Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has welcomed six extraordinary Black women into its historic sisterhood as honorary members during its 72nd Boule in Las Vegas. The 2026 honorary class celebrates women whose leadership has transformed science, entertainment, technology, business, and public service.
This year’s distinguished honorees include vaccine scientist Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett-Helaire, award-winning actress Pauletta Pearson Washington, actress, director, and producer LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Emmy-nominated director Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Silicon Valley executive Merline Saintil, and Robin Washington, President and Chief Operating and Financial Officer of Salesforce. Together, they represent decades of excellence, innovation, and service that continue to inspire future generations of Black women.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Honors Six Black Women for Leadership and Lasting Impact
Founded in 1908 at Howard University, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is the nation’s first Black Greek-letter sorority. Honorary membership is reserved for women whose careers and service reflect the organization’s long-standing values of leadership, scholarship, and service.
The sorority announced the 2026 honorary class on social media, describing the women as “scientists, innovators, artists, executives, and visionaries whose work has changed industries, opened doors, and created lasting impact.”
The announcement also celebrated the group’s influence with a powerful message:
“Not just trending. Transformational. Not just accomplished. Enduring. Not just recognized. Respected. This is what excellence, leadership, and service look like.”
The six women were officially inducted during the members-only initiation ceremony at the sorority’s 72nd Boule, one of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s most important international gatherings.
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett-Helaire Leads a Class of Women Changing the World
Among the newest honorary members is Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett-Helaire, the renowned immunologist who helped lead the rapid development of one of the first COVID-19 vaccines. Her groundbreaking scientific work has saved countless lives while encouraging more young Black women to pursue careers in science and medicine.
She is joined by Merline Saintil, a respected software engineer, investor, and Fortune 100 board director who has helped shape the technology industry. Also honored is Robin Washington, who serves as President and Chief Operating and Financial Officer of Salesforce, making a lasting impact in corporate leadership.
Together, these women demonstrate that Black excellence continues to drive innovation across healthcare, technology, and business while creating opportunities for the next generation.
Pauletta Washington, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, and Salli Richardson-Whitfield Shine in Entertainment
The 2026 honorary class also celebrates remarkable achievements in film, television, and theater. Pauletta Pearson Washington, an award-winning Broadway and film actress, has built a respected career through decades of memorable performances.
Meanwhile, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, a three-time Tony Award-nominated actress, director, and producer, continues to influence American theater and film. Her work has earned widespread recognition for both artistic excellence and leadership.
The entertainment honorees also include Salli Richardson-Whitfield, who made history as the first Black woman nominated for the Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series. Her success behind the camera has helped expand opportunities for Black women in Hollywood.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Celebrates Women Whose Service Matches Their Success
Alpha Kappa Alpha International President and CEO Danette Anthony Reed said the honorary members were selected because of both their professional accomplishments and their commitment to serving others.
“I truly believe these exemplary women have achieved great distinction, acclaim, and success in their professional and personal lives. Now, we are deeply honored to embrace them as sorors of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.”
Her remarks highlight the sorority’s belief that true leadership extends beyond career success. It also includes uplifting communities and opening doors for those who follow.
Each woman honored has made a lasting impact in her profession while serving as a role model for young Black women around the world.
Honorary Membership Continues Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Legacy of Black Excellence
Honorary membership has long been one of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s highest recognitions. It celebrates women whose influence reflects the sorority’s mission of service and lifelong leadership.
This year’s class continues that tradition by bringing together pioneers from science, business, technology, theater, and entertainment. Although their careers are different, they share a common commitment to excellence and community impact.
Their induction also sends a powerful message to young Black women. Great leadership can take many forms, whether in a laboratory, boardroom, film set, or on the stage. By honoring these six women, Alpha Kappa Alpha continues to recognize those whose work leaves a lasting legacy far beyond their individual achievements.
