The Crescent: Summer 2019

SUMMER 2019

SIGMA MEN: BUILDING BIGGER AND BETTER BUSINESS

R. DONAHUE PEEBLES

FOUNDER/CEO, THE PEEBLES CORPORATION

DWAYNE ASHLEY

FOUNDER/CEO, BRIDGE PHILANTHROPIC CONSULTING

DEVON HENRY

FOUNDER/CEO, TEAM HENRY ENTERPRISES

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Contents

4

10

Chapter Chartered In Toronto, Canada

48

The Network: Making It Work

18

Conclave Las Vegas 2019: Our Pride Was Showing!

60

He’s A Sigma Man

34

Sigma Men: Building Bigger And Better Business

66

“Your Purchase Is Our Privilege” Blu Culture Collections

The Crescent Magazine

EDITOR

Steve E. Ballard Deputy Executive Director

CONTRIBUTORS

Steve E. Ballard RaeKwon J. Groover Dr. Kent L. Poindexter

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Christopher P. Fleming Ann Alphonse Studios

EDITORIAL OFFICE

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 145 Kennedy Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-5294 (202) 726-5434 www.phibetasigma1914.org

ON THE COVER SUMMER 2019

SIGMA MEN: BUILDING BIGGER AND BETTER BUSINESS

R. DONAHUE PEEBLES

FOUNDER/CEO, THE PEEBLES CORPORATION

DWAYNE ASHLEY

FOUNDER/CEO, BRIDGE PHILANTHROPIC CONSULTING

DEVON HENRY

FOUNDER/CEO, TEAM HENRY ENTERPRISES

The cover features R. Donahue Peebles Founder/CEO, The Peebles Corporation, Dwayne Ashley, Founder/CEO, Bridge Philanthropic Consulting & Devon Henry, Founder/CEO, Team Henry Enterprises

The Cresent Magazine is published twice annually by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Micheal E. Cristal International President

POSTMASTER

Please send address changes to: The Crescent Magazine Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 145 Kennedy Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-5294

Summer 2019

5

FROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT

Conscious Men of Sigma,

N

inety-five years ago Phi Beta Sigma celebrated a milestone of 10 years existence, holding the Conclave in Philadelphia, PA. In that ten years,

the membership had grown to more than 1,200 members representing

30 chapters across the country. At the time, the membership included brothers of great notoriety: Honorable Brother Arthur Mitchell was elected as National

President (he would serve 8 years), who eventually represent Illinois as one of its first Democratic African American Congressmen; Bro. Dr. Alain Leroy Locke and Bro. James Weldon Johnson were leaders of the movement we know call the

“Harlem Renaissance”. At the 10th Anniversary Conclave, the Crescent Magazine

would become the official news organ of the fraternity, and two National programs

were established. The “Clean Speech” movement encouraged members to conduct themselves publicly with class and dignity. The “Bigger Business” program was the predecessor to our current “Bigger and Better Business” program, created to push

Honorable MICHEAL E.

CRISTAL

International President

Sigma into the forefront of the movement to raise the profile of Black businesses across the country.

For Phi Beta Sigma, this was an exciting time! We just celebrated our 105th

Anniversary as a brotherhood, and looking forward to continuing to raise the

consciousness of African Americans as to the importance of being a part of the

movement for equal opportunities in all areas of existence in these United States.

This Conclave proved to be positive and productive, as we honored the theme

“The Pride & The Power: Celebrating African American Men.” We left Las Vegas with a greater focus on what it means to be a “Brotherhood of Conscious Men”.

When you look over the pages of this issue of the Crescent, think of the progress we

have made over 105 years. We have made major strides over our years of existence, facing down challenges that might have doomed the fraternity and our community at large to permanent despair. It was our Brother James Weldon Johnson who

reminded us to “Sing a song, full of the faith that the dark past has taught us . . .”

Today those words are more important than ever, as we still face great challenges and new opportunities to be great.

Look also at how important it is for us as leaders in our communities to be proactive and outspoken about the importance of Black businesses obtaining the resources

needed to be successful. Phi Beta Sigma has always led the movement for change

and equal opportunity in this country, and it is vital that we continue to be leaders of change!

Let us proceed forward with a greater determination to be the servant leaders we claim to be. Read this issue of our beloved magazine, and let it serve as

the inspiration for you, your chapters and our fraternity to continue promoting “Our Cause”.

6

The Crescent Magazine

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Greetings Brothers,

T

he Conclave is always a special time in the life of our fraternity.

It provides time to reflect on what we have done during the time since we last met, as well as what we have accomplished

over the past 105 years. Thank you for awesome participation at the

largest Conclave in Phi Beta Sigma’s history! It was a busy time, as we met and established our agenda for the years going forward, and to make sure that we are continuing in the great traditions established by our Founders.

Conclave was also a time for renewal, as we got together with old friends and created new relationships. We gathered as like-minded

brethren and talked about what Phi Beta Sigma can do to be better and make the world better. The fraternity received more opportunities to develop new strategies for dealing with the challenges we all face going forward.

And Conclave was about networking! Many of us remember in our first introductions to fraternity life that we were told becoming members

Honorable DARYL A.

ANDERSON Executive Director

of a fraternity would give us access to a worldwide network of brothers!

At Conclave we met to solidify old acquaintances and created new ones.

So, as we celebrate 105 years of service, let us keep in mind why we

exist—to serve! This Crescent Magazine highlights how we serve through our International Bigger and Better Business program. It gives us a chance to see how our brothers are still keeping the movement alive and striving to make our businesses stronger.

Enjoy your summer!

Summer 2019

7

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S/EDITOR’S MESSAGE

Greetings Sigma Brothers,

N

early 100 years ago the leadership of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity made the support and promotion of Black owned business one of its major priorities. The success and growth of African

American business is still part of the mission of the organization. Phi Beta

Sigma believes in the cause of seeing people of color excel in building greater wealth through business development. By continuing to push this cause, the men of Sigma understand that by promoting the growth and

development of minority-owned businesses, they have a significant impact on the communities in which they exist.

I’m excited to offer this issue dedicated to Sigma men who are changing

STEVE E.

BALLARD

Deputy Executive Director

the environment and faces in various business industries. The scroll of Sigma is vast, and includes prominent names of business legends including Founder Honorable A. Langston Taylor, James “Billboard”

Jackson, Jesse H. Mitchell, B. Doyle Mitchell, Sr., Clarence L. Townes, Sr., Cornelius Ford, Herman J. Russell, Marshall B. Bass, and Alden J. McDonald, Jr. Today, we continue celebrating advances in business of some of the nation’s current successful business leaders: R. Donahue Peebles, George Fraser, and Kase Lawal.

In 2019, we are continuing our dedication to the mission of promoting minority owned businesses. The fraternity’s establishment of The Sigma Business Network brings together entrepreneurs and CEOs engaging in

business-to-business endeavors on many levels. At the national level, we have also established the Billboard Jackson Entrepreneurial Competition, borne out of the Eastern Region. The competition awards two start-up ventures seed money to promote exceptional business ideas.

In this issue of the Crescent Magazine, we shine the spotlight on some heavy hitters in business, as well as informative articles on Sigma men who are advancing our International Bigger and Better Business program.

From networking to business development, and from opening career pathways to financing inventions, Phi Beta Sigma continues to advance this important cause.

Thank you for embracing YOUR magazine and our continued efforts to provide the best communication and information to our valued customers, the Men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity!!

Brotherhood First!

8

The Crescent Magazine

“THE DREAM BECOMES REA PHI BETA SIGMA CHARTERS CHAPTER IN TORONTO, CANADA When he was first appointed as the International Executive Director, Honorable Brother Daryl A. Anderson, Sr., set as one of his goals in his new position the establishment of a Phi Beta Sigma chapter in Canada. While the idea of expanding the Fraternity’s international reach in North America was intriguing, not much energy was put into making the idea become reality. Bro. Anderson believed that the vitality of Phi Beta Sigma depended on expanding into new, unchartered territories: “Most of our international presence has been in Africa or Asia, primarily with the establishment of military chapters. I wanted the Canadian experience to mirror the chapter in The Bahamas, where actual natives become fraternity members and we experience the organization’s growth and natural culture.” Originally, he wanted to establish a chapter in the city of Edmonton, Alberta.

Unfortunately, the discussion of did not take hold, and so some research was done on the possibility of

10 The Crescent Magazine

starting a chapter in Windsor, Ontario. As time passed, those interested in this endeavor began to understand that chartering a chapter in another country was going to take a lot more coordination and effort than the usual process.

Meanwhile, in the Great Lakes Region, Brother Quincy Roseborough, of Chicago, IL and a former Illinois State Director had also entertained the thought of taking Sigma into Canada. Around 2001, Bro. Roseborough visited Bro. Dennis Thomas, a fellow initiate of the Alpha Alpha Beta Chapter at Chicago State University, in Toronto, Canada. Bro. Thomas was originally from Toronto and returned home after his graduation from Chicago State University. Bro. Roseborough shared “While I was visiting Toronto, Dennis and I had a conversation about the possibility of chartering a chapter of Phi Beta Sigma. After a couple of years of unsuccessful attempts and changes in life, we tabled the idea.”

ALITY” Fast forward to 2017, when the possibility of a Canada chapter was reignited. Brother Nolan Fontaine, a 2008 initiate of Nu Sigma chapter, Philadelphia, PA and former International Headquarters staff member, moved to Toronto, Canada to continue his doctoral studies. Bro. Fontaine soon met Bro. Karan L. Kumra and the two began talking about bringing Phi Beta Sigma across the northern borders to their new homeland.

Brother Roseborough talks about the reawakening of the idea: “A couple of years ago, Dennis and I met two brothers who were living in Toronto and pitched the idea to them. Nolan and Karan were ecstatic because they were already thinking about how to do it. After a couple of years of conversations and strategy sessions, we finally did it!”

On June 22, 2019, the Sigma Omicron Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was chartered in Toronto, Canada as part of the Great Lakes Region. The charter members are Brothers Nolan L. Fontaine, Chapter President, Christopher L. Butler, III, Derek E. Conter, Matthew Davis, Dr. Julius W. Dudley, Karan S. Kumra, Quincy Roseborough, and Dennis Thomas.

The newly formed chapter was celebrated with a full weekend of events celebrating the historic moment. Among those commemorating this

special occasion were: Honorable Micheal E. Cristal, International President; Bro. Jean B. Lamothe, International First Vice President; Bro. David C. Turner, Great Lakes Regional Director; Bro. Charles Jones, Vice Regional Director; Bro. Robert Ellis, Regional Treasurer and Honorable Bro. Daryl A. Anderson, Sr., International Executive Director.

The chartering of this chapter in Toronto opens new and exciting possibilities for growth, as well as expanding the opportunity for Phi Beta Sigma to continue to make its mark globally as men dedicated to serving all communities.

Summer 2019 11

P H I

B E TA

S I G M A

F R AT E R N I T Y

INDUCTS

ENTERTAINER

BEN VEREEN

&

Two celebrated and accomplished gentlemen joined the ranks of our Brotherhood on Monday, April 8, 2019.

American Diplomat Harry Keels Thomas, Jr. and awardwinning entertainer Ben Vereen were inducted as Honorary members in Brooklyn, New York. The special ceremony was coordinated by Brother Craig Collins, International Chairman of the Honorary Members Committee, and attended by several international, state and local leaders. Honorable Brother Peter M. Adams, Esq., 30th International President (representing Honorable Micheal E. Cristal, International President), Bro. Gregory Stephenson, Bro. Ben Alston, New York State Director and Bro. Steve E. Ballard, International Deputy Executive Director served with Bro. Collins to lead this special celebration of the two men being inducted. Bro. Jean B. Lamothe, International First Vice President, Bro. Chris V. Rey, International Director of Social Action, Sigma Brothers representing Kappa Beta Sigma Chapter, Epsilon Sigma Chapter, Rho Epsilon

12 The Crescent Magazine

AMERICAN DIPLOMAT

HARRY K. THOMAS, JR. Chapter and surrounding area also participated in the ceremony welcoming the new members.

Following the Induction ceremony, a special welcome reception took place. In attendance was a host of well-wishers, including Bro. Ed Towns, former U.S. Representative, Soror Valerie Hollingsworth-Baker, International Grand Basileus of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and Soror Ayris Granby, New York State Director.

Newly inducted Brother Harry Thomas shared his joy in being invited to join the Fraternity, as he reminisced about members of his family who were part of the Wondrous Band: “My daddy was a Sigma; he went to Morris Brown and my uncle and brother were Sigmas…

Our dad is looking down, so thank you, thank you so much for this.”

Brother Ben Vereen openly shared his excitement about becoming a member of Phi Beta Sigma even as he was

extended the invitation for membership. He gleefully announced his pending initiation to an audience during a performance the evening before. During his remarks Vereen shared, “Thank you for accepting me into the family.

