Sphinx 2015 2016

SPHINX COLLECTIVE 2015-16 | SERVICE

SERVICE FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

Reforming the Criminal Justice System | Brother Poindexter or Not, That is the Question?

BECOME A MEMBER. FOR LIFE. START YOUR LIFE MEMBERSHIP TODAY. CALL (800) 373-3089 OR EMAIL MEMBERSUPPORT@APA1906.NET

10

CONTENTS

features

in this issue

10

7

A Condensed State of the Fraternity Address

14

Interview with Brother Warren Washington

16

Outstanding Alumni Brother of the Year

18

Tackling Sickle Cell in Charlotte

Service | Advocacy African American Fraternities and Sororities, Our Work Has Just Begun

36

Leadership | Politics | Social Justice A Call to Action for All Alpha Graduates

38

20

Outstanding College Brother of the Year

Arts | Sports | Entertainment THE PHI: Part of the Fraternal Bond Series

22

43

2015 Charlotte Convention Awards

24

Miss Black and Gold Jasmin Eatman

26

He's My Brother

28

Investing in Our Future

30

Brother Poindexter or Not, That is the Question?

18

Lifestyle | Education | Wellness Ward Named President of Saint Augustine University

45

Business | Finance Understanding Student Loan Debt

28

46

Chapter News

52

Omega Chapter

64

Alpha Leadership Directory

2

THE SPHINX

CONTENTS

SPHINX

®

Official Publication of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity COLLECTIVE 2015-16 FALL/WINTER 2015 | Volume 101, No. 3-4 SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | Volume 102, No. 1-2 www.apa1906.net EXECUTIVE EDITOR W. Douglass Lyle sphinx@apa1906.net MANAGING EDITOR Joshua S.D. Harris sphinx@apa1906.net COPY EDITORS Amy Kopperude, Susie Mouri CONTRIBUTORS Benjamin Baker, Jerryl Bennett, Anthony Harris, Edward Hightower, Lester L. Holmes, Imo Nse Imeh, Jonathan H. N. Long, Jamaal Myles, Gregory Parks, and Royce Straham PHOTOGRAPHERS Ricky Brown, Jeff J. Lewis, Jamal A. Wiggins COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS Paul Brown, Chairman Malik C. Bullard, Tyler A. Clifford, Wendel Eckford, Anthony Harris, Jaquon C. Heath, Christopher N. Hunte, Edward L. Marshall, Rashid Mosley, Philip E. Parker, Donald L. Ross, Steven E. Templin II, Rudolph Williams II 2017 SUBMISSION DEADLINES (11:59 P.M. Eastern Time) Spring: January 15 | Summer: April 15 Fall: August 15 | Winter: October 15

T H E SPH I N X | CO LL ECT IV E 201 5-1 6 | SE RV I CE I SSUE

SPHINX COLLECTIVE 2015-16 | SERVICE

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

EDITORIAL OFFICES Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity 2313 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 212I8-5211 (410) 554-0040 www.apa1906.net ADVERTISING AND SALES ads@apa1906.net DESIGN AND PRINTING Mercury Publishing Services

AL P H A P H I A LP H A FR AT ERN I TY | WWW.A PA 1 9 06 . N ET

SERVICE FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE (SOTF) Reforming the Criminal Justice System | Brother Poindexter or Not, That is the Question?

© 2016 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. | All Rights Reserved

ON THE COVER

A visual representation of the realities today’s collegiate leaders may face when advocating for our communities. #blacklivesmatter Photo Taken By Jeff Lewis

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

3

FROM THE GENERAL PRESIDENT

Greetings Brothers, Our 109th anniversary and 92nd General Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina has passed us. Prior to that, in 2013 I presided over my first General Convention in Austin, Texas. There was a common theme in both, service and a commitment to investing in our communities. This theme was not just in words, but in acts and deeds.

While we traveled to Charlotte to conduct the business of Alpha we remained vigilant that a large portion of that business is to identify needs within our many communities and serve those needs, which is why our convention was filled with panels and events that addressed issues our communities are dealing with each and every day. From our school choice dialogue, our health fair blood drive, our back pack drive, and recognizing leaders in the fight for social justice like Brother William Barber.

Mark S. Tillman General President Twitter: @alphainvest06

Brothers, we must remain intentional about addressing the many issues that our communities face. That focus should come through an understanding of our mission, as well as an evaluation of who we are as a fraternity, what it is that we do, and how it impacts the world around us. Only with an intentional application of the answers to those questions will we be able to push our fraternity and our communities forward.

I enjoyed the college brothers’ luncheon, the life membership breakfast, and the Black and Gold Banquet. However, the moment that will stick with me forever is the look on the faces of those Charlotte youth as they saw the thousand backpacks donated by a fraternity committed to ensuring that they are prepared to be successful and focus on learning and not what supplies they do not have.

Brothers, we are indeed the school of friendship, and the college of brotherly love, and the school for the better making of men, and after our Charlotte convention I have no doubt that it extends far beyond the confines of the fraternity and is deeply rooted in the community. I charge you to never lose focus and keep at the forefront of your mind the communities we serve. S

4 4 SPHINX THE SPHINX

*SERIOUSLY. WHEN WE MENTOR, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE IN A YOUNG CHILD’S LIFE. ALPHA SALUTES THE WOMEN OF SIGMA GAMMA RHO FOR IMPACTING COMMUNITIES THROUGH TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

MISSION FOCUSED.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. DEVELOPS LEADERS, PROMOTES BROTHERHOOD AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, WHILE PROVIDING SERVICE AND 5 ADVOCACY FOR OUR COMMUNITIES.

PICTURED: THREE-TIME BIG BROTHER, GENERAL PRESIDENT MARK S. TILLMAN AND HIS LITTLE, ELIJAH, AS HE SPEAKS ABOUT THE IMPACT OF HAVING A MENTOR IN HIS LIFE.

MENTORING IS FUN*

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Relief Pitcher When joining the General Office of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in November of 2000, I didn’t realize the path that was being set. No more than six months after my start did I receive a one-page document from my then supervisor, Director of Communications John I. Harris, III [Eta Zeta 89] simply titled, Relief Pitcher. This was John’s way of handing off Alpha’s entire communications arm to me as he prepared for his transition.

W. Douglass Lyle Executive Director Twitter: @wdlyle

The Relief Pitcher document contained a listing of items that needed to be complete in a short timeframe in a department of two that was soon to become a department of one for the next six years. The list included six magazines, over 15 convention publications, two newsletters, convention minutes and our history book. This was received with no, “how-to” manual and only a Rolodex to assist me. Knowing that these moments are often used to stretch you, I accepted the charge and began to move forward.

I find myself in a similar position serving once again as the Relief Pitcher, this time entering at the final inning. The vision to grow an award-winning publication is a joint effort, which requires a desire to push the envelope and the ability to look beyond what was done in the past. The need to constantly reflect and reassess why things were done and if they make sense is vital. The team that works on the publications is located on the Masthead found on the far right side of our contents page. Most of these individuals give a tremendous amount of personal time to assist this publication reaching your hands.

As our official organ continues to grow and evolve The Sphinx for a second year (2016) in a row won First Place: Critics’ Choice Cover design, which honors outstanding design of a magazine and/or tabloid cover as determined by Fraternal Communication Association (FCA) members attending the annual meeting. Our magazine was selected among 60 other organizations to win this title.

It is my sincere hope that you enjoy this collective edition, which includes timeless information, as well as accounts for the historic events that have occurred since it’s originally planned publication date. The next edition will continue to cover the political, educational, social and economic issues facing our members and the communities we serve and will, as always remain MISSION-FOCUSED, MISSIONDRIVEN as we move Alpha Forward.

6

THE SPHINX

SERVICE | ADVOCACY

BY GREGORY S. PARKS (HUFF POST ORIGINALLY)

African-American Fraternities and Sororities, Our Work Has Just Begun

J

park

s_dj

4

4/2/

08

8:32

PM

Page

ust after I graduated from law school, in 2008, my second book was published—Black Greek-letter Organizations in the Twenty-First Century: Our Fight Has Just Begun (University Press of Kentucky). In the foreword, I made two points about the choice of the title, one internal to Black Greek-Letter Organizations (BGLOs), the other external. First, there are a host of internal issues they must address. Second, and similarly, their efforts to uplift African Americans must be robust and meaningful. Together, these two dynamics— internal and external—are fights that were not resolved in the 20th century; they are fights that BGLOs must take on in this day and in this age in order to remain relevant, impactful, and even viable.

(C ON

TI NU

ED FR OM

1

FR ON

entu

cky

On Facebook, journalist Roland Martin asked his followers where were BGLOs in this modern Civil Rights struggle? Brother Martin is a proud member of the same fraternity as W.E.B. Du Bois, Charles Hamilton Houston, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Martin Luther King Jr., and many others—Alpha Phi Alpha—as am I. His question is a reasonable one. Black GreekLetter Organizations are at a crossroads for a host of reasons. But to Brother Martin’s point, will BGLOs be meaningfully engaged in this modern struggle for racial equality? Will they be timid and do enough just to say that they did something? Will they sit on the sidelines?

I am Alpha Phi Alpha’s national chair of its Commission on Racial Justice. My words here, however, reflect my

PA R

KS

B L A C ORG K GREE A K-LE T H E N I Z AT I TTE O 2 1 ST C NS IN R ENT URY

We are now in the shadow of the United States Supreme Court opinions in Shelby County v. Holder (2013) and Fisher v. Texas (2013). We had to grapple with the court opinions in the shooting deaths of Trayvon Martin and Jordan Davis. Now, we wrangle with the grand jury decisions not to indict police officers for the death of two black men—Mike Brown and Eric Garner. Figuratively, the country is on fire and at times, sections of cities are literally on fire. People have taken to the streets to protest, rally, and resist. And the feelings and cries for justice have reverberated around the globe.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

insider’s experience and an outsider’s (as simply a law professor who researches BGLOs) analysis. Alpha Phi Alpha’s General President, Mark S. Tillman, has pushed on many fronts to get and keep Alpha Phi Alpha engaged in racial uplift. He has called on brothers and urged BLA them to meaningfully work in their CK communities, including around GRE EK-L racial justice. He, himself, went ETT ORG ER A to Ferguson, Missouri to rally T H E N I Z AT I O N 21S Alpha Phi Alpha brothers in the T CE S IN OU R F IGH N aftermath of the Mike Brown TUR T H AS Y JUS T B shooting. As quiet as it was EGU N attempted to be kept, though publicly leaked somehow, General President Tillman pushed for the fraternity to pay Mike Brown’s funeral expenses—not in an effort to show up any other EDI TED With a For BY eword group but rather to take GR

by Ju liann EGO e Mal veaux RY and an the burden off the family of S. P After ARK word

by M S arc H . Mor having to collect from multiple sources ial to cover the cost. Even more, he supported the allocation of a six-figure donation to four Civil Rights organizations from the fraternity and for broad and long-term partnerships between Alpha Phi Alpha and those organizations (for more details contact Alpha Phi Alpha’s Corporate Office). As the fraternity’s national chair for racial justice, am I satisfied? No! I am never satisfied, as I believe in the ideals and mission of my fraternity, and I think we must constantly push to our limits of excellence, brotherhood, and service. But it is a good start and template.

T FL Edito AP ) r Gre gory author S. Pa s prov rks an ide hi d the ment storic contrib of BG AFR al uting LOs, contex ICAN as we explor t for AME ll as th the de ing th RICA eir re Afric eir se N ST veloplations an A rvice UDI “Com hips wi ES/C activiti prehen ines BG merican in th othe U LT es sive an stitutio URA LOs’ su r prom ch as L ST d thor ns. Th respon rary iss femin inent UDI ough e book ses to ues, in ism, se ES behavi in its a num exam cludin homos xual or or. It schola ber of g nonb exualit will sp ientat read rship, contem lack m ark m y with ion, ra for m of BG the bo po uc em in em cial in LOs h disc ok ta BGLO bershi bers of studen as ed tegrat ckles ussio the or p, s, and t-s BG uc er io many n at LOs, n, eatin vice pe and fu ganize ed ga the pe challe prospe ngs. A ture re d resp rsonne g diso rc racial ep nging ct tio s illus onse search rders, ive m l.” injust n issue trated of BG embe and or ice th on th s these LO m rs, th by ey ob e orga coedito ganiza organi e gene “As re embe served nizatio tiona r of Th zatio rs ra ce l in to l ntly as ns. It public ns still e Col Jena, the Both is a m umbi zatio fifteen , and Louisia have intern ns a ust es a vita Guide years was ne pecial —RO na, ally an l miss forge ago, th to Afric ly for semin BERT gligib d exte io a rele n. le. And al role e body an Am L. HAR rnally vant s in th Intern of criti erican ye G , R id BG re t IS en at ek e Afr ally, th LOs tity fo JR., Histor -Lette cal sc vario ican A strugg us po r the holars ese gr r Org y since includ Parks le to meric ints in new ce aniza oups hip on ing ha 1939 and ot tions an free wrestle histor ntury. black zing, compe her co in the essays y, thes dom homop Greek with ntribut Twen tition, strugg .” e orga many hobia, ty -firs ors ha and th le. Now divide issue nizatio -letter orga t Cen petty profes ve step e diffi s, betwee , with nins ha tury: interg sor of culty pe ve O th n colle Extern d ur ro e pl into th of brid up appe AfroFight ayed ge an ally, BG arance Amer Has Ju is brea ging d alum catin ican st author LOs of Blac st Begu ch wi ni mem the g them face th udies th an of Ra k n, Gre selves bers. e chal at the ambi yford ing an “Gre gory tious to thei lenge Unive W. Lo gory S. aggres collect of rede Parks’s r com gan an rsity —KEN sive ca of raci ion of frater of Nor muniti d the dilatest NETH mpaig sm, se nities th D es co ile C an n R. JA ntribut xism, mma arolin and so agains d lead behavi on A NKEN and ot of the a at C ion to roritie t mod or. By frican , Af he ha the do ern fo s shou rican r type Amer pel H embr organi stood. rms cumen Amer ld be acing ill an s of fe ican an zatio Black ican In d celebr the hi tation ar-driv ns an d mai bility Gre insight ated story tellect d expl and an en nstrea and re and wi of thes ual oring into th ek-Letter O m Am alysis levanc dely re Organ e their rganiza eir un erican of hist e, Blac contin izatio ad. Th ique tions orical life in k Gre ns in uing histor e impa in the ly blac strate the tw ek-Let the Tw viaie Tw ct s that s, k entie of thes challe enty -fi te —C. enty -fi BGLO th ce nges, BRIA rst Cen endu e grou “This rst Cen r ntury s can ring fu and m N WIL work tury wi ps tury de must create ture an odernis inci LIAM ll offe work monbe un be ac a posit sive. day iss S, Fo d that r cons lies ah derhieved . . . Sc ive an unde ues.” iderab their ead. with r and holars d for th most le some Exec hip is GREG eir in impo guidan utive -depth a rtant ORY cr ta iti Direct ce an nt grou cal ne S. comm Amer d insp or, St ed in ps.” ents an ican Fr PARKS is ep ira our co tion fr Afrik coedito d thou aterni and th —CO mmun a! om ou ties an ghts an r of Af e Visio RNEL “Mak ity an r grou d Soro rican d for n. A es a de L LE d has Frater ps. W rities: a rete life m VERET a chan sperat nity In e com will st The Le lling embe ce to ely ne TE M mend c., he and as of the from r of A gacy OOR eded receiv the wr the U histor a cent lpha sororit E, Gra contrib ed hi iters nivers Phi A y of th ral te Corne ies an s nd ut Ph ity lp xt es io Sire A ha D in d frat for an of Ken ll Law e impo n to th psycho ernitie rchon, yone tucky Scho re curr intere logy ol. s.”

