The Sphinx: Alpha Develops Global Leaders |

GLOBAL LEADERS:

Alpha Develops

Liberian Inauguration of First Alpha Brother to Lead an African Nation

Official Organ of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

SPRING 2024 | Volume 110, No. 1 apa1906.net

EDITOR OF THE SPHINX

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

CONTRIBUTORS

Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D., Sean McCaskill, Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC., Adrian Stratton, MBA, PRP, Shane Gilmore, Philip Wilkerson, Dana Lintz, Brandon M. Erby, Ph.D., B.T. McGuire, Ed.D., Thomas Vance, Jr., Ph.D., LMHC, NCC, Brian Cook, De’Von Cross, Ronald Williams, Arthur Houston, M.Ed., Tony Walker, James McCurtis, Jr., Robert L. Harris, Jr. Ph.D., Russell Estill, Zachary L. McGowan, John W. Randall, and Milton L. Randall

PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE

Ramon E. Peralta, Jr. L.H.D. Chairman and Chief Creative Advisor, 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 PHOTO CREDIT:

Brian Cook

DESIGN AND PRINTING

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

The Spring 2024 Issue celebrates the inauguration of His Excellency Brother Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. as president of Liberia as well as Alpha men in the Biden-Harris Administration. In addition, we recognize the Beta Class of the Fraternity’s 40 Under 40.

Nicole McCoy

Senior Graphic Designer Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

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

Letter from the General President

Brothers,

Leadership and its development are hallmarks of our beloved Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Since our founding, the Fraternity has charted a course to develop and provide exceptional leaders that provide exemplary service and advocacy for the communities we serve often in the face of adversity and hostile opposition.

In my role as the chairman of the Council of Presidents of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc., I have the honor and privilege to help influence and lead the collective action of the nation’s nine historically Black fraternities and sororities – undoubtedly the most powerful African American institutions in the world.

Thanks to our visionary Jewel Founders, our fundamental objectives and principles ensure Alpha men continue to be considered for leadership as well as those as role models to emulate.

As part of my strategic ‘Elevating the Alpha Spirit’ platform, the Fraternity has sought to remain true to our mission by strengthening our Brotherhood, improving operational excellence, and answering the call of servant leadership.

This edition of The Sphinx magazine, especially, highlights how Alpha Phi Alpha has realized our leadership calling, revisiting the Fraternity’s historic delegation to the Liberian Presidential Inauguration of His Excellency Brother Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., as seen on the cover; recognizing men of Alpha represented in the Biden Administration; as well as announcing the Beta Class of the Fraternity’s prestigious ‘40 Under 40’.

Earlier this year, our Brotherhood also identified its next leader with the election of former Eastern Regional Vice President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. as the Fraternity’s General President-elect, who will ascend to the seat on Jan. 1, 2025. In addition, the Fraternity paid homage to another of its former leaders, former BarberScotia College President and Past General President, the late Brother Lionel Hodge Newsom with a $10,000 donation to the college in his honor.

A select group of Alpha men, demonstrating initiative and a strong desire for leadership development, are recognized for having chartered an exclusive Alpha Toastmasters Club to further enhance their effectiveness and public speaking skills.

In addition, several other ‘Men of Distinction’ are highlighted in the various other departments of The Sphinx magazine, where they have demonstrated leadership and achievement within their respective chapters as well as across various professions, including the military, engineering, the judiciary, literary arts, and entertainment among others.

As always, this issue of The Sphinx, as well as others, echoes and celebrates our motto, ‘First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.’ 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.

Please allow me to introduce you to the latest edition of The Sphinx Magazine

This issue revisits our historic delegation to the Liberian Presential Inauguration of His Excellency Brother Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. – the Fraternity’s first leader of an African nation. The experience was both a profound and powerful one for all who participated.

This issue also highlights men of Alpha serving in the Biden Administration, embodying our Fraternity’s mission of developing leaders. Earlier this year, members of our Brotherhood also journeyed to Egypt for the inaugural Alpha Travels excursion. The optics of a large group of Alpha men assembled in a circle singing the Fraternal Hymn in front of the Great Sphinx of Giza, our symbol, left many curious spectators in fascinated and in awe. We also announce our Beta Class of our prestigious ‘40 Under 40’.

As a side note, we unveil and offer our Jewel Coin Collection for purchase – a portion of the proceeds benefits the Jewel Heritage Project. This special numbered collection with a limited availability features engraved images of our Jewel Founders on large collectible coins showcased in a presentation box.

This year, the Fraternity also named Past Eastern Regional Vice President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. as its new General President-elect. Brother Metellus will assume office on Jan 1, 2025. Among other General News and true to our mission of providing service and advocacy for our communities, the NPHC’s Council of Presidents, led by its chairman, our General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, expresses concerns about Florida’s hostile policies and treatment of African American communities during state conference. We also offer a statement on the federal court’s decision that new voting districts violate the 1965 Voting Rights Act and mourn and condemn the tragic shooting death of a College Brother at Jackson State University. In addition, the Fraternity donates $10,000 to Barber-Scotia College in honor of the late former college president and Past General President Lionel Hodge Newsom.

As always, this issue celebrates and showcases how the Fraternity and our Brotherhood amplifies and lives the mission of our great Fraternity. S

Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC Editor ewebb@apa1906.net

Letter from the Editor of The Sphinx

Greetings Brothers,

This edition of The Sphinx highlights the Fraternity’s historic delegation to the Liberian Presidential Inauguration of His Excellency Brother Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., men of Alpha represented in the Biden Administration, the Alpha Travel’s inaugural trip to Egypt and the Beta Class of the Fraternity’s prestigious ‘40 Under 40.’

Within our departments, we recap our General News headlines, including the election of former Eastern Regional Vice President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. as General President-elect, the chartering of the exclusive Alpha Toastmasters Club, the announcement of the Fraternity’s $10,000 donation to Barber-Scotia College in honor of late former college president and Past General President Brother Lionel Hodge Newsom, our mourning and condemnation of the tragic shooting death of a College Brother at Jackson State University, and more.

In What Every Alpha Should Know, we review the Fraternal Design, how it should be represented, as well as how it should be worn and or where it used while our General Parliamentarian explains “Properly Processing Main Motions” in Alpha Chairmanship.

In Literary and Entertainment, Alpha authors’ books explore The African American Mass Unemployment Crisis: The Quest for America’s Exceptional People To Attain Comprehensive Equity Through Psychological Rehabilitation, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Liberation by Brother Devin J. Smith, Ph.D.; Something About Her: A Series of Poetry and Poetical Tales by Brother Dr. Dion Todd Graham; and lastly, a children’s book, Teddy Makes Sense by Brother Thomas E. Dear, III.

Under Alphas On The Move, we recognize the accomplishments of several ‘Men of Distinction,’ ranging from a Black Engineer of the Year awardee, recipient of the Alexander Hamilton Medal, the award of the order of Distinction – Companion in The Bahamas, inclusion in Northwestern State University of Louisiana Regimental Hall of Fame Award as well as two highly prestigious judicial awards for excellence and professionalism among others. Our General Historian Brother Robert L. Harris, Ph.D. writes about “Brother Malcolm Williams; Exemplar of Alpha’s Mission Statement” in the Senior Brothers Spotlight

At the heart of this issue, Chapter News, provides a unique opportunity to learn what Brothers and chapters are doing across more than 15 states and abroad.

As always, I am extremely grateful for your readership, and I am interested in receiving your feedback for our newly added Mail department.

Enjoy the issue. S

Brotherhood Elects Metellus as General President for Upcoming Term in 2025

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. named 28th Eastern Regional Vice President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. as 37th General President-Elect during a special Election Results livestream on Friday, Jan. 12.

Brother Metellus defeated Brother Gregory S. Parks, J.D., Ph.D., who is associate dean for strategic initiatives for Wake Forest University School of Law and a hazing legal expert, with 7,629 votes while his opponent received 7,200, according to the elections results eblast.

“Today, we have moved a great space, and two men out of a throng of esteemed and qualified Brothers became nominees and placed into nomination, in order, alphabetical order, Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr., and our dear Brother, Dr. Gregory Parks,” says General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. “These two nominees ran a robust campaign at the close of our general convention in Dallas leading into the culmination of the voting process Dec. 31, 2023. And Brothers, the ballots have been cast, and our Brothers have spoken.”

Fraternities and Sororities in the New York City area that serves collectively 50 different alumni, alumnae, and graduate chapters.

“I am excited about the future of Alpha,” says General President-elect Metellus. “We can save young Black boys and young Black girls. We can bring Brothers together, and most importantly, we can realize our mission statement and move Alpha to the future as a ritualbased organization that will hold the light high. Because Brothers, we are the generation that our children need. We are the Brothers that can save the world. We will not do it alone, but we will do it together.”

General President-Elect Brother Metellus, a Life Member of the Fraternity, is a project manager and senior business analyst for Centrilogic, and a former Eastern Regional Vice President, who has served in numerous positions at the chapter, district, regional, and General Board level. In addition, he served in several external leadership roles, including Founders’ Day Chairman, Membership, Board Member, Parliamentarian, Vice-President & President for the Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) of Greater New York. That Council encompasses the 9 Historically Black

According to his platform, he highlights strategic retention and reactivation programs focused on each chapter’s specific needs; modernization of the general programs with an investment in a 10-year major global fraternal strategy; intentional members development focused on a strategy about development from an interested candidate until entry into Omega Chapter, with a specific track for our college-initiated Brothers; and lastly, increase member awareness, transparency, and education by better utilizing the existing platform tools to us to disseminate information and implementing specific goals for each district conference, regional convention, and general convention with measured outcomes.

General President-elect Metellus has a wife, Esther Slack-Metellus, and two children, a son, Jeremiah, and a daughter, Janae. S

BY BROTHER SHANE GILMORE [NU ’89] AND BROTHER PHILIP WILKERSON [THETA RHO LAMBDA ’17]

Alpha Brothers Charter Exclusive Fraternity Toastmasters Club

ALPHA TOASTMASTERS CELEBRATE ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Nearly 30 Alpha Brothers, led by Brother Philip Wilkerson, Brother Shane Gilmore, Brother Walter Price, and Brother Chester Chambers, successfully chartered the first Toastmasters club, “Alpha Toastmasters 1906,” exclusively for members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on March 28, 2023.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches and promotes communication, public speaking, and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Because of this mission, creating a club that synchronizes this organization to develop leaders makes sense.

“This was a remarkable feat, which took months of planning,” says Brother Wilkerson, who helped lead the initiative and is the current club president. He explains that Brothers in the club come from all over the United States and aims to provide a space to hone their public speaking skills.

The charter members are:

• Brother A. Bernard Young

• Brother Bruce T. Jones

• Brother Chester Chambers

• Brother Christopher N. McMillian

• Brother Darren Lyons (transitioned to Omega Chapter)

• Brother Davion D. Williams

• Brother Eric C. Webb

• Brother Frederick Barrow

• Brother Isaiah L. Norwood

• Brother Josh Owusu

• Brother Justin D. Ortique

• Brother Kasseem A. Smith

• Brother Kevin R. Crawford

• Brother Luke Kues

• Brother Michael Pittman

• Brother Nathaniel Jones

• Brother Norman I. Graham

• Brother Philip Wilkerson

• Brother Ramon E. Peralta

• Brother Ryan K. Brown

• Brother Shane Gilmore

• Brother Sherman M. Lofton

• Brother Thomas A. Tatum

• Brother Tommie L. Smith

• Brother Travis L. Martin

• Brother Victor Edwards

• Brother Walter Price

• Brother Zachary T. Holston

Like a chapter in Alpha, Toastmasters clubs also require leaders to move the clubs forward and lead others in their journeys to be better speakers. The 2023-2024 officers of the Alpha Toastmasters were:

• President - Brother Philip Wilkerson

• VP of Education/VP of Public Relations - Brother Norman Graham

• VP of Membership - Brother Travis Martin

• Treasurer - Brother Shane Gilmore

• Secretary - Brother Darren “DC” Lyons

• Seargent At Arms - Brother Ramon Peralta

Alpha Toastmasters meets via Zoom on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:06 pm Eastern Standard Time. Meetings typically last an hour and a half. All members of Alpha Phi Alpha are free to join to see what Toastmasters are all about. However, you must be a member to have a speaker role.

Since its establishment, the club has grown from 28 to 38 members and have earned Selected Distinguished Club for our growth as a club and educational achievements. In addition, some members have competed in local contests, having placed 1st or 2nd to highlight our talent and strength. Three Past General Presidents have also served as guest speakers, including Past General President Darryl Matthews, Past General President Mark S. Tillman, and Immediate Past General President Dr. Everett B. Ward.

If interested, follow on IG @AlphaToastmasters1906. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Supports Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation in Celebration of Black History Month

INTERNATIONAL FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LEADERSHIP PARTICIPATE IN LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND SUPPORT REGIONAL LEADERSHIP AT ASSOCIATION OF FRATERNITY/ SORORITY ADVISORS CONFERENCE IN FLORIDA

As part of the Black History Month celebration, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., is supporting the Black tech-based cancer charity, Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation, with a special Social Media Takeover and launch on World Cancer Day, Sunday, Feb. 4, 10 AM EST, featuring Ora Lee Smith founder Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green live on Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn @apa1906network and @OraLeeOrg.

“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is committed to supporting the efforts of the Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation,” says General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. “Everyone has a loved one, or knows someone, fighting this disease. We strongly believe that the Foundation’s research offers a promising opportunity to revolutionize the way cancer is treated, save lives, and improve the health outcomes for millions of cancer patients worldwide.”

Currently, despite the best approaches, 9 million cancer-related deaths occur yearly.

The Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is on a mission to change the way cancer is treated and reduce cancerpatient suffering by providing a treatment that is accessible, affordable, and effective.

Dr. Green developed a new, revolutionary treatment using Laser-Activated Nano-Therapy (LANT) technology – specifically designed to destroy cancer cells while leaving healthy cells intact. LANT is designed as a multi-cancer platform therapy and has implications for a variety of solid tumor types, including breast, prostate, colorectal, and brain cancers.

The Fraternity has committed to raising funds towards the $10 million needed to begin human clinical trials with the LANT cancer treatment. The launch also hopes to raise awareness and garner support for the Beyond Hope Day of Giving on Sunday, Feb. 25 at OraLee.Org/ Alphas/.

“I am grateful that the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and leadership have joined our efforts

to eradicate cancer,” says Dr. Green. “This partnership is a testament to their unwavering commitment to providing service and advocacy for our communities –where our cancer treatment is most needed.”

For more information, to donate now, or become a monthly donor, visit OraLee.Org/Alphas/ and follow us on social media @OraLeeOrg, and @DrHadiyahGreen. S

The City of Miami Names Street After Alpha Brother Dr. Ira P. Davies in the Historic Overtown Area

The City of Miami is naming a street in the Overtown area (NW 16th Street between 2nd & 3rd Avenues) after the Late Brother Dr. Ira P. Davis in recognition of his extensive service to the City of Miami community (specifically in the Overtown and Coconut Grove areas).

Dr. Davis was born in 1896 in Jacksonville, Florida, raised in Orlando, FL, and attended Florida A & M College. In 1929, he graduated from Howard University School of Dentistry in Washington, DC.

In 1936, he relocated from Orlando to Miami, Florida, where he set up his Dental Office in Overtown at 1036 NW 2nd Ave and met his future wife, Louise Stirrup, the daughter of Miami pioneer E. W. F. Stirrup, Sr.

He was an outstanding member of the Miami community and a significant advocate of the Civil Rights Movement from the late 1930s until he died in 1970.

Brother Dr. Davis was one of the eight visionary men who, on November 19, 1937, founded the Beta Beta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the 2nd in the state of Florida. In the same year, 1937, Dr. Davis relocated to Miami to set up his new dental practice.

Brother Dr. Davis served as the chapter’s president from 1943-1945. During his tenure at the 31st National Convention in Chicago (December 27 -31, 1945), the chapter’s charter was extended to include the British West Indies, and Norman Manley (Jamaica’s president and former Rhodes Scholar) was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha, Beta Beta Lambda Chapter.

In 1954, at the 39th Alpha Confab in Detroit, Michigan, Dr. Davis did a “pitch” to get the next annual convention to be held in Miami. Equipped with a letter of invitation from the Mayor of Miami, brochures, and specially prepared color slides of Miami’s show pieces, he and his group won the fight.

The 40th Annual Alpha Phi Alpha National Convention was going to be held in Miami in December 1955. Dr. Ira P. Davis was the general Chairman of the 40th Annual Alpha Phi Alpha National Convention in December 1955. Dr. Davis remained an active member of the Fraternity until he died in 1970.

Brother Dr. Davis had a leadership role in several key organizations that fought for the uplifting of not only the “colored” community, but the Miami Community at large, such as the local chapters of:

• Beta Beta Lambda Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity (Charter Member; president)

• National Conference of Christians and Jews (former Chairman)

• Urban League (Responsible for the Urban League coming to Miami; 1st president)

• United Negro College Fund (former Chairman)

• Adelphian Club (Miami’s oldest Negro civic clubpresident)

• Alpha Rho Chapter, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (“Boule”; Founding Member and 1st Sire Archon)

• King of Clubs

• He was the first Negro District Commander of the American Legion Department of Florida (May 1946-1948). S

The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Donates

$10,000 to Barber-Scotia College in Honor of Late Former College President and Past General President Lionel Hodge Newsom

The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. donated $10,000 to Barber-Scotia College recently in honor of the late Brother Lionel Hodge Newsom, the 7th President of Barber-Scotia College and 22nd General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Barber-Scotia College President Chris Rey, an attorney, who is also the current International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Inc. as well as vice chairman of the National Pan-Hellenic Council’s Council of Presidents made a financial appeal to other NPHC leadership.

“The men of Alpha are proud to support Barber-Scotia College,” said General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, who also serves as the chairman of the NPHC’s Council of Presidents. “We recognize the tremendous contributions that HBCUs continue to make here in the U.S. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity also commits to annual

support of Barber- Scotia College in recognition of her rich legacy as an institution. This financial support is formally named in honor of Dr. Lionel Hodge Newsom, who served as the 7th President of the College and the 22nd General President of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.”

Brother Newsom, who also served as president of Johnson C. Smith University from 1969 to 1972 and Central State University from 1972 to 1985, was the former president of Barber-Scotia College from 1964 to 1966 as well as led the Fraternity from 1965 to 1968. In addition, Past General President Newsom was an Alpha Award of Merit recipient – the Fraternity’s highest honor and has Barber-Scotia College’s gymnasium named in his honor. In September, the Fraternity’s board of directors approved an annual donation to the college at its board meeting in Nassau, Bahamas. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Commends Recent Federal Court’s Decision That New Georgia Voting Districts Violate 1965 Voting Rights Act

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. commends the recent decision of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia ruling that newly drawn Georgia voting districts violate the 1965 Voting Rights Act by watering down voting strength of African Americans and other communities of color in Georgia.

In December 2021, the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Georgia, and WilmerHale filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the Sixth District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and individual Georgia voters challenging newly drawn district lines for the General Assembly on the grounds that they violate Section 2 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

As part of the decision, the state of Georgia must draw a total of six new districts, two new majority-Black Georgia House districts and four new majority-Black

Georgia Senate districts, by December 8. These districts will be in the metro-Atlanta area and Macon-Bibb area.

In the last decade, Black citizens were the principal drivers of Georgia’s significant population growth. The state’s Black population grew by about 484,000 people between 2010 and 2020, while the state’s white population declined, according to the census and news reports. Yet, the Georgia State Legislature failed to draw district lines that would allow these new voters to elect their preferred leaders.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. remains at the forefront of the fight for social justice and advocating for the communities we serve. Thanks to the court’s decision, these efforts to further disenfranchise Black voters and diminish political representation for the Black community and communities of color, for now, has been halted in the state of Georgia. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns and Condemns Tragic Shooting Death of Alpha Brother at Jackson State University

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns and condemns the tragic shooting death of Brother Jaylen Burns at Jackson State University on October 15, 2023. Brother Burns, a Spring 2023 Delta Phi Chapter initiate, was an industrial technology major from Chicago and a campus leader.

“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. offers our deepest prayers and condolences to the Burns family, the entire Fraternity, the Delta Phi Chapter, and friends and fellow students at Jackson State University,” says Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. “Brother Burns was

an active campus leader who has been praised by the Fraternity, fellow students, and even Jackson State University Acting President Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony. While every life has value, it is especially heartbreaking when we mourn the death of someone who is trying to make a difference and be of service on campus and in the lives of others.”

Currently, the Jackson Police Department and the Jackson State University Department of Public Safety, who are investigating the fatal shooting, have not released any other details. S

Eventnoire and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Announce Official Partnership Agreement to Empower Black Community Events

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Eventnoire proudly announce their official partnership agreement to both amplify and support events within the Black community. This represents a unique, dynamic, and shared commitment to Black voices, and the communities they inspire. Through the promotion and support of upcoming cultural, educational, and social events, we’re excited to do our part in uplifting and empowering our people.

Eventnoire is the leading Black-owned event ticketing and media platform, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established by and for African American men.

“We are thrilled to announce this strategic partnership with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.,” says Eventnoire CEO Jeff Osuji. “This collaboration represents a significant milestone in our mission to provide a platform that celebrates Black culture and fosters community engagement. Together, we will enhance access to impactful events and continue to promote excellence within our communities.”

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., with its rich history of service and leadership in the African American community, has long recognized, and fought for, the importance of nurturing partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for community engagement.

“We are excited to join forces with Eventnoire to further our commitment to supporting and promoting events that celebrate Black excellence and culture,” says Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. “This partnership aligns with our mission to uplift our communities and provide platforms for networking, education, and empowerment.”

