The Pr mise - North Atlantic Region, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc

NORTH ATLANTIC REGION
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC.
WINTER 2014
T he Pr m ise
Message from
Constance R. Pizarro
North Atlantic Regional Director
Dear Sorors,
!Happy New Year and Happy
Founders Day! I pray daily for
our combined strength, as we
continue to serve all mankind!
Our Founders could not possibly
have envisioned the great works
and services we have given
through the years. Theirs was a
historical time when many were
barely one generation removed
from slavery, so to establish an
illustrious “service organization”
like this was probably
unthinkable to many. Yet, the
sixteen of them forged on and all
of us are the beneficiaries of
their mission and vision!
!
!
the Regional Director
As I pen this message to you, I am
ever mindful of how blessed we are
to be living at this time, in the history
of our beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha.
The old expression that “the world is
getting smaller,” has never rung truer
than now because we have seen our
sisterhood move to the forefront on
so many issues! Not only are we
helping to teach the skills to alleviate
hunger on the local levels, but we are
also providing help to our fellow
man, in the global arena. We are
diligently teaching how to obtain
economic security and we are also
guiding our emerging young leaders
toward a brighter tomorrow. As we
have done throughout our 106 years,
we will continue to combine our
strengths, our knowledge, our talents
and our treasures to serve our fellow
man!
!As I look forward to the remaining
months of my tenure as your
Regional Director, I proudly reflect
on the wonderful four years that I
have been blessed to serve with you.
I offer the following special kudos to
you for:
1. Sending in your End of the
Year Reports on time.
2. Fairing well on the chapter
evaluations. Special kudos to
In this Issue
3.
4.
5.
6.
Rho Theta Omega and Tau
Theta, for receiving the
rating of “outstanding” on
the evaluations.
Planning and executing
outstanding Cluster
Leadership Meetings and
unforgettable Regional
Conferences.
Accepting responsibility for
all tasks I have asked you to
complete.
Helping our Undergrad
Sorors transition into
Graduate Chapters upon
graduation.
Supporting my goals and
vision for you have truly
Captured the Promise.
!Again this year, many of us will
commemorate the life and legacy of
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through
service and honoring of our local
active military, veterans, and their
families. Still others of us will be
volunteering at many agencies and
facilities that give aid and assistance
to our fellow citizens, who rely on
our support. No matter where you
serve during the MLK Weekend,
please remember that even the
smallest act of kindness can be
paramount to those in need.
!
!
18-23
International Standards Committee
2
Undergraduates Corner
10-11
Special Moments
EAF
3
Protocol
12-13
Ivies Beyond the Wall
24
Health Award
4-6
Love Your Sister Day
14
Reminders
25
2013 MIP
15-17
Upcoming Dates
25
Graduate Advisors’ Program
7-9
1
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
Chapter Sustainability
!Many chapters have begun
Throughout the region, we are preparing
to attend our 83rd North Atlantic Regional
Conference hosted by the Sorors of
Cluster III, in our nation’s capital,
Washington, DC. This year’s theme is A
New York State of Mind. It is going to be as
exciting and informative as it would have
been if it were being held in the “Big
Apple!” There are many institutes,
workshops and forums that will be packed
with valuable information about our
programs of service and the intricate
workings of Alpha Kappa Alpha.
Conference registration materials are on
our website now. I am really looking
forward to seeing you there.
!When we began this journey together
almost four years ago, I asked you to
Capture the Promise with me, so that our
region could be even more notable than it
had ever been before. You did so, by
working smarter and harder to serve our
fellow man! I could not be prouder of all
that we have accomplished and all that is
yet to come. Thank you for your
unwavering support Sorors and I pray
God’s special blessing upon you and your
loved ones!
!!
Soror Connie
the planning process for
the upcoming year. As you
go through this process, be
mindful of the “Three
Pillars of Sustainability”,
which includes the
Individual Soror – Chapter
– Sorority. Sustainability as
defined by Webster is the capacity to endure through
renewal, maintenance, and sustenance. It’s a method
of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource
is not depleted or permanently damaged. !Effective chapters create a sisterly environment to
reclaim and retain its members, develop leaders and
utilize committees to plan and execute the work of the
chapter. As the individual soror and the chapter
obligate itself to sustainability; it is only logical to
conclude that the sorority will achieve sustainability.
Some of the tools for chapter sustainability and
leadership can be found in the puzzle below.
!The chapter Standards Committee must work
collaboratively with the various operating and
program committees to ensure the chapter is
employing measurable activities that promote
sisterhood and service. When we achieve chapter
sustainability, we will remain relevant for many years
to come, thus protecting our legacy of sisterhood and
service.
!As we come to the end of the year, chapters should
SET their SITE on meeting one of their 2013 goals to
be a "Best of the Best" chapter. The criteria for "Best
of the Best": Chapters must submit to both the
International Standards Chairman and Regional
Representative the 2013 Standards End of the Year
Report electronically (via email), timely (by
December 31, 2013), accurately, legibly typed with
handwritten signatures, and with a maximum chapter
participation count of at least fifty percent or more.
Reports must also be sent to the Regional Director.
This year the International Standards Committee looks
forward to every chapter achieving “BEST of the
BEST”!
!Soror Joyce Henderson, Chairman
International Standards Committee
!Soror Kimmie Jackson,
North Atlantic Regional Representative
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WINTER 2014
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Fall Edition 2013
Educational Advancement Foundation, Inc.
Volume 1, Issue 1
North Atlantic Region EAF
News Bulletin
The 2010-2014 Educational Advancement Foundation’s theme “Creating Global Opportunities for Success,”
applies to the worldwide community that we serve and members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
CONTRIBUTE TO EAF NOW
IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...
ANNUAL EAF MEMBERSHIP!
EAF Membership Dues made easy since
2009. Membership dues are sent
Electronically when processing the sorority
per capita.
Please don’t forget to submit your Chapter
Contributions directly to EAF using the
submittal form.
Silver Level
Graduate Chapter Contribution Guide
Members
Amount
1 50 members
$ 100.00
51 100 members
$ 200.00
101 150 members
$ 300.00
The continuing success of the Educational Advancement Foundation is incumbent upon the support
received from annual membership dues, individuals, corporations and organizations whose missions are
compatible with those of EAF.
First Step: Every chapter should appoint an EAF Chapter Captain or EAF contact that the Regional
Coordinator can share information for immediate dissemination. Chapters are encouraged to have an
EAF committee to help facilitate their EAF fundraisers/activities.
Second Step: Endowments
Contributions are essential to EAF’s work, enabling us to generate the investment income that funds our
scholarships and community assistance awards. The Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement
Foundation, Inc. offers an opportunity for members, organizations and corporations to leave a lasting
legacy through its Endowment Program. An endowment is a restricted, invested fund from which the
interest and dividends earned are used for scholarship and other awards. The principal is never touched,
thereby providing a "scholarship" nest egg for years to come. Special donor stipulations may be used to
establish the fund to support a personal commitment, honor a loved one or support a specific profession.
It’s Easy as 1-2-3:
151 200 members
$ 400.00
Initiate $1,000 - $4,999 (Temporarily restricted)
201 + members
$ 500.00
Established $5,000 (draws interest, becomes permanently restricted)
Interest Applied $5,000 - $19,999 (No awards made)
Undergraduate Chapter
Contribution Guide
Members
Amount
1 10 members
$ 25.00
11 25 members
26 50 members
$ 50.00
$ 100.00
51+ members
$ 150.00
Gold Level– the chapter contributes an
additional $500-$999 over and above the
applicable Silver Level from any unrestricted
source not earmarked for an endowment.
Platinum Level– The chapter contributes an
additional unrestricted contribution over and
above the Gold Level ($1,000 graduate
chapters and $500 undergraduate
chapters).
To be recognized at Regional Conference,
Chapter contributions for Silver, Gold or
Platinum Levels must be postmarked no
later than February 15, 2014.
Capitalized $20,000 (awards made based on investment income interest and dividends)
Third Step: Support the Capture the Promise endowment scholarship fund in
recognition of her leadership in North Atlantic Region. Donate to EAF TODAY and reference Soror
Constance Pizarro Endowment Fund, 5656 S. Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637.
WANTED...Qualified applicants for the Alice S. Marriott Scholarship (students interested in careers
in hospitality). Please see the scholarship criteria and application materials on the EAF website. The
deadline for applications is May 1, 2014.
Our goal is to increase the number of qualified applicants for both the Undergraduate and Graduate
Scholarships program. The Undergraduate Scholarship application deadline is April 15, 2014. The
Graduate Scholarship application deadline is August 15, 2014.
YPAC Scholarships
The Youth Partners Accessing Capital (YPAC) is a one
year/one time only scholarship. To be eligible for a
scholarship, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
Be an active undergraduate member of Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority, Inc. at an accredited campus based
degree granting institution.
Continuing a program of education in this or any other
degree granting
institution.
Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (at least a B average).
Must demonstrate leadership, volunteer, and civic
services.
Applications available on-line at www.akaeaf.org.
Must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2014.
Carolyn House Stewart
President
Submitted by Alicia Tibbs Tolson
North Atlantic Regional Coordinator
3
YPAC Service Awards
Service Awards are one-time/one-year awards to Sorors and
undergraduate chapters implementing program initiatives of
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.:
Emerging Young Leaders (EYL) Initiatives
Health Initiatives
Global Poverty
Economic Security Initiative
Social Justice and Human Rights Initiative
Internal Leadership Training for External
Service Initiative
This is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate chapters to
experience grant writing and community service.
Applications available on-line at www.akaeaf.org
Must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2014.
Barbara F. Sutton
Executive Director
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WINTER 2014
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED 2014 Health Partner Award !
!
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s four health partners seek to recognize chapters from each region that have committed to enhancing the goals and objectives of their organization through “service to all mankind” as well as improving the health status of the local communities. The awards are established to provide recognition for the development and implementation of excellent health promotions during the 2013 calendar year. !
Name of Chapter: ______________________________________________________________________ !
Chapter Location (City/State):________________________________________________________ !
Phone Number :_(_____)______________Email:____________________________________ !
Basileus Name:__________________________________________________________________________ !
Program Chairperson’s Name:_________________________________________________________ !
E-­‐mail:___________________________________________________________________________________ !
Graduate _________Undergraduate_____________ Region _______________________________ !
National Partner Organization_________________________________________________________ All entry forms must be received on or before February 15, 2014. NA – NorthAtlan:[email protected]
SC – [email protected]
MA – [email protected]
SE – rjfl[email protected]
SA – [email protected] MW – [email protected]
GL – [email protected]
FW – [email protected]
C – [email protected]
I – [email protected]
Submit form to the Regional Program Representative: !
• The points system will determine nominee’s at the Regional Level. • The top 3 chapters from each region will be recognized during each Regional Conference. • The regional nominees will be selected based on the criteria below by the Regional Program Representative and the Regional Program Committee. • Programs where the primary contribution of the chapter is \inancial will not be considered. • All entries will only be accepted electronically. • The national health partner will select the 1st place winner which will be presented during the 2014 Boule. • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and its partners reserve the right to use submitted applications, in whole or in part, for training and technical assistance purposes. 5
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WINTER 2014
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED !
!
AWARDS JUDGING CRITERIA !
!
Narrative (10 points): The chapter should summarize the purpose of the project/initiative, e.g. what issues they sought to address and the strategies employed; a brief explanation why the project is deserving of recognition; highlight the principal results and impacts achieved to date. Include resources obtained from the national partner. (One page limit) !
Event Goals and Objectives(15 points): Describe the purpose(s) of the project and what it seeks to accomplish through the sorority's national partnership with the organization. !
Partnerships(15 points): Identify the organizations that partnered with the chapter on the event (s). The role of the project partners should be articulated, along with the length of the relationship with project partners. !
Originality and Creativity (15 points): This criterion represents the originality and creativity of the event(s). If a chapter is submitting a program that primarily uses materials or program elements developed by another organization, the chapter must have substantially built on or added new program components. !
