AUDACIOUS ALPHA ETA CHAPTER
“Audacity at its Finest”
50 th Anniversary
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 1974 - 2024
September 6-8, 2024
“Friendship is Essential to the Soul.”
40 th Anniversary
1. Genesis 8 11/17/1973
Kenneth Anderson*
Ricardo Bowman
Blair Butler
Robert Dozier
Samuel Jacobs
Raeford Mcllwaine
Eli Smith
Raymond Smith
2. Funky 8 5/11/1974
Robert Booker
Craig “Sack” Carter*
Dwight Brooks
Melvin Davis*
Leonard Poole*
Gerald Parrish*
Rick Canty*
John Shelton
3. Defiant 1 3/16/1975
G. Donald “Duck” Ford
4. Eight Evil Ways 12/12/1975
Chris “Choc” Harrison
Bruce “Bing” Smith
Ronnie Bivens
Kevin Freer
Stephen “Focus” Ford
Joseph Gold
Levy Delee
Reginald Harris
5. Unlimited 1 3/16/1977
Myron Young
6. Phase 4 5/4/1978
Tim Pressley
Alvin “AD” Doyle
Richard Hill
Michael Simpson
7. Indestructible Two 2/4/1979
George L. Blount Jr.
Arthur Pelzer II
8. Faithful 5 5/12/1979
Dwayne T. Dixon*
Bernard Green
Rodney “Silk” Burwell
Kenneth Osborne*
Dennis Turner
9. Determined 2 4/29/1980
Carmine Bailey*
Arnold Freeman
10. Undisputed 1 4/18/1981
Robert Crawford
11. 2 Dedicated 9/10/1982
Devot Garrett
Anthony “Icky” Young
12. Galactic 2 4/27/1983
Raymond “Zeek” Hamlin
Kelvin “Quip” Healey
13. Hardrock 8 4/27/84
Manfred “Chill” Polk
Donal “Hump” Humphrey
Mark Lepoed
David Rankins
John Anderson*
Mike Cox
Johnathan Bramble
Gary Reeves
14. 4 Busted Nuts 6/13/1986
Byran Bratcher
Gordon Bullock
Trace Mebane
Kevin Williams
15. 2 Brainless Wonders 4/15/1987
Wallace “Walik” Nixon
Douglas Moore Jr.
16. 3 Resurrected 5/29/1988
Darrin “Yum Yum” Byrd
David Bowles*
Richard Goode II
17. Thunderous 3 5/17/90
Lawrence X Henry
John “Russ” Russell
Keith “Sleep” Fisher
18. 6 Souls of 69 12/12/1992
Kim Carelock
Garrett “Bo” Hall
Terrance Jenkins
Bernard Richardson
Brian Twyman
Jerry Jones
19. Apocalypse e 3/11/1995
Darius Walker
Syheed Fields
Oladokun Ajaiyeoba
20. Armageddon 4 4/18/1998
Mithell Zaire Lee Sr.
William Farmer
Reginald Johnson
Aaron Lorick*
21. Audacious 1 4/13/2001
Jameson “Mac” McLaughin
22. Abominable One 9/7/2003
Jahri Evans
ALPHA ETA CHAPTER OF OMEGA
PSI PHI FRATERNITY
Omega Chapter
The Brother listed below have departed this earthly world. They are still Brothers in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., but are now members of the Omega Chapter. We acknowledge and honor them here.
Kenneth Anderson 73’
Craig Carter 74’
Melvin Davis 74’
Leonard Poole 74’
Gerald Parrish 74’
Rick Canty 74’
Dwayne Dixon 79’
Kenneth Osborne 79’
Carmine Bailey 80’
John Anderson 84’
David Bowles 88’
Aaron Lorick 98’
ALPHA ETA CHAPTER
Has made a Local, National, International and Global di0erence.
Military High-Ranking O1cer
Pro Football
Entrepreneur
Big Brothers
Teacher
Principal
Clergy/Pastor
Probation O1cer
Accountant
Coach Mentor
Lawyer
Leadership Executive Police O1cer
Special Education
Investment Consultant
College & University Professor
SEE IT THROUGH
By Edgar Albert Guest
When you’re up against a trouble,
Meet it squarely, face to face;
Li! your chin and set your shoulders, Plant your feet and take a brace.
When it’s vain to try to dodge it, Do the best that you can do;
You may fail, but you may conquer, See it through!
Black may be the clouds about you
And your future may seem grim, But don’t let your nerve desert you;
Keep yourself in ghting trim. If the worst is bound to happen, Spite of all that you can do,
Running from it will not save you, See it through!
Even hope may seem but futile,
When with troubles you’re beset, But remember you are facing
Just what other men have met. You may fail, but fall still ghting; Don’t give up, whate’er you do;
Eyes front, head high to the nish.
See it through!
H23n o. /#, O3,4! P)i P #i
F(!/,(ni/2, In&.
O3,4! D,!(
B2 Hon. B(o. M,(&,( C oo5 !nd Hon. B(o. C #!(l,) D(,6 R ,&o(d,d 72 /#, O34,! C #o(!l E n),37l, in 89:9
Omega Dear, we are thy own !ou Art our Life, our Love, our Home, We’ll Sing !y praises far and nigh We love Omega Psi Phi. To all thy precepts make us true; Live Nobly as all real men do; Let manhood be our eternal shrine; With faith in God and Heart and Mind. !rough days of joy or years of pain; To Serve thee e’er will be our aim; And when we say our last goodbye; We’ll love Omega Psi Phi.
Alpha Eta Chapter 50th Anniversary and James Avery Shirtsleeve Conference/ Undergraduate Summit Event Guide
Overview
Welcome to the Alpha Eta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s 50th Anniversary celebra�on and the 2024 James S. Avery, Sr. Shirtsleeve Conference and Second District Undergraduate Summit. This guide provides essen�al informa�on, direc�ons, and a schedule of ac�vi�es to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all atendees.
September 5, 2024
2:00 PM - 4:00
Protec�on of Womanhood Lecture with Dr. Lawrence X Beer Hall, East Stroudsburg University
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Meet the Greek Mee�ng Student Union, Senate Chambers, East Stroudsburg University
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Meet the Greek Mee�ng Carver Hall, Bloomsburg University
10:00 PM - 12:00 AM AH Brothers Recep�on
September 6, 2024
Schedule
2
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cocktail Recep�on Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Ball Room 1 and 2 Recep�on Area
7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Banquet/ Gala Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Main Ball Room 1and 2
11:00 PM - 2:00 AM Guy Fiere Restaurant Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Casino Floor
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Time Event Loca�on
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Brother ou Are n My Mind Walking Tour of East Stroudsburg s Campus
7:00 AM Registra�on pens
8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Shirtsleeve Conference and Undergraduate Summit
10:00 AM11:30 AM Breakfast for Alpha Eta Brothers
Mee�ng place: Abelo Center for the Performing Arts, East Stroudsburg University
Abelo Center for the Performing Arts, East Stroudsburg University
Abelo Center for the Performing Arts, East Stroudsburg University
Historic Church, managed by Tomiko
12:00 PM1:00 PM Historic Campus Tour AH History Commitee East Stroudsburg University
11:00 AM4:00 PM endor Fair AH 0th Anniversary Event Campus and Community nvited East Stroudsburg University
4:30 PM 1st Annual 2nd D James S. Avery Undergraduate Summit - ard Show March Down
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Hospitality Suite
8:30 PM12:00 AM Pool Event
12:00 AM –2:00 AM Guy Fiere Restaurant
12:00 AMClosing Hospitality Suite
Sunday, September 8, 2024
Time Event Loca�on
Circle in front of Abelo Center, East Stroudsburg University open to public
Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Room TBD
Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Get Wet Pool
Mount Airy Casino Resort/Casino Floor
Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Room TBD
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Breakfast and Closing Ceremonies Mount Airy Casino Resort/ Pine & Hemlock Room
Gala Program Schedule- Friday September 6, 2024 (6:45 PM - 11:30 PM)
Time c�
6:45 PM7:00 PM Arrival and Sea�ng
7:00 PM7:15 PM pening Remarks
Details
Guests arrive, nd their seats, and are welcomed by the event sta .
The brothers of Alpha Eta Chapter assemble on the steps for the chapter picture.
Background music plays so ly.
Emcee welcomes guests and provides an overview of the evening.
Brief introduc�on of the signi cance of the 0th Anniversary.
ntroduc�on of dis�nguished guests.
7:15 PM7:30 PM Alpha Eta Chapter MarchIn The brothers of Alpha Eta Chapter march into the event in Purple Jackets.
7:30 PM7:40 PM Word from Pla�num Purple Sponsor Representa�ve from the Pla�num Purple sponsor gives a brief speech.
7:40 PM8:05 PM Dinner Service Begins Main courses are served.
Background music con�nues.
8:05 PM8:20 PM eynote Speech
A dis�nguished speaker delivers the keynote address.
Topic: The history and future of the Alpha Eta Chapter and mega Psi Phi Fraternity.
8:20 PM8:50 PM Con�nua�on of Dinner Service Dinner service con�nues with light background music.
8:50 PM9:20 PM Entertainment Segment Performance by a selected ar�st or group.
Time c�
9:20 PM9:45 PM Dessert Service and Awards Presenta�on
9:40 PM
9:45 PM10:00 PM Remarks from Chapter Leaders
Details
Can include music, dance, or a special presenta�on.
Dessert is served. Entertainment con�nues
Presenta�on of awards and recogni�ons to notable chapter members and contributors.
Brief speeches from the current Chapter President and other key leaders.
Re ec�ons on the chapter s achievements and vision for the future.
10:00 PM10:30 PM Special Tribute
10:30 PM10:45 PM pen Floor
10:45 PM11:30 PM mega Party
Tribute to the founders and signi cant contributors to the chapter.
ideo presenta�on or a live performance.
pen oor for brief remarks or acknowledgments from guests.
pportunity for guests to share their experiences and memories.
Emcee calls all ues to the oor.
DJ plays Atomic Dog.
Brothers circle up for the hymn.
WORDS FROM OUR CHAIR
I extend my warmest greetings to everyone joining us in celebrating the signi;cant 50th anniversary of the Audacious Alpha Eta chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Your presence and camaraderie are deeply appreciated.
Established on September 7, 1974, at East Stroudsburg University during a tumultuous era, Alpha Eta owes its gratitude to its visionary founders and Genesis, whose unwavering faith fostered the growth of a fraternity in challenging circumstances. 2.
e theme for our 50th anniversary is “Perpetual Motion,” symbolizing a state of continuous and unrelenting progress, which Alpha Eta exempli;es. Despite various challenges, the chapter has consistently advanced, showcasing resilience and determination.
We honor all members, both living and those who have transitioned to Omega Land, for their relentless pursuit of progress.
Here’s to the next 50 years of excellence and growth.
Douglas DJ Moore Spring ‘87 the Audacious AH CHAPTER
LETTER FROM THE VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE 50th ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE
Dear Brothers, Friends, and Esteemed Guests,
As I sit down to write this letter, I am ;lled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. e journey of the Alpha Eta Chapter over the past ; y years is nothing short of remarkable—a testament to the power of brotherhood, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
However, our path has not always been easy. Like any great journey, we have faced our share of hardships. ere have been times of trial, where our strength as a chapter was tested, where the road seemed uncertain, and where perseverance was not just a motto but a necessity. Yet, through these challenges, we emerged stronger, more united, and more determined to carry forward the legacy of those who came before us.
One of the most signi;cant milestones in our chapter’s history was the expansion beyond the con;nes of East Stroudsburg University. As a proud member of the 1992 line from Bloomsburg University—the ;rst to extend Alpha Eta’s reach westward—I witnessed ;rsthand the power of our brotherhood to transcend boundaries. is expansion to institutions like Lafayette College and Bloomsburg University was not just a geographical extension but a broadening of our vision, our impact, and our commitment to upli ing our communities across a wider landscape.
Our 50th Anniversary is more than a milestone; it is a moment of re ection and renewal. As we look back on the past ;ve decades, we honor the brothers who have come before us—those who have paved the way with their dedication and sacri;ce. eir spirit lives on in every chapter meeting, every service project, and every step we take as we continue to uphold the ideals of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Upli .
But this celebration is also about looking forward. It is about recommitting ourselves to the values that have sustained us and envisioning the future we want to build together. e world today needs the spirit of Omega more than ever—men who are willing to lead with integrity, to stand up for justice, and to serve others sel essly.
To my brothers, I challenge you to continue to strive for greatness, to li as you climb, and to never forget the power of unity and brotherhood. Together, we have achieved so much, and together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish in the years to come.
To our friends, supporters, and guests, thank you for standing by us, for believing in our mission, and for celebrating this historic occasion with us. Your support has been instrumental in our success, and we are deeply grateful.
As we commemorate this golden anniversary, let us be inspired by the past, empowered in the present, and resolute in our commitment to a future that shines even brighter.
In Brotherhood and Service,
Terrence Jenkins Vice Chairman, Alpha Eta Chapter 50th
Anniversary Committee
September 6, 2024
Greetings to the Family and Friends of Alpha Eta!
It is an honor and privilege for the Brothers of Alpha Eta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to welcome you in Friendship. ank you for joining us at the beautiful Mount Airy Lodge and Casino to celebrate our 50th anniversary. We are commited to serving the people of the Lehigh Valley, Pocono region, and Suburban Philadelphia communites who may or may not have jobs, food, shelter, and educational opportunities. is event is our primary service activity for the fall of 2024.
We have an incredible weekend in store for the Brothers, family, and friends. e Brothers of Alpha Eta have planned a weekend that grants you access to the fantastic amenities at Mount Airy Lodge and on the beautiful campus of East Stroudsburg University. Our impressive lineup of events and extracurricular activities will keep you entertained, engaged, and rooted in Friendship.
We thank you for celebrating with us and hope our 50th anniversary is memorable.
Sincerely in Friendship,
Bro. Dr. Syheed Fields Basileus, Eta Mu Nu
September 2024
Founders: Frank Coleman, Oscar J. Cooper, Ernest E. Just, Edgar A. Love
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
3951 Snapfinger Parkway Decatur, GA 30035
Telephone: (404) 284-5533 Fax: (404) 284-0333 www.oppf.org
Greetings Brothers of Alpha Eta Chapter,
L. Lewis Grand Basileus
rickylewis@earthlink.net
I want to first and foremost thank you for entrusting and electing me as your 42nd Grand Basileus of our beloved Fraternity. The mantra of men of strong will and Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift continue to define us and serve as our guidepost s as we uphold the precepts of our founders!
Congratulations to the legacy of Alpha Eta Chapter and the 16 charter members on the 50th Anniversary of service in the East Stroudsburg University community. We thank you for your continued commitment to the tenants of our beloved Founders. I commend Brother Douglas Moore for his steadfast leadership for chairing the 50th Anniversary celebration
When I sought to become the 42nd Grand Basileus, I said to you that “Excellence Is My Starting Point.” I said that integrity and character are paramount. We are keeping that commitment.
In our communities world-wide, we have our mandated programs and we have our recently added programs. We actively do these things – Fatherhood Initiative and Mentoring is now a mandate, searching for and Illuminating Young talent and providing scholarship support – and we do these things not for ego or personal gain – but instead because it is our duty and our charge. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is now a mandate, teaching our young men the importance of embracing technology.
During my administration, we are here to serve you and our communities. We are asking you to serve our communities and make a difference. We shall not lose the common touch!
Number 1. Save Our Sons through mentoring, STEM, scholarship offerings and tutoring.
Number 2. Help fathers to be better fathers through our Fatherhood Initiative.
Number 3. Stay engaged with our brotherhood through (BYOMM): Call a brother.
Number 4. Save our HBCUs through regular and consistent contributions.
Number 5. Invest in Omega; pay your fraternity dues and reclaim just one additional brother.
If we resolve to do these five things and do them well, we will continue to see the undeniable fulfillment in our communities.
Ricky L. Lewis, Grand Basileus
Ricky
Amir Shareef
Congratulations to the Brothers of the Alpha Eta Chapter on 50
Years of Sustained Superior Performance!
Whereas, on this auspicious occasion, we gather to commemorate and celebrate 50 years of excellence, achievement, and unwavering commitment by the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter, founded in the heart of the Second District a district with a storied legacy that began in Brooklyn, New York in 1947. Whereas, the Alpha Eta Chapter, an illustrious part of our fraternity, has stood as a beacon of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift since its inception, contributing significantly to the growth and development of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., within the five states that comprise our district; Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
Whereas, the Alpha Eta Chapter has, for half a century, has demonstrated exceptional leadership, advancing the fraternity's mission through steadfast service, unrivaled social action, & a relentless pursuit of academic excellence, enriching the lives of men who wear the royal purple and old gold Whereas, the chapter's enduring dedication and illustrious history are deeply intertwined within the tapestry of the Second District, which, since its humble beginnings, has expanded into a thriving and dynamic collective of over 100 chapters (undergraduate and graduate), reflecting the fraternity's sustained growth and the vital role of the Alpha Eta Chapter in nurturing this expansion and solidifying the district’s prominence within Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Whereas, the members of Alpha Eta, past and present, have embodied the fraternity's cardinal principles, leading with honor, integrity, and purpose, ensuring that the chapter not only thrives but also serves as a model of Omega's ideals for all to emulate.
Now, Therefore, I, Amir Shareef, the 39th District Representative of the Second District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., do hereby proclaim, with profound pride and deep respect, our collective acknowledgment and celebration of the Alpha Eta Chapter's 50th Anniversary
Be It Further Resolved, that this milestone is a testament to the chapter's unwavering commitment to our cardinal principles and a promise of its continued impact on humanity and the world writ large.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Second District of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., to be affixed on this day.
Given under my hand, this sixth day of September 2024.
Bro. Amir Shareef
39th Second District Representative Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
"Friendship is Essential to the
To the Brothers of the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter ,
It is with great pride and admiration that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter as we celebrate our remarkable 50th anniversary. This milestone is a testament to the unwavering dedication to the principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift that have not only preserved but also elevated the legacy of our chapter.
Over the past five decades, Alpha Eta has experienced significant growth, expanding its influence from East Stroudsburg to Laffeyette College to Bloomsburg. This expansion is not just a sign of our chapter’s increasing strength, but also a reflection of the powerful impact that our principles have had on communities across this region.
resilience of Alpha Eta, particularly as we celebrate this 50th anniversary and recognize our growth, speaks volumes about your character and your determination.
Uplift movement and improvement on behalf of one’s surroundings remains the guiding light of our mission, reflected in Alpha Eta’s commitment to community service and mentorship. The impact of our efforts extends far beyond the fraternity, leaving a lasting legacy.
As we mark this 50th anniversary and celebrate our chapter’s expansion, know that your dedication has not only honored our traditions but also set a powerful example for future generations. I am honored to serve as your Corridor 3 Representative and witness Alpha Eta’s continued success.
Manhood the basic principles of responsibility is about leading with integrity and taking responsibility for oneself and others. Your actions, both within and outside the fraternity, embody true leadership and honor.
Scholarship the attainment of knowledge and the effective usage of it is more than just acquiring knowledge; it's about applying it to make a difference. Your academic and professional successes showcase the intellectual rigor that defines our brotherhood.
Perseverance overcoming adversity to achieve success—has driven your continued success, enabling you to overcome challenges and achieve new heights. The
Congratulations on your achievements, on reaching this historic milestone, and on the growth that has extended Alpha Eta from East Stroudsburg to Bloomsburg and beyond. The future is bright for Alpha Eta, and I am confident that the chapter will continue to lead with distinction, upholding the values that make Omega Psi Phi a beacon of brotherhood and service.
Fraternally yours,
Terrance Jenkins
Corridor 3 Representative 3 Fall 92 Audacious AH
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Ancient Egyp�an Arabic rder obles Mys�c Shrine of orth and South America and its Jurisdic�ons, nc.
rgani ed June 10, 1 lncorporated ovember 10, 1 01 Washington, D.C.
