In a dazzling display of talent, members of Howard University's Alpha Chapter stepped to victory during the first of Sprite Step Off 's regional qualifying competition. The debut event, held in Washington, D.C., was one of the many highlights of the 24th annual Black Family Reunion Celebration.
In winning the first leg of the competition, the Alpha Chapter claimed a share of the $1.5 million prize pool, participated in service challenge-and secured first bragging rights!
Competing against ladies from Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta, the four talented AKA steppers fired up the crowd. Donned in black skirts and pink-and-green tops, the ladies reenacted AKA's history through the step format. With precision and in a synchronized style, Chapter members wowed the judges.
The talented Alpha team included Cilicia James, Kimberly Clincy, Jasmine Carroll, Lauren Gordon, Kiondra Fisher, Liliane Bedford, Jaimie Bowman and Ashley Maltbia.
To showcase the service dynamic of the competition, Alpha Chapter members that didn't step volunteered at the Children's Pavilion, where they entertained the children by reading stories, watching over them and attending to their needs.
Members of the sponsoring chapter, Xi Omega, were also on hand to praise and encourage the winning team. They demonstrated the Sorority's commitment to service by manning a booth where free school supplies were presented.
With members exhibiting their step skills and their dedication to service with the passion that marks the organization's ideal, it was no surprise that Alpha Kappa Alpha captured the top prize.
When the winners were announced later that evening, the Chapter erupted in cheers.
International President Barbara A. McKinzie applauded April Gaines-Jernigan, Graduate Advisor, and the Alpha Chapter members for emerging triumphant. "Alpha Kappa Alpha is proud of your accomplishments as steppers and as service providers. We look forward to supporting the team as it continues through the competition."
Howard University President Sidney A. Ribeau also saluted the team in a message in The Hilltop, the University's official publication.
Because the women placed first, they will bypass the regional semi-final and head directly to the regional final in New York City, November 6-7.
The National Finals will be held on January 19, 2010 in Atlanta.
Because Sprite Step Off will showcase the multicultural college experience through stepping, scholarship and service, it is destined to be a historic and unprecedented tournament.
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