Program Implementation (25 points): Describe how the event was implemented and executed. For example, applicants should include the agenda(s) from the program(s), the target audience, the number of sorors and participants in attendance, speakers, event format, etc. !
Media(10 points): Explain how the event information was disseminated for both pre-­‐ and post-­‐
media coverage. Copies of media products should be provided. Include photos or other visuals that depict or otherwise tell the story of the initiative. !
Evaluation (10 points): Provide concrete evidence of up to three (3) major accomplishments/
achievements of the program or initiative. The evaluation should include, but need not be limited to, the required program report forms. !
Maximum # of Points: 100
6
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
!
!
GRADUATE ADVISORS’ CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
GENERAL INFORMATION
2014 REGIONAL CONFERENCES AND 2014 BOULE
Authority: Article III, Section 22, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Constitution and Bylaws and
the results of sorority litigation.
Who must receive Graduate Advisor Certification?
•
Candidates for advisor to an undergraduate chapter
•
Members of the chapter graduate Advisory Committee
•
!
!
Sorors in chapter leadership positions (Optional)
!
What is the Graduate Advisor Certification?
•
LEVEL I – training for candidates for Graduate Advisor and Graduate Advisory Committee members
and sorors in leadership positions who have never been certified
•
LEVEL II – training for candidates for Graduate Advisor and Graduate Advisory Committee members
and sorors in chapter leadership positions who are seeking recertification
What forms and documents are required for Graduate Advisor Certification?
•
From Soror to Basileus of local chapter:
¬ Application and Affidavit
¬ Documentation supporting conference attendance at one of the last two Boules or one
of the last two Regional Conferences
•
From Soror to Graduate Advisor Certification Program: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Inc.,
International Graduate Advisor Certification Committee, c/o Starlac McGhee, P.O. Box 669, Byron
GA 31008
¬ Original Graduate Advisor Certification Application and Affidavit
¬ A sealed Official Transcript or Letter (with raised seal) from college or university
showing soror is at least a five year post baccalaureate graduate
¬ Copy of the cashier’s check or money order payable to Corporate Office in the
amount of $40 for training document fees
•
From Soror to Corporate Office: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, 5656 S. Stony Island Avenue,
Attn: GACT, Chicago, IL 60637
!
!
Graduate Advisors: Global Leaders Certified for Timeless Service
7
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
!
!
• Copy of Graduate Advisor Certification Form
• Cashier’s check or money order payable to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in the
amount of $40.00 (NO PERSONAL CHECKS)
Which sorors DO NOT need to submit an official transcript or Official letter showing she is at least a
five year post baccalaureate graduate?
•
Sorors applying for Level II recertification
•
How will the soror know that she has been approved for the certification training?
•
The soror will receive a confirmation e-mail from the Graduate Advisor Certification Committee OR
•
The soror will receive an e-mail of denial of training if documents are received after the postmark
deadline, OR are incomplete, incorrect, or cannot be verified.
What does the fee include?
•
The $40.00 fee will include a training package containing the following:
Graduate Advisors’ Certification Manual
Undergraduate Membership Intake Manual
General Information for the Collegian
Fiscal Fitness
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Anti-Hazing Handbook
!
What is the deadline for sending documents to the Graduate Advisors' Committee and the Alpha Kappa
Alpha Corporate Office?
•
The absolute postmark deadline for sending documentation and fees is February 15, 2014
Additional Information
•
Soror must be registered for the conference at which the Graduate Advisor training is to be received.
•
Certification and recertification expire after 3 years.
•
If a soror cannot attend the certification training on the dates/location originally indicated on her
application, she may transfer her registration to a subsequent Regional Conference (at the discretion of
the Regional Directors), Boule, or Leadership Conference provided it is within the same calendar year.
Soror must submit a request for transfer in writing within 6 weeks following the original conference
date. Request should be submitted to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., International Graduate
Advisor Certification Committee, c/o Starlac McGhee, P.O. Box 669, Byron Ga 31008.
!
NO ON SITE REGISTRATION
!
!
!
Graduate Advisors: Global Leaders Certified for Timeless Service
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WINTER 2014
!
!
GRADUATE ADVISOR CERTIFICATION APPLICATION
CHECKLIST
COMPLETED
PART I: APPLICATION COMPLETION
!Complete Sections I & II of the Graduate Advisor Certification Application
NOTE: Signature in Section II must be completed in the presence of a
Notary Public
!Have application notarized in Section III of the application form.
!After notarization, submit application to Basileus or Grammateus for
completion of Section IV, Chapter Verification Statement. Include
documentation supporting conference annotated in Section II.
PART II: APPLICATION SUBMISSION
!Submit documentation to Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated, International
Graduate Advisor Certification Committee, c/o Starlac McGhee, PO Box
669, Byron GA 31008 as follows:
•
Original Graduate Advisor Certification application and affidavit
•
A sealed official transcript or letter with raised university seal from
college/university
•
A copy of cashier’s check or money order in the amount of $40
payable to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
!Submit documentation to Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated, 5656 S Stony
Island Avenue, Attn: GACT, Chicago, IL 60637,
•
Cashier’s check or money order in the amount of $40 payable to:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc (NO PERSONAL CHECKS)
•
Copy of Graduate Advisor Certification Application & Affidavit
!Maintain a copy of all documentation submitted for your records.
Postmark deadline for submission of all documentation
FEBRUARY 15, 2014. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
Graduate Advisors: Global Leaders Certified for Timeless Service
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WINTER 2014
Stay CONNECTED!!! Visit www.aka1908.com and...
!
Update your Roster of Officers form! This form must be updated for the
correct Basilei to receive the necessary information from your respective
representative. It can be updated online or by mail.
!
Attention Basilei! All IUAC correspondence must be forwarded to each active
chapter member... Be sure to call in each month for more updates.
!
Introducing the "UndergradCorner"!
