Historic marker honors Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Members of the Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority pose in front of the historical marker located near the corner of MLK and Carl Russell Avenue.
The Phi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. celebrated 95 years in Winston-Salem with the unveiling of a new historical marker on Friday, Nov. 15. The marker is located near the corner of MLK and Carl Russell Avenue.
The unveiling program included remarks from Mayor Allen Joines, Mayor Pro Tempore Vivian Burke, chapter president Irma Richardson, and former regional director Caroline Lattimore.
Also in attendance and offering remarks were East Ward Council Member Annette Scippio, South Ward Member John Larson, School Board Chair Malishai Woodbury, Cheryl Harry, and Phi Omega, Inc. President Janet Wheeler. A reception was held at First Baptist Church following the ceremony.
The marker celebrates the Winston-Salem graduate chapter that began in 1924. Chapter members have served as the first African American women elected to the local school board, city council, and state Senate. The plaque also honors Dr. Barbara K. Phillips, the 20th international president of the sorority.
The 95th year celebration continued with a semi-formal gala and packing backpacks at Kimberley Park school. Phi Omega was founded on February 14, 1924, by a small group of sorority members as the first graduate chapter in North Carolina. Today it counts well over 100 members continuing to provide programs and activities with service to all mankind.
