Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
The Official Newsletter of Omega Xi Omega Chapter New Haven, Michigan
THE PROMISE November 2023
Keia Perry-Farr, President Tamaria White, Editor Nathifa Riley,Co-Editor
A Message from the Basileus
OUTSTANDING OUSTANDING and OUTSTANDING again! That is the only way to describe Omega Xi Omega Chapter and all that has been accomplished in the past 30 days! Let’s start with Cluster...OXO was on everyone’s mind with recognitions for our outstanding CHIPP Program, EAF Platinum Status, $855 RAK donation, and a proud plentiful presence at the Conference. Thank you to Soror Kayla Collins and Soror Kaitlin McQueen who served as official notetakers. Now, Sorors can we talk about that PEARLfect 6th Annual Pearls & Potions! Kudos and Klaps to Madam Chairman, Soror Cyd Grace and our Fabulous Fundraising Committee for leading the charge that raised over $5K for our programs! We are still SOARing in Service OXO with Chairman, Soror Edna Clark, and the Advocate for Social Justice Committee members who are continuing steadfast in their efforts to prepare the Community to Rock the Vote in 2024! Uplift Our Local Community led by Chairman, Soror Tomara Nolen helped us give the gift of life with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the American Red Cross collaborative Blood Drive! As a sisterly reminder, we will vote this month for our 2024 Chapter Officers as well as for our 2024 Chapter Budget. In December, our returning and newly elected Officers will be installed at our Chapter meeting where our professional attire will be “Pretty in Pink with Pearls”. With 2024 quickly approaching, let’s get our documents in order as we prepare for End-Of-Year Reports e.g. trackers, logs, etc. Please be sure you are up-to-date with your docs. There is so much to be grateful for Sorors. As we embrace this month where Gratitude is an AKA-Attitude -- Let us be clothed in sisterhood. Let us drape ourselves in agape love. Let us adorn one another in kindness! Let us on purpose be our Sister’s Keeper! Blessings, Soror Keia
Michigan Cluster Conference: Soaring with Passion & Purposeby Soror byKayla Collins On October 21, 2023 Sorors gathered in the city of Novi for the 2023 Michigan Cluster conference, hosted by Pi Tau Omega Chapter ~ Southfield, Michigan. The theme this year was: Soaring with Passion and Purpose. The host chapter greeted us with an exceptional performance, welcoming members from across Michigan to this year's conference with grace, style, and pretty girl flare. The conference was a wonderful time to be immersed in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® business. The region has successfully introduced several new initiatives, fostered meaningful community relationships, and provided impactful service to communities within the Michigan region. A few highlights include: Membership: We welcomed 72 new Sorors into our illustrious organization this year, however since 2022, the graduate and undergraduate membership numbers have decreased. Since only 218 Sorors in the GLR are certified for the Membership Experience, it’s important for each chapter to look closer at membership retention and the future of membership in the GLR. It’s nomination season and there are several international positions open for the 2024 year. The international office has implemented changes to this year's nomination process, these can be found on the AKA1908.com website and members should be sure to update themselves before beginning their nomination process. Service: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® members have been hard at work this past year supporting our communities, taking a stand on governmental issues, and providing resources to our next generation. The CHIPP program currently has a 40% (510 chapters) participation rate as of June 30th and the goal is 770 chapters. Not only is Omega Xi Omega Chapter one of the 28 CHIPP approved chapters in Michigan, we also received recognition for our $5,000 grant to support the program. We’re all gearing up for CHIPP 2023! Sisterhood: The day was filled with loads of sisterly bonding and wonderful memories. During lunch, we were graced with beautiful piano selections from Alvin Waddles. We shared heartfelt stories on building and maintaining mental health during an impactful Soror panel and listened to our undergraduates as they shared their thoughts and experiences in the Sorority. The Omega Xi Omega Chapter was full of gratitude to receive recognition as one of 10 chapters in the GLR with EAF Platinum status and to receive $855 in gift cards from our Metro 9 sister as a Random Acts of Kindness. The RAK will be used to support our CHIPP efforts. Our very own Soror K’Lynn Thomas won a beautiful AKA bag in the conference raffle, way to represent OXO! As we closed the conference business, our sisterly relations committee helped boost our energy as we all hit the dance floor for a hustle breakout session. It was a great way to engage Sorors in some fun after a lengthy day of business. During our time at the Michigan Cluster conference, we were given several homework tasks; engage YLI at your chapter, support your community in service projects and local issues, take care of your mental health, and lastly be kind to your fellow Soror. Also, don’t forget to check your email — there will be key sorority details being sent out frequently! It was a joyous time to cultivate more meaningful relationships, to educate ourselves on the business of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® and to be in the presence of our glorious sisterhood. Until next year!