Your IUAC is working steadfastly to make accessing information about
AKA Undergraduates Worldwide easier. Visit www.aka1908.com and log into the
"Members Only" section. There you will find the old UAC Blog, however, after
clicking the link you will find contact information for all the committee members,
dates and times for upcoming conference calls, information on upcoming
conferences and special programs. Log on now!
!
•
Undergraduate Programs - December
•
End of Year Reports due the 31st!
•
Partner with Angel Tree
•
HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
Monthly Basilei Call! - NEW CALL-IN NUMBER!
Please see the attachment for the minutes from this month's
call!
!
January
• Emerging Young Leaders Retreat
• MLK Day of Service, Sunday and Monday (19th-20th)
• Partner with other Greeks for GLAD (Greeks Learning to
Avoid Debt)
• Monthly Basilei Call! - NEW CALL-IN NUMBER!
!
Good Luck on Finals!
10
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WINTER 2014
Good Luck on Finals!
!
Chapter of the Month:
Protocol Tip of the Month:
Governing Documents Tip:
Sisterly Relations Tip:
We need more submissions!
Remember the Regional Director is always
addressed as Madame Regional Director
unless you are in private.
Withdrawal of Privileges may include the
inability to vote.
For sisterly relations you can do either Secret
Santa or a holiday party with your chapter.
Encourage your members to invite alumni
members of the chapter so it's similar to a
reunion (pending graduate advisor consent).
!
Thanks for reading! Here's an inspirational quote to leave you with...
!
"A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."- Nelson
Mandela RIP
!
!
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! @AKA_UAC
!
From your International Undergraduate Activities
Committee!
11
Pretty
proper PROTOCOL
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
The North Atlantic Region has been extremely busy CAPTURING THE
PROMISE by serving our communities through various events such as the EAF Salute to Excellence Luncheons; strengthening our leadership at events such as the
Leadership, Cluster and North Atlantic Regional Conferences; and honoring and
preserving our great sisterhood at our Founders’ Day programs. It has been an honor
and privilege for the North Atlantic Regional Protocol Committee to serve as a
resource and work side by side with so many Sorors to maintain proper protocol. The
success of these events w made possible through the dedication and teamwork of
the Sorors involved and the communication between those Sorors and their Cluster
Protocol Representatives. Each event had its own unique signature and the North
Atlantic Regional Protocol Committee assisted in areas such as
, VSG and
reserved seating, escorting, holding rooms, script writing, courtesies and hospitality.
In addition to serving as a resource and liaison to chapters for specific events,
the North Atlantic Region Protocol Committee hosted a webinar for chapter protocol
chairmen to receive important protocol information. It was a very informative webinar and it provided an avenue to encourage continued dialogue and education for all
Sorors regarding proper protocol.
IMPORTANT PROTOCOL UPDATES
The Official Guide to Alpha Kappa Alpha Protocol was revised in
November 2013. There are three new protocol updates of
which every soror should be aware:
1. The order of rank at the chapter level has changed if
both the Supreme Basileus and the Regional Director are
present. The revised order of rank is as follows: Chapter
Basileus, Supreme Basileus, Regional Director of the
Chapter’s Region, First Supreme Anti-Basileus, Second
Supreme Anti-Basileus, Other Directorate Members, Former Supreme
Basilei, Other Former International Officers and Former Regional Directors,
Executive Director, Former Chapter Basilei, International Committee
Chairmen, Former Executive Directors, Honorary Members, International
Committee Members and Sorors. (p. 23)
2. Chapters are REQUIRED to obtain written approval from Corporate Office
AND the International Honorary Members and Awards Committee Chairman
PRIOR TO inviting an Honorary Member to sorority events. (p. 27)
3. The Very Special Guest (VSG) Guide no longer includes a list of theVSGs
and their hotel rooms. However, it should include a welcome letter from the
Protocol Chairman, an overview of the VSG Guide contents, an agenda of
special events and transportation information, local information (such as
hotel/conference center courtesy areas, local hotel addresses and telephone
numbers, airline and taxi telephone numbers, and local amenities) and hotel
and conference center maps and floor plans. (p. 45)
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WINTER 2014
THE ROLE OF THE REGIONAL PROTOCOL COMMITTEE
DURING THE NORTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE
The Regional Protocol Committee during a Regional Conference is very robust. From the time that the
location for the conference is determined until after the Regional Director leaves the site of the conference, the committee is busy working behind the scenes. Here are some of the various activities and
duties of the committee members:
Attend various conference planning pre-meetings to discuss everything from logistics to worship
service.
Review and confirm that the items needed for the ritual are secured.
Members work with the Conference Planners and the Conference Chairmen to ensure that all
protocol functions are executed appropriately according to the Official Guide to Alpha Kappa
Alpha Protocol.
Provide the Very Special Guests (VSG) guide to the registration committee.
Once notified by the Regional Director, we work with the Very Special Guests travel
itineraries.
The various Protocol Subcommittees perform the following duties and have the following
responsibilities:
The Dais Committee is responsible for making sure that the Very Special Guests are seated
appropriately
repar
the dais seating chart and dais introductions.
The Holding Room Committee is responsible for monitoring the holding room areas.
The Reserved Seating Committee is responsible for ensuring that the VSGs are seated in the
designated area.
The Escorts for VSGs are determined by the Regional Director. The Escort is similar to a
church adjutant by making sure that the VSGs are in the appropriate location at the appropriate
time. These committee members ensure that from the moment the VSGs arrive until the time
they leave that certain courtesies are bestowed upon them.
The Transportation Committee is responsible for travel arrangements for Very Special Guests.
The Advanced Protocol Committee works with the Regional Protocol Chairman to precede the
conference schedule by one or two hours in order to ensure that each room of the facility is
ready for the intended purpose and monitors multiple events of the conference. It is also the
responsibility of the Advanced Protocol Committee to go to each room to ensure that the
amenities are appropriate for each VSG.
Although some of these roles require training, being a member of the Protocol
Committee can be a very rewarding experience and we welcome volunteers.
Please contact your Chapter Protocol Chairman to see how you can assist with
the 2014 Regional Conference.