One thing that got me when I was told I was going to be initiated, is the fact of service. We are about service – and now you’ve got a server servant here. All I can say is, let’s get to work. My brothers, my sisters, you know the work that needs to be done. We’ve got a lot of work to do, especially in these times.“ His exuberance continued as he wasted no time posting about his induction on his personal Facebook page.

The induction and reception took place at Rustik, owned by Sigma Brother Frantz Melletus. Fraternity members around the nation were given the opportunity to live stream of the welcome reception via the fraternity’s Facebook page. Over 1,000 people viewed this memorable event.

ABOUT THE INDUCTEES Harry Keels Thomas, Jr. has served as an American Diplomat for more than 15 years. He was the U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh (20032005), the Philippines (2010-2013), and Zimbabwe (2016-2018).

He joined the Foreign Service in 1984 after working three years as an urban planner in The Bronx, NY and retired from foreign service after 34 years of serving the country in 2018.

Ben Vereen is a veteran Broadway performer, as well as a dancer and actor. He has appeared in numerous onstage productions, television series, and movies. His Broadway resume includes Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Wicked and Roots, the most successful television mini-seriesto date. Most recently, Ben has guest starred in several television shows, including Magnum, P.I., NCIS and Bull.

Movies in which he has recently appeared include The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Top Five (with Chris Rock), and with Richard Gere in Time Out of Mind.

He is an Emmy, Golden Globe, Tony and Drama Desk award winner.

Summer 2019 13

CITYWIDE PRAISE TO COPPIN STATE SUPPORTERS BRO. JAMES “WINKY” AND SOROR FLORINE “PEACHES” CAMPHOR Featured in The Baltimore Sun

“YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE RICH TO GIVE: THESE TOP SUPPORTERS OF COPPIN STATE SPENT LIFETIME SCRIMPING AND SAVING”

Walking around the Coppin State University campus, Florine Camphor looks like an octogenarian cheerleader, wearing a sequined hat, blue suit and gold shirt representing the school colors.

Nearby, her husband, James, 91, is spinning stories about a scoring record he still holds from his years on the campus basketball team more than a halfcentury ago.

University leaders say the Camphors — known as “Winky and Peaches” — are celebrities on campus: everyone knows who they are.

They are Coppin’s top supporters, unlikely philanthropists who spent their careers inside Maryland schools and their lifetimes scrimping and saving.

The couple has endowed $200,000 to the university in scholarships for some 200 students. Their generosity also comes in whispers to a graduate to

14 The Crescent Magazine

call if he gets into money troubles and the creation of the “benevolent fund” for homeless students to buy books, food or bus fare. They have organized jazz shows and golf tournaments and nudged their classmates to give.

“I was taught early: The more you give, the more that comes back to you,” said Mr. Camphor, dubbed Winky, as a kid for the way he flutters his eyelids.

“Coppin gave to me, and I have to give back to Coppin.”

Mrs. Camphor — who says the midwife misunderstood her mother’s craving after giving birth and scrawled “Peaches” on her birth certificate — said their giving is intended to make sure money never stands between a young person and a college degree. She started donating to Coppin as soon as she earned her first paychecks with her teaching degree. She worked as a reading specialist by day in Cherry Hill, Brooklyn and Clifton Park. By night, she kept records for a flower shop.

“If it hadn’t been for God and Coppin, I have no idea where I would be,” Mrs. Camphor, 82, said. “All I can do is help somebody along the way.”

make sure they get into personal conversations, and find out what their aspirations are. They are philanthropic in the true sense of the word.”

The couple, who live in Windsor Mill, MD is what people in philanthropy circles call sacrificial donors, benefactors who make thoughtful, calculated gifts, said Alicia Wilson, incoming chairwoman of the College Bound Foundation, which helps lowincome and first-generation Baltimore students earn degrees. “It shows you don’t have to be rich to give,” Wilson said.

Founded in 1900, Coppin, a historically black college, now serves nearly 4,000 students a year from its 38-acre campus in Northwest Baltimore.

Tuition and fees for in-state students run about $6,600 a year. To live on campus costs about twice that.

While former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s recent $1.8 billion gift to his alma mater, the Johns Hopkins University, drew widespread attention, the gift from the Camphors to Coppin represents a far greater share of their wealth. Bloomberg’s net worth is estimated to be more than $45 billion.

The Camphors say their contributions to Coppin represent a double-digit percentage of their total wealth. They declined to say exactly how much their assets are worth.

Bloomberg and the Camphors have the same goal for their contributions: to make sure students leave colleges with degrees, not loans.

Wilson said the Camphors giving to Coppin also has the potential to have an outsize effect on Baltimore by lifting families from poverty into the middle class with the career opportunities a college degree can bring. Most Coppin students are the first in their families to go to college and they are overwhelmingly low-income, according to data from the university administration. Many grew up in Baltimore, and nearly three out of four are raising children or caring for younger siblings.

“Their gift is transformational to those students but also our community in many respects,” Wilson said.

“If our community loves our young people, our young people will love it back.“For the success of our city, we have to have individuals supported by our communities.”

Coppin President Maria Thompson said the Camphors were among the first alumni she met when she came to the university in 2015. “What I appreciate about them most is: Not only do they give of their money, it doesn’t stop there,” Thompson said. “They get involved with the students. They

A lot has changed since Brother Camphor attended.

He said that when he first started in 1948, Coppin had not yet moved to its current location and was still operating from the third floor of a city elementary school.

Growing up near Hollins Market, he said, he planned to be a mortician — though his childhood pastor wanted him to be a minister. His plans changed after he was stricken by double pneumonia and was told embalming bodies could kill him. So, he enrolled in Coppin and became captain of the first men’s basketball team (he still holds an unofficial school record 68 years later for scoring 50 points in a single game against Cheyney University of Pennsylvania).

He earned an undergraduate degree in 1951 and pledged to teach school in Maryland for three years after graduation. He ended up spending 43 years as an educator, earning a peak salary of $89,000 as a principal.

ARTICLE CONTINUES ON PAGE 70

Summer 2019 15

Z E TA P H I B E TA S O R O R I T Y, I N C O R P O R AT E D

Centennial

YOU’RE INVITED

C E L E B R AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N A N D E V E N T S

CENTENNIAL FOUNDERS’ DAY WEEKEND JANUARY 16-19, 2020 · WASHINGTON, D.C. THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2020

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2020

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18, 2020

» » » »

» Founders’ Luncheon and Decades Fashion Show » Community Service Initiative » Sisterhood Day-into-Night Party

» Centennial Brunch » Finer Womanhood Empowerment Summit » Founders’ Gala

Founders’ Day Midnight Celebration Howard University Pilgrimage I Founders’ Reflections Gathering An Evening at the Smithsonian – NMAAHC

CENTENNIAL GRAND BOULÉ

|

THE BLUE AND WHITE TAKEOVER

JUNE 24-28, 2020 · WASHINGTON, D.C.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24, 2020

FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2020

SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2020

GRAND BOULÉ » Centennial EXPO Opens » Centennial Step Show

BLUE AND WHITE FAMILY DAY » Joint Reaffirmation Ceremony » Blue and White Takeover of the Hill » Centennial Concert

GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER » Inspirational Service and Breakfast

THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2020 CENTENNIAL OPENING » Centennial EXPO: Center Stage » Opening Ceremony/Concert

SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2020 FOUNDERS’ DAY OF REFLECTION » Howard University Pilgrimage II » Monument and Lovers’ Stroll Marker Dedication » The Centennial Founders’ Gala

2020 REGISTRATION DATES & RATES » WAVE 2 | JUNE 2020 EARLY REGISTRATION Ends September 30, 2019

» WAVE 4 | JUNE 2020 LATE REGISTRATION February 1, 2020 - April 30, 2020

» WAVE 3 | JUNE 2020 REGULAR REGISTRATION October 1, 2019 - January 31, 2020

REGISTRATION RATES PHI BETA SIGMA MEMBERS & GUESTS

WAVE 2

WAVE 3

WAVE 4

$ 750

$ 850

$ 900

Note: Members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. registrants are invited to all events listed; All attendees MUST be dressed appropriately.

WAYS TO JOIN THE 2020 CENTENNIAL JOURNEY! » REGISTER FOR CENTENNIAL Register/Purchase Tickets for an EPIC 100 year Celebration.

» COMMEMORATIVE SOUVENIR JOURNAL Share your information with over 20,000 readers. » FOUNDERS’ ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FUND The scholarship fund supports Howard University’s next generation of STEM scholars.

» MONUMENT CAMPAIGN Etch the name of a special Zeta on the Centennial Monument.

» BUY BLUE AT THE CENTENNIAL MALL Purchase over 30 Centennial items from approved vendors and our Centennial Catalog.

» IN MEMORY/ IN HONOR Purchase a tribute or memorial donation to acknowledge the extraordinary Zeta in your life.

TO LEARN MORE & REGISTER VISIT: ZPHIB2020.COM/PHIBETASIGMAINVITE

WILL YOU BE THERE? Stop by the Zeta Centennial Table in the Vendors’ Area to purchase 2020 Event tickets and Centennial items

AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE DURING CONCLAVE 2019!

ZPHIB2020.COM

#ZPHIB2020

C

onclave Las Vegas 2019 will be

remembered as the largest international conference in the 105-year history of Phi Beta Sigma. Conscious Sigma Men and guests from around the world gathered in the nation's #1 “Destination� City for business, celebration and to lift up the Conclave theme "The Pride & The Power: Celebrating African American Men.". The brothers of the Western Region, led by Brother Mark A. Armstrong, Regional Director and the Epsilon Psi Sigma Chapter, led by Brother Garrett "Ali" Morris, President served as the official hosts for the biennial conference held at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

The 2019 Conclave provided early arrivers the opportunity to register in advance of the crowds. The Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity App allowed registered brothers to follow the convention in real-time, navigating every up-to-the-moment change. Conclave Las Vegas featured a full agenda packed with business meetings, special events and presentations, competitions and a return to a world-class training. For five days, those who registered attendees were provided with activities addressing a large variety of fraternity, personal and professional topics.

Tuesday, July 9th was the first full day of activities centered around the theme Building Sigma Power Leaders. Brothers were given the option to attend nearly 40 workshops and seminars through the Walter M. Clarke Professional and Leadership Development Institute. Perspective Collegiate Advisors participated in training through the Collegiate Advisors Institute, while academic professionals discussed industry topics and issues during the Higher Education Town Hall Forum.

Social media was abuzz with the official opening of the Sigma Marketplace ribbon cutting ceremony, which featured Brother Corey Peters, Arizona Cardinals and actress/author BernNadette Stanis. Honorable Brother Micheal E. Cristal, International President officially convened the General Board meeting, followed by the General Board Dinner, sponsored by local chapters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Soror Wanda Calvin Claiborne, National Executive Director served as the coordinator. President Cristal used the occasion to honor two local Sigma Brothers with the Conscious Sigma Brother Award, for their tireless leadership and dedication to community service programs provided by the Epsilon Psi Sigma chapter. Brothers Brady Wells and Alex Florez were the honorees.

On Wednesday, July 10th, Phi Beta Sigma's legacy of powerful men was recognized, under the theme The Power of The Brotherhood. The day began with the Annual Demetrius C. Newton Golf Classic held on the spacious grounds of The Las Vegas Country Club, a short walk from the convention property.

CONCLAVE LAS VEGAS 2019: OUR PRIDE WAS SHOWING!

Over

3,000

people

attended

the

Opening

Ceremony for the Conclave. Entertainer Brother Ben Vereen served as the emcee for the evening, putting a unique spin on hosting! R&B Singer Soror Terisa Griffin received multiple standing ovations for her amazing performance as the main act for the evening. The evening also featured presentation of the fraternity's coveted IMAGE Awards honoring After the First-Time Attendees orientation on

notable achievers in social action, business, and

Conclave activities and procedures, the International

entertainment. Recipients of the 2019 Awards

Program Directors presented workshops featuring

included: Bro. Reginald Hudlin, producer/director/

the NAACP, March of Dimes, Adopt-A-School

writer; Bro. Victor Glover, Astronaut; Bro. Dr. Lamont

Training, Preparing for Grad School, Wealth Building

Repollet, Commissioner New Jersey Dept. of

with George Fraser and the Adopt-A-Business

Education, and Bro. Haki Nkrumah, Founder, Young

Program. The National Organization of Black Law

Fathers of Central Florida. Local recipients were

Enforcement Officers (NOBLE) presented a special

Aaron D. Ford, Attorney General for Nevada and

workshop for the Conclave which addressed

Lawrence Weeks, Las Vegas City Commissioner.

understanding the laws in your respective city.

