This information has been thoughtfully gathered from interviews and meticulous research conducted by Jacqueline Silas-Butler and the late Hurlene F. Scott. Additionally, insights from previous chairs have been incorporated, culminating in a rich tapestry of knowledge. To ensure its relevance and accuracy, the current 2024 Cotillion Co-Chair, Shayla Brown Dandridge, has contributed minor enhancements. History of the Les Belles Perles Debutante Cotillion
The Les Belles Perles Debutante Cotillion blossomed under the visionary leadership of Lois Lee Killings. Assuming the presidency in June of 1980, she introduced the inspiring concept of hosting a cotillion for senior high school young ladies in the local community. Eagerly taking on the responsibility as chairperson, alongside her duties as chapter president, Killings led the charge with unwavering dedication. Over the course of approximately a year and a half, the entire chapter passionately collaborated to bring this grand event to fruition. As a chapter project, each member played a vital role on the committee, ensuring meticulous planning and execution, resulting in an occasion that garnered widespread acclaim and anticipation throughout the community. The late Sandra Stubbs-Pitts, a cherished member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a dedicated educator teaching French and Spanish in the Akron Public Schools, bestowed upon the Cotillion the eloquent name, "Les Belles Perles," meaning "The Beautiful Pearls." In a reflective interview, Stubbs-Pitts revealed her inspiration, noting the prevailing popularity of pearls at the time. Her intention was to encapsulate not only the event's elegance but also the inherent grace and radiance of the young ladies being presented. Many dedicated sorority members tirelessly devoted themselves to organizing the annual Cotillion, a cherished event in our community. For instance, Delta initiates from the June 1981 membership intake line undertook the formidable responsibility of ensuring the Sorority's public service mission was fulfilled. Charter member C. Joyce Finley-Johnson reached out to the Dayton Alumnae Chapter for guidance on Cotillion protocols, while Delta members, including the late Lois Killings, the late Barbara Matthews, and Carole Starks, played pivotal roles in crafting the event's inaugural guidelines. Past chapter presidents, such as the late Margaret Roberts and Shirley Washington, alongside then Vice President Rose Skinner, were pivotal in ensuring the Cotillion's resounding success.
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