OXO MAY 2026 The PROMISE_revised by AKA OXO

“The PROMISE” May 2026

As I reflect on our time at the 95th Great Lakes Regional Conference, my heart remains full full of gratitude and deep appreciation for what God has done in and through Omega Xi Omega

This year, our chapter was honored with multiple international and regional awards, representing intentional leadership at every level in our chapter and a shared commitment to excellence as we continue to SustainHER.

Omega Xi Omega received the following honors:

International Strengthen Our Sisterhood Award (Overall – Entire Region)

International GenNEXT Award (3rd Place)

“Best of the Best” Award

1st Place – Phyllis E Robinson Outstanding Newsletter Award

Standards SOAR Award (Successful Operational Assessment Reporting) – ZERO errors or deviations

1st Place – Patricia A Petty Wilson Exhibit Award (Exemplary Chapter Activities)

EAF Platinum Status

2025 Exemplary Chapter Award

Recognition of our 10-Year AKAversary

Pink tea roses and appreciation to Soror Cathy Carr and the entire Awards Committee; Soror Edna Clark and the entire Strengthen Our Sisterhood Committee; Soror Kaitlin McQueen and the entire GenNEXT Committee; Soror Raquel Welch and the entire Technology Committee; Soror Donetta Houser-Sly; Soror Gianna Austin, and the entire Standards Committee along with Madam Tamiouchos, Soror Charo Earle and former Pecunius Grammateus, Soror Consuelo Martinez; and Sorors Carla Postell and Melanie Harris-Farmer and the entire Membership Committee.

A special thank you to Sorors Michelle Williams-Ward and Regina Askew for a beautiful chapter luncheon filled with fellowship, thoughtful touches, and yes—food so good we may have brought a pound or two home with us ��

I also extend appreciation to our delegates, who stood in line before 6:30 a m to ensure the voice of Omega Xi Omega was heard reflecting who we are as a chapter and who you are as individuals

As we celebrate, we remain rooted in Sisterhood and rising in impact.

We give glory to God for trusting us with this work, and we will continue forward focused, aligned, and unwavering in our faith because this is not the destination… it is confirmation that we are on the right path.

And as we move forward, we will continue to SustainHER intentionally, collectively, and with excellence building upon this momentum and carrying it into all that lies ahead.

Soror Robyn D. Murphy Basileus

To EVERY Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, Sister as well as all other impactful women in our lives, THANK YOU for caring for and loving us unconditionally!

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Welcome to May – A Season of Growth and Blossoming

As we step into the beautiful month of May, a time of blooming flowers and renewed energy, the Omega Xi Omega Chapter continues to flourish through impactful programming across the Macomb County area.

I extend heartfelt Pink Tea Roses to Sorors Arica, Nicco, and Kelli for their outstanding leadership in executing our recent Tree Planting event. Together with community members and our YLI students, we planted five Emerald Green Arborvitae trees, eight containers of vibrant yellow daffodils, and twelve containers of purple pansies creating a lasting symbol of growth and unity

Our YLI students are blossoming as well, exploring a wide range of exciting career paths. From law enforcement, dentistry, and nursing to careers in the military, skilled trades at DTE, photography, engineering, and public service our students are gaining exposure to opportunities that inspire their futures. Omega Xi Omega remains committed to nurturing their growth every step of the way

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the 95th GLRC Service CHIPP Project. Thanks to your generosity, we donated 340 items, including 260 packs of oatmeal and 80 microwaveable ravioli meals. It was an honor to serve, and a proud moment to see our efforts highlighted in the Columbus news.

May is also Mental Health Awareness Month a gentle reminder to prioritize your well-being. Take time to rest, reflect, and recharge. Let this season of renewal wash away stress and make space for peace and clarity.

Finally, it’s time for a little spring cleaning! Join us for our upcoming Shred Event on May 16th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Roseville High School. Bring your old documents, cell phones, and small hard drives for secure disposal. Spread the word, we look forward to making this our most successful event yet!

Let’s continue to grow, give, and blossom together this May.

Soror Kimberley Will Anti-Basileus

Career night for the Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) brought energy, purpose, and community spirit to Vinson Chapel on Monday 27, 2026. As part of YLI’s ongoing work under the Empower Our Families Committee, the event created a space where young people could explore their futures with confidence and curiosity. This event connected the YLI students with professionals from OXO to invited guests from the community who shared not just their career paths, but the real stories behind them. Our sorors and guests were from fields such as medical, dental, military, sports, public service, computer science, construction and human resources. These speakers offered insights into their journeys, highlighting the challenges they faced, the decisions that shaped them, and the values that kept them moving forward.

