Chapter
www.upsilonalphaomega.com
Newsletter
Volume 1, Issue 2 Apr - Aug 2025
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. UPSILON ALPHA OMEGA CHAPTER
Issue Highlights
Soror Anika Williams Doucette, Basileus
Leadership Conference UAO Retreat Program Committee Highlights
IN THIS NEWSLETTER: Message from the Basileus Chapter Meetings UAO Serves Chapter Picnic Community Partner Highlight SARC 2025 UAO Scholarship Reception Starling Elementary School Andria Daniels Technology Grant Little Miss AKA Pageant Annual Elevate 5K YLI Graduation Basileus Pearl side Chat Pretty in Pearls 3.0 GenNEXT AKA Service INIATIVES Graduate Advisor Corner Sorors on the Move, Soror Milestones & New to UAO Sorors AKAStars I.V.Y. Awards
Basileus’ Message Welcome to the second edition of the IGNITE newsletter! I am thrilled to continue this journey of keeping you informed, engaged, and inspired. It’s been an exciting few months since our first edition, and it’s exciting to share all the progress we’ve made together. In this issue, we highlight some of our most recent achievements, upcoming initiatives, and inspiring stories where we have truly made an impact in the Gwinnett County Community. The 2025 Little Miss AKA Pageant and Program raised a total of over $102,000.00 the most money raised in the history of the program. Collectively we should be proud of this effort as the monies raised allows us to fund scholarships and community programs. Additionally, we will a spotlight one of our community partners, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. The wealth of knowledge that has been shared as a result of our partnership has been life changing and empowering for many of us. I could go on highlighting the great work we’ve done and are doing. I hope this newsletter serves as a reminder of the positive change we’re creating together and the difference we’re making. As always, thank you for being a vital part of our intentional and impactful community initiatives. Now, just as we work hard, we too must showcase the sisterly bonding and fun we have along the way. Our chapter Pink-nic was epic. We welcomed our families to join us as we celebrate our chapter and its members. The Pretty in Pearls 3.0 getaway was impressive as we traveled to Los Cabos, Mexico to strengthen our sisterly bonds. We continue to make significant strides, and none of this would be possible without your continued support and involvement. With Sisterly Love, Soror Anika Willams Doucette, Basileus
May Chapter Meeting
At our May Chapter Meeting, we proudly recognized our Golden and Silver Star Sorors. These extraordinary women represent the strength of our sisterhood, the richness of our legacy, and the beauty of a lifelong commitment to service and excellence. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, wisdom, and continued example of what it means to live and lead as women of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Their presence inspires us all to serve with greater purpose and pride.
L E G A C Y P A R A D E
May Chapter Meeting During the May chapter meeting, we celebrated our legacy sorors with our Legacy Parade. These mothers, daughters, aunts, nieces, sisters, and grandmothers represent the heartbeat of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. passing the torch of sisterhood, service, and excellence from one generation to the next.
June June Chapter Chapter Meeting Meeting UAO wrapped up the first half of the year at our June Chapter Meeting, closing with celebration and continued dedication to service. As part of our commitment to education, sorors focused on collecting supplies for teachers. The supplies were donated to Baldwin Elementary School. Sorors chipped in to provide essential items that will directly support classrooms and students. Supplies collected were copy paper, headphones, disinfecting wipes, facial tissue and dry erase markers. A total of 513 items were donated. This generous outpouring reflects our chapter’s ongoing commitment to IGNITE service and support within our community.
PinkNic PinkNic Jamboree Jamboree
In June, UAO sorors came together for our annual Pinknic, a time of fellowship, fun, and sisterhood. The afternoon was filled with laughter, good food, and meaningful connections as we celebrated the halfway point of the year in true UAO style. While service is at the heart of what we do, sisterhood is the joy that keeps us thriving. UAO is on Fire in 2025!!!
PinkNic PinkNic Jamboree Jamboree
Community Partner Highlight Northside Hospital
Since 2023, Upsilon Alpha Omega has partnered with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute to provide the community and UAO members with a variety of health programming. This community partnership has included activities such as the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, blood pressure and carotid artery screenings at health fairs, and the monthly UAO Health Talks series. This partnership represents a shared mission to improve the health of Gwinnett County residents, specifically Black women, through the prevention, detection, treatment, and support for cancer and other health conditions.
