Page 12 - New Bern Alumnae History-63 Years 8-1-16

The History of New Bern Alumnae Chapter

Soror Ida Smith Franks
Charter Member

An active Delta for 76 years, Soror Franks was initiated in 1940 into Alpha
Kappa Sigma (a mixed chapter) and in 1941, became a Charter Member of
the undergraduate chapter, Alpha Lambda, at North Carolina College (now
North Carolina Central University). In 1953, she joined eight other dedicated
sorors in establishing the New Bern Alumnae Chapter. She has served as
President (1959-1961), Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Financial
Secretary, Sergeant-at-Arms, Parliamentarian, Jabberwock Chairperson, and
in various other positions. Additionally, she was the chapter=s first Voting
Delegate to attend a national convention, which was in Washington, D.C. in
1958. Soror Franks subsequently represented the chapter at several other
national conventions and regional conferences, serving as Regional Organist
at the 1980 and 1982 conferences. The chapter recognized her outstanding
service and contributions with a Certificate of Appreciation in 1963, a plaque
in 1978, an engraved silver tray in 1983, and dedication of the 1984 Jabberwock Program Journal. Soror
Franks is actively involved in numerous civic organizations and in her church.

Soror Franks received a Master of Science Degree from North Carolina Central University and pursued
post-graduate studies at Atlanta University and New York University. A native of Spartanburg, S.C., she
moved to Pollocksville, N.C., becoming the wife of Christopher C. Franks. From this union, there are
three sons, Christopher, John, and William Franks, and several grandchildren. She was employed for 40
years as a librarian, teacher, and chorus director with Jones County Schools. Always a staunch believer
in the value of education, Soror Franks assisted a number of students, who desired to attend college but
had limited resources, by convincing her friends to provide them room and board.

Soror Franks represents the seed from which our chapter has grown. Her personal efforts provided the
moral support and inspiration in our accomplishments over many years. For this, and much more, we
thank her!

December 11, 2010 Soror Franks April 20, 2013 - New Bern Alumnae 60th Anniversary (l-r) Sorors Tonya
receivess the Distinguished Minerva Ham (President), Ida S. Franks, Mae Belle Vaughn, Norma Carter
Award for 70 years of exemplary Murphy. Sorors Franks and Murphy were recognized as Charter
service from New Bern Alumnae. Members; Soror Vaughn received the Distinguished Violet Award for
exemplary service.

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