The Louisiana Alpha Sigma chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa celebrated its 50th anniversary on Monday, October 2nd, at the St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church Center. Alpha Delta Kappa is an international honorary organization of women educators dedicated to educational excellence, altruism and world understanding.
Alpha Delta Kappa was founded in 1947 by Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southhall, and Hattie Poppino. They were visionary women who saw a need to recognize and support the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. The National Organization recently celebrated its 75th anniversary in Kansas City, Missouri this past July where its international headquarters is located.
The local chapter, Alpha Sigma’s founder and charter member was Jeanette Moses. Jeanette was a well-known and highly respected educator in the Vernon Parish School System. She herself was an inspiration and mentor to many educators and enriched the lives of scores of children. She recognized the value of such an organization that would support outstanding women educators and in turn would better serve the students in Vernon Parish Schools.
Jeanette approached 12 teachers to begin this journey. In May of 1973, the chapter was formed, members initiated, and officers installed by Louisiana State President Sybil Kelly. The charter was presented to the first chapter president Jeri Broyles. Three of those charter members were in attendance. Chapter President Candy Bennett and President-Elect Karen Robertson presented Pat Crawford Schwartz, Jeri Broyles and Pat Martinez – Triplett gifts of appreciation. These valuable sisters shared their insights and thoughts regarding their membership.
A slide show depicting the activities that spanned the last fifty years was presented with sisters providing commentary on fundraising activities, commitment to altruistic projects, travels to meetings and conferences, and remembering those who have gone on before us. It was a night of joy, laughter and a few tears.
ADK is always looking for new members. If you are interested in joining, you can contact Candy Bennett at 337-397-2818 or Jennifer Mount at 337-353-1145.
