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THE HISTORY OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA

Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American Men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by seven college men who recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in this country. The visionary founders, known as the “Jewels” of the fraternity, are Henry Arthur Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel Allison Murray, Robert Harold Ogle, and Vertner Woodson Tandy.

The fraternity initially served as a study and support group for minority students who faced racial prejudice, both educationally and socially, at Cornell. The Jewel founders and early leaders of the fraternity succeeded in laying a firm foundation for Alpha Phi Alpha’s principles of scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the uplifting of humanity.

Alpha Phi Alpha chapters were established at other colleges and universities, many of them historically black institutions, soon after the founding at Cornell. The first alumni chapter was established in 1911.

While continuing to stress academic excellence among its members, Alpha also recognized the need to help correct the educational, economic, political, and social injustices faced by African Americans. Alpha Phi Alpha has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community’s fight for civil rights through leaders such as W.E.B. DuBois, Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Edward Brooke, Martin Luther King, Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Andrew Young, William Gray, Paul Robeson, and many others. True to its form as the “first of firsts,” Alpha Phi Alpha has been interracial since 1945. The Fraternity has supplied voice and vision to the struggle of African Americans and people of color around the world.

ABOUT ETA LAMBDA

On May 20, 1920, Eta Lambda Chapter was officially chartered by The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Since its inception, the chapter and its members have played an instrumental role in the social, economic and political landscape of the city of Atlanta and throughout the United States. Eta Lambda Chapter is considered the mother chapter to seven Metro Atlanta chapters. Among the thousands of brothers that have called Eta Lambda home.

There has been three General Presidents, six Regional Vice Presidents and countless others that have served in leadership roles on a national level in the Fraternity. Today, Eta Lambda continues its legacy of service through Project ExC2EL, Go-to-High School/Go-to-College, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Brother’s Keeper, Boy Scouts of America, Project Alpha, March of Dimes/March for Babies and A Voteless People is a Hopeless People.

BROTHER KIRK SADDLER

HOST COMMITTEE & TABLE SPONSORS

Brother Louis Bates

Brother Robert H. Bolton

Brother Curley Dossman

Brother Rodney Floyd

Brother Brandon J. Johnson

Brother Wendell Johnson

Brother Bob Jones

Brother Martin Luther King III

Brother George Lester

Brother La'Ron Louis

Brother Larry Miller

Brother Stephen D. Pearson

Brother Kirk Saddler

Brother Dr. Derek Smith

Brother Michael Stinson

Brother Richard Taylor

Brother Rev. Dr. Kenneth Walker

Brother Don Webster

Brother Chris Womack

Deidra Jackson

The Honorable Inga Willis

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES RASHAN

ALI

With a passion for sports and entertainment, Rashan Ali has established herself as a revered multimedia personality. Born in Atlanta, Georgia and raised in Decatur, this honors graduate of Florida A&M University gave her candid perspective on local Atlanta radio for nearly 15 years on HOT 107.9, V-103 and Streetz 94.5 helping to propel those stations ratings to top five ratings in the market. Lending her talents to sports television, she worked as a sports anchor for Headline News and CNN as well as a sideline reporter for CBS Sports Network covering college football and basketball for four seasons.

Rashan delivered her unique and personable perspective as one of four cohosts on the nationally syndicated daily talk show, Sister Circle Live on TV One for three seasons. She also hosted the wildly popular "Cool Soror Podcast” - a show in which she created that highlights outstanding women and men in Black Greek Lettered Organizations. As an acclaimed voiceover talent, Rashan has landed commercials for Pepsi, Home Depot and served as a voice and on-air National Spokesperson for Rocket Mortgage.

Her passion and purpose are deeply tied to the community. She is the founder of Sporty Girls, Inc., a nonprofit organization that encourages the development of life and academic skills in girls ages 8-18 through participation in golf, tennis, soccer, swimming, and lacrosse. Since its inception in 2006, Sporty Girls has served nearly 2,000 girls in the Metro Atlanta area. Rashan is looking to relaunch Sporty Girls in the very near future.

Ali also published and released a vibrant children’s book called “Piper Sky’s Pink Popsicle Shoes.” The book is based on the likeness of her own daughters as it follows the lead character, Piper Sky, and her quest to help her friends find their own magic.

Rashan is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she serves locally in the Pi Alpha Omega Chapter in Atlanta, Georgia and Internationally on the Honorary and Awards Committee. She currently has a recurring role on a top-rated show under the Tyler Perry imprint on BET+.