September 6, 2024
“
47th Imperial Potentate
Thomas R. Hughes
…If you can dream – and not make dreams your master; If you can think – and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster and treat those two imposters just the same…”
To the brothers of the Alpha Eta Chapter of the mega Psi Phi Fraternity ncorporated, congratula�ons on your 0 Anniversary Celebra�on.
As the 47th mperial Potentate of the Ancient Egyp�an Arabic rder obles Mys�c Shrine A.E.A. . .M.S. nc. and mperial Court Daughters Auxiliary of the A.E.A. . .M.S. nc. , we are driven to provide human needs, enabling marginali ed communi�es to overcome obstacles that historically hindered their progress. The A.E.A. . .M.S. and mperial Court Daughters, consis�ng of over ,000 members, are commited to further collabora�ve e orts with mega Psi Phi Fraternity nc., locally, na�onally, and interna�onally, along with other Divine ine organi a�ons, to increase:
- Access to Educa�on opportuni�es
- Access to Economic Stability
- Access to Health and Wellness
our demonstra�on of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplif are �meless principles that will con�nue to forge the way for humanity well into the 21st Century and beyond!
Thomas R. Hughes
47th mperial Potentate
EAST STROUDSBURG UNIVERSITY
Office of the President
President Kenneth Long's Welcome
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc
Greetings! I am Keeneth Long, President of East Stroudsburg University. As the first person of color to serve as President of this great university, it is my honor to welcome the brothers of Omega Psi Phi, the first Black fraternity at the University, as we host the James S. Avery Sr. Shirt Sleeve Conference & Undergraduate Summit Workshops on our beautiful campus in the Pocono Mountains; "Home of the Pocono Ques."
"
Join the brothers of Omega Psi Phi from' September 6 through 8 for a weekend filled with education, fellowship, and celebration. This year, we are especially proud to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter, celeb_rating the birth of their charter at East Stroudsburg University. ·· .. "
I am proud to welcome the Omega Men to our campus and look forward to your visit to East Stroudsburg University and the beautiful Pocono Mountains. Thank you.
THE BIRTH AND EXPANSION OF AUDACITY AT ITS FINEST
!e motto of our illustrious fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity Inc. is “Friendship is Essential to the Soul”. It was friendship and a tenacious duty to serve Omega that birthed a chapter so bold they dared to plant a ag in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania (PA) shortly following the civil rights era! !e founding charter members, Brothers Neil Simpson (66- Mu) and (John) Wesley Gumby (68-Beta Gamma), of this new lamppost of Omega, were childhood friends who were raised in Harrisburg, PA. !e light of Omega was shone upon them during their youth by men in their families and communities that they admired and wanted to emulate. !e in uence of Omega followed each young man on their collegiate journeys and grew as they matriculated through Cheyney State Teachers College. Brother Neil Simpson would be initiated through Mu chapter in 1966 upon graduating from Cheyney State. Brother Wes Gumby would pledge at Beta Gamma chapter in 1968 while enrolled at Cheyney State.
Upon graduating from Cheyney State Teachers College, Bro. Neil Simpson would teach in the Philadelphia and Chester, Pennsylvania school systems before taking an administrative role at East Stroudsburg State College (ESSC) in the early 1970’s. During Neil’s early years at ESSC, the school began actively recruiting Black and Hispanic students. As a more diverse student body began to grow, Bro. Simpson thought establishing a Black Greek Organization on campus would unify and provide support and instill pride amongst the Black and other minority students during their enrollment.
!e implementation of a dynamic and productive Black undergraduate organization would provide visibility and accessibility to the ESSC administration for minority students. Being the tail-end of the civil rights movement it was critical to establish a presence of upstanding and distinguished gentlemen on the campus of East Stroudsburg and Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity and its four cardinal principles of, Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Upli , were the perfect model. While visiting his hometown of Harrisburg, PA Brother Simpson shared his idea of establishing a chapter of Omega at ESSC with his longtime friend and fraternity brother, Wes Gumby. By this time, Brother Gumby had graduated from Cheyney State and was working as a linguist in Harrisburg, PA. However, the idea of spreading the light of Omega along with a burgeoning interest from young Black men at many State Colleges in Pennsylvania intrigued and inspired Brother Gumby to leave his job in Harrisburg and take a position at ESSC to help his friend, Neil Simpson, establish a chapter of Omega Psi Phi.
With both friends now residing in East Stroudsburg, Brothers Simpson and Gumby were now in a position to identify candidates suitable to pursue Omega. As an administrator of the Act 101 program, Neil Simpson had a unique and favorable position to identify young Black scholars with the character and qualities required to traverse the Lampados Club of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc. Brother Simpson identi ed a diverse set of eight young men and wrote each of the prospective candidates a letter inviting them to join the quest for Omega. !e following young men answered the call of Omega and formed the rst line of Alpha Eta entitled “Genesis 8”: Samuel Jacobs, Kenneth R. Anderson (Omega Chapter), Raeford McIlwaine, Eli Smith, Raymond C. Smith, Blair Butler, Robert
Dozier, and Ricardo Bowman. Genesis 8 included several members that spanned across athletics including gymnastics, basketball, martial arts, and a football coach. Additionally, the members of the line held various student administrative positions managing facilities and community service programs. !is group of young leaders began their journey as Omega Lamps at the onset of the semester and were initiated as Men of Omega sixteen weeks later November 17, 1973. Since this was a new region in which Omega had initiated members, the National headquarters required Genesis 8 to facilitate the new initiates through an established chapter near East Stroudsburg. Using his resources and fraternal relationships, from his teaching days, Brother Neil Simpson was able to coordinate the administrative processes for Genesis 8 through the Epsilon Pi chapter based in Chester, PA. During their pledge period Genesis 8 would visit and have a few joint sets with Lampados of Epsilon Pi but Brothers Gumby and Simpson, and a handful of other brothers within the Pocono Area, established a separate pledge process based on the standards learned from their initiation chapters of Beta Gamma and Mu, respectively.
!e precise marching, oneness, discipline, and militaristic operation of Genesis 8 had set the campus and greater Stroudsburg region a blaze with a new energy that had not been felt before! !eir artistic, eloquent, and powerful public greetings to their big brothers, along with a never-before-seen probate show, and the dedicated help from a beautiful court, piqued the interest and solidi ed the desire of many young male students to join the dynamic organization of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc. !e foundation was set, and the evolution was primed and ready for a potent expansion, a distinctive addition, which would come to be known as the Funky 8. Like their Prophytes, the prospective Lamps hailed from various locations including the Greater Philadelphia area, New York City, and urban areas of New Jersey. !e would-be initiates continued to don an array of leaders and scholars who met and held up to the cardinal principles of Omega. !is line of “funky” young men began and ended with eight prospectives that were forged through the res of Omega and proved worthy to enter the gates of Omega. Funky 8 consisted of baseball, track-and- eld, and gymnastic athletes as well as academic leaders including Robert Booker, Craig “Sack” Carter (Omega Chapter), Dwight Brooks, Melvin Davis (Omega Chapter), Leonard Poole, Gerald F. Parrish (Omega Chapter), Rick Canty (Omega Chapter), and John Shelton. !ese eight young initiates earned the moniker “Funky” due to their dynamic stepping and singing. !ey were innovative songsters recreating contemporary musical hits from the likes of Earth, Wind, and Fire into new renditions of songs for Omega. A er starting their journey in January, they crossed the burning sands on May 11, 1974, through administrative recognition of Epsilon Pi chapter. ESSC now had sixteen newly initiated Omega men. As a result, Brothers Simpson and Gumby and the acting basileus Brother Kenny Anderson (Omega Chapter) of the Genesis 8 line were able to facilitate and nalize the o cial charter for Alpha Eta (AH) chapter of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc. on September 7, 1974.
!e fall of 1974 had a healthy number of Omega men ever showcasing their comradery, service, intelligence, and resistance to societal “norms” and racially motivated culture in northeastern Pennsylvania. !e consistent and luminous beacon of Omega grew and persisted in the hearts and minds of young Black men seeking to change the circumstances of their families and communities. As a result, a line of nine started in the fall of 1974 and ended with only one initiate standing! At the early age of nine years old Glenn “Duck” Ford knew he wanted to become a Que. He lived in a small town on the outskirts of Philadelphia and had at least ve Omega men that lived in his neighborhood. Many of these men would be Duck’s coaches and teachers through his secondary schooling. However, there was one experience that he vividly remembers which would seal his decision to pursue Omega. His next-door neighbor was a Que and was having a party. !e neighbor and his frat brothers and sorority sisters were singing and chanting which drew young Duck to the backyard to see the commotion. He saw a sea of purple and gold that soon a er moved from the backyard to the street. !e brothers got into formation and began to “set-out” a step-show full of precise and uni ed marches with a thunderous cadence loud enough to bring out the entire neighborhood to enjoy this powerful display of Black pride and uni cation. It was this experience that set his desire to become a Que. Duck would grow to become a speedy football star who would be recruited to East Stroudsburg State College and witnessed Genesis 8 and Funky 8’s in uence and greatness. He was even more determined to become a Que and got his opportunity in November 1974 with his then-eight-line brothers. !e line of nine pledged until winter break and upon returning to school in January all others had dropped the line. Disheartened yet determined to don his royal purple and old gold, Duck forged ahead on a solo quest. His big brothers made up their minds to dissolve this line since all others had ended their journey. !us, the big brothers used all the means available to make Duck end his pledge period. However, Glenn was resolute and de ed all attempts to make him drop the line for the remaining 12-week lonely journey. On March 16, 1975, the De ant One was introduced to ESSC as the rst line under the charter of Alpha Eta (AH).
FURTHER HALLMARKS OF THE ‘70’s
With the o cial establishment of the Alpha Eta chapter and the tenacity of the chapter’s rst solo line, more young, quali ed men were drawn to the light of Omega. Following the initiation of the De ant One, arguably one of Alpha Eta’s most dynamic and in uential lines, Eight Evil Ways (EEW), crossed the burning sands.
EEW - 1975 AH Chapter
EEW was signi cant as they showcased their precision, ferocity, and adoration for Omega as pledgees to many schools across the East Coast. Ending any doubts as to whether this new chapter in the northeastern mountains of Pennsylvania would serve Omega at the highest of heights! !is bold and daring feat would forever be recognized by adopting the moniker “Audacious” Alpha Eta.
!e remaining years of the 1970’s would result in Alpha Eta initiating ve more lines including Unlimited 1, Phase 4, Indestructible 2, and the Faithful 5. Several members of the early lines of AH would graduate from ESSC but wanted to remain in the Poconos to continue serving the cause of their beloved fraternity. As a result, several members of AH, in conjunction with other Omega-Men living in the area, created the rst graduate chapter of the Lehigh Valley, Omega Xi, in 1978. With this signi cant milestone, Alpha Eta was primed to expand and serve Omega for decades within northeastern Pennsylvania.
HALLMARKS OF THE 80’S
At the turn of the decade Audacious Alpha Eta was the rst and only Black National Fraternity on the campus of ESSC. Giving this chapter great pride and the aspiration to enlarge the light of Omega. !erefore, Alpha Eta set its sights on expansion and establishing a footprint at other schools of higher education within the region during the 1980’s. !e rst three Alpha Eta lines of the 80’s: Spring 1980 was Determined 2, Spring 81 Undisputed 1, and Fall 81 Two Dedicated, were the last lines to honor the title “East Stroudsburg State College”, and then Spring 83 Galactic 2 and all lines a er will be pledged on the campus of the now renamed, East Stroudsburg University (ESU).
!ese lines would foster several noteworthy and accomplished professional men and events including an Olympic qualifying gymnast, attorney, correction o cer, military professionals, and a Wall Street options oor trader. During the glory days of Omega on the campus of ESSC, the brothers in 1975 organized and painted their mark on the campus at the Student Union building “THE GREAT OMEGA WALL” in summer of 1982 when the State College began an University, the independent leadership of the college university student union removed our great Omega Wall. It was removed! !e pride and joy of the “First’ black Greek letter organization on the campus of ESU lives no more!
!e year 1984 would forge a new path of spreading Omega by way of Alpha Eta. On April 27, 1984, Alpha Eta would initiate the Hardrock 8 which consisted of two students from ESU and six young men from Lafayette College in Easton, PA.
!e next Alpha Eta line, Four Busted Nuts, would enter the gates of Omega in the summer of 1986. !e line consisted of three students from Lafayette College and one student from ESU. Interestingly, the remaining lines of the 80’s Two Brainless Wonders (spring 87) and !ree Resurrected (spring 88) both pledged at ESU. !e 80’s lines of Alpha Eta produced several remarkable campus events and brothers including the rst black quarterback to start at ESU, an actor and singer in Germany, a chemical engineer. At the tail-end of the 1980’s the number of initiates per line were consistently getting smaller and the rigors of the Omega initiation process would lead to a signi cant shi in the fraternity that would impact the presence of Alpha Eta on the campus of East Stroudsburg University for decades.
84 Line at Temple University, with their Omega Lambda Big Brothers.
HALLMARKS OF THE 90’s
In the late 1980’s the fraternity started changing the administrative processes and policies associated with pledging traditions and the initiation of new members. Which would ultimately lead to the discontinuation of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc.’s Lampados Club as of December 31, 1990. Alpha Eta remained resolute in its belief and vision of serving its community within the Pocono mountains and beyond through the traditions and principles of Omega. As a result, the AH chapter would be able to usher in one more line before the Lampados Club would end at a national level. On May 17, 1990, !e !underous !ree line of Alpha Eta would make a resounding entrance on the campus of East Stroudsburg University. !is line consisted of three young leaders- two football players and one basketball star. !e !underous !ree loomed large in stature and presence each standing over 6 and weighing more than 200 lbs. Apart from their physical makeup, they had large personas that would reverberate through any place they entered. Not only would they take ESU by storm, but these three young men would make a thunderous presence at the surrounding universities and colleges. One university that would be branded with their presence would be Bloomsburg University.
!e boldness and strength of the 1990 Alpha Eta line would catch the eyes, hearts, and minds of several young men on the campus of Bloomsburg University. !ere was a buzz about BU on the possibility of Omega Psi Phi expanding to its campus. !ere were ten or more prospects at Bloomsburg University but, only seven met the scholarly requirements. !ey began the journey of traversing the 69 miles between BU and ESU in 1991 to build a relationship with the brothers of Alpha Eta. !e next year, the seven prospectives proved worthy of a chance to seek Omega. As a result, seven began the journey in October of 1992; however, early in the process the 69-mile trek proved too arduous for one young man. !ere were now six dedicated road warriors who would endure the journey to the gates of Omega. A er eight long weeks of continuous backand-forth between the 69-mile corridor between ESU and BU, the Six Souls of the 69 would explode onto the campus of Bloomsburg University on December 12, 1992. Similar to the genesis of ESU nearly two decades earlier, !e Six Souls of the 69 mesmerized the entire campus with a Probate Show that displayed melodic singing, thunderous marching, and sheer electricity never before witnessed in the town of Bloomsburg! !e six pioneers of this line: Kim Carelock, Garrett “Bo” Hall, Terrance Jenkins, Bernard Richardson, Brian Twyman, and Jerry Jones were the catalysts and foundational components of Alpha Eta’s sustainable expansion across the northeastern territory of Pennsylvania.
It was their audacious mindset and resolute determination, along with the vision and foresight of Big Brothers John Russell, Jr., Lawrence Henry, and Douglas Moore that enabled Alpha Eta to initiate 1995 (Apocalypse 3) and 1998 (Armageddon 4) lines.
Collectively, the Alpha Eta brothers in the decade of the 90’s continued the great tradition of fostering leadership and service. !is decade resulted in a Lt. Colonel, four doctors, authors, and several educators, entrepreneurs, and activists. It was this consistent leadership as students and professionals that kept the light burning for Omega at Bloomsburg University (BU) as we entered the new millennium.
HALLMARKS OF THE 2000’s
!e rst decade of the 2000s kept the light of Omega shining brightly at Bloomsburg University with a few star football players. One of which would become a Super Bowl Champion and six-time all-pro-o ensive lineman for the New Orleans Saints.
Before a future Super Bowl Champion would join the ranks of this Audacious chapter. A hilarious studentathlete from Petersburg, VA would star as a fullback at Bloomsburg University that helped lead them to the
Division II National Championship game. Between his prowess on the football eld, service, and comedic skill Jameson K. MacLaughlin “Mac” would become !e Audacious One! Mac would prove to be a bridge builder between his Prophytes and Neophytes of the 2000s and beyond. He would dean the following lines Abominable 1, Jahari Evans, and the Tenacious 2 (Marcus “Dupree” Arter and Stevie Draper). Jahri would get dra ed by the New Orleans Saints and would have a stellar career. !e Tenacious 2 let their lights shine as fathers and entrepreneurs. Before the end of this decade Alpha Eta would initiate four more young men under the lines Disjointed Two, Sirron Carrector and Jerrell Fisher, Will Terry Jr., and the Victorious 1, Vincent Browning. !ese young men would spearhead several campus initiatives and ultimately move on from BU and engage in careers as artists, educators, nancial investors, and Pennsylvania State Trooper.
HALLMARKS OF THE 2010’s
!e 2010 decade of Alpha Eta had been slowed and limited to one line, 4 of a Qind: Jordan Young, Timothy Rowe-Golden, Rashan Nelson, and Carlton Langley. !ese young men would navigate the world of Omega at Bloomsburg University through the help of the Lehigh Valley graduate chapter Omega Xi. Ultimately, they would matriculate through BU and become pillars of their communities as counselors for at-risk youth, businessmen, and activists. With a dwindling number of prospects at BU identifying themselves or lacking the requirements of Omega, Alpha Eta would once again cross that 69-mile corridor to keep the bloodline of Audacious Alpha Eta alive.
With the help of Omega Xi and the establishment of a newly formed graduate chapter at Bloomsburg University, Eta Mu Nu, new initiates on the campus of East Stroudsburg University would once again march, sing, and profess their love for Omega Psi Phi and the Audacious Alpha Eta chapter. !e rst line returning to the campus of ESU in over two decades would become the Rebellious 2 (Ademola Adeleye and Cornell Dixon) crossing the burning sands on November 10, 2018.
HALLMARKS OF THE 2020’s
!e lamp wick was once again lit on the campus of ESU sparking the interest of a young track star, Dominic Walton. Dominic was an all-conference and Division II All-American at shotput.
!e cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Upli resonated with this young studentathlete so much so that he would pursue the gates of Omega by himself. Dominic would persevere through graduating, track meets, and a global pandemic as the Forsaken 1 initiate of Alpha Eta on March 28, 2020. !e Forsaken 1 would then pursue his master’s degree at ESU to further his professional goals while providing an opportunity for the legacy of Alpha Eta to continue. On March 27, 2021, Alpha Eta’s rst intra-chapter legacy initiate would be born as the Resilient 1. Cory Russell would follow in his father’s, John Russell, Jr (!underous 3), footsteps some twenty years later, on the same hallowed ground as his father.
Fi y years from the birth and chartering of Alpha Eta proves worthy of the principles of Omega and the audacious vision of the chartering brothers of Neil Simpson and Wes Gumby. With young scholars and leaders within the chapter and young students with like attainments converging at the educational institutions of ESU and BU. !e foundation has been set and the future is open to continue its audacious pursuits for another y years and beyond! Long Live the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Establishing the Foundation of Alpha Eta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. East Stroudsburg College
1974 - 2024
GENESIS 8 1973
Epsilon Pi Chapter
Kenneth Anderson • ricArdo BowmAn • BliAr Butler
roBert dozier • sAmuel JAcoBs • rAeford mcilwAine eli smith • rAymond smith
36 years of teaching & coaching in the inner city schools of Philadelphia. Coaching girls & boys basketball, volleyball, tennis, baseball, so!ball and badminton.
Took Overbrook High School girls basketball to city championship game in 1998. Basketball o#cial for 25 plus years. Refereed in Delaware County, PA & Camden County, NJ.
