Actress Tracee Ellis Ross, WNBA Star Lisa Leslie, Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts and a list of other successful women have been inducted into the historic Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, as honorary members.
In a press release, the sorority announced this year’s honorees, which include: Ross, Leslie, Roberts, Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter, Grammy Award-winner Cynthia Erivo, producer Debra Martin Chase, businesswoman Ursula M. Burns and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alice Walker.
Honorary membership is the organization’s highest honor and it is awarded to women “whose works and contributions parallel AKA’s ideals of achievement and service.”
This morning, Roberts discussed how happy she was to be an honorary member of the sorority on Good Morning America.
“We had a formal in person induction ceremony a couple months ago, but we were asked to keep it quiet until today,” Roberts said. “My mother, Howard University…she was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. So, I’m a legacy member and I remember her voice had so much pride when she talked about her experience. It’s really based on sisterhood and it’s based on service to all. So, I am extremely honored.”
The organization held separate induction ceremonies for each of the women in order to adhere to the CDC’s COVID-19 safety guidelines.
International President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Glenda Glover led the formal induction ceremonies and highlighted the accomplishments of each new honorary member.
“I am honored to welcome these extraordinary women into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Each of these luminaries has reached the pinnacle of success in her respective field and sphere of influence. They are recognized and celebrated around the world and epitomize greatness. Since our founding in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha women have been history makers and standard bearers,” Glover said.
Glover believes these new honorary members will continue the historic sisterhood's legacy.
“Our newest members are writing a new chapter in our long and distinguished history. They now join an international sisterhood of more than 300,000 members who exemplify excellence through our lifelong commitment to the communities we serve. The induction of our newest honorary members will ensure that we continue to shine our light on the extraordinary accomplishments of Black women,” she added.
Iyanla Vanzant, Jada Pinkett Smith, Yolanda Adams, Alicia Keys, Ava DuVernay and Gladys Knight are among honorary members who were previously inducted.
