Upsilon Alpha Omega, the Gwinnett Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, was chartered in Gwinnett County on January 29, 1994. On December 9, 2012 UAO chartered the Tau Pi Chapter on the campus of Oglethorpe University. The Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter (“UAO”) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is proud to announce the establishment of The McGruder- Smith Undergraduate Scholarship of Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, named for chapter charter members and veteran educators Janice McGruder and CaSandra Smith. Mrs. McGruder and Mrs. Smith have over 35 years of experience in education each and have enriched and enhanced the lives of many children.
The McGruder- Smith Undergraduate Scholarship will be awarded annually to a deserving
member of Tau Pi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Tau Pi Chapter is
the first Greek- lettered organization for African Americans chartered on the campus of
Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, Georgia. UAO serves as the graduate chapter to Tau Pi, and
provides guidance, mentoring, and support for all undergraduate activities. The chapters
also participate in joint meetings and community service initiatives as they work to better
the human living conditions via Alpha Kappa Alpha’s award-winning international
programs.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Current financial member of Tau Pi Chapter. The Tau Pi Soror selected must be enrolled in Oglethorpe University in Fall 2025.
• Currently enrolled as a matriculating student
• Must demonstrate leadership potential and discernable good character
• Must actively participate in the chapter’s service projects
SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION
To be considered for the McGruder-Smith Undergraduate Scholarship of Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, applicants must submit the following by March 28.
1. A completed application.
2. A personal statement summarizing why the applicant should be awarded the McGruder-Smith Undergraduate Scholarship of Upsilon Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. and how the scholarship will help her pursue her career ambition. Be sure to include community service activities in the statement.
3. Transcript (including prior semester). Must meet minimum (3.0) GPA requirements.
4. A letter of recommendation from any of the following: professors, advisor, employer or minister.
SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION PROCESS
• The interview will be held in April.
• The scholarship recipient will be honored at a Reception.