Theta Beta Omega Chapter of New Bern, NC was the one hundred ninety-eighth graduate chapter established by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, and one of five chartered in 1964. The New Bern Chapter was an outgrowth of Zeta Omicron Omega in Kinston, NC. Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Elizabeth Randolph presided over the ceremony which was held on November 21 at the home of Mary Danyus. Fourteen members were from New Bern, five from the Robersonville-Williamston area and one from Beaufort.

Martha S. Faison was immediately elected President. Other officers included Nora Slade, Vice President; Alma Gaither, Secretary; Marie Jones, Ivy Leaf Reporter; Otis Belle Meyers, Corresponding Secretary; Jessie White, Dean of Pledges; Blanche Rivers, Treasurer; Arabelle Bryant, Sergeant at Arms and Lauretta Smith, Hostess.

In the first year, much energy was given to planning and setting goals. However, realizing that program is the heart of Alpha Kappa Alpha, members immediately embarked on a program of service and involvement. The first major program was the chapter’s Debutante Ball. Although New Bern had been a part of Zeta Omicron Omega, the Balls were held separately in each city. Consequently, the first Ball for the New Bern area was in 1956. The first Ball as a newly chartered chapter was in 1965. While these presentations were viewed as important social cultural contributions to the community, they also have provided funds for sorority projects. Since 1983, the Debutante Balls have been held triennially instead of annually.

As activities were planned, the chapter sought to implement the international programs through its local projects. Some local activities which have reflected the international themes down the years have included scholarship awards, tutoring programs, annual Black Heritage programs, health related programs, voter registration drives, adoption of Christmas foster children, clothing drives, senior citizens programs, and others. One of the most rewarding local projects was under the international theme “service With A Global Perspective”, from 1986-1990. The chapter not only adopted an African village in Rwanda, but also hosted several groups and individuals from the Ivory Coast, South Africa, and Rwanda. These guests visited and spoke in local schools and churches, attended community activities and some were privileged to witness a Naturalization Ceremony at the Courthouse.

Theta Beta Omega Chapter History

Adelaide Booker
Arabelle Bryant
Ruby Bowie (Humphrey)
Mary Danyus
Martha Faison
Norma Godette
Alma Gaither
Marie L. Jones
Bernice McElrath
Otis Belle Meyers
Frances Newby

Clara Owens
Blanche Rivers
Ann Sawyer (Moore)
Fannie Slade
Nora Slade
Annie Day Smith
Lauretta Smith

Jessie White

Clifford Wooten

Martha Faison 1964-1966
Nora Slade 1966-1968
Jessie White 1968-1972
Clara Owens 1972-1974
Arabelle Bryant 1974-1976
Fannie Slade 1976
Ruby Humphrey 1976-1979
E. Celeste Simmons 1979-1981
Ernell Thompkins 1981-1983
Norma F. Godette 1983-1984
Delores Humphrey 1984-1986

Dorothy Bryan 1986-1988
Katie Brown 1988-1990
Matlynn Bryant 1990-1992
Shirley Guion 1992-1996
E. Celeste Simmons 1996-1998
Carthenia Mann 1998-2000
Ernell Thompkins 2000-2002
Gwendolyn Bryan 2002-2004
Delzora Clark 2004-2006
Beatrice Smith 2006-2008
Gwendolyn Bryan 2008-2010
Priscilla Gibbs 2010-2012
Barbara Perry 2012-2014
Gazelia Carter 2014-2016
Delzora Clark 2016-2018
Tracy Shope 2018-2020

Natasha Perry 2020-2022

Katrina Arnold  2022-2024

TBO Charter Members

TBO Former Presidents