Sigm and a ent lit sted in a Pi Ph eratur JD fr Cove om the ric i e on r desig BGLO n by Je —MAR h legacy an s. Th n Hu is volu d vibr ppert C LA an Desig m M t e O future n NT H ILL, of blac The Te k mple Univ Unive rsity of K ersity Pr

ess

ken

M L gro van has to hip have b type—

The ge n and su rp not ha ve a and cu lture organi zatio with the hi st Black Greek -L Centu ry: Our F an im pres contrib sive g utions an BGLO s and thei

tuck

y

Whether we look at the history of individual BGLO members, or their collective organizational work through the American Council of Human Rights from 1948-1963, or their funding of Civil Rights litigation, these organizations have a remarkable history of social activism. Indeed, each BGLO has a social activism component, but we live in a time in which they must be

7

SERVICE | ADVOCACY

more robust, broad, and assertive. The old guard, the leadership within these groups, cannot afford to be out of step with the zeitgeist of the time. Young members want to take to the streets, to change the system, not gradually, but now! This is not a new problem.

In a chapter within Our Fight Has Just Begun, social scientist and professor Matthew W. Hughey penned the following words: ... the problem is ... there is not enough attention on post-initiation instruction that encourages member consolidation and political awareness. “Solutions� to these problems have thus far mirrored the dynamics of colonialism, whereby a foreign power (alumni chapter or executive office) issues authoritarian mandates to its subjects, only to be surprised when that repression breeds resistance. More attention must focus on developing inter-chapter partnerships and

8

undergraduate-led solutions so that collegiate members are fully invested in and wholeheartedly committed to plans and goals. (2008, p. 409) Black Greek-Letter Organizations will either lead their membership toward societal change, support their membership in this regard, or risk losing this young, strong, and dedicated generation to organizations more worthy of these youth’s ideals and efforts. It is a clarion call made by scholars Drs. Vernon Mitchell and Jessica Harris several years ago.

We can no longer afford to be trapped by the trivialities of provincialism, organizational politics, and lack of vision. Our people need servant leaders, and, truthfully, they need more than our organizations have given and currently give. Black Greek-Letter Organizations must be more, do more, or risk being no more. S

THE SPHINX

SERVICE | ADVOCACY

SUBMITTED BY JERRYL BENNETT

OVERVIEW—HUD STEM INITIATIVE (HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS INITIATIVE) What is the HUD STEM Initiative?

The HUD STEM Initiative (HSI) is a program designed to improve the quality of life for youth in public and affordable housing communities by exposing them to the diverse and challenging fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The goal is to provide experiences that are inspiring, exciting, engaging, and ultimately result in participants pursuing an education and subsequent careers in STEM.

•

to attend college and major in a STEM program of study Assist the student in attaining a permanent job in the STEM field upon college graduation

What is the Role of CNCS and AmeriCorps VISTA?

HUD has partnerships with the United States Military Academy (USMA), Department of Defense Army Research Lab (ARL), Corporation of National Community Service (CNCS), and the Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation.

CNCS provides VISTA and AmeriCorps participants with two primary objectives: 1) resources to help students succeed on the team and resolve problems that may prevent successful participation and 2) connect with local for-profit and nonprofit organizations to provide services and programs to the area Public Housing Authority (PHA)/affordable housing community; thereby increasing the awareness of STEM opportunities in these communities.

How Does it Work?

What is the Cost to Participate?

STEM workshops are convened at selected locations where West Point professors and cadets visit and train the students on building robots, building bridges, building drones, and other meaningful STEM activities. As a student advances through the program, West Point certificates are awarded for successful completion, and badges electronically record STEM Scholars’ accomplishments. The badges allow West Point to track the success of the program and provide additional points for students who seek to gain admittance to West Point and other universities and colleges upon graduation. HSI seeks to: • Attract and expose middle school students to after-school and summer STEM activities • Offer paid internships to high school students at local universities and science venues • Train community coaches and provide mentoring to the student • Provide STEM scholarships to students who plan

The program does not cost anything for participants.

However, each student must participate regularly and must mentor/coach new students entering the program.

Who are HUD’s Partners?

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

What is the Return on Investment?

This initiative affords students opportunities to participate in mainstream STEM programs that enrich their educational experiences and expand their awareness of 21st century STEM careers. Students that participate on STEM teams have attended the West Point Summer STEM Camp and received paid internship opportunities at university and DOD labs. Partnering organizations have increased their support by providing transportation services to competitions and special STEM events.

Who to Contact?

For more information, contact Jerryl E. Bennett at 202402-4120 or via email at jerryl.e.bennett@hud.gov. S

9

FEATURE

THE SOTF:

A CONDENSED STATE OF THE FRATERNITY ADDRESS Written by Mark S. Tillman Condensed by the Sphinx Staff

“TO REPORT ON THE OPERATIONS, THE SUCCESSES, AND THE FUTURE OF OUR BELOVED ALPHA PHI ALPHA”

T

he following pages include General President Mark S. Tillman’s condensed version of his final General Convention State of the Fraternity Address. To see the transcript of the complete address please visit the “State of the Fraternity” section of the “Fraternal Documents” on AlphaNET.

10

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

“WITHOUT A DOUBT WE ARE DOING MORE AND WE MEAN MORE TO OUR COMMUNITIES.”

As your general president, I have sought to consistently preserve and protect those core values that have brought us to this place and this time in our history. We are the game-changing gold standard by which other organizations measure themselves. We are now the vessels to carry the cargo of change, tolerance, hope, and love.

“ALPHA PHI ALPHA HAS MAINTAINED THE REPUTATION AS AN ORGANIZATION THAT HAS DONE MORE THAN SIMPLY SAY, “WE ARE FIRST OF ALL….”

We have also maintained the tradition of being involved in contemporary and timely issues that affect our people and our communities. We have elevated the conversation with our presence at significant moments—in Baltimore, Ferguson, and other communities around the nation where we are still dealing with the killing of our black men, women, and children. We continue to provide a moral conscious for our communities.

“ALPHA IS SAVING BABIES BY RAISING MONEY”

Alpha raised more than $661,000 in the last 2 years to support our partner, the March for Babies.

Sponsored by the March of Dimes, March for Babies supports programs that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies and funding research to find causes and preventions for premature births.

“WE HAVE TAKEN A PROACTIVE LEAD IN BEING A SIGNIFICANT AND MATERIAL PART OF PRESIDENT OBAMA’S MY BROTHER’S KEEPER INITIATIVE.”

Alpha has formally submitted a $5 million federal grant to the United States Department of Justice. This “youth mentoring initiative” grant through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention will allow Alpha to expand the Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College national program.

“WE ARE INTENTIONAL ABOUT OUR RACIAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC POLICY AGENDAS, BUT WE KNOW ALPHA CANNOT DO IT ALONE.”

Brothers we must become engaged with local chapters of the NAACP and National Urban League to get ahead of major issues confronting our communities. And one more thing, if you know a fire is going on in your backyard, don’t wait for me to email you a statement. Put it out and we’ll assess the damages. You have a license as an established chapter to address issues locally under the banner of fraternity.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

11

FEATURE

“TO MY COLLEGE BROTHERS, OPPORTUNITY IS WHO WE ARE.”

To my college brothers, college days do indeed swiftly pass and I encourage you to take advantage of opportunities that are afforded you. General Electric is announcing its fifth C2C leadership forum. Wells Fargo continues to provide internship opportunities and is hosting a reception specifically for you to learn more about them. We have companies and partners ready to hire you. We need you to be in a position to take charge.

“LASTLY, BROTHERS, OUR FISCAL HOUSE REMAINS IN ORDER.”

You heard from Brother Lyle and Brother Harvey on how we are treating and protecting your investments and we have reduced our audit comments from double digits prior to 2013 to zero audit comments for 2014. This is a monumental accomplishment, and in 2 years it says that we have turned a corner by ensuring we are following our internal controls and accounting processes. Thank you for the leadership of our fiscal officers and General Office staff, our Budget and Finance Committee, and Audit Committee. You have helped Alpha regain its financial focus.

“BECAUSE OF YOU, ALPHA WILL BECOME A FOUNDING DONOR WITH A $1 MILLION PLEDGE AND CONTRIBUTION TO SUPPORT THE BUILDING OF THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE.” If you have been in Washington, D.C. lately, you will see that the building is almost complete. This will become the nation’s museum devoted to the men, women, and events that shaped this country through the eyes of African Americans. This endeavor means we are crafting another lasting legacy for America, brothers.

“AS GENERAL PRESIDENT, I’M COMMITTED TO SHAPING THIS FRATERNITY IN A DIRECTION THAT SAFEGUARDS OUR CORPORATE IDENTITY, BRAND, STRUCTURE, AFFILIATIONS, AND BROTHERHOOD.”

Each and every one of us has a duty to ensure we remain strategic, transparent, accountable, and compliant as we ask members, companies, and other organizations to invest in us. Brothers, your board of directors are working hard to carry out their responsibilities and protect this fraternity. They are constantly being pulled and pushed by the brothers, under constant pressure to deal with the foolishness that comes before your executive leadership. Remember, everyone who serves you is human, has family, has a career, and is your brother.

12

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

“WE SET HIGH EXPECTATIONS SO THAT WE CAN GROW AS AN ORGANIZATION AND AS A BROTHERHOOD.”

If there is one thing that keeps me awake at night it’s the notion that Alpha will not make good on its promises. We need brothers who are willing to do the work so that the reputation of this fraternity remains solid. I would like to report that every program we introduced and championed for this administration was a success. But there’s much more that needs to be done and there are a number of business issues we need to complete. My promise to you is that we will complete what we’ve started because Alpha Phi Alpha will be in good hands for the next leader of our fraternity.

“IF WE DON’T INVEST IN OURSELVES, DON’T EXPECT OTHERS TO DO IT.”

As a fraternity, we are facing the real prospects of increasing the amount of grand tax a college and alumni brother pays in the future. I need all of you to bring back one brother. Start with your line brother and if you don’t have a line brother, start with the brother who wrote your letter. If each one of us did that, we will double the number of financially active brothers in this fraternity.

“BUT HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE ALPHA? YES, EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU?”

Do you love it enough to become a life member or better yet be a grand tax-paying brother for life? Do you love it enough to participate in just one area where we render service to those in need? Do you love it enough to shout to the heavens, like Brother Seymour Irby of Beta Omicron Lambda Chapter, what Alpha Phi Alpha is doing for our communities? Do you love it enough to stop underground hazing?

“WE ARE MOVING FORWARD IN A SPIRIT OF BROTHERHOOD AND UNITY [AND] THIS MIGHTY SHIP HAS BEEN THROUGH SOME TOUGH STORMS. BUT HER SAILS REMAIN STRONG AND TESTED BY THE ILL WINDS [AND ILL SAILORS] THAT SOMETIMES BEFALL HER.”

She creaks at times and rolls with the waves, but one thing about this mighty vessel—it always makes it to port. And its crew, who performs their job, will always have a firm grip on its rigging. We are heading now into a new day with the wind at our backs and the sun on our faces. And as your captain, correction, as your commander in chief, I can assure you safe passage, and when the time comes, her next captain will receive her in great shape. We are Alpha Phi Alpha...greater than yesterday and looking ahead to an even greater tomorrow. S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

13

FEATURE

INTERVIEW WITH BROTHER WARREN WASHINGTON, ALPHA AWARD OF MERIT RECIPIENT

A

By Anthony Harris

lpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. should join in the effort to get the word out about the impact of climate change, particularly as it relates to communities that tend to be more heavily populated by African Americans, according to Brother Dr. Warren Washington.

Brother Washington, the second African American to earn a doctorate in the atmospheric sciences, was the recipient of the fraternity’s Award of Merit during the 93rd General Convention this summer. He became one of the first developers of groundbreaking atmospheric computer models in collaboration with Akira Kashahara, a senior research associate, when he came to the National Center for

Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in the early 1960s.

NCAR is a federally funded research and development center devoted to service, research, and education in the atmospheric and related sciences. NCAR’s mission is to understand the behavior of the atmosphere and related Earth and geospace systems; to support, enhance, and extend the capabilities of the university community and the broader scientific community, nationally and internationally and; to foster the transfer of knowledge and technology for the betterment of life on Earth.

Born and raised in Portland, Ore., Brother Washington says he became interested in science as a child. He attended Oregon State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and his master’s degree in meteorology in the late 1950s. He became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in 1955. From there Brother Washington headed east to Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a doctorate in meteorology in 1963. The same year he joined NCAR as a research scientist.

Brother Washington has more than 150 publications and an autobiography, Odyssey in Climate Modeling, Global Warming and Advising Five Presidents. He has received numerous awards for his work on climate change, including the National Medal of Science in 2010, awarded by President Barack Obama, “for his development and use of

14

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

global climate models to understand climate and explain the role of human activities and natural processes in the Earth’s climate system and for his work to support a diverse science and engineering workforce.”

In an interview for The Sphinx, Brother Washington discussed his lifetime of work to develop climate models to help further the understanding of the impact of climate change.

The models, he said, “use the laws of physics to predict future states of the atmosphere and help scientists understand climate change.”

“One of the profound things the models are used for is to understand the impact humans have regarding climate change,” Brother Washington said. Greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide, methane levels, to name a few, all have increased because of fossil fuel usage,” he said. “This all leads to global warming, with the biggest impact being in the polar and mid-latitude regions.”

Brother Washington noted that President Obama will attend a meeting in Paris in December to discuss climate change. He said the Obama Administration is running into resistance from the gas and coal industry, which is reluctant to move toward the use of solar fuels. In addition, he said, with Congress currently under the control of the Republican Party, it will be hard to get the United States to commit to cutbacks.

For example, he noted that coal and air pollution tends to be greater in the South, near AfricanAmerican communities. This leads to respiratory ailments and greater levels of hospitalization. Also, Brother Washington said, many African Americans tend to live near rivers and coastal areas where climate change will result in more flooding and extreme weather events. Finally, Brother Washington said that heat waves will have a greater impact in the southeastern parts of the United States.

Alpha Phi Alpha can assist by helping to push to get the word out about the potential disproportionate impact in those communities, Brother Washington said. He noted that African Americans have incidents of asthma that are three times that of whites. He attributed this to the fact that 71 percent of African Americans live in areas with high rates of pollution, compared to 58 percent of whites.

Also, Brother Washington said 78 percent of African Americans live near coal-fired power plants, compared to 50 percent of whites.

“Alpha needs to join in the efforts to have the issue of climate change/global warming addressed,” he said. S

He said that although recent polls of Republicans view climate change as an important issue, most candidates for office ignore it because they are getting money from the gas and coal industry.

Brother Washington noted that he currently is writing an article for the World Policy Council on the impact of climate change on African Americans. He noted that the impact is likely to be greater in communities where African Americans tend to live.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

15

FEATURE

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI BROTHER OF THE YEAR

By Royce Strahan

R

ichard T. James Jr. [Eta Lambda ’91] holds service to all mankind close to his heart.

For more than 25 years he has dedicated himself to serve Alpha and the Detroit and Metro Detroit community, which earned him the 2015-16 Outstanding Alumni Brother of the Year award.

As a 1990 graduate of Morehouse College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a graduate of Davenport University with an

16

MBA in strategic planning management, and recipient of a doctoral degree in education administration and policy studies from Wayne State University, Brother James has proved to value scholarship and exude what it means to be a brother.

James is a bridge between his fraternity brothers and Cass Technical High School in Detroit where he serves as an educator. He coordinates efforts between the two with Meals on Wheels, March of Dimes, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, American Cancer Society, THE SPHINX

FEATURE

and American Red Cross among others. When deciding whether to apply for Outstanding Alumni Brother of the Year, he considered it a way to selflessly uplift his community.

“I always wanted to run for Alumni Brother of the Year because I wanted to promote Alpha in my community to gain more support as it relates to our community service efforts,” James explained. “I wanted to participate to promote what my chapter, Sigma Delta Lambda, is accomplishing and what Alpha is doing in the metro Detroit area.”

The former Gamma Lambda chapter president who helped establish the new alumni chapter Sigma Delta Lambda in Southfield, Mich. pursued the Alumni Brother of the Year award with a specific movement in mind to highlight.

“Alpha is and always has been a leader in the COLLECTIVE 2015-16

community but there are those who have no clue who we are and what we do,” James said.

“In the wake of ‘Black Lives Matter (movement),’ the destruction of public education, and so many other issues relating to civil rights, I feel that Alpha should stand up with other Greek organizations and help to fight for and protect those who are in need of our help.