SARC 2025
Members of UAO proudly represented at the 72nd South Atlantic Regional Conference (SARC) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, held in beautiful Tampa, Florida. Under the theme “Palmetto Pearls Soaring to Greater Heights”, sorors joined thousands of sisters from across Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina for a powerful week of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and celebration.
Upsilon Alpha Omega attended the Regional Conference, with an impressive delegation of 65 Sorors representing our chapter. Our presence was felt throughout the conference, with 8 Sorors serving in key roles, including: Opening Dance Participants Conference Conveners Philacters Panelists This year’s conference was a celebration of sisterhood, scholarship, and service, and UAO sorors shined with pride and purpose. Our collective participation showcased the strength, leadership, and excellence that define our chapter.
SARC 2025 - And the winner is...
Upsilon Alpha Omega was awarded: Georgia Schank Innovation Award- Runner up, Extra Large Chapter A. Katherine Johnson Reading Award- 1st Place Extra Large Chapter Emory O. Jackson Journalism Award- 1st Place Soror Lynita Blackwell
UAO Scholarship Reception
We are proud to share that $102,000 in scholarships were awarded to 55 outstanding students across the Gwinnett County area. In addition to the student scholarships, we also awarded 3 Andria Daniels Technology Grants to local schools to enrich their technology programs. A heartfelt thank you to UAO’s Scholarship Chairmen, Soror Tanjela Jackson-Buckley and Soror Karlesha Graper, who worked tirelessly to ensure that both high school and college students receive the support they need to continue their educational journeys.
Starling Elementary School Andria Daniels Technology Grant We’re proud to recognize Starling Elementary School a recipient of a STEM education grant designed to enhance hands-on learning and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and math. Special congratulations to Ms. Andria Daniels, whose leadership and dedication to academic excellence played a vital role in securing this opportunity for the school. Through her vision and commitment, students at Starling Elementary will gain access to expanded STEM resources, experimental projects, and pathways that ignite curiosity and creativity. This grant supports Starling’s ongoing mission to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers, thinkers, and innovators.
YLI Graduation USING THE POWER OF PURPOSE TO DRIVE SUCCESS: SHARING OUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE WORLD
To align with the Georgia academic school year, the May YLI Session was the final session for the Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter's Youth Leadership Institute Cohort III. The last session served for our youth leaders to showcase their final presentations, and their parents/guardians were invited to attend. We are so proud of our youth leaders’ journey and accomplishments throughout this cohort and wish them all the best in their future endeavors!
cohort III
Little Miss AKA Pageant
Little Ms. AKA - Taylor Brown The curtain has closed on another beautiful Little Miss AKA Pageant, and we are so proud of all of our participants who shined with poise, personality, and confidence, making this year’s event an unforgettable celebration of talent and grace. Congratulations to the 2025 Little Miss AKA, Taylor Brown, 1st Runner Up Gabrielle Doucette, 2nd Runner Up Rylee Ishman, and Little Mister Winner, Lucas Slate. We are so proud of all participants who took the stage and represented themselves with excellence.
Little Miss AKA Pageant
3rd Annual Elevate 5K The 3rd annual Elevate 5K Run/Walk organized by the Gwinnett Pearls of Service Foundation in partnership with Upsilon Alpha Omega was held on Saturday, June 7, 2025. It was a high energy event designed to promote health, wellness, community engagement, and raise funds for scholarships. There were vendors, sorors, and members of the community in attendance. The event was great and everyone is already looking forward to next year!!!
Elevate 5K - Mission Accomplished! Congratulations to the first place male and female participants, Ty Kelly and Jacqueline Samuel. Here are some of our participants finishing what they started. Great job!!!!
Basileus Pearlside Chat Sorors of Upsilon Alpha Omega had the best time “chatting” with our Madam Basileus, Soror Anika Williams - Doucette, at the first President’s Pearl-Side Chat of the I.G.N.I.T.E. Administration! The evening began with an intimate social hour filled with laughter, games, ice-breakers, prizes, bonding, delicious food, sweet treats, and cocktails. Following the fun, Sorors engaged in an informative Q&A session with our Madam Basileus, gaining insight into the vision and direction of our chapter under I.G.N.I.T.E.
Pretty in Pearls 3.0
Upsilon Alpha Omega Travels to Cabo San Lucas for Pretty in Pearls 3.0 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico — Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter recently embarked on a remarkable journey to the sun-drenched shores of Cabo San Lucas for Pretty in Pearls 3.0, an exclusive travel experience organized by Travel Pink 1908 LLC.
This signature event brought together members of the chapter, family and friends for a curated blend of relaxation, reflection, and refined sisterhood. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cabo San Lucas, the trip offered the perfect balance of leisure and cultural engagement.
Pretty in Pearls 3.0
Pretty in Pearls 3.0 represents yet another meaningful milestone in Upsilon Alpha Omega’s tradition of intentional and impactful travel. The chapter looks forward to future opportunities to explore the world together while remaining grounded in purpose and poised in legacy.
Throughout the experience, participants enjoyed beautifully planned excursions, serene beachfront moments, and inspiring opportunities for connection and renewal. The chapter’s presence was a radiant display of unity and elegance, reflecting the enduring values of sisterhood.
GenNEXT GenNext Sorors Are UAO Proud! Our vibrant GenNext Sorors are making their presence known and their impact felt! With a spirit of service and sisterhood, these dynamic women bring youthful energy and enthusiasm to everything they do. From their first committee meeting to their presence at Founders’ Day, Pink Goes Red, the Publix Marathon, Roll Bounce, and GenNext Gets Fit—GenNext Sorors show up! They also led the way in celebrating Women Who Lead during our March Chapter Meeting. These Sorors are on the move and committed to excellence. We are so proud of their contributions and look forward to all they will continue to do in UAO!
Paddles & Pearls: A Summer Social with GenNEXT - Our #GenNext Sorors brought the energy and elegance to Pickle and Social for an afternoon of pickleball and lasting connections in collaboration with Psi Omega Omega Chapter’s GenNEXT Committee! Whether serving aces or cheering from the sidelines, sorors embraced the spirit of sisterhood and fun. Paddles & Pearls was the perfect blend of play and purpose—showcasing the vibrant joy of our next generation of leaders!
Our #GenNext Sorors showed up and showed out at the UAO PinkNic! They jumped right in and got to work. With vibrant energy and sisterly love, they brought fun and connection to a day filled with laughter, bonding, and pink-and-green perfection!
Leadership Conference
Pathways to Soar: Unlocking Impactful Leadership Anaheim, CA Upsilon Alpha Omega sorors attended the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® 2025 Leadership Conference in beautiful Anaheim, California. With the theme “Pathways to Soar: Unlocking Impactful Leadership,” this powerful gathering offered Sorors opportunities to expand leadership skills, earn certifications, participate in community service, and network with sisters from across the globe. Our chapter was well-represented with sorors who showed up, embracing sisterhood, service, and leadership development. From engaging workshops to historic moments on the conference stage, UAO sorors were present, prepared, and purposeful.
Leadership Conference
Pathways to Soar: Unlocking Impactful Leadership
Service is What We Do!!!!! The 2025 AKA Leadership Conference service projects included the CHIPP™ (Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack) Program, where sorors assembled food bags for children, and The Warm Hugs Project, which collected cuddle toys, bears, and blankets for children experiencing trauma and housing instability.
The conference had a tremendous impact: over 9,600 attendees, an estimated $27 million economic boost to Anaheim, 20,000+ donated items, and nearly 77,000 service hours contributed.
Sorors extended their sisterhood beyond the conference rooms and into the happiest place on Earth. Though not an official conference event, Disneyland and nearby Downtown Disney became a vibrant backdrop for sorors attending the 2025 Leadership Seminar.
