Fall 2016
Volume 7, Issue 1
THE WALL ST. ALPHA REPORT The official Wall Street Alpha Newsletter, Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter, NYC
I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E :
Chapter Information
2
Honoring Bro. Rangel
3-5
Community Events
6-7
Alpha GENTS
8-9
T H E B R A N D E X PA N D S
College Brothers Update 10-12 NYACOA
13-14
Brotherhood Spotlight
15-21
Contact Information
22
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CHAPTER LEADERSHIP Kappa Xi Lambda Executive Board: President: Vice President: Recording Secretary: Corresponding Secretary: Treasurer: Financial Secretary: Chaplain: Historian: Coordinator of Intake: Sergeant-at-Arms: Parliamentarian: Dir. of Educational Activities: Associate Editor to the Sphinx:
Brother Dr. Ted Ingram Brother Tony Thompson Brother Walter Lindsey Jr. Brother James T. Turner Brother Willieneil French Brother Dr. G. Anthony “Tony� Bell Brother Dr. Eric Turner Brother Jaron Dawson Brother Antonio Johnson Brother Johnny Williams Brother Chadwick Roberson Brother Martavius Leonard Brother David Williams Jr.
Kappa Xi Lambda Committee Chairs: Committee on Scholarship and Education: Committee on Elections: Committee on Audit: Committee on Constitution and By-Laws: Committee on Membership, Standards & Initiation: Committee on Entertainment: Committee on Finance and Planning: Committee on Communications: Committee on College Brother Affairs: Committee on Mentoring: Committee on Strategic Planning:
Brother Martavius Leonard Brother Richard Bates Brother Brandon Richardson Brother David Ford Brother Antonio Johnson Brother Walter Lindsey Brother Dr. G. Anthony "Tony" Bell Brother James Turner Brother Jaron Dawson Brother Martavius Leonard Brother Tony Thompson
Kappa Xi Lambda Newsletter Committee: Editor-in-Chief: Assistant Editor-in-Chief: Committee Member: Committee Member: Committee Member:
Brother David Williams Jr Brother Tony Thompson Brother Martavius Leonard Brother George Smith Brother Curtis Outlaw
Wall Street Alphas Charitable Foundation Board of Directors: President & Chairman: Secretary: Treasurer: Board Member: Board Member:
Brother Roy A. Williams Brother Tony Johnson Brother Shawn A. Curwen Brother Jioha Amatokwu Brother Lael Chappell 2
HONORING BRO. RANGEL BRO. MELVIN NORRIS Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and the Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter (“The Wall Street Alphas”) held a tribute for Brother Congressman Charles B. Rangel on Friday, September 16th during Congressional Black Caucus weekend in Washington, D.C. The event titled “Honoring the Career and Lifetime Achievements of Congressman Charles Rangel” honored his membership in the fraternity, his participation in the civil-rights movement and paid tribute to his distinguished public service career. The affair was held in the Cannon Caucus Room located on the U.S. Capitol campus. It brought together high profile brothers of the fraternity including General President Mark S. Tillman, General President-Elect Everett B. Ward, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer William Douglass Lyle, Eastern Region Vice President R. Anthony Mills, Southern Region Vice President Ronald Natson, Midwest Region Vice President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer III, Southwest Region Vice President Dr. Maurice D. Gipson, Western Region Vice President Russell E. Flye, Director of Conventions Van L. Strickland, Director of Protocol and Logistics Kenyatta N. Shamburger, Comptroller Donald E. Jackson, and Historian Robert L. Harris, Jr. Other notable guests included Brother Marc H. Morial – President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Urban League, Brother Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, Brother Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II, Brother Congressman Bobby Scott, Thomas L. Battles, Jr. - Senior Grand Vice Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, Deborah Catchings-Smith – International Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated and Congressman John Lewis. Brother Congressman Rangel was humbled and thankful to be recognized by his fraternity for his legacy of service. “I am grateful to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and the Wall Street Alphas for the tremendous honor, and I thank two of my former staff members, Melvin Norris and Rodney Capel, for their integral role in giving me this recognition. If I do not deserve this award, you can be rest assured in the years I have left, I am going to earn it. Alpha is my family. With the aid of the G.I. Bill, I earned degrees from New York University and St. John's University Law School, but it is when I joined Alpha that I found the family I never had, brothers I have not met, and the world I did not know.” Brother Rangel said. “Everywhere I went, there was an Alpha giving me the Alpha handshake. We who have been so fortunate to become somebody now collectively have the obligation lift up our community. My dear Alpha brothers: I may retire from Congress, but I will never give up the fight.”
