Crescent On The Yard - Fall 2022

Lilly salutes

Phi Beta Sigma for its commitment to brotherhood, scholarship and service.

WELCOME TO THE BROTHERHOOD!

Greetings Brothers,

As we prepare to close out the fraternal year, this period always represents a good time to celebrate the new blood entering our brotherhood. Nearly 109 years ago, three collegians charted a new direction for African American fraternities on the campus of Howard University with the founding of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in 1914. Since that time, thousands of young college men have joined the roll, expanding Sigma’s Men of Vision, Men of Honor, Men of Character and Men of Service.

Welcome Men of Sigma! In this issue we’re honored to recognize new members who were initiated in the Spring, Summer and Fall of 2022. They represent a fresh spark, a new generation of intelligent, progressive, and talented young leaders.

In this world within a world, you will discover opportunities to expand your educational and professional future with endless possibilities. You’ve added a global network of amazing leaders in every industry and area of profession. Your affiliation will afford you the chance to meet and greet potential mentors, employers, partners, and collaborators. The outcome of your Brotherhood Experience will reflect the direct result of your input.

I encourage you to establish relationships with your Collegiate Advisor and sponsoring Alumni chapter members. They will serve as great advocates and advisors for key programs and activities offered by the fraternity. Seek engagement and involvement

with Sigma Link and Sigma Executive Leadership Council members for potential employment internships and career placement. Attend and participate in your State Meetings, Regional Conferences, and the upcoming Conclave, where professional and personal leadership development training will be readily available. And where major fun is had as well!! This is your brotherhood, so it’s up to you to make this investment yield great returns.

Speaking of collegiate leaders, I’m so proud of the seven young men who have been selected to carry the banner of Second Vice or Associate Regional Director. They are truly impressive young Brothers. We profile them in this issue.

Enjoy these and all of the other features in this edition of The Crescent on the Yard.

Fraternally, Hon. Chris V. Rey, JD International President

FIRED UP & READY TO GO!

Greeting Brothers,

This is our time to shine! Over the past year I’ve had the pleasure of meeting fellow collegiate brothers at conferences and special events where Phi Beta Sigma brothers were present and proudly accounted for. Your enthusiasm and excitement to represent the Blue & White was and continues to be truly contagious.

This is a great time to be a member of Phi Beta Sigma. The Brotherhood is experiencing an awareness and elevation worthy of celebration. The caliber of Sigma’s leaders of campus chapters is amongst the institution’s highest student achievers. What better way to increase fraternity and community involvement than to take advantage of the awesome talents our young brothers possess. This is our time to shine!

Let’s make this commitment today to register and to be present and engaged in Houston, Texas for Conclave 2023. This conference is trending to have record-breaking attendance. I want US to also break the record for registered collegians. From General Session learning to Plenary Session business and from major competitions to special events, a great time is being planned for us. Awards and rewards will be plentiful for the Oratorical and

Debate, International Step Show, Billboard Jackson

Entrepreneurial competitions and more. This is our time to shine!

Welcome to my new Bruhs! I see you all posted up on IG! I can’t wait to meet you during your regional conference and definitely at the Conclave.

Take a deep dive into this issue of The Crescent on the Yard. There’s so much information and content here, created especially for the collegian Sigma Brotherhood!

Thanks for your support!

International Second Vice President

Brother Maxwell McDaniel

BUILDING THEM TO BE GREATER!

Great Lakes Region’s ONE SIGMA Mantra Benefits Two Collegians

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity’s Great Lakes Region has a focused vision that’s become a mantra permeating every level of the brotherhood. “One Sigma Transforming the Region from Great to Greatness” has required leadership to be broad thinking, consistently exceeding expectations, having a change in mindset, and mobilizing a culture shift,” shares Brother Charles Jones, Great Lakes Regional Director. “Most importantly, it requires believing in ourselves with endless possibilities.”

A key initiative of the current administration is to increase collegiate membership and the value proposition within the collegiate ranks. The regional leadership team established a goal that the Great Lakes Regional Board will develop partnerships with corporations and institutions across the region that are committed to providing internships and career opportunities for the region’s collegiate members.

There’s also an expectation of the Collegiate Advisors and Advising Chapters to elevate their level of mentorship and support for collegiate members. Equally as important, Alumni members are expected to strongly encourage all Collegiate members to maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher. An excellent example of how this vision is moving forward is the establishment of corporate partnerships developed during the Spring 2022 Great Lakes Regional Conference, held in April of this year in Chicago, IL. BMO Harris Bank participated in the conference’s Career Fair and is interested in creating a talent pipeline for collegiate members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, who are pursuing degrees in Finance, Marketing, Business and Economics.

Two promising collegians of the Great Lakes Region were selected by BMO Harris Bank. Brothers Jaronn Correll and Taheed Moore, both received offers with starting salaries of $90K.

Brother Jaronn Correll, Gamma Pi Gamma Chapter, Lake Forest College . Bro. Correll is a senior majoring in Finance. This fall, he’s employed part-time at BMO Harris Capital Markets in Chicago, IL. After graduation in May 2023, he’ll immediately move to fulltime status with the company.

