Dana Mays

2025-2026 Soror of Year
History with AKA Sorority, Inc. & Xi Beta Omega

Why did you join Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority?

I joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® because I was inspired by its rich legacy of excellence and unwavering commitment to scholarship, sisterhood, and service. From its inception, AKA® has been a beacon of empowerment, led by extraordinary women who not only dreamed of change but actively created it.

As a young woman seeking a community that would challenge me to grow and lead, AKA® stood out as an organization that exemplifies grace, intelligence, and compassion. I was drawn to its focus on uplifting communities and addressing critical issues through impactful service.

The idea of joining a sisterhood where I could bond with like-minded women, share in mutual support, and work toward a greater good was profoundly meaningful to me. For me, joining Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® was more than becoming part of an organization—it was embracing a way of life. It was a commitment to uphold its values, contribute to its mission, and continue the legacy of making a difference.

Thirty years later, that decision remains one of the most transformative and rewarding of my life.

What does being selected as “Soror of the Year” mean to you?

Being selected as "Soror of the Year" is an incredibly meaningful honor to me, especially after 30 years of dedication and service since my initiation into the Xi Beta Omega chapter. This recognition represents more than an individual accolade—it embodies the spirit, legacy, and mission of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and the values we, as members, strive to uphold each day. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of participating in initiatives that uplift our communities, fostering the bond of sisterhood, and empowering others to lead and serve. Receiving this distinction is a testament to the years of commitment, resilience, and alignment with the sorority’s values, and it reminds me of the journey I embarked on when I first joined on September 18, 1994. It signifies the respect and trust of my sisters, who have seen my dedication to our sorority’s mission to serve all mankind.

This award also deepens my connection to the legacy of Xi Beta Omega and our collective accomplishments. It is both humbling and inspiring, pushing me to continue making an impact.

What do you feel has been your greatest contribution to the Xi Beta Omega Chapter?

My greatest contribution to the Xi Beta Omega Chapter has been utilizing my God-given gifts and talents as an artist, graphic/digital designer, marketing manager, and overall creative visionary to support and enhance our chapter’s initiatives. I have had the privilege of applying my skills to elevate our projects, programs, and communications, ensuring they reflect not only the chapter's mission, but also the legacy of excellence that defines Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Through my creative work, whether designing impactful visuals, crafting digital campaigns, or providing strategic marketing insights, I’ve been able to bring our ideas to life in ways that resonate with both our members and the communities we serve. This has included designing event branding that leaves a lasting impression, curating and creating professional quality materials that enhance our outreach, and ensuring our chapter is consistently represented with the highest standards of professionalism and excellence.

What makes this role so fulfilling is not just the creative process itself, but the willingness to serve.

My passion lies in finding ways to showcase the brilliance and dedication of Xi Beta Omega on a platform that aligns with our commitment to "Service to All Mankind." Whether it’s creating a visual identity for an initiative or contributing to committee work, I strive to ensure that our chapter is seen as a beacon of innovation and excellence, both within and beyond our sorority. Ultimately, I feel my contribution has been about more than just technical skill—it’s about using those skills with intention, heart, and a deep love for our chapter and sisterhood.

Which committees have you worked with and what was your best committee experience?

Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving on numerous committees within Xi Beta Omega, each offering unique opportunities to contribute to the chapter's success and mission. Some of these include the technology, archives, membership, sisterly relations, and social committees. I proudly served as co-chairman for the social committee. Additionally, I have frequently contributed as a creative consultant on various initiatives, bringing innovative ideas and designs to elevate our chapter's programs and events.

One of my most rewarding experiences was during the 70th South Atlantic Regional Conference in Atlanta, GA, where I served as the subcommittee co-chairman for the Men’s Experience. In this role, I worked closely with an incredible team, which included sorors from Psi Alpha Omega chapter, to design and execute an engaging and memorable experience, showcasing our sorority’s hallmark of excellence through thoughtful planning and meticulous attention to detail.