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HONORING BRO. RANGEL BRO. MELVIN NORRIS The reception was the brainchild of Kappa Xi Lambda Brothers Melvin I. Norris and Rodney S. Capel, new Kappa Xi Lambda initiates who worked previously for Congressman Rangel. With the enthusiastic support of Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter President Dr. Ted N. Ingram, Past President Antonio Johnson, Past President Sean C. Gayle and the Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter, Brothers Norris and Capel approached Brother Rangel who was thrilled that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated would recognize him for his service to his community and the nation. Upon Brother Rangel’s acceptance, Brother Antonio Johnson brought the concept to the fraternity’s Board of Directors who gave their approval and determined that Brother Rangel would be awarded with the highest award available to a member of the fraternity, the Alpha Award of Merit. “Brother Rangel absolutely deserves all the accolades he receives upon his retirement. He has such an extensive record of service to the community that it should not go unrecognized. I want to thank all the members of the Board of Directors for partnering with the chapter and its generosity in making this event an undisputed success.” said Brother Antonio Johnson. Brother Meeks assisted Brothers Norris and Capel in coordinating the event through discussions with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). He served as the Master of Ceremony and secured the support of the Caucus who presented Brother Rangel with a portrait that recognized his 46 years as a Member of Congress and his stature as a founder of the CBC. The Wall Street Alphas awarded Brother Rangel with its inaugural Award of Excellence, which was presented by Chapter President Dr. Ted N. Ingram, Past President Antonio Johnson and Past President Sean C. Gayle. The award recognized him for his notable and exemplary service to the communities of Harlem and Upper Manhattan, and recognized his contributions to the United States through his service in the U.S. Army in the Korean War, as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and as a Member of Congress. Dr. Ingram strongly backed his chapter brothers in making the reception a reality. He was in favor of honoring the Congressman once it was proposed to him and saw the significance of bestowing the Award of Excellence to a brother who is part of a distinguished list of Alpha men. “I thank Brother Rangel for his diligent service and for serving as a role model for all black men. This reception brought brothers together from across the country to recognize and honor a true gentleman and influencer who always put his community above everything else. It was truly fitting that we honor our Brother Congressman during Congressional Black Caucus weekend and have an event that presented him with the proper fraternal accolades that he is deserving of.”
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HONORING BRO. RANGEL BRO. MELVIN NORRIS Brother Gayle was instrumental in organizing an event three years ago that paid tribute to another Alpha man, Mayor David Dinkins. The event titled, “An Alpha Man from Gotham” was done by the Wall Street Alphas and the Beta Chapter Alumni Association and honored Brother Dinkins for his leadership and public service contributions. He felt that the fraternity should lead the way in honoring another historic Alpha. "Brother Rangel is the consummate Alpha man, dedicated to the service of others, exceptional even among lofty peers, possessed of endless tenacity, and yet still manages to be the smoothest man in the room. He is the true embodiment of Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for All Mankind." Over 350 brothers and guests attended the reception where the bonds of brotherhood were on full display. Alpha men spoke to the importance of voting in this year’s elections especially considering the challenges the nation is currently facing related to justice and equality. In addition to honoring Brother Rangel, the reception emphasized that Alphas lead by example and demonstrated that we are strong advocates for our communities. It was an acknowledgement of the work that the Congressman has selflessly given to our country and underscored that our fraternity is a vanguard of leadership and service. Brother Rodney Capel felt a special sense of accomplishment and was humbled by the contributions and support of his chapter, Kappa Xi Lambda. “As a new brother of this illustrious organization I was deeply honored to participate in an event honoring my political hero and now fraternal brother Charles Rangel! The brothers of Kappa Xi Lambda led by President Ted Ingram, and Past Presidents Antonio Johnson and Sean Gayle have been agents of change within our great city and state and it's an honor to continue the great work of my chapter.” Brother Antonio Johnson was the Coordinator of Intake for Brothers Norris and Capel and could not have been happier. “I want to thank all the brothers of the Wall St. chapter - your vision, dedication to the ideals of the Jewels and commitment to our motto, make me proud to be a member of the greatest chapter in our organization. A personal note of gratitude to Brother Norris and Brother Capel for your hard work and sacrifice in creating this outstanding program. You both put a shine and luster on our chapter that will be remembered for years to come. Onward & Upward!" Brother Rangel [Alpha Gamma Lambda ‘64] has served in the United States House of Representatives serving the communities of Harlem and Upper Manhattan since 1971. He is the dean of the New York Congressional Delegation and is a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and the first African-American to chair the House Ways and Means Committee. His dedication and commitment to his country and community are reflected in his service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Brother Rangel is a much-loved husband, father, and community servant and it is because of brothers like him that Alpha is, in fact, the College of Friendship, the University of Brotherly Love and the School for the Better Making of Men. 5
