Harriet Josephine Terry

Who was Harriet Josephine Terry?

Harriet Josephine Terry was one of the sophomores founders of 1908 of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the first sorority founded by African-American women. The organization has continued to generate social capital for 105 years.

Terry was foremost an educator, for more than 30 years at the college level. She inspired new generations of teachers while teaching English at Alabama A&M University for 37 years. The university named a women's residence hall in Terry's honor. The profession of teaching at all levels was one of the most prestigious in the African-American community. Education was considered essential for continued progress, and the best students were encouraged to go into teaching.

Terry also was active with professional associations, the local chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha, and the National Women's Club.