Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Theta Theta Omega Chapter 74th Far Western Regional conference program and reports

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.74th Far Western Regional ConferenceAnchorage, AlaskaSunday, May 4, 2003 8:00-9:30 AM Anchorage Hilton BallroomSoror Diana G. Shipley, Fat Western Regional Director Soror Linda M. White, Supreme BasileusHosted By: Xi Psi Omega
God's Plan The Measure of a Woman
The measure of a woman
cannot be decided by a man
The measure of a woman
only God can understand
Woman - God’s special creation,
living in a nation,
filled with hurt and pain;
Woman - continually striving for Heaven ’s gain.
The measure of a woman
may be difficult to say,
For when God made Adam,
He formed him out of clay.
The forming of a woman was made
in an intricate way
The forming of a woman was made one very special day
God took his hands of steel,
and made her heart to feelthe
tears, the fears,
the hurts, the pains,
and to endure the labor
through her child bearing years-
He made her kind, He made her wise,
He made her - to despise
all injustices this world would hold -
He made her bold!
God ended His special creation,
by measuring a heart of gold,
and poured it into woman,
just to make her whole.
The measure of a woman,
only God understands,
For the measure of a woman,
God created with his very own hands.
He made her strong, He made her weak;
He made her humble, He made her meek;
He made her knowing that she would take his hand,
to help the world try to understand,
That the measure of a woman cannot be judged by man,
For the measure of i woman is God’s own special planA
So, each and every woman, near and far,
Let’s continue to praise God for that holy day
when he made woman in his own special way!
Program
‘Lead By The Spirit’
Musical Prelude
Kassy Gore
Daughter of Soror Sandra Gore, Xi Psi Omega
Processional
Pfelcome dC Introduction of Pais
Soror Mini Card
Invocation
Soror Cat Sims
Xi Psi Omega
MusicalSelection
Soror Debra Tolliver
Xi Psi Omega
(Breaffast
Introduction of Quest Speaker
Soror Mini Card
Xi Psi Omega
Quest Speaker
Soror Brenna Spence
Chaplain, Xi Psi Omega
‘The Measure of A Woman’
Special Presentation
Renee Gray
Interpretive Dance
Closing Pemar^s
Soror Diana G. Shipley
Far Western Regional Director
Closing of the 74th Far Western Regional Conference
Composed by - Mini Card Soror
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Diana G. Shipley
Far Western Regional Director
Linda M. White
International President
Yolanda Mitchell-Brown
Regional Conference Chairman
Margo Bellamy
Conference^Co-Chairman
Xi Psi Omega
Loujester Fontenot
Conference Co-Chairman
Xi Psi Omega
Francine Bennett-Jackson
Conference Co-Chairman
Xi Psi Omega
Thelma Snow-Jackson
President
Xi Psi Omega
Mini Card, Catherine Jones & Margo Bellamy
Prayer Breakfast Committee
From Ideas to InkSoror Lynne Shipley 74th Far Western Regional Conference Anchorage, Alaska
presentation Includes
•Definition of "Idea"
• Defining your Target Audience
• Pulling in the Right Professionals
•Termsand Definitions
• Presenting a Finished Product
Definition of “Idea”
itde-a n.
Something, such as a thought or conception,
that potentially or actually exists in the mind
as a product of mental activity.
An opinion, conviction, or principle: has some
strange political ideas.
A plan, scheme, or method.
The gist of a specific situation; significance:
The idea is to finish the.project under
budget.
A notion; a fancy.
1
2
>tart Creating
I Now that your market is defined:
You have an idea of what you
want to send;
> You know who you will be
speaking to;
> The last question is, what exactly
will you be printing?
//>!Pulling in the Right Professionals
Graphic Artist
Printing - Traditional or Digital
Distribution - Mailing
braphic Artist
• A good graphic artist is a person that
can take your design, and turn it into
a professional finished product.
• Uses professional software tools
like, Adobe Illustrator, Quark, Corel
Draw, Photoshop and other similar
programs.
• Provides a print ready disk or hard
/ copy to the printer for duplication.
3
Fonts
ft complete set of type of one size and face.
Cornerstone
• Franeisctn
STOUT
• Sculpt
<onts
True Type - Fonts that appear the
same on both a computer screen and
after being printed.
Scalable Fonts - The actual printed
font may or may not match the
computer screen image.
Serif - Fonts with a header or a
footer like “Times New Roman”
• Sans Serif - Plain fonts like “Arial”
MFaper
Raper is discussed in printer terms by
weight, size and coating.
Weight Terms - 20#, 24#, 28# are all
terms used to describe the weight of
text, bond or copier paper.
ft point system is used to describe the
thickness of a cover or card stock.
Like 8 points or 12 points, which is
/ measured by a micrometer.