AFRICAN AMERICAN DAY PARADE BRO. KWABENA Q. ADOM First of All, We Vote Voting is the cornerstone of our society but sadly far too few participate. Large gaps exist between those who do & don’t vote which threatens our representative democracy. Oftentimes, the gap is a result of lack of information or general apathy. Although other forms of voter engagement play an important role in helping underrepresented communities participate and vote, voter registration is uniquely impactful. It’s the first step to becoming an engaged voter. On Sunday, September 18th, 2016, the Brothers of Kappa Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. demonstrated, yet again, their commitment to service by holding a Voter Registration Drive at the 47th Annual African American Day Parade held in Harlem. The African American Day Parade is dedicated to uplifting our heritage and honoring our African American heroes for their many contributions to the community and the world at large. The purpose of the parade is to promote unity, dignity and pride amongst African-Americans. It provides a platform for organizations, dignitaries, celebrities, community leaders and musical ensembles to share our history, showcase their talents, inform us of their accomplishments, while also honoring our ancestors and saluting our heritage. As Alphas, our goal to reach and register individuals often missed by traditional political campaigns and advocacy organizations has been part of our DNA since the early 1900’s. "A Voteless People is a Hopeless People" (aka VPHP) was initiated as a National Program of Alpha during the 1930's when many African-Americans had the right to vote but were prevented from voting because of poll taxes, threats of reprisal, and lack of education about the voting process. Voter education and registration have remained a dominant focus of this outreach activity for over 65 years. In the spirit of the parade and VPHP it was only fitting that we centralized our outreach directly in front of the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building. Brother Adam Clayton Powell Jr. (Eta 33’) was the first African-American elected to Congress from New York. The efforts led by Community Service Co-Chairs, Bro. Kwabena Q Adom (KXL Sp16’) & Bro. Jodan Gilles (ZH Fall 12’), were largely successful. As a trusted and respected community institution, the Brothers of Wall Street were able to assist those who were newly eligible voters, registering for the first time, or simply needed to update their registration. Voting matters both to the health of the American political system and to the people who participate in it. Remember, A Voteless People is a Hopeless People.
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ELECTION WATCH PARTY BRO. CURTIS OUTLAW
On Tuesday November 8th the Kappa Xi Lambda & Tau Omega Chapters of their respective organizations, along with the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) hosted an Election Night Watch Party located at Suite 36 in Midtown Manhattan. Many would agree that this election season was both draining and frustrating to the people of the United States. Neither candidate put together a platform that addressed issues within the African-American community and spent the majority of their time taking shots at one another. Never has there been in recent history two candidates whose behavior were both child-like and untrustworthy. From Hillary Clinton’s email scandal to Donald Trump’s bigotry and hate rhetoric, I think it’s safe to say that we as a nation have some serious issues to face moving forward. The results showed a reflection of where we are headed as a nation and prompt a call to action for those in the community. What does it say about our country, when the elected official you vote to the highest position in the “Free World” has moral and character flaws that many would consider an embarrassment? Personally, I think we all can agree on the level of disappointment with the election results, but nonetheless the event turned out to be a success. This event was important because it created an opportunity for young professionals to network and think about how we as a nation, and leaders in our community, will move forward. A DJ with live music created an atmosphere where people felt welcomed. In addition to the drinks, brotherhood gathering and public viewing of the election, there were other professional organizations in attendance. The Election Night Watch Party helped both chapters raise money for the fraternal year to help with future programs. As Men of Alpha, we realize the work has only started so it is imperative that we step up to the challenge and eliminate the hatred and racism displayed by the Trump Administration. On behalf of Kappa Xi Lambda, we say thanks to the members of Tau Omega and the NPHC for their support in coordinating the Election Night Watch Party. We look forward to collaborating with Tau Omega and the NPHC on future events that will continue promote education and awareness of current issues in our communities. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” ― Martin Luther King Jr. 7
ALPHA GENTS BRO. MARTAVIUS LEONARD
The October G.E.N.T.S. session was the annual college tour, which focuses primarily on the College Readiness program pillar. This year, 13 G.E.N.T.S. and 4 Mentors went on a two-day trip to Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While there, the students were able to engage in a campus tour at both Drexel University and UPenn, entrepreneurship workshop and academic fair, and roundtable discussions with current students and members of Psi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated.
