Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Welcomes New Members

In their achievements, leadership, and commitment to service, the four women represent diverse professional backgrounds and a shared devotion to uplifting communities across western North Carolina.

Chapter President Brenda Wilkerson expressed both pride and excitement as the chapter continues its legacy of cultivating leaders dedicated to lifelong service.

“Our new members have shown grace, perseverance, and a true commitment to service, and we are honored to officially embrace them into the loving arms of Gamma Gamma Omega,” she said.

Avaughni A. Thomas earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Services Management from NC Agricultural and Technical State University (NCA&T) in May 2025. A standout scholar, she is a recipient of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Alumni Award of Excellence, a Certified Phlebotomy Technician, and a Dean’s List honoree. With aspirations in osteopathic medicine, Thomas is deeply committed to addressing women’s health disparities with compassion and innovation. As a new member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, she looks forward to continuing her journey of scholarship, sisterhood, and the AKA’s “Service to All Mankind.”

Kontia Grant has more than 18 years of nursing experience and over a decade as a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. A dedicated community advocate, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the AKA sisterhood. Grant earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Western Carolina University, where she was honored as the 2015 Family Nurse Practitioner Student of the Year.

Her academic foundation also includes a BS in Nursing from Queens University of Charlotte and a BS in Psychology from UNC Charlotte. Ms. Grant serves in the Youth Ministry at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, sits on the MAHEC Advanced Practice Provider Council, and volunteers at numerous community health fairs and educational events. She joins the chapter eager to continue her mission of healing, advocacy, and service.

Kim W. Gilliam is a graduate of Mars Hill University who has dedicated her career to serving others, in particular supporting veterans with compassion and commitment. A Medical Support Assistant with the Veterans Health Administration, she provides essential support to veterans and their families, ensuring they receive timely care and respect. Inspired by generations of Alpha Kappa Alpha women, Gilliam is known for her empathy, professionalism, and commitment to lifelong learning. She looks forward to expanding her community impact through scholarship, sisterhood, and service.

Tanya Presha is a longtime champion for youth and academic excellence who is driven by the values of scholarship, sisterhood, and service. For 29 years she has served the Asheville community through her work in the Asheville City School System, where she has been a steadfast advocate for youth empowerment and educational access.

A Magna cum Laude graduate of the University of South Carolina, Presha has coordinated transformative initiatives, including annual college and career fairs and HBCU campus visits, that have impacted countless students’ futures. She joins Alpha Kappa Alpha with a commitment to uplifting others and advancing the Sorority’s enduring legacy.

The Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

Chartered in 1940, the Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has served western North Carolina for more than 80 years, leading programs that promote education, health, economic empowerment, and community uplift.

Founded in 1908 at Howard University, AKA is the first Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women. With over 360,000 members worldwide, the Sorority remains committed to its mission of cultivating leaders, encouraging academic excellence, and providing “Service to All Mankind.”