Alpha Phi Alpha and Eventnoire plan to collaborate on various initiatives aimed at increasing event visibility, accessibility, and impact. With access to our respective networks and resources, both organizations will work together to empower event organizers and attendees to foster a sense of unity and pride within the Black community through their events. S

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

Properly Processing Main Motions

Main motions are ubiquitous in procedure and essential to conducting business in a fair and orderly manner. Frequently used, their true importance can be vastly underappreciated. Because of their significance, every member should become familiar with how to properly make and process a main motion.

Various classes of motions exist, but the main motion is the most versatile. In the broadest sense, a main motion is a formal proposal to take a specific action. Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised divides1 main motions into two subclassifications: the original main motion and the incidental main motion. However, it is the original main motion that most first become familiar with, and all utilize to introduce substantive new business.

A main motion is binding upon adoption, so it is critical that members understand what they are voting on. Complex main motions should be offered in written form. When offered verbally, a main motion should be simple enough for the chair to repeat and members to grasp. Regardless of how a main motion is introduced it should be unambiguous and divisive so that members

may form a distinct opinion for or against the proposal.

“I move that the organization establish a scholarship fund” is an example of a clear main motion. If adopted by a majority the organization will establish a scholarship fund. When initially introduced it is appropriate in some limited cases (but generally not advisable) to offer brief context explaining the purpose of a main motion. If desired there will be opportunity to provide both context and reasons during debate on the main motion.

After being recognized a member may offer a main motion so long as no other business is pending.2 When in order, main motions can be processed in six basic steps:

1. A member makes the main motion.

2. Another member seconds the main motion.

3. The chair states the question3 on the main motion.

4. Members debate the main motion.

5. The chair puts the question on the main motion to a vote.

6. The chair announces the result of the vote.

Using the previous example, the six basic steps are illustrated below in script form:

Chair: The chair recognizes Member A.

Member A: I move that the organization establish a scholarship fund.

Member B: Second!

Chair: It is moved and seconded that the organization establish a scholarship fund. Is there any discussion?4

Members: {…during debate a member may state arguments for or against the pending main motion after being recognized by the chair…}

Chair: {…after debate has concluded…} Are you ready for the question…the question is on the motion that the organization establish a scholarship fund. All those in favor say “AYE.”

Members: {…those supporting vote in the affirmative by stating AYE….}

Chair: All those opposed say “NO.”

Members: {…those opposing vote in the negative by stating NO…}

Chair: The Ayes (or Noes) have it and the motion is adopted (or lost). The organization will (or will not) establish a scholarship fund. The next business in order is…

Improper form should be avoided due to the

importance of main motions. Common errors leading to confusion worth noting include:

• Reasons included as part of main motion wording, making main motions in the negative, and other phrasing that creates ambiguity.

• Use of “so moved” and similar phrases by a member. Such phrases are mostly improper and often lead to uncertainty as to what is actually pending.

• Substantial changes to main motion wording by the chair. Improvements to main motion wording should be made prior to statement by the chair, and via amendment or unanimous consent after the chair has stated.

• Debate that is not germane to the pending main motion.

• Failure to call for the negative vote. The negative vote should always be called for after the affirmative vote.

• Incorrect announcement of the voting result. Abstentions should not be called for or included in the vote total.

The power of members working together is vividly displayed through the coordination of processing a main motion. The correct introduction and phrasing of a main motion can greatly assist with the efficiency of proceedings. With a right to be correctly informed members should not hesitate to raise a point of order if the chair incorrectly states or puts a main motion or wrongly announces the result of a vote. Leaders should invest time to understand how to correctly utilize this important parliamentary procedure necessary to transact the business of an organization. S

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

Notes

1. Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (12th Edition), pgs. 92 – 94

2. Motions of a higher rank are always in order but a main motion, having the lowest rank, may only be introduced when no other business is pending.

3. The “question” is whether a majority agrees to adopt the proposal before it and the answer is determined by the vote.

4. “Are you ready for the question?” would be the formal way to open debate but “Is there any discussion?”, or “Is there any debate?” are also acceptable.

BY BROTHER DANA LINTZ [XI DELTA LAMBDA ’22]

Virginia Area Alphas Participate in Alpha Advocacy Day at Richmond General Assembly

More than 70 Alphas representing Virginia Alpha Chapters converged on Virginia’s Capitol Building to discuss issues that affect our communities with lawmakers on Jan. 24.

Brother Delegate Don Scott (D), the first African American in Virginia’s history to serve as Speaker of the House of Delegates, and a fellow Alpha, addressed his Fraternity Brothers in a “standing room only” discussion.

“There is still much to be done to protect the right to vote for all citizens,” says Brother Delegate Scott.

The congressional staffers then divided us into groups of seven, where we visited with numerous congressional members and delegates in their offices to discuss their stances on issues that affect Brown and Black communities, especially voter disenfranchisement.

Delegate Cliff Hayes (D) says, “Once they’ve paid their debt to society, they shouldn’t have to come begging and asking for the rights to vote again. If they paid their dues, it’s time for us to automatically restore their rights here in the Commonwealth of Virginia. That’s a major issue for us in the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus.”

Once reassembled, Virginia State Senator Lamont Bagby (D) addressed the entire group and urged Alpha Brothers to “find out who your district’s lawmakers are and petition them to remove barriers to voting.”

After taking a group photo on the steps of the Virginia State Capitol with Brother Speaker Don Scott, Delegate Michael Feggans (D), and VACAPAF President Kevin Glover, the entire group assembled in the House of Delegates Gallery to witness Speaker Don Scott address the delegates.

Delegates Mike Jones (D), Carrie Coyner (R), Cliff Hayes (D), Alex Askew (D), Joshua Cole (D) and others vowed to work with Alphas and all Divine Nine organizations to fight continued disenfranchisement efforts.

“I carry with me daily in fact, and keep in my desk drawer, the copy of my grandmother’s, not my greatgreat grandmother’s, my grandmother’s receipts from where she paid her poll taxes,” says Delegate Cliff Hayes (D). “They had to pay a poll tax to have access to voting. This reminds me of how important it is to continue to fight.” S

BY BROTHER BRANDON M. ERBY, PH.D. [GAMMA UPSILON ’09]

Alpha Phi Alpha’s Role in the Emmett Till Case

The 1955 lynching of Emmett Till is one of the most recognizable cases of racial violence in United States history. Till, a Black 14-year-old from Chicago, was brutally killed in the Mississippi Delta on Aug. 28, four days after he whistled at a white woman and was accused of disobeying the “way of life” in the Jim Crow South.

After learning about her only child’s death, Till’s mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, mandated that his corpse be returned to Chicago so that she could identify his remains and give him a proper burial. Once she saw Emmett Till’s disfigured body, she made the consequential decision to display his corpse in an open casket to “let the people see” what white supremacists had done to her son.

She also permitted Black newspapers and magazines, such as the Chicago Defender and JET to publish photographs of Till’s mutilated corpse. JET , which was distributed by Brother John H. Johnson’s

publishing company in Chicago, included the disturbing images of Emmett Till in its September 15, 1955, issue.

When JET printed its first issue on November 1, 1951, Brother Johnson noted that the magazine was created to provide “complete news coverage on happenings among Negroes all over the U.S.”

Because of Mamie Till-Mobley’s decision to publicize her son’s killing via his open casket and the circulation of graphic, yet persuasive, photos, hundreds of thousands of Black Americans viewed Emmett Till’s corpse. More than 5,000 people gathered at A.A. Rayner and Sons Funeral Home on September 2, 1955, to see Till’s body, the first of four nights that his corpse was made available for public viewing.

A few months later, from Dec. 27 until Dec. 30, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. held its 41st General Convention at the Morrison Hotel in Chicago, home of

HISTORY

the fraternity’s national headquarters at the time.

Brother A.A. Rayner Jr., the son of the mortician who had prepared Till’s body for his funeral and burial, served as the chairman of the registration committee for the convention.

The theme for the 1955 General Convention was “Desegregation the Mode…Total Integration the Goal,” and on Dec. 28 at 8 p.m., Dr. T.R.M. Howard spoke as the guest lecturer for the convention’s public meeting. Dr. Howard was a wealthy physician, civil rights organizer, and gifted orator based in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, who had attended the murder trial of Till’s killers, opened his home to Till-Mobley and the Black journalists and activists who were in Mississippi to cover the trial, and played a central role in identifying witnesses of Till’s kidnapping and lynching.

After the completion of the murder trial and sequential acquittal of Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam, Dr. Howard traveled throughout the country to discuss Till’s gruesome death and condemn other acts of violence and repression that had occurred in the Magnolia State and across the South.

Dr. Howard delivered his speech “The Challenge of the Hour” to an audience of 2,500 people inside Chicago’s prestigious Trianon Ballroom. After his presentation, Alpha Phi Alpha awarded Dr. Howard the Alpha Medal of Honor, one of the fraternity’s most notable accolades granted to a non-member of the organization. The distinction that is conferred to a Brother, the Award of Merit, was bestowed upon Brother John H. Johnson, who also attended and made remarks at the General Convention.

With these awards, the murder of Emmett Till clearly resonated with members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and may have likely motivated political icons like Brothers Thurgood Marshall and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in their fight for racial justice.to improve the lives of African Americans.

Another Alpha Man who was outraged by Emmett Till’s death was Brother Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a prominent Civil Rights Movement figure, Brother Dr. King spoke about Emmett Till on several occasions.

A month after Till was killed, Brother Dr. King told the congregation at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery that Till’s lynching “might be considered one of the most brutal and inhuman crimes of the 20th

Century,” and he questioned how Christian jurors could exonerate the two white men charged with killing Till.

During a 1958 address at Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church in Miami, Florida, Brother Dr. King reasoned that Till was “a mere boy” who was “used as a victim to terrorize Negro citizens and keep them from the [voting] polls.”

At a 1966 rally at Chicago’s Soldier Field, Brother Dr. King declared that a system of oppression was responsible for the violent deaths of the four girls attending Sunday School at Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and the lynching of Emmett Till and assassination of Medgar Evers in Mississippi.

And at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, Brother Dr. King delivered a rendition of his “I Have a Dream” speech, which is undoubtedly his most celebrated oration. Brother Dr. King articulated his dream on August 28, 1963, the 8th anniversary of Emmett Till’s murder.

When President Joe Biden signed the Emmett Till Antilynching Act into law on March 29, 2022, more than 65 years had passed since Till’s murder, the Fraternity’s official statement expressed that it “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…we challenge this country to continue to take even bolder steps towards ensuring equality and social justice. Alpha Phi Alpha will always remain vigilant and committed advocates of such.”

Just as Alpha Phi Alpha members responded to Till’s lynching with deliberate action during the 1950s and 1960s, the Fraternity continues to underscore the significance of Emmett Till’s death, its relevance to public affairs and current events, and how Till’s legacy helps us contextualize and understand the racial climate in the United States today. S

Brother Brandon M. Erby, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Writing, Rhetoric, and Digital Studies and an affiliated faculty member in African American and Africana Studies at the University of Kentucky. A 2009 initiate of the Gamma Upsilon Chapter at Tougaloo College in Mississippi, Brother Erby currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky, where he is a member of the Alpha Beta Lambda Chapter and is writing a book about the activism, pedagogy, and legacy of Mamie Till-Mobley.

BY BROTHER DR. B.T. MCGUIRE [ALPHA PI ’13]

Cultivating Black Male Educators into School Leadership: A Pathway to Success

*REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM K12 DIGEST

In the dynamic landscape of K-12 education in the United States, the presence of Black male educators is steadily growing. However, a common phenomenon emerges as we progress in our careers – many find ourselves assuming leadership roles as Dean of Students. This trend is not merely coincidental but rather indicative of a broader societal perception that often pigeonholes Black male educators into roles centered around discipline and support. My journey, as a First-Generation College Student and now as an Assistant Principal, sheds light on the transformative power of education and the path to leadership for Black male educators.

My journey epitomizes resilience and determination. Navigating the educational landscape with unwavering commitment, I pursued academic pursuits fueled by a passion for transformative education. From earning my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science to attaining a doctorate in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change, each milestone marked a step forward in my quest to make a difference in the lives of students.

Reflecting on my journey, I emphasize the pivotal role of mentorship: My journey in education has been marked by unwavering commitment and continuous growth. Mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping my trajectory from a classroom teacher to an Assistant Principal.

The trajectory of my career, from Social Studies Teacher to Assistant Principal and even serving as an Interim Principal, offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Black male educators.

Beginning my career as a Social Studies Teacher at my Alma Mater, Danville High School in Danville, KY, where I was the lone Black core-content teacher in the entire district, I encountered firsthand the importance of representation in the classroom. Serving as a role model for students of color, I strived to create an inclusive and empowering learning environment.

Within the realm of K-12 education, the role of Dean of Students often falls upon Black male educators. While this role is crucial for maintaining discipline and fostering a positive school culture, it can inadvertently

limit the leadership potential of Black male educators. My experience as a Dean of Students underscores the importance of mentorship and guidance in cultivating aspiring leaders. Under the mentorship of Dr. Kevin Armstrong, I was able to articulate my aspirations and chart a path towards instructional leadership. By empowering me to coach teachers and lead initiatives in instructional practices, Dr. Armstrong facilitated my transition to Assistant Principal, thus demonstrating the pivotal role of supportive leadership in nurturing talent. Dr. Armstrong is now the 2023-2024 President-Elect of the National Association for Elementary School Principals.

Statistics reveal the underrepresentation of Black male educators in leadership positions within the K-12 sector. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), while Black males constitute approximately 7% of the teaching workforce, they represent only 2% of school principals (NCES, 2021). Furthermore, a study by the Albert Shanker Institute found that only 11% of Black male educators aspire to become school principals, citing lack of support and opportunity as primary barriers (Albert Shanker Institute, 2019). Additionally, research from the National Education Association indicates that schools with higher proportions of Black students are less likely to have Black principals, exacerbating the lack of representation (National Education Association, 2020). Moreover, a report by the Center for American Progress highlights that Black male educators are often disproportionately assigned to schools with high poverty rates and low academic performance, limiting their access to leadership opportunities (Center for American Progress, 2020). The journey to leadership for Black male educators is often marked by systemic challenges and barriers.

Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses mentorship, professional development, and equitable hiring practices.

To cultivate leaders and foster diversity in school leadership, educational institutions must prioritize mentorship and professional development initiatives tailored to the needs of Black male educators.

EDUCATION | PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Mentorship programs, such as the one I benefited from, provide invaluable guidance and support to aspiring leaders. By pairing aspiring leaders with experienced mentors who can offer insights and advice, these programs facilitate professional growth and empowerment.

Furthermore, professional development opportunities focusing on instructional leadership are essential for equipping Black male educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in leadership roles. Instructional leaders play a pivotal role in driving student learning outcomes and fostering a culture of excellence within schools. Through targeted professional development in areas such as curriculum design, assessment practices, and data-driven instruction, Black male educators can enhance their effectiveness as instructional leaders.

Another critical aspect in cultivating Black male educators into school leadership roles is fostering a supportive organizational culture. Educational institutions must create environments that value diversity, equity, and inclusion. This includes implementing policies and practices that promote diversity in hiring and advancement opportunities. By actively recruiting and retaining Black male educators and providing them with opportunities for leadership development, schools can create a more representative and equitable leadership pipeline.

Additionally, systemic barriers such as implicit bias and stereotype threat must be addressed to create a level playing field for Black male educators. Professional development initiatives that focus on cultural competence and anti-bias training can help educators recognize and mitigate biases in their interactions with students and colleagues. By fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment, schools can empower Black male educators to thrive and excel in leadership roles.

In conclusion, the journey of Black male educators like myself serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of supportive leadership in nurturing talent. By dismantling systemic barriers and prioritizing mentorship, professional development, and equity-focused practices, educational institutions can empower Black male educators to ascend to leadership positions and make a lasting impact on student success. S

Brother Dr. B.T. McGuire, a 2013 Alpha Pi Chapter initiate and General Organization member, serves as a Middle School Administrator and Instructional Leader in Nashville, TN. Recognized for his achievements, McGuire has received prestigious accolades such as the 2022 Nashville Black Top Forty Under 40 and the Bridging the Gap Award from the University of Louisville.

References:

• National Center for Education Statistics. (2021). “Characteristics of Public-School Principals.” U.S. Department of Education.

• Albert Shanker Institute. (2019). “The State of Teacher Diversity in American Education.” Albert Shanker Institute.

• National Education Association. (2020). “Educator Diversity: Data Snapshot.” National Education Association.

• Center for American Progress. (2020). “The Urgent Need for More Black Male Educators.” Center for American Progress.

Empowering Black and Brown Innovators: The Journey of Venture for THEM

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, where opportunities often seem elusive, Brothers Clarevonte “Clay” Williams, a Fall 2012 Beta Alpha initiate, and Kiante Bush, Fall 2015 Beta Alpha initiate, have emerged as beacons of change.

Their brainchild, Venture for THEM, stands tall as a venture capital accelerator dedicated to fueling the growth of early-stage black and brown companies. This is the inspiring tale of how their passion, commitment, and strategic thinking turned a vision into reality.

The journey of Venture for THEM began with a transformative initial investment Brother Bush received from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, providing the much-needed financial impetus to create a venture capital accelerator. Brother Williams and Brother Bush were driven by a profound belief in the untapped potential of black and brown entrepreneurs. The accelerator they built has since become a catalyst for change, successfully funding over 15 early-stage black and brown companies as well as expanding their team by over 50%.

More than just a source of funding, Venture for THEM has positioned itself as a comprehensive support system for its portfolio companies. The accelerator goes beyond traditional investment models by providing invaluable mentorship, business coaching, and strategic partnerships to ensure the success and sustainability of the ventures it supports. This holistic approach reflects their commitment to nurturing a thriving ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs with the tools needed for long-term success.

A pivotal moment in the journey of Venture for THEM came with the acquisition of a prestigious grant from the Black Ambition Conference, an accelerator backed by music mogul and fashion designer Pharrell Williams, along with entrepreneur Felecia Hatcher. This recognition not only validated their mission, but also provided the financial boost needed to scale their impact. The grant became a symbol of confidence in their ability to drive change and support the underrepresented in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Building on this success, they decided to pay it forward by organizing the groundbreaking HBCUniverse Entrepreneur Conference. This ambitious initiative aims to bring together innovators, thought leaders, and change-makers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and beyond. By partnering with the White House Initiative on HBCUs, Microsoft, Metalogic, and a host of other collaborators, they are creating a platform that goes beyond

just funding. HBCUniverse is set to be a nexus of ideas, resources, and opportunities, fostering an ecosystem that nurtures the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs.

What sets Venture for THEM apart is not just its financial backing but its commitment to incorporating the values, foundation, and mission of Alpha Phi Alpha, the beloved fraternity of its founders. The principles of leadership, brotherhood, and service that define Alpha Phi Alpha are seamlessly woven into the fabric of Venture for THEM operations. The fraternity’s dedication to community upliftment aligns perfectly with the mission of Venture for THEM, creating a symbiotic relationship that goes beyond business.

Brother Williams and Brother Bush have ensured that the spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha is not just a tagline, but a guiding

force in their decision-making. They understand that true success lies not only in financial returns but in the positive impact their work has on the community. By upholding the Fraternity’s legacy, they are setting an example for future generations of entrepreneurs, showcasing that success need not come at the cost of values and integrity.

The story of Venture for THEM is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and community spirit. From humble beginnings with an initial investment to winning grants from influential accelerators, they have demonstrated that dreams, when pursued with passion, can reshape the entrepreneurial landscape. As they embark on hosting the inaugural HBCUniverse Entrepreneur Conference, their journey continues to inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the world of venture capitalism and underscoring the importance of diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship. S

Brother Kiante Bush on left and Brother Clarevonte “Clay” Williams, on the far right, giving an investment into one of their portfolio companies.

ALPHAS IN EGYPT

Fraternity Offers First Travel Opportunity Through New Alpha Travels Initiative

Alpha Travels, a new Fraternityinitiative for Alpha Brothers and their families who enjoy traveling to unique destinations, held its inaugural travel opportunity to Cairo, Egypt with 56 travelers, including 38 Alpha Brothers, representing 25 states and two continents, as well as their wives, other family members, and staff, from Jan. 4 through Jan. 13.

The group was also accompanied and guided by Egyptologists, Rania, and Dana, who shared details, and historical context for each site the group visited.

The initiative is the brainchild of Brother Sean L. McCaskill, executive director of the Fraternity and executed by Brother Colin Hall, principal and owner of Alpha International Travel Agency located in New York, NY. Brother Hall, a 42-year member of the Fraternity, who says he considers it to be his personal and professional mission to keep ALPHA first in all his endeavors. The next Alpha Travels’ opportunity is a 7-Day 2024 Founders’ Day Caribbean Cruise from Nov. 30

through Dec. 7. (For more information and to book, contact: Bridgette Sheppard, direct group specialist and provide group #A2719753 at bsheppard@ncl.com or 877-416-9722, Ext. 44182).

The following are personal reflections on the inaugural trip and the overall experience from at least one Alpha Brother from each of the Fraternity’s five regions, who participated in the trip.

SOUTHERN REGION

Journeying to Egypt was nothing short of amazing. It served as a great reminder of the current disposition of the western world, the issues we face, and how our decisions have greater implications on the world around us. One of the common concerns of Brothers when commencing our travels was the current genocide happening along Egypt’s Eastern border involving Israel’s attacks on Gaza, the United States’ known involvement, and how our presence would be perceived in a country so close to the conflict itself. Sharing these concerns with Brothers in the group as we traveled not only enabled opportunities of bonding, but it also yielded an opportunity of gratitude in recognizing the

privileges and freedoms we have in traveling to a country containing the very historical monuments that Alpha holds dear and that which global societies revere.