Protocol Promise Newsletter Committee:
Soror Juanita Gillon Madden, North Atlantic Region Protocol Chairman
Soror Leah T. Dixon, Cluster III, Chairman Soror Helen Drew, Cluster III, Co-Chairman
Soror Lisa Foust, Cluster I
Soror Asua Ofosu, Cluster II
Soror Sobande F. Afolabi, Cluster IV
Soror Pleshette Vonner, Cluster V
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WINTER 2014
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
2013 MIP
An AKA……
Alpha Mu
Alpha Delta
Iota Alpha Omega
Epsilon
Pi Epsilon
Iota Gamma
Nu Mu
Lambda Beta
15
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WINTER 2014
20 Pearls….
Gamma Epsilon
Eta
Rho Kappa
Theta Nu
Tau Alpha
Lambda Gamma
Rho Theta
Delta Iota
16
…And I finally became an AKA
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
Xi Nu
Lambda
Pi Iota Omega
Pi Theta Omega
Rho Upsilon
Tau Theta
Tau Delta Omega
Tau Sigma
Newly Chartered
17
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WINTER 2014
Special Moments in Sorors’ Lives
WEDDINGS & ANNIVERSARIES !
AC C O M P L I S H M E N T S
Soror Lauren Williams married Brandon
Middleton-Pratt on November 2, 2013 in
their hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Psi
Omega
Soror Tracey Spain, married Dwayne
Holmes, on October 26, 2013, in Falls
Church, VA. Omicron Gamma Omega
Soror Jennifer Langston was inducted into Psi Chi
International Honor Society at the University of Baltimore. Rho
Xi Omega
Soror Roberta Hubbard and Honey-Do John
celebrated 60 years of marriage. Rho Theta
Omega
Social Justice/Human Rights Committee (Initiative for Youth
Champion) and Soror Bonita Dancy ( Judicial Champion), who
were honored at the A Step Ahead Foundation’s Awards
Ceremony. Rho Xi Omega
Soror Terri Dean and Honey-Do Rick
Dean celebrated their Thirtieth
Wedding Anniversary on October 8,
2013. Rho Theta Omega
Soror Mary E. Houston, Basileus, and
Honey-Do, Reverend Gordon S.
Houston, Sr. celebrated their Fortieth
Wedding Anniversary on June 2, 2013.
Rho Theta Omega
Soror Alison Riddle-Fletcher was installed as the 90th
president of the National Dental Association. She is the 6th
woman to hold this position. Soror Alison and her husband,
former NDA President Nathaniel Fletcher (84th NDA
President), are the first couple to both hold this position. Rho
Xi Omega
Soror Ginelle
McPherson
Soror Donna J. Showell was honored by Burlington-Camden
Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity as one of its
African American Women Achievers. Theta Pi Omega
BIRTHS
Soror Ginelle McPherson and
Honey-Do Frederick McPherson
welcomed Vivienne Marie McPherson
to their family on March 27, 2013.
Epsilon Omicron Omega
Soror Melanie Burney has been re-elected to a third term as
a vice president in the Newspaper Guild of Greater
Philadelphia/Local 38010. Theta Pi Omega
Golden Soror
Mary Jelka
Soror Sharon L. Hopson was honored with Camden Youth
Leadership Award of Service by Camden Mayor Dana L. Redd.
Theta Pi Omega
Soror Judi-Lynn Willis has been named to the Trustee Board
of the Lawnside Education Foundation. Theta Pi Omega
AC C O M P L I S H M E N T S Soror Janine Roberts recently became
certified as a Progressive Care Nurse
through the American Association of
Critical Care Nurses. Omicron Gamma
Omega
Soror Janza Reese was selected as the
Basilei Council Secretary for 2014.
Omicron Gamma Omega
!
Soror Tara Barnes was named one of Maryland’s Leading
Women by the Daily Record newspaper. Honorees are women
age 40 or younger who are recognized for the tremendous
accomplishments they have made so far in their career. They
were judged on professional experience, community
involvement and a commitment to inspiring change. Rho Xi
Omega
Soror Lisa James-Beavers was admitted to the U.S. Supreme
Court with other members of the Judicial Council.
Admittance means that she will be able to argue cases before
the U.S. Supreme Court. Soror Lisa will continue to serve in
her current position as an Administrative Law Judge in New
Jersey. Theta Pi Omega
Golden Soror
Edythe Crump
Soror Mary Jelks becomes a Golden Soror. She was initiated
on November 30, 1963, Gamma Eta Chapter, Knoxville College
in Knoxville, TN. Upsilon Tau Omega
Soror Dorothy J. Phillips, who recently
retired from Waters Corporation in
Milford, Mass was elected to serve her
first three-year term as director-at-large
of the American Chemical Society
(ACS), the world’s largest scientific
society. Psi Omega
Soror Edythe Crump becomes a Golden Soror. She was
initiated on December 5, 1963, Gamma Psi Chapter, Texas
Southern University in Houston, Texas. Upsilon Tau Omega
Soror Saunjah Powell-Pointer was named 2013 Corporate
Advocate of the Year by the Pennsylvania/New Jersey/
Delaware Minority Supplier Development Council. Phi Theta
Omega
Soror Sheryl Nelson was named
Executive Director of Human Resources
at Baltimore City Community College
Rho Xi Omega
18
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
Special Moments in Sorors’ Lives
AC C O M P L I S H M E N T S
!
Rho Xi Omega celebrates its “Silverbration” Year
!
Soror Tammy Williams received the 2013 Realtor of
the Year Award by the New Jersey Association of Realtors.
