SEASONS CHANGE, SISTERHOOD REMAINS
S.P.A.R.K.
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President:
CultivatingImpact,StewardingBalance
Dear Sorors,
As autumn settles in with its golden hues and brisk rhythms, we find ourselves in a season of both abundance and responsibility. Our calendars brim with events, programming, initiatives, and celebrations each one a testament to our chapter’s vibrancy and commitment. Yet amid the whirlwind, I invite you to pause, reflect, and recommit to the mission and values that sustain our collective spark.
Programmatic Thrust Projects: Our Mission in Motion
Our programmatic thrust projects are not just line items they are lifelines Whether we are advancing economic empowerment, supporting educational excellence, or advocating for voter education, these initiatives are where our values meet action When we show up, give generously, and lend our talents, we transform lives. Let us continue to champion these efforts with intention, knowing that every hour volunteered and every dollar donated fuels a legacy of service.
2026 Dues: Investing in Our Future
Paying dues is more than a transaction it’s a declaration of belief in our shared vision and commitment. These contributions enable us to plan boldly, support our programs fully, and sustain the excellence that defines our chapter. If you haven’t yet submitted your 2026 dues, I encourage you to do so soon Your commitment empowers us to dream bigger and serve deeper
Balance: The Quiet Power Behind Our Brilliance
This time of year can feel like a crescendo—homecomings, football, service projects, and committee meetings all converging. In the midst of it, remember: balance is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Prioritize rest. Honor your boundaries. Celebrate small wins. When we care for ourselves, we show up stronger for each other. Let’s model sustainable leadership and joyful engagement.
As we move forward, may we do so with grace, grit, and gratitude. Our chapter is a constellation of brilliance and together, we shine brightest when we align our purpose with our pace.
THE BEACON
DR. LYNELL TIPPEN WRIGHT, 1ST VICE
Sparkling with Purpose
The purpose of the Membership Services Committee is to nurture bonds, celebrate each sister’s light, and keep our sisterhood thriving These objectives are upheld by four essential pillars: Recognition,Retention,Reclamation,andTransition.
The Awards & Recognition Subcommittee is shaping how we celebrate the Shining Sparks within HMAC. This subcommittee will recognize members throughout the year This month, the committee will launch “Look Who is Sparkling in HMAC.” We will celebrate our sorors for their commitment, service and meaningful contributions
The Collegiate Connection Subcommittee is hard at work, sparking bonds with our collegiate sisters from the Zeta Sigma and Delta Gamma chapters at University of Houston and Texas Southern University, respectively. On Friday, September 19, 2025, the committee hosted its first event, Bingo on the Beat. This funfilled event offered sorors an opportunity to build relationships and network with alumnae sorors. The committee is excited to host future events to support the collegiates
. The New Member Orientation Subcommittee is planning New Member Orientation this Fall Our objective is to ensure that we facilitate a warm and seamless return to active service in our beloved Sorority. The Membership Ambassadors and Membership Integration Subcommittees are working to support sorors who visit our events or facilitate the return to active service in Delta
Every spark matters, and every soror has a place in Membership Services. If you are interested in service on one of the subcommittees, please sign up on the website and join us on the thirdWednesdayofeachmonth. Let’s keep the flame glowing!
IMPACT AND ACTION
KAMERON BRACKINS, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT AND PP&D
HMAC’s Program Planning & Development Brings Delta’s Five-Point Thrusts to Life
At the heart of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc lies a commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, public service, and social action Every program, project, and initiative we implement reflects our dedication to uplifting communities and advancing the Sorority’s mission. But behind each impactful program stands a driving force: the Program Planning and Development (PP&D) committees. The PP&D committees’ role is much more than scheduling activities it is about creating experiences that inspire change, foster growth, and leave a lasting imprint on those we serve.
To see the power of PP&D at work, let’s explore how our committees bring each of Delta’s Five-Point Thrusts to life through history, impact, and action.
