The year was 1942, thirty-eight years after the founding of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, when ten young members of the sorority from various colleges decided to charter a chapter in Jacksonville. Little did they know that three quarters of a century later, their vision would blossom to more than 300 members serving their community.
That very same vision was honored last weekend at the Hyatt Hotel when the Gamma Rho Omega Chapter celebrated its milestone 75th Anniversary with a week of festivities that included the signing of a proclamation from Mayor Lenny Curry recognizing the sorority for its service to the Jacksonville Community and a “Brick Dedication Celebration” at the sorority’s house to honor members for their service .
The Commemorative Brick Unveiling and Dedication Ceremony was attended by more than 100 local Chapter members and sorority dignitaries from around the country. The ceremony included a special tribute to local resident, Dr. Norma Solomon White, 25th International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. with the unveiling of a special monument erected on the grounds.
On Saturday, June 24, the organization celebrated with a Jazz Brunch Concert, featuring renowned flutist, Dennine M. White. The event was attended by over 400 people, including the current International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Dr. Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, the immediate Past President, Carolyn House Stewart, Esquire and the South Atlantic Regional Director Mrs. Sharon Brown Harriott.
Well known Jacksonville historian and former Free Press columnist Camilla P. Thompson was also honored at this event for her 75 years of service to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Gamma Rho Omega Chapter along with individuals in the Chapter that have served the sorority for 50 years.
The award-winning Traveling Exhibit created in honor of the anniversary, the Gamma Rho Omega Story was also on display at the luncheon and will be hosted by the Jacksonville Main Library during the month of August.
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