Pi Theta Omega
Chartered on December 3, 1988, Rho Xi Omega Chapter celebrated 25 years of service to the BalBmore Community during its “SilverbraBon” year. At “ The Spirit of Giving,” held on November 21, 2013, Rho Xi Omega awarded $25,000 over and above current year budgeted program funds to 19 key programmaBc partners. These organizaBonal partners span Rho Xi Omega’s community service efforts over the years at the local, naBonal and internaBonal levels. On December 6, 2013, Rho Xi Omega hosted “Sipping PreUy,” a fun evening of reflecBon and sisterly relaBons for Chapter sorors. On December 7, 2013, Rho Xi Omega hosted its Gala “SilverbraBon: An Evening of Elegance.” Over 360 guests enjoyed dinner, dancing, Soror Tamika Boone received her degree as a
Registered Nurse (Accelerated Track) from the JFK
Muhlenberg Synder School of Nursing. Beta Alpha
Omega
Soror Andrea Hughie has accepted a promotion as
Patient Care Director of the Pediatric Intensive Care
department at Columbia University Morgan Stanley
Children's Hospital in New York City. Beta Alpha Omega
Soror Karen Dean, Principal of Lankenau High School,
was selected by the The Schoolmen's Club of Philadelphia
to receive the Commitment to Education Award. Rho
Theta Omega
Soror Maxine Johnson was appointed to Pastor the St. Paul AME Church in Harrington, DE on June 15,
2013. Rho Theta Omega
Soror Mary E. Houston, Basileus was recognized as one
of Philadelphia's Most Influential African-American
Leaders of 2013 by the Philadelphia Tribune in
September 2013. The Philadelphia Tribune is the nation's
oldest African-American newspaper. Rho Theta Omega
Soror Kimberly E. Houston, Esq. was promoted to
Manager, International Tax Division,
PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP. Rho Theta Omega
Soror Erika N. Houston received a promotion to
Manager in the Procurement Department at CIGNA. Rho
Theta Omega
Soror Kendra Brown transitioned from her role as
Analyst at the Securities and Exchange Commission to
Special Assistant to Representative Maxine Waters.
Upsilon Epsilon Omega
Rho Xi Omega’s Silverbration Gala
Committee enjoys “An Evening of Elegance
and fun in celebraBon of Rho Xi Omega’s legacy in the BalBmore community. Very Special Guests included: Supreme Grammateus Soror Susan Simms Marsh, InternaBonal Regional Director Soror Evelyn Sample Oates, former North AtlanBc Regional Directors Soror Erma Barron and Soror C. Edith Booker, Soror Stephanie Rawlings-­‐Blake, Mayor, City of BalBmore, and Soror Joan PraU, Comptroller, City of BalBmore. Rho Xi Omega Charter Member Sorors Karen C. Barland and Robin OU served as Chairman and Co-­‐Chairman for the SilverbraBon Year. Soror Kendra
Brown
19
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
Gamma Epsilon Had an Award Winning Year
!
The 2013 North Atlantic Regional Conference was nothing short of a
joyous occasion for the members of the Gamma Epsilon Philadelphia City
Chapter. Gamma Epsilon sorors were honored for their accomplishments
and contributions to the sorority in the Philadelphia community. Soror
Samaiya Minor, our graduate advisor, was named Graduated Advisor of
the year. Gamma Epsilon also won the following awards:
!Best of Class Award for Standards
Chapter Exhibit 1st Place
Chapter of the Year 2nd Place
Social Justice & Human Rights Award
Capturing the Promise through
Technology
Promise Award
Emerging Young Leaders Award
!In addition to the chapter’s acknowledgement on a regional level, the
chapter was also honored at the 2013 Leadership Seminar in Montreal
for the Pearls of Power Award, which recognizes chapters with a
cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above that have covered all program
initiatives with additional service programs for 2012, and have
representation in leadership positions across campus. Soror Chantee Receives the EAF Scholar Award
Soror Chantee Steele, former Basileus of the
Gamma Epsilon Philadelphia City Chapter and
recent graduate of Drexel University, received
the Educational Advancement Foundation
Scholar Award at the 2013 Leadership Seminar.
This award is given to sorors
who have demonstrated
excellence and achievement in
their academics, as well as
volunteerism, leadership and
campus involvement. The EAF
Scholar Award is especially
fitting for Soror Chantee, as
she has much to be proud of
from her undergraduate
career. She achieved excellence
not only as a soror and as the
Basileus of Gamma Epsilon
(2012-2013), but also as
president of the National
Association of Black
Accountants and making it on
the dean’s list with a 3.7 GPA.
Additionally, Soror Chantee received the 2012
4.0 Club Award, Drexel Sister of the Year
Award, 20 Pearls NABA Scholarship Award,
NGLA Greek Leader of Distinction Award,
Soror Spotlight Award, Order of Omega Award,
and certificates of Merit and Professional
Development. Congratulations soror Chantee!
(Gamma Epsilon sorors pictured here
with Soror Samaiya Minor, Graduate
Advisor of Gamma Epsilon)
Delta Sigma Omega Golden
Soror Honored
Golden Soror Mary Gladys Jones,
retired educator, was recently honored
by the "Community Foundation of the
Eastern Shore", with the renaming of
the "Volunter of the Year Award" for
her. A past winner of the award and
dedicated community leader, Soror
Jones is the co-founder of the
Fruitland Community Center's
afterschool program. The program
serves as a beacon of education for the
limited resource families in the area.
The program is housed in the 100 year
old former "Colored" Elementary
school. The building was dubbed the
Ivy AKAdemy when Delta Sigma
Omega Chapter adopted the center as
an ongoing program.
The Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of
the Year Award will be presented
annually to an individual who has
made outstanding, sustained and
unselfish contributions to community
service, and whose vital ideas and
personal sacrifices exemplify thc ideal
of service to the community.
20
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
Iota Alpha Omega’s Wine Tasting Raises Thousands
Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter’s EYL
Participants Enjoy Laser Tag Outing
On Saturday, November 2, five
participants of Upsilon Tau
Omega Chapter's EYL program
put down their cell phones and
ignored social media long enough
to enjoy a day of laser tag fun and
team building at Shadowland
Family Entertainment Center in
Alexandria, Virginia. Following
laser tag,
the young
ladies
were
treated to
lunch at
Johnny
Rockets.
