John W. Dodd Middle School held its 14th annual induction ceremony for the Ladies of Dodd, an organization that serves to build character among the young women of the school by reinforcing self-respect, self-esteem and empowerment. “These girls have journeyed together as individuals and emerged as sisters,” said group adviser Vashti Burke of the new inductees. Burke co-founded the group in 2005 with current high school Assistant Principal Gisselle Campbell-Hamm. “The way you conduct yourself is like a light,” added Campbell-Hamm in her address. “Light your light and illuminate your world.”
The primary goal of Ladies of Dodd is to build character and self-worth through service to the school and the surrounding community. The group can be found lending a hand at various functions, including school concerts, board meetings, academic ceremonies, toy drives and other fundraising events.
To be considered for membership, each candidate had to complete a six-page application that included a teacher’s letter of recommendation, proof of completion of three community service activities and an essay answering the question, “Who is your female role model?” Twenty tenacious young ladies completed these tasks by the Dec. 17, 2012 deadline. They are now known as the Xi Class, after the 14th letter of the Greek alphabet. They comprise the largest group to ever be inducted.
The night was punctuated by poetic speeches, music and dancing and highlighted by the candle-lighting ceremony, which signified the bonding of the group. The Men of Dodd were on hand to present each new inductee with a bouquet of Gerber daisies, the symbol of the ladies’ group. The ceremony ended with all of the candidates taking an oath in which they promised to always be selective of their language, strive for academic success and adhere to the motto “Always a lady, always strong, smart and bold.”
Congratulations to the 20 newest Ladies of Dodd:
Leah Alexander
Tykeima Bey
Kira Brizill
Maya Brown
Cierra Charles
Shanice Dwyer
Dillon Finch
Brianna Foster
Shania Hackett
Erica Matos
Anaiya Matthews-Correia
Alyssa Powell
Kayla Sewer
Zoe Stetson
Tamia Stewart
Tamara Sy
Tamika Sy
Saadiya Toliver
Janae Walker
Victoria Wright
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