She has been married to Brian Smith for 23 years and they have two daughters. Bailey is a Sophomore at Howard University and Carter is a 10th grader. Rashan lives by the motto, “Giving is the rent you pay for living."

THE SPHINX GALA

Call to Celebration

Rashan Ali

Mistress of Ceremonies

Greetings

Brother Stephen D. Pearson

President, Eta Lambda Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Invocation

Brother Rev. Dr. Kenneth Augustus Walker

Chaplain, Eta Lambda Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Project ExC2EL Recognitions

Brother Dr. Avery Kenly

Immediate Past President, Eta Lambda Chapter

2026 Graduates

Best All Around Senior

Highest Grade Point Average

Recognition of 2026 Charles N. Hawk, Jr. Scholarship Recipients

Brother Dr. Avery Kenly and Brother Khalil Jackson

Dinner

Student Testimonials

Joseph Rosser III

Project ExC2EL

Christian Young

Charles N. Hawk, Jr. Scholarship Recipient

Greetings

Brother Lucien J. Metellus Jr., General President, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Presentation of the

Maynard Holbrook Jackson Jr. Leadership Award

Recipient:

Brother Chris Womack

Presentation of the Ozell Sutton Humanitarian Award

Recipient:

Brother Martin Luther King III

Tribute to the Centenarian

Brother Robert "Bob" Willis

Brother Mikel Caldwell, City of Atlanta

Brother Aaron Johnson , City of South Fulton

Brother Matthew Bradford, Southern Region, SRVP, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr., General President, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Inga Willis, Daughter

Presentation of the Robert “Bob” Willis Brother of the Year Award

Brother Brandon J. Johnson

Vice President, Eta Lamda Chapter

Acknowledgements and Closing Remarks

Brother Stephen D. Pearson

Fraternity Hymn

Led by Brother Henry M. Goodgame

Dancing Featuring DJ Biz

ABOUT PROJECT EXC2EL

The Project ExC2EL Program of the Eta Lambda Chapter was established in 2006 under the leadership of then Eta Lambda President Brother Ronald M. Natson, Chapter Director of National Programs Brother Charles K. Flack and Project ExC2el Director Brother Rashid Mosley. It was created as the Chapter’s branded and sponsored program geared toward positive youth development. It has flourished as a male mentoring program that focuses on one-onone mentoring to high school and middle school students in the City of Atlanta. The mentors and mentees meet throughout the month for mentoring sessions, seminars and social outings. Additionally, mentors and mentees attend planned group mentoring sessions to assist the high school Project ExC2EL graduating seniors with completing college and scholarship applications.

Our Mission is to provide Project ExC2EL students with critical tools, experiences, and cultural exposure that is vital to their growth and success in today’s society.

Since its inception, Project ExC2EL has mentored hundreds of youth who have attended colleges and vocational schools. Many of them are making an impact in their communities and paying it forward.

Eta Lambda Project ExC2EL means...

Excellence in

Character Development

Community Service

Education attainment and

Leadership achievement

Project ExC2EL is making a difference in the lives our youth!

PROJECT EXC2EL GRADUATES Booker T. Washington High School

EMORY ARNOLD

“Being in Project ExC²EL meant a lot to me. I was able to learn how to treat people, how to network, and was able to get professional photos taken. It truly helped me start my career in so many ways.”

Emory Arnold is an extraordinary scholar, Posse Scholar, civic leader, and multi-talented young man whose impact spans academics, arts, athletics, and service. Graduating with distinction and earning a full scholarship to George Washington University, Emory has served in numerous leadership roles while excelling as a student, communicator, and role model. Through Project ExC²EL, Emory refined his voice, strengthened his leadership, and embraced a legacy of service. His remarkable journey reflects excellence without limitation and leadership with purpose.

Favorite Quote: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

KENDREN CEESAY

“Being in Project ExC²EL meant that I didn’t always have to be strong, I could be vulnerable sometimes because I knew that I had mentors that actually cared for me and would stand with me at my toughest times. It also meant that I could give my “gifts” back to my younger brothers, setting them up to be successful in moments I was prepared for when I was in their shoes.”

Kedren Ceesay graduates as an accomplished scholar-athlete, servant leader, and Vice President of the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Club. A baseball captain, honors student, and active participant in school and community leadership, Kedren has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead by example. Through Project ExC²EL, he developed deeper confidence, sharpened his communication, and embraced the importance of mentorship and service. As he matriculates to Morehouse College to study Marketing & Communications, Kedren carries forward the Project ExC²EL legacy of brotherhood, excellence, and impact.