A member of the International Association of Approved Basketball O#cials (IAABO).
PIAA Tri-State O#cials, Bronze Star Referee Organizations.
Building representative for Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Union.
Member of Sharon Baptist Church in Philadelphia and Mount Lebanon Baptist Church in Chesapeake, VA.
Member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Director Association.
Citation of Appreciation from the Senate of Philadelphia.
Citation of Appreciation from the City Council of Philadelphia.
Happily married to the same woman for 47 years. Father of 2 daughters, grandfather to 3 boys and 1 girl.
SAMUEL JOHN JACOBS, JR.
roBert BooKer
dwight BrooKs
leonArd Poole
ricK cAnty
crAig cArter
melvin dAvis
gerAld PArish
John shelton
“W#,n 6, )!2 ou( l!)/ 4ood72,, I 6ill lo-, O3,4! P)i P#i!”
GLENN “DONALD DUCK” FORD
Glenn “Donald Duck Ford, a0ectionately known as ‘ e De;ant One’, carries a legacy deeply intertwined with the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. His journey to pledge the fraternity began in the fall of 1974, but the seeds were sown much earlier.
As a young boy, Glenn was introduced to the Omega Psi Phi fraternity in 1968. His intrigue was piqued by his next-door neighbor, an active member of the fraternity, who also became his football and track coach in junior high school. He was captivated by the unity, dignity, and pride exhibited by the fraternity members, donned in their purple and gold attire, and the sisters in red and white. is sparked a curiosity in him about who they were and what they represented.
Upon asking his neighbor about joining this “gang”, Glenn was corrected - it was not a gang but a fraternity, a brotherhood. e only way to join was to attend college. is insight planted a bug in Glenn, setting him on a path to higher education.
In 1973, a er graduating high school, Glenn enrolled at East Stroudsburg University. Here, he saw individuals wearing attire representing the fraternity, which he initially mistook for the ROTC due to their uni;ed and positioned demeanor. Upon discovering it was the Omega Psi Phi fraternity, his interest was renewed.
In the fall of 1975, Glenn pledged the fraternity, starting with nine on his line and we were called the Divine Nine.
By winter 1975, Glenn realized he was the only one le pledging. However, he was determined to see it through and become part of the fraternity. His resolve never wavered, even as the pledge lasted for sixteen weeks, extending into the spring of 1975.
On March 16, 1975, Glenn’s determination paid o0 when he was inducted into the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. He became the ;rst-line brother of the Alpha Aeta chapter. Glenn was ;nally a “Q.”
Beyond fraternity life, Glenn’s journey with Omega Psi Phi had a profound impact on his personal life. It was through the fraternity that he met his wife, Samandra Hickman-Ford, whom he saw walking to the cafeteria on the East Stroudsburg University campus. Glenn never knew that Samandra would be his “lampada queen,” but quickly realized she was the one with whom he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Glenn and Samandra raised three children: Ivy, Donyia, and Gibril; together they share four grandchildren: Raiquan, Keenan, Samaij, Makiay; with one great-grandchild, Corey. is experience has shaped him over the past ; y years, as he continually applies the principles he learned from the fraternity to his family life. Glenn Donald Duck Ford’s story serves as an epitome of perseverance, unity, and commitment to values learned from the fraternity, earning him the title, ‘ e De;ant One.’
Eight Evil Ways
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
1974 - 2024
1. chris “choc” hArrison
3. ronnie Bivens
5. steve ford
7. levy delee
2. Bruce “Bing” smith
4. Kevin freer
6. Joe gold
8. reggie hArris
Tim Pressy • Alvin Doyle • Mike Simpson • Richard Hill Knock, Knock, Knocking
OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY INC. Is Representing The Royal Purple and Old Gold Everywhere
Alpha Eta Chapter is Everywhere.
BRO. DR. GEORGE L. BLOUNT JR.
Reverend Dr. George Leon Blount, Jr. is a distinguished leader whose remarkable journey through academia, ministry, and leadership has le! an indelible mark on those he serves. His academic path began at East Stroudsburg State College, now known as East Stroudsburg University (ESU), where he not only excelled in his studies but also made a signi cant impact in athletics. As a freshman, Dr. Blount, along with Dwayne Dixon, Michael Howard, and Rufus Brown, broke the 4x400 relay record, a testament to his early dedication to excellence and teamwork.
In his sophomore year, Dr. Blount was elected to the Senate, a position that honed his leadership abilities. It was during this time that he became inspired by a group of men who embodied the principles of scholarship, leadership, and brotherhood—qualities central to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. In$uenced by gures such as Benjamin Elijah Mays, Langston Hughes, Jesse L. Jackson, and his high school friend Dwayne Dixon (who at that time was not an Omega man), Dr. Blount attended an interest group meeting, known as a “smoker.” is marked the beginning of his journey into Omega Psi Phi, alongside fellow students. On February 4, 1979, a!er enduring a rigorous and trans-formative process, Dr. Blount and Arthur Pelzer II crossed the burning sands, earning the distinguished title of the “Indestructible Two” and securing their legacy within the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Beyond his undergraduate studies, Dr. Blount excellence has earned him a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management and Marketing from North Carolina A&T State University and furthered his academic achievements at Walden University. His educational journey continued with a Master of Business Administration in Marketing, followed by a Master of Arts and a Master of Divinity. His unwavering commitment to learning culminated in a Doctor of Ministry in Pulpit Preaching and a Doctor of Business Administration with a specialization in Leadership and Organizational Change. Dr. Blount also holds two honorary Doctor of Divinity degrees and is currently pursuing a PhD in Biblical Religion. Nationally recognized for his professional and academic expertise, Dr. Blount serves as an adjunct professor at Colorado Technical University and Strayer University, and he is the President and CEO of Victory Marketing Design, LLC. His in$uence also reaches the historic Philadelphia Tribune, the oldest African American newspaper in the country where he currently works. Beyond his academic and business endeavors, Dr. Blount has served as a consultant speaker for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolence, where he delivered a keynote address at West Chester University, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in trans-formative leadership and social justice.
In ministry, Dr. Blount has been a beacon of light for over 44 years. A native of Philadelphia who grew up in Abington, PA, he answered his call to ministry at the age of 20, licensed by the esteemed Reverend Dr. Leon H. Sullivan and later ordained by Reverend Dr. Raymond L. Lassiter, Jr. As the Senior Pastor of e Rock Community Baptist Church in Lansdowne, PA—formerly Greater White Rock Baptist Church—Dr. Blount successfully led the church through a $1.8 million relocation, a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to his congregation. As the founder of the Rock Bible Institute, Dr. Blount has conducted numerous workshops and seminars on Transformational Leadership, earning recognition as one of the Outstanding Young Men of America, Outstanding Professional Businessmen of America, and inclusion in Who’s Who in America, among other accolades.
A Life Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Dr. Blount continues to serve his fraternity with distinction as Chaplain and Chairman of the Scholarship Committee for the Chi Upsilon Graduate Chapter in New Jersey. His personal life re$ects his deep commitment to faith and family. He has been married for 41 years to his college sweetheart, Mrs. Andrea Richmond Blount, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina A&T State University and a Master of Public Health from Walden University. Lady Blount is a former President of the Evening Baptist Minister Wives, Ministers Widows Auxiliary. Together, they have raised two accomplished children: Keisha, a Howard University graduate with a Master’s degree in Reading, Writing, and Literacy from e University of Pennsylvania, and George III, also a Howard University graduate, who earned a Master’s degree in Education from Relay Graduate School of Education.
Dr. Blount’s ministry extends far beyond national borders. He and his wife have traveled to Zambia, Livingston Africa, where he led revivals and they conducted marriage seminars, further demonstrating their commitment to global ministry. Dr. Blount is actively involved in several Philadelphia-based organizations, including the Evening Baptist Ministers Conference of Philadelphia & Vicinity, where he serves as 2nd Vice President, the Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Philadelphia, and the Christian Minister Fellowship. Additionally, he serves on the board of the Philadelphia Baptist Association and is the President and CEO of e Rock Community Development Corporation.
Reverend Dr. George Leon Blount, Jr. lives by the motto: “If I can help somebody as I travel along, if I can help somebody in a word or song, if I can help somebody from doing wrong, Lord, my living shall not be in vain.” His guiding scripture is Luke 4:18, re$ecting his lifelong dedication to service, leadership, and the betterment of his community and beyond. ank you.
Faithful Five
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
1974 - 2024
#1 - DWAYNE “THE BILLY DQ” DIXON 1AH79ACE (OMEGA CHAPTER)
#2 - BERNARD “FUNKIEST QUE ON THE YARD” GREEN 2AH79DUCE
#3 - RODNEY “SILK” BURRELL 3AH79TRE STAR
#4 - KENNY “STONE FACE COACH MIGHTY” OSBORNE 4AH79ROCK-HONCHO (OMEGA CHAPTER)
#5 - DENNIS “DT” TURNER 5AH79TAILDOG
In Loving Memory
A Tribute to Dwayne Dixon
DR. SYHEED FIELD’S SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
Congratulations! To Future Hall of Famer JAHRI EVANS
imelea Therapeu�cs is developing a novel class of small molecule analogs SMA with a focus on auto-immune disease and a primary therapeu�c target of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus CLE . ur compounds have shown immunomodulatory e ects in several in ammatory disease animal models. The M A of our SMAs modulates immune response in both myeloid and lymphoid cell types. Where most compe�tors only e ect one immune cell type. Addi�onally, the chemical structure of imelea s SMAs allow mul�ple formula�ons. Thus, giving us the opportunity to develop several targeted treatment op�ons for autoimmune disorders and the broader complex of chronic in ammatory disease.
