The Cultural and Educational Advancement Foundation, Incorporated, or “CEAF” as it is commonly referred to, exists for the sole purpose of improving the human condition through the implementation and support of various community programs. These programs generate funds for scholarships and provide cultural enrichment and financial support to the community irrespective of race, religion, or natural origin. CEAF accomplishes its mission by supporting corporations, individuals, and groups who share the foundation’s interests and commitment to the community.
CEAF was organized for charitable purposes, as determined by the Internal Revenue Service under exempt organizations as a 501(c)(3).
Our Mission
Welcome to CEAF—and welcome to our 25th anniversary year.
In 2025, CEAF marks 25 years of service. What began as a bold idea has grown into a trusted,
community-driven organization dedicated to expanding opportunity and advancing our mission
with integrity, accountability, and heart. We are honored that you’re here to learn more about our
work and the people we serve alongside every day.
As you explore the site, you’ll find stories from our community, updates on current initiatives,
and ways to engage—whether that’s volunteering, partnering with us, or making a gift that
sustains our programs. None of this would be possible without supporters, partners, and friends
like you.
Anniversary years invite both gratitude and forward motion. We’re taking time to celebrate
what’s been built while doubling down on what comes next: deeper impact, stronger
partnerships, and innovative programs that meet real needs.
Thank you for visiting, for believing in our mission, and for helping us shape the next 25 years.
With appreciation,
Tammy Fincher
President, CEAF
A Message from the President
Board of Directors
Tammy Fincher, President
Angela Day, Vice President
Adrienne Meyers, Fund-Raising Chairman
LaDaria Hartley, Secretary
Kathy Bonds, Financial Secretary
Iverlyn D. Benson, Building Financial Secretary
Rhonda Allen, Treasurer
Cherie Dortch, Building Treasurer
Gwendolyn Tilghman, Ex-Officio Member
Dorothy Wilson, Ex-Officio Member
Pauline Parker, President Omicron Omega Chapter
Stephanie Ayers Milsap, Board Member
Gennia Baldwin, Board Member
Fatima Carter, Board Member
Michelle Clemons, Board Member
Pam Cook, Board Member
Gaynell Hendricks, Board Member
Thomasyne Hill, Board Member
Candace Hornbuckle, Board Member
Tracy Lyons, Board Member
Susanne Matthews, Board Member
Donna Sargent, Board Member
Beverly Smith, Board Member
Crystal Smith, Board Member
Ellise Washington, Board Member
Anita Westberry, Board Member
Cassandra Winston Griffin, Board Member
Our History
Under the leadership of Ophelia G. Hill, the Cultural and Educational Advancement Foundation (CEAF) was a vision of the Trustee Committee of Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. CEAF was established in 2000. Internal Revenue Service granted 501(c)(3) status to CEAF in 2001.
The Incorporators: Ophelia G. Hill, President; Dorothy Y. Wilson; Vice President, Carolyn Thomas, Treasurer.
Board Members: Eleanor Barnes, Geraldine Bell, Nothrice Edwards, Glenda Freeman, Sandra O. Hall, Annie Bushelon Holt, and Dorothy McClain.
The community and program support of the foundation have been phenomenal throughout the years. The board of directors and members have reached out to the community by creating opportunities for schools to apply for mini grants that funded science initiatives to build capacity for student learning. Financial support to high school students through scholarships has been an integral part of our mission. Other programs and initiatives that have impacted the quality of life include. But are not limited to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Outreach, Pathways, health, and fitness.
Our quest to increase partnerships and cultural activities for youth and adults has contributed to the community's overall success. CEAF was a title sponsor for the first Dance Across Birmingham Event in 2009. Collaborative partnerships between other businesses and non-profits that embraced the cultural enrichment component have included such opportunities as Dance Across Birmingham and Southern Roots Academy of Fine Arts.
The foundation strives to meet and exceed its goals to educate, positively impact citizens, and catalyst change in the Birmingham-Metro community. Our members are committed to the vision born more than two decades ago. We are looking ahead to a future filled with promise with great anticipation.