Favorite Quote: “If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you.”

CHADD COOK

“Being in Project ExC²EL means being a part of a group that supports the school and community. A group that supports one another in constantly trying to better ourselves. It meant a lot to be surrounded with likeminded individuals who wanted nothing but the best for each other.”

Chadd Cook graduates as a resilient scholar-leader whose journey through Project ExC²EL helped sharpen his confidence, leadership, and vision for service. Maintaining a strong academic record while balancing an extraordinary list of commitments, Chadd has served as President of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Vice President of HOSA, member of National Honor Society, Beta Club, Broadcasting, Band, Mock Trial, Chess & Robotics, TEDx APS, and multiple language and leadership organizations. A staterecognized competitor in both FBLA and HOSA, Chadd’s excellence extends beyond academics into advocacy, public speaking, and healthcare exploration. As he prepares to attend Kennesaw State University to pursue Biology/Public Health, Chadd represents the essence of Project ExC²EL—leadership, scholarship, and brotherhood in action.

Favorite Quote: "Sometimes you have to let go of what you thought was yours to see what was actually meant for you."

- Mariah the Scientist

PROJECT EXC2EL GRADUATES Booker T. Washington High School

JAYDEN FRANCOIS

“Project ExC²EL gave me an opportunity to connect with like minded young men like me and an opportunity to be able to see successful black men like our mentors.”

Jayden Francois has distinguished himself as a focused scholar with a strong academic foundation and a growing commitment to financial literacy, leadership, and personal excellence. Through Project ExC²EL, Jayden gained mentorship, brotherhood, and exposure that expanded his perspective on success. His thoughtful approach to education and future planning demonstrates maturity beyond his years. As he continues to pursue his goals, Jayden reflects the Project ExC²EL mission of education, empowerment, and enhancement.

Favorite Quote: “Life is what you make it.”

DEANDRE HINES

“Project ExC²EL was not only just something I joined because it looks good but it showed me what a brotherhood looks like, and also many things that I didn’t learn from home, I learned in PE. It always pushed me to do my best and strive for what I want so it really meant a lot to me to just be a member.”

DeAndre Hines has consistently demonstrated determination and leadership through football, golf, FCCLA, and additional school leadership initiatives including These Halls Can Talk. As a football captain and active student leader, DeAndre used Project ExC²EL as a foundation for accountability, service, and self-development. His ability to balance athletics, academics, and leadership showcases a young man prepared for future success. Project ExC²EL helped sharpen not only his leadership abilities, but his sense of responsibility to himself and others.

Favorite Quote: “You have the same 24 hours as me; you either will eat or starve.”

CAMRON MCKINNEY

“Being in Project ExC²EL allowed me to gain a new family through brotherhood.”

Camron McKinney’s journey through Project ExC²EL has been one of growth, resilience, and personal development. With aspirations in Computer Science, Camron has used his experiences in academics, athletics, and extracurricular involvement to prepare for a future rooted in innovation. Project ExC²EL provided Camron with mentorship, accountability, and a community of brothers that reinforced his confidence and potential. His story is one of steady growth—proving that success is not always loud, but often built through consistency, character, and determination.

Favorite Quote: “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get back up.”

PROJECT EXC2EL GRADUATES

Booker T. Washington High School

JOSEPH ROSSER III

“Project ExC²EL was like a brotherhood to me, not only the bonds that were created but the memories we have together. The mentors left their own impression on me and I’m very thankful for this opportunity to meet these men because they have truly formed into a great young man in excellence.”

Joseph Rosser III stands as one of Booker T. Washington High School’s most accomplished graduates— Valedictorian, Mr. Booker T. Washington, President of the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Club, football captain, and a transformational student leader. Graduating with a 4.22 GPA, Joseph has served in leadership roles across student government, service organizations, athletics, and academic honor societies while setting the tone for younger scholars. Through Project ExC²EL, Joseph became not only a participant, but a symbol of what intentional mentorship can produce: a scholar, servant, and standard-bearer. His academic brilliance, leadership presence, and commitment to excellence will continue as he pursues Mechanical Engineering.

Favorite Quote: “Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly.” — Langston Hughes

MICHAEL SCOTT

“Project ExC²EL let me know that I wasn't by myself and that I have a brotherhood of people that have my back.”

