Part of Wofford’s appeal to incoming students is Greek life. However, Wofford is aiming to expand their National Pan-Hellenic Council with the potential addition of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Currently, Wofford students are members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Founded on Jan. 15, 1908 on the campus of Howard University, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. became the first historically Black sorority in the United States. Over a century later, the sorority continues to thrive and for Tasha Smith Tyus, senior director at the Career Center, joining the AKA during her junior year at the University of Alabama was a defining moment of her life.
“I spent a vast majority of my sophomore year exploring which National Pan-Hellenic Council organization to be a part of,” Tyus said. “It wasn’t until after I joined AKA that I realized some of the women who had mentored me, who looked like me and who held me accountable were also members.”
For her, the values of service, sisterhood and scholarship stood as the foundation of her sorority experience. That foundation extended well beyond her college years and followed her to Wofford College.
“When I applied to Wofford, I had little knowledge of the campus or Spartanburg, but when it was known I was an AKA, women in the community reached out and welcomed me,” Tyus said.
Tyus’ role within the organization has grown over the years. She now serves as the Second Secretary and Co-Chair of the Leadership Development Committee, where she oversees member training and development.
Currently, she is contributing to the ongoing efforts to establish Alpha Kappa Alpha at Wofford College.
“I’ve been the person to go before the local and regional chapter and say, ‘Wofford is truly interested in this process,’ by not only chartering it, but also sustaining it,” Tyus said.
Beyond advocacy and mentorship, her involvement in community service continues to be deeply fulfilling. Among her proudest accomplishments is the AKA Chip Packing Program at Cleveland Leadership Academy, where members prepare weekend food bags for students in need.
“We pack 50 bags twice a month for kids who may not have access to enough food at home,” Tyus said, “It’s not just about donating, but it’s also about physically being there to do the work.”
Tyus believes that Alpha Kappa Alpha is only growing with high-profile members like former Vice President Kamala Harris showcasing the sorority’s commitment to public service and leadership.
“People want to know more about us now, and it’s a beautiful thing,” Tyus said. “D9 organizations were founded because we were excluded elsewhere. We created spaces for belonging and excellence when none existed.”
Although the process of bringing Alpha Kappa Sorority, Inc. to Wofford’s National Pan-Hellenic Council is still in its early stages, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life is currently working to gather interest from students who like to be involved. Students interested in learning more or expressing interest are encouraged to reach out to Karlee Tate at [email protected], as the process continues to develop.
