The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter celebrated its anniversary on June 12.
Photo submitted
A private ceremony to commemorate the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter’s 25th anniversary was held on June 12 with approximately 50 people in attendance.
Fourteen new members were welcomed into the organization.
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter was chartered on June 14, 1997, in the rural town of Bennettsville after determining there was an adequate amount of interest and support for Alpha Kappa Alpha’s presence in the Marlboro County community.
The Marlboro County Community Center was adorned with silver accents representative of the chapter’s silver anniversary status. Pink and green desserts were provided courtesy of Lulabell’s Sweet Shop.
Catering for the event was provided by Genesis Restaurant.
After a video montage documenting the chapter’s history of service and sisterhood in the community, USO’s charter members were recognized by Taheisha Ash and presented with a token of appreciation.
Charter members present included Carrie Ash, Gloria Dudley, Pat Henegan, LaRhonda Williams, Eva Johnson, Eva Chiphe, Robyn Johnson, and LaShone Allen.
Remarks were made by charter members. Everyone stated how thankful they were to have begun something that has been so impactful in the community.
Chapter member Taheisha Ash stated that she was grateful for the charter members bringing their vision to fruition and serving the community.
There was also a special tribute to their Ivy Beyond the Wall charter members, Barbara Abraham, Shirley McLeod, and Rena Windham. Through the hard work and courageous efforts of their charter members, the USO Chapter has established itself as a powerful stakeholder in the community, implementing extremely successful service projects and providing over a hundred thousand dollars in scholarships and donations throughout the years.
Chapter president Shaquite Pegues stated that the chapter’s historical record illustrates a strong sisterhood, sustainable partnerships and significant community impact over the last 25 years.
USO charter members include Barbara Abraham, LaShone Allen, Carrie Ash, Eva Chiphe, Gloria Dudley, Diane Grant, Patricia Henegan, Eva Johnson, Robyn Johnson, Valerie McLain, Shirley McLeod, Deborah Thompson, Sonya Wilder, LaRhonda Williams, and Rena Windham.