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DKOMonthlyDigest
CHAPTERLEADERSHIP
PRESIDENT
MelodyHadley
FIRSTVICEPRESIDENT
RhondaHicks
SECONDVICEPRESIDENT
CynthiaBarber
EDITORIAL&COMMUNICATIONS
Editor&Publisher
TamilliaCherry
Ivy Leaf Reporter
PUBLICRELATIONSCOMMITTEE
AnitraHighland
RetundraJohnson
JuanitaWilliams
Reminders
PursuanttoDKOChapterPolicies Manual,Meetings,Section2Attendance,a.,inordertosatisfythe Chaptermeetingattendancerequirement (re:nominationsandelections),asoror mustbephysicallypresentfora minimumofone(1)houratthemeeting. Tofacilitaterecordingattendance,sorors arerequiredto"sign-out"ifleaving beforetheChaptermeetingisadjourned.
UpcomingEvents
ScholarshipDeadline:March8
Heirs’PropertyVirtualWorkshop: March14
ChapterMeeting:March21
MilestoneMardiGras:March28
Wewelcomearticlesandphotoshighlightingservice,sisterhood,andcommunityengagement
Pleasereviewthefollowingguidelinesbeforesubmitting:
Allarticlesmustbetypedandincludeaclearheadline
Submissionsshouldincludeatleastonephoto,accompaniedbyacaption
Articlesshouldnotexceed300words
Allsubmissionsshouldbeemailedbythe15 ofeachmonthto:dkoivyleaf@gmail.com
We appreciate your contributions and look forward to sharing your stories in DKO Digest
Publication Notice
A Message from the Basileus
HappyFebruary,Sorors,
Februaryrepresentedameaningfultimetoreflectonlove,legacy,andappreciation ofAfricanAmericanculture AswehonoredBlackHistoryMonth,wereflectedon thestrength,resilience,andexcellenceofthosewhopavedthewaybeforeus Theircourageandcommitmentserveasapowerfulreminderoftheimportanceof remaininggroundedinpurposewhilecontinuingtobuilduponthefoundationthey established Theirlegacyencouragesustomovewithintention,tovaluethe opportunitiesbeforeus,andtoremainmindfuloftheroleeachofusplaysin shapingthefuture.
FebruarywasalsorecognizedasAmericanHeartMonth,atimetobeintentional aboutcaringforourselves,notonlyphysically,butemotionallyandspirituallyas well.Itremindedusthatwellnessisnotsimplyaboutendurance,butabout balance,restoration,andgrace DuringourPinkGoesRedevent,wecametogether infellowshipwhileprioritizingourhealththroughlinedancing,on-sitescreenings forBMI,bloodpressure,andbloodglucose,andaccesstovaluableeducational resources.Thisinitiativeincreasedawarenessandreinforcedtheimportanceof beingproactiveandmindfulofouroverallhealthandwell-being
Thesemomentsofreflectionandawarenessserveasimportantremindersthatboth legacyandwellnessrequireourcontinuedattention.Byhonoringthepastand caringforourselvesinthepresent,westrengthenourabilitytomoveforwardwith clarity,purpose,andunity.
Knowthatyouarevalued,appreciated,andanessentialpartofoursisterhoodas wecontinuebuildinguponourfoundationtogether
InServiceandSisterhood,
SororMelodyHadley
Basileus
MATTERS OFTHE HEART
Februaryinvitesanaturalpause,amomenttoslowdown,reflect, andlookinward.AsweobservebothHeartHealthMonthandBlack HistoryMonth,weareremindedthatcareextendsbeyondthe physicalandhistorical.Itreachesintotheconditionofourhearts, theplacewhereintention,humility,andconnectionareformed.
Earlierthismonth,adevotioncenteredonpartnership,humility,and walkingtogetherstayedwithmeinaquietbutmeaningfulway.It offeredasimplereminder:wearenotmeanttowalkalone. Ecclesiastes4:9affirmsthisbeautifully:“Twoarebetterthanone, becausetheyhaveagoodreturnfortheirlabor.”Partnershipdoes morethanaddtowhatwedo,itmultipliesourimpact.Whenwe walktogether,webuildmomentumbeyondwhatanyoneofuscould accomplishalone.
