Overview
The foundation of the Mid-Western Region is closely tied to the vision of Nellie Quander and Founder Beulah Burke. Together, they recognized the importance of expanding Alpha Kappa Alpha beyond the East Coast and into the central United States. Through Founder Beulah Burke’s dedication and leadership, the sorority established some of its earliest chapters outside of Washington, D.C., laying the groundwork for Alpha Kappa Alpha’s national expansion.
One of the region’s earliest milestones occurred in 1915 with the chartering of Delta Chapter at the University of Kansas. Delta Chapter became one of the first Alpha Kappa Alpha chapters established outside the East Coast and represented a significant step in the organization’s growth across the country.
The Mid-Western Region was formally organized during the 1924 Boule with five original chapters spanning Kansas and Missouri. Just two years later, the region made history by hosting the first regional conference ever held within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. The conference took place in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1926 under the leadership of Regional Director Judith Ann Syms Wisdom, establishing a tradition of leadership development and regional collaboration that continues today.
Today, the Mid-Western Region encompasses chapters across Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Stretching across vast plains, prairies, and the Rocky Mountains, the region represents one of the sorority’s most geographically expansive areas. Despite the distance between chapters and communities, the region has remained deeply connected through strong sisterhood, visionary leadership, and impactful service.
The Mid-Western Region proudly celebrates an extraordinary legacy of leadership within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. The region is honored to claim the roots and influence of several International Presidents whose leadership helped shape the sorority’s history and global impact:
- Lorraine R. Green
- Edna Over Gray Campbell
- Laura F. Lovelace
- Larzette Golden Hale Wilson
These remarkable leaders helped guide Alpha Kappa Alpha through periods of growth, modernization, and expanded international influence while exemplifying the leadership excellence that continues to define the Mid-Western Region.
The Mid-Western Region also holds a unique place in honoring Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Founders and historic leaders. Founder Beulah Burke played a direct role in chartering multiple chapters within the region and served as one of its earliest regional leaders. Founder Ethel Jones Mowbray also made her home in the region and remained an active member throughout her lifetime. Additionally, Founder Ethel Hedgemon Lyle taught in Oklahoma during her early career, further connecting the region to the sorority’s historic roots.
Throughout its history, the Mid-Western Region has consistently demonstrated leadership and innovation. The region has hosted multiple Boules and leadership conferences while producing countless members who have served Alpha Kappa Alpha at the international level in various leadership capacities.
The region is also home to distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Langston University and Lincoln University, where Alpha Kappa Alpha’s legacy of scholarship and leadership continues to flourish among undergraduate members.
Today, the Mid-Western Region continues to honor its historic legacy while embracing innovation, growth, and transformative service. Known for its resilience, pioneering spirit, and strong culture of sisterhood, the region remains committed to empowering communities, cultivating leaders, and advancing Alpha Kappa Alpha’s global mission throughout the heartland of America.