One of the special highlights of the evening was the

Conclave committee leaders put the final touches on their reports in preparation of the upcoming business session. New activities for the Conclave included the Sigma Conclave STEM Challenge, and a Parliamentary Procedure Workshop. Conference attendees were given the option of choosing to attend workshops on Professional Development, Chapter Development and Sigma Beta Club Advising. The Sigma Executive Leadership Council (SELC) Bold Conversation on Leadership was a stand-out forum for the conference.

presentation to the Smithsonian Institute's National Museum of African American History & Culture.

Jamil A. Fletcher, Senior Major Gifts Officer, was on hand to receive a $200,000 check completing the fraternity's $500,000 pledge as a Founding Donor. The evening’s activities also featured the International President's Reception, where President Cristal received tributes from his children and representatives of the National Pan Hellenic Council organizations.

Brothers donned their gifted Sigma blue blazers on Thursday, July 11th for the day’s activities around the theme The Power of Our Partnerships. The morning opened with Breakfast with the Candidates, which served as the official opening for the first business session of the conference. An incredible view The sea of blue blazers provided an incredible picture of brotherhood, spanning the Paradise Event Center.

20 The Crescent Magazine

Nominations and voting took place during the first

representing their respective regions. The winning

session, with the official elections General Board

team was Lambda Iota Chapter of San Diego State

officers and the swearing in of all officers during

University, representing the Western Region.

Plenary Session III.

The theme for Friday was The Power of Our Service!

The room where the Omega & Rededication Special receptions celebrating the Largest Chapter,

Ceremony took place was filled to capacity as

Sigmas in Higher Education Networking and

Sigma Brothers rose to rededicate themselves to

SELC Brotherhood Networking were held in the

the principles and mission of the Fraternity, and to

early evening. The Honorary Member Induction

pay homage to brothers who have transitioned to

Ceremony also took place, welcoming Honorary

the Omega Chapter.

Member Brother Terrence Roberts, a member of the Civil Rights icons the Little Rock Nine.

The International Awards Luncheon provided Spectators filled the Event Center to witness the

an opportunity to honor chapters and individual

competition and crowing of Ms. Cossondra Horn,

members for their commitment to the impacting

Miss Gulf Coast Region at the Miss International

communities around the globe. Brother Joseph

Phi Beta Sigma Pageant. Actress BernNadette

Wilson, Director of Standards & Awards, along with

Stanis served as the event host. The International

International Program Directors and committee

Step Show Competition took place immediately

chairmen presented several awards for outstanding

following the pageant, featuring five chapters

performances in various categories. A special

Summer 2019 21

highlight of the program was "The Power of Our

The main event of the Conclave took place on Friday

Giving", featuring a live interview with President

evening, as brothers and their guests gathered for

Micheal Cristal and Brother Dwayne Ashley,

The Grand Orchid Ball, the official closing gala of

Founder/CEO of Bridge Philanthropic Consulting;

the conference. Over 2,500 people attended the

in support of the fraternity's Impact ONE Campaign.

ball, which featured the music of Neo-Soul artist

After the interview, President Cristal made a $50,000

Marsha Ambrosius. President Cristal presented

pledge to the Impact One Fundraiser.

General Board Service awards to Brother William

Phi Beta Sigma made a special impact on the city of Las Vegas by performing special service projects during the Conclave. The Conclave Community Service Project sent Sigma leaders and brothers to

Frasier, International Treasurer and Brother Jenabu C. Williams, International Director of Sigma Beta Clubs, for their impeccable service as General Board Officers.

The Shade Tree and The Las Vegas Rescue Mission

After the traditional Grand March, the evening

to support these organizations and to provide

culminated with the introduction of the 2019-

monetary contributions on behalf of the fraternity.

2021 elected officers of the General Board: Hon.

In the evening, five esteemed Sigma men were

Bro. Micheal E. Cristal, International President,

inducted into the Distinguished Service Chapter.

Bro. Chris V. Rey, First Vice President, Bro. Dane

The new members of the DSC are Honorable.

Norvell, Second Vice President, Bro. William Frasier,

Bro. Darryl Williams, Honorable. Bro. T.J. Lewis,

Treasurer, Bro. Kennedy Barnes, General Counsel,

Honorable Bro. Ray Smith, Honorable. Bro. David

Hon. Bro. Theopolis Woodard, DSC Representative,

Miller, and Honorable Bro. Robert McClain.

Bro. Reginald Sluch, Director of Bigger and Better Business, Bro. Dr. Marcus Chanay, Director of Education, Bro. Michael Baslee, Director of Social Action, Bro. Matthew Swalek, Collegiate MemberAt-Large and Bro. Samuel Sardokie, Collegiate Member-At-Large.

Brothers

and

their

guests

celebrated the culmination of the Conclave, as they danced the night away.

24 The Crescent Magazine

The final activities of Conclave 2019 took place on Saturday, July 13th under the closing theme Brotherhood First: The Power of Fellowship.

Summer 2019 25

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*Savings compared to stand-alone price of each policy, based on national sample customer data from 2017. Discount amounts do not apply to all coverage or premium elements; actual savings will vary based on policy coverage selections and rating factors. Nationwide has made a financial contribution to this organization in return for the opportunity to market products and services to its members. Products are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Insurance Company. © 2019 Nationwide AFO-1106AO (06/18) 10084478

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BIGGER & BETTER

BUSINESS

A MOVEMENT THAT CONTINUES TO SOAR: PHI BETA SIGMA’S BIGGER & BETTER BUSINESS PROGRAM There is no greater historical tribute to the early men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity than their lasting footprint in the most significant movement in the first half of the 20th Century. The movement spoke to the newest of the cultural identity African Americans had in the new century and the progressiveness of creative and intellectual thoughts this generation of New Negroes possessed.

The term avant-garde finds its lexicon roots from the French, meaning “advance guard” or “vanguard.” It certainly describes how the men of Phi Beta Sigma positioned themselves in this new cultural movement. They were the vanguard of the movement, visible from its genesis, well in advance of the popularity of this period, and the historical significance that would be later attributed to the movement for decades to follow. Phi Beta Sigma men were the leading “thinkers” and “culturalists” that framed the movement and drove the movement.

Framed in an “expressionist” construct of literature, poetry, music, art and dance, the world became engrossed in this expression and curious about its intellectual diversity. Called “the New Negro Movement” at the time – a name given it by scholar and Phi Beta Sigma man, Dr. Alain Leroy Locke – the Harlem Renaissance had no official beginning or ending, but largely attributed to be that period between 1919 and 1934.

The Harlem Renaissance sought to reconstruct the society identity of the American Negro and reject stereotypes of illiteracy and negative culturalism that the post-Plessy era sought to project on African Americans. The Harlem Renaissance sought to humanize and intellectualize blacks in America.

The 1924 Conclave was in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, December 26 – 28, 1924. It was at this convention that the fraternity sought to address the economic realities facing “Negroes,” as it related to both employment and capital investment. Though the nation was thriving in the pre-depression decadence known as “the Roaring Twenties,” black businesses were suffering from a lack of patronage and capital. One of the influencers of the early “Better Business” idea was Brother R.A. Billings. He thought the fraternity should play a role in raising the profile of black businesses to help increase both their patronage and their economic viability. More troublesome, however, was the impact segregation had on Negro businesses. Opportunities were few.

28 The Crescent Magazine

Concerned about the plight of “Negro business” opportunities, the fraternity established its first national program in 1924. Launched as a test program in conjunction with the Philadelphia Conclave, a Negro business exhibit was set up in the lobby of the Y.M.C.A. where nearly 20 businesses sent statements and another fifty businesses set up exhibits. The exhibit was visited by several thousand visitors, and made such an impact on the delegates and members of the Philadelphia Conclave recommended that they continue forward to Richmond Conclave in 1925. The body unanimously voted to make the “Bigger and Better Negro Business” exhibit the public program of the fraternity.

Although the official name of the program would later change to the “Bigger and Better Business” program, its aim and focus has not waivered.

Today, the international program not only serves as an advocate for minority-owned businesses, but has expanded his initiatives to embrace business networking, collaborating with international business partners, and instilling economic education, wealth building, and financial solvency in the communities the fraternity serves.

The Bigger and Better Business program focus on the service areas with a partnership with IRS/VITA and Project S.E.E.D. Through VITA, chapters and Sigma Men assist IRS’ community service program in 1) promoting tax understanding and awareness; 2) preparing complimentary tax returns for low-tomoderate income individuals; and 3) encouraging personal asset building and self-sufficiency through tax incentives. Through Project S.E.E.D., chapters conduct various workshops and training sessions on various financial topics, with the purpose of providing wealth creation opportunities to their communities and campuses.

The program continues to forge great relationships with corporations that provide partnership benefits and discounts to Phi Beta Sigma members.

Wells Fargo – Phi Beta Sigma continues to work with Wells Fargo to provide the bank’s Hands On Banking Program to its communities. Through the program, chapters are provided virtual and physical workshops on various personal finance topics, with the goal of increasing the financial literacy of individuals.

Summer 2019 29

Nationwide Insurance – Through its partnership, Nationwide provides Phi Beta Sigma members the opportunity to attain auto insurance at a special discount rate.

Men’s Wearhouse – This major retail corporation provide support for the Dress for Success seminars staged by both collegiate and alumni chapters.

Hertz Rental Car – Hertz also provide a discount to Sigma members, as part of its relationship with the Fraternity.

The program has also established the Sigma Business Owners Network and the Sigma Business Partners.

As the program proceeds forward in 2019, the Bigger and Better Business team embraces a vision for Phi Beta Sigma in 2020. The vision is to be A Brotherhood of Conscious Men Serving Our Communities.

My Free Taxes.com – Phi Beta Sigma continues to work with MyFreeTaxes to provide free federal, state, and multi-state income tax filing services for individuals including fraternity members.

REGINALD SLUCH International Director of Bigger and Better Business

30 The Crescent Magazine

N

othing is more powerful than the evolution of an idea whose time has come. Everyday thousands of new and innovative ideas for products and services are considered by entrepreneurs, companies and corporations. Phi Beta Sigma is committed to helping bring new business ideas to life with The Billboard Jackson Entrepreneurial Development Program, an initiative of the Bigger and Better Business Program.

The Billboard Jackson Entrepreneurial Development Program was originally established in 2000, as part of the fraternity’s Eastern Region’s Bigger and Better Business initiative. The program was named in honor of Honorable Brother James A. “Billboard” Jackson, a corporate pioneer and first Black editor of Billboard Magazine. In 2015, the fraternity voted to include the Billboard Jackson program as an initiative under the Sigma Business Initiative.

The competition invites aspiring entrepreneurs to compete for one of two $10,000 business development grants. Through the program, Phi Beta Sigma provides start-up capital to fraternity members who present outstanding business plans. This year’s competition was held during Conclave Las Vegas at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. An expert panel of businessmen evaluated each presentation according to a rubric system. The fraternity is pleased to have the opportunity to support and encourage its own through this program.

ALUMNI WINNER Monster Creole Seasoning is blended and packaged in the Greater New Orleans area, as the ownership team is committed to the economic growth of the region. Bro. Francis stated, “This is the authentic Creole taste of New Orleans.” It was important to Bro. Francis and his family to rewrite their own narrative in New Orleans and tell the real story about Creole cuisine and seasoning. For too long, they watched outsiders come in and sell the Creole culture. The seasoning can be purchased internationally at monsterseasoning.com and at select grocery stores.

BROTHER DERRICK FRANCIS, OWNER Monster Creole Seasoning New Orleans, LA Monster Creole Seasoning is an original spice blend created for people who enjoy Creole cuisine and want a spice blend full of flavor.

Brother Derrick Francis and his wife are part of the ownership team and plan to expand their marketing of the seasoning to supermarkets across the nation. “We have the product and the capital to go nationwide at this moment, if given the opportunity”, said Bro. Francis. The original blend was created in 1999 and contained pink Himalayan salt and ghost pepper. Today, the seasoning is just as flavorful, but contains less salt. Today’s sea salt and white pepper blend has been well received by those with even the most discerning taste buds.

32 The Crescent Magazine

In 2019, Monster Creole Seasoning released a jambalaya mix and in 2020 a fish fry and chicken fry will be added to the product lineup. “It’s a genuine New Orleans family business. Everyone in the family has a role. This is as NOLA as it gets!”

COLLEGIATE WINNER Brother Butler will serve as the general manager over day-to-day operations. Having served as chapter president, his strongest business-related skills include strong communication, motivation, problem solving and business planning. He will receive his Bachelor’s degree in Marketing in December 2020. His vision: “To change the world of barbering for college campuses.”

