Chapter History
Three decades of community, Sisterhood & Service
Our Chapter legacy
The Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated began as an interest group sponsored by the Charlotte (NC) Chapter in June 1990. Over the course of three years, monthly service projects and social gatherings nurtured deep bonds of friendship and shared purpose, culminating in the induction of 29 charter members on June 19, 1993.
Since its founding, the chapter has expanded to include more than 70 accomplished and committed women who generously devote their time, talents, and resources to community service. Our membership reflects a diverse tapestry of leadership spanning healthcare, law, education, entrepreneurship, public service, and civic engagement. The chapter proudly serves communities across Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, and Union counties in North Carolina, as well as Lancaster and York counties in South Carolina.
With a sustained commitment lasting over three decades, the Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter has delivered meaningful service and impact that continues to uplift underrepresented communities and uphold the legacy of The Links, Incorporated. Building on this remarkable foundation and driven by an unwavering commitment to future service, our chapter proudly celebrates notable milestones, which include:
1999
Co-hosted the 35th Southern Area Conference with the Charlotte (NC) Chapter and Piedmont (NC) Chapter.
2004
In partnership with the Charlotte (NC) Chapter and the Junior League of Charlotte, co-hosted a grand opening event for Nordstrom SouthPark. Proceeds helped fund a joint signature project with the Double Oaks Community Resource Center.
2005
Refurbished one of two remaining 1890s shotgun houses, originally from the Black “Blandville” neighborhood. The house, furnished with family heirlooms from longtime Charlotte residents, was once located at the Afro-American Cultural Center (now the Harvey B. Gantt Center).
2006
In partnership with the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated, the Charlotte (NC) Chapter, and Piedmont (NC) Chapter, co-hosted the fundraiser “In Concert with Education” featuring Nancy Wilson. The concert raised over $250,000, benefiting HBCUs.
2007
Held first annual Mardi Gras, our signature fundraiser raising monies for scholarships and community programming.
2016
Hosted the inaugural Annual Crowning Achievements event recognizing outstanding community partners and awarding scholarships to deserving high school students.
2016
Endowed the $25,000 Crown Jewels Scholarship Fund at Johnson C. Smith University.
2016
Chartered the Crown Jewels Links – Phillip O. Berry National Society of Black Engineers Jr. (CJL-POB NSBE) Chapter at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology to inspire students to explore and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
2016
Established the chapter’s first Classics Through the Ages signature program in vocal music with Johnson C. Smith University and West Charlotte High School.
2018
Commemorated the chapter’s 25th anniversary by presenting members with limited edition prints of original art commissioned from internationally renowned Charlotte-based folk artist Nellie Ashford.
2022
One of five chapters selected to participate in the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated’s Social Justice Teen Initiative, which promoted civic engagement with social, economic, and environmental issues affecting our communities.
2023
Co-hosted the 47th Southern Area Conference with the Carolina Pines (NC) Chapter, Charlotte (NC) Chapter, and Piedmont (NC) Chapter.
CHARTER MEMBERS
Charlene E. Bell
Alfreda Phoenix Belton
Joyce Miller Bolton
Gwendolyn Bradford
Dorothy Counts-Scoggins
Camilla S. Cunningham
Merl Venita Dixon
Lisa Lewis Emory
Hedi Brodie Foster
Laura R. Foxx
Shirley Fulton
Cindy Gantt
Ruth Greene
Rosella E Jones
Cynthia McGlohon Kennedy
Mae W. Little
Viola T. Alexander Lyles
Dee Dee Murphy
Paula Renee Newsome
Wanda Reeves
Wilhelmenia L. Rembert
B. Parthenia Richardson
Marilyn Sutton-Haywood
Tanita Goodwin Toliver
Rubye B. Wallace
Marie Watkins
Eulada Watt
Wanda Webb
Past presidents
1994-1996
Marie Watkins
1996-1998
Wanda Reeves
1998-2000
Wanda Webb
2000-2002
Wanda Reeves
2002-2004
Nancy Stroud
2004-2008
Mary Foxx Johnson
2008-2012
Joy Paige Springs
2012-2016
Felicia Hall Allen
2016-2020
Sharon Hoskin Matthews
2020-2022
Katrina Young
2022-2024
Tracey D. Watkins
2024-2026
Evette Beckett-Tuggle
Chapter Members
See our chapter member List
Meet the women leading community transformation through service.