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ALPHA GENTS BRO. MARTAVIUS LEONARD
The November G.E.N.T.S. session was a continuation of the college tour which took place in October. This session, which was also focused on college readiness, took place at the Historically Black College & University (HBCU) Fair, which was hosted by the New York Urban League Young Professionals at Riverbank Park in Harlem. This was a great way to expose our young men to HBCUs and the many benefits an HBCU education can provide. Senior G.E.N.T. Hasani White, received two on the spot college acceptances from Alabama A&M and Norfolk State University.
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ZETA ETA BRO. KADEEM INNOCENT The Zeta Eta college chapter participated in multiple events throughout the fall. Black Economics was a successful event that Carmen Victorino, the CEO of Lefemme Suite, took over with her savvy speech style, inspiring success story, and promotion of her unique business. Head of State was a panel discussion that Bro. Innocent participated in regarding border control He also registered ten students to vote, supporting our Voteless People is a Hopeless People program. The Zeta Eta chapter also collaborated with the Big City Alphas in CCNY’s Thanks-ForGiving Stroll Competition and took home first place. In the spirit of giving back, Bro. Innocent also supported the Eta chapter’s Feed the Homeless program.
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FRATERNAL WELCOME UPSILON UPSILON FALL ‘16 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated has arrived on the campus of New York University! Congratulations to the 8 chartering members of the Upsilon Upsilon chapter! #1 Chevaun Samuels, Senior Political Science Major from Mount Vernon, NY #2 Nathaniel Simmons, Sophomore Finance Major from Queens, NY #3 Orville Edwards, Sophomore Biology Major from Montego Bay, Jamaica #4 Ta’riq Fisher, Sophomore Urban Design and Architectural Studies from Colombia, MD #5 Kwame Assoku, Sophomore Economics and Politics Major from Accra, Ghana #6 Romel Williams, Senior Psychology Major from Rochester, NY #7 Tamir Griffin, Junior Drama Major from Newark, NJ #8 Kalu Udensi, Chemical and Bio-Molecular Engineering Major from Jamaica, Queens
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WHAT CAN WE EXPECT? UPSILON UPSILON FALL ‘16
You can expect Upsilon Upsilon to continuously rise up. We hope to coordinate more and more events on campus and develop our name. We have many individuals who are dedicated to making a change on campus, and once we build on that we will be unstoppable. Bro. Chevaun Samuels We are going to be very involved in community service and throw the most memorable parties. Two programs that have the potential to be significant on NYU's campus are an annual flag football game to raise money for respective causes and a day focused on cultural awareness. Bro. Nathaniel Simmons Within the next 6 months you will hear Upsilon Upsilon all over New York. Our programs will be spectacular, and our academics will skyrocket. People will be anxiously awaiting our next program. I plan to bring a bi-weekly discussion to the campus centered on addressing the problems facing people of color. Bro. Orville Edwards The name “Upsilon Upsilon” will be in the conversations of many as we work to establish ourselves as a force on this campus, out of the night that covers us. I hope to coordinate a program that engages NYU students and faculty in fruitful dialogue about the minority experience in an effort to educate and enlighten a wider swath of our peers. Bro. Ta’riq Fisher
I worked as a mentor for kids in the Bronx during my first semester at NYU, and it was incredibly rewarding to see the impact one can have on a mentee. With this experience, I would hope to coordinate a mentorship program with a high school within the city where the brothers of Upsilon Upsilon can partner with a student they can mentor. Bro. Kwame Assoku Firstly, you can expect for growth in our chapter. We plan to make Alpha and the Upsilon Upsilon chapter a campus organization that stimulates the interest of quality men at NYU. In addition, you can expect to see Upsilon Upsilon begin to develop our own personality and begin to set the foundation for the high standards that have already been set forth by the brothers of Kappa Xi Lambda. Lastly, in the next 6 months, you can expect to see an increase in the number of successful programs that will help to establish a reputation of excellence and create sustainability for the chapter for many years to come. Bro. Romel Williams We can expect Upsilon Upsilon to fight its way into visibility on campus using diverse social, academic, and community programs within the next 6 months. My hope is for Upsilon Upsilon to be independently operating just as large as organizations like the Black Student Union. Bro. Tamir Griffin We hope to let everyone see our presence on campus while establishing an admirable brand on campus through brotherhood, mentorship, academic and community service events. Bro. Kalu Udensi