Michael Scott is a versatile and disciplined young man whose high school experience has been defined by balance, perseverance, and broad engagement. Maintaining success academically while participating in basketball, golf, cross country, and leadership development opportunities, Michael has embodied the Project ExC²EL commitment to excellence across multiple spaces. Through Project ExC²EL, he found brotherhood, mentorship, and a greater understanding of leadership beyond the classroom and field. Michael’s journey reflects a young man committed to growth, teamwork, and maximizing every opportunity.

Favorite Quote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

KAMERAN WARREN

“Project ExC²EL gave me a Brotherhood! It also showed me how to overcome as a man and when stuff gets hard how you bounce back."

Kameran Warren’s time in Project ExC²EL reinforced the importance of discipline, brotherhood, and perseverance. A decorated student-athlete, Kameran has excelled as a 2-time state champion, 4-time school record holder, and standout competitor in football and track. His athletic accomplishments reflect years of hard work, sacrifice, and determination, while Project ExC²EL helped shape his growth beyond sports into leadership and manhood. Kameran’s journey demonstrates that true success is measured not only in victories, but in character, resilience, and impact. He now prepares to continue his educational and athletic journey at the collegiate level with aspirations in nursing.

Favorite Quote: “Time doesn't sleep so why would you?”

2026 CHARLES N. HAWK, JR. SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Miguel Abrams Kedren Ceesay

Patrick Bryant Jr.

Emory Arnold

Chadd Cook

Marcel Copeland

Jackson Leeks

Hilton McGill

Conner Nelson

Joseph Rosser III

Christian Young

Brother Ozell Sutton, civil rights

activist and community leader, was born 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 the first African Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps, at Montford Point. After his tour of duty, Sutton enrolled in Dunbar College and Philander Smith College, where he received his Sutton became the first black reporter for the publication Arkansas Democrat; he also served as one Little Rock Nine in 1957. In 1961, Sutton became Arkansas Council on Human Relations where he was that began the Community Relations Service (CRS). responsibility for the civil rights and opportunity known as the Equal Employment Opportunity in 1964. involvement in the Civil Rights Movement included his representative for the Community Relations Service. Lorraine Hotel in the room next door to Dr. Martin Memphis, Tennessee when Dr. King was assasSutton then became special assistant to the late Rockefeller of Arkansas. In 1972, Sutton directed Department’s Community Relations Service and was department’s racial and ethnic conflict prevention efforts. In 1990, Sutton served on the board of the Missing and Exploited Children. In 1994, Sutton

BROTHER MAYNARD HOLBROOK JACKSON JR.

Born: March 23, 1938

Initiated: Alpha Rho Chapter, 1956

Omega Chapter: June 23, 2003

Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. made history in 1973 at the age of 35 when he became the first African-American mayor of Atlanta, Georgia and of any major city in the South. He served three terms (1974–82, 1990–94), making him the second longest-serving mayor of Atlanta.

Jackson attended Morehouse College, graduating in 1956 at the age of eighteen. He was initiated into the house of Alpha through Alpha Rho Chapter during the spring of his senior year..

After attending the Boston University Law School for a short time, Jackson held several jobs, including selling encyclopedias. He returned to graduate studies, attending the North Carolina Central University Law School. He graduated with a law degree in 1964. Jackson worked as an attorney for the National Labor Relations Board and a legal services firm.

In 1968, Jackson at 30, decided to run for the US Senate. His campaign was underfunded, and he lost, but Jackson won in Atlanta, gaining prominence in the city. In 1973, Jackson was elected with 60 percent of the vote, as the first African-American mayor of Atlanta and any major southern city; he was supported by a coalition of white liberals/moderates and African Americans. During his first term, Jackson worked to improve race relations in and around Atlanta after the polarization caused by the election campaign. As mayor, he led the beginnings and much of the progress on several huge public-works projects for the city and region. Affirmative action programs helped minority and women-owned businesses to participate.

In 1987, he founded Jackson Securities, Inc. an investment banking firm, and Jackmont Hospitality, Inc. The companies grew into his most successful enterprises. Jackson Securities open offices in several cities and in 2001 was ranked fifth on Black Enterprise magazine’s Investment Banks List.

After leaving office as mayor, Jackson continued to be active with the Democratic Party. Jackson was appointed as the National Development Chairman of the Democratic National Committee and was the first Chairman of the DNC Voting Rights Institute. In 2002, he founded the American Voters League, a non-profit and non-partisan effort to increase national voter participation.