The first site-visit was to Memphis, which was the ancient capital city of Egypt during the Old Kingdom. The historic area was once the administrative and religious hub of Egypt, and now the area is primarily composed of ruins. The ancient city is located approximately 12 miles South of Cairo and is near the Nile River. The current name for the area that was once Memphis is Mit Rahineh.

From there, we voyaged into the Pyramids of Giza, we marveled at the Great Sphinx while singing the Alpha Hymn, cruised down the Nile, and had an opportunity to spend time touring the various tombs at the Valley of the Kings, where we viewed the final resting place of King Tutankhamun (who ruled Egypt from 10 to 19-years old) as well as the resting places of the many other Pharaohs, all while breaking bread and engaging in spontaneous Brotherhood Smokes, uniquely making this the trip of a lifetime, and then some.

It is certainly true that ‘Goodwill is the Monarch of this House. Men, unacquainted, enter, shake hands, exchange greetings, and depart friends. Cordiality exists among all who abide within.’

We are eternally grateful to Alpha International Travel for this opportunity, and we are elated to have been able to engage with Brothers from across the Globe all the while there. What’s most apparent, and perhaps the biggest takeaway, is how widespread the fraternity is, which emphasizes the need for continued ventures to take place that enables Brothers near and far to congregate in settings they otherwise wouldn’t. Egypt is home to us both as a people and as Alphas, and the deeper we ventured into the history and civilizations that exist deep within the country, the closer we came to discovering how deeply intertwined our roots run with theirs. It’s in the discovery and shared consciousness that we as a people come together and thrive. The Jewels in all their glory would be proud and all Brothers who should ever have the opportunity to travel to the motherland, particularly Egypt, should do so without a

shadow of doubt. It is indeed a necessary and deeply meaningful experience for all Alpha men, but even more so, it is one that must be taken together.

Brother De’Von Cross

Eta Lambda, Atlanta, Georgia

Brother Ronald Williams

Delta Iota Lambda, Columbus, Georgia

SOUTHWESTERN REGION

‘Goodwill is the monarch of this house. Men, unacquainted, enter, shake hands exchange greetings, and go forth into the world as friends.’

There are no truer words embodying our experience on this inaugural trip to Egypt, home of the Pharaohs. Indeed, we came together as strangers but left as friends. Surely, our “Jewels” and fraternity founders would have considered an excursion of this magnitude to be one from their “Wildest Dreams”!

Brothers ranging from a PhD candidate to college professors were among the group of retired educators, community leaders, medical doctors and nurse practitioners, including other Brothers representing themselves in true Alpha style by maintaining and building meaningful careers. Southwestern Regional Vice President Brother Jeramaine Netherly was also among the group. It was also astounding to see retired and inactive military brothers among the group.

Having a cross section of Alpha Brothers, their family members as well as security and our expert Egyptologists tour guides who were well equipped to educate us on Ancient Egyptian history past and recent, made for a highly stimulating journey for all involved. Brothers engaged the Egyptologists for the Egyptian Nubian perspective whenever possible as well as fact checking

information shared. This interaction made for spirited discussion by the Brothers as they sought clarification, and a deeper understanding of information shared.

The design of the tour included opportunities for us to witness Egypt’s tourist industry in full effect. We visited a papyrus making operation, as well as a silk, cotton, and linen establishment. In addition, we purchased oils and fragrances made from the Blue lotus flower indigenous to Egypt that are exported to other parts of the world. Lastly, we bought custom made gold jewelry designed by craftsmen which was delivered to us the next day.

We had the pleasure of touring on land and sailed peacefully down the historic Nile River on the Sonesta Moon Goddess cruise ship. From Cairo, the brothers began this historic journey experiencing the Memphis, Sakkara Pyramids, and Sphinx before flying to Luxor to join the Nile cruise.

Being able to physically touch and experience the Great Sphinx of Giza in its full grandeur left a positive life-changing impact on me as a member of our beloved fraternity. This same sentiment was shared by all Brothers in attendance as we collectively sang the fraternal hymn and recited the prayer as the evening sun descended in the background. This breathtaking backdrop made for many memorable photos taken during what was described by one couple as an “#Epic1stDay”!

We visited numerous Egyptian Museums and temples, including the Karnak and Luxor Temples. The Valley of the Kings on the West Bank was impactful as we walked the same grounds of ancient Egyptians. We learned that this was the settling place where artifacts and remains of Colossus of Memnon now reside, which are all associated to Queen Hatshepsut.

Sailing on the Nile was certainly a highlight of the trip which finally led us to Aswan, home of the Nubian Village. It was heartwarming to finally interact with melanated Egyptians who resembled our collective body of Brothers. We were equally excited to see each other. Purchasing souvenirs from and dining with them for lunch was a great pleasure.

As a result, this heartfelt journey to Cairo Egypt, is inarguably the most powerful international travel I have experienced to date. Witnessing firsthand evidence of innovations, inventions, and constructions by ancient Egyptian kingdoms from yester-millennia is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Moreover, seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid, and the Great Sphinx of Giza in all its grandeur was breath taking and majestic; and will forever be a paramount fond memory for me.

As we all reflect on this experience, there will be lifetime memories and fraternal friendships nurtured from this trip. I look forward to a return visit to Cairo Egypt as there was far too much to register in just one visit. A great time was had by all.

Brother Arthur Houston, M.Ed. Beta Eta Lambda, Oklahoma City, OK

EASTERN REGION

‘Men, unacquainted, enter, shake hands, exchange greetings, and depart friends. Cordiality exists among all who abide within.’

To sing the hymn in front of the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Giza was a very humbling experience and served as a reclamation for some while serving as a moment never to forget to strengthen our love for this great organization for others.

To dine with the Brothers allowed us to become more acquainted, share highlights of the day, to discuss the daily experiences, and what it meant to us.

The Egyptologists decrypted and highlighted the significance of the hieroglyphics, temples, and Egyptian culture. The Nile cruise and visit to the Nubian village gave the Alphas a better

appreciation of the culture and the connection to the motherland.

To see the treasures of King Tut’s tomb to include the golden mask and then to be able to go into King Tut’s tomb and see his mummy strengthened my connection to Alpha and to establish a more intimate connection with the pyramids and Egypt.

Brother Tony Walker Xi Alpha Lambda Chapter, Woodbridge, VA

MIDWESTERN REGION

In the twilight Egyptian sky, the golden sun descended behind the massive Great Pyramid of Giza as 38 Alpha Brothers locked arms and began to sing the hymn. The Sphinx – created in the likeness of King Khafre - faced east and watched over us.

As we started the serene melody, talkative passersby from all over the world suddenly fell silent. They stopped. They watched. They listened. They knew something special was happening. They felt it.

They felt the Alpha spirit exude from us and permeate the warm Egyptian air. It consumed the aweinspiring Giza plateau, sailed along the Nile River to the Valley of the Kings, and then bounced off the spectacular columns of the Karnak Temple. The spirit soared down the Avenue of Sphinxes and weaved through the Temple of Luxor. It floated to Aswan –The Land of Gold – and reverberated in the Nubian Villages – where the Nubians greeted visitors with a joyful smile and a celebratory song and dance.

This, my Brothers, is Egypt – the cradle of civilization. It was an incredible full-circle, surreal journey. The Jewels gave us the gift of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and made The Great Sphinx of Giza our symbolic pillar. They gave us a tangible place in the Motherland with solid ties to Alpha. And here I was – standing in this splendid atmosphere.

I felt the spirit of the Jewels as we closed the hymn with our Fraternal Prayer. Tears streamed from our eyes while hugs and handshakes were plentiful. Onlookers clapped and snapped pictures.

And that Alpha spirit continued to float onward and upward.

Brother James McCurtis Jr., Kappa Delta Lambda Chapter, Lansing, MI

WESTERN REGION

My first venture to the African continent was amazing. It was exciting to see the ancient sites, learn and live African history, and gather my own information to validate or conflict what I was taught in school. Egypt, its people, and culture are magnificent.

The trip was magnified, even more, by the presence of my Good Brothers. All five Alpha regions and England were represented. Shout outs to my Western Region Brothers Darryl Lenore, De Shon Andrews, and Ian Monteilh.

This amazing trip provided me with a deeper understanding of the essential need for Black America and Africa to connect, tell our own stories, and learn our true history from an African perspective. “One Alpha” moving together to build a better world.

Brother Daren Miller, EdD Iota Nu Lambda, Fresno, CA S

BY BROTHER THOMAS VANCE, JR., PHD, LMHC, NCC [TAU

Silent Struggles and Inner Strength: How Black Men Triumph Over High-Functioning Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are common, affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 6.8 million U.S. adults have been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. However, the number of people experiencing anxiety is significantly higher due to untreated symptoms.

High-functioning anxiety is not an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Instead, mental health clinicians often diagnosed this as a generalized anxiety disorder. It occurs when a person has anxiety symptoms, but rather than withdrawing from situations and other interactions, they move towards their fears and are skilled at masking symptoms.

High-functioning anxiety affects many people with various experiences, including Black men. While the challenges of high-functioning anxiety are universal, Black men may face unique stressors and experiences that influence their journey in coping and seeking support. This article will explore high-functioning

anxiety among Black men and provide strategies for navigating this condition.

Understanding High-Functioning Anxiety Among Black Men

Specifically, high-functioning anxiety among Black men can be particularly complex due to the intersection of racial, gender, sexual, societal, and personal factors, which also includes racial injustices from fewer opportunities due to systemic racism and police violence. Many Black men face pressure to excel personally and professionally, provide for their families, and overcome systemic barriers while battling anxiety symptoms in silence. Anxiety can manifest in various signs and symptoms, including high-functioning symptoms.

Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety in Black Men

1. Hypervigilance: Constantly being on alert due to potential racial discrimination or bias can contribute to anxiety.

2. Imposter Syndrome: Despite accomplishments,

CHI ’08]

feeling like an imposter in professional or social settings.

3. Code-Switching: The need to adapt one’s behavior and speech in different environments can lead to increased stress and anxiety.

4. Avoidance: Avoiding situations, conversations, or seeking help due to fear of stigma can exacerbate anxiety.

5. Emotional Suppression: Black men may feel societal pressure to suppress their emotions, leading to internalized anxiety.

Coping Strategies for Black Men

1. Self-awareness: Recognize and accept anxiety as a valid emotional response. Self-awareness is the first step in addressing high-functioning anxiety symptoms.

2. Establishing Health Boundaries: Understand the importance of saying “no.” Many people overextend themselves. However, people with high-functioning anxiety should also practice saying “yes” to different opportunities that stretch their comfort levels.

3. Breathing Techniques: Practice deep diaphragmatic breathing exercises to calm one’s nervous system during anxiety symptoms.

4. Supportive Social Circles: Be surrounded by friends and family who understand the experiences and provide a supportive network.

5. Affirmations and Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-beliefs and replace them with affirmations that foster self-confidence and resilience.

Seeking Support as a Black Man

1. Culturally Responsive Therapy: Therapy, particularly with a therapist who understands cultural nuances, can provide valuable tools and strategies for managing high-functioning anxiety.

2. Support Groups: Joining a support group specifically designed for Black men with anxiety can offer a safe space for sharing experiences and learning from others.

3. Professional Organizations: Many organizations

and community groups offer resources and support for Black men’s mental health.

4. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): If available, utilize EAPs workplaces offer to access confidential counseling services.

5. Online Communities: Engage in online forums and communities focused on Black mental health to connect with others and gain insights into coping strategies.

Breaking the Stigma

Addressing high-functioning anxiety in the Black community involves breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Many Black men fear judgment or dismissal, which can deter them from seeking help. We can encourage a more inclusive and affirming environment by increasing open conversations around mental health and challenging stereotypes about Black men.

High-functioning anxiety is a natural and complex challenge that affects Black men. Navigating this condition requires self-awareness, self-care, and seeking culturally informed support. Remember that you are not alone in your struggles, and there are resources available to help you navigate highfunctioning anxiety as a Black man. By acknowledging and addressing this issue, you can find the support and resilience needed to lead a fulfilling and balanced life while breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community. S

Brother

Dr. Thomas A. Vance, a Fall 2008

Initiate of the Tau Chi Chapter at The University of West Georgia and a Life Member in the Omicron Mu Lambda Chapter, is a counseling psychologist as well as the founder and clinical research Director of ClearMinds LLC. With more than a decade of clinical and research expertise, Dr. Vance leads a team of skilled mental health professionals specializing in customized therapy and coaching services, emphasizing a liberation mental health model alongside an African-centered and healing-centered perspective. He is also an adjunct psychology professor at The New School in New York City.

SOMETHING ABOUT HER

Brother Dr. Dion Todd Graham’s [Rho Mu Lambda ’22] Something About Her is a celebration of love that encompasses every aspect of relationships ranging from the joy of falling in love, the pain of losing love, and the pleasure of experiencing love. It’s an amazing artistic expression that is presented in a poetic format and it embodies love and heartache in their most natural and purest form. This book captures the joyful experiences of falling in love and being in love while still acknowledging the various nuances of relationships ranging from the discovery of a first love to the pains and heartaches of losing the love of one’s life. Something About Her is a testament to the art of love and the spirit of romance. Amazon.com S

TEDDY MAKES CENTS

The story is simple but rich with meaning: Teddy is a third grader who lives in a community-friendly town where love, humanity, and life lessons are taught. The biggest lesson Teddy learns is money and financial responsibility. You will see how Teddy’s priorities change from leisurely spending to being introduced to financial literacy. Teddy Makes Cents will teach children the importance of financial responsibility and how to set money-saving goals.

As a former banker, Brother Thomas E. Dear, III, [Beta Eta ’13] an author and the founder of Dream Big Publishing, was inspired to write the book after witnessing students struggling with basic financial concepts while leading a Junior Achievement program. With the book, his hope is to inspire children to think creatively about money and develop financial literacy skills.

Brother Dear, a motivational speaker, and an advocate for financial literacy with the focus on educating youth, was a guest on The Michael Colyar Morning Show, FOX News: The Pulse of St. Louis and featured in the 2023 Waymaker Journal Winter Issue. Amazon.com S

THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MASS UNEMPLOYMENT CRISIS: THE

QUEST FOR AMERICA’S EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE TO ATTAIN COMPREHENSIVE EQUITY THROUGH PSYCHOLOGICAL REHABILITATION, ENTREPRENUERSHIP, AND ECONOMIC LIBERATION

African Americans, the descendants of enslaved Africans who provided hundreds of years of free labor that immensely contributed to the economic development and prosperity of this nation, possess the highest unemployment rates compared to all racial demographics in America, which has persisted since the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics specifically began measuring those unemployment rates in 1972.

Consequently, African Americans remain at the bottom of the American economic caste system and must endure a host of economically based inequities; thus, Brother Devin J. Smith, EdD, PhD, [ Zeta Sigma Lambda ’17] provides various reasons why unemployment rates among African Americans remain higher than any other racial demographic in America through the lenses of the critical race theory, institutional racism, African Americans’ diminishing entrepreneurial efforts, and their psychological despair.

The book also includes the results of Dr. Smith’s 2021 empirical study regarding the African American mass unemployment crisis, which is presented along with various solutions to counteract this American crisis by providing African Americans with an entrepreneurial and psychological roadmap of how to achieve true freedom through economic liberation.

Dr. Devin J. Smith has doctorates in both education and industrial and organizational psychology and is a practitionerscholar, author, entrepreneur, consultant, activist, and health and wellness advocate who teaches graduate-level economics and a variety of other business and organizational behavior-related topics. Amazon.com S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is pleased to announce its partnership with Greek Traditions, LLC to exclusively provide its first and only subscription boxes. The “Alpha Ice Box” ( monthly ) and the “Alpha For Life Box” (quarterly) offer a delivery of licensed, professional, quality Fraternity apparel and accessories! Both options will offer limited edition and custom items specifically offered via this subscription based program.

ALPHAS IN THE BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION

The Biden-Harris Administration offers an impressive example of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s mission, where it declares it develops leaders, with more than 20 members of the Fraternity in key roles.

In celebration of Founders’ Day last year, these members also gathered in the ceremonial office of Vice President Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black and South Asian woman to hold this role and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., for a special social media salute to the Fraternity.

“An objective of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is to prepare our members for the greatest usefulness in the causes of humanity, freedom, and dignity of the individual,” says Brother Don Cravins according to a Black Enterprise article. “Living this objective through service in the Biden-Harris administration has been an honor. I am proud to stand with these leaders as we strive to improve and better the lives of all Americans.”

The following is a list of Brothers serving in the administration with their brief bios.

Brother Don Cravins

Brother Donald “Don” R. Cravins, Jr. serves as the first Under Secretary for the U.S. Department of Commerce - Minority Business Development where he leads the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) in its service of the nation’s 9.7 million minority business enterprises. After more than 52 years in existence, in 2021 President Biden signed the Minority Business Development Act of 2021 expanding and making permanent MBDA as the United States’ newest federal agency. Under Secretary Cravins was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate on August 4, 2022. In addition to his current role, Don is a United States Army Major in the District of Columbia Army National Guard Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps.

In 2004, he was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives and in 2006 elected to the Louisiana State Senate. While in the Louisiana Legislature, he represented hundreds of businesses — many were minority-owned, and many located in rural communities. Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Mr. Cravins served as a voice and champion for business owners, assisting with navigating the challenges related to recovery and rebuilding. In January 2009, Mr. Cravins left the Louisiana Legislature to serve as Staff Director and Chief Counsel for the United States Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, where he played a vital role in the successful passage of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. In January 2013, he became the Chief of Staff to United States Senator Mary L. Landrieu of Louisiana. At that time, he was the only African American Chief of Staff in the United States Senate. Since leaving the United States Senate in 2015, Brother Cravins has served in key executive positions for some of America’s largest non-profit and for-profit corporations, including the National Urban League where he most recently served as its Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. As one of the Nation’s preeminent Civil Rights Organizations, Mr. Cravins led the National Urban League’s entrepreneurial initiatives and spearheaded its corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program. His awards and military decorations include two Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal. He is a Spring 1991 Nu Psi chapter initiate. Brother Cravins is a graduate of Louisiana State University, and he received his Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, LA.

Brother Michael Collins

Brother Michael Collins served as Chief of Staff and Floor Assistant to Congressman John Lewis (GA) for almost 20 years, directing the work of the Congressional staff in Washington and in Atlanta, managing long-term legislative plans and acting as the primary liaison for constituents and various interest groups. Following the Congressman’s passing in 2020, Brother Collins was tapped to serve in The White House as Special Assistant to President Biden and Director of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs for Vice President Kamala Harris. He now serves as Director of Policy and Government Affairs for Starbucks Corporation. Michael has served on the board for the Faith and Politics Institute. He is a Spring 2009 Mu Lambda chapter initiate. Brother Collins is a Morehouse College graduate and he received master’s degrees from Emory University and Boston College.

Brother Gregory Jackson Jr.

Brother Gregory Jackson Jr. is the Deputy Director of The White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and Special Assistant to the President. In this role, Greg oversees efforts to implement federal law, identify new executive actions, expand partnerships, and improve services for those traumatized by the crisis of gun violence. As a gun violence survivor, gun violence prevention is personal for him. This experience and recovery propelled him into action, becoming a leading voice on gun violence prevention for Black and Brown communities. Prior to joining the White House, Brother Jackson served as the executive director of Community Justice, an advocacy non-profit organization working to advance policies to address gun violence in Black and Brown communities. In this role, he led the advocacy

efforts that secured over $12 billion in public funding for gun violence prevention and passed the first gun violence law in 30 years, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Before dedicating his life to gun violence prevention, Greg worked as a community organizer through various roles, including Co-Chair of DC for Obama; Field Director at Obama for America, North Carolina; Southern Regional Director at Organizing for Action; and National Field Director at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, where he ran the largest midterm election voter registration program in US History. He is a Fall 2004 Iota Beta chapter initiate. Greg is a University of Virginia graduate.

Brother Kamau M. Marshall

Brother Kamau Mandela Marshall currently is a Senior Advisor at the U.S. Department of Education to Dr. Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education, while also serving within the office of communications and outreach, working on national critical issues, ranging from student debt relief, affirmative action, and book bans, while working closely with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), amongst other issues. Previously, he served at The White House as the Deputy Assistant United States Trade Representative (USTR) for Media and Public Affairs and as a Spokesperson within the Executive Office of the President. Prior to his Presidential Appointment, he served as a Senior Advisor and Spokesperson for the 59th Presidential Inaugural Committee, overseeing leadership communications and outreach for the CEO and Co-Chairs. Kamau served as the Director of Strategic Communications for the 2020 “Biden for President” campaign, from launch in April 2019 through victory in November 2020. Before joining the Biden campaign, he worked at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, where he was a team member that won back the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018 for the first time since 2006, flipping the most seats from red to blue since 1974, working directly with the late Congressman John Lewis (GA). Brother Marshall got his start on Capitol Hill working for U.S. Senator Tom Carper (DE), where he also became a Truman National Security Scholar. He also worked for the late Rep. Elijah Cummings (MD) and Rep. Al Green (TX).

He served in the Obama-Biden Administration as a speechwriter and communications advisor at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Kamau also worked on the Obama-Biden 2012 re-election campaign team and in the private sector at SKDK, a public affairs and political consulting firm. He is a Spring 2010 Delta Theta chapter initiate. Brother Marshall is a graduate of Texas Southern University, located in Houston, TX.

Brother Marvin B. Figueroa

Brother Marvin B. Figueroa currently serves as the Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler of California. Previously, Figueroa served as the Director of the Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs (IEA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where he provided key counsel to Secretary Xavier Becerra, focusing on strengthening intergovernmental and external partnerships to advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s health and human services priorities. Before his role at HHS, Brother Figueroa served as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Resources in the Administration of Governor Ralph S. Northam, the 73rd Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, where he helped manage a consortium of 12 health and social services agencies that collectively touch the lives of close to one-infour Virginians. During the 2020 Virginia General Assembly legislative session, he played a pivotal role in the passage of legislation that advanced healthcare, criminal justice, and other equity efforts through the Virginia General Assembly. He has also served in the United States Senate as Senior Advisor to U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner of Virginia where he advised the Senator on Medicare, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and other health care issues. He is originally from La Ceiba, Honduras (a proud Garifuna). He is a Spring 2005 Kappa Theta chapter initiate. Brother Figueroa earned his master’s degree from Harvard University and is a graduate of Vanderbilt University.