Rather than a traditional lecture-style format, Career Night encouraged dialogue. Youth participants asked thoughtful questions about college pathways, sports and how to navigate uncertainty.

Five Money Moves Every Woman Should Make

Five Accounts Every Woman Should Have (Without Overcomplicating It)

Let’s be honest, managing money can feel overwhelming. There’s budgeting, saving, investing… and somehow still trying to enjoy your life in the middle of it all. That’s where this simple idea comes in: organizing your money into five “buckets” so everything has a purpose. You don’t need five separate bank accounts (unless you want to), but thinking this way can make your finances feel way more manageable.

1. Your Emergency Fund (aka your peace of mind)

This is your “just in case” money. Life happens—car issues, medical bills, job changes—and having money set aside for those moments can save you a lot of stress. A good goal is a few months’ worth of expenses, but even starting small is effective.

2 Your Everyday Spending Account

This is your main account—the one you use for bills, groceries, gas, and all the regular stuff. Keeping this separate helps you see exactly what you’re working with day to day without mixing it up with savings.

3. Your Savings for Plans and Goals

This is where you put money for things you know are coming—like a trip, a new laptop, or even a class you’ve been wanting to take. It’s different from your emergency fund because these are things you’re planning for.

4. Your Investment Account (future you will thank you)

This is where your money starts working for you. Whether it’ about long-term growth. Y

5. Y

Yes, this one is important. This is your guilt-free spending—shopping, hobbies, self-care, whatever makes you happy this set aside actually helps you stick to your budget because you’re not feeling restricted all the time. The Bottom Line

This whole idea isn’t about being perfect with money dollar has a job, you’re less stressed, more in control, and still able to enjoy your life along the way

And honestly

Know Before You Grow!

Spring has sprung! Now is the perfect time to embrace the season, enhance your environment, put on your work boots, and hit the dirt! Below are some helpful tips to get you started on the right path of planting your most beautiful and brightest garden yet!

1. Assess the sunlight access: Does the dedicated area receive Full-Sunlight, Partial Shade or Full Shade? Be sure to seek out proper flowers, plants and greenery that align with your sun accessible area.

2. Visit your local nursery: Take some time to explore the different aisles and plants, support the community, receive gardening tips, and meet local green thumbs!

3. Determine the soil quality: Plants thrive best in soft, moist, neutral soil. Be sure that the soil is aerated and prepped prior to planting.

4. Gather sufficient tools and gear: Helpful items include gardening shovels, rakes, pruning shears, gloves, a sunhat, sunscreen, gardening shoes, compost bags, mulch, topsoil, and pesticide.

5. Ensure there is an accessible water source for planting.

6. Plan a layout: Ensure ample spacing for planting diameter, sloping for soil erosion, and map out style and design.

7. Have fun! Gardening can result in a lot of trial and error but also present an opportunity to develop a new hobby, provide time to relax and enjoy nature, and take pride in your hard work.

Helpful reference video for beginners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_p_mTznec4

Justice Justice

VOTING MATTERS

Voting is one of the most powerful tools citizens have to shape a just and equitable society. It gives individuals a voice in choosing leaders, influencing policies, and holding government officials accountable. Through voting, communities can advocate for fair access to education, healthcare, housing, and economic opportunities. Historically, women and people of color fought tirelessly for the right to vote.

Movements like the Civil Rights Movement and the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 helped break down discriminatory barriers, ensuring more equitable participation in democracy. These milestones remind us that voting rights were hard-won and must be protected.

Today, voting remains essential in addressing systemic inequalities and advancing social justice. Every ballot cast is an opportunity to support policies and leaders committed to fairness, inclusion, and equal rights. By participating in elections, individuals not only honor the struggles of the past but also help build a more just future for generations to come.

So, the next time you think an election is not important for you to vote. THINK AGAIN! Remember, your past, remember your purpose, remember your impact, and remember: Your vote matters...

Sound the Alarm!!! Ring the Bell!! Our children NEED

us!!!

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) revealed that fourth grade public school students in Michigan(MI) assessed by the National Association of Educational Progress(NAEP) scored significantly lower on their reading proficiency exams between 2020 and 2022, scores were 30 % lower These sobering statistics(stats) were widely attributed to the 2020 pandemic and its aftermath. Sadly though, the stats from the 2024 reading proficiency exams did not improve. Why is this important? Reading is a vital gateway skill to many additional school subjects and upward educational advancement beyond school age READING is inextricably tied to the way our brains process, organize, understand, and interpret incoming information. This in turn impacts the way we make choices and communicate.

