Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. honored four women for their service, leadership, and mentorship across the Charleston and Kanawha Valley communities during the 2026 Annie C. Singleton Recognition Ceremony, held May 15 on the campus of West Virginia State University.
The ceremony took place in the courtyard adjacent to the Davis Fine Arts Building, with the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Monument serving as the backdrop. The annual event recognizes women whose work in education, public service, philanthropy, and leadership carries forward the legacy of Mrs. Annie C. Singleton, known as the “Mother of Alpha Phi Alpha”. Annie C. Singleton housed the founders of the fraternity at Cornell University in 1906 and she mentored the founders of the fraternity in its early years.
This year’s honorees were Dr. Michelle Foster, Ph.D., Councilwoman Jennifer Pharr, Carol Greene, and Terri Sherrod.
Dr. Foster serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation, where she has connected charitable resources to community initiatives across West Virginia. Councilwoman Pharr, recently re-elected to the Charleston City Council, also serves as Vice President of the FamilyCare Health Foundation, advancing health equity and community wellness. Carol Greene has spent more than forty years educating and mentoring young people throughout the Kanawha Valley. Terri Sherrod was recognized for more than three decades of service to college students and higher education as an administrator and student advocate.
The ceremony’s namesake, Mrs. Annie C. Singleton, opened her home to young men attending West Virginia State College during an era when many African American students faced significant barriers to higher education. Her guidance and support shaped generations of students and earned her the lasting title of “Mother of Alpha Phi Alpha.”
“The women recognized this year embody the very principles of service, leadership, mentorship, and excellence that Annie C. Singleton represented throughout her life,” fraternity representatives said.