Two Dedicated 1974 - 2024
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
One of my Omega Heroes…
On October 15,1981, four young men were introduced to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. by way of being inducted into the Lampado’s Club of the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter on the campus of East Stroudsburg State College. e young men were Daryn West (age 19 years) from West Philadelphia PA, Anthony T. Young (19) from West Philadelphia PA and John Bartram H.S., Mark Henderson (21) from Queens NY, and Devot Garrett (20) from South Philadelphia PA Southern Phila. H.S.
ese young men became the Pledge Class Fall 1981. While working for Omega and working their way through their ;rst history set night, those men pledged to each other and to themselves, that “No One will drop pledging this line”, therefore, they gave themselves the line name “ e Mighty Four” and they had to earn it!
e line consisted of three college Gymnastic Team members, and one other “ e Rock” # 1 ( e Chinese Iron Man). Now our story turns, because there is a saying in Omega, “No two Chapters Pledge the same, and no two stories are the same”. e second week in December 1981 on a Sunday Night, our four lamps began “Hell Week” and become those Omega Dogs. It’s called their “Pro Week”. erefore, our pledges are now “Dogs”!
Now, we all know the wear and tear hell week plays on the heart, mind, and soul of the pledges and their bodies. On the night of December 10, 1981, with 48 hours till the end of their journey, and the Alpha Eta Chapter will bring “ e Mighty Four” into their chapter.
But they were told that the pledge line would “Pause” because the gymnastic team had a meet the next day in Upstate NY (Farmingdale). Only two Dogs and Big Brother Arthur Pelzer, Fall 78 were to travel to the gym competition. ESSC had a very good and strong gymnastic program for a Division II college level school and they were challenging Division I programs, as well as individual events. Tragically, on Friday evening on December 11, 1981, we are told that only two Brothers of Omega were returning to the campus as Brother Devote Garrett, had fallen and broken two vertebrae in his neck, wrongfully executing this move.
He was paralyzed from the neck down. Even now to this day, I will never understand what made this man (Dog #4), believe that his body would be able to handle this di1cult oor trick knowing what his mind and body had been going through during pledging.
Note: During the 1980’s, very few gymnasts in the world used a very complex and di!cult tumbling skill in competition (the omas Salto), and our brother Devot Garrett was one of them. His friend, world champion Kurt omas, created this move, but it eventually was banned from competitive gymnastics worldwide due to its dangerous nature.
e only thing I can think of is that Brother Devot Garrett has the heart of a “Champion”! We had learned to be “Audacious” in our Actions, (bold & daring), as pledges in this chapter and those are the same lessons and beliefs, we have carried forward with us to the present in life’s daily journey. Omega pushes our “Four Cardinal Principals” into the heart and soul of the Man.
at was the only way to break the “Mighty Four” Fall 81 pledge line. And it did! Several days later, we learned that Brother Garrett was going to recover but we did not know if he would be able to walk again let alone ever do gymnastics again.
We were very thankful for “whatever gods may be” for our unconquerable souls. Once we knew Devot aka. “Mr. D” was on a tremendous path of recovery, we wanted to wait with great anticipation for his return so we could all cross those “burning sands” together. Unfortunately, when the Spring 82 semester rolled around only “Yard Dogs” number one & two returned to ESSC. Number three did not return to ESSC due to personal reasons and instead had to return home.
Brother Devot Garrett seen here at home in South Philadelphia wearing his halo brace, which provided stability for his neck and fractured vertebrae to heal.
As the Spring semester came and went, we hit the summer months and Brother Garrett was not only healing and getting better, he was also highly motivated to continue living life again, as well as beginning to walk again. “My Omega Hero”! Not only did my Line Brother return to school Fall 1982, that man returned to gymnastics that same year, slowly but surely (No Doubt)!
But sad to say for Dog #1 & #3 they did not return to ESSC, and therefore did not cross those “burning sands” on September 10, 1982 and enter the “Brothers of the Audacious Alpha Eta Chapter”! A er inducting these two new Omega Men on the campus of ESSC the chapter brothers renamed the Fall 81 line “Two Dedicated”, consisting of Brother Anthony “Icky” Young, LM and Brother Devote Garrett. Greek Picnic 1983..!
Note: Before graduating from what had become East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in December 1985, Devot won several accolades which include several All-American honors, both as an individual, as well as with the team in the NCAA. He quali;ed for the national team for sports acrobatics and competed in the 6th World Sports Acrobatics Championships in So;a, Bulgaria. He placed 5th in the Men’s Platform Tumbling event.
Dedication, Determination, & Perseverance is what kept us pushing forward in life searching for that “Royal Purple & Old Gold “and during those 11 months. However, as for my number #1 Brother Daryn West it took him several more years of courage and perseverance and not giving up on the dream of becoming an Omega Man, and he too then crossed those “Burning Sands”!
T#, B(o/#,() o. /#, Aud!&iou) Alp#! E/! C #!p/,( o. O3,4! P)i P#i F(!/,(ni/2, In&. (AB S/,p S#o6)
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University Galactic 2
1974 - 2024
Bro. Kelvin “QuiP” heAley Bro. • rAymond “zeeK” hAmlin, esQ.
In the fall of 1982, two young men, Ray Hamlin from Long Branch, New Jersey, and Kelvin Healey from Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, arrived at East Stroudsburg State College (now East Stroudsburg University). Both were standout athletes on the varsity men’s basketball team—Ray as a starting freshman point guard and Kelvin as a starting forward/shooting guard. During that 1982-83 basketball season, they formed a close bond with Rodney Samuel “Silk” Burrell, a member of the Alpha Eta chapter of Omega Psi Phi, who introduced them to a lifelong journey in the fraternity. Although Ray was familiar with Omega Psi Phi from his high school days, Kelvin was entirely new to it.
Soon, both Ray and Kelvin found themselves pledging to join Omega Psi Phi, the fraternity that would profoundly shape their lives. rough the pledging process, they learned the importance of unity and brotherhood—”I am my brother’s keeper.” ese lessons have stayed with them, guiding them to become better men, husbands, fathers, brothers, and community leaders. ey both hold dear the fraternity’s cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Upli!, striving each day to live up to these ideals. For them, Omega Psi Phi is not just a fraternity; it is a way of life.
Brother Ray Hamlin, known as “ET” and number one on their pledge line, has enjoyed a successful career as an attorney for over 30 years. He is a founding partner of Hunt, Hamlin & Ridley, a law rm in Newark, New Jersey. Ray has represented countless clients in high-pro le cases in both State and Federal Court, earning recognition for his legal contributions, including a notable Supreme Court victory alongside fellow chapter brother David Rankins in 1984. In his free time, Ray enjoys spending quality time with his wife of over 30 years, Zoraya, their children, making music in his home studio, perfecting his golf game, and indulging in ne cigars, whiskeys, bourbons, scotches, and tequilas.
Brother Kelvin Healey, known as “Yoda” and number two on the line, dedicated 35 years to serving as a Parole Agent and Parole Supervisor in Pennsylvania. roughout his career, Kelvin placed himself in harm’s way during raids and high-level investigations, working tirelessly to help individuals navigate the criminal justice system and become productive members of society. He takes great pride in his achievements, having positively impacted thousands of lives. In October 2022, Kelvin retired and now enjoys spending time with his wife, Lez, their children, friends, and family, as well as playing golf, savoring ne whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches, and smoking cigars.
Hardrock 8
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
1974 - 2024
MANFRED F POLK, CAKA FREDRICK J GIGGLES FUNKMISER IIID
e Hardrock 8 pledge line took place during the spring semester of 1984 at East Stroudsburg University (ESU), East Stroudsburg Pennsylvania. ere were nineteen pledge classes for AH chapter in which the Hardrock 8 was the 11th successful line to cross. ere were many milestones associated across many of the pledge classes but other than Genesis 8, which was the seed that started the AH legacy, it was Hardrock 8 that trained its sights on expanding the chapter outside the East Stroudsburg campus. is was the brainchild of the most noble dean “Ickabod Crane,” respectfully know as Anthony T Young of the 1982 pledge line “2 Dedicated.” He aspired to bring the entire Leigh Valley under his wing thus, he strategically initiated the execution of his objective with the Hardock 8. rough some joint a#liations, an alliance was struck in Easton PA in which of viable institutions available, he targeted Lafayette college. As a result, the Hardrock 8 was the rst joint campus initiative ever attempted and succeeded at ESU.
Life under his administration was not easy; as a matter of fact, our pledge line started with as many as irteen (13) candidates. Unfortunately, the saying many are called but few are chosen took its toll on the less enthusiastic candidates and they were “eliminated” or shall I say relieved of duty leaving the core of the Hardrock 8 to carry on and carry out his plan to outshine any of the other pledge classes in the tri-state area. Lines from NYC came and could not match our precision and execution. We ventured to Philadelphia where we out-shined the then city chapter of Omega Lamda, fell, A Brooklyn chapter (John Jay Institute) brought their lamps to ESU and got impressed and numerous bruhs traveled to ESU from the tri-state area to try and slip us up to no avail. e Hardrock 8 consisted of:
TWO C2D ESU BROTHERS:
Manfred Polk, AH-04 • Dr Donald Scott Humphrey AH-02
FOUR LAFAYETTE COLLEGE’S BROTHERS:
Mark Lepoed • David Rankins, AH-03 • John Anderson, AH-05 (Omega chapter) Mike Cox, AH-06 • Gary Reeves, AH-07 • Johnathan Bramble, AH-08
Another historical milestone the Hardrock 8 pledge class created for the chapter was we started an AH pledging traditions that has been taught to every pledge class for the past twenty-seven (27) years. ere is a greeting poem created by our class and our most noble dean Ichabod Crane that has been taught, shared, and is an AH chapter tradition. It’s the “Zeus Greet” that goes as follows:
In the minds of Zeusssss…..
And nothing will break us apart…
For we are one!
Under a God!
And we have no fear of the wrath that Is soon to come
Cause in the future….
We’ll be as one
In Omega..”woof woof” Psi Phi
MANFRED F POLK PERSONAL
Manfred F. Polk, a member of the East Stroudsburg University Alumni Association, graduated from the university with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the Physics department with a strong minor in Biochemistry. During his years at ESU, he was a politically conscience member of the Black Student Union and a leader on the ESU Varsity football team where he excelled at linebacker and defensive leader. In January of 1984, Mr. Polk became a member of the AH Chapter Lampados Club for his indoctrination into the world of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. On April 28, 1984, he crossed the burning sands at the Mu Omega Chapter Fraternity House in Philadelphia PA and was o#cially read into the fraternity by the district Representative Walter Renn.
