SPECIAL ISSUE 2022 - Vol. 108, No. 1

UNDER ON THE COVER

This Special Issue 2022 highlights our inaugural 40 Under 40 and offers a year in review of noteworthy news, events, and accomplishments of the Fraternity, and our Brotherhood.

Official Organ of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

SPECIAL ISSUE 2022 | Volume 108, No. 1 apa1906.net

EDITOR OF THE SPHINX

Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC EWebb@apa1906.net

CONTRIBUTORS

Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D., Sean L. McCaskill, Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC, Adrian Stratton, MBA, PRP, Robert L. Harris, Jr., Ph.D., James K. Winfield, ED.D., Vic Carter, Rashid Faisal, Charles Robinson, III, Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh, David Brown, Russell Motley, Oliver T. Unaka, and Richard North, III

PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE

Ramon E. Peralta, Jr. L.H.D. Chairman and Chief Creative Advisor Donald L. Ross, LaMarcus J. Hall, Philip Wilkerson, III

EDITORIAL OFFICES

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 2313 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 212I8-5211 www.apa1906.net

COVER DESIGN BY: Jessica Saval

DESIGN AND PRINTING

Mercury Publishing Services, Inc. (800) 634-9409

© 2022 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. | All Rights Reserved

FOLLOW ALPHA PHI ALPHA

Willis L. Lonzer, III, PhD General President GeneralPresident@apa1906.net

Letter from the General President Brothers,

This special edition of The Sphinx magazine marks the culmination of news, Brotherhood engagement, community service, and advocacy for 2022. During the first year of my administration, we named a new Editor-of-The Sphinx, Brother Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author, who previously spearheaded another historic publication.

Under my leadership, Brother Webb is working to re-establish our magazine's historic brand by returning to our classic cover typography, as well as ensuring that the imagery of The Great Sphinx of Giza returns to prominence, and that the publication is more representative of the entire Brotherhood on all levels.

In addition, The Sphinx aggressively produced its first four editions, with themes providing an overview of my Elevating The Alpha Spirit platform as well as outlined its components - the first issue offered the overview; the second issue, Strengthening Our Brotherhood; the third issue, Improving Operational Excellence; and the fourth issue, Answering The Call Of Servant Leadership

Now, for this special edition, The Sphinx chronicles a list of the Fraternity’s noteworthy and historic stances as well as efforts in 2022. Among them, we endorsed the historic United States Supreme Court nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson and congratulated President Joe Biden on signing the historic legislation making lynching a federal hate crime as well as on the long-overdue pardon of former Secret Service Agent and Alpha Brother Abraham W. Bolden, Sr. We also continued to condemn acts of violence and injustice against African Americans, including the Buffalo, N.Y. mass shooting and the Oakland Police Department’s conduct and violent arrest captured in a viral video.

For the first time-ever, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. united with the four other National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities in an historic and unprecedented, two-day, collaborative advocacy effort on Capitol Hill. We also showcase our inaugural 40 Under 40, which celebrates our younger Brotherhood, who are a definitive product of the Fraternity’s high aspirations and leadership development, and also recognize the historic election of our Brother Wes Moore as Maryland’s first African-American Governor-elect.

Overall, the Fraternity continues to be guided by our mission as well as our commitment and representation as ‘Men of Distinction.’ This special edition serves as an archival testament to our Fraternity’s stances and the efforts of you, the Brotherhood. S

Sean L McCaskill Executive Director seanmccaskill@apa1906.net

Letter from the Executive Director

My Brothers of Alpha, I hope this letter finds you mentally and physically strong. First, please allow me to greet you formally as your permanent executive director and to introduce you to the special edition of The Sphinx magazine chronicling 2022. This issue highlights our inaugural 40 Under 40, profiles our Brother Wes Moore as Maryland’s first-ever African American Governor-elect, recognizes the 50th Alpha Anniversary of Past General President Darryl R. Matthews, and revisits those regional conventions among other events.

In the previous edition, we highlighted “Answering The Call of Servant Leadership,” the final component of General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III’s Elevating The Alpha Spirit vision and platform. This has been achieved through the commitment of our Brothers, and the Fraternity’s efforts to enhance volunteerism and delivery impactful advocacy.

Under the leadership of General President Lonzer, we have taken strong stances during 2022, from endorsing the United States Supreme Court nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to condemning the mass shooting in Buffalo, New York and the Oakland Police Department’s conduct and violent arrest captured in a viral video. We also took the historic step to unite with the four other National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities for a two-day, collaborative advocacy effort on Capitol Hill.

In addition, the Fraternity is hoping to introduce a special limited edition, Jewel Coin Collection, during the 97th General Convention and 117th Anniversary Convention in Dallas, Texas next year.

Overall, this issue represents a year-long culmination of the Fraternity’s efforts and continues to recognize and celebrate our illustrious Fraternity, and you, its Brotherhood. S

Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC Editor

ewebb@apa1906.net

Letter from the Editor of The Sphinx

Greetings Brothers,

This special edition of The Sphinx provides a chronicle for the year 2022. We highlight our inaugural Alpha Class of our 40 Under 40, which recognizes 40 influential Alpha Brothers 40 years and younger who have distinguished themselves the following seven professional categories: Finance, Healthcare, Civic Engagement, Education, Media/Broadcasting, Technology, and Entertainment. We recognize Past General President Brother Darryl R. Matthews’ 50th Anniversary in Alpha. A former Editor of the Sphinx, Brother Charles Robinson, profiles Brother Wes Moore and his rise as Maryland’s first-ever African American Governor-elect. We also recap the Fraternity’s Regional Conventions and its 2022 General Organization Awards Pilot Program winners.

Among some of The Sphinx’s departments, in General News, the Fraternity endorses the United States Supreme Court nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, congratulates President Biden on signing historic legislation making lynching a federal hate crime as well as his pardon of former Secret Service Agent and Alpha Brother Abraham W. Bolden, Sr. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III issues a statement on the One-Millionth Death from Covid-19 and the Fraternity condemns then Buffalo, NY mass shooting and the Oakland Police Department’s conduct and violent arrest captured in a viral video. In addition, the Fraternity joins the four other National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities for historic, two-day, joint advocacy effort on Capitol Hill.

In What Every Alpha Should Know, we discuss the disposition of paraphernalia after our deaths as Alpha Brothers and what arrangements we or our chapters should make while our General Parliamentarian discusses “Writing Rules” in Alpha Chairmanship.

Under Health and Wellness, we introduce the Fraternity’s Surgeon General team; in Education and Professional Development, we discuss the importance of supporting our first-generation College Brothers; in History, we revisit 1956 – the Fraternity’s Golden Anniversary Convention and the origins of the Go-To-High School, Go-ToCollege Program.

We also continue to highlight notable accomplishments of several of our Alpha Brothers in Alphas On The Move, and our newest department, Senior Brothers Spotlight

As always, I look forward to your readership and feedback. S

Statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Endorsing the United States Supreme Court Nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the oldest fraternity for African American college men, founded by seven visionary men in 1906 at Cornell University. The fraternity currently has over 200,000 members in its collegiate and alumni ranks and includes in its illustrious history such visionary leaders as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and United States Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. For over 115 years, we have provided impactful service and advocacy for our communities. Therefore, we are proud to endorse the nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the United States Supreme Court.

On February 25, 2022, President Joe Biden nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to become the 116th Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court and the first African American woman to hold that position. The historical significance of this nomination cannot be overstated.

The United States Supreme Court was established by the United States Constitution, but began to take shape with the passage of the Judiciary Act of 1789 and the first assembly in 1790. Since that time, the Court has been centerstage for some of the most consequential decisions that impact all aspects of American life. The Court has evolved over the years, in part as a reflection of cultural norms. In 1857, the Supreme Court in Dred Scott v. Sanford stated that African Americans “had no rights which the white man was bound to respect.” In 1896, the Supreme Court in Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the “separate but equal” doctrine. In 1954, the Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka ruled that racial segregation in public schools violated the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which prohibits the states from denying equal protection of the laws to any person within their jurisdictions.

These highlighted decisions underscore the impact of the Supreme Court to either reinforce injustice or to

ensure that all Americans (no matter their color, sex, or other status) enjoy all the freedoms that the United States Constitution guarantees her citizens. We believe that a United States Supreme Court that reflects the full diversity of America is best positioned to appreciate all perspectives of its citizens, render judgements on questions of constitutionality with a full lens, and safeguards the progress achieved to date.

The men of Alpha Phi Alpha believe that Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination to the United States Supreme Court properly reflects the reality that there are scores of African American women who have the requisite knowledge and expertise to sit on the highest court in the land. Judge Jackson’s qualifications to serve as a Justice of the Supreme Court are undeniable. She graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College, then attended Harvard Law School, where she graduated cum laude and was an editor of the Harvard Law Review. After law school, Judge Jackson served in Justice Breyer’s chambers as a law clerk. Professionally, Judge Jackson has broad experience across the legal profession – as a federal appellate judge, a federal district court judge, a member of the U.S. Sentencing Commission, an attorney in private practice, and as a federal public defender.

As one of the premier fraternal organizations in the United States with a long history of advocacy, we express our unequivocal support for this historic nomination and confirmation. We will collaborate with other groups that also believe that the United States Supreme Court should represent the talent that exists in all corners of America. The Supreme Court has been in existence for over 230 years, and the nomination and confirmation of Judge Jackson are long overdue. We remain steadfast in our conviction that we are on the right side of history and will mobilize our Brothers to conduct direct advocacy that engages the United States Senate to confirm Judge Jackson to the United States Supreme Court without delay. S

General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III speaks on One-Millionth Covid-19 Death

We were deeply saddened to learn of the onemillionth death from COVID-19 today. One million seats are now empty at dinner tables, in church pews, and at desks across the country. We cannot bring our family members and friends back, but we can honor their lives. Unfortunately, over 230,000 people lost their lives because they could not, or would not, be vaccinated.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has partnered with Good Health Wins and the National Council of Negro Women, to join a network of national and local partners to raise awareness of the impact of timely immunizations. Through this joint partnership, along with the other respective Fraternity and Sororities of the National Panhellenic Council, will seek to identify and implement strategies to reduce racial and/or ethnic disparities in adult vaccination coverage.

Why is Good Health WINs important? Of the 1M deaths, approximately 135,000 (or 13.5%) of them were among African Americans.

The real disparity comes in the rates of disease, hospitalization, and death. If you are African American, you are 1.1 times more likely to contract COVID, 2.4 times more likely to be hospitalized, and 1.7 times more likely to die than white people. (source: https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/covid-data/investigationsdiscovery/hospitalization-death-by-race-ethnicity.html)

Good Health WINs will continue to increase the availability of vaccines and messaging to Black and Hispanic communities; increase our range of trusted community voices and most importantly implement strategies to reduce racial and or ethnic disparities in adult and child vaccination coverage. We believe that working collaboratively will decrease Covid-19 numbers significantly, especially in our communities.

We, therefore, choose to remember our loved ones by ensuring everyone has access to, and accurate information about, COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. Please join us in our efforts to build vaccine confidence to keep our families and communities safe through this continuing pandemic. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Outraged and Condemns Acts of Buffalo, NY Mass Shooter

The Men of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. are outraged and condemn the acts of selfproclaimed white supremacist and alleged mass shooter, Payton Gendron, who targeted African Americans at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York over the weekend.

Today, we mourn those lives lost in this violent tragedy and offer our deepest condolences to the families of the 10 victims. Unarmed Black people continue to be murdered in peaceful spaces or while living their everyday lives without any justice or accountability.

This must stop.

According to police, had the shooter’s carnage not been stopped, he planned to “shoot more Black people.”

Therefore, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. urges law enforcement, particularly, the U.S. Attorney General and the Department of Justice, to classify this case as a federal hate crime. Crimes such as these should be fully prosecuted, whether on the state or federal level, and face the stiffest penalties.

We continue to stand with Alpha Brother and Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, first responders, the Rho Lambda Chapter in Buffalo, and the community-at-large, as they work to heal their city. Since our founding, Alpha Phi Alpha has been at the forefront of civil rights and social justice issues, taking a stand against violence and white supremacy at every turn.

As a fraternity, we will do what we can to ensure that the Buffalo community receives the support it needs. S

Statement of Alpha

Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on President Joe Biden Signing Historic Legislation Making Lynching A Federal Crime

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. congratulates President Joe Biden on signing historic legislation, named for the late Emmett Till, into law today, making lynching a federal hate crime after a century of failed attempts.

Alpha Phi Alpha, which is the world’s first intercollegiate Fraternity founded by African American men in 1906, has stood at the forefront in the fight for social justice and civil rights for African Americans as well as has lobbied against lynching for more than a century.

The Emmett Till Anti-lynching Act, which was named for the 14-year-old Black boy whose brutal torture and murder after a white woman lied that he grabbed and verbally threatened her in Mississippi in 1955, was introduced by Rep. Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) in the House and Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) in the Senate.

Since 1900, lawmakers have failed to pass anti-lynching bills nearly 200 times. This new law allows the country to take a giant step towards equal protection, and finally affords justice for lynching victims and their families.

Lynching is not a relic of the past. And as we have seen with the recent murder of Ahmaud Arbery, lynchings continue to be used to terrorize and murder members of the Black community. Under this new law, anyone who commits a hate crime that results in someone’s death or serious bodily injury can be prosecuted including kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, or an attempt to kidnap, abuse, or kill.

As an organization, which was “born in the shadows of slavery and on the lap of disenfranchisement” according to our Jewel Founder Dr. Henry Arthur Callis, we challenge this country to continue take even bolder steps towards ensuring equality and social justice.

Alpha Phi Alpha will always remain vigilant and committed advocates of such. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Commends President Biden for Pardon of Former Secret Service Agent and Alpha Brother Abraham W. Bolden, Sr.

The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. commends President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. for his pardon today of former Secret Service agent and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Brother, Abraham W. Bolden, Sr.

While a presidential pardon is not a vindication for the gross injustice Brother Bolden faced and endured, it is a long overdue acknowledgment and commendation of his character and his many contributions to the community following his release from prison.

Brother Bolden, who was appointed by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 as the first Black Secret Service agent to serve on a Presidential detail, was convicted on federal bribery charges after he claimed he was framed for attempting to expose gross misconduct within the agency. Some witnesses also admitted prosecutors pressured them into lying.

Brother Bolden, who has long maintained his innocence,

was sentenced to six years in federal prison, but served 39 months with a 2 ½-year probation.

Since then, Brother Bolden, a 1953 Alpha Psi Chapter initiate at Lincoln University, MO, and member of the Xi Lambda Chapter in Chicago, IL., has received numerous awards and honors for his continued efforts speaking out against racism he faced in the Secret Service and his courage for standing against injustice. In 2008, Brother Bolden also published his memoir, The Echo From Dealey Plaza, whose title is references site of JFK’s November 1963 assassination. In it, he writes about both the racism he encountered from his fellow agents, including his supervisors, and their recklessness while protecting the President.

We, as men of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., have long stood against injustice, and some have suffered for it. We congratulate Brother Bolden on this presidential pardon, and his ongoing efforts to maintain his integrity and fight for what is right no matter the cost. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Condemns Oakland PD’s Conduct and Violent Arrest of Alpha Brother Brandon Calloway

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. condemns the Oakland Police Department’s conduct and violent arrest of Alpha Brother and motorist Brandon Calloway captured in a now viral video in Oakland, Tennessee last Saturday.

Within 24 hours of the incident, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer contacted Brother Calloway, a 2016 initiate of the Eta Phi Chapter and graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in Chattanooga, TN. While we do not know all the facts, the incident is disturbing, and we stand with our Brother Calloway and his family.

Currently, the Fraternity demands a fair and transparent

investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and other authorities. Incidents like these further highlight law enforcement’s perceived disparity in its treatment of people of color and lack of professionalism seen in the viral video of the incident.

We also urge the Oakland Police Department and all law enforcement to revisit their engagement and usage of force practices and procedures.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. refuses to remain silent when people of color, particularly members of our fraternity, are treated unfairly and brutalized.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation and communicate appropriate actions. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Joins Other NPHC Fraternities For Historic, Joint Capitol Hill Day

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. joined with the four other National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities for the historic, first-ever, NPHC Fraternity Days on Capitol Hill, which included panel discussions and meetings with Congressional members and other officials, June 13-14, 2022.

Among them, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. participated with the Fraternity in panel discussions on voting rights, public safety, economic development, education, and housing on the first day.

“A gathering of this magnitude represents a gamechanging opportunity for us to dramatically increase our impact when it comes to mentorship and addressing community needs that have been long tackled, but stubbornly persists due to limits from our individual approaches,” said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. “We’re going to present a more unified front and increase collaboration, especially towards improving outcomes for young African American males to make greater impact. I believe at the end of the day, our organizations will grow closer together, but most importantly – our community will be stronger.”

Several members of the Congressional Black Caucus and other officials also addressed and met with the fraternities, including: Omega Frater, Majority Whip, and U.S. Rep. James E. Clyburn (D-SC), Delta Soror and U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH), also CBC Chairwoman; Delta Soror and U.S. Rep. Val Demings (D-FL); Kappa Frater and U.S. Rep. Hakim Jeffries (D-NY); AKA Soror and U.S. Rep. Terrie Sewell (D-AL); Kappa Frater and U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA); AKA Soror and U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX); AKA Soror and U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL); Omega Frater and U.S. Rep. Kwesi Mfume, (D-MD); Kappa Frater and U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA); Alpha Brother and U.S. Rep. Al Green (D-TX); AKA Soror and U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-FL); Alpha Brother and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, (D-Va.); CBC Exec. Director Vince Evans; Alpha Brother and U.S. House of Representatives Sergeant of Arms William J. Walker; as well as Omega Frater and NAACP President Derrick Johnson.

The fraternities are focused on several key legislation, including H.R. 5746 – Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act; H.R. 3863 Fair Representation Act; H.R. 132 – Federal Prison Bureau Nonviolent Offender Relief Act of 2021; S.

79 – EQUAL Act; S. 1109 – Minority Entrepreneurship Grant Program Act of 2021; H.R. 3294 – IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act; H.R. 40 – Commission to Study and Development Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act; H.R. 251 – Reaffirming bilateral and multilateral relations between the United States and African countries and recognizing the importance of diplomatic, security, and trade relations; and S. 1368 – American Housing and Economic Mobility Act of 2021, according to Brother Carl A. Pickney, the event’s co-organizer, and both the Fraternity’s social action chair, and chairman of the political and civic engagement committee.

On Tuesday, the U.S. Small Business Administration established a Strategic Alliance Memorandum (SAM) with the National Pan-Hellenic Council’s Council of Presidents, comprised of the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities.

“This historic alliance between the SBA and the NPHC— the first of its kind for a government agency—will bring SBA’s valuable small business resources into reach for many small businesses and entrepreneurs, furthering the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to build equity and close historic wealth gaps that have held back America’s Black entrepreneurs, small business owners and their families and communities for generations,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman in an SBA press release. “Over the past 18 months, the SBA has made incredible progress reaching more of Ame4rica’s small businesses, delivering vital resources and support to entrepreneurs who have been historically underinvested in and overlooked—the same people and communities hit hardest by the COVID pandemic. Working alongside partners and allies within the Divine Nine will provide even greater reach for the SBA to better provide the entrepreneurial Black community access to networks, financial literacy, technical training, and capital readiness so they can successfully realize their American Dreams of business ownership, create jobs, and advance our economy.”

According to the SBA release, the partnership will focus on increasing financial literacy within traditionally underserved, disadvantaged communities, expanding the Agency’s outreach, and introducing Black entrepreneurs to the SBA’s suite of tools and resources to start and grow their businesses including access to capital, government contracting opportunities and counseling. S

BY BROTHER ADRIAN B. STRATTON, MBA, PRP [OMICRON ZETA LAMBDA ’08]

Writing Rules

Written rules codify what an organization has decided for itself on matters of governance. Members deserve to understand the rules they may be subject to and clearly written rules greatly assist with such clarity. Writing appropriate rules is detailed and nuanced but well worth the effort. With thoughtful planning and adequate support, the work of creating or refining the rules contained in bylaws and other governing documents can be successfully accomplished.

Good governing documents clearly establish the powers and limitations of a membership, committees, officers, and boards. As primary protection for the rights of members it is important that rules are well defined. In organizations where many written rules exist, the bylaws1 generally serve as the common connection to organizational governance and practices. Members who desire to truly understand how their organization functions should seek to understand the bylaws2 in relation to all other rules.

Of all the governing documents, the bylaws contain the most significant rules that are unique to a particular organization. Bylaws are intentionally difficult to change due to their importance. As such, an organization

may find the need to develop rules in complimentary documents—such as standing rules or policy manuals— which are easier to change. To avoid conflicts, these various levels of written rules and customs follow a structured hierarchy.

HIERARCHY of RULES

1. Law³

2. Charter

3. Constitution

4. Bylaws

5. Special Rules of Order

6. Standing Rules

7. Parliamentary Authority

8. Custom⁴

The rules developed in documents of lesser rank must never conflict with those of higher precedence (pronounced pree-SEED-n’s). For example, standing rules must not conflict with adopted special rules. However, rules of a lower rank in the hierarchy always yield to rules of higher precedence when a conflict does appear. Certain types of rules are simply more important than others. Higher placement of a rule in the hierarchy should also make it correspondingly more difficult to change.

Every organization should govern itself as the membership agrees. This democratic concept creates the need for a process where a majority may fairly introduce and change rules. The amendment process allows for a transparent and orderly way to manage suggested rule changes. Members must be made aware of proposed changes and typically at least a majority of members must approve any amendment.5 Each document containing rules should clearly state how the rules contained therein may be amended. Whether line by line or via a general revision6 the following steps may be helpful when amending and writing new rules:

• Read and Write: An author intending to draft a rule proposal should read examples of other governing documents to gain inspiration being sure to modify drafts to fit the unique intent of their organization.

• Informal Feedback: Requesting draft feedback from trusted individuals may be helpful to ensure rule proposals are easy to understand.

• Professional Advisory: Seeking draft proposal input from professionals can save time and mitigate risk; engaging a professional parliamentarian (for procedural matters) and an attorney (for legal matters) may be advisable.

• Review: After consideration of any informal feedback and professional advisory, presentation to a relevant committee, board, or select members may be helpful as an internal check against existing rules, policies, and customs.

• Revise: Incorporate insights from internal reviews where necessary and change where appropriate. A few attempts to review/revise draft proposals may be needed for text consistency and flow.

• Perfect: Prior to presentation for adoption check the revised draft proposal for clarity of language and intent.

• Present: Introduce the perfected rule proposal via the rules of the organization for a vote. Pay close attention to any notice requirements necessary to effect change.

• Adopt: Update any changes that were successfully adopted as presented or as further amended.

The rules that directly impact an organization most are those developed for itself. Effective, clearly written rules help organizations; convoluted, unclear rules have the opposite effect. Properly written rules are never in conflict with those of higher precedence. Bylaws, and complimentary rules, are critical to preventing and resolving issues that undoubtedly arise when members interact and transact business. Understanding the unique relationship between the various rules and how to amend them will assist members in the fulfillment of organizational objectives. S

Brother Adrian Stratton, MBA, PRP (ΑΦΑ – ΟΖΛ ‘08, ΑΦΑ – ΚΞΛ) serves as General Parliamentarian for the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

NOTES

1. Every organization does not have bylaws but those intending to exist in perpetuity are strongly encouraged to adopt them.

2. Sometimes written as the “by-laws”, “bye-laws”, “Constitution and Bylaws”, or “Constitution with Bylaws.”

3. Hierarchy may also exist within certain categories of precedence. For example, in the United States of America state law yields to federal law within “Law.”

4. Not all customs are written but some certainly are. Regardless, if a point of order is raised on a customary practice that is in conflict with a written rule the written rule must be followed.

5. Two-thirds (2/3) is a majority as it is greater than fifty percent (50%). However, it is possible for a minority of votes to actually block a majority when the rule requires two-thirds (2/3) vote for adoption.

6. A general revision is an efficient process that allows an existing bylaws document to be replaced with a completely new document.

INTRODUCING ALPHA PHI ALPHA’S SURGEON GENERAL TEAM

The Alpha Phi Alpha Surgeon General team is in place and working to bring medical, public health and scientific subject matter expertise to Brothers, our families, and the communities we serve across the world.

In February 2021, General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III announced his historic appointment of the Fraternity’s first-ever Surgeon General, Brother Jeffrey Sterling, MD, MPH, FACEP, as part of his commitment to improve the health of our Brotherhood as well as improve how that awareness influences our programs and partnerships.

Subsequently, Surgeon General Sterling appointed six deputy surgeon generals across six respective health areas or focuses, including dental health, family health, health disparities, international health/tropical medicine, mental health, and public health.

In addition, he recruited more than 80 other Brothers to provide support and expertise to produce approximately 75 webinars and 50 vlogs, which can be found on SphinxTV YouTube channel as well as the official Alpha Phi Alpha Facebook page.

Here is the leadership.

