Congratulations to the Women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., for expanding to the Island of Enchantment, Puerto Rico!
Sirviendo a Puerto Rico con Orgullo Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,Inc.
Tau Delta Lambda Chapter Discover More About Us
Greetings
Soaring Directorate Members
Former International Regional Directors
Charter Members
Las Damas Del Tambor (Ladies of the Drum)
The United Pearls of Puerto Rico History
Chartering Luncheon Program
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Acknowledgements
I am elated that you are joining us on this beautiful island of Puerto Rico in the tropical city of San Juan!
Welcome to the International Region for the chartering activities of the United Pearls of Puerto Rico These are amazing women who are intelligent, service-minded and ready to do the much-needed work to carry out the program initiatives, service and sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated . ®
They have done a remarkable job providing leadership training for middle schoolers, providing meals for children, offering health screenings, educational and professional resources, helping families in need and planting nearly 100 trees that are native to the island.
And that is only the beginning! These women are ready to make a noticeable difference in Puerto Rico as only Alpha Kappa Alpha women can I am immensely proud of them and can’t wait to see their continued accomplishments.
Thank you again for being here for this monumental moment and for your unwavering support of our sisters as they embark on becoming the newest chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
In Sisterhood and Service,
Carrie J Clark
Carrie J. Clark International Regional Director
OFFICEOF:
Danette Anthony Reed
Supreme Basileus
October 18, 2025
Greetings Members of the United Pearls of Puerto Rico,
Congratulations! I extend heartfelt and warmest wishes to the United Pearls of Puerto Rico Interest Group members as you celebrate your chapter’s historic chartering today.
As International President & CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and as a charter member of Omicron Mu Omega Chapter, I express special honors and warmest wishes to welcome and rejoice with you as the newest chapter within our sisterhood You are among more than 1,069 other chapters across the globe that have committed “to be supreme in service to all mankind ” Your chapter is the first to be chartered in Puerto Rico! I am so delighted you accomplished your quest during the “Soaring to Greater Heights of Service & Sisterhood®” administration, and I couldn’t be prouder, as I know you will accomplish all you desire to achieve.
Your membership includes talented, accomplished, and professional women dedicated to continuing the traditions, ideals, and goals established by our sorority’s founders. Your chapter’s chartering is extremely important for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority to preserve our legacy, exceed our goals, meet our mission, and achieve our vision.
Today, you set yet another milestone for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority as a result of your incredible commitment to service through your community programs in Loiza and beyond. Your efforts include supporting families in crisis by providing toys to children living in domestic violence shelters, partnering with The Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated® by donating additional toys and sharing environmental education; delivering health screenings to senior citizens; offering career and educational resources to youth and women, and planting 75 native trees. You truly have the vision and courage to create pathways for extraordinary service with members who nurture and empower our sisterhood.
United Pearls of Puerto Rico, your continued commitment and dedication to our sisterhood are admirable and greatly appreciated. You have the power to continue to touch the lives of women, children, and men who look to us as beacons of hope and who shine a light with the promise of a better tomorrow. We, my sisters, must use our hearts and minds to make a difference You’ve proven you can do it, and I encourage you to never forget the capacity you have to make a difference.
Again, I send my best wishes as you embark on your new journey as another “pearl” within our Sisterhood.
Sincerely,
DanetteAnthonyReed
Danette Anthony Reed International President & CEO
world are united in sisterhood, service, and scholarship In Puerto Rico, that spirit shines with a rhythm all its own through the dedication of our 25 members. I am endlessly proud of what we have accomplished together and what we will continue to build in the future.
This historic weekend has been curated as A Cultural Affair where heritage, music, elegance, and community come together against the stunning tropical backdrop of our island. As we gather with family, friends, service partners, and supporters from near and far, we are excited to share not only this momentous occasion but also the enduring legacy of sisterhood and service to all of mankind that we are building in Puerto Rico
With deep appreciation, I extend heartfelt gratitude to International Regional Director, Carrie J Clark, for her steadfast guidance, faith, and support Your belief in us has carried us through every stage of this journey, and your leadership has shown us what it means to embrace executing vision with courage and conviction.
We are thrilled you have chosen to island leave you inspired, uplifted, a magic of La Isla de Encanto
Josephine Hernandez President
The
United
Pearls of Puerto Rico
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
®
The United Pearls of Puerto Rico International Region
Welcome to this joyous and historic occasion, the chartering of The United Pearls of Puerto Rico, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated 's first chapter in a Spanishspeaking territory and the 20th in the International Region.
