Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
San Diego Alumnae Chapter
Uncompromising Commitment to the Community
WELCOME
During the month of May, we celebrate the importance of family by honoring mothers throughout San Diego County. Over the years, we have proudly recognized hundreds of women whose love and leadership strengthen our communities. This year, we honor a remarkable class of outstanding mothers in the San Diego community.
The San Diego Alumnae Chapter thanks all of you for your continued participation and attendance throughout the past thirty-four years.
Message from the President
On behalf of the San Diego Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., I am delighted to welcome you to our 35th Annual Breakfast for MiLady, “A Tribute to Mothers.”
Each year, this cherished tradition gives us the opportunity to pause, gather, and celebrate women who give so much of themselves to their families and to our community. This Mother’s Day Weekend, we are delighted to recognize an exceptional group of women whose love, leadership, and service make a lasting impact. As the saying goes, “A mother’s love endures through all.” Today, we simply say thank you. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the organizations that have chosen these remarkable women to receive this well-deserved honor.
Breakfast for MiLady Commitee
Carla Harris
Chairperson
Lynnetta Watts
Co-Chairperson
Joyce M. Kercheval
Chairperson Emerita
It is with profound honor that we present to you a distinguished and extraordinary assembly of San Diego’s most accomplished mothers, mentors, and community leaders. With immense pride, we celebrate our Honorees and their remarkable achievements, including their steadfast and enduring commitment to service throughout the San Diego community.
These esteemed women have never wavered in their sacred responsibilities: admonishing, assisting, forgiving, giving, listening, loving, mentoring, nurturing, providing, rearing, and teaching the children whom the Sovereign Father entrusted to their care. Their devotion reflects a calling that is both purposeful and profound.
Motherhood is a distinct and matchless responsibility—one that holds immeasurable significance in our society. Through their wisdom, sacrifice, and unwavering love, mothers shape the character and cultivate the potential of our future doctors, lawmakers, leaders, professors, and even Presidents of the United States.
To our Honorees, we offer our deepest gratitude for your service and your continued dedication to our community. You lead with grace and strength. We salute you for embracing the most magnificent calling of all—transforming lives and leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.
History of Breakfast for MiLady
The San Diego Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated held its first Breakfast for MiLady, "A Tribute to Mothers" recognition ceremony in May 1990 to honor women in the community. The initial celebration took place as part of the sorority's annual May Week community celebration. Soror Mary Borders DeWitt* became aware of an event, honoring women in the community, that was held by the Memphis, Tennessee Chapter. Soror DeWitt presented the initial idea for Breakfast for MiLady, patterned after the Memphis, TN event, to the chapter. Soror Barbara West, who was a previous member of the Memphis Chapter, was also instrumental in filling in the missing pieces and laying the foundation for the Breakfast. The Chapter adopted the event.
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The first Committee consisted of Sorors Dale E. Strayhorn (chair), Barbara West (co-chair), Mary B. DeWitt*, Cynthia James, Joyce M. Kercheval, Joyce Parks, Bernice Slaughter* and Janice M. Black Robinson* (then Chapter President). When presented to the Chapter, the event was quickly accepted, and the San Diego Deltas immediately began working to form its Breakfast for MiLady, "A Tribute to Mothers" honoring women from the San Diego Community.
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The initial Honorees were Wendy Babb, Pearl Brigham*, Julia Christian, Mary B. DeWitt*, Algernon Phillips*, Mary Tillory and Octavia Todd. Over the years, this event has grown requiring us to move to larger venues to accommodate larger audiences.
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Since the beginning, there have been many chairs and committee members who have worked non-stop to ensure our honorees have a day that will be a lifetime memory. Many organizations have presented an honoree year after year.
The San Diego Alumnae Chapter thanks all of you for your continued participation and attendance throughout the past thirty years.
*Deceased
2024 Breakfast For MiLady
HONOREES
It is with great honor that the San Diego Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. proudly celebrates a distinguished cohort of San Diego’s most exceptional mothers, mentors, and community leaders.
We are honored to celebrate our Honorees’ commitment to their family and serving the community. These women are trailblazers that selflessly give of their time and talents to worthwhile community projects and programs.
MC & Entertainment
Pastor Leilah Kirkendoll, Ph.D., is a Licensed and Ordained Minister of the Gospel who has faithfully served since 2000. Gifted in preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, she walks alongside people with compassion and spiritual conviction, encouraging transformation and hope in the name of Jesus Christ. She currently serves as Associate Pastor at Greater Life Church under Lead Servant/Teacher Nate Stewart, where she leads partnership development, contributes as a member of the clergy, and strengthens the Women’s Ministry through servant leadership and heartfelt mentorship.
With more than 30 years in education at the San Diego County Office of Education — including roles as teacher’s assistant, teacher, and principal and now Director in Juvenile Court and Community Schools — Dr. Kirkendoll brings deep commitment and expertise to serving underserved youth. Her devotion to young people, coupled with a steadfast love for God, informs her transformational approach to ministry and community work.
A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for over 37 years, she serves as 1st Vice President and Membership Chair of the San Diego Alumnae Chapter and as Secondary Advisor to Nu Upsilon collegiate chapter. In the community she is treasurer and co-leader of Girl Scout Troop 6786 and Parliamentarian of The Sensational San Diego Chapter of Jack and Jill of America. Her greatest joy remains her family: wife of Minister Andre Kirkendoll, mother to Khadijah and Aaliyah, and beloved “Hunny” to her grandson Jabari Jr. Blessed to bless others, Dr. Kirkendoll serves daily with humility, joy, and unwavering faith.
Kecia Woods
​Kecia Woods was born and raised in Pasadena California and has been singing since the age of 10.
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Kecia has sung as a background singer, on the Grammy stage for several gospel and R&B artists (under Kecia Sanders), such as MaryMary, Kayne West(Jesus Walk performance) and Chaka Khan on TBN, just to name a few.
Kecia is currently a member of Sag-Aftra (Union) and can be seen singing in the movies “Nutty Professor II” and “First Sunday” in the choir scenes.
Kecia’s melodic voice can also currently be heard on the Deadpool & Wolverine soundtrack.
Kecia enjoys singing and most of all spreading God’s word through song.
DJ
Datboy​
LOCATION
DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego Mission Valley
7450 Hazard Center Dr, San Diego, CA, 92108
