The small group of women who founded Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at the turn of the last century were conscious of their privileged position as college-trained women of color just one generation removed from slavery. However, they were also sensitive to the needs and struggles of the less fortunate in underserved communities who were in need of goods, services and opportunities beyond their reach. The young collegians’ commitment to scholarship, leadership, civic engagement and public service, woven together by the bonds of lifelong sisterhood, formed the bedrock of the rich legacy of servant-leadership that epitomizes the sorority to this day. As Alpha Kappa Alpha has grown, it has maintained its focus in galvanizing its membership into an organization of respected power and influence, consistently at the forefront of effective advocacy and social change that results in equality and equity for all citizens of the world.
Since 1950, Epsilon Omicron Omega has implemented programs of service impacting the greater Hartford community in key areas such as education, health, family, and economics. With enthusiasm, strength and pride, we began a long series of Hartford firsts that propelled Epsilon Omicron Omega into the public eye as a premier service organization dedicated to helping solve the problems of women and children. Among these early achievements were: the first Health Fair in the City of Hartford on May 11, 1953 featuring exhibits, demonstrations and opportunities for various screenings. In 1959, the Chapter was the first to sponsor the Ebony Fashion Fair locally; in 1967 the first Debutante Ball for young Black women; and in 1972 the first local sorority to honor male students in its scholarship program.
Epsilon Omicron Omega demonstrated Alpha Kappa Alpha’s commitment to high scholastic and ethical standards by awarding its first scholarship in 1957. Over the years, we have awarded more than $150,000.00 in scholarships that have assisted students in attending Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) as well as many State Universities and Ivy League Colleges. Our scholarship recipients have gone on to achieve success in every walk of life as educators, politicians, entrepreneurs and corporate leaders.