Alpha Kappa Alpha was started by a group of women at Howard University in 1908. These women were separated from slavery by only one generation and recognized the significance of their ability to make it to college. On their website, Alpha Kappa Alpha notes issues in the African American community that spurred the beginning of this sorority. Members noticed a growing need for organizations that cut across racial, political and social barriers through the intensity of black and white race relations during the civil rights movement.
Alpha Kappa Alpha names two shaping themes for its sorority: the importance of the individual, and the strength of an organization ruled by women of courage and ability. Alpha Kappa Alpha is also known for its community service in organizations such as the Educational Advancement Foundation. Created at a time when women were much less likely to attend schooling, let alone college, Alpha Kappa Alpha keeps educational advancement at the forefront of its message and mission.
Today, Alpha Kappa Alpha has over 200,000 members divided into 950 chapters around the world. For efficiency in the administration process, the Alpha Kappa Alpha organization has divided these chapters into regions. Of those chapters open in Chicago, there exists one at Chicago State in Illinois, one at Northeastern Illinois University and two city chapters. Other chapters exist in Africa, Canada, the Caribbean, Japan, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Germany.
Membership to the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority at Chicago State University is comprised of a traditional application and "rush" process. Alpha Kappa Alpha members are expected to have high personal and moral standards, and are excluded if they engage in demoralizing activities disguised as "rush" requirements. This sorority has an official Members Intake Process followed at each of its 950 chapters. Applicants must be a full time student at Chicago State, complete one full grading period at Chicago State and achieve a C+ average.
If you attend another college in Chicago besides Chicago State or Northeastern Illinois University, you can still become a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. While there are no other active college chapters in Chicago, you can still present your application for membership at any college or community chapter to begin the rush process.