It’s Cotillion Season!!!!! Introducing our Cotillion Leadership Team: Soror Geri Gonzalez (Chairman), Soror Twan Leonard (Vice Chairman) & Soror Daphne Crosby (Vice Chairman)
Debutante Cotillion Information Session
On July 24, 2025 Upsilon Alpha Omega hosted its Debutante Cotillion Information Session, an exciting opportunity for those interested in participating in the Debutante or Sub-Debutante Program to learn more. The turnout was fantastic, with prospective participants and families eager to hear about the legacy and impact of our program. Our Madam Basileus, Soror Anika Williams-Ducette, along with The Gwinnett Pearls of Service Foundation President, Soror Sharon Diggs, and cotillion committee members, shared information about Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, the history of our cotillion program, and why Upsilon Alpha Omega continues to lead as the premier cotillion program in the metro-Atlanta area.
Our reigning Ms. Debutante, Tori Love, and her parents spoke with attendees, offering a heartfelt perspective on their journey through the program. They shared their personal experiences, along with valuable tips on how to make the most of the Cotillion season. Their words of encouragement provided inspiration and reassurance to prospective debutantes and their families, reinforcing the value and impact of participating in UAO’s premier Cotillion program.
2025 FALL CHAPTER RETREAT: SISTERHOOD ON FIRE!
What happens when you combine a couple hundred UAO sorors with a jam-packed, impeccably organized schedule of togetherness? You get spectacular sisterly FUN! Our 2025 Fall Retreat was five-alarm amazing! From the moment sorors arrived, the energy was unmatched, and the bonds of sisterhood grew even stronger throughout the day.
This year’s retreat was all about new connection, empowerment, and self-care. Sorors paired with new Sorors for engaging team-building activities that built unity across generations of membership. Self-care sessions reminded us of the importance of prioritizing our mental and emotional well-being, while the self-defense workshop equipped Sorors with practical tools to stay safe and confident. Adding an extra layer of fun, the Career Karaoke segment let Sorors showcase both their professional pride and their performance skills.
2025 Fall Chapter Retreat
The retreat also featured amazing vendors, offering everything from AKA-inspired treasures to wellness products, ensuring Sorors could shop while supporting Black-owned businesses. Of course, no UAO event is complete without delicious food, and the retreat did not disappoint. A special thanks goes to the 2025 UAO Retreat Committee leads, Soror Althea Lawton-Thompson and Soror Kristi McBride as well as every soror who served on the planning team. Their hard work and attention to detail made this retreat a huge success.
As one Soror put it best: “This retreat reminded me of why our sisterhood is truly unmatched. We laughed, we learned, and we loved on each other. That’s what it’s all about.” Until next time, Sorors! Our pearls continue to shine brighter together! It was an AKAmazing day!
l A l M o t a e n c k i i v n r d Se
Kudos to Our HARD-WORKING Program Committee Leadership Team!
The Program Committee Leadership Team has been working tirelessly — setting up opportunities for us to serve, entering service hours, delivering collected items, and so much more. Their dedication ensures that UAO continues to IGNITE our passion for service. Special thanks to: Soror Dionne Battle Soror Suzanne Fountain Soror Brittani Harmon Soror Deirdre Phillips Alfred Soror Tiffany Hoyle
The numbers speak for themselves — and their leadership reminds us of what it truly means to live out our motto of “Service to All Mankind.” Great job, Sorors! We appreciate you!
PROGRAM COMMITTEE HALF YEAR STATS
Busy, Busy, Busy!! This is only the first half of the year, and UAO is on FIRE with service, impact, and sisterhood! From community outreach to chapter programs, we’re proving that when passion meets purpose, amazing things happen.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE HALF YEAR STATS
During the Metro Atlanta Founders’ Day (MAFD) activities, UAO proudly supported heart health awareness by offering carotid ultrasounds and blood pressure screenings during chapter meeting. These valuable services helped participants take proactive steps in monitoring their health. UAO also hosted a booth at the MAFD Healthy Heart Affair, where members engaged with attendees, shared educational resources, and promoted the importance of living a heart-healthy lifestyle.