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NYACOA CONVENTION BRO. DAVID WILLIAMS JR. The Brothers of NYACOA came together on the campus of Hobart and William Smith Colleges for the 27th Anniversary Convention on the final weekend of October 2016. The event was kicked off with a town hall where brothers engaged in conversations on a variety of hot topics including hazing and the “process”, sexuality, Alpha politics, financial obligations, and programming. The business sessions highlights included reports and metrics on chapters across the district, a Skype session with Bro. Elvin Dowling on a $1M educational grant from the Department of Justice, commentary from Bro. District Director Chris Ellis on the membership pipeline, and Bro. EVP Anthony Mills addressing the overall state of the fraternity. KXL was represented by Bro. Johnny Williams, Bro. Jodan Gilles, and Bro. David Williams Jr. Additionally, four brothers from our new college chapter (Upsilon Upsilon) also got to experience the weekend’s activities. My only previous convention experience was the 2013 Alpha South Regional Convention, so this fraternal work and fellowship at the NYACOA convention setting was long overdue. I found the town hall to be an extremely engaging experience, and one that touched on conversations I plan to initiate within KXL whether it is through word-of-mouth or future chapter publications. We as a brotherhood must continue to develop the internal bonds necessary to help put us in the best position to serve the communities we are already entrenched in. Based off the reports provided by district leadership, there is also work to be done in ensuring all chapters are completing their obligations to the district to strengthen its ability to operate as a whole. I also had the opportunity to compete for and win NYACOA Alumni Brother of the Year. I look forward to representing both KXL and NYACOA at the Eastern Regional Convention in my home state of Virginia in March.
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NYACOA CONVENTION BRO. DAVID WILLIAMS JR. Reflection from the Upsilon Upsilon Delegates “My experience at NYACOA was great. It was truly inspiring to see so many brothers at one event together. While there, we truly saw the brotherly spirit by both graduate brothers and undergraduate brothers alike. Furthermore, we were also able to see how Alpha business is coordinated while in these environments.” Bro. Chevaun Samuels “My NYACOA experience was something I’ve never experienced before. We were the new kids on the block but we were treated like family nonetheless. The meetings were interesting based on the way business was conducted. Meeting brothers from all across the state was the best experience.” Bro. Orville Edwards “NYACOA was a great experience. I gained the opportunity to network with different brothers of various chapters and helped bring exposure to Upsilon Upsilon.” Bro. Nathaniel Simmons “NYACOA was a great learning experience. We were both introduced to the inner workings of Fraternity elections and had the ability to connect with many of our New York brothers, brothers we wouldn't have otherwise met.” Bro. Kwame Assoku
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FOR THE GOOD OF THE BROTHERHOOD BRO. MARTAVIUS LEONARD & BRO. REV. DR. ERIC B. TURNER
Brotherhood Learning Series The month of October sparked the launch of the Brother Learning Series. This initiative is designed to serve as an educational tool for brothers of Kappa Xi Lambda and surrounding chapters. Through a collection of bi-monthly activities led by members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the Brotherhood Learning Series seeks to offer continuous learning and provide professional and personal development. Ten brothers attended a one-hour comprehensive session regarding Robert’s Rules of Order, which was Led by Bro. Rufus Sadler. After attending the event, Bro. Ade Ayeni stated, “This session was extremely impactful and I now have an in-depth understanding of the Robert’s Rules of Order structure.” The next session will take place December of 2016.
