from the desk of Madam regional director
from the desk of Madam regional director
Embedded Files
2025 Graduate Advisor Certification Expiration Update
2025 Graduate Advisor Certification Expiration Update
The Constitution and Bylaws Article III, Section 23 was amended during the 2024 Boule to require "Boule attendance" as a Graduate Advisor (GA) certification qualification. Given the additional requirement for Boule attendance, many sorors whose certification ends December 31, 2025, will be unable to recertify because the next Boule occurs in July 2026.
To mitigate this issue, the Directorate approved extending the 2025 GA certification deadline to December 2026 to permit impacted 2025 certification sorors an opportunity to recertify at the 2026 Boule without a lapse in certification. This extension only covers sorors currently GA certified with a December 2025 deadline. It does not cover sorors who have never been certified, those with a lapsed certification, or those whose certification expires in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the Extension apply to sorors with lapsed certification from 2023 or 2024? NO. These sorors had certification eligibility access under the old qualifications and must now qualify under the new requirements.
Will the 2025 sorors who have not gone to the last two Boules be able to apply for recertification in 2025? NO. However, these sorors will be able to apply for recertification in 2026 without a lapse in certification.
Will the 2025 sorors who have not gone to the last two Boules be able to apply for recertification at 2026 Boule? YES. If so, how? The 2026 GAC Training applications will have space to indicate pending Boule attendance.
Will the 2025 sorors who have not gone to the last two Boules be able to apply for recertification at 2026 Regional Conferences? NO. These sorors may recertify at the 2026 Boule.
Does the Extension apply to 2026 sorors who must recertify in 2026? NO. These sorors must be eligible under the new qualifications and will have the opportunity to attend 2026 Boule.
I am a 2025 certified GA who has registered to recertify at my 2025 Regional Conference. May I now withdraw my application, receive a refund, and recertify at another time? NO. All 2025 Regional Conference applications were due on February 15th and are currently under review for eligibility to recertify. You will receive a refund only if you are ineligible to recertify.
Soror, should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sisterly,
Soror Anika Wilson Starling
Mid-Western Regional Director
mid-western Region events
mid-western Region events
45th EAF Anniversary Bear
45th EAF Anniversary Bear
In celebration of the 45th Anniversary of the Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF), we are excited to offer a limited-edition AKA EAF Commemorative Bear—a beautiful keepsake that symbolizes our legacy of scholarship, service, and sisterhood.
The cost is $60.00, and the bear comes in a custom collector’s box. A perfect addition to your Alpha Kappa Alpha memorabilia collection!
Proceeds support the mission of EAF to provide scholarships and educational advancement opportunities for students and communities in need.
Quantities are limited — secure your collector’s item today and show your continued support for EAF! Let’s continue soaring to greater heights — one bear at a time!
Click here to purchase: https://donate.akaeaf.org/pages/eaf-merchandise
mid-western Region news
mid-western Region news
mental health awareness month: Tips for job loss
mental health awareness month: Tips for job loss
During this time of uncertainty, we want to extend our love, prayers, and unwavering support to any of our sisters who have been impacted by recent job loss. As Alpha Kappa Alpha women, we stand together through every challenge, and now more than ever, we must uplift and assist one another.
Lost Your Job? Here’s How to Cope & Bounce Back:
Process Your Emotions. Give yourself grace and time—shock, frustration, and uncertainty are normal. Lean on support—talk to loved ones, mentors, or professional counselors.
Understand Your Benefits. Review severance packages and unused vacation payouts. Apply for unemployment benefits promptly. Explore COBRA, marketplace insurance, or spousal coverage options. Utilize outplacement services if available.
Reassess Finances. Adjust your budget—prioritize essentials like housing, food, and healthcare. Use your emergency fund wisely. Contact lenders about hardship options if needed.
Update Professional Materials. Refresh your resume and LinkedIn profile with recent achievements. Craft a branding statement for yourself. Engage in industry discussions and networking opportunities. Secure strong references from past colleagues or supervisors.
Network Strategically. Reach out to your professional and AKA network for referrals. Attend industry events and workshops—both virtual and in-person. Leverage LinkedIn and professional groups to explore new opportunities.
Upskill & Explore. Take free or low-cost courses (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning) to enhance your skills. Consider freelance, consulting, or part-time roles to stay active. Explore entrepreneurship. Use this as an opportunity to reassess your career path—perhaps a new industry or passion awaits!
Stay Organized. Keep track of applications, interviews, and follow-ups with a job search tracker. Maintain a daily routine to balance productivity and self-care.
Prioritize Self-Care. Stay active, eat well, and get enough rest. Engage in hobbies, meditation, or journaling to maintain mental wellness.
Prepare for Interviews. Craft a positive narrative about the layoff—focus on growth and next steps. Practice your elevator speech in mock interviews to build confidence and use those interviews to refine your responses.
Stay Positive & Patient. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth—stay hopeful and persistent!
HOW SORORS CAN HELP SORORS
HOW SORORS CAN HELP SORORS
Share Job Opportunities – If you know of open positions, contracts, or side hustles, share them in our network.