Alpha was founded on manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind and I feel we need to get back to fighting for civil rights and making the world better for all.”

James plans on continuing his efforts to promote the fraternity through national initiatives to reform public education and help our youth. He is also looking to expand his role in the fraternity, with aspirations of being elected general president. S

17

FEATURE

TACKLING SICKLE CELL IN CHARLOTTE INVEST IN OUR HEALTH

By Joshua S. D. Harris

A

t the Austin General Convention in 2013 General President Mark S. Tillman first set forth the call to action for brothers to make the “Alpha Investment.” That investment is

18

multifaceted and at this year’s convention in Charlotte, President Tillman expanded upon some key areas of that investment that are vital to moving our communities forward. One major component is health. Health disparities in minority communities are rampant. As

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

such, the brotherhood took the opportunity to focus on a disease that disproportionately impacts people of color, sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease is a serious blood disorder that causes acute pain, severe anemia, infections, and vascular blockages that can lead to widespread organ damage and death.

It is a genetic disease, the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States, where it occurs most often in African Americans and Hispanics.

In order to bring awareness about SCD and ways average people can help those with the disease, the fraternity partnered with Blood Center of the Carolinas to do a massive blood drive. There are no cures yet for SCD, but there are treatments that can help lengthen the life of an infected individual.

One of the methods that has proved to successfully cure a small number of patients is bone marrow transplantation. However, finding a matching donor in the minority communities is very difficult, which is why the fraternity decided to do the blood drive to help identify possible donors.

A massive blood drive and a health fair was held to raise awareness of the impact chronic health issues have on the lives of African-American men.

Fraternity member Kevin Price, who works with Novant Health, helped to organize and support the health fair along with the local brothers in Charlotte. S COLLECTIVE 2015-16

19

FEATURE

OUTSTANDING COLLEGE BROTHER OF THE YEAR

By Royce Strahan

U

plifting the community through service is an expectation in Alpha, but Ronald JamesTerry Taylor, the 2015-16 Outstanding College Brother of the Year, manages to take it a step further, aspiring to make a career out of educating the next generation of leaders.

Taylor is a fall 2013 initiate of Delta Zeta chapter at Syracuse University who graduated summa cum laude with a degree in political science, policy studies, and African-American studies.

Now pursuing a master’s degree in social studies education, Taylor is also an Imagining America Engagement fellow with the intent of becoming a full-service teacher at Syracuse University’s Graduate School of Education. After winning College Brother of the Year, he has gained more than a title.

“I gained confidence,” Taylor said. “Before I would have been reluctant in many situations speaking about myself, my journey, or anything that related to who I am or aspire to be, but now I am much more comfortable in my own skin. I have grown to realize that although my journey through Alpha has been everything short of picture perfect,

FEATURE

the man I am and am becoming is one who is positioned to understand how to make Alpha do what I need it to do for my community and self.”

As a senior in college who was writing an honor’s thesis and involved in four different campus organizations and programs that demanded significant time, Taylor didn’t envision being able to run for Brother of the Year.

One of his prophytes, Marcarthur Abelard [Delta Zeta ’12], was the encouraging catalyst to Taylor participating in the completion.

“As I got closer to the state convention, I realized that pursuing this award was bigger than me,” he said. “I wanted to pursue because this award would give me the opportunity to see Alpha at a new level. I would get the chance to meet brothers who I most likely would not have and most of all, I would get the chance to reflect on how much God has blessed me by being an Alpha man in addition to a vessel for His work.”

Taylor’s commitment to community service and scholarship speaks for itself. During his years in undergraduate, he was a Coronat Scholar, only the second African American male in Syracuse University’s history to be named a Senior University Class Marshal, a Newman Civic Engagement Fellow and a 2015 Martin Luther King, Jr. Unsung Hero Award recipient, which is the highest honor given to a student or community member for community enhancement at the university.

Although he’s accomplished a lot, the work of an Alpha is never done.

“My greatest fear is that I will die not doing enough for an organization that raised me in many ways, from being mentored and supported by the Eta Theta Lambda chapter, to being mentored by Syracuse University Professor Timothy Eatman [Eta ‘88], I owe a lot to this fraternity,” he said. “I can start by continuing to make myself more available as I transition into a graduate chapter. I believe in remaining fully active and using the brotherhood as a means to really make the presence of our organization and brotherhood felt in all communities.” S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

21

FEATURE

2015 Charlotte Convention Awards Committee Preliminary Report Please find below a listing of the Award Recipients and Awardees from the Charlotte General Convention.

Belford V. Lawson Oratorical Contest Southern Region, Benjamin Baker

Charles H. Wesley Brotherhood Award (College/Alumni) Western Region, Pi Gamma / Zeta Beta Lambda Chapters

College Chapter of the Year Southern Region, Iota Nu Chapter, University of Alabama-Birmingham

Alumni Chapter of the Year Midwestern Region, Gamma Lambda Chapter

Alumni Brother of the Year Midwestern Region, Richard James Jr.

College Brother of the Year Eastern Region, Ronald Taylor, Delta Zeta Chapter, Syracuse University

Ms. Black n Gold 2015-2017 Ms. Jasmine Eatman, Spelman College representing Morehouse College, Alpha Rho Chapter, Southern Region

Step Show Winner-Gamma Iota Chapter, Hampton University, Eastern Region 1st Runner Up-Nu Upsilon Chapter, University of Mississippi, Southern Region

22

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

Hobart Jarrett Debate Competition Upsilon Xi, University of Illinois, Springfield, Midwestern Region Best Debater: Shomari Jackson

Scholars Bowl 3rd Place-Eastern Region, Theta Rho Chapter 2nd place-Southwestern Region, Kappa Kappa Chapter; 1st place-Southern, Beta Delta Chapter

Spirit Awards College Brother with the Highest GPA Southern Region: Abdulrahman Hamid, Nu Upsilon, University of Mississippi, Mechanical Engineering Major, 4.0 GPA College Chapter with the Highest GPA Southwestern Region, Beta Chi Chapter, Philander Smith College, 3.371 GPA Alumni Host Chapter Beta Nu Lambda, Charlotte, NC College Host Chapters Alpha Omicron, Johnson C. Smith University Mu Tau, University of North Carolina-Charlotte Tau Omicron, Davidson College Brother with the Longest Membership in Alpha and Oldest Registered Brother Southern Region: James E. “Jimmy� Huger, Beta Delta Lambda, Daytona Beach, FL Initiation: March 25, 1939, 76 Years Date of Birth: January 4, 1915 100 years-old Chapters Traveling the Greatest Distance College: Western Region, Xi Rho, San Francisco, CA Alumni: Eastern Region, Rho Phi Lambda, Johannesburg, South Africa Chapters with the Most Registered Brothers Within Region: College: Southern Region, Mu Alpha, Atlanta, Georgia, 6 registered Alumni: Southern Region, Beta Nu Lambda, Charlotte, NC, 99 registered Outside Region: College: Midwestern Region, Epsilon Chi, Lexington, KY, 12 Registered Alumni: Midwestern Region, Gamma Lambda, Detroit, MI: 41 Registered

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

23

FEATURE

Interview

Miss Black and Gold Jasmin Eatman

By Joshua S. D. Harris

E

ach general convention year young women travel from all across the country hoping to win a scholarship and be crowned Alpha Phi Alpha’s National Miss Black and Gold. In 2015 after months of traveling and competing on chapter, district, and regional level these young ladies made their way to our convention destination of Charlotte, North Carolina. The winner was crowned based on a multitude of criteria not limited to, health and wellness, public speaking, talent and grade point average. The newly crowned 2015 Miss Black and Gold is 19-yearold Jasmin Eatman.

Jasmin is currently enrolled at Spellman Col-

24

lege as well as Morehouse School of Medicine through the neuro science institute accelerated masters program. Born in Champagne Urbana, Illinois and raised in New York, this Afro-Latina is on her way to practice medicine.

“I’m interested in primary care as a family practice physician,” explains Jasmin. “Medicine is a way to be able to serve through the sciences.”

Representing the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha seated at Morehouse College, Jasmin first began considering competing in the scholarship pageant more than a year earlier.

The Miss Black and Gold Pageant is one of the largest on Morehouse campus with hundreds THE SPHINX

FEATURE

participating each year. “There is something about it that goes deeper than just pageantry, and I knew that if I was going to do a pageant I wanted to do one that I was proud of,” says Jasmin.

Many considering competing in the scholarship pageant may wonder what it is like for women competing in a pageant hosted by an all male fraternity. Jasmin explained how the Brothers of Alpha Rho Chapter, showed support for and value of their queen. Competing at the chapter, district, regional, and national levels Jasmin explained that the hospitality and experience became more exciting.

that can be used o influence positive change and that is exactly what Jasmin intends to do.

She has developed the “Impact SPHINX” which stands for “Student Public Health Initiative Networking and Extension”. The focus is to be able to speak in the community and connect with community members who may not have access to information about health and threats to our health. Particularly promoting early screening early detection. Black men are most affected by prostate cancer. Jasmin explained that Alpha is in a very unique posi-

“As I continued I wanted to do it even more.

The experience kept getting better and became more meaningful which helped bring me through,” said Jasmin Being raised the daughter of an Alpha man, Brother Timothy Eatman, a 1988 Eta Chapter initiate; Jasmin was familiar with the fraternity.

She said that her father, Brother Eatman was very excited when she expressed interest, however he wanted to ensure that she was doing it because she truly wanted to. With Jasmin being in a dual degree program her mother had other concerns.

“I expected it to be challenging physically and mentally,” says Jasmin. “My mother was very supportive but concerned about me being able to balance school work and the pageant.”

One of the most memorable moments of the pageant was Jasmin’s talent performance. As a classically trained ballet dancer, she performed a piece over a mix of news sound bites from the many state sanctioned police murders over the last few years that left attendees in awe.

The Miss Black and Gold crown is a platform COLLECTIVE 2015-16

tion to connect with people and spread awareness and she wants to help be a catalyst. She has already begun organizing and has gotten different chapters to participate in the men’s community health symposiums.

“Its been my dream, and all in all its been a tremendous growth experience and I’m thankful for every second of it, ” says Jasmin.

She has a large vision and plans to actively work toward making it a reality. S 25

FEATURE

He's My Brother

Reforming the Criminal Justice System and Addressing the High Rate of Black Men Incarcerated in America

By Benjamin Baker

T “The biggest effect that the Media has made with Black America is its faulty portrayal of the black culture.”

26

here I was…standing in front of the TV exploding with emotions. The headline read: UNARMED BLACK MALE SHOT BY WHITE COP IN CINCINNATI. I was frustrated with America. Because I believe she has defaulted on the guarantees that she promised me. She promised me a fair chance at life. But every time I walk down the street, every time I walk into the grocery store, and every time I leave for college, my mother squeezes me tight and says, “Son you know that I love you” I understand why she says this because she doesn’t know if that will be the last time that she sees her son alive or in a body bag, requiring her identification. But before my very eyes stood the culprit. A culprit that had already given me two strikes in life, and sadly that culprit was the media. From our males to our females, from our communities to our culture, the media has played a pivotal role in exposing the masses to images that are detrimentally affecting how Black America is portrayed.

The media’s portrayal of a black man is atrocious. The modern media perpetuates our African-American brothers as nothing but athletes and thugs. It’s no secret that the word thug is the new “N” word. The newspaper is quick to have “thugs” like Ray Ray and Day Day on the front page for a crime but Alphas on page eight for support of the March of Dimes. Some cops arrest blacks on the basis of racial profiling, which stems from the media. Consequently, this misconception leads to many of our young men in prison. According to the NAACP, blacks constitute nearly 1 million of the total 2.3 million incarcerated populations.

Bro. Dr. Cornel West once said, “Racism is a moral catastrophe, most graphically seen in the prison industrial complex and targeted police surveillance in black and brown ghettos rendered invisible in public discourse.” The media is also quick to depict our black men as unintelligent but gifted athletes. They say a black man can dunk a basketball like no one has ever seen but he can’t read or write skillfully. According THE SPHINX

FEATURE

to ESPN, NCAA players have about a 3% chance of being drafted in the NBA. Many of our young men want to be Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron but none want to be King, Marshall, and Young. Our black men are failing to see the picture because the media has interrupted the program.

In addition to the misconstrued image of our black males by the media is the mischaracterization of our black females. The media portrays our black women as ghetto baby mommas or gold diggers, while trying to contrast it with an image of the Black Barbie. The Black Barbie is an unrealistic description of black women; the same black women who have to bear the trauma of losing their husbands, fathers, sons and brothers to the hands of violence. I ain’t ever heard of Black Barbie losing Ken. Because 29% of black women are the head of their household, according to BlackDemographics.Com. Bro. W.E.B. DuBois was quoted as saying (PAUSE) “But what of black women?... I most sincerely doubt if any other race of women could have brought its fineness up through so devilish a fire.” Our women are tormented on a daily basis for their body shapes and kinky hair. Commercials and magazines portray our black sisters as having long black hair and fine light skin. Yet we all know that in reality, our black woman come in all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. And it’s a fact, that God doesn’t make ANY mistakes.

The biggest effect that the Media has made with Black America is its faulty portrayal of the black culture. In the 60s, the media did a wonderful job of helping the Civil Rights Movement. If it were not for the television media, we probably wouldn’t have some of the rights and privileges that we share today. But somewhere the media took a turn for the worst. The media is supposed to be the outlet that helps suppress racism not allow for it to continue. I’m from a small town in Alabama called Sylacauga. Many didn’t give me a chance in life. My father is a janitor and my mother is a teacher. When I was 16, my father took me to work with him. He took me to a dirty toilet and made me clean it. He looked at me and said, “Son, you can be anything that you COLLECTIVE 2015-16

want to be in life.” So I set out to make him and my mother proud. One day, I talked to an employer on the phone and I used proper English and I have a common English name: Benjamin Baker. And I come in and from the bottom up I’m who he wants, from the soles of my shoes to the style of my suit, I’m the candidate of choice. Then he notices the color of my skin and his whole demeanor changes. I’m no longer the RIGHT nor WHITE candidate. That evening I came home to my father and said Dad. It didn’t work out, I didn’t get the job. He looked at me and said, “Son this is just a test.”

So the question that needs to be answered today is: Will we descend into the depths of despair or transcend this test of our time? Because Alpha taught me that “the test of a man is the fight that he makes.” And since 1906, the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated have been fighting for Black America. Alpha has been at the forefront of powerful movements centered on equality and justice. Bro. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was quoted as saying “In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

With that being said, I am making a call to action to my brothers of black and old gold. We cannot be silent about the issues that languish our community.

We cannot allow for this disastrous sketch to hang in the gallery of human logic. We cannot hide behind the legacy of those before us. Instead, we must use social media and hashtag that the revolution shall be televised.

The theme of this convention is Focused on the Future.

Well, let us focus on the future by giving reverence to the past. Let this general convention not be a footnote in the annals of history but let it be a header for change, a comma for justice and a period for injustice. Let millions know that this day Alpha Phi Alpha took a stand.

A stand against the injustices of the media. A stand against those not upholding their oath of protection.

A stand against those who seek to deny our God-given rights to the right to life, the right to liberty and the right to the pursuit of happiness. My Brothers, will you stand with us? S 27

FEATURE

Investing in Our Future

By Joshua S. D. Harris

Twenty-six percent is the child poverty rate in North Carolina and forty-one percent is the percentage of single parent families with children that are below poverty levels. With Alpha having its 109th Anniversary convention hosted in Charlotte, North Carolina the Men of Alpha saw the issue of poverty in

28

North Carolina as an opportunity to assist those in need. “The goal was to give away 1,000 back packs filled with school supplies, so that we could ensure children are returning to school prepared to focus on learning,� explained

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

Mark Tillman General President of Alpha Phi Alpha.

It was 2014 North Carolina Teacher of the Year brother James Ford who lead the effort along with the local chapter brothers. Brother Ford facilitated a youth leadership development program with youth from CharlotteMecklenburg Schools participating in the initiative. The fraternity wanted to continue the General Convention service project initiative that began in Austin in 2013 with the Leadership Development Institute. Hoping to not only accomplish the business of Alpha at a convention but also offer service to the community and host city of the convention.