4
5
6
Distribution• Hire a mail house to take your mailing list and create labels, or an inkjet file.Fulfillment houses typically warehouse printed or customer supplied materials and ship them at the request of the supplier or a designated customer.7
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
74th Far Western Regional Conference
Anchorage, Alaska
AKAdgmyA wards
Banquet
Saturday, May 3, 2003
Egan Convention Center
Anchorage, lAlaska
8:00 PM-Midnight
Soror Diana G. Shipley, Far Western Regional Director
Soror Linda M. White, Supreme Basileus
Hosted By: Xi Psi Omega
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
74th Regional Conference
AKAdemy Awards Banquet
Master & Mistress Of Ceremony Mr. Will Johnson & Ms. Kristina Bellamy
Menu
Fresh Qarden Qreens
w/Peppercorn Ranch (Dressing
Ftfet of (Beef Penderloin
toppedw/ (Pacific Northwest Fruffle Sauce
(frittedSalmon In a Raspberry (ButterSauce
dukpn Q olden-crusted Prawn
On top of
Cj attic Roasted Red Potatoes
Fresh ttegetahle a la Chef
Rotts Ct Butter
(Bavarois ChocoCateMoose (Dessert
Processional
Opening Remarks
Musical Selection
Invocation
Presentation of Awards
Award
Soror Yolanda Mitchell-Brown
Soror LaForest Clark-Simmons
Dinner
Presenter
Soror Ida Jackson Graduate Achievement
Soror Audrey Jones Graduate Leadership
Soror Lucille Bryant Graduate Advisor
Soror Leadie Clark UG Achievement
Soror Mildred Robinson Outstanding Basileus
Soror Winifred Rhodes UG Achievement
Musical Selection
Soror Laura N. Banks UG Achievement
Soror Charlene Carodine Unique Professional
Soror Norma Tucker UG Achievement
Soror Archalene Amos Martin Creative
And/ or Performing Arts
Soror Billie Jean Barrett AKA Connection
Soror Cornelia I I. Banks Chapter Health Award
Soror Grace Strauther UG Achievement
Soror Diana Shipley, Golden Soror Award
Soror Linda M. White
National President
Soror Norma S. White
25th National President
Soror Mattelia B. Grays
18th National President
Soror Jatisha Marsh
National Second Vice President
Soror Thelma Snow Jackson
President Xi Psi Omega
Soror Shanicka Bradley
Undergraduate Activities
Soror Laura Banks
12“ Far Western Regional Director
Soror Charlene Carodine
15th Far Western Regional Director
Soror Norma Tucker
16th Far Western Regional Director
Soror Archalene Amos Martin
17“ Far Western Regional Director
Soror Billie J. Barrett
18th Far Western Regional Director
Soror Cornelia Banks
19th Far Western Regional Director
Soror Grace Strauther
20th Far Western Regional Director
Soror Diana G. Shipley
21st Far Western Regional Director
Closing Remarks Soror Diana G. Shipley
DancingTo The Soulful Music Of:Kenny Blackwell & The DiamondsSponsored by: The Andrews GroupMargo Bellamy, Yolanda Mitchell-Brown, Kristina Bellamy, Catherine Jones, Mary Colbert, Rose Stokes, LaForest Clark-Simmons & Cathy Cody Banquet Committee
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 74th Far Western Regional ConferenceUndergraduateLuncheonKeeping The Spirit Warm’Friday, May 2, 2003 12:00 Noon- 2:00 PMEgan Convention Center Anchorage, Alaska
Program
Undergraduate Luncheon
Menu
Fruit Plate II
Entree:
Tri-Color Pasta
Salmon Salad
Chicken Salad
Displayed on a bed of lettuce
Rolls with Butter
Fruit Sorbet w/ Cookie Crisp
Dipped in Chocolate
Coffee and Iced Tea
Mistress Of Ceremony Soror Shanicka Bradley
Undergraduate Activities
Undergraduate Chapter Parade
Welcome And
Soror Jatisha Marsh
Second Supreme Anti-Basileus
Introduction Of Directorate
Musical Selection
Soror Nichole Alexander
Pi Sigma
Invocation
Lunch
Soror Mary Ann Opuku
Alpha Nu
Fur Fashion Show Courtesy Of David Green
Master Furrier
Anchorage, Alaska
MC: Mrs. Shani Green
Presentation of Undergraduate Awards^ Soror Ellen De Shazer
Awards Chairman
Soror Diana Shipley
Regional Director
Fur Wrap Raffle Soror Jennifer Jackson
Rho Chapter
Closing Remarks Soror Shanicka Bradley
Undergraduate Luncheon Committee:Tanya Taylor, LaToya Taylor, Yolanda Mitchell- Brown& Margo BellamyHosted by:Xi Psi Omega Chapter & Undergraduate General MembersOf Xi Psi Omega ChapterEgan Convention Center Anchorage, Alaska
2003 Far WesternRegional Director’sState of the RegionReport i -Soror Diana G. Shipley 21st Far Western Regional Director
2003 Far Western Regional Director’s
State of the Region Report
Linking with Spirit
“People with humility don’t think less of themselves, they just think of themselves less”
Ken Blanchard
To Soror Linda M. White, 26th Supreme Basileus, Soror Barbara McKinzie, First Supreme
Anti-Basileus, Soror Jatisha Marsh, Second Supreme Anti-Basileus, Members of the
Directorate, Former Supreme Basilei, Former Far Western Regional Directors, Soror
Yolanda Mitchell-Brown, Conference Chairman, and to all my fabulous, fantastic, and
fancy Far Western Region Sorors, who love and so ably serve Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,
Incorporated. Good Morning.
I stand before you for the third time as your 21st Far Western Regional Director with great
Spirit, but with a humble heart. Since my installation on July 11, 2002 for my second
term of office it appears that my life has been on a gigantic roller coaster ride. However,
the outpouring of love, support and encouragement received either by e-mail, telephone,
cards or letters gave me the strength and fortitude to forge on in my journey as your leader
in this great territory comprised of eight distinguished states.
I stand before you today to say thank you for being an active and integral part of the vision
articulated to you in the year 2000. Working as a team and using the following as keys to
success___communication, efficiency, preparation and passion we, not I, have moved our
region along and ahead with great clarity and conviction.