BROTHER CAMERON BUTLER Blu Dream Barbershop Manhattan, Kansas Young adults are particularly conscious of their self-image. With job interviews, career fairs, and social gatherings to attend, the need to be well groomed is an integral aspect of college life. Good grooming is an essential habit that young adults must develop as they continue to grow and mature.

The mission of the Blu Dream Barbershop is to provide a high-quality grooming experience with unmatched convenience. This is the dream of Brother Cam Butler, sole proprietor and Marketing Major at Kansas State University in Manhattan, KS. Like many college towns, Manhattan does not have a barber shop that can properly cater to the large demographic of people living on or near its college campus. This has left many students with few alternatives for getting haircuts.

Blu Dream Barbershop proposes to solve this problem by being the area’s first mobile barber shop. It will have the unique advantage of being able to travel directly to its customer base and eliminate the need for customers to go out of their way for barber services. The service will target young males ages 14-25 with all textures of hair, who live on or near the Kansas State University campus and Fort Riley.

Summer 2019 33

SIGMA MEN: BUILDING BIGGER AND BETTER BUSINESS

Since Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity launched its first national program focused on raising the profile of black businesses in 1924, that aim as a priority still remains. During the “New Negro Movement”, the fraternity believed that they should play a role in helping black-owned businesses increase both their patronage and economic vitality. More troublesome at that time was the impact segregation had on Negro businesses.

Opportunities were few.

The Bigger and Better Business Negro Business (then titled) Program was solidified in 1925 as the fraternity was concerned about the plight of “Negro business” opportunities.

Nearly 100 years later, the program now named Bigger and Better Business still advocates on a large scale the advancement, promotion and support of minority-owned businesses.

By sharp contrast to the efforts in 1924, today the fraternity is proud to claim Phi Beta Sigma Brothers amongst the most powerful business leaders in the country.

Sigma men are charting new territory and leading the paths for building bigger and better businesses in several areas of commerce.

It is our privilege to highlight three movers and shakers who are writing the blueprint for building successful businesses in the areas of real estate, philanthropy and construction. Each leader has established himself as “the source” or industry expert, much sought after by the masses. Sigma Brothers proudly stand with outstretched chests as the membership claim the affiliation of Brothers R.Donahue Peebles, Founder/CEO, The Peebles Corporation, Dwayne Ashley, Founder/CEO, Bridge Philanthropic Consulting, and Devon Henry, Founder/CEO, Team Henry Enterprises.

BROTHER R.DONAHUE PEEBLES

Inducted in Phi Beta Sigma as an Honorary Member in September 2015, Brother Peebles’ favorite quote is “Anything Worth Having is Worth Fighting For” and he certainly made major moves in building his multi-billion dollar corporation. He was born March 2, 1960, the only son of a civil servant and real estate broker and grew up in Washington, D.C. Interestingly his childhood neighborhood iswhere Phi Beta Sigma’s international headquartersnow sits.

After his parents’ divorce in 1967, Peeblesmoved with his mother to Detroit, spending only sixmonths there before returning to Washington, D.C.,to live with his father.

FOUNDER/CEO

THE PEEBLES CORPORATION The Peebles Corporation is a privately held national real estate investment and development company specializing in residential, hospitality, retail and mixed-use commercial properties. The company has corporate offices in New York City, Miami and Washington, D.C. Founded in 1983 by Don Peebles, the company has become an industry leader with a portfolio of active and completed developments totaling more than 10 million square feet and $8 billion in the gateway cities of New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Charlotte, Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

No other company has successfully realized more real estate development through Public-Private Partnerships than The Peebles Corporation.

Through construction excellence, sustainable practices, historic preservation and innovative design, every project is strategically selected to achieve transformative results for the company and community.

Over the course of more than 35 Years, the company has developed high profile assets guided by the principles Affirmative Development to help empower women and minorities and close the wealth gap.

36 The Crescent Magazine

As a teenager, Peebles worked as a congressional page and attended the United States Capitol High School, where he graduated in 1978. Following high school, he enrolled in Rutgers University, planning to go into medicine. However, in 1979, Peebles started his real estate career as an appraiser. In three years, he opened his own firm and had clients such as the United States Department of Housing & Urban Development and major financial and banking institutions. In 1983, at the age of twentythree, Peebles’ career took a meteoric rise after Mayor Marion Berry appointed him to the District of Columbia’s Board of Equalization & Review (now known as the Board of Real Property Assessment & Appeal).

In 1987, Peebles’ real estate development career was started when he constructed his first commercial building that year, a 100-thousand square foot office building in one of Washington, D.C.’s economically challenged neighborhoods. In 1989, he established a highly successful commercial tax assessment appeal firm in Washington, D.C. Within two years, he was appealing over 400 tax assessment appeal cases annually and had the highest success rate of any tax assessment appeals firm in Washington, D.C. In 1995, while on vacation in Miami, Brother Peebles read an article about Miami’s search for a black developer to develop two old beach hotels, the Shorecrest and the Royal Palm. In early 1997, he decided to take his company, which had developed and/or owned over one million square feet of commercial properties in Washington, D.C., and moved its headquarters to Miami, Florida. Peebles expanded his company by creating hospitality and luxury residential divisions dedicated to the development and ownership or premiere hotel properties and high-end condominium properties. He is recognized as the first African American to truly diversify South Florida’s allwhite ranks of developers. After a lengthy process, Peeble’s company, Peebles Atlantic Development Corporation, was chosen to build the $60 million project. In 1998, he purchased the historic Miami Beach Bath Club that he developed into a luxury condominium complex.

TC: You’re about to celebrate 36 years of The Peebles Corporation. What was the experience inspiration or motivation that caused you to launch this business, especially in real estate?

DP: It was initially financial independence. I grew up in a middle-class, working class neighborhood.

My parents got divorced when I was 5 years old.

My mother and I moved toDetroit and ultimately back to Southeast D.C., she was a primary parent, custodian and bread-winner. So growing up, money was always an issue, when I got old enough to understand around the age of 13. My mother was an entrepreneur—she got into the real estate business when I was 8 and when I got to be a teenager she was doing quite well. Money was not an issue for the rest of my childhood and I was very well aware of it. So, my first need was to have financial independence—being able to pay my bills, help take care of my mother, have spending money and a nice living. I started a business in D.C. and wanted to be in control of my living. I wanted to be in real estate because it’s what I knew and was learning. I felt the best way to get to financial independence was to work for myself.

TC: At what point was this in your life?

DP: I spent my last two years of high school working on Capitol Hill. I was a page for Congressman Gus Hawkins, (D-CA) for six months, then an intern for Ron Dellums, (D-CA), then Charles Rangel. In my last year I worked for John Conyers, so I got exposed to the political world and African American men in Congress. I saw African American men at the epicenter of power in our nation and they were confronted with very critical issues facing African Americans.I went to school at the Library of Congress from 6:00am to 10:30am. I then walked across the street to the capitol and I worked to 7:00pm each day, played basketball and went home and did my homework. I was very busy! After that, I went to college to be a doctor and after my freshmen year I changed my mind – wanted to go into business. So, I went back home to DC to figure out what I wanted to do. 37 Summer 2019

Summer 2019 37

My mom had a small appraisal business, so I did work for her and I thought it could be a good way to earn a living. I learned the business and then I started my own appraisal business. It was all about financial freedom—being able to control the amount of money I made.

TC: Interesting, my next question was going to be is your testimony a support of the saying “real estate is the gateway to freedom” or financial wealth?

DP: I mean real estate is not an overly complicated business. You have to understand the business, but unlike medicine, you don’t have to have technical skills to do your work. Real estate is a knowledgebased business, that’s pretty straight-forward. So, it allowed me to get into it pretty quickly and there’s no school to be a real estate developer. I said I could figure it out and I knew real estate would give be the opportunity to create wealth.

TC: When you look at the portfolio your corporation has amassed, what is one key purpose that drove the company’s success in the first half and later?

DP: After I got over the hump, it was more about doing something transformative. I wanted to break down barriers, so other people can say he did that— so can I. In downtown D.C., no African American owned a building, so I was about the business of doing that. No one built a major hotel that was black, so I wanted to do that too. Those were the

38 The Crescent Magazine

things that drove me; even with the obstacles that I was confronted as with—the unlevel playing field.

So, my drive became wanting to be transformative and knocking down barriers. And that’s what drives me today.Born in 1960, the most pressing issue of my lifetime was Civil Rights –our basic freedoms taken for granted. We had to fight for our rights and that shaped my perspective on the country and what I wanted to do in it. One of the things that has troubled me throughout my lifetime is this wealth disparity that Black Americans confront; how does that continue and how do we change it. I want more people to go into business, because that is the vehicle available that changes and transforms our communities.

TC: Diversity is a guided principle of yours with an emphasis on affirmative development—empowering women and minorities to close the wealth gap. Was there an experience that impacted you such that it became a driving purpose for your company?

DP: It would be, in some regards, living and growing up in this country. I was aware of the different way people were treated. My maternal grandfather lived in small town, near Richmond, Virginia and I remember as a kid driving to and from D.C. with him and he would be pulled over by the police and there would be a lot of discomfort. I became more aware of that and how wealth and power looked in America. As an adult, I saw every step of the way that

I would have to confront obstacles that my peers did not have to. The opportunities I received early in my career was the direct result of an aggressive black mayor who focused on economic empowerment in the 1980s. And I watched how black businesses were treated and targeted by the media because we were upsetting the apple cart, breaking the status quo. That double standard drove and motivated me. So, I wanted to do everything that I could in my company do business with others who didn’t have the opportunities. And we would lead by example to show other businesses would do the same thing. I’m keenly aware of the challenges that black entrepreneurs and women confront. That’s a responsibility that I have to incorporate diversity and opportunity in our business. That’s what affirmative development is – taking the affirmative steps to focus on looking for ways to incorporate minority businesses in our projects.

TC: The Public-Private Partnership model has proven to be successful your company.

DP: When businesses in the private sector seek to do business with us, it’s important that they give me the demographics of their employees. I need to know how many African Americans and women staff, partners or vendors. It’s important that the private sector allow partnerships to minority firms to allow themselves to scale up and gain more knowledge and resources. We partner with governments around the country because we understand that it’s more than just making money. Our projects have a big social economic impact and so we’re focused just as much on the social impact than just the financial gain.

TC: This has truly become a passion of your next phase of business.

DP: We can’t JUST be businesspeople. Because we’re African American it can come with barriers but, we have a responsibility to help change things.

I’ve done projects that, if I was just a straight-up businessperson, could have walked away. But because of what they stood for, I didn’t want to be in a situation where the people would say “see

we gave the black guy a chance and look at what happened,” or yeah, they said they would do 25% minority business, but they only did 5%--how do they expect us to do it, if they can’t. So those are the responsibilities we have and I welcome them.

I want to do more. That’s why I kicked around going into politics and why I’m doing this fund. I believe that the pathway for a better life for our people is through entrepreneurship and business and a way to build wealth in our communities. If we’re able to do that, it will address the systemic issues confronting our youth. We can’t get distracted with “oh, how do we deal with these problems.” We have to say we’re going to knock down the barriers to wealth and economic expansion and truly let people have a fair chance. And that will allow us to solve our own problems. I’m a believer that, if given the fair opportunity, we can and should solve our own issues. But the fight has to be from economic justice.

TC: What are your next goals for the company?

DP: As a company we’ve been focused on largescale developments and we have a good pipe-line of businesses and when we see opportunities that fit that space for us, we will continue to do that. I see a tremendous need for a business model that provides capital to people who do not have access because there are systemic barriers there that have blocked them. Because I’ve been doing this for 35+ years and I’m pretty very visible, I get a lot of calls

Summer 2019 39

and emails from African American entrepreneurs and developers looking for capital for their projects.

They need ideas, funds and help and they can’t get it. I find it to be very unacceptable. So, I’m not an investor and have questioned why people are coming to me? Because there’s nowhere to go.

The real estate business is funded by capital that comes from banks; all of whom have been bailed out by the government. And private equity funds who manage money from wealthy individuals and agencies. A large amount of the real estate ownership and development come from public pension funds. The public pension system has outsourced the management and decision of deployment of capital. Then the big banks and financial institutions that manage those funds they do business with people they’re comfortable with.

They’re very few of “us” in those banks, so they then deploy to the big developers who build the big buildings. They’re not thinking about the minority developers. So, the Black Teachers Pension Fund is highly unlikely to get invested with a minority developer. The system is set up to make sure that it doesn’t happen. So, I saw that and determined that I can come up with a business model to counter that. I can do that and become investment advisors for real estate and deploy the capital to talented minority and women-owned developers and show they can make money for the pension

40 The Crescent Magazine

system and also economic opportunity. This will be transformative and profitable. That’s our next phase for the company and works well with our core business.

TC: How can Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, as an organization through real estate development, impact the communities we serve?

