03/03/2026
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the Akron Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. proudly sponsored its 42nd Les Belles Perles Cotillion, celebrating 14 outstanding Debutantes from across the community.
The elegant evening honored young women who excel academically, demonstrate exceptional leadership, and are deeply committed to community service. Through this year’s program, the Chapter awarded $20,000 in scholarships to support their continued educational pursuits. Additionally, the 14 distinguished escorts were presented with love tokens in recognition of their dedication and commitment throughout the Cotillion experience.
The Les Belles Perles Cotillion is more than a formal presentation; it is a transformative enrichment program. Participants engage in leadership development and Arts & Culture programming, guided by respected leaders from across the Akron community.
Towanda Mullins, President of the Akron Alumnae Chapter, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the scholars and highlighted remarkable achievements among the 2026 Debutantes:
• Five Debutantes will graduate high school with an Associate’s Degree
• GPA averages ranged from 3.0 to 4.6
• Each Debutante completed 200+ community service hours
Since its inception, the Chapter has proudly presented more than 700 Debutantes and awarded over $600,000 in scholarship dollars, continuing its longstanding commitment to scholarship, service, and sisterhood.
Generous sponsors for the 42nd Cotillion included:
• The Minerva Fund of Akron
• Community Action Akron Summit
• Emilia Sykes
The Presenter for the evening was Mr. Brian Turner a retired Principal from Akron Public Schools.
Over 450+ guests attended the event across Summit County and beyond.
To learn more about the Akron Alumnae Chapter and its programs, visit akrondeltas.org.
Photo credit: Ricky Callaway