In addition to impactful service projects, some of our standout efforts during the first half of the year included: Supporting Black-owned and Women-owned Businesses Promoting sustainability through Recycling Initiatives Rallying together for a cause with Relay for Life Each of these efforts showcases the many ways UAO continues to IGNITE service, leadership, and sisterhood in the community. Check out how we did!!
PROGRAM COMMITTEE HALF YEAR STATS
The UAO Health Talk Series is designed to provide valuable education, resources, and conversation around important health topics that affect our families and communities. Each session connects participants with experts, tips, and actionable steps for living healthier, stronger lives. Goals of the Series Educate members and the community on preventative health and wellness. Empower participants with tools and strategies for better daily living. Engage experts and professionals to share knowledge in an appropriate setting.
Attendee Count February (mental health): 79 March (colorectal cancer): 50 April (cancer & nutrition): 56 May (high bp, chol, gluc): 78 June (prostate and testicular cancer): 81 TOTAL: Hosted 344 attendees to our health talk series.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE HALF YEAR STATS
Empower Our Families - Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack (CHIPP) – 1540 CHIPP bags packed and distributed. 12,606 food items distributed Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) – 53 students enrolled. Collectively 53 students participated in various Cohort meetings. Their final presentations will be submitted for a Regional award. Enhance Our Environment - 68 Trees Planted and 828 Items recycled (including Christmas trees)
Wear Pink, Spend Green and Buy Black: Black Dollar Day$ of Spending - Sorors were eager to participate and $55,738 dollars were spent.
Total number of UAO Volunteer Hours to Date:
6,375
Connection and Social Action Committee Public Policy Forum "Ignite Your Future: From Unemployment to Opportunity “ The Public Policy Forum was hosted by the Connection & Social Action Committee of Upsilon Alpha Omega. The purpose was to connect individuals with local leaders and workforce experts to explore issues around unemployment, job readiness, and opportunity. It falls under our program initiative “Advocate for Social Justice.” This initiative includes sponsoring public policy forums to address issues like economic inequality and workforce obstacles. Forums like this can empower community members by providing information, connections, resources and practical solutions to tackle unemployment. It gives a platform to local policy makers, experts, and members of the community to collaborate on actionable strategies.
Connection and Social Action
Voter Registration Drive at Buford High School Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® proudly hosted a Voter Registration Drive (VRD) at Buford High School, continuing our commitment to civic engagement and community empowerment. Special thanks to our dynamic activity lead, Soror Janice McGruder, for her leadership and coordination. Alongside her, Soror Ruth Stubbs Hobbs, Soror Diann G. West, and Soror Tracey Fisher assisted in registering enthusiastic and eligible young adults eager to participate in the democratic process. Our presence at Buford H.S. was not only impactful, it was inspiring. Moments like these remind us of the power of service and the importance of preparing the next generation to raise their voices through the vote.
Your Vote Matters!
Earth Day Recycling Event UAO proudly participated in this year’s Earth Day by donating old tablets, phones, and other electronic devices at the Coolray Field community recycling event. This green initiative helped reduce electronic waste while supporting environmental sustainability. Our efforts show that small actions lead to big impact. Thank you to all who contributed to making a difference!
Little Mulberry Park
The Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. was actively engaged in environmental conservation this morning, as sorority members planted three trees at Little Mulberry Park in Auburn, Georgia. Over 20 participants attended the event, which was a collaborative effort between the sorority's Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) students, and the Gwinnett County Park District. This initiative was part of a larger effort to observe Earth Week and Arbor Day with tree planting events scheduled for three consecutive weekends in April. Congratulations to our youth and sorority sisters on an outstanding and incredible project!
UAO-EXCEEDS RELAY UAO-EXCEEDS RELAY FOR FOR LIFE LIFE GOAL! GOAL!
The Sorors showed up in record numbers for this year’s Relay for Life, partnering with the American Cancer Society to make a powerful impact. With 86 Sorors walking together, UAO raised an incredible $10,524 far surpassing the $7,500 goal! The day was filled with energy, sisterhood, and purpose as Sorors honored survivors, remembered loved ones, and celebrated hope. Free gifts at the Program Table, inspiring moments on the track, and UAO’s unmatched spirit made the event unforgettable.
