The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter of Bennettsville, SC and the Rho Alpha Omega Chapter of Laurinburg, NC held a Founder’s Day event to celebrate the sorority’s 109th of Service to All Mankind.  Sorority members and guest gathered to pay tribute to the sorority’s history and to honor community members for their continued service to the Marlboro County community.  Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter President, Robyn Johnson welcomed guest and gave the occasion.  Ms. Annie Cureton provided a scripture and the gathering was then blessed by Ms. Dallas Fletcher.  Ms. Shakeia Townsend gave the history of the sorority and highlighted the impact the organization has made over its 109 years.  Mrs. Brenda Teal and Ms. Shaquite Pegues told the story of the Rho Alpha Omega and Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapters chartering.  A special recognition of departed members, the Ivy Beyond the Wall ceremony, was conducted by Mrs. Shirley Alford and Mrs. Gloria Dudley.  Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter President, Ms. Robyn Johnson introduced the guest speaker for the evening, Upsilon Sigma Omega chapter member, Cluster VII Coordinator and District 54 House of Representative, Mrs. Patricia Moore Henegan.  

Henegan spoke about the greatness of women and their innate calling to service.  She highlighted significant women in history who have been influential to the world and illustrated the key characteristics that they and all women possess that make them effective leaders, teachers, mentors and role models.   On the first day of National Women’s History Month, Henegan asked guest to think of women who have made an impact in their lives.  Guest reflected on their mothers, sisters, teachers and neighbors who inspired them to be the individuals they are today.

The guests were then treated to dinner by Genesis Family Restaurant. Community awards were given to individuals and organizations from Marlboro County whose service to the community aligned with the targets of the “Launching New Dimensions of Service” International Sorority Program.  Ms. Eva Chiphe presented the Educational Enrichment award to Mrs. Marian David for the Tea Time with Teens program.  Mrs. Eva Johnson presented the Family Strengthening award to Mrs. Katherine Liles for her Christmas Bike program.  Mrs. Patricia Moore Henegan presented the Environmental Ownership award to Marlboro Electric Cooperative CEO Mr. William Flemming Jr. for Marlboro Electric Cooperative’s commitment to the community.  

The Upsilon Sigma Omega Chapter’s Soror of the Year was also recognized that evening.  A Soror of the Year is voted upon by her peers for her dedication to the chapter and service to the community.  Ms. Brittany Joes presented this year’s Soror of the Year award to Mrs. Betty P. Malloy. Finally, Ms. Denise Washington recognized the past Chapter President, Ms. Brittany Jones, for her leadership and dedication to the sorority.