fostering mentorship, and strengthening leadership development through education and engagement. These are not abstract ideals; they are lived experiences within Gamma Theta Omega.
As a chapter, we proudly stand on the shoulders of extraordinary women, some widely recognized, others whose contributions may never be publicly acknowledged, yet remain deeply embedded in our foundation. These women navigated barriers, embraced challenges, and at every crossroad, chose progress over pause. Their legacy compels us to do the same.
In the spirit of both recognition and action, this month presents an opportunity for each member to intentionally honor a local female leader. A simple yet meaningful gesture, such as hosting a lunch, can serve as a powerful moment of appreciation, connection, and inspiration. These conversations not only affirm the value of her contributions but also create space for shared wisdom, encouragement, and continued elevation.
LEAD 2GETHER
March:AMonthofPurpose,Progress,and
Additionally, members of Gamma Theta Omega actively engaged in community centered programming this month, including attendance at a Women’s Luncheon celebration of International Women’s Day, hosted by the Tampa (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. The experience was rich in cultural expression, with African inspired ambiance and a strong sense of heritage woven throughout. While many women were rightfully celebrated, one message resonated with clarity and purpose: “Give to Gain.”
This principle serves as both a reminder and a charge. As we ascend in our personal and professional journeys, we must remain committed to extending opportunities to others. We must lower the ladder, ensuring that access, guidance, and support are not privileges for a few, but pathways for many.
As we move forward through March and beyond, let us continue to lead with intention, uplift with authenticity, and serve with excellence. In doing so, we not only honor the women who came before us, we actively shape the legacy for those who will follow.
In sisterhood and in service,
Tycelia Codner
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2GETHER
Ivy AKAdemy Celebration
The community came alive at the Police Athletic League as we celebrated the 35th Ivy AKAdemy. This milestone event was a vibrant testament to our commitment to growth, education, and community enrichment.
From the moment guests arrived, the energy was electric. The day featured a stunning art exhibit and a curated selection of local vendors, but the heart of the event lay in our diverse, engaging workshops:
For our Youth: The "Cuddle Up and Read Every Day" children's read-in sparked a love for literacy, while the SWAG 101 workshop gave our teenagers the tools to lead with confidence.
For the Community: Vital sessions on Financial Literacy and Black Maternal Health provided attendees with actionable knowledge to empower their futures and their families. The fun didn’t stop at the workshops—the Gamer Truck was a mass
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Ivy AKAdemy Celebration
The fun didn’t stop at the workshops the Gamer Truck was a massive hit with the younger crowd, and the Pickleball courts were available. To top it oA, the Drumline provided highenergy entertainment that kept everyone’s spirits high. A massive congratulations and heartfelt recognition go to the Ivy AKAdemy Chairmen and Committee. Their vision and tireless dedication ensured this 35th celebration was not just an event, but a powerful investment in our community’s success.
a program hosted by the Top Ladies and Top Teens of the Tampa Bay West Central Florida Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Incorporated. During the program, they learned how to recognize warning signs, the importance of online safety, and ways to advocate for themselves and others.
On February 15, 2026, the young ladies met at the NAACP building where they focused on notable Black history trailblazers, as well as self love and sisterhood.
The Precious Pearls are in need of additional mentors. Your support is critical to ensuring that every Pearl feels seen, heard, and supported.
2GETHER
The Ivy Pitch Challenge
Building Tampa’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
What began in September 2022 with a single cohort and a bold vision has grown into one of Tampa’s most dynamic youth entrepreneurship initiatives. Today, the Ivy Pitch Challenge proudly celebrates its 7th cohort—its largest class to date.
From its inception, the Ivy Pitch Challenge was designed to do more than teach business fundamentals. It was created to empower the next generation of innovators, creators, and leaders across Hillsborough County Public Schools and young adults residing in Hillsborough County, serving participants in high school up to age 27.
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The Ivy Pitch Challenge
Building Tampa’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
From Idea to 3-Minute Pitch
Since 2022, the program has successfully graduated 169 students who transformed early stage ideas into potential businesses. Each participant was trained to distill their vision into a compelling three-minute pitch an essential skill for founders seeking funding, partnerships, and community support.
Over the past four years, seven cohorts have completed the program, with young entrepreneurs emerging stronger, more confident, and equipped with real-world experience. During that time, the Ivy Pitch Challenge has awarded over $35,000 in prizes, helping participants launch ideas, test concepts, and move their ventures forward.