Remember when we function as a team “ Together Everyone Achieves Merit”. I am
delighted to be a part of this prolific region.
This 2003 report will apprise you on activities, actions and decisions made since I took
office for my second term as the Far Western Regional Director. Pldase take in
consideration the following:
“ Servant leadership is more about character than style”
Regional Statistics as of December 31, 2002
At present, the Far Western Region has 41 Graduate Chapters and 28 Undergraduate
Chapters, making a total of 69 chapters. As of December 31, 2002 there were a total of 184
undergraduate members and 2,066 graduate members making a grand total of 2, 250
members, which comprises 5% of the financial membership. The national total of financial
membership is 45, 650.
Remembrance and Renewal
“Every problem can be a possibility in disguise”
2 3
It has been seven months since the horrible tragedy in Los Angeles, California, but you
need to know that the event is still fresh in my mind. As sorors, we have experienced
shock, grief, anger and many other emotions since September 9, 2002 when two beautiful
young ladies’ lives came to an abrupt and tragic end. My prayers continue to go out to all
of the families and friends who have been affected by that terrible event.
The families of the victims, Soror Linda White, my life, as well as some other sorors’ lives
have changed drastically since September 9. As African American women, as Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority members and as humans we all suffered a terrible loss on that day. But in
the midst of this tragedy, we must not lose this opportunity to improve, to reform, to
restructure and to transform our Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Sorors, we must stop PREPLEDGING
- POST-PLEDGING - and HAZING NOW!!!
Membership Status Report
At present we have two inactive chapters, Mu Nu located at the University of the Pacific,
Stockton, California and Xi Upsilon located at California State University — Dominquez
Hills. Neither chapter has any active members. And the chance for revival does not look
favorable. Sigma Chapter located in Los Angeles, California continues to be the only
suspended chapter.
I sadly report that we have five suspended members — three graduates and two
undergraduates. One graduate member will be recommended for expulsion at the 2004
Boule.
Sorors, enough gloom and doom.
I am proud to announce there’s a Chartering in the air. Yes, the Distinguished Pearls
located in Antelope Valley will be the regions’ forty-second Graduate Chapter. Therefore,
calling all Far Western Former Regional Directors and other sorors to please join us for
the Chartering ceremony on June 28, 2003 in Antelope Valley, just one hour from Los
Angeles.
Academic All Stars
“Al good performance starts with clear goals”
Well, Undergraduate Sorors you did it! Through your own motivation along with
mentoring, molding and modeling from the Graduate Advisor and her council members the
undergraduates both spring and fall 2002 GPA’s held high academic achievement
standards. The following full time students maintained a GPA of 4.0:
Kelly S Boyer Alpha Nu California State University, Fresno
Natasha Holstine Sigma Delta University of Oregon, Eugene
Shari Pierre General Member University of Alaska, Anchorage
Twenty sorors have a GPA of 3.5 — 3.9 and the largest number of sorors fall between the
GPA range of 3.(^y.4. Is this significant in the Far Western Region? You bet it is. We
know our schools in the Far West are large and filled with hardly any professors who look
like us. At times stress is quite high for our young sorors and maintaining above average
grades is not always easy. Sorors, we should also be proud that through the assistance of
Graduate Chapters and personal families we have twenty-five undergraduates present in
Anchorage for this conference. Undergraduate sorors please stand so we may recognize our
future spirit of Alpha Kappa Alpha. The following five chapters had cumulative averages
of 3.5 or better:
Rho
Iota Tau
Xi Beta
Pi Sigma
University of California, Berkeley
University of Arizona, Tucson
Stanford University
Oregon State University, Portland
•1 member
4 members
12 members
6 members
The Spirit of Alpha Kappa Alpha (Regional Program Development)
“When you stop learning you stop growing”
Cluster Conferences
The Fall 2002 Cluster Conferences under the spirited leadership of our Regional Program
Representative, Soror Irene Outlaw and her regional cheerleaders, provided our cluster
conferences with both a wealth of information and down home fun. All four conferences
broke all records with attendance. Thank you to the following chapters for your leadership
and for serving so generously:
❖ Zeta Sigma Omega Portland, Oregon
❖ Eta Epsilon Omega Tucson, Arizona
❖ Kappa Omega Omega Bakersfield, California
❖ Eta Rho Omega San Jose, California
Special appreciation to all of the other National Committee Representatives and their
committees who assisted and supported the new program thrust. The “Catch the Spirit of
AKA” candy bars moved us with great enthusiasm down the pink and green road.
Ivy Reading Akademy
Although, only Epsilon Xi Omega Chapter was selected to implement the “One to One
Tutoring Program” in the Far Western Region, one to one tutoring programs, sponsored by
local chapters are thriving in the Far West. Congratulations, Sorors, for your commitment
to educate the students of this region.
Tax Freedom Da v
Kappa Sigma, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington was selected to
implement the Tax Freedom Day program. Kappa Sigma was selected because of their
commitment to academics, their outstanding community service programs and lastly for
their “HAZE FREE” sorority environment.
4 5
Let’s Connect
“Never, never, never, never, give up!