Brother Roosevelt Holmes

Brother Roosevelt Holmes currently serves as a Senior Advisor in the White House Office of the National Cyber Director. He came to the Office of the National Cyber Director from the U.S. Department of Commerce where he served as Deputy Director of the Office of the Business Liaison. Prior to his Presidential Appointment to the U.S. Department of Commerce, he was the Southern Region Coalitions Director for the Biden-Harris campaign and served on the Agency Review Team for the Department of Justice Transition Team. Roosevelt has extensive experience in the development and management of political, legislative, and grassroots campaigns. He worked on Democratic campaigns on multiple levels including President Obama’s 2008 campaign and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s 2012 and 2015 reelection campaigns and served as the Political Director for the 2018 Florida Gubernatorial campaign — while also holding the roles of Interim Executive Director, and Senior Advisor to the Florida Democratic Party. In addition, he worked for the Florida Senate, Office of Congresswoman Kathy Castor, and the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Education and the Workforce under Congressman Bobby Scott. He also worked at the United Negro College Fund within the Government Affairs and Public Policy Department. He is a Spring 2019 Delta Xi Lambda chapter initiate. Roosevelt is a graduate of University of Central Florida.

Brother B. Cameron Webb

Brother Dr. B. Cameron Webb served from January 20, 2021, until September 2, 2023, as Senior Advisor in The White House Office of COVID-19 Response. He came to the White House COVID-19 Response Team from the University of Virginia, where he was an Assistant Professor of Medicine and Public Health Sciences and the Director of Health Policy and Equity for the University’s School of Medicine. Prior to his Presidential Appointment to The White House, he was the Democratic Nominee for United States Congress in Virginia’s Fifth Congressional District in 2020. Brother Dr. Webb is passionate about working at the intersection of health and social justice, and has worked at the local, state, and federal levels to design, execute, and advocate for policies and interventions that can redress health and healthcare disparities. A physician and lawyer, Brother Dr. Webb continues to work clinically at the University of Virginia as a hospitalist while also teaching and leading research on health policy and health equity. He is a Fall 2003 Iota Beta chapter initiate. He is a University of Virginia graduate, and he received his Doctor of Medicine from the Wake Forest School of Medicine, and a Juris Doctor from Loyola University Chicago School of Law.

Brother Jimmy Anderson

Brother Jimmy Anderson is the former Director of Veterans Engagement at The White House. He championed the unity agenda of the Biden-Harris Administration, led public engagement efforts to the veterans and military community and built support for the passage of the signature PACT Act. Prior to The White House, he served as Special Advisor and Deputy White House Liaison to the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Brother Anderson is a combat veteran who last served on active duty as a Deputy Division Chief at U.S. Air Forces Central Command, and he continues to serve as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserve based at the Pentagon. He was a Fulbright scholar in Canada and Visiting Fellow at the Centre for International and Defense Policy where he focused on Canada-China relations. He is a Term Member with the Council on Foreign Relations, and previously held fellowships with the Center for a New American Security and Truman National Security Project. Jimmy led efforts to unite veterans, the military community, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Hosting the White House’s inaugural HBCU student veterans and cadets forum, he amplified the President’s support for black service members and veterans by emphasizing historic investments in educational equity through HBCUs. Brother Anderson further shaped the VA Secretary’s HBCU engagement strategy and orchestrated the first-ever visit to meet with HBCU Presidents in South Carolina. He is a Fall 2020 Omicron Iota Lambda chapter initiate. He holds master’s degrees from Queen’s University in Canada and American University. He is a graduate from the University of South Carolina.

Brother Silas Woods III

Brother Silas Woods III joined the Biden-Harris Administration in February 2021. Currently, he is the Press Assistant in The White House Press Office. His responsibilities include facilitating the movements and engagement of the press corps in their coverage of President Joe Biden. He subsequently served in the Office of the Counsel to Vice President Kamala Harris, rising to the position of Associate Director of Research before departing to assume his current position in the Executive Office of the President. Woods worked as a political researcher, first for American Bridge 21st Century, a not-for-profit political research organization, and then for the Democratic National Committee in support of the 2020 Biden-Harris campaign. He is a Spring 2015 Beta chapter initiate. A native of Chicago, IL Silas is a Howard University graduate.

Brother Wesley B. Swanzy

Brother Wesley B. Swanzy is a Biden-Harris Political Appointee, serving as the Chief of Staff to the Chief Financial Officer at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In this role, he oversees critical financial management aspects for a vast organization with over 100,000 employees and significant assets and spending. His career includes diverse roles in national security, defense, and banking, and he has previously worked at UBS Financial Services. As an Air Force veteran and current Reservist, Brother Swanzy has over a decade of military service in various regions and capacities, including as a Congressional Liaison at the Pentagon. He is a Spring 2009 Xi Beta chapter initiate. Wesley is a Troy University graduate, and he has a masters from Columbia University Business School.

Brother Exodie C. Roe III

Brother Exodie C. Roe III currently serves as Associate Administrator for the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) at the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). Prior to his Presidential Appointment to GSA, he was the Director of Policy and External Affairs for the Congressional Black Caucus under former Chairwoman Karen Bass, now Mayor Bass of Los Angeles. As a senior government executive, Brother Roe has a proven track record of working with the public and private sectors to shape political strategy, strategic communications, regulatory issues, advocacy engagement, business development, supplier diversity, and public policy. He is a Spring 2004 Beta Phi chapter initiate. Roe is a graduate of Dillard University, New Orleans.

Brother Nicholas Johnson

Brother Nicholas Johnson currently serves as the House Director in the Bureau of the Office of Legislative Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. He directs a team, advises senior leadership, and interacts with the U.S. Congress. Prior to joining the Biden-Harris Administration, Brother Johnson served as Senior Advisor to the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, Clerk to the Committee on Homeland Security, and held many roles including Legislative Assistant to Congressman Al Green of Houston, Texas. During his time on Capitol Hill, Nicholas assisted Rep. Green with legislation related to many issues including national security and police brutality. He is a Summer 2023 Alpha Eta Lambda chapter initiate. Nicholas is a graduate of Morehouse College.

Brother David Jones Jr.

Brother David Jones Jr. currently serves as the White House Liaison at the U.S. Department of Housing

and Urban Development (HUD). In this capacity, he manages the agency’s presidential appointment portfolio and spearheads the recruitment and selection of political appointments for key departmental leadership positions. Before serving as a Presidential appointee in the Biden-Harris Administration, David served as a Mayoral appointee for Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. He held various roles, including Senior Advisor to the director of the District Department of Transportation, Head of Community Engagement, and Senior Associate Director in the Executive Office of the Mayor. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, David’s professional journey began in corporate America, as an International Sales Manager at DHL Express, managing a multi-million-dollar supply chain portfolio. Before that, David worked as a Development Officer at Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland. In 2016, Brother Jones was elected to a 2-year term as an ANC Commissioner in Washington, DC, where he represented a majority black underserved district. He is a Fall 2008 Alpha Phi chapter initiate. He is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and has a masters from the University of the District of Columbia.

Brother Yvesner Zamar

Brother Yvesner Zamar is the Special Assistant to the Chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Rochelle M. Garza, who is the youngest person to serve in that capacity. Prior to joining the Administration, he served as the Legislative Director for Freshmen Congressman Jonathan Jackson, the son of civil rights advocate, Jessie Jackson, and Godson of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., establishing his legislative agenda to address his priorities of advancing social justice, combating gun violence, increasing access to healthcare, providing economic stability, and expanding business equity. Zamar served as the Senior Legislative Assistant for then Congresswoman, now U.S. Secretary of Interior, Deb Haaland, one of the 1st Native American women elected to Congress. He also served as Legislative Counsel to the late Congressman John Conyers Jr., the former Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, first Black Dean of Congress, and the Co-Founder of the Congressional Black Caucus. He is a Fall 2003 Iota Delta chapter initiate. Zamar is a Florida State University graduate.

Brother Dwight J. Lacy

Brother Dwight J. Lacy is an Attorney Advisor at The White House within the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), Office of the General Counsel. Lacy has gained experience advising the Director of ONDCP on the development of the National Drug Control Strategy, coordination of Executive Order Equity Action plans, and serves as the Deputy Agency Ethics Official. He began his career in government at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, where he coordinated nationwide investigations of Food Safety violations, assessed civil penalties to promote compliance, and developed criminal referrals to the Department of Justice, Assistant United States Attorney’s Office. He is a Spring 2007 Epsilon Chi chapter initiate. Brother Lacy is a University of Kentucky graduate.

Brother Trevor D. Jones

Brother Trevor D. Jones serves as the White House Liaison for the U.S. General Service Administration (GSA) under the Biden-Harris Administration. As the White House Liaison, he serves as the primary advisor to the White House and GSA senior leadership on policy and operational matters pertaining to the appointment process for Schedule C and non-career executive personnel of the agency, as well as manages priority projects within the Office of the Administrator. Prior to joining GSA, Brother Jones was the Director of the Office of the President at EMILY’s List, under the leadership of now-U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA). He began his career in the U.S. House of Representatives, working on operational and legislative issues for several Members of Congress, including Assistant Democratic Leader and Congressman James Clyburn of South Carolina, Congresswoman

Kathy Castor of Florida, and Congressman Jerry McNerney of California. In December 2023, Trevor will earn a Master of Public Administration from American University. Trevor is a Spring 2014 Tau Eta chapter initiate. A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Brother Jones is a graduate of the College of Charleston.

Brother Preston Hardge

Brother Preston Hardge is a Senior Advisor at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). At the SBA, his focus includes managing SBA’s Entrepreneurial Development policy portfolio that include programs targeting underestimated communities, with a focus on disabled, rural, minority and women-owned entrepreneurs. Previously, Brother Hardge served as a Regional Organizing Director for the Georgia Coordinated Campaign during the 2020 presidential campaign cycle and held legislative and outreach roles with the State of Illinois and the City of Kansas City, Missouri. He is a Spring 2013 Mu Delta Lambda chapter initiate. A native of Texas, Brother Hardge is a graduate from Hampton University and the University of Illinois-Springfield.

Brother Garrett McDaniel

Brother Garrett McDaniel currently serves as the Director of Executive Scheduling and Operations for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Prior to joining HUD, Brother McDaniel was a public servant representing his hometown of Laurens County, SC as a member of the county council. He also served as state Political Director for then-candidate Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign and in multiple leadership roles for economic development engines within the state of South Carolina. He is a Spring 2007 Beta Delta chapter initiate. Brother McDaniel is a South Carolina State University and New Jersey Institute of Technology graduate.

Brother Laterrious “Tony” Starks

Brother Major Laterrious “Tony” Starks, originally from Dallas, TX, has served in the military for over 13 years, currently serving as the first White House Social Aide Program Manager. In this role, Major Starks advises on and executes social and ceremonial events for the President and First Lady. Most recently, he served as a Legislative Liaison and Congressional Defense Fellow, where he provided policy guidance to Members of Congress and senior military officials. Prior to his time in Washington, DC, Brother Major Starks was stationed across the world, including in Germany and South Korea, where he held roles managing a staff of 4,000 soldiers, commanding the Army’s only military linguist company, and ensuring mission preparedness as a Human Resource Officer. Parallel to his military endeavors, Brother Major Starks has continued his education, holding a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, a Master of Arts in Legal Studies, a Master of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs, and is currently a doctoral candidate in Organizational Leadership and Conflict Resolution. He is a Spring 2009 Iota Mu chapter initiate. Brother Major Starks is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University.

Brother Noah Harris

Brother Noah Harris currently serves as a Confidential Assistant in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) at The White House. Previously, Brother Harris served as Legislative Director in the Office of Congressman Bennie Thompson. While attending Harvard University, Brother Harris was elected the first Black male student body president in Harvard’s 386-year history. Harris was also chosen as a Truman Scholar for his commitment to public service and delivered the 371st Harvard Commencement Address entitled “The Caged Bird Sings.” Harris is the author of the children’s book Successville, which teaches kids they can do anything in life if they are willing to work hard in school, set goals, and develop talents. He is a

Spring 2023 Mu Lambda chapter initiate. A native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Harris graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts in Government in 2022.

Brother Elliot Doomes

Brother Elliot Doomes serves as the Commissioner of the Public Buildings Service (PBS) at the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). He is the first African American to be appointed as PBS Commissioner in the 74-year history of the GSA and is currently responsible for managing the largest real estate portfolio in the United States. As PBS Commissioner, he manages the nationwide asset management, design, construction, leasing, building management and disposal of approximately 360 million square feet of government-owned and leased space across the United States and six territories. Brother Doomes joined GSA as a Regional Administrator for the National Capital Region in January 2023 after nearly 20 years of experience in the U.S. House of Representatives. In Congress, he was the key liaison on GSA matters for both House Authorizing and Appropriations Committees where his principal responsibility was to advise Committee Members on GSA’s real property activities. Brother Doomes began his career in the office of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC). His signature staff work included passage of the Federal and District of Columbia Real Property Act of 2006, which executed a complicated land exchange between the District of Columbia, GSA, the National Park Service, and the Architect of the Capitol that has enabled hundreds of millions of dollars of economic development within the District of Columbia. He is a Spring 2002 Omicron Lambda Alpha chapter initiate. Brother Doomes earned a Juris Doctorate from the Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, DC and is a Morehouse College graduate. S

BY BROTHER BRIAN A. COOK, SR. [XI SIGMA ’00] AND BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB [NU ’89]

ALPHA PHI ALPHA MAKES HISTORY MAKES HISTORY IN LIBERIA

FIRST ALPHA BROTHER TO LEAD AN AFRICAN NATION

The Republic of Liberia is a nation full of promise, coupled with a long-standing history of being true to its native people and guests.

In January, Alpha Phi Alpha made its third organized delegation trip to Liberia, with 1976 and 2012 visits, respectively. A delegation of Alpha leadership traveled there for the inauguration of His Excellency Brother Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. as the 26th President of Liberia, making him the first Alpha to lead an African nation.

H.E. Brother Boakai, a 2012 Eta Epsilon Lambda Chapter initiate in Monrovia, Liberia – the Fraternity’s oldest chapter in Africa, had served as the vice president of Liberia under former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. from 2006 to 2018.

At arrival, an aura of African culture was felt, and the welcome was immense from the host chapter, Eta Epsilon Lambda.

“We always knew the sheer weight of the responsibility of hosting such a high-level delegation for such an auspicious occasion, but we drew encouragement from the 1976 and 2012 visits to help inform our own preparation,” says Brother Henrique Caine, who served as chairman of Eta Epsilon Lambda chapter’s 2024 delegation committee.

“I think we lived up to the task and

expectations. It was important to me, as well as all of the Brothers, that we demonstrate Alpha hospitality and add our unique Liberian and African flavor. We sought to have a fun-filled, educational, cultural, and fraternal experience.”

During the delegation trip, Brothers had the opportunity to fellowship, network, and witness first-hand the essence of the country –some for the first time in their lives.

“Not only am I connected to Africa as a continent but to the country of Liberia, I have a connection here! I felt a spiritual connection to the people here,” says General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, who was overjoyed at the opportunity to lead the Alpha delegation. “It has been a tremendous experience reflecting on the history, but also interfacing on the people of this nation and their ability to bring back a ‘welcome back’ feeling. I couldn’t fathom how

warm it felt, how gregarious the people are, their smiles, their sincerity.”

He added how immensely proud and pleased to be “here in person and witness personally how he received our delegation, and he spent time and embraced me. It was very moving.”

The 79-year-old H.E. Brother Boakai, who defeated George Weah in a runoff election in November, but initially lost to him in the 2017 election, participated in a sweltering outdoor Jan. 22 inauguration ceremony.

He wore traditional Liberian attire for the occasion.

“Under our leadership, we will strive for Liberia to rise and take its rightful place in the world as a leader in global affairs, maintaining its traditional liberal and democratic ideals at

home while fostering international cooperation driven by ‘development diplomacy’ focused on a repurposed national development agenda aimed at giving our people better livelihoods,” says H.E. Brother Boakai, who earned a university degree in business administration and been active in Liberia’s national politics since 1980s.

He also previously served as the Minister of Agriculture from 1983 to 1985. While Minister of Agriculture, H.E. Brother Boakai chaired the 15-nation West African Rice Development Association.

In 1992, he was the managing director of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company (LPRC). He later worked as a consultant to the World Bank in Washington and founded a firm dealing in agricultural equipment and consultancy. He has served as board chairman

of the Liberia Wood Management Corporation and the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company.

He consulted with several institutions, including serving as Chief Technical Advisor on Agriculture Policy, Ministry of Agriculture. H.E. Brother Boakai reviewed and evaluated the Liberian 1986 proposed Green Revolution and FAO World Bank 1986 Agricultural sector Review Document and evaluated AMSCO, Amsterdam Funded training program for projects in Uganda in 1994 and Tanzania in 1996.

H.E. Brother Boakai is also the owner of LUSU Resource Corporation and co-owner of AGROMACHINES Liberia.

“Let me now speak directly to the youth,” says H.E. Brother Boakai during his inauguration address. “You will be the drivers of the change we seek. As our future, you are invited to be more involved as we explore ways of working with you to develop a national service program to help prepare young people for future leadership roles. Our agenda will create the space you need. You must therefore prepare yourselves to play a significant role in changing your country.”

Unfortunately, the inauguration ceremony had to be cut short to due H.E. Brother Boakai suffering heat exhaustion, but doctors later declared him ‘perfectly fine’ as he resumed his normal activities.

Regardless, the impact of the visit had a profound impact on the delegation.

The Fraternity’s Executive Director Brother Sean L. McCaskill, who visited Liberia in 2011 while serving as the 26th Eastern Region Vice President, reflects upon his visit to recharter the Eta Epsilon Lambda Chapter as well as the current visit.

“This was not just an ordinary chapter chartering, because president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Vice President Joseph Boakai were both in attendance. The power and influence of Alpha Phi Alpha was on full display because it’s extremely rare that the president and vice president are in the same place at the same time,” he says. “I know that that experience had an effect on him because he became a member of this Brotherhood the following year. 2011 to 2024 has come full circle! What a blessing!

Brother McCaskill highlighted an Inauguration moment.

“There was a moment where the Regional Assistant Vice President Brother Omer Yousif was able to exchange the fraternal grip with Brother President (Boakai), and clasping of hands,” he says. “I could feel the exchange of hope and inspiration. I know that the Jewels were looking down on this moment saying, ‘Job well done.’”

For Eastern Regional Vice President Brother Christopher Ellis, he saw the visit as symbolic to Alpha’s expansion and influence.

“When I walked on the beach, and I looked at the tiny grains of sand, I thought about all the souls and all of the stories that were told and the vibrancy of this country,” says ERVP Brother Ellis. “I looked down at the footprints, and I thought that we had taken steps as a Fraternity on the continent of Africa! This was a tremendous Brotherhood experience, and I am so happy that I was a part of this delegation.”

He added, “I am so happy to have deep and meaningful conversations with not only the officers of the Fraternity and members of the Board, but also the Brothers on the ground

in Liberia and, of course, our Brother, His Excellency Brother Boakai. It was a tremendous experience to meet the new Head of State.”

Since H.E. Brother Boakai’s election, several Fraternity members have been appointed to his cabinet, and have been in strategic positions in the country.

“For 65 years, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity has provided stellar leadership and service to the Republic of Liberia through strategic chapter projects and leadership impact through individual Brothers in the public and private sectors,” says Brother T. Nelson Williams, II, who is executive director of the International Association of Alpha Chapters. “Today, the Ministry of Defense is headed by an Alpha Man, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia . . . We can boast of two bank presidents, four Alpha doctors, CEO, CFOs, COOs, and Engineers to name a few. Our military Brothers are ensuring that Liberia remains peaceful while others are contributing to the growth and development of Liberia.”

For Eastern Regional Assistant Vice President Brother Yousif Omer, the Liberian delegation offered an opportunity to strengthen his commitment as a global citizen as well as his growth as a young leader within the Fraternity’s board of directors, and the organization overall.

“Returning to the Motherland, particularly as a representative of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., held deep personal significance for me,” says ERAVP Omer. “Hailing from the Republic of Sudan, witnessing the peaceful transition of power during the inauguration of His Excellency President Joseph Boakai, Sr., was a proud moment for Liberia and a historic and emotional experience for the entire African continent. The sense of unity and belonging transcended borders, reminded me that the Motherland knows no boundaries, and I felt an immediate sense of home with every interaction I had.”

The delegation also visited with students in Monrovia at the Cyber-Ed Christian School

(Pre-K - 12), whose mission is to “help children come into confident possession of their innate talents, acquire the skills needed for success in college anywhere in the world.” Brother Omer led a discussion with high school students, including affirmations to enhance their daily routines and to encourage them to pursue higher education.

The chapter also plans to break ground soon on the construction of its Alpha Resource Center, including a library, a technology hub, and research lab to serve Liberian youth.

“Connecting with the young scholars in Liberia was incredibly moving,” he says. “We engaged in conversations about college life in the United States, discussing the challenges and rewards of balancing academics with extracurricular activities.