DP: First, we must educate and expose the fraternity members who’re in school to look at this as a viable option for their future. To take the classes, while in school to get a degree that will place them in that space; and educate our members on financial literacy and the basic structure of real estate. We must make people understand what real estate development is through learning sessions and symposiums at our annual meetings. That will move the needle and get more people interested in it. Then we can use our network to help each other—connect interested members with our own members who are real estate agents and developers through our national website.

We, as an organization, can create a non-profit to build affordable housing and employ our members to manage. Affordable housing is being built around the country and we can easily take the funds and impact our communities.

TC: When you’re building your team at The Peebles Corporation, what are the key attributes you’re looking for in selecting your management team?

DP: Drive. To be driven, disciplined and a strong willingness to learn. I learn something new every day. Those are the three key ingredients for success.

I also look for a since of purpose, and I like to hear what people are planning for their lives—for their future. You should always be driven by your purpose.

Brother Dwayne Ashley is the man who thinks big and bold, coupled with strategic thinking and wise council in the philanthropic world. He raised over $800 million for his past clients which include Louis Armstrong Foundation, Usher New Look, Steve Harvey Foundation, Madonna and the United Way of Texas Gulf Coast, to name a few.

BROTHER DWAYNE ASHLEY FOUNDER/CEO

BRIDGE PHILANTHROPIC CONSULTING Bridge Philanthropic Consulting (BPC) is the nation’s largest and only full-service African American Owned fundraising firm, whose mission is to bridge relationships and resources to impact social change. The company has a proven track record of extraordinary success helping philanthropic organizations and institutions to realize their dreams, accomplish their missions and grow their aspirations. With more than 120 years of combined experience, the firm’s leaders have raised hundreds of millions of dollars for clients throughout the world.

With locations in New York, NY, Washington, DC, Atlanta, GA, Houston, TX and Los Angeles, CA, BPC provides counsel to plan or enhance capital campaigns, annual giving, major gift programs, special events, program development, conference management, organizational development, team building, board training, planned giving and strategic communications, among other services.

Some of the nation’s top corporations, educational institutions and foundations line the list of reputable clients, including 100 Black Men of America, Inc., United Negro College Fund, United Way, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Moet Hennessy, Jesse Owens Scholarship Fund, Schott Foundation for Education, Feeding America and more.

It’s his fearless and authentic manner of being a solicitor that makes him successful. Ashley embraces his commitment to social justice and helping organizations of color maximize their fundraising success. He’s a powerhouse of energy and possesses a passion for fundraising.

Ashley is a thought-leader in the field and he has shared his valuable concepts in numerous articles, and books. They include; Eight Steps to Raising Money: Measuring Your Fundraising Impact, 8 Winning Steps to Creating a Successful Special Event and I’ll Find A Way or Make One: A Tribute to HBCUs.

Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, Brother Ashley, is an alumnus of Wiley College, where he was initiated at the Beta Chapter in Spring 1988. He is a Life Member. He holds a Bachelor degree in Business and minor in Communications/Hotel Management.

He is very proud of his great-grand mother’s contribution of land to establish one of the oldest schools to educate blacks in Heflin, Louisiana. The school is now the one of the oldest black churches in the state of Louisiana.

TC: Since you founded BPC, how is the company measuring in its impact in social change and your goals?

DA: We are running ahead of schedule; exceeding our projections by 20%. Our growth in terms of Executive Consultants, we only projected to have recruited 25 consultants by year 3 and we’re at 58.

So, there’s a lot of interest in BPC—people who want to work with us want to be a part of the movement.

BPC is a movement of entrepreneurs who want to control their own destiny and want to be part of a community of people who are dedicated to social change in communities of color. It is a for-profit business, and at the time when we were building it, Summer 2019 41

we said we wanted to do something fun—to make a difference in the world, but we wanted to be able to make money. But we wanted to be specifically and unapologetically founded to serve communities of color – that is our motto. Our question was how do we take all of this expertise—people who’ve been in fundraising all these years and bring this back to our community to grow its incremental revenue. The company has exceeded its expectations because the movement has caught on so quickly because people want to work with a firm who looks like them.

With that, you have to be responsible in managing growth. We had to put the brakes on taking every client. When we first started, to get business in the door, we wanted to work with everybody, but we quickly realized that the products we have is not right for every client. Smaller organizations were calling with less than $100,000, they can’t really access our general consulting practice, but we wanted to make a difference and help out. So, we developed another product which is called our BPC Insights, where we offer 1-Day Consulting. We come in and set them up with our templates, how to build your prospects list, how to make a campaign plan, how to make sure your supportive case is solid. Then we check back with you in 3-6 months to see if you need more. We put them on a pathway for success. As you grow and are ready for a major campaign, BPC will come in and assist you with that campaign.

TC: So, you do have those service packages that can tailor to specific clients who’re excited about what you do, but they don’t have the resources to maximize all of what BPC offers?

DA: Yes, that’s $1,000 per day. We come in every quarter, so that’s $4,000 per year. If you’re a $100,000 organization, you can afford that. And you’re getting something that will drive your incremental growth in revenue. When we spend that amount of time with you, you’re going to see a difference. Then you’ll understand how to build your case, prospect list and how to make the approach to corporations, foundations and what we really stress is individuals.

That’s where the money will come from.

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What we know for sure is that is what organizations of color do not do. Almost every client we know do not have an individual pool of donors. Those that do, have not suited them properly and done the work to maintain them. Individuals will give to you every year, increase their giving and when they die, will put it in their Will.

TC: When you are servicing clients, are you physically engaged, the team or collaborations? How do you partner with others to bring your services to life?

DA: We’ve created the BPC model. It’s our methodology and approach to fundraising. We built the products based on my belief in how fundraising should be approached. Its woven into all of our products and it’s the way we teach our consultants.

Even though our consultants are experienced, they have to go through our training in campaign management. So, I’m not involved with every campaign, but my spirit, beliefs and approach are woven into the products. We’re also very careful to make sure that our consultants bring a passion for what we do.

For example, I recruited some consultants early on. They bought into the vision of what we were doing, but they were complaining that the clients didn’t have the capacity. At that point, I had to say you’re not aligned with our values. We already know that the clients don’t have capacity because this goes back to 400 years of slavery. They’ve been denied access to the resources and they’ve always been underfunded because they’ve never had the capacity to access those resources. So, we make sure that our consultants understand that we know that our clients are going to come with a set of issues that are unique to communities of color. We’re used to it. That gets us excited!

TC: What was the most difficult challenge for you when it came to fine tuning your team, and what did you learn about yourself, from it?

DA: I am the majority owner and I founded the company. When I built my model, I found out that I need to have an HR person, operations person, an attorney, technology person and some key fundraisers. I talked to some very successful entrepreneurs and businesspersons and questioned how do I structure this. They gave me guidance. So, I offered people equity percentages for sweat equity.

When you’re the majority owner, no one is going to work as hard as you. For me, I’m thinking you’re an owner – you have a stake in this. You should be just as committed as I am to making sure that we achieve, grow the business and do all of the things that need to be done to grow the business. And that’s just not going to happen. So, if you are the founder no one is going to work as hard as you – that was a reality to me.

Once I understood that, I pivoted and said, hey this is your baby and you have to drive this. And now, when I go into things I always make sure that I have to put systems in place to drive it to ensure that you can deliver.

TC: Diversity is a major part of BPC. How has the vast cultural differences in your team been an advantage and benefit to the company?

DA: Bridge really does represent what America looks like, even though we are very clear to our mission to serve communities of color. What is really aligned, regardless of our race, creed, color, or sexual orientation, is that they are committed to serving communities of color regardless of any of that—we all bring that! Many of my team, I’ve worked with them over the years. When I was ready to do this, I reached out to them and many said, “I’m ready to do this.”

TC: What do you look for in your team of professionals—that thing that makes you interested in them?

DA: Integrity. People being authentic. Those are the two undergirding values that we know you’re a great fit for BPC. Because if you’re not authentic in understanding who you are, what you want to do and why you want to do it, when the going gets tough and the clients are putting pressure on you, there’s a sense of feeling when you know what and why you’re doing this. It will drive you to do it every day and the fact that the client has hired us, we have a responsibility to deliver.

Their programs are depending on us sometimes. If we don’t deliver for them, they could not be able to take their programs forward. We don’t take clients that we don’t feel that they’re ready for our services. We don’t want to ever be in a situation that we set them up for failure, so that's why integrity is so important. I don’t take clients that we don’t meet with. We get calls, do a phone interview and they send us a contract—we don’t do that. We have to meet with you and make sure that there is a mutual connection and we feel it’s a mission that we can really represent. Our integrity—we can’t sell something that we don’t believe in. Yes, we’re capitalist but we’re mission driven.

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TC: How can organizations like Phi Beta Sigma benefit from the services of BPC? DA: TThe great thing that fraternal organizations bring as member-organizations is that people bring an affinity to the mission, so our belief is that individuals are the largest area of growth for organizations who want to grow their incremental revenue. We would come in and help mount out a campaign plan and strategy for how to translate that into, not only people paying their membership dues but making an investment in the mission of the organization. That’s really training the membership on the science of fundraising, giving them the tools to fundraise. I find that a lot of times in membership organizations, it’s pay your membership dues and taxing them for that; but not really giving them the tools to understand that they could actually raise more money if they truly understood the programs and to fundraise for them.

It’s really moving away from being so transactional, where it’s just “are you financial” but are you helping fundraise in the areas where you’re most passionate in the organization. The second part is understanding where people’s strengths are in the fundraising process. There is an opener, a steward and a closer. Where do you fall? Everybody’s not a closer and most people are not comfortable with asking and some people love it. So, you have to find out who’s the person to make the ask. You have to make sure the team is built the right way.

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TC: Where do you see BPC’s presence in five years?

DA: We are currently the largest and only full-service fundraising consulting firm in the country. I see two to three other firms born out of BPC’s example with the next 3 – 4 years and that’s what we want. I don’t think that we should be the only one. We need more. This is a 1.3 trillion dollar industry. There’s enough market out there for at least 10-20 other firms. We get a lot of consultants that refer business to us because they can’t handle them or that’s not the market they serve. The other thing is, we’re really embracing technology on how we can serve other markets. One of the products we will be introducing toward the end of this year, is a subscription program that will be for smaller organizations, individuals and entrepreneurs. That will be our primary piece of business over the next five years. That will allow us to scale globally.

TC: What would you say to those collegians graduating in business?

DA: Find your passion and pursue with every ounce of energy that you have. At the end of the day, if you want to make it as an entrepreneur, you got to have grit. Grit is the single quality that will drive your success. You have to be able to work at it, get up every morning and be passionate about it. Grit makes you stick with it, believe in it and don’t give up.

expanded beyond performing horizontal projects to include vertical work. This expansion allowed the company to become well versed in all aspects of construction, new buildings, renovations, road building and site work. The company boasts a variety of commercial projects including the Data Centers, Fitness Centers, Central National Bank, University of Virginia’s Hospital Expansion Project, St. Francis Cancer Center and most recently, a project the company is extremely excited about, the construction a memorial to recognize the enslaved labor that built The University of Virginia: The Memorial to Enslaved Labor.

BROTHER DEVON HENRY FOUNDER/CEO

TEAM HENRY ENTERPRISES Team Henry Enterprises, LLC is a multi-discipline contracting firm, specializing in Environmental, Civil, Marine and Emergency Response Services. The company is headquartered in Newport News, VA with satellite offices in Raleigh, NC, Richmond, VA and Miami, FL servicing the Eastern Seaboard. The company was birthed out of the acquisition of The Silty Lady, a 25-year old company that specialized in erosion and sediment control applications.

Founded in 2006, Team Henry took over existing clients within the Virginia Department of Transportation and later expanded to clients within the federal government. Those clients included the Department of the Army, NAVFAC, U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, FEMA, U.S. Coast Guard and The Department of Interior.

Team Henry offers a range of services that include pre-construction, design and build, construction management, general contracting, adaptive reuse and historic renovation. The company’s services

Team Henry Enterprises has grown to become the parent company to TH Supplies, a distribution arm that provides pipes, valves, fittings and other industrial supplies to the construction marketplace.

Also, under the Team Henry umbrella is TH Logistics, a third- party logistics provider with over 3 million square feet of warehouse space across the United States, serving customers such as Campbell Soup and Nestle Water.

The company is a graduate of the 8(a) Development Program and currently certified by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a HubZone business, a designation the company takes seriously because in order to qualify, the business must be located in a Historically Under Utilized area and 35% of its employees must reside in a HubZone.

Today, Team Henry partners with clients within the federal and state government, as well as private entities and developers. The company has been recognized for business success by SBA, American Express, National Minority Supplier Development Council, Commonwealth of Virginia, State of North Carolina, INC Magazine, Bloomberg and Fortune Magazine.