EducationalDevelopment
Did you Know: Delta’s youth programs are designed with a curriculum framework rooted in the Five-Point Programmatic Thrust. This intentional alignment ensures that African American youth are supported holistically by fostering academic excellence, introducing financial literacy and entrepreneurship, exposing youth to global issues and cultural awareness, emphasizing healthy lifestyles, self-esteem, wellness, and empowering youth with civic education and an introduction into advocacy
HMAC Connection: Our Delta GEMS and Delta Academy programs have hosted cultural excursions, entrepreneur fairs, self-esteem busing workshops, and community service projects that inspire and empower young ladies across the Houston area
EconomicDevelopment
Did You Know: One of Delta’s early Economic Development programs was the establishment of the Delta Towers housing projects in the 1970s, built to provide affordable housing for senior citizens Now known as Fortitude at Delta Towers, the development currently features 179 affordable housing units for senior citizens
HMAC Connection: Today, HMAC carries the torch of empowering financial literacy, stability, and self-sufficiency by providing education and programs on financial planning, homeownership, debt management, retirement savings, and entrepreneurship.
InternationalAwareness&Involvement
Did You Know: Since 1955, Delta has maintained status as a NonGovernmental Organization with the United Nations, giving us a voice on issues affecting Black communities around the globe.
HMAC Connection: Our chapter proudly supports global service through projects such as the To Haiti with Love Walk raising funds to support the students and educators at the Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre Campus in Cherette, Haiti and the World AIDS Day Resource Fair.
IMPACT AND ACTION, CONT.
lifestyles
HMAC Connection: HMAC carries out this mission by raising money for and walking in the St Jude Walk and the March of Dimes March for Babies, advancing research and support for children and families We also host our “Elephant in the Room” series, tackling critical health topics such as heart health, mental wellness, and women’s health issues like fibroids and menopause Additionally, HMAC brings resources directly to the community by hosting community health fairs, providing screenings, education, and tools to promote healthier living for Houston residents
PoliticalAwareness&Involvement
Did You Know: Delta champions political advocacy and service through two powerful subsets that help the Sorority champion advocacy and service in unique ways – Social Action and Emergency Response Team (“ERT”):
Through Social Action Delta’s work in legislative advocacy, voter education, and policy reform. In the 1960s, Delta created the National Social Action Commission to formalize and strengthen its advocacy efforts on issues such as civil rights, voting rights, economic justice, and equal education. This commission continues to guide chapters nationwide in their legislative and community-based social action work.
Through ERT, Delta initiative equips chapters and our communities to mobilize quickly in the wake of natural disasters, and public emergencies, and internal crisis situations.
HMACConnection:
HMAC lives out the Political Awareness and Involvement thrust by organizing voter registration drives, candidate forums, and legislative advocacy events that educate and empower the community to take action at the polls Our Social Action committee also actively participates in Delta Days at the Nation’s Capital (DDNC), Red and White Day at the State Capitol, and Delta Day at City Hall, where Sorors advocate on legislative priorities, engage with policymakers, and raise awareness on issues affecting our communities
Whether it’s coordinating a response to assist community members needed when disaster strikes or supporting Sorors and attendees at meetings and events during an unfortunate emergency, HMAC’s ERT team are on call and prepared to serve However, HMAC ERT takes a proactive approach in readiness, safety, and well-being by coordinating CPR and AED training, fire safety and prevention resources and by being on call during chapter meetings and events to ensure all attendees are briefed on emergency procedures and ready to provide assistance if anyone experiences a medical emergency
As we look ahead, the work of Program Planning and Development continues to serve as the backbone of HMAC’s impact Through intentional programming aligned with the Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, we not only honor the vision of our Founders but also meet the evolving needs of our community. Each committee, each program, and each initiative is a testament to our commitment to excellence in service.
