Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (AKA)

As the oldest Greek letter organization established by African American college age women, Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) created a tradition followed by others. Two themes shape the sorority to this day: the importance of the individual, and the strength of an organization of women of ability and courage.

Alpha Kappa Alpha is a highly educated group: members who have graduated constitute the largest percentage of the membership, and alumni go on to become leaders in education, politics, business, and the media. Their commitment to service is apparent in programs like their Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF), created in 1980.

The History of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

Alpha Kappa Alpha's history extends back to 1908, to a group of women at Howard University who wanted to make their college experience as meaningful and productive as possible. Separated from slavery by just one generation, the women of AKA were conscious of their privileged position as college-trained women of color.

The sorority was founded with the main focus on issues within families, communities, government halls, and world assembly chambers. To this end, members of Alpha Kappa Alpha strive to affect positive change within themselves, in their local area, and nationwide.

Historically Black Colleges with AKA Chapters

Today, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is comprised of over 200,000 members in over 950 chapters across the country and around the world. Alpha Kappa Alpha chapters reside at a number of historically black colleges, including:

• Alabama State University (AL)
• LeMoyne-Owen College (TN)
• Talladega College (AL)
• Chicago State University (IL)

Notable Alpha Kappa Alpha Members

The women of Alpha Kappa Alpha, known as leaders in their field, have risen to outstanding accomplishments in business, politics, entertainment, and academia. Here are just a few notable AKA members:

• Coretta Scott King: Civil rights activist
• Dr. Mae Jemison: First African American woman astronaut
• Star Jones: Television personality
• Ella Fitzgerald: Internationally famous jazz singer

Alpha Kappa Alpha members are predominantly well-educated, with over half holding at least a master's degree. The shared commitment to education and excellence that defines Alpha Kappa Alpha is apparent by their legacy of sisterhood and service.

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Alpha Kappa Alpha