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The History of

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

 

 

In 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc ®. became America's first Greek-letter organization established by and for Black women. Her roots date back to Howard University, Washington, DC, where the idea for formation was conceived by Ethel Hedgemon Lyle of St. Louis,Missouri. She viewed the Sorority as an instrument for enriching the social and intellectual aspects of college life by providing mental stimulation through interaction with friends and associates, through 

"Service to all Mankind". 

 

 

Through the years, however, Alpha Kappa Alpha's functioning has become more complex. After her incorporation as a perpetual body in 1913, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc ®. gradually branched out and became the channel through which selected college-trained women improved the social and economic conditions in their city, state, nation and the world. 

 

Today, that tradition has continued--internationally, nationally and locally. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc ®. cultivates and encourages high scholastic and ethical standards; promotes unity and friendship among college women; studies and helps alleviate problems concerning girls and women; maintains a progressive interest in college life; and serves all mankind through a nucleus of more than 260,000 women in over 860 chapters. Its membership is comprised of distinguished women who boast excellent academic records, proven leadership skills, and are involved in the global community through advocacy and service.  Alpha Kappa Alpha has dedicated itself to improving the quality of life for citizen’s worldwide and promoting peace.

 

 

The Original Group: Anna Easter Brown, Beulah Burke, Lillie Burke, Marjorie Hill, Margaret Flagg Holmes, Ethel Hedgemon Lyle, Lavinia Norman, Lucy Slowe and Marie Woolfolk Taylor

 

The Sophomores: Norma Boyd, Ethel Jones Mowbray, Alice Murray, Sarah Meriweather Nutter, Joanna Berry Shields, Carrie Snowden and Harriet Terry

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