Moreno Valley, CA – October 25, 2026 – Sixty-five years of sisterhood, service, and community impact were celebrated as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Eta Nu Omega Chapter and The Inland Ivy Foundation gathered at Hollywood Hall in Moreno Valley to commemorate the chapter’s 65th Anniversary. Chartered on October 28, 1961, Eta Nu Omega Chapter began its legacy of service with a chartering ceremony at the Golden Embers Restaurant in Rialto, California. Thirteen visionary women established the foundation for what would become a longstanding commitment to serving communities throughout San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Chartering Members
● Sylvia Cichocki*
● Lulamae Clemons*
● Lorraine Dupart*
● Lois Green*
● Salena Gregory
● Gwendolyn Heard
● Thelma Lewis*
● Roberta McClinton
● Jane Sayles
● Gloria Smith*
● Ellase Stiggers*
● Irma Sutton*
● Blanche Whitney* An asterisk () denotes deceased members. * Eta Nu Omega Chapter President Wanda K. Jones welcomed attendees and reflected on the chapter’s rich history and enduring legacy of community service. “For 65 years, our chapter has remained committed to uplifting our community, empowering individuals and families, promoting educational advancement, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve,” President Jones shared. Looking toward the future, she emphasized the importance of embracing innovation, strengthening community partnerships, developing emerging leaders, and continuing the mission and vision of the beloved sisterhood. The Inland Ivy Foundation President Nellie Moore expressed heartfelt appreciation for the continued partnership and support that have sustained the organizations throughout the years. She stated, “For 65 years, we have traveled this journey together, and we are deeply grateful for your continued support, partnership, and commitment to our community.” Established in 2012, The Inland Ivy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that partners with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Eta Nu Omega Chapter to support charitable initiatives and fundraising activities that benefit the community. The anniversary celebration also included special recognition of The Brown Family, honored with the Legacy of Service Across Generation Award. Community icons for their longstanding contributions and positive impact throughout the Inland Empire. Their dedication and commitment exemplify the spirit of service celebrated throughout this milestone occasion.
The Brown Family
A Legacy of Service Across Generations
Hardy and Cheryl Brown
Hardy and Cheryl remain deeply committed to community service. As an Assembly member, Cheryl focused on issues affecting older adults. A lifelong learner and caregiver, she completed the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Certificate Program in 2020. She now serves as Hardy’s primary caregiver, supports her church and Akoma’s Golden Agers, and recently spearheaded the Inland Empire Caregiver Expo. Living with ALS, Hardy continues to write and advise candidates and elected officials. Together, they meet life’s challenges with strength and purpose.
Lynn-Renee Brown Summers
Known as Farmer Lynn, carries forward her family’s farming and food-preservation traditions. Following a 30-year health care career, she founded Summersprep, an urban sustainability business offering education in farming, soil building, irrigation, hydroponics, aquaponics, and food preservation.
Dr. Paulette Brown-Hinds
Dr. Paulette Brown-Hinds works to ensure communities of color are seen, heard, and accurately represented. Through geospatial storytelling at Black Voice News, the IE Journalism Hub, and the California Journalism Philanthropy Summit, she advances community journalism through the IE Journalism Hub.
Hardy and Sonietta Brown
Hardy and Sonietta have built a family centered on education, service, and culture. Sonietta was the first Black president of the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra and has dedicated her career to families in need. Hardy’s education career includes HBCU fundraising, Wilberforce University, and becoming the first Black person elected to the San Bernardino County Board of Education.
Regina and Dr. Kurt Wilson
Regina leads California Black Media, the statewide nonprofit founded by her parents, expanding its mission to ensure every community is heard. She also launched the Hardy and Cheryl Brown Institute for Independent and Ethnic Media to preserve local journalism and strengthen the news business. Her husband, Dr. Kurt Wilson, is a local government expert, advocate, and educator specializing in municipal finance, organizational recovery, and ethical policing.
With Gratitude
On behalf of the Brown family, thank you to the women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, for this recognition. We are deeply honored.
Honoring a Legacy: Soror Gwendolyn Heard Nelson A special tribute was extended to chartering member Gwendolyn Heard Nelson, recognizing her significant place in the chapter’s history and the legacy established by the extraordinary women who paved the way for generations of service. Initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® at Alpha Pi Chapter at Clark College, now known as Clark Atlanta University, Gwendolyn Heard Nelson has proudly maintained her membership for 70 years. She holds the distinction of being one of the chartering members of Eta Nu Omega Chapter. Throughout her membership, she had the opportunity to serve in every chapter office except Business Manager. Her distinguished service has also been recognized by the Far Western Region through three prestigious honors: the Mildred L. Robinson Graduate Basileus Award, the Audrey B. Jones Alumna Leadership Award, and the Diana G. Shipley Golden Soror Award. Reflecting on her lifelong commitment to the sisterhood, Gwendolyn Heard Nelson shared a powerful message: “Becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® is a serious matter and a commitment that each Sister should take very seriously, from the day she becomes a new member until she becomes an Ivy Beyond the Wall.” Her words serve as a meaningful reminder that membership extends beyond initiation; it represents a lifelong commitment to sisterhood, leadership, and service. As Eta Nu Omega Chapter celebrates this remarkable milestone, the chapter and foundation remain steadfast in their commitment to service, scholarship, leadership, and community empowerment. The legacy established by the 13 chartering members continues to inspire today’s members and future generations to make a difference. Sixty-five years of service. A legacy of sisterhood. A future filled with greater possibilities! Special thanks are extended to Anniversary Chairman Joanne Brown-Craig, Co-Chair LaShawne Mouton- Stewart, and the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Eta Nu Omega Chapter for their dedication and efforts in making this historic celebration memorable
