FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – On June 28, 2025, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Zeta Rho Omega Chapter, in partnership with The AKAdemic Foundation, Incorporated, celebrated an extraordinary milestone, 70 years of unwavering service, sisterhood, and community impact. The sold-out anniversary gala, held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, Florida, welcomed members, civic leaders, and community supporters for an inspiring celebration.
The event was masterfully led by Chapter Anniversary Chairman Joe Ann Fletcher, and Co-Chairmen Kandyss Burney Torrence, and Dr. Angela Lucas Mumford. Their vision, along with the dedication of the planning committee, was evident in every detail of the celebration, which honored the chapter’s rich legacy and forward-looking mission.
Zeta Rho Omega Chapter President Karlene Chung-Hogg, Second Vice President Dorenda Washington, and AKAdemic Foundation President Delores McKinley offered heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming community support, including members of the Divine Nine who joined the celebration. The chapter was honored by the presence of Charter Member Millicent Sworn, who has been a member of the Sorority for more than 75 years.
A standout moment of the afternoon was a special presentation by Broward County Commissioner Robert McKinzie, who honored Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® dignitaries, including former and current Zeta Rho Omega Chapter Presidents, with symbolic keys to the County, recognizing their enduring leadership and outstanding service.
The celebration reached new heights when acclaimed actor and producer Christian Keyes, serving as celebrity co-host, presented a generous $30,000 donation to the chapter’s scholarship fund. This contribution helped bring the 2025 scholarship total to an impressive $90,000, directly supporting local students in their pursuit of higher education.
The event featured guest speaker Charletta Wilson Jacks, the International First Vice President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, who delivered a motivational and historically rich speech that resonated deeply with the audience. The event also welcomed distinguished members, including South Atlantic Regional Director Tiffany Moore Russell and Cluster I Coordinator Vernique Williams.
We extend a special thank you to our generous sponsors, whose support made this milestone celebration possible: AARP Florida; ILA 1526, International Longshoremen’s Association; Velvet Eyewear; Baptist Health; Dress for Success of the Palm Beaches; Tito’s; and Drs. Dwight and Dierdre Wilson. Their partnership strengthens our ability to serve and uplift the community.
As the Zeta Rho Omega Chapter enters its seventh decade, it remains a powerful force for good in the Fort Lauderdale community, committed to educating, empowering, and uplifting through service and scholarship.