Over the past few years, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) have worked fervently to increase student success rates. As such there has been a greater emphasis on working with individual students within the schools. Black students of CMS have seen a nearly 21-percentage point graduation increase over the last 5 years.

“Education is the new frontier for the struggle in our communities, and the back pack drive is us providing the youth with the tools that they need to be successful,” explained Brother James Ford.

“This has to be the beginning of a larger educational platform that we develop as a fraternity.”

Ann Blakeney-Clark, superintendent for the CMS, met with General President Tillman, a longtime mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, and local Alpha brothers during the fraternity’s community service project to donate school supplies to Charlotte youth as part of Alpha Phi Alpha’s national “Go-to-HighSchool, Go-to-College” program. The school supply drive raised enough money to send over 800 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools youth back to school with backpacks filled with school supplies, including a 2-year-old girl who was so excited she wore her new backpack home.

On the evening of the service initiative Brother James Ford was honored by the General President with a Presidential Citation for his continued commitment to education and developing young people through scholarship.

As Alpha moves into its 109th year of existence, the fraternity seems to be moving in the direction of continuing to provide service and advocacy on each and every level. Remaining mission focused at the forefront of every action taken from the chapter to the national headquarters will continue to echo the narrative that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity strives to be “First of All and Servants of All”. S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

29

FEATURE

Brother Poindexter or Not, That is the Question?

By Edward Hightower

“T

o be, or not to be, that is the question.” Shakespeare put these words in the mouth of a despondent Prince Hamlet in his world-renowned play originating in the early 1600s during the English Renaissance, after the decline of the Middle Ages into the Early Modern Era. A time marked with tragedy and betrayal. Today, despondency and that Shakespearean line is becoming the sentiment for some within certain circles in Alpha as of late.

There has been much brouhaha regarding the historic interpretation of one Charles “C. C.” Poindexter and the integrity of our dear brother Charles H. Wesley.

His depiction of Poindexter in The History of Alpha Phi Alpha: A Development in College Life is at the heart of the matter. Poindexter, founder of Alpha’s literacy society, is perhaps this very day rolling over in his grave murmuring in his eternal sleep, “Whether ‘tis Nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune.” His character has been assassinated for generations since that fateful wintry meeting on December 4, 1906, no credit given to Wesley. He has been labeled a traitor to Alpha Phi Alpha; a label that has ignited a stubborn tradition generated by brothers that seemingly find its roots from a remark made by one of our seven Jewels, founders. Poindexter’s character has indeed been diminished, tarnished even. Today, the same appears to be for Wesley. At the crux of the matter, is Poindexter to remain the precursor of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as Wesley interpreted or should he be extolled higher in the annals of Alpha as founder or even Jewel?

In the last issue of the Sphinx, brother Donald L. Ross introduced the article “Thank You, Brother Poindexter?” for consideration in an effort to revisit the matter 30

delving further whether Poindexter has been portrayed accurately in brother Charles H. Wesley’s The History of Alpha Phi Alpha. By submitting additional historical evidence Ross is hoping to get to the bottom of determining whether Poindexter was indeed a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Uncovering additional research will shed light on Poindexter and the goal is to accurately position him historically in the founding of the fraternity. Ross suggests that there is “no documentation, to date, [that] has been found validating assertions he ever opposed the fraternal idea prior to that publication” in 1929, but perhaps there is.1 Ross presents as partial evidence, along with a host of others, Poindexter’s obituary to support the idea that the reason for the letter of resignation was he left for Hampton Institute in Virginia. Ross asserts that Poindexter submitted his letter of resignation because of a career opportunity that was made available and not because he opposed the fraternity idea. On page 25 of the Cornell Alumni News published in 1925 was an obituary entry which shows Poindexter leaving Cornell in January 1907 a month after the historic December THE SPHINX

FEATURE

4th meeting of the Alpha Phi Alpha Society members.

At the time of Poindexter’s death the Nashville Globe published his obituary stating “Upon completion of his work at Cornell, he became director of Agriculture work for both St. Paul School at Lawrenceburg, Virginia and St. Augustine School at Raleigh, North Carolina under the Episcopal Church.”2 The Alumni News was correct it seems except for the schools’ names. It continued, “From there he was called to Fisk University four years ago was assistant professor of Agriculture and Biology. In recognition of his efficiency and character, two years ago he was elevated to full professorship.” It appears that Poindexter did leave New York for Virginia in January 1907. By the time he had left, Poindexter was already married and began to start a new life two years prior. According to the Nashville Globe, Poindexter married “Miss Florence Mercedes of Ithica (sic), New York, March 31, 1905.” But were marriage and a new career the reasons for Poindexter’s departure with the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Society group or did he simply oppose the fraternity idea?

Poindexter was not pleased with the new direction the organization was heading. However, it was not a new matter. As Wesley correctly indicated, both the ideas of literary society club and fraternity existed since its inception. But, as the group’s plans gradually came to fruition, Poindexter opted out along with George Tompkins. Poindexter was president of the organization and led as chair at every meeting until his leaving. Minute records up to the December 4th meeting reflect this fact. After the meeting on November 13th Poindexter disappears. He wanted no part of belonging to a fraternity. After examining Poindexter’s obituaries, what we can concede at the very least is that Poindexter’s biographical information did not include any affiliation with Alpha Phi Alpha. It simply was not listed. It was not listed because Poindexter was never a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Surely the very claim to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s historic founding is worthy of recording as you depart this earthly realm. In the case of Cornell University’s obituary, its yearbooks or alumni information records show Callis, Roscoe Giles, and others identified as COLLECTIVE 2015-16

members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, but not Poindexter. How could Poindexter be? He was never present at the December meeting as the men officially transitioned from a literary society into the founding of the fraternity. In the same month that Poindexter left Cornell in January 1907, the men, now of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity met on the 8th. At that meeting George Biddle Kelley served as presiding officer and Nathaniel Allison Murray “moved that the letter of resignation sent in by Mr. Poindexter be accepted with regret.”3 Motion carried. Measure adopted.

Every Alpha man, young and old, is too familiar with Wesley’s narrative depicting Poindexter’s submission of that bitterly contested letter of resignation to the “society” in the winter of 1906. That letter was read out loud during the meeting by Henry Arthur Callis, the secretary of then Alpha Phi Alpha Society as the men discussed new business on the agenda on December 4th. I can only imagine how conflicted Callis must have been, standing reading the words of his mentor, leader, and father-like figure; then staring at his penmanship that was all too familiar to him. But, also feeling in his gut slowly rising the opportunity to seize what the group had wanted since its inception. Kelley, the leader of the fraternity movement and now presiding officer in Poindexter’s absence, must have raised his head a bit higher with each word read by Callis. Poindexter’s letter, striking a blow to his stomach, George Tompkins slowly rose from his chair and made a motion to contact Poindexter for clarification. Afterwards the men discussed how they would proceed. Murray another proponent of the fraternity idea rose from his seat and made a motion to decide on whether they should “continue as an organization for mutual benefit” or become a fraternity. The motion “was carried that the organization should continue with the idea of becoming a fraternity.” As George Tompkins looked on in amazement and witnessed a committee being appointed to proceed with plans to move forward as a fraternity, he “stated he could not belong to a fraternity.”4 Now both Poindexter and Tompkins tendered their resignations to the group. The men moved forward unequivocally determined to be recognized as a fraternity. However, as Wesley laid out the narrative of Alpha’s 31

FEATURE

founding and the relationships of the men that formed, there was a Jewel who thought that this aspect of the history could have been expressed more vividly.

Sometime after the publication of Wesley’s history book in 1929 Callis felt that the author was not clear on some matters. For instance, in speaking on how the men’s relationships evolved in the early years, Callis wrote “...but the pattern of the interpersonal forces which shaped Alpha’s destiny has been revealed only vaguely.” In expressing this sentiment Callis wrote further about two from the group who had never supported the fraternity idea. He wrote, “Poindexter and Thompkins (sic) could accept inter-collegiate association, but not a fraternity.”5 Callis goes on even further to write about another from the group who had longed for the idea of forming a fraternity. Unlike Poindexter and Tompkins, “George Kelly dreamed of the days when Negroes might enjoy the intimate social activities he had witnessed among the fraternities at Rensselaer.

The rest of us supported Kelly (sic), but we wanted more than the traditional American college fraternity.”

Kelley, Callis and others had desired to create something special and unprecedented, and that something is what Poindexter and Tompkins opposed.

While Ross asserts that there is no documentation to reflect Poindexter’s opposition to the fraternal idea, my retort is where is the documentation that proves he did? The idea that Poindexter was in support of the fraternity idea is a fallacy. Ross presents more evidence for the case of Poindexter. He presents a May 1906 issue of The Voice of the Negro to do so. Poindexter’s article “Some Experience of Students” detailed some of his experiences interacting with students at Cornell University. In this article he ruminates over the differences and similarities between black students of the north and south, but also interjects his essay with personal vignettes that involved racism he had personally experienced at Cornell. Poindexter mentioned, at the very end of the four-page article, that “Negro students have existing among them a warm, sympathetic, fraternal spirit ... .” Furthermore, he encouraged “a healthy and vigorous fraternalism founded upon the 32

divine conception that my brother is my ward and my posterity his protégé.” Ross takes this to be synonymous with the idea of fraternity as expressed in today’s parlance and not in the universal sense of camaraderie.

In fact those expressions were about camaraderie. Jewel Kelley also confirms this same sentiment during this period. “From the campus meeting late in September [1905] there sprang a feeling of comradeship which surrounded the Jewels all during their college life.” If Poindexter’s article is an attempt to demonstrate his full support in establishing a black college fraternity then he would not have lumped female students into his descriptions of “fraternal spirit” and “fraternalism.” In fact, he clarified this point for readers when he wrote “Let us say at the outset that although we shall use masculine terminology in this article, our remarks are not altogether inapplicable to the fair sex.” Moreover, at the time the article is published Poindexter sat as president of the literary society as the club enjoyed the company of female student members that also attended meetings sometime between September 1905 and May 1906.

Kelley wrote concerning that period, “We had about ten fellows and two co-eds in the club but the young ladies, finding themselves so greatly outnumbered, graciously withdrew from the club.”6 So, again, this “fraternalism” that Poindexter speaks of in his article could not have referred to collegiate fraternities.

Poindexter had been president of the literary society since its inception when the men first met in September of 1905 at Mr. Edward Newton’s home on 421 N. Albany Street. When Ross discussed the fraternity’s December founding date in Wesley’s book, he suggested an earlier date. The supposed March 1906 date of the fraternity’s founding was introduced in the Ross article as an attempt to situate Poindexter as president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. If accepted, not only would this indeed portray Poindexter a supporter of the fraternity idea and a member of the fraternity, but also a founder and qualifies him for “Jewel” status. A couple of months later, by May 23, 1906, the men adopted the measure of naming the organization Alpha Phi Alpha Society, not Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. This was verified by Jewel Eugene THE SPHINX

FEATURE

Kinckle Jones.7 But, it could be understandable why some would see otherwise because by the fall in October the group had produced a ritual, initiated its first members, chosen the group’s colors, and planned its first initiatory banquet. Moreover, at the banquet the men spoke on the topic of brotherhood. Ogle spoke on “Welcome, Brother”; Tompkins on “Brotherhood”; Callis on “Courage, Brother” and Murray on “Persevere, Brother.” Poindexter? He decided to speak on “Ideals.” This was indicative of the group’s continual internal ambivalence.8 But to some, all of the above-mentioned elements create the impression that the organization operated as a fraternity at this point.

tion on college campuses. These literary societies after a while began to take on Greek-Lettered names particularly after the Civil War. Then with progression we see even in the case of our own history that Greek-Lettered fraternities became extremely popular around the late19th and early 20th centuries. Within these literary societies some were public while others were secret in nature. Some of these societies adhered to secret initiation rituals for membership even pins, badges, and secret handshakes. These are not elements limited only to Greek fraternities.10 So, March does not reflect the definitive founding date of the fraternity. It had continued to exist as a literary society until December.

History tells us that here in America literary societies predate Greek fraternities going back to the 18th century. The history of collegiate fraternities prior to the American Revolution in 1776 began with literary societies. At the time they were present only on the campuses of Yale University, the College of William and Mary and the College of New Jersey. The system developed as students desired to meet under secrecy to participate in discussions and debates unsanctioned by faculty members or university administrators. For whites, we see that these organizations reflected Ancient Greece and Roman culture demonstrated in names like Demosthenian, Erodelphian and Philodemic Literary Societies. For blacks, we see that they existed first in the black community often sprouting in churches of the north serving the purpose of mutual benefit. They did not exist in the South because it was illegal for blacks to read. But after emancipation, we immediately see literary societies formed at black college campuses like Union Literary Society at Fisk University beginning in 1868. On the campus of Atlanta University “male students organized the Ware Lyceum and the Eureka and Phi Kappa literary societies, while their female counterparts established the Phyllis Wheatley, Athene, and Douglass literary clubs.” The surrounding colleges nearby became proponents of the literary society movement as well. “Later, undergraduate men from Atlanta, Morehouse, Clark, and Morris Brown founded the Intercollegiate Society.”9 Deemed the “ancient institution,” literary societies were the first student organiza-

So reflecting back on this period and staring at a blank Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity shingle dated March 1906 that is printed in Wesley’s history book is not all that appalling. The weight of the historical evidence suggests that members were still unclear about the group’s direction. For instance, Kelley recalled that the decision made to become a fraternity was during that March meeting. “It was brought up at several meetings before action was taken and in the spring of 1906 we decided to change our club into a fraternity.”11 Callis had a differing recollection of that March meeting. He speaks only of the name selection and not the designation change from society to a fraternity. “It was at this March meeting that I reported the results of my search for a name. It was at this meeting that Alpha Phi Alpha was proposed and the reasons for its adoption presented.” According to Callis the name was proposed only.

The October 23rd meeting is when a formal vote was taken for the adoption of the name; that is Alpha Phi Alpha Society. But, we also have meticulous meeting minutes recorded by secretary Callis that tell us about the December 4th decision to become a fraternity.

Some memories fade, historical records do not. This proves Wesley’s interpretation correctly in that the literary society and fraternity ideas both existed in tandem with one another, even since the beginning. The shingle was an attempt, perhaps, displaying Kelley’s eagerness to make the fraternity idea a reality as early as March.12 He was one of if not the biggest proponent of the fraternity idea.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

33

FEATURE

Another oddity presented by Ross is the C. C. Poindexter Omega Chapter entry under the Alpha Chapter Membership Directory published in the Sphinx. Poindexter dies on June 3, 1913 not quite seven years after the December meeting. The first issue of the Sphinx is inaugurated in the following year, 1914. The published 1922 “Omega” designation sits above Poindexter’s name on page 4.13 It has been a well-accepted notion that Callis and Poindexter had maintained a close relationship, even after Cornell. Legend has it that Poindexter was believed to be godfather to the daughters of Callis.

In a letter written by Callis from his office at the U.S. Veterans’ Hospital in Tuskegee to Wesley at Howard University in Washington, D.C., dated January 15, 1929, he writes about his sentimentality in reflecting back on the founding years of the fraternity. Callis wrote, “George [Kelley] had been the leading figure for the fight to definitely declare ourselves a secret fraternity,” he continued, “I have been one of those favored the retention of the name of C. C. Poindexter.”14 Perhaps it was his sentimentality that led to that Omega Chapter entry in the Sphinx directory. Perhaps Callis was not directly responsible for the entry, but maybe he was responsible for producing a lore that prompted other Alpha Chapter members to feel similarly. But, what is certain is that Poindexter was an integral part of founding Alpha Phi Alpha Society; and Callis, perhaps, feeling emotional at times found it difficult to “emotionally” separate the “society” from the “fraternity” in its historical context.

Evidence seems to suggest that they were both, as far as Callis was concern, one in the same. Other founders, however, felt differently.

