Beyond the Cotillion's glittering ballrooms, prior debutantes have dispersed across the globe, leaving an indelible mark in their respective fields through impressive contributions. Notably, the 2007 Cotillion boasted the highest number of participants with 39 debutantes. However, recognizing the importance of maintaining a personalized experience, the Chapter opted to cap the maximum limit of debutantes at 20 following that remarkable year. The presentation of college awards to the debutantes stands as a pinnacle moment within the Cotillion festivities. At present, our chapter bestows a distinguished array of accolades, including the Hildah Douglas, Fortitude, Pamela Leah Larkins Memorial, Miss DST, Community Service, and Commendation awards. Reflecting on traditions, we have also celebrated the Barbara Ann Mathews Memorial and Cotillion Legacy Awards. The funds necessary to support these honors are raised through the sale of advertisements. Previously, the Annual Jazz Brunch, hosted by the Minerva Fund of Akron, Ohio, served as a vital pillar in ensuring the continued presentation of these prestigious awards. Regrettably, our records bear witness to the passing of six former debutantes. Among them, Pamela Leah Larkins, a member of the 1986 class, died on April 10, 1991. Dionne Denise Sheppard Robins, who graced our Cotillion in 1994, died in June of 2005. LaShawn R. Brooks, celebrated as a debutante in 1998, died on May 18, 2008. Jasmin Leigh Hubbard, cherished from the 2007 Cotillion, died on October 17, 2008. Ebony Jones, a luminous presence among the 2005 debutantes, died on June 27, 2011. Lastly, Ericka D. Weems, who enriched our Cotillion in 2002, died on November 1, 2020. Throughout its history, the Chapter has maintained a steadfast commitment to offering educational and culturally enriching experiences for debutantes during their senior year of high school. From the Orientation Session in August to the grand Presentation Night in February/March, debutantes are immersed in a series of activities designed to nurture their future success. In 2024, the Cotillion committee undertook a bold initiative by reimagining the traditional Mother and Daughter Tea, evolving it into a transformative Mother and Daughter Retreat. This innovative transition aims to foster a more profound and meaningful connection between mothers and daughters, creating an experience that binds them together on a deeper level.
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