EYL
Chairman, Soror Christina Cruse
and Program Chairman, Soror
Danaeka Spear had the privilege
of escorting and bonding with the
chatty participants. Mid-Hudson Valley – On
the beautiful and clear evening
of Saturday, August 9, 2013, the
ladies of Iota Alpha Omega
Chapter hosted their first wine
tasting fundraiser. The Chapter
raised over $3200 with all
proceeds benefiting the Chapter’s
AKA Community Scholarship
Fund. The Fund provides one (1)
Betty E. White Scholarship and
two (2) Book Awards to local high school students, annually.
Held at the prestigious
Robibero Family Vineyard in New
Paltz, New York, under the blanket
of a star filled and moonlit sky, over
ninety (90) guests, donned in white
attire, sampled varieties of white
and red wines, dined on food catered
by Glad 2 Caterers and danced to
the hottest sounds of DJ Sean,
member of Alpha Phi Alpha
Fraternity, Incorporated – Kappa
Upsilon Lambda Chapter. Creatively, the Committee raffled off baskets. Each of the
four (4) baskets, decorated in pink and green, contained a bottle of
wine, packs of crackers, two (2) wine glasses, four (4) scented
candles, a decorative wine bottle cork and a bottle opener. Winners
of the raffles took home the elegantly adorned baskets. Iota Alpha Omega Chapter’s wine tasting event was chaired
by Soror Omega Alston. The Committee consisted of the following
Sorors: Kathy Davis, Pat Davis, Telka Howard, Sandra J. Jackson, Kim
Jarratt, Nadia Natasha Rahaman, Loretta Taylor and Alita Zuber.
The highly successful wine tasting event will be held
annually. Congratulations Sorors on an extraordinary event!
2013 Yuletide Jazz Brunch
!On December 8, 2013, Upsilon Delta Omega Chapter held its 2013 Yuletide Jazz Brunch at Auletto Caterers
in Deptford, NJ. The Brunch is the chapter’s annual fundraising gala to support its college scholarships, which
are awarded each spring to young women who exhibit scholastic excellence in their high school careers and
have been accepted to 4-year colleges and universities for the coming fall semester. This year’s event was
planned to host 300 guests and included a lavish brunch buffet. While an unexpected winter storm hit on the
morning of the event, the chapter pushed through and the event went on. The program featured great music
by Philadelphia’s Blind Date Band, a “Pink Carpet” Photo Experience, and vendors offering a range of
exquisite items including jewelry, fine art, paraphernalia, and clothing and other personal items.
Additionally, in the last quarter of the year, the chapter co-sponsored a community education workshop on
Human Trafficking with three other chapters with over 100 attendees and coverage in the local media. UDO
also launched the new school year for its Emerging Young Leaders with an interactive ice cream social. The
girls spent time learning about the program and getting to know the chapter and each other. The chapter also
welcomed six new sorors into the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in October. All and all, it was a very
productive quarter for Upsilon Delta Omega.
21
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
Iota Alpha Omega’s Annual Soup Kitchen Feeds Hundreds
!On Saturday,
September 21st, 2013, numerous Iota Alpha Omega
Chapter Sorors and fifteen (15) community volunteers participated in
the Chapter’s 23rd Annual Soup Kitchen at Beulah Baptist Church,
located in Poughkeepsie, NY. The Reverend Jesse V. Bottoms is the pastor.
The event was chaired by Soror Paulette Sibert.
The Sorors of Iota Alpha Omega Chapter and volunteers served a
scrumptious lunch to over ninety-five (95) men, women and children.
The lunch consisted of cheesy, baked ziti, saucy, thick meatballs, buttered and cheesy garlic bread, ice
tea/milk/water and an assortment of ice cream flavors. Volunteers
also prepared twenty (20) take-out meals for some of the
attendees.
Most of the food, drink and dessert items were donated by
Antonella's Pizza Cafe, Longobardi’s Restaurant, Panera Bread,
Stewart Shops, and Chapter Sorors: Telka Howard & Valerie
Murphy.
Iota Alpha Omega Chapter continues to lead the MidHudson Valley in providing exceptional Global Leadership
Through Timeless Service.
!
AKA is With You ~ Iota Alpha Omega Chapter Birthday Service Project
!
On December 6th, 2013, Iota Alpha Omega Chapter celebrated her fortyforth (44th) birthday. To mark this auspicious occasion, Iota Alpha Omega Chapter
participated in “AKA Is With You” ~ Chapter Birthday Service Project spearheaded
by Soror Vanessa Rice, Anti-Basileus & Program Committee Chairperson.
A total of twenty-two (22) sorors donated nearly 100 gifts to the women
and children at Grace Smith House – Domestic
Violence Shelter (Poughkeepsie, NY). The staff
remembered our service programs rendered this
year and in previous years and truly appreciated
our thoughtfulness this Holiday Season. We were able to gift the mothers beautiful
sleepwear, hats, gloves, scarfs, make-up, beauty
scented lotions, shampoos; to the children we
gifted board games, crafts items, clothes, movies,
books and headphones; to the shelter we donated
curtains, dishware and gift cards. Each item was
labeled – “From the Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Iota Alpha Omega
Chapter – AKA Is With You” and a holiday card was included from the Chapter.
On Friday, December 20th, the items were delivered to the Grace Smith
House for the residents to enjoy.
22
THE PROMISE
WINTER 2014
AKA Sorority and Beacon HS National Honor Society bring H.O.P.E. to the Mid Hudson
Valley
On Friday and Saturday, November 15th & 16th, 2013, the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,
Incorporated - Iota Alpha Omega Chapter(graduate chapter), in conjunction with the National Honor
Society Chapter at Beacon High School, participated in our 4th Annual Project H.O.P.E. (Help Other People
Excel) - Operation H.E.A.R.T. (Helping to Empower Area Residents Together). Project H.O.P.E. was a day in
which we gave H.O.P.E. to the communities we serve. Project H.O.P.E. allowed us to work together to
address HUNGER in our area.