The label of traitor or “Benedict Arnold” for Poindexter is a rough one. It may have started with Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray. Murray stated Poindexter believed that blacks were not ready for a fraternity. Poindexter was not in support of the fraternity idea. Murray was unabashed about it and wrote, “When Mr. Poindexter was told of our plans he said we had no background to follow and therefore used every form of argument he could think of to discourage the idea of a Negro fraternity.” On another occasion Wesley remarked about Murray’s response, “Poindexter was reported to have 34

said that he knows of no Greek letters which one could be used and of ‘no historical background’ upon which to relate a fraternity.” In fact, Murray was emphatic about the ordeal. Murray expressed that the founders even found solace and support within the black community outside of the campus, while receiving none from Poindexter. “Talks with the colored residents of the town especially those who had worked or were working in the white fraternity houses at the time were more encouraging.” He continued, “They gave us the necessary moral support by telling us that the colored boys should have similar organizations like the white boys.”15 Poindexter was opposed to the fraternity idea.

Ross also evokes Poindexter’s family members in an attempt to rehabilitate Poindexter’s image in Alpha Phi Alpha history. Oliver B. Cassel, a member of Alpha Chapter, interviews Edward Newton, Poindexter’s father-in-law about the founding of the fraternity.

Many of the first meetings took place at Newton’s home. Ross points out about the interview that Poindexter was referred to as “Jewel” and “founder” to invoke it as fact. Bringing up Newton, who was there in the beginning, and Cassel, a member of Alpha Chapter, together intended to make it so. However, on another occasion Poindexter’s wife chimed in on the matter. A 1982 Sphinx article revealed that “Alpha’s founding came from a rather unlikely source—Mrs. C. C. Poindexter, widow of the former Cornell student who led the organization of the Black students at that campus in 1905, but who refused to join the fraternity movement.” Wanting her husband’s role in the founding of the fraternity to be clarified and setting the record straight, it was written that “Mr. Poindexter did not oppose the fraternity initiatives per se. Rather, she [Mrs. Poindexter] related, he was convinced at the time that the proclaimed greatness of Africa’s past could not be documented.” The Sphinx continued, “Doubting the authenticity of African history and culture, the context within which he saw the fraternity idea being established, he therefore could not join this movement.”16 Mrs. Poindexter’s response unequivocally mimics Murray’s recollection. Poindexter’s wife confirmed his opposition to the fraternity idea.

THE SPHINX

FEATURE

But, I’m only a young lowly historian simply stumbling through the historical evidence that has been made available trying to make sense of it all. The claim that most of the Jewels “were inaccessible to Wesley” at the time that he drafted the history is misleading. Ross posits that they were located throughout the country in places like Chicago, Tuskegee, New York, Florida and Washington, D.C. Did Wesley himself invent the accounts depicted in his book betraying the professionalism of the discipline of history as a trained historian?

In the early twentieth century, telegrams continued to be a popular means to communicate with others across the country; and then internationally by 1911.

Postal mail was still a dominant means of communication as well as proven by the letters left behind and archived. In fact, the telephone was available for many.

The telephone was first visible after 1876 and gained popularity by 1900. In 1926, just three years prior to the publication of Wesley’s history book, Americans celebrated the telephone’s fiftieth anniversary thanks to the patent(s) of Alexander Graham Bell.17 So the assertion that Wesley did not have access to the founders is highly unlikely.

one thing that seems to ring even clearer today is that while Poindexter led the efforts in establishing Alpha Phi Alpha Society, he was not supportive of the group’s ambitions in establishing a fraternity at the time. In another time, possibly, who really knows.

Poindexter did not believe that black Americans had the cultural background to make that a possibility.

The historical evidence available outweighs the notion that Poindexter was a supporter. Wesley’s account remains intact unless future evidence is uncovered questioning the validity and integrity of historical evidence currently made available. Wesley’s accounts are based on historical facts, not fiction like the plays in the days of Shakespeare. “To suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,” both Poindexter and Wesley have become victims. As far as Poindexter being recognized as a founder or Jewel, for now, “Brother Poindexter” is not to be, and that is the answer. S

Edward Hightower is a history professor at Clark-Atlanta University. He is a committee member of both the Alpha Phi Alpha Historical Commission and the Southern

While the memories of some founders were more reliable than others in reflecting back to that 190506 school year at Cornell, and into the fall semester; 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Region Historical Commission. He has a forthcoming book titled: The History of DeKalb Alphas: Alpha Phi Alpha and the Fight for Racial Equality.

Donald L. Ross, “Thank You, Brother Poindexter?” The Sphinx 101, no. 1-2 (Fall/Winter, 2015): 29.

“Prof. Poindexter Dead,” Charles C. Poindexter’s Obituary in the Nashville Globe newspaper, June 6, 1913.

December 4, 1906 and January 8, 1907 Minutes of the Alpha Phi Alpha Society and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in Charles H. Wesley, The History Alpha Phi Alpha: A Development in College Life (Baltimore: Foundation Publisher, 2000), 528.

Ibid, 25.

Henry A. Callis, “Notes on the Founding of Alpha” in Charles H. Wesley, Henry Arthur Callis: Life & Legacy (Baltimore: The Foundation Publishers, 1997), 279; George Biddle Kelley, “Jewel George B. Kelley Speak,” The Fiftieth Anniversary Edition, The Sphinx 43, no 3 (August, 1956): 10.

C. C. Poindexter, “Some Student Experiences, The Voice of the Negro 3, no. 5 (May, 1906): 335-338; George Biddle Kelley, “The History and Purpose of Alpha Phi Alpha,” The Sphinx, Vol. 3, No. 2 (April, 1917), 7.

Wesley, Henry Arthur Callis, 22-27.

Wesley, The History of Alpha Phi Alpha, 22.

Michael D. Bartanen and Robert S. Littlefield, Forensics in America: A History (Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield, 2014), 250.

To learn more about black literary societies please refer to Elizabeth McHenry, Forgotten Readers: Recovering the Lost History of African American Literary Societies (Durham: Duke University Press Books, 2002), 1-5; Edward N. Palmer, “Negro Secret Societies,” Social Forces 23 (October, 1944): 207-212; Dorothy B. Porter, “The Organized Educational Activities of Negro Literary Societies, 1828-1846,” Journal of Negro Education 5 (October 1936): 557-561; Craig L. Torbenson and Gregory S. Parks, Brothers and Sisters: Diversity in College Fraternity and Sororities (Teaneck: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press, 2009), 9, 19-20; Thomas S. Harding, College Literary Societies: Their Contribution to Higher Education in the United States, 1815-18776 (New York: Pageant Press International, 1971), 143-276; E. Merton Coulter, College Life in the Old South (Athens: The University of Georgia Press, 2009), 123; Charles H. Wesley, “The Alpha Chronicle of 50 Years,” The Sphinx vol. XLII, vol. 3, (August, 1956): 4.

Kelley, “The History and Purpose of Alpha Phi Alpha,” 7; Wesley, The History of Alpha Phi Alpha, 38; Letter from Henry Arthur Callis to Charles H. on January 16, 1929 in Charles H. Wesley, Henry Arthur Callis, 66.

Ibid, 38.

Alpha Phi Alpha Directory, “Alpha Chapter” The Sphinx 8, no. 2 (March, 1922): 4.

Letter from Henry Arthur Callis to Charles H. Wesley on January 15, 1929 in Charles H. Wesley, Henry Arthur Callis, 66.

Nathaniel Allison Murray, “Jewel Brother Murray Speaks,” Fiftieth Anniversary Edition, The Sphinx 43, no 3 (August, 1956): 9.

Hanley Norment, “Charles Harris Wesley,” The Sphinx 73, no. 3 (Fall, 1987): 15-16.

Harry Barsantee, “The History and Development of the Telephone in Wisconsin,” The Wisconsin Magazine of History 10, no. 2 (December, 1926): 150-153.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

35

LEADERSHIP | POLITICS | SOCIAL JUSTICE

BY JONATHAN H. N. LONG

A Call to Action for All Alpha Graduates

A

ction is a word often used in regard to the design of movement in some form of endeavor.

The 16th General President, Brother Belford V. Lawson Jr., once posited that “the great decision of this generation of Alpha men is whether we shall, with every ounce of energy, with every dollar in our treasury, with every fiber of our mind and soul deny the gigantic conspiracy to preserve our segregated status quo, and destroy the mighty, monstrous mockery of human decency and dignity.... To compromise is to evade the crucial issue. I CALL TO ACTION!!! Let us speak for the dawn.” At a time in this nation’s existence when society suffers from a surplus of complex and deplorable social ill; a time when the traditional vehicles of communication, education, and interaction are rapidly changing; and when organizations similar to ours must

36

combat a very-often-than-not evaluation of relevancy and purpose to the world, I ponder the inquiry much like those before me—what is the great decision of this generation of Alpha men?

It has been close to a decade since we, the world’s first intercollegiate continuous fraternity established

by African-Americans, have seen the dawn of a new century for our beloved brotherhood. As I reflect on why I joined this particular organization instead of another, I muse that it was not because of relationships with friends or family or because I saw it to be a vastly rich networking opportunity. It was because of the unique and selective history of what this institution embodies. Manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind are the aims that all narrate the element of

THE SPHINX

LEADERSHIP | POLITICS | SOCIAL JUSTICE

transcendence! The legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha is one that holds its own because of the decisions and actions of its membership.

initiated is much more than a singular act; it is a united act forged to the past, present, and future of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Brothers, society is ceasing to exist as we know it.

Many brothers can account that when reaching back to their college campuses they shared a sense of change among their chapters and college campuses. To many others, this reflects the culture that is to come beyond college life. Alpha Phi Alpha, being an entity born out of a collegiate setting, must make an investment in Alpha and the communities that it is privileged to serve to construct a new legacy added to the vibrant one that precedes it. New legacy means a higher caliber of members, a new frontier of social issues that we master to solve for all, and a renewed sense of action toward equalizing the playing field and eliminating a social tone of relative deprivation.

To borrow the ideal of our current servant-leader, 34th General President Mark S. Tillman, and a statement during his inauguration in 2013, “Don’t look at this as a challenge, look at it as an opportunity. Don’t look at this as hard work, look at this as rewarding work.

Don’t look at this as an impossible task, look at it as a moment where Alpha can innovate and motivate to take the fraternity to where it’s never gone before.” We as an institution are paradigms of great, eruditious, and distinguished beings. We must hold our society and ourselves accountable for what we as a people need.

We as these exemplars can’t rest with just the Brother Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial in Washington D.C. and the celebration of 100 years of the Sphinx magazine, as noteworthy as they may be. There is more, much more to do, gentlemen.

Our much-loved Jewel Vertner Woodson Tandy once said, “I want this fraternity to stand out in the affairs of the nation.” Alpha’s agenda is plain and simple but urgent. Alpha Phi Alpha should continue to be an institution of self-analysis, self-direction, and self-determination. Investment of self and others is a movement in this new century that is key. If you don’t invest, then how can you logically seek returns. Mentorship is a foundational asset to this venture of returns. Our initiatives with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and junior Alpha groups are tremendously beneficial to the legacy stance of Alpha in the future. On another note, membership and succession many feel this is the crisis with Black leadership in this day in age. Although the fraternity and its current leadership is doing a phenomenal job with this, Alpha and I mean all of Alpha must stay on its toes so that we may not stray off our path to greatness. With that articulated, retention and reclamation are also part of an internal watershed for the fraternity but a collective concern that reflects us all. To combat this conundrum, action has to come from not just a top-down but bottom-up approach synonymously. Brothers, let’s remind our distant brothers that their membership whenever it was

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

Good will is in fact the monarch of this house, but it does not rule alone. The great decision of this generation of Alpha men should revolve around the notion that our collective will and influence through the investment in action has to be insurmountable at its weakest. It’s time to adamantly take Alpha to the next level for the sake of all that has been done in the past as well as what needs to be adhered to now.

Alpha has the manpower, the vision, the potential, the intelligentsia, and the birthright. Our 2nd General President, Bro. Roscoe C. Giles once said to the body of which we belong, “We must not do as has been said of more than one organization, meet, eat, sleep, resolve, and adjourn. No more representative, no more intelligent, no more worthy men exist in fraternal bond in the world today than we boast within our ranks. We must arouse the slumbering giant, Ethiopia!” S

Jonathan H. N. Long [Iota Pi, ’08] is a member of Delta Epsilon Lambda Chapter and a 2011 Leadership Academy graduate, Xi class.

37

ARTS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT

38

THE SPHINX

ARTS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT

DEEP IN MY HEART

Part of the The Fraternal Bond Series This series addresses the concept of brotherhood and symbolizes the remarkable power that accompanies fraternal interconnectivity. To show this, the artist chose to design intricate portraits of black men, completing them with a root and vine motif. The power of these portraits resides in the complex dyad of its simple, beautiful design and the rich message that it wishes to share. In “Deep in My Heart,” the oath of fraternity manifests itself in the innermost portions of the subject’s person; here, brotherhood is not merely a concept—it is the philosophy by which he lives.

The Phi is part of a fundraiser to support the educational and community service efforts of the Lee B. Revels Scholarship & Mentoring Foundation, Theta Iota Lambda Chapter’s non-profit corporation. S

About the Artist Imo Nse Imeh [Theta Iota Lambda ‘07] is a visual artist and scholar of African Diaspora aesthetics. His large-scale drawings have been exhibited widely, including the acclaimed Rush Arts Gallery in New York City. Imeh’s work was recently featured in the book set Eight New-Generation African Poets. Imeh, a graduate of Columbia University and Yale University, is an assistant professor of art and art history at Westfield State University. Twitter: @imoimeh

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

39

ARTS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT

BY LAWRENCE C. ROSS JR.

Blackballed: The Black and White Politics of Race on America’s Campuses

“C

ollege” is a word that means many things to many people: a space for knowledge, a place to gain lifelong friends, and an opportunity to transcend one’s socioeconomic station. Today, though, this word also recalls a slew of headlines that have revealed a dark and persistent world of racial politics on campus. Does this association disturb our idealized visions of what happens behind the ivied walls of higher learning? It should—because campus racism is as American as college football on fall Saturdays.

From Lawrence Ross, author of The Divine Nine and the leading expert on sororities and fraternities, Blackballed is an explosive and controversial book that rips the veil off America’s hidden secret: America’s colleges have fostered a racist environment that makes them a hostile space for African-American students. Blackballed exposes the white fraternity and sorority system, with traditions of racist parties, songs, and assaults on black students; and the universities themselves, who name campus buildings after racist men and women. It also takes a deep dive into anti-affirmative action policies, and how they effectively segregate predominately white universities, providing ample room for white privilege. A bold mix of history and the current climate, Blackballed is a call to action for universities to make radical changes to their policies and standards to foster a better legacy for all students.

“Parents and high school counselors of black kids must read this book. They will learn that the grass is not always greener at predominantly white universities, and in fact, the grass is often infested with racism. For decades, predominantly white colleges have been seen as better options for black students than HBCUs. Blackballed reveals the price many black students are paying for this choice.” —Walter Kimbrough, President, Dillard University. S

Lawrence C. Ross Jr. [Alpha Epsilon ‘85] is a bestselling author, lecturer, writer, filmmaker, social media and consumer trends expert. His groundbreaking book, The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities, has become the preeminent book on African-American fraternities and sororities. He’s written regular pieces for CNN.com, The Grio, The Root, Ebony.com, and USA Today. He lives in Westchester, CA.

40

THE SPHINX

ARTS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT

THE UGLY SECRETS OF PRIVATE ROY

The Ugly Secrets of Private Roy chronicles the treacherous journey of one young Harlemite’s U.S. Army career during America’s iconic 1960’s decade. PVT Edward Roy raises many heated questions and exposes America’s dark secrets by declaring that the U.S. government continues to hide its horrific secrets from the American people related to…. From the horrors of the holocaust in WWII, the clash in Korea, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam conflict, the Cold War in Europe, the testing of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons on unsuspecting American soldiers emerges the story of Private Edward Roy, a.k.a. “The Milkman.”

He reluctantly joined the U.S. Army in 1962, against the wishes of Malcolm X, in search of his true American identity and marches head long into the most momentous events in American history. Many heated questions are raised. Over 50 years have passed since the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and 75 percent of the American people still don’t believe a single gunman was responsible for his death. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Malcolm X, and the FBI continues to withhold information on their role in his death and the death of others.