CHIPP Program The CHIPP Program Wraps Up a Strong Year at Rockbridge Elementary School
April and May were full of purpose and heart as our “small but mighty” CHIPP packing crew came together to serve the students of Rockbridge Elementary School. In April, a dedicated team gathered to prepare bags with care, proving that even a small group can make a big impact. By May, as the school year neared its end, the final packing session brought a mix of pride and reflection. "It’s hard to believe the year is almost over," one volunteer shared. "It has truly been a rewarding experience serving the students through the CHIPP program!"
CHIPP Program
LAST PACKING DAY FOR 2024-2025
The last day of snack bag distribution at Rockbridge Elementary School was filled with joy and celebration as students, teachers, and volunteers concluded the school year with smiles and gratitude. Excitement filled the air as students eagerly received their snack bags, while teachers expressed their appreciation for the ongoing support. Our dedicated distribution team Soror Janice McGruder, Soror Fredria Sterling, and Soror Zelda Neal brought their signature warmth and energy to the final delivery of the year.
Rockbridge High Tea Elememtary Rockbridge Elementary recently hosted a delightful “High Tea” in appreciation of the dedicated sorors who have supported the school’s snack packing and distribution efforts. The event was filled with warmth and gratitude as attendees were treated to an elegant afternoon of tea, finger sandwiches, and delicious desserts. The atmosphere was charming, and the smiles were plenty.
Soror Debra McCullough, who graciously served as hostess, added a personal touch by helping to serve guests with care and hospitality. From the beautifully set tables to the heartfelt fellowship, the gathering was a sincere expression of thanks for the time and love these sorors pour into the school community. A wonderful time was had by all, and the spirit of service and sisterhood was felt throughout the event.
ADOPT A ROAD
(Saturday, April 5, 2025)
UAO is proud to maintain not one, not two, but three Adopt-A-Road locations through our ongoing partnership with Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful! Our clean-up site was The Landing at Sugarloaf Parkway and Hwy 124. As the clock approached 8:30 a.m., our sorors gathered, signed in, suited up in pink vests and gloves, and grabbed their pickers to head out and make a difference. Bright and early, we were out there beautifying the community—one piece of litter at a time. A special thank you goes to our beloved Adopt-A-Road activity lead, Golden Soror, Madine Beaks, who continues to lead with excellence and commitment. She truly is the best!
The Landing
And of course, a huge thank you to all of the sorors and our two outstanding guests who showed up ready to work and serve as the sun was rising. Your energy and dedication help keep Gwinnett clean and shining!
ADOPT A ROAD
(Saturday, April 26, 2025)
UAO Beautifies Five Forks Trickum Library UAO Sorors rolled up their sleeves and got to work at the Five Forks Trickum Library, showing up with energy and purpose to help keep this community space beautiful. This hands-on effort is just another example of UAO’s commitment to service and sisterhood in action.
Treating trash like treasure! We genuinely enjoy doing our part to beautify the community!
ADOPT-A- ROAD Double the Impact: UAO Completes Two Adopt-A-Road Clean-Ups in One Day!
UAO sorors showed up in full force and tackled not one, but two Adopt-A-Road clean ups, demonstrating once again that service is what we do best! Our first stop: The Landing. Our second: Sugarloaf Point. Both sites proudly display our UAO Adopt-ARoad signage, thanks to our partnership with Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful (GC&B). These activities are always filled with joy, laughter, and sisterly bonds. From teamwork to unexpected "treasures" discovered along the way, every outing is an adventure that strengthens our commitment to community care. Volunteering in support of Gwinnett County isn’t just part of our mission—it’s our jam!
Upsilon Alpha Omega demonstrated its dedication to environmental conservation by planting thirteen trees at Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville, Georgia, a notable park in Gwinnett County. In recognition of Arbor Day today and Earth Week, UAO remains committed to the national objective of preserving the planet by planting trees in the community.
