Alpha Kappa Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (ΑΚΑ) holds a distinguished place in history as the pioneering intercollegiate historically African American sorority. Founded on January 15, 1908, within the esteemed grounds of Howard University in Washington, D.C., a historically black university (HBCU) renowned for its legacy of educating African American scholars and leaders, AKA was brought to life by a visionary group of sixteen collegiate women. This groundbreaking initiative was spearheaded by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, who envisioned a sisterhood dedicated to scholarship, service, and upliftment for Black women.

The establishment of Alpha Kappa Alpha was a revolutionary act, significantly breaking critical barriers for African American women during the early 20th century. In an era marked by systemic racial segregation and pervasive gender discrimination, which severely limited opportunities for minorities and women, particularly in higher education and professional spheres, forming such an organization provided an essential platform. It created a powerful network where women could cultivate leadership skills, engage in collective advocacy, and foster a sense of belonging and empowerment amidst profound societal challenges. The sorority's enduring commitment to its principles was further solidified when Alpha Kappa Alpha was formally incorporated as a legal entity on January 29, 1913, laying the foundation for its long-term impact and organizational structure.

The Reach and Influence of Alpha Kappa Alpha

Today, Alpha Kappa Alpha stands as one of the nation's largest and most influential Greek-letter organizations, boasting a vibrant global presence. It commands a membership exceeding 300,000 initiated women, spread across more than 1,024 chapters. These chapters are strategically located not only throughout the United States but also extend internationally, with a significant footprint in countries across North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Africa, reflecting the sorority's expansive reach and diverse membership.

Membership Pathways and Affiliations

Prospective members interested in joining Alpha Kappa Alpha have two primary pathways:

• Undergraduate Chapters: Women currently enrolled in accredited colleges or universities can seek membership through undergraduate chapters, engaging in a formative collegiate experience centered on the sorority's core values.
• Graduate Chapters: For women who have already obtained an undergraduate or advanced college degree, membership is accessible through graduate chapters. This pathway allows professional women to continue their commitment to service and sisterhood beyond their collegiate years.

Alpha Kappa Alpha is also a proud and integral member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). The NPHC, often referred to as the "Divine Nine," serves as the umbrella organization for the nine historically African American Greek-letter fraternities and sororities. This affiliation underscores AKA's historical significance and its ongoing commitment to the collective advancement of the Black community through collegiate and community-based initiatives.

Leadership and Legacy

The sorority's operations and strategic direction are guided by its dedicated leadership. The current International President is Dr. Glenda Glover, who presides over the vast network of chapters and members, upholding the sorority's mission and vision. To preserve its rich history and ensure the accessibility of its foundational legacy, Alpha Kappa Alpha's extensive document and pictorial archives are meticulously housed at the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center. Located at Howard University, this internationally recognized institution is a premier center for the study of the history and culture of people of African descent, providing an invaluable repository for AKA's historical records and contributions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

What is Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.?

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA) is the first intercollegiate historically African American sorority, established to promote sisterhood, scholarship, and service among women of color.

When and where was Alpha Kappa Alpha founded?

It was founded on January 15, 1908, at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

Who were the founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha?

The sorority was founded by a group of sixteen visionary students, led by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, at Howard University.

Why was Alpha Kappa Alpha founded in the early 20th century?

AKA was founded to create opportunities and a supportive network for African American women during a period of significant societal limitations and discrimination, enabling them to pursue higher education, leadership, and collective empowerment.

How many members and chapters does Alpha Kappa Alpha have?

Alpha Kappa Alpha boasts over 300,000 members and more than 1,024 chapters globally, making it one of the largest Greek-letter organizations.

How can one become a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha?

Women can join through either undergraduate chapters while attending college or university, or through graduate chapters after earning an undergraduate or advanced college degree.

What is the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)?

The NPHC is the coordinating body for the nine historically African American Greek-letter fraternities and sororities, collectively known as the "Divine Nine," of which Alpha Kappa Alpha is a proud member.

Where are Alpha Kappa Alpha's historical archives preserved?

The extensive document and pictorial archives of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. are preserved at the esteemed Moorland-Spingarn Research Center at Howard University.