Since 1908
The Founders (first line, left to right): Anna Easter Brown, Beulah Elizabeth Burke, Lillie Burke, Marjorie Hill, Margaret Flagg Holmes, Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, Lavinia Norman, Lucy Diggs Slowe, Marie Woolfolk Taylor
The Sophomores (second line, left to right): Norma Elizabeth Boyd, Ethel Jones Mowbray, Alice P. Murray, Sarah Meriweather Nutter, Joanna Mary Berry Shielfs, Carrie Snowden, Harriet Josephine Terry
Ethel Hedgeman Lyle
In 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. became America's first Greek-letter organization established by Black college women. Her roots date back to Howard University, Washington, D.C., where the idea for formation was conceived by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle of St. Louis, Missouri. She viewed the Sorority as an instrument for enriching the social and intellectual aspects of college life by providing mental stimulation through interaction with friends and associates.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is based on the principles of sisterhood, scholarship, and service to ALL mankind.
For further details about the mission and history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, visit www.aka1908.com