READING opens doors. As you read this, doors are being closed, books are being banned, and choices being narrowed for too many As global currency is evolving to another platform and artificial intelligence is being propagated in every sector of our way of life, our rights are being eroded, employment opportunities transforming, services dwindling, and our families are being priced out of basic necessities; monies may not be available for reading books. Sorors, where do we fit in this scenario. We, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC. will continue to do as we have always done. AKA, OXO Chapter will position ourselves to meet the challenges that face our communities We collected over 400 books with partner, National Council for Negro Women- Macomb and this year delivered them to two youth shelters. The book drive is over but the need is NOT. We are challenging you to continue to collect appropriate reading material for these shelters in May and June. Just ONE book per person per month. Sorors, we are poised, present, purposed, and prepared for a time such as! Together we read and together we share!

Soror Jacquelynne Burge

Soror Angel Ingram

Soror Kaitlin McQueen

Madam Basileus Robyn D. Murphy

Soror Kea Norrell-Aitch

Soror Meliah Tinsley

Soror Michonni Ward

Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes

Soror Corri Wofford

OXO Sorors WITH A Legacy:

Soror Charo Earle

Soror Stephanie Edwards

Soror Ebony Pullins-Govantes

Soror Pamela Tinsley

Soror Michelle Williams-Ward

Soror Gloria Ware

Madam Anti-Basileus Kimberley R. Will

MembershipCommittee

Press, Pose & Pour – OXO Sisterhood T- Shirt Social A Night of Sisterhood & Celebration

Omega Xi Omega Chapter April 2, 2026

What a night to remember! The Omega Xi Omega Chapter came together for an unforgettable evening of fellowship, fun, and fashion at our Press, Pose and Pour Sisterhood T- Shirt Social.

Designed with intention, this event created a warm and welcoming space to celebrate and embrace our reclaimed and reactivated Sorors, while bringing the chapter together in a meaningful and joyful way. From the moment Sorors arrived, the room was filled with laughter, and the spirit of sisterhood.

As shirts were pressed and personalized, Sorors, newly reengaged and long-standing chapter members, gathered at the pressing stations, shared conversations over light appetizers, captured memories at the photo station, and danced to some of our favorite music. The evening reflected exactly what we hoped, sisterhood and celebration.

A special highlight of the evening was the intentional recognition of our reclaimed and reactivated Sorors. With love and enthusiasm, the chapter paused to celebrate their

return, reinforcing that in Omega Xi Omega, every Soror is seen, valued, and welcomed home.

Press, Pose and Pour was more than a t-shirt making event. It was a beautiful reminder that sisterhood is not just something we wear, but something we must actively build and nurture together.

FromthePublicityDesk

Upholding

Excellence Online:

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

“How Social Media Shaped Our World"

Social media has transformed from a simple way to stay connected into a powerful engine for communication, influence, and change. In today’s digital landscape, it serves as a dynamic platform where stories are told, voices are amplified, and communities are built in real time. Whether raising awareness about important social issues, promoting local events, or supporting small businesses, social media plays a central role in shaping public conversation.

Beyond connection, it builds trust, expands reach, and creates opportunities for fundraising and collaboration. Individuals and organizations alike can engage directly with audiences, fostering meaningful relationships and sparking collective action. Yet, with great influence comes responsibility. Thoughtful, accurate, and respectful communication is essential to maintaining credibility. When used with purpose, social media becomes more than just a tool—it becomes a catalyst for inspiration, unity, and lasting impact that reaches far beyond the screen.

Sandra Boykins

Ivy Leaf Reporter | Publicity Chairman

RiskManagement

PROTECTING PROTECTING PROTECTING

THE THE THE

As we move further into the second quarter of the 2026 year, it is important to remember that we as Sorors each play an integral part in adhering to the risk management guidelines. Risk within Omega Xi Omega chapter is considered anything that jeopardizes the health, safety, or welfare of an individual or organization- intentionally or otherwise. Our Key Areas:

Membership

Reputation

Financial

Operations

Virtual Operations

Programs and Events

Building and Facilities

Through assessing risks in these key areas, developing a strategic implementation for minimizing or preventing risk and maintaining a thoughtful plan for potential risks, Omega Xi Omega strives to remain safe while conducting programs and activities within the community and/ virtually.

WeSet the TANDAR

Why Monthly Documentation Matters?

Year- end readiness starts with consistent monthly documentation. Committees that maintain accurate, up-to-date records each month are better prepared to meet reporting requirements without last-minute stress. Timely documentation ensures activities, decisions, and financial transactions are properly captured, supporting transparency, accountability, and audit readiness. Waiting until year-end to organize files increases the risk of missing information and delays leadership transitions. By uploading documents regularly and maintaining clearly labeled, organized folders, committees create a strong foundation for a smooth, efficient closeout and ensure continuity incoming leaders.