DESIGNEDFOR TOGETHERNESS
By Tamillia Cherry Ivy Leaf Reporter
Withinsisterhood,thistruthbecomesevenmoretangible.Our sharedhistoryconnectsustosomethinggreaterthanourselves. Withinthatconnection,ourchapterthrives,notinsameness,butin thediversityofexperiences,perspectives,andstrengthsthatshape ourcommonpurpose.Scripturespeakstothisinterconnectionin1 Corinthians12:21:“Theeyecannotsaytothehand,‘Idon’tneed you.”Itisapowerfulreminderthatinterdependenceisnotweakness, itisdesign.
Embracinginterdependenceisnotalwayseffortless.Attimes,pride orpastdisappointmentscanmakecollaborationfeelvulnerable. Proverbs16:18remindsusthatpridecanquietlystandinthewayof growth,whileopennesscreatesspaceforunderstandingandgrace. Sisterhoodinvitesustoremainteachable,tohonordifferences, extendpatience,andtrustthateveryvoicecontributestothewhole.
Manyofuscanrecallmomentswhencomingtogethermadea difference, encouragementsharedattherighttime,wisdom exchangedinconversation,orsteadypresenceduringachallenge. Whilethesemomentsmayseemsimple,theyreflectthequiet strengththatemergeswhenpeoplemoveinunity.Withinsisterhood, thatsamespiritremindsusthatpartnershipisnotjustanidea,buta livedexpressionoftogethernessthatstrengthensthewhole.Inthese everydaymomentsofconnection,weseetheunityJesusprayedfor inJohn17:21,thatwewouldbeone,justasHeandtheFatherare one.Livedoutinrealtime,thatunitybecomesourtestimonytoa watchingworld..
Myhopeisthatthisreflectionencouragesustocontinuenurturing unity,honoringoneanother’sgifts,andstrengtheningthebondsthat sustainourchapterasawhole.
History Makers
ScientistGeorge WashingtonCarver
Carver is credited for discovering various amounts of uses for the peanut and sweet potato and was an early pioneer in advocating for better lives for farmers He is also one of the first prominent Black scientists to promote environmentalism. Carver taught at the Tuskegee University while also balancing a career as an agriculturalist, which led, in part, to the creation of over 100 peanut-centric recipes.
Dr.MaeJemison
Soror Dr Mae Jemison made history on September 12, 1992, as the first Black woman to travel into space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour, serving as a Mission Specialist. After NASA, she continued her impact through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership in advancing science and space exploration
PercyLavonJulian
American chemist Percy Lavon Julian made major contributions to modern medicine through his work with soybeans. He synthesized physostigmine to treat glaucoma and developed methods to mass produce cortisone and progesterone, advancing treatments for inflammation and hormone therapy.
MadamC.J.Walker
Madam C J Walker was a pioneering businesswoman and is widely recognized as the first Black self-made millionaire. Through her haircare company, she developed products that served the Black community and helped popularize modern haircare methods, while creating economic opportunities for women nationwide.
Dr.ShirleyJackson
Dr Shirley Jackson, the first African American woman to earn a doctorate from MIT, conducted groundbreaking telecommunications research that contributed to innovations such as touch-tone phones, fiber optics, and caller ID. In 2014, President Barack Obama appointed her co-chair of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board
Recognizing Their Impact On History
BLACKHISTORYSPOTLIGHT
NELLIEMAYQUANDER SECURINGOURPERPETUALLEGACY
January 29, 1913 marked a defining moment in the history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, as the organization became a perpetual entity through national incorporation. This historic milestone was led by Soror Nellie May Quander, whose foresight and determination ensured the sorority’s legal and organizationalpermanence.
As the principal incorporator and Alpha Kappa Alpha’s first International President, Soror Quander recognized the importance of establishing a strong foundation that would protect and sustain the sorority for generations to come. Her leadership made Alpha Kappa Alpha the first sorority in the United States to achieve national incorporation, securing its place in history and safeguarding its missionofservice.
More than a century later, her vision continues to guide Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, standing as a testament to the power of leadership, preservation, and perpetuity.