In Sisterly Love
Soror Kameron Brackins
THE RECORD & THE REPLY
INSIGHTS FROM YOUR SECRETARIES
PAULA LYRSE, RECORDING SECRETARY & DR. KRISTY LOVE, CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
From the Record
Accurate minutes are the cornerstone of our chapter’s history. To ensure clarity and consistency: When making a motion: Always begin with your name and “I move that…” followed by the specific action.
✅ Example:“I, Paula Lyrse, move that the chapter host a service project with the Houston Food Bank in March”
❌ Example: “I think we should work with the food bank.”
Paula Lyrse
Recording Secretary
Dr. Kristy Love
Corresponding Secretary
When asking a question or speaking on the floor: Please state your name first so it is captured in the record. This helps us maintain accuracy and ensures every Soror’s voice is properly reflected. Clear motions and proper identification allow our minutes to remain professional, precise, and reflective of the chapter’s work.
The Reply
As your Corresponding Secretary, I want to share a few reminders to help keep our chapter communication consistent, timely, and effective. CalendarRequests:
To ensure that events and information are posted accurately and in sync across all platforms: Please submit complete calendar requests at least two weeks in advance.
This turnaround allows time for marketing requests and finance requests to be completed before information goes out to the body. Submissions that are missing details cannot be posted on time, so please include as much information as possible with your request
Why This Matters:
When information is submitted correctly and on time, we are able to communicate with the body in one clear, consistent voice. This ensures that all Sorors receive the same details the same way, without confusion or delay
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep the chapter informed, aligned, and shining in all that we do!
CRIMSON FINANCIAL CORNER
IGNITE THE SPARK!
YOUR 2026 GUIDE TO DUES AND COMMITTEE REIMBURSEMENTS
Sorors, it’s time to ignite the spark and secure your financial membership for the 2026 fiscal year! Please review the following important dates and deadlines to ensure your dues are submitted on time and without additional fees.
In-PersonCollection:
�� October 11, 2025 – Chapter Meeting
�� 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Payment Deadlines (Avoiding Late Fees)
✅ Mail-In Payments: Postmarked by October 3, 2025
✅ PayPal Payments: Submitted by October 8, 2025
LateFeeNotice
October 16 – December 31, 2025
➤ A $10 late fee applies for payments made by Mail or PayPal
ReinstatementFees
After December 15, 2025
$15 reinstatement fee applies
$30 reinstatement fee if inactive for 2+ years
Timely payment ensures uninterrupted financial status and continued access to all the rights, privileges, and sisterhood benefits of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc
ElectronicExpense/ReimbursementForm
We are excited to announce the launch of our new electronic HMAC Expense/Reimbursement Form!
➡ Go to the Committee Chair Information section.
➡ Under Common Resources, look for the Reimbursement Form icon. FormLink:HMAC Expense Reimbursement Form
Reminders:
Ensure you have all receipts and documentation ready to upload at the time of your submission. Include your committee chair’s email address for approval All requests must be submitted within 30 days of the purchase date.
This new process will streamline reimbursements, ensuring requests are submitted and approved promptly, so reimbursements can be issued on time.
Your HMAC Finance Team
HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY
OCTOBER
OCTOBER
DaphneMoss–10/01
GenevieveGaynor–10/02
FeliciaSolomon–10/03
WendyStewart–10/03
ValerieLeverett–10/05
CynthiaHumphrey–10/06
LindaHunt-Lane–10/06
EllaNewsome–10/06
EmilyThompson-Foley–10/06
RasheedahFarooq–10/07
EhinomenOjeaga–10/07
RejiWalker-Herbert–10/07
SynterrekaWhite–10/07
MarissaJones–10/09
NsikakLittle(Inyang)–10/09
BridgetThomas–10/10
PercyKabir–10/11
AnnieBenifield–10/12
AndreaWeston–10/13
CarolWillis–10/13
LaFondraMathis–10/15
CourtneyMcVea–10/15
AndriaWilson–10/15
MelbaPayne-Shaw–10/16
TraceeFletcher–10/17
WanettaJones-Allen–10/17
DebraSlider–10/17
ChristineFortson–10/18
JasmineLynch–10/18
MelissaHamilton–10/19
KatrinaWhitlock–10/19
TiffanyScimmons–10/21
SaritaBrown-Brooker–10/23
ErinnFleeks–10/23
TaraGreen–10/23
KimberlyWright–10/23
MiaDavis–10/24
RachelMorris–10/24
KelliAdams–10/25
CassandraBrooks–10/25
SimoneWilliams–10/27
JannaWilliams–10/28
DanaBrown–10/29
CarnettaGriffin–10/29
TiaLowe-Alexander–10/31
Membership Services CollegiateConnections
Bingo on the Beat!
