Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. - Beta Omega Chapter

Overview

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. - Beta Omega Chapter, with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 363201777, is a branch of the renowned sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. Founded as the Lambda Graduate Chapter on October 20, 1920, it was renamed Beta Omega in 1922 when the sorority standardized graduate chapter names to end with "Omega." Located in Kansas City, Missouri, this chapter has played a significant role in the sorority's national and regional activities.

History

Beta Omega Chapter was chartered by the 2nd International President, Lorraine Richardson Green, at the Paseo Branch of the YWCA. The charter members included Gladys C. Anderson, Doris R. Novel, Judith A. Syms, Irma G. Frazier, and Anne E. Jackson. Although Beulah Burke is often mentioned as a charter member, she actually served as the organizer and began contributing to the chapter shortly after its establishment. Judith Anne Syms (Wisdom) was elected the first President of Lambda Graduate Chapter.

Notable Events and Contributions

• Hosting Significant Events: Beta Omega Chapter has hosted several notable events, including the 5th Boule of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in December 1922. It also co-hosted the Tri-Convention in December 1940, partnering with Mu Omega (Kansas City, Kansas) Chapters alongside Alpha Phi Alpha and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternities. This convention was highly successful and led to Kansas City being recognized as a prime location for such gatherings.

• Regional Conferences: The chapter hosted the first Midwestern Regional Conference in May 1926 under the leadership of Judith Syms Wisdom, the 2nd Midwestern Regional Director. It has since organized numerous regional conferences, including the 5th, 17th, and 28th conferences in 1947 and 1958, respectively.

Impact and Significance

Beta Omega Chapter continues to be an integral part of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., contributing to community service, educational initiatives, and the promotion of African-American culture. It aligns with the sorority's mission to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, promote unity among college women, and provide service to all mankind.

Affiliation and Governance

As a part of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Beta Omega Chapter is affiliated with the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), an organization of historically African-American Greek letter organizations. The chapter operates under the guidance of Alpha Kappa Alpha's international leadership while contributing to local and regional initiatives.

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