Sir Winston Churchill
AKA Dav at the Capitol
Under the leadership of Soror Billie Rayford, National Connection Representative and
Soror Verlia Davis Hoggard Nevada State Connection Coordinator, a bus load of sorors
from the states of Nevada and California made our mark on the Nevada State Legislature
in Carson, Nevada on March 18, 2003. This year the visit to the state capitol was
restructured. We decided to focus on the status of health for African Americans. Sorors,
assembled on Friday evening in Reno, Nevada for a two-hour educational seminar on the
various bills that were coming on the floor. This was to make us aware and knowledgeable
of the types of new bills being presented which could affect our quality of life. The
stimulating dialogue prepared us for the next day when we meet and visited with the
various Senators and Assembly men and women to lobby for the Division of Minority
Health. Well, sorors our presence along with our efforts paid off On March 24, 2003,
Nevada Senator Ray Rawson introduced S. B. 462, which creates the Division of Minority
Health within the Department of Human Resources. Steps are being taken now by the
Nevada Sorors to contact their legislators to request their support of the bill. This bill will
touch some more hands before it reaches the Governor. Letters, postcards, e-mails and
personal telephone calls have been made to garner support for passage of S.B. 462. To put
the finishing touch on our state house visit six of us were allowed to sit on the floor of the
Assembly. Wow!
It is the intent of the National Committee Representative and the State Coordinators to
model this kind of AKA Day at the Capitol throughout the other seven states. The
California State Coordinators are working fervently to prepare for a visit to Sacramento
The date TBA.
A Dav On Not Off
If you look In the Spring 2003 issue of the Ivy Leaf you will feel proud. Chapters really
used their skills, their imagination, their heart, their money and their Spirit to honor Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr s birthday as a Day “On” (not Off). Thank you sorors for your
involvement and your willingness to serve.
Regional Director Priorities
“Success is not forever, and failure isn’t fatal’”
Sorors, my priorities for this year are the same as before. They will continue to be the
same into my last year of office.
They are the following:
*** To provide leadership opportunities for sorors in all four clusters regardless of
chapter status (G/ UG) or age.
❖ To mentor and model behavior that is appropriate, acceptable and authentic with
both the Undergraduate and Graduate Sorors of the Far Western Region.
❖ To encourage and monitor positive and on going Graduate and Undergraduate
relations.
❖ To strengthen communication among sorors in the region.
❖ To continue to visit college universities campuses with the Graduate Advisors to
share the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Program Goals and Hazing Policy.
What has taken place thus far?
1. Undergraduates and Graduates sorors of all ages serve side by side as spirited
members on all the National Standing Committees and Ad Hoc Committees.
Undergraduate sorors along with Graduate Sorors are well represented as
leaders at this 74th Far Western Regional Conference.
2. After the first Graduate Advisors’ Retreat held in January 2002 Graduate
Advisors with the help of their Chapter Basileus put in place Graduate Advisor
Councils. Sorors who serve at this level help provide eyes, ears, energy and time
to our younger sorors. Where there is an active and functional council reports
show that Undergraduate chapters are motivated to succeed and serve. They
also matriculate at a faster pace to a Graduate Chapter upon graduation. Thank
you Undergraduate Chapters for turning in your Chapter Program Reports.
This is the first year that I received all Undergraduate Chapter Program
Reports. Sorors, if your Graduate Council is out of gas, please fill up quickly.
The graduate advisors and I are planning our second retreat to take place early
February 2004 in Reno, Nevada.
3. As you know there was a moratorium on membership Intakes at the
Undergraduate level. This year chapter newsletters report a better bonding and
a more harmonious atmosphere between the Undergraduates and Graduates.
Intakes are important, but understanding and modeling the program of Alpha
Kappa Alpha while giving service to our local communities should also be what
we are about. Making lemonade out of lemons is always a positive.
In the fall when the moratorium is lifted will some of our college chapters have
to rebuild? Absolutely! Sorors, if our image on college campuses is as good as we
say it is, and if we truly accept all deserving young women with a C+ GPA and
above, then, I ask you where’s the challenge?
4. Sorors, I send my newsletters via e-mail and “snail- mail”. Most of you have let
me know that you like them emailed. At long last we have a new website.
was installed the first of April. This website will be more
user friendly. Unlike the other one you do not need a password. Thank you to
Soror Susan Bishop and Soror Lan Bubb who have volunteered to be
webmasters. The task is keeping the website updated with current information.
I never knew something that seems so simple can be so hard. Bare with me
sorors we are getting there! In the meantime, we do not seem to have any
difficulty reaching one another. You know that the computer e-mail system
allows me to give you instant response when the issue is appropriate. If
responses are sensitive then you are to expect a telephone call or a letter in a
timely fashion from me. Sorors, listen to the message on my voice mail. When I
am traveling on business for AKA it will tell you. Therefore, calling one time
probably is sufficient. I always return phone calls once I enter the inner
sanctum room of AKA. Chapter Epistolei thank you for the chapter newsletters.
I find them full of good information, creatively written, and pleasing to the eye.
www.akafarwest.com
6 7
5. I have met with three college Directors of Greek Life on their college campus. A
meeting to be held with staff at Washington State University was cancelled due
to poor weather conditions. At present I am perusing the document titled
Fraternity and Sorority Standards of Excellence. The Fraternity and Sorority
Standards of Excellence are the key component of a new initiative which will
challenge the San Diego State University Greek community to aspire to higher
levels of achievement in chapter operations and programming and to better
reflect the ideals upon which the organizations were founded. Sorors, I have
already met with another university whose standards meet or exceed ours. It is
also important to note that our own Soror Diane Watson a member in The
House of Representatives co-authored a new federal bill on hazing. The Bill is to
amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to withhold Federal student financial
assistance, grants, loans and jobs from students who engage in hazing and
other demeaning acts. This bill is called “The Prohibition Act of2003. ” I have
given these documents to the Graduate Advisors so that they may dialogue with
their perspective undergraduate chapters. Sorors, this is a serious matter.