Kicks Off Sorority Year with Collegiate Connection
HMAC Collegiate Connection Committee kicked offtheSororityyearinstylewithourfirstCollegiate Connectioneventcalled“BingoontheBeat!”which was held Friday, September 19th from 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. at the University of Houston. This highenergy evening brought together our collegiate sorors from the Zeta Sigma Chapter (University of Houston) and Delta Gamma Chapter (Texas SouthernUniversity)foranighttoremember.
This wasn’t your average game of Bingo! Nope Nope Nope! It was a modern remix with a Delta twist! Instead of traditional numbers, the cards were filled with names of today’s hottest Hip-Hop and R&B songs, creating the perfect soundtrack for laughter, strolling, and plenty of friendly competition The atmosphere was exciting with music, photos, and countless memories being made
We were excited to welcome nearly 30 attendees who joined us for an evening filled with fun, fellowship, and sisterhood. A heartfelt Thank You goes to our collegiate advisors, Soror Marissa Jones and Soror Mary Sims (University of Houston) and Soror Aliyah Thomas and Soror Anasthasia Jones (Texas Southern University) for helping spread the word to our collegiate sorors and providing such wonderful support throughout the event We also extend our deep gratitude to Soror Cassandra Brooks for beautifully capturing the joy, energy, and unforgettable moments of the night through her photography.
Food, Fun, and Sisterhood were all on the menu, and we received them in abundance! Led by Senior Chair Soror Carletta Nance, Chair Soror Morgan Smith, and Co-Chair SororAntoinetteWilliams,thiseventnotonlykickedoffthefall semesterbutalsoreinforcedthestrengthofourbondwithour collegiatesisters
The evening was a true celebration of Delta sisterhood where fun met fellowship and memories were created to last well beyondtoday.Atimewasmostdefinitelyhad!
Collegiate Connections
BINGO ON THE BEAT!
UPCOMING EVENTS
OCTOBER PREVIEW
For the October 11 General Chapter Meeting, we are wearing pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, or purple in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. th
Saturday,November8, 2025
Monday,November10,2025 (More Details to come)
Arrive
8 a m
Hostess Committee
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: EmpoweringOurCommunityThroughEducationandAction
As we enter October, the Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. proudly joins the global movement to raise awareness about breast cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) breast cancer is a disease that affects 1 in 8 women in the United States during their lifetime.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just wearing pink. It’s a time to educate, advocate, and support those impacted by breast cancer. As Deltas, we are committed to uplifting our community. This month, we honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and empower our members and community with life-saving information.
KnowtheFacts:
Early detection saves lives. Regular mammograms and self-exams are critical.
Black women are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and have higher mortality rates, despite lower i id t
WhatWe'reDoing:
Throughout October, HMAC will host and participate in several initiatives:
Wear Pink: All Sorors are asked to wear pink to the October Chapter Meeting.
Honor: All Sorors who are Cancer Survivors will be honored at the October Chapter Meeting.
Walk for the Cure: Participate in local walks to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research and support services.
HonoringOurHMACSorors:
We especially uplift our HMAC Sorors this month, many of whom have faced breast cancer and other types of cancer with grace and resilience. Their stories inspire us to continue advocating for health equity and access to care.
Let us stand together in sisterhood and service as we fight for a future free of cancer.
