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60Diamonds & Pearls Y e a r s o f S i s t e r h o o d a n d S e r v i c e C e l e b r a t i o n & F u n d r a i s e r Y e a r s o f S i s t e r h o o d a n d S e r v i c e C e l e b r a t i o n & F u n d r a i s e r60Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter & The Pearl Foundation, Inc.2024 Souvenir Journal2024 Souvenir Journal

4. Theta Alpha Omega Chapter History 7. Message from Chapter President8. Theta Alpha Omega Chapter Photo10. The Pearl Foundation, Inc.12. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® International President & CEO 13. Far Western Regional Director 14. Letters of Congratulations 22. 60th Anniversary Committee26. Event Program 27. Dinner Menu 28. Honorees36. Pearl Sponsors 40. Golden Sponsors44. VIP Sponsors 54. Business & Community Advertisements

Jesterina Bailey*Bernice Boyd*Beryl Brooks*Barbara Brown*Mary Cash*Barbara Campbell EvansLois Foster*Artha HookerGloria Y. Hughes* Gertrude Pierce*Frances Rains*Yvonne Robinson*Betty Stephens*Lorraine Stinson*Ruby Terry* Oddie Vappie*Mary Washington*Gloria Winsmore StanfordALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY INCORPORATED®THETA ALPHA OMEGA CHAPTERCOMMEMORATING 60 YEARS OF SERVICE & SISTERHOOD!* D E C E A S E D

This celebration is not only a reflection of the hard work and dedicationof our members, past and present, but also a testament to the lastingimpact we have made within the communities we serve. An impact whichwould not be possible without supporters like you. I am grateful to eachof you for your presence, your support, and your continued commitment tothe values we hold dear.As President, I am deeply honored to lead this extraordinary chapterduring such a significant moment and I look forward to the bright futurethat lies ahead. Let’s continue to shine as we honor our legacy and build upon it for thegenerations to come.With deep appreciation,Wendolyn SmithPresident, Theta Alpha Omega ChapterWelcome to the 60th Anniversary celebrationof the Theta Alpha Omega Chapter of AlphaKappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®! Thisoccasion marks a remarkable milestone in ourchapter’s history—a celebration of sixdecades of service, leadership, andcommitment to our community.

Congressman Robert GarciaU.S. House of Representatives November 2, 2024 Dear Members, Sponsors, and Supporters, Congratulations to the Theta Alpha Omega Chapterof the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc on their 60th anniversary! I am proud and grateful for all the devoted women in this organization. Your volunteerism in uplifting and empowering the youth and families in our community have made a huge difference. I am particularly appreciative for your focus on mentoring our youth. As a former educator, I’ve seen first-hand how academics serve as a launching pad for many of the leaders and entrepreneurs of the future. I also want to highlight Theta Alpha Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s work in supporting local families. It has been four years since the COVID-19 pandemic and many families continue to fully recover from its devastating effect. I am certain their lives have greatly benefited from the turkey giveaways, donation drives, and the many service projects created by this exemplary and powerful sisterhood. Thank you all for your passion, caring and diligence – and thank you to everyone supporting the women in this Sorority and Chapter in all their endeavors. We appreciate you, and hope you have an enjoyable night at the celebration. Once again congratulations to Theta Alpha Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc on your 60th anniversary! I wish you many years of continued success and prosperity. Sincerely,

Steven C. BradfordCA State Senator, SD 35 October 26, 2024Greetings!On behalf of California State Senate District 35, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the members of the ThetaAlphaOmegaChapterofAlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Inc. for your 60th Anniversary! This milestone is a testament to your unwavering commitment to service, sisterhood, and the empowerment of our communities. The Diamonds & Pearls Celebration and Fundraiser is a fitting tribute to the remarkable work you’ve done over the decades. Your dedication to uplifting the communities in my district, including Long Beach, Carson, and Compton has left a lasting impact. Through your collaboration with The Pearl Foundation, Inc., you have not only fostered meaningful partnerships but have also contributed significantly to the betterment of the lives of those you serve. As one of your collaborative partners, I am proud of the work we have accomplished together and am deeply honored to support your 60th Anniversary Celebration. Your commitment to education, leadership, and community service aligns perfectly with the values we strive to uphold in public service. Congratulations again on this incredible milestone, and thank you thank you all for the hard work you have done and will undoubtedly continue to do for our community. Sincerely,