Surgeon General

Brother Jeffrey Sterling, MD, MPH, FACEP Alpha Mu ’82, Beta Tau Lambda

Deputy Surgeon Generals

Brother Langston Smith, DMD, MS, M.H.Ed

Dental Health

Delta Phi ’64, Iota Upsilon Lambda

Brother Victor Narcisse III, MD, FACP Family Health

Rho Iota ’90, Alpha Eta Lambda

Brother Christopher Womack, MS, PhD

Health Disparities

Omicron Delta Lambda ’88, Sigma Mu Lambda

Brother Robert Carter III, MPH, Ph.D., FAIS, FACSM

International Health/Tropical Medicine

Theta Chi ’92, General Organization

Brother Rahn Kennedy Bailey, MD, FABP

Mental Health

Alpha Rho ’84, Alpha Eta Lambda

Brother Torrance Brown, DrPH, MPH

Public Health

Gamma Upsilon ’97, Pi Upsilon Lambda

Join the Surgeon General Initiative every other Thursday at 7 pm Eastern on Facebook Live or the Alpha Phi Alpha YouTube channel for a health webinar. We welcome your input and topic suggestions. Forward any topic requests to: surgeongeneral@apa1906.net. S

BROTHER JEFFREY STERLING, MD, MPH, FACEP

BROTHER LANGSTON SMITH, DMD, MS, M.H.ED

BROTHER ROBERT CARTER III, MPH, PH.D., FAIS, FACSM

BROTHER VICTOR NARCISSE III, MD, FACP

BROTHER RAHN KENNEDY BAILEY, MD, FABP

BROTHER CHRISTOPHER WOMACK, MS, PHD

BROTHER TORRANCE BROWN, DRPH, MPH

BY BROTHER JAMES K. WINFIELD, ED.D, [OMICRON IOTA LAMBDA ’16]

The First of Phirst: Supporting our FirstGeneration Brothers

“First of All”, a motto that we hold dear. Whether being the first registered architect in the state of New York or the first Black mayor of Atlanta. As Alpha men, we are accustomed to being the first. Another first that may not seem as notable but holds a significant amount of weight and respect are those brothers who have not only been trusted with the responsibility and privileges of brotherhood in the Black and Old Gold but who are also first-generation college students.

Nationally 33% of students enrolled in higher education are the first in their families to pursue a four-year degree. In addition, the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics (2019) shared that Black males have one the lowest six-year graduation rates of 34 percent, that is 27 percent less than their white male counterparts. Often exacerbated by the societal stressors, mental and physical health, and competing familial demands, Black men are known to endure a different set of challenges that can manifest into attrition and stopping out.

As Alpha men, we can make a huge statement in a time where intersectionality of identities is so important. If we can identify those brothers who are first-gen and provide them with a focused support network to enrich their college experiences, we can support their transition to graduation.

There are three areas of focus that men of Alpha can encourage to ensure that brothers create an environment that supports brothers who are first-generation college students. These areas of focus include creating a culture of belonging, brave space, and brotherhood.

Belonging. As Brother Dr. Terrell Strayhorn (2018) shares in his research on college students, students thrive and need a strong sense of belonging to prosper in the collegiate environment. The need to belong is more necessary for those who may lack the knowledge, models, and examples that may be present among their continuing college-going peers. As Black men are dwindling in numbers across higher education it is prudent for us to validate brothers who seek connection among us.

Brave Space. As brave spaces are developed, we must foster environments that create vulnerability and aid

References

brothers in using help-seeking skills. Societal conditioning misinforms us to thinking that we must bear our burdens alone and in silence. Whether it is seeking tutoring for a math course or seeking emotional support through campus counseling services. Continue to create spaces where young men can share their struggles and feel confident that they can receive guidance and navigation.

Brotherhood. Among our fraternal bonds, these brothers are supported as Alpha men, but we must also support them with the capital and identity that they bring to the fold. Reminding them that being first-generation is a point of pride and not a deficit is a compliment to foster their resilience. Continually reminding them that they are not alone in their social and academic ventures can strengthen their connection to Alpha while finding community among other brothers. Being the first can be a challenge, but it is also an honor. Many of our brothers including myself are proud first-generation students and graduates who herald this identity. By sharing our stories, we can normalize these narratives and inspire younger brothers to achieve their academic and career goals. Let’s uplift our brothers who have worked to beat the odds and have not only chosen to join us in the bonds of brotherhood but seek to be boundary breakers as they journey to be the first in their families to earn a four-year degree.

As the old chant goes, “We study hard. We stay up late, but most of all we graduate.” Whether you advise or support a collegiate chapter or interact with college brothers in your areas and districts strive to empower these brothers as they move through their collegiate journeys. S

Brother James K. Winfield, EdD, [Omicron Iota Lambda ‘16], associate dean for first-year experience, general education & retention strategies for Southern New Hampshire University Global Campus, and adjunct faculty for Messiah University. He serves on the Center Advocacy Group for the Center for First-generation Student Success and serves as the steering committee chair for the Black First-gen Collective.

1. National Center for Education Statistics. (2019). Status and Trends in the Education of Racial & Ethnic Groups [Indicator 23: Postsecondary Graduation Rates]. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/raceindicators/indicator_red.asp

2. Strayhorn, T. L. (2018). College students’ sense of belonging: A key to educational success for all students. (2nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Taylor & Francis.

BY BROTHER VIC CARTER [XI ALPHA ’78]

Alpha Brother Dr. John H. Carter’s Life Story: Hold My Mule - There is No Such Word As “Can’t”

How does a black boy running up and down a dusty dirt road in rural Thomaston, Georgia, navigate his way through treacherous segregated times to eventually have a corner office at the top of the BellSouth Tower in downtown Atlanta, Georgia?

Brother John H. Carter [Iota Chapter - Morris Brown College Fall, 1967] was urged to write his life story by the one person he listens to consistently, his wife, Susan. It’s called “Hold My Mule- There’s No Such Word as “Can’t”. It is fashioned after the characterization of a man who experiences and celebrates God’s infinite grace with praise no matter where he is. In penning this book, Brother Carter reveals elements of his life that most of us never knew.

This consummate Alpha man has been the driving force of some of the Fraternity’s most essential and recognizable projects. His greatest is serving as the

project manager for the development of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, this effort grew from a relatively small idea into the impressive $120 million four-acre site on the National Mall that we cherish so richly today.

John’s story is not unlike that of many other men and women of color of his time, who overcame incredible adversities to make an indelible mark on this nation’s fabric and history. With each of his achievements, he extends a hand to bring others with him.

I have known Brother Carter (no genealogical connection) for more than 40 years. Some of the things I learned about him from this book include:

• He was involved in moonshining.

• He had a tumultuous relationship with his father, and he never shed a tear at his passing.

• He risked his life and drank from a “White’s Only” fountain in the lobby of a government building.

• A clerical error may have kept him out of Morris Brown College.

• He never allowed his impoverished past to keep him from a prosperous future

• He protested with other Atlanta University Students at the Georgia State Capitol and marched for civil rights.

“Hold My Mule” is more than a life story. It gives instruction from real-life experiences on how to endure, overcome, succeed, and mentor.

Among his earliest memories is an encounter with his father, who ordered him to open a car door.

“I pushed and pushed on that button but could not summon the strength to do it. He said, “YOU CAN!” I kept trying and finally used both hands to shove the button as hard as I could. The door crept open, delivering to me my very first “Hold My Mule Moment.”… That day, I learned what Seaborn, Otis, and my ancestors learned in order to survive 400 years of oppression and servitude during slavery. When we allow ‘can’t’ to slip into our vocabulary, we give the word credence. We also give it power!”

John tells us how to turn adversity into opportunity, transform a deficit into a profit, and protect our core values by staying true to our faith. John admonishes the reader never to lose sight of the past while focusing on the future.

ABCS OF BLACK HEROES

These beliefs have proven his value and worth. John Carter was named Alpha Brother of the Year in 1992 and adorned the cover of this very hallowed magazine. In 2011 he received the Fraternity’s highest honor, the Award of Merit, for his work with the MLK Memorial.

Whether managing a nearly billion-dollar budget for his division at Bell South or volunteering on committees at his church, John approaches each task with the simple notion that if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well. Even in retirement, John has maintained a schedule that rivals full-time executives and continues mentoring almost everyone he meets.

“You will be faced with obstacles; others will jump in front of you, but all you need to do is listen to the voices around you and pray for strength, and the pool is all yours. “There is no such word as “Can’t!” “

Hold My Mule: There Is No Such Word As “Can’t” is available at amazon.com or johnhcarter.info S

Brother Vic L. Carter, who is currently a member of Kappa Phi Lambda in Columbia, MD, is an anchor for CBS Paramount - WJZ-TV in Baltimore, MD.

Brother Steaven L. Misher [Rho Sigma Lambda ’14] offers a children’s book celebrating the achievements of Black people around the world. Part poetry, part educational, this book is ideal for children ages 6-11. Children will love the pictures; Parents and Teachers will appreciate the literacy and the knowledge. Fantastic caricatures combined with simple yet clever wordplay help to make ABCs a unique gem in the annals of literature. The ABCs of Black Heroes is composed of 26 world renown people of African American descent. Also included are 3 Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity: Bro. Adam Clayton Powell, Bro. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Bro. Andrew Young. An autographed copy can be purchased via steavenlmisher.com; amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com S

A STEPDAD’S JOURNEY

In this work, Brother Marcus L. Belvin [Eta Omicron ‘99] depicts an intimate journey into fatherhood within a blended family. he shares lessons learned from his own experiences and various other sources, providing a work that offers best practices designed to help others succeed in blended family situations by making impactful first impressions, understanding the value of nurturing a broader “support village” and the role of open communication and perseverance throughout the journey. His desire is for readers to realize they do not have to face blended-family parenting nuances alone. Fusing families is a process that takes effort, collaboration, compromise, and love. astepdadsjourney.com S

ORIGIN OF THE ALPHA MOTIF

This book by Brother Lateef Saffore, Ph.D. [Alpha Zeta ’92] expertly fills the gaps about the early history of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and its founding at Cornell University in 1906. It explains where the early Black students came from, how they entered Cornell, what they studied, where they lived in Ithaca, N.Y., and their lives after Cornell. Bro. Charles H. Wesley in 1956 identified the Alpha Motif as “the theme, the central feature, the dominant element, the motivating idea” behind the founding of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, which has remained faithful to this dynamic force now for more than a century. - From the Foreword by General Historian Robert L. Harris, Jr. Ph.D. my.apa1906.net/Shop/Product-Catalog S

BULLETS IN THE FIRE: THE SAGA OF NEW YORK RED

Brother Eddie Roy Hill [Zeta Zeta Lambda ’80] tells the story of his mother, Erma Louise Hill, a liberated young woman, known on the streets of Harlem as “New York Red,” a celebrated Number Banker. She generated millions of dollars in revenue for her associates and the Genovese Mafia Family. She was never arrested nor convicted by New York City law enforcement authorities, she was well loved by her customers and the residents of Harlem. Then, what brought about her demise?

She comes of age during the depression under difficult family circumstances in rural South Georgia. Her story begins in 1924 in Plains, Georgia. It was the same year President Jimmy Carter was born and her family occasionally worked for the Carter family. Her intellect surfaced very early in her school career. She excelled in school and her caring heart drove her to help others along the way. This concern for others was evident throughout her life.

The depression made sure every member of any black household had to work in the cotton and peanut fields to eke out every penny of income to keep from starving. She knew, she had to work hard if she was to make it out of Plains, Georgia. She was raised by strong, hard-working Black women who are forced to live by racist white male rules. She refused, she made and lived by her own rules. Working on the edge of the law in the family’s bootlegging business taught Erma early how to earn by making her own rules. She sold moonshine in the family’s Roadhouse in Plains, Georgia while dodging Federal Revenuers. Many white racists thought black women were easy pickings, but she fought off white rapist and escaped within an inch of her life. She fled to Atlanta, Georgia’s Sweet Auburn Ave. There she lived the high-life of personal fulfillment, sexual freedom and excitement. She is slowed down by the birth of her first son. Realizing she had to care for more than herself, she developed a more conventional lifestyle. But found she had developed a major flaw; she loved married men.

She moved to New York City, but her flaw led to two additional, out of wedlock, children and abandonment by her lovers. With her independence and spirit now almost broken, she turned to playing numbers; an activity that was close to her math training and love. She realized she is good at playing numbers. The local Number Banker (Steve) quickly recognized her skill and asked her to start writing numbers for him. She quickly became one of his more accomplished employees. Now known as “New York Red,” she made a name for herself as one of Harlem’s most renowned number writers. Steve promoted her to his controller, where she managed his entire number banking enterprise including paying off Mafia Crime Bosses, lawyers, bribing judges, and police. Steve introduced her to his partner Fat Tony, the boss of the Genovese crime family, also known as “The 116th Street Crew.» They were the most vicious Mafia family in New York City and the country. A riff develops between Steve (her boss) and Fat Tony, and the Mafia killed him over a failed drug transaction. His murder leaves her devastated, because Steve promised her, he would not get involved in any illegal drug activities. Steve left his Number Business to her. Without Fat Tony’s approval, she takes control of Steve’s Number Business and his old territory. The Mafia disapproved, refusing to do business with her; a strong Black woman. She refused to turn over her business to them, but her dreams were fulfilled through her children. She made sure her children were well-fed, well-clothed, well-housed, and well-educated, well prepared for their future success. She found the courage, wisdom, and independence to make her own rules. She lived by them and was willing to die by them.

Her immortal instructions to her children were, “Do as I say do, not as I do. I am throwing bricks at the jailhouse, so you won’t have too.” amazon.com S

IVORY TOWER INDEED: ADDRESSING STRUCTURAL BARRIERS TO HIGHER EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS OF COLOR AND MAKING COLLEGE ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL

Education is a difference-maker and game-changer for the future today as it was yesteryear! But not all opportunities are created equal. Unfortunately, for students of color, education often does not happen unless they are given the opportunities to get into higher learning institutions. In Ivory Tower Indeed: Addressing Structural Barriers to Higher Education for Students of Color and Making College Accessible for All, Brother Dr. Keith E. Robinson [Xi Nu ’79] offers a powerful medium in which young black and brown boys aspiring to attend college find powerful insight to assist them with their journeys to college. Offering a first-hand account of some of the things that impede black and brown boys’ entry into best and proper-fit colleges and universities throughout this country and abroad, reading their answers’ rich and robust primary data encourages closer examination of the problems plaguing students of color and inspires change. Providing invaluable insight to public high schools, colleges, universities, and higher learning institutions all over the world, Ivory Tower Indeed assists educators, administrators, planners, advisors, counselors, and school staff see the urgent needs associated with recruiting, retaining, and graduating black and brown boys. amazon.com or bookstore.dorrancepublishing.com S

WHITE FEAR: HOW THE BROWNING OF AMERICA IS MAKING WHITE FOLKS LOSE THEIR MINDS

For two centuries, the deep-seated fear that many White people feel—of losing power, of losing economic standing, of losing a particular “way of life”—has been the driving force behind American politics and culture. White Fear enabled the rise of Donald Trump. It’s behind the recent flood of restrictive voting laws disproportionately impacting people of color. It’s why reactions to movements like Black Lives Matter and football players taking a knee have been so negative and so strong. As we approach a future where White people will become a racial the minority in the US, something estimated to occur as early as 2043, that fear is only intensifying, festering, and becoming more visible. Are we destined for a violent clash? What can we do to step into our country’s inevitable future, without tearing ourselves apart in the process? Nationally renowned journalist and awardwinning author and Brother Roland S. Martin [Pi Omicron ’89] has been sounding this alarm for more than a decade. In White Fear, he provides a primer on how White Fear has shaped, and continues to shape, our democracy and our culture. He connects the separate puzzle pieces, from the Tea Party Movement to the decline of White American optimism to the diminishing blue-collar workforce, to illuminate the larger picture of what will unfold in America over the next decade-plus and offers a better way forward. If we want to create the kind of country that we’re all welcome in and proud to live in, we can no longer ignore White Fear. We must learn to recognize, understand, and dismantle it. And as the last few years have shown, we don’t have any time to lose. amazon.com S

BY BROTHER RASHID FAISAL [EPSILON UPSILON LAMBDA ’06]

Origins of the Go-to-High School, Go-toCollege Movement

At the Fifteenth General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity assembled at the seat of the Epsilon Lambda Chapter, St. Louis, Missouri, December 27-31, 1922, “The General President or some other Brother designated by him was authorized to act as director of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College campaign”. The seeds of the Go-to-High School, Go-toCollege Movement were, however, planted years prior at the Ninth Annual Convention assembled at Virginia Union University in December of 1916.

Brother Howard H. Long, Founder of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement

President Howard H. Long, the first African American to earn the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in 1933 (Harvard Graduate School of Education), “emphasized the need of an aim for the fraternity, and urged that Education should be the leading one which should be selected.” According to Brother Dr. Charles H. Wesley, the author of the fraternity’s history book, “In view of the later development in reference to Go-to-High School Go-to-College Movement, this recommendation is most significant.” To Dr. Howard H. Long, initiated into Beta Chapter (Howard University) and the Seventh

General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., we honor as the founder of the Go-to-High School, Go-toCollege Movement based on his recommendation “that the Fraternity adopt a programmatic objective and suggested that education was the most important consideration”.

On September 24, 1915, Brother Howard H. Long, a recent graduate of Howard University and a graduate student a Clark University in Worchester Massachusetts, where he earned a master’s degree in experimental psychology in 1916, stated the following in reference to the responsibility of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to “Spread the Alpha Phi Alpha Spirit” by being at the forefront of leadership in the African American Community. Years later, in 1931, after his initial impetus to prioritize education as the fraternity’s “most important consideration,” evolved into today’s National Program, Go-to-High School, Go-to-College, Brother Howard H. Long, reflected on the changing landscape in the education of Black Americans and recommended “planned fraternalism” to ensure Black collegians graduated from college.

“We must bear in mind that the college student

of today is not as mature as the college student of a generation ago. During our college days, in most instances, we made a business of staying in school. That was necessary, for most of us worked our way and were solely responsible for our expenses… By far the situation is different with college students of today … The recommendation ought perhaps be widened into one for planned fraternalism, for we know enough now to realize that fraternalism just doesn’t exist. It must be cultivated and planned for. -Silver Jubilee Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1931

Twelfth Annual Convention and the Active Beginning of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement

At the Twelfth Annual Convention assembled at the seat of Theta Chapter in Chicago, Illinois in December of 1919, the Commission of Graduate Work and Public Affairs was established and agreed “to launch a movement toward influencing colored students of the country to go to high school and college”. This Commission under the leadership of Brother Rosco C. Giles. According to Brother Dr. Charles H. Wesley, After four years of discussion at the Ninth (1916), Tenth (1917), Eleventh (1918), and Twelfth (1919) conventions, the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College program came to fruition. The names of Alpha Brothers involved in these early efforts included Ormond A. Foote, Frederick H. Miller, Charles H. Garvin, Simeon S. Booker.

According to Brother Dr. Charles H. Wesley, Under the leadership of Commission chairperson, Rosco C. Giles, the week of June 6-12 was “set aside for the conduct of the nation-wide educational campaign to be known later as the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement”. According to the Sphinx, 12th Annual Convention, Volume: VI, Number 1:

Go-to-High School and Go-to-College Week

Through the insistence of delegates from Pi Chapter, together with suggestions from Brother Treasurer Booker and Brother Vice-President Moore, the Convention set aside the first week in June as the GO TO COLLEGE AND GO TO HIGH SCHOOL WEEK.

Propaganda literature will be distributed throughout the various cities in which the Fraternity has Chapters. For the printing, Brother G. A. Morgan has asked to be allowed to the pay the expenses. The Chapters themselves will be expected to send speakers out through

the schools and churches that week urging parents to send their children to the higher schools and colleges. A public mass meeting in which speakers’ dwell on the advantages of an education is also a part of the program.

Some of the delegates brought information that with a large colored population of nearly 75,000 in some cities, not more than 50 to 75 colored boys and girls can be found in the higher schools. All of the delegates entered into the working out of this proposal with enthusiasm that will be sure to carry the movement over.

As noted by Brother Dr. Charles H. Wesley, “Its purpose was to touch every high school, and as many communities as possible either by personal contact or through the distribution of the educational pamphlets.” To aide the movement, the May 20, Sixth Year, Number 2 issue of the Sphinx stated that General President Lucius L. McGee sent letters to all the local chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity urging each chapter to participate in the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement.

In the May 1920 issue of the Sphinx, General Secretary, Brother Norman McGhee stated the following in highlighting the importance of Chapter implementation to the success of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement.

At our recent Convention, a plan was adopted whereby each chapter of the Fraternity would observe the first week in June as “Go To College Go To High School Week.” It is earnestly hoped that every chapter has made plans to hold such meetings during that week and have speakers, chosen from our many competent brothers to present subjects bearing upon that theme. Much good work may be expected to result from carrying out this plan of ours. The Graduate Commission recently created by our Fraternity will sone begin its work so to harness all the forces in our organization as to assure effectiveness in prosecuting any program we may enter upon. A more intense development of effective cooperation is the means why which Alpha Phi Alpha shall grain greater growth and prestige. Let us see that this is not lacking.

Noted are Go to High School, Go to College program deliverables recorded by Brother Dr. Charles Wesley:

• The Fraternity allocated thousands of pamphlets and print materials to twenty-six chapters for local distribution.

• The Fraternity established Education Week, which consisted of weeklong activities to spur interest in high school graduation and college attendance.

• The Fraternity sent letters to local pastors reminding them of Education Week and urging them observe Educational Sunday at their churches and parishes.

• The Fraternity secured guest speakers from within the fraternity, and from the local community to visit local grammar and secondary schools.

• The Fraternity sent articles were to newspapers highlighting the fraternity’s educational initiative.

• Fraternity representatives held meetings, assemblies, conferences, and socials with the senior classes of grammar schools, and senior classes of high schools.

• The fraternity conducted Interview Day with high school students to discuss their status and future as college students.

• Several chapters covered scholarships for prospective college entrants

Brother Roscoe C. Giles, the second General President of the fraternity (1910) and chairperson of the Commission, “kept up a constant correspondence with individual chapters” in 1920. In a report dated May 20, 1920, he wrote that “Alpha Phi Alpha is going over the top in this, its first campaign.” Brother B. L. Taylor authored an article published in the May 1920 issue of the Sphinx entitled “After Graduation What? Ninety Per Cent of Our Children Drop out of School After the Eighth Grade – A Work for the College Graduate.” He pointed to the African American community as offering the “greatest opportunity for real service.”

The opportunities in the community will be many. Recently I have been conducting some work which has brought very strikingly to my attention the condition of life and some of the problems which our young people—particularly our children—must fact. Ninety percent of the boys and girls who enter school at the age of six years have left school by the time they have reached the eighth grade. Too large a proportion of these are Negro children.

At the conclusion of Education Week and Educational Sunday, the Commission of Graduate Work and Public Affairs conducted a program evaluation and forwarded a detailed report to the General President.

Brother Roscoe C. Giles expressed satisfaction with the chapter’s participation in the fraternity’s first nationwide educational initiative. He stated, “practically all the chapters responded promptly to the Go-to-High School

Go-to-college Movement. Even with the limited time at our disposal, the results have been very gratifying.”

Brother Dr. Wesley noted that the success of the Go-toHigh School, Go-to-College program in 1920 established the fact that “The fraternity now had a definite program useful for its own interests and the interests of those it would serve”.

Thirteenth General Convention (December 1920)

Alpha men demonstrated enthusiastic interest at the Thirteenth Annual Convention in December of 1920 in the outcomes of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement. After much discussion over the results of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College programs put on by the various chapters, the Convention decided the Fraternity’s educational initiative would be “undertaken for a period of five years and that every effort be put forward to continue to increase the good results brought about by the movement since 1920.” One important outcome that came out Convention’s deliberations on the success of the chapter’s implementation of Go-to-High School, Go-to-College programing was the continued need to implement the program to fit the needs of each local community. It was also decided that the Go-to-High School, Go-toCollege program would work in partnership with other organizations in the community to promote high school completion and college enrollment. The motto for the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College campaign became “The Future of Our Race is Dependent Upon the Education of Our Boys and Girls.”

Go-to-High School, Go-to-College, 1921 Campaign

During the fraternity’s second Annual Go-to-High School, Go-to-College campaign, Brother Roscoe C. Giles served as chairperson. He sent out a letter to the local chapters stating that “The fraternity must go over the top. We must blaze the way and let others follow. We have the organization, we have the trained men, our opportunity is here; we must not and will not fail.” The fraternity adopted the slogan: We Must Reach One Million Pupils. Having adopted a program of reflecting the fraternity’s aims of prioritizing education, and a program that resonated with the needs of the community, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity was determined to take the lead in promoting high school completion and college attendance in the Black community.

The Go-to-High School, Go-to-Collee pamphlets and printed materials reflected the fraternity’s understanding of the achievement required across the trajectory of Pre-K -12 education and college to ensure Black American graduates were prepared for success

as professionals, in the business world, and as business owners. As stated in a “brilliant color and style” pamphlet distributed by the commission: “Four million Americans must be trained” and “To live well requires the best preparation.” The Fraternity’s Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement held as its primary aim the racial uplift of African Americans through education.

In the February 1921 issue of the Sphinx, General President Simeon S. Booker, reiterated the importance of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement as the most important part of the Fraternity’s work for the fraternal year:

… the “Go-to-High School-and-College” week is the most important part of our year’s program, and every chapter and member can help the commission make this week a real feature, one that will be felt in every large community. Brother Dr. Giles, the chairman of the commission, will welcome any suggestion, help and co-operation in this effort. We hope that there will be offered twenty-five scholarships this year. Brothers, push this movement.

General President Brother S. S. Booker, General President of the fraternity, reiterated this point in a printed, single page announcement, stating:

We are on the verge of our great educational drive. The signal has been given, the slogan adopted, get your group and with a united, steady, dead pull, win. One hundred thousand homes must be reached, and one million youth must be inspired to stay in school The opportunity is at hand.

The success of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement in 1920, inspired the Chicago Defender to write an editorial commending the fraternity on once implementing an educational movement of worth. President Warren G. Harding wrote a letter to Brother Lucius L. McGhee in which he stated: “the need for effective work to reduce literacy among the colored people is very great, and manifestly it can be accomplished chiefly through the equipment of members of the race to do educational work among their own people. You may be sure of my earnest sympathy and goodwill.”