HMAC is trading our crimson for lavender not to set aside who we are, but to stand taller with our sisters who have faced cancer in all its forms. Their stories are woven with pain and perseverance, faith and fortitude, and above all, courage. We honor their strength, celebrate their survival, and commit to walking beside them, showing that courage shines in every shade
Honoring Our HMAC Survivors Honoring Our HMAC Survivors
Artie Hill Endometrial & Uterine Cancer
Ahmesha Graham Breast Cancer
April Sooknanan Breast Cancer
Ava McFarlane — Cervical Cancer
Brenda Griggs Breast Cancer
Carletta Nance Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cancer
Donna Scott — Breast Cancer
Freddie Ferguson
Jennifer Agnew Sc
Junetta Slaughter Co
Kristyn Hunt Cathe
Michelle Edwards — C
Mylana Jackson
Nicol Blake Wrigh
ReShane Dawn Fow
Shalandra C. Jone
Sharon Moore
Physical & Mental Health St.Jude5KWalk
HMAC Walks For A Cause
On Saturday morning, members of our Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter laced up their sneakers and joined hundreds of participants for the annual St. Jude 5K Walk. The chapter exceeded its fundraising goal of $1,913, bringing in a total of $2,435 to support children battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The day was filled with energy, laughter, and purpose as members walked in unity, showing that every step truly makes a difference
Smiles and Miles
About St. Jude
Founded in 1962, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital has been a beacon of hope for families across the nation Its groundbreaking research and treatment have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80% This year, the City of Houston team collectively raised over $187,000 for the St Jude Walk/Run The Houston Alumni Chapter looks forward to returning next year with an even larger team and an even greater impact continuing the mission to walk, give, and spread hope
The event also served as an opportunity for fellowship and networking among Divine Nine organizations. Participants from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, among others joined in the celebration, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared service Photos and videos captured the joyful moments of teamwork, highlighting the power of community when purpose and passion come together
ST. JUDE 5K WALK
Delta IS Social Action: Mobilize.Educate.Vote.
Last month, we reaffirmed a truth we live by: Delta IS Social Action From the intersections of education and health to housing and justice reform, all social action pillars converge at one powerful point…the ballot box.
We spoke about gerrymandering and the manipulation of Texas redistricting maps drawn outside of the census cycle, strategically diluting our communities' voting power But now that we know we act The upcoming election is not just another date on the calendar; it’s a call to action.
2025 TEXAS FEDERAL & STATE SPECIAL ELECTIONS
Critical special elections are happening in Texas Congressional House District 18 and Texas State Senate District 9 Both races directly affect our communities, and your voicematters
ELECTION DAY:
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025
VoterRegistrationDeadline:
Received by Monday, October 6, 2025
EarlyVotingPeriod:
October 20 – October 31, 2025
AbsenteeBallotRequestDeadline:
AbsenteeBallotReturnDeadline:
WHY VOTER EDUCATION & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT MATTER
Being a Delta woman means standing on the frontlines of change. From Ida B. Wells to the late Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, our legacyisrootedinaction
CivicEngagementIsOurResponsibility:
�� Educate yourself and your community on ballotissues
Received by Friday, October 24, 2025
In-person: Received by Tuesday,
�� Understand redistricting impacts in your area
�� Mobilize your chapter, your church, your bl k
SocialAction
DOS & DON’TS AT THE POLLS:
DO:
✔ Vote early, if you can
✔ Bring proper ID
✔ Share accurate, nonpartisan info
✔ Help others get to the polls
DON’T:
❌ Wear campaign gear to vote
❌ Intimidate voters
❌ Share unverified info
❌ Wait until the last minute
ELECTION CHECKLIST:
Check your voter registration status
Know your district & polling location
Understand who’s on your ballot
Request a mail-in ballot, if needed
Make a voting plan: bring ID and a friend
Stay informed and fact-check sources
Encourage others to vote, especially first-timers
HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Vote411.org/DeltaSigmaTheta - Vote 411
VoteTexas.gov – Official Texas voter information
HarrisVotes.com – Harris County elections info / Apply to serve your community
TakeActionToday!