ACHAPTERINBLACKHISTORY
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA
TALLAHASSEE
24 JANUARY 1947
DELTA KAPPA OMEGA
On January 24, 1947, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® chartered Delta Kappa Omega Chapter, marking the beginningofalegacythatcontinuestoshape our chapter today At a time when Black women were creating pathways for leadership, service, and community impact, our charter members demonstrated vision and purpose by bringing Alpha Kappa Alpha’s mission to the Tallahassee community.
Through their leadership, our charter members laid the foundation for Delta KappaOmegatobecomethefirstandoldest graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,Incorporated®inTallahassee Their efforts established a standard of excellence rooted in scholarship, sisterhood, and Service to All Mankind, while creating opportunities for meaningful and lasting communityimpact.
As Delta Kappa Omega marks 79years,we honorthelegacyestablishedatitschartering and the example of service, leadership, and excellencesetbyourchartermembers Their vision continues to guide our chapter and remainsanimportantpartofourhistoryand Blackhistoryinourcommunity.
The Capital Theater
MargaretYellowhairownedand operatedtheCapitalTheaterin Frenchtown,Tallahassee,theonlymovie theaterinthecitybuiltbyaBlackowner fortheenjoymentofBlackresidents duringsegregation.
Originallyopenedby1914astheCapitol CityTheatre,itclosedin1926and reopenedaround1928–1929asthe CapitolTheatre,continuingtoservethe African-Americancommunity.Stillopen in1955,thetheaterprovided entertainmentandstoodasanimportant partofFrenchtown’sculturallife.
Economy Drug Store
Pictured are members of the Roberts family and guests celebrating the grand opening of Economy Drugs on Macomb Street, the oldest Black-owned pharmacy in Leon County, in the heart of Frenchtown.
Established in the 1940s and purchased by the Roberts family in the 1950s, the pharmacy became a trusted resource and gathering place for the community. Today, it is still open under the leadership of Pharmacist Manager Alexis Roberts-McMillian, continuing a proud traditionofserviceinFrenchtown.
OLD LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL
Establishedin1869as LincolnAcademy,Lincoln HighSchoolwasfounded toeducatenewlyfreed AfricanAmericans. Familiesfromsurrounding communitiessenttheir childrenthere,viewing educationasapathwayto advancement.
Afterrelocatingto Frenchtown,Lincoln becameasourceofpride, educatinggenerationsof studentsbeforeclosingin 1969followingintegration.
TheRedBirdCaféwasa populardancecluband culturallandmarkin Frenchtownduringthe 1960sand1970s.A premierstoponthe Chitlin’Circuit,ithosted legendaryperformers suchasRayCharles, B.B.King,Cab Calloway,Cannonball Adderley,andKoko Taylor.Morethanan entertainmentvenue,it reflectedthevibrant Blackcultureand community.
NimsGroceryand Marketwasoneof Frenchtown’searly Black-ownedbusinesses. Originallyrentedaround 1900byJoeNims,he laterpurchasedthestore withan$800loanfrom hisfatherandoperatedit from1904untilhisdeath in1991.
Frenchtown: A Story That Shouldn’t Be Forgotten
Originally settled in 1831 by French immigrants, Frenchtown is one of Tallahassee’s oldest neighborhoods and holds an important place in the city’s history. Its developmentwasinfluencedbythe1825LafayetteLandGrantawardedtotheMarquis de Lafayette for his service during the American Revolutionary War. Over time, FrenchtowngrewintoacommunitycentraltoTallahassee’sdevelopment.
After the Civil War, newly freed Black residents settled in Frenchtown, building a thriving, self-sustaining community rooted in resilience and determination. By the early to mid-20th century, it had become a vibrant center of Black economic, social, and cultural life, with flourishing Black-owned businesses, schools, churches, and professionaloffices.
From the 1940s through the 1960s, Frenchtown served as the primary hub for Black commerce and culture in North Florida. Venues such as the Red Bird Café and Café Deluxe hosted nationally known performers, including Ray Charles, B.B. King, and NatAdderley,reflectingtheneighborhood’sstrongsenseofidentityandpride.
Although desegregation led to economic decline and population shifts, Frenchtown remainsalastingsymbolofTallahassee’srichBlackhistoryandtheenduringlegacyof community,resilience,andentrepreneurship.