The second year of implementation found the fraternity once again experiencing unparalleled

success. Local chapters modified the standard form of Go-to-High, Go-to-College programing presented by the commission to meet the needs of their students, schools, and community. But, once again, the local chapter reached out to schools, churches, newspapers, place cards in local stores and on streetcars, and in conducting public assemblies and meetings to encourage and inspire Black youth to graduate from high school and enroll in college. According to Brother Dr. Charles H. Wesley, “the number of students in high schools and colleges greatly increased” during this period. Was the educational outreach of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity responsible for the increase in the number of Black youths attending and graduating from high school and then enrolling in college? Here is what Brother Charles Wesley had to say on the Alpha Impact:

Alpha Phi Alpha need not claim any large part in this increase, but the fraternity has been a part of the movement in some small measure it has directed attention of thousands of youths to the need of educational preparation.

Alpha Phi Alpha’s experienced and trained leadership in the field of education was brought to bear on the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College planning process and program implementation. The Fifteenth Annual Convention assembled at the seat of Epsilon Lambda Chapter in St. Louis, Missouri in December of 1922. It was at the Fifteenth Annual Convention that “The General President and some other brother designated by him” were granted authorization to serve as director of the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement.

An idea conceived by General President Howard H. Long at the Ninth Annual Convention, emphasizing the need of an aim for the fraternity along the lines of Education, evolved into the Go-to-High School, Go-to-College Movement; the fraternity’s first National Program. As noted by Dr. Charles H. Wesley, the Go-toHigh School, Go-to-College Movement is “the highest public endeavor of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity as an organized body.” The Go-to-High School, Go-to-College campaign motto, “The Future of Our Race is Dependent Upon the Education of Our Boys and Girls,” succinctly captures the aims and purpose of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in the field of education. S

Brother Rashid Faisal is a 2006 Epsilon Upsilon Lambda initiate and charter member of Sigma Delta Lambda Chapter.

BY BROTHER ROBERT L. HARRIS, JR., PH.D., GENERAL HISTORIAN [THETA ’63]

1956: Alpha’s Golden Anniversary Convention

As “Recollections Slowly Fade Away” and new members enter the bond of the “Old Gold and Black,” it is imperative that we remember and reflect on our past, on what has made Alpha Phi Alpha a renowned Fraternity. Past General President Milton C. Davis and I have embarked on developing a documentary film about our 50th Anniversary Convention for Brothers to view and to discuss.

From August 7-11, 1956, almost one thousand Brothers, their wives, and children gathered in Buffalo, New York, with a pilgrimage to Ithaca, New York, to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of Alpha Phi

and edited by Brother Robert L. Vann, who passed into Omega Chapter in 1940. He was represented at the 50th Anniversary Convention by Mrs. Robert L. Vann, President of the Pittsburgh Courier, who was mistress of Ceremonies for the Fifth General Session of the Meeting, dedicated to the wives, sweethearts, children, and mothers of Alpha men. She introduced, to a standing ovation, Mrs. Annie E. Singleton, considered the Mother of the Fraternity.

Brother Mal Goode, the first Black news correspondent for a national television network, introduced the guest speaker, Branch Rickey, for the Second General Session.

Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at Cornell University. It was a splendid gathering with nine past General Presidents and three living Jewel Founders in attendance. 102 Alumni Chapters and 38 College Chapters registered delegates for the meeting. Rho Lambda and Delta Epsilon of Buffalo, New York served as host chapters. General President Frank L. Stanley, Sr., Publisher of the Louisville Defender, presided for the convention, with the theme “Building on the Past…to Face the Challenges of the Future.”

Because of Alpha Phi Alpha’s prominence as an organization and its members’ leading role as opinion shapers, especially through the media, the convention attracted widespread attention and participation by major business and political figures. The Associated Negro Press headed by Brother Claude A. Barnett included reporters and correspondents throughout the United States and Africa. Brother John H. Johnson, founder of Johnson Publishing Co., led the most influential Black media company in the world. His Ebony Magazine printed a full spread on the Golden Anniversary Convention. One of the widest circulating Black newspapers, the Pittsburgh Courier, was published

Rickey, as General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, broke the color barrier in major league baseball when in 1947 he started Jackie Robinson. Rickey described the intricate plans in selecting Robinson and preparing him for the major league. That preparation involved how Robinson would react to a hostile racial environment more than his talent as a player. While serving in the military in 1942, Robinson was court-martialed for insubordination and other trumped-up charges after he refused to move to the back of an Army bus. He was later acquitted of all charges. Rickey believed that a fellow citizen should have a chance to make a living at whatever he did best. Robinson became an outstanding baseball player. He won rookie of the year honors in his first year, was named most valuable player in 1949, and was selected for six consecutive all-star teams from 1949-1954. Rickey received a rousing round of applause and was given Alpha’s Founders’ Award in recognition of his stellar contributions to racial equality.

In remarks to the meeting, immediate past General President A. Maceo Smith remarked how the basic tenets of the Fraternity, especially as expressed in the Preamble to the Constitution, were the cohesive qualities that held

the group together and that remained unchanged for a half century. “We, the members of this organization, in order to promote a more perfect union among college men, to aid in and insist upon personal progress of its members; to further brotherly love and a fraternal spirit within the organization; to discountenance evil; to destroy all prejudices; to preserve the sanctity of the home, the personification of virtue and the chastity of woman …” Fourteenth General President and General Historian, Dr. Charles H. Wesley, in an essay published in the Sphinx (Feb., 1963) elaborated on the basic tenets of the Fraternity under the rubric “The Alpha Motif.” He defined “The Alpha Motif” as “the theme, the central feature, the dominant element, the motivating idea” for origin and perpetuation of our Fraternity. He described the “Alpha Motif” as a consistent commitment to freedom, justice, and equality for people of African ancestry on the African continent and throughout the diaspora, especially in the United States.

A musical concert “The Alphacade” was a highlight of the convention. It featured a playlet “The Birth of Alpha Phi Alpha” by Brother Moses General Miles with Brothers from Florida A.& M. University in acting roles. The “piece de resistance” for the evening was a jazz concert by Brother Duke Ellington. A week after the convention, Brother Ellington was featured on the cover of Time Magazine. Brother Arthur D. Shores, the doyen of Black attorneys in the South, made a stirring presentation on “Civil Rights in the South: A Progress Report.” He was responsible for the admission of Autherine Lucy into the University of Alabama and represented Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in several cases after arrests for demonstrations. Shores vowed to continue the fight until African Americans won their rights as citizens of the United States.

As a testament to Alpha’s prominence and influence, the Governor of New York, and a potential presidential candidate in 1956, W. Averell Harriman, addressed the Public Program. Harriman pledged himself and the Democratic Party to the elimination of discrimination based on race, religion, or national origin. He supported racial justice at home and decolonization abroad. On Saturday, August 11th, a sixteen car special train transported a thousand Alpha men, their wives, sweethearts, and children for a pilgrimage to Ithaca, New

Sources:

York. A Memorial Luncheon was held in the Statler Inn on campus at which the three living Jewel Founders made remarks. Brother George B. Kelley thanked the Black citizens of Ithaca who supported the young students and encouraged them in the formation of the Fraternity. Brother Nathaniel A. Murray described how the Brothers helped each other to keep the membership intact and to prevent Brothers from “busting out.” They also assisted Brothers in getting jobs as student waiters to help pay their expenses. Brother Henry Arthur Callis reminded the gathering that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity “was organized to stimulate and unite promising young men for leadership in the extension of American democracy in all fields.” He concluded that the maintenance of freedom required vigilance, sacrifice, cooperation, and struggle. The Fraternity established a Memorial Scholarship of twenty-five thousand dollars at Cornell that has grown over the years to almost a million dollars today.

This was future General President Ernest N. Morial’s first General Convention. He was stationed in the U.S. Army at Fort Holabird in Baltimore, Maryland. When he explained to his new bride, Sybil, that Martin Luther King Jr. would be the featured speaker at the convention, she was eager to attend. She knew Dr. King from Boston University where she was an undergraduate and he was a graduate student. The Morials drove from Maryland to Buffalo for the convention. Dr. King, fresh from the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which was before the U.S. Supreme Court, and that would finally be favorably decided on November 13, 1956, after almost a year of struggle. Brother King made an elegant and insightful speech “The Birth of a New Age,” at the conclusion of the convention. He thanked the Brotherhood for moral and financial support during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. General President Stanley and General Secretary James E. Huger had traveled to Montgomery in the early days of the boycott to present Brother King with a thousand-dollar check as the first donation in the Alpha Campaign “Dollars for Freedom” in Alabama. In his speech, Brother King spoke of the transition from segregation and colonialism to new opportunity. He addressed the need for leadership to implement the new changes, a leadership dedicated to all mankind, not just the privileged. He saw Alpha Phi Alpha as uniquely positioned to help usher in the “New Age.” S

1. Centennial Book of Essays and Letters; Excerpts from the Brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 2006; see especially pp. 502-623.

2. Constitution and By-Laws of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Baltimore, 2021 (1906).

3. Sybil H. Morial. Witness to Change: From Jim Crow to Political Empowerment. North Carolina: Blair Books, 2015.

4. Lateef Y. Saffore. Origin of the Alpha Motif. Baltimore: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 2022.

BY BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB, DDIV., CPLC [NU ’89]

FRATERNITY RECOGNIZES ITS INAUGURAL 40 UNDER 40

HIGHLIGHTS INFLUENTIAL YOUNG ALPHA BROTHERS IN LEADERSHIP, BUSINESS/FINANCE, HEALTHCARE, CIVIC ENGAGEMENT, EDUCATION, TECHNOLOGY, AND MEDIA/ ENTERTAINMENT

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. recognized 40 influential Alpha Brothers in its Inaugural 40 under 40.

The 40 Under 40 highlights 40 Alpha Brothers 40 years and younger who have distinguished themselves in each of the following seven professional categories, including: Leadership, Business/Finance, Healthcare, Civic Engagement, Education, Technology, and Media/Entertainment.

“Since our Fraternity ranks not only as the premier organization among NPHC Fraternities, but all American fraternities, it makes sense that we establish initiatives the encourage and recognize high-performing young professionals and leaders,” says

the Fraternity’s Director of Brotherhood Engagement Brother Denny N. Johnson. “It is also consistent with our mission of developing leaders.”

Last year, nominations and applications from the Brotherhood for the 40 Under 40 were submitted, reviewed and evaluated by the committee, which included Brother Johnson – Chairman; Brother Matthew S. Bradford - Committee Co-Chairman, Brother Dayan M. Bourne - Southern Region, Brother Lewis Brewer, Jr. - Southwestern Region, Brother Marcus A. Creighton - Midwestern Region, Brother Darrius J. GourdineSouthern Region, Brother Byron Holly - Eastern Region, and Brother Ralph D. Thompson - Western Region. S

THE INAUGURAL 40 UNDER 40 ALPHA CLASS

BROTHER ORLANDO G. ARNOLD BETA UPSILON ’04

BROTHER HONORABLE CHRISTOPHER L. BATES GAMMA TAU LAMBDA ’13

BROTHER CURTIS A. BRSICOE, JR. ALPHA CHI LAMBDA ’13

BROTHER DERRICK R. CHATMAN KAPPA GAMMA ’07

BROTHER RYAN CLARK MU MU LAMBDA ’17

BROTHER TERRENCE D. BYERSON MU RHO ’10

BROTHER DR. ARTHUR E. DOCTOR, JR. PI ALPHA ’07

BROTHER DIONTE L. DURHAM THETA MU LAMBDA ’13

BROTHER REV. DEVON J. CRAWFORD ALPHA RHO ’13

BROTHER CHAZ T. GIPSON OMICRON ETA LAMBDA ’12

BROTHER DR. MAURICE D. GIPSON NU PSI ’03

BROTHER DR. FREDERICK V. ENGRAM, JR. ALPHA OMICRON ’03

EDUCATION EDUCATION

BUSINESS/ FINANCE

HEALTHCARE

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

TECHNOLOGY

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

EDUCATION

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

BUSINESS/ FINANCE

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

HEALTHCARE

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

BROTHER TAMIR D. HARPER NU BETA ’19

BROTHER RODGRICK G. HICKMAN PI SIGMA LAMBDA ’15

BROTHER JUSTICE C. HOUSER NU TAU ’19

BROTHER DEMTRIUS JOHNSON, JR. THETA ’19

BROTHER GERALD K. JOHNSON, II IOTA DELTA ’13

BROTHER JUAWN A. JACKSON MU GAMMA ’14

BROTHER GEORIN L. LAGRANT EPSILON LAMBDA ’19

BROTHER DAVID J. LEWIS ZETA XI ’07

BROTHER CHRISTOPHER E. JONES THETA RHO LAMBDA ’14

BROTHER SKYLAR D. MAYBERRY-MAYES ALPHA THETA ’11

BROTHER MATTHEW C. MILES THETA CHI ’08

BROTHER MARQUE D. MACON PI ALPHA ’07

BROTHER ORLANDO E. HANKINS, JR. PHI LAMBDA ’12

BROTHER DR. JUSTIN HARLOW MU ALPHA ’07

BROTHER DR. TYMON M. GRAHAM ALPHA BETA LAMBDA ’19

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

BUSINESS/ FINANCE

MEDIA/ ENTERTAINMENT

HEALTHCARE

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

BUSINESS/ FINANCE

BROTHER SEAN D. PLATER MU LAMBDA ’13

BROTHER KELSEY “KALI” RICHARDSON MU THETA ’15

BROTHER STEVEN C. RICHARDSON NU UPSILON ’03

BROTHER CHARLES E. TUCKER, JR. ZETA ETA LAMBDA ’08

BROTHER ERNEST WARE, JR. MU ETA ’12

BROTHER JUSTIN C. STRAYHORN EPSILON LAMBDA ’18

BROTHER RUSSELL R. WILLIAMS, III BETA CHI ’16

BROTHER JARED WILSON KAPPA PHI LAMBDA ’21

BROTHER CHRISTIAN J. WILLIAMS GAMMA LAMBDA ’14

BROTHER KENNETH D. WORLES, JR. KAPPA XI ’09

BROTHER DR. G.C. MURRAY, JR. TAU DELTA ’06

BROTHER DR. CLEMENT O. OGUNYEMI OMICRON ZETA LAMBDA ’10

BROTHER PRESTON MITCHUM OMICRON ETA LAMBDA ’18

BY BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB, DDIV., CPLC [NU ’89]

FRATERNITY HONORS PAST GENERAL PRESIDENT MATTHEWS’ 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN ALPHA

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. recently honored and recognized 32nd General President Darryl R. Matthews’ 50th Anniversary at a celebration in Atlanta, Georgia in the Fraternity on May 21, 2022.

The Fraternity’s General President, Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, four Past General Presidents, Southern Region, and District leadership as well as political officials, including U.S. Senator Brother Raphael Warnock offered greetings, reflections, and paid tribute to PGP Matthew’s legacy and career.

PGP Matthew’s son, Julian, wife, Allison, and himself.

“You taught me that membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, inc. is not for the faint of heart, and it is a privilege not to be taken lightly,” PGP Matthews writes in the celebration program. “It is a high bar. I have tried to live up to the standards of excellence expected of all Alpha men each day of my 50 years as your Brother.”

PGP Matthews, a senior association executive with over 20 years of extensive experience managing high-profile membership organizations’ affairs, served as the 32nd General President of the Fraternity from 2006 to 2009. He had also served previously as the Fraternity’s Executive Director.

A Kansas City, Missouri native, he attended Southeast High School, subsequently earned an associate degree from Metropolitan Community College in 1974. He was initiated into the Delta Rho Chapter of the Fraternity at the University of Missouri. He attended and earned his bachelor’s degree

from the University of Central Missouri in 1977.

Over the years, he has served as the Interim President & CEO of the National Society of Black Certified Public Accountants, Inc. (NSBCPA), the Executive Director and COO of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the National Medical Association (NMA), and the National

Vic Carter, Master of Ceremonies Display

Association of Black Accountants (NABA).

During his administration, PGP Matthews introduced and adopted the Fraternity’s first strategic plan, presided over the Fraternity’s centennial convention and made completion of the MLK memorial the centerpiece of the centennial celebration for the Fraternity, holding a program during the convention at the site of the memorial to remind the Brotherhood of the urgency to complete the project, as well as presided over a star-studded ground-breaking ceremony on November

13, 2006 attended by, among others, thenPresident George W. Bush and former President Bill Clinton.

“Any General President of Alpha Phi Alpha can tell you that there have been times when they had to take you where you ought to be,” says PGP Matthews in his remarks. “They can tell you that often he had to make decisions for this great ship – in the loneliness that leadership can bring. We do so not because we want to. We do so because it is our sworn responsibility. Anyone who has held

Charles Flack presenting Boy Scouts of America’s Whitney M. Young, Jr. Community Service Award.

Past General Presidents in attendance.

Past General Presidents as well as current and former Board members in attendance.

a leadership position in this fraternity can attest to that. It is so – because we are not any ordinary organization. We are, in fact, extraordinary.”

He adds, “My Brothers, I have led you where you wanted to go … I have taken you to places you may not have wanted to go, but we went there together … And we blazed new trails, and we made new friends … and our voice has been heard … we do that which is hard … We seek that which is great … We stand on the mountain tops of life – but see clearly in

the valleys … We rise like eagles, but we walk with the common man … We speak with the eloquence of kings, but we forget not to make it plain …,” he says. “This is the Alpha Phi Alpha I know… This is the Alpha Phi Alpha I pledged to serve… I do so not for the sake of greatness but rather because it is my calling. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said anybody can be great because anybody can serve. Many great men and women have gone on before us. Not one of them sought greatness – it was earned because they put themselves last and others first…” S

PGP Matthews and his sons, Blake, Darryl, Jr., and Julian.

Past General President Milton C. Davis, introducing Past General President Matthews.

General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III presents Past General President Matthews his 50-year certificate.

BY BROTHER CHARLES ROBINSON, III [THETA RHO

THE RIGHT TIME

’75]

Governor Moore on the day after winning. Announces transition team at the University of Maryland, College Park.

Maryland Gubernatorial Candidate, Brother Wes Moore, belted out the lyrics of “Here I am to Worship,” a staple at Ennon Baptist Church in Clinton, Maryland. Brother Moore didn’t need a hymnal, because he knew the words. This was the Sunday before Election Day, commonly referred to as “Souls to the Polls.” Imploring parishioners to vote. Polls showed Moore was far ahead of his Republican opponent Dan Cox who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Maryland, a reliable “Blue State,” had bucked this trend by electing a Republican Governor, Larry Hogan for two terms. In each race, Governor Hogan had defeated Black candidates. Polls continue to show the Republican Governors popularity was above average. Term limited, Hogan, backed his hand-picked candidate to stave off a Trump endorsed candidate. When the votes were counted in the Republican Primary, members of the GOP rejected the Hogan selection in favor of the Trump backed candidate.

Brother Moore has a unique pedigree. He came to national prominence after penning a book called “The Other Wes Moore.” The former Rhodes Scholar, who served in Afghanistan, choose to write about an individual with the same name. He wanted to show how similar, yet different, their paths were.

There were a lot of things which could have sent the Governor Elect down some dark paths. “I watched my father killed in front of me,” Brother Moore says to an adoring crowd in Baltimore. His ability to connect to diverse populations gave those who knew little about him and others to pause.

With no practical experience of running government, would he be up to the task? Brother Moore says, he began the process by reaching out to Black clergy around the state. On any Sunday, you’re likely to find Moore and his wife Dawn in pulpits. “I guess I visited more 2,500 churches in the last year and half.”

Political strategy or shrew political move? “I take my faith personally, and I wasn’t going to mask my faith on the campaign trail, ” said Moore. The candidate shrugged off the idea of faith being a political strategy. “It’s an important lift.”

The Personal Touch

Those who have met the candidate talk about his personality and his ability to connect to you one on one. You can attribute some of this to his Jamaican roots and the training he received as an undergraduate. Brother Ralph Johnson the student chapter advisory to the

Sigma Sigma Chapter, says he began to hear buzz about a new student who had transfer from Valley Forge Military Prep School.

At 19, Brother Moore and Brother Johnson meet several times. During one of those meetings another professor suggested he apply for a Rhodes Scholarship. At the time the future Governor Elect was an International Studies Major. Brother Johnson was asked to write his recommendation (Brother Johnson said, “it was one of the best letters I have ever written.”).

Prior to the letter, The advisor at Sigma Sigma Chapter says his young student asked about Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Over a series of conversation, Brother Johnson knew this

The Swearing in Ceremony - Governor Moore Swears in on a on a Bible, once the possession of Frederick Douglass and another which his grandfather used when he was a pastor.

young man had Alpha traits and was on his way to becoming a member in 2000.

Authenticity

There is an old adage, “Know the players from the pretenders.”

So what makes this Governor different from any other Governor? I have had the distinct honor of covering Gov. L. Douglass Wilder in his career as he became the first Black Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. I meet a young Patrick Deval when he became the Head of the Civil Rights Division in the Clinton Administration. DevaI would go on to be the Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I meet Governor David Patterson of New York through a longtime friend Brother Errol Cockfield.

This is different. Accord to Brother Johnson, “There is so much positive energy around Moore…he has charisma to be authentic, to be the best person and be an inspiration and visionary.”

Adversity

Don’t be fooled by those who suggest he will have an easy time. During the “Primary Season,” It was suggested Moore had plagiarized part of his book, “The Other Wes Moore.” The publisher said Moore grew up in Baltimore. In reality, he lived in Montgomery County. Brother Moore corrected the record,

“I asked the publisher to correct the mistake (several years ago)…but they went with the error. It has since been corrected.”

Owning a home has it’s plus and minus. When it was leaked he owed 25-thousand dollars on an unpaid water bill, the critics jumped. Instead of going tick-for-tat of why…he paid the bill. Baltimore City has had a horrible time squaring rates and bills for water. The chief of the Department of Public Works said he would look into the discrepancies.

His opponent in the General Election, Republican Dan Cox put out an Instagram post which darkened his face and claimed, “Maryland does not need a woke Governor.” It was one of many subtle hints to stoke racial resentment. The post went on to suggest “No, racism is not a system, but an act. Racism is a system. A system which was built for 400 years. Since the system was built when the first ships that arrived on our shores in 1619.” Out of context it was implicit, scare tactic.

Right Place Right Time

“Timing is often seen as an opportunity meeting chances.”

At the urging of several constituencies Brother Moore jumped into a crowded field of primary opponents. According to the candidate, “What do I have to lose?” Some saw his lack of experience as detrimental.

Moore in church on Election Eve 11/6/22 at the second of his two church stops in Prince George’s County, MD.

Brother C. Vernon Gray, the former head of Morgan State University Political Science Department, is a guru on Maryland Politics. “Moore was a fresh voice…not encumber by the protracted problems” faced by those with political experience. The Governor Elect Moore moved in ways few expected. Brother Moore secured the early endorsements of Maryland Teachers Union and members of political establishment (Speaker of the House Delegate Adrienne Jones, US House Minority Leader Rep. Steny Hoyer, and others). He also made sure his ground game was in place. Early voting, absentee and same day voting were far superior, says Brother Gray. By the General Election according to Maryland’s political sage, “he may have started with 7% approval ratings in early polling.” By election day, he had garnered some 65% of the vote totals.

Presidential Aspirations

Inevitably winning a governor’s race puts you in a unique conversation about, “What’s your next move?” Despite the Presidential election being nearly two years away, the subject comes up. How early is too early? To date, President Joe Biden says, “I’m thinking about it.” When it comes to re-election. “I will talk with my family about my plans.”

According to Brother Roland Martin, a political insider and Host of Roland Martin Unfiltered “It would be political suicide…no, he hasn’t

been in office yet.” Brother Martin is correct. A political newcomer, need to prove themselves.

I watched a young Illinois State Senator, Barack Obama navigate his way through the United States Senate as a Junior Senator. He built a track record. When I suggested in 2004 he should be considered for President of the United States, I got a lot of smirks and questions about his qualifications.

Let me be clear, it’s way too early for a run for the highest office in the land, but Moore can be a on short list of potentials.

General President Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. the President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc says “as Maryland’s first African American governor, Brother Moore continues the Fraternity’s unparalleled legacy of leadership and firsts. He joins the list of Alphas other men of distinction in public service.”

Keep watching, because from my seat Brother Wes Moore is someone to watch. S

Brother Charles F. Robinson, III is a former Editor of The Sphinx Magazine. He currently serves as the Senior Political Reporter at Maryland Public Television (MPT) and has his name on the Wall of Fame at MPT. He is an expert on Black Politics in America.

Candidate Moore and wife opt to greet parishioners at front door rather than being ushered into private audience with pastor

BY BROTHER DR. JEREMY S. OWOH [THETA PSI ’98]

76TH ANNUAL SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION

In March of 2022, nearly 1000 Brothers and guest from across the Southwestern Region convened for the 76th Annual Southwestern Regional Convention in the historic city of Tulsa, Oklahoma under the theme of “CREATING A LIFETIME OF WEALTH AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT.”

The 24th Southwestern Regional Vice President, Brother. Jeramaine O. Netherly charged the Brothers of Alpha Tau Lambda, our host chapter, and the SWR convention planning team to design an agenda and experience that would be empowering, engaging, and impactful. The feedback from the Brothers who were in attendance indicated that the convention planning team answered the Vice- President’s charge. The convention occurred March 24- 27, 2022 in a predominantly in-person format.