Tell a friend. Bring a friend. Register. Mobilize. Vote.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is committed to civic service and community empowerment. Let’s continue to lead with purpose, act with courage, and vote with power. Social Action isn’t just what we do it’s who we are
“When we vote, we honor those who fought, bled, and died for us to have this right. It’s not just about electing candidates it’s about shaping the systems that govern our
Arts & Letters
ArtasCritiqueandCommentary
Art and politics are deeply intertwined, with art often serving as a powerful tool for political expression, commentary, and social change. Art is used to reflect society, critique power structures, challenge norms, and advocate for social justice.
The Arts and Letters Committee of the Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , is proud to present an exciting initiative designed to empower the voices of tomorrow while igniting creative expression: The HMAC Crimson Classic Speech and Debate Tournament for middle and high school students across the Greater Houston area. Rooted in our commitment to educational excellence, cultural enrichment, and civic engagement, this tournament will serve as a dynamic platform for young scholars to sharpen their public speaking skills, cultivate critical thinking, and engage in thoughtful discourse on issues that shape their communities and the world
Through spirited competition and mentorship, we aim to foster confidence, leadership, and intellectual curiosity in each participant. This event not only aligns with the Sorority’s mission to support youth development but also reflects our belief that when young people speak with clarity and conviction, they become powerful agents of change
The Crimson Classic will feature engaging topics that encourage students to explore the intersection of art, justice, and civic responsibility Participants will have the opportunity to present speeches and debates that address current events, historical perspectives, and visionary ideas for the future.
ARTS&LETTERS
The Crimson Classic Organizing Subcommittee invites chapter members to participate. The subcommittee will consist of:
TeamRecruitment
Researches competitors from schools and organizations within the Greater Houston area to invite. Manages team/ participant sign-ups, tracks fees, confirms entries, and handles lastminute changes.
Communications
Sends tournament invitations, updates, and reminders to teams/ participants, judges, and volunteers
Logistics
Coordinates with the venue. Ensures adequate number of rooms (i.e. breakout/competition, hospitality, tabulation, final show) will be available and will be unlocked, clean, and labeled Organizes food and drinks for judges and volunteers; manages food donations or catering Will partially transition to Hospitality for tournament day.
JudgeRecruitment
Recruit, train, and schedule judges; prepare ballots and instructions. Will transition for tournament day to running tabulations – input scores, generate pairings, and resolve conflicts Prepares results for the awards ceremony.
Volunteers
Organize volunteers for setup, timekeeping, hospitality, photos, and cleanup.
Sponsorship&Fundraising
Reach out to local businesses and community leaders for financial or in-kind support (e.g., food, trophies, printing, monetary awards).
Vibes
Decorate key areas of the venue, including the main registration area, hospitality and tabulation rooms, the final rounds and awards ceremony auditorium, and common areas where competitors gather between rounds.
Please contact Ja’Milla Lomas at jcklomas@hotmail.com if you are interested in joining the organizing subcommittee Your talents will be appreciated!
September2025
CHAPTER MEETING September
HMAC NOTES
New & Reclaimed Sorors
Kaden Ivey
Jordan Killings
LaFondra Mathis
Zayna Muhammad Keri White
OCTOBER 2025
R C H
TTHouston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter P O Box 56108 Houston, Texas 77256-6108
ABOUT HMAC
The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) was chartered by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , in October of 1974 Since its inception, HMAC has been actively involved in supporting national and local service agencies, all while sponsoring and presenting community workshops, awareness forums and health fairs HMAC members and partners have provided over $750,000 in scholarships, directly benefiting the youth of the greater Houston area
OCTOBER CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHY: Cassandra Brooks, Canva com, HMAC & Facebook page CONTENT: Percy Ly Kabir, Kristyn Cathey, Monica Hill, Jasmine Price, Matiko Austin, PhD , Santa McKnight, Harlisha Homer,