Brother Devon Henry, Founder and CEO of Team Henry Enterprises, is a Spring 1998 initiate of Delta Zeta Chapter at Norfolk State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Bio Chemistry. He also received a Master’s degree from the University of Maryland in Environmental Management with a Business Concentration. Devon currently serves as the fraternity’s Eastern Regional Director.

Summer 2019 45

TC: What inspired your decision to form Team Henry Enterprises?

DH: Well actually, I thought I was going to be a doctor or working in pharmaceuticals. But I decided not to pursue that career, when after graduation, I got hired by General Electric and placed in their Corporate Leadership Program. I discovered so much--all of the different business units, as well as learned the understanding of how to manage all aspects of business. I was beginning to enjoy construction and infrastructure while incorporating environmentally friendly construction practices. To strengthen my toolbox, I then pursued my Master’s in Environmental Management with a concentration in Business.

I became captivated by the construction process.

I began to think about how, in the world of construction, you can have a design based on a vision and then be taken on a journey to construct something from the ground up and see that vision come to life.

The GE program was a rotation process, where you really had to learn all aspects of the corporation.

It required working across the country, as well as international travel.

TC: Was acquiring The Silty Lady the impetus for Team Henry? What was the company’s attraction to you that appeared to be a good or obvious transition?

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DH: Well, everything happens for a reason. Two things were occurring when I was working tirelessly for General Electric. 1) I was newly married—a husband with a pregnant wife. Our daughter was born premature at 1 pound 12 ounces and I was rarely home due to business travel. My wife was taking on the total responsibility of handling most everything. And that was a lot for one person. 2) I got a glimpse of the charging rates from GE to the clients – they were making money hand over fists!

I thought to myself, “I could do this on my own!” I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and knew that I wanted to have more control of my schedule and my family’s financial destiny.

The universe has a way of directing your path and the Lord is the center of my life. I began with prayer.

So, with God’s blessing and the support of my wife, I put EVERY single dime, the house and our 401k savings into starting the business; essentially, we were betting on ourselves. We started Team Henry Enterprises, LLC in 2006. We started the company as Team Henry DBA The Silty Lady.

The attraction was a construction company heavily involved in the environmental sector. They also had been around for 20 years with name recognition.

The funny thing is, during the acquisitions, due diligence phase, many questions were rising about the existing client base. The sellers did not want clients to know they were selling the company. But once bought, we met with clients and discovered that the clients could not stand the current business!

They were choosing not to do business! REGROUP! The Silty Lady had a bad reputation and we had to pivot. We dropped the old name and began to operate as Team Henry.

From 2006 – 2008, in the dead of a recession we had to start all over! I worked with the SBA, pulling together all resources to keep the business afloat.

We had to create a solid business plan and recreate how we had to do business in the marketplace, when no one wanted to spend money.

TC: What impact did securing federal government projects have on Team Henry’s capabilities as a company?

DH: During that period, I looked to the #1 organization that was spending money: the federal government. Doing business in HubZone allowed me to leverage our socioeconomic status. We first qualified because we were located in a HubZone.

Secondly, 35% of staff lived in a HubZone. This was our opportunity to do well by doing good. We hired folks that needed second opportunities in life or simply “An” opportunity—people who were generally written off. We served the community in which we were working. Again, this was Divine timing – because I stayed on my knees! Prayer without works is dead—I bust my butt, invested in people and our infrastructure, so when opportunities were available, we were ready.

TC: Has Team Henry’s growth as a business been progressive since 2006 or slow and steady?

DH: The growth has been pretty exponential!

Once we got an understanding of how the Federal Government worked, we were able to open other offices. We have five offices serving the Federal Government. We recently were awarded two contracts with the U.S. Coast Guard worth $250 million dollars over the next 7 years—a lot of work to keep us seriously busy for the years to come.

Since 2006, we’ve completed over 350 projects, valued at nearly a quarter billion dollars. We’ve also been featured in Bloomberg and Fortune Magazines

for representing tremendous growth and serving the inner city. I’m extremely proud! The thoughts of the company’s achievements and teammates’ development, makes me say “WOW”.

TC: Team Henry’s service menu appears to perfectly cover the range of areas needed in construction and contracting. Did your list of services naturally expand or were you pushed to include them?

DH: Early on, I invested back into the business. I incorporated metrics for the development of our team, service lines and new business units for the company, which birthed the addition of TH Supplies and TH Logistics. I manage the overall operation, vision and culture of the company, while each business unit has its own Division President that reports up to me.

TC: How do partnerships fare in the development of your projects?

DH: Over the years, we have increased our capacity, however, If we are pursuing a very large project, we value those partnerships that give us the ability to secure more capacity and resources. For example, the University of Virginia Expansion, our partnerships that we’ve created and cultivated over the years allowed us to pursue and ultimately be awarded this $400 million project.

Summer 2019 47

TC: How many employees do you utilize to successfully operate Team Henry?

DH: We call them “Team Mates”; and there are 300 mates on the team. Our team is very diverse. I believe, when you’re in a position of influence or a decision maker, you have the opportunity to do what others can’t or won’t. I’m intentional with recruiting and onboarding women, people of color, and Sigma Brothers—people who look like me.

TC: What’s your vision for next level Team Henry?

DH: Regarding construction, we’re going to be more on the development side. I want to expand the business by going into affordable housing.

Everybody deserves to have a decent and safe place to reside. A lot of our people are suffering in low income housing. I want to respond to that community issue and address it as a nationwide issue. We want to continue to develop more projects in Virginia and then broaden our development footprint.

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The family continues to play an integral part in the business. My wife Angela was originally involved in the business until the birth of our son, Devon, Jr. She became the CEO of the Henry household. I could not do half of what she does on a daily basis.

However, she still has insight into the business and stays involved with Jack & Jill and The Links, Inc. The children are very active in sports. Taylor is 16 and Devon, Jr. is 10.

TC: In making the net-work, what advice do you give to brothers who’re just beginning to begin their careers in business?

DH: I think, as much as seasoned brothers are vested in their careers and businesses, we do want to help our younger brothers. The younger brothers have to be relentless in their pursuit of happiness and purpose. If you see a brother who’s doing business you are interested in, take the initiative to find a way to connect with that brother. Get yourself a mentor!... that’s what I did. I encourage you to be RELENTLESS in the pursuit of mentorship.

SIGMA Sigma Link is Hosted by The Sigma Executive Leadership Council

OBJECTIVE:

Through the creation of Sigma Link, we’ll develop a pipeline of talent for companies, institutions, and organizations across all entities, ensuring we influence the process to consider qualified candidates for entry-level programs, promotions, and talent acquisition. Companies are clamoring for creative ways to identify exemplary leaders, and

To support each other around leader development and to create and exhibit a coaching culture.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. is positioning Sigma Link as the preeminent source for talent.

ABOUT:

All members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. are encouraged to play a role in Sigma Link’s success, whether in their individual professional development, or in the career development of other Sigma members.

PURPOSE: The Sigma Link group leverages social media websites (e.g. LinkedIn) for the purpose of networking, engagement, and leader development of Phi Beta Sigma members.

Sigma Link is a distinctive and distinguished group devoted to excellence in leadership development.

Moreover, Sigma Link is a learning community for brothers to engage, connect, and learn from leaders who are steeped in industry experience.

It is a web-based, career development portal, designed to increase networking capabilities, enhance engagement, and stimulate leader development of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. members.

Sigma Link has established the hashtag, #SigmaLink, for the purpose of creating awareness among members, activating your access to this powerful tool, and initiating immediate impact to careers across millions of domestic, international, and global opportunities.

Go to https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/8802330/ to learn more, join the group, and begin making a difference in your career development.

THE NETWORK:

MAKING IT WORK

M

ost of us probably have a vague remembrance of the “sales talk” which finally moved us to join Phi Beta Sigma. Some of the early conversations probably focused on celebrities, athletes and public figures who came through the ranks

of Sigma men. For collegiate candidates there was talk about how many step shows/Greek scenes the campus chapter had won over the years, or why Sigma was the most popular frat on the yard. But discussions about joining the fraternity almost always include a mention of the value of being able to go anywhere in the world and find Sigma brothers, who would welcome brothers with open arms! Whether neophyte, old school or “well-seasoned” Sigma, becoming a part of the brotherhood “net” created opportunities to network with men sharing the Blue and White bond, which turns out to be among the greatest gifts of being a Sigma man!

For those who joined the fraternity as undergraduates, most networking revolved around finding Sigmas on the yard during those weekend road trips. Some brothers may have remembered to try out networking as they sought out summer jobs or internships. As the reality of graduation came into focus, so did the need for testing whether the Sigma network would really work.

Many brothers have discovered during their search for jobs and moves up the corporate ladder that the Sigma network works!

Truth—Networking makes a difference, especially in this new age where most job searches are conducted online. The ability to communicate and build communities of people with similar backgrounds, beliefs and goals helps individuals build confidence through supportive partners and encourages its members to work together. Networks can be the edge needed by members to success in finding the types of careers they really want. The success of Greeklettered organizations has been based on building networks of men and women with common ideas and beliefs, working in concert to create small societies whose ultimate goals are to foster comraderies which encourage members to work together. Networking fosters relationships for people through the building of bonds which can potentially last a lifetime.

Networks built by kindred similarities in ideologies and interests are of great benefit in the corporate world. Companies depend on and even reward employees for referring candidates who turn out to be strong, dedicated employees. Satisfied workers spread the word and can become recruiters of others who will potentially be assets to their companies. Not enough can be said about the creation of teams within a company who can be productive, and ultimately increase the bottom line of the company.

Within the ranks of Sigma men exists networks made up of individuals pursuing various careers.

These networks are sometimes created accidentally—one brother talking to others about their search for a job, and someone says, “I know a brother who works in that area”. Others develop out of necessity, such as those looking for opportunities in very specialized fields. Networks are proven to be excellent means to finding the right jobs and the right person for the job. In this relatively new millennium, a strong network based on career enhancement is the key to success.

Brother John E. White (Sigma Sigma Sigma Chapter) knows firsthand the importance of building and sustaining a strong network. Having spent the bulk of his professional career at Sodexo, he has built a successful career by staying connected with brothers having the mindset of being the best at what they do.

In 34 years, John has fostered the development of one of the strongest and most productive networks in the company. His ascent to Vice President is the by-product of hard work and helping the company identify people who ascribe to similar values.

Sodexo USA provides a variety of services to more than 100 million people daily.

The company’s offerings include concierge services, facilities management, employee benefits, food, vending and home services and construction and technical services. Sodexo employs dietitians, engineers, healthcare and office professionals, cooks, managers and executives.

In North America it serves more than 13,000 clients including colleges and universities, hospitals and health care, defense, sports, and business.

Sodexo is one of the world’s largest multinational companies, with operations in 80 countries and over 420,000 employees, representing more than 100 professions. Sodexo is recognized as a top company for recruitment, diversity, women executives, and is among the FORTUNE World’s Most Admired Companies.

Brother White started his career with Sodexo right out of Alcorn State University, as an employee with Marriott Management Services Health Care.

He became a hiring manager for North Carolina Baptist Hospitals, and needing to hire evening team members to serve meals. John says “I turned to our chapter at Winston-Salem State University and hired collegiate members Joseph Crisp and Rafael Hasley. They both worked for then Marriott Management Services throughout college. Rafael work his way through management several years after graduation.” After the success he achieved hiring collegiate in North Carolina, Brother White continued recruiting talent within the Fraternity as the company moved him around the country. He would eventually move to Kentucky, where Sodexo put him in charge of recruiting and hiring for the University of Louisville Medical Center. At this site, John continued to look to Phi Beta Sigma for brothers who didn’t mind hard work. His efforts there netted jobs from entry level to middle management for over 20 fraternity brothers, 8 Sigma Beta Club members and one Zeta Phi Beta soror. This was the beginning of the Sigma network which today permeates the Sodexo Corporation.

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When asked “What makes this Sigma Network work?”, John responded with a reminder of what he was taught by his parents- “Pay it forward; always be willing to help others.” He considers his life’s work more than just helping people get jobs.

Brother White believes that networking makes a huge difference in the success of those wanting to establish meaningful careers. He provides support, mentoring and coaching to those he has taken under his wing. The result of this ever-growing network is moving Sigma men forward in their chosen careers. Among the most recent additions to the Sigma network at Sodexo is Brother Christopher Fleming, Alpha Sigma Chapter (formerly Director of Communications at the International Headquarters), who works as the Marketing Specialist for Sodexo Magic, located in the DC area. While Christopher’s chosen career is in graphic arts design, his move to Sodexo is yet another example of how the Sigma net produces opportunities for professional growth.