Riveting, dramatic, and based on actual events, The Ugly Secrets of Private Roy sheds new light on those who orchestrated the murders of both JFK and the black activist; as it explores a host of ugly American secrets concealed during the 1960s: • • • •

Was the AIDS virus developed and used as a weapon of mass destruction?

Why did the French Government deny Malcolm X entry into France on February 9, 1965, a few days before his death?

Why are the great Buffalo Soldiers, members of the previously all-black 24th Infantry Regiment, still waiting for their military performance record in Korea to be cleared?

Were chemical, biological (HIV) and nuclear weapons tested on unsuspecting American soldiers; and many more?

According to the book, surrounding itself in a conspiracy of silence, the U.S. government denies any connection in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and Malcolm X. This novel will challenge the reader to consider the connection between these two historical assassinations and the development of the destructive HIV virus and many other ugly secrets of the U.S. government.

The settings are rich in imagery, the characterizations are strong and intense.

In the past 40 years, in Sub Saharan Africa, over 28.5 million people were infected with the HIV/AIDS Virus? And yet, in 1962 when the author entered the U.S. Army, the number of people in the world identified as infected with the virus was zero. The Ugly Secrets of Private Roy is a gritty, raw, and honest review of some of the most significant events in American history and provides a fresh look at this questionable topic. A trophy book for the ultimate conspiracy theorist, this thought-provoking, challenging, and stimulating novel is based on actual events with a sensuous storyline, and despite its serious content, is peppered with humor. S COLLECTIVE 2015-16

41

ARTS | SPORTS | ENTERTAINMENT

FRAME YOUR CERTIFICATE!

Proudly display and protect your certificate View all frame styles and order at framingsuccess.com or call 800.677.3726 42

THE SPHINX

LIFESTYLE | EDUCATION | WELLNESS

WARD NAMED PRESIDENT OF SAINT AUGUSTINE UNIVERSITY

Dr. Everett B. Ward, a native of Raleigh, N.C., is a respected public administrator, political leader and humanitarian with more than 30 years of national and statewide experience. He was named the eleventh president of Saint Augustine’s University on April 10, 2015, by the Board of Trustees. Dr. Ward is the third alumnus to hold the post in the 148-year history of Saint Augustine’s University.

Dr. Ward was appointed by the Saint Augustine’s University Board of Trustees on April 23, 2014, as interim president.

During his appointment, Ward put forth an aggressive agenda focused primarily on three key areas: (1) returning the institution to financial stability; (2) strengthening the faith of students, employees, and alumni in the viability of the institution; and (3) engaging the community and corporate stakeholders for mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations. Transparency, shared governance, and collaboration are the cornerstones of his administration.

Prior to his appointment as interim president, Dr. Ward served as the director of the Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU)/Minority Institutions of Higher Education (MIHE) Program for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). In this role, Dr. Ward worked with university chancellors and presidents, faculty, and staff in the areas of transportation curriculum development, research initiatives, and student development.

Dr. Ward served on the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) HBCU/MIHE Workgroup. This workgroup is responsible for establishing and maintaining partnerships between FHWA and HBCU/MIHE universities. S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

43

LIFESTYLE | EDUCATION | WELLNESS

STONEWALL CONTINUES CANCER RESEARCH Some scientific researchers first find major breakthroughs late in their careers. They work years to perfect the research techniques needed to prove an outcome that might affect positive change in the way the world sees a disease or possibly cure something that could change or save lives. Some scientists work hard all their lives and never get to see the full application of their groundbreaking studies. And then there’s Keven Stonewall.

Not even out of high school, Brother Stonewall’s work is already extraordinary. His research, which Stonewall conducted as an intern at Rush University while he was a senior at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences, revealed that an experimental colon cancer vaccine effective in younger mice did not work in older mice. The child of two public school teachers, he had always loved science, but while in high school, a close friend’s painful experience losing an uncle to colon cancer made Stonewall determined to fight the disease.

“It motivated me to say, ‘Enough is enough,’” Stonewall said. “I want to step up and do something about it.”

44

Now a rising junior at the University of WisconsinMadison majoring in biology, Brother Stonewall [Gamma Epsilon ’15] made international news with one headline in the New York Daily News declaring, “Meet the Chicago Teen Who May Cure Colon Cancer.”

Stonewall won numerous awards for his work and was selected as a finalist for the Intel International Science and Engineer Fair in 2013. A product of an Alpha family, and being involved in Alpha programs his entire life, like the fraternity’s Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College National Program, Stonewall knows Alpha will continue to help him continue to achieve his goals. “My goal is to go to medical school, and I am thinking of going into pediatric oncology afterward,” Stonewall says.

Stonewall is in cancer research for the long haul and he wants to pursue it as a physician. This summer Brother Stonewall is interning at Abbvie, a biopharmaceutical company in North Chicago, Illinois working as an intern in the Research and Development Quality Assurance Department. S

THE SPHINX

BUSINESS | FINANCE

BY JAMAAL MYLES, THE URBAN MONEY MANAGER

Understanding Student Loan Debt

S

tudent Loans are the 2nd largest consumer debt in America, reaching a frightening $1.1 trillion total in 2013.

With the average college student graduating with an all-time high of $26,000 in tuition debt, many financial analysts have agreed that this alarming expense will trigger the next major economic crisis to follow the catastrophic 2009 recession. Since 2005, there’s been an annual 13.9% increase in new loans adding 540 billion dollars in additional deficits.

There are two types of people in life: those who struggle in vain, and those who struggle with something to show for it.

Many college graduates are struggling daily to afford loan payments while being forced to postpone future life milestones such as living independently, home ownership, automobile purchases, and beginning a family. Scientific studies show a strong correlation between depression and debt, and many students, as well their parents, are under extreme levels of anxiety from the moment they’ve earned their diploma. With no federal solution to the loan epidemic in sight, student loan debt in America is shaping up to be society’s newest economic bubble since the 2008 housing bust.

Above all, conquering student loan debt requires a winning behavior. Regardless of how well you are compensated, owing hefty payments month after month on high-interest loans can be a huge obstacle. The key ingredients to financial freedom are courage, preparation, dedication, resilience, and focus; understand that the road to prosperity has very little to do with the dollars and cents in your bank account. Research has shown that income explains only 30% of the variation of wealth in American households, proving that the majority of financial futures are determined by behavior-driven decisions.

The Urban Money Movement is all about developing a winning behavior and providing you with the financial literacy needed to overcome your personal student loan situation.

The fastest way to end up with nothing is by trying to prove to the world you own everything. S

Jamaal Myles [Tau Alpha, ’08], after overcoming $95,000 in tuition debt, founded The Urban Money Manager in an effort to help other college men with student loan debt. Follow him on Twitter @theurbanmoney.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

45

CHAPTER NEWS

BETA BETA LAMBDA PARTNERS WITH THE MIAMI DADE COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT Brothers of the Beta Beta Lambda Chapter, partnered with the Miami Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department for “Back to School with Dad.� The event was held at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex located in Miami Gardens. The purpose of the event was to celebrate fathers who are engaged in the lives of their children and their education. During the event, fathers and their children participated together in field games, arts and crafts, and school readiness activities to promote early learning. In addition, over a thousand book bags were given to students and parents in preparation for the upcoming school year. Several organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, were in attendance. Brothers who attended the event were South Area Director Maurice Hurry, Jason Fernandez, Gerald Cox, Dante Fillyau, Ira Fluitt, William Aristide, and Richard Miller. S

THETA MU LAMBDA The brothers of Theta Mu Lambda Chapter partnered with the March of Dimes for their annual March for Babies 5k. Theta Mu Lambda Chapter has enjoyed a robust partnership with the March of Dimes for over 20 years. The chapter has provided logistical services and has consistently been a major fundraiser for the annual March for Babies event. Currently the chapter is 4th in area rankings with $5,775. During the past 10 years TML has raised in excess of $30,000. S

46

THE SPHINX

CHAPTER NEWS

DELTA ALPHA CHAPTER– CLAFLIN UNIVERSITY ORANGEBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA Manly deeds can be defined as those unselfish acts of kindness extended to others in an effort to improve their lives. The men of Delta Alpha Chapter seated at Claflin University were recognized for upholding this aim. SI Group, a leading global developer and manufacturer of chemical intermediates, specialty resins, and solutions, presented the chapter with an award of service for their efforts in helping to pick up litter as a part of the company’s Palmetto Pride Adopt-A-Highway Program.

The site’s off-the-job safety chairperson stated, “We really appreciated the help of these young men not only during our Earth Day pick up but also with our previous trash pick-ups. With the additional help of our employees, family, and friends, we were able to pick up 975 pounds of trash during our Earth Day litter pick-up.” S

Brothers Bryan Jones, Kelly Jacobs, and Chris Stevenson pose with a member of the local Continental Societies chapter at the reading event.

IOTA PI LAMBDA CHAPTER INSPIRE YOUTH TO READ The brothers of the south Miami-Dade County chapter participated in the Black History Month edition of the Real Men Read series. Brothers assembled at Avocado Elementary to join other male African American professionals from the community to endorse the importance of reading to and education of to local youth. The readers, professionally spanning from retired educators, clergymen, and police officers, visited classrooms to read books from or about African-American pioneers. The Real Men Read initiative is sponsored by the Greater Miami Chapter of Continental Societies, Incorporated.

Founded in 1956, the Continental Societies, Inc. is an international public service organization dedicated to the socioeconomic and cultural welfare of underprivileged children and youth. S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

47

CHAPTER NEWS

ALPHA NU LAMBDA & GAMMA PHI CHAPTERS 4TH ANNUAL BE LIKE KING MALE RETREAT 2016 TUSKEGEE, ALABAMA The Alpha Nu Lambda and Gamma Phi chapters hosted the 4th Annual “BE LIKE KING” Male Retreat at Logan Hall on the campus of Tuskegee University.

Young males from Tuskegee University, the Tuskegee community, as well as Alpha Academy sponsored by Pi Epsilon Lambda from the Auburn/Opelika area all participated in the retreat. Individuals ranged from toddlers to college students. The “BE LIKE KING” retreat is the outgrowth of discussions by the men of Alpha Phi Alpha to develop programs that will enlighten young black males about the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The program also serves as a catalyst to combat youth violence.

Retreat participants were able to watch segments of the movie “Selma,” then participated in arts and crafts by making “Freedom Bells” and posters, which they were able to present to the other retreat participants. The young men in between movie segments participated in icebreaker team-building games and were asked questions by the hosts of the retreat, Brother Kenneth Denzel Butler (Gamma Phi) and Brother Tony Kirk II (Gamma Phi), about the movie. If participants answered correctly they were awarded gift cards. The young men also participated in the second “Be Like King” games.

They were drafted into teams and competed in a series of games that included, golf, bowling, basketball, and a “Civil Rights Movement” scramble board (to unlock terms

48

or names from the civil rights movement). The final two teams competed in a quiz bowl with questions from the movie “Selma” in which the winner was awarded grand prizes. The event also received attention from WSFA-TV 12 in Montgomery, Alabama where it was featured on the 6:00 and 10:00 news as well as on the Good Morning Alabama Show on Monday morning of the King holiday. S

THE SPHINX

CHAPTER NEWS

Brothers of Mu Lambda chapter serve food to men in Washington, D.C.’s Emory House Shelter.

MU LAMBDA DONATES CLOTHING AND FOOD TO HOMELESS Brothers of Mu Lambda Chapter donated clothing and provided food to men in Washington, D.C.’s Emory House Shelter. The brothers also led a thought-provoking discussion on relationships with law enforcement officers in our communities and gave an opportunity for the men to express their experiences and solutions. Many shared that they believe the issues stem from a lack of respect on both sides, the need to educate our communities, and the importance of holding our political representatives accountable.

The chapter collected suits, sweaters, jeans, socks, and shoes to assist the men in need and to help them with gaining employment. This was the second year of working with Emery House Shelter to assist homeless men in Washington, D.C. S

MU PSI LAMBDA AND NU TAU The brothers of Mu Psi Lambda Chapter provided male support to the Lovelady Center by volunteering their time and efforts to help load, unload, and sort donated items to the Lovelady thrift store, which is a consignment store run by the women of the center. The Lovelady Center, in the city of Birmingham, AL, is a mission outreach organization that started in 2004 by Brenda Lovelady Spahn with the goal to offer a spiritual basis of living to those women who have been in the prison system and also those who suffer with substance-abuse-related issues. The center offers counseling, housing, rehabilitation, childcare, and job readiness skills. S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

49

CHAPTER NEWS

SIGMA ALPHA LAMBDA SOUTHERN MARYLAND The brothers of Sigma Alpha Lambda launched their Go-to-High School, Go-to-College series of interactive activities by hosting three sessions with youth from Maryland's Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's counties.

The sessions involved a variety of topics that focused on time management techniques as well as setting and achieving goals. Students from more than 10 high schools were given the opportunity to gain insightful knowledge, improve their decision-making, and learned to apply tools and tips pertaining to public speaking and dressing for success. The brothers discussed the importance of public speaking and each participant was given an opportunity to practice techniques with their peers. Brothers demonstrated professional behavior in a business environment, ways to improve physical posture, and tips to help students with their enunciation. The Dressing for Success session concluded with teaching each participant how to tie a necktie in preparation for a formal event. S

ALPHA DELTA LAMBDA AND THE PUSH TO VOTE Alpha Delta Lambda Chapter has focused on trying to improve voter awareness and turnout during this important election year. Focusing on both local and national elections, the chapter took to the streets, barbershops, and schools, while also partnering with local chapters of the NAACP to spread the word about voting. The chapter has constructed new ways of improving individual committee success by fostering crosscommittee work. The chapter’s Social Justice and Public Policy Committee echoed the importance of the “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People” program by hosting a forum on the importance of the black ballot – #BlackVotesMatter. Through this incredible collaboration, Alpha Delta Lambda continues to serve and encourage all to claim their political right by exercising the right to vote. S

50

THE SPHINX

CHAPTER NEWS

THETA PHI LAMBDA Members of Theta Phi Lambda Chapter, serving Bennettsville and Cheraw, SC, along with other community leaders, welcomed Brother Cornell Brooks, Nnational president of the NAACP during the historical “March for Justice from Selma, AL to Washington, D.C.”

MU ALPHA LAMBDA AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS AT XII ANNUAL ORATORICAL CONTEST ROCKFORD, IL Rockford University hosted the mayor, community leaders, and Rockford police department during the chapter’s annual Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast and Oratorical Contest of local high school seniors. Four scholars spoke on the theme “Contending Disparities; Mending Our Communities.”

The event was highlighted by a Keynote Address from Bro. Dr. Robert L. Head, president of Rockford University. Mayor Morrissey presented the welcome and outlined city programs the community must support to help make Rockford a better place to live.

Scholars Dennis Littlejohn and Richard Thomas of Auburn High School, along with RayShawn Hayes of Guilford High School and Kenneth Partee of East High School, delivered motivating and inspirational speeches that completely touched the hearts of the audience. Richard Thomas was crowned the oratorical contest winner, and Kenneth Partee was the overall scholastic award winner. All participants received scholarships to attend College in the fall.

Over the past 12 years Mu Alpha Lambda has awarded over $50,000 in scholarships. Many of the recipients returned to Rockford after graduation and are productive members of the community. S

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

Brother Brooks arrived in the small SC Pee Dee Region Town with approximately 85 marchers.

Through the coordination of the members of Theta Phi Lambda Chapter, a financial donation was presented to the local NAACP chapter during a community meeting at the historic Pee Dee Union Baptist Church in Cheraw, SC. Church, community, and fraternal and municipal leaders coordinated their resources to provide lodging and food for the marchers at the town’s National Guard Armory; additionally, the NAACP held teach-ins on various topics that are impacting African Americans.

During Brother Brooks's public address to the attendees at the community meeting, he presented a chronology of the “March for Justice” objectives: restoration of the Congressional Voters Rights Amendment, expansion of the Affordable Health Care Act, and initiatives involving the recent deathly actions of African Americans by police officers. S

51

OMEGA CHAPTER

The Life of An Alpha Legend, Ozell Sutton 52 SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

C

ivil rights activist and community leader Ozell Sutton was born on December 13, 1925, on a plantation in southeast Arkansas in the city of Gould.

