The members of the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, Inc. celebrated Super Bowl Sunday with a more formal affair. The AKAs hosted their annual Prominent Black Women's Banquet at the University Center Ballroom.
The sorority honored five women from the Memphis area who they believe exemplify excellence in health, education, economics, the black family and the arts.
"It is important that we highlight people who inspire our community, because it is an encouragement to young ladies to strive for excellence," said Tonya Johnson, AKA president.
Delonia Minor, the sorority's on-campus advisor, was named the chapter honoree at the banquet. Minor, who is at the dissertation stage of her doctorate, has been the advisor for a year.
Tamika Jackson, the banquet's chairwoman, said the honorees were women who have done great things in their areas of expertise.
"They are more than just the target goals. They are someone you can look up to or mimic," Jackson said.
"You are able to do exceedingly and beyond just like the honorees," Jackson said.
Several African-American females came out to support the banquet including sophomore biology major Toni Mason.
"I learned how black women should reach out to their communities, and help where help is needed," Mason said.
Also attending were other members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Phi Beta Sigma member Gianni Carr said the banquet is a tool that can be used to unify the Greek world and all minorities for a great cause.
The banquet's ticket sales go toward the Chandra F. Pleasant Scholarship fund. Pleasant was a former member of the chapter who died 16 years ago.
"She worked endlessly and tirelessly on projects for the chapter. I know she is watching this legacy grow," said O.C. Pleasant, Chandra's father.
Augusta Akpotu, senior English major, and Francis Smith, junior human development and learning, were selected as this year's scholarship recipients based on their grade point averages, community and campus involvement, and essays. Each student received a $1,000 scholarship for Spring 2005.
Dr. Cassandra Turner, AKA graduate advisor and Curriculum and Instructional Leadership adjunct professor, said AKA is always looking for opportunities to recognize outstanding women.
"There is nothing wrong with having beauty and brains and all kinds of potential," she said.
Alpha Kappa Alpha members plan to continue their focus on the five target goals during their interest week in late March.
