The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

UNDER THE leadership of its new president Alana Ingraham, the Eta Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is set to “flourish” in 2014.

This new administration was decided after the annual election in November, and took over on January 1, 2014.

‘Flourish,’ the theme chosen for 2014-2015 focuses on community leadership; sisterly strides; healthy, wealthy and wise programs; internal leadership development and the celebration of women on the rise. As the new administration takes the lead, the chapter promises to vigorously serve the Bahamas.

Phylicia Laramore, public relations officer said the flourish’ theme was inspired by President Ingraham’s vision for the vigorous, sweeping growth and long-standing development of the chapter.

The Bahamas chapter, established in 1963, is recognised as the second international chapter to be established and the longest serving active international chapter of the organisation. The sorority can also boast of being the first Black Greek Letter Organisation to be established in the Bahamas.

“In 1965, Muriel Eneas, Donna Donaldson-Towns, Shirley Vanderpool and Dolores Smith saw their hard work and determination come into being by witnessing the first Bahamians - Mrs Thelma McMillan, Dr Gloria Sands (deceased) and Lillian Walker Parker - invited to join the chapter. In 1966, Mrs Gwen Godet (deceased) was also invited to become a member and this small but mighty membership of eight women worked aggressively to make the chapter’s presence felt,” said Ms Laramore.

As the 90’s progressed, Eta Psi Omega became well known for its hard work at the international level; attendance by members at regional conferences has continued to increase over time. During the mid 1990’s, President Lisa Major accomplished the feat of leading the chapter in hosting the largest international regional conference at that time.

“As time progresses so does Eta Psi Omega Chapter’s standard of excellence, commitment to the Bahamian community and overall passion for all things Alpha Kappa Alpha. The chapter seeks to continue initiatives such as the annual Honours’ Day Scholarship Program, the Emerging Young Leaders Program, the Women on the RISE Summit as well as a number of initiatives which embody the local flourish theme and the sorority’s global leadership through timeless service theme,” said Ms Laramore.

She said young Bahamian women benefit from the annual Honours’ Day Scholarship Program, as it provides scholarships to deserving high school seniors preparing for college. Also, female students in grades 6-8 have the opportunity to partake in the Emerging Young Leaders (EYL) program, which provides leadership development, civic engagement, enhanced academic preparation and character building support.

Scholarship awards have been the organisation’s oldest service program ever since Alpha Kappa Alpha awarded its first scholarship in 1914. The first scholarship awarded $10 to a liberal arts student at Howard University. This tradition of service through scholarship continues to the present day.

“In addition, the president, program chairpersons and chapter members will be meeting with various government entities and other civic organisations and corporate partners in an effort to engage in developing productive solutions to human trafficking issues, social ills, voter empowerment, domestic violence, environmental protection and more,” said Ms Laramore.

Through the years, she said the annual programme has became more elaborate with students participating in a weekend of interactive, educational and social activities designed to celebrate the accomplishments of the best and the brightest female graduates from schools throughout the Bahamas. Today, the activities include a tour of local tertiary institutions, a courtesy call on the president of the College of the Bahamas, a welcome reception, a general knowledge test, an essay competition, a worship service and an awards luncheon hosted by the Governor General of the Bahamas at Government House.

On the heels of celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2013, Ms Laramore said etched in the history books of AKA, the Eta Psi Omega Chapter’s past is both inspiring and motivational.

“Continuing the legacy left by many powerful women is a challenge that so many present members take exceptional pride in. I for one once believed that my heart only held love for my home chapter and Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA), that was until I had the great experience of relocating to my beloved Bahama land and discovering with pride and admiration the amazing Chapter that is Eta Psi Omega,” said Ms Laramore.

“Still the standard bearer for all Greek activities in the Bahamas, Eta Psi Omega 50 years in the community still holds the standards of sisterhood, service and scholarship. Words truly cannot express the pride, honor and inspiration I carry for being able to be a part of history in participating in events such as those celebrated by the Eta Psi Omega Chapter for its 50th year of existence last year,” she said.