More recently, I had the pleasure of planning the XBO Harlem Nights Christmas Gala alongside the chairman and other members of the social committee. This was a particularly fulfilling experience as it combined my creative vision with the collective energy of the committee to bring this elegant and vibrant event to life. The gala was not only a celebration of the season and an era, but a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to excellence.

In addition to these larger events, I am particularly proud of the social committee’s efforts to transform our monthly chapter meetings into more engaging and inviting experiences. By infusing creativity and thoughtful planning into these gatherings, we’ve enhanced the atmosphere and strengthened the sense of sisterhood and connection among our members.

Each of these experiences has been deeply meaningful to me because they reflect the spirit of service and innovation that defines Xi Beta Omega. Being able to use my talents and work alongside dedicated sorors to create memorable experiences is a constant source of inspiration and pride.

What was your best leadership experience with Xi Beta Omega?

My best leadership experience with Xi Beta Omega has been serving as co-chairman of the social committee. In this role, I have had the opportunity to lead and collaborate with a dynamic team of sorors to design events that not only bring us together as a sisterhood, but also elevate the

chapter's reputation for excellence. A highlight of this experience was planning the XBO Harlem Nights Christmas Gala. Working alongside the chairman and fellow committee members, I helped craft a sophisticated and memorable event that reflected our chapter’s commitment to high standards and creativity. This role allowed me to leverage my organizational and creative skills, ensuring that every detail contributed to an unforgettable celebration of sisterhood and the holiday season.

In addition, I am proud of the social committee’s ongoing efforts to enhance the experience of our monthly chapter meetings. By introducing innovative and welcoming touches, we have transformed these gatherings into more engaging spaces where sorors feel valued and connected. Leading these initiatives has been a fulfilling way to strengthen the bonds within our chapter while showcasing the power of collaboration and vision.

Another impactful leadership experience has been my role as the unofficial co-chairman for the Enhance Our Environment initiative. This allowed me to combine my creative talents through community engagement by offering my connections to the UGA Griffin Campus and its community garden.

Through this connection we secured a space for our beloved scarecrow, Pink Ivy, to make her debut. In the second year of participation, Pink Ivy earned second place in the competition and was recognized this year as a second place winner, an achievement that reflected not only the creativity of our chapter, but also the dedication to excellence and environmental awareness that this initiative represents.

These leadership experiences have been incredibly meaningful because they demonstrate the importance of using our unique talents and resources to serve our chapter and community. Whether organizing events, transforming meetings, or elevating chapter initiatives, I strive to lead with a spirit of service, collaboration, and creativity that aligns with Xi Beta Omega’s mission and values.

What is your motto/scripture that you live by?

The motto I live by is "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established" (Proverbs 16:3). This scripture speaks deeply to my journey, as it reminds me that creativity, hard work, dedication, and commitment are most impactful when rooted in purpose and faith.  In everything I do, I strive to give my best, knowing that true success comes from aligning my talents and efforts with a higher calling. I believe creativity is not just a skill but a gift meant to inspire and uplift, and hard work and dedication are the tools that transform vision into reality.  Moreover, embracing teamwork and sisterhood has taught me the importance of collaboration, how combining our individual strengths allows us to achieve more than we ever could alone.

Whether working on a chapter initiative, contributing to a community project, or simply supporting a fellow soror, I aim to embody the spirit of unity and service that defines Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®.

This scripture guides my approach to life, reminding me to stay focused, faithful, and committed to the work we are called to do together.

Pearla Hodo – Soror of the Year 2023-2024

History with AKA Sorority, Inc. & Xi Beta Omega Chapter

I was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Xi Beta Omega Chapter, Griffin, Georgia on June 30, 2013. I have served as program chairman for Educational Enrichment, Building Your Economic Legacy, and Build Our Economic Wealth initiatives.

Why did you join Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority?

