History - Beta Eta Omega
Beta Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was chartered in Dayton, Ohio on June 8, 1934. The chapter has a membership that exemplifies the genius and fortitude of this great organization. For example, Beta Eta Omega Chapter is extremely fortunate and honored to be the home of Dr. Bernice I. Sumlin. Dr. Sumlin served as the 19th International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. from 1974-1978. She is affectionately known throughout the sorority as the "Supreme Diva". In special recognition of her many years of service, Beta Eta Omega chapter established the Bernice I. Sumlin Scholarship Fund in 1980 at her alma mater, Central State University, Wilberforce, Ohio.
Beta Eta Omega Chapter is committed to continuing its service and the legacy of this distinguished sisterhood. Beta Eta Omega Chapter is the mentoring and "big sister" chapter to Epsilon Chi. Epsilon Chi Chapter is the Alpha Kappa Alpha undergraduate chapter comprised of young ladies from Wright State University and the University of Dayton. Joint meetings and activities are held throughout the year.
Beta Eta Omega chapter implements Alpha Kappa Alpha's International Program Targets through service and programming in the Greater Dayton Area.
We have continuously been supportive and generous as a substantial contributor to many organizations such as: Mary Scott Nursing Center, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Dayton Urban League, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Hospice of Dayton, Dixon Wellness and Worship Center formerly West Community YMCA, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Fund. Beta Eta Omega has continued to accept the challenges of our national program goals through the implementation of several projects.
In addition to the traditional/annual programs, Beta Eta Omega responds to the immediate and emergency needs of the community. In response to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the chapter contributed to the AKA national Hurricane Katrina relief donation. We also adopted a family that was relocated to this area. Our family received books, furniture, clothes, toiletries, and more along with a financial contribution in the excess of $3500.
Leadership skills are cultivated in the membership of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Beta Eta Omega members have served and continue to serve in leadership roles in the Dayton community. Over the past fifteen years Nellie Terrell and Joan Pittsford have served on the Dayton School Board currently Stacy Thompson serves on the board. Dr. Jerrie McGill served as Dayton Public School Superintendent. Cheryl Garrett has served as City Treasurer and is currently serving as the Director of Finance. Frances McGee Cromartie has served as Assistant District Attorney and is currently serving as a Judge, in the Common Pleas Court, Montgomery County. In 2007 Christy Norvell was appointed Director of Job and Family Services. The National Football League recognized Dora Carson as the "Teacher of the Year". The aforementioned are a few of the women of Beta Eta Omega that are ever conscious of their responsibility to be of "service to all mankind" and the importance of using their God given talents as well as their professional training.