A Sisterhood That Lifts Up its Village

Founded on the campus of Howard University in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. is the country’s oldest sorority for college-educated African American women. Annette Wilson, who is fondly referred to as a “walking encyclopedia” on the sorority’s history, emphasized its impact on her upbringing. “Our sorority is not just about college years; it’s a lifelong commitment to service and leadership,” Annette explained, her eyes reflecting pride. “I saw the contributions that AKA members made in our local community growing up, including my mother and my aunt—I wanted to be part of that legacy.”

Winston-Salem’s own Phi Omega Chapter celebrates 100 years of service this year—a sisterhood of more than 250 local women who are driven by their commitment to service and caring for others. Brenda Diggs underscored the importance of the village within African American communities and her sorority’s role in fostering it: “AKA women truly model what service looks like, what it means to be part of a village and to take care of one another.”

The Phi Omega sisters sought a way to celebrate their centennial by supporting one of their signature initiatives—providing scholarships for young African American women seeking a college degree. The group collectively decided to reach out to The Winston-Salem Foundation for support in establishing a charitable fund. “Partnering with the Foundation gave instant credibility because of its strong reputation in the community,” Brenda shared. “The Foundation staff are such a resource for us, from brainstorming about our options, to providing tax statements to donors, to handling and processing gifts.”

With donations from members of Phi Omega and community friends, the sorority created the Phi Omega Centennial Scholarship and Community Grant Fund. “We’re excited to celebrate this milestone year in a way that reflects the vision of our sorority’s founders,” shared chapter president Evelyn Acree. “It’s our hope that the fund will make a significant difference in the lives of deserving students and community members, empowering them to reach their fullest potential.”

“It’s our hope that the fund will make a significant difference in the lives of deserving students and community members, empowering them to reach their fullest potential.”

Evelyn asserted passionately, “We want future generations to say that the members of the Phi Omega Chapter, the oldest chapter established in North Carolina, cared deeply about educating young African American women and addressing the needs of our community. If we can help in any way to improve the quality of life, to make a positive difference, that’s what our sisterhood is all about.”