BY DR. BARBARA J. MCLEAN-SMITH, CONTRIBUTING WRITER
ORLANDO – Serving Orange and Osceola Counties over the past forty years was commemorated with a Jazz Lunch held at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, December 16, 2023. The thematic concept for this auspicious event was “F.O.R.W.A.R.D. WITH FORTITUDE.” Moving “Forward” was met with an eye for what had brought the chapter to where it is today. Homage was paid to the twenty-four (24) charter members: M. Jean Butler Proffitt, President, Betty Smith, Vice President, Martha Myrick Mitchell, Recording Secretary, Ethel Cooley, Corresponding Secretary, Lottie H. Collins, Financial Secretary, Lillian Seays**, Treasurer, Julie Ann Williams Johnson, Parliamentarian, Sandra Hoston, Chaplain, Sandra Mills Brown, Sondra Calloway Brown, Norman Jean Smith Bynes, Marva Hope Carter, Catherine Helms Fleming, Yvonne Harris Jackson Fleming, Miriam Johnson Jennings, Arlene M. Jones Ginn, Phyllis Renee Knighton, Valeria Lee McCaw**, Paulette Hollingsworth Morgan, Mary Martin Mosley, Shirlee Cherrye Patrick**, Lillie Quinn**, Linda Harris Reddick** and Marsha Morris Reece. ** Deceased
The above group of women laid the foundation for what was to come as exemplified in the service and impact the chapter has on the community today.
At a minimum, as shown here, one-third of the charter members were in attendance and beautifully represented the original Sorority sisters. In attendance also were Sandra Mills Brown, Norma Jean Bynes, and Martha Myrick Mitchell.
The Chapter continuously strives to make a difference that positively influences our community through innovative projects and programs, and by exhibiting leadership by example. Featuring the Jazz Ensemble, Osceola County School for the Arts was one such example. These young performers brought talent that showcased professionalism and popular jazz hits as a prelude to what could be expected throughout the festive celebration.
Daralene Jones, a member of DST-OCAC and local renowned news anchor and investigative reporter for WFTV Channel 9 served as Mistress of Ceremonies, “par excellence”.
The chapter’s president, Kristian Jenkins welcomed the attendees with warmth and excitement as she reiterated the chapter’s commitment to move “F.O.R.W.A.R.D. with Fortitude”. The mission is to endure any type of adversity and to move forward to serve the chapter and community with:
“F. Friendly, welcoming, and supportive environment for all Sorors.
O. Outside of the box thinking with a receptive, open mind.
R. Review and evaluate existing chapter operations for inefficiencies and areas (in need) of improvement.
W. Work smarter (not harder) with collaborative programs and partnerships.
A. Advancement of the mission, vision, and ideals of our National and Regional leadership within our local communities and chapters.
R. Reclamation and retention of Sorors and members.
D. Development of chapter members for leadership and success.”
“Since its inception, OCAC has remained committed to stellar service and delivery of award-winning public service programming that has resulted in approximately $200,000 in awarded scholarships and incentives to graduating students. Over the years, the chapter has:
- Hosted educational programs for elementary, middle, and high school students
- Civically engaged the community through town hall meetings, voter registration drives, and advocacy
- Stimulated the local economy by supporting small businesses and promoting financial literacy and empowerment
- Supported World Aids Day and raised awareness of issues affecting the global community
- Participated in the American Diabetes Association – Tour De Cure, American Cancer Society – Relay for Life, and Breast Cancer Walk, along with providing a forum for discussion regarding the mental health of college students and women.
And much, much more!
As the Orlando Metropolitan area continues to grow, the members of the OCAC chapter are dedicated to collectively serving the community at large.
The protocol had been established by the luncheon committee and chairperson, Monica Riley whose aim was to “honor the legacy of the trailblazing women who, forty years ago, chartered the organization and left an indelible mark on the civic and social development of Orange and Osceola counties.” Program participants, all of whom were head table guests, presented each feature of the program with vigor leaving a high anticipation for what was to come next. The dynamic keynote speaker, Cynthia M. A. Butler McIntyre, the 24th National President referred to as the “Centennial President” did not disappoint.
Cynthia Marie Antoinette Butler-McIntyre brought a message that ignited the audience as she gave a charge to her Sorors and guests in the room. Pulling from her vast range of education and experiences, she let it be known that serving others is a gift. Her biographical sketch exemplified that she indeed has lived a life of service to others. “She’s lovingly regarded as a leader with a servant’s heart.”
Educationally, “She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Dillard University and a Master of Education degree from the University of New Orleans all by the age of 20.” She is the recipient of a plethora of awards including two (2) Honorary Doctorate degrees. One Honorary Doctorate Degree in Divinity from Christian Bible College of Louisiana and a second Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Dillard University. Given high regard by former President, Barack Obama, Mrs. Butler-McIntyre was appointed to the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation. Her extensive affiliations are too many to name. However, her church membership and service belong to the Olive Branch Baptist Church in New Orleans, where this year, she will be celebrating 60 years as a dutiful and dedicated servant. Mrs. Butler-McIntyre emphasized to the group that our main effort is to serve others. “She lives by the words of I Peter 4:10 which states in part – “we should use whatever gifts we have received to serve others.” A resounding question by Mrs. Butler-McIntyre that resonated with OCAC and guests was “What is and will be your mark left on others?”
Monica Riley’s closing remarks reminded everyone that “Together we have achieved much and together we will continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.” To whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48).
