The members of Zeta Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. are preparing for their 20th Biennial Debutante Cotillion. This year’s theme is “A Waltz in Wonderland.” The Cotillion is the culmination of several months of activities which are focused on etiquette, health and wellness, social and community service.
This year’s Cotillion Committee is comprised of Annie Kornegay, chairwoman, and Debra Joyner, co-chairwoman; Cherise Artis and Betty Little, tea/banquet; Jada Mumford, Geraldyne Barbour and Clara Knight, charm clinics; Sylvia Lanier and Carolyn Anderson, social/cultural; Barbara Seaforth and Sarah Connor, finances; Wanda Barnes and Paula Melvin, Cotillion network; Lavonell Whitfield and Valeria Davis, publicity; Sarone Cannon and Sarah Connor, awards/gifts; Joyce Raye and Theon Hardy, logistics; Paula Melvin and Teedra Brown, choreography; Joyce Raye and Jimmette Graham, presentation/program; Bessie Burns, Faith Bynum and Chris Johnson, souvenir booklet; Jimmette Graham, Debra Greene Blair and Cassandra Moseley, decorations; and Shirley Brown, Rebecca Davidson and Deborah Fleming, special events hostesses.
The pre-Cotillion activities began with the Cotillion Orientation Tea in October when prospective Debutantes, their parents and co-sponsors were acquainted with the sorority’s history and informed about the Cotillion tradition. They were also notified about all the activities and programs planned for them and the stipulations for involvement.
Cultural events were the Mic Night at the Community Council for the Arts, and Jackie Robinson at Rochelle Middle School, in October; Deeper Life Ministries Christmas Program in Goldsboro, in December; and The Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival at Saint Mary’s Church, in January.
Community projects consisted of Grandparents Day in December, and the MLK Saturday Supper Project in January.
Charm clinics were “Working to Achieve Shared Goals” in October and “Preparing for College and Beyond” in November. There are still several upcoming activities to enjoy before the Cotillion, especially the Mother-Daughter Banquet.
The Cotillion is designed as a program to support academic achievement and provide opportunities for community service on the part of participating high school junior and senior young women.
Eighteen debutantes will be presented to society at the Cotillion Ball at 8 p.m. March 29 at Lenoir Community College’s gymnasium.