In line with the theme of the convention, preconvention activities included weekly sessions with our General Organization partners, National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NARAB). The sessions covered Attaining Homeownership, Real Estate Investment, Real Estate Development and Asset Preservation.

The first day of the convention opened with the Regional HBCU Fair that hosted 16 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and more than 175 high school students from the Tulsa area school districts. The students were to speak to the recruiters and learn more about

HBCUs. The highlight of the morning was the fact that over 75 students were awarded scholarships that day, totaling $675,000.

Thursday’s agenda also offered the opportunity for our Neophyte brothers to engage in the Neophyte Convention Orientation that provided the brothers relevant convention information and protocols. Other Brothers were able to engage in virtual sessions that included Alpha Branding, NAREB’s Wealth Building and Real Estate Investment, Home Ownership, the SW Regional Sponsor Highlight with Chevron, and much more. The annual public program entitled “Greenwood-the Next 100 Years” concluded the day of activities and sessions.

Friday’s agenda included the first business session, Brother General President, Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III’s the State of Fraternity Address, the Fraternal Luncheon named after our 27th General President, Brother Charles Teamer, the Regional Candidates forum, and the District Caucuses. As anyone who has ever attended a Southwestern Regional convention knows, there is more to a Southwestern Regional convention than just the sessions and the vendors. There is great value in the networking, fellowshipping, and building of the Brotherhood bond, so the highlight of the day, and probably the most impactful for the convention, was the Brotherhood Visit to Greenwood; Brothers were able to spend most of the afternoon and evening learning about and investing in the historic Greenwood community.

BROTHER BYRON LUNDY

The 76th Southwestern Regional Convention concluded on Saturday with the annual 30th General President Adrian L. Wallace Life Member Breakfast, business sessions, workshops, the C2C Career Pathways Mixer, regional competitions, and our Regional Vice President’s State of the Region Address. To top off the convention, brothers enjoyed brotherly fellowship and award recognitions at the 31st General President, Brother Harry E. Johnson, Sr. Black & Old Gold Awards Banquet. The Region saluted Brother Ayowolemi “Wole”

Akinyamoju, the 64th Southwestern Regional Assistant Vice President and welcomed / congratulated our incoming 65th Southwestern Regional Assistant Vice President-elect, Brother Darrin Nixon, Jr. The Brothers of Beta Tau Lambda ended the evening with a “Welcome to Fort Worth!” Reception.

Southwestern Region’s Awards & Achievement

College Brother of the Year: Brother Chad

Fuselier Beta Phi, Dillard University, Louisiana

Alumni Brother of the Year: Brother Frederick

Roberts Epsilon Tau Lambda, Prairie View, TX

College Chapter of the Year: Epsilon Rho, Lamar University, Texas

Alumni Chapter of the Year: Beta Iota

Lambda, Baton Rouge, LA

College Scrapbook Competition: Eta

Gamma, Prairie View A&M University, Texas

Alumni Scrapbook Competition: Sigma

Gamma Lambda, Katy/Cypress, Texas

Charles H. Wesley Award: Eta Gamma/ Epsilon Tau Lambda, Prairie View A&M Univ./Prairie View, Texas

Step Show/Stroll Off Competitions Winner: Theta Chi, Northwestern State University, LA

Hobart Jarrett Debate Competition Winner: Kappa Kappa, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville

Belford V. Lawson Oratorical Winner: Brother D’Andre Bell - Beta Phi, Dillard University, LA 1st Runner Up: Wiston Ocorro Eta Gamma, Prairie View A&M Univ.

College Brother with the Highest GPA CoWinners (3): Brother Chad Fuselier, Beta Phi, Dillard, LA; Brother Cameron Shropshire, Epsilon Epsilon, Oklahoma State University, OK; Brother Jordan Rabun, Eta Kappa, LA. Tech, LA; 1st Runner Up – Brother Ryan Tanner, Eta Gamma, Prairie View A&M University, Texas

College Scholars Bowl Winner: Beta Phi

Dillard, University New Orleans, LA; 1st Runner Up: Eta Gamma, Prairie View A&M University, Texas

Chapter with the Highest GPA Winner: Beta Phi, Dillard Univ., LA; Runner Up: Epsilon Epsilon, Oklahoma State, OK

Miss Black & Gold Scholarship

Competition: Ms. Micaila Jackson Epsilon

Rho, Lamar University, Texas; 1st Runner Up: Ms. Nautica Jones, Eta Chi, Univ. of Louisiana, Monroe S

24th Southwestern Regional Vice President, Brother Jeramaine O. Netherly, pausing for a moment of reflection during the State of the Region Address.

Over 175 Tulsa area high school students attended the Southwestern Regional HBCU Fair; $675,000 in scholarships were awarded.

BY BROTHER DAVID BROWN [SIGMA ’98], EASTERN REGION ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

90TH EASTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION WRITES ALPHA’S NEXT CHAPTER

Alpha Phi Alpha’s Eastern Region held their 90th Anniversary Convention at the Tropicana Resort & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey from April 7th - 10th. Using the phrase “Writing Alpha’s Next Chapter” as both a theme and a mission, through sessions, conversations, and workshops geared toward leadership, professional and personal development, Brothers focused on ways to redefine and reinvent themselves as Alpha men. Hallmarks of this year’s convention

included high caliber multi-camera live event production and a streaming experience that benefitted Brothers on-site and those joining remotely.

The environment was electric at the Convention’s Public Program. Those present were treated to an intimate and informative conversation on “Promoting Financial Literacy, Philanthropy, & Generational Wealth” with distinguished guests Founder, Chairman & CEO Vista Equity Partners, Brother Robert F. Smith and our 31st General President and

90th Anniversary Eastern Regional Convention Group Photo

General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III

CEO, The Memorial Foundation, Inc. Brother Harry E. Johnson. Their candid and lengthy conversation included practical lessons for building wealth as well as personal anecdotes and testimony.

Friday’s marquee event included the “Alpha In Sports” panel where Eastern Regional VicePresident Brother Christopher G. Ellis, Jr. who played football and basketball during his undergraduate years at Dartmouth College, served as moderator. Panelists included fellow Theta Zeta initiate and Cincinnati Bengals Legend, Brother Reggie Williams, and Brother Luke Fedlam, Partner, Porter Wright. Joining virtually were ESPN Anchor Brother Jay Harris, Brother Jason Wright, President, Washington Commanders, and Brother Victor Williams, CEO, NBA Africa.

Each Brother discussed how Alpha is exemplified through their work and shared their professional journeys and inspiration. Athlete empowerment and the prioritization of HBCU programs, Name, image and likeness deals, tips on how to enter the profession, and the media’s coverage, or lack thereof, of Brittney Griner and double standards for women athletes, were also topics of discussion.

Friday evening’s Talent Showcase saw Ms. Arriyonna Allen (Beta Gamma) crowned as the new Miss Black & Gold. Iota Beta

emerged victorious in the Scholars Bowl, and the Brothers of Gamma Iota earned bragging rights as Stroll Champions.

The Convention’s last full day included several special moments. Brother Ellis acknowledged the social capital, talent, and leadership that must be harnessed for the region to maximize its goals and truly write Alpha’s Next Chapter. He also spoke candidly about the importance of Retention and Reclamation, putting college Brothers first and the importance of continued service and innovation.

Founder, Chairman & CEO Vista Equity Partners, Brother Robert F. Smith and Brother Harry E. Johnson, 31st General President and CEO, The Memorial Foundation, Inc.

ERVP Brother Christopher Ellis

DRE POOL

General President Brother Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III relished his time with the Brothers and spoke frankly about living up to our duties as Alpha Men, including being selective and accountable when recommending men to our distinguished Fraternity. He also reinforced that we are an international organization and showed immense humility and pride as a servant of our great Fraternity.

Eastern Region Assistant Vice-President, Brother Tamir D. Harper demanded the Region’s vigilance in ensuring the success of college Brothers and chapters. He encouraged contributions to the “7-for-7 Matching Challenge”, a regional initiative in partnership with The William E. Ross, Jr. Education Foundation. Brothers immediately answered the call from the Convention floor, pledging over $25,000 in support. Brother Harper’s exemplary leadership continues the example set by his predecessors. His successor, Brother Tabius Wilson Jr. (Gamma Iota ‘21), will serve as the region’s 62nd Eastern Region Assistant Vice-President and has promised to rise to the occasion and uphold the standard of excellence.

From the proud moment our newest initiates lined up to receive their neophyte pins, to Brother Dr. George Bert McPhee (LM#156160, Beta ‘46) receiving his 75th year pin, ERC90 showcased the richness and beauty of our Brotherhood.

Saturday evening’s Banquet featured remarks from Brother Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott and, during the presentation of the Awards, there was friendly, but intense competition among individual Brothers, chapters and Districts. ERC90 formally concluded with a virtual Ecumenical Service.

The Eastern Region is indebted to the host chapters Alpha Theta Lambda, Nu

Iota, Pi Xi, Kappa Iota Lambda, and Nu Gamma Lambda for their collaboration, leadership, and hospitality. Our sponsors, BizGro Partners, FreshDirect, Mitchell Titus, Rutgers University-Camden, JoyLeaf, Alpha Community Center, strategic partner Goalsetter, and our streaming vendor WorldCastLive helped to make this historic Convention come to fruition. Though a scheduling conflict prevented his participation, Chef and Food Network Host, Brother Eric Adjepong expressed his love for the Fraternity by contributing a signature recipe card with an inspired take on Broiled Lamb Chops and Peas in Tubs.

Brother Ellis and his staff continue to diligently do the work of Alpha as we look forward to the 91st Eastern Regional Convention in Hampton, Virginia.

Eastern Region Award Recipients

College Brother of the Year - Brother Hans Owuor (Eta)

Alumni Brother of the Year - Brother Harold Jones (Xi Beta Lambda)

College Chapter of the Year - Beta Gamma

Alumni Chapter of the Year - Alpha Phi Lambda

Miss Black & Gold – Ms. Arriyonna Allen (Beta Gamma)

College Brother w/ Highest GPA - Brother Khalel Robinson (Beta Gamma)

College Chapter w/ Highest GPA - Eta

Belford V. Lawson Oratorical CompetitionBrother Stephan Joseph (Eta)

Stroll Champions - Gamma Iota

Scholars Bowl Champion - Iota Beta

Charles H. Wesley Award - Nu Theta & Epsilon Nu Lambda S

BY BROTHER DR. ANTHONY FERGUSON, JR. [ALPHA

MIDWESTERN REGIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CONTINUING ALPHA’S CELEBRATION IN BROTHERHOOD AND EXCELLENCE AT 90TH MIDWESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION

It has been said, and with some truth, that it is a poor dog who won’t wag his own tail. Thus, the Midwestern Region will wag hers, but not in a boastful way!

The Brothers of the Mighty Midwestern Region convened in Kansas City, Missouri for the 90th Annual Midwestern Regional Convention, under the theme, Continuing Alpha’s Celebration in Brotherhood and Excellence. Hosted by Beta Lambda Chapter and Delta Rho Chapter, this meeting brought together more than 1,000 Brothers both virtually and in-person.

Under the leadership of the Midwestern Regional Vice President, Brother Ronald D. Stovall, Jr., PMP., and the acting-Midwestern Regional Assistant Vice President, Brother Troy D. Davis, II., the mission of our dear Fraternity was executed in true Alpha fashion. The convention kicked off with an opening session led by Brother Dr. Anthony Ferguson, Jr., Midwestern Regional Executive Director, before moving into two days of virtual workshops and presentations from national and regional partners.

Among them were:

• The National Association of Black Real Estate Brokers (NAREB)

• The Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation

• Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

• Truist Financial Cooperation

• J.P Morgan Chase & Co.

• JE Dunn Construction

• Cerner Cooperation

• Good Heath WINs

With Brothers back together, the region continued its tradition of service to the community by donating over 100 books, along with a reading bench to Douglass Elementary School in Kansas City, MO. The school is currently under the leadership of Brother Dr. Louis C. Neal. The following evening, members of the community and leaders of the Divine Nine

Vice President’s Reception. The room was filled with laughter, joy, and good times. This carried on late into the evening where the brothers of Beta Lambda honored the Beta Omega

THETA ’11],

BRO. DR. ANTHONY FERGUSON, JR.

Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., for their 100 years of service in the Kansas City, MO area. Not to be outdone, the ladies of Pink and Green decided to also recognize Beta Lambda for achieving their centennial milestone - a true sight to behold.

Brothers assembled were attentive and eager to hear reports given by the directors of each district, committee chairmen, general officers, and General President, Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. Brother General President thanked the brotherhood for their support, and service to the fraternity. The main attraction, however, came Saturday afternoon when Brother Stovall delivered his State of the Region Address, where he boldly and confidently declared that, “the state of the Midwestern Region is strong and thriving.” This was made evident in Brother Vice President’s final report, which concluded that this convention was a record shattering year in terms of generating revenue for the region.

In addition, the Brotherhood was enthralled by Brother Emmanuel Cleaver, II., who spoke during the O. Wilson Winters Life Membership Breakfast. If that wasn’t enough, the 32nd General President, Brother Darryl R. Matthews, Sr., captivated the audience during the Community Outreach Luncheon, by recounting the impetus that led to the development the fraternity’s mission statement under his administration. The region also introduced the inaugural Military Affairs Breakfast, which celebrated and honored brothers both past and present who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The convention ended during Saturday night’s Black & Gold Banquet where the 34th General President, Brother Mark S. Tillman executed the installation of regional officers – a tradition previously conducted by the late 25th General President, Brother James R. Williams.

Brother Ronald D. Stovall, Jr., PMP - Midwestern Regional Vice President speaking to newly initiated brothers during the Neophyte Pinning Ceremony.

BROTHER MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Vice President’s Reception.

BROTHER REGINALD BIRRIS

As the 90th Annual Midwestern Regional Convention ended, there was only one person left to recognize. After three (3) decades of serving as the Director of Conventions, the beautiful reign of Arndell D. Ricks, Jr., too, ended. A stalwart leader, an endearing mentor, and a consummate friend, Brother Ricks truly exemplifies what is means to be an Alphaman “deserving of his pin.” As he enters his “Alpha Retirement”, I know that the brothers throughout the fraternity will join us in saluting and applauding this Alpha Giant for his service to our dear fraternity.

Finally, as the sun sets on this convention, it’s rises with great hope and pride for the future, as the Brothers ready themselves to descend on Columbus, Ohio for the 91st Annual Midwestern Regional Convention on March 22 - 26, 2023.

Midwestern Regional Award

Recipients:

College Brother of the Year – Brother

Demetrius Johnson, Jr

Alumni Brother of the Year – Brother Ezekiel

Peebles

College Chapter of the Year – Theta

Alumni Chapter of the Year – Sigma Kappa

Lambda

Charlesy H. Wesley Award – Eta Tau/Nu Psi

Lambda

College Brother w/ Highest GPA – Brother

Jayden Donald

College Chapter w/ Highest GPA – Zeta Nu

Miss. Black & Gold – Ms. Tenneil Edelen (Epsilon Chi)

Oratorical Contest – Brother Iruoghene

Oruahwo S

BROTHER REGINALD BIRRIS

Midwestern Region Inaugural Military’s Breakfast. (L-R): Brother Harold V. Anderson, Brother Carlton Philpot, PGP Brother Mark S. Tillman, Brother Mark A. Clark, Jr., MWRVP Brother Ronald D. Stovall, Jr., WWRAVP Brother Troy Davis, II., Brother Henry Alston, and Brother Howard A. Berry.

BROTHER LARRY CRIDER

MWRVP Brother Ronald D. Stovall, Jr addressing Brothers and guests at the Black and Gold Reception.

BY BROTHER RUSSELL MOTLEY [ETA DELTA ’86], SOUTHERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

ALPHA SOUTH’S 91ST REGIONAL CONVENTION ADVOCATES SOCIAL JUSTICE

SRVP CECIL HOWARD LAUNCHES $1 MILLION SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER

At a critical time in this country, when the racial equity of African Americans is under threat, the 91st Anniversary Southern Regional Convention in Myrtle Beach, S.C. (March 31-April 3) strategically prepared Brothers to get M.E.A.N., particularly for the upcoming midterm election.

Under the leadership of Regional Vice President Bro. Cecil E. Howard, Esq., the mission was to Mobilize voters, Educate voters, Advocate for voters, and to assist voters in understanding how to Navigate the political process.

“The nation now knows where Alpha Phi Alpha stands on these important issues,” says SRVP Howard. “Our M.E.A.N. strategy was in full effect all weekend as we provided workshops, keynote speeches, and general directives regarding Alpha’s stance and tactical measures that the fraternity would engage at all levels. Those strategies

are now being moved to the chapter levels for execution in preparation for the 2022 midterm elections.”

More than 3,000 brothers from seven districts convened at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel for the first full in-person regional meeting in three years due to the pandemic. Following the convention theme, the public program featured a nationally streamed panel discussion on civil and voting rights, redistricting, and affirmative action led by the superior civil rights talents of Alpha Brothers and attorneys Jonathan Augustine, Mitchell Brown and Damon Hewitt.

Additionally, the brothers of Alpha South accomplished several noteworthy milestones during the convention:

Facilitated the awarding of over 350 college acceptances and $5 million in meritbased scholarships, including eight $1,000 scholarships from the Region and its partners

Southern Regional Vice President Cecil E. Howard, Esq. (center) stands with Past General Presidents (l-r) Mark S. Tillman, Herman “Skip” Mason, Adrian L. Wallace, Howard, Milton C. Davis, Everett B. Ward, and Harry E. Johnson at the 91st Anniversary Southern Regional Convention in Myrtle Beach, S.C., Thursday, April 1, 2022.

to high school juniors and seniors who attended our FOCUS HBCU Fair.

Surpassed our inaugural Heart of Gold Blood Drive collection goal by setting a historic record for the largest number of units ever collected during a single blood collection event by the American Red Cross for the entire state of South Carolina.

Launched a successful Graduate School and Career Resource Fair, which featured more than a dozen of our nation’s top universities and more than 30 employers from government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors actively recruiting our Brothers for graduate school and the workforce.

Raised $100,000 in monetary sponsorship for the convention and $250,000 in total assets for the Region as a composite of liquid, in-kind, and service donations.

“Collectively, these individual accomplishments illustrate our commitment to boldly lead Alpha South to a place where we have never gone before,” says Brother Leslie Elus, chairman of the Southern Regional Community Engagement and Strategic Partnerships committee.

SRVP Howard kicked off the Alpha South Fundraising Campaign with the goal of raising $1 million in scholarships for College Brothers in the Region. During the convention, more than $125,000 was raised in cash and pledges, building momentum to reach the goal over the next two years.

The Southern Regional Convention was blessed to host a record number of past General Presidents. Alpha South welcomed General President Brother Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, who was joined by six Past General Presidents, including Brother Milton C. Davis, Brother Adrian L. Wallace, Brother Harry E. Johnson, Brother Herman “Skip” Mason, Brother Mark S. Tillman, and Brother Everett B. Ward.

Past General President Davis delivered a riveting keynote about our “Alpha DNA”

at the Fraternal Luncheon. During the Life Membership Breakfast, Past General President Johnson stirred the Brotherhood in a speech about our “Alpha Season.” Past General President Ward then led an emotional pinning ceremony of five outstanding Brothers (William Collins, Jimmy Christian, Elton Hollowell, Lynwood Bell and Chester Wheeler) who were celebrating their 50th Anniversaries in Alpha during 2022. The General Presidents also participated in a book signing and photo session with Brothers while imparting knowledge and wisdom regarding our Dear Alpha.

Finally, SRVP Howard unveiled a new Southern Regional logo designed with a symbolic torch of Alpha South surrounded by the profiles of each of the seven districts represented in the Region.

“I am extremely pleased with the new logo. It characterizes exactly what I was looking for,” says SRVP Howard. “I wanted something that would capture the values and mission of the Southern Region in an iconic fashion but would also be memorable and easily recognizable to represent Alpha South for years to come.”

2022 Southern Regional Awards and Achievements Competition

Augustus M. Witherspoon Leadership Award

Brother Donovan McGuire (Alabama)

Charles Wesley Award

Alpha Nu Lambda (Alabama)

Gamma Phi (Alabama)

Outstanding Alumni Brother

Brother Avery Kenly (Georgia)

Outstanding Alumni Chapter

Gamma Zeta Lambda (Florida)

Outstanding College Brother

Brother Peaton Harris (Alabama)

Outstanding College Chapter

Beta Upsilon (Alabama) S

BY BROTHER OLIVER T. UNAKA, [MU KAPPA

WESTERN REGIONAL CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

THE SPIRIT OF BROTHERHOOD INVADED THE 73RD WESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION

Our history book records many precious and pure moments when the spirit of brotherhood invaded meetings and served as a catalyst to the agenda at hand. Similarly, the Western Regional Leadership Team hosted a convention that rekindled the true spirit of Alpha.

The Brothers of Alpha West responded mightily to the 73rd Western Regional

Convention call, and flooded San Francisco, CA. On Thursday, March 23, 2022, Brothers called the first business session to order under the theme: ‘Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership, Advocacy, and Impact,’ which resounded throughout every component of the convention.

In addition to conducting standard Alpha business, the Western Region hosted a public Community Expo that included college, career, health, and wealth exhibits in collaboration with roughly 20 partners.

As part of his focus on increasing ‘Black Male Achievement’ through health, wealth, and influence, Western Regional Vice President

Brother Wayne Kimball, Jr. hosted a fireside chat with Brother James D. White, former CEO of Jamba Juice.

Brother White discussed his career as a transformative business executive, and candidly shared his recent prostate cancer diagnosis – emphasizing the importance of routine check-ups while making healthy choices. He also debuted his new book titled, ‘Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World’.

Similarly, during the following day’s Fraternal Luncheon, Brother Dondrell Swanson, Immediate Past Western Regional Vice President, moderated a fireside chat with Brother Dr. Jarvis Givens, Harvard Assistant Professor and Past Western Regional Assistant Vice President, to discuss his book ‘Fugitive Pedagogy: Carter G. Woodson and the Art of Black Teaching.’

To increase engagement with our brothers abroad, Western Regional Vice President Kimball hosted an inaugural ‘International Town Hall’ with General President Brother Dr. Willis Lonzer, III at midnight PST to accommodate Brothers located in Korea, Japan, and Hawaii.

’99],

General President Dr. Lonzer, WRVP Kimball, and the esteemed Military Brothers of the Western Regional Convention assembled to take a photo after the annual Military Affairs Scholarship Breakfast where Brother Rear Admiral Stephen D. Barnett rendered the keynote address.

General President Dr. Lonzer, III later delivered a rousing address that both inspired and challenged brothers to continue to be sagacious in our daily representation of Alpha.

Brother Aaron Crutison, Sr., Past Acting General President, and Past Western Regional Vice President, shared heartfelt words of inspiration as the keynote speaker at the Life Membership Breakfast.

Western Regional Vice President Brother Kimball delivered the State of the Region with a comprehensive overview of progress toward his strategic plan and formally announced the launch of the region’s newly formed nonprofit entity, the Alpha West Empowerment Foundation. With great vision and bold conviction, Brother Vice President Kimball officially launched the ‘We Are Legendary’ capital campaign with a $1.5 million fundraising goal, of which over $160,000 had already been raised in record time.

Our Military Brothers were honored during the annual Military Affairs Scholarship Breakfast, where Rear Admiral Brother Stephen D. Barnett rendered the keynote address, and two deserving young men were awarded scholarships to advance their academic pursuits. To continue such support,

Brother David Johnson presented a $10,000 pledge towards military scholarships as part of the Alpha West Empowerment Foundation.

Brother Vice President Kimball inducted stellar Alpha Men into the Alpha West Hall of Fame: Brother Raymond W. Cannon, 12th General President (posthumously) and Brother Dondrell Swanson, Immediate Past Western Regional Vice President, who was at a loss for words during a standing ovation for the superlative leadership and innovation he implemented during his administration.

The 2022 Alpha West Luminary Award went to Brother Dr. Keith Rogers, the immediate Past Western Regional Director of Conventions – who served the region as a staple of excellence for more than a decade.

Brother Rogers’ recognition was doubly significant as the Alpha West Luminary Award was created in honor of our late, great, and dearly departed fraternity member, Brother Dr. Payton C. Cook a.k.a. “Brother (Life Member) 215,” – whom Brother Dr. Rogers rendered unwavering brotherly service in his final years prior to transitioning to Omega Chapter.

The final recognition went to former General Treasurer, Brother Hyacinth Ahuruonye,

Western Regional Convention Vice President Brother Wayne Kimball, Jr. presented 32nd General President Brother Darryl R. Matthews with a specially engraved keepsake in honor of his 50th Alphaversary, and ‘Outstanding Leadership Throughout all Levels of the Fraternity’ with Current General President Brother Dr. Willis Lonzer, III and Western Regional Assistant Vice President Brother Kenzi Bashara as co-presenters.

in acknowledgement and appreciation for his countless contributions as Honorary Convention Chair. He solidified his commitment to the future of Alpha West by presenting a $10,000 check to the Alpha West Empowerment Foundation.

The Black and Old Gold Gala was truly the grand finale. Our 32nd General President, Brother Darryl R. Matthews, delivered a powerful, reflective, and thought-provoking final speech that was fitting for a group of transformational leaders.

The Brothers of Alpha West fulfilled their mission for the weekend by ‘Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership, Advocacy, and Impact.’

73rd Western Regional Convention Award Recipients

Oratorical Contest Winner: Brother Nathaniel Ilo of Mu Kappa Chapter (University of California at Santa Barbara)

Western Regional Chapter of the Year: Zeta Sigma Lambda (San Diego Region)

Outstanding Alumni Brother of the Year: Brother Dr. Jamal Myrick of Mu Xi Lambda (Inland Empire, CA)

College Brother of the Year: Brother Malik Townsend of Mu Eta Chapter (Arizona State University)

Western Regional College Brother with the Highest GPA: Brother AVP Kenzi Bishara of Upsilon Chi Chapter (Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA) S

From left to right, WRVP Brother Wayne Kimball, Jr. interviews Brother James D. White, former CEO of Jamba Juice, during Alpha West’s Fireside Chat wherein Brother White debuted his new book titled ‘Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World’.

From left to right, WRVP Brother Wayne Kimball, Jr. graciously accepts a check presented by Former General Treasurer Brother Hyacinth Ahuruonye as he solidified his commitment to the future of Alpha West by presenting a $10,000 check towards the Alpha West Empowerment Foundation’s ‘We Are Legendary’ $1.5 million dollar capital campaign.

THE GENERAL ORGANIZATION AWARDS 2022 PILOT PROGRAM WINNERS

Outstanding College Chapter of the Year

From the Southern Region:  Beta Upsilon Chapter – Alabama State University

Outstanding College

Brother of the Year

From the Midwestern Region:

Demetrius Johnson, Jr.

Theta Chapter –University of Illinois at Chicago

Outstanding Alumni

Brother of the Year

From The Southern Region:

Dr. Avery D. Kenly

Eta Lambda Chapter –Atlanta, GA

Charles H. Wesley

From the Southwestern Region:

Epsilon Tau Lambda Chapter –

Prairie View, Texas

Eta Gamma Chapter –Prairie View A&M University

Outstanding Alumni Chapter of the Year

From the Midwestern Region:  Sigma Kappa Lambda Chapter – Bloomington, Indiana

ALABAMA

| DELTA PHI LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Delta Phi Lambda Chapter was awarded the 2022 Project Alpha Award.

The Project Alpha Award is awarded each year in partnership with the March of Dimes to the chapter or chapters exceed in implementing the program. Since 1980, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has partnered with the March of Dimes (MOD) to execute one of its signature programs, Project Alpha. Project Alpha stands as one of the fraternity’s four major national programs with the goal of educating adolescent males on the tenets of fatherhood, family values, reproductive and maternal health, and domestic violence prevention. The award is granted based on program content, impact, community partners, participant evaluations, and speaker reflections.

Conference school. The plaza will help with Black enrollment and retention as well as to provide a congregation space for NPHC members of Auburn University. The space is a physical representation of NPHC at the university and will allow for students to be educated about NPHC and the values we uphold.

ARKANSAS

| PI LAMBDA AND BETA CHI CHAPTER

Delta Phi Lambda Chapter implemented three (3) programs: one virtual Project Alpha Video Forum on November 13, 2021, and two in person programs at Greensboro on November 17, 2021, and Eastwood Middle Schools on March 28, 2022. The virtual program had 843 views and 45 comments. The Greensboro Middle School had 100 participants and the Eastwood Middle School had 45 participants.

The program was implemented in partnership with 19 organizations including other Greek organizations, colleges, churches, government, and other organizations. The program also provided opportunities for students to give feedback through an evaluation instrument. Students rated the presentations effective and very effective and provided useful feedback.

| OMICRON KAPPA and PI EPSILON LAMBDA CHAPTERS

On September 30, 2022, Auburn University unveiled its NPHC Legacy Plaza. This was a pivotal moment for the Brothers of the Omicron Kappa and Pi Epsilon Lambda Chapters. The project was initiated by Brother Julius Hammond of the Pi Epsilon Lambda Chapter while an College Brother. The project is significant because it is one of the first of its kind at the Southeastern

On April 29, 2022, Alpha Phi Alpha’s Pi Lambda Chapter in Little Rock, Arkansas hosted more than 50 young men during their inaugural Alpha Excel Conference (A.E.C.). The Alpha Excel Conference was an all-day event for young men ages 12-18 years old. The conference focused on two of the fraternity’s national programs, Project Alpha and Go- to-High School, Go-to-College. Workshops were uniquely set up where participants were required to register for two Project Alpha and two Go-to-High School, Go-toCollege workshops. A total of eight workshops were held throughout the day, four workshops from each national program. Workshops for each program were conducted simultaneously during each hour of the event so that each student would benefit from Project Alpha and GTHSGTC content and discussions. During lunch, vendors and recruiters from the Armed Forces, Philander Smith College, Arkansas Employment Career Center, and University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College attended the event and provided inspiring dialogue to spur A.E.C. participants on to their life of success. All the workshops were facilitated by graduate brothers of the Pi Lambda Chapter. The conference incorporated the assistance of the Beta Chi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha to help ensure a smooth and successful conference. Parents and guardians of A.E.C.

participants expressed extreme gratitude for the event and described the enthusiastic messages they received from their young men while the conference was taking place.

CALIFORNIA

| GAMMA CHI LAMBDA CHAPTER

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Gamma Chi Lambda Chapter, celebrated its 75th Anniversary Gala September 24, 2022 at the Westin Hotel. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Gamma Chi Lambda Chapter was established on September 20, 1948 in the historic Fillmore District of San Francisco, California just hours apart from Gamma Phi Lambda Chapter of Oakland, California. The chapter advises two College Chapters: Xi Rho Chapter at San Francisco State University and Upsilon Rho Chapter at The University of San Francisco.

were their sponsors of the gala. Brother James Mayo II, past chapter president delivered the keynote address. Brother Timothy Finney acknowledged Omega Chapter Brothers and Families. Brothers Dr. Richard Greggory Johnson and James Mayo II led the Gamma Chi Lambda Pearl Ceremony. Candles were lit and names were called of the chapter’s charter members affectionately called Pearls. They are Brother Arthur Brown, Brother Albert Dixon, Brother Howard Edwards, Brother Welton Flynn, Brother Edward Goode, Brother Leonard Leath, Brother Clifford Moss, Brother Thomas Ross, Brother Jacques White, Brother Jerry Varnardo, Brother Edward Daniel, Brother Brandon Hughes, Brother Amadi Emeh, and Brother Bubacarr Kora.

The Chapter presented First of the First Awards, the highest form of recognition for those individuals who have blazed a path of unwavering service and commitment to the San Francisco Bay Area community. The evening closed with Brother Reuben Ingram, who led the Fraternity Hymn and The Fraternity Prayer.

| MU XI LAMBDA CHAPTER

Mu Xi Lambda Chapter presented its 34th Annual Oratorical Contest held at Rancho Cucamonga High School, Rancho Cucamonga, California on Saturday, February 19, 2022.

The gala was well-attended by nearly 300 guests dressed for this momentous occasion, with gentlemen attired in Tuxedos as ladies graced the Ballroom in stunning evening gowns. Guests were transported to a Concert Hall serenaded by Cellist Bryon Hogan. Once they entered the Ballroom, they were greeted with Old Gold and Black opulence as only an Alpha can do! Guests also enjoyed a decadent plated meal. The decorations were immaculate and impeccable.  All fraternities and sororities of the Divine Nine were present to share in the celebration.

Gamma Chi Lambda Chapter President Brother President Marcum Jones opened the program. Brother Chaplain Timothy Finney delivered the prayer and Brother Lonnie Holmes welcomed the dignitaries. Brother President Jones gave opening remarks. Past Acting General President and Past Western Region Vice President, Aaron Crutison, Sr. gave remarks.

Brother Tadd Scott led the singing of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” and every heart was raised in song. Brother Recording Secretary Arthur Barker shared the history of the Fraternity and Gamma Chi Lambda Chapter. Brother Bobby Sisk, past chapter president, Brother Hyacinth Ahuruonye, past chapter president and past general treasurer, and Brother Robert R. Shaw, Sr.

The 34th Annual Oratorical Contest featured over 20 brilliant students from the Riverside and San Bernardino counties from grade 12. These young scholars demonstrated their knowledge, thoughts, and perspectives on the topic: How the world sees me & How I see Myself. The speeches from all levels were engaging, insightful, but most importantly, timely. This event also gave the young scholars a platform to display their public speaking, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Parents, caregivers, and school officials from the Moreno Valley Unified School District attended.

“These are the next generation of leaders in the making! Having the opportunity to hear their thoughts about a topic so personal was poignant,” says Mu Xi Lambda Chapter Vice President, Dr. Jamal J. Myrick. “Our Fraternity is in the business of developing leaders and having a mainstay even such as the Oratorical for 34 years is critical to our work here in the Inland Empire. When we have a scholar showcasing their verbal acumen in front of an audience of people. This is what we do. This is Alpha…”

Mrs. Twillia Evans-Carthen, Eta Nu Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc. comments, “Our young

scholars were impressive. It was more than a learning experience. It was great to see them showcase their talent! They all left feeling like they are winners and will continue to blossom!”

The Support from the office of Eloise Gomez Reyes – Majority Leader of California Legislature (Certificate of Recognition). Pete Aguilar – Member of Congress (Special Congressional Recognition) and other supervisors and Congressional leadership were welcomed by all. Other community supporters were recognized for their event contributions. We appreciate the commitment from all our families and the community.

Special thanks to Vista Heights Middle School and their teacher Aurelio Cortez for their continuous involvement. All the students did a phenomenal job with their speeches,” says Brother Dr. Charles A. Brown, the chapter’s director of educational activities.

Winners for the competition were:

Elementary

Lauren Steward- 1st place- Mt. View Elem./San Jacinto

Xavier Buffong- 2nd Place- Savant Prep Academy, San Bernardino

Langston Buffong- 3rd Place- Savant Prep Academy, San Bernardino

Middle School

Carlie Adams- 1st Place- Vista Heights- Moreno Valley

MaKayla Bulanek- 2nd Place- Vista Heights- Moreno Valley

Issac Richard- 3rd Place- Vista Heights- Moreno Valley

High School

Brook Monae Westbrook- 1st Place- Inglewood

Owen Knapper- 2nd Place- Carter High- Rialto

Ayra Berket- 3rd Place- Santiago High- Corona

FLORIDA

| IOTA PI LAMBDA AND ETA DELTA CHAPTER

Members of Black Greek Letter Organizations and allies recently combed the streets of Richmond Heights, FL to promote voter engagement. More than three dozen adult and youth volunteers distributed voting preparedness reminders and encouraged voter registration to residents across the predominantly Black community.

Volunteers included members from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. chapters Iota Pi Lambda and Eta Delta They were joined by members from the Pi Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Miami

Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Pi Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Rho Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.; South Miami Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and South Dade Branch of the NAACP.

The outreach activity, held on July 23, 2022, was sponsored in part by Black Voters Matter, Equal Ground, and Florida Rising.

“As we approach midterm elections, it is important that we continue to remind Miami-Dade County residents about the importance of civic engagement and voter participation in all elections,” remarked Brother Leslie Elus, president of the Iota Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

The story of Richmond Heights dates to World War II when the United States Navy purchased land in southwestern Dade County to build a naval station. Previously owned by the Richmond Tinder Company, a major supplier of Dade County Pine, the base was named Naval Air Station Richmond. During the war, the station housed blimps that protected ships in the Florida Straits and the Caribbean Basin that were hunting German U-boats. In 1945, the base was destroyed by a hurricane and subsequent fire.

After the war, Captain Frank C. Martin purchased the land adjacent to the former base and founded Richmond Heights. While Martin, himself, was a white man, he conceived a community for African American veterans returning from the war in response to the difficulty in finding quality affordable housing during the Jim Crow era. Martin developed parks, churches, and an elementary school, which today still bears his name. Sadly, Martin lost his life in a car accident near Lake Placid in Central Florida in 1951 at age 42. His friend, the builder EJ Pollock of Hialeah, picked up where he left off developing the area.

Today, Richmond Heights is a thriving African American community with a rich and proud history.

| UPSILON SIGMA CHAPTER

The Upsilon Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, seated at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers Florida has been pivotal in their efforts to help provide aid to different families who were severely affected by Hurricane IAN. The devastation left families in Cape Coral, Fort Myers and Naples without food and water. The Brothers gladly sprung to the aid of the St. Mathews Church food drive and in two days we helped to feed more than 1000 families within our 38 Hours of service. Our chapter adviser who is a Brother of the Xi

Omicron Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. led the way in making sure that we were up to date with the different opportunities where we could serve.

military service.

The importance of completing secondary and collegiate education as a road to advancement is at an all-time high. According to The Education Trust, an estimated 65% of all jobs now require some form of a postsecondary credential. Combined with the U.S. growing demand for college-educated workers already outpacing the supply, even amid the pandemic, access to college and postsecondary training is critical, now more than ever. Hence, this fall, the brothers of the Rho Omicron Lambda Chapter took charge to make a change in the Ft. Walton Beach community for young African American men.

Fort Myers Florida was struck the hardest with this hurricane. Students had to evacuate campus. But even through the evacuation and the post hurricane devastation brothers stayed in the region and were available when the call for service was sound. We have now created a bond of a lifetime with our local community as well as with different organizations alike who share the similar mission as it relates to service and advocacy. We can firmly report that we are not done here, and we are still in need of aid. But one thing is for sure, we made an impact.

| RHO OMICRON LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Rho Omicron Lambda Chapter IN Ft. Walton Beach, FL. hosted their Boys 2 Men Seminar on September 17th, 2022 as part of the fraternity’s Go-to-High School-Go-to-College national initiative. The seminar supplied 12 young men with a take home booklet, a SAT practice book, two manhood-based books, and a padfolio. Eight hours of presentation material was presented by 10 distinct brothers who provided insightful, interactive, and relevant information on the following topics: Furthering Education, Keys to Success, Financial Management, and Interacting with Law Enforcement. This event gave our young men the opportunity to have access to mentorship, life skills, and the ability to have open discussions with brothers who have a diverse background of experience in medicine, engineering, mathematics, law enforcement, marketing, equal employment, and a variety of specializations in

This year’s event was a huge success for the chapter in all categories. We exceeded our sponsorship goal with 18 sponsors and over $2000 raised. Partnering with local Black businesses showcased the power of black entrepreneurs committing to the development of local youth. Okaloosa County School District formally recognized the brothers of Rho Omicron Lambda for a well-executed event. Driven by the positive community feedback, the brothers are looking to expand this event by doubling the student participation and starting a mentorship program for high school students for continued engagement.

Today’s youth need Alpha men to continue to be an encouraging voice and catalyzing force in the community. This event gave the Ft. Walton Beach youth not only the opportunity to accumulate different skillsets but also to broaden the vision for their lives. This Boys 2 Men Seminar planted yet another seed in the Ft. Walton Beach community to further shift the culture, climate, and language around young African American men.

ILLINOIS | ETA TAU CHAPTER

In 1971 a young man from Peoria, Illinois had a dream to create a chapter bigger than himself.

Brother Walter Graves (EK 1969) found himself continuing his studies from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois to Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, but while involved in his studies he missed seeing Brothers who looked like him and his Old Gold and Black on campus. He took the time to petition the General Organization on what it took to clear his vision of this predominately white campus.

In 1971, he got the information and with the help of five others (John “Apple” Lane, Ted McClain, Jethro Knazze, Earl Johnson, and Donald Holmes) the Eta

Tau Chapter was chartered. With the help of the afore mentioned Brothers who were students at ISU and the newly initiated members, Brother Graves, along with then, Regional Vice President J.R. Williams, Executive Secretary Lawrence T. Young, and Brother James “Tiny” Blanton, a chapter was applied for and approved. The celebrated Charter date of Eta Tau is October 9, 1971.

His impressive 40-foot-long bridge named the Rites of Passage Bridge at Jameson Camp, which was the culmination to ascend to the rank of Eagle Scout on April 30th, 2022, took over 760+ unpaid hours of service, raising $10,000 in support for his project, and over 80 volunteers over three years to complete.

Brother Walter Graves despite his profession as a Global mining engine training expert that took him all over the globe, has NEVER missed a Charter celebration in the 51 years. His proudest boast is that he has been financial with the Organization and Chapter every one of those years.

During the infancy of the chapter the Brothers made several dozen Cleopatra’s (Cleos), Alpha Angels and Sweethearts. Though those processes have been done away with within the general organization, the HT family bond will live forever.

The family bond been set within the College Chapter itself and Alumni who have moved far and near, but also with the Alumni Chapter in Bloomington/Normal, Nu Psi Lambda, Eta Tau and Nu Psi Lambda have won the Charles H. Wesley Brotherhood Award multiple times in the District of Illinois.

On October 15, 2022, Eta Tau Chapter celebrated the 50+1 Golden Jubilee on the campus of Illinois State University in grandiose form not only with the Charter Brothers, Chapter Brothers, family, and friends, but also with Brother General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer III. The celebration was entitled 50+1 due to the 50th being interrupted by the pandemic.

Brother, Dr. Charles Morris of Nu Psi Lambda Chapter was awarded and pinned with his 75-year pin at the celebration as well. The event was one that will be remembered in Eta Tau History.

INDIANA | INDIANA DISTRICT

The Brothers of the Indiana District came together to support Boy Scout Xavier Dominic Ntamere, and his mother, Ms. Ebony C. Barney (Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., ’09), by attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for his Rites of Passage Bridge at Jameson Camp.

Furthermore, to honor his late grandfather, Brother Joseph E. Barney (GR ’72), who was highly influential in the young man’s development, the Brothers of the Indiana District presented Xavier with an award congratulating him on his ascension to Eagle Scout as well as announced that the College and Alumni Chapters of Indiana would provide a scholarship of at least $1,906 for him at the Indiana District Conference for his college endeavors.

The high school senior has a 3.8 cumulative grade point average and plans to study civil engineering in the Fall of 2023 at Howard University. He Xavier has lettered in three sports and has been inducted into the National Honor Society.

Xaiver’s accolades were highlighted in a recent article.

“From the first time he went on a hike as a Cub Scout, Xavier Ntamere has been immersed in the Scouting life. Ntamere, who holds dual membership in Troop

534 (Chicago) and Troop 199 (Indianapolis), has excelled in the Boy Scouts. He’s earned about 80 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions. In 2019, his leadership skills were used to the fullest when his Boy Scout troop was meeting in a church that caught fire. Ntamere exhibited heroic actions in helping to evacuate the troop and families present, and his actions led to local and national recognition through a Certificate and Medal of Merit.” excerpt from myIPS.org “From the start, “Shortridge student has been a leader in Scouts.”

According to the IndyStar, “historical averages show only 4% of all Boy Scouts attain the rank of Eagle, and of those, only 1% are Black.” (Hays, 2020)

During the ceremony, his mother reminded attendees of the importance of the village in uplifting youth. The men of the Indiana District recognize the importance of helping develop this young leader and continuing to cultivate his excellence.

KENTUCKY | ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER

On Saturday April 9th, 2022 members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc Alpha Lambda Chapter convened a panel and community discussion forum focused on men’s health. The form discussion was hosted by Brothers of the Alpha Lambda chapter Dr. Gregory Woolfolk (Gastroenterologist), Dr. Jamaal Richie (Primary Care), and Dr. Willie McBride, lll (Clinical Neuropsychologist).

This event was held in honor of the Alpha Lambda Chapter 111th Charter Anniversary in partnership with Antioch Missionary Baptist Church and in support of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. has partnered with the National Council of Negro Women GOOD Health WINS campaign to raise awareness to the disparities in healthcare and the impact of timely immunizations.

The goal of this event was to educate Black men about their health concerns and to encourage them to make regular wellness appointments, better understand their mental health needs and seek out preventative care to prevent chronic illnesses, as well as treating any conditions they may regularly have. This event was a great opportunity for more than 50 men within the community and the fraternity to come together and talk about their health, especially since the covid-19 pandemic significantly changed how we interact.

In minority communities, additionally, it has caused an even greater disparity in access to healthcare, making it ever more important for our communities to learn how to stay healthy.

The chapter plans to offer a series of future events to engage Brothers and community to continue encouraging healthy lifestyle practices.

LOUISIANA | BETA TAU CHAPTER

The Brothers from the Beta Tau Chapter at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, LA, served at WYES-PBS headquarters in New Orleans for the private viewing of the documentary Dr. Norman C. Francis: A Legacy of Leadership on September 20th, 2022.

Dr. Norman C. Francis: A Legacy of Leadership chronicles the career of Brother Francis, a true Louisiana legend and one of America’s longest-serving university presidents. Archival photos, footage, and interviews with Dr. Norman C. Francis, his children, and colleagues document a remarkable life devoted to education and public service. The Brothers of the Beta Tau Chapter Served drinks and food for this private viewing, and were escorts to Brother Francis throughout the evening.

Dr. Norman C. Francis: A Legacy of Leadership documents his journey from humble beginnings in Lafayette to a 47-year career as Xavier University of Louisiana president. Raised in a household that stressed the importance of education and the pursuit

of excellence, Dr. Francis would spend his life pursuing both. As Xavier’s president, he tripled the school’s enrollment, broadened its curriculum, and advised eight U.S. presidents. As a civic leader, he co-founded Liberty Bank and co-chaired the Louisiana Recovery Authority after Hurricane Katrina. President George W. Bush called Dr. Francis “a man of deep intellect, compassion and character” when he presented him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

He showed his moral courage and vision by housing the Freedom Riders at Xavier and representing civil rights activists as a young lawyer and the first Black graduate of Loyola University School of Law. When the New Orleans City Council voted to rename Jefferson Davis Parkway to Norman C. Francis Parkway, it confirmed that Dr. Francis is an icon worthy of every tribute he has earned during his 91 years.

MARYLAND

| DELTA OMICRON LAMBDA AND DELTA NU CHAPTERS

Brother Wes Moore, the Democratic candidate for governor of Maryland, made a historic visit to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) on September 28th, 2022 as part of his HBCU tour.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s Delta Omicron Lambda and Delta Nu Chapters were present and engaged throughout the tour.

Brother Moore arrived on campus in a heartwarming fashion. He was met by a host of supporters including campus organizations, business owners, Greek letter organizations, and community members to name a few. Music and electrifying performances from UMES cheerleaders and Greek organizations preceded Brother Moore’s presentation to the campus community. Brother Moore captured the campus speaking on many issues. Some of which included education, civil rights, social justice, and unlocking opportunities for black families.

Among many things, he mentioned ensuring that

plan, as highlighted on https://wesmoore.com/ focuses on tools to give Black families in Maryland increased access to work that imparts dignity and career options, wages that you can raise a family on, and wealth that imparts stability for families and allows people to pass on something other than debt to their children. This closing was met with a standing ovation.

Immediately after, Brother Moore toured the campus with the 16th President of UMES, Dr. Heidi Anderson, and the UMES executive office cabinet. During the tour, he listened keenly to the rich history of each building as well as the future investments needed to take UMES to the next level.

| KAPPA PHI LAMBDA

The Alpha Foundation of Howard County, (AFHC) is excited to announce it is the recipient of a Howard County Innovation Fund Grant. “This is a game changer,” said AFHC Chairman Dennis Kemp, Sr. The grant will create a Youth/Teen - Find -A - Doc - Howard! application to assist those going through mental stress.

The proposal was submitted by the AFHC, a 501(c3) organization, which partnered with Dr. Chesahna Kindred and physicians from the Onyx Medical Society. The goal is to create a website that provides Howard County African Americans and other students of color with a list of mental healthcare options.

Maryland’s Blueprint for Education is fully funded and implemented and the need to provide dedicated funding for the Blueprint’s Accountability and Implementation Board to assess progress and provide technical support to localities. Brother Moore reinforced that true equity and social justice extends far beyond criminal justice. Mentioning that “It means equity in housing. It means equity in access to education and health care. It means environmental justice. It means fixing procurement policies and increasing liquidity for our MBEs to increase job growth. It means supporting our HBCUs and committing to eliminating the wealth gap.”

He concluded his presentation by talking about ways to unlock opportunities for Black families. Brother Moore stated that “We cannot unlock economic opportunities for Black families unless we address the systemic barriers that have locked so many out for so long.” His

Howard County Executive, Dr. Calvin Ball, created the Innovation Fund Grant in 2020. The goal is to improve the county as we look forward to the future. Applicants were asked to create projects that foster innovation for the public good. The proposal submitted in 2021 was created under the direction of Vaughn M. Bradley, Jr., director of educational activities, at Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter, Howard County, MD.

“We used a ground up approach. We engaged members of the Alpha Achievers (a high school enrichment program) to learn the challenges facing young people who are going through mental stress and other factors causing disruption in daily life,” says brother Bradley. “We then talked to professionals at the Onyx Medical Society who have unique expertise. The medical society knows the how, why, and how to fix lives. We now know the need and we can address it.”

During a presentation at the Howard County Miller Branch Library in Ellicott City, County Executive Brother Dr. Calvin Ball presented a check to AFHC Chairman, Brother Dennis Kemp, Sr. for $36,904. The Alpha Foundation of Howard County is a 501(c3) organization and is the fundraising arm of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,

Inc of the Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter. The Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter provides multiple educational activities for young people in Howard County. “Our return on investment has proven time and time again we are changing the direction of young people and improving outcomes for all of Howard County,” according to AFHC Chairman Kemp.

In the fall, there will be a Kickoff event for the Alpha Achievers and Howard County African American youth of color and their parents to introduce the “Youth/ Teen - Find - A - Doc -Howard!” Application.  Brother Brandon Barrett, a member of the Education Committee, has been tasked with building the site. Brother Barrett says, “beta testing this spring/summer for rollout in the fall.”

MICHIGAN

|

KAPPA DELTA LAMBDA

CHAPTER

The Brothers of the Kappa Delta Lambda Chapter in Lansing, MI, celebrated their 50th anniversary at its 2022 Black & Gold Scholarship Ball this past June to champion their rich history of community service and award $6,000 scholarships to achieving high school students.

