National History & International Programs

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the oldest Greek-letter organization established by black college women in America, was founded in 1908 on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C.  The ideal was conceived by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle who viewed the sorority "as an instrument for enriching the social and intellectual aspects of college life by providing mental stimulation through interaction with friends and associates."  The small group of women who organized the Sorority was conscious of a privileged position as college-trained women of color, just one generation removed from slavery. They were resolute that their college experiences should be as meaningful and productive as possible. Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded to apply that determination; however, its influence extends beyond campus quads and student interest. It has a legacy of service that deepens, rather than ends, with college graduation.

The goals of its program activities center on significant issues in families, communities, government halls and world assembly chambers. Its efforts constitute a priceless part of the global experience in the 21st century.

Since its founding over a century ago, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s mission has been to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of “Service to All Mankind.”

The National Program theme for 2010 – 2014 is "Global Leadership through Timeless Service”.  The program initiatives embrace a five-pronged program:

• Emerging Young Leaders (EYL) Initiatives
• Health Initiatives
  • Asthma Prevention and Management Initiative
  • Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability
• Global Poverty
• Economic Security Initiative
• Social Justice and Human Rights Initiative
• Internal Leadership Training for External Service Initiative

For more information about our national platform, visit our international website at www.aka1908.com.