“The connection I forged with young Liberians emphasized the power of cross-cultural dialogues, teaching me that our shared experiences as students transcend borders.” S

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

FRATERNITY RECOGNIZES BETA CLASS OF ITS PRESTIGIOUS

UNDER

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, inc. recognized its Beta Class for its prestigious 40 Under 40

The 40 under 40, which was first recognized in the Special 2023 Issue of the Sphinx, highlights 40 Alpha Brothers 40 years and younger who have distinguished themselves in each of the following seven professional categories, including: Civic engagement, Education, Entertainment, Finance, Healthcare, Media, and Technology.

“With the announcement of our Beta Class of the 40 Under 40, this initiative continues to recognize the fruits of the Fraternity’s mission ‘to develop leaders,’” says Brother Denny N. Johnson, the Fraternity’s director of

brotherhood engagement. “It also highlights and encourages these Alpha Brothers as not only examples, but to serve as mentors to our College Brothers, who also aspire to be highperforming professionals and leader as well.”

Nominations and applications from the brotherhood for the 40 under 40 were submitted, reviewed, and evaluated by the committee, which included: Brother Denny N. Johnson, Chairman, HQ General Office; Brother Matthew S. Bradford, Co-Chairman; Brother Dayan M. Bourne, Southern Region; Brother Lewis Brewer, Jr., Southwestern Region; Brother Marcus A. Creighton, Midwestern Region; Brother Darrius J. Gourdine, Southern Region; Brother Byron Holly, Eastern Region; and lastly, Brother Ralph D. Thompson, Western Region. S

THE 40 UNDER 40 BETA CLASS

BROTHER CHRISTOPHER T. ALEXANDER ZETA ZETA LAMBDA

BROTHER DARIYEN J. CARTER GAMMA PHI LAMBDA

BROTHER JASON ASIRIFI THETA IOTA LAMBDA

BROTHER LAEL CHAPPELL KAPPA XI LAMBDA

BROTHER SHANTONIO L. ELLIOTT PI LAMBDA BROTHER BLAIR L. ELLISON SIGMA DELTA LAMBDA

BROTHER ANDRAY L. HOLMES XI GAMMA LAMBDA

BROTHER LATIF A. LEGEND GAMMA PHI LAMBDA

BROTHER ERNEST HOLMES ETA LAMBDA

BROTHER JONATHAN G. LEON GENERAL ORGANZIATION

BROTHER DR. ANTHONY BROUGHTON ALPHA PSI LAMBDA

BROTHER KIRK A. BROWN ETA LAMBDA

BROTHER KEDARIOUS C. COLBERT NU TAU LAMBDA BROTHER STEVEN N. DIAL II ALPHA SIGMA LAMBDA

BROTHER TREVON J. FRIAR GAMMA ZETA LAMBDA

BROTHER ROOSEVELT HOLMES III DELTA XI LAMBDA

BROTHER JOSHUA E. LUBATKIN EPSILON LAMBDA

BROTHER NICHOLAS X. HARRISON RHO KAPPA LAMBDA

BROTHER DR. TODD C. JENKINS JR. OMICRON ZETA LAMBDA

BROTHER TYSON K. MCKENZIE NU MU LAMBDA

BROTHER VINROY D. BROWN JR. ZETA IOTA LAMBDA

BROTHER DR. CECIL A. DUFFIE BETA BETA LAMBDA

BROTHER LUICO R. HOLLAND ETA MU LAMBDA

BROTHER DR. RELIUS J. JOHNSON NU PI LAMBDA

BROTHER ANTHONY M. MITCHELL GENERAL ORGANZIATION

BROTHER ANDRE’ M. MITCHELL PI XI LAMBDA

BROTHER JOHN C. SCOTT GENERAL ORGANZIATION

BROTHER CORTEZ L. WATKINS IOTA DELTA LAMBDA

BROTHER DR. ARCHIE M. MOSS JR. SIGMA RHO LAMBDA

BROTHER DR. CHARLES R. SHORETTE II NU TAU LAMBDA

BROTHER PHILLIP L. WILKERSON II THETA RHO LAMBDA

BROTHER JAMAL J. MYRICK MU XI LAMBDA

BROTHER CHRISTOPHER J. SUGGS ZETA ETA LAMBDA

BROTHER BRANDON M. WILLIAMS EPSILON LAMBDA

BROTHER DR. JAMEL PRICE ETA PSI LAMBDA

BROTHER KENRICK P. THOMAS JR. GENERAL ORGANZIATION

BROTHER ANTWON D. WOODS SIGMA SIGMA LAMBDA

BROTHER CLAYTON M. PRYOR IOTA DELTA LAMBDA

BROTHER LUKENDRIC A. WASHINGTON GAMMA ZETA LAMBDA

BROTHER MARQUES E. ZAK ETA LAMBDA

A. Black & Gold Cufflinks, #7000

B. Everyday ID Pendant, #KMP031

C. NEW Emmett Dog Tag Necklace, #EMMET

D. Official Ring, #4044

E. Official Ring with Diamonds, #5855

F. FOB Cufflinks, #22925FUT

G. Enameled FOB Tie Tac, #22925TTF

H. Tungsten Ring, #Q001

I. NEW 40 Year Pin, #25361

J. Black & Gold Lapel Button, #0336

BY BROTHER DR. JEROME OFFORD, JR. [ALPHA PSI ’92]

ALL HAIL THE KING: ALPHA PHI ALPHA BROTHER REIGNS AS MISTER HBCU CHAMPION

TWO OTHER ALPHA BROTHERS NAMED FIRST AND SECOND RUNNER-UPS

On the electrifying night of Saturday, January 27, 2024, the prestigious title of the 20th Mister HBCU™ was bestowed upon Brother Hunter Waldon, a Spring 2023 initiate of Eta Gamma. This momentous occasion took place during the 20th annual Mister HBCU Kings’ Leadership Conference and Competition, Inc., held in the vibrant city of St. Louis, MO. Brother Hunter, proudly representing Prairie View A&M University, faced off against 27 other HBCU Kings, and his victory was nothing short of monumental. Yet, it was not just the crown that made this event unforgettable – it was the conference’s profound impact on Black men, mental health, and community service, introducing him to a Brotherhood of likeminded Kings.

Brother Waldon now shares the throne with three remarkable HBCU Kings, two of whom are also esteemed Alpha Phi Alpha Brothers. Brother Mahlon West, a Spring 2022 initiate of Beta Chapter and Mister Howard University, takes the honor of being the First Runner Up to Mister HBCU™. Meanwhile, Brother Christopher Lawrence, a Spring 2023 initiate of Beta Gamma Chapter and Mister Virginia State University, stands tall as one of the historically tied second runnerups. Brother Lawrence reflects on his transformative journey: “This experience profoundly shaped my growth and development as a young man. It revealed facets of my character I never knew existed and taught me the importance of vulnerability.” He humorously

recalls coming to the event to compete and win but discovering genuine brotherhood and trust within this newfound family of Kings. Brother West shared, “The Mister HBCU conference and competition was a unique experience. This was not only for the kings to connect and compete but also created a space for young student leaders to connect and build networks that couldn’t be found anywhere else. I came into the space thinking it was a competition but left with bonds worth more than any award.”

The Mister HBCU Kings Leadership Conference and Competition, Inc., was born in 2004 under the visionary leadership of Benecia Spencer Williams, then Vice President for Advancement at Lincoln University of Missouri. Its mission was to advocate for, prepare, guide, and foster brotherhood among HBCU Kings. In 2015, the torch was passed to Bro. Dr. Jerome Offord Jr., who assumed the lead role in the organization and later incorporated it as an independent 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity in 2016. As the President and CEO, Brother Dr. Jerome Offord Jr. has guided a dedicated team of volunteers, who remain steadfast in upholding the organization’s mission and values. Remarkably, after two decades in Missouri, the conference and competition are set to embark on a new journey to Charlotte, NC, in January 2025. To delve deeper into the organization’s initiatives and watch their impactful Mental Health PSA tailored for young Black men, visit: misterhbcu.org. S

BROTHER DEVEAUX RECEIVES FIFTH HIGHEST NATIONAL HONOR AS CITIZEN OF THE BAHAMAS

The Bahama’s Governor-General and The Chancellor of The Societies of Honor presented Brother Dr. Ricardo P. Deveaux with The Order of Distinction – Companion – the fifth highest national honor presented to a citizen of The Bahamas by The Governor-General on behalf of the Government of The Bahamas.

Brother Dr. Deveaux, a 1988 Delta Beta Chapter initiate of the Fraternity at Bethune-Cookman University, is the deputy permanent secretary for the ministry of education and technical and vocational training as well as the president and chief executive officer of the Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year Foundation. The award was presented in recognition of his work with the awards program for the past 28 years, which he was instrumental in its establishment.

Under his leadership, the awards program has recognized over 3,000 of the BEST and BRIGHTEST primary school students and awarded over $2.5 million dollars’ worth of scholarships and prizes since 1997.

Brother Dr. Deveaux is a 1990 graduate of Bethune-Cookman College (now University) with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology with honors as well as is a 1992 graduate of Nova Southeastern University with Master of Science degree in human services with a specialization in human resource management. In May 2009, he delivered the commencement address at BethuneCookman University and was awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters (LHD).

Within the Fraternity, he is the 15th chapter president of the Iota Epsilon Lambda Chapter and is the past Bahamas area director, Florida Federation of Alpha Chapter; past chairman, international brothers affairs and the current director, J. C. Rawls Florida Federation of Alpha Chapters Education Foundation. S

BROTHER HAYMAN AMONG MODERN-DAY TECHNOLOGY LEADERS AWARDEES AT BLACK ENGINEER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Brother Kendall Hayman, manager for remote sensing programs, systems engineering, integration & test at Northrup Grumman was among the Modern-Day Technology Leaders Award winners during the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year Awards (BEYA) Global Competitiveness Conference, held in Baltimore, MD in February.

The BEYA Awards, which also honored top African American military leaders in STEM, recognized technology leaders and their contributions to the future STEM workforce. The BEYA conference, which is an annual event that recognizes innovators and trailblazers in their professional careers, also includes educational and public awareness programs, magazines, and other products and services.

Brother Hayman, a 1989 Nu Chapter initiate at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, where he initially attended, participating in the in the intensive Lincoln’s Advanced Science and Engineering Reinforcement (LASER) Program, but later transferred to the University of Delaware, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering.

During the conference, Northrup Grumman also recognized Brother Hayman for outstanding

achievement in a separate ceremony.

Brother Hayman has enjoyed a diverse career of more than 10 years with Northrop Grumman. He began his career as a senior designer of digital hardware in the Digital Systems Technology group in the electronics systems sector. After serving in this capacity for five years, he moved up the ranks from principal engineer to integrated product team (IPT) lead to technical lead.

Realizing the obstacles engineers faced during the early years of their career in hardware design, he often mentored fellow engineers within the department. He also took the initiative to develop and teach several department classes, which now serve as required training for newly hired hardware designers. Currently, Brother Hayman, who is responsible for analyzing and improving processes within the Digital Systems organization, oversees 70 Engineers and six front-line managers. His contributions are key to ensuring best practices for hardware design at Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems (NGES). 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 AUGUSTINE NAMED HEAD OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN SECRETARIAT OF US CONFERENCE OF CATHOLICS OF BISHOPS

Brother Dr. Ansel Augustine has been named assistant director of multicultural affairs, and head of the African American Secretariat, of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in April.

Brother Augustine has worked in ministry for 25 years in various capacities (youth, young adult, prison, campus, multicultural). He had worked as the director of the office of Black Catholic Ministries for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Brother Augustine has written several books and is an Emmy nominated producer for his documentary, “Black Faith Matters,” and has won multiple awards throughout his ministry career. He is a Spring 1996 initiate of the Rho Epsilon Chapter and is a member of the Sigma Lambda Chapter in New Orleans, Louisiana. S

BROTHER GEORGE L. VAN AMSON RECOGNIZED AS THE 75TH RECIPIENT OF THE ALEXANDER HAMILTON MEDAL

Brother George L. Van Amson (Zeta Eta, ‘71) was recognized as the 75th Recipient of the Alexander Hamilton Medal at an award dinner held in his honor on November 16, 2023. The Alexander Hamilton Medal is the highest honor awarded to a member of the Columbia College community for distinguished service to the college and accomplishment in any field of endeavor. It was presented by the Columbia College Alumni Association, Columbia College Dean Josef Sorett and Columbia University President Minouche Shafik.

Brother Van Amson earned an economics degree from Columbia College in 1974, and is managing director of institutional equity sales and trading at Morgan Stanley. He is also head of The Americas Analyst and Associate Advising and Development Programs in Morgan Stanley’s Institutional Equity Division. Van Amson is a 45-year Wall Street veteran with expertise in domestic and international markets as well as in organizational leadership. He joined Morgan Stanley in 1992 and held various senior trading roles before becoming manager of the sales trading service desk for global wealth management clients. Prior to that, he was a VP at Goldman Sachs in the Trading and Arbitrage Division. Brother Van Amson earned an MBA with honors from Harvard Business School in 1982.

He has received numerous awards, including being named to Black Enterprise’s “Top African Americans on Wall Street” list three times (in 1992, 1996 and 2006). He was the recipient of the 1993 World Economic Forum Global Leader award; the 2007 Racial Harmony award, presented by the Foundation for Ethnic

Understanding; the 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award from Brooklyn Technical H.S.; and the 2017 Harvard Business School Alumni Professional Achievement Award.

Brother Van Amson was initiated in 1971 through the Zeta Eta Chapter and has served in continuous leadership roles including as a member of the General Board of Directors as an Assistant Vice President (Eastern Region). He is currently active with Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter - The Wall Street Alphas. Van Amson was on the board of Harvard Business School Alumni Association and president of the HBS African American Alumni Association. He has been a member of the Riverside Church Council; chair of the United Negro College Fund Wall Street Campaign; and on the investment committee of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund. He is currently vice-chair of the board of the Amsterdam Nursing Home and on the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Opera.

As an undergraduate, Van Amson was the president of his freshman and sophomore classes, a varsity football and baseball player, a leader of Zeta Eta Chapter and an active member of the Black Students Organization.

Brother Van Amson visits campus often to mentor students and attend Lions football and basketball games.

Additionally, he remains connected to Columbia as a University Trustee emeritus and as a chair emeritus of the Columbia Alumni Association. He is also the director of Community Impact, a service organization that sends student volunteers into New York City neighborhoods and has also been on the Columbia College Board of Visitors. Van Amson was honored with a 2000 John Jay Award for distinguished professional achievement, a 2009 Columbia Alumni Achievement Award and a 2013 Varsity C Alumni Athletic Award.

Brother Van Amson resides on the Upper West Side of Manhattan with his wife, Wendy. They have three children; Alexandra, Victoria and Schuyler. S

BROTHER JUDGE GORDON C. MURRAY EARNS TWO HIGHLY PRESTIGIOUS JUDICIAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE AND PROFESSIONALISM

Brother Miami-Dade County Judge Gordon Murray received the 2023 Chief Justice Award for Judicial Excellence from Florida Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz at the Annual Education Program of the Conference of County Court Judges. He also received the William M. Hoeveler Judicial Professionalism Award.

Brother Judge Murray attended the University of Miami, where he received his B.A. in politics and public administration and earned his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law. He has been a judge for 10 years, beginning his judicial career as a general magistrate in the 11th Circuit, where he served for five years before being appointed a county judge in 2017.

“Judge Murray is a judge of the people who has spent countless hours implementing programs that provide better access and justice for our community,” said Miami-Dade County Court Associate Administrative Judge Milena Abreu.

The Chief Justice Awards for Judicial Excellence, established in 2015, recognizes one county court judge

and one circuit judge who demonstrates exceptional commitment to the judicial branch.  Recipients personify judicial excellence by exhibiting qualities such as strength of character, integrity, fairness, openmindedness, knowledge of the law, sound judgment, professional ethics, intellectual courage, compassion, and decisiveness.

The William M. Hoeveler Judicial Professionalism Award is given each year by the Henry Latimer Center for Professionalism and the Standing Committee on Professionalism which recognizes an active judge who best exemplifies “strength of character, service, and competence as a jurist, lawyer, and public servant.”

Brother Judge Murray began

his career in public service in 1986 as an assistant state attorney. He has experience in private legal practice and served as a magistrate for the City of South Miami and the 11th Judicial Circuit. During the pandemic, Judge Murray helped ensure “an efficient and effective transition to remote hearings, successfully maintaining safe access to the courts,” according to a statement from the court.

He played a key role in creating CourtHELP, an online early dispute resolution portal designed to assist landlords and tenants. Brother Judge Murray’s efforts have helped institute an online early dispute resolution portal for credit card cases to enhance CourtHelp.

Brother Judge Murray also worked to create a blind filing system for the county civil division to relieve the burden of a substantial increase in court filings.

Brother Judge Murray is also committed to the Miami-Dade area legal community. He has been an

adjunct professor at Miami-Dade College since 1995 and participates annually at their Miami-Dade College Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Summer Program. He has lectured for the Miami-Dade County Medical Association, teaching doctors and other medical professionals on understanding and responding to victims of possible domestic violence. He has presided over the final round of the Honorable Earle Zehiner Memorial Mock Trial Competition sponsored by the Florida Justice Association for many years.

Judge Murray has been the recipient of numerous honors. He received The Florida Bar’s 2023 William M. Hoeveler Judicial Professionalism Award; The Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Award; The Cuban American Bar Association Distinguished Service Award; The Miami-Dade County Community Pillar Award; and The Women’s History Coalition of MiamiDade County, Inc.’s 15 Years of Outstanding Service Award. S

NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA REGIMENTAL MILITARY HALL OF FAME AWARD 2023

Brother CPT (Retired) Donald R. Davis was designated a Distinguished Military Graduate and commissioned in the Medical Services Corps upon his graduation from Northwestern State. His military education includes the AMEDD Basic and Advanced Officer Course, Air Assault School, the Combined Arms Service Staff School, and other specialty and developmental courses. He completed graduate studies at Webster University, University of Phoenix, and Omega Bible Institute and Seminary, earning an MA in Human Resources Development, an MBA, and a PhD in Divinity, respectively.

Brother CPT Davis began his military career as an enlisted soldier in January 1976, and has held a variety of leadership positions ranging from Medical Company Squad Leader to Platoon Sergeant and finally Company Commander. He is a Distinguished Member of the Army Medical Department Regiment and belongs to the Order of Military Medical Merit. CPT Davis has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with nine Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Combat Medical Badge. He was selected as the United States Army Soldier of the year in 1983. He is a Life Member and a 1986 initiate of the Theta Chi Chapter at Northwestern State University. CPT Davis served as the Southwestern Region Project Officer for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, spearheading the

Fraternity’s recovery efforts and was inducted to the Texas Council of Chapters’ Hall of Fame in 2005.

Brother CPT Davis retired from the military in 1998 and is now an active member of his community. He is the Associate Minister of Greater Emmanuel Family Worship Center and the past executive director for Unity Spirit Youth Outreach Center. He began his second career in the education field and has worked as a JROTC Senior Army Instructor for more than 20 years. He was named Distinguished Educator Scholar and JROTC Instructor of the Year. He was elected to the Spring Independent School District School Board and was appointed as Director of the Education Foundation, where he served on the Spring ISD Bond Steering Committee and Political Action Committee that passed an $850 million school bond measure in 2023.

He is the proud father of two daughters, Sharon and Dieatra, and the primary caretaker of his special needs brother, Tony. In 2000, he helped create the Nellie Marshall “D’Ray” Educational Scholarship in honor of his great-grandmother, who is noted as the first Black female business owner in Gilbert, Louisiana. The scholarship has awarded over $60,000 to high school seniors across the country.

Brother Davis authored two books: Imagery - From Whence I Come, which is the true story of Donald Ray Davis, inspired by his great-grandmother, and Seats at the Table.

Brother Davis is a natural leader and counts as his personal philosophy, “If I can help someone along my way, then my living shall not be in vain.” S

ONE OF MEMPHIS’ LARGEST LAW FIRM ANNOUNCES BROTHER CAMPBELL AS FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN CHIEF MANAGER IN ITS HISTORY

One of Memphis’ largest law firms, Harris Shelton Hanover Walsh, PLLC, named Brother Christopher S. Campbell [Omicron Zeta Lambda ’95] as chief manager of the firm – making him the first African American attorney to lead the growing law firm.

Bringing more than 25 years of diverse litigation and appellate expertise to the position, he becomes the first African American attorney to lead the growing law firm. In this new role, Brother Campbell will lead Harris Shelton toward its goal of giving its clients throughout the Mid-South the highest level of legal representation. He will oversee the broad responsibilities of firm operations, development, and growth initiatives, among others.

“Being at the forefront is nothing new for Harris Shelton,” says Brother Campbell in a written statement. “We were first led by Joe Hanover when he carried the suffrage movement, and our firm is committed to continuing its legacy of shattering glass ceilings, both within the firm and for our clients. I am eager to see where we go next.”

With offices in Memphis, Covington, Nashville, and Oxford, Mississippi, Harris Shelton has a wide reach that Campbell and the team plan to grow. The firm carries one of the most diverse portfolios of practice areas in the Memphis area, 62 in total, including litigation, real estate, healthcare, transactional, tax law, estate planning, corporate, bankruptcy, and municipal law. Of the firm’s more than 50 attorneys, 32 were named to the prestigious 2023 Best Lawyers in America list.

“As we move into next year, so much is happening in our area – Blue Oval City is making a billion-dollar investment just north of Memphis, Nashville is growing rapidly, and Oxford continues to steadily grow and diversify,” says Brother Campbell. “As we add new attorneys, we do so with the mindset of meeting the growth and innovation across different industries. The law continues to evolve, and so do we.”