Throughout his collegiate years, Correll has been a member of the Black Men’s Group, a campus organization providing Black students a place to gather, a safe outlet to share feelings, and a chance to discuss how to live successfully on a predominantly white campus. Jarron follows in the footsteps of his father Brother Rodney Correll, who joined Phi Beta Sigma at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois.

In recognition of his outstanding academic success in Economics, Correll was inducted into the Omicron Delta Upsilon Honor Society. “However, to be perfectly clear” Correll shares, “Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. is by far one of the best organizations which has developed me into the young man who I am today. With the help of Sigma, I’ve been given access to a wide range of resources, learned important life lessons, and met brothers like Regional Director Charles Jones, who mentored me, guided me through my job search, and helped me establish connections within organizations like BMO Harris.”

Brother Taheed Moore, Alpha Epsilon Alpha Chapter, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis

A native of Chicago, Illinois, Bro. Moore is a senior in the Kelley School of Business program, majoring in accounting and finance and minoring in Africana Studies. After graduation in the Spring of 2023, Taheed will return to Chicago and join BMO Capital Markets full-time as a corporate banking analyst.

Bro. Moore proudly shares, “Through hard work, determination and developing a robust network, both personally and most importantly through Phi Beta Sigma, I’ve reached this point. Sigma has helped me financially, thanks to the number of scholarships I have been awarded, helped me find my dream career (Bro. Charles Jones), and groomed me to become better personally (Bro. Eric Williams).”

Without a doubt, Bro. Moore is an advocate for the Brotherhood Experience and a witness for all collegians. He says, “You can receive this same kind of support, only if you seek it! It’s here, and I am living proof. Do yourselves a favor and make the connections in this fraternity and I promise you’ll go far. You are the author of your story, so turn the page and make it happen!”

“One Sigma Transforming the Region from Great to Greatness” is truly having an impact on the collegiate members of the Great Lakes Region. As we can see, they are bearing witness as the beneficiaries of the leadership’s mantra, which is causing a shift in the culture. Greatness is the mindset. Kudos to the Great Lakes Region!

2022 EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

EASTERN REGION

Kevin Chan Alumni

Justin Coelho Collegiate

Hasan Crawford Collegiate

Jermaine Dickerson Alumni

Kyrian Elekwachi Collegiate

Caleb Floyd Collegiate

Teon Frazier Collegiate

Ross Hamilton Alumni

Anthony Haskins Alumni

Sean Miller Alumni

Isaac Perez Collegiate

Kadin Smith Collegiate

Michael Snowden Alumni

Joshua Stone Collegiate

GREAT LAKES REGION

Boluwatife Akinosun Collegiate

Jalen Anderson Collegiate

Chard Cargle Collegiate

Jaronn Correll Collegiate

Zachery Cotton Collegiate

Stephen Cruse Collegiate

Benjamin Dunn Alumni

Austin Ferrell Alumni

Larry Gavin Alumni

Thomas K-Johnson Alumni

Hunter Lestelle Collegiate

Taheed Moore Collegiate

Uchenna Osuamadi Collegiate

Raymond Parker Collegiate

GULF COAST REGION

Christopher Austin Collegiate

Jordan Booker Collegiate

Steven Bradford Alumni

Kordel Carter Collegiate

Rhomel Dudley Collegiate

Mario Dunham Collegiate

Byron Hansley Collegiate

Quindon Jefferson-Bowers Collegiate

Eddie Jones Collegiate

Adrien Lee Alumni

Bryant Maddox Collegiate

Maxwell McDaniel Collegiate Mychal Ouzts Alumni

Luther Royal Collegiate

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

Antonio Austin Alumni

Jason Dennis Collegiate

Orrann Dillard Collegiate

Isaiah Hamilton Collegiate

Jared Jackson Collegiate

Landen Johnson Collegiate

Harry Johnson Jr Alumni

Ahmad Joyner Collegiate

Nasir McDaniel-Moore Collegiate

Shawn McNeill Collegiate

Rasheem Neloms Alumni

Thomas Ritter Collegiate Kourtney Royster Alumni

Anthony Tom Collegiate

Stephen Walker Collegiate

Gabriel Yarborough Collegiate

SOUTHERN

Farihan Alimi Collegiate

Oquendo Bernard Collegiate

Kareem Bowe Collegiate

David DeZayas Collegiate

Omar El Hamdani Collegiate

Wellington Ferguson Alumni

Julian Green Collegiate

LeJuan Houston Collegiate

Brian Jordan Collegiate

Charles Knight Collegiate

Mark Nichols Collegiate

Desmond Paster Collegiate

Jadon Pauling Collegiate

Jose Valcourt III Collegiate

SOUTHWESTERN

Teshaun Anderson Collegiate

Nylan Barr Collegiate

Michael Beverly Alumni

Berrett Chestleigh Collegiate

Deon Curry Collegiate

Michael Facey Alumni

Vincent Gilliam Collegiate

Shanandon Mckenzie Collegiate

Dane Norvell Collegiate

Terrell Page Collegiate

Ron Parham Alumni

Joel Stancer Alumni

D’Angelqueat Warren Jr. Collegiate

Jason Williams Alumni

WESTERN REGION

Abdirahman Abdi Collegiate

Bonnie Bryant IV Alumni

Keyonte Caine Collegiate

Nathnael Damtew Collegiate

George Duru Jr Collegiate Taaon Fraser Collegiate

Amari Jackson Collegiate

Harry Knight Alumni

Christian Love Alumni

Corey Moore Alumni

Style Ranger Collegiate

Nathan Seyoum Collegiate

James Smooth Collegiate Jalen Wills Collegiate

Its beauty. Its brilliance. Its variety. Its tenacity. Its resilience. Its ability to thrive despite everything.

The power of Black Joy truly knows no bounds... it’s A Joy Supreme. Celebrate A Joy Supreme

Gamma Chapter Wins Morgan State University Star Train Awards

Morgan State University held its 2022 Star Train Awards organized by the Office of Student Life & Development. This event serves to highlight the accomplishments and service hours completed by each organization on campus. The Star Train Award event is a celebratory evening to honor the students and organizations who have excelled during the school year with respect to academics, community service, and on-campus participation. Student organizations are rated on a university point system program called the Student Organization Success (SOS). The SOS points are obtained through member engagement, event planning, collaborative activities, and program documentation.

For the 2021-2022 academic year the brothers of Gamma Chapter over-achieved and earned awards for the Organization of the Year, Male Organization of the Year and The SOS Certificate of Excellence.

The Brothers of Zeta Sigma Chapter, Baltimore, MD, Gamma Chapter’s advising alumni chapter, are truly proud of these undergrads, who have had a phenomenal year having also been recognized as the Collegiate Chapter of Year for Social Action on both the International and Eastern Regional levels of the fraternity.

Brother Jakoba

Mildton is Crowned Mister Fort Valley State University

Phi Beta Sigma made history during this year’s Homecoming celebration on the campus of Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia, as Brother Jakoba Mildton, Jr. was crowned the 15th Mister Fort Valley State University. He’s the second Sigma Brother to receive the title since its inception.

Achieving the title of Mister Fort Valley State University is no easy task as candidates must meet a long list of requirements beginning with a nomination by the Student Body during a General Election held early in the Spring semester.

Officially beginning at 9:00am on February 28, 2022 and ending at 5:00pm on March 5, 2022, candidates campaigned for the coveted title by hosting in-person events. This allowed students to get to know the candidates up-front before the official Meet the Candidates event, sponsored by the administration.

Representing the university is definitely not easy. To be considered, candidates must not have fathered a child, nor expect to father a child during his reign, must be single, never have been married and remain in this status during his reign, must have a 2.7 cumulative grade point average and maintain a GPA of 2.5, and more.

Candidates for Mr. FVSU participate in a pageant scheduled by the Election Commission, which is part of the process for selecting those who will make the final cut. Only the names of the candidates with the three (3) highest scores appeared on the ballot in the Spring General Elections. Brother Mildton represented the candidate with the highest number of votes, thus was crowned Mr. FVSU.

Mister Fort Valley State University is the official king and representative of the student body. He is required to represent integrity in scholarship, leadership and character. He operates with the same prestige and power as Miss FVSU and must be committed to official representation of the office in which he holds in a variety of ways, including selecting a wardrobe which reflects the university’s official colors as one of its official representatives; style and academic excellence, exemplifying good conduct, and working unselfishly and cooperatively with the Student Government Association, his attendants, and his advisors. He shall represent the University at official and ceremonial occasions, including Athletic events, Homecoming activities, and other university related events.

Brother Ephraim Oyetunji a Rhodes Scholar Finalist

A neuroscience senior striving to support disenfranchised populations

Brother Ephraim Oyetunji, a senior at Washington University in St. Louis, MO is a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s most prestigious academic honors, to study at the University of Oxford in England. He is a Fall 2020 initiate of Iota Kappa Chapter.

Oyetunji is majoring in the neuroscience track of biology in Arts & Sciences, striving to improve the health and well-being of populations often overlooked by modern medicine. President of the Minority Association of Premedical Students, he wants to develop culturally competent psychiatric interventions.

“I am incredibly proud of Ephraim and Sam (Sam Norwitz, another finalist at Washington University) and all that they have already achieved through their extraordinary outreach, advocacy and research,” Chancellor Andrew D. Martin said. “They are exceptional change makers

who are making a difference in the world.”

‘A new kind of neuroscientist who chooses problems based on their potential to benefit the disenfranchised’

(photo caption: Ephraim Oyetunji will attend medical school after graduation and plans to pursue a careet that combines translational research, mentorship and both individual and community engagement.)

Two experiences at Washington University changed Oyetunji’s understanding of what it means to practice medicine. The first was a seminar about the former Homer G. Phillips Hospital, the only public hospital for Back patients in St. Louis.

“We heard straight from the Black caregivers for Black residents,” said Oyetunji, who is from Miramar, FL. “That was my first window into what it means to receive care

from people who share the same cultural background as you.”

Then, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Oyetunji worked as a Faith in the Vaccine Ambassador. He met African immigrants wary of the vaccine – not necessarily because they. Doubted the science, but because no one had answered their questions in their native language. So Oyetunji collaborated with local St. Louis organizations to create flyers in Swahili, Kinyarwanda and Somali.

“I realized that being honest rather than dogmatic helped them remain open to what I had to share. I learned that by directly speaking with people, sharing laughs and communing, trust grows and health equity can be achieved,” said Oyetunji, who is minoring in African and African American studies in Arts & Sciences. “Now, I hope to spearhead public health efforts and

foster relationships between medical centers and marginalized communities so no one is left behind during the next crisis.”

Brother Oyetunji is also an accomplished researcher, studying Alzheimer’s in the lab of Timothy M. Miller, MD, the David Clayson Professor of Neurology at the School of Medicine and co-director of the ALS Center.

In addition, Oyetunji is an ENDURE Scholar & Research Fellow and a participant in the MARC U-STAR program. Earlier this year, Oyetunji received the distinguished Barry Goldwater Scholarship. After graduation, he plans to attend medical school to pursue a career that combines translational research, mentorship and both individual and community engagement.

Well Equipped : 5 Areas of Support for

First-Generation Black Male Students

I travel a lot speaking at colleges and universities throughout the country. When I’m not traveling, I’m doing research for my doctoral program. In both scenarios I am always in awe of the young Black men engaging in their collegiate experiences. I am filled with a sense of pride in knowing how hard they are working towards academic success. But I am also keenly aware that many of them, especially those identified as first generation, need additional support that extends beyond academics. Some of the conversations, programming, and community involvement needs to be redirected towards ensuring that these young men are well equipped for success, in and outside of the classroom. There are five areas that I believe offer reinforcement for Black male success.

COMMUNICATION

Communication is both a skill and an art form that has evolved over time. Digital devices and social media have led to a blurring of communication lines with being “always on” and having direct access to a variety of people with whom we may otherwise have never come in contact. Our young men need to be taught to be just as savvy in professional communication as they are in the digital world. We should also be equipping them with a sense of responsibility and accountability to how they show up in social media spaces. Although social media has been deemed a personal domain, we are well aware of the ways that online interactions can impact our professional lives both positively and negatively. Young Black men need to be aware of this.

In addition to knowing how to communicate effectively in digital spaces, we must provide our young men with an understanding of how to communicate in face-to-face settings. We must return to teaching basics like direct eye contact, appropriate body language, and clear voice and volume.

A final area of communication which we should offer our first-generation Black male students is instruction in the area of conflict resolution, a necessary skill to survive in today’s socio-political climate. We must provide direction

on how to constructively address grievances, productively agree to disagree, and ways to move moments of conflict forward. By offering our students opportunities to learn how to effectively communicate, we provide them with transferable skills that will benefit them in their personal and professional relationships.

APPEARANCE

In many cases the rules of grooming and appearance have become more relaxed, especially following the pandemic. However, there is still a standard set of knowledge that our young Black males should have regarding appearance. They should be taught directly regarding personal grooming including shifts and accommodations that must be made as they mature. Additionally, we should be equipping our young men with information on the various categories of dress and the accompanying settings for each. We must provide for them understandings of what it means to be formal, semiformal, and business professional. Likewise, we should be sharing examples of business casual, fashion trends, and the appropriate setting for each when not directly stated.

I have had the pleasure of participating in numerous ‘dress for success” programs and blazer ceremonies at various institutions. While I am often wowed by the number of young men who do not know how to tie a tie, I am not shocked because it is a practice that we have gotten away from. We must be intentional about teaching these skills to ensure that our young men are on a level playing field with their peers.

FINANCIAL LITERACY

When I think about my own experiences as a young Black man, one of the areas in which I wish I had earlier training was in the area of financial literacy. Like many others, I started working in high school. However, I was not financially literate. I knew that I wanted money and what I wanted money for. There is a need to guide our young men in handling their financial lives, from spending and saving to the more complicated concepts of credit and investing. Part of our responsibility as leaders is

ByBrotherJarrodBenjamin

to ensure that our Black male students are equipped in these areas. Although checks are not as commonly used, there is still a need to know how to write a check and how to balance a checkbook. Similarly, they should have knowledge of reconciling transactions within their bank accounts, especially electronic payments, digital wallets and transferring software like CashApp, Zelle and Venmo. When it comes to financial literacy, our young men also need an understanding of how to plan for the future. In an appearance-driven, immediate gratification society, it is easy to get swept up in the now. Our young men deserve an opportunity to be forward thinking with regard to savings, investments and generational wealth. Their knowledge base should include personal and business credit best practices and a broader understanding of economics and taxes. By ensuring that our young men are financially literate, we are equipping them to be better stewards of the income for which we are encouraging them to strive. Instead of just going to school to get a good job, they have an opportunity to also attain financial stability early in their careers, and closing the existing racial wealth gap.

CAREER/WORKPLACE READINESS

I began my collegiate journey as a nontraditional student. As a result, I already had workplace experience. I knew what employers expected because I had been in the workforce and seen how all the pieces came together. While we are pushing academic achievement, we should provide career support for our Black males. Workforce readiness is a necessary component of their success toolkits. Special efforts and resources should be placed on teaching transferable and soft skills, including problem solving, time management, interpersonal skills and teamwork, all of which are necessary in successfully navigating the workplace. Additionally, our young men need instruction on putting together resumes and professional profiles. There are benefits to posting resumes online and having a polished LinkedIn presence that our young men should be familiar with. Part of their career preparation should include the basics of filling out applications and interview skills. Mock interviews can go a long way in preparing our young men for success outside

of the classroom as they transition into the workforce. We must equip them to be competitive both on paper and inperson as the job market continues to evolve.

HOMEBUYING

A final area for which we should take time to prepare first-generation Black male students is the process of home buying. Though many may not be looking to buy a home immediately, it is important that they be aware of how their actions now could potentially impact their home buying ability later. This is an extension of the need to be financially literate. For a long time the narrative has been that homebuying is a way to close the wealth gap. However, as Black Americans continue to lag in homeownership, it is important that we provide an understanding of how it plays into the bigger picture of wealth building. Real estate investing is a proven way to build wealth, yet access to the ins and outs of buying property has been limited. Without such knowledge, we end up with young men purchasing homes at inflated prices as they fall prey to racially biased practices and not seeing the benefits of homeownership and investing. Teaching the process helps narrow the educational gap in this area which will hopefully narrow the ownership and financial gap.

My grandfather had a strong hand in raising me to be the man that I am today. I’m grateful for his input and leadership. I recognize that not everyone has that experience. However, that is not an excuse for us to push our first-generation Black males through academic systems without ensuring that the other aspects of their lives are fortified. As leaders, we must extend the opportunities for these young men to be successful beyond their collegiate experiences. We must equip them to be good citizens who are financially literate with great communication skills. We must support them on their journeys to workplace readiness while also ensuring that they understand the nuances of professional attire. The old adage says “it takes a village to raise a child.” I agree; it takes a village to ensure that our young Black men are well equipped beyond the classroom.

The future of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated looks extremely bright when one takes the opportunity to assess the caliber of vibrant, progressive and intelligent student leaders currently representing the fraternity on campuses throughout the country. Perhaps more than in previous years, Sigma’s brand ambassadors are increasingly reflecting the value of holding membership in the fraternity. Today’s collegiate members are equipping themselves with social collateral, professional tools and industry skills which are easily transferable to leadership roles in the Brotherhood.

In the Summer 2022 issue of The Crescent, we featured Brother Maxwell McDaniel, International Second Vice President, the highest-ranking collegian in the fraternity, who serves as the voice of that particular demographic. In this issue of The Crescent on the Yard, we profile the seven brothers elected to represent the collegiate membership of their respective regions. They are the Second Vice or Associate Vice Directors.

We encourage you to check out these impressive young leaders who are making their mark on their campuses and the fraternity.

EASTERN REGION

Name: Brother Teon Frazier

Academic Year: Junior

Major: Business/Business Analytics

Chapter:Rho Tau

Institution/Location: George Mason University, Fairfax, VA

Initiation Year: Spring 2021

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

Because of my upbringing in Prince George’s County, Maryland,

I was quite familiar with the Divine Nine when I arrived at college. Almost every adult that I know back home is a member of the NPHC and while I wasn’t a direct legacy of any organization, I have cousins and aunts who were. My first semester was nearly entirely virtual, which robbed me of my freshman experience and made me want to drop out of college totally. However, when I looked at the fraternities on campus, it was evident that there was only one that was suited for me, and that was Phi Beta Sigma. The Rho Tau chapter at my university was the only organization holding activities throughout the pandemic, and they took me under their wing since they recognized that I was new to the campus and trying to adjust. The brothers had a great deal of influence on campus and realized that I was ambitious and had a lot of promise. I was really determined and worked very hard to be considered for membership, and the next semester, I was initiated, and it was without a doubt the largest and finest decision I made in my undergraduate career.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

My brotherhood experience has been incredible! I not only feel like I’m part of a group with a goal to get things done on our campus, but I also have a band of brothers. I always have brothers to go to parties, tailgates, and travel with, whether we’re all lounging in the dining halls or dorms in college.

My chapter brothers help to keep me sane and on track. And what about outside of my chapter? Plenty of brothers in our local alumni chapter help out with care packages and give us free paraphernalia on occasion. Another fascinating story for me was when I visited Columbus, Ohio for an internship this past summer and was greeted

by the brothers there. Most notably, Honorable Brother Carter Womack, who took me under his wing despite knowing nothing about me except for my position. Finally, I was invited to the John & Lillian Lewis Foundation Gala in Washington, DC by Honorable Brother Chris V. Rey along with other brothers from the Board. That definitely introduced me to the fine-dining of life and I loved it! However, nonetheless, it gave me a warm welcome there! I’ve felt affection and camaraderie on every level, from the university to the national level.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

Our chapter brothers are involved on campus in a variety of ways. We host workshops with the Hip-Hop Dance Crew and participate in events with the local NAACP Chapter, whose vice president is one of our brothers. We also branch out in our community service events. One of our most recent events was us doing a furniture run, where we picked up furnishings from houses and distributed them to households who might not be able to buy them without the help of ALIVE-4-Alexandria. We are the only NPHC organization on our campus to annually perform a step routine during our university’s Pep Rally to start the basketball season. This year we delivered a protest statement in conjunction with our school’s Black Student Alliance to address an issue between our university and the black student body whom the university officials had been neglecting.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEK LIFE?

To be honest, the networking part has been fantastic! Whatever the case may be, I enjoy the idea that I can go anywhere and identify letters, and all I have to do is communicate that I am a member of the NPHC and we instantly have a connection. I also love the respect it brings in the corporate setting, as many people who aren’t in NPHC still respect it. I enjoy our frequent tailgates and cookouts because it never gets boring. I also enjoy the variety that each region offers to the Greek Life. Seeing the many strolls, cultures, and numbers never ceases to fascinate me!

WHAT IS YOUR DESIRED CAREER PATH?

I have interned with JP Morgan Chase & Company thus far and will do so again this upcoming summer. I wish to work full time with them as a Corporate Analyst.

GREAT LAKES REGION

Name: Brother Avery L. Wells

Academic Year: Junior Major: Political Science

Minor: African American Studies on a Pre-Law

Track Chapter: Epsilon Theta

Institution/Location: Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY

Initiation Year: Spring 2021

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

I was inspired to become a member of the Epsilon Theta chapter at Western Kentucky University by the brothers that were in the chapter before me. I admired the way the chapter members carried out the work of Sigma and took the vision of our Founders and directly displayed it on our campus. It was very clear to me that the chapter valued the presentation of Phi Beta Sigma and Epsilon Theta in every aspect and worked diligently to ensure that when they represented, it was in the best way possible and that it would glorify those that came before them. That standard was set for events, yard and step shows, social media, interactions with others, etc. and has continued since I’ve joined the chapter. I knew joining the Epsilon Theta chapter would allow me to be a part of a community of likeminded brothers that would help me foster personal and professional development.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

Since becoming a member, I’ve traveled to and/or interacted with Sigmas all over the country representing 50+ chapters across 32 states and every region. I have traveled to attend state, regional, and international conferences, competed in step shows on every level of Sigma, and such honors as Brother of the Year and Chapter of the Year twice!

Since joining the Epsilon Theta chapter, I have served as the Director of International Programs, Parliamentarian, Chair of the Recruiting Committee/MIP Coordinator and currently serve as the Vice President. Serving in these roles has given me unique experiences that have allowed me to develop leadership qualities that I may not have otherwise received. I’ve also had many opportunities to learn from wise brothers that have helped me personally and professionally not because they had to, but simply out of love for Sigma. The best way I can describe my brotherhood experience is a blessing.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

The Epsilon Theta chapter holds three huge annual events: Sleep Out for the Homeless, The Miss Phi Beta Sigma Scholarship Pageant, and The Black Experience Event: A Celebration of Perseverance. We also regularly participate in Yard Show, Step

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEK LIFE?

My favorite aspect of Black Greek Culture is the commonality amongst all our founding foundations. Each organizations’ Founders set out to create safe places where Black students could feel seen, heard, respected, and make an impact on our communities. They all knew that the key to success and the answer to saving our communities was/is education. Each of our organizations’ Founders understood that it would take educated Black people to lead the charge in providing the things for our communities that the government and other organizations were not. They understood that we were socially, politically, economically, and academically left behind and that our fraternities and sororities would serve not as social organizations, like most others at the time, but also a retention method and rescue plan for the Black community.

WHAT IS YOUR DESIRED CAREER PATH?

My desired career path is to the be a Political Campaign Manager/Consultant. I believe there are several phenomenal candidates that want to run progressive and professional campaigns all across the country but simply don’t know how, and don’t have access to the information they need to allow them to be successful. It is my hope that in sharing this information, more people that truly represent our communities will be placed into elected offices all over the country, up and down the ballot.

Show, NPHC Courtyard Wednesday, and every Thursday we serve as mentors at Bristow Elementary School for young men in the 1st through 6th grade who participate in the Boys II Men Leadership Development Program.

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Kinesiology

Chapter: Delta Theta

Institution/Location: Prairie View A&M

University, Prairie View, TX

Initiation Year: Spring 2021

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

The excellent quality of members on my campus and their service-first mindset, as well as the principles and programs of Phi Beta Sigma aligning perfectly with my own vision for my life.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

My Brotherhood Experience has been a great one. I have found a sense of community that I never thought I would have with anyone outside of my blood relatives. The Brothers that I’ve met thus far have truly become a second family to me and have opened up many doors for me that wouldn’t have been opened otherwise.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

Delta Theta chapter conducts a myriad of service events each semester, most notably being highway and campus cleanups, and regularly volunteering at our local church. Our chapter has also put on tons of on-campus events such as our Walk Like A Sigma, Sigma Fest, Entrepreneurship Week and other programs that fall under Social Action, Education, and Bigger & Better Business.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEK LIFE?

My favorite aspect of Greek Life is being able to inspire underclassman. Upon joining Phi Beta Sigma, we all joined a team that is much bigger than ourselves, which subsequently granted us some influence on campus. I personally love the fact that my brothers and I can come together and use our influence to impact our campus in such positive ways, and will continue to do so.

WHAT IS YOUR DESIRED CAREER PATH?

I initially came to school interested in Physical Therapy, but since then have developed a spirit for entrepreneurship at Prairie View. In my sophomore year, my best friend and I came up with the idea to start a video production company, but on September 8, 2021, at the beginning of my junior year, he suddenly passed away. From that point on, I dedicated myself to honoring him. A few months later, I launched the production company that we talked about called RC Digital Media. Moving forward, I plan to continue scaling the company as I have done thus far, creating commercial videos and social media content for businesses, and making RC a million dollar brand (www.rcdigitalhtx, @rho.digital on Instagram).

Name: Brother Rhomel Dudley

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

Name: Brother Ahmad Joyner

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity

Chapter: Eta

Institution/Location: North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC

Initiation Year: Spring 2020

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

I was inspired by men within my scholarship program who were doing great things and always pushing me to excel in every facet of my life. I was also inspired by my father and uncle, which let me choose to continue our Joyner family legacy of great men in Sigma.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

My Brotherhood Experience has been nothing short of immaculate. I’ve been able to meet many new people who I can call not just my friends, but my brothers. We’ve held each other down through thick and thin - from classes to step practice and even running for regional positions. My brothers have always had my back as I have had theirs.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

One of my favorite activities that our chapter is involved in is Sleep Out for the Homeless. Sleep Out is not about pretending to be homeless; we sleep out to show our solidarity with those who are — and to let the world know about the ever-growing population of young people who face homelessness. I feel that this is necessary, especially after my time in Seattle over the summer, where the homeless population is through the roof.

Another activity that I’m extremely fond of is the Homecoming Step Show. As the current Step Master, I’ve been trying to get us back on the track to a consecutive winning streak as we had held for 13 years prior. Practice time is a great time for bonding, meeting new brothers, and aiming for a common goal that will push the social status of Eta.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEK LIFE?

My favorite aspect of Black Greek Life is the likeminded people. I’ve been able to meet many new black engineers at my university alone, in which we’ve collaborated in hackathons, internship opportunities, or just overall bettering ourselves. This includes scholarship, physical health by working out, and most importantly, fellowship among those who aren’t members of my own fraternity.

WHAT IS YOUR DESIRED CAREER PATH?

My desired career path is to work for Microsoft post-graduation as a Software Engineer, before eventually launching my own application development company that specializes in creating apps for enterprises that need them. As a man with an autistic brother, I would also personally love to develop an app or software that connects and engages those with special needs all across the world.

SOUTHERN REGION

Name: Brother Kevin Keys, III

Academic Year: Senior Major: Political Science Chapter: Sigma

Institution/Location: Miles College, Fairfield, AL

Initiation Year: Spring 2021

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

I saw and was impressed by what the members of Sigma Chapter were doing locally in their community and what Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was doing nationally.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

There has been a lot of networking and creating new partnerships.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

We have done community cleanups, study sessions and health forums.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEK-LIFE?

I enjoy the fact that we were all made for the betterment of the Black society.

SOUTHWESTERN REGION

Name: Brother Jeremiah Hatley

Academic Year: Senior Major: Education Chapter: Theta Alpha

Institution/Location: Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, AR

Initiation Year: Spring 2020

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

Growing up around the Blue and White was all I ever knew. When I stepped onto campus for freshman orientation, the men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. were the people that I flocked to. While on campus, they stayed true to the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service. However, I mostly

joined because of the brotherhood that I witnessed amongst the members at the time. My relationship with these men wasn’t contingent on me joining—they were already my friends. The brotherhood provided something that I didn’t experience within other student organizations on campus. It was something beyond Henderson State University, and meeting brothers from other schools and alumni who were all genuinely dedicated to the development of its members and service to the Black community that affirmed my decision to join.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

The Brotherhood Experience of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. has been impeccable. Since joining the brotherhood, I have had brothers that I could count on through thick and thin. If I need something, I can always call on them and they will always be there.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

On the campus Theta Alpha does several programs and activities including Campus Clean-Up, Sleep-out for the Homeless, Mental Health Awareness Roundtable Discussions, Financial Literacy Table, How to Tie a Bow Tie Workshop, Tribute to a Black Woman Banquet and Study with the Sigmas.

In the community, we’ve held a Canned Food Drive, Clothing Drive, Donuts for First Responders, Volunteer at the Humane Society, Water Drives for local schools and Voter’s Registration Drives.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEKLIFE?

Black Greek organizations have created safe spaces for young Black adults to excel in college, help unite Black communities across the country with service and have laid the foundation for Black people to connect with each other for professional opportunities.

WHAT IS YOUR DESIRED CAREER PATH?

My desire is to become an educator in a Title 1 school district to help low-income students get the best education possible.

WESTERN REGION

Name: Brother Amari Jackson

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Psychology

Minor: Africana Studies

Chapter: Lambda Iota

Institution/Location: San Diego State University, San Diego, CA

Initiation Year: Spring 2020

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY ON YOUR CAMPUS?

I was first introduced to the Sigmas at SDSU through a high school leadership program. After moving on campus, the brothers were very welcoming and approachable. From then on, I was interested in the work they did for the community and positions they held on campus.

WHAT HAS YOUR BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE BEEN THUS FAR?

Growing up as an only child, I have never experienced brotherhood as I do now. It started very minimally because of COVID-19, but since the pandemic ended, I have been more connected than I thought I’d ever be. Between living, having class, practicing together, in addition to hosting and attending events, there isn’t a day that goes by where I don’t see one of my brothers. The Brotherhood among Lambda Iota members is tight knit to say the least. I cannot fail to mention the brotherhood I have experienced across the whole fraternity, specifically in the West; it has been a blessing to be able to network and connect with Sigmas from all over, and meeting Frat in unexpected places.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT YOUR CHAPTER IS INVOLVED IN ON CAMPUS OR IN THE CITY?

To name a few, Lambda Iota’s “top hits” are PB&J for the Homeless, Gospel Night, and Dance Marathon. For PB&J for the Homeless, the chapter get together and invite the community to participate in making and passing out of PB&J sandwiches to the homeless population of Downtown San Diego. To make the Gospel Night series possible, we collaborate with Bayview Baptist, a local church, and host a worship service on our

campus. Annually, we also participate in Dance Marathon, an oncampus event that raises money for patients and families at Rady Children’s Hospital.

WHAT

IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF BLACK GREEKLIFE?

My favorite aspect of Black Greek-Life is the culture. Unless you are a part of it, it’s indescribable. As the NPHC president on my campus, I have seen Greek-Life in other councils close up, and it is truly like night and day. The competitive nature that the Divine Nine shares to be the best in our communities through service events as well as the pride we have when we wear our letters are my favorite aspects of Black Greek-Life.

WHAT IS YOUR DESIRED CAREER PATH?

I’m aiming to be a User Experience App Designer, making applications more user-friendly for consumers.

BROTHERHOOD! TO THE WELCOME

There is an unspoken energy which comes with the initiation of new members to the Brotherhood. As much as we might try to contain our excitement, the joy of bringing on neophytes provides a sense of accomplishment and renewing of our commitment to our “Wondrous Band”. Let’s face it—the older brothers enjoy the energy and zeal brought to the fold by the “new blood”. It reminds us of the reasons why we chose to join Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. So let’s take this opportunity to welcome some of our newest brothers and to encourage them as they begin this journey!

COLLEGIANS

• SPRING ‘22 INITIATES

BETA PHI Texas College Gulf Coast Region Justin Jackson (left) and Roosevelt Williams (right)

Epsilon Theta Western Kentucky University Great Lakes Region Jaédyn Embry, Joshua Brown, Christopher Bussel, Solomon Humphrey

Iota Rho Southern Region University of Central Florida Row 1: Woodley Fenelus, Joshua Toombs, Brandyn Holmes Row 2: Tyler Walker, Jason Davis, David DeZayas, Abner Devallon Row 3: Dominic Evans, Woody Lanot, Christopher Jean

Gamma Rho Nu University of California-Riverside Western Region

George Duru, Jr, (front) and Orobosa Ogbeide (rear)

Iota Phi Rochester Institute of Technology Eastern Region Jay’llen Hathman

Theta Gamma New York MetropolitanMarymount Manhattan College Eastern Region Charles Hilton

Rho Tau George Mason University Eastern Region Nate Haile, Michael Sowell, Solomon Fair

Rho Gamma The University of North Carolina at Charlotte Southeastern Region Kenny Coopwood, Jr.

Lambda Iota San Diego State University Western Region

Keyonte Caine, Chris Curtis, Jaylen Citizen, Kevin Bateman, Edward Tillman, Kwincy Lambert, Alija Hunter

COLLEGIANS

• FALL ‘22 INITIATES

Alpha Tau Alpha Lander University Southeastern Region Darius Dotson and Delon Cooper

Beta Phi Texas College Gulf Coast Region Eugene Newsome (left) and Tommy Jennings (right)

Gamma Eta Harris Stowe State University Southwestern Region Dominic Lewis, Ta’modre Brown, Cortez Burch

Beta Beta Beta Clayton State University Southern Region Andrew Gyimah

Gamma Lambda Gamma Benedict College Southeastern Region

Ji’had Humes, Eric Prester, Joshua Still, Darren Williams, Jalen Griffin, Christian Souvenir, Khenard Jenkins, Fernando Derisca, Jordan Wheeler, Justin Arrington, Donovan Rolle, Tyrease Pough, Ethan Strickland,

Epsilon Chi Illinois State University Great Lakes Region

Kenyetta Williams, Jr., William Curry, Jr., Caleb Burrell

Rho Gamma University of North Carolina at Charlotte Southeastern Region

Xi Upsilon University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Southwestern Region

Felipe Holden, Gianni Rodgers, Daron Lyons

Theta Rho Sam Houston State University Gulf Coast Region

Jason Chavez, Redrick Johnson, Obi Onyia, Jarred Scott

Theta Eta The University of Southern Mississippi Southern Region

Jaylin Womack Buckley, Darius McCrimon, Jakeem Greer, Anthony Kuykendall, Juquan Greer, Claudio Williams, Rowyan Winding

Beta Rho Tougaloo College Southern Region

Omicron Claflin University Orangeburg, SC Southeastern Region

Mu Epsilon Florida State University Southern Region

Epsilon Upsilon Stephen F. Austin University Gulf Coast Region

Gamma Morgan State University Eastern Region