Overview
Today, the International Region serves as a vibrant network of graduate and undergraduate chapters spanning multiple countries and territories around the world, including the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Germany, Japan, Liberia, Nigeria, Puerto Rico, South Africa, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Ghana, and the United States Virgin Islands. Through its continued growth and expansion, the region exemplifies Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®’s commitment to global leadership, cultural connection, and transformative service to all mankind.
The roots of the International Region date back to 1958, when Eta Beta Omega Chapter was chartered in Monrovia, Liberia, becoming the first chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® established outside of the United States. The chapter was chartered under the leadership of Arnetta G. Wallace and was led by pioneering educator and Alpha member Anne E. Cooper.
The establishment of Eta Beta Omega marked the beginning of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s international expansion and introduced a new era of global engagement for the sorority. Over the following decades, additional chapters were chartered throughout the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Canada, each strengthening the organization’s worldwide presence and impact.
The International Region’s growth accelerated significantly under the leadership of Janet Jones Ballard, whose administration emphasized “Service with a Global Perspective.” Her leadership helped lay the foundation for the formal establishment of the International Region in 1990 and reinforced Alpha Kappa Alpha’s commitment to becoming a truly global organization.
The International Region proudly celebrates a remarkable legacy of leadership within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. The region is honored to recognize additional visionary International Presidents whose leadership helped expand the sorority’s global influence and international footprint:
- Dr. Julia Brogdon Purnell
- Ms. Janet Jones Ballard
- Dr. Bernice I. Sumlin
- Dr. Barbara K. Phillips
- Dr. Mary Shy Scott
- Dr. Eva Lois Evans
- Dr. Norma Solomon White
- Attorney Carolyn House Stewart
- Dr. Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson
- Dr. Glenda B. Glover
- Ms. Danette Anthony Reed
Their visionary leadership strengthened Alpha Kappa Alpha’s international identity, expanded global partnerships, and inspired members worldwide to embrace service, advocacy, and leadership on a broader scale.
The International Region also celebrates the contributions of numerous International Regional Directors whose leadership helped guide the region through periods of expansion, innovation, and historic milestones. Among them was Bella G. Parker, appointed by Mary Shy Scott following the creation of the region in 1990.
Throughout its history, the International Region has continued to break barriers and create historic firsts. The International Region has also become known for its humanitarian outreach and global partnerships. Members throughout the region have led efforts focused on education, poverty reduction, hunger relief, healthcare access, women’s empowerment, youth development, and disaster response. Through strategic collaborations and international service initiatives, the region continues to make meaningful impact across communities around the world.
The region’s cultural diversity remains one of its greatest strengths. Members of the International Region represent a broad spectrum of backgrounds, experiences, languages, and cultures, all united by a common commitment to Alpha Kappa Alpha’s mission and values. This diversity enriches the sisterhood and strengthens the organization’s ability to serve communities on a global scale.
Today, the International Region continues to thrive as a powerful example of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®’s global influence and enduring legacy. Guided by the vision of the Founders and strengthened by generations of trailblazing leaders, the region remains committed to fostering international sisterhood, cultivating transformational leaders, and delivering impactful service throughout the world.
