At the time, they had no idea how many other alumnae were living in metro Atlanta and the network of Jamaicans was not as far reaching as it is today.

In fact, there were two shops where one could find hard dough bread and patties! But they persisted, believing that with time they could reach many more alums and bring them into the fold.

The group made plans for raising funds for the school, contributing to the science and language laboratories, buying books for the library, supplying paper for the copy machines, and starting a big-sister relationship with existing students in Jamaica .

The members dreamed big dreams, and Dr. Carnegie , there during some of the women's formative years as giddy teenagers, was there again some 40 years later in the association's formative years to offer her special brand of guidance and encouragement.

With hard work and perseverance, the dreams and objectives took shape and grew. From a roster of 3, membership increased to over 80 alumnae ranging in ages from the early thirties to the eighties. This list includes our newest member who is in her 70s and Dr. Carnegie who was made an honorary member.

From the original fundraiser - a lofty garage sale - the small group netted all of $50, which they proudly sent home as an initial commitment of bigger things to come. Since then, the chapter has shown itself to be innovative in the area of fundraising, and the caliber of events hosted by the organization has become the benchmark within the community. To date, the chapter has donated over $20,000 to its beloved alma mater to support projects like the breakfast-feeding and sports programs, providing hardware and software for the computer lab, much needed equipment for the science lab, books, and scholarships for needy students.

Funds are typically either earmarked for specific allocation by the chapter or used at the local chapter's discretion based on the areas of greatest need.

As with all organizations, the association has experienced its share of difficulties, not the least of which is the conflicting schedules and commitments of its members. The officers admit that the main challenge they continue to face is marketing of tickets. As a result, the organization never realizes the maximum revenues possible from the various events held each year.

Despite the challenges which have not surmounted the objectives of the organization, more active members still make time to fellowship, have fun and volunteer together on projects such as community beautification and public broadcasting fund drives.

And in their spare time away from association business the current slate of officers occupy themselves as accountant - State of Georgia, researcher and professor - Morehouse School of Medicine, teacher educator and professor - Walden University system, science teacher - Fulton County school system, senior IT project manager - Cingular Wireless, social worker and life counselor - Our Common Welfare, a local organization that provides service for at-risk adults, and chief management analyst - Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
They are:
Co-President: Karen Russell (2004-2006)
Co-President: Lavern Chen-Laman (2006-2008)
Secretary: Sharon Marks (2006-2008)
Treasurer: Tanya Diaz (2006-2008)
Membership Committee Chairperson: Audrey Lindsay (2006-2007)
Planning Committee Chairperson: Paulette Campbell-Haase (2006-2007)
PR& Marketing Committee Chairperson: Alrene Barr (2006-2007)
Written by Sharon Marks