KU's first historically black sorority to celebrate centennial

LAWRENCE — University of Kansas students, alumni and campus administrators will join together for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority as it holds its centennial celebration on campus. 

The festivities will feature events for both current and alumnae members of the sorority as well as events open to the public. The public events include a step show that will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, and a gala dinner at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. Both events will take place at the Kansas Union. 

Originally chartered Feb. 15, 1915, the Delta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha was the first historically African-American/black greek letter organization to be established at KU. The chapter is also the fourth-oldest among all chapters nationally within Alpha Kappa Alpha. Although KU has always been open to students of color, black greek letter organizations have played an invaluable role in the development and matriculation of countless students. 

Currently, the university is home to six registered NPHC fraternities and sororities, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. The other three NPHC organizations — Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority — have all had a significant presence on the campus as well. 

As a premier international research university, KU is committed to an open, diverse and inclusive learning and working environment that nurtures the growth and development of all. KU holds steadfast in the belief that an array of values, interests, experiences, and intellectual and cultural viewpoints enrich learning and the workplace. The promotion of and support for a diverse and inclusive community of mutual respect require the engagement of the entire university.

Individuals interested in attending any of the centennial celebration festivities can register online. Individuals with questions regarding the event or registration should be directed to deltachaptercentennial@gmail.com.