More Than a Competition
The Ivy Pitch Challenge is not simply a pitch event—it is a five-week intensive entrepreneurship experience consisting of 10 sessions. Participants gain exposure to leading founders and investors from Silicon Valley to New York City and across Florida.
Students receive:
• Hands-on pitch training
• Understanding of dilutive and non-dilutive funding
• Constructive feedback from judges
• Insight into real-world startup ecosystems
• Tools to launch a successful venture
• The opportunity to refine ideas that could shape industries and communities
The result is a platform for growth, confidence, and transformation.
2GETHER
The Ivy Pitch Challenge
Building Tampa’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Celebrating Cohort 7
This year marked a milestone as Cohort 7 became the largest class in program history, boasting 79 students. The culminating pitch event showcased bold ideas, sharp execution, and courageous innovation.
Awards presented included:
• 1st Place Prize – honoring the top venture and pitch of the challenge Van Anshel Bongga of Fresh Up
• 2nd Place Prize – recognizing exceptional execution and vision Sanderline Joseph of Elleveile
• The Bold Attempt Award – celebrating courageous thinking and taking the leap Nazyia McCall of FACET
• Participation Awards – acknowledging students who showed up weekly ready to learn and engage:
o Middleton High School: Juterose Jean Baptiste and Augusto Antoine
o Morgan High School: Van Bongga, Armoni Gonzales, and King Gordon
Each participant demonstrated dedication, creativity, and a willingness to take the stage— an act that requires courage at any age.
2GETHER
The Ivy Pitch Challenge
Building Tampa’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
A Community Effort
The Ivy Pitch Challenge is delivered to the Tampa community by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.®, Gamma Theta Omega Chapter in partnership with the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners and COI Ladder Institute.
Under the leadership of Chairman SaLisa Berrien and Co-Chairman Sheila McCants, along with dedicated committee members, countless hours of time and talent have been selflessly invested to ensure the program’s success.
The Future Is Being Built in Tampa
From a single cohort in 2022 to seven cohorts and counting, the Ivy Pitch Challenge continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact. With more than $35,000 awarded and its largest class ever completing the program, the momentum is undeniable. The future of entrepreneurship is not somewhere else it is being built right here in Tampa.
Greetings Sorors of Gamma Theta Omega,
SERVE 2GETHER
For the month of March, GenNEXT members were asked to let our chapter meeting bloom with warmth and gratitude with a Toast to Sisterhood. GenNEXT collaborated with the March Hostess Group to provide mocktails in conjunction with March’s refreshments for all Sorors in attendance. Our Toast to Sisterhood was a delightful sisterly relations experience enjoyed by all.
In honor of Women’s History month, the GenNext Committee would like to highlight a few up-andcoming Sorors who have been making a mark in the chapter, their careers, and the community.
Soror JaChrissia “Cree” Williams became a member of Gamma Theta Omega in the Fall of 2019. She is in the April Hostess Group and has served on various committees. Soror Cree graduated in May of 2025 from USF with a Master’s in Library and Information Science and has been featured on WTSP’s Great Live Morning Show for her work. Among all her accomplishments, Soror Cree still finds time to be a devoted aunt and friend.
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Soror Danielle McGowan is a proud HBCU Alumni of Alabama A&M University and became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Gamma Mu Chapter in the Spring of 2006. Soror Danielle is a University Counselor at Grand Canyon University and works hard for the students of her institution. She has served on various committees within Gamma Theta Omega such a Miss Teenage Tampa and Precious Pearls. Soror Danielle is a devoted wife and mother to her daughter Demi.
Signing Off!
Soror Mikaelya Coffee GenNEXT Chairman
Introducing Our 2026 Little Miss d Miss Teenage Tampa Contestants
ent, we are delighted to introduce the remarkable ent the 2026 Little Miss Rosebud and Miss Teenage programs. These contestants embody the very essence of our legacy; poise, purpose, academic excellence, and a commitment to leadership within their communities.
As we celebrate 50 Years Strong of Scholarship and Leadership, this year’s participants stand on the shoulders of those who have come before them; young women who dared to dream, lead, and leave a lasting impact. Each contestant is embarking on a transformative journey that will cultivate confidence, character, and lifelong skills that extend far beyond the stage.
This milestone year promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Have you secured your Golden Ticket?
If not, now is the time. This is more than an event; it is a signature experience. An evening of elegance, empowerment, and excellence awaits, and you will not want to miss the opportunity to witness these phenomenal young ladies shine.