Prayer, Meditation, & Inspiration Lines PURPOSE The Purpose of PMI is to offer Brothers 20 Minutes of captivating illustrations and Biblical insights for daily life. Brothers are challenged to a deeper Spiritual faith and those without Christ are introduced to Him using non-religious terms. Listeners are encouraged to unleash their relationship with God, rise above the hard times, deepen relationships with those they love, conquer their dark side, and live as a "make-a-difference" person. WHEN
Each Tuesday, at 6:30AM The call lasts approximately 20 minutes Brothers will need to mute out their phones. Recordings of the PMI are available 24 hours – 7 days
HOW
The Dial- In Number is (712) 770-4700 Access Code 343133 Brothers can email their Prayer Request to KXLprayerline@gmail.com This email will be controlled by the active chaplain and request deleted to promote security and privacy amongst the brotherhood
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BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT HOLDING DUAL-MEMBERSHIP
Why did I join two chapters and have positions in both? I joined two chapters for a few reasons: 1) to obtain two different experiences from the two chapters of which I am a part; 2) it provides me the opportunity to keep consistently busy, yet in a very constructive way; and, 3) because I can. I will go into some detail about each of these reasons. I joined Kappa Xi Lambda, or KXL (aka The “Wall Street” chapter) because I was in search of a chapter that was well-established, progressive, and known for its strong sense of Brotherhood and good work in the community. Also, much of my social life was (and is) centered in the northern NJ/NYC area despite the fact that I reside in central NJ (Princeton). When I moved back to NJ over two years ago, several Brothers in my close circle suggested I look into joining KXL. So, I did. While a member in KXL, I identified some opportunities to help KXL become a much better chapter, especially with regard to how the chapter manages its monies. Therefore, I sought the opportunity to serve as Financial Secretary. I joined Zeta Nu Lambda (ZNL) for these and other reasons. I have known several of the ZNL Brothers for almost 30 years and have a very strong connection with these Brothers. I once (in the late ‘80’s) served as Alumni Advisor to the college chapter from which many of these Brothers have graduated and felt a strong desire to re-establish those bonds of friendship and Brotherhood after being away from the NJ area for so long. I was also very active in northern NJ during the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s, responsible for chartering a chapter at Ramapo College in Mahwah, NJ and serving as the head of College Brother Affairs for the state in the late ‘80’s. ZNL is a relatively small chapter that is in the process of reorganizing itself. This meant that every Brother in the chapter would hold at least one position until the chapter is able to grow and develop. This is the reason why I serve as Financial Secretary in ZNL as well.
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BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT HOLDING DUAL-MEMBERSHIP
Another very important reason for being an active member of two chapters is that I desperately need to keep my mind occupied with constructive and positive activities. Unfortunately, both of my parents passed away in 2015, which created an enormous void in my life. However, in my capacity as Financial Secretary and active member in both chapters, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (namely, KXL and ZNL) affords me the opportunity to work on things that not only keep me busy, but allows me to contribute to the betterment of our internal and external communities through this work. I am extremely blessed to be able to financially afford the cost of dual membership. However, I know that the fees I pay to both chapters contribute to the mission of this great Fraternity: “Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. develops leaders, promotes brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities.” I love this Fraternity and I appreciate how it continues to develop me as a leader, allows me to develop long-lasting relationships with those I call “Brothers”, and, more importantly, and pushes me to provide quality service to our communities. It’s an important part of who I am as a person and I thank my parents for instilling these priorities in me. Brother Dr. G. Anthony “Tony” Bell [Nu Beta - Spring ‘86]
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BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT I DO NOT NEED TO BE BLACK TO BE AN ALPHA
Greetings! My name is Hatef Alavi and, I was born and raised in Iran for 13 years of my life before moving to the United States in 1998. I am from Ocean Township, New Jersey. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a concentration in Leadership Studies from Rowan University and a Master’s degree in Higher Education Management, Student Affairs track from the University of Pittsburgh. Currently, I am a pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, Higher Education track while serving as a Graduate Coordinator in the Office of Social Justice, Inclusion, and Conflict Resolution at Rowan University. My journey in joining an NPHC organization is very unique. Prior to coming to college, I had no knowledge about Greek Life. However, after being introduced to it the summer leading into my college freshmen year, during the Pre-College Institute program, I became very interested. As a non-African American person, I was conflicted about whether or not I should join a historically Black Greek Letter Organization (BGLO). I decided to do my research about the history of NPHC and the purpose of each organization. Furthermore, I decided to surround myself with people that were influential to my success in college, which many of them happen to be Alphas. Through my self-awareness and observation of each organization, the way the members of each organization carried themselves in public, and the way they upheld the principles of their respective Greek organization, I knew that the only fraternity that I was willing to pursue was Alpha Phi Alpha. My research really provided me with the assurance that Alpha Phi Alpha embodied the values, principles, and attitudes that I believed in and practiced in my everyday life. After years of research, in depth conversation with brothers from all over the country, and understanding the historical perspective that I was introduced to, I made a decision to further pursue my interest in Greek life. However, the concept of not being an African American person wanting to join the first BGLO made it very difficult to finalize my decision. Upon reflecting on everything that I knew and understood about Alphas, I came to the conclusion that I do not need to be African American in order to join an organization that embodies everything that I believe in and practice. No other organization had the personality, the mindset, the work ethic and the swag that I was looking for in a fraternity. Furthermore, to be in the same fraternity as some of the most powerful and notable Alphas in the world such as Drs. Martin Luther King Jr., Cornell West, W. E. B. Du Bois, was very inspirational. After I joined the fraternity, many people asked me about my interest in becoming an Alpha and joining a BGLO as a non-African American person. Through sharing my story with those individuals, I realized that I was inspiring younger students to pursue something that they were passionate about and they used my story as a vehicle to accomplish their goal. The brothers that I met throughout the country appreciated my hunger, journey and interest in making such a powerful decision and saw me as another Alpha brother without labeling me based on my background. Thankfully, I never received any criticism from anyone regarding my decision to join Alpha Phi Alpha as an Iranian. In 2008, I attended the National Black Student Leadership Development Conference. At that conference, I met another Iranian student and he asked me about my journey and how I felt about joining the fraternity a as a non-African American student. After our conversation, I knew that he was inspired to follow his passion. The following year when we reunited at the same conference, I learned that he too, had joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
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BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT I DO NOT NEED TO BE BLACK TO BE AN ALPHA
Having the opportunity to work on a college campus, I speak with students about the benefits of joining a Greek organization. I speak about making the right decision for themselves and not to be influenced about the stereotypes that exist within each organization. Now that I am employed at the same institution that I attended in undergrad, I believe the culture of Greek Life on campus has changed dramatically. The level of passion and dedication that I was exposed to does not reside in this population. During my conversation with the students, I present them with challenging questions because I want them to make the right decision without having any regrets in the future. Having more multicultural Greek organizations at Rowan University is definitely impacting NPHC’s membership. There are more multi-cultural and Latin Greek organizations than the time that I was enrolled. Students have more options when deciding on which community they want to belong to and the type of experience they are looking to gain. However, there is a bigger challenge that Greek Life is facing; that is, the interest of joining a Greek organization has diminished greatly at Rowan U. Students care about their social life more than doing the actual work that is required by the fraternities and sororities. I think that alone has impacted membership across all organizations. As a Middle Eastern male, I don't think Alpha Phi Alpha can do anymore than what it is doing now. I think a lot of it comes to the individual’s decision about the importance of joining NPHC Greek Organizations. We can put on workshops, seminars, training sessions, leadership retreats, and many other educational and social programs, but if the students are not passionate about the work, they will not aid with the mission of the BGLO. Being a Middle Eastern, I hope that my story continues to shed light on people while sparking a genuine interest in them. I will continue to be the voice for all students and hopefully, I can inspire someone to see the bigger picture of not only what Alpha can do for them but what they can do for Alpha. Brother Hatef Alavi [Nu Iota - Fall ‘07]
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BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT THE FUTURE OF BLACK GREEK LETTER ORGANIZATIONS