September 13, 2024 To the Sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Theta Alpha Omega Chapter and The Pearl Foundation, Inc. As the Assemblymember serving the 65th District and all of its diverse communities, I extend my congratulations on the launch of this year’s Diamonds & Pearls Celebration and Fundraiser. During my ten years of legislative service, the people have given me the privilege to represent Long Beach, the South Bay, and multiple surrounding jurisdictions. Throughout this time, I have delighted in highlighting incredible partners, as well as partnerships that increase our shared prosperity. That’s why I am excited to see the success of this autumn’s event, which supports ongoing provision of student scholarships, as well as a robust calendar of volunteerism and associated community services by those involved in this fun night throughout the year. Since January 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha has stood as the model of what a service organization should look like. Established by Black, college-educated American women, AKA’s storied legacy is embedded in every history of our community. During the 2024 Diamonds & Pearls Celebration, AKA sisters can rightly look forward to a focus on the camaraderie and impact that’s part and parcel of your excellence, and continue to advocate for uplifting our neighbors via social justice. I also salute the long work of the Pearl Foundation, which has raised funds to develop, foster, promote, and perform charitable programs for twenty years. Your scholarships, mentorship, social initiatives, and more are commendable positive influences on the 65th District! May our collective effort to elevate vulnerable youth, women, families, and all our neighbors see new heights; I wish you an inspiring evening, and God bless. Sincerely, MIKE A. GIPSON thAssemblymember, 65 District

September 2024Dear Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.:It is with great pleasure that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Theta Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, as AKA celebrates an impressive 60 years of dedicated service to our communities of Long Beach, Carson, Compton, Wilmington, and San Pedro.Since its founding in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha has consistently upheld its mission to promote high academic and ethical standards, strengthen unity among college women, tackle and resolve issues affecting girls and women, advance progressive interests in college life, and provide “Service to All Mankind.” The Theta Alpha Omega Chapter has been a shining example of these values, and with a milestone event, “Diamonds & Pearls: 60 Years of Sisterhood & Service,” that reflects the organization’s enduring impact. On behalf of the City of Long Beach, we recognize your many years of dedication. Your tireless effort is truly appreciated. Thank you for your commitment to service and being an exceptional leader in our community. Thank you for making the City of Long Beach a better place.Congratulations again. My best wishes to the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated for further success in the organization’s legacy of service and a flourishing sisterhood. Best, Rex Richardson Mayor of Long Beach

Greetings Sorors, Family, Friends, and Supporters,It is with great pride and joy that we welcome you to the60th Anniversary celebration of the Theta Alpha OmegaChapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. For sixty years, Theta Alpha Omega Chapter hasremained steadfast in its commitment to uplifting ourcommunity and advancing the mission of our belovedsisterhood. Today, we celebrate the women who havepaved the way and the future we continue to buildtogether. We are thrilled to share this special occasion with youand thank you for your unwavering support. Together,we continue to uphold the values and mission of AlphaKappa Alpha, with gratitude for the journey andexcitement for what lies ahead. Thank you for joining uson this momentous occasion.In service and sisterhood,Terri Hyson Williams, ChairErin McRae, Co-ChairTina Morrison, Co-Chair

Terri Hyson Williams, Event ChairErin McRae, Event Co-ChairTina Morrison, Event Co-ChairWendolyn Smith, Chapter PresidentCrystal D Williams, Pearl Foundation PresidentAlexandra Jackson, Beverage SalesAngela M. Killens, Entertainment ChairAshley Stringer, PF FinanceChavonne LeNoir, Video ProducerChristal Henry-Smith, DecorationsCrystal D Williams, SponsorshipsCynthia Terry, ProtocolDamita Myers, MillerErin Cox , Logistics Idara Udo, Digital Souvenir Journal ChairIrene PinkardJera Turner, Decorations ChairJoEtta Little, ReservationsKeever Muir, Anniversary PinKim Shelton

Kimberley Davenport, Govt & Comm Relations ChairKimberly Grant, DecorationsLaNet Love-HubbardLaToya Seaton, Beverage SalesMarie O’Kelly-GreenMegann JenkinsMichelle Wright, Beverage SalesMyrtle Dunson, DecorationsNefesa WalkerNisey Turner, TechnologyPam Pollard, Publicity ChairRenita Johnson, Silent AuctionRhonda Pannell Rosalind MooreRosalind Morgan, Beverage SalesSophia Griffieth, Silent AuctionTaMiko Crockett, Silent Auction ChairTaneshia MasonTracy Fairbanks, Protocol ChairVerneeda Mc Call, EntertainmentVernessie Green-Horn, Finance & Beverage Sales Chair

