A Legacy Worth Celebrating

Founded on January 15, 1908, at Howard University's Miner Hall in Washington, D.C., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® became the first Greek-letter organization established by African American college women.

Guided by the vision of Ethel Hedgemon Lyle and eight other pioneering women, the sorority was established upon the principles of scholarship, sisterhood, and service. Seven additional women subsequently joined the organization and were accorded Founder status, bringing the number of honored Founders to sixteen.

On January 29, 1913, the sorority was incorporated, establishing a foundation for continued growth and an enduring commitment to Service to All Mankind.

Across generations, Alpha Kappa Alpha has championed education, health, civil rights, economic empowerment, and community advancement through meaningful service and advocacy.

In 1947, sisters Georgia J. Schanck and Alfreda B. Wooden began a dialogue with several Alpha Kappa Alpha members in the Orlando area about establishing a graduate chapter in Orlando, Florida.

A letter was directed to Madam Regional Director Arnetta Gravely Wallace, the 38th South Eastern Regional Director, to determine the procedure for chartering. After receiving guidance, sisters Ruby M. Bennett, Opal G. Bowles, Susie E. Jackson, Lessie B. Floyd, Celeste C. Parrish, Georgia J. Schanck, and Alfreda B. Wooden began the procedure outlined by the Regional Director.

On September 24, 1947, following the August Boule, a letter was received from Madam Regional Director Wallace informing the group that a chapter in Orlando had been approved.