Norfolk State University has become one of the first recipients of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s HBCU Endowment initiative. The University will receive a total of $100,000, with the first $50,000 awarded February 28 in Chicago, and the remainder to be disbursed during the second and third years of the program.
In September, AKA made history by raising more than $1 million to support historically black colleges and universities. The sorority’s initiative has set a goal of $10 million to support HBCUs through the AKA Educational Advancement Foundation by establishing $100,000 endowments on the campuses of each accredited four-year HBCU. The funds are intended to provide scholarships and other financial support to students enrolled at partnering institutions as part of the endowment agreement.
In announcing the award to the campus community late last year, Interim NSU President Dr. Melvin T. Stith Sr. thanked the sorority and discussed the impact of Greek organizations and his wife Dr. Patricia Lynch Stith’s involvement in Greek life. “This is a very generous gift from a distinguished organization that is dear to my heart in no small part because my wife is an active AKA.” He noted that serving others and giving back is an important part of the Greek experience. “My own Greek experience as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. has been transformative. Being a part of something larger than oneself is a humbling experience, which challenges you to strive toward excellence – not just for the benefit of yourself, but to honor the sacrifices of those who have come before you.”