Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated added six accomplished women to its sisterhood this week during the organization’s 72nd International Boule in Las Vegas.
The sorority conferred honorary membership on vaccine scientist Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett-Helaire, actress, director and producer LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Emmy-nominated director Salli Richardson-Whitfield, actress and musician Pauletta Pearson Washington, technology executive Merline Saintil and Salesforce President and Chief Operating and Financial Officer Robin Washington.
“Today, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® welcomed six women whose influence extends far beyond their names,” read the sorority’s post on social media. “They are scientists, innovators, artists, executives, and visionaries whose work has changed industries, opened doors, and created lasting impact. Not just trending. Transformational. Not just accomplished. Enduring. Not just recognized. Respected.”
Richardson Jackson has built a celebrated career on stage and screen, earning multiple Tony Award nominations while also making history as the first woman to direct an August Wilson play on Broadway with The Piano Lesson. Richardson-Whitfield continues to leave her mark behind the camera, directing acclaimed television series including Queen Sugar, Scandal and Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, which earned her a historic Emmy nomination.
Saintil has spent decades helping shape the technology industry as a Silicon Valley executive, investor and advocate for greater representation in corporate leadership. Washington oversees finance and operations at Salesforce while also serving on Alphabet’s board of directors. Pearson Washington rounds out the class with a career spanning Broadway, film and music.
The six women were recognized during Monday’s ceremony, joining a distinguished group of honorary members whose work has influenced generations within their professions and beyond. Under the leadership of International President and CEO Danette Anthony Reed, the organization continues to recognize women whose impact reflects Alpha Kappa Alpha’s enduring commitment to scholarship, service and leadership.
