The event, titled The Pretty GUrl Beauty Budget, focused on teaching students how to manage personal finances while maintaining beauty and self-care routines. Organizers said the goal was to make budgeting both accessible and enjoyable.
Pictures by Gamma Upsilon Chapter at Savannah State University 2026
Jan. 23 — More than 60 students gathered in the Social Science Building at Savannah State University, for a workshop on budgeting and personal care hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. through its Building Our Economic Wealth Committee.
The event, titled The Pretty GUrl Beauty Budget, focused on teaching students how to manage personal finances while maintaining beauty and self-care routines. Organizers said the goal was to make budgeting both accessible and enjoyable.
“Learning how to balance self-care with smart spending is so important,” said Torren Wright, a chapter member who spoke at the event. “You don’t have to spend a lot to take care of yourself.”
Alpha Kappa Alpha operates under six core service areas, one of which emphasizes economic empowerment. According to organizers, the Building Our Economic Wealth Committee has hosted several events this semester to improve financial literacy among students. Past programs included Pumpkins & Pennies, Prosperity & Pearls and Pretty & Poised: Debt Detox.
During the workshop, chapter members Callie Carter, Adediwura Obasun and Dorissa Ferguson shared practical strategies for budgeting beauty-related expenses. Topics included setting monthly beauty budgets, using cost-effective products, limiting luxury purchases and balancing professional services with at-home care.
“Using drugstore products, protective hairstyles and reusable tools can save you a lot in the long run,” Carter said. “It’s all about making smart choices.”
At the conclusion of the program, attendees received lip scrub kits and budgeting worksheets. The kits included sugar, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, mixing tools and containers. A live demonstration allowed students to make their own lip scrubs while following the budgeting guidelines presented.
The Gamma Upsilon Chapter has upheld a legacy of excellence and prestige for 76 years. Service, scholarship and sisterhood remain central to its mission and deeply rooted in its commitment to cultivating and encouraging high scholastic and ethical standards. Events like these demonstrate to both the chapter and the community that, through merit and culture, members strive to go above and beyond to support local and global communities in every aspect of life.
The event was STRIPES-approved and ended with time for socializing, photos and snacks. Organizers said it showed how student organizations continue to grow, building on the foundation laid by Richard R. Wright and encouraging students toward continued success.
