In Fayetteville, North Carolina, 1996 was a year of transformation. Fayetteville and the nearby Fort Bragg (now known as Fort Liberty) were experiencing notable events and developments. Cumberland County Schools were undergoing significant reorganization. This included efforts to address issues related to school performance and infrastructure. These changes were part of broader efforts to improve educational outcomes and adapt to the needs of the growing population. Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) was home to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). The command played a critical role in special operations and counterterrorism efforts. It was involved in various operations and restructuring activities focused on organizational structure and operational realignment. Efforts to enhance the relationship between Fort Bragg and the local Fayetteville community were ongoing. These included initiatives aimed at improving community support for military personnel and their families, as well as collaborative projects that bridged the gap between the military and civilian sectors.

It is within this context that an idea took root in early January 1996. Arrie McAlister and Valeria A. Collins, fueled by a shared vision embarked on a quest to forge a new chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® in Fayetteville-Cumberland County.

Arrie and Valeria, driven by a desire to expand the presence of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® developed an implementation plan. Their first steps involved reaching out to a network of thirty-nine (39) potential members, including former sisters from the Zeta Pi Omega, an existing local chapter. By utilizing local newspaper ads and word-of- mouth, their vision gained momentum as other sorority sisters joined them on the mission to establish another chapter in the city.

The pivotal moment arrived on May 13, 1996, at the Cumberland County Main Library. Eight (8) women gathered: Valeria A. Collins, Arrie McAlister, Sarah Watson, Barbara Melvin, Daisy Thompson, Robbie Lindsey, Charlene Sumlin, and Beverly Simmons. Their meeting was charged with hope and purpose as they explored the possibility of forming a new Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority® interest group.

Valeria, leading with focus, grace and enthusiasm, facilitated a discussion that ultimately resulted in a strategic plan being developed that included their goals: (1) Expand the Alpha Kappa Alpha® presence in the Fayetteville area by reaching out to the Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base population; (2) Diligently seek out those members in the area who were inactive and would be interested in a growth opportunity; (3) Develop a plan of action.

During the meeting, it was noted that although the organization was founded upon the principle of college-level Greek-lettered fellowship, keeping the link between the sisterhood and our African American Heritage was essential for the group. Thus, the name Harambee was chosen. Harambee, a Swahili word first coined by Jomo Kenyatta, means "self- help" or "pull together." This was believed to be perfect in capturing the vision and togetherness of a group of women whose efforts supported the growth of our sisterhood with determination, spirit, and unity while offering a helping hand to those in need within the  community.

As the Harambee Interest Group took shape, their impact was notable. Their community outreach initiatives, like the “Shower of Love” and “Operation Smooth Move” at Fayetteville State University, demonstrated their commitment to making a meaningful impact through service.  They engaged in political activism, tackled minority health issues, and supported numerous causes, weaving a rich tapestry of service.

By late September, their hard work culminated in the submission of thirty-seven (37) names to the Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated® corporate office. The excitement built as the group awaited a response. On November 2, 1996, the Alpha Kappa Alpha® Directorate confirmed their status, and a date was set for a grand celebration. On December 1, 1996, amidst a wave of joy and camaraderie built on a foundation of sisterhood and commitment to serve the community, the Upsilon Kappa Omega Chapter was officially chartered as the 108th chapter in the Mid-Atlantic Region. News of the chartering appeared in the Spring 1997 issue of the Ivy Leaf, page 30.

The chapter's first song, penned by charter member Carla Collier, captured the exhilaration of the moment: “Salmon Pink and Apple Green, loveliest Colors we've ever seen; We are really making a scene, Sorority Queens!" This was not just a celebration; it was the birth of a legacy.