Social Hour Furnace BandWelcome Terri Hyson Williams Mistress of Ceremonies Angela Killens & Megann Jenkins InvocationStephanie JonesBuffet Style DinnerYummy CreationsVideo PresentationLeNoir ProductionsCommunity Partners PresentationAcknowledgements & Remarks Wendolyn Smith Crystal WilliamsDance Floor Open DJ Mr. Quick

Creole BuffetMixed Green SaladMaque Choux (Cajun Corn)Seasonal Roasted VegetablesCajun Veggie Pasta (Vegan)Shrimp & GritsBlackened SalmonChicken JambalayaRoasted ChickenFrench BreadDessert Strawberry Cheesecake ShooterBanana Pudding ShooterRed Velvet Brownie Bites

Thank you for your notablecontributions to your community andyour continuous commitment toserving others!HonoreesHonorees

At the same time, our Practitioner Education Training has educated over 200healthcare professionals in partnership with organizations such as Alpha KappaAlpha Sorority, Inc., American College of Physicians, Best Start Central Long Beach,Best Start Central Wilmington, California Department of Healthcare Services, SierraHealth Foundation, American Heart Association, M.O.R.E. Mothers, and more. Weare excited that in 2025 to roll out new programming, including training HistoricallyBlack College and University students on creating health navigation programs inrural communities. The AHN Foundation is committed to advancing health equityand fostering community capacity for lasting, systemic change.AHN Foundation is a California-based nonprofit dedicated toabolishing inequities in vulnerableand historically marginalizedcommunities, particularly the Blackcommunity. Through culturallycompetent, data-drivenprogramming, the AHN Foundationempowers individuals and familiesby providing health navigationservices, wellness education, andpractitioner training. Signatureinitiatives like Safe Spaces for BlackWomen™ and Health Navigationhave impacted over 4,000community members.

Precious Lamb is a non-profit preschool dedicated to serving familiesexperiencing homelessness. We provide faith-based, trauma-informed care tochildren ages 18 months to 5 years. Our program focuses on supporting theentire family, nurturing a future where every child impacted by homelessnessreceives high-quality care. Our educators are trauma-informed certified,which focuses on Holistic Child Development, and ensuring growthacademically, emotionally, and socially. Each child’s progress is closelymonitored by using assessment and screening tools to track developmentalmilestones. As these children excel academically, they become catalysts forchange within their families and communities, inspiring others to pursueeducation and build brighter futures. Through our tireless dedication andunwavering commitment to our mission, we are making a tangible differencein the lives of those most in need, one child at a time.

Founded in 2001 by Moses and Carolyn Chadwick, Tessie Cleveland CommunityServices Corporation (TCCSC) was established with a mission to provide stellarservices in the most unserved and underserved communities, while working toincrease community capacity. The organization was named in honor of Dr. TessieCleveland, a trailblazing mental health advocate. Her vision of accessible,compassionate care for marginalized populations continues to guide TCCSC’sphilosophy and operations today.Over the past two decades, TCCSC has grown exponentially to become a leader inmental health and supportive services throughout Southern California. The agencynow serves over half of Southern California, extending from the Antelope Valley toRiverside, with a broad range of innovative programs designed to meet the diverseneeds of individuals and families. With a primary focus on children, adolescents,and families, TCCSC has established itself as a trusted resource, particularly forthose referred by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS),Department of Mental Health (DMH), Probation Department, and othercommunity agencies.

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CongratulationsONof exemplary service to Long Beach. Your legacyof empowerment will be forever engraved in thehearts of those you have poured into.We Thank you for countless hours in support ofthe KJLH Women's Health Expo.

Councilman Al AustinCDW ConsultingDelores CurryDenise BarkerDr. Edna SykesEast Side Riders Bike ClubErin McRaeFight to Fitness James BreedloveJoveda & Gary McRaeKJLHP & W PaintingPinkard Youth InstitutePrairie View Alumni Renita JohnsonRuby CannonSenator Steven BradfordSharon JohnsonTerri Hyson WilliamsVernessie Green HornVIP Ticket PatronsTheta Alpha Omega Birthday Squads

Y e a r s o f S i s t e r h o o d a n d S e r v i c e C e l e b r a t i o n & F u n d r a i s e r Y e a r s o f S i s t e r h o o d a n d S e r v i c e C e l e b r a t i o n & F u n d r a i s e rCongratulations60Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter and The Pearl Foundation, Inc.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Theta Alpha Omega Chapter forOn its Diamonds & Pearls Celebrationand over a decade partnership providing food, toys, shoes, giftsand more to homeless and low-income populations.www.newimageshelter.comNew Image Emergency Shelterfor the Homeless, Inc. YEARSCongratulations

CongratulationsAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter For Your “60”Years of Service & Sisterhood! From the TAOBook club, born from our TAO 50thAnniversary Celebration. Ten years of funfriendship, and lively discussions.