Despite grueling hours and backbreaking work on the cotton plantation, Sutton managed to graduate from Dunbar High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.

In 1944, Sutton became one of the first African Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps, at Montford Point.

In 1950, Brother Sutton entered the house of Alpha through Pi Lambda Chapter in Little Rock, AR. With his 65 years of fraternal membership Brother Sutton has been a trailblazer in the midst of extreme racebased challenges.

Alpha’s 26th general president was no stranger to adversity. He grew up in a sharecropper’s home.

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

Walking to his one-room schoolhouse was the order of the day. He completed eighth grade at the colored school in Gould, but the family had no money to further his education, so he struck off on his own. In Little Rock he got a job as a dishwasher at Walgreen’s, working over 60 hours a week. After Walgreen’s came another restaurant job downtown, during which he got the opportunity to watch Brother Thurgood Marshall argue that black teachers should get equal pay. This was a point of inspiration to him.

Ozell graduated from Dunbar High School and after 2 years in the Marine Corps, he returned to Little Rock to enter college. He attended Dunbar College for 2 years and then graduated from Philander Smith College. Brother Sutton later served as a member of the College’s Board of Trustees. On the recommendation of his college instructors, Brother Sutton was hired as a

53

OMEGA CHAPTER

reporter by the Arkansas Democrat newspaper in 1950.

He started work 4 months prior to his graduation from college and became the first black reporter on a major Southern newspaper.

Brother Sutton began his professional career in human relations after leaving the newspaper, working first with the Little Rock Housing Authority and as a personal assistant to Winthrop Rockefeller. As he told it, in 1956 he heard about the protests and boycotts taking place in Montgomery, Alabama, so he and some friends hopped in a car and drove there to learn firsthand what was going on. He said that he spent 2 to 3 weeks there observing, learning, and listening to the leadership led by 27-year-old Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In 1961, he became associate director of the Arkansas Council on Human Relations, an interracial group working for equal rights. In 1963, he marched with Martin Luther King Jr. in the historic March on Washington, DC. He became director of the Arkansas Council on Human Relations where he worked to get the Civil Rights Act structured and passed beginning in 1962.

In 1968, Brother Ozell Sutton was working as a field representative for the Community Relations Service of the United States Department of Justice. He was assigned to work on equal rights programs in several cities in the Southern part of the country. He also served as a mediator during racial disturbances. That is how he came to be in Memphis in 1968 during the strike by the city’s garbage workers. For the stay, he was registered in room 308 at the Lorraine Hotel. In room 306 was another member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Martin Luther King Jr. Brother Sutton said he heard the shots when King was struck by an assassin’s bullets.

Because of his federal job, he had access to hospital staff and official reports on the status of King when he was taken to the hospital on April 4, 1968. It was Sutton who first shared the news of the death of the fallen leader with the rest of the waiting public.

After this time, Sutton went back home and forged a new path that included resumed service with Governor Rockefeller before returning to federal

government as state supervisor of the southeast region of the Community Relations Service.

During this time, he served as Alpha Phi Alpha’s Arkansas district director and in 1971 was elected the southwestern region vice president. He only served one year in the post before moving to Atlanta, where he became the Georgia state director and was the southern region vice president from 1976-1980. He was elected 26th general president in 1980 and served until the end of 1984.

In 1983, a federal holiday honoring the late Bro. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was signed into law and that same year a memorial to the slain leader was proposed for Washington, D.C. Over the next 13 years, brothers in and out of Congress met in D.C. to garner approval for land on the National Mall that was in congressional jurisdiction. Only presidents and wars had been memorialized and King would be the first and only private citizen to receive the honor.

Congressional approval was finally secured in 1996.

From there the fraternity sought designs and began raising money. The final design was approved in 1999 and the project was completed and dedicated in 2011.

Brother Sutton has repeatedly made Ebony magazine’s annual list of the “100 Most Influential African Americans.” He also was awarded the Medal of Freedom by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Sutton served as the national president of several organizations, such as the National Assault on Illiteracy, and was a founding member of the executive board of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children as well as a co-chairperson of the Atlanta Black-Jewish Coalition. In 2012, he was presented with the Congressional Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama for being among the first blacks to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Brother Ozell Sutton entered Omega Chapter on December 19, 2015. He was tremendously dedicated to Alpha Phi Alpha and showed unwavering commitment over his sixty-five years of service. S

54 SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

Remembering Brother Jerome Whyatt Mondesire

B

rother Jerome Whyatt Mondesire was a reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer during his early career. At the time of his death in October 2015, he was owner of the Philadelphia Sun newspaper, and president of the Philadelphia branch of the NAACP for over a decade.

Brother Mondesire was born in 1949 to Dominican Jerome Alexis Mondesire, a follower of Marcus Garvey, and Winnifred Taylor Mondesire. He later studied journalism at City College of New York.

During the early 70s, Mondesire wrote for the Baltimore Sun and later The Philadelphia Inquirer where he became City Desk Editor. Mondesire served as chief of staff for one of the most powerful politicians in the country. In 1980, Mondesire became chief of staff for Gray, the majority whip of the U.S. Congress, and served until Gray resigned in 1991. Mondesire used his position to focus on many

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

of this country’s most pressing social and political inequities.

Following this, he founded the Philadelphia Sunday Sun. In 1996 Mondesire was elected head of the NAACP’s Philadelphia branch. Membership increased substantially during his tenure. He was elected to his first term as president on the campaign theme of reinvigorating the civil rights organization. He was also elected to the Pennsylvania State Conference of the NAACP in 2002. He served as president of NAACP Philadelphia branch until 2013.

Brother Mondesire was a founding member of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and a relentless crusader for human and civil rights. He worked on issues such as ex-offenders being able to vote in the state of Pennsylvania and knocking down voter ID laws.

Mondesire, 65, many believe that Philadelphia will not be the same without his leadership and advocacy. S 55

OMEGA CHAPTER

BOO-YAH! Stuart Scott left indelible imprint on broadcasting, sports and life itself

BY LAWRENCE ROSS

56 SPHINX 56 THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

B

rother Stuart Scott died after a seven-year battle with cancer, but as he put it in July on the stage of the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, at the 2014 ESPY Awards: “When you die, it does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live.”

Scott was a father of two daughters he called his angels. He entered Omega Chapter on Jan. 4, 2015.

Brothers conducted his Omega Service in Raleigh, N.C., amid international accolades for Scott’s groundbreaking and barrier-breaking performance as a sports broadcaster at ESPN for more than two decades. He died at 49 years young. For The Sphinx, Brother Lawrence Ross offers the following tribute that recalls how he and Brother Scott first met and became friends.

“Hello, my name is Lawrence Ross,” I told the ESPN operator.

“I’m trying to get in contact with Stuart Scott. Is he available?”

“May I tell him who’s calling? Will he know what this is about?” she asked.

“No, we’ve never met. But just tell him that Brother Lawrence Ross is calling about a book he’s writing called, The Divine Nine.”

“One second please,” she said, briefly before transferring me.

“What’s up, Brother Ross! Brother Stuart Scott at your service. How can I help you?”

best friend. But for Alpha Phi Alpha brothers, it was something more. He was one of us.

Like Scott, who was initiated in 1984, at Mu Zeta Chapter at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I am a 1980s-initiated brother. For many of us from the ’80s era in Alpha, there is a unique kinship.

It was a time at which predominantly white universities began opening more doors to us, (through affirmative action), historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) were being spotlighted on primetime television, and it seemed like Alpha college chapters were sprouting everywhere and were never stronger.

So whether you came from an Alpha chapter in the East, Midwest, South, Southwest or West region, there was a bond. We were the young guard, and it was our time. And lo and behold, a fews later, we would be

And right there began a three-hour conversation between two Alpha men, unacquainted, and who would end departing friends by the end of the phone call.

It was 1997 and my literary agent had just sold my first book, The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities, and one of my first tasks was to interview prominent members of each fraternity and sorority. Yes, there were the usual suspects of politicians, educators, and athletes.

However, as I created my list, I knew that one of the subjects had to be someone young. I thought my own Alpha Brother Stuart Scott had to be on the list.

Scott made his debut on ESPN’s nascent network, ESPN2, in 1993. It was the aspirationally hip version of ESPN and Brother Scott came complete with leather jackets and hip-hop gear, and was an instant hit. Why? Because he was himself. For the first time, African-American sports lovers were watching someone who was making EPMD references (of the New York hip-hop group) instead of Seinfeld references. It was ESPN with your best friend hosting. Your black COLLECTIVE 2015-16

watching one of our fellow ’80s brothers on the ESPN SportsCenter set; it was like we had all made it.

Alpha has always been rich in terms of brothers who have achieved in their respective fields, but watching Brother Scott on television each night made it plain to any of us who were still aiming to make our own name in the world. It not only could be done; it was being done.

Most of the world concentrated on how Brother Scott was smashing paradigms. “Cool as the other side of the pillow,” became the catch phrase that introduced the black barbershop to America. “Boo-yah!” origi57 57

OMEGA CHAPTER

nated from the hip-hop group, the Boo-Ya Tribe. But to Alphas, none of that was important. What was important was that Stuart was the ultimate professional.

His research was impeccable. When he sat down on the set, the substance behind his words showed.

When other ESPN anchors would laughingly mispronounce the names of international soccer stars, Scott knew it was their responsibility to learn those names.

He knew that they were the faces of the network that so proudly self-proclaimed itself the “worldwide leader in sports.”

For Brother Scott, it was about being excellent and being his best. Whether he was interviewing Michael Jordan on Monday, or President Barack Obama on Saturday, he was prepared.

As Alphas, we could always point in pride at the screen and say, “there goes an Alpha man,” when it came to watching Stuart. And when he or other ESPN anchors like Brothers Jay Harris and Stan Verrett threw up the “Phi” hand-signal, while talking about how college days swiftly passed, well that was just an added bonus.

So, when I reached out to Stuart in 1997, it was not a lowly unknown writer meeting the hotshot ESPN

anchor who was seen by millions each night. Brother Scott made sure I knew it was just one brother meeting another brother, and we’d depart friends. It was a friendship that would evolve over the years through periodic phone calls and social media. It was a friendship that grew when he fought cancer.We would exchange direct messages on Twitter, where somehow, he’d end up encouraging me! How does that work?

It was a friendship that made this brother cry when he woke up to the news that his friend and frat had joined Omega Chapter.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is a living organism. It consists of the living brothers who strive to reach its ideals each day, and legions of brothers who have passed away, yet the memory of them fills us with pride. Some are famous, but most are not. All are worthy of recognition. On this page, we honor Brother Stuart Scott, a line member of the Twelve Masters of the Mix from Mu Zeta Chapter. He was a proud Alpha man who represented the fraternity to the utmost. S Lawrence Ross (’85, Alpha Epsilon) is author of The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities and other books. He is a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles.

58 SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

Thomas Pawley lived a life of a true servant leader

T

homas D. Pawley III, 98, was a noted playwright, author, actor, poet, university professor, and community leader. He was a classmate with Tennessee Williams, who acted in one of his plays, later becoming the award-winning playwright of “A Streetcar Named Desire,” among other works. Dr. Pawley has given 80 years of service to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Pawley received the Award of Merit, the national fraternity’s highest honor, in 1996 and was appointed national historian emeritus in 2008. In 2006, Pawley wrote the lyrics to the “Hymn to the Founders,” which was presented at the Centennial Convention’s Public Meeting in Washington, D.C.

Born Aug. 5, 1917, Pawley was 17 when he was initiated into the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in 1934.

During his fraternity career, Pawley also chaired the Education Foundation and the Committee on Internal Structure.

In addition to his undergraduate fraternity service, Pawley served as vice president of the Jefferson City chapter from 1975-79, and as the national fraternity’s historian from 1993-96.

He was inducted into the Midwestern Region Hall of Fame and served as midwestern regional vice president, Missouri district director and central Missouri director.

Pawley was 19 when he graduated from Virginia State

COLLECTIVE 2015-16

59

OMEGA CHAPTER

College in 1937. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Iowa in 1939 where the fraternity news release noted one of his classmates was future playwright Tennessee Williams. He also earned his doctorate from Iowa in 1949.

Pawley taught one year, 1939-40, at Prairie View A&M State College in Texas where his future wife, Ethel, earned her bachelor’s degree in physical education. The couple was married a little more than 71 years from Aug. 14, 1941, until she died Oct. 23, 2012.

Pawley began teaching English, speech, and theater classes at Lincoln University in 1940 and retired in 1988.

As a Lincoln professor, Pawley also served the university in various positions including English department head, Humanities and Fine Arts division chairman, and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

In 1986, he received the LU National Alumni Association’s Distinguished Service Award.

Pawley was heading LU’s communications department when he retired in 1988 and received a curators appointment as distinguished professor of speech and theater.

In 1952, Pawley initiated one of the first college summer theater programs for black students and,

during his LU tenure, he directed 75 student plays. In 2011, Lincoln renamed its Langston Hughes Theater, in Martin Luther King Hall, as the Pawley Theater in his honor.

Away from the classroom, Pawley’s community involvement included membership on the advisory committee that raised several million dollars to renovate the old Jefferson City High School into the Miller Performing Arts Center.

He served as president of the Thomas Jefferson Library Board from 1970-72, when the “new” library building (now known as the Missouri River Regional Library) was erected at 214 Adams St. He was the library board’s treasurer in 1974.

Pawley also served on the Vestry at Grace Episcopal Church.

He served as president of the Speech and Theater Association of Missouri and also was a member of the separate Missouri Humanities Missouri Arts councils.

He received the Missouri Arts Council award in 1999.

Brother Thomas Pawley entered Omega Chapter on August 1, 2016. Our hearts are overjoyed with his accomplishments and how he has touched so many lives, remaining mission focused, promoting academic excellence, and providing service and advocacy to his community. It is because of brothers like him, we are in fact the College of Friendship, the University of Brotherly Love and the School for the Better Making of Men. S

60 SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER CHAPTER NEWS

The following is a listing of members who have entered Omega Chapter. For each member, included is: his name; the category of membership: college, alumni or life; with life member number if available; chapter of initiation; date of initiation; last chapter active with; and date of death. All of the information is based on what is submitted by chapters and family members and reconciled with the fraternity’s records.

