The purpose of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of Supreme "Service to all Mankind".

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated traces its humble beginnings as the vision of nine college students on the campus of Howard University in 1908. It is the first Greek-lettered sorority established and incorporated by African American college women. The idea was conceived by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle who viewed the sorority "as an instrument for enriching the social and intellectual aspects of college life by providing mental stimulation through interaction with friends and associates." The small group of women who helped Lyle organize the Sorority was conscious of their privileged position as college-trained women of color, just one generation removed from slavery. They were resolute that their college experiences should be as meaningful and productive as possible. Alpha Kappa Alpha was founded to apply that determination.

After incorporation in 1913, Alpha Kappa Alpha branched out and became the channel through which selected college women improved the social and economic conditions in their city, state, nation and the world. As the Sorority grew, it kept in balance two important themes: the importance of the individual and the strength as an organization of women of ability and courage. As the world became more complex, there was a need for associations which cut across racial, geographical, political, physical, and social barriers.

Alpha Kappa Alpha’s influence extends beyond campus quads and student interest. It has a legacy of service that deepens, rather than ends, with college graduation. The goals of its program activities center on significant issues in families, communities, government halls, and world assembly chambers. Its efforts constitute a priceless part of the global experience in the 21st century.

Since its inception, the sisterhood has flourished into an international organization with over 360,000 members in graduate and undergraduate chapters worldwide. The women of Alpha Kappa Alpha are dedicated to implementing programs of service that enhance the social, economic, and educational well-being of the communities we serve.