Difference Between Alpha Kappa Alpha And Delta Sigma Theta 2

Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) and Delta Sigma Theta (DST) are two of the most well-known organizations among the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Although both are historically Black Greek-letter organizations (BGLOs) and have similar goals, there are some significant differences between the two.

History

Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded in 1908 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. and Delta Sigma Theta was founded in 1913 at the same university. AKA was the first Black sorority and DST was the second. Both organizations have a rich history of civic engagement, scholarship, and service.

Philanthropy

Both AKA and DST emphasize philanthropic efforts. AKA’s focus is on education, health, and economic development, while DST focuses on providing college scholarships and mentoring programs for young women.

Membership Requirements

Both organizations have strict membership requirements. AKA requires potential members to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and DST requires a minimum GPA of 2.75. Both organizations also require that potential members demonstrate leadership skills, community service, and academic excellence.

Initiation Requirements

In addition to the membership requirements, both organizations have initiation requirements. For AKA, prospective members are required to attend an orientation program, while DST requires members to attend a program called “The Pathway to Sisterhood”. Both programs involve an in-depth review of the organization’s history, principles, and goals.

Social Media Presence

Both organizations have an active presence on social media. AKA has several accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. DST also has accounts on those platforms as well as YouTube and LinkedIn. Both organizations use social media to promote their events, initiatives, and scholarship opportunities.

Organizational Structure

Both organizations have a similar organizational structure. Each chapter is governed by a board of directors, which is made up of officers, members, and other members of the organization. Each chapter is responsible for fundraising, programming, public relations, and other aspects of the organization.

Recruitment Practices

Both organizations have similar recruitment practices. AKA requires potential members to attend an information session and participate in a formal interview. DST also requires potential members to attend an information session and participate in a formal interview. Both organizations also require potential members to write a personal statement.

Financial Obligations

Both organizations have different financial obligations. AKA requires members to pay annual dues and a one-time initiation fee. DST requires members to pay an initiation fee and annual dues. Both organizations also require members to pay for other expenses such as uniforms, events, and social activities.

Leadership Opportunities

Both organizations offer leadership opportunities for members. AKA provides members with the opportunity to serve as chapter officers and committee chairs. DST offers members the chance to serve as chapter officers, committee chairs, and regional directors.

Alumni Networks

Both organizations have strong alumni networks. AKA has an active network of alumni chapters and events. DST also has an active network of alumni chapters and events. Both organizations also have alumni associations that provide support and resources to members.

Service Projects

Both organizations encourage members to participate in service projects. AKA emphasizes service to the African-American community, while DST focuses on service to all communities. Both organizations also promote volunteerism and philanthropy.

Hazing Practices

Both organizations have strict anti-hazing policies. AKA and DST have both taken steps to eliminate hazing practices and have implemented strict rules and regulations to ensure that all members are treated with respect.

Educational Opportunities

Both organizations offer educational opportunities for members. AKA provides members with access to scholarships, internships, and leadership programs, while DST offers members access to scholarships, leadership programs, and career resources.

Cultural Practices

Both organizations have different cultural practices. AKA emphasizes the importance of sisterhood and DST emphasizes the importance of community service. Both organizations also promote cultural awareness and appreciation for diversity.

Social Events

Both organizations host a variety of social events. AKA hosts annual events such as Founders’ Day and DST hosts events such as Founders’ Day and their signature “Carnival”. Both organizations also host networking events and social activities.

Symbols & Colors

Both organizations have different symbols and colors. AKA’s symbols include the ivy leaf, the turtle, and the pink and green colors. DST’s symbols include the dove, the torch, and the crimson and cream colors.

Conclusion

Alpha Kappa Alpha and Delta Sigma Theta are two of the most well-known organizations among the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Although both organizations have similar goals and have a rich history of civic engagement, scholarship, and service, there are some distinct differences between the two. From their respective initiation requirements to their symbols and colors, these two organizations are unique in their own ways.