In an effort to highlight the people who are leading graduate chapters across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to the sorority sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Epsilon Upsilon Omega Chapter in Trenton, NJ and did an interview with Adrienne King the Basileus of the chapter.

The position of Basileus/president of a Black sorority chapter is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes. Adrienne King, who works as a claims specialist, has been in the position of Basileus for three years.

We interviewed Adrienne King, who is a 1997 Epsilon Upsilon Omega chapter initiate and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in the digital age.

Read the full interview below.

What motivated you to take on the role of alumni chapter president?

To cultivate partnerships with other like minded organizations, increase voter education and provide community service opportunities to our constituents.

What specific initiatives is your chapter heading up this year and how do you think they will improve the local community or the broader Black community?

Voter education, youth leadership opportunities, raising awareness for worthy causes such as breast cancer, autism, prostrate cancer and diabetes. All our activities are focused on raising awareness in our communities regarding pressing issues that impact us daily.

What made you want to pledge Alpha Kappa Alpha?

I’ve always had the desire to help and educate all people with whom I interact.

What is it about your specific chapter that makes it so unique?

Our sisterly vibe.

How is your chapter providing for the undergraduate chapters you support?

Assisting financially, mentoring them and making sure they are ready to take their place in society with gainful employment upon graduating.

How do you approach fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among alumni members, and what strategies have you found effective?

Collaborating with other chapters on community service events is most effective because it allows us to provide service in numbers as well as strengthen our bonds as sorority sisters.

How has mentorship helped you get to where you are today? Are there any specific people in your org who have made a significant impact on your life as mentors?

My two mentors are Sherri Eure/Washington and Geraldine Eure, Esq. They have been supporting me to excel since I was a debutante in high school. It’s because of their service to all mankind that inspired me to become a member part of the First and Finest Sorority.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black greekdom?

It embodies our rich history as a people and provides reinforcement of being unapologetically Black!

Looking back at it, why do you love being a member of your org?

Because it allows me to do what I love doing which is building people up, educating people and being of service to all mankind.

​​Lastly, what does sisterhood mean to you?

It means working hard and playing hard realizing in numbers we are powerful. Working to make sure we make an impact in the lives of those in need. Playing hard to provide balance and strengthen relationships.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Adrienne King for her work as the Basileus of the Epsilon Upsilon Omega Chapter which has a legacy that spans back to 1952.

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Photo Credit: Helen Walker and Jametta Clarke