Offer Professional Assistance – Review resumes, conduct mock interviews, or offer job search advice.
Provide Emotional & Financial Support – Check in on impacted sorors, offer encouragement, and assistance where possible.
Stay Connected – Sometimes, knowing someone cares makes all the difference. Share a connection you have. Connect those who are looking with others who can help.
Sisterhood is about action. Let’s show up for one another and ensure that no soror walks this journey alone. If you need support or have resources to share, please reach out to a soror.
Sisterhood is our superpower!
Pink Print Connection: virtual resume workshop
Pink Print Connection: virtual resume workshop
Are you ready to land your next big opportunity?
Your resume is your first impression—make it count! Join us for a hands-on, power-packed session on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. (CST).
Click here to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/fAvXo23HTRmnT6sZThSzlw
Pink Print Connection: Sisters in Career Success is Now Live!
Pink Print Connection: Sisters in Career Success is Now Live!
Are you currently exploring new career opportunities or considering a career change? Whether you're actively job hunting or just starting to explore your options, the Pink Print Connection: Sisters in Career Success LinkedIn group is the perfect place to connect! Join us to search for job openings, share your own opportunities, and access a wealth of career search resources. Let’s work together to make your next career move a success!
Request to join here.
Gayle P. Miles Scott
Former Supreme Tamiouchos
Ivy Beyond the Wall
let's do it again!
let's do it again!
The theme of the 95th Mid-Western Regional Conference was “The Pink Print Relays: On Track to Soar”. During the First Plenary Session, Madam Regional Director announced that all Former Mid-Western Regional Directors that have an endowment have been fully endowed. However, we have one endowment that has not been met: Soror Gayle P. Miles Scott, Former Supreme Tamiouchos.
Sorors, we have received the charge, and it is time to carry the baton. $15,209.29 is needed to endow the Gayle P. Miles Scott Endowment. If at least 800 sorors can commit to giving $19.08, we can endow Soror Gayle’s fund.
Click here to donate $19.08:
Mid-western region sisterhood
Mid-western region sisterhood
Mid-Western Region Monthly Sisterly Spotlight
Mid-Western Region Monthly Sisterly Spotlight
Soror Dion'Trae Hayes
soror Dion'trae hayes
soror Dion'trae hayes
This month, we are shining a spotlight on Soror Dion’trae Hayes. In every interaction and endeavor, Soror Dion’trae embodies the spirit, values, and sisterhood that make Alpha Kappa Alpha so special.
Serving as the Mid-Western Region General Member Liaison, she is the kind of person who makes everyone feel seen, supported, and cared for. She is always the first to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or a comforting word. Whether you’re having a rough day or just need a little encouragement, you can count on her to be there — no questions asked, no spotlight needed. She gives her time, energy, and heart so freely, and she does it all with a spirit of grace and humility that is truly inspiring.
What sets her apart is not just her kindness, but the consistency with which she shows up for others. Her selflessness and genuine care for others create a ripple effect that makes all of us better.
She works tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition, and does it all with humility and grace. As a team player, she listens attentively, collaborates thoughtfully, and never hesitates to put the needs of the group above her own.
It is people like Soror Dion’trae who keep the heart of our sorority beating strong. She lives our values every day.
Do you want to shine a light on a soror who may not always be publicly recognized but exemplifies kindness, compassion, care, and a nurturing spirit in all they do? If so, submit your nomination by completing the Sisterly Spotlight Form. Please ensure the form is fully completed before submission. The committee will carefully review all nominations for accuracy. Eligible names will be entered into a monthly lottery, and one soror will be selected each month. General members' names are welcomed, as well. The selected soror and her sisterly acts will be submitted to Madam Regional Director for approval before being celebrated on social media. While a soror may be nominated multiple times, she can win only once per year. Photos are highly encouraged but not required.
Key Deadline: All nominations must be submitted by the 15th of each month.
our ivies
our ivies
IBTW Submissions
IBTW Submissions
To ensure we capture all sorors that have now become an Ivy Beyond the Wall, a submission link has been created for ease of reporting. Ivy Beyond the Wall submissions should be provided by the Chapter Basilei as soon as the chapter is notified. Forms will be accepted for all sorors who have become an Ivy Beyond the Wall from the end of the 2024 Mid-Western Regional Conference through the end of the year.
MID-WESTERN REGION kudos
MID-WESTERN REGION kudos
Congratulations to the Mid-Western Region’s Spring 2025 Graduates!
Congratulations to the Mid-Western Region’s Spring 2025 Graduates!
may birthday salute!
may birthday salute!
If you would like to be recognized for your special day, please complete this brief survey.
MID-WESTERN REGION style
MID-WESTERN REGION style
SOCIAL MEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA
follow us
follow us
Sorors, make sure to stop by and visit our Facebook page and Instagram to keep up with what's going on in the Mid-Western Region!
YAPP!
YAPP!
Please join us on the Mid-Western Region’s official app, YAPP to get the latest news on the region, chapters, and events in your area. See you on the app!
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