He hopes this career move will provide him with corporate experience, opportunities to learn and grow professionally, and to be a significant part of this ever-growing network.

Because of John White’s commitment to networking and paying it forward, Phi Beta Sigma is well represented at all levels within the Sodexo Corporation. Today he is the Vice President of Operations Management for the Mid-Atlantic region of Sodexo. The ever-growing Sigma Sodexo network includes two more brothers serving at the

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Executive level in the company. Brother White says that these men are also responsible for the growth and success of the network. Brother Rodney Brown serves as the Senior Vice President for Universities in the Western region, and Brother Nebeyou Abebe is the Global Vice President for Health and Wellbeing for Sodexo, Incorporated. Both gentlemen give credit to Bro. White for his commitment to recruiting qualified, committed brothers as the reason why the Sigma Sodexo network is successful.

In his role as a Senior Vice President, Brother Brown works with more than 70 colleges and universities in the region he serves. He shared that his work provides opportunities for direct contact with Sigma brothers matriculating on these campuses. These contacts allow him to talk with collegiate members about career opportunities and internships with Sodexo and have resulted in further growth of the Sigma Sodexo network. Rodney believes that “networking is critical; the more Phi Beta Sigma can create networking opportunities it increases the overall value of the Fraternity.” He offers this advice to brothers on networking: “Anything you want to do requires sacrifice—many aren’t willing to make those sacrifices. Also, find an advocate/sponsor— someone who likes what you are doing, and is willing to vouch for you when you’re not around.”

Brother Nebeyou Abebe is the corporate leader for Sodexo’s division which focuses on health issues affect populations throughout the world. He shared that John White assisted him in his rise to upper management as the Chairperson for the African American Leadership Forum at Sodexo. It was the creation of this forum, and John’s emphasis of its necessity “which opened doors and provided me the chance to help other African American employees advance in their careers—paying it forward!”

Nebeyou also works with collegiate brothers who express interest in working for companies like Sodexo. He makes a special point of seeking out Sigma brothers when he does outside speaking engagements on behalf of the company. Bro. Abebe acknowledges that he wouldn’t be where he is without networking. His advice to the Brotherhood is “Develop a tight resume and a LinkedIn profile.

Make connections with those in your chosen career field. Work hard, stay humble, do research, be bold, and establish formal and informal relationships as you build your network. The ability to make solid connections with people in your career is vital!”

Another member of the Sigma Sodexo connection is newly elected International Vice President Chris V. Rey. Brother Rey served as a District Manager for the New Jersey school districts for Sodexo, after informally networking with Bro. John White.

In his interview, he mentioned how his military experience, involvement in local government and his ongoing relationship with brothers in Sigma led to this opportunity. He credits the support and mentoring of Honorable Bro. Peter Adams and Bro. White with his continuing career successes. Chris’s employment experiences with Sodexo positioned him to make the move to his new job with the March of Dimes, where he is the National Director for Strategic Partnerships. His advice to young brothers: “Learn your craft and strive to be better than your peers at what you do. Discipline is the key to success; it will help you in learning your craft. Make yourself valuable to the organizations where you serve and work. Be intentional about networking; follow up with the connections you make.”

With thirty-four years of experience with Sodexo North America, Brother John White has developed a wealth of experience in maneuvering successfully within the corporate world and making the most of the networks in which he has been involved. He offers the following advice on achieving success in one’s career: • Be committed and motivated to invest in yourself and your career.

• Be hungry, be driven

• Listen more than you talk

• Know the unwritten rules

• Follow your passion

• Pay It Forward!

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As for networking, Brother White encourages brothers to: •

•

• • • •

Simply follow up on every networking opportunity.

Invest in getting to know people in various careers, industry.

Prepare and ask the right questions Listen and Learn Contribute when you see it benefit others Pay It Forward

For anyone who might doubt whether the Brotherhood net is viable —just ask John White and the Sigma men whose lives have been positively impacted as a result of the connections made with him through Sodexo over the years—the net works!

MORE TESTIMONIES THAT THE SIGMA NET WORKS

“The Kentucky Connection”

SCOTT FISHBACK Epsilon Beta Sigma

RONALD ANTHONY Epsilon Beta Sigma

In 2002, I was hired by John White to serve as a Training Manager with Sodexo at the University of Louisville Healthcare. I had the opportunity to hone my leadership, project management and public speaking skills. When I decided what my next career move would be, John introduced me to another Sigma Brother who was working in the pharmaceutical industry and he was able to help me prepare, and ultimately, land a job with Boehringer – Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

This unique Sigma Network has had a positive impact on my career because I was able to receive real life mentorship that developed and propelled my leadership during my career for Sodexo Management. I was first hired for Patient Food Services Manager at Sodexo but was quickly promoted to Retail Manager and finally Operations Manager. After 5 years with Sodexo I decided to get into the Law Enforcement field.

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LEZELL LOWE Eta Alpha Sigma

WESLEY PERRY Eta Alpha Sigma

Through John, I had my first-ever summer internship. I was an undergraduate who drastically needed employment to pay for college. John helped me. This opportunity helped me to stay in school, and because of John's leadership, I learned valuable lessons about corporate America and leadership. John White continues to be a strong mentor, and constantly pushes me to achieve. His ability to NETWORK is impeccable.

And he encourages everyone to always PAY if forward.

Networking was a foreign concept until John White, a former Director of Food and Nutrition at Sodexo, offered me a Food Handler position at the University of Louisville Hospital and the opportunity to join the Sigma Beta Club. Through his leadership, I experienced teams that were actively engaged in recruitment, development, partnership, and retention. Both strengthened my ability to communicate with confidence and connect with the purpose of mutual growth; two networking skills that helped secure a 4-Year Engineering Internship with Dow Chemical Co. during my freshman year of college!

MARQUIS MILES Alpha Sigma My first management internship was with Sodexo in Louisville, Kentucky, while I was an undergraduate studying Business Economics at Western Kentucky University. Upon graduation, I became the Retail & Finance Manager before leaving to pursue a Masters’ degree at Purdue University. After graduating, my journey led me back to Sodexho to serve as the Unit Controller for several years until eventually relocating to the Washington, D.C. area.

From the beginning of my management career with Sodexho, to my work at the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Headquarters, to the start of my career in Government Service where I remain today, the Fraternity and more specifically my network within Phi Beta Sigma has afforded more opportunities than I never could have imagined. Leveraging relationships and friendships that have been created and maintained throughout the years has been key to my career and personal development.

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OPEN AN ACCOUNT TODAY AND START SAVING WITH US! WHAT WE OFFER

MEMBERSHIP

We offer Special Project Loans, Share Secured Loans, Collateralized Loans, Special Signature Loans. We offer loans for purposes of Home Improvements, Education, Wedding, Vocation, Bills/Loans Consolidation and Personal.

Membership in the Credit Union is open to Sigmas, Zetas, their families, the Fraternity, the Sorority, and their Regions and Chapters. A $28.00 minimum amount is required to open a share account, of which $3.00 pays the application fee and $25.00 purchases 5 shares at $5.00 each, deposited into the account.

Visit: www.pbsfcu.org

© Copyright 2018 Phi Beta Sigma Federal Credit Union Rights Reserved.

BIGGER & BETTER

BUSINESS

ADVANCING BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS: THE SIGMA BUSINESS OWNERS’ NETWORK

T

he old fraternity adage that “membership has its privileges” is best exemplified by having an endless network of “brothers” from coast to coast. Add to that any given member’s professional status or position as a business owner and one now has access to a significant database of potential clients and/or customers.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity’s current Bigger and Better Business team developed a plan to formalize the collection of Sigma men who are also business owners and leaders with the Sigma Business Owners’ Network. The website, www.sigmabusiness.org profiles businesses owned by Sigma men, and provides additional information and resources relevant to starting and managing a business.

The Sigma Business Owners’ Network is a non-profit organization that provides a forum for business owners to network, share ideas, and discuss relevant issues to assist in business growth and access to capital. This network links businesses owned by Sigma men to other professional and trade associations to provide more exposure for those involved in the network.

A special feature of The Sigma Business Owners’ Network is the Sigma Business Partners Program. Launched in 2018, chapters have been encouraged to adopt or partner with small businesses during Small Business Week. Chapters are encouraged to invite three businesses to chapter meetings to provide information about their goods and services; patronize, promote and spotlight businesses within their community; capture service hours and dollars spent with or raised for these businesses related to Sigma events; feature these businesses on their chapter websites, in newsletters and social media. An extra added incentive is to seek businesses that are a part of the Sigma Business Network.

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INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT VISITS ADOPT-A-BUSINESS RECIPIENT

OMICRON ALPHA SIGMA GATHERS ASPIRING BUSINESS OWNERS

While in St. Louis, MO for the Food Marketing Institute Conference, Honorable Micheal E. Cristal took the opportunity to visit the Fashions R Boutique clothing store. The Black-owned retail store was adopted in 2015 by the Fraternity’s Adopt-A-Business initiative and given a $20,000 donation during the previous administration, after being burned down during the rioting following Michael Brown’s police shooting in Ferguson.

The brothers of Omicron Alpha Sigma Chapter celebrated Sigma Small Business Week with a networking meeting for aspiring business owners in South Suburban Chicago area. Twenty-eight attended, with several participating via an online webinar. Eight of the businesses were owned and operated by Blue and White family members.

DELTA DELTA SIGMA SUPPORT LOCAL CAFÉ

RHO KAPPA SIGMA INVITES LOCAL MINORITY OWNED BUSINESS TO SPEAK AT THEIR CHAPTER MEETING

The Delta Delta Sigma Chapter of Denver, CO supported Welton’s Café, a local small business in downtown Denver, Colorado.

The brothers of Rho Kappa Sigma of Loudoun County, Virginia answered the call to engage small minority businesses by inviting Anthony Davis, owner and operator of Headz 1st Barber Institute of Sterling, Virginia to speak at their chapter meeting. He shared his entrepreneurial path from barber student to barber school owner/instructor.

60 The Crescent Magazine

RHO UPSILON SIGMA SUPPORTS SIGMA SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

ZETA SIGMA CHAPTER SUPPORTS SIGMA SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

Zeta Sigma Chapter, Baltimore, MD, held its first “Black Entrepreneur Mixer” at the Black-owned restaurant Celestial Café, located in northeast Baltimore. Sponsorship for the occasion was provided by the chapter and Brother Malwan Johnson, Maryland State Director.

New York City Sigmas reached out to various minority owned businesses in their community to engage and highlight them on their social media platforms for the week. Nineteen businesses, many owned by members of Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta and D-9 organizations, were promoted. At the end of the week, a mixer was held highlighting The Gold Room, a restaurant owned by a Sigma brother, to celebrate and support this new venture.

Summer 2019 61

He’s A Sigma Man

BROTHER FRANKLIN MOSS, OWNER Franklin & Anthony Clothing Fort Worth, Texas

Voted “Best Tailor in Fort Worth, Texas” by Fort Worth Magazine, Franklin & Anthony is a bespoke suit company shaping and transforming the aesthetics of men everywhere. The clothier helps bring your style visions to life by creating distinctive, one of a kind, custom made pieces. Whether the occasion requires formal, corporate attire, or stylishly casual, Franklin & Anthony can create a masterpiece for you that is sure to make an unforgettable impression!

Schedule your consultation by calling 281-802-2645 or info@franklinandanthony.com

BROTHER LINDERAL A. ARRINGTON, OWNER Linderal Design Company Laurel, Maryland

Linderal Design Company (LDC) was birthed from Brother Linderal Arrington’s desire to offer quality garments with superior fabrics to the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) member organizations. Having joined Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in 1984, Bro. Arrington recognized the need for such a company as LDC. His fraternal membership, along with 30+ years as a professional model and fashion consultant equates to a company that understands the pride and historical greatness of such organizations. He proudly outfits members of Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Delta Sigma Theta and Iota Phi Theta.

LDC takes pride in being one of the few design companies that has a unique focus on men and women of color. LDC has teamed up with several international and domestic manufacturers to produce high quality design and construction, utilizing the finest fabrics available.

It is the goal of Linderal Design Company to become the business apparel company for every organization. LDC commits to fine appeal and superb customer service.

Recently, Brother Arrington’s LDC served as the selected vendor to cloth over 2,000 registered Phi Beta Sigma Men in their Official Sigma Blue Blazers during the organization’s Conclave Las Vegas 2019.

He’s A Sigma Man

BROTHER ANTOINE DUANE JONES, OWNER/CEO Majority Greek Magazine Antoine Duane Jones Media & Photographer Atlanta, Georgia

After celebrating fourteen successful years as one of the best celebrity photographers in the business, Brother Antoine Duane Jones launched Majority Greek Magazine, which is dedicated to showing the positive impact which minority Greek-letter organization members have in their communities and beyond. Armed with the tagline “Minority Members, Majority Impact,” the publication aims to highlight the positive works of members and the positive community impact these organizations have across the globe. In sharing his vision, Brother Jones states, “I wanted to produce an ESSENCE Magazine for Greeks.”