April, May and June Birthday/AKAversary Celebration - The Overstory Rooftop On Friday, May 2, 2025, sorors gathered for a joyful AKAversary and Birthday Celebration at the stunning Overstory Rooftop of the Westin Hotel. There were 20 sorors in attendance, the evening was filled with laughter, love, and lively conversation a perfect tribute to sisterhood and shared milestones.
Cultured Pearls
Book Club Meeting
THE AMERICAN MARRIAGE by Tayari Jones
Another memorable Cultured Pearls meet-up is in the books! The dynamic UAO book club, Cultured Pearls, gathered once again for an afternoon of rich conversation, laughter, and connection. Hosted by our gracious Soror Dana Soto and moderated by the ever-poised Soror Karla Lorraine.
The Pearls all turned their attention to: An American Marriage by acclaimed author and Bethune-Cookman University alumna Tayari Jones. The novel dives deep into the emotional and societal toll of a wrongful conviction on a young Black couple. Themes of love, betrayal, loyalty, and the weight of injustice are sure to spark another round of meaningful dialogue.
Cultured Pearls
Book Club Meeting
Sorors were greeted with not only literary exploration, but with sumptuous food, warm ambiance, and a discussion that may have wandered at times; yet the sisterly energy and powerful insights kept the spirit of the gathering lively! Conversations that lingered long after the last pages were turned!
Whether you're drawn by the books, the bonds, or the bites, one thing is certain: Cultured Pearls continues to celebrate Black womanhood, literature, and life one powerful story at a time.
Circle of Pearls Mentoring Event Our Circle of Pearls Mentoring Program had a tee-rific time connecting, laughing, and building bonds during our recent Mentor & Mentee outing at Topgolf! The event was filled with sisterhood, smiles, and unforgettable moments. Whether you hit a hole-in-one or simply came for the fun, your presence brought warmth and joy to the day. Thank you to our amazing mentors and mentees who showed up with style, spirit, and love. Together, we continue to build a legacy of leadership, support, and sisterhood!
First Fridays On Friday, April 4, 2025, UAO sorors gathered for a joyous First Fridays Fellowship alongside our sisters from Kappa Omega and Lambda Epsilon Omega at Scrumdiddlyumptious. With 30 Sorors in attendance, the evening was filled with delicious food, warm fellowship, and a vibrant spirit of sisterhood. From laughter to dancing, we truly set it off in classic AKA fashion!
Soror Squads
The Line Dance Squad
The P.E.A.R.L.S. of Lawrenceville Soror Squad had a great time at Tacos and Tequilla after the May Chapter Meeting. The bonus was that there we other UAO sorors there who joined us. It was a treat to see some of our Golden Sorors!!
APRIL SISTERLY RELATIONS
Spotlight Winner
Soror Vija Xiong Soror Vija is an amazing source of sisterhood, encouragement and empowerment. She is known for her daily check-ins, while sharing her personal journey and praying and cheering on her beloved sorority sisters. Soror Vija, has helped many sorors stay focused and on task. One soror noted that, “days when I’m ready to excuse my way out of my goals and progress, Soror Vija is there to encourage me.”
MAY SISTERLY RELATIONS
Spotlight Winner
Soror Jenita Shorter Soror Jenita is an amazing source of sisterhood and support. She has served exceptionally well with our undergraduate sorors. Her light, love and support of the undergraduate sorors is to be admired. She has definitely left an invaluable impact on the GenNext sorors!
Gradaute Advisor Corner Soror Twan L. Leonard
Tau Pi Chapter sorors atteded SARC in Tampa, Florida in April. Sorors Sanyia Ross, Charity Cloud, and Peyton Morgan served as chapter delegates. The Chapter was recognized at the EAF Luncheon for reaching platinum status. Soror Sanyia Ross (Chapter Basileus and 2024 Soror of the Year) was recognized at the Mary Shy Scott Leadership Breakfast. Soror Petyon Morgan participated in the parade of campus queens at the Undgergraduate Luncheon.