As a young girl, I encountered teachers, church members, and other role models in my community who led with style and grace, demonstrated concern for others, and were members of the illustrious Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. As an Education major at Mercer University, I was placed under the supervision of Soror Charlotte K. Eady for student teaching. During my student teaching experience, I realized Soror Charlotte’s genuine care and concern for me, not only as a student teacher but also as a young woman. What I came to understand is that her excellence in her craft, and her genuine care and concern exemplify the essence of what it means to be an Alpha Kappa Alpha woman. Some of the characteristics of Alpha Kappa Alpha women that resonated with me and with which I identify are sincerity in love, integrity, grace, excellence, and commitment to service to all mankind. God’s word says in Matthew 25:40 AMP, The King will answer and say to them, ‘I assure you and most solemnly say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it for Me.’ My devotion to and faith in Jesus Christ is shown through service and helping to meet the needs of others. I joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. because I genuinely identified with the mission of the Sorority and the qualities of Alpha Kappa Alpha women. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Xi Beta Omega Chapter, I belong to a sisterhood committed to selfless service to the whole of mankind in a manner that uplifts communities and meets the needs of others across the globe. For this, I am honored and grateful.

What does being selected as “Soror of the Year” mean to you?

I am truly humbled to be selected as Soror of the Year. I know there is nothing that I have successfully implemented within the chapter that was done independently of the support of the sorors of Xi Beta Omega. This year has been very difficult for our community. Even so, we have been able to implement and support recovery efforts, support and promote black-owned and black female-owned businesses and provide financial literacy training to the community. We are continuing to build on the profound legacy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Xi Beta Omega Chapter. I am ecstatic to be a small part of this rich legacy. I want to keep working, keep growing, keep supporting other sorors, and serving the greater community. To me, being named “Soror of the Year” means that there is still much work to be done, and I am entrusted and equipped to continue the work. I recognize and understand that “from everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more.” Luke 12:48 AMP

What do you feel has been your greatest contribution to the Xi Beta Omega Chapter?

The greatest contribution that I have made to the Xi Beta Omega Chapter is simply my willingness to serve in various capacities. I understand that there is a time to lead and a time to follow. To effectively contribute to an organization, it is essential to be humble enough and courageous enough to do both.

Which committees have you worked with and what was your best committee experience?

I have served as a member of the Program, Fundraiser, and Standards Committees. The best experience on the Fundraiser Committee was the opportunity to learn the various aspects of implementing a successful event. I have also served on the Standards Committee for several years. As one who has always worked to improve programs, through the Standards Committee, I am actively involved in the collection and use of evaluation data to improve programs. I have found it rewarding to work with the Standards Committee to help the Chapter implement and improve its programs.

What was your best leadership experience with Xi Beta Omega?

I served as Co-Chairman of the Disaster Relief Ad Hoc Committee and Chairman of the Educational Enrichment, Building Your Economic Legacy, and Build our Economic Wealth program committees. Recently, the Xi Beta Omega Chapter collaborated with the Gamma Pi Omega Chapter and Alpha Alpha Phi Omega Chapter to implement a financial literacy workshop. I enjoyed this experience because it was my first collaborative effort with sorors from other chapters to implement a program for the community. Another very rewarding leadership experience was the response and recovery efforts following the January 12, 2023 tornado disaster in Griffin. The outpouring of support from sorors of Xi Beta Omega and neighboring chapters, as well as various individuals, churches, and organizations, was overwhelming. I am so grateful to have been allowed to collaboratively lead the efforts to provide much-needed resources to families in the community.

What is your motto/scripture that you live by?

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 NIV

Lyneil Charity – Soror of the Year 2022-2023

History with AKA Sorority, Inc. & Xi Beta Omega Chapter

Why did you join Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority?

M y desire to join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was truly out of commitment to help others and serve my community along with making long lasting friendship and sisterhood. I was the first family member in my immediate family to receive a college degree and join a Greek organization. When I attended Virginia Union University, there were several Women Greek organizations on the campus, but the Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority were well known, respected, intelligent, classy and committed to the community and campus.  I wanted to become a part and work alongside these women who worn the pink and green and represented our campus so well. After observing these ladies, I also learned that their character and integrity demonstrated the behavior that exemplify Alpha Kappa Alpha women and I wanted to be a part of that legacy.  It also was very interesting to know that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was the first Sorority and to me being the first is always the best. The decision to join this great Sorority was one of the best decisions that I have ever made in life and truly believe that this is one of the reasons I am and will continue to be the woman that I am today.   

