Chapter History

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In the 1950s, Evelyn Reid Syphax, a resident of Arlington, VA, and a member of Xi Omega Chapter in the District of Columbia, spearheaded the formation of the interest group called Alpha Kappa Alpha Women of Northern Virginia to fill a need for the many service programs that Alpha Kappa Alpha women could provide in her local community. Twenty-one members of the interest group received permission to start a new chapter and the chapter was chartered on May 25, 1956.

Through the chapter’s charitable affiliate, Ivy Foundation of Northern Virginia, funds are raised by hosting the annual Cooley-Moore Scholarship Luncheon Fashion Show. The chapter has given out more than a half million dollars in college scholarships since 1956.

In 1958, the chapter held its first Cotillion and presented 16 ladies to society. To date, the chapter has presented over 1300 young ladies to society.  From 1974 to the present, the chapter has hosted an annual holiday luncheon for senior citizens who reside in the Northern Virginia community.  This community service activity has received numerous regional awards.

For greater impact, the chapter remains present in the community through collaborative partnerships.  Alongside our partners, we have been involved in solving community issues and participating in service activities. Community Partners

Education is paramount in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.^® We were proud and honored in 2021, when one of our educators, Naomi Lewis Brooks, a long-time Zeta Chi Omega Chapter member, made regional news when the Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School in Alexandria, VA, was named in her honor.

Photo credit B.E.A.utiful Photography

Our service in the community has garnered many awards and recognitions, including:

• Outstanding Service to Seniors
• Global Impact Award
• Women’s Healthcare & Wellness Award
• Economic Legacy Award
• Overall Service Excellence Achievement Award

The members of the Zeta Chi Omega Chapter are committed to the ideals of our founders who gathered on the campus of Howard University in 1908 and dedicated themselves to the task of “service to all mankind.”

Photo credit B.E.A.utiful Photography