Together, Harris Shelton’s attorneys have been providing legal advice for more than 150 years. Its history includes Joseph Hanover, who persuaded the Tennessee General Assembly in 1920 to become the required 36th and final state to ratify the 19th Amendment giving women the opportunity to vote. Another founding member, Walter Chandler helped to pass The Bankruptcy Act of 1938, also known as the Chandler Act, which expanded voluntary access to the bankruptcy system in the United States. He would later go on to win the landmark United States Supreme Court case, Baker vs. Carr, which paved the way for diversity and equal protection in legislative districting throughout the country. Campbell and his partners look forward to continuing the legacy of Harris Shelton in advancing the law for the betterment of all. S

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

Brother Malcolm Williams: Exemplar of Alpha’s Mission Statement

Brother Malcolm Williams’ journey in the Fraternity clearly exemplifies our mission statement that “Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. … promotes brotherhood and academic excellence …” At 84, this past December, Brother Williams earned a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University in the social sciences with a minor in Black Global Studies after resuming his studies nearly 60 years later.

The Brothers of Pi Alpha and Rho Delta Lambda Chapters helped him to settle in at Clemson and to become acclimated to the campus and the rigors of academic life. They advised him on courses of study, time management, and expectations. Many of them studied with him and prepared him for exams.

He grew up in Detroit and joined the Army right after graduating from high school in 1956. He served in both Korea and Vietnam as a surgical technician. Because of his medical training, fellow servicemen called him “Doc.” While in the military, he experienced overt racial discrimination for the first time while stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, where he encountered “Whites only” and “Blacks only” segregation signs. Later at Fort Campbell, Tennessee, he was refused service at a bar.

Returning to Detroit after military service, he frequented Motown’s Hitsville studio because of a romantic interest and worked several odd jobs, as a bartender and part-time chauffeur for the Supremes who were just beginning their musical careers. The job therefore did not pay that much. He decided that he needed a college degree and enrolled at Ferris State

College in Big Rapids, Michigan, which had become a public institution only in 1950. Brother Williams began his journey in Alpha there as charter member of Zeta Beta Chapter in 1966.

When the state cut the school’s budget, he had to drop out of school. For the next 35 years, he worked as an auditor for technology firms around the country when an old Army buddy suggested he move to Greenville, South Carolina, where he worked for the Columbus Serum Company until it folded in 2008. At 68, he was unemployed and not ready for retirement. Not one to idle his time, he enrolled at Greenville Technical College. He is quoted in the Clemson News that he wanted “to be educated, not vegetated.” He had become an honors student at Greenville Technical College and a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society, which together with his determination and resilience helped him to enroll at Clemson University at 78 years old.

At first, he commuted from Greenville to Clemson, an hour bus ride each way that left him exhausted. The Clemson Student Veteran Association learned of his plight, found him an apartment, and moved him close to campus.

When Brother Kenneth Robinson, a Professor of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice was introduced to Brother Williams and discovered that he was an Alpha, ensured he had the support he needed. While half Brother William’s age, Brother Robinson became a mentor, a Brother’s Brother, and a friend. S

Sources: Clemson News, April 16, 2018, and December 11, 2023.

CHAPTER NEWS

ALABAMA

| DELTA THETA LAMBDA AND DELTA GAMMA CHAPTER

Delta Theta Lambda and Delta Gamma chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. celebrated their 75th Anniversary of their establishment last year.

This was the largest ever celebration for the chapters and included several activities during April 13 – 16, 2023 in Huntsville, Alabama. The activities included a golf tournament, several receptions, a gala, and an endowment. meeting. There were several significant recognition and announcement, including inductions of the chapters’ charter members into the Hall of Fame, the presentation of the Sphinx Award of Excellent to the Alpha Ensemble, and the Brothers Pledge to contribute a minimum of $275,000 to a Scholarship Endowment Fund for Alabama A&M University.

Delta Theta Lambda and Delta Gamma chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. were chartered in Huntsville, Alabama on April 13, 1948. The chapters were chartered by honorable men who found a need to bring the presence of Alpha to Alabama A&M and the Huntsville community. Both chapters’ presents and influence immediately spread throughout the university, the city, state, region, country, and world. This legacy of manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind has continue for over 75 years.

The 13 charter members of Delta Theta Lambda Chapter are Brothers Dr. Henry Bradford, Jr., Edward E. Caldwell, Eddie L. Callahan, Dr. Joseph F. Drake, Dr. Henry C. Fearn, Dr. Isiah. L Fort, George H. Hobson, Ralph H. Lee, William M. Martin Jr., George O. McCalep, Hedly B. Provience, George H. Reynolds, and Newman M. Sykes.

The 11 charter members of Delta Gamma chapter are Brothers Henry L. Clisby, George Davis, Sherman McMillan, Jr., Grady C. Moore, Johnny V. Rigby, Harold W. Tapscott, Clark Thomas, Remus Thompson, Percy White, Joseph L. Wilson, and Lorenzo Wyatt

Having distinguished themselves as administrators, educators, physicians, public servants, religious leaders, entrepreneurs, and connoisseurs of the arts, initiates and members of Delta Theta Lambda and Delta Gamma

Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., located in Huntsville, Alabama, have shared a rich history of association and growth and continue to build on their legacy of seventy-five years of developing leaders, promoting brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy to their communities.

CALIFORNIA

|

ZETA SIGMA LAMBDA CHAPTER

As the sun rose over San Diego on Jan. 14, the streets began to fill with a palpable sense of anticipation. The Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., alongside dedicated community members, were set to honor Brother Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in what has become a cherished tradition – the 42nd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade.

Brother Dr. Robert Walker, ZSL President, stood amidst the vibrant crowd, his voice resonating with the words of Brother Rev. Dr. King: “We must learn to live together as Brothers or perish together as fools.”

This parade featured a lively tapestry of floats, fraternity and sorority members, drill teams, and educational institutions. It began at North Harbor Drive and Ash Street, weaving through the city to Seaport Village, each step a testament to Dr. King’s dream of equality and justice. This year’s commemoration extended beyond the parade. The inaugural MLK 5K Walk Run, a vibrant addition, saw participants from various corners of the community, embodying the spirit of unity and health. Partnerships with Black Men Run San Diego, Black Girls Run San Diego, and other local organizations played a pivotal role in this successful expansion. Their involvement is expected to triple in the future, amplifying Dr. King’s message to a broader audience.

The health fair, an essential addition to the day’s events, was inextricably linked to Brother Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s philosophy. After the colorful procession, it served as a symbol of communal harmony and wellbeing. In keeping with Dr. King’s inspirational statement that “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhuman,” local volunteers

and organizations came together to provide a range of health services and supplies. This expo went beyond the typical scope of health screenings and events. It was a striking example of Dr. King’s dream of universal wellness and fair access to healthcare for people of all socioeconomic backgrounds.

Participants from a range of backgrounds came together to share their expertise and experiences, which promoted a greater comprehension of the issues surrounding community health.

This varied assembly demonstrated the message of Dr. King’s continuing relevance in the current environment, particularly considering the healthcare inequalities that continue to impact communities of color. By planning the health fair, the Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter successfully connected Dr. King’s earlier activism with current initiatives to alleviate these gaps. It served as a moving reminder of the fraternity’s dedication to honoring Dr. King’s memory via both remembrance and practical efforts to address inequalities in the medical field.

As one participant poignantly notes, “This weekend is a reminder that our work is far from over, but together, we can continue to make strides towards equality and justice.”

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

| BETA CHAPTER

Spring 1963 Beta Chapter Line Celebrates 60th Anniversary

Legacy was the theme of the night when Beta Chapter’s Spring 1963 initiates, known as the 33 of Nobility, returned to the campus of Howard University in April 2023 to celebrate 60 years in the House of Alpha.

Brother Wendell Johnson, who served as chairman of the planning committee and master of ceremonies, says the Brothers of the 33 of Nobility thought it was important to mark the occasion to celebrate the “importance of having someone in your life for 60 years and the importance of service.”

“Something happened in our formative years when we were all 19, 20 years old,” says Brother Johnson. “Whatever it was that happened transformed our lives and gave us people we can count on through thick and thin, good, bad, and indifferent. Shared experiences

add something to one’s relationship with one another. Milestones make you think of those things and how important they are.”

Since they last reunited in 2013 for their 50th anniversary, six members had transitioned to Omega Chapter with 10 members in attendance at that reunion.

In addition to Brother Johnson, the 33 of Nobility were represented by the following Brothers who were also in attendance: Brothers James Baker, Clyde Blassengale, Charles Anderson, Harold Thompson, Lavaughn Booth, Ronald Banks, and Charles Curtis.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s Executive Director, Brother Sean McCaskill, served as the keynote speaker.

“It was extremely emotional because the possibility is great that I won’t see any of these people again except for Zooms,” Brother Johnson says.

The reunion took place on the same weekend Beta Chapter presented their Spring 2023 neophytes.

“When we found out that we were going to be there when the new line went over, and that the six of the 12 initiates had fathers who are Alpha Men, two of whom were initiated into Beta Chapter, it all came together that legacy had to be a part of our celebration,” he says.

Planning for reunion began in 2021 as the Covid-19 pandemic first began subsiding, and the brothers of the 33 of Nobility were determined to not to miss the opportunity to gather in person for their 60th anniversary.

“We knew what this one represents,” Brother Johnson says. “This was important to me because it probably will be the last one. This one could be the last memory.”

FLORIDA

| IOTA PI LAMBDA CHAPTER

South Dade Alphas Encourage Vote-ByMail Registration

Recent changes to Florida’s election laws require voters to renew their application for vote-by-mail ballots each election cycle. Supervisors of Elections and community advocacy groups across the state are educating voters on this significant change in election law.

CHAPTER NEWS

The South Dade Alphas are doing their part to inform voters to renew their vote-by-mail applications. On Saturday, Aug. 26, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Iota Pi Lambda and Eta Delta chapters held a voter phone banking activity which reached nearly 600 voters.

The organizations partnered with Equal Ground Florida to host the phone bank. Equal Ground is a communitycentered organization which educates and empowers voters in underserved communities.

“Educating voters about their rights under the new state laws is key to protecting our democracy,” said Brother Takevess Hatcher, president of the Iota Pi Lambda chapter. “With every phone call we make it is more likely that the voter will participate in our local and national elections.”

The phone banking activity was held at THC Tax Services in Florida City and focused on voters in the southern region of Miami-Dade County, a rural area with a large bloc of Black and Hispanic voters.

According to the Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections website, “due to recent changes in Florida law, all requests for vote-by-mail ballots expired at the end of 2022. Therefore, any request on file has expired.”

Brother Joshua Brooks, president of the Eta Delta Chapter at the University of Miami, took time on his Saturday to help call voters and said he found the experience rewarding.

“Our ancestors fought for the right to vote. Everyone must do their part to protect the right to vote and inform others about their rights under the new laws,” Brother Brooks says.

Voter engagement is a national priority for Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Inc. The international organization has a long-standing program called, “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People,” which aims to boost voter participation locally and nationally.

“Our local chapters will continue to elevate our community through these voter engagement efforts because it’s the right thing to do and because our democracy depends on it,” says Brother Hatcher.

| THETA SIGMA CHAPTER

Theta Sigma Celebrates 50 Years of Manly Deeds, Scholarship & Love Fr All Mankind

The Theta Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., celebrated 50 years of service to the University of Florida and the Gainesville community in a weekendlong host of events, Thursday, Aug. 3 through Sunday, Aug. 6.

Alpha Brothers, Life Member #21 Dr. John C. Rawls, Albert Daniels, and Dr. Rayfield McGhee, Sr., initiated the process for creating a chapter at the University of Florida. Thus, the Theta Sigma Chapter was chartered on Thursday, August 9, 1973.

Over 150 Brothers, traveling from as far as South Africa, journeyed to the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center in Gainesville to reminisce, fellowship, and commemorate the chapter. Under the theme “Building on the Past to Face the Challenges of the Future”, Brothers engaged in an opening reception Thursday, downtown party and brotherhood smoke on Friday, a business meeting and cookout on Saturday, and a church service, led by Bishop Eric Freeman on Sunday. Brothers also established the Theta Sigma Alumni Association to assist with reclamation for the fraternity and scholarships for the chapter.

The marquee event was the 50th Anniversary Golden Gala. The black-tie soiree, held in the Century Ballroom of the Hilton, was attended by former Gainesville Mayor Cynthia Chestnut and Florida State House Representative Yvonne Hinson. Brothers and guests were serenaded by the After 5 Live Music & Entertainment of Orlando, Florida. Cecil E. Howard, Esq., Southern Region Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., served as the keynote speaker. Brothers were honored in their decade of initiation as well as recognized two Brothers, Marlon M. Ivey of Live Oak, Florida, and Dr. William L. Atkins, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as the Dr. John C. Rawls distinguished alumni awardees. Dr. Rawls’ widow, Yvonne Rawls, was also an honored guest at the gala.

The Brothers of the Theta Sigma chapter have been commended over the years for exceptional and innovative programming, dynamic and noteworthy events, and transformative and outstanding leaders. The chapter has received the high honor of National Outstanding College Chapter of the Year twice and numerous times for the Southern Region and the Florida Federation of Alpha Chapters.

At the University of Florida, Brothers have led and been inducted to the Order of Omega Honor Society, Preview Staff, Florida Cicerones, Florida Blue Key, and the Black Student Union. The chapter also boasts 11 UF Hall of

Fame inductees. The Theta Sigma Chapter has left an indelible and unparalleled mark on the university and Gainesville community.

GEORGIA

| PI GAMMA LAMBDA CHAPTER

The Pi Gamma Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is on track for another successful year of service for the residents of the Clayton County community. Espousing the ideals of “Esprit De Fraternite.” Brothers have participated in a variety of service events in various municipalities around Clayton County. Our chapter recognizes the need and the various ways to be of service to county residents.

Pi Gamma Lambda’s community wide service efforts to Clayton County residents began early in 2023 in the City of Lovejoy on cold, Saturday morning. Brothers participated in a beautification effort along the corridor of Tara Boulevard by cleaning litter and debris from this roadway. The Brothers of Pi Gamma Lambda also supported senior residents in the City of Lovejoy by participating in the Senior Citizen Breakfast for the community’s elders. Brothers assisted with set up, serving food, cleaning tables, and leading cleanup efforts at the conclusion of the event.

Councilwoman Marci Fluellyn, the event sponsor, praised the work of members of Pi Gamma Lambda for their continued support of this wonderful breakfast celebration. Pi Gamma Lambda also supported the annual Lovejoy 5K race, and Project Shoebox in conjunction with the United Way.

Brothers in attendance at the Project Shoebox event packed over 450 bags of supplies for the unhoused in and around Clayton County.

During the summer months, members of the Pi Gamma Lambda chapter in conjunction with Clayton County Schools and various churches distributed food to needy families every Wednesday in the city of Riverdale ensuring those families did not go hungry while children were out of school and many families are struggling due to the uncertainty of the country’s current economic conditions.

ILLINOIS

| THETA MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Chapter Provides Thanksgiving Meals For Families & 143 Bicycles For Children During Christmas Season

The Brothers of Theta Mu Lambda Chapter in Matteson, Illinois have been busy fulfilling the mission of serving the community.

During the holiday season, the Brothers committed to a positive impact in the community by ensuring that families had food on the table for the Thanksgiving Holiday in partnership with local churches to provide 300 Thanksgiving meals.

Additionally, the effort to serve also included the adoption of a local grade school for the Christmas season, purchasing over 143 bicycles as a gift to encourage academic excellence and bring joy to the young recipients.

Theta Mu Lambda will continue to demonstrate its dedication and long standing to the Fraternity and its values by making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

| MU ALPHA CHAPTER

Mu Alpha Lambda Chapter Awards $10,000 In College Scholarships During The MLK Holiday Weekend

Terry Horton, a senior from Auburn High School, was told he had to cut his braids if he wanted to play on the basketball team. As a Black athlete, he complied for the love of the game but knew he was being forced to take off his crown. He shared this racially charged

experience while delivering his speech, “What does racial equity mean to me?” during Mu Alpha Lambda’s MLK Scholarship and Oratorical Breakfast held at Rockford University on Jan 13.

Horton along with four other high school seniors were awarded $10,000 in college scholarships from MAL’s Leadership Foundation. They were Horton, Auburn H.S.; Hasson Bates, Auburn H.S.; Rakim Chaney, Auburn H.S.; Martez Taylor, Auburn H.S.; and Jaiden Wiggs, St. Charles North H.S.

This marks the 20th Anniversary of MAL’s MLK Scholarship event which started out as a response to young black boys killing each other in Rockford, IL in 2002 and 2003. “I served as Chaplain of Rockford Memorial Hospital and had to tell two mothers, on the same night, that their babies were gone,” says Brother Dr. Rev. Overster Armstrong, Jr. (E-Phi ’97, NBL) who served as the keynote speaker for the breakfast. “After that, I knew I wanted to showcase young African American men that were doing great things in the community.” Brother Armstrong recruited other Alpha Brothers from the area and founded the MLK Scholarship Breakfast in 2003.

Brothers of Mu Alpha Lambda have awarded more than $150,000 in scholarships to 100 youth over that past 20 years.

Scholar, Martez Taylor, recounted how he was made to feel invisible by his teachers when he sought extra help or raised his hand in class because he was one of a few Black students. He refused to let those experiences define him as he promised to break down the barriers to racial equity.

Scholar, Jaiden Wiggs, hopes to be a criminal defense attorney and fight for the rights of others after college. He shared how schools commit major injustices by limiting the opportunity to learn the real facts about African American history in public schools. He had to do his own research to learn about the civil rights movement and how redlining and other public policies contributed to racial inequality. He too promised to fight back against systematic barriers that prevent African Americans from obtaining their fair share of the American Dream.

After each presentation, Brother Marchello Johnson (DL) sang a powerful rendition of “Make them hear you” from Ragtime: The Musical by Stephen Flaherty – a song that called for justice using a sermon or a pen as long as one is heard.

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara was inspired by all the speeches and commitments to racial equity made by the young students. He had been a long-time attendee of the MAL Scholarship Breakfast and this year he was joined by State Representative Maurice West, the Chief of Police, Carla Redd, Fire Chief, Michele Pankow, and other dignitaries. Because of the large impact the MAL scholarship program

has had on local students in the area for the past 20 years, Mayor McNamara proclaimed January 13, 2024, Alpha Phi Alpha Day in Rockford, IL. Representative West followed the Mayor and delivered a proclamation from the State of Illinois to the MAL Chapter as well.

In addition, MAL’s Chapter President, Brother Anibal Vega, presented plaques to the founding members of the MLK Scholarship Breakfast event for their vision and foundation they set, including Brother Rev. Dr. Ovester Armstrong, Jr., Brother Keith Barnes, Brother Abanni Maxwell, Brother Tommy Meeks, as well as and Brother Forest Price’s (Omega Chapter) sister-in-law, Marjorie Price, who accepted on his behalf. Not present were Brother Henry Patterson, Brother Willard Draper (Omega Chapter), and Brother Derald Woods.

The Brothers and over 150 guests in attendance gave a big round of applause to the parents of the scholars. They have stood by them through four years of academic courses, countless football and basketball games, through track and field matches and supported their volunteer activities at church, with Jack and Jill of America and other youth serving organizations. The Brothers of Mu Alpha Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. proudly salutes its 2024 MLK Scholarship winners: Hasson Bates, Auburn H.S., Rakim Chaney, Auburn H.S., Terry Horton, Auburn H.S., Martez Taylor, Auburn H.S. and Jaiden Wiggs, St. Charles North H.S.

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RHO ZETA LAMBDA CHAPTER

Chapter’s Alpha Quest Program Highlights Importance Of Go-To-High School, Go-To-College

The Brothers of Rho Zeta Lambda Chapter continue to highlight the significance and importance of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc national program Go-To-High School, Go-To-College throughout their Alpha Quest youth mentoring program.

Alpha Quest youth mentees participated in a career development seminar designed to prepare them for the various options encountered when choosing a career goal upon college completion on Jan 20. Business professionals were present to elaborate on personal career achievements while providing a blueprint for successful career goal accomplishment. The Alpha Quest youth

mentoring program primary focus is to provide academic support, leadership development and cultural enrichment for male school-age youth grades 6 through 12.

Rho Zeta Lambda Chapter serves the West Chicagoland area and near west suburbs of Chicago.

LOUISIANA

| BETA PHI CHAPTER

Beta Phi Builds On 85 Years of Brotherhood with Anniversary Celebration

More than 200 Brothers convened on the campus of Dillard University as the Beta Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. celebrated its 85th anniversary in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The anniversary took place from Nov. 9 to Nov. 12 and coincided with the chapter’s Nov. 11, 1938, charter date. It was a weekend of fellowship and service, reminiscent of times and traditions established 85 years ago. The itinerary featured more than 10 events highlighted by the College Brothers Luncheon, The Golden Conversation, and the 85th Anniversary Scholarship Gala.

On the first night, the Brothers continued a decadesold tradition of meeting at Dooky Chase restaurant to fellowship and welcome brothers from across the country. Beta Phi celebrates its anniversary every five years, and 34th General President Mark S. Tillman reminded brothers that every chance to come together is a blessing.

“This is a special chapter, and this is a special milestone,” says Past General President Tillman, a Fall 1985 Beta Phi initiate. “We celebrate every five years because the next day and the next hour are not promised to us.”

The chapter anniversary overlapped with the Dillard University homecoming weekend, giving Beta Phi a unique opportunity to celebrate throughout the alumni festivities. The chapter participated in the homecoming parade and hosted the 85th Anniversary Cookout and Tailgate experience on the yard. The chapter also welcomed the Fall 2023 Beta Phi initiates during the Dillard University Neophyte Presentation.

Homecoming also allowed Brothers to be active

participants in Dillard’s homecoming career symposium to meet with current students preparing for life after college. Having Beta Phi return to the campus and be an active part of the weekend was a welcome sight for Dillard University President Dr. Rochelle Ford.