More than 300 people packed the main ballroom at the Eagle Eye Golf Course, including keynote speaker and Past General President Bro. Mark S. Tillman, District Director Bro. Lindsey Williams and three of the 12 charter members. Michigan’s Governor Gretchen

Harry Scott, Lonnie Williams, and Rodney Watts founded the KDL chapter on May 26, 1972, in the spirit of serving the community, developing leaders, promoting brotherhood, achieving academic success and fighting the condition of the community’s educational, political, economic, and social injustices.

The scholarship ball culminated the chapter’s 50 years of serving the Greater Lansing community in many capacities, including mentoring students, conducting voter registration drives, delivering food to the elderly and shut-ins, and distributing more than 2,000 masks and hand sanitizer during the pandemic.

The impact the chapter has made in the community has been significant. In 1981, in partnership with the city of Lansing, Bro. Richard Letts started one of the nation’s first commemorative events recognizing Bro. Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Continuing the tradition, KDL and the city of Lansing held its 41st annual Memorial Observance of Rev. Dr. Martin L. King Jr. in January. During the virtual event, the chapter awarded area high school students with the Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Citizenship Award. When fundraising began in the 1980s for the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C., KDL donated more than $15,000 to lead the effort.

In 1979, the chapter began awarding scholarships to deserving high school seniors. The highlight of the ball took place when that tradition continued as six area graduating high school seniors received $1,000 each for their academic achievement and community service. The scholarship recipients were: Larry Ansari, Okemos High School; Devin Carter, Everett High School; Jerry Jai Kozar-Lewis, East Lansing High School; James McCurtis III, Okemos High School; Ji’Ri Ash-Shakoor, Holt High School; and Kianna Tucker, Okemos High School.

Whitmer, State Rep. Sarah Anthony, the Lansing Branch NAACP, the city of Lansing Mayor’s office and the city of East Lansing Mayor’s office all awarded the chapter for its 50 years of service to the Greater Lansing area.

“It was a beautiful event as I stood at the podium seeing the community supporting the brotherhood in celebration of our golden anniversary,” said KDL President Harold Pope. “I look forward to the continued community service this chapter will provide to the Greater Lansing area.”

Brothers Don Coleman, Theodore Chavis, Charles Dillard, Rod Gillum, William Harrison, James Theodore Jones, Kirby Kirksey, Blanche Martin, Jeffery Moss,

“It was an honor to be able to provide financial assistance to these well-deserving students,” said Glenn Sanders, president of the KDL Foundation. “These students have demonstrated excellence inside and outside the classroom.”

MISSOURI | EPSILON PSI CHAPTER

The Epsilon Psi Chapter at Missouri Science and Technology (S&T) with the help of their Epsilon Psi Alumni Association (EPAA) embarked on a history journey to honor the Alpha men that pioneered, chartered, served, and embodied the principles First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All in the city of Rolla, MO.

During the chapters 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2015, college brothers and returning alumni started putting together the framework for creating a history book to preserve Epsilon Psi chapter’s rich history of bringing Alpha Phi Alpha to a predominately white institution known for its top tier rigorous science, engineering, and mining curriculum. On top of being a premier engineering institution, the Missouri School of Mines & Metallurgy (later becoming the University of Missouri – Rolla and now Missouri S&T) was not accommodating to African Americans.  There were no support systems, file repositories, housing benefits, friendly or safe environments or an expectation for people of color to excel let alone graduate from the institution.

advisor, as well as friends and family of Epsilon Psi Chapter Brothers, university faculty, students, and administrators. For more information, visit: www. EPsiStory.com. Movie trailer can be seen at https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtxW7tUbOhE.

NEW JERSEY

| ZETA NU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Increasingly, business is being conducted over the dining table in executive dining rooms, homes, clubs, and restaurants. With the introduction of fast food, prepackaged meals, dual careers, and rushed lifestyles, the skills to navigate these spaces confidently are becoming a lost art for many, and knowing when, what, how, and why to utilize social graces is critical in today’s business and social arenas.

On April 30, 2022, the Brothers of Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter partnered with the City of Plainfield (NJ) and Mayor Adrian O. Mapp to deliver their Passport to Success Dining Etiquette Workshop.

The program was produced collaboratively with the mayor’s “Love Plainfield” initiative, which focuses on fostering a community spirit of love, pride, and unity within the Queen City.

Around the country you saw race riots, struggles for racial equality, civil rights movements, racism fear and throughout it all, in the small Missouri town of Rolla, two Alpha men who transferred from Lincoln University saw a need and reached out for support and help from an Alpha man that had established his family in town. This Alpha man was the late Lawrence C George (Beta Phi ’55). These men started on a journey that has changed the landscape of the school’s campus, the city, the state of Missouri and has produced over 230 Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

In the Fall of 2021, during the height of the pandemic, alumni of Epsilon Psi chapter commissioned an author, Brother Darrius J. Gourdine, (Beta ’90), to begin gathering the chapter history. Charter members to neophytes were interviewed for the culmination of a hardback history book and a full-length documentary movie premiere that both debuted on the campus of Missouri S&T on October 22, 2022. The Epsilon Psi Story Movie Premiere, which featured a “Gold Carpet” showcase, where guests walked down the carpet for photos with the premiere’s movie posters and custom backdrop, as well as a panel discussion with the author, charter members, and family. Attendees included current, alumni and charter Brothers of Epsilon Psi chapter, family members of the late Brother Lawrence C. George, who served as the original chapter

Leveraging this community partnership, Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter held this event at a local culinary school owned by Landmark Hospitality, where the school prepared a delicious five-course meal to support the program. In addition, those in attendance also learned about various careers in the field of hospitality management.

To lead the program, Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter enlisted a certified etiquette trainer with more than 20 years of experience in the field. Participants were young people in grades 5-12 and their parents. In total, the program welcomed more than 60 participants via two separate workshops. This unique leadership development experience increased each participant’s self-confidence and poise.

After each workshop, participants expressed that they felt empowered and more confident with their new passport to success applicable across multiple settings, including casual dining, and eating at school and at home.

“I feel like I’m ready to take on the world because my confidence level has gone up!” says one participant.

Another participant shared that he found the experience not only informational, but also fun.

NEW YORK

| ETA THETA LAMBDA CHAPTER

“Now that my chains are broken, I can attend Spelman College,” said a high school senior from Long Island, New York during the closing talent show of the Eta Theta Lambda Education Foundation’s HBCU College Tour.

“I am going to attend Howard to become a lawyer like [that brother] on the tour, he’s the first Black lawyer I have met,” said a high school junior also from Long Island during dinner at Howard University in Washington, DC.

In the era post-COVID, chapters across the country have had to think about elevating and insulating their impact, specifically considering educational programs and initiatives. Given the imperative nature of “Go-toHigh School, Go-to-College” as a national program, it has become ever more important for chapters to build sustainable program models that can deliver the Alpha standard, despite disruptions - even those caused by a pandemic.

The Eta Theta Lambda Chapter seated in Long Island, New York, was not immune from the period of selfexamination due to COVID considering the chapter’s legacy in supporting social impact projects, most markedly the Eta Theta Lambda College Tour. For 41 years the Eta Theta Lambda Education Foundation, has hosted a College Tour to allow students from the Long Island, New York Metro area and beyond to experience life at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The tour, which re-booted for the first in-person tour since 2019, just completed its 41st trip from October 23-30, 2022. One-hundred-sixteen students, led by 20 Brothers of Alpha and 14 female chaperones, visited more than 13 institutions including, but not limited to Howard, Hampton, Morehouse, Spelman, North Carolina A&T, North Carolina Central, Virginia State and Virginia Union.

On each campus, students received personalized tours from admissions professionals, greetings from Brothers of the Fraternity, and opportunities to engage with students about their unique journeys. Where possible, College Tour Alumni joined the tour at respective institutions to provide an “I was in your shoes” experience for college tour students. Students on the tour had the opportunity to receive onsite admission to several institutions, with some students additionally being awarded merit-based aid for their studies, a win for many students who were stepping foot on a college campus for the first time in their lives. The tour costs approximately $950 per student and is

inclusive of meals, nightly hotel accommodations, and participation in pre-tour college readiness activities as well as the tour itself. Due to networking and partnerships with local community-based organizations and local government in Nassau and Suffolk counties, the tour fortunately can offer a subset of partial and full scholarships to ensure access across socio-economic status.

While the tour is the manifestation of a year of planning between chapter brothers, the Education Foundation, and partners at institutions; it is also one piece of a larger educational endeavor taken on by Eta Theta Lambda. In advance of the tour, through the Virtual University Initiative (VUI) brothers engage with student participants on a series of college and career workshops, which not only fills the gap where local school districts fall short but builds upon critical college readiness skills. The VUI seeks to expose students to college-like experiences thereby enhancing readiness. Students can interface with technology, enhance academic skills, complete college-level mini courses, explore career options, discover learning styles and preferences, as well as apply new learning to community problem solving.

While the college tour has concluded for 2022, planning is already underway for the 2023 tour.

NORTH CAROLINA | BETA EPSILON CHAPTER

The Beta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., seated at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT), is striving to embody what it means to actively lead and positively impact one’s community. As the 2022 - 2023 academic school year begins, it is important to acknowledge the chapter’s efforts that demonstrate the essence of what it means to be a proactive Collegiate Chapter. The year is off to a strong start as the chapter has partnered with organizations on NCAT’s campus geared towards the development of the student body, executed various community service initiatives, all while ensuring each brother displays Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for

all Mankind. The chapter’s persistence to excel, never equal, shines a light as we look to the future of the impact to come.

Through programming thus far, Beta Epsilon kickstarted the year by collaborating with the University Honors College to host a program that enabled students to best prepare for the school’s Annual Career Fair and secure future employment. Shortly after, the chapter collaborated with the Alpha Mu Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for a panel that geared students up to take on personal endeavors in a postgraduate world. Most recently, the Chapter hosted a program that engaged the audience with thought-filled topics related to advocacy, awareness of Black politics, and common political misconceptions. The chapter has engaged with the school community through these programs while simultaneously hosting a variety of community service initiatives.

Beta Epsilon has shown what it means to give back and is on track to an impactful year of service. The chapter began the year by helping NCAT students move in. The chapter has participated in a Battle of Bands festival by preparing food for the 500 high school students, collected cases of water for victims of the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, and partnered with Out of the Garden, a local organization in the Greensboro area, to prepare meals for the surrounding community. The chapter partnered with the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement to host a voter registration week in alignment with National Voter Registration Week. Currently, the chapter most recently established a partnership with a local elementary school where a lunch buddy and mentoring program will allow Brothers to serve the youth and guide them.

The Brothers of the Beta Epsilon Chapter have shown up as leaders throughout the community but have also established a strong campus presence through leadership roles. These roles range from Student Government Association, the Honors College, the Joint Greek Council, Engineering Societies, and the Council of Presidents to name a few. These Brothers have maintained an active commitment to the work of

the chapter while upholding obligations of other roles. As October comes to an end, the future doings of the chapter are looking bright. It is going to be a great year for the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as the Brothers of the Chapter hold the light of Alpha high.

| ETA NU AND ZETA ETA LAMBDA CHAPTER

On October 2, 2022, Brother Leondre Horne, and Brother Terry Waller of the Eta Nu Chapter seated at East Carolina University along with Alumni Brothers of the Zeta Eta Lambda Chapter from Greenville, NC participated in “Brother’s Keeper.”

We fellowshipped and provided meals to Life Member Brother Ed Carter, a 1960 Beta Gamma Chapter initiate of Virginia State University. Brother Carter has been unable to participate in chapter activities as he cares for his wife. Brother Carter served in the Vietnam War, retired from a major company In Greenville, NC, and was the first Black mayor of Greenville, NC. He has been very active in social justice causes and continues to champion environmental injustices in his community.

The Brother’s Keepers event also coincided with his 83rd birthday. As we were leaving, he asked us to sing the fraternity hymn. To hear how passionately he sang after so many years in the fraternity was inspirational. It was great listening to his experiences and memories over dinner.

| PHI LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – Phi Lambda Chapter were joined by the Capital City Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi to energetically welcome young scholars back to Bugg Magnet Elementary Center for Design & Computer Science on the first day of school on Monday, August 29, 2022.

“Because education is a foundational key for success, we are excited to encourage and support our youth as they return to school,” says Brother Eddie Lambert, president of the Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Lambert, a graduate of North Carolina State University, also says that his chapter’s presence at the school embodies the aims of its national “Go-to-High School, Go-to-College” program, established in 1922.

Bugg Elementary is a 2022 Magnet School of Distinction where students are engaged in learning that develops higher-order thinking skills and provides a foundational skillset designed to meet the everchanging technological challenges in our society. The

school is led by principal Dr. Annice Williams. This was the sixth year that the Phi Lambda Chapter welcomed students back to the school.

OHIO

| DELTA ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Brothers of Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter in Cleveland, Ohio celebrated its 75-Year anniversary at a formal gala on November 6, 2022. More than 300 people, dressed in formal, black-tie attire, attended the celebration.

Brother Dr. Roderick Adams, Jr., Brother Rev. Hilton Smith, Brother Duane Crockrom, Brother William Bennett, Brother Dr. Andre Mickel, Brother Perry Murdock, Brother Samuel Dickerson, Brother Dr. Lateef Saffore, Brother Clarence McElrath, Brother Tony Dunlap, Brother Lester Holmes, Brother Eloy Vazquez, Sr., and current Chapter President Brother Harold Anderson.

For 75 years, Delta Alpha Lambda’s Chapter has maintained a rich legacy of initiating visionary men who have served or currently served as senior military officers, federal judges, attorneys, medical doctors, university leaders, government executives, entrepreneurs, journalists and more.

The organization and its members are positioned and committed to carry on its tradition of servant leadership, to empower the community, through its 75-year anniversary and beyond.

PUERTO RICO

|

TAU DELTA LAMBDA CHAPTER

On July 17, 2021, at the 96th General Convention, Tau Delta Lambda was provisionally chartered as an Alumni chapter and the first chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on the island of Puerto Rico, seated in the city of San Juan. That day was the culmination of efforts that began almost two years prior when brothers of Latino descent participated in a Spanish language video campaign for the “Voteless People is a Hopeless People” national program.

Longtime fraternity member and celebrated television anchor, Brother Leon Bibb, provided eloquent and impactful reflections on his journey into the organization as an 18-year-old college student at Bowling Green State University, and emphasized the organizations’ commitment to scholarship, brotherhood, and service.

During the celebration, Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter recognized famed architect, Brother Robert P. Madison, and bestowed Lifetime Achievement Awards to the following influential fraternity members: Brother William Bennett, Brother William Boswell, Brother Leon Bibb, Brother Rev. Edward Haggins, Brother Alfred House, Brother Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr., Brother Rev. Hilton Smith, and Brother Wendell Wheadon.

In addition, Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter saluted its past presidents and current president, including:

On October 6, 2020, several of those Brothers of Puerto Rican descent held their first Zoom meeting to discuss the possibility of chartering a new chapter in Puerto Rico. That meeting was the genesis of a journey that led to the reclamation of brothers, not only on the mainland United States, but in Puerto Rico as well as active alumni brothers, who were energized with the mission.

The charter members are Brothers Juan Calixto, Norman Hernandez, Dr. Timothy Jackson, Moses Matias,

Norman Parrish, James Ramos, Carlos Restrepo, and Anibal Vega.

Since then, the chapter has been busy with the work of Alpha. The chapter participated in Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Domestic Violence Initiative including a letter writing campaign to encourage the U.S. Senate to pass the Domestic Violence Act 2021 Act, subsequently signed into law by President Joe Biden. We also co-hosted a webinar with over 225 attendees that included speakers from government, legal, and support agencies.

We are active in local communities on the island with organizations such as “Vieques En Rescate,” supporting cancer patients with supplementary services to improve patients’ quality of life. We matched them with a firm to obtain their non-profit status and assist with accounting services. We are also working with “Unidos Por La Comunidad Arenas de Guanica”, an organization in one of the areas hardest hit by earthquakes in Puerto Rico over the last two years. They are creating a community-wide emergency center and we were able to secure an industrial air conditioning unit, services for their building. Finally, we are working with “Amigos del Bosque Toro Negro”, a group focusing on providing a community center to the local youth.

We were able to provide furniture and paint for their community center. We donated $1,000 to each of these organizations.

The first Executive Board of the chapter includes Chapter President Brother Carlos Restrepo, Vice President Brother Omar Morales, Treasurer Moses Matias, Secretary Brother William V. Collins, Jr., Financial Secretary / Sergeant at Arms Brother Miguel A. Dominguez, Esq., Historian Brother Angel A. Solis, Jr., Parlamentarían Brother Norman Hernandez, Chaplain Brother Richard Colon, Director of Education Brother Craig L. Bilbrew, and Associate Editorto-The Sphinx Brother Irving Roman Jr.

We are planning our Fraternity’s Founders Day Celebration and Chapter Fundraiser starting on December 1st with the Inaugural Charity Golf Outing, Luncheon, Chapter Gala, and much more. The goal is to raise funds for chapter programs and organizations that impact communities on the island.

For more information, visit our website at www. taudeltalambdapr.org.

TEXAS

The Brothers of the Arlington-based Nu Pi Lambda Chapter showed up to some school campuses

delivering hundred of new coats on Thursday morning.

“We truly believe charity starts at home,” says Brother Karlton Washington, president of the Nu Pi Lambda chapter.

The donation is part of the fraternity chapter’s winter projects. School counselors and administrators communicated to the members there’s a significant number of students who needed coats.

The brothers, dressed in their fraternity’s signature colors of black and old gold, showed up to several school campuses with boxes of new coats. The brand new outerwear was in all colors and sizes.

Icenhower Intermediate School administrators and counselors helped bring the boxes of coats into the school and expressed sincere gratitude.

“We have so many families here that need so much help. And we have kids that come to school that are hungry. They are cold. They are having to care for other siblings. And just this selfless act that your chapter did for our campus and our community, we just thank you so much,” Principal Amanda Thomas says.

The Arlington Alphas are donating coats to students at school campuses across Mansfield ISD, Arlington ISD and Grand Prairie ISD.

“To be able to do this in our own community is worth its weight in gold,” Washington explains.

The coat donations were possible after the chapter rallied a chorus of Alpha Brothers from across DallasFort Worth. They hosted a gospel concert to raise funds in November. Part of the proceeds went to purchasing 1,906 coats. That number is symbolic of the year the historic service-based fraternity was founded 116 years ago this month.

VIRGINIA | BETA GAMMA CHAPTER

After a year and a half of a pandemic, hardship, and a reality that was almost completely virtual, the brothers of the Beta Gamma Chapter persevered and accomplished a year worth celebrating. The year 2022 was nothing short of spectacular for Virginia State University as a whole. Brothers of the Beta Gamma Chapter contributed as much as they can.

In the Fall of 2021, Brothers participated in leadership roles and guided the campus back to a culture that was prominent prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Brothers

served as executive board members to the Student Government Association, The Royal Court, Student Led Social Organizations, and the Trojan Activities Board, which led the chapter in many positive ways, including the first probate since 2019.

Roads area since its chartering in May 1935. Despite the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the Chapter has continued to tirelessly advance the fraternity’s national programs, as well as its own initiatives. Brother Derrick M. Blair (Epsilon Pi ’93) is President, and Brother Eric A. Putman (Xi Gamma Lambda ’98) is Vice President.

Through its ever-increasing community service, Alpha Phi Lambda has positioned itself as a beacon of hope, change, and support for people in Norfolk and its surrounding cities.

On March 19, 2022, Dean Tahj Harris-Davis and Assistant Dean of Pledge Mekhi McKinney brought in 17 new Brothers into the 47th House of Alpha. Brothers Fields, Johnson, Jefferson, Rankins, Mickens, Lassic, Omer, Fambro, Moore, Washington, Brown, Duah, Rodriguez, Pope, Ce-jas, Marks, and Sessoms displayed high caliber characteristics, and are destined to be men of culture, class, and tenacity. In a matter of short time, these new Brothers showcased their want to become leaders, academic scholars, and servants of the community at a larger scale.

After being introduced to the campus, Brothers quickly rallied and always represented the chapter as well as the organization, in an excellent manner. The chapter went on to win the 2022 VACAPAF College Chapter of the Year, 2022 VACAPAF Outstanding College Brother of the Year (Brother Treyvion Hall) 2022 Miss VACAPAF Scholarship Pageant Winner (Arriyonna R. Allen) and the 2022 VACAPAF Brother with the Highest GPA (Khalel Robinson) at the regional level. On our campus, Brothers accomplished the following, 2022

Virginia State University SOA Organization of The Year 2022 Virginia State University SOA Best Probate 2022

Virginia State University SOA Outstanding Leadership Award (Brother Yousif Omer) 2022 Virginia State University SOA Best Social Media Engagement 2022 Virginia State University SOA Best Trojan (Brother Al’Tarez Mickens) 2022 Virginia State University SOA Trojan’s Best Barber (Brother Joel Fambro).

| ALPHA PHI LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. of the Eastern Region selected Alpha Phi Lambda Chapter (Norfolk, VA) as Alumni Chapter of the Year at its 90th Annual Eastern Region Convention held April 6 - 10, 2022 in Atlantic City, NJ.

The Chapter, comprising more than 100 Brothers, has been a strong community pillar in the Hampton

With the pandemic still raging, APL continued to train and educate the Brotherhood on the current rates of infection, mitigation efforts, and testing by chapter medical professionals. The Bothers also partnered with First Baptist Church, Berkley of Norfolk to sponsor a COVID-19 vaccination clinic; more than 700 received vaccines.

As part of its national “Voteless People Is a Hopeless People” program, APL was extremely active in the areas of voter registration and education. APL sought to build bridges across political divides and ensure the voting public had an opportunity to question and interview those who would represent their interests in the upcoming years. Partnering with the Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Upsilon Omicron Omega Chapter, APL offered the Hampton Roads region’s first online virtual Candidates Town Hall. This non-partisan, twoday voter engagement featured candidates seeking local and state elected positions — from school board member to governor. Additionally, the collaborative forum also addressed concerns regarding Virginia Boards, Commissions, and Councils and criminal justice reform. An informed citizenry is essential to our democracy and the upward movement of our community.

Through its 501(c)(3), the G.W.C. Legacy Education Fund, APL sought to promote education in the greaterHampton Roads area. In concert with Alpha’s national programs, the Fund provided leadership and mentoring to cultivate academic achievement and social and professional opportunity for young men. We then

turned young men’s dreams into reality with a $20,000 scholarship. Through its Education Fund, APL is in the second year of offering this opportunity to a deserving young student.

The need for assistance was great in the Norfolk and Virginia Beach areas. Undaunted, the Brothers of APL contributed and conducted a whole host of social activities and provided support to local communities and charities.

For the past two years, the Virginia Association of Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (VACAPAF) has also, recognized Alpha Phi Lambda as Alumni Chapter of the Year.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

| OMICRON ETA LAMBDA CHAPTER

On Saturday, August 20, 2022, the Omicron Eta Lambda Chapter partnered with Amidon-Bowen Elementary School in Washington, DC on a School Beautification Day. Brother Terence Stewart organized this initiative in conjunction with Brother Mark Harris Jr., Director of Educational Activities, and the education committee. This service event consisted of approximately 15 Brothers. Their tasks included painting walls, setting up bulletin boards, organizing equipment, helping teachers set up their classrooms, and helping maintain the school’s garden. This partnership with Amidon-Bowen Elementary is set to grow through our education committee by involving mentoring with fourth and fifth-grade students.

Eta Lambda Chapter holds a critical role in the D.C. Southwest community and the School Beautification Day volunteers were elated to know that we completed this service project right in our community.

After completion of the service event, Brother Terence Stewart says, “Participating in Beautification Day was such a meaningful experience for me because we were giving back to a community that is often last to be served, even though it has the most need. For some people, painting walls and putting up bulletin boards isn’t a big deal. But for me, it meant that we were affirming our Black and Brown students’ identities, honoring their unique experiences, and recognizing the contributions that they will make in their communities. In essence, we were getting the school ready for our future leaders.”

Thank you to the leadership of the education committee and all the brothers who volunteered to revamp Amidon-Bowen Elementary School. We are looking forward to partnering with other schools and organizations in the D.C. region whose mission align with the education committee and our great fraternity.

WEST VIRGINIA

| ALPHA IOTA LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Brothers of Alpha Iota Lambda Chapter worked with the fifth graders of Mary C. Snow Elementary School on a virtual essay contest as part of its Black History Program. Principal Destiney Spencer was happy to partner with the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha to promote education and to mentor minority students in the West Charleston Community.

The topic of the essay was “MLK Jr Through My Eyes” and 23 fifth graders participated. The essays were judged by Brother Dr. Charles Ledbetter and brother Dr. Mordecai Brownlee and the seven winners were selected. All participants were given certificates and gift cards.

This partnership is consistent with one of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s national programs, “Go-toHigh-School, Go-to-College.” This national program is essential to ensure the next generation of scholars can identify role models who look like them and are a representation in the community. The Omicron

Brother Cary, Esq., a successful lawyer in the city of Charleston who grew up in the same neighborhood met with students and made encouraging remarks and answered questions. Brother District Director Thomas Vernon, AIL President Brother Derrick Grant and Treasurer Brother Craig Glover were also in attendance and made remarks.

The Brothers were recognized on the Kanawha County Board of Education website and asked to return for other programs. S

BROTHER DR. YARBROUGH APPOINTED TO LEAD LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY’S DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION EFFORTS

Brother Dr. Kenny Emmanuel Yarbrough, a 1999 Beta Upsilon Lambda initiate, a national higher education diversity, equity and inclusion advocate and leader, as Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Lawrence University.

