Celebrating Women’s History: The legacy of AKA

The women of the Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA), hosted a screening of Twenty Pearls, a documentary about the historic founding of AKA, on Tuesday, March 4, in the Humanities and Social Science Building. The film is narrated by actress and AKA member, Phylicia Rashad, who provides a candid narrative of the rich history of the sorority.

Founded on the campus of Howard University on January 15, 1908, in Minar Hall, AKA is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college women. The twenty pearls symbolize the founders and the incorporators who worked to ensure the legacy of AKA.

Mu Lambda’s event, served as an educational opportunity for both sorority members and non-members alike to learn about AKA’s history and the influential roles women have played in shaping history, inspiring future generations of women to pursue leadership, service, and excellence.

 “It aligns perfectly with Women’s History Month, as it highlights the achievements and milestones of African American women in the organization and the larger context of society,” said Chenelle Nelson, a senior biology major at USCA and president of the Mu Lambda Chapter.

Inducted into AKA in the fall of 2023, Nelson mentioned how grateful she feels for the sisterhood and service she and her sorority sisters have provided on campus.

“AKA has supported me in so many ways; It’s provided a strong mentorship network, helped me to grow as a leader, scholar, and community member,” Nelson said. “AKA places emphasis on academic excellence which played a significant role in helping me balance academics and extracurricular activities effectively.”

AKA is made up of over 360,000 members across graduate and undergraduate chapters in 12 countries and territories, including the United States, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, Japan, Liberia, Nigeria, South Korea, South Africa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Notable members include former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, actress and singer Cynthia Erivo, comedian Wanda Sykes, Coretta Scott King, and many more.

The Mu Lambda Chapter was established on USCA’s campus on June 22, 1978, and currently has seven members.

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.