Soror Angela Lott 1979Soror Ardelia Aldridge1996Soror Tamiko Briggs-Crockett1995Soror Lisa Bolden1991Soror Cheryl Whiting1990Soror Denise Barker1986Soror Kimberely Carr-Davenport 1999Soror Tasha Bell1995Soror Leslie Campbell1994Soror Christal Henry-Smith1992From the Silver Stars of Theta Alpha OmegaCongratulationsAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter, for your “60” years ofservice & sisterhood!

Soror Cozette M. White1987Soror Crystal Williams1987Soror Cynthia Notto1990Soror Minnie Douglas1986Soror Sophia Griffieth1987Soror Danaette Page1992Soror Shebet Floyd1995Soror Cynthia Terry1989Soror Rhonda Dowdy1980Soror Vernessie Green-Horn 1978From the Silver Stars of Theta Alpha OmegaCongratulationsAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter, for your “60” years ofservice & sisterhood!

Soror Diahann Greenidge 1995Soror Susan Jacobs1984Soror Renita Johnson1991Soror LaTonya Babin1989Soror June Riley 1992Soror LaVivian Taylor1992Soror Rhea Ricard1994Soror LaNet Love-Hubbard1995Soror Marva Sampson1989Soror Rhonda Pannell1990From the Silver Stars of Theta Alpha OmegaCongratulationsAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter, for your “60” years ofservice & sisterhood!

Soror Kim Shelton1993Soror Wendolyn Smith1987Soror Terri Dyer 1990Soror Kay O'Kelly1988Soror StephanieDixon-Killum1989Soror JoEtta Little1999Soror Tina Morrison1987Soror Terri HysonWilliams1989Soror Marie O'KellyGreen1989Soror Stacey Lewis1985From the Silver Stars of Theta Alpha OmegaCongratulationsAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter, for your “60” years ofservice & sisterhood!

Soror Stacey Sandeford-Lyons1986Soror Rosalind Moore1986Soror Jera Turner 1992CongratulationsAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter, for your “60” years ofservice & sisterhood!Soror Velma Spears-Penn1995Soror ChristelleWatkins1983Soror Karen Carr1986Soror Nefesa Walker1995Soror Sharon Johnson1982Soror Vanessa Haynes1994Soror Kimberly Grant1983From the Silver Stars of Theta Alpha Omega

Thank you Theta Alpha Omega for 60years of service and sisterhood. Yourcommitment to service inspires us and weappreciate your guidance! The Lovely Lambda Alpha Chapter Spr. ‘23 ’Lulu Nzuri’ and Spr. ‘24 ’Ivies Mashushuri’

CongratulatesAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedTheta Alpha Omega Chapter 60th Anniversary Celebration GalaAssistant Superintendents - Mr. David Zaid & Mr. Edward SamuelsThank you for the service and supportto our local schools and students TAO Reads & Scholarships

Click here to get started. It was an honor working on this journal tocelebrate 60 years of service and sisterhood!Congratulations Theta Alpha Omega!

Please be advised that attending and participating in the 60thAnniversary Celebration for Theta Alpha Omega Chapter may resultin the use of your name, image, and/or likeness in printed andelectronic material, including but not limited to publication on theWorld Wide Web, social network sites, press materials, andadvertising and marketing materials.You hereby specifically release Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®,and its agents from any and all claims arising from the use of yourname, image, and/or likeness based on any of the uses stated above.

Y e a r s o f S i s t e r h o o d a n d S e r v i c e C e l e b r a t i o n & F u n d r a i s e r Y e a r s o f S i s t e r h o o d a n d S e r v i c e C e l e b r a t i o n & F u n d r a i s e rAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®Theta Alpha Omega Chapter and The Pearl Foundation, Inc.Thank YouThank YouDiamonds & Pearls60