Madison Sorority Celebrates 50 Years of Service This Weekend

For 50 years, one Madison sorority has been quietly changing lives through sisterhood, scholarship, and service.

This weekend, the Kappa Psi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority celebrates its golden anniversary with a homecoming celebration that spans three days. The festivities kick off Friday, June 5, and run through Sunday, bringing together generations of women who've dedicated themselves to uplifting their community.

Frances Huntley-Cooper was just 24 when the chapter was chartered on May 15, 1976. Now the only original member still living in Wisconsin, she's also a history maker as the first African American mayor elected in the state.

"I'm so excited that I'm here to help celebrate 50 years," Huntley-Cooper says. "We still have young people who are involved in the sorority with a lot of fire and energy."

The chapter's impact runs deep across Madison. Members have served in government, education, nursing, and law enforcement, mentoring thousands along the way. Notable members include Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings and former Fitchburg mayor Huntley-Cooper herself.

Current chapter president Stephanie Bradley Wilson has been an AKA for 50 years, starting at UW-Madison in 1976. She loves how the sorority bridges generations, from teenagers to women in their 90s, all committed for life.

The Ripple Effect

What makes this sisterhood different is its forever commitment. Unlike many college sororities where membership fades after graduation, Alpha Kappa Alpha expects lifelong participation.

That dedication shows up in action. The chapter has hosted fundraisers like their popular "Men Who Cook" event and fashion shows, all to support Madison area programs and families.

Tara Jackson, who's been an AKA for 39 years, chairs the anniversary celebration. "We are a very tight sisterhood because our chapter is small, and we depend on each other," she says.

The weekend kicks off Friday night with a free community tailgate at the Urban League's Black Business Hub. Saturday brings a private rededication brunch for members, followed by a homecoming block party that evening.

After years of staying distant during COVID, the sisters are ready to reconnect and celebrate together. The weekend promises music, fellowship, and shared stories from five decades of service.

Half a century of sisterhood proves that when women commit to lifting each other up, entire communities rise too.