Sorors, during the past seven months I have had to make some high level and major
corporate decisions, which I am sure, have impacted either your life or a fife of a beloved
soror. It is important that you understand that leaders do not make these kinds of
decisions in a vacuum. Our consulting documents are The Manual of Standard Procedure,
Constitution and Bylaws, Roberts Rules of Order, Membership Intake Manuals, Code of
Ethicsf Anti-Hazing documents, and laws that govern our various cities and states.
Regional Directors must also make decisions based on fact, integrity, code of ethics, and
common sense. Consultation always takes place so that no decision is made alone. Thank
you so much sorors for your trust, understanding and empathy as I and we continue to
make decisions for the well being of the total organization.
Regional Conference 2003
“Life is all about getting A”s”
Please stand up members of Xi Psi Omega Chapter. These forty ladies have worked
tirelessly planning, organizing, stuffing, entertaining, crying, laughing and loving. The
SPIRIT has certainly overshadowed our challenges. It has taken almost ten years for this
conference to come to fruition. However, the wait was worth it. Special thanks, to the
Conference Chairman, Soror Yolanda Mitchell-Brown and all of the Conference Co-
Chairmen, Soror Margo Bellamy, Soror Loujester Fontenot, and Soror Tanya Taylor.
Soror Francine Bennett-Jackson did an awesome job as the Registration Chairman while
the Basileus Soror Thelma Snow Jackson kept the chapter from collapsing. Chapter
members thank you for all of your participation during this past year. Please, hang in
there with imBust a few days longer. We can all let down at the Prayer Breakfast
Regional Director’s Itinerary
“Bloom where you are planted”
My itinerary is included for your information at the end of my report. However, I must re
port on the following weekend of travel. On January 31, - February 1, 2003 I was present
for the dedication of the school named for our own Soror Laura Noble Banks in Tucson,
Arizona. This high tech beautiful pink and green school is the envy of Tucson. The
auditorium was packed and full of colorful children surrounding Soror Banks with love
and admiration. Over two hundred out of town guests and local community dignitaries
were present to see the unveiling of the beautiful portrait that will hang in the hallway of
the Laura Noble Banks Elementary School. The whole weekend was one big celebration
with food, fun and festivity. Soror Laura, the Far Western Region applauds you for all of
the outstanding contributions that you have given to educate young people not only in
Tucson, but wherever your fancy hats land. God Bless you for your mission of giving.
8 9
“Purpose can never be about achievement; it is much bigger”
Lastly my thanks and gratitude:
❖ To my family for their rich and unconditional love.
❖ Members of the Epsilon Xi Omega Chapter and Mu Iota who are close
enough to provide me with support and assistance.
*♦* The ten Former Far Western Regional Directors and Former Supreme
Basilei on whose shoulders I stand. For they have been my mentors, my
guides, but mostly my friend.
National Committee Chairmen and Committee Representatives who serve
with me in the Far Western Region. It has been through your leadership and
service that this Region is moving at a fast pace.
❖ All two thousand plus sorors who reside in the eight western states. It is
only through your support and wilhngness to spend personal money in order
to keep our conferences alive and well attended. Thank you for not letting
the War in Iraq keep you away.
❖ To the Far Western Region who started an EAF Scholarship Endowment in
the name of Diana G. Shipley last year at the Boule Luncheon. Much
appreciation and thanks to the Northern California Cluster Basilei Council
who deposited a check for $1,800 in my EAF account this April 16, 2003.1
was certainly overjoyed.
❖ To my sisters, the nine Regional Directors and the other Directorate Board
Members who are always there in body, mind and Spirit. I thank you.
v And last, but not least, Soror Linda Marie White. We have known each other
for a long time. We have always had a good sisterly relationship with one
another for a long time. But this year through no act of our own we became
joined at the hip. I truly appreciate your leadership as our 26th Supreme
Basileus and your mission to make this sorority “Supreme” in “service to all
mankind”.
My fabulous, fantastic, and fancy sorors of the Far Western Region thank you, thank you,
thank you for the opportunity to serve AKA as your Regional Director. Please join me
throughout this conference as we officially baptize the “Spirit of Alpha Kappa Alpha”!
Sisterly,
Soror Diana G. Shipley
21st Far Western Regional Director CA
Regional Director Itinerary
2002-2003
July 4—13 2002 Boule
Orlando, Florida
August 17 73rd Regional Conference Post Chairmen Meeting
San Diego, CA
August 23-24 Chapter Leadership Retreat for Strategic Planning
Kappa Gamma Omega, Monterey, CA
September 6 —8
Reception
Mass Committee Meeting and Supreme Basileus
Chicago, IL
September 10 High Family Visit in Los Angeles, CA
September 19-22
Omega
74th Regional Conference Planning Meeting with Xi Psi
Anchorage, Alaska
October 5-6 Pacific Northwest Cluster Conference
Zeta Sigma Omega, Portland, OR
October 12, 13 Intermountain Cluster Conference
Eta Epsilon Omega, Tucson, AZ
October 14 Public Relation Training, GCI Company
Chicago, IL
October 19- 20 Southern California Cluster Conference
Kappa Omega Omega, Bakersfield, CA
October 25-26 Northern California Cluster Conference
Eta Rho Omega, San Jose, CA
November 2 — 3 Directorate Board Meeting
Chicago, IL
November 16
November 17
November 22-23
Epsilon Xi Omega Chapter Meeting — San Diego, CA
MIP Tau Beta Omega, Los Angeles, CA
Urban Black Planning Meeting Conference, San Diego,
November 26
November 28
Ivy Acres Presentation, San Diego, CA
Thanksgiving with family and friends
December 1 Fund Raiser Luncheon for Books, Balls & Bytes
After School Childcare Program, San Diego, CA
10 11
December 7 Conference Call 74th Regional Conference Planning
Xi Psi Omega Chapter, Anchorage, AK
December 10
December 13’15
Museum of Arts Reception, San Diego, CA
Ivy Akademy Training, Chicago, IL
December 22 Installation of Officers Epsilon Xi Omega
San Diego, CA
December 23’
January 2, 2003 Christmas Family Vacation
January 11-12 Founder’s Day Pacific Northwest Cluster
Delta Upsilon Omega, Seattle, WA
January 18
January 20
January 24’25
Omega
Dr. Martin Luther King Parade, San Diego, CA
1 “Day of Service” Mission Hills Group Home, San Diego, CA
Founder’s Day Southern California Cluster, Mu Beta
Inglewood, CA
February 1 School Dedication for Soror Laura Banks
Tucson, AZ
February 14—16 Kappa Sigma Visit at Washington State University
Pullman, WA
February 21 —22 Founder’s Day Northern California Cluster
Xi Gamma Omega, Oakland, CA
February 23 Mardi Gras Ball, Delta Zeta Omega
San Francisco, CA
February 28 - March 1 Directorate Board Meeting
Chicago, IL
March 6 — 8 74th Regional Conference Planning
Anchorage, AK
March 10 San Diego State University Conference
San Diego, CA
March 15 Women Incorporated Press Brunch
San Diego, CA
March 17 —18 AKA Day at the Capitol
Carson, NV
March 20 Ivies Beyond the Wall Ceremony for Soror Vida Van Brunt
March 22 Epsilon Xi Omega 48®Debutante Ball
March 29 — 31 Southeastern Regional Conference
Jackson, MS
April 8 Ivies Beyond the Wall Ceremony for Soror Hope Logan
April 9-13 South Central Regional Conference
Shreveport, LA
April 26 — May 4 Far Western Regional Conference
Anchorage, AK
12States of the RegionKeep the Spirit Alive!
OPEN FORUMDiscuss Constitutional Proposal to be considered at the 2004 Boule.Change Article VI, Section 4 of the Constitution: “Require that each region hold a Regional Conference on alternating years when the Boule does not meet”When: Saturday May 3,2003Where: Egan Convention Center Explorer’s HallTime: 2:00pm -2:45pmOpen discussion led by Soror Rachel Ashburn Mallory, Supreme Parliamentarian and Soror Julie Hadnot Constitution Committee Representative

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Delegate Report for 74th Far Western Regional Conference
Maya-4,2003
Anchorage, Alaska
Delegates: J
Jacki Brown
Verlia Hoggard
Diane Stith
Shirley Carroll
Quinn Rivers
Barbara McCants-Hill
Twenty-four sorors from Theta Theta Omega attended the Far Western Regional Conference in Anchorage!
Alaska. This report is"an overview of conference meetings and activities attended by all delegates.
Wednesday, April 30th - Glacier Bay Cruise
This all day activity, which included an hour’s bus ride to Seward, Alaska, provided sorors with an opportunity
to experience nature’s wonders ion Alaska. Sorors and guests boarded three ocean liners that sailed the waters
locating various types of sea life as well as the glaciers. This day had many breathtaking experiences.
Thursday, May T- Activities of the DayW
Diamond/ Golden Soror Breakfast- Soror Virginia Ingram was honored at this
- event as a golden soror.
Meetings and Institutes- During this day chapter sorors attended scheduled
meetings and institutes that included: committee orientation,'a Basilei
Leadership Institute; Graduate Advisors Chat; Workshop Orientation for
Workshop Facilitators, recorders and regional conference committees.
Several sorors from Theta Theta Omega are members of various national
and regional committees. They include:
Soror Billie Rayford National Representative - Connections
Soror Verlia Davis-Hoggard -State Connections’ coordinator
Soror Annette Craighead- Constitution
Soror E. Lavonne Lewis- EAF
Soror Quida Brown- Honary Members/ Award
Soror Kaweeda Adams- Program
Soror Sandra Stewart-Bass- Standards
Sorors participating on Regional Conference Committees included:
Soror Billie Rayford, Connections Chairman
Sorors Patti Hester, Barbara McCants-Hill and Quinn Rivers, Membership
Soror Ethel Archibald, Protocol
Soror Soror Quida Brown, Recommendations/ Resolutions
Soror Edna States, Standards
AKA Theater Showcasek
Talented sorors performed with singing, dancing and acting on this evening.
riday, May 2-
First Plenary Session- Highlights of this session included:
-Presentation and seating of Dais, which included Supreme Basileus Linda
White
-Introduction of the conference chairman and the chapter’s basileus
-Chapter conference committee welcomed us in song and dance that represented
the many cultures that make up Alaska and Anchorage’s population.
-Keys to the city were presented to Regional Director Diana Shipley.