IN THIS ISSUE VOLUME 1, ISSUE 9 Message from the Basileus - 2 Michigan Cluster Conference Recap - 3 List of Chapter Officers - 5 Listing of Committees & Chairmen - 6 Event Highlights - 7 Bylaws - 10 Standards - 11 Protocol - 12 Enhance Our Environment - 13 Advocate for Social Justice - 14 SORORS SOARING to the TOP - 16 Birthdays - 21 AKAversaries - 22 Contact List - 23 Save the Date - 24
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 sisterhood among our members - and within the community as demonstrated by exemplary programmatic service and our strong partnerships with local community leaders and service organizations.
CHAPTER OFFICERS
Soror Keia Perry-Farr Basileus Soror Charo Earle Anti-Basileus Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes Grammateus Soror Cathy Carr Anti-Grammateus Soror Tamaria White Epistoleus Soror Linda Ewing Tamiouchos Soror Kimberley Will Pecunious Grammateus Soror Teneka Liddell Hodegos Soror Kea Norrell-Aitch Philacter Soror Stephanie Edwards Parliamentarian Soror Brianna Harris Ivy Leaf Reporter Soror Carla Postell Historian Soror Juanae Stephen Chaplain Soror Melanie Harris-Farmer Member-at-Large Soror Pamela Tinsley Former Basileus
STANDING COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN
Bylaws: Soror Stephanie Edwards Finance: Soror Linda Ewing Program: Soror Charo Earle Standards: Soror Robyn Murphy Membership: Soror Carla Postell Archives: Soror Carla Postell Technology: Soror Nathifa Riley Leadership Development: Soror Sandra Boykins Courtesy: Soror Teneka Liddell Protocol: Soror Gloria Ware Fundraising: Soror Cyd Grace Publicity: Soror Brianna Harris EAF: Soror Shawndalynn "Nikki" Roberson Risk Management: Soror Consuelo Martinez Awards: Soror Brianna Harris PROGRAM INITIATIVES & CHAIRMEN Strengthen Our SISTERHOOD: Soror Dwan McGrady (Sisterly Relations) Empower Our FAMILIES: Soror Shemya Doster Build Our ECONOMIC WEALTH: Soror Helena Jones Enhance Our ENVIRONMENT: Soror Heather Lloyd Advocate for SOCIAL JUSTICE: Soror Edna Clark (Connections) Uplift Our LOCAL COMMUNITY: Soror Tomara Nolen AD HOC COMMITTEE & CHAIRMAN Rituals: Soror Pamela Tinsley Scholarship Committee: Soror Vesta Rumphy Internal Audit: Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes Chapter Evaluations Committee: Soror Cynthia Miree-Coppin NPHC Representatives Soror Argentina Abney Soror Michella King Soror Michelle Williams-Ward
Advocate for Social Justice Initiative set up a voting table at the Greater Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church’s Health and Wellness Fair
Uplift Our Local Community Initiative and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. partnered with the American Red Cross in a Blood drive where 34 people donated to potentially save 90 lives.
Blood Drive
Pearls & Potions
Our 6th Annual Pearls & Potions sold over 175 tickets and raised over $5000 to support our programs and scholarships! It was well received and the buzz is already spreading for the next one in 2024!
