[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 83 (Friday, May 15, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E455]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE KAPPA OMEGA OMEGA CHAPTER OF THE ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA
SORORITY
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HON. DAVID G. VALADAO
of california
in the house of representatives
Friday, May 15, 2026
Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Kappa Omega
Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in Bakersfield,
California, on its 50th anniversary.
Chartered on May 13, 1976, Kappa Omega Omega became the first Alpha
Kappa Alpha chapter established in Bakersfield. Built through the
vision and dedication of community leaders like Susianna Anderson and
the chapter's founding members, the organization was created to
strengthen the community through service and mentorship. Over the past
five decades, the chapter has remained a driving force for education
and positive change throughout Kern County and the Central Valley.
Since 1980, Kappa Omega Omega has hosted its annual Graduation Awards
Program, helping African American students prepare for higher education
and awarding more than 1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors. Their
Miss Fashionetta fundraiser has also served as a mentoring experience
for young women as they transition from high school to college,
providing them with invaluable career exploration and scholarship
opportunities.
Beyond their educational initiatives, the chapter's Childhood Hunger
Initiative Power Pack (CHIPP) program has helped fight childhood hunger
by providing meals to families in need. They have also supported local
seniors through the Senior Shower of Love, participated in health
efforts like the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, and partnered
with organizations across the community, including the Boys and Girls
Club Angel Tree Project.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to
join me in congratulating the sisters of Kappa Omega Omega on this
remarkable milestone and in thanking them for fifty years of dedicated
service to Bakersfield, Kern County, and the Central Valley.
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