Little Rock, Arkansas recently hosted thousands of women in pink and green. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® brought its 93rd South Central Regional Conference to the city’s Statehouse Convention Center. The gathering attracted more than 4,000 members from four states.
During the event, AKA demonstrated its commitment to community service. The sorority presented a generous $20,000 donation to the Child Advocacy Center of Arkansas. This substantial gift will support abused and neglected children throughout the state. Meanwhile, the conference itself generated an estimated $9 million economic boost for central Arkansas businesses.
AKA’s Major Donation Supports Child Abuse Prevention Across Arkansas
The $20,000 donation to the Child Advocacy Center of Arkansas (CACar) represents a significant investment in child welfare. Members toured the facility to learn firsthand about its critical work supporting young victims. The funds will help sustain essential services for vulnerable children facing trauma.
Elizabeth Pulley, Executive Director of CACar, expressed profound gratitude for the contribution. “We are so grateful to the South Central Region of AKA for their presence and donation of $20,000,” she stated. “The donation will help our 34 locations that serve all 75 Arkansas counties with continuing our mission of providing essential tools and resources for children who are enduring trauma due to abuse and neglect.”
This financial support aligns perfectly with AKA’s longstanding mission of community uplift. The sorority consistently directs resources toward organizations making tangible differences in people’s lives. Child advocacy represents just one area where AKA focuses its philanthropic efforts nationwide.
Regional Conference Brings Millions to Little Rock Economy
The massive gathering delivered substantial economic benefits to central Arkansas. With more than 4,000 attendees filling hotels, restaurants, and venues, local businesses experienced a welcome surge in customers. Analysts estimate the conference generated approximately $9 million in economic impact.
Members and guests traveled from across Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico for the event. The regional representation showcased the sorority’s extensive reach throughout the South Central United States. Many participants extended their stays to explore Little Rock’s attractions and support local establishments.
Dr. Shawn E. Simmons, 27th South Central Regional Director, highlighted this economic impact as intentional. “In addition to conducting the business of our Sorority, we were dedicated to supporting local businesses and organizations that work to uplift the local community,” she told BLACK ENTERPRISE magazine. This philosophy of community investment remains central to AKA’s approach when selecting conference locations.
“A R.E.A.L. Diamond Adventure” Featured Leadership Development and Entertainment
The conference theme, “A R.E.A.L. Diamond Adventure in the Natural State,” guided the event’s programming. Attendees participated in numerous professional development opportunities throughout the week. Workshops focused on leadership skills, networking strategies, and professional certifications beneficial to members’ careers.
Beyond business sessions, the sorority organized several memorable entertainment activities. Members enjoyed a concert featuring the R&B group NEXT. A baseball outing supported historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) athletics programs. The schedule also included a Gospel Brunch with acclaimed singer Zacardi Cortez.
One highlight was the festive “Parade of Pearls” tailgating celebration. This signature event allowed members to showcase their pink and green pride while strengthening sisterhood bonds. Such activities exemplify how AKA balances serious community work with opportunities for fellowship and celebration.
Notable Leadership Attendance Demonstrates Organizational Strength
The conference attracted impressive sorority leadership representation. Danette Anthony Reed, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s International President and CEO, attended the Arkansas gathering. Her presence underscored the significance of the South Central Regional Conference within the organization’s national structure.
Additionally, three former international presidents participated in the event. Nine former regional directors and current AKA Board of Directors members also attended. This leadership presence provided valuable mentorship opportunities for newer members while demonstrating organizational continuity.
The South Central Region itself represents a substantial portion of AKA’s membership. With over 19,000 members across 145 chapters, the region constitutes a powerful network of professional women. These chapters continuously implement service programs addressing education, health, economic empowerment, and social justice throughout their communities.
Longstanding Service Legacy Continues Through Regional Events
Founded in 1908 at Howard University, Alpha Kappa Alpha stands as the nation’s oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college women. Its mission centers on service to humanity through systemic community improvement efforts.
Regional conferences like the Little Rock gathering allow members to refine implementation strategies for national programs. They also provide opportunities to address specific needs within the South Central region. By combining regional focus with national vision, AKA maximizes its service impact.
The successful conference represents just one chapter in AKA’s ongoing story of community engagement. Members returned to their home chapters energized to implement new service ideas. Meanwhile, organizations like the Child Advocacy Center can extend their reach thanks to the sorority’s financial support. For more information about the South Central Region’s continuing work, interested parties can visit www.aka1908.com/southcentral.
