International President's New Year's Greeting

Emphasizes Every Sister's Participation for Centennial

I wish for all a happy, prosperous and productive New Year.

And, to the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha, I wish you a Happy Centennial Eve!

With the onset of 2007, we stand on the cusp of our historic Centennial. This is cause for celebration and congratulation. While our nine founders conceived Alpha Kappa Alpha on January 15, 1908, the hard work, nurturing and love that climaxed in the birth of our Sorority began the year before.

In the same spirit that inspired our “birth mothers” to give life to this great Sorority, I encourage and challenge you to mirror their resolve by working hard this year. We have evolved into a force through the decades because of our singular resolve to remain true to our credo—to provide “service to all mankind.” As we chronicle our past and look back on our accomplishments, that remains a constant theme that runs through our history.

We are now beginning the serious work that will culminate in the 2008 celebration. Let’s proceed with a determination to combine congratulations with a focus on addressing the pressing issues that continue to need our attention and action.

Let’s blend our talents and our indefatigable will to continue the journey.

Let’s unite to ensure we give a fitting tribute to our foremothers by mounting an international Centennial celebration of which they would be proud. We must also establish a template for our members who will celebrate our 200th anniversary in 2108. To those members who are searching our archives for historic material for the many planned celebrations, I extend greetings and love, as you continue the quest to greatness.

In keeping with the theme of this administration, and inspired by the infectious passion I feel as I visit chapters and meet individual members, I know we will achieve all of these goals and more, when Every Sister Participates.

Sisterly,
Barbara A. McKinzie