Constance Pizarro, a mother of two daughters, is a vice president and 23-year veteran at The Bank of New York Mellon.
Also read: women, Alpha Kappa Alpha, African Americans, Black
In 1979, as a freshman trying to find my way around Hofstra University in Hempstead, Long Island, I learned of several campus groups designed to welcome new students. But one sparked my interest--Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA). Why? I identified with its members, who seemed to be involved in all aspects of college life--as resident advisors, student government leaders and campus affairs coordinators. So, during my first year in college, I was welcomed into AKA's ranks. To this day, my allegiance remains.
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With my college days long behind me, I proudly remain an active participant of this 250,000-member worldwide organization--and for good reason. AKA is the nation's first Greek-lettered Black sorority. Founded in 1908 at Howard University, prominent members include Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, Mae Jemison and Radio One/TV One founder and chairperson Cathy Hughes.
Although people often think of sororities as mere social clubs, AKA is much more to me. It was a leadership training ground, a connection to the community and a family. My sorority sisters prepared me for the "real world" in corporate America, which requires self-confidence and ambition. Serving as role models when I was a college student, they helped develop my leadership skills, enabling me to help other young women in similar positions today. I currently serve as a member of The Bank of New York Mellon's formal IT Mentoring program, and I mentor graduate and undergraduate AKA members.
Even today, AKA furthers my career. After attending workshops during our annual conferences, I learned new team-building, organizational and planning skills that I use daily. As a result, my meetings at The Bank of New York Mellon are more concise, efficient and productive; my presentation and public-speaking skills are more polished. AKA also provides me with a worldwide, instant network. I can travel anywhere in the world and find a sorority sister. It's comforting to know that I'll have a friend no matter where I go.
Most important, the organization is a vehicle through which I can give back to my community. Originally from Harlem, I was raised to have a strong sense of community. A lot of people helped me to be the woman I am today, so I feel it's my responsibility to help others--especially in our nation's current financial crisis. I volunteer for projects sponsored by my local AKA chapter, including Adopt a Family, Girl Scouts Beyond Bars and Serious Teenagers Only Mentoring Program. Within The Bank of New York Mellon, I coordinate an annual event for the Junior Achievement of New York. Even in my community, I chair a nonprofit that raises funds to sponsor an all-night alcohol- and drug-free party for high-school grads.
When I last visited Hofstra, I was with my 17-year-old daughter, who is considering the college for her undergraduate studies. I wanted her to hear firsthand from students about college life. So, once again, I reached out to an AKA member undergrad, who made herself available to my daughter for the entire day.
That served as yet another reminder that sisterly bonds last a lifetime.
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