International History

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by black college women in America The Sorority was founded in 1908 on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. The ideal was conceived by Ethel Hedgemon 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 college campuses and student interest. It has a legacy of service that deepens, rather than ends, with college graduation.