AKA & The One World Trade Center
wtc.movThe Durst Organization Illuminates World Trade Center for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s116th Founders' Day Celebration.
On the evening of January 15th,2024 the iconic World Trade Center in New York City became a beacon of celebration and unity as it was bathed in the colors of pink and green. This spectacular display marked the 116th Founders' Day of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the first African American Greek-lettered sorority.
Melvin Norris, Director of Government Affairs of The Durst Organization, developed a plan with his team (Mark Domino, Da Ping Luo, Durst Podium Lighting, and consultant 🩷💚Denise Verdant), to light up the One World Trade Center on the occasion of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s116th Founders' Day.
The team worked with the One World Trade Center with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the 911 Memorial, and the North Atlantic Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated for this special event.
Central to the captivating affair was the visionary design crafted by @cousin Dee Dee. Her innovative creation, "The Floating Ivies," was meticulously fashioned to highlight the profound sisterhood and authentic camaraderie that define sorority life. These bonds are a pillar of the vision of our Beloved Founders. For 116 years, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated has promoted unity and friendship among college-educated women as we move steadfastly in the mission of service to All Mankind.
As the evening descended, anticipation filled the air as spectators & members of the sorority gathered around to witness the transformation of the towering structure. Then, precisely at dusk, the lights flickered to life, casting a mesmerizing glow across the New York skyline. The colors pink and green, synonymous with Alpha Kappa Alpha, danced gracefully against the night sky, creating a stunning visual tribute to the sorority's legacy of sisterhood, service, and scholarship.
For Norris, this project was not just about illuminating a building; it was about capturing the essence of Alpha Kappa Alpha's impact on communities worldwide. "I wanted that would not only showcase the sorority's vibrant colors but also evoke a sense of pride and unity among its members," said Norris.
Indeed, as the lights shimmered and danced against the backdrop of the city, they served as a powerful symbol of Alpha Kappa Alpha's enduring commitment to uplifting and empowering women of color. It was a moment of reflection, gratitude, and celebration—a testament to the sorority's unwavering dedication to excellence and service.
As the night drew to a close, and the lights slowly dimmed, the World Trade Center stood as a beacon of inspiration, reminding all who witnessed the spectacle of the profound impact that Alpha Kappa Alpha continues to have on the world.
Monumental Pearls
(A.K.A. History Book, 2024)
Greek Presence on Iconic World Trade Center
Ivy Leaf
(Winter 2024)
Celebrating 116 years of Sisterhood & Service
In the days and weeks that followed, the memory of that magical evening lingered, serving as a source of inspiration for Alpha Kappa Alpha members everywhere. It was a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, the light of sisterhood and service will always shine bright, illuminating the path toward a brighter future for generations to come.
Durst also lit up the buildings, at One Five One W. 42nd Street & One Bryant Park, and the Sven residential building on Northern Boulevard in Long Island City. Queens also had their spires lit in pink and green.
Featured:
Melvin Norris, Director of Government Affairs at The Durst Organization.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams
🩷💚 City Council Speaker the Honorable Adrienne E. Adams
🩷💚 NYC Councilmember Amanda Farias
Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
Board of Commissioner 🩷💚Leecia Eve
🩷💚 North Atlantic Regional Director, Elicia Pegues Spearman
🩷💚 Past North Atlantic Regional Director, Meredith L. Henderson
🩷💚 Creator of 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐼𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑠 Installation: Dr. D Maria Rice, the North Atlantic Regional Communications team
🩷💚 North Atlantic Regional Communications Chair, Dawn Baskerville
🩷💚 Members and friends of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated