The History of Delta Eta Chapter

“Sweet dreams are made of these… Pink and Green and Ivy leaves…”

Pauline Sims Puryear, an Alpha Chapter initiate, served as fourth National President of Alpha Kappa Alpha in 1925. Married to Reverend Royal W. Puryear who served as President of Florida Normal and Industrial Memorial College, she also served as Dean of Women and assistant professor at the institution.

Puryear, always encouraging the Sorority in her achievements and perpetuation, felt the Spirit of Alpha Kappa Alpha was missing at the College. It is here where she began the work of developing Delta Eta Chapter.

She created an interest group, and invited only the finest quality of women - all noted for their scholarship, seriousness, and management of responsibility. This group consisted of Louise Baker, Christine Morris, Doris Medlock, Lillian Haile, Legenia Francis, Deloris Pelham, Betty Henderson, Bernice Russ, Eula Gavy, and Thelma Gonzalez. On the sixth day of February, 1954, these ten phenomenal women gave birth to Delta Eta.

The “Immaculate” Delta Eta Chapter has since grown to be a leader in not only South Florida, but the region as a whole. Leading the way with innovative programming, unmatched levels of leadership, and quality mentoring, she will forever be recognized and respected as the oldest undergraduate chapter in South Florida. The title “Immaculate” is not only well-earned, but well-deserved.

For more information about Alpha Kappa Alpha history, please visit the Official National Website for Alpha Kappa Alpha, aka1908.com.