OXO February 2026_ THE PROMISE by AKA OXO

SustainHER:

Robyn

AMessagefromthe Basileus

Love Is in the Air… and It Lives Right Here in OXO

February invites us to pause and lean into matters of the heart. And in that spirit, I think about the way we show up for one another, the grace we extend, the laughter we share, the shoulders we offer, and the countless unseen acts of sisterhood that happen every single day in OXOville.

This month, I simply want to offer a “love letter” to my Sorors. Thank you for your commitment, your resilience, your compassion, and your unwavering belief in our chapter and in each other. Thank you for choosing sisterhood even when life is busy, heavy, or complicated. Thank you for loving this chapter the way you do with intention, with pride, and with heart.

As we continue to lean into our theme of SustainHER, February reminds us that sustaining our sisterhood begins with love love for service, love for excellence, love for community, and love for one another. Love is not passive; it is active. It shows up in planning meetings, in service projects, in phone calls and text messages, in laughter, in problem-solving, and in the way we protect the sacred bond of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

I am especially excited about our upcoming Galentine’s Day gathering, thoughtfully being brought to life through the collaboration of our Strengthen Our Sisterhood, Sisterly Relations, and GenerationNEXT Committees, led by Sorors Edna Clark, Tomara Nolen, and Angel Ingram, where we will come together in joy, fellowship, and celebration of the incredible women that we are. This special time of connection also carries deeper meaning as we lift up Pink Goes Red for Heart Health, shining a light on the importance of caring for our physical hearts while we continue to pour so much love outward. And I can’t wait to see everyone in their “frustrated pink” (red) attire!

Sorors, this month is a beautiful reminder that loving others begins with caring for ourselves mind, body, and spirit. Let’s continue encouraging one another to prioritize our health, to rest when needed, to seek support, and to extend grace to ourselves just as freely as we extend it to others.

Know this: you are loved, you are valued, you are appreciated, and you matter — deeply. It is one of the greatest honors of my life to serve as your Basileus and to walk this journey of sisterhood with you.

Soror Robyn D. Murphy Basileus

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exists as the result of clear n of character, we seek to within our chapter while h within our chapter as mong our members - and lary programmatic service nity leaders and service 3

Soror Robyn D. Murphy Basileus

Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes Grammateus

Soror Yolanda Crain Anti-Grammateus

Soror Edna Clark Philacter

Soror Chao Earle Tamiouchos

Soror Natifa Riley-Cochran Pecunious Grammateus

Soror Michele Graham Parliamentarian

Soror Sandra Boykins Ivy Leaf Reporter

Soror Pamela Tinsley Historian

Soror Rockelia Mathies Chaplain

Soror Tomara Nolen Member-at-Large

Soror Keia Perry-Farr Former Basileus 4

Soror Gianna Austin Standards Soror Helena Jones Risk Management

Soror Michelle Williams-Ward Hodegos

Soror Kelli Hackel Epistoleus

Soror Kimberly R Will Anti-Basileus

Corner

Rooted in Love

Love is a decision we make daily, to reach, to remain, and to hold space even when it would be easier to pull away. Love lives in how we show up for one another. In the moments, we choose presence over perfection. In the grace, we extend without keeping score. It is felt in the warmth that reassures, the care that listens closely, and the consistency that builds trust over time.

Scripture tells us, above all, have fervent and unfailing love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins [it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly seeks the best for others] 1 Peter 4:8 (AMP). Love covers the tired days. Love covers the moments when grace is required. Love covers the growth we are still becoming. This is not fragile love. This is the kind of love that sustains, restores, and strengthens.

In a world that often conditions us to be guarded, love becomes a courageous choice to open arms, to open hearts, and to remain connected even when distance would be easier. Love reminds us that we are seen, valued, and worthy of care. May we continue to be a sisterhood where love is felt before it is explained, where connection is intentional, and compassion is consistent, where every hug carries reassurance, and every gesture reflects who we are becoming together. Sorors, as the chapter of hugs and kisses, love is our signature, and it will always speak for us. OXO,

Soror Rockelia “Rock” Mathies

Soror Rockelia Mathies Chaplain

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

Anti-BasileusProgramUpdates

Soror Kimberley Will

A Month of Celebration, Reflection, and Sisterhood

Greetings Sorors,

As we step into the month of February, we embrace a season rich with meaning, heritage, and purpose. February invites us to reflect on who we are and what we stand for as women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, devoted to scholarship, service, leadership, and sisterhood.

In observance of Black History Month, we honor the trailblazers whose courage, brilliance, and perseverance continue to inspire our work as Alpha Kappa Alpha women. Their legacy reminds us that progress is sustained through intentional service, continuous learning, and unwavering advocacy.

February also marks American Heart Month, calling our attention to the importance of wellness in our daily lives. With heart disease disproportionately affecting women of color, we reaffirm our commitment to education, prevention, and holistic self-care for ourselves, our families, and the communities we serve.

This season also encourages us to deepen our expressions of Sisterly Love. Now more than ever, we must rally around one another offering grace, support, and connection as we navigate life’s transitions and triumphs together. Our bond is one of our greatest strengths.

As the global landscape continues to shift, we remain both mindful and vigilant. Our role as informed and purposeful leaders extends beyond our chapter, empowering us to advocate for unity, safety, and civic responsibility in an increasingly complex world.

With poise, purpose, and an enduring commitment to service, Omega Xi Omega Chapter continues to honor the legacy and luminous spirit of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® throughout the communities we are privileged to serve.

SororKimberleyR.Will

Anti-Basileus

Anti-Basileus

Strengthen Our Sisterhood

StrengthenOurSisterhood

Koasters & Konversations: Connecting Seniors and Youth through Creativity and Sharing

Through the Empower Our Families initiative for YLI and Our Seniors, OXO Chapter hosted Koasters & Konversations: Connecting Seniors and Youth through Creativity and Sharing, a fun and meaningful intergenerational gathering that brought youth and seniors together through creativity and conversation. Held on Saturday, December 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Village of Peace Manor in Clinton Township, the event created a warm, welcoming space for intergenerational bonding.

Participants had a great time making coasters and other crafts while enjoying guided conversations that sparked storytelling and genuine connection. Conversations flowed as participants talked about past and present experiences, learned from one another, and built meaningful bonds. Craft supplies, light refreshments, and conversation prompts were provided to keep the experience easy, engaging, and enjoyable.

By the end of the event, both youth and seniors shared how much they appreciated the chance to share and connect. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make Koasters & Konversations: Connecting Seniors and Youth through Creativity and Sharing such a success!

Spending Wisely in 2026

As we move into 2026, being intentional about how you manage your money can make a significant difference in reaching your financial

p y y g seeking deals and discounts, especially during off-peak seasons, can lead to meaningful savings over time. By implementing these spending strategies, you can spend wisely, save more, and confidently work toward financial stability in 2026. 12

EnhanceOurEnvironment EnhanceOurEnvironment

Acts of Wellness

With the month of February quickly approaching, winter days in the Great Lakes region may translate into more time indoors. While environmental efforts and wellness sometimes reflect outdoor practices: reducing litter, planting trees and carpooling. We can also honor our home or office environments during the colder months by remaining mindful of how our direct environment impacts our physical and mental health

Consider the following acts of wellness:

1 Check the functionality of your smoke detector

2. Stock up on an extra set of batteries for unexpected emergencies.

3. Review the expiration dates on perishable items and dispose of items accordingly.

4 Consider investing in an air purifier, especially if you have pets, smoke, burn incense/ candles, prepare meals via stove.

5. Try your green thumb at an indoor garden, many DIY projects highlight the benefits of indoor gardening and agricultural sustainability.

6. Check your air ducts for clean circulation and enhanced air qual

7. Some toxins may be visible such as mold, while others may exist amongst us without our knowledge such as radon and lead: generating a list of inspection companies may alleviate problematic living conditions.

8. In the age of technology, investing in a home security system/ camera/ device can provide protection and peace of mind against unwelcomed visitors or intrusions.

9. Can’t afford to add more into your budget? Consistent sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, occasionally opening the windows while disposing of expired food items serve to enhance your environment while preventing allergens from disrupting your well being

AdvocateForSocialJustice AdvocateForSocialJustice

The Power of Our Vote: Advocacy in a Gubernatorial Election Year

As members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, advocacy and social justice remain at the heart of our mission. During Black History Month, we are reminded that the right to vote was hardwon through faith, sacrifice, and persistence. As we enter a year with a Governor’s race on the ballot, our responsibility to remain civically engaged is more important than ever.

The Governor plays a c y lives education funding, healthcare acc oting rights. Decisions made at the nd whether equity is prioritized across our c ; it is about the future direction of our state.

Advocacy extends far beyond Election Day. It means staying informed about the issues, understanding where candidates stand, and ensuring that our voices are reflected in the policies that affect our families and neighborhoods. It also means addressing barriers that continue to limit voter participation, particularly in underserved communities, and encouraging civic education and engagement at every level.

As women of Alpha Kappa Alpha, we are called to lead with purpose and intention. Whether through voter education efforts, community conversations, or encouraging others to exercise their right to vote, each of us plays a vital role in strengthening democracy. Civic engagement is a form of social justice—one that ensures representation, accountability, and fairness.

As people of faith, we trust that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). Let us put our faith into action by showing up, speaking out, and voting with wisdom and discernment. May we seek guidance in prayer, walk boldly in advocacy, and remain committed to justice—not only during this election season, but every day.

Together, let us honor the legacy of those who paved the way by being vigilant stewards of our voices and faithful advocates for our communities.

March 7, 2026

TheUpliftOurLocalCommunityCommitteeisinfullswingpreparingforour 4thAnnualPromPopUpevent!JoinusonMarch7,2026from10:00a.m.to1:00 p.m.atMt.ClemensHighSchoolforadayofstyle,confidence,andcelebration.

InJanuary,committeememberscametogethertosortandorganize previouslydonateddresses,andweareexcitedtowelcome11thand12thgrade girlsfromacrossMacombCountytoshopfortheperfectpromlook.This year’sthemeisProjectRunway,andwe’rereadytohelptheyoungladiesfeel likethey’resteppingstraightontotherunwayinstyle!

Tohelpmakethiseventtrulyshine,weareaskingSororstodonatenewor gentlyusedaccessories,includingpurses,shoes,andjewelrysets.These finishingtouchesmakeallthedifferenceinhelpingeachgirlwalkaway feelingconfidentandprom-ready!

FromtheDeskofthe Parliamentarian

New Business & Announcements

To help Sorors prepare for new business and announcements at chapter meetings, Madam Basileus has kindly requested that any new business and announcement correspondence be shared with both the Basileus and Grammateus by the Friday prior to Chapter meeting. New business introduces new topics of business and announcements are for sharing our chapter’s news, recognitions, and heartfelt acknowledgements—not for motions, debates, or decisions.

Thank you for your cooperation and for contributing to a positive, efficient, and well-organized meeting experience. Parliamentarian, Soror Michele Graham

WeSet the STANDARD Standards: A New Beginning

A new beginning offers us the opportunity to reflect, reset, and recommit. As we move forward together, chapter standards serve as the foundation that grounds our work and guides our progress. They are not simply requirements to be met, but shared commitments that reflect who we are, how we lead, and how we serve. This moment also presents a valuable opportunity for all members to review our governing documents especially those serving in new or transitioning leadership roles. A clear understanding of our governing documents ensures consistency in decisionmaking and helps leaders confidently fulfill their responsibilities.

Approaching standards with a fresh perspective allows us to view them not as a checklist, but as a framework for excellence, accountability, and sustainability. Upholding our standards ensures that our chapter remains strong, organized, and prepared for the future, while honoring the legacy built by those who came before us.

As we step into this next chapter, let us embrace standards as a pathway to growth. Through intentional practices, transparency, and continuous improvement, we position our chapter for long-term success rooted in integrity, strengthened by our sisterhood, and driven by purpose.

FromtheOfficeoftheMembership Committee

OXO’s Joint Founders’ Day Celebration 2026: Honoring Our Legacy

OXO proudly joined some of our Metro 12 Chapters for a beautiful Founders’ Day Celebration on January 15, 2026, honoring the visionary women who established our illustrious sorority in 1908. The event was held at the Black- and Soror-owned SAVOY Restaurant in Detroit, Michigan, creating the perfect setting for an evening of pink and green celebration. The night was filled with good food, fellowship, fun, and meaningful connections as sorors came together to celebrate our shared values of sisterhood and service. From pink and green pride to joyful moments captured throughout the event, the celebration truly reflected the strength of our collective sisterhood. The event was a wonderful reminder of the power of partnership, and we look forward to the opportunity to partner again next year. ��

Sweet Memories

SororDonetta Houser-Sly

Soror

AndtheAwardsJustKeep Coming.......

U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, Detroit Arsenal Michigan Retirement Awards after 40 Years of Service

Department of the Army Certificate of Retirement Pin Department of the Army Civilian Service Commendation Award, Pin and Medal A One-Star Note from TACOM Commanding General, Beth A. Behn, Brigadier General, U.S. Army Commanding

SororMichella King