What does being selected as “Soror of the Year” mean to you?

Soror of The Year is a very special honor to me and considered one of the highest honors a member will achieve in our chapter. This achievement exemplifies what it means to be apart of an organization that provides “Being of Service to all Mankind”, helping people and embodying my personal morals and values. It also makes it that more exciting to have sisters whenever and wherever I may go in life that are kind, funny, caring, intelligent, role models and committed to their community. To be selected by the members of Xi Beta Omega Chapter is even more exciting and I take it very serious and with great pride to represent the chapter. 

When were you initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.? 

I was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated through the Alpha Eta Chapter of Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia on November 18, 1978. 

What Committees’ have you worked with and what was your best Committee experience? 

I was a previous member of the Mid-Atlantic area and remained a General Boule Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated until I relocated to Georgia and transferred my membership to Xi Beta Omega Chapter in Griffin, Georgia in 2018. I have worked outside of the Sorority in several stressful and demanding Leadership and Management positions as Administrator of several organizations including Federal, State and Private Organizations and recently retired one year ago as an Administrator for the (Department of Transportation) State of Georgia.  After transferring to Xi Beta Omega chapter, I have served as a member of the Sisterly Relations Committee/ Courtesy and Membership Committee. Being a part of the Sisterly Relations/Courtesy committee was one of the best committees to start because it gave me the opportunity to put names and faces together and to learn the Sorors in the chapter. 

I was presently elected to hold the Anti-Basileus position for the next 2 years and love every minute of it. 

What do you feel has been your greatest contribution to the Xi Beta Omega Chapter? 

I feel that my greatest contribution to the Chapter has been my commitment, being a woman of my word, being accountable, my organization skills and ability to be dependable. 

Best Leadership Experience with Xi Beta Omega Chapter 

I can say that my best leadership experience has been in my past experience as Basileus at my undergraduate level at Virginia Union University and in my present position as Anti-Basileus/Program Chair with Xi Beta Omega Chapter. In this elected position, I have learned a lot about my Sorority sisters in the chapter as well as what each program and/or initiative represents and means to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I have grown so much not only personally but professionally as the Program Chair. Accepting and loving your sisters for who they are and where they are is so very important and expecting and believing the best provides direction, talent and attention.  

What is your motto/scripture that you live by? 

I live by the motto “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. I also cite Psalm 23:1-6: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; they rod and they staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Sure goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Amen! 

In my spare time, I love spending time with my family to include my husband, son and grandchildren, relaxation and traveling every chance I get. 

Brenda Flemister Mathis – Soror of the Year 2021-2022

History with AKA Sorority, Inc. & Xi Beta Omega Chapter

Why did you join Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority?

I was initiated into the Xi Beta Omega Chapter (Griffin, Georgia) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated on October 9, 1983. During her 38 years of uninterrupted service as a member of Xi Beta Omega, I have held the office of Basileus, Anti-Basileus, Grammateus, Anti-Grammateus, Tamiouchos, Pecunius Grammateus, Philacter and Parliamentarian.  I am a Silver Star (25 plus years of service) and a Life Member.  Her interest in becoming a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated began in 1979 at the Fort Valley State University when I encountered two very professional and poised women who epitomized the role of virtuous women. These two women were Dr. Earnestine Green McNealy and Dr. Ritchie D. White, two of my instructors. They made quite an impression as me when I would hear them speak about Alpha Kappa Alpha. I also befriended members of the Alpha Beta Chapter and I noticed that they were doing an extraordinary amount of community service and were helping others in Peach County. I was impressed with their service endeavors, and at that moment, I knew that I wanted to be a member of this great sisterhood.

