OXO April 2026 The PROMISE

“The PROMISE”

April 2026

OmegaXiOmega

My Dear Sorors,

As we move into April, I am reminded that every season calls for a different kind of stewardship and this one calls for both discernment and unity. During our April Chapter Meeting, we will take part in selecting the candidate Omega Xi Omega will support for the 31st Great Lakes Regional Director. This is more than a vote—it is a reflection of our collective voice and our responsibility to thoughtfully guide our delegates in how they will cast their votes on behalf of this chapter.

We will also have the opportunity to receive certified candidates for the office of Supreme Grammateus I encourage each of you to remain engaged and present as we listen with intention and consider the vision set before us.

This past month has given us beautiful reminders of who we are when we move together in love and service. Tea Roses to Soror Tonjie Reese and to each Soror who contributed to our Annual Book Drive. Your generosity continues to plant seeds of literacy, confidence, and representation throughout our community.

I would also like to extend a special acknowledgment to our GenNEXT Trailblazer Award recipient, Soror Kaitlin McQueen, and to Soror Angel Ingram and the GenNEXT Committee for their intentional leadership and care.

And Sorors… the excitement is building as we prepare for the 95th Great Lakes Regional Conference in Columbus, Ohio. I look forward to how Omega Xi Omega will show up, represent, and continue to make its mark.

As we move forward, let us remain grounded, aligned, and intentional in all that we do

I AM My Sister’s Keeper!

SISTERLY and in His SERVICE,

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The Chaplain's Corner

The Power of Love and Resurrection

Let this be your reminder of Christ’s love and His act on the cross. This wasn’t surface level love. This was intentional love. The kind that saw every flaw, every mistake, every hidden place, and still chose you anyway.

Jesus didn’t hold anything back. He gave everything when He sacrificed His life on the cross. However, that’s not the end of the story, because He rose days later. His resurrection wasn’t just a moment in history recorded among the other miracles. His resurrection sent a message, and a part of the message was love like this: it doesn’t lose; it rises and wins every time.

That means no matter where you find yourself, you are not without hope. You are not without direction. You are not without access to resurrection power. That’s the kind of power that can shift your life, renew your perspective, and awaken something new within you.

Let this truth settle deep within you. There is more for your life, and it’s already within reach. Embrace it, walk in it, and allow that love to lead you into everything you were meant to become.

With Sisterly Love, Soror Rockelia "Rock" Mathies

STANDING COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN

Standards: Soror Gianna Austin

Risk Management: Soror Helena Jones

Bylaws: Soror Michele Graham

Finance: Soror Charo Earle

Program Initiatives: Soror Kimberley Will

Strategic Planning: Soror Cynthia Mirree-Coppin

Membership: Soror Carla Postell

Archives: Soror Pamela Tinsley

Technology: Soror Raquel Welch

Leadership Development: Soror Donetta Houser-Sly

Courtesy: Soror Michelle Williams-Ward

Protocol: Soror Stephanie Edwards

Fundraising: Soror Juanae Stephens

Publicity: Soror Sandra Boykins

EAF Chairman: Soror Donetta Houser-Sly

Regional Awards: Soror Cathy Carr

Generation Next: Soror Angel Ingram

Sisterly Relations: Soror Tomara Nolen

Social Connections: Soror Michelle Williams-Ward

Rituals: Soror Pamela Tinsley

Scholarship Committee: Soror Vesta Rumphy

Audit: Soror Michella King

PROGRAM INITIATIVES & CHAIRMEN

Strengthen Our SISTERHOOD: Soror Edna Clark

Empower Our FAMILIES

Build Our ECONOMIC WEALTH: Soror Delicia Liddell-Jenkins

Enhance Our ENVIRONMENT

Advocate for SOCIAL JUSTICE: Soror Michelle Williams-Ward

Uplift Our LOCAL COMMUNITY: Soror Tonjie Reese

AD HOC COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN

Social Media: Soror Michonni Ward

Spiritual Oversight: Soror Rockelia Mathies

NPHC Representatives

Soror Argentina Abney

Soror Angel Ingram

Soror Michonni Ward

Soror Kimberley Will Anti-Basileus

WELCOMING SPRING WITH SERVICE, SISTERHOOD, AND IMPACT

Sorors, can you believe it is already April? As the flowers begin to bloom and the weather grows warmer, we are reminded that spring is a season of renewal, growth, and continued purpose. With that spirit in mind, I want to extend pink tea roses to Soror Tonjie Reese, ULOC Chairman, Soror Ardrea Murphy, ULOC Co Chairman, and the entire ULOC Committee for their outstanding work and dedication in support of our community.

Because of their leadership and the collective efforts of so many Sorors both the Prom Pop Up on March 7 and the Book Drive on March 28 were tremendous successes These annual i k meaningful and lasting impact on the communities we serve, and mplifies service in action

The momentum did not stop there. Our chapter proudly supported the Joint Founders’ Day Service Project, successfully exceeding the goal of collecting essential care items for seniors across Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, and Washtenaw counties. Together, we collected over 57,000 items, demonstrating the power of collaboration and our unwavering dedication to those in need.

We also found time to Strengthen Our Sisterhood by fellowshipping at the Great Lakes Region Pistons Game, held fittingly on 313 Day. It was a joy to gather with Sorors from across the region, fellowship with Regional Director Gwendolyn Kirtley, and celebrate the unity of the Great Lakes Region in such a spirited setting.

As we move forward, the energy continues. This month, we will join the reat Lakes Region for the Tree Planting Event on April 11, followed by ur first 2026 Adopt A Highway Service opportunity on April 18. Each ctivity is another opportunity to Enhance Our Environment while ving out our commitment to service.

astly, Sorors are reminded to donate $3 in support of the 95th GLRC ervice Project, which will benefit AKA CHIPP and the Period Pantry two itiatives that directly impact the health and dignity of those we serve.

spring unfolds, let us continue to bloom where we are planted, serve with rpose, and uplift one another in sisterhood Together, we are making a ference one act of service at a time.

Sisterly, Soror Kimberley Will, Anti-Basileus and Program Chairman

Strengthen Our Sisterhood

Celebrating PHENOMENAL WOMEN and Sisterhood

Be inspired by words spoken, words read and the statements that were never left unsaid. These women drew strength from our sisterhood and gracefully and graciously poured into us just as a sister should.

SOROR MAYA ANGELOU

“Let me remind all women we live longer and better lives when we have sisters we love, not necessarily born in our bloodline or of our race. Sisters.” Maya Angelo

Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 4, 1928. She grew up in St. Louis and Stamps, Arkansas. She was an author, poet, historian, songwriter, playwright, dancer, stage and screen producer, director, performer, singer, and civil rights activist. She was best known for her seven autobiographical books and volumes of poetry. In 2000, she received the National Medal of Arts, and in 2010 she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama. The first black woman director in Hollywood, Angelou wrote, produced, directed, and starred in productions for stage, film, and television. She also wrote and produced several prize-winning documentaries. Angelou died on May 28, 2014, she was eighty-six.

SOROR ALICIA MALSENIOR TALLULAH-KATE WALKER

“Is solace anywhere more comforting than that in the arms of a sister?”-Alice Walker

Alice Malsenior Tallulah-Kate Walker (born February 9, 1944) is an internationally celebrated American novelist, short story writer, poet, and social activist. In 1983, she became the first African-American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, which she was awarded for her novel The Color Purple. Over the span of her career, Walker has published seventeen novels and short story collections, twelve non-fiction works, children’s books and collections of essays and poetry

SOROR CHLOE ANTHONY WOFFORD “Toni” MORRISON

“She is a friend of mind. She gather me, man. The pieces I am, she gather them and give them back to me in all the right order.” Toni Morrison

Born February 18, 1931, Chloe Anthony Wofford "Toni" Morrison (born Chloe Ardelia Wofford) was an American novelist and editor. She was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993 Her first novel, The Bluest Eye was published in 1970 The critically acclaimed Song of Solomon (1977) brought her national attention and won the National Book Critics Circle Award In 1988, Morrison won the Pulitzer Prize for2 Beloved (1987). Morrison died on August 5, 2019, at the age of 88.

Committee Updates EmpowerOurFamilies EmpowerOurFamilies

In March, OXO Empower Our Families (EOF) proudly partnered with the Alpha Gamma Lambda Omega (AGLO) Chapter for our CHIPP packing initiative. In the spirit of service, members came together at Vinson Chapel to pack meals for students. This collaborative effort reflects our shared commitment to supporting our community and making a meaningful impact.

In addition, AGLO generously provided snacks for our Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) students during their recent meeting. Their contribution helped create an energizing environment for our young leaders as they continue to grow and develop.

YLI students are preparing to participate in the Regional Day of Service: Tree Planting on April 11th. As part of this initiative, students will have the opportunity to design their own logos for T-shirts that they will proudly wear during the event. We are excited to see their creativity shine!

In May, Mental Health Awareness Month, EOF will join Strengthen Our Sisterhood for their “Cozy C ection, and meaningful co

We look forw onths ahead.

BuildOurEconomicWealth BuildOurEconomicWealth

“Steps to Successful Saving & Budgeting”

Sorors, having the ability to save money and budget effectively are skills that will provide you with financial comfort, both in the present and in the future. There are many different reasons to save, and your reason needs to be specific to you. Many of life’s goals have a cost associated with them, and being able to save for those before you take them on gives you a better pathway to achieve those goals. Making a budget is easy; sticking to that budget is where the real challenge lies. Here are a few things to consider that will help you be successful with your savings and budgeting.

Steps to Successful Saving:

1. Establish an Emergency Fund- In doing so, you’re protecting your soon-to-be savings from being tapped into if an emergency or unexpected cost should arise. Your savings are meant to stay untouched until you’re ready to use them for their intended purpose.

2. Pay Yourself First- Each time you get paid, you have to pay your essential bills, like your rent or electricity bill. Once those essentials are paid, put your pre-determined savings contribution into your savings account. The remaining money is what you have to spend on your flexible expenses, like entertainment or clothing.

3. Grow Your Savings- Research different types of saving and/or investing accounts. Each one has different rates of return, and as a result have a different rate of risk associated with them. Choose which best suits your needs and risk tolerance, and watch your savings grow!

Staying on Budg

1. Be realistic when creating your budget- Track every dollar you spend for a month (whether that’s with paper and pen, by looking at bank records, or by using a spending track app on your smartphone). The number one reason that budgets fail is because they are unrealistic.

2. Adjust your budget to meet your current needs- If you know that you will need to increase your spending in certain areas at certain times of the year, plan for it. Adjust your budget and reallocate funds from other categories to make up for this need. Reevaluate your budget every 3-6 months, or as the need arises.

3. Surround yourself with people who respect your budget- Let your family and close friends know that you are on a budget, and ask them to respect your decisions if you have to opt out of plans or events.

4. Remember the big picture - There will be times when you spend more and times when you spend less. There will be times that you have to spend your entire emergency fund and times when you receive unexpected sums of money.

Life is ever-changing, so remember to be flexible with your budget. The big picture is as long as you’re moving towards your goals in some manner you’re doing well Sorors!

“A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went”

EnhanceOurEnvironment EnhanceOurEnvironment

Enhance Our Environment Committee Article

The month of April marks national Arbor Day where members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated in conjunction with the Arbor Foundation initiative will gather for the purpose of planting at least 19, 800 trees to ‘support environmental sustainability and community beautification’. While the act of planting is the assignment, education is also essential. Below you will find a list of myths and facts regarding the impact of tree planting efforts.

MYTH 1: IF IT FA

MYTH 2: TREES HIT FA

MYTH 3: TREE R FA

MYTH 4: R

FA p of it.

MYTH 5: TREES AND UTILITIES ARE INCOMPATIBLE

FACT: It is fair to consider all the technologies and engineering alternatives that are available to allow trees and utilities to safely share the same space.

MYTH 6: TREE ROOTS CAUSE SIDEWALK DAMAGE

FACT: The late urban forestry consultant Steve Sandfort argued that roots sometimes help lift or crack sidewalks, but in most cases, the real culprits are soil conditions and poor construction.

MYTH 7: WATER IS A TREE’S WONDER DRUG

FACT: The key to watering is to match your schedule with the amount of local rainfall.

AdvocateForSocialJustice

From Awareness to Action: The Time is Now

In a world that feels increasingly divided and uncertain, one truth remains our responsibility to stand for justice, equity, and humanity has never been more urgent.

The issues we see on the news voter suppression, economic inequality, challenges in education, and threats to civil rights are not distant problems. They are affecting our communities right here at home. They impact our families, our neighbors, and our future.

But while the challenges are real, so is our power.

April is a season of renewal a reminder that growth and change are possible. As advocates for social justice, we must move beyond awareness and into action. Real change happens when we show up, speak out, and stay engaged.

Action looks like educating ourselves and others, having courageous conversations, and participating in the decisions that shape our communities It looks like service supporting food pantries, mentoring youth, and advocating for those whose voices are often unheard And it looks like unity coming together across organizations and communities to create lasting impact.

Macomb County Call to Action

Here in Macomb County, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to be informed and involved Local decisions directly affect our schools, neighborhoods, and quality of life

That is why the Advocate for Social Justice Committee is working to host a non-partisan political forum and voter education/registration initiative This effort will create a space for community members to hear from candidates, learn about key issues, and ask questions that matter

We encourage you to:

Stay informed about local and state issues

Attend upcoming forums and community discussions

Encourage voter registration and participation

Share the concerns and needs of your community

When we show up informed, we create change

As advocates, we are called to lead through action

Each of us has a role to play whether organizing, educating, serving, or simply showing up

Progress may not always be fast, but it is always possible when people commit to making a difference

So this April, let us recommit: To stand up.

To speak out. To show up.

Because justice does not happen by chance it happens when we choose to act.

UpliftOurLocalCommunity UpliftOurLocalCommunity

Women’s History Month Book Drive Success

On March 28, the Uplift Our Local Community Committee, alongside the National Council of Negro Women –Macomb Section, came together at Vinson Chapel for the 4th Annual book drive in honor of Women’s History Month. Through the collective generosity of our chapter, partners, and other attendees, we proudly collected 350 books, mostly by Black women authors.

The donated books will be shared with Turning Point, Family Youth Interventions a shelter supporting young people experiencing housing insecurity and the Clinton-Macomb Public Library. This book drive was more than a collection it was an act of care, representation, and investment in our community. Thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and helped make this event a success!

OXO’s PHIRST GOLDEN SOROR

37 Silver Stars

Soror Argentina Abney - 26 years

Soror Regina Askew - 40 years

Soror Gianna Austin - 35 years

Soror Stephanie Beatty - 34 years

Soror Diana Bledsoe - 49 years

Soror Sandra Boykins - 29 years

Soror Jacquelynne Burge - 26 years

Soror Cathy Carr - 48 years

Soror Yolanda Crain - 48 years

Soror Shemya Doster - 31 years

Soror Charo Earle - 26 years

Soror Stephanie Edwards - 47 years

Soror Linda Ewing - 43 years

Soror Jennifer Gardner - 33 years

Soror Pauline George - 42 years

Soror Cyd Grace - 39 years

Soror Kelli Hackel - 26 years

Soror Reola Hammond - 46 years

Soror Melanie Harris-Farmer - 36 years

Soror Geralyn Pearson - 31 years

Soror Helena Jones - 28 years

Soror Heather Lloyd - 38 years

Soror Dana McAllister - 33 years

Soror Dwan McGrady - 32 years

Soror Cynthia Miree-Coppin- 36 years

Soror Ardrea Murphy - 40 years

Soror Robyn Murphy - 39 years

Soror Margo Duncan-Nelson - 40 years

Soror LaDonna Pelt - 37 years

Soror Keia Perry-Farr - 33 years

Soror Arica Rosado - 25 years

Soror Nicco Russell - 28 years

Soror Pamela Tinsley - 41 years

Soror Kimberley Will - 36 years

Soror Michelle Williams-Ward- 37 years

Soror Melissa Witek - 33 years

Soror Corri Wofford - 28 years

April Protocol Tips

As many Sorors prepare to attend the

Protocol: Regional Conference Attire

From the Publicity Desk

Upholding Excellence Online:

Social Media Etiquette for Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®

In today’s digital age, social media serves as a powerful extension of personal identity—and for members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, it also reflects the values, legacy, and integrity of the organization. As such, members are expected to engage online with professionalism, discretion, and respect, ensuring that every post aligns with the sorority’s high ethical standards and distinguished brand.

A cornerstone of social media conduct is confidentiality. Members must refrain from sharing any information related to chapter meetings, ritualistic practices, or internal business. Protecting the privacy and sanctity of the organization is paramount. Equally important is maintaining professionalism, avoiding profanity, negative commentary, or online disputes that could diminish the sorority’s image.

Members should also be mindful when displaying paraphernalia and imagery. Only official and authorized items should be worn or shown, and never in settings that could be perceived as unsafe or unprofessional. Additionally, while members may express personal political views, sorority-branded attire and symbols should never be used in political contexts.

Respect for intellectual property is essential. The unauthorized use, modification, or sale of items featuring the Coat of Arms or Ivy Leaf Crest is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, members are not permitted to speak on behalf of the sorority; all media inquiries must be directed to the Basileus.

Ultimately, every member plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® By aligning personal conduct with organizational values, members ensure that the sorority’s reputation for excellence continues to thrive—both offline and online.

WeSet the STANDARD

Meeting Minutes and Committee Meeting Reports are two essential tools for capturing and communicating chapter activity. Although they may appear similar, each has a unique role, format, and purpose that are important to understand as we conduct OXO’s business.

Meeting Minutes:

· Meeting Minutes are the written record of meeting.

· Contain more structure and detail so that it may be shared after the meeting and serve as a record.

· Inform members who were unable to attend.

· Offer accountability to action items that were discussed during the meeting.

· Finalized once approved at the next committee meeting.

Committee Reports:

· Concise and provides main points or action items of the Committee Meeting and may present recommendations.

· Signed by the Committee Chairman.

· Properly Labeled.

· Submitted to the Grammateus by the Friday before each Executive Committee or Chapter Meeting.

Process and Timeline for Submission:

Committee Chairmen should also know when to submit their documents and to whom for proper recordkeeping. In addition to the Committee reports and Minutes, the Participant Tracker and event sign-in sheets should be sent to Madam AntiGrammateus by the end of each month. This ensures accurate attendance information for the Nominating Committee as well as ME eligible Soror sponsorship.

From the Desk of Risk Management Risk Management: Protecting Our Brand, Events & Reputation

Risk Management is more than event support. It is about protecting our brand, members, our mission, and the reputation of AKA and OXO in everything we do. While we support event planning through safety checklists, site reviews, emergency preparedness, our responsibility also extends beyond events.

Every interaction, decision, and public representation reflects our chapter. Reputational risk can arise from public conduct, financial missteps, lack of proper documentation, or failure to follow established protocols. Our goal is to help the chapter serve confidently while remaining aligned with sorority policies and best practices.

Three Ways Every Member Can Help Mitigate Chapter Risk:

Represent the Chapter with Integrity – Whether at a chapter event, community function, or in personal spaces where you are identifiable as a member, uphold the standards, values, and professionalism of our sisterhood.

Follow Policies & Procedures – Ensure proper approvals, contracts, and media release forms are secured. Documentation protects both individuals and the chapter.

Speak Up Early – If you see a potential safety concern, reputational issue, or policy misalignment, address it or notify the Risk Management Committee promptly. Early action prevents larger problems.

Risk management is proactive, not reactive. It’s about safeguarding our legacy while we continue to serve with excellence.

If you ever have questions, concerns, or need guidance, please contact the Risk Management Committee at akaoxoriskmanagement@gmail.com.

In Sisterhood and Service, we safeguard the legacy we cherish.

o the

Birthday Awesome Sorors born in April!

April 4th April 7th

April 9th

April 11th

April 8th

April 18th

April 20th

Happy AKAversary Sorors

Soror Cathy Carr 4/1/78

Charo Earle 4/2/00

Soror Melanie Harris- Farmer 4/8/90

Soror Raquel Welch 4/7/19

Soror Taylor Johnson 4/10/11

Ebony Govantes 4/7/19

Soror Helena Jones 4/26/98

as Board of Directors Treasurer

HERSTORY was made again in Macomb County.. The Greater Southeast Chapter of The Links, Incorporated was chartered on March 7, 2026, .

OXO Charter Member, Dr. Cynthia Mirree-Coppin

OXO Charter Member, Dr. Carla Postell

Soror Edna Clark

Soror Michele Graham

Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes

Basileus: basileus@aka-oxo.com

Anti-Basileus: akaoxoantibasileus@gmail.com

Grammateus: akaoxogrammateus@gmail.com

Anti-Grammateus: akaoxoantigrammateus@gmail.com

Epistoleus: akaoxoepistoleus@gmail.com

Tamiouchos: akaoxotamiouchos@gmail.com

Pecunious Grammateus: akaoxopg@gmail.com

Hodegos: akaoxohodegos@gmail.com

Philacter: oxophilacter@gmail.com

Parliamentarian: akaoxoparli@gmail.com

Ivyleaf Reporter: akaoxoivy21@gmail.com

Historian: akaoxohistorian@gmail.com

Chaplain: akaoxochaplain@gmail.com

Member-At-Large: akaoxomemberal@gmail.com

Protocol: akaoxoprotocol1@gmail.com

Standards: akaoxostandards@gmail.com

Membership: akaoxomembers@gmail.com

Chapter Evaluation: akaoxoevaluation@gmail.com

OXO NPHC Representatives: oxoakanphcrep@gmail.com

Submissions to The Promise are due on the 20th day of each Submissions to The Promise are due on the 20th day of each month. month.

Please contact Soror Kelli Hackel, Please contact Soror Kelli Hackel, if you have any questions or feedback. if have any questions or feedback.