Manfred has served as both Basilus and Vice-Basilus at ESU AH Chapter.
A!er some years of activity and a period of inactivity, in 2006, Mr. Polk joined and has been a nancial member of the Kappa Xi Graduate Chapter in Las Vegas where he currently resides. To continue support of his fraternal roots in the Leigh Valley, Mr. Polk previously maintained a District nancial membership with Omega Xi chapter but continuously supports the AH and Eta Mu Nu e&orts.
Manfred’s consistently supports various support programs within various Omega Psi Phi chapter and community committees that consist of:
• Kappa Xi chapter scholarship program
• Kappa Xi “Omega Wings” reclamations committee designed to provide an opportunity to reclaim inactive brothers and to support short term nancial needs for chapter involvement
• anksgiving meals program support • Annual shoe drive • Christmas toy for tots’ program
• Various fundraising e&orts across chapter initiatives.
PROFESSIONAL
Professionally, Manfred F Polk, Principal Consultant & Partner, for APEC, LLC Consulting, is a senior QAVS (Quality Assurance Validation services) engineer who has over thirty-one (31) years in Bio-pharmaceutical manufacturing and compliance. Mr. Polk has expertise in facility automation & control, process optimization, implementation of Global Track and Trace packaging systems, department audits, GAP Assessments, CAPA and failure investigations.
Established reputation as exceptional Scientist & Validation Project Leader (1989 – 2003)
EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY, Philadelphia, PA
Graduate Coursework in Environmental Engineering
EAST STROUDSBURG UNIVERSITY, Stroudsburg, PA
Bachelor of Science in Physics, Biochemistry
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Indoor Air Quality/cGMP Training • Statistics of Contamination Control
Clean-room Design & Materials. • cGMP for Pharmaceuticals Production Training
Computer Related Systems Validation • Good Documentation Practices
Pharmaceutical Packaging
e in$uence of pledging Omega goes way beyond the social aspects of being in a social organization. It serves as a building block for character development of life skills that guides you through your personal and professional challenges that life brings.
“ESSENTIAL TOOLS OF THE LAMPADO”
By Manfred Chillydog Polk
e Lampados Club provides not only examples of what not only “Great Men” aspire to and accomplish but, it sets the framework for what a “Good Man” can do to be a better man, leader, husband, father, and carrier of the eternal legacy that each man would hope to leave behind. e legacy is not comprised of merely nancial wealth no, that is a small part of what a lasting legacy is and to today’s society, that tends to be not only the focal point of admiration but many times the measuring stick of what the world deems successful. I think those types of achievement provide a great level of personal satisfaction and self-worth that people look up to and admire but it’s not just about the great
Spring 1984
worldly recognized accomplishments that some of the great black men in history have demonstrated. It is the personal un-celebrated, un-edi ed deeds we do to upli! not only those in our family circle but to those who need the encouragement and support to make their dream happen or, to get back on that horse that has thrown their lives into chaos. ose of us with true faith, God provides us many gi!s; the gi!s we receive many times are not the ones we hope and pray for, but they are the gi!s he provides to enable us to be His blessing to those in need of upli!. It’s the gi! of discernment, sense of charity, and genuine desire to make a di&erence in other people’s lives who are struggling to make their dream happen. ese are the tasks you humbly take on when there is no camera, no report, and no external apparent reward. ese are gi!s from the heart, and they leave the most powerful legacy a man could hope to leave for God put us here to bless us to be a blessing to others. ese are the miracles of life; many have either forgotten or can’t see past their own ambitions. Ask yourselves something, have you gone out your way to help empower someone of little or no social importance? We pass people in despair every day, some the product of bad choices or living sel shly, and some the devil just decided to just tear down.
When you truly submit to God’s path for your life, He will provide you that instinct and discernment to know the calling to be of service to this person up over that one. We are all God’s children but we all may not be ready to receive blessings from one of His anointed. To be clear, anointment is not something you get in a course certi cation, a seminary, church, or even your pastor. Anointment is an empowerment from the Holy Spirit, that moves your spirit to be that blessing.
I say this to say, brothers, pledging Omega provides us the means to be a person of great character and high aspirations. Being a Lampado strips you of the all the worldly things like nancial and social status, feelings of intellectual superior, and basic sel shness, like the thinking its about you. ese are the things that get in our way of us being able to truly humble, diligent, and relentless to persevere in order to achieve the goal set before you. It provides a level of solidarity that tells us its all or nothing and no one will be le! behind. Doesn’t this sound like what our society should be based on? If the world would take a minute to embrace what the Lampados club was truly about, imagine where we would be, not only as a people, but as a race who condemns no one because of their background, race, and nancial or social status. In conclusion, there will always be those who can’t see past that spot between the middle of their eyes, these are the people that cannot grasp and gravitate to anything not validated by their physical senses. ese are also the people who have criticized, condemned and yes prosecuted Omega for their traditions for they cannot see the method to madness. Strength in mind and body must be challenged mentally and physically. Does iron not sharpen iron? Being an athlete, doesn’t hard physical training train the body to push the body to be greater; and likewise, doesn’t spending hours through the wee hours of the night studying your trade make you a better doctor, lawyer, or scientist?
Greatness requires great sacri ce, it can’t be given, purchased, or obtained on the Internet, it is a process that has to be experienced and earned through sometimes blood sweat and tears. So, when someone speaks negatively about Omega’s pledge period traditions, I know they probably accept mediocrity and will never appreciate what real sacri ce produces. e value you receive from making the personal decision to strip yourselves of all rank and le, to align yourself with a brother you have just met, to walk a path that appears black as a pit from pole to pole, to aspire beyond what they can see past the next bend in the road, these are the traits that not only make you a worthy man of Omega, but makes you a man of good character and the example our children need to be strong but humbly, be successful but not prideful, and above all be a man whose leaves a legacy years a!er he returns to the dust from which he came.
Keep the peace, keep God rst, and remember Mark 9:23 says “Jesus said unto him, if thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”
We are only as strong as the iron that strengthened us.
DONALD SCOTT HUMPHREY CAKA SIMON BARSINISTERD
Dr. Donald Scott Humphrey passion for working with, and guiding young adolescents, began in Roosevelt, NY, where he served as a Summer Camp Counselor during his teenage years. He started his professional career as a Case Manager with Family and Children’s Services in Hempstead, NY, where he counseled and tutored students from elementary through high school ages in the Hempstead, Freeport, Uniondale, and Westbury communities, all located in Nassau County, New York.
Dr. Donald Scott “D-Hump!” Humphrey, pursued higher education at East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania. During his time there, he became involved in numerous student organizations. In January of 1984, Dr. Humphrey became a member of the AH Chapter Lampados Club for his indoctrination into the world of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. On April 28, 1984, he crossed the burning sands at the Mu Omega Chapter Fraternity House in Philadelphia PA and was o#cially read into the fraternity by the district Representative Walter Renn. Shortly a!er, he transferred to Hofstra University, completing his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Arts in Africana Studies and earning a Master’s Degree from Queens College. Donald’s educational journey began at Amityville Middle School as a Social Studies Teacher and Dean of Students. Despite being excessed due to budget cuts, he quickly found a teaching position at Hempstead High School, where he taught Social Studies and developed a new curriculum for his Black History classes. His dedication earned him the recognition of Teacher of the Year, and the 2001 Hempstead Class Yearbook was dedicated
Spring 1984
to him, marking the rst of many future awards. While teaching, Donald completed his Administrative Certi cations at C.W. Post College and earned his Doctoral Degree from Dowling College. is led to his current role in the Uniondale School District, where he has served as the Principal since 2008 of what he has coined as e Turtle Hook University Middle School, a name re$ecting his commitment to educational excellence. In December 14, 2016 – e Uniondale Union Free School District announced that Turtle Hook Middle School had been recognized as a National School of Character. is prestigious honor recognizes schools that have demonstrated a dedicated focus on character development programs that show positive impact on academic achievement, student behavior and school climate. Turtle Hook Middle School was one of only 68 nalists in the country for this award.
roughout his life, Donald has remained committed to his spirituality. Growing up in Allen AME Church in Queens, NY, which provided him with the guidance to face life & challenges. He later joined Union Baptist Church under the inspiration of Reverend Doctor Sedgwick V. Easley. Besides his membership in numerous Professional Organizations such as e National Association of Secondary Principals and e Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development,
Dr. Humphrey has been an active member of Sigma Beta Beta Chapter of Omega Psi Fraternity, Inc. where he has led various committees and participated in events including:
• Serving as Chaplin
• Scholarship Dance Committee Member
• Talent Hunt Lead Committee Member
• Make a Di&erence Gala Participant
• Senior Citizens Luncheon Participant
• Mentoring Program Lead Committee Member
• Voter Registration Participant
• Christmas Toy Drive Lead Committee Member
• Achievement Week Committee Member
• Memorial Service Participant
• Fatherhood Breakfast Lead Committee Member
DAVID L RANKINS CAKA “JAMES BROWN”D
Our line was the rst time Lafayette College had the experience of viewing a black fraternity or sorority going through its pledge process. A process that was quite di&erent from the “pledging” students and faculty viewed with white fraternities and sororities at Lafayette. When they saw us “on line” or greeting a big brother of Omega Psi Phi, our pledge process became educational not only to us but to the campus as a whole with many wondering why our “pledging” was so “di&erent.”
When my sands John Anderson and I pledged “ e Four Busted Nuts” in 1986 (Kevin Williams, Byrin Bratcher, Trace Mebane and Gordon Bullock), AH had been highly active in Lafayette’s campus life and in the Easton community for about two years. So, when John and I stressed “scholarship” by having mandatory library time for the line, it became a topic of discussion on campus with many professors asking why the “other” fraternities were not doing the same thing.