-Reports of the national/ regional committees:
• Registration/Delegate Committee revealed that as of 4 /29/03, 592 graduate members,
27 undergraduates registered- total of 619; also 99 guests were in attendance at the
conference. This chairperson also reported that there were 216 members from the
Directorate, 12 from the former Directorate, 218 graduate delegates and 16 undergraduate
delegates. There were 182 certified delegates on this day. The number reached 197 by
May 2nd.
• National Program Representative reported that:
- The U.S. government awarded Alpha Kappa Alpha $500,000.00 for our signature
program for grades K-3 Reading Academy program.
380 chapters implemented the “Buckle Up” program, and $50,000 grant was
received for the Car seat Safety program.
- The Program Committee will be on line the first Tuesday of each, month for
program chats.
26 chapters promoted the MLK Jr. Day of Service to enhance the Spirit of AKA.
18 chapters were highlighted in the spring issue of the Ivy Leaf.
- On September 24th - 27th, AKA Policy on Capitol Hill a connection with the
Black Caucus will take place.
- The site for the Regional Ivy Academy Program will be awarded at next year’s
regional conference.
- AKA Reads Academy should be conducted the third Saturday in November. This
activity is to promote reading by families.
- Young Authors’ essays are due to national by May 30 .
- The SIDS Conference held in Detroit, Michigan was highlighted in the Spring
issue of the Ivy Leaf.
- “Buckle Up Campaign”- Chapter awards went to Graduate chapter, Xi Psi
Omega- $2,500 and undergrad chapter, Kappa Sigma- $2,000 for Tax Freedom
Day.
. Connections National Representative (our own Soror Billie Rayford)
- Reported on the AKA Day at the Capitol held in Carson City,
Nevada. The plan used by our chapter is being considered as the model for other
chapters’ visits to their lawmakers.
Announced about weekend in Washington, D.C. to connect with
the Black Caucus.
EAF
-Chapters were awarded certificates for their participation at
various levels of giving. Theta Theta Omega was acknowledged for having the
highest contributions to the fund in the Far West Region.
-Ratification of conference officers
-Adoption of the 73rd Far Western Regional Conference minutes
-State of the Region address by Soror Diana Shipley
Plenary Session Two
• Prior to the second Plenary Session the Legacy Parade took place.
• Highlights of the session:
-Supreme Basileus, Soror Linda White gave the “State of the Sorority”
Message. She stated or announced that:
-On September 2,2002’s risky behaviors endangered the sorority.
Our liability insurance was cancelled.
-As of April 20, 2003 we have a new carrier whose total cost is
$343,000. The financing plan will come from the chapters; graduate
chapters, $650.00 by 9/30/03 and undergraduate chapters $325.00 by
11/30/03. At the 2004 Boule there will be a $650.00 per capita increase.
-A Risk Management Task Force has been established
-Alpha Kappa Alpha assets as of 2002 are $9,219,735.00.
-Sorority Membership:
2001 45,385
2002 45,050
2003 38,033
-New membership is now on a database
-There is going to be online registration
-There will be a new history book offered at the 2006 boule
-SIDS Conference is May 30-31,2003- Detroit, MI
-Leadership Fellows June 6-13.
-Emphases on the vision to develop, cultivate, communicate, evaluate
-Slogan: “Alpha Kappa Alpha is alive in me.”
-New brochure for graduate membership being developed.
• A Rededication ceremony was held at the end of this session.
• During the evening a Public Meeting and Community Awards program was held to honor and
celebrate the “Unsung Heroes” of Anchorage. Recipients were honored from the areas of
Education, the Black Family, Health, Economics, The Arts, Corporate and Outstanding Student.
(Program is available)
Saturday, May 3,2003-
This day began with two sessions of workshops that represented every area of program that is necessary to run
an effective chapter. Various delegates and chapter members attended the different sessions such as AKA
Technology, Multicultural Human Relations, Membership, Standards, Connections..
Several sorors acted as presenters, facilitators and/or recorders at the workshop sessions. They included: Soror
Billie Rayford, presenter, Connections workshop; Soror Jacqueline Hall, facilitator for AKA and Technology
and Soror Patti Hester facilitator for EAF; Soror Edna States recorder for EAF and Soror Barbara McCants-Hill
recorder for AKA and Technology. Sample copies of workshop agendas/ reports are available to review.
In the afternoon there was an open forum (Regional Conference Every Other Year.)
Soror Shirley Carroll attended. Her report is attached.
Third Plenary Session-
• Final Registration report was presented:
-Graduate Members 567
- Undergraduates 24
-Guests 100
Total 691
Breakdown::
Directorate 12
Former Directorate 12
Delegates 218
Certifeid delegates 213
• Regional Committee reports continued:
-Time and Place reported where conferences will be held:
Regional Conferences: 2004 Portland
2005 Las Vegas
2006 Long Beach
Cluster 2004 Theta Theta Omega
Boule 2004 Nashville
2006 Detroit
2007
2008 Washington, DC
2009 St. Louis
Leadership 2004 Nassau, Bahamas- August 3-7
-Philactors Committee reported that a total of $129.25 was collected. The money was given to
Leadership Fellow, Soror Sherrie Pierce, from the University of Anchorage.
-Evaluations Committee made the following recommendations for chapter awards:
1. Chapter award applications not more than ten pages. Must be
typewritten and bound.
2. A chapter can’t apply for the same award within four years.
3. Graduate and undergraduate fees must be paid regardless of chapter status.
4. Submission of the applications must be postmarked by the due date.
This committee also recommended that the number of scrapbook pages should be limited.