®
This vision was nurtured by the dedication of 25 remarkable women and the steadfast support of you, our partners and friends. Over the past two years, your partnership has been a catalyst, enabling us to administer health screenings, combat hunger, uplift youth, and restore our natural environment.
We are deeply grateful to all our partners, including The Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico: Loíza, Tau Delta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., The New York Foundling, Inc. Puerto Rico, Volunteers of America Puerto Rico, and Operation BBQ Relief, among others.
Thank you for planting roots of servi and sisterhood that will flourish for g
Santía E Pelliccia
Santía E. Pelliccia Vice President/Program Committee
On behalf of the entire Planning Committee, it is with immense joy and profound pride that we extend our warmest greetings and a heartfelt welcome to each of you as we gather to celebrate a truly historic moment: the official chartering of the United Pearls of Puerto Rico Interest Group!
This day marks the culmination of vision, dedication, and unwavering sisterhood. We have poured our hearts into creating a memorable experience for you, one that reflects the beauty, strength, and vibrant spirit of our new chapter. From the elegant decor to the carefully curated menu, every detail has been thoughtfully chosen to honor this significant occasion and to celebrate the bonds that unite us. Of course no one does this alone! Our dedicated sisters of the United Pearls of Puerto Rico poured their heart and soul into the planning of this special day and we are immensely grateful to the entire committee for their tireless efforts.
Today, we not only celebrate our new beginning but also the powerful impact we are poised to make in our community. Each of you plays a vital role in this journey, and your presence here today is a testament to the shared commitment to service, scholarship, and sisterhood that will define our future.
We hope you enjoy the festivities, the fellowship, and the joy of witnessing history unfold. May this day be filled with laughter, rekindled friendships, and the forging of new connections that will last a lifetime.
Thank you for being a part of this special day. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to us.
With heartfelt gratitude and Sisterly love. Saludos!
Tomasina Boone Co-Chartering Chairman
Charlane Brown-Wyands, Esq. Co-Chartering Chairman United Pearls of Puerto Rico
CARRIE J CLARK INTERNATIONAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
DANETTE ANTHONY REED INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT & CEO
CHARLETTA WILSON JACKS INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
QUIANNA E E CHRISTIAN INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
CAROLYN GAUSE RANDOLPH INTERNATIONAL SECRETARY
KARLA A HALL INTERNATIONAL TREASURER
MARTHA L PERINE BEARD INTERNATIONAL PARLIAMENTARIAN
ELICIA PEGUES SPEARMAN NORTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR
NADINE VARGAS STEWART MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR
TIFFANY MOORE RUSSELL SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL DIRECTOR
GWENDOLYN L KIRTLEY GREAT LAKES REGIONAL DIRECTOR
TRACEY MORANT ADAMS SOUTH EASTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR
SHAWN E SIMMONS SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
KIAHNA W DAVIS CENTRAL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
ANIKA WILSON STARLING MID-WESTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR
NICHOLE S JORDAN FAR WESTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR
ARYAN CINDELL GLEASON UNDERGRADUATE MEMBER-AT-LARGE
JAI’ CHEWE UNDERGRADUATE MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Celebrating the historic chartering of a graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® in Puerto Rico.
The United Pearls of Puerto Rico (UPPR) proudly presents this Commemorative Digital Journal as we mark a monumental occasion: the chartering of a new Graduate Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.
PUERTORICO PUERTORICO
PUERTORICO PUERTORICO
October17-
October17-192025
elebration C
elebration C
ACULTURALAFFAIR ACULTURALAFFAIR C hartering
ACULTURALAFFAIR ACULTURALAFFAIR C hartering
INTERNATIONALREGON
INTERNATONALREGION
AlphaKappaAphaSorortyIncorporated
AphaKappaAlphaSorority,Incorporated ®
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.
For the past 2 years, 25 dedicated, driven, and diverse women of the United Pearls of Puerto Rico, an Official Interest Group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated have worked tirelessly, bound by a shared vision to bring the enduring legacy of service and sisterhood to the Isla de Encanto - Island of Enchantment. This chartering is not merely the creation of a new chapter; it is the First chapter in a Spanish-speaking area. It is the culmination of dreams, dedication, and a deep commitment to uplifting our community through intentional programs and service initiatives that embody the spirit of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated . ®, ®
The establishment of this chapter is a declaration: We have planted the ivy in new soil. This new Graduate chapter will immediately become a beacon of light for the Spanish-speaking diaspora, driven by leadership, unwavering service, and advocacy. We are committed to honoring the rich history and cultural vibrancy of Puerto Rico while implementing the Sorority's international programs, creating a powerful, lasting impact on education, health, economic empowerment, the arts, and advocacy for social justice.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this historic moment!