“The men of Alpha Phi Alpha who have walked the Avenue of the Oaks have made major contributions to the university,” says Dr. Ford. “Dillard University’s alumni and students who have been Alpha Phi Alpha members have been some of our most outstanding men on campus.”

On the eve of their probate show, the Fall 2023 brothers had the unique opportunity to visit with 27th General President Dr. Charles C. Teamer Sr. at his home along with Beta Phi Alumni Brothers. Dr. Teamer challenged the new initiates to embrace the anniversary weekend and their access to brothers from all over the country. He also shared Beta Phi stories from his vantage point of working as the chief financial officer and vice president of fiscal affairs at Dillard from the late ‘60s to 1997.

The Golden Conversation panel took place on Dillard’s campus and was an opportunity to learn of the rich history and legacy of Beta Phi directly from some of the chapter’s Golden Brothers. The sit-down dialogue featured Brothers from the 60s and 70s who shared stories of the development of the chapter during those years. They also discussed Beta Phi’s impact on the fraternity and the New Orleans community during the civil rights era.

Brother Dr. Mtangulizi Sanyika, a Fall 1960 initiate, participated in the conversation and was the most senior brother for the anniversary, along with his Line Brother Otto Duncan. They were among the 13 brothers who were honored with the chapter’s first-ever Golden Brother 50-Year Medal. The Brothers received special recognition during the 85th Anniversary Scholarship Gala along with other chapter awards and recognitions. During the gala, it was also announced that the chapter exceeded its anniversary challenge of raising $35,000 to donate to Dillard for the Beta Phi Endowment Scholarship.

The chapter now looks forward to the 90-year anniversary in the Fall of 2028. Until then, brothers will continue to build on the new and renewed commitments to the brotherhood from the anniversary, appropriately themed, “85 Years of Building on Brotherhood.”

| PI PI LAMBDA CHAPTER

Chapter Embarked On Active Community Engagement With Local Residents

On the heels of celebrating their 30th anniversary, which was delayed due to local COVID-19 restrictions and measures to protect Chapter Brothers’ health, the Pi Pi Lambda chapter embarked on an active

community engagement schedule last year.

Energized by its most recent initiates, “The Gr8 Defenders,” Pi Pi Lambda made it a priority to reconnect with fellow Slidellians, and others throughout the St. Tammany Parish community.

The chapter’s community engagement calendar started at Walter L. Abney Elementary School. On a chilly January morning, Brothers joined St. Tammany “Divine 9” chapters and other community groups to add fresh coats of paint much to the delight of the school’s principal, Ms. Shaneika Merrill.

Chapter members would later return to help boost students’ literacy with “Read Across Abney.” That same month, Pi Pi Lambda partnered with the Slidell Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta and the East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity for the ribbon cutting and dedication of two Free Little Libraries for the “REaDy…Set…Launch Literacy Program.”

One of the year’s most pivotal community events, so far, happened in April. The chapter partnered with the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Safe Harbor, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and the 22nd District Attorney’s Office to present the “Fight Against Domestic Violence Seminar.”

Thanks to the generosity of Living the World International Ministries, the St. Tammany community learned about domestic violence trends and statistics in addition to resources to address and prevent domestic violence.

Later that month, it was time to have a little fun. Brothers, community friends and colleagues enjoyed a clear, warm, and sunny day to support the Pi Pi Lambda Education Foundation’s 24th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. With the chapter’s help, the foundation was later able to award $6,500 in scholarships to five local students.

Only a week after the golf tournament, chapter brothers put their culinary skills to work for “Boots, Brims &

Catfish,” where family and friends enjoyed fellowship, tasty fried catfish plates, and even a mechanical bull.

The chapter capped the first leg of their 2023 community events off with its Medicaid, Medicare, and Wellness Seminar. Community members gathered again at Living the Word International to learn the latest about the Medicaid and Medicare plans while also hearing helpful tips to maximize their health and wellness.

Throughout the year, Pi Pi Lambda participated in the Keep Slidell Beautiful community campaign; and brothers have individually embodied the mission of Alpha at events and through initiatives of their own, looking forward to the rest of the year in servant leadership.

MARYLAND

| DELTA OMICRON LAMBDA CHAPTER

Chapter Encourages Young Men and Women to Attend College

The distinguished Brothers of the Delta Omicron Lambda Chapter in Princess Anne, Maryland, have continued the commitment to serving our communities and encouraging young men and women to pursue their education from high school to college, by partnering with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Men of Color in Education Initiative (MOCED), by supporting the High School Teacher University Program, led by Brother, 2019 Maryland Teacher of the year, and UMES Professor, Dr. Richard Warren.

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore High School Teacher University (HSTU) is a component of the UMES Men of Color in Education Initiative. For the first time, the HTSU program became a full college immersion experience, taking place on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore starting on July 17, 2023, and ending on Aug. 4, 2023.

Students were fully immersed on the UMES campus during the week and returned home after dinner on Fridays for the weekend to return on Monday mornings. Boys were housed in a separate dormitory from the girls. Two Resident Assistants (RAs), camp mentors, as

well as both college and school district staff members were assigned to support the students in their daily routines, coursework, and personal development throughout their three-week summer residential experience on campus. After successful completion of the course, students were awarded college credits. All materials were provided by the school system and UMES at no cost to the participating students and families.

The Men of Color in Education Initiative (MOCED) is unique and the first of its kind on the Eastern shore of Maryland to specifically focus on Black and Brown male students and teachers at an HBCU in partnership with local public-school districts.

The Delta Omicron Lamba Chapter, in addition to supporting the overall program, presented two rising senior students with book scholarships of at least $250 dollars each. The Chapter also encourages students to enroll in Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) and specifically advocates for UMES, but the scholarship is transferable to any selected two- or fouryear college, university, or trade school.

The Brothers of Delta Omicron Lambda under the leadership of Chapter President Brother Michael Chandler have committed to providing annual scholarships for the duration of the High School Teacher University Program under the Men of Color in Education Initiative.

MASSACHUSETTS

| EPSILON GAMMA LAMBDA CHAPTER

Chapter Offer Annual Turkey Giveaway, Toy Drives & Other Events During Holidays

The Brothers of the Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter in Boston, MA (Boston Alphas) are united in their dedication to community uplift during the holidays.

Last year, they committed to service through events like their Annual Turkey Day Giveaway, Founders’ Day celebration, and multiple Toy Drive events.

On Saturday, Nov. 18, the Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter dedicated their time to volunteer at Tropical Foods, a well-established neighborhood grocery located in the Roxbury section of Boston, recognized as a food desert. Specializing in ethnic flavors, international spices, and fresh produce, Tropical Foods caters to the diverse community in abundance.

Brothers actively engaged throughout the store, taking positions at cashier registers, in aisles, and around the parking lot. Their impactful service was met with enthusiasm from the community.

During the event, the Brothers distributed gift cards to over 50 shoppers and generously covered the entire bills for multiple families purchasing essential groceries for their households.

Likewise, the Brothers in Boston rallied behind the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts toy drive to benefit the community on Dec. 11 and Dec. 16th. In support of Brother Rahsaan D. Hall, Esq., the newly appointed CEO and President of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts, Brothers gift wrapped and distributed gifts for children in the local area.

Simultaneously, the Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter Brothers organized a toy drive to support the YWCA of Cambridge-Renae’s Place Family Shelter.

The chapter delivered 33 toys, 13 gift cards, clothing, and one book for each child living at the shelter, providing for 10 families during the holiday season.

At the Mayor’s Dec. 16 “Boston Give Back” event, the chapter partnered with the men of Mt. Zion of Mt. Zion Lodge #15 (Prince Hall Masons) and served meals to 843 Boston families in with over 100 volunteers. Families received free gifts, food, clothing, and essential items coordinated through the Mayor’s Office of Racial Justice at Boston City Hall.

In addition, the Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter marked Founders’ Day with an extravagant celebration. Last year, our Brothers in Boston hosted Brother Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, II, president and senior lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, co-chairman of the Poor People’s Campaign, professor in the Practice of Public Theology and Public Policy, as well as founding director of the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy at Yale Divinity School. The event, which was sold out, generated proceeds, including donations, directed towards the Edward W. Brooke, III Educational Foundation—the charitable arm of the Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter.

MISSOURI

| BETA LAMBDA & PI OMICRON LAMBDA

Chapters Participate in Wreaths Across America at Leavenworth National Cemetery

Military veterans of Beta Lambda and Pi Omicron Lambda Chapters collaborated last year for the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at Leavenworth National Cemetery at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas on Dec. 11.

The Wreaths Across America organization pays homage to the fallen veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation each year with a veteran’s wreath. Last year, the Military veteran Brothers of Beta Lambda and Pi Omicron Lambda Chapters along with the Leavenworth community placed 8,000 veteran’s wreaths at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

Brother Andre Fontaine, president of Pi Omicron Lambda Chapter, recognized the importance of Wreaths Across America for the fallen veterans. He reminded the Brothers that “Pi Omicron Lambda Chapter consists of 100 percent Active Duty and Military Veterans and we stand on the shoulders of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.” He added that “one of the veterans’ shoulders we currently stand on is Jewel Vertner Woodson Tandy. Although we cannot place a wreath on his grave, we honor and remember, Jewel Vertner Woodson.”

NEW JERSEY

| ALPHA ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER

Alpha Alpha Lambda Scholarship and Educational Foundation Holds 26th Annual Belford V. Lawson Oratorical Competition for New Jersey Youth

The Alpha Alpha Lambda Chapter’s Alpha Alpha Lambda Scholarship and Educational Foundation celebrated the 26th Annual Belford V. Lawson Oratorical Competition at Seton Hall University on Saturday, Jan. 13.

Seven outstanding 7th and 8th-grade students from Essex County took the stage as finalists, delivering remarkable speeches on “Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Perspectives on the World Today.”

“As we celebrate the impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. we recognize the impact and power that words, particularly those of these 7 young men have in changing our world,” said Dr. Brian Agnew, oratorical competition co-chairman. “For 26 years, this program has elevated the platform of Essex County’s young people so that we have no excuse, but to listen and learn from our next generation of leaders.”

The finalists were:

Quadri Adewale - 13th Avenue Elementary School

Alexander Almonte - Louise A. Spencer School

Donaldy Azcona - Louise A. Spencer School

Usmane Bah - Louise A. Spencer School

Frederick Parrott - Aquinas Academy

Johan Rosario - Louise A. Spencer School

Alexander Santos - Science Park High School

This year’s winner was Quadri Adewale, an 8th grade student at 13th Avenue Elementary School located in Newark; 2nd was Alexander Almonte; and 3rd place, Usmane Bah.

The participants, who presented their speeches within an allotted time, were judged on 10 criteria, including oratorical skills, content, time management,

presentation, along with other criteria.

“We are extremely proud of the hard work and dedication of these seven exceptional young men,” says Brother Mark Hassell, foundation chairman. “From the inception, our goal has been ensuring the next generation understands the sacrifices made by Dr. King and igniting the spark that empowers our youth to maintain the legacy of civil rights activism for generations to come.”

Through community contributions, ticket sales, and sponsorships, the Foundation provides monetary awards to the winners in addition to coaching, new suits, and continued mentoring to help further fuel their academic endeavors. Through the generosity of sponsors like LAZ Parking, American Express, Alpha Alpha Lambda Community Development, Inc., MCG, Gene’s Driving School, and Sphinx Minerva Group, over $5,000 in cash and prizes were awarded. Each finalist received an Acer Chromebook, a medal, and a cash award with the encouragement of opening a savings account at a local bank.

“We take immense pride in the exceptional young men who, through their remarkable oratory skills, have represented themselves, their schools, families, and community with utmost distinction, says Brother Frederick Davis, Jr., chapter president. “The competition, a beacon of inspiration, not only recognizes their extraordinary talents but also underscores the transformative power of education and self-expression. Congratulations to our winner and finalists for embodying Dr. King’s legacy and lighting the way toward a brighter, more empowered future.”

Additional information can be found by visiting www. theaalfoundation.org.

| KAPPA THETA LAMBDA CHAPTER

Kappa Theta Lambda Celebrates 50 Years of Championing Social Justice

Kappa Theta Lambda Chapter celebrated its 50th anniversary at The Terrace at Biagio’s, 299 Paramus Road Paramus, NJ on Saturday, Oct. 21.

The chapter was chartered in 1973 because of several Brothers living in the Northern New Jersey area, in Bergen County. These Brothers were not affiliated with any Alpha chapter. Most of the were executives, professionals, and businessman. After several meetings in 1970, it was decided to contact Brother Elbert C. Wisner; past president of the New Jersey State Association of Alpha Phi Alpha Chapters. With the assistance of Brother Wisner, the charter members were issued a charter in 1973.

Charter members include Brothers Maj. (Ret.) Thomas D. Ashley, Dr. B. E. Goodall, James H. Baker, Carey

Jenkins, Dr. J. Edison Brown, Carolos Peay, Jr. Esq., Dr. O. Jackson, Cole, and Dr. Colden D. Raines.

The event included keynote speaker, Brother Obie L . McKenzie and the chapter’s Alpha Award of Merit recipients, Brother David L. Broadnax, and Brother Arnold E. Brown.

|

ZETA NU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Zeta Nu Lambda Participates in March For Babies Walk

In a powerful display of commitment to community and philanthropy, the Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. recently took center stage at the March for Babies walk on April 30, 2023, hosted at the renowned Meadowlands Racetrack. This impactful event, a national initiative dedicated to advancing research, education, and programs for the well-being of mothers and infants, witnessed the chapter’s unwavering dedication and active involvement in fostering positive change.

At the heart of this noble endeavor was the chapter’s resounding success in fundraising, a testament to their dedication to supporting maternal and infant health.

The Zeta Nu Lambda members showcased not only the core values of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. but also their profound commitment to making a tangible and positive impact on the community at large.

The March for Babies walk, a symbolic journey towards better health outcomes for mothers and infants, provided the Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter with a platform

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to exemplify their commitment to societal well-being. By participating actively in this national movement, the chapter demonstrated that their ethos goes beyond fraternity bonds, extending into a genuine desire to contribute to meaningful causes that resonate with the broader community.

Through their fundraising endeavors, the chapter members championed the cause of maternal and infant health, embodying the spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s commitment to service. Their financial contributions echoed loudly, reverberating not only within the fraternity but throughout the community, leaving an indelible mark on the collective pursuit of a healthier, more prosperous society.

In embracing the March for Babies walk, the Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter not only raised awareness but also heightened the understanding of the critical issues surrounding maternal and infant health. Their actions spoke volumes about the transformative potential of community engagement, underlining the belief that positive change begins with collective efforts.

The Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, through their active participation and dedicated fundraising, has not only strengthened the fraternity’s legacy but has also underscored the profound impact that a united community can have on critical societal issues. Their commitment to the March for Babies walks serves as a shining example of how fraternity values can be translated into tangible actions that leave an enduring mark on the community and contribute to the betterment of society.

NEW YORK

| RHO PSI LAMBDA AND ZETA ZETA LAMBDA CHAPTER

New York Alpha Chapters Use Chess Tournament as Mentoring Effort in City and Abroad

Members of Zeta Zeta Lambda and Rho Psi Lambda chapters hosted a hybrid chess tournament with middle-school and high-school-aged youth in New York and Lagos, Nigeria. Brothers Charles Milton Joyner, Ashton Eadie, Joseph T. Wilson II, and Michael Lewis who are active members of Zeta Zeta Lambda and Rho Psi Lambda chapters in Queens and Bronx, NY conducted the tournament.

The chapters collaborated with a Nigerian youth chess team located in an area of Lagos, Nigeria which Brother Joyner had previously met during a 2022 medical mission in Nigeria.

Prior to the tournament, the Brothers had multiple calls with the Nigerian facilitators to plan the run-of-show for the day of the tournament. Chess.com and Zoom platforms were used to execute the tournament and

give the students from both teams an opportunity to meet each other and talk during tournament breaks.

Four well-deserving participants – two from New York and two from Nigeria were awarded cash prizes thanks to generous contributions from the chapters and The Wesley Parrott Youth Programs, Inc.

We later learned those monetary prizes received by the participants in Nigeria were used to help feed and house their families. We also provided clothing, reading books, school supplies, book bags, and more to approximately 80 children in the villages of Lagos and Owarri, Imo State Nigeria.

OHIO

| ALPHA XI LAMBDA CHAPTER

Nine High School Seniors Receive $18,000 in Scholarships

The Alpha Xi Lambda Chapter recently awarded nine young men $18,000 in college scholarships at its 32nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast, presented by Huntington Bank. The breakfast event serves as one of two major fundraising events hosted to support scholarship and community efforts each year.

The recipients, who will begin their postsecondary journey in the Fall of 2024, set a record for both the number of recipients and the amount awarded. Presented by Brother Rev. John C. Jones and Scholarship Chairman, Brother Demond Pryor, five scholarship recipients were awarded $1,500 each for a total of $7,500; three awarded $2,500 each for a total of $7,500; and one awarded a $3,000 renewable scholarship in honor of the late Brother Joseph O. Sansbury, a pillar within the chapter and community.

The keynote speaker for the morning was to be Rev. Bro. Dr. Otis Moss, III of Trinity United Church of Christ (Chicago, Illinois), but due to testing positive for COVID19 he could not attend. Instead, he sent a 15-minute video clip speaking to the theme of the breakfast, “Called to be a Voice to the Voiceless, in a World of Selective Silence.”

The chapter also awarded their annual Drum Major for Justice award to Mrs. Kristian Brown-Brenneman, who is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and news anchor for Channel 13 ABC, graciously emcees the

breakfast event each year.

The event, which included more than 25 sponsors and partners, reached many milestones this year, generating more than $56,000 in revenue, awarding nine young men $18,000 in scholarships, and finally, introducing the inaugural four-year $3,000 renewable scholarship, The Brother Joseph O. Sansbury Scholarship for $12,000 in total.

PENNSYLVANIA

| NU CHAPTER

The

Neophytes of Nu

Chapter Encourage High School Students to Attend College Days After Neophyte Presentation

Nu Chapter at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania continues to illustrate the adage that the “pledging” or work begins once one crosses with its neophytes taking the lead on college tours for high school students literally two days after their own neophyte presentation for the campus on Saturday, April 6.

The chapter held its well-attended neophyte presentation at Lincoln University’s Manuel Rivera Gymnasium, showcasing its five new members, including Brother Soyica Littman, a senior mass communications major from Staten Island New York; Brother Dereck Gonzales, a junior psychology major from Brooklyn, New York; Brother Naeem Bowen, a sophomore health science major from West Philadelphia; Brother Jah Vey Walker, a sophomore psychology major from Rochester, New York; and lastly, Brother Terry McNeil, a junior mass communications major from Sicklerville, New Jersey.

The neophytes offered greetings, a special presentation to their mothers, as well as performed a few old schoolinspired step routines along with current strolls in conjunction with recent alumni Brothers of the chapter.

Two days after being welcomed by the chapter and the campus, these distinguished young men conducted their first college tour for 39 high school students from Harlem, New York’s Wadleigh High School, as a part of the school’s first stop on its HBCU Tour.

This community service effort was part of the chapter’s

support of the Fraternity’s Go-To-High-School, Go-ToCollege National Program.

Prior to the tour, the newly initiated Brothers met with the students at the admission office, where they introduced themselves, spoke about why they chose Lincoln, and reviewed our rules and regulations before leading the students around the campus.

After the tour, they ate lunch in the cafeteria with the high school students, had a Q & A session and treated the high school students and staff to a step and stroll performance.

One of the tour’s guidance counselors was so impressed with the Fraternity’s interaction and hospitality that she recommended to Lincoln’s admission office that the Alpha Brothers remain permanent tour guides, which the admissions office agreed.

To date, the new Brothers have conducted four high school college tours and are slated to regularly conduct more in the future.

TENNESSEE

| TAU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc’s 40th Annual Senior Citizens Luncheon

A Prelude to the Centennial: Alpha Phi Alpha’s Legacy of Service in Nashville

As the Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. approaches its historic Centennial Anniversary in 2025, the chapter, founded in 1925, proudly reflets on nearly a century of unwavering dedication to service and advocacy for the communities of Nashville, TN.

This year marks a significant milestone as the chapter celebrates the 40th anniversary of its Senior Citizens Luncheon, a cherished tradition that has become a hallmark of the fraternity’s commitment to uplifting the community.

Originating in 1983 at Clark Memorial United Methodist Church under the pastoral leadership of Reverend James King, the Senior Citizens Luncheon was conceived by 13 visionary individuals. What started as a modest gathering in the Fellowship Hall has since evolved into a grand event hosted at the Tau Lambda fraternity house on Ashton St. in the Bordeaux community of Nashville, TN.

This year, Tau Lambda Chapter is excited to host and serve a record number of at least 100 guests at the Senior Citizens Luncheon. The event, fully funded by the volunteer members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., holds a special place in the hearts of the Brothers as they consider it an honor to serve the community, particularly during the holiday season.

“Tau Lambda Chapter is committed to service and community engagement,” says Ronald C. Small, President of Tau Lambda Chapter. “The Senior Citizen Luncheon is an embodiment of the tenets of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The Senior Citizens’ Luncheon is a prime example of our longstanding values of service and love for all mankind.”

The Senior Citizen Luncheon has become a festive occasion featuring a sumptuous meal that includes fried turkeys, ham, greens, green beans, mac & cheese, sweet potatoes, a variety of desserts, and more. The Brotherhood takes pride in cooking, preparing, and serving the guests, creating an atmosphere filled with warmth, and the spirit of the season.

A highlight of the event is the spirited singing of Christmas carols, bringing an extra dose of merriment to the occasion. Attendees, adorned in their Sunday’s best, leave with not just memories but also small tokens of appreciation for their participation in the heartwarming celebration.

Beyond the joyous festivities, the Senior Citizens Luncheon provides an invaluable opportunity for the Brotherhood to fellowship amongst themselves and reinforce their mission of providing service and advocacy for the community.