Gradaute Advisor Corner Soror Twan L. Leonard
Sorors Legacy Guider, Sanyia Ross, and Irelynd Ross were celebrated by the chapter and UAO sorors on April 27, 2025. Sorors enjoyed a taco bar, sisterly conversation, words of encouragement, and support from sorors. The Oglethorpe University graduation ceremony was held on May 3, 2025.
Soror Charity Cloud was the recipient of the 2025 $3,000 McGruder Smith Scholarship. This scholarship was established for Tau Pi Chapter members.
Sorors on the Move
Soror Jennifer Jaki Johnson
Congratulations Soror Jennifer Jaki Johnson, who is a semifinalist for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize. As part of this honor, she will join the Black Ambitionist Mentorship Program, founded by Pharrell Williams and powered by Cinematica Labs with support from Evok Life. This program is designed to help visionary founders grow, build, and scale their businesses. Black Ambition is committed to closing the wealth gap by investing in bold ideas and providing underrepresented entrepreneurs with the capital, community, and resources they need to succeed.
Soror Victoria Jones
Congratulations to Councilwoman Victoria Jones for being named a 2025 Moxie Award Finalist in the Greater Good category! The Gwinnett Chamber’s Moxie Awards honor women who are making bold, meaningful contributions to our community, and Councilwoman Jones is a shining example of that impact.
Soror Tammi Norman
We are proud to celebrate Soror Tammi, also known as Pretty Tammi the DJ, for her incredible feature in NY Weekly Magazine! Recognized for her creativity, trailblazing spirit, and impact on music and community culture, Tammi continues to inspire as a dynamic force in the entertainment world. Congratulations to Soror Tammi!
Marlene Fosque
Congratulations to Soror Marlene Fosque — Living the Dash Award Honoree! We proudly recognize Soror Marlene for receiving the Living the Dash Award, a powerful tribute honoring individuals who make meaningful contributions during the “dash” between birth and legacy. As a dedicated public servant, community advocate, and champion for equity, Soror Marlene embodies what it means to live with purpose, passion, and impact. Her commitment to uplifting others and building stronger communities truly reflects a life well-lived in service and excellence. Congratulations Soror Marlene, and thank you for Living the Dash with distinction!
UAO Spotlight April Soror Syndy Buchanan was honored with the “Ordinary Women Doing Extraordinary Things” Award. Soror Aqueelah Ahmad-Harris graduated with an Ed.S. in Advanced Educational Studies from Augusta University and she is also pursuing her Doctorate of Education. Soror Marlene Fosque has been named Chair of the Operations Committee for the Atlanta Region Transit Link Authority (The ATL). Soror Kenjahte’ Harrison is the recipient of two Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF) Scholarships, pursuing an M.B.A. with a Supply Chain Management concentration.
May Soror Daphne Crosby was recognized for her online boutique, DDC’s DesignFinds, and was featured at the Hannah J Green Foundation’s inaugural Fashion Show & Gala. Soror Tia Shorter won first place in the first annual School of CMBE Poster Symposium, at UGA. Soror Meagan Marks was recognized with the Thermo Fisher Scientific 4i Values Innovation Award.
New to UAO Soror
We are so excited to have you as part of the Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter! Your presence strengthens our sisterhood, and we look forward to serving and soaring together. Get ready to make an impact, build lasting bonds, and embrace the excellence that defines who we are. Welcome home!
AKAStars
I V Y Awards April I.V.Y. Awards recognition:
Brigette Beaton Andrea Chamblin Tabitha Williams Vija Xiong May I.V.Y. Awards recognition: Yolanda Anderson Cynthia P Arceneaux Jacquelyn Randall Jenita Shorter Vija Fleming Xiong
Congratulations Sorors!!!
EDITORIAL STAFF Soror Anika Williams-Doucette, Basileus Executive Editor, Advisor Soror Marcia Mullins, Chairman Editor in Chief Soror Peggie Felder, Vice Chairman Co-Editor Soror Twan L. Leonard Chapter Photographer Soror Millicent Black Resource Editor Soror Nia Skeete Ivy Leaf Reporter
Sorors Nia Skeete, Letetia Parks, and Loren Gonzalez Social Media Administrators Upsilon Alpha Omega Members Content Contributors