4 Busted Nuts
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
1974 - 2024
4 BUSTED NUTS OF THE “AUDACIOUS” ALPHA ETA CHAPTER
1. Byrin E. Bratcher – Downingtown, PA, Lafayette College
2. Kevin S. Williams – East Orange, NJ, Lafayette College
3. Gordon Bullock – Nyack, NY, Lafayette College
4. Trace Mebane – Long Island, NY, East Stroudsburg University
DP – John A. Anderson – Brooklyn, NY, Lafayette College – Omega Chapter
ADP – David L. Rankins – Rahway, NJ, Lafayette College
Happy 50th Queversary to our Brothers of the “Audacious” Alpha Eta Chapter #214
“LINE SONG”
Introducing to you we’re the Lampdacons
Not the Phi Beta sketa or the Alpha Phi trons
Not the Kappa’s, Iota’s or Groove Phi Groove
We’re 4 Lampados and we’re on the move
We’re running stepping and pledging hard
We have the Lampdacons on our credit card
Purple and gold are the colors we seek
Not red, brown, blue ‘cause those colors are weak
We have unity and we think as one
We’re going to see it through until the job is done
Our big sisters are intelligent and gracious too Known as Delta Sigma eta to me and you
Our most noble dean, BB Scooby Doo
Better known to everyone as the bust-a-nut Que
His assistant chilling at his side e second in command BB Sly
We’re also known as the 4 Busted Nuts come on Check us out as be bust this nut
It’s all because of you, that we are pledging Que
You’ve led the way and now our live are ;lled with pledging days
We love it so how much you’ll never know
Don’t take your Que away from me
2 Brainless Wonders! THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
1974 - 2024
Purple is the person you met and instantly clicked with. ey are the kindest, most genuine people you know. ey walked into your life like they had always been there. Being with them brings out the best in yourself
Walik Nixon “Comfort” • Doug Moore “Relaxation” “2 Brainless Wonders” April 11, 1987
Bro. dr. lAwrence X. henry • Bro. Keith fisher Bro. • John russell Jr.
Apocalypse 3
THE ALPHA ETA WAY Bloomsburg University
APOCALYPSE
“A prophetic revelation, especially concerning a cataclysm in which the forces of good permanently triumph over the forces of evil!”
THREE HEBREW BOYS IN A FIERY FURNACE
Daniel 3:16-28
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning ery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
19 !en was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.
20 And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning ery furnace.
21 !en these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning ery furnace.
22 !erefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the ames of the re slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning ery furnace.
24 !en Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counselors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the re? !ey answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the re, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
A journey of three (3) acquaintances that were forged into three (3) brothers whose endurance, faith and lives truly reflect Godly triumph over evil.”
Le! to right:
ACE #1 - Dr. Darius M. Walker (PhD) - Line Name: Sango “ e God of under”
DEUCE #2 - Dr. Syheed Fields (DBA) - Line Name: Hannibal “ e Conqueror”
TRE #3 - Mr. Oladokun Ajaiyeoba (Sr. VP) - Line Name: Mandingo “ e Warrior”
THE ALPHA ETA WAY East Stroudsburg University
1974 - 2024
1. mitchell zAire lee sr. m. ed.
B-wAre/ dA honcho/ dog cAPtAin
2. williAm elwood fArmer ewoK/ AnimAl
3. reginAld AleXAnder Johnson edd hArdwAy/ goldie/ President
4. AAron nichol As loricK m. ed. KAmAl A/ Big dogg/ dA rocK
All Hail AH!
Johnnie Allen
Samantha Wilson Ajayi
Brother Ronnie Bivens - AH #3 ‘75
Jesse M, Bowman II
Brother Ricardo S. Bowman Spr ‘73
Pamela M. Brown
Sybil Brown
Brother Gilbert & Mrs. Camilla Brown
Angela Cook (Omega Pearl #7)
Brother Lonnie Devan & Ti0anie Devan (KO ‘12, DST Spr ‘13)
Daron & Erica Dickerson & Family
Jerome & Ebani Edwards
George E. Fitch Jr
Brother Laurence Fountain
Brother James R. Gates - Beta Gamma ‘78
Brother Calvin Gilchrist
Brother Joseph Gold & Family
Jason Graves
Jenny Pettis-Hassell -
Jamie & Jennifer Henley
Brother Je0 Hill
Brother Richard G. Hill (AH Spg ‘78)
Joann P. Johnson (Omega Pearl ‘77#1)
Dolorez Cobb-Jones
Brother Ronald Kinnard
Brother Mark A Kinnard 6 Spr ‘86 Kappa Omega
Mrs. Tracy Taltone-Lining
Toni May;eld - AKA Fall ‘21
Demone & Ryan Maxwell DST EG ‘08
Je0ray Moore
Stephanie (Stevi) Cobb-Patterson (Omega Pearl ‘77)
Dennis Pettis
Dr. Owen & Mrs. Penelope Rahman
Brother Jesse Rawls Sr. PHI ‘69
Brother Troy (Gumby) Robinson 3-15 XII Capitol City Ques 6D
Brother Bill & Mrs. Katrice Simpson
Krystin Sims
Laura & Reginald Sims
Brother Al & Sister Direeba Sloan
Brother Charles Curtis (kirk) Smallwood KO ‘84
Brother Wayne A. ompson Jr KO ‘86
Unlimited 1- One Unlimited AH 77’
Delores Brown- Waters
Brother Nathan & Mrs. Betty Waters
Brother Nathan H. Waters, III
Brother Lloyd & Mrs. Sydneya Wallace
Brother Ian Wing;eld KO ‘20
Susan Brown WilsonAnita, Nadia Wilson
Brother Pete & Mrs. Contrena Baltimore
- 6/76 Tau Zeta Chapter
Brother Mike & Mrs. Cheryl Elby
- Lifetime member 2.4.71 Upsilon Phi
John W. Gumby & Angela D Gumby
- DST Hbg Alumni Spr ‘07
Dr. Nia Rashad
In Loving Memory
A
Tribute to David P Bowles, SR.
ALPHA ETA CHAPTER
Fight against Breast Cancer. We wish you continued Success in all your future endeavors.
Happy 50th Anniversary
Anita T. Conner, Co-Founder
To the Brothers of the AUDACIOUS ALPHA ETA CHAPTER OF OMEGA PSI PHI
FRATERNITY, INCORPORATED
Thank you for your hard work and commitment to the Fight against Breast Cancer. We wish you continued Success in all your future endeavors.
Anita T. Conner, Founder
A BRIDGE 2 LIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT
To enable under-served communities to overcome obstacles that traditionally hindered their progress and access to human needs… with an emphasis on persons vulnerable to the “school-to-prison pipeline system” and the reintegration of the formerly incarcerated.
VISION STATEMENT
“Providing unlimited access to opportunities for the entire human family…”
Building Dreams
Syheed Fields, DBA ‘96
First Generation Alum Establishes Scholarship to Empower Future Generations of Huskies
When Syheed R. Fields ’96, DBA, rst arrived at Bloomsburg, he came from the challenging environment of South Philadelphia, where opportunities were scarce, and privileges were few.
e University and football team became his beacon of hope, o ering him a path to a better future. Despite lacking the same advantages as his peers, he seized the chance to showcase his grit, raw talent, and courage, and in 1991, he earned his spot on the team as a walk-on student athlete.
When I arrived at Bloomsburg, I knew it was the right place, and I was determined to make it work,” says Syheed. “It was more than just an opportunity. For me, it was a way out, and I wasn’t going to let it slip through my ngers.”
In addition to challenging himself on the eld, Syheed faced another set of hurdles in his transition to college life, particularly in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Being the rst in his family to pursue higher education, Syheed found himself navigating unfamiliar territory. e cultural shock of interacting with peers from di erent backgrounds pushed him to adapt and grow.
Yet, amidst the di$culties, Syheed treasures the friendships he forged during his time at Bloomsburg, friendships that endured even in the face of adversity. He expanded his social circle to include individuals from diverse backgrounds, stepping outside of his comfort zone and fostering a lasting sense of adaptability.
Several gures le an indelible mark on Syheed during his Bloomsburg journey, including his football coach, Danny Hale, who imparted valuable life lessons that transcended the football eld. e Act 101 Program, spearheaded by Dr. Irvin Wright and Wayne Whitaker, also played a pivotal role in shaping his understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Re ecting on his progress from a disadvantaged upbringing, Syheed remains humble yet determined to give back to those facing similar challenges. His unconventional post-graduation path led him to play football overseas, delve into project management and logistics, and eventually discover his passion for entrepreneurship.
With unwavering integrity and courage instilled in him during his time as a student at Bloomsburg, Syheed shattered the constraints of his past, setting a new standard for his family and community. rough hard work and dedication, he established his own construction company, a testament to his resilience and determination.
Syheed’s journey from a place of limited opportunities to academic and entrepreneurial success serves as an inspiration to others. His commitment to higher education is re ected in the Dr. Syheed Fields Scholarship, which he established to support students from diverse backgrounds.
A er establishing the scholarship, Syheed invited friends and family to support it, increasing the amount available to deserving students. His network of supporters did not disappoint, contributing an additional $4,000. is year, as he celebrated his 50th birthday, Syheed chose to give back, emphasizing the importance of supporting disenfranchised youth and promoting diversity and inclusion. His scholarship fund symbolizes his belief that one’s background should not dictate their future and that everyone deserves a chance to succeed.
Syheed’s leadership in the community and dedication to upli ing others exemplify his forward-thinking mindset. He envisions a future where recipients of his scholarship pay it forward, creating a ripple e ect of positive change in their communities.
From his humble beginnings in Philadelphia to his accomplishments in academia and entrepreneurship, Syheed embodies resilience, determination, and the power of education. His story serves as a beacon of hope for future generations, inspiring them to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams.
50 East Main St. 4th Floor Bloomsburg, PA 17815-1301 • Phone: (570) 389-4128
embodies resilience, determination, and the power of education. His story serves as a beacon of hope for future generations, inspiring them to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams.
50 East Main St. 4th Floor Bloomsburg, PA 17815-1301 • Phone: (570) 389-4128
PLEASE DONATE: https://giving.bloomu.edu/donate/syheed-;elds-scholarship