Your support, whether from following our social media, your in-kind donations, through an ad purchase, a congratulatory message, or simply by spreading the word, helps ensure the successful launch and long-term vitality of this new chapter.
Thank you for standing with the United Pearls of Puerto Rico as we celebrate a new chapter, a new legacy, and a brilliant future of service in Puerto Rico.
Y como decimos aquí en la isla…“Pa'lante con nuestra gente de Puerto Rico”
And as we say on the island… ”We are moving ahead with our people of Puerto Rico”
Opening Remarks
Ms. Melissa Hanna, International Region Protocol Chairman
Introduction of Chapter Members
Mrs. Ada Luz Pla-Williams
Introduction of Very Special Guests
Ms. Melissa Hanna, International Region Protocol Chairman
Introduction of Mistress of Ceremonies
Ms. Quianna E.E. Christian, International Second Vice President
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Mistress of Ceremonies
Mrs. Charletta Wilson Jacks, International First Vice President
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Introduction of the International Regional Director
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Ms. Melissa Hanna, International Region Protocol Chairman
Opening Remarks
Mrs. Carrie J. Clark, International Regional Director
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
International Region Video Presentation
Mrs. Gizette Canegata-Thomas, Eighth International Regional Director Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Invocation
Mrs. Pauline Jean Oliver
United Pearls of Puerto Rico Chaplain
Luncheon
Musical Performance
Boys and Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico
Chapter Video Presentation
Ms. Jasmine Lawrence, Recording Secretary United Pearls of Puerto Rico
Introduction of the International President & CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Mrs. Wilma Holmes Tootle, Third International Regional Director Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Soaring Charge
Ms. Danette Anthony Reed, International President & CEO Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
Acceptance of Charge and Remarks Chapter President
Recognition of Partners, Sponsors and Raffle Draw
Mrs. Tomasina Boone and Mrs. Charlane Brown-Wyands Chartering Co-Chairmen, United Pearls of Puerto
Presentation by the Puerto Rico Chapter Chapter President and Vice President
Closing Remarks
Mrs. Carrie J. Clark, International Regional Director Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®
25TH INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT 1998 – 2002
HOUSE STEWART, ESQ 28TH INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT 2010 - 2014
29TH INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT 2014 - 2018
2018 - 2022
CarrieJ.Clark,International RegionalDirector,TheUnitedPearlsofPuertoRico
InterestGroupandtheir President,JosieHernandezoncharteringthenewest chapter in theIngeniousInternationalRegion!
North Atlantic Regional Director
TOMASINA BOONE
21 President,DeltaRhoOmega
BENITA PRATT
JOSEPHINE HERNANDEZ Interest Group President
JANICE TAYLOR
—AN OFFICIAL INTERESTGROUP OF
MONIQUE OKUMAKPEYI President
is proud to support and congratulates the united pearls of Puerto Rico on your chartering celebration! palante, siempre palante!
Thank you for all your continued support!
@BarrioBx 1247 CASTLE HILL Avenue The Bronx
YOU BOTH SHİNE AS A BEAUTİFUL REFLECTİON OF TRUE SİSTERHOOD. YOUR ACHİEVEMENTS SET A STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR US ALL.
H
The United Pearls of Puerto Rico
An Official Interest Group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Your remarkable vision, unwavering dedication, profound grace, and steadfast commitment to service have truly brought this new chapter to life.
May it consistently uplift and positively impact the communities you serve, creating a lasting legacy for generations to come. With much love and blessings, "The Inaugural Nine"
Sorors Cicara, Morgan, Devonne, Kathy, Kisha, Chelsea, Paula, and Dawn
On the path of achievement, where dreams take flight Walk with purpose, embrace the light. Challenges may come, obstacles may appear But with dedication, success is near. Visualize the summit, keep your goal in sight Work hard & strive with all your might. Success is a journey, not just a race, Enjoy every step and savor the grace.
PinkPowerSteps LLC Congratulates Rashida Richards Ellis and Dyana Chapman on the chartering of the United Pearls of Puerto Rico, an Official Interest Group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. This inspiring milestone, taking place during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is a powerful reminder of the impact we can make through service and sisterhood. May this new chapter continue to uplift, empower, and inspire, one purposeful step at a time
This achievement is not only the fruit of your labor and dedication, but also a reflection of the legacies of excellence you inherit from our Afro-Taíno Boricua roots in Salinas, Puerto Rico, to the trailblazing achievements of Black America embodied in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Your steadfast service stands as an inspiration to our family and a beacon of hope within our communities. May the seeds you plant today flourish into the great rainforests of tomorrow.
