On the Road With Bro. William J. “TIP” Thomas Founder and CEO of the T.I.P.P.E.R FOUNDATION
Throughout my Sigma journey, I have been blessed to meet so many remarkable brothers that have changed the world. There are those who have served in wars, served as college presidents, protected and guarded the president and vice president of the United States, fought for Civil Rights, and lead Fortune 100 Companies. However, one brother who has influenced both inside and outside of Phi Beta Sigma is Bro. William J. Thomas, known to most as “TIP”.
In the fall of 2006, Bro. William Powell called me to tell me that his beloved Gamma Chapter had crossed a young brother in a wheelchair. Bro. Powell said, “Bro. Christian, this young brother is going to be a force in our fraternity, mark my word.” So in essence, I actually knew a little about Bro. Thomas before I actually met him. The first time that I met Bro. Thomas in person was at the 2007 Zeta Sigma Chapter (Baltimore) Annual Crabfeast. After witnessing Bro. Thomas in action, interacting with brothers and assisting with the event, I went over to him, introduced myself, and told him that he was simply an inspiration to me and to others the way he has embraced his circumstances and made his “disability” - his ability. It amazes me to see this young brother in action, and his journey and purpose, started me on my process of evaluating what we take for granted on a daily basis. Professionally, I analyze and follow national trends that affect African-American and Latino male student success in post-secondary education. I have met some of the most prominent scholars and thought leaders in this arena and I am fortunate that I have the opportunity to travel the continental United States where I meet young men of color in college who share with me their
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Bro. Thomas with his Line Brothers during their Probate Show shortly after becoming members. stories, trials, tribulations and all that goes with the daily pursuit of higher education. Stories of drug addiction, child abuse, child support, incarceration, homelessness, foster care, and lack of guidance and family support are reasons that I hear as primary obstacles that stand in the way of college completion. Hearing these stories while watching and mentoring a number of these young men, I decided to reach out to Bro. Thomas to see if he would