While (National Pan Hellenic Council) NPHC fraternities and sororities are primarily found on predominantly White institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and at other senior colleges, little attention has been given to the consideration of their presence at community colleges. Despite the traditional existence of BGLOs at senior college campuses, consideration of representation on community colleges is basically non-existent. In fact, many may have erroneously assumed that the presence of African American undergraduate students at 4-year institutions defined the experiences of all African American male undergraduate students. Such an assumption can be further from the truth. In reality, according to the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) 2013, African American community college students account for approximately 52% of the students enrolled in higher education. Based on the National Council for Education Statistics (2013), when examining the representation of African American men throughout higher education, there are more African Americans graduating from community college (12%) compared to 8 percent of those in 4-year institutions. From this data, African American men have been recognized as the lowest performing among all racial and gender groups. As a group, African American male’s low representation in associate’s degree completion is cause for concern. The low numbers of African American men enrolled in college prompts an investigation to improve the experiences of African American men in higher education. With more African American males enrolled in 2-year institutions, more work is warranted at the community colleges to improve the educational outcomes among African American college students. These conditions support the need for a discussion for a presence of Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) at this level of education. Towards this end, innovative approaches by NPHC is warranted. The men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity are familiar with overcoming obstacles that plague African American men’s development in college, Alpha Phi Alpha should be at the lead towards developing solutions. The students who attend community colleges are characterized as financially dependent, non-traditional age students, working students, first-generation college students, require remedial education, lack engagement, and have unsure educational goals. Some students enter community college with the goal of earning skills that will provide them with a vocational trade upon graduation. While others access these open-enrollment institutions with the goal of entering senior colleges and completing a baccalaureate degree. In addition to having these aforementioned challenges, for African American men in particular, many are balancing their academic and social identity as they venture between both worlds while combating self-esteem issues. The author proposes that NPHC consider having a presence at community colleges. Through programmatic efforts and mentoring relationships, BGLO upperclassmen can build relationships with community college students. Within this model, current upperclassmen will be able to serve as accessible role models and allow community college students to interact with similar individuals who are persisting in higher education. Having these meaningful relationships with collegiate peers will allow many community college students to diminish their connection to friends who are not enrolled in college. As a result, community college students will increase their awareness of 4-year institutions and strengthen their aspiration to advance their education. Additionally, community college students will develop relationships with 20
BROTHERHOOD SPOTLIGHT THE FUTURE OF BLACK GREEK LETTER ORGANIZATIONS
An expected outcome will result in undergraduate chapters instituting mentoring clubs at the community college, which will develop into membership into BGLOs upon transferring. Young Alpha men can begin, at the start of freshmen year, to establish character, scholarship and co-curricula involvement. This partnership will be able to help assist BGLOs chapters that struggle with low membership enrollment. The expansion of NPHC chapters at community colleges will contribute to a cycle of involved and educated fraternal men. This union between both institutions will benefit participants as a retention effort for African American male students, as it continuously have done since 1906. Are community colleges an overlooked opportunity by NPHC officials? I am aware that some brothers are offended by the proposal of Alpha Phi Alpha focusing efforts at junior colleges. Should our beloved fraternity continue to operate from an early 20th century model, the future of BGLOs is bleak. To expand our reach has the possibility to create greater visibility for fraternity, the livelihood of our existence and positive results for the African American community. This growth has the potential to impact policies and procedures in higher education. Further, this will serve as a catalyst for additional MCGC and BGLOs to emulate using an asset based approach. These and other solutions desperately needs to be examined as we evolve into the future. Brother Dr. Ted N. Ingram [Rho - Spring ‘99]
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2016-2017 CHAPTER MEETING SCHEDULE General Meetings Location: 120 Wall Street Time: 6:30 PM Dates September 13, 2016 October 11, 2016 November 8, 2016 December 13, 2016 January 10, 2017 February 14, 2017 March 14, 2017 April 11, 2017 (Executive board nominations) May 9, 2017 (Executive board elections) June 13, 2017 ———————————————————————————————————————————————————————–— ————–———————–———————————————————————————————————————————— Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter P.O. Box 5382 New York, NY 10185-5382 Website: www.wallstreetalphas.com Email: wallstreetalphas@gmail.com Facebook: @WallStreetAlphas Twitter: @WallStAlphas Instagram: @WallStAlphas
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