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          Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

 

Founded on the campus of Howard University

in Washington, DC in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha

Sorority, Incorporated is the oldest Greek-letter

organization established by African American

college-trained women. To trace its history is

to tell a story of changing patterns of human

relations in America in the 20th century.

 

The small group of women who organized the

Sorority was conscious of a privileged position

as college-trained women of color, just one

generation removed from slavery. They were resolute that their college experiences should be as meaningful and productive as possible. Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded to apply that determination.​ As the Sorority grew, it kept in balance two important themes: the importance of the individual and the strength of an organization of women of ability and courage. As the world became more complex, there was a need for associations which cut across racial, geographical, political, physical and social barriers.​ Alpha Kappa Alpha’s influence extends beyond campus quads and student interest. It has a legacy of service that deepens, rather than ends, with college graduation. The goals of its program activities center on significant issues in families, communities, government halls and world assembly chambers. Its efforts constitute a priceless part of the global experience in the 21st century.​​​

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           Dynamite Delta Beta Chapter

 

The "Dynamite" Delta Beta chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was chartered on April 19, 1952 on the campus of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Il. Delta Beta was chartered by what we call "The 9 Goddesses. 

The charter members consist of Malinda Balinger, Iantha Brown, Evelyn Coleman, Laverna Cornelious, Gwendolyn Holliday, Lovenger Hamilton, Jeanetta Hickman, Doris James, and Christine McKinney.

For 70 years, Delta Beta has brought many different service, educational, and entertainment events to the Carbondale campus. Every year, Delta Beta also 

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partners with the graduate chapter, Gamma Kappa Omega to offer a college scholarship to a Carbondale Community High School graduating senior who upholds the principles of the organization. 

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