The Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated celebrated a milestone with its inaugural “A Legacy of a Century Cotillion” on April 26 at Marina Del Rey in the Bronx Families, community leaders, supporters, and guests gathered to witness the presentation of debutantes and their escorts.
The accomplishments of a focused and ambitious group of debutantes was on display, along with elegance, heritage, and community pride. The inaugural class of 2025–2026 included 16 students who, in previous months, participated in mentorship, personal development workshops, and service initiatives. The program was created to empower these future leaders and encourage civic responsibility and academic excellence. The Tau Omega Chapter presented more than $20,000 in awards during the cotillion.
The cotillion, which was held under the leadership of Chapter President Valerie M. Henderson and co-chaired by Iris Springer-Elkerson and Katherine Acevedo, showcased the chapter’s commitment to scholarship, leadership development, and service.
Photos courtesy of Warren K. Thompson
Debutantes and Escorts with (left to right) cotillion Co-Chair Iris Springer-Elkerson, Tau Omega President Valerie M. Henderson, and Cotillion Co-Chair Katherine Acevedo. 
“A Legacy of a Century Cotillion” escorts: Bryce Blot, Christopher Banks, Amari Joseph, Ade Hooks, Brandon Dow, Reed Harris Butts, Jahdell Bulgin, Aschur Holly, Salvador Pena, Terrell Barnes, Aneudy Taverez, Zahir Thacker, J. Chase Lucks, Joseph Bernard, Chase Dinham, and Thierno “Theo” Mbengue. 
Presenting debutantes Maya Hammond in the center with (left to right) NiMyah Richardson, Amara Bruton, Aurora Morgan, Maya Clarke, and Trinity Bowen. 
Cotillion Co-Chair Iris Springer-Elkerson, Tau Omega Chapter President Valerie M. Henderson, Debutante Madison Seaborn, and Cotillion Co-Chair Katherine Acevedo (left to right). 
Cotillion Co-Chair Iris Springer-Elkerson, Debutante Deanna Reid- Hawkins, president of Tau Omega Chapter of AKA Valerie M. Henderson, and Cotillion Co-Chair Katherine Acevedo (left to right). 
Cotillion held as part of Tau Omega Chapter’s centennial celebration, which kicked off in May 2025, in recognition of their 100 years of service in the Harlem community.
The event included presentations, heartfelt speeches, and memorable performances. Empowering young women to become confident leaders and changemakers in their communities was a clear focus. The inaugural cotillion honored tradition and upheld a meaningful legacy for future generations. Among the colleges and universities that the students will be attending this fall are Wellesley College, Barnard College, Morgan State University, and Hampton University.
Congratulations to the 2025–2026 “A Legacy of a Century Cotillion” debutantes:
Amara Bruton
Amelie Clermont
Asia Bruce
Aurora Morgan
Azariah Joseph
Deanna Reid-Hawkins
Jullian Ciera Donaldson
Makiah Arrington
Maya Clarke
Maya Hammond
Madison Seaborn
Naomi Jordan
NiMyah Richardson
Summer-Zaire Bell
Trinity Bowen
Tymaia Jones
The debutantes received recognition awards:
$6,000, Valerie Henderson Leadership Award
$5,000, Excellence in Leadership Award
$5,000, Philanthropist Award
$4,000, A Sparkle in Time Award
$3,500, Emerging Young Leader Award
Escort awards of $500 each were presented for:
Recruitment & Brotherhood
Consistency and Dedication
Young Leader
Chivalry & Gentlemanly