As Tau Lambda Chapter looks forward to its Centennial Anniversary in 2025, the Senior Citizens Luncheon stands as a testament to the chapter’s enduring commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.

ABROAD

| TAU DELTA LAMBDA CHAPTER

First Chapter in Puerto Rico Hosts Charter Weekend

Tau Delta Lambda, which officially became the first Alpha Chapter on the island of Puerto Rico, was chartered on Aug. 23 after two years as a provisional chapter. The chapter hosted a weekend-long event from Aug. 3 through Aug. 6, which was attended by our regional and local Alpha leadership, including Southern Regional Vice President Brother Cecil Howard, Brother Dr. Gregory Harris, director of the Florida Federation of Alpha Chapters, and Area District Director Brother Dino Fontaine. Brothers from the mainland, other Caribbean islands, and Puerto Rico attended with their guests. In opening remarks, Brother Howard encouraged Brothers to continue to build the brotherly bonds in Puerto Rico and mentioned that Puerto Rico would be a “regular stop on the map of Alpha travels.” Brother Fontaine also encouraged Brothers and reminded of the importance of our work.

The chapter also offered several sessions, including the “Puerto Rico State of Affairs,” a review of our “5-year Strategic Plan”, and “Fundraising” among other topics. The following chapter officers were sworn in including Chapter President, Brother Carlos Restrepo; Vice President, Brother Omar Morales; Corresponding Secretary, Brother Norman Hernández; Treasurer Brother Moses Matias; Financial Secretary Brother Yohancé Salmon; Assistant Editor-to-The Sphinx, Brother Irving Román Jr.; and Chaplain, Brother Richard Colón. The chapter retreat was not all Alpha Business. The Brothers and their guests were treated to an oceanfront dinner on Friday, and a cultural and community festival on Saturday. On Sunday, everyone participated in a “chinchorreo,” where everyone traveled to various eateries to sample the island’s cuisine to close out the weekend. We encourage and welcome Brothers to visit us and enjoy all the island has to offer. Please visit www. taudeltalambdapr.org to stay up to date on where the light of Alpha is shining on the island. S

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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

Brother Dr. Earl W. Stafford

Brother Ed Jackson, Jr.

Frank Jenkins

Brother Frank Russell, Jr.

Brother George Reaves

Brother Gregory Phillips

Brother John H. Carter

Joseph S. Ratliff

Robert Bob Wingo

Brother Tyrone Means

Brother Vic Carter

Brother George Sealey

Brother Roderick D. Gillum

Brother Julian Dixon

Brother Joe Samuel Ratliff

Brother Harold Navy

Marian Wright Edelman

Caryl Stern

R. Guy Vickers

Patrick Joseph Kennedy

Brother 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.

2023

Brother Charles Q. Brown, Jr.

Brother Mark S. Tillman

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson

A Man of Faith with an Infectious Smile

Brother

Bruce Anthony August, Jr. transitioned to Omega Chapter on April 9, 2023.

He was born to parents, the late Brother Bruce Anthony August, Sr., and Kathy Jo Guidry August, on October 15, 1984, in Galveston, Texas. He was the eldest of three siblings, Stephen, Kristen, and Brandon and always led by example.

He grew up in a close-knit community. In 1991, Brother August accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior at Avenue L Baptist Church. His brothers soon followed. Years later, the family relocated. In 2002, he graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in Sugar Land, Texas. He lettered in football for the Bulldogs, and he graduated with academic honors. He went on to continue his academic journey as an undergraduate student at the University of Texas at Dallas, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in 2006. While balancing the life of a college student, he worked as a correctional officer for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice at Hutchinson State Prison. While attending UTD, he followed in his father’s footsteps, who was a 1977 Gamma Pi Lambda Chapter initiate in Galveston, TX, and was initiated into the Tau Xi Chapter of the Fraternity on April 16, 2005.

At the time of his transition, he was pursuing a doctorate degree in public affairs at UT Dallas. In addition, he was an active member of the Xi Tau Lambda Chapter of North Dallas County.

Brother August, who greeted everyone with an

infectious smile, had a passion for serving students which led him to pursue a career in higher education. He later graduated with a master’s degree in Higher Education from the University of North Texas in 2010. Bruce enjoyed a career as the Director of the Multicultural Center at the University of Texas at Dallas where he advocated for all races, religions, and cultures to promote awareness of all people.

He joined the Black Greek-Letter Consortium of the All of Us Research Program, where researchers would use the data to learn how our biology, lifestyle, and environment affect health, hoping that one day their data would help them find ways to treat and prevent disease.

Brother August was a devout man of faith and would want to be remembered as a Disciple of Christ Jesus and a servant of men and women. He attended One Community Church in Lewisville, Texas, where he volunteered his time serving in the Media Ministry. He has served on the board of directors for the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education Board, as a representative for District 4 in the UTD Staff Council, and as the founding and immediate past president of the Black Faculty and Staff Alliance Employee Resource Group. He delighted in doing weekly volunteer work for numerous organizations.

In his spare time, he enjoyed watching sports, attending social events, anime, and gaming. He also loved to cook and grill for his family and friends. He coined the term “Jesuscookedit!” to display his passion for cooking for his family and dear friends. He also had a passion for graphic design and photography. S

Pioneering African American Miami Judge Transitions at 84

Prominent Brother Judge Leo Adderly, a retired Miami-Dade County jurist, transitions to omega Chapter on July 4, 2023. He was 84.

Brother Adderly was pioneer, as he was the second African American judge in county’s history. His appointment as county court judge by then Florida Governor Bob Graham and was featured in the Winter 1981 Edition of The Sphinx.

A Life Member of the Fraternity, Brother Adderly has deep roots in Alpha; his uncles were Charter Members of the Beta Beta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Brother Frederick L. Johnson, and Brother Samuel H. Johnson.

Brother Adderly graduated from Morehouse College in 1956.

application for Booker T. Washington’s Living Legend Award. He received that prestigious award from his high school alma mater, the historic Booker T. Washington High School.

Brother Adderly practiced law for 16 years before being appointed as Miami-Dade County Court judge. He was elected in 1986 and re-elected in 1990.

His love for the law started at a young age, he had admitted. He once wrote “I decided that I would become an attorney when I was in the sixth grade, and never lost sight of this goal,” in his

Before becoming a judge, it is of note that in 1966, he began serving as one of the first nine staff attorneys at the Legal Services of Greater Miami. He also served as a staff attorney for the Greater Miami Urban League. He was also a public defender for the city of Miami before moving on to a private practice.

Beyond his illustrious service as a judge, he was a charter member of the National Museum of African American History in Washington D.C., a member of Miami-Dade Bar Association, the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. Bar Association, and the Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association. S

BY BROTHER RUSSELL ESTILL [IOTA RHO LAMBDA ’82]

A Celebration of Life For A Devoted Brother

BrotherCornelius Langston Henderson III, son of Cornelius Langston Henderson Jr. and Bernice Rae Jones-Henderson was born in Detroit, MI. on Sept. 16, 1941. Affectionately known as “Butch,” he graduated from Central High School in Detroit. He attended Tennessee State University where he was initiated into the Beta Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. on May 2, 1962. Brother Henderson faithfully served his country, enlisting in the Army Ammunition Distribution Unit in the Vietnam War.

Brother Henderson began working for United Parcel

Service and as with all things in his life, he was deeply committed until his retirement. Brother Henderson was known as an outgoing and classy gentleman who relished spending time with loved ones.

Among his deepest passions was his love for the fraternity. As a member of the Iota Rho Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, he had a strong commitment to working to ensure the success of the chapter’s annual Black and Gold Ball.

Brother Henderson transitioned to the Omega Chapter on Dec. 30, 2023.

A Career Federal Civil Servant

Brother James Johnathan Braxton, Sr., 69, transitioned to Omega Chapter on Monday, November 27, 2023. He was born in 1954 to the late Levi and Amber Braxton. A native New Yorker, James and his wife Linda have resided in Fredericksburg, VA since 1998.

Brother Braxton was a career federal civil servant. At 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy after leaving Bayside High School and was later honorably discharged from active-duty naval service into the Naval Reserves. Upon leaving the military, he was inspired to pursue his education and enrolled at West Virginia State University, where he was initiated into the Alpha Zeta Chapter of the Fraternity on April 30, 1977, as well as later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business and an associate degree in banking and finance there. Brother Braxton also received a Master of Science degree in administration from Central Michigan University.

Upon graduation, he accepted a commission in 1982 through the Extended Program as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, Air Defense Artillery Branch. Brother Braxton retired as a U.S. Army

Colonel with over 30 years of active and reserve service with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. During his military reserve service, he served as the Command Inspector General for the 80th TASS Command, Richmond, VA; Deputy Chief of Staff Comptroller (G8), 80th Division Institutional Training, Brigade Executive Officer, Battalion Commander, Battalion Executive Officer, and Brigade Logistics Officer.

Brother Braxton’s’ career in civil service included a variety of leadership positions. His final position was as Chief in the Office of Diversity and Leadership, Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington DC.

A Life member of the Fraternity, Brother Braxton was also a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Saluda VA, Vash Naha Social Organization, and the Masonic Lodge. Brother Braxton loved reading, walking, motorcycling, and attending NBA games.

A Service with full military honors was conducted Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Immanuel Baptist Church, 327 Town Bridge Road, Saluda, VA to celebrate the life and legacy of Brother Braxton. S

Integral Member of Illinois And Midwestern Regional Sergeant of Arms Team

Brother Warren S. Moore transitioned to Omega Chapter earlier this year.

Brother Moore attended Bradley University, where he was initiated into the Epsilon Kappa Chapter of the Fraternity on March 22, 1975.

Later, he became a member of the Theta Mu Lambda Chapter in Juliet, IL. and served the Fraternity as

the Sergeant At Arms, as well as an integral part of the Illinois District and Midwest Regional Sergeant At Arms Team.

Brother Moore had a rich history of service, which included spearheading coat drives for the less fortunate, support for the Theta Mu Lambda Mentoring Program, and the Chairman of the Chapter’s Benevolence Committee.

BY BROTHER ZACHARY L. MCGOWAN [NU MU LAMBDA ’17]

Remembering Tuskegee Airman Brother Lt. Col-Maj. Eugene Henry, Jr.

Esprit de Fraternite is a reminder that an Alpha man’s ascension to greatest is derived by the works he performs for the fraternity (not what the fraternity can do for him). This mantra challenges Alpha men to live selflessly, intentionally, and courageously, no matter the presented obstacle. Brother Lieutenant Colonel-Major Eugene Henry, Jr. embodied these traits (and more) of our beloved Esprit de Fraternite through his service of country, community, and Alpha Phi Alpha, spanning over 70 years.

Brother Henry was born on July 22, 1928, in New Haven, Michigan to Eugene Henry Sr. and Cornelia Suggs. A born dreamer, Brother Henry set his sights high, aspiring to one day pilot the skies. As a high school student, he convinced the officials at his local airport to hire him so that he could begin paying for flight lessons. Upon graduating from high school (with honors), Brother Henry’s exposure to aviation motivated him to join ROTC, compelling him to enroll in the Tuskegee Reserve Officer Training Program during his tenure at a Tuskegee Institute of Technology (now Tuskegee University). Shortly after Brother Henry began his collegiate career, he was drafted to serve in World War II (most notably as a Tuskegee Airmen). After completing his service during wartime, Bro. Henry resumed his collegiate career and was later initiated into the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on November 30, 1950. Brother Henry received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Tuskegee in 1952.

which during that time, was behind the Iron Curtain. Brother Henry retired from the Air Force in 1972 as a Major.

Even during retirement, Brother Henry continued pursing his love for aviation through service after being commission as Lieutenant Colonel in the Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary of the U.S. Aire Force. Brother Henry’s dream of piloting the skies spanned 74 years and received The Master Pilot Award for over 50 years without an accident or incident.

A persistent, tactfully skilled, and steady combat leader, Brother Henry was also a man of God, faithfully serving at St. Phillip AME Church (Decatur, Georgia) in the choir and Media Ministry. He also was active in the community via his involvement with the Atlanta chapter of Tuskegee Airmen International, the board of Peachtree DeKalb Airport, the National Railway Historical Society, the Bloopers Bowling League, and as an ambassador for the Georgia Council for International Visitors.

Brother Henry was a member of our beloved fraternity for more than 60 years and he continued his commitment to the needs of fraternity after becoming reactivated with the Nu Mu Lambda Chapter in his early 90s.

Upon graduating college, Brother Henry continued to pursue his passion for aviation and service and entered the U.S. Air Force as second lieutenant at Tyndall Air Force base (radar control), followed by serving as an officer at Wright-Patterson Air Force base in Dayton, Ohio. Brother Henry’s continued pursuit for aviation excellence motivated him to command the world’s most notable aircrafts such as the KB-50 (aircraft refueler) and the C-130 (cargo carrier), allowing him to accrue more than 5,000 hours of flight hours and fly throughout 14 countries throughout his aviation career. Brother Henry flew One of the highlights of Bro. Henry’s military career was being chosen to fly a select group of ambassadors in a C-130 to Romania,

Brother Henry jokingly deemed himself “Alpha’s oldest neophyte,” recalling that due to his wartime service and military career he’d never witnessed a crossing ceremony. During the 97th General Convention (Dallas, Texas), Brother Henry was awarded the spirit award for the Oldest Registered & Brother w/ Longest Membership and recognized by General President Brother Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III.

Brother Henry transitioned to Omega Chapter on November 25, 2023. S

Brother Zachary L. McGowan is a Spring 2017 initiate of the Nu Mu Lambda Chapter and Associate Editor to the Sphinx. A Kansas Citynative, He is a graduate of the Missouri School of Journalism (University of Missouri) and currently lives and works in Atlanta, Georgia.

BY BROTHERS JOHN W RANDALL [THETA ’ 63, AND CHARTER MEMBER, KAPPA ETA LAMBDA ’ 73] AND BROTHER MILTON L. RANDALL [KAPPA ETA LAMBDA ’75]

Former U.S. Treasury Special Agent and Trailblazing African American Business Manager in Bakersfield

Brother Maurice Randall transitioned into Omega Chapter on January 1, 2023.

Brother Maurice Randall was born in Chicago, Illinois to John and Ruth (Washington) Randall on October 27, 1954. He was the youngest of five children. Brother Randall was educated in the Chicago public school system and graduated from Calumet High School in 1972.

He arrived In Bakersfield, California in 1973 for his college education. He secured a track scholarship from Brother Charles Craig (Charter Member, Kappa Eta Lambda 1973). While attending California State University Bakersfield (CSUB), as an undergraduate, he was initiated into Kappa Eta Lambda Chapter.

He crossed with his biological brother, Milton Randall (who graduated from Southern Illinois University 1974). His line was called, “Devils 6”. Besides Brothers Maurice and Milton (line name Shade Tree), the others members of the line were: Brothers James Hinkston, Willie Warren, Gary Brooks and Wendell James. Brother Larry Fambrough was their dean of pledges.

Maurice’s brother, John Randall, a 1963 Theta Chapter initiate, and Charter Member of Kappa Eta Lambda in 1973, was chapter president. It was an exciting time in Bakersfield and the southern San Joaquin Valley of California. The chapter won Outstanding Chapter of the Western Region for community outreach, social and scholarship programs, and highest number of Life membership fraternity members, including Maurice. He was the only Alpha undergraduate at CSUB. He had a big influence and provided leadership on campus and helped the chapter grow exponentially, which included Brother Lonnie Whigham, a 1976 Kappa Eta Lambda Chapter initiate.

career became extraordinary when he was promoted to U.S. Treasury Special Agent. Treasury Special Agents are duly sworn law enforcement officers who are trained to “follow the money.” He was employed by the IRS and U.S. Treasury for 10 years, mostly located in the Los Angeles San Fernando Valley area offices.

In 1983, Brother Randall returned to Bakersfield and a new role as an employee for the City of Bakersfield for 30 years and held various roles as a business manager for the Economic Development Department and the Sanitation Department. He retired in the role of Business Manager for the Bakersfield Water Resources Department. His budget presentations at the public City Council meetings were famous for him being the best presenter. He was the only African American Business Manager and worked to ensure that Black Americans were not denied but included in assistance to promote and expand business enterprises within the city …economic growth and the full employment, welfare, and prosperity of its Black citizens, too.

Within the Fraternity, Brother Randall was well known for his positivity and exceptional capabilities for assisting others with income tax advice. He was treasurer and provided successful guidance to Kappa Eta Chapter for 48 years along with Brothers Larry Harris [Charter Member, Kappa Eta Lambda ’73], Paul Anderson [Kappa Eta Lambda ’74], Herb Nealy JR [Gamma Eta ’73], Charles Everly [Kappa Eta Lambda ’74], Wendell James [Kappa Eta Lambda ’75] and Donald Harris [Kappa Eta Lambda ’74]. In addition, Brother Randall served diligently and passionately as the chapter’s chairman of the March-ofDimes committee.

Brother Randall was a strong student in mathematics and completed his Bachelor of Science in accounting at CSUB and Master of Science in public administration at CSUB. He started his professional accounting career as an auditor for the IRS. Later, he was promoted to Internal Revenue Agent for the IRS. His accounting

Brother Randall was also well known as an amateur tennis player. He won several county doubles tennis tournaments with Brother Charles Anderson, a 1974 Kappa Eta Lambda Chapter initiate. And Brother Randall enjoyed being an enthusiast at the Las Vegas Sports Book…so many wonderful stories of winnings.

His son-in-law, Brother Ryan Williams, later became a Kappa Eta Lambda Chapter initiate.

OMEGA CHAPTER

A COMPREHENSIVE MEMORIAL LIST OF BROTHERS WHO TRANSITIONED TO OMEGA CHAPTER FROM Oct. 1, 2023 THROUGH June 19, 2024.

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.

Pete R. Alexander

Lelton

George

John

Marvin

Bernard

Dexter

Jaylen

David C. Bynum

Willie L. Carr

Allen B. Carter

Julian

Henry

William P. Cheeks

Rickey D. Clark

Eta 11/27/77 12/31/23

Abdul H. Collier

Cornell Collins Gamma Eta 4/23/71 10/25/23

Craig D. Conyers Alpha Rho 11/5/79 4/21/24

Daniel B. Crosby

Rudolph V. Cross

Claude J. Davis

Anthony K. Etheridge

Earl E. Exum

Robert L. Farmer, Jr.

Theodore J. Farmer

Alvin A. Hall Alpha Alpha 1/24/76 4/4/24

Alvin P. Hall Alpha Rho Lambda 10/1/72 4/4/24

Taft Harris Kappa Iota Lambda 11/1/77 1/1/24

William S. Harvey Beta Epsilon 11/11/77 3/19/24

Anthony R. Henderson Gamma Sigma 11/23/68 11/1/23

Cornelius L. Henderson Beta Omicron 5/2/62 12/30/23

Lawrence T. Henderson Beta Kappa 12/9/67 1/1/24

Adolph A. Hight Gamma Iota 3/17/51 3/7/24

Leonard J. Foster

Eugene L. Francis

Mikki A. Hill Beta Iota 3/19/05 12/1/23

Roy E. Hodge Kappa 5/26/84 5/29/24

Kenneth F. Holbert Beta Phi 6/10/43 4/11/24

Kenneth L. George

Lavelle J. Gordon

Ulysses S. Grant

William Huston Rho Eta Lambda 3/3/01 12/4/23

Charles E. Jenkins Iota Beta Lambda 12/12/74 5/17/24

Carl E. Johnson Beta Xi 11/19/54 12/4/23

Chester F. Johnson

Hubert S. Jones

Marvin E. Jones

Raymond

Clyde P. Jupiter

Arthur E. King

Precel D. Kirk

Rufus

Cletis

Roderick G. Palmer

Thomas D. Pawley

Dax Q. Peterson

Michael L. Peyton

William F. Pickard

Lonnie L. Pollard Epsilon Phi 11/16/02

Lucious

Madaliso

Edward C. Lewis

Eddie T. Lindsey

Geremiah F. Lofton

Joseph Martin

Otha Myles Omicron Lambda Alpha 11/1/92 10/18/23

Darius L. Nelson Beta Chi 11/8/92 10/6/23

Henry Oliver Gamma Iota 4/2/55 1/1/24

William R. McCall

David K. Royster

James R. Ruff Gamma Omicron 12/3/62 2/11/24

Morge'n K. Scriven Gamma Mu 3/18/17 4/19/24

Jerry E. Seals Kappa Phi Lambda 3/21/09 10/25/23

Shawn A. Settles Nu Kappa 4/21/91 5/11/24

Charles Smith Kappa Chi 12/20/75 12/1/23

Jamal M. Smith Kappa Sigma Lambda 11/18/17 2/15/24

Theordore A. Stewart Mu Tau 4/9/77 5/26/24

Tracy

Wilfred E. Stewart Beta Phi 11/11/43 1/1/24

Anthony B. Stinson Nu Mu Lambda 11/20/99 2/12/24

Willie T. Ramey

Robert L. Ray

Laird H. Reid

Lyman J. Otey Beta Gamma 4/1/52 6/10/24

George L. McCray

Albert L. Owens

Wallace L. Roberson

Wayne

Leon M. Sutton Nu 11/4/78 5/10/24

Zerubbabel W. Tadele Eta Mu 3/19/22 11/6/23

William R. Taylor Xi Lambda 5/27/72 12/31/23

Henry E. Thomas Theta Epsilon Lambda 5/29/88 10/1/23

James E. Tolliver Pi Nu 11/11/93 11/20/23

OMEGA CHAPTER

Gregory

James

Myron

Melvin

Wilbert

William

Julius

Bervin

Ricky

Anthony

Robert

Jon

Kinnard

Alvin

John

William

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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