What does being selected as “Soror of the Year” mean to you?

Being selected by my Sorors as Soror of the year is truly an honor. All the glory belongs to God. 

Which committees have you worked with and what was your best committee experience?

What do you feel has been your greatest contribution to the Xi Beta Omega Chapter?

My greatest contribution to Xi Beta Omega is my willingness to be a team player and to be available to help any Soror accomplish her task. I have served on and chaired various committees and targets in the past. These committees and targets include Target 1,  Program, Fundraiser, Scholarship, Budget and Finance, Membership, and Bylaws. Presently, I am a member of the Finance Committee, Target 1-#CAPS, Scholarship Committee and the Membership Committee.

What was your best leadership experience with XBO?

The best leadership experience occurred in 2005, when I served as Basileus. Xi Beta Omega participated in a Young Scholars’ Program. Each of the ten regions in the sorority had the opportunity to choose a child’s story to be published in a two-volume anthology entitled the Spirit Within: Voices of Young Authors. Xi Beta invited students from our partner school, Atkinson Elementary, to enter the story-writing contest. Our winners were from 2^nd/3^rd grade, Zakiria Mays (Sally and the Giant) and 4^th/5^th grade, Simeon Taylor (An Adventure with my Robot). These entries were submitted to the South Atlantic Regional level and Zakira’s story was selected as the first-place winner for the Region. She traveled with members to the South Atlantic Regional Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina and won gifts and a monetary prize for being one of the regional winners. Zakira’s story was published in the national anthology.

What is your motto/scripture that you live by?

My favorite quote comes from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, - “Everyone can be great…because everyone can serve.  You don’t have to have a college degree to serve.  You don’t have to make your subjects and verbs agree to serve.  You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.”

My favorite Bible scripture comes from Romans 8:28

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose."

My inspiration to serve comes from my mother, Shirley Flemister, who has a heart generated by love for people and from her grandparents, the late Rev. Woodrow Pierce and Mrs. Sweetie Mae Pierce. They had hearts and souls filled with so much love for mankind.

March 1, 2021

To the Committee:

I am extremely proud and honored to write this letter in support of Xi Beta Omega’s Soror of the Year, Joyce Beaufort. She has served Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and this chapter as an exemplary member and outstanding Program Chairman. As a member, she has been committed dedicated, dutiful, innovative and a leader in many ways.

She has demonstrated her commitment to Alpha Kappa Alpha through her participation in every activity. She immerses herself in all the program and community activities of the chapter. She has made her presence and willing spirit is known to each of the Target chairmen and they know that she will be supportive in making the Excellence program successful. Without complaint, she is willing to work with the committees to make sure each task is executed with excellence. 

Soror Joyce is innovative. As our chapter retreat was approaching, we were brainstorming ways to be more interactive and engaging. It was Soror Joyce Beaufort who suggested our format for the retreat. Our very first Retreat virtual luncheon was Soror Beaufort’s idea. Each soror received a gift card from Chick-Fil-A or Subway and we had lunch together via Zoom. She has also suggested that we have a uniform day for committees to meet via Zoom-in break-out rooms. Soror Joyce is always thinking about and always looking for ways for our chapter operations to be more effective and efficient.

One cannot lead where they are not going. Soror Joyce always leads by example. Our chapter programs have been most successful because she is willing to do the work. She understands that it takes all of us to serve significantly. To that end, not only has she attended all the meetings and activities, but she has always participated in all the meetings and activities. When she shows up, she is willing to do the work to get a job done.

I was overjoyed that Soror Joyce Beaufort was selected as Xi Beta Omega’s Soror of the Year. She has done the work and the honor shows that the chapter recognizes her commitment and dedication. 

On behalf of the 105 members of Xi Beta Omega, we whole-heartedly and unanimously nominate Soror Joyce Beaufort to be the Soror of the Year for the South Atlantic Region.

Sisterly,

Cheryl R. Walker

Chapter Basileus