As the primary champion for DEI at Lawrence, he will guide institutional culture, initiatives, and programs and a university-wide narrative. Brother Dr. Yarbrough brings over 20 years of experience to this role including a broad and deep portfolio in creating organization-wide, inclusive strategies and support programs to benefit our campus, student experience, and greater community.

For the past four years, Brother Dr. Yarbrough has served in progressive roles at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater – most recently, as the Associate Vice President of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Support Programs.

Yarbrough will lead the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and work collaboratively across campus with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community to enhance diversity initiatives and build on the momentum of Lawrence University’s strategic investments and momentum in the areas of DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism).

“I am elated to join the renowned institution, Lawrence University, in the role of vice president for diversity, equity, and Inclusion; and excited to join an institution that is seriously committed to this work for the students which the University serves as well as its employees and the greater community,” says Brother Yarbrough. “I am grateful to Lawrence University’s President Laurie Carter and the Board of Trustees for entrusting me to lead this work in this capacity. The Light of Lawrence continues to shine, and I am grateful to be a reflector of that Light.”

Prior to joining UW-Whitewater in 2018 as the inaugural Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer (CEDIO), Brother Dr. Yarbrough led the development of several DEI programs including serving as the Chief Diversity Officer of Volunteer State Community College and assistant director at the Renaissance Education Group, Inc. He is a graduate of the Maxine Smith Fellows Program, managed by the Tennessee Board of Regents. Dr. Yarbrough earned a master’s degree in business education from Union University, a doctorate in Theology and master’s degree in Christian counseling from Jacksonville Theological Seminary, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin. He is also a certified diversity professional. His professional career outside of academia includes non-profit consulting, a research-based religion clinician and collaborating with various authors on works of fiction, non-fiction, and self-help books. He is pursuing a second doctorate degree in higher education and leadership from East Tennessee State University focusing his research on black males and intersectionality.

As a national leader, speaker and author, Brother Dr. Yarbrough has received recognition for his work in the DEIA space including the 2020-21 Chief Diversity Officer Fellowship from the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education.

He is currently a member of Delta Chi Lambda Chapter in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. S

THERE GOES AN ALPHA MAN

BY BROTHER PETER CLARKE

There goes a man of high impulse

Of princely mien and grace

There goes a man of humble faith

A credit to his race

There goes a man of conscience

vast with will to reach his goal

There goes a man of lordly rank

Of heroes’ stock and soul

There goes a man of noble caste

Whom hardship cannot break

There goes a man in merit clad

Whom duty won’t forsake

There goes a man in cultured verse

Who hold a sportsman’s creed

There goes a man too vigilant

To bow to lust or greed

There goes a man whose life is spent in service not in scorn

There goes a man whose majesty

Shines like a May time morn.

There goes a man who is a friend

To love and duty truth

There goes a man to help uplift

The lives of wholesome youth

There goes a man with industry and faith at his command

There goes the best man in and out

For he is an Alpha Man.

BROTHER DAVIS APPOINTED TO HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The Hofstra University Board of Trustees welcomed Brother Frederick Davis, [Theta Epsilon ’83] who is currently a partner of tax services in the New York office of Mitchell & Titus, one of the largest minority-owned accountancy practices in the US in December 2021.

“Fred is among Hofstra’s most accomplished alumni, as well as dedicated friends and collaborators,” says Board Chair Donald M. Schaeffer. “They know Hofstra well and believe deeply in its mission. We look forward to the contributions that (he) will make as (a) trustee as we move forward together on behalf of the University.”

Brother Davis, who is a former president of the University’s alumni organization, is currently the vice president of Alpha Alpha Lambda Chapter (Key # 123) located in Newark, New Jersey and was the chapter’s 2021 Alumni Brother of the Year as well as the New Jersey Association of Alpha Phi Alpha Chapters. S

BROTHER SIMS APPOINTED NEW SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS IN BIBB COUNTY

Omicron Phi Lambda Vice President, Brother Dan Anthony Sims, was appointed this summer as the new superintendent of schools of Bibb County in Macon, Georgia, making him the new leader of the area that covers more than 22,000 students and 34 public schools.

His new position makes him one of the top education leaders in the entire state.

Brother Sims, a 1990 Nu Mu Chapter initiate from the Georgia Institute of Technology, who had been associate superintendent of Fulton County Schools of Atlanta, has had an illustrious professional career and is a former Alpha Phi Alpha National Alumni Brother of the Year. He is in his second year as VP of OPL, which is also known as the South Fulton Alphas, serving just outside of Atlanta. S

BY BROTHER RICHARD NORTH, III [GAMMA ETA LAMBDA ’18]

BROTHER DR. ANTHONY MAYS APPOINTED INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT OF THE AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Brother Dr. Anthony Mays [Delta ’99] has been selected as interim superintendent of the Austin Independent School District, serving more than 74,000 students and 10,000 employees, becoming the first African American man to lead the district.

Since October 2020, Brother Dr. Mays has served as Chief of Schools for Austin ISD. Starting as a special education teacher in Pflugerville ISD 20 years ago, he worked in both Dallas ISD and Fort Worth ISD as a principal and administrator. He came to Austin ISD from the Harris County Department of Education, where he was the senior director of schools and also serves as vice chairman of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators Central Office Commission.

Brother Dr. Mays has a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from Huston-Tillotson University, where he was also initiated as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in the Fall of 1999 under the Delta Chapter. He’s currently an active member of the Gamma Eta Lambda Chapter here is Austin, TX. He received his Master of Education from Texas State University and his doctorate in education from Tarleton State University. Brother Dr. Mays is also an adjunct professor at the University of Houston Downtown and University of Houston-Lone Star College Kingwood.

He says his education journey motivated him to become a teacher and help others: “I lived it in my personal experience. I had a passionate caring teacher that helped support me moving to a magnet school program and so at a very young age I got a chance to see the difference between what I may have been getting in one class versus what I got in the magnet program. Being a student of poverty that moved from a comprehensive program to a magnet program, I grew up in a school system where I experienced inequities. The experience of a quality education has placed me in a position to lead fearlessly in my advocacy for all students to have a quality education that allows them to thrive in college, career, and life,” says Brother Dr. Mays. “Now we are in full competition with Dallas ISD in a real way. And so, while of course when we look at metrics and student performance, we’re always looking at other districts and wanting to beat those districts. We look forward to outperforming performing Dallas ISD and Dr. Elizalde [former Austin ISD superintendent, current Dallas ISD superintendent].” S

*Published and broadcast reports contributed to this story.

BROTHER DARGAN SELECTED AS SAN DIEGO’S NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Following a national search that fielded nearly 200 candidates, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria selected Brother Eric K. Dargan to serve as the city’s new chief operating officer. Brother Dargan currently serves as the chief operating officer of the Houston Public Works Department and will take the reins of city operations to carry out Mayor Gloria’s ambitious plans to invest in infrastructure, increase San Diego’s housing supply and improve services for residents across San Diego.

Brother Dargan brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served the city of Houston for more than 20 years. As COO of Public Works for America’s fourth-largest city, Dargan oversees the city’s Water, Transportation and Drainage Operations, Permitting Center, Customer Account Services and Capital Projects. He’s responsible for the safe operating condition of the city’s streets, bridges, drainage ditches, water, sewer, and stormwater facilities, as well as permitting and billing.

An Arkansas native, Brother Dargan attended college in Texas, where he was initiated into the Eta Gamma Chapter of the Fraternity in 1985, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Prairie View A&M University. He went on to earn his Master of Science degree in electrical engineering at Michigan State University in 1991. While working at the City of Houston, Dargan received a Certified Public Manager accreditation through Sam Houston State University in 2007.

Brother Dargan began his professional career with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, now AT&T, where he spent 9 years and served as Director of telephone installation and repair in the Houston Region. During his career with Southwestern Bell, he also spent time in the U.S. Army, where he served for 10 years – two years as a lieutenant on active duty and eight years in the National Guard, reaching the rank of captain and serving as company commander in the 136th Signal Corps.

A Life Member of the Fraternity, he is currently a member of the Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter in San Diego, CA. Aside from the Fraternity, he is involved with numerous professional organizations including the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, and American Public Works Association. He currently serves on advisory boards for Texas Southern University, Prairie View A&M and Wharton County Junior College.

Among the numerous public service awards throughout his career, Brother Dargan received the 2022 Public Works Leader of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association Texas Chapter; the American Society for Public Administrators’ 2020 Public Interface Award; and the National Forum for Black Public Administrators’ 2017 Public Servant of the Year award. S

BROTHER DR. JONES NAMED PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE AMERICAN GEOPHYSICAL UNION

Brother Dr. M. Brandon Jones, a 1989 Nu Chapter initiate at Lincoln University in PA, has been named the president-elect of the American Geophysical Union, a role he will fill for two years before becoming president of AGU in 2025.

AGU supports 130,000 enthusiasts and experts worldwide in Earth and space sciences, according to the AGU website. Through broad and inclusive partnerships, AGU aims to advance discovery and science that accelerate knowledge and creates solutions that are ethical, unbiased, and respectful of communities and their values. Established in 1919 by the National Research Council, the organization became an incorporated member of the National Academy of Sciences in 1972.

Brother Dr. Jones, who earned his bachelor’s degree from Lincoln in 1991, and subsequently his master’s degree and doctorate degree in marine science from the University of Delaware, is the program director for Education and Broadening Participation in the Geosciences Directorate at the National Science Foundation (NSF). At NSF, he manages programs that relate to talent development and broadening participation in the Earth system sciences. Before joining NSF, Brother Jones spent 13 years working in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where contributed to the understanding of controls on the distribution of marine planktonic larvae.

Throughout his career, he has also been a champion for increasing diversity and equity in science. He directed and is engaged with numerous programs focused on support and professional development for historically excluded scholars in STEM. As AGU president-elect, he is looking forward to helping implement AGU’s strategic plan, specifically looking at ways to increasing climate change awareness, as well as to increasing awareness from the general population of how scientific discoveries can benefit society. S

TWO

ALPHA BROTHERS AWARDED MS ENGINEERING GEM FELLOWSHIPS

Brothers Kemonte Yow and David Nkansah, both 2020 Rho Omicron initiates, were named recipients of the MS Engineering GEM Fellowship – a program to promote the benefits of a master’s degree within the industry.

GEM Fellows are provided practical engineering summer work experiences through an employer sponsor and a portable academic year fellowship of tuition, fees, and a stipend, which may be used at any participating GEM member University, where the GEM Fellow is admitted.

Brother Yow is currently attending Clemson University to study industrial engineering and participated in an internship during the summer of 2022 with the Georgia Technical Research Institute.

Brother Nkansah is currently attending the University of Michigan to study industrial and operations engineering and participated in an internship with Intel during the summer of 2022. S

Brother Dr. John Culbreath [Delta Delta ’66]

Brother Dr. John Culbreath received a Lifetime Achievement Award at Albany State University’s annual Blue and Gold Scholarship Gala on April 9, 2022. One of ASU’s preeminent awards co, the Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service to their community and achieved monumental success in their chosen field or profession. The recipient must have consistently given his/her time, talent, and financial resources to enrich Albany State University.

In 2007 and 2011, Gamma Omicron Lambda Chapter named Brother Culbreath “Man of the Year.” He has served the chapter in several roles which has included historian, Founder’s Day speaker, and most notably as the director of the highly-successful “Go-to-High School2, Go- to-College” mentoring program for more than 10 years. Most of the young men who participated in the chapter’s mentoring program graduated from high school and many earned degrees from four-year universities and technical colleges.

The Monroe Georgia native earned a B.A. degree in French from Albany State University, a master’s degree in administration and supervision from Georgia State University, and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Georgia. Brother Culbreath is married and is the father of three children. Brother Culbreath’s life is a testament to the value of a good education. S

Brother Dr. Washington Taylor [Beta Upsilon ’53]

Brother Culbreath was tapped for the Lifetime Achievement Award for his superb leadership and exemplary service to ASU and to various communities and organizations in Georgia. An honor graduate of ASU, Brother Culbreath has served and supported the University in numerous roles and capacities: He served as dean of the College of Education, member of the ASU National Alumni Association, and member of the board of directors of the ASU Foundation. He was inducted into the ASU Alumni Hall of Fame in 2005.

Brother Culbreath has indeed achieved monumental success in the field of education. He has served as a classroom teacher and assistant principal at the elementary and high school levels, as well as a principal at the middle and high school levels in various communities in Georgia. In 1995, Brother Culbreath returned to Albany Georgia to serve as the first African American superintendent of the Dougherty County School System. He served as superintendent for six years and was named “Administrator of the Year” by the Georgia Association of Education Office of Personnel, and “School and Community Leader of the Year” by the Georgia School Public Relations Association during his tenure as superintendent. He was also awarded the Lifetime Service Award by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Brother Dr. Washington Taylor, 92, is a 1953 graduate of Alabama State University (ASU) in Montgomery, Alabama, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in mathematics. In 1958, he continued his studies at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado, where he earned a Master of Basic Science degree in mathematics, and in 1969,

enrolled at the Oklahoma State University (OSU), in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where he earned the Doctor of Education degree in mathematics. Brother Taylor was initiated in the Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated in 1953. As an active member, he relocated to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he joined the graduate chapter there and served in numerous capacities such as an advisor to the Southern University’s Beta Sigma Chapter, regional recording

secretary for the Southwest Region, and president of the graduate chapter for two terms. In later years, he relocated to Mobile, Alabama, where he united with the Beta Omicron Lambda Chapter and served as president for two terms. Brother Taylor participates in the Brother’s Keeper Program, Alpha Ensemble, supports the Alpha Elite Service Organization, annual blood drive, fundraising events, May Mortgage Madness, March of Dimes and more. He served his country in active-duty military and in the U.S. Army Reserve for 30 years. He retired from the Army Reserve in 1984 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His employment spanned from being a graduate assistant at OSU, professor of mathematics at SU and associate professor of mathematics at ASU. He retired in 2000 from Bishop State Community College in Mobile as a mathematics instructor after eight years of teaching. Brother Taylor is a widower to the former, Anne Tyler and Joyce Sias (both deceased). He has three daughters - Tara, Theolya, and Natalie. S

Brother Lawrence Hutchins [Delta Eta ’60]

Brother Lawrence Hutchins, a Life Member of the Fraternity, was recently honored with a bridge dedicated in his honor. As a result of House Resolution 942 that was presented by Georgia State Representatives Carl Gilliard, Ron Stephens, Derek

Brother Hutchins, who was initiated into the Fraternity’s Delta Eta Chapter on November 1960 at Savannah State College and presently active in Beta Phi Lambda Chapter, Savannah, is a native of Savannah. He is a proud product of the Savannah Public School System and a 1959 graduate of Alfred E. Beach High School, where he had a passion for the school band and was the leader of the clarinet section. He earned Music Education degrees from Savannah State College, VanderCook College of Music, Chicago, Illinois and further matriculated at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.

Brother Hutchins dedicated his time, talent and energy for 43 years teaching music and directing bands at Liberty County High School (McIntosh, GA), Beach High School (Savannah), Savannah State University as well as leading the marching band for the United House of Prayer in Savannah (15 years). He along with college classmate Rose Smith were co-founders of the Savannah State University Men’s Glee Club Alumni.

Brother Hutchins has been instrumental in numerous organizations some of which are the Frank Callen Boys and Girls Club Alumni and Friends Association, the Georgia Music Educators Association, the Thursday Morning Breakfast Club, Beach High School Alumni Association and the SSU National Alumni Association. He served as Area Director for Southeast Georgia (Savannah, Statesboro, Brunswick) for 20 years. Presently, he is a part time instructor at Savannah State University in Applied Woodwind Studies. Brother Hutchins is a member of Bethel AME Church where he serves on the Trustee Board, the Senior Choir, the Committee on Black History and president of the Sons of Allen. S

Late Brother Percy “Coach” Carr [Gamma Chi Lambda ’81]

Mallow, Edna Jackson, Bill Hitchins and others, the Georgia General Assembly 2022 enacted that the bridge on U.S. Route 17 passing over the CSX Rail Line in Chatham County is dedicated as the Lawrence Hutchins Bridge. The dedication was done on July 26, 2022.

The late Brother Percy “Coach” Carr was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity through Gamma Chi Lambda Chapter. On June 4, 2022, San Jose City College (SJCC) named their new gymnasium after him. The late Brother Carr spent 45 years coaching basketball there, winning 900 games. He also has the third-most wins all time in junior college history behind Three Rivers Community College (Missouri) coach Gene Bess, who entered Saturday with 1,264 wins, and former Allegany Junior College coach Bob Kirk (927). All 900 of Carr’s career junior college wins have been at San Jose City College. His 900 career wins are

also the most in California community college history. He has the most wins of all time among Black men’s coaches in college basketball history, with 72 more victories than late Hall of Famer and former Winston Salem State University coach Clarence “Big House” Gaines, who sits in second place. Carr is in his 44th

Brother Terry Hazzard [Delta Gamma ’77]

Brother Dr. Terry Hazzard is a 1979 honors graduate of Alabama A&M University in Normal, Alabama, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in speech-language pathology. In 1980, he earned a Master of Arts degree in higher education from The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and in 1992, an education specialist degree in higher education, and in 1996, a Doctoral degree in higher education with a concentration in Student Personnel Work from The Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. He was initiated in the Delta Gamma Chapter of the Fraternity in 1977 on the line referred to as, “The Fractious Fourteen.” In 1996, he joined the Beta Omicron Lambda Chapter (BOL) in Mobile, Alabama, where he became a Life Member. In BOL, Brother Hazzard established the Alpha Ensemble, incorporated the annual blood drive, coat and blanket drive, holiday food drives, and produced

season as head basketball coach of the Jaguars. He has guided eight Jaguar teams to the state tournament, won 12 conference championships and coached 17 first-team all-state players. He has guided 8 different Jaguar teams to the State Championships, claimed 12 Conference Championships, and has produced 17 first team all-state players. He has 24 winning seasons and has coached his team to 30 or more wins four times.

Brother Coach Carr was born in Tulare, California. He received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Fresno State in Physical Education. He taught as well as coached at Tulare High School and Edison High School. When coaching at Edison High school, he led the school to three championships and had an 88-22 winning record. After receiving the title of Fresno Coach of the Year, he coached at Stanford University. Success followed his move from Edison High School to Stanford as his team defeated University of California Los Angeles and University of Southern California during the same weekend. The wins happened for the first time in ten years during a Pac 10 Conference.

His widow, daughter and grandchildren accepted the honor on his behalf at the unveiling ceremony as former student athletes, coaches, school officials, civic leaders and local brothers shared their praise for Brother Carr. Their testimonies praised his coaching and emphasized the impact that he had on the community. Brothers from Eta Sigma Lambda Chapter and Iota Nu Lambda Chapter attended this special ceremony for the naming of the new basketball gymnasium in honor of Brother Coach Carr. S

the fraternity’s first newsletter, The Alpha Connection. He holds an elected office as associate editor-to-TheSphinx and served as the lead advisor to the Alpha Elite Service Organization for 10 years. He has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors, such as the Alpha Man of the Year, Charlie Green Award, and most recently, inducted into the Alabama District Hall of Fame. He currently serves on the Selection Committee for that Award. He has chaired numerous committees, such as fundraising for scholarships, voter registration, blood drive, Alpha Walks, Motivation Mondays, and the Brother’s Keeper Program to name a few. He strongly supports several the programs and services designed to enhance the aims, goals, and mission of the Fraternity. In 2019, Brother Hazzard retired as Dean of Students from Bishop State Community College in Mobile, serving a total of 40 years in higher education. He is married to the former Tanya F. Finkley. They have one son, Jared, and one grandson, Kyler. S

LICENSED MANUFACTURERS AND VENDORS*

3 Sisters Embroidery, LLC

Cathy Sheppard

919.572.6864

5410 NC Hwy 55, Suite D Durham, NC 27713

iam.greek2@frontier.com

www.monstergreek.com

410boutique 240.206.1551

P.O. Box 555

Cheltenham, MD 20623 www.410boutique.com

AD Greek 718.454.4211

179-10 Union Turnpike Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 adgreekinfo@gmail.com www.adgreek.com

Alpha One Greek & Promotional Items, LLC

Robert Jones 314.534.4733

11 S. Vandeventer Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108 alpha1greek@gmail.com

www.alphaonegreek.com

APGG/Stuff4Greeks

Monica Allen 404.792.2526

1339 Marietta Boulevard, Suite C 6400 Powers Ferry Rd, NW Atlanta, GA 30318

monica@s4g.com www.s4g.com

Believe Accessories

Erika Thomas 706.780.1023

Columbus, GA

believeaccess12@gmail.com

www.believeaccessories.com

Big Boy Headgear, Inc.**

Joanne Kim

213.388.2744

1321 S. Burlington Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90006 joanne@bigboygear.com www.bigboygear.com

Bolton Business Services, LLC

Henry Bolton 662.386.2253

443 Wilkins-Wise Road Columbus, MS 39705 hobolton@aol.com www.boltonbiz.org

Brothers and Sisters Greek Store 904.353.6200

323 East Union Street Jacksonville, FL 32202 www.BrothersandSistersGreekstore. com

BT’s Sportswear

864.266.3526

201 Charlotte Highway, Suite 221 Lyman, SC 29365 btsgreekwear@gmail.com

Burning Sands, LLC

*Licensed Manufacturer

256.226.9592

2713 Natures Trail SE Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763 nautilus.nobles@yahoo.com www.burning-sands.com

C’est la Vie

774.563.5271

51 Circuit Avenue Oak Bluffs, MA 02557

College Crib, Inc.

T. O. Price 615.329.3885

2719 Jefferson Street

Price Plaza-Suite D Nashville, TN 37208 CollegeCrib@gmail.com www.collegecrib.com

Craftique Mfg. Co.** Dean Hogue

800.251.1014 PO Box 4422

Chattanooga, TN 37405

dhogue@craftiquemfg.com www.craftiquemfg.com

Creative Woods  Charles “Chas” Brooks 678.592.1541

116 Shannon Chase Drive Fairburn, GA 30213 creativewoodsonline@gmail.com

Custom Creations MFG. LLC** Melodye Burrer

407.217.8009

888.897.8003

407.217.5027 FAX

8815 Conroy-Windermere Road, Unit 201 Orlando, FL 32835

customcreationsllc@gmail.com www.customcreationsmfg.com

DaGreek Spot LLC 404.207.8996

1230 Caroline Street NE, Suite B-200 Atlanta, GA 30213 info@dagreekspot.com www.dagreekspot.com

Designed 2 Dribble, LLC** Cheryl Sellers, CEO 719.963.0363

3305 Anne De Bourgh Drive Triangle, VA 22172

crs030909@gmail.com www.designed2dribble.com

Distinctive Specialties (Greek Paraphernalia)

dba Rare Case, LLC LaVonne McDowell 704.547.9005

7925 North Tyson Street, Suite 113 Charlotte, NC 28262 rarecasellc@gmail.com www.distinctivespecialties.com

Doom Wear Designs

Alain Uyidi 949.278.7831

14 Mulholland Court Mission Viejo, CA 92692 info@doomwear.com www.doomwear.com

Esmie’s Closet

516.986.7799

Amityville, NY 11701

Esmiescloset@gmail.com www.esmiesclosetinc.com

Express Design Group, Inc  Joseph Tantilo 618.539.9998

6 Commerce Drive Freeburg, IL 62243 sales@greekgear.com www.greekgear.com

Greek CertiPHIed Apparel

Kenyon Holley 267.716.7602 Philadelphia, PA 19142 greekcertiphied@gmail.com www.greekcertiphied.com

Greek Dynasty 866.950.7373

P. O. Box 2053 Jonesboro, GA 30237 greekdynasty@gmail.com www.greekdynasty.com

Greek Traditions**

Darrin Thomas 803.254.6404

1806 Washington Street Columbia, SC 29201 darrin@blackpagesusa.com www.greektraditions.net

House of A Lyndell Pittman 646.373-5296

Anthony J. Morina Drive Stony Point, NY 10980 MyHouseofA@yahoo.com www.houseofA.net

Kendall’s Greek 864.304.7043

Duncan, SC 29334 kendallsgreek@yahoo.com www.kendallsgreek.com

Michael Madison Design

Michael Madison 407.501.6083 info@michaelmadisondesign.com www.michaelmadisondesign.com

My Greek Boutique 315 N Bowman Road, Suite 13 Little Rock, AR 72211 www.mygreekboutique.co help@mygreekboutique.co

My Greek Letters**

Nicolas Cunningham 423.475.9331

Harrison, TN

MyGreekLetter@gmail.com www.mygreekletter.com

National Convention Sales

Cory Davis 281.507.7776

404.632.4819

4857 Neal Ridge Atlanta, GA 30349

NationalConventionSales@gmail.com

Need Nalia 803.708.2961

9557 Two Notch Road, Suite F Columbia, SC 29223 www.neednalia.com

Old Gold Goods

Paul Vaughns 817.412.3418

Fort Worth, TX 1906@oldgoldgoods.com www.oldgoldgoods.com

Old Gold Fine Art, LLC

Steven Patterson 830.345.0279

Oldgoldfineart@gmail.com www.oldgoldfineart.com

Pat’s Exclusives

Pat Bell

301.248.2882

4810 Ashford Place Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 patsexclusives@gmail.com

www.patsexclusives.net

Pegasus Promotional Products

Rick Davis

718.230.0991

110 Clifton Place, #3C Brooklyn, NY 11238

pegasuspromo@verizon.net

www.pegasuspromoproducts.com

Perfect Apparel, LLC

317.398.5553

8770 Commerce Park Place, Suite C Indianapolis, IN 46268

www.perfectapparel.com

PhirstPham Greek Boutique, LLC

Roland & Andrea Ridgeway

202.656.1768

560 Peoples Plaza, #279

Newark, DE 19702

Service@phirstphamgreek.com

www.phirstphamgreek.com

Phorever Phirst

707.344.2088

phoreverphirst@gmail.com

www.phoreverphirst.com

Real Greek Apparel Company

Robert Taylor 815.454.5371

2912 N. MacArthur Boulevard, #103 Irving, TX 75062

info@realgreekapparel.com

www.realgreek.com

Savage Promotions, Inc.**

Kim Savage

717.939.1152

300 S Front Street

Steelton, PA 17113

K_savage@comcast.net

www.savage-promotions.com

Shared Smiles by DM LLC

832.242.9920

77 Sugar Creek Center Boulevard, Suite 698 Sugar Land, TX 77478

info@sharedsmilesbydm.com

www.sharedsmilesbydm.com

Silver Etc.