BYLAWS
STANDARDS
PROTOCOL Protocol Gems November 2023 Soror Code of Ethics 1. To respect and comply with Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated written documents: A. Constitution and Bylaws B. Manual of Standard Procedure C. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Ritual Book D. The Official Guide to Alpha Kappa Alpha Protocol E. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated Anti-Hazing Book F. Graduate Membership Intake Process Manual G. Undergraduate Membership Intake Process Manual (if it applies) H. Financial Operation Guide I. Risk Management Guide J. Other official documents and policies K. Chapter Bylaws L. Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised 2. Remain subject to the authority of the authority of the Boule and the Directorate. 3. To respect our elected/appointed leaders and support them in conducting the business of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. 4. To present myself publicly in a way that reflects the high moral and ethical character of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated by: A. Obeying the law. B. Exercising good manners. C. Displaying concern for my appearance by following established Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated Guidelines. D. Refraining from profanity, acts of violence and criminal conduct. E. Exhibiting respect for other Pan-Hellenic organizations by avoiding demeaning remarks or ridiculing them. F. Wearing identifiable paraphernalia only if conduct or circumstances will bring no negative repercussion to the sorority. 5. To demonstrate the high regard, we have for each other as women and sorors by: A. Avoiding derogatory, demeaning and insulting remarks. B. Being polite, kind, honest, fair, and conciliatory. C. Assisting with the special needs of senior and disabled sorors. D. Keeping confidence Soror and maintaining confidentiality. E. Refrain from acts of hazing, reporting its occurrences to the appropriate authority and demonstrating compliance with all aspects of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated Anti-Hazing Policy. F. Abiding by and actively supporting official Chapter and Sorority decisions even in the event of personal agreement. 6. To work diligently to foster the programs of the Sorority and participate fully in meetings and conferences that enhance personal knowledge and improve Sorority effectiveness. 7. To maintain integrity in financial matters related to the Sorority by: A. Remaining current with all dues and financial obligations. B. Following accepted financial procedures. C. Avoid the co-mingling of personal and Sorority funds. D. Utilizing the tax-exempt status only as legally permitted. E. Requiring that financial officers maintain records making them available for inspection and pass them on to succeeding officers and/ or graduate advisors. F. Purchasing only from officially sanctioned vendors of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. G. Reporting the misappropriation of Chapter funds and /or property to the appropriate authority taking the necessary actions to protect or retrieve funds and property belonging to the Sorority. 8. To invite for Sorority membership only those community minded women of sufficient high moral and ethical character and scholarship who have true interest serving Alpha Sorority Incorporated. 9. To use the Internet, including but not limited to social media platforms, to positively present, reinforce and uphold the reputation, brand and integrity of the Sorority. 10. To refrain from soliciting advertisement, endorsement and sponsorship that harm the image of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated or that conflict with its programs, concerns or values.
ENHANCE OUR ENVIRONMENT
ADVOCATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
SORORS SOARING TO THE TOP
Congratulations to Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes, OXO’s new Grammateus
SORORS SOARING TO THE TOP
Congratulations to Soror Robyn Murphy, OXO’s new Standards Chairman
SORORS SOARING TO THE TOP
Congratulations to Soror Cynthia Miree-Coppin, OXO’s new Chapter Evaluation Chairman
SORORS SOARING TO THE TOP
Congratulations to Soror Vesta Rumphy, OXO’s new Nominating Chairman
SORORS SOARING TO THE TOP
Congratulations to Soror Montisa Watkins on receiving the Virginia Harrison Student Service Award at Columbia Theological Seminary for academic, collegial spirit and integrity.
SOROR MICHELLA KING
SOROR JACQUELYNNE BURGE
NOVEMBER 5
NOVEMBER 7
SOROR TONJIE REESE NOVEMBER 14
SOROR JUANAE STEPHENS
SOROR MARGO DUNCAN NELSON
PHI
BETA CHI
SOROR CYD GRACE
SOROR CORRI WOFFORD
BETA UPSILON
BETA MU
MAILING ADDRESS: Omega Xi Omega Chapter P.O. Box 480435 New Haven, MI 48048
GOT QUESTIONS? CONTACT US, WE ARE HERE TO SERVE YOU 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
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 3: 7 PM - 9 PM - VIRTUAL AKA PALS PARTY NOVEMBER 12: 9:30 AM - SUNDAY WORSHIP AT LAM NOVEMBER 12: 6:30 PM - EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING NOVEMBER 18: 10 AM - 12 PM - SHRED IT AND FORGET IT NOVEMBER 19: 2:30 PM - CHAPTER MEETING NOVEMBER 22: PAYMENT DEADLINE FOR OXO’S CHRISTMAS PARTY
M E T R O 9
E V E N T S
M E T R O 9
E V E N T S
STARTING SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH, OMEGA XI OMEGA CHAPTER MEETINGS WILL BE CONDUCTED AT MICHIGAN MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY 27300 DEQUINDRE RD. WARREN, MI 48092 MICHIGAN MATH & SCIENCE ACADEMY 27300 DEQUINDRE RD. WARREN, MI 48092
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER TEAM If you would like to join the newsletter team, please contact Soror Tamaria White at: akaoxoepistoleus@gmail.com
Submissions to The Promise are due on the 20th day of each month. Please contact Soror Tamaria White if you have any questions or feedback.