The Franklin Tri-County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. held its annual May Week Celebration on May 16.

May Week is a national program of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority that highlights academic and professional achievements to emphasize the importance of higher education in the community.

The speaker for this event was Angelo Maker, one of the Lost Boys of South Sudan, Africa. Maker shared the touching story of his life in Sudan and his transition to the United States. He is also the founder of Abukloi Foundation, a non-governmental organization created to encourage positive change in South Sudan in the areas of education, agriculture, economic and community development.

Franklin Tri-County recognized Outstanding Female Community Leaders, Mary Hilliard, Audrey Lee, Kelli Sweat and Angela Vick. Each of these ladies was noted for their untiring contributions to the communities of Franklin & Southampton County. Additionally, Public Service Leadership Awards were given to Sheriff Ernest L. Giles Sr. of Sussex County, Sheriff Carlos Turner of Surry County, Sheriff James R. Clark Jr. of Isle of Wight County and Sheriff Josh Wyche, representing Franklin and Southampton County. Each sheriff was recognized for his outstanding leadership, strength and dedicated public service.

Members of Franklin Tri-County were also recognized for their outstanding accomplishments.  The award recipients are Angela Artis, Dorothy Blunt, Mechelle Blunt, Wynndolyn Copeland, Shirley Gay, Orris Lane, Chiquita Seaborne, Amesheia Warren and Vonda Warren-Lilly.

Other award recipients included Yolandah Lee-Brown, Orris Lane, Stephanie Olds and Tora Sweat, chapter members that received 25-year service awards. Elna Graves, a lifetime member of the Franklin Tri County received the Chapters Sisterhood Award for her many years of dedicated public service.