He established the Maynard Jackson Youth Foundation to provide guidance and leadership to disadvantaged students in Atlanta. He served as a member of his alma mater’s Board of Trustees for 23 years. Other boards on which he served include NAACP, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, C.A.R.E and Emory Community Legal Services Program.

Distinguished Service Award from the United States Justice.

After attending the Boston time, Jackson held several jobs, returned to graduate studies, attending University Law School. He graduated son worked as an attorney for the a legal services firm.

In 1968, Jackson at 30, decided campaign was underfunded, and gaining prominence in the city. percent of the vote, as the first and any major southern city; he liberals/moderates and African Jackson worked to improve race the polarization caused by the election the beginnings and much of the lic-works projects for the city and helped minority and women-owned

In 1987, he founded Jackson banking firm, and Jackmont Hospitality, his most successful enterprises.

several cities and in 2001 was ranked

Omega: December 19, 2015

Brother Ozell Sutton, civil rights activist and community leader, was born 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 the first African Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps, at Montford Point. After his tour of duty, Sutton enrolled in Dunbar College and then graduated from Philander Smith College, where he received his B.S. degree in 1950. Sutton became the first black reporter for the white-owned publication Arkansas Democrat; he also served as one of the escorts for the Little Rock Nine in 1957. In 1961, Sutton became director of the Arkansas Council on Human Relations where he was part of the group that began the Community Relations Service (CRS).

BROTHER OZELL SUTTON

Born: December 13, 1925

Initiated: Pi Lambda Chapter, October 1, 1950

Omega Chapter: December 19, 2015

Civil rights activist and community leader Brother Ozell Sutton was born 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 the first African Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps, at Montford Point. After his tour of duty, Sutton enrolled in Dunbar College and then graduated from Philander Smith College where he received his B.S. degree in 1950. Sutton became the first black reporter for the white-owned publication Arkansas Democrat; he also served as one of the escorts for the Little Rock Nine in 1957. In 1961, Sutton became director of the Arkansas Council on Human Relations where he was part of the group that began the Community Relations Service (CRS). Sutton was given responsibility for the civil rights and opportunity groups that became known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 1964.

Sutton was given responsibility for the civil rights and opportunity groups that became known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 1964.

Sutton’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement included his role as a field representative for the Community Relations Service. Sutton was at the Lorraine Hotel in the room next door to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee when Dr. King was assassinated in 1968. Sutton then became Special Assistant to the late Governor Winthrop Rockefeller of Arkansas. In 1972, Sutton directed the Justice Department’s Community Relations Service and was responsible for the department’s racial and ethnic conflict prevention and resolution efforts. In 1990, Sutton served on the board of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In 1994, Sutton received the Distinguished Service Award from the United States Department of Justice.

With his 65 years of fraternal membership, Sutton devoted his life to Alpha . He served as 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. Upon his relocation to Atlanta he became affiliated with Eta Lambda Chapter. He became Georgia state director and southern region vice president from 1976 to 1980. He was elected the 26th general president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in 1980 and served until 1984.

Sutton’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement included his role as a field representative for the Community Relations Service. Sutton was at the Lorraine Hotel in the room next door to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee when Dr. King was assassinated in 1968. Sutton then became special assistant to the late Governor Winthrop Rockefeller of Arkansas. In 1972, Sutton directed the Justice Department’s Community Relations Service and was responsible for the department’s racial and ethnic conflict prevention and resolution efforts. In 1990, Sutton served on the board of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In 1994, Sutton

Brother Sutton was instrumental in garnering the support from the Fraternity to uphold the proposal to secure approval from Congress for land on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. to memorialize the Fraternity’s most famous and revered member Brother Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

After time, Jackson returned University son worked a legal In campaign gaining percent and any liberals/moderates Jackson the polarization the beginnings lic-works helped In

MAYNARD HOLBROOK JACKSON LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT

BROTHER CHRIS WOMACK

Chris Womack is the chairman, president and chief executive officer of Southern Company, one of the nation’s leading energy providers serving 9 million customers and businesses nationwide with electric utilities in three states and natural gas distribution utilities in four, as well as providing wholesale energy, customized distributed energy solutions and fiber optics and wireless communications across the country.

A transformative leader in the U.S. energy sector with over 35 years of experience, Chris is leading Southern Company to meet energy demand, while maintaining affordability and reliability for customers. From advancing the Vogtle nuclear expansion to championing cutting-edge technologies, he has consistently driven progress through innovation. Under his leadership, Southern Company is navigating a pivotal era—delivering the energy solutions customers and communities need for today and tomorrow. A recognized national thought leader, Womack’s strategic vision and focus on culture are shaping the future of energy and redefining what’s possible for the industry.

Prior to his current role, Chris served as chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power, Southern Company’s largest subsidiary. From completing the world’s largest hydrogen fuel blend test at the time to championing inclusion efforts across the company and its region and expanding the company’s renewable energy portfolio and more, he oversaw the team in its proactive, innovative and transformational efforts to continue meeting the energy needs of the State of Georgia for future generations during his time leading Georgia Power.

A native of Greenville, Alabama, Womack joined Southern Company in 1988. Since then, he has served as executive vice president and president of external affairs for Southern Company where he led overall external positioning and branding efforts including the company’s public policy strategies, governmental and regulatory affairs, and corporate communication initiatives. Chris has also served as executive vice president of external affairs at Georgia Power, senior vice president and senior production officer of Southern Company Generation, senior vice president of human resources and chief people officer at Southern Company, as well as senior vice president of public relations and corporate services at Alabama Power.

Prior to joining Southern Company, Womack worked on Capitol Hill for the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. He served as a legislative aide for former Congressman Leon E. Panetta and as staff director for the Subcommittee on Personnel and Police for the Committee on House Administration.

Womack is vice chair of the Edison Electric Institute's (EEI) board of directors, second vice chair of the board of directors of Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and a member of the board of directors of Invesco Ltd. and vice chairman of the Georgia Ports Authority. He is past chair of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, past chair of the board of the East Lake Foundation and is on the national board of The First Tee. Womack has chaired the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau board, the Atlanta Sports Council and the board for Communities in Schools of Georgia. He has received numerous honors, awards and recognitions.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree from The American University and completed the Stanford Executive Program in 2001.

OZELL SUTTON HUMANITARIAN AWARD RECIPIENT BROTHER MARTIN LUTHER KING, III

With hate crimes rising, movements against social injustices sprouting, and an electorate that is deeply divided, perhaps at no other time in recent history has our world needed the clear thinking and solutions-oriented voice of civil rights advocate and global humanitarian Martin Luther King III.

From speaking to thousands at the 60th Anniversary of March On Washington in August 2023 to his dozens of arrests during peaceful protests, Mr. King is shepherding the healing of our nation and the world. He is connecting the important lessons of the past with the critical needs of our future and motivating a new generation of authentic leaders, while empowering others to use their voices to bring about change as well.

As the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III is a thought leader on the world stage, a peace maker, and a negotiator on some of today’s most critical national and international platforms for social change. Amplifying the work of his father, Mr. King and his wife Arndrea have devoted their lives to promoting global human rights and eradicating racism, violence, and poverty, earning a reputation as a respected international statesman and one of the world’s most passionate advocates for the poor and oppressed.

Mr. King speaks on a variety of topics such as the importance of continuing the struggle for civil rights and taking a stand against adversity, emphasizing the importance of individual action in making his father’s dream a reality and challenging us all to do better.

More recently, Mr. King and Mrs. King launched an effort to fund Black and Brown organizers across the country. The first round of funding went to 40 organizations whose missions are to mobilize voters in key states. By 2024, the Drum Major Coalition will invest $100 million in grassroots organizations from coast to coast.

Mr. King and Mrs. King recently announced the Realize the Dream Initiative, with the ambitious goal of collecting 100 million service hours by Dr. King’s 100th birthday, on January 15, 2029. Through strategic partnerships and relationships with civil rights leaders and prominent activists, Mr. King and Mrs. King are committed to realizing the dream and empowering the next generation of activists.

Mr. King regularly appears on CNN, MSNBC, NBC News, and ABC News. His writings have been published in The Washington Post, The New York Times, on CNN.com, and other major news outlets.

2026 CHAPTER BROTHER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Brother

Robert Brown

Brother

Brandon J. Johnson

Brother Dr. Derek Smith

Brother Richard Taylor

DJ Biz

DJ Biz is a professional DJ, cultural curator, and experience architect whose work spans corporate entertainment, collegiate tradition, community impact, and live event production. Known for his ability to blend Hip Hop, Rap, House Music, Afrobeats, and Greek life energy, DJ Biz delivers high impact sets that connect audiences across generations, industries, and cultures.

As the Official DJ for Morehouse College, DJ Biz has become a central figure in HBCU culture, providing the soundtