OXO JUNE 2026 The PROMISE

“The PROMISE”

Welcome to June the beginning of a season that gently invites us to slow down, soak it all in, and savor the beauty around (and within) us.

As we step into the halfway point of the year, it’s hard not to reflect on just how much we’ve already experienced together in 2026. Through service, celebration, collaboration, and sisterhood, Omega Xi Omega continues to show what’s possible when women come together with purpose, love, and a shared commitment to impact.

While we still have meaningful work and fellowship ahead this month, June also feels like the unofficial kick-off to summer and the beginning of us slowing down a bit before our regular chapter pause in July and August. I hope each of us begins making space to breathe a little deeper, reconnect with the people and moments that refill us, and embrace the balance between being “booked and busy” and simply being well.

There’s also a quiet excitement building within OXO as we look ahead to celebrating our upcoming 10th Chapter Anniversary later this year. While I won’t give too much away just yet, I will say this: the months ahead will offer beautiful opportunities for us to reflect on our journey, celebrate our legacy, and honor the sisterhood that continues to carry us forward. Consider this your first little teaser of what’s to come. ����

This season also reminds us of the importance of remaining informed and engaged as we prepare to vote on upcoming Directorate candidates. The future of our beloved sisterhood is shaped not only by those who lead, but also by members who thoughtfully participate in the process

This month’s newsletter is full of moments that reflect the heart of OXO service, excellence, leadership, laughter, and genuine sisterly connection Thank you for all you continue to pour into this chapter and into one another

Here’s to a beautiful June filled with sunshine, reflection, connection, and the joy of summer

Sisterly and in His Service,

I AM My Sister’s Keeper!

from the Ladies of OXO Happy

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 6

Omega Xi Omega Chapter Values Statement

The Omega Xi Omega Chapter was chartered and exists as the result of clear collective vision and strong leadership. As women of character, we seek to embody and enact the highest ethical standards within our chapter while fostering a culture of uncompromising unity both within our chapter - as evidenced by the strong bonds of

The Chaplain's Corner

Life can get busy, and many of us find ourselves balancing responsibilities, commitments, and the daily demands of work, family, leadership, and service. In the middle of it all, rest can sometimes be pushed aside. Yet Christ reminds us that rest is not to be overlooked. It is an important part of how we are sustained. Even Jesus rested. Throughout His ministry, Jesus taught, healed, served, and carried the tremendous responsibility of caring for others, yet He intentionally stepped away to rest and spend time with the Father. He withdrew from crowds, sought quiet places, and made space for renewal. If Jesus made room for rest in the midst of His purpose, we can recognize that rest is also necessary for us.

Matthew 11:28 reminds us, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Christ does not ask us to carry every burden in our own strength. He invites us to release what weighs us down and find peace in Him. Resting does not always mean taking a vacation or stepping away from responsibilities. Sometimes rest looks like spending quiet moments in prayer, taking a walk, setting healthy boundaries, sitting in stillness, or simply allowing ourselves to pause without guilt. True rest restores not only our bodies but also our minds and spirits. As we continue serving, leading, and pouring into others, may we remember that we were never created to run endlessly. Give yourself permission to pause. Breathe deeply. Be present. Trust God with what remains undone. There is strength in serving, but there is also wisdom in resting. Enjoy your time of resting over the next few weeks.

With Sisterly Love and A Heart for Service,

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

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

Audit: Soror Michella King

PROGRAM INITIATIVES & CHAIRMEN

Strengthen Our SISTERHOOD: Soror Edna Clark

Empower Our FAMILIES: Soror Stephanie Beatty

Build Our ECONOMIC WEALTH: Soror Delicia Lyddel-Jenkins

Enhance Our ENVIRONMENT: Soror Arica Rosado

Advocate for SOCIAL JUSTICE: Soror Michelle Williams-Ward

Uplift Our LOCAL COMMUNITY: Soror Tonjie Reese

AD HOC COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN

Scholarship Committee: Soror Vesta Rumphy

Social Media: Soror Michonni Ward

Spiritual Oversight: Soror Rockelia Mathies

PEARLS of Macomb: Sorors Argentina Abney and Angel Ingram

NPHC REPRESENTATIVES

Soror Soror Argentina Abney

Soror Angel Ingram

Michonni Ward

Welcome to the Month of June, Sorors!

Soror Kimberley Will Anti-Basileus

As we enter the final month of the Soaring Administration, we remain on track to successfully meet our program initiatives from January through July 2026, and our collective efforts continue to make a meaningful impact across the Macomb communities we serve.

The month of May was filled with impactful accomplishments: In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Soror Stephanie Beatty shared thoughtful and practical wellness tips, reminding us of the importance of caring for our mental health even through the small essentials we carry daily.

Pink Tea Roses to Sorors Arica Rosado and Yolanda Crain for their outstanding leadership in executing the Shred Day event at Roseville High School with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (Delta Alpha Xi Zeta – Western Macomb Chapter) and the men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (Tau Mu Nu Chapter) resulted in the shredding of an impressive 33,000 pounds of paper and 30 pounds of electronics. Additionally, Pink Tea Roses to Soror Michelle Williams-Ward for representing Omega Xi Omega at AKA Day at the Capitol. The event provided valuable insights into the pivotal election year.

June Spotlight: Black Dollar Days

June is a pivotal month as we launch Black Dollar Days, an initiative to support Black-owned businesses. Each Pink Friday, we ask that every Soror to actively participate by Wearing Pink • Spending Green • Buying Black and to spend at least $19.08 weekly, with a collective chapter goal of $6,000 for the month.

Weekly Themes:

June 5 – Feed the Movement: Food & Beverage

June 12 – Glow Different: Beauty, Wellness & Self-Care

June 19 (Juneteenth) – Freedom & Finance: Financial & Professional Services

June 26 – Dressed in Excellence: Fashion, Accessories & Home Décor

Sorors, thank you for your continued dedication, excellence, and service. Let us finish strong, united in sisterhood and driven by purpose as we SOAR to even Greater Heights.

With gratitude and sisterly love, Soror Kimberley

Strengthen Our Sisterhood

EmpowerOurFamilies EmpowerOurFamilies

What’sInyourBagandMind?

During our May chapter meeting, Sorors participated in a meaningful activity titled Purse Scavenger Hunt “What’s In Your Bag & Mind?” that highlighted the importance of mental and emotional wellness. Sorors can continue this simple self-care practice on their own by taking a moment to look inside their purses and consider the meaning behind everyday items:

Old receipt – A reminder to release things we no longer need to carry emotionally.

Candy – An invitation to make room for small moments of joy and sweetness in daily life.

Medicine – A reminder to prioritize both physical and mental health and seek care when needed.

Sunglasses – A symbol of protecting your peace and giving yourself space from stress and overwhelm.

Just as our purses hold items we use every day, they can also remind us of the importance of caring for what we carry within.

BuildOurEconomicWealth BuildOurEconomicWealth

Legacy Looks Good On Us

For generations, Black women have carried families, built communities, and created cultural and economic value despite systemic barriers designed to limit access to wealth. Today, more Black women are redefining financial success by focusing not only on income, but on generational wealth the ability to cre t fi i l t bilit d t it th t b d d t f t ti

Gener nts, life in milies. It is th cles. Histor discri Black wome egy. Yet de invest

Buildi sting, debt m financ ng early, Entre fastes ate incom eate passiv

Investing is another critical tool. Stocks, retirement accounts, real estate, and other appreciating assets allow money to grow over time through compound returns. Even modest investments made consistently can create significant wealth over decades.

Equally important is breaking unhealthy financial cycles and creating open conversations about money within families. Teaching children about saving, ownership, investing, and financial responsibility helps prepare the next generation to build on the progress already made.

Generational wealth is ultimately about freedom — the freedom to pursue opportunities, withstand financial hardships, retire with dignity, and leave a legacy behind. For Black women, building wealth is not simply a personal goal; it is a transformative act that can shift the future of entire families and communities.

Black women have always created value. The goal now is to ensure that value becomes lasting wealth.

EnhanceOurEnvironment EnhanceOurEnvironment

World Environment Day

Every year on June 5th, millions of people worldwide come together to celebrate World Environment Day, a global initiative that reminds us of the urgent need to protect our planet. This day marks a powerful call to action, highlighting how individual and collective efforts can combat critical issues like climate change and promote conservation efforts. You might wonder how a single day can make a difference, but the truth is, it’s a catalyst for raising awareness, inspiring change, and fostering a sense of responsibility among communities across the globe. When you participate in activities such as planting trees, reducing waste, or advocating policies that protect natural resources, you contribute to a broader movement aimed at safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Throughout the years, each World Environment Day has focused on different themes to address specific environmental challenges. The day offers opportunities to educate yourself and others about sustainable practice. Participating in local clean-ups, supporting conservation projects, or simply spreading awareness on social media can amplify the message and motivate others to join the movement.

In essence, World Environment Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a reminder that everyone has a role in creating a healthier, more sustainable world. Your actions, no matter how small, contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and conserve the planet’s resources. Your small actions today can grow into mighty trees of change tomorrow.

Source: twogreenleaves.org

AdvocateForSocialJustice AdvocateForSocialJustice

Voting Advocacy, the 14th Amendment, and Redistricting: Why Our Voices Still Matter

As members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, we have always stood on the front lines of service, advocacy, and justice. In this season, conversations surrounding voting rights, redistricting, and the future interpretation of the 14th Amendment remind us that democracy requires participation, protection, and persistence.

The right to vote is more than a political issue — it is a moral issue. Many of our ancestors marched, prayed, suffered, and even died to secure access to the ballot box. Because of their sacrifice, we have both the privilege and the responsibility to remain informed and engaged.

The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, guarantees equal protection under the law and citizenship rights to all persons born or naturalized in the United States. Throughout history, it has served as a foundation for many civil rights protections involving education, voting access, fairness, and equality. Current national discussions regarding constitutional interpretation and legal challenges have caused many communities to reflect deeply on how important these protections continue to be.

At the same time, redistricting continues to shape the power of communities across the country. Redistricting determines how voting district boundaries are drawn after each census. When district lines are manipulated unfairly, communities can lose representation and voting strength. This can especially impact communities of color, urban communities, and historically underrepresented populations.

As advocates for social justice, we must understand that voter advocacy is not limited to election years. Advocacy happens when we:

Educate voters about registration and election dates

Help citizens understand new voting laws and procedures

Encourage participation in local and school board elections

Support fair and transparent district mapping

Empower young voters to use their voices

Stand against barriers that discourage voter participation

Our work must also include hope. While challenges exist, history has shown that informed and united communities can create meaningful change. Every phone call, every community forum, every voter registration drive, and every conversation matters.

As we continue our commitment to “Service to All Mankind,” let us remain dedicated to protecting access, increasing education, and uplifting civic engagement within our communities.

The future of democracy depends not only on elected officials, but also on everyday citizens who choose to stay informed, involved, and active.

Let us continue to advocate, educate, and mobilize because every voice deserves to be heard, and every vote deserves to count.

UpliftOurLocalCommunity UpliftOurLocalCommunity

Uplifting Our Community During Summer Recess Small acts. Real impact.

Even though Omega Xi Omega is on summer recess, our commitment to service doesn’t pause. Uplifting the community doesn’t always require a program or a meeting. Sometimes it’s found in the small, intentional ways we show up.

Below are a few simple ways Sorors can continue to uplift Macomb County throughout the summer.

1. Donate to Local Shelters

Consider donating gently used clothing, toiletries, hygiene kits, diapers, or school supplies to local shelters. Summer can be a time of increased need, and small donations go a long way.

2. Volunteer at Your Local Library

Libraries are vital community spaces. Volunteering at a summer reading program, helping with book organization, or supporting children’s activities helps strengthen literacy and access

3. Support Food Pantries or Community Fridges

Donate shelf-stable food, fresh produce, or hygiene items If you ’ re able, add a handwritten note of encouragement, sometimes that human touch matters just as much.

4. Spend Time in Local Parks

Visit a park, bring family or friends, and help create spaces of joy and safety. Picking up litter, being mindful of shared spaces, or simply being present all contribute to community care.

5. Support Youth & Families

Backpacks, books, and school supplies are always needed as families prepare for fall. Supporting youth now helps set the tone for the school year ahead.

6. Write Notes to Seniors

A short card or note to someone in a senior living facility can mean more than we realize. Summer can be an isolating time, and connection matters.

7. Volunteer with Local Organizations

Community centers, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits often need extra hands during the summer. Even a few hours of service makes a difference.

8. Practice Mutual Aid

Helping a neighbor with groceries, childcare, errands, or yard work is community care in action Mutual aid reminds us that service starts close to home

9. Support Local & Black-Owned Businesses

Economic support is vital for our community. Shop local, share recommendations, and be intentional about where you spend your dollars.

10. Lead with Presence

Uplifting the community also begins within. This summer, consider how you show up in conversations, in conflict, and in moments of rest. Offering patience, listening deeply, setting boundaries, and choosing kindness are all acts of service. Our presence alone can be powerful.

Reflection for the Summer

Where am I being invited to show up differently in my community this summer and what small act of service feels most aligned with who I am right now? You might sit with this question quietly, journal about it, or let it guide one intentional action this season. Service doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful. Even on recess, we remain anchored in sisterhood and service. May this summer be filled with ease, intention, and moments for ourselves and our community.

WeSet the STANDARD

Congratulations to the Omega Xi Omega Chapter for receiving the Standards Soar Award (Successful Operational Assessment Reporting) during the 95th Great Lakes Regional Conference! This award recognizes chapters for meeting Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated requirements for effectively documenting chapter operations including financial records, committee reports and meeting minutes.

Thanks to all OXO Sorors for their dedication to achieving this accomplishment! Special recognition to OXO’s Standards Committee members Chairman Gianna Austin, Kelli Hackel, Donetta Houser-Sly, Go-Chairman Geralyn Pearson and Tuanda Ward-Holmes with assistance from current Tamiouchos, Soror Charo Earle, and former Tamiouchos, Soror Consuelo Martinez.

From the Desk of Risk Management Risk Management:

Protecting Our Brand, Events & Reputation

A big part of remaining vigilant regarding the protection of our organization and proprietary information is knowing the importance of documenting, storing, and administering information.

Below is a list of some of our most used and referenced documents and their usages, all of which can be accessed from the Chapter’s Dropbox or contact with a member of the Risk Management committee.

OXO Risk Waiver Form

Utilized in public events as a release and waiver of liability, assumption of risk and indemnity. Required of community participants and also serves as a media release form when promotion AKA/OXO activities.

OXO Facility & Event Location Checklist

Utilized by Committee Chairman or activity Point Person to review and assess potential risks of OXO event locations .

Required for walkthroughs prior to event completion to allow ample time for issue corrections if required. Also includes important facilities/fire/medical contact information.

OXO Incident Report

Utilized as an official record to log vital details in the unfortunate event of unexpected incident such as accident, injury, illness, or property damage.

Routed to Chapter Basileus or designee for timely handling and resolution.

OXO Chapter Risk Management Plan

Detailed safety plan that outlines the nature of risk management, risk management strategies your role as a Risk Manager and the 7 keys areas of risk which include but are not limited to: § Membership, Reputation, Financial, Operations, Virtual Operations, Programs & Events, Building & Facilities

Parliamentarian Corner

Below is the Bylaws\Standing Rule amendment change request form. This form along with our pending regional approval chapter bylaws can be found in the Dropbox 2026 OXO AKA Chapter/ Current Bylaws folder.

When submitting a proposed change keep in mind the following:

1. Clarity: Bylaws should be written clearly and to the point.

2. Scope: Should be written to address broad-based issues, which impact the greatest cross-section of chapter members. Areas of narrow concern should be avoided.

3. Inclusivity: Should not be used to stifle the democratic process or the rights of chapter members.

Submission Due Date: August 1st, 2026

Email submission to: akaoxoparli@gmail.com

Please be prepared to speak to your proposed changes in chapter meetings or a virtual bylaw forum.

Soror Michele Graham, Parliamentarian

From the Publicity Desk

Pause Before You Post: Protecting Your Pink and Green Brand on Social Media

Social media can be a lot of fun. One minute you're sharing photos from a community service project, the next you're celebrating a chapter achievement, promoting an event, or cheering on a soror ’ s success. With just a few taps, your post can reach hundreds, or even thousands of people.

As members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, our online presence often speaks before we do. Every post, comment, and share helps shape how others view us and, in many cases, how they view our chapter and organization. But in the race for likes, shares, and viral moments, it's easy to get caught up in clickbait. You know the type: dramatic headlines, exaggerated claims, or posts designed to stir up emotions and attract attention. While clickbait may generate a quick reaction, it can also damage credibility and trust, and once trust is lost, it's difficult to regain... So instead of chasing clicks, focus on creating content that informs, inspires, and uplifts. Before posting, commenting, and sharing ask yourself a few simple questions:

Is it true?

Is it respectful?

Is it helpful?

Does it reflect positively on me and my chapter?

Does it really matter?

Remember, the internet never forgets. A post that takes seconds to publish can leave a lasting impression for years to come. So whether you're representing yourself, your profession, or the Pink and Green sisterhood, your digital footprint matters. So the next time you're tempted to post, comment, or share something, think twice. Make it meaningful! Make it positive, and make it count.

Congratulations

Baarik Mohammed

2026 OXO Scholarship Recipient

University of Detroit

Jesuit High School

Attending: Morehouse College

Business Administration Major

Black Dollar Days: Food & Beverage

Publicity Juneteenth Brunch ‘N Bond Scholarship Executive Committee Chapter Meeting Development Leadership

GenNEXT Sisterly Relations

Black Dollar Days: Beauty, Wellness & Selfcare

BlackDollar Days: Financial& Professional Services

BlackDollarDays: Fashion, Accessories& HomeDecor Sterling Heights Juneteenth SOS Kickback

Happy Birthday

the Jubilant Sorors born in Jun

Soror Sandra Boykins

June 4th

Soror Alessia Baker-Giles

June 5th

Former Basileus Soror Melanie Harris-Farmer

June 9th

Soror Kayla Collins June14th

Soror Ebony Pullins- Govantes

June 14th

Soror Kelli Hackel June 18th

Soror K’Lynn Thomas

June 27th

Soror Melissa Witek June 20th

Soror Yolanda Crain

June 30th

Arica Rosado June 22nd

June

June 1, 2008

June

June

June

Soror Kaitlin McQueen

June 6, 2021

Omega Xi Omega

Soror Nathifa

Riley-Cochran

June 6, 2021

Omega Xi Omega

Soror Vesta Rumphy

June 6, 2021

Omega Xi Omega

Soror Ebony Fitzgerald

June 12, 2022

Lamda Pi Omega

Soror Tomara Nolen

June 6, 2021 Omega Xi Omega

Soror April Sanford

June 6, 2021 Omega Xi Omega

Soror Tuanda Ward- Holmes

June 6, 2021

Omega Xi Omega

Soror Stephanie Beatty

June 20, 1992

Beta Mu

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 OXO NPHC Representatives: oxoakanphcrep@gmail.com

OMEGA XI OMEGA’S JUNE CHAPTER MEETING OMEGA OMEGA ’ S JUNE CHAPTER MEETING WILL BE HELD AT WILL BE HELD AT

SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026 S A T U R D A Y , J U N E 1 3 , 2 0 2 6

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.