History of Sigma Zeta Omega

On January 27, 1990, twenty-one Sorors took on a pledge from Regional Director Idell Pugh, and with the blessings of International President Janet Ballard, established the Sigma Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in Newark, Delaware.

Sigma Zeta Omega 1990

Sigma Zeta Omega Charter members with North Atlantic Regional Director Idell Pugh (seated on left)
and our first chapter Basileus Norma Jackson (seated on right)

Sigma Zeta Omega's Charter Members
Yvonne Barnett	Ann Hodges	Gloria Penn
Irene Burke	Joan Holden	Francis Potts
Sonja Cross	Norma Jackson*	Olivia Roane
Barbara Duncan	Styna LeCompte	Sylvia Roberts
Leslie Esdaile	Sandra Maness	Debra Spence
Cynthia Fairwell	Linda West-Olds	Brenda Wilson
Patricia Floyd	Eula Oliver	Phyllis Wooley

*Ivy Beyond the Wall

The first two Basilei of Sigma Zeta Omega, Norma Jackson (right) and Debra Spence

Six illustrious Basilei have led the chapter since its inception: Norma J. Jackson (1990-1992), Debra J. Spence (1993), Dr. Jacquita L. Wright-Henderson (1994-1998), Dr. Yvonne Barnett (1999-2002), Sylvia Roberts (2003-2006), and Kimberly M. Collins, who is currently presiding. Under these outstanding leaders, the chapter developed and implemented many explemplary programs. These programs earned them numerous honors and awards, among which are three “President of the Year” awards, one “Chapter of the Year” award, an achievement award, and numerous financial gifts from the DuPont Company for excellence in teen mentoring.

Sigma Zeta Omega Chapter provides programs and community service projects to advance the purpose of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Through the years, as the needs of our community and political issues have changed, the chapter has provided exceptional programs, many of which are now offered annually.

Sigma Zeta Omega 2007