National History

On January 15th, 1908 at Howard University in Washington, D.C., Ethel Hedgeman Lyle along with eight of her classmates, laid the foundation for the first Greek letter organization for Black college women in the United States. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was founded with the purpose of cultivating high scholastic and ethical standards; promoting unity and friendship among college women; studying and helping to alleviate problems concerning girls and women to improve their social status; and maintaining a progressive interest in college life.

Today, its mission has evolved to include goals that reach beyond the bounds of a college campus and into the community at large. Following incorporation in 1913, Alpha Kappa Alpha has become a venue by which college-educated women may improve socioeconomic conditions locally, nationally and throughout the world.

The never-ending stream of eternally young, hopeful enthusiastic women, must be remembered...

The Original Group:  Marjorie Hill, Lucy D. Slowe, Lillie Burke, Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, Anna E. Brown, Marie Woolfolk Taylor, Beulah E. Burke, Margaret Flagg Holmes, and Lavinia Norman

The Sophomores of 1908:  Norma Boyd, Ethel J. Mowbray, Alice P. Murray, Sarah M. Nutter, Joanna B. Shields, Carrie E. Snowden, and Harriett J. Terry

The Incorporators:  Norma Boyd, Julia E. Brooks, Ethel Jones Mowbray, Nellie M. Quander, Nellie Pratt Russell, and Minnie B. Smith.

For more detailed information regarding the founding of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and its current endeavors, please visit our International Headquarters website at www.aka1908.com.