STAYING INFORMED, STAYING HEALTHY
WELLNESS TIP OF THE MONTH
Start your day with 5 minutes of mindful breathing Close your eyes, inhale deeply, and exhale slowly. This simple habit can reduce stress, improve focus, and help you feel grounded, no matter how busy life gets.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TIP
NUTRITION CORNER
Fuel your body with balance Aim for colorful meals that combine healthy fats, fiber, protein, and complex carbs Think leafy greens, nuts, beans, and whole grains Hydration also matters, swap sugary drinks for water or herbal teas to support digestion and energy.
Even 30 minutes of moderate activity, like brisk walking or cycling, can improve heart health, strengthen muscles, and boost mental clarity Consistency is more important than intensity
READY TO START? READY TO
Take one small step today, breathe deeper, move more, eat mindfully. Stay informed Stay healthy Stay empowered
Honoring A Legacy: Marsha Lewis Brown Bench
On January 27, several members joined sorors, regional leadership, and distinguished guests at Florida State University for the dedication of a legacy bench honoring Marsha Lewis Brown, 17th South Atlantic Regional Director.
A Golden Member and visionary leader, Ms. Brown made history as the first African American woman to receive a bench dedication at her alma mater. The tribute served as a lasting symbol of her leadership, service, and enduring impact on Alpha Kappa Alpha and the South Atlantic Region.
AKA DAY AT THE CAPITOL
SeveralmembersjoinedSororsfromacrossFloridaforAKADayattheCapitol Through engagementwithlegislatorsandadvocacyworkshops,memberselevatedkeyissuesincludingBlack maternalhealthandchildhoodhunger,whilestrengtheningtheircollectivevoiceinpreparationto SOARtotheMidterms:VotingforChange
INTENSIFIED PINK FILLED OUR CHAPTER MEETING IN SUPPORT OF HEART HEALTH
Sorors Shoney Bellamy, Connie E. Jenkins-Pye, and Joya McCarty Underwood were honored to serve as AKADAC Escorts, Congratulations!
Membership Committee Transfer & Reactivation Activity. Celebrating reconnection and welcoming sorors home.
c e l e b r a t i o n M A R C H 2 8 , 2
M a r d i g r a s M a r d i g r a s
M a r d i g r a s
m i l e s t o n e m i l e s t o n e
m i l e s t o n e
c e l e b r a t i o n c e l e b r a t i o n
Conferences on the Horizons PlanningAhead
73rdSouthAtlanticRegionalConference
Dates:April1–5,2026
Location:RosenShingleCreek
Orlando,Florida
72ndBoule
DatesJuly19,2026-July23,2026
SororSpotlight IfyouknowofaDeltaKappa OmegaChaptersororwho hasachievedacareer milestone,receiveda communityorprofessional award,orisasuccessful businessowner,please considersubmitting detailsofher Saccomplishmentforthe TororSpotlightsectionof heDKODigest,along,
Our sisterhood is built on connection. Technology helps us share, engage, and stay informed, keeping our sisterhood close, thriving, and informed. If using social media or technology feels new or unfamiliar, assistance is available.
T h e r a i s e d f i s t h a s l o n g s y m b o l i z e d s o l i d a r i t y , s t r e n g t h , a n d c o l l e c t i v e p o w e r . I t r e p r e s e n t s u n i t y i n t h e f a c e o f a d v e r s i t y a n d t h e
u n w a v e r i n g c o u r a g e t o s t a n d f i r m i n p u r p o s e .
The raised fist has long symbolized solidarity, strength, and collective power. It represents unity in the face of adversity and the unwavering courage to stand firm in purpose.
For Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, that same spirit lives within our Sisterhood. In Salmon Pink and Apple Green, we do not simply remember history, We continue building it.
F o r A l p h a K a p p a A l p h a S o r o r i t y , I n c o r p o r a t e d ® , t h a t s a m e s p i r i t l i v e s w i t h i n o u r S i s t e r h o o d .
I n S a l m o n P i n k a n d A p p l e G r e e n , w e d o n o t s i m p l y r e m e m b e r h i s t o r y , W e c o n t i n u e b u i l d i n g i t .