Through Project H.O.P.E., we Helped Other People Excel by
replenishing thirteen (13) area food pantries with nearly three
hundred (300) non-perishable food items each. We are proud to
announce that the following food pantries were recipients of the
donated food items: Dutchess Outr each, Incor porated
(Poughkeepsie), Dutchess County Community Action Partnership
Center (Beacon and Poughkeepsie locations), House of Refuge
International Ministries (Newburgh), Solid Rock Church of God
(New Windsor), Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church (Beacon), Full
Gospel Center (LaGrangeville), Trinity United Methodist Church
(LaGrangeville), St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church (Beacon), St. Paul’s
United Methodist Church (Middletown), First United Methodist
Church (Newburgh), the Beacon Lions Club (Wappingers Falls) and
Beulah Baptist Church (Poughkeepsie).
!Through the efforts of the following numerous food collection sponsors:
Beacon High School, Rombout Middle School, Glenham Elementary School,
Sargent Elementary School, South Avenue Elementary School, Forrestal Elementary School, Beacon City
School District Board Office, Howland Library, Christ Methodist Church, Beacon Ambulance Corps,
Greenhaven Correctional Facility, Iota Alpha Omega Chapter members, Newburgh Free Academy ROTC
and Student Council, Debro Chapter #10A- Order of the Eastern Stars, Collection, Cub Scout Pack 122,
Marist College – Black Students Union, we collected over 3,700 non perishable food items and over 200
personal hygiene items between September 23 - November 14, 2013. And, through the generosity of
Fishkill Farms, over 3000 pounds of apples were donated.
On Friday, November 15, 2013, our food collection sponsors delivered their donated food items to
Downstate’s QWL building. Over 70 volunteers sorted all of the food items and packed them into boxes
donated by Guardian Self Storage and McCollister United Van Lines. In addition to sorting the food and
packing food, our volunteers prepared our boxes, putting them together and securing them with
packaging tape donated by the aforementioned sponsors.
On Saturday, November 16, 2013, at 8am, our volunteers arrived and were greeted with breakfast
donated by Panera Bread (Fishkill). Volunteers organized and packed boxes and secured many of the
boxes with additional tape.
Beginning at 11:30am, representatives from each pantry arrived at their designated time to pick up
their food items. As representatives from each food pantry arrived with their banner, photos were taken
with team members who packed for that particular food
pantry. The volunteers assisted representatives with
loading the packed boxes into their vehicles for
transportation.
Over two days, over 100 volunteers from Beacon
High School, Arlington High School (House of 2016 and
2015), Wappingers Junior High School, Myers Corners
Elementary School, and individuals from the local
community assisted with making Project HOPE a huge
success!
In keeping GREEN, each food pantry also received
thirty (30) reusable shopping bags donated by Super Stop and Shops (Burnette Blvd, Wappingers Falls and
Fishkill), Hannaford’s, Target and Covanta Energy. 23
THE PROMISE
!
Ivies !
Beyond the Wall
In Loving Memory
A Pearl Lost But Not Forgotten
16th Supreme Basileus , Julia Brogdon Purnell
Always so good, unselfish and kind.
Few on this earth her equal will find.
Honorable and upright in all her ways,
Loyal and true to the end of her days.
You are not forgotten, Soror Julia Brogdon Purnell
Soror Marita Carroll
!
Soror Marjorie Kay
Omicron Xi Omega
Charter Member
!
!
Soror Barbara Sandifier
!
Soror Greta Shepard
!
Soror Naomi J. Small
Golden Soror Jacqueline Johnson
Delta Sigma Omega
Theta Pi Omega
24
WINTER 2014
THE PROMISE
!
1. To be recognized as a Diamond, Golden, or Silver
January 18, 2014 - Cluster IV Founders’ Day
Hosted by Iota Epsilon Omega Chapter
The Sheraton Mahwah Hotel Crossroads Corporate Center
1 International Blvd. Mahwah, NJ
Keynote speaker - First Supreme Anti Basileus, Soror Dorothy
Buckhanan Wlson
Honoree at the 2014 Boule, sorors must have been
initiated in 1938-1939 (Diamond), 1963-1964
(Golden) or 1988-1989 (Silver). All honorees
must be registered for the 2014 Boule and mush
!
have a ticket to the luncheon.
January 20, 2014 National Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of
Service and America’s Sunday Supper
3pm-6pm at Largo Community Church
1701 Enterprise Road, Mitchellville, MD 20721 2. Chapters with foundations are encouraged to
review and comply with the recently distributed
guidelines from Corporate Office. If you have any
!
!
questions, contact Soror Delores McKinley,
February 15 - Cluster III AKA Day at the Capitol
Supreme Tamiouchos.
February 22 - Cluster III Founders’ Day
Hosted by Delta Rho Omega Chapter
New York Marriott Hotel at the Brooklyn Bridge
333 Adams Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Keynote speaker - 28th North Atlantic Regional Director, Soror
Wilma Holmes Tootle
3. Undergraduate/Graduate relations
•
Provide two mentors for every undergraduate
•
Council members should attend
undergraduate chapter events (i.e. meetings,
!
programs, fundraisers, MIP)
•
February 23 - Cluster V Founders’ Day
Hosted by
Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel
1 Monarch Place, Springfield, MA 01144
Keynote Speaker - North Atlantic Regional Director, Soror
Constance R. Pizarro
Include section for undergraduate chapter
updates in graduate chapter newsletter
•
Upcoming Events
January 12, 2014 - Metropolitan Founders’ Day
Hosted by Cluster 1 of the North Atlantic Region and the Northern
Virginia chapters of the Mid-Atlantic Region.
Bethesda North Marriott and Conference Center
5701 Marinelli Road, Bethesda, MD 20852
Reminders
!
WINTER 2014
Open communication lines between Graduate
Advisor and Graduate Chapter Basileus
!
!
4. All submissions for The Promise should be emailed
March 1 - Cluster II EAF Salute to Excellence
to [email protected]
April 24 - 27 - 83rd North Atlantic Regional Conference
Hosted by Cluster III
Wardman Park Hotel
Washington, DC
!
The Pr mise
CONSTANCE R. PIZARRO
Phone: (732) 873-0679
2 Rolling Road
Fax: (732) 873-5238
Somerset, NJ 08873
Email: [email protected]
North Atlantic Regional Director
Office Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET
Monday and Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. ET (MIP questions only)
25