Woodruff and Brownrigg Seek Charter Members in Huntsville

Two Alabama A&M University faculty members are leading an initiative to expand professional and leadership opportunities for women educators across North Alabama through the creation of a new Huntsville-area chapter of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc.

Charly Woodruff, a lecturer of mathematics, and Dr. Tennille Brownrigg, an adjunct professor of counseling, are spearheading the effort to establish the chapter, which is currently in development and seeking charter members.

The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. is a professional organization for women in education, grounded in its Y.E.S. program, which stands for youth, education and service. The organization focuses on mentorship, professional development and community engagement, with members working to support students and strengthen educational systems nationwide.

Woodruff and Brownrigg share a longstanding connection, having attended Tuskegee University together before joining the faculty at Alabama A&M. Their shared commitment to education, mentorship and community impact inspired the effort to bring the organization to Huntsville.

“There are strong networks for educators across the state, but Huntsville has not yet had a chapter,” Woodruff said. “We saw an opportunity to create a space where women educators can connect, lead and serve together. This is just the beginning...we’re laying the foundation for something that will grow and evolve with the needs of our members and our Huntsville community.”

Six chapters currently operate in Alabama, including locations in Tuskegee, Birmingham, Mobile and Montgomery. The proposed Huntsville chapter would be the first to serve educators in the region.

Founded in 1923 by eight educators, the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa Inc. has grown to more than 140 chapters nationwide. The organization promotes excellence in education while fostering sisterhood among women professionals dedicated to shaping the lives of youth.

Brownrigg said the Huntsville chapter will focus on building meaningful connections while advancing service and leadership opportunities.

“The goal is to bring together women educators in the Huntsville area who are committed to supporting one another and making a positive difference,” Brownrigg said. “This chapter will provide opportunities for leadership, mentorship and service while building lasting professional relationships.”

The organizers are seeking approximately 20 charter members from across the education spectrum, including K-12 teachers, higher education faculty in all disciplines and counselors and advisers. Charter members will play a key role in shaping the chapter’s mission, programming and long-term impact in the region.

Women interested in joining the founding group are encouraged to learn more about the organization and submit this interest form to be considered as a charter member.