Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Alumnae Set up 50th Anniversary Scholarship
JONESBORO – Established on the campus of Arkansas State University in October of 1973, the Eta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is celebrating its 50th anniversary this fall and is reaching back to assist current and future A-State students.Kanetra Fitzpatrick Staton joined Alpha Kappa Alpha in 1992 when she was initiated during the second semester of her freshman year.
“I like to think of my time at Arkansas State University as a well-rounded experience. From being the stepmaster, to being a charter member of the Order of Omega, I enjoyed every aspect of being Greek,” said Staton.Members of the sorority met a few years ago to celebrate the 45th anniversary, which also coincided with Staton’s 25th year as a member. She said while on campus, this organization taught her the importance of service and giving back.“Being in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., ensured that I continued what my parents instilled in me. I learned parliamentary procedure, good leadership traits, as well as other professional development skills that prepared me to be a good advocate for myself in all arenas,” she continued.To celebrate their 50th anniversary as part of the National Pan-Hellenic Council at A-State, alumna used those same skills to work together to establish a $25,000 endowment fund to help future students.“It's a norm of our organization that when we celebrate, we also consider an opportunity to be of service. This endowment was a way to establish the service perpetuity of our organization at A-State,” said Staton.During the 2017 homecoming festivities, charter member Jacquelyn Tabron Wade presented the idea of the endowment. Together they thought this would be a great way to give other young people the opportunity to have similar experiences in their lives.The first scholarship will be presented at the homecoming festivities in October. They plan to award $1,000 annually, with a $500 scholarship each semester.
Staton said it is important to establish this endowment where many started their lifelong commitment.
“This sisterhood is a great bond as well as a strong network of college-educated women. I would not trade my experience for anything or with anyone else,” she added.Members of the organization say their hope is to encourage others to follow in their footsteps.“It's our goal to fill in the financial gaps for students during their second or third year in school. We hope that alumni of the other Divine 9 organizations on the campus will join this effort and establish endowments as well at A-State,” she said.Additional information about this and other endowment opportunities at A-State is available through the Office of Development, 870-972-3940 or Development@AState.edu.