Arthur L. Allen Life Beta Sigma: 11/22/63 Omega: 9/30/15

Samuel Braxter Alumni Beta Pi: 4/15/53 Omega: 1/1/16

James L. Coleman Alumni Theta Tau Lambda: 5/1/77 Omega: 4/20/16

Earl E. Allen Life Beta Nu: 11/1/54 Omega: 4/3/16

Edward T. Braye Life Gamma Phi: 11/1/50 Omega: 6/4/16

Lytle E. Allen, III Life Beta Omicron: 5/12/59 Omega: 2/9/16

Willis Cormier Life Alpha Eta Lambda: 2/23/69 Alpha Eta Lambda Omega: 7/17/16

George A. Brown, Sr. Life Beta Sigma: 4/1/57 Omega: 8/26/15

Robert N. Allen Life Beta: 4/1/66 Omega: 1/1/16

Willie A. Brown Alumni Epsilon Xi Lambda: 11/19/93 Omega: 10/28/15

Mildridge Anderson Life General Organization Omega: 1/16/16

Edwin R. Byrd Life Upsilon: 12/1/40 Omega: 3/3/16

E.O. Angell Alumni Beta Upsilon Lambda: 11/15/75 Omega: 1/1/16

Allie S. Carr Life Gamma Iota: 3/12/52 Omega: 4/19/16

Clayton Arceneaux Life Delta Sigma: 12/12/58 Omega: 9/13/15

Ross Cheairs, Sr. Alumni Beta Upsilon Lambda: 11/30/73 Omega: 1/1/16

Adam C. Bailey Alumni Gamma Zeta: 4/13/02 Omega: 1/9/16

Boni D. Cheeks Life Alpha Kappa Lambda: 7/29/90 Omega: 10/21/15

Ralph H. Barksdale, Jr. Life Epsilon Epsilon Lambda: 4/27/56 Omega: 6/13/16

Albert E. Chew, Jr. Life Beta Tau Lambda: 4/11/63 Omega: 11/5/15

Andre Barnes Alumni Beta Nu: 4/1/82 Omega: 3/17/16

Franklin T. Clark Life Delta Psi: 12/15/56 Omega: 7/26/16

Leslie E. Becker Alumni Eta: 10/4/41 Omega: 7/26/16

Arthur J. Clement, III Life Beta: 12/1/52 Omega: 5/25/16

France K. Bowers Life Sigma: 12/3/88 Omega: 11/7/15

Andrew L. Coleman Life Beta Upsilon Lambda: 7/23/95 Omega: 1/1/16

Timothy R. Cosby College Delta Tau: 11/25/86 Omega: 8/25/15 Frank B. Cox Alumni Alpha Chi: 5/17/42 Omega: 9/19/15 Marion Croom Alumni Beta Pi: 4/15/36 Omega: 1/1/16 Julius Darrington, Jr. Life Gamma Delta: 12/17/53 Omega: 12/31/15 Robert C. Dawson Alumni Delta Rho Lambda: 12/26/81 Omega: 9/9/16 Royzell L. Dillard Alumni Zeta Lambda: 5/14/87 Omega: 1/1/16 Paul D. Dorn Life Beta Rho: 11/6/88 Omega: 8/2/15 Conway A. Downing Alumni Chi: 10/1/42 Omega: 1/1/16 George C. Dumas Life Delta Xi: 12/5/57 Omega: 11/20/15 Edward J. Dupree Alumni Nu Xi Lambda: 11/10/89 Omega: 12/9/15

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE. COLLECTIVE 2015-16

61

OMEGA CHAPTER

Harvey Durant, Jr. Life Beta Delta: 12/1/49 Delta Zeta Lambda Omega: 5/29/16 Jamar L. Earnest College Nu: 4/6/14 Nu Omega: 8/19/15

Alfred P. Godwin Life Beta Gamma: 4/12/48 Omega: 3/6/16

Alphonse Jackson, Jr. Alumni Beta Sigma: 5/10/48 Omega: 1/1/16

Edwin A. Green Life Alpha Rho: 4/1/54 Omega: 3/2/16

Eric V. Jackson, Sr. Alumni Omicron Xi: 11/17/89 Rho Zeta Lambda Omega: 8/29/16

Roger R. Gregory Life Zeta Zeta Lambda: 5/1/74 Omega: 9/1/15

Claybon J. Edwards Life Iota: 11/1/48 Omega: 11/3/15

Calvin O. Griffin, Sr. Alumni Beta Upsilon: 11/23/74 Omega: 12/1/15

Booker T. Felder Life Gamma Phi: 4/15/48 Omega: 2/9/16 Peter L. Felder, II Life Gamma Gamma: 12/1/56 Omega: 3/16/16 H.W. Flynn Life Gamma Chi Lambda: 2/1/60 Omega: 3/21/16 Eddie L. Francis Life Alpha Xi Lambda: 8/20/48 Omega: 9/5/15 William A. Franklin Life Beta Eta Lambda: 4/15/70 Omega: 1/1/16 John W. Garner Life Alpha Chi: 4/24/48 Omega: 10/9/15

Arthur C. Gunn Alumni Zeta Lambda: 5/6/95 Omega: 1/1/16 Julius T. Hargrove Alumni Beta Upsilon: 5/1/54 Omega: 10/23/15 David T. Harris Alumni Eta Xi Lambda: 4/14/84 Omega: 1/17/16 Sam N. Hawkins Life Gamma Upsilon: 11/1/53 Omega: 2/8/16 Leon Hendricks Life Theta: 10/17/63 Omega: 11/4/15 Zachary Hill Alumni Iota Mu Lambda: 4/21/96 2/25/16

Marshall H. Garrett Life Gamma Iota: 3/31/62 Omega: 6/18/16

Dean Hodges Life Gamma Zeta: 10/1/51 Omega: 3/5/16

Arlyce J. Garth Life Alpha Rho: 6/1/59 Omega: 10/12/15 Lawrence E. Gentry Alumni Beta Eta Lambda: 5/12/90 Omega: 1/1/16 Benjamin Givan Alumni Delta Pi Lambda: 3/20/70 Omega: 1/24/16

Wendell P. Holmes, Jr. Life Upsilon Lambda: 12/12/53 Omega: 5/28/16 Joseph L. Jackson Life Zeta Zeta Lambda: 12/11/65 Omega: 4/20/16

Gregory E. James Alumni Delta Gamma: 3/5/88 Omicron Iota Lambda Omega: 8/16/16 Anthony D. Jenkins Alumni Delta Kappa: 4/8/00 Omega: 1/1/16 Charlie V. Jenkins, Jr. Life Eta Beta Lambda: 5/6/72 Omega: 9/20/15 Andrew T. Johnson Alumni Mu Beta Lambda: 3/1/80 Omega: 5/27/16 Edward V. Johnson Alumni Beta Lambda: 5/17/86 Omega: 12/2/15 Richard F. Johnson Life Beta Sigma: 12/12/50 Omega: 1/1/16 James T. Jones Life Alpha Beta: 10/26/51 Omega: 10/4/15 Clarence J. Jones Life Eta: 8/25/66 Omega: 12/12/15 Thomas E. Kelley, Sr. Life Xi: 12/9/39 Omega: 3/7/16 Don C. Locke Life Phi Lambda: 4/1/78 Omega: 6/8/16 William C. Lofton Life Beta Mu: 11/1/58 Omega: 10/26/15

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE. 62 SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

Chad L. Maclies Alumni 4/30/05 Omega: 1/1/16 Ernest V. Martin Life Iota Omicron Lambda: 12/1/71 Omega: 10/28/15 Jerry Massie Alumni Mu Beta Lambda: 9/21/85 Omega: 12/2/15 Richard Mccreary Alumni Beta Lambda: 1/15/82 Omega: 3/18/16 Frank J. Mcgill, Jr. Alumni Gamma Delta: 12/6/66 Omega: 4/8/16 Jerome W. Mondesire Alumni Rho: 2/17/88 Omega: 10/4/15 Dabney N. Montgomery Alumni Gamma Mu: 3/24/47 Omega: 9/3/16 Eugene S. Morris Life Iota Mu Lambda: 8/26/72 Omega: 4/17/16 Carlton H. Morse Life Gamma Sigma Lambda: 3/7/63 Omega: 2/7/16 Gordon J. Myatt Alumni Kappa: 11/15/47 Omega: 3/30/16

Alvin Owens Alumni Beta Eta Lambda: 6/16/68 Omega: 1/1/16 Thomas D. Pawley, III Life Beta Gamma: 12/15/34 Omega: 8/1/16 Louis C. Pendleton Alumni Beta Phi: 4/18/50 Omega: 1/1/16

Marque E. Nelson Alumni Delta Upsilon Lambda: 11/18/06 Omega: 1/1/16 Mario E. Nelson Alumni Zeta Rho Lambda: 4/16/11 Omega: 5/1/16 David H. Nunnally, Sr. Life Gamma Phi: 12/4/54 Omega: 10/17/15

Clinton Sprauve Life Eta Xi Lambda: 2/27/87 Omega: 8/14/15 Lamar A. Stroud, Jr. Life Gamma Iota: 4/1/56 Omega: 9/16/15

Janard J. Peychaud, Jr. Alumni Pi Gamma Lambda: 3/15/08 Omega: 6/7/16

Ozell Sutton Life Pi Lambda: 10/1/50 Eta Lambda Omega: 12/19/15

James Portlock Alumni Beta: 4/30/67 Omega: 1/2/16

Robert J. Taylor Life Beta Nu: 5/1/47 Omega: 11/4/15

Albert H. Powell Alumni Delta Upsilon Lambda: 5/1/75 Omega: 1/1/16

Larry J. Thomas Life Xi Lambda: 3/10/96 Omega: 4/2/16

Delmer Ross Life Pi Theta Lambda: 8/26/95 Pi Theta Lambda Omega: 8/28/16

Ernie D. Thompson Life Theta: 6/23/61 Omega: 2/7/16

Frank W. Scott Alumni Alpha Rho: 12/17/39 Omega: 1/1/16 Roosevelt Shields Life Delta Sigma Omega: 1/1/16 David A. Smith Life Eta Tau: 11/22/80 Omega: 5/16/16

Willie L. Neely, Sr. Alumni Beta Upsilon: 4/1/52 Omega: 11/16/15

Donald W. Spigner Alumni Gamma Xi Lambda: 3/1/74 Omega: 10/13/15

Will Smith, Jr. Alumni Gamma Iota: 2/12/47 Omega: 1/1/16 Willie H. Smith Life Iota Beta Lambda: 6/1/81 Omega: 9/17/16 Darvin L. Spigner Alumni Alpha Epsilon: 4/20/92 Omega: 9/12/15

Olyn Walker Alumni Beta Delta: 12/1/56 Omega: 5/10/16 Oliver Washington, Jr. Alumni Kappa Chi Lambda: 1/31/81 Omega: 8/5/16 John D. Webster Life Kappa Omicron Lambda: 8/1/76 Omega: 7/25/16 Charles O. Wilkins Life Delta Xi: 12/10/59 Omega: 8/29/16 Reginald C. Williams Life Epsilon Epsilon: 11/18/78 Omega: 8/25/15 Paul I. Wilson Life Theta: 12/10/55 Omega: 1/5/16

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE. COLLECTIVE 2015-16

63

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY LEADERSHIP DIRECTORY

BOARD OF DIRECTORS General President Mark S. Tillman president@apa1906.net General Treasurer Hyacinth C. Ahuruonye general.treasurer@apa1906.net Comptroller Donald E. Jackson comptroller@apa1906.net Regional Vice President - East R. Anthony Mills eastvp@apa1906.net Regional Vice President Midwest Willis L. Lonzer III midwestvp@apa1906.net Regional Vice President South Ronald M. Natson Sr. southvp@apa1906.net Regional Vice President Southwest Maurice D. Gipson southwestvp@apa1906.net Regional Vice President - West Russell E. Flye westvp@apa1906.net Regional Assistant Vice President - East Jordan P. Beckford eastavp@apa1906.net Regional Assistant Vice President - Midwest Kiel M. Barton midwestavp@apa1906.net Regional Assistant Vice President - South Qu’Derrick R. Covington southavp@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION OFFICIALS Director of Conventions Van L. Strickland director.conventions@apa1906. net Parliamentarian Lucien J. Metellus parliamentarian@apa1906.net Chaplain Clyde D. Carnegie chaplain@apa1906.net Sergeant At Arms Darrell M. Chase sergeant.at.arms@apa1906.net Security Director Donald L. Woods security@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN RULES & CREDENTIALS Ronald D. Stovall Jr. rules@apa1906.net Resolutions and Recommendations Joseph K. Byrd resolutions@apa1906.net AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENT Rodney T. Frank awards@apa1906.net GRIEVANCES AND DISCIPLINE Hervery B.O. Young grievances@apa1906.net

STANDING COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

COLLEGE BROTHERS AFFAIRS (COMMISSION) Frederick L. Cox III college@apa1906.net

Leadership Development Institute Brandon R. Tucker LDI@apa1906.net

RACIAL JUSTICE (COMMISSION) racial.justice@apa1906.net

M.I.S. and Technology Rufus P. Credle Jr. MIS@apa1906.net

BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (COMMISSION) Jermaine B. Patterson BED@apa1906.net

March of Dimes Wilbert L. Brown MOD@apa1906.net

LIFE MEMBERSHIP Alex DeJarnett life@apa1906.net

SPECIAL COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

Project Alpha William T. Ealy , Co-chair Ramon E. Peralta, Co-chair project.alpha@apa1906.net

A. Charles Haston Brother’s Keeper Adrian G. Brockington brothers.keeper@apa1906.net

Protocol and Logistics Kenyatta N. Shamburger Protocol@apa1906.net

Belford V. Lawson Oratorical Contest LeAaron A. Foley oratorical@apa1906.net Big Brothers Big Sisters Dale H. Long BBBSA@apa1906.net Boy Scouts Bobby R. Williams boy.scouts@apa1906.net College Life to Corporate Life Kevin P. McAllister C2C@apa1906.net Go to High School Go to College Ernest Black GTHGTC@apa1906.net

BUDGET & FINANCE Anthony D. Wilson budget@apa1906.net

Educational Activities James E. Baker education@apa1906.net

ELECTIONS Lucious Turner III elections@apa1906.net

Health and Wellness Felix Gallagher health@apa1906.net

MEMBERSHIP, STANDARDS & EXTENSION Anthony L. Cheatham MSE@apa1906.net

Hobart S. Jarrett Debate Competition Ryan T. Brown debate@apa1906.net

APPOINTED OFFICERS

PUBLICATIONS Paul E. Brown publications@apa1906.net

Internal Audit Review Team Dexter Leon Taylor audit@apa1906.net

General Counsel Wayne C. Harvey counsel@apa1906.net

HISTORICAL COMMISSION Robert L. Harris Jr. historian@apa1906.net

International Affairs André A. Moss international.affairs@apa1906.net

Historian Robert L. Harris Jr. historian@apa1906.net

PUBLIC POLICY Jean Accius II public.policy@apa1906.net

Investment Hyacinth C. Ahuruonye investment@apa1906.net

HUMAN RESOURCES Antonio Johnson HR@apa1906.net

John Hope Franklin Collegiate Scholars’ Bowl Thomas A. Vance Jr. scholars.bowl@apa1906.net

Regional Assistant Vice President - West Kagi M. Kananga westavp@apa1906.net Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer William Douglass Lyle edcoo@apa1906.net

64

Miss Black and Gold Pageant André P. Prospere pageant@apa1906.net

Audit Justin J. Roberson comptroller@apa1906.net

CONSTITUTION John M. Williams constitution@apa1906.net

Regional Assistant Vice President - Southwest Barry A. Taylor southwestavp@apa1906.net

Military Brothers Melvin L. Fogle military@apa1906.net

Reclamation Frank Russell Jr. reclamation@apa1906.net Ritual and Ceremonies Ryle A. Bell ritual@apa1906.net Senior Alpha Affairs senior.affairs@apa1906.net Step Show Competition Warren D. Isenhour step.show@apa1906.net Time and Place Parker Burton III time.place@apa1906.net Training and Development Clifford M. Clarke training@apa1906.net Voteless People is a Hopeless People Steven L. Jones VPHP@apa1906.net World Policy Council Horace G. Dawson WPC@apa1906.net

FOUNDATIONS Alpha Phi Alpha Building Foundation R. Leandras “Bob” Jones building.foundation@apa1906. net Alpha Building Foundation Corporation James R. Williams 1733 Brookwood Drive Akron, OH 44313 (330) 867-7536

Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation Ruben Barkley education.foundation@ apa1906.net Jewel Heritage Project Foundations E. Eric Elmore JHP@apa1906.net

PAST GENERAL PRESIDENTS Acting General President Aaron Crutison Sr. AGP@apa1906.net 33rd General President Herman “Skip” Mason Jr. 32nd General President Darryl R. Matthews Sr. 32@apa1906.net 31st General President Harry E. Johnson Sr. 31@apa1906.net 30th General President Adrian L. Wallace 30@apa1906.net 29th General President Milton C. Davis 29@apa1906.net 28th General President Henry Ponder 28@apa1906.net 27th General President Charles C. Teamer Sr. 27@apa1906.net 26th General President Ozell Sutton 1640 Loch Lomond Trail, SW Atlanta, GA 30331 (404) 344-0370 25th General President James Williams 1733 Brookwood Drive Akron, OH 44313 (330) 867-7536 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Corporate Office 2313 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 554-0040 membersupport@apa1906.net www.apa1906.net

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY JEWEL FOUNDERS Henry Arthur Callis Charles Henry Chapman Eugene Kinckle Jones George Biddle Kelley Nathaniel Allison Murray Robert Harold Ogle Vertner Woodson Tandy

Alpha Phi Alpha Charitable Foundation Dennis G. Kemp Sr. charitable.foundation@ apa1906.net

THE SPHINX

Register: https://alphanet.APA1906.net Contact: 800-373-3089 membersupport@apa1906.net