770.403.1612

2069 Radford Court

Riverdale, GA 30296

patsilveretc@yahoo.com

www.greekdivine.com

Soror Bling

Marlene Jones

407.818.7971

2110 The Oaks Boulevard

Kissimmee, FL 34746

sales@sororbling.com www.sororbling.com

Stuart Consulting Group, Inc.**

Brad Aboff

386.236.2236

4191 Dairy Court Port Orange, FL 32127 brad@nsemblem.com www.nsemblem.com

Student Union LLC 504.473.8315

3826 Tarawood Court Spring, TX 77388 support@stdunion.com www.stdntunion.com

TCE Shop

800.336.2719

tceshop@gmail.com www.tceshop.com

Tenets Apparel, LLC** 917.744.2757

help@tenetsco.com www.tenetsco.com

The King McNeal Collection** 815.351.9188

Kankakee, IL mr.mcneal1@gmail.com

www.kingmcneal.com

The Sandz, Inc. Dedric Benton 704.975.3900

dedric@thesandz.com www.thesandz.com

Triple S Sports Apparel LLC

214.543.4849

939 Green Tree Lane Duncanville, TX 75137 sylvester@triplessportsapparel.com www.triplessportsapparel.com

Turf Gear

Gerald J. Brown 510.633.9870

10255 Lisco Court Las Vegas, NV 89183

turfgear@turfgear.com www.turfgear.com

Uzuri Kd Kidz/ Uzuri Greek 614.440.4601

6262 Alissa Lane

Columbus, OH 43213

uzrikidkidz@yahoo.com

www.uzuri-greek.myshopify.com

Worldwide Origins, LLC 314.749.2534

worldwideorigins1@gmail.com

www.worldwideorigins.com

X-Press Yourself Worldwide 817.269.5767

Arlington, TX

xpressyourselfsw@aol.com www.xpressyourselfgear.com

Zeus’ Closet 866.987.ZEUS

1339-C Marietta Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30318 www.zeuscloset.com

ALPHA AWARD OF HONOR AND ALPHA AWARD OF MERIT

In 1952, the General Convention established the Alpha Award of Honor and The Alpha Award of Merit. These have become, by tradition and practice, our greatest awards. The awardees were initially chosen by a committee headed by the venerable Brother Taliaferro "Tollie" Harris. At some point in our history,

1952

Brother Eugene Kinckle Jones

Brother Thurgood Marshall Brother Garrett Morgan

1953

Brother Archibald J. Carey

Brother Rufus Clement

1954

Brother Rayford W. Logan Mary McLeod Bethune

1955

Brother John H. Johnson

T.R.M. Howard

1956

Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. Brother Arthur Shores

1957

Roy Wilkins

Brother Austin T. Walden

1958

Brother Sidney Jones Marion Anderson

1959

Brother James W. Parker

Pres. William V.S. Tubman

John Howard Morrow

1960

Brother Adam Clayton Powell

Brother Aaron Brown

1961

Brother Lester B Granger

W.M.G Halm

1962

Brother Whitney M Young

Brother Harry W. Richardson

the selection became a function of the Office of the General President. In recent years, the Award of Honor has been presented to non-members and the Award of Merit to members. Unfortunately, however, our current records do not make a distinction between the recipients of the awards.

1963

Brother Edward Brooke

Brother Franklyn Williams

1964

Brother Floyd McKissick

Pres. John F. Kennedy

1965

Brother Charles H. Wesley Pepsi Cola Company

1966

Brother Thurgood Marshall

1968

Brother Wyatt Tee Walker

Brother Henry G. Parks

1969

Brother Theodore Berry Barbara Jordan

1970

A. Leon Higginbotham

1971

Brother Roscoe Cartwright

Brother Samuel Gravely Muhammed Ali

1972

Brother Eddie Robinson

Brother Damon Keith

Brother Robert Brown

1973

Brother Robert W. Harrison

Brother Eugene D. Jackson

1975

Lowell Perry

Brother Maynard Jackson

1976

Brother Franklyn Williams

William Tolbert

1977

Brother William T. Coleman

Henry “Hank” Aaron

1978

Constance Baker Motley

1979

Brother Lionel H. Newsome

1980

Brother Richard Arrington

Parren Mitchell

1981

Albert T. Holland, Jr.

1982

Brother Malvin R. Goode

Tom Bradley

1983

Brother Roland Burris

Brother T.J. Jemison

1984

Brother Julian Dixon

1985

Brother William H. Gray III

1986

Brother Ernest N. Morial

Randall Robinson

1987

Brother Walter Washington

1989

Brother Louis Sullivan

1992

Cecil L. Murray

Brother Augustus M. Witherspoon

1993

Brother Eddie Robinson

Brother Edward Brooke

Brother Lionel B. Richie, Jr.

1994

Brother Ozell Sutton

Brother Dennis Archer

M. Alexis Herman

1995

Brother Charles C. Teamer

Brother John Hope Franklin

1996

Brother Thomas Pawley, III

Brother James R. Williams

1997

Brother Andrew Young

Brother Thomas Winston Cole, Sr.

1998

Brother Henry H. Brown

Brother Huel D. Perkins

1999

Brother Emmett W. Bashful

Brother Frank A. Dee

Brother Hobart Sidney Jarrett

2000

Brother Lee P. Brown

Brother Milton C. Davis

Brother Maynard Jackson

Brother Marc H. Morial

Brother Henry Ponder

2001

Brother Norman C. Francis

Roderick D. Gillum

Brother Joe Samuel Ratliff

2003

Brother Adrian L. Wallace

Brother James “Tiny” Blanton

Brother William F. Pickard

2005

Brother Horace Dawson

Brother Ernest L. Holloway

Brother Robert “Bob” Willis

2007

Brother Alfred Bailey

Brother Harry E. Johnson, Sr.

Harris Rosen

2008

Brother Sylvester L. Shannon

Brother Joseph E. Heyward

Soledad O’Brien

2009

Brother Robert Wright

Brother James Huger

Brother Roger Youman

Tommy Hilfiger

Calvin Peete

Smokey Robinson

Mary Wilson

Otis Williams

Martha Reeves

2010

Brother Jibreel Khazan

Brother Wendell T. Foster, Jr.

2011

Brother Darryl R. Matthews, Sr.

Brother Jerry Butler

Brother Arthur Fleming

Chris Womac

Dr. Earl W. Stafford

Ed Jackson, Jr.

Frank Jenkins

Frank Russell, Jr.

Brother George Reaves

Brother Gregory Phillips

Brother John H. Carter

Joseph S. Ratliff

Robert Bob Wingo

Tyrone Means

Brother Vic Carter

George Sealey

Roderick D. Gillum

Brother Julian Dixon

Joe Samuel Ratliff

Harold Navy

Marian Wright Edelman

Caryl Stern

R. Guy Vickers

Patrick Joseph Kennedy

Richard Marshall

Steve Gursky

Vivian Rogers-Pickard

John Conyers, Jr.

Constance A. Connie Morella

John W. Warner

Paul Sarbanes

Daniel Paul Amos

Earl G. Graves, Sr.

Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr.

Lerone Bennett Jr.

2013

Darryl L. Wilson

Cynthia M.A Butler-McIntyre

2015

Brother Marion Barry

Brother Stuart Scott

Brother Warren Washington

2017

Brother Otis Moss, Jr.

Eric Holder

Mitchell J. Landrieu

2019

Brother Robert Lee Harris, Jr.

Brother Freeman L. Hrabowski, III PH.D

Brother Charles B. Rangel

Brother Robert C. “Bobby” Scott

Brother Robert Smith, M.B.A.

Brother Hill Harper

Stanley Nelson, B.F.A.

2021

Brother Aaron Crutison, Sr.

24th Executive Director of the Fraternity and Educational Leader

Brother Dr. Zollie J.A. Stevenson, Jr., the 24th Executive Director of the Fraternity, transitioned to Omega Chapter on July 8, 2022. He was born on April 6, 1953 in Greensboro, NC, to parents, Zollie Julius Stevenson, Sr., and Cletus Jackson. Brother Stevenson continued his education at the University of North Carolina Asheville, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and philosophy, and subsequently a master’s degree in education and school counseling and guidance services with additional graduate studies in education psychology from Howard University. In Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Four, he received his doctorate degree in educational psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Brother Stevenson was initiated on December 10, 1983 into the Kappa Lambda Chapter

of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. seated in Greensboro, N.C. In addition, he was a member of both the Pi Upsilon Lambda and Omicron Eta Lambda Chapters of the Fraternity, having also served

as the Omicron Eta Lambda Chapter president from 1994 to 1996 as well as with the Brother’s Keeper, Events, and Education Development (SEED) Committees. He was also a Past Regional Director of Educational Activities.

From 2000 to 2001, he served as the Fraternity’s 24th Executive Director during the Wallace and Johnson administrations. Since January 2020, he served as an Adjunct Professor at Howard University School of Education. Prior to teaching at Howard University, he served in several positions at Philander Smith College, including Vice President for Academic Affairs, Associate Professor (Tenured), and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs. He also previously taught at Howard as Associate Professor of Education Leadership and Policy Studies and at Bowie State University as Associate Professor of Educational Leadership. He also served in numerous positions with the U.S. Department of Education and in other school districts. He is survived by a son, Brother Dr. Dwayne Ham, Sr., who was initiated on May 28, 1995 into the Omicron Eta Lambda Chapter. S

Fraternity’s Director of Operations and Vendor Relations

Brother John C. Johnston, III transitioned to Omega Chapter on August 19, 2022. He was born to parents, Betty Tucker, and John Coleman Johnston, Jr, on April 4, 1966 in Braddock, PA. He graduated in the top 10% of his class from Swissvale High School, where he was also recognized on the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League Honor Roll.

Brother Johnston entered his beloved Lincoln University in PA in the Fall 1984. While there, he was active in both athletics and other extracurricular activities, including being a member of the University’s 1984-85 Indoor/Outdoor Division III National Champion Track & Field Team. He was initiated into the Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on October 5, 1985. Prior to graduation, he would also later serve as a dean of pledge subsequently serving as president of the chapter the following year. A Life Member of the Fraternity, Brother Johnston had been affiliated with Pi Upsilon Lambda Chapter, as well as most recently, Rho Tau Lambda Chapter, of which he served as president of its charitable foundation. Previously, he served as MD Association of Alpha Chapters’ MLK Memorial Fundraising Committee chairman, which represented DC, MD, and DE from 2006 through 2009. He also remained very actively involved with the Nu Chapter Alumni Society and providing ongoing guidance to Nu Chapter College Brothers.

Over the years, he had a successful 17-year retail management career. In addition, he worked as director of business development, a marketing executive, and a regional manager. Since then, Brother Johnston has served as an MBE Consultant for State & Federal Small Business Enterprises in the Baltimore-DC Region. In addition, he assumed various professional organization leadership roles, including vice chairman for the MBE Input Committee on MDDC Minority Supplier Development Council as well as roles within the Montgomery County, MD Chamber of Commerce and the Tyson’s Corner, VA Chamber of Commerce through 2006.

However, his continued desire to serve the Fraternity led him to the General Office in 2018, where he worked as the director of operations. During his tenure, he helped revamp and successfully transform the fraternity’s now highly profitable vendor relations program as well as led the General Office for a transitional period. He also managed various operational functions, including human resources for a period. An active Life Member of the Alumni Association of Lincoln University, he had also served on the university’s board of trustees as well as the board of directors for the Khepera Center for Expression & Social Change and the Literacy Council of Prince George’s County, Inc. S

Prolific Scientist, Researcher and Mentor

Brother Kenneth Richard Scott transitioned to Omega Chapter on Thursday, October 20, 2022. He was born April 17, 1934, in New York City, New York. He was the only child of Howard Russell Scott and Emma Eugenia Doby.

An alumnus of Howard University, Dr. Scott received his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in 1956. It was at Howard University that he was initiated into Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc in 1954. Brother Scott was an engaged undergraduate student, serving as President of the Pharmacy Student Council and helped to revise its constitution. He was also a member of the Pharmaceutical Association, Chi Delta Mu, a Professional Fraternity for students and graduates in Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry and Rho Chi, the International Honor Society for Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Brother Scott went on to receive his master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of Buffalo and his PhD from the University of Maryland, College Park, MD where he became the first Black student to earn a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry

from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.

In 1960, Dr. Scott joined the faculty of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science at Howard University in the Office of the Associate Dean becoming chair of the Department of Medicinal Chemistry/ Pharmaceutical Sciences. In 1993 he joined the faculty of the College of Medicine before his retirement after almost 50 years at Howard University.

Dr. Scott was a prolific scientist and researcher with a focus was anti-seizure and anti-epileptic compounds/drugs. His research in this area is documented in more than 90 publications, including global health research as a Fogarty Fellow at the Vaudois University Hospital in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Over his distinguished career, Dr. Scott was as strong advocate for students and expertly mentored countless undergraduate and graduates; he was also a supportive colleague and advisor. He was such an outstanding mentor and was so admired by his students, that one of his students committed $1,000,000 to establish an endowed fund in the College of Pharmacy: “The Kenneth Scott Endowed Fund”. S

Postumously Named Doctor of Optometry

Brother Dr. Nijewel Xavier Robin Malcolm Holliday transitioned to Omega Chapter on August 12, 2022. He was born the son of Brother Robert Holliday, Sr. (Kappa Iota Lambda, Spring, 2009) and Alicia Holliday, on April 11, 1996 in Willingboro, NJ. He is fifth of six children, with two brothers, who are also members of the Fraternity, Brother Robert Holliday, II (Nu, Fall, 2005; Eta Eta Lambda); and Brother Avery Holliday (Kappa Iota Lambda, Spring, 2019).

Brother Dr. Holliday graduated from Burlington Township High School in 2014 and attended Lincoln University shortly after. At Lincoln, he was a member of the Horace Mann Bond Honors Program, served as the vice president of the Class of 2018, chairman of the National Society of Leadership and Success, a senator for Boyz II Men Mentoring Program, vice president of Internal Affairs the Student Government Association, as well as a member of the Tri Beta Biological Honors Society. He was initiated into the Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on March 12, 2017 eventually became president of the chapter. Brother Dr. Holliday graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology in 2018.

He later became a member of Kappa Iota Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. After

graduation, he worked as an optometrist technician at Dr.’s Eyecare Center, where he discovered his calling. In 2021, he began attending the InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico (IAUPR) School of Optometry. At IAUPR, he became a member of the National Optometric Student Association and the American Optometric Student Association, of which he served as trustee elect. Subsequently, he was posthumously awarded his Optometry degree by IAUPR. S

Celebrating the Life of Brother Thomas A. Phillips

The greater Kansas City community, civic organizations and roughly 200 Alpha brothers from across the United States joined Beta Lambda Chapter to support the family of stalwart Brother Thomas A. Phillips (Gamma Delta, 1964) during his memorial on Aug. 20, 2022. Brother Phillips, the Fraternity’s longtime elections chairman and adviser to numerous general presidents, transitioned to Omega Chapter in Olathe, Kansas, on July 28, 2022, after battling illness. He was 77. Among the large contingent of Brothers participating in the Omega Service portion of the memorial at St. James United Methodist Church in Kansas City were 32nd General President Darryl R. Matthews Sr., 34th General President Mark S. Tillman, and Midwestern Regional Vice President Ronald D. Stovall Jr. On behalf of the Fraternity, words of comfort were delivered by Brother Robert Dansby (Gamma Delta, 1965), a close friend of the family and Brother Phillips’ classmate at AM&N College (now the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff).

Brother Phillips served the Fraternity in numerous general, regional, district and local leadership roles, beginning with the administration of 22nd General President Lionel H. Newsom. He was a member of Beta Lambda for nearly five decades. In addition to being a beloved and trusted adviser, Brother Phillips

nurtured countless younger Brothers and encouraged them to serve in leadership positions.

A native of Stuttgart, Arkansas, Brother Phillips graduated with honors from AM&N. He worked for the National Parks Service in Arkansas and was a high school teacher in Omaha, Nebraska, before a long

and highly decorated executive career with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Environmental Protection Agency. He was a member of Green Pasture Lodge No. 128-PHA, Sigma Pi Phi, and the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Alumni Association.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Vera Jones Phillips; their son, Brother Courtney A. Phillips, a 1988 initiate of Kappa Kappa Chapter, University of Arkansas; and a sister, Donna Kaye Hazelrig. S

A COMPREHENSIVE MEMORIAL LIST OF BROTHERS TRANSITIONING TO OMEGA CHAPTER IN 2022.

For each member, included is his name, chapter of initiation, date of initiation, and date of death or date of reporting of death. All of the information is based on what is submitted by chapters and family members, which has been reconciled with the Fraternity’s records.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO

ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

GENERAL PRESIDENT

Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. GeneralPresident@1906.net

IMMEDIATE PAST GENERAL PRESIDENT

Everett B. Ward, Ph.D. 35@apa1906.net

GENERAL TREASURER

Densel Fleming General.treasurer@apa1906.net

GENERAL COMPTROLLER

Donald E. Jackson comptroller@apa1906.net

EASTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Christopher G. Ellis, Jr. eastvp@apa1906.net

MIDWESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Ronald Stovall, Jr. midwestvp@apa1906.net

SOUTHERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Cecil E. Howard southvp@apa1906.net

SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Jeramaine O. Netherly southwestvp@apa1906.net

WESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

Wayne M. Kimball westvp@apa1906.net

EASTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENTS

Tamir D. Harper Tabius J. Wilson eastavp@apa1906.net

MIDWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENTS

Cartier Stewart

Troy D. Davis, II

Blake E. Sartin midwestavp@apa1906.net

SOUTHERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

Donavan I. McLean southavp@apa1906.net

SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENTS

Ayowolemi Akinyamoju

Darrin O. Nixon southwestavp@apa1906.net

WESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENTS

Kenzi K. Bishara

Derrick L. Lewis westavp@apa1906.net

APPOINTED OFFICERS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sean McCaskill SeanMcCaskill@apa1906.net

GENERAL COUNSEL

Daryl D. Parks, Esq. counsel@apa1906.net

GENERAL HISTORIAN

Dr. Robert L. Harris, Jr. historian@apa1906.net

GENERAL PARLIAMENTARIAN

Adrian B. Stratton, PRP parliamentarian@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION OFFICIALS

DIRECTOR OF CONVENTIONS

Van L. Strickland director.conventions@apa1906.net

GENERAL CHAPLAIN

Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine chaplain@apa1906.net

SECURITY DIRECTOR

Donald L. Woods security@apa1906.net

SERGEANT AT ARMS

Eugene L. Aiken sergeant.at.arms@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENT

Dedric Dennist, Sr. awards@apa1906.net

GRIEVANCES AND DISCIPLINE

Judge Lewis M. Nixon grievances@apa1906.net

RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

William J. Jernigan resolutions@apa1906.net

RULES AND CREDENTIALS

Louis Bates, Jr. rules@apa1906.net

STANDING COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

BUDGET AND FINANCE Wardell Glass budget@apa1906.net

BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (COMMISSION)

James Floyd BED@apa1906.net

COLLEGE BROTHERS AFFAIRS (COMMISSION)

Allan Younger college@apa1906.net

CONSTITUTION

John Williams constitution@apa1906.net

ELECTIONS

Luscious Turner, III elections@apa1906.net

ENDOWMENT AND CAPITAL FORMATION

Timothy J. Gibson ECF@apa1906.net

FRATERNAL STANDARDS

James Cook FS@apa1906.net

HISTORICAL COMMISSION

Dr. Robert L. Harris Jr. historian@apa1906.net

HUMAN RESOURCES

Darryl Farrow HR@apa1906.net

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Micholas A. Credle life@apa1906.net

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Dr. Darren Morton MD@apa1906.net

PUBLIC POLICY

State Sen. Dr. Paul A. Lowe, Jr. public.policy@apa1906.net

PUBLICATIONS

Ramon E. Peralta publications@apa1906.net

RACIAL JUSTICE (COMMISSION) Grasford Smith, Esq. racial.justice@apa1906.net

SPECIAL COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

A. CHARLES HASTON BROTHER’S KEEPER

Dr. Ronald J. Peters, Jr. bk@apa1906.net

ALPHA UNIVERSITY

Cecil M. Brookins AlphaU@apa1906.net

AUDIT

Donald Jackson comptroller@apa1906.net

BELFORD V. LAWSON

ORATORICAL CONTEST

R. Sylvester Owens oratorical@apa1906.net

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

Dale H. Long BBBSA@apa1906.net

BOY SCOUTS

Felton L. Davis scouts@apa1906.net

COLLEGE LIFE TO CORPORATE LIFE

Dennis Hatchett C2C@apa1906.net

CORPORATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Donovan K. Kirkland CEC@apa1906.net

EMERGING ALPHAS ADVISORY TO GP

Nicholas Harrison EAA@apa1906.net

GO-TO-HIGH SCHOOL

GO-TO-COLLEGE

Dr. Anthony Graham GTHGTC@apa1906.net

HBCUS TASK FORCE

Dr. David H. Jackson, Jr. HBCU@apa1906.net

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Dr. Michael A. Smith health@apa1906.net

HEADQUARTERS

ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE

Thomas A. Tatum HAC@apa1906.net

HOBART S. JARRETT DEBATE COMPETITION

Dr. Michael D. McClain debate@apa1906.net

INTERNAL AUDIT

REVIEW TEAM

Dexter Leon A. Taylor audit@apa1906.net

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Ronald Sewell international.affairs@apa1906.net

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT DAYS

Pierre Rutledge impact@apa1906.net

INVESTMENT

Densel V. Fleming investment@apa1906.net

JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN COLLEGIATE SCHOLARS’ BOWL

Gregory L. Bailey scholars@apa1906.net

L.M.S. AND TECHNOLOGY

Rufus Credle rcredle906@gmail.com

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE

Christopher F. Oliver LDI@apa1906.net

LOGISTICS

Daryle Cobb logistics@apa1906.net

M.I.S. AND TECHNOLOGY

Tejuan A. Manners MIS@apa1906.net

MARCH OF DIMES

Dr. Walter T. Tillman, Jr. MOD@apa1906.net

MILITARY BROTHERS

Andre Berry military@apa1906.net

MISS BLACK AND GOLD

PAGEANT

Sean A. Bellamy pageant@apa1906.net

POLITICAL AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Carl Pickney PCE@apa1906.net

POLITICAL AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT (COMMISSION)

Carl A. Pickney

PROJECT ALPHA

Dr. Charles F. Marshall project@apa1906.net

PROTOCOL

Kenyatta N. Shamburger protocol@apa1906.net

RECLAMATION

Kirk D. Carrington, II reclamation@apa1906.net

RITUAL AND CEREMONIES

Stephen R. Spence ritual@apa1906.net

SENIOR ALPHA AFFAIRS

Ivar F. Brown senior.affairs@apa1906.net

STEP SHOW COMPETITION

Cecil A. Duffie step.show@apa1906.net

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Jeffrey Hines strategic@apa1906.net

TIME AND PLACE

Christopher A. Evans TP@apa1906.net

VETERAN AFFAIRS

Robert V. McDonald VA@apa1906.net

VOTELESS PEOPLE IS A HOPELESS PEOPLE

Steven L. Jones VPHP@apa1906.net

WORLD POLICY COUNCIL

Dr. Horace G. Dawson, Jr. WPC@apa1906.net

YOUNG ALPHAS ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO GP

Kendric Jones

FOUNDATIONS

ALPHA PHI ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION

R. Leandras “Bob” Jones building@apa1906.net

ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION CORPORATION

Samuel D. DeShazior sdeshazior@aol.com

ALPHA PHI ALPHA EDUCATION FOUNDATION Ruben Barkley, Jr. education@apa1906.net

JEWEL HERITAGE PROJECT FOUNDATIONS

E. Eric Elmore JHP@apa1906.net

PAST GENERAL PRESIDENTS

35TH GENERAL PRESIDENT

Everett B. Ward 35@apa1906.net

34TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Mark S. Tillman 34@apa1906.net

33RD GENERAL PRESIDENT Herman “Skip” Mason Jr. 33@apa1906.net

32ND GENERAL PRESIDENT Darryl R. Matthews Sr. 32@apa1906.net

31ST GENERAL PRESIDENT Harry E. Johnson Sr. 31@apa1906.net

30TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Adrian L. Wallace 30@apa1906.net

29TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Milton C. Davis 29@apa1906.net

28TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Henry Ponder 28@apa1906.net

27TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Charles C. Teamer Sr. 27@apa1906.net

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. General Office 2313 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 554-0040 membersupport@apa1906.net www.apa1906.net

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY JEWEL FOUNDERS

Henry Arthur Callis

Charles Henry Chapman

Eugene Kinckle Jones

George Biddle Kelley

Nathaniel Allison Murray

Robert Harold Ogle

Vertner Woodson Tandy

Brother, Are You the missing piece?