Overview
The region’s history began with the establishment of Pi Chapter at Meharry Medical College in 1921, marking Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®’s early expansion into the southeastern United States. Pi Chapter later transferred to Fisk University in 1927, where it continued its legacy as one of the sorority’s historic undergraduate chapters.
When Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® formally organized its regions in 1924, the South Eastern Region initially encompassed a large portion of the southern United States, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Georgia, and Florida. As the sorority continued to grow, several regional realignments occurred to better support the expanding membership and chapter structure.
The most significant realignment took place in 1953, when Kentucky became part of the Central Region, Arkansas and portions of Louisiana were assigned to the South Central Region, and Georgia and Florida became part of the newly established South Atlantic Region. By 1962, the remaining Louisiana chapters were reassigned, leaving Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee as the states comprising the South Eastern Region today.
Through every stage of its evolution, the South Eastern Region has remained steadfast in its commitment to service, scholarship, and leadership. Today, the region includes more than 100 graduate and undergraduate chapters and thousands of active members dedicated to strengthening communities and advancing Alpha Kappa Alpha’s mission throughout the Southeast.
The South Eastern Region is known for producing strong leaders, trailblazers, educators, advocates, and community servants whose influence extends far beyond the sorority. Members of the region have consistently served in leadership positions at the regional and international levels while helping shape initiatives that address education, health equity, economic empowerment, civic engagement, and social justice.
The South Central Region proudly celebrates a distinguished legacy of leadership within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. The region is honored to be connected to several International Presidents whose visionary leadership helped strengthen and elevate the sorority on a global scale:
- Dr. Arnetta G. Wallace
- Dr. Glenda Glover
These extraordinary women helped shape Alpha Kappa Alpha through transformative leadership, organizational growth, and impactful initiatives that expanded the sorority’s influence throughout communities across the world.
The region also carries a deep legacy of cultural and historical significance. Located in states that played critical roles in the Civil Rights Movement and African American educational advancement, the South Eastern Region reflects the resilience, determination, and courage of generations of women committed to creating meaningful change. Chapters throughout the region continue to build upon that legacy through impactful service initiatives and strategic community partnerships.
The South Eastern Region is especially recognized for its strong spirit of sisterhood and mentorship. Across graduate and undergraduate chapters alike, members foster lifelong relationships grounded in shared values, leadership development, and a commitment to uplifting one another. The region’s culture reflects warmth, excellence, collaboration, and pride in the traditions of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®.
Regional conferences and programs throughout the South Eastern Region consistently celebrate the region’s rich heritage while embracing innovation and growth. Members are united by a shared passion for service and a collective desire to leave communities stronger than they found them.
Today, the South Eastern Region continues to honor its remarkable history while boldly preparing for the future. Guided by the principles established by Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Founders, the region remains committed to cultivating leaders, strengthening sisterhood, and delivering transformative service throughout Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and beyond.