-Awards Committee announced the winning chapters in the various categories. Theta Theta
Omega Chapter was announced as the third place winner for the scrapbook
At the close of this session the sorors from Portland, Oregon made an inviting
presentation to promote the Regional Conference in 2005.
• This day concluded with the AKAcademy Awards Banquet- a lovely affair that model the movie
awards theme.
Sunday, May 4,2003-
On this day there was an ’’Ivies Beyond the Wall” ceremony and a Prayer Breakfast.
Sorors departed for their respected states on this day.
This conference provided an excellent opportunity to learn more ways of making our chapter “the best in
the west”. We appreciate the chapter providing us with this opportunity.
Respectfully submitted,
Sorors: Jacqueline Brown, Shirley Carroll, Verlia Hoggard, Quinn Rivers, Diane Stith and Barbara McCants-
Hill
Regional Conference delegates
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
74™ Far Western Regional Conference Notes
Saturday May 4,2003
Workshop
Open Forum
“Regional Conference Every Other Year”
Explorer’s Hall/Egan Convention Center
Sorority member voiced their opinion on whether to have the “Regional Conference
Every Other Year”.
Comments included the following:
Having the conference every two years is not conducive for the strategic plans that
usually take place at the regional conference.
Regional conference should be held every year because there is a different atmosphere at
Regional and Boule Conference.
In respect to financial burdens, sorors can afford to attend every year if it is important to
them. They must make it a priority.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will make every effort to collect the data that shows
the difference in attendance at Regional held during the Boule year. This information
will be shared with chapters in the Far Western Region.
Regional Workshop
“So You Want to Run for Office?
Presenter: Soror Gail Atley, Lambda Mu Omega
Recorder: Theta Theta Omega
Facilitator: Earline Murray, Tau Upsilon Omega
Soror Earlene Murray opened the discussion and introduced the presenter Soror Gail
Atley.
Each soror introduced themselves to group.
Soror Gail talked about the things sorors need to know in order to get someone into
office. She emphasized the fact that candidates can “WIN without spending a large sums
of money on their campaign
Submitted by
Soror Shirley Carroll
Sorors interested in a pursuing a regional office should do the following:
Secure a coach.
Get into the “speaking circuit”
Adhere to all due dates. (Certification materials due by December 1st)
Three page Biographical sketch
Resume or Curriculum Vita (recommended by not required)
Submit a letter from your chapter endorsing the applicant as a candidate
Letter must indicate that your chapter voted by secret ballot
Include every detail about yourself. Follow all instructions because the
letter is a promotional piece.
Include a copy of your leadership certificate from the July Leadership
Conference.
The leadership committee will review all material and certify candidates on January
15,2004. A provision as been added to the new procedure that will allow the committee
to call candidates in regards to minor problems noted during the review of the
applications.
Campaign Material
Candidates are permitted to use only one piece of campaign material.
Candidate may give a three minute speech at the regional conference.
Candidates are allowed to host a reception.
Each candidate should have at least one piece of campaign material available to
distribution at the regional conference.
Each candidate is encouraged to visit all of the larger chapters and solicit their support.
Regional representatives are available to assist candidates.
AKA AND TECHNNOLOGY. COMPUTER PROTOCOL
WORKSHOP REPORT
Presenters: Sorer Susan Bishop, Eta Rho Omega
Sorer Senta Georgia, Theta Mu Omega
Facilitator: Sorer Jacqueline Hall, Theta Theta Omega
Recorder: Sorer Barbara McCants-Hill, Theta Theta Omega
Sorors Georgia and Bishop introduced themselves to their audience. They are both web
masters for their chapter websites. In addition, Sorer Bishop is also helping Sorer ShtplgSfl
with her website, “What’s the “T” in Spirit. Both sorors talked through their power point
presentation, “What’s the T in Spirit”. The National and Regional Technology
Committees were acknowledged. The sorors also provided information about the
National Technology Committee’s workshop objectives and their mission. Sorer Georgia
stated that judging principles, which are the basis for achieving the vision include.
-Standardization -Innovative Thinking
-Enhanced Communications -System Security
-Responsiveness to Members -Flexibility/ Availability -Clarity
The 2002 direction of the committee is to :
-Focus on learning -Standardize Technology
-Access solutions -Provide approaches for identifying member needs
Sorer Georgia stated that at the local level chapters should be focusing on learning by
putting together workshops to help sorors to become more knowledgeable about the use
of computers and the websites, varying the ability levels of presentations.
Thus far the National Technology Committee has:
-Completed requirement analyses
-Conducted evaluations of communications systems
-Determined priorities for technology implementation
-Completed membership database solution
Sorer Bishop stated that in 2003 the following implementation strategies will include:
-Web-enabled applications
-Online processing for:
-Per capita payments
-Conference registrations
-Membership directory search
-Membership updates
-Reports submitted
The presenters also announced that the new corporate website is www.akal908.org. It
has a section of general information and also a ‘Tor members only” section, where it is
necessary to log in.
After the presentation Soror Georgia stated that the purpose of the workshop was to get
feedback from the membership as to what is needed in technology.
Suggestions/ comments made by the audience included:
-Glad about conference registration online.
-Use computers to E-mail newsletters, distribute lists, list calendar of events
-Develop chapter websites
-Use buddy systems and phone trees as a backup and alternative systems
-Use computer to file chapter activities as they happen
-Complete applications for Silver/ Golden/ Life sorors on-line
-E-Spirit should go to everyone who needs to receive it; not just the national
office
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara McCants-Hill, Theta Theta Omega
Recorder