The Mercer University Iota Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. held their Neophyte Presentation on November 17. This is their second probate since their return to campus in fall 2023 after a 4-year absence.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was the first collegiate Greek-letter sorority established for Black Women. Founded in 1908 at Howard University, the sorority's motto is “By Culture and By Merit” and stands on three principles, "Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service to All Humankind.”
The Iota Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Mercer University was chartered on January 11, 1975, with seventeen members.
This fall's Neophyte presentation, or probate, welcomed 20 new members. Probates are highly anticipated formal events where new members are introduced to the campus, the community, and other Divine 9 organizations. During the presentation, new members usually perform chants, recite the history and values of their organization and demonstrate their knowledge and dedication to the sorority.
Imani Choukair ‘25, a fall ‘23 initiate of the Iota Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Mercer University has served as chapter president from 2023-2024. As president of the Fall ‘24 initiates, Choukair worked with the young women as they learned their information and practiced for their presentation.
“I feel like a proud parent. I truly adore each and every one of my girls. I know I’m leaving my chapter in good hands!” Choukair said.
Jenika Taylor, a spring ‘99 initiate of the Alpha Beta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha at Fort Valley University serves as the advisor for the Iota Eta Chapter. Taylor explained she knew the process would be busy and all members had to be on board to prepare to bring the new initiates into the sisterhood, but the bond she made with the girls throughout was rewarding.
“I was able to build a relationship with them, learn about their family and goals after college. I am looking forward to new members being a part of the Iota Eta Chapter adding their experience in leadership and their ability to keep the chapter viable on Mercer's campus,” Taylor said.
Taylor is confident in what to expect from the new Alpha Kappa Alpha women: “AKAs work hard in everything we do. I expect the new members to work just as hard to uphold our standards,” Taylor said
In the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Greek organizations, a prophyte is a term used to describe a member who has been initiated into the organization and has more experience than newer members or neophytes. Nivea George ‘26, a Fall ‘23 initiate of the Iota Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Mercer University now serves a prophyte, and mentor to the neophytes by helping share knowledge, values, and traditions with the new members.
During this initiation process, George was able to look back at her growth on her journey in the organization. “AKA as an organization has helped me in my journey as a woman, as well as further develop my professional and career outlooks. It has been a pleasure to work with these girls and I hope to see what we can do together as a chapter,” George said.
Probates are a significant tradition within the NPHC culture, they showcase each organization's unique identities, pride and unity.
At the end of the presentation, the new initiates were able to celebrate their hard work with friends and family.
Iota Eta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Fall 2024 Line:
Ace: Jada Walker ‘27
Deuce: Kae’dyn Miller ‘27
Tre: Keslyn Billings ‘26
Quad: Baileigh Lee ‘27
Five: Nia McGill ‘27
Six: Chiamaka Okwu ‘25
Seven: Sydney Lindsey ‘26
Eight: Jazayla Huggins ‘25
Nine: Sydney Snipes ‘26
Ten: Lauryn McDougald ‘27
Eleven: Pria Pullin ‘26
Twelve: Keianna Owens ‘25
Thirteen: Sydney Mouton ‘27
Fourteen: Emoni Jones ‘27
Fifteen: Kha’Niyah Allen ‘27
Sixteen: Bridget Oburiyeboah ‘27
Seventeen: Rachel Everett ‘27
Eighteen: Kalaezia Collins ‘27
Nineteen: Neena Maith ‘25
Twenty: Ahvani Rice ‘25
Alisha Mitchell '26 is majoring in Journalism and Political Science at Mercer University. She is a part of the Student Government Association and works for Mercer’s Undergraduate Admissions office. Alisha is highly involved on campus and loves writing for The Cluster. When she isn't writing or working, she enjoys sitting outside in nature or thrifting with friends.
