Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (AKA) recently hosted its 93rd annual South Central Regional Conference at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, bringing over 4,000 members and guests to the city.
The guests, who hailed from Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana and New Mexico, made an economic impact of more than $9 million on the community.
“It was a great honor to host our 93rd annual South Central Regional Conference in the beautiful city of Little Rock, Arkansas, where our members were able to experience informative and inspiring events and activities throughout the week,” said Dr. Shawn Simmons, 27th South Central regional director of the organization.
AKA presents CACar with $20,000 donation
The conference aimed to strengthen leadership skills, deepen connections and celebrate the achievements and impact made by the 145 chapters throughout the region. While there, attendees participated in activities, including leadership workshops, networking and professional certification programs.
Members of the sorority started the conference with a tour of the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas and donated $20,000 to the center.
“The donation will help our 34 locations that serve all 75 counties with continuing our mission of providing essential tools and resources for children who are enduring trauma due to abuse and neglect,” the executive director of CACar, Elizabeth Pulley, said.
Jennifer Long of CACar provides tour of facility
The conference also included a live concert from award-winning music artist NEXT, an evening of baseball in support of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference Baseball Semi-Final, a Gospel brunch featuring gospel recording artists, and a Parade of Pearls tailgating celebration.
Notable guests included Danette Anthony Reed, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s international president and CEO. Also in attendance were three former international presidents and nine former regional directors, including Arkansas’ very own 13th South Central Regional Director, Mary Louise Williams, and 19th South Central Regional Director, Carmelita Smith. Members of the AKA Board of Directors were there as well, including three undergraduate officers, two graduate officers and six regional directors.
READ ALSO: Lexicon Academy Brings Career-Focused Training to High School
