By Jheri Hardaway
Staff Writer
Raleigh, NC - The 73rd Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference, themed “Legendary,” welcomed a pretty girl takeover of downtown Raleigh with a focus on sisterhood and service to all mankind. The weekend featured dynamic trainings, impactful workshops, and signature events, each thoughtfully curated with the membership in mind.
A major highlight of the event was a keynote by outgoing Mid-Atlantic Regional Director Nadine Vargas Stewart. Stewart shared that during her 2022-2026 administration, the Mid-Atlantic Region demonstrated exceptional commitment to six programmatic targets, including strengthening our sisterhood, empowering our families, building economic wealth, enhancing our environment, advocating for social justice, and uplifting our local community. Through the empowering families initiative, chapters have distributed Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Packs (CHIPP) to students in need. Through our environmental enhancement initiatives, 4,739 trees have been planted, 116,614 pounds of paper shredded at community events, and 22,949 electronic items collected and recycled. Under the umbrella of advocating for social justice, 5,833 letters were written to elected officials advocating for Black maternal health, mental health, gun violence prevention, and voting rights. Finally, through the uplift of our local community, 108,724 volunteer service hours were completed. Another notable data point shared by Regional Director Vargas Stewart was that 85% of undergraduate members across the region maintained cumulative grade point averages of 3.0 or higher during this administration. Even undergraduate members distinguished themselves by maintaining a perfect 4.0 grade point average.
With over 20,000 members in attendance, the music, the information, and the vibe made the 73rd Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference truly Legendary and an important experience for the dedicated membership. The unity was palpable and refreshing during these trying times. These days, it is essential to align with like-minded people so we can work towards a better tomorrow together.