To purchase your tickets, please visit our website or connect with a member of the Finance Team. Join us as we celebrate legacy, invest in the future, and create a truly golden experience for all.
The Membership Committee Begins
2026
with Purpose and Unity
The Membership Committee has launched into 2025 with renewed energy, fresh leadership, and a clear commitment to supporting the chapter’s administration theme: Better 2gether. With a focus on strengthening sisterhood, the committee is actively aligning its initiatives with its core responsibilities of planning, coordinating, and implementing recruitment, reclamation, and retention efforts.
As part of its first-quarter agenda, the committee will host two key events: the Transfer/Reactivated Soror Orientation and the Strengthening Our Sisterhood Mentoring Program Orientation. These programs are designed to welcome, reconnect, and support members at every stage of their journey, reinforcing the importance of engagement and belonging within the chapter.
Looking ahead, the Membership Committee is also planning two cornerstone events later in the year, the annual Chapter Retreat and the annual Reactivation Event. Both initiatives will serve as opportunities to deepen bonds, reignite participation, and celebrate the collective strength of the sisterhood.
In addition to its membership-focused efforts, the committee continues to promote unity by collaborating with the Sisterly Relations Committee. This partnership was demonstrated through their joint efforts in organizing the Chapter’s Founders Day Celebration, highlighting the power of working together toward shared goals.
The Membership Committee Begins
2026 with Purpose and Unity...cont’d
The Membership Committee also plays a vital role in maintaining organizational connectivity by providing a monthly roster of all active members, including updated addresses and phone numbers. This resource is securely housed in the Members-Only section of the Gamma Theta Omega Chapter website, ensuring accessibility and accuracy.
Meeting on the second Thursday of each month, committee members remain actively engaged in brainstorming innovative ways to enhance member engagement and satisfaction. One of the current projects underway focuses on improving access to attendance records from chapter and committee meetings and activities. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Membership Committee, the Philacter Team, and the Webmistresses, underscoring the spirit of 2getherness.
Through thoughtful planning, collaboration, and a shared vision, the Membership Committee is setting a solid foundation for the year ahead. Their work reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that every member feels connected, supported, and valued because truly, we are Better 2gether
With
sisterly love and service, Soror Jackie Marcelin
Who’s the Boss?
Soror in the Spotlight
We proudly celebrate Soror Ty Codner during Women’s History Month for her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to excellence. Soror Ty recently became the owner of a Subway franchise, adding another achievement to her impressive journey as a businesswoman and community leader.
A true BOSS Lady, Ty masterfully balances the demands of family life, entrepreneurship, and her pivotal role in planning the 50th Miss Teenage Tampa Pageant. While this is not her first business venture, her Subway franchise offers a new opportunity to lead a dedicated team and infuse the brand with her signature style and high standards.
Located in East Tampa at 9720 Princess Palm Avenue, her restaurant is already known for delicious subs and exceptional customer service, which are reflections of Ty’s hands-on leadership and passion for quality.
This Women’s History Month, we honor Soror Ty Codner as a modern game changer whose vision, determination, and service continue to uplift our community and inspire th
Gamma Theta Omega members at the Tampa Chapter Links International Women’s History Month Luncheon
Members of Gamma Theta Omega proudly attended the Links International Women’s History Month Luncheon on Saturday, March 14th, an inspiring gathering held at the elegant Regent HCC in Riverview. The event brought together women from across the community to honor the legacy, achievements, and ongoing contributions of women around the world.
From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was filled with energy and cultural pride. The Kuumba Dancers and Drummers delivered a powerful and authentic performance, their rhythmic movements and vibrant drumming creating an unforgettable opening that set the tone for a day of reflection, celebration, and connection.
The program reached new heights with the keynote address from our Soror, Dr. Shauna Tucker‑Sims. Her dynamic presence and insightful message brought the theme “Give to Gain” to life in a meaningful and deeply resonant way. Adding to the cultural richness of the afternoon, attendees enjoyed a beautifully prepared selection of authentic African cuisine catered by Queen of Sheba. The flavors, presentation, and warmth of the meal created a communal dining experience that complemented the spirit of unity and celebration woven throughout the event.
Overall, the luncheon was a memorable tribute to Women’s History Month filled with culture, empowerment, sisterhood, and meaningful reflection. Gamma Theta Omega was honored to be part of such a powerful celebration.
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The Ivy Vine Times
