The Dennard Plaza at the University of the District of Columbia was electrified on the evening of April 3 as the Beta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., hosted its new member presentation. Amid a sea of salmon pink and apple green, the campus community gathered to witness the unveiling of new initiates who have joined the ranks of the “First and Finest.”
The presentation served as a showcase of precision, heritage and academic excellence. The new members — Shaday Currie, Micah Hamilton, Diamond Gordon, Kayleah Shelton, Esdrizabeth Pereyra Cuello and Donique Francis — demonstrated the chapter’s ties to student leadership. Notably, the line features two consecutive campus queens: the 47th Miss UDC, Esdrizabeth Pereyra Cuello, and the 46th Miss UDC, Donique Francis, highlighting a continued connection to the university’s legacy of service.
The atmosphere was filled with chants and strolls as the initiates revealed their identities to a cheering crowd of students, faculty and alumni. For many, the highlight of the night was the emotional unmasking, symbolizing the transition from aspirants to full members of the sisterhood.
“Joining Beta Lambda is about more than just a title; it’s about carrying on a legacy that has been part of this institution since the days of Miner Teachers College,” said Cheryl Hubbard, graduate adviser. “These women represent the future of leadership on this campus.”
As these new members begin their journey, the UDC community can expect to see them leading service projects and academic workshops throughout the semester.
