Silhouettes
President's Message
As the 15th president of the Wilmington, Delaware Chapter of Silhouettes, it is truly an honor to continue to carry forward the rich legacy of our organization. As Silhouettes, the wives and widows of Delaware Kappa men, we take pride in organizing activities and programs at the Local, Province and National levels. We play a vital role in selcting projects, serving as the official auziliary of the fraternity and supporting our Kappas, families and community. In all that we do, we celebrate the accomplishments of our members and the positive impact we make together, lifting as we climb.
We would like to take this opportunity to focus on our rich history and the purpose that unites us. Moving forward, we are excited to share articles, pictures and summaries that highlight the meaningful contributions we are making in the greater Wilmington, DE community and beyond.
Thank you to our Wilmington Silhouettes for your dedication and continued support as we strive to uplift our community and build a legacy of service to our community.
Minnie M. Bazzelle
Minnie M. Bazzelle
A Legacy of Grace and Service: The National Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated
The Kappa Silhouettes are the dedicated wives and widows of members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, who have played a vital and enduring role in the life of the fraternity for decades. Born out of necessity and fellowship, the organization began informally when women who accompanied their husbands to national Kappa gatherings began creating their own purposeful engagements—serving as gracious hostesses, coordinators, and supporters at various fraternity events.
This collective spirit gained formal recognition in 1945, when a movement toward national organization was led by Mrs. Willa Ranson of New York during the 35th Grand Chapter Meeting in Columbus, Ohio. A foundational meeting followed in 1946, culminating in the official establishment of the Kappa Alpha Psi Silhouettes at the 1947 Conclave in Los Angeles, California.
Since then, the Silhouettes have grown in presence and purpose, expanding in membership and chapters nationwide. In 1980, they were officially recognized as an auxiliary of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., further affirming their role in enhancing the fraternity’s mission at national, provincial, and local levels.
From the adoption of their own hymn in 1965 to their representation on the Board of the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation, the Silhouettes have remained steadfast in their commitment to service, sisterhood, and support. Today, the Kappa Silhouettes continue to uphold their proud legacy as a force of elegance, unity, and dedication within the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. family.
The Wilmington (DE) Silhouettes
The Wilmington DE Chapter of Silhouettes initially organized in 1950 then reorganized in 1958, proudly serves as an auxiliary to the Wilmington, DE Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Committed to service and support, our purpose is to assist the fraternity at the local, province and national levels, fostering unity and strengthening the impact of Kappa Alpha Psi through dedication and collaboration.
We are dedicated to the principle of “Lifting as We Climb.” As an auxiliary of the Wilmington, DE Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, we embrace the responsibility of uplifting one another, the fraternity and our communities.
With 31 active members, we meet quarterly—September, December, March, and June—uniting in service and purpose. From September through June, we extend our hands in volunteer efforts, strengthening our communities, churches and schools under the banner of the Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc.
Our June meeting serves as a moment of reflection and renewal, where we assess our impact, share insights and build strategies for the year ahead. As we climb, we remain committed to lifting those around us, fostering a legacy of support, empowerment and unwavering sisterhood.
The Wilmington (DE) Silhouettes
Seated Left to Right:
Sharon Bryant, Initra Stephens, Minnie Bazzelle, Claudette Evans, Jean Smith, Dianne Taylor
Standing Left to Right:
Janice Rogers, Latanya McDowell, Tracy Pinkett, Kizzy Perkins, Patricia Macklin, Gwendolyn Pugh Leach, Patricia Bennett, Juanita Pritchett, Patricia Augusta Gilbert, Lawanda Newton, Mary Young
Chapter Officers & Membership
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Minnie M. Bazzelle | President |
| Jean W. Smith | Vice President |
| Nicole Pritchett | Secretary |
| Patricia Bennett | Asst. Secretary/Treasurer |
| Claudette Evans and Pearl Wallace | Chaplain |
| Sharon Bryant | Parliamentarian |
| Louise Butler | Historian |
| Ledonnis Hernandez | Technology |
| Beatrice Whitworth* | Bylaws |
| Claudette Evans and Patricia Macklin | Sunshine |
| Tamaira Rhodes | Past President |
| * Deceased |
Members: Rev. Dawn Christopher, Cheris Congo, Claudia Dorman, Patricia Augusta Gilbert, Felicia Harrison, Barbara Lambert*, Gwendolyn Pugh Leach, Hyacinth Lewis, LaTanya McDowell, Emmanuella Neal, Kizzy Perkins, Tracy A.S. Pinkett, Juanita Pritchett, Sharon Roach, Janice Rogers, Diane Taylor, Dr. Michelle Taylor, Mary Young, Fe Wright
*Deceased
Our Volunteer Activities & Projects
Lifting as We Climb: Service Love Celebrations
The Wilmington DE Silhouettes believe in the power of service and generosity. As we continue to lift as we climb, we recognize that true progress comes from uplifting others through acts of kindness, volunteerism, and charitable giving.
Through our time, talents and resources, we make a meaningful impact in our communities, churches and schools. Whether supporting reading initiatives at local schools, mentoring youth, or supporting local initiatives, every effort contributes to a greater good. Likewise, donations—no matter the size—help sustain vital programs that empower those in need.
Together, through service and generosity, we create lasting change and strengthen the legacy of the Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc. We continue to uplift, inspire and serve—because when we give, we grow.
- Wilmington Diaper Bank Donations
- Pearl Center Sock Donations for Veterans
- Ronald McDonald House Paper Drive
- Safe Sleep for Your Baby
- Evan G. Shortlidge Academy School Book Donations
- Warner Elementary School Mindfulness Room