With enduring love and pride, Victoria Durmo, Zianap Durmo, Edwin Santiago, Norma Andrews, and
Mia Lawrie
¡Felicidades a Lisa Durmo y Zelina Jones! We love you both and are very proud of you for all the hard work and dedication in Puerto Rico!
mucho amor,
Dr. Baez and John Braut
CONGRATULATIONS TO MY FOREVER BEST FRIEND LISA L. DURMO AND MY BEAUTIFUL GODDAUGHTER ZELINA E. JONES.
YOU TWO EMBODY THE TRUE ESSENCE OF MOTHER–DAUGHTER SISTERHOOD. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU BOTH.
We are beyond proud to celebrate you as a Charter Member of the new graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® in Puerto Rico. This achievement is more than a milestone, it is a reflection of your lifelong commitment to excellence, sisterhood, and service.
We love you!
With pride and admiration, Your family, Jermaine, Mychal, Phoenix and DJ
t o o u r h e a d c o u s i n M a r i l y n “ M I M I ”
Congratulations to you and all of your sisters of The United Pearls of Puerto Rico - An Official Interest Group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. ® on this remarkable achievement. Wishing you continued success as you impact and uplift the people of Puerto Rico!
With love from the Cobb Webster Family
TheUnitedPearlsofPuertoRico-AnOfficialInterest Groupof AlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Inc.®
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The United Pearls of Puerto Rico proudly extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Sister Ada for her unwavering dedication, grace, and commitment. Your tireless efforts, compassionate leadership, and steadfast spirit continue to inspire us all.
Through every initiative, you embody the essence of sisterhood, lifting others, serving with purpose, and shining with excellence. Because of your dedication, our mission continues to flourish, and our impact grows stronger.
We celebrate you today and always for the light you bring to the United Pearls of Puerto Rico. We love you, Your Sisters!
Key Cole
1st Rank Secure LLC
Noelle Lee-Turner
Christopher S. Burton
N’dia Rose Burton
Monique Okumakpeyi
Edith Augustson
Natanyi Carter
Dr. Raveena D. Brown
Yolanda Quintanilla
Tye Wood
Malika
Myranda
LuJuona
Victoria Cynthi
sWith appreciation to Janice Taylor, Journal Chair, for her contributions to this publication.
This commemorative journal was brought to life through the creative collaboration of Xiomara Gordon-Mahon (Public Relations Chair), Dr. Ianthe Dunn-Murad, Pauline Jean Oliver and Aramide Pinheiro-Boatswain of the AKA International Regional Team.
The Visual Design and Artistic Direction, crafted by Pauline Jean Oliver, serves as the seamless thread woven throughout the Chartering Celebration reflecting the grace, unity, and legacy of our sisterhood.
Heartfelt thanks to all who supported in any way.
TheInternationalRegion appreciatesyoursupportaswe buildandbridge oursisterhoodacrosscountries andborders.
Connectwithusaswecontinue tosoarinservicewithinand beyondPuertoRico.
Gracias
Soror Lisa your fellow Gamma Delta Chapter Sorors of Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, NC, noted below, are so proud of you and your daughter Zelina. Your hard work and dedication, along with other Sorors brought the vision to fruition. This is a historic moment in the rich history of our beloved sorority. We congratulate you and the United Pearls of Puerto Rico on this special day of Chartering into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. We love you!
FALL LINE 1975 – GOLDEN SORORS
Delores Ferrell Brown Shelia Bethune Peppers Annette Graddick Wright
FALL LINE 1976 - SILVER SORORS
Debra Massey- Anderson Joyce Ledbetter Gottlieb Anita Barber Ingram
Peggy McCloud Lide Helen M Turner
FALL LINE 1977 – SILVER SORORS
Wanda Johnson Sowell
SPRING LINE 1978 - SILVER SOROR
Fredrica Muldrow Brailsford Carzenia Duren Brown Janet Crowder-Carlisle
June Pearson
FALL LINE 1978 – SILVER SORORS
Loretta Barnett Gracie Baxter Brunson Valerie Duren Haywood
Sarah-Elaine Jenkins Jones Albertha Hilton Lawson Janice Squirewell Paige
Inetta Johnson Strudwick Clemise Wirt Tyson