Duane Jones, native of Youngstown, Ohio, is best known for professional photography. Over the past decade, Jones has established himself as a force in commercial photography, fashion photography, sports and event photography.

Throughout his career, Bro. Jones has been nominated for and received several awards including this year’s nomination for Atlanta’s Hottest Photographer.

A multi-talented visual artist, Brother Jones also leads Antoine Duane Jones Media, a marketing firm that supports small businesses with branding, marketing and social media. This year he will release his first book entitled “The Down Entrepreneur: A Blueprint to Business Rejuvenation.”

Go to www.majoritygreek.com and subscribe today.

BROTHER TERRENCE L. SEAPHUS, CEO/PRESIDENT Junebugnem Chicago, Illinois

“Our Sigma Pride is showing” shouts Brother Terrence Seaphus, CEO/President of Junebugnem, the first African American internet television and radio network. “I love the fact that Phi Beta Sigma is living the new brand as A Brotherhood of Conscious Men Actively Serving Our Communities as 12 members of our team are members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.” Our original content focuses purely on positive Black images in media. We call it POSITIVE PROPAGANDA.” Junebugnem boasts a creative team of over 70 people, based at Cinespace Film Production Studios in Chicago, Illinois, the national film production house, where several popular television series are filmed, including Empire, The Chi and Chicago Fire. The new media company projects the release of 60 original content shows by the end of 2019. Plans are original television, film and music content, writing features, tech and App development, as well as special events.

Brother Seaphus is a member of Epsilon Chi Sigma Chapter, Chicago, IL and an alumnus of Illinois State University, Normal, IL, where Epsilon Chi Chapter is located. Eleven other Junebugnem members are also current students and alumni members of ISU-EX. “Through our brand of Positive Propaganda, we’re positioned with confidence to break the barriers of many venture capitalists and private films who stifle and kill the positive messages that OUR stories deliver,” says Brother Seaphus.

“Too many angel investors in the world of high finance don’t look like us, but make decisions based on our look! We’re now in a position to help build economy by creating jobs for us, by us.”

Log onto www.junebugnem.com and join today. “It’s like Neflix without the paid subscription.” And remember to CLICK-CLICK-SHARE!

He’s A Sigma Man

BROTHER QUINCY LEDBETTER

Filmmaker, Photographer and Musician Brooklyn, New York

Brother Quincy Ledbetter is an award winning filmmaker, photographer, and musician who focuses primarily in narrative, documentary, and experimental film. As a jack of all trades, he excel in writing, directing, editing, cinematography, producing and music composition.

He took the leap into digital media as a Video Producer & Editor at Mashable, where he conceived, produced, shot and edited original content. From there, he did a short freelance stint at NPR developing new shows and then moved on to work as a Video Director & Editor at Mic where he served primarily as a DP and editor. After that, he landed at HuffPost as a Video Director and Senior Video Editor.

Last year, Bro. Ledbetter won the prestigious Project Cre8 filmmaker competition. He was announced the winner by BET Networks and Paramount Players after a nationwide search for new creative talent in an impressive field of up and coming filmmakers. The competition began with hundreds of entries from across the U.S. before being narrowed to 10 semifinalists then to 5 finalists. As a semi-finalist, he was provided $2,500 to produce a 3-5 minute movie clip from his original screenplay, Alieu the Dreamer.

Ledbetter's winning original screenplay was purchased by BET who will is working with him and Paramount Players to produce the original movie script. Winning the competition gives him access to a $1,000,000 budget to direct, produce and make his original script into a feature film.

Bro. Ledbetter was initiated into the fraternity in 2003 through Theta Tau Sigma Chapter in northern Virginia. Originally from Woodbridge, VA, he currently resides in Brooklyn, NY, where he creates as a filmmaker, musician, storyteller and artist.

To learn more about Brother Ledbetter’s incredible body of work, log onto www.qledbetter.com.

BROTHER ADEDAYO “DAYO” KOSOKO, OWNER The Art Hype

Washington, D.C. Brother Adedayo “Dayo” Kosoko is a Nigerian-American photographer/videographer who takes the phrase, “a picture is worth a thousand words” quite literally. Dayo combines his love for meeting people, photography and his commanding energy to creating modern, lifestyle portraits of people and places. His clients include ad agencies, magazines, publishing companies, celebrities, and non-profit organizations.

A major client is Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Brother Dayo has captured memorable images at some of the fraternity’s most historic gatherings including Centennial Celebration, Memorial Monument Unveiling, Congressional Black Caucus events, Million Man March 20th Anniversary, and more. Members can easily recognize some his most powerful imagery on the cover of The Crescent, The Crescent: On The Yard, Sigma Scroll Book, Annual Reports, Blu Culture Collections and others.

When he’s not writing about himself in the third person, Dayo enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons. He also has made a career hosting events as a master of ceremonies. This and positive attitude and creativity during shoots has earned him the name “Mr. Hype.”

In his spare time, Dayo co-hosts a podcast for photographers and creatives alike called “Shooting With Shooters,” an audio show about visuals that were created to connect and educate photographers through storytelling and critical thinking.

Check out his work at www.thearthype.com.

Phi Beta Sigma is changing the game when it comes to attire for Black Greek-lettered organizations. No longer are frat brothers relegated to the same tee-shirt, baseball cap and letterman jackets that can be almost anywhere. Sigma Men can now purchase contemporary and fashionable clothing combined with monogrammed Greek-letter paraphernalia.

The Sigma Exchange, Phi Beta Sigma’s long-standing in-house retail store has transformed and flipped the script to become an elevated collection of fine wearable garments for, not only Phi Beta Sigma brothers, but Zeta Phi Beta Sorority sisters as well.

Blu Culture Collections feature six (6) completely unique lines carefully designed to target specific members of the Blue & White Family. The collections are: • White Collar Collection: fine tailored traditional and contemporary suits, blazers, oxford shirts, and ties created to be worn on the job or as business casual;

• Culture Collection: traditional fraternity garb featuring leather bombers, Letterman jackets, tee shirts, headgear, and accessories;

•

•

Blue Collar Collection: Cardigan sweaters, pull-over sweaters, and polo shirts for dress-down business days, casual activities, workshops, seminars and meeting;

Wellness Collection: activewear that include sports tee-shirts and jackets, sweatshirts and sweatpants, athletic socks and shoes, headbands, caps and accessories;

•

Conscious Men Collection: specially designed items paying homage to our social conscious programs, program initiatives and administrative theme;

• Finer Woman Collection: sophisticated and stylish clothing designed for the women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

Stay tuned for the launch of new and exciting collections, designed especially for Life Members, Distinguished Service Chapter, and The Sigma Beta Club. Log onto www.bluculturecollections.com and upgrade your style options today!

APPROVED LICENSED VENDORS The following is a list of all approved licensed vendors for Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Should you see any unlicensed vendors selling our paraphernalia please report it to the International Headquarters.

# 3 Sisters Embroidery 4imprint, Inc. 550 Strong A Ace Screen Printing Adam Block Design Advanced Graphic Products, Inc. Affiliate Merchandise Group All Sewn Up Allen Professional Graphics Group American Collegiate Sports Angelus Pacific Company Anton Sport Apedes Art F/X Attitude Designs B B & J Greek Stop B-Unlimited BA Promotions & Marketing Big Boy Headgear, Inc. Bloody But Unbowed Greek Gifts Boundless Brand Builders Company Branders.com, Inc. BSN Sports-Farmers Branch Buffalo Dallas C CafePress, Inc. CertiPH’d DeZignZ Christopher V Cheatham CJB Jewelry Club Colors Buyers College Hill Custom Threads The Collegiate Standard Collegeryder

Craftique Manufacturing Company CreateMyTee.com Creative CNC Carvings Creative T-Shirts & Imaging Cuff-Daddy Customink D Daydream Marketing Decade Productions Deference Clothing DesignAShirt.com Diva Starr Dog Prints Doom Wear Designs E E&V Embroidery Elite Screen Printing F Fashion Greek FortyFour Francis Communications, Inc. Fresh Prints Fuel G Geared Up Girls Geneologie Gifted Images Graphic FX Gray’s College Bookstore Greek 101/Campus T-Shirt Greek-Branded Greek Composites By Vantine Imaging Greek Dynasty Greek Empire Greek Escape Greek Essence Greek 4 Life GreekGear.com/Express Design Group, Inc. Greek House Greek Nation

Greek Occasions GreekTShirts.com Greek Unique Greek Yearbook H Halo Branded Solutions, Inc. Happy Me Tee Haute Frat H Creations Embroidery Houndstooth Cloothing Company I Ink Cotton In-Zone, Inc. J James M Williams International JPG Apparel JNJ Apparel Joneswear, Inc. K Kapsil Greek Specialties Kevin Davis Design + Brand King Greek, Inc. Kotis Design Kustom Kut L Lasa & Associates, Inc./ Geek Divine and More Letters Greek M McCluskey and Associates Mega Greek/EC Group Merchnerds MoDessaDesigns More Greeks Morgan & Morgan Marketing Morgan Row MV Sports

N NameMakers/Campus Connection National Sportswear & Emblem Need Nalia?

Noble Image Apparel and Concierge O On Point Promos OOShirts, Inc. P Parson-Bishop Services, Inc. Pride Sash Print Mania, Inc. Pure Country, Inc. R Royal Greek Store RushOrderTees.com Rxdesigns S SANDZ, Inc. Savage Promotions, Inc. Scotty Gear Fraternity & Sorority Products/Desert Cactus Shamrock Green Holdings Simply Sophisticate Something Greek/EZ Corporate Clothing South By Sea College Sport-tee Sporty Promotions Student Book Stores, Inc.

The Trophy Shop The University Closet The University Shop Threds, Inc. Tiger Town Graphics/ TTGrafx.com/CJ Printing/ Southern Fried Cotton Tough Shirts Triple OT Sports Shop U U Big T’s Screenn Printing & Embroidery UberPrints, Inc. Underground Printing Unique Printing Unique Impressions University Apparel, Inc. University Sports Shop/ Embroidery House V Vantage Imaging Victory Designs W WestPoint Home Wood Works!

By Erick Black Y Yeti Coolers

T Teamwork Athletic The College Crib The Graphic Cow The Greek Scene The Neon South The Rah Rah Company The Social Life

Summer 2019 71

CITYWIDE PRAISE TO COPPIN STATE SUPPORTERS BRO. JAMES “WINKY” AND SOROR FLORINE “PEACHES” CAMPHOR (CON'T) Soror Camphor was raised in the SandtownWinchester area. She wanted to be a nurse but could not afford nursing school. She received a scholarship to Coppin and planned to be a teacher.

When she graduated in 1958, she had a job lined up at a school in Cherry Hill.

Both raised by single mothers in West Baltimore, the Camphors said they got into the habit of working and saving as children. Mrs. Camphor said she sold copies of The Afro Newspaper and flowers for Mother’s Day. Mr. Camphor said he shined shoes.

“Money didn’t come easy,” Mr. Camphor said. “My mother always taught me, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, and only what you do for Christ will last.’

“I tell people: Think for today, but plan for tomorrow.

If you make $5, put $3 away — at least.”

The couple met in 1965 when they were both members of Coppin’s Alumni Association. They did not get married until 1980, after Brother Camphor’s three children from a first marriage were grown.

He went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Education from Coppin and was recently given an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from the university.

Soror Camphor earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Coppin and a Master’s in Education from Loyola University, Maryland.

Leonard Raley, president of the University System of Maryland Foundation, said even with investments in higher education that make community college free or resources such as federal Pell Grants, institutions depend on donors like the Camphor’s to help them meet student needs. “The need is far greater than any resources that are currently available at our institutions,” Raley said. “We want students to graduate with little or no debt.

“Every university wishes they would have a Winky and Peaches Camphor — they are that special.”

https://AlphaSigma100Gala.eventbrite.com

PHI

B E TA

S I GMA

FRAT E R NITY,

INC.

A L P H A S I G M A C H A PT E R - WA S H I N GTO N , D C

CENTENNIAL GALA AND BLUE & WHITE SCHOLARSHIP BALL SATURDAY,

OCTOBER 12, 2019 COCKTAIL RECEPTION - 7PM DINNER - 8PM

GRAND HYATT WASHINGTON 1000 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001

IT’S TIME TO COME HOME BROTHER.

ARE YOU THAT

MISSING PIECE?

GO TO members.phibetasigma1914.org

THE CRESCENT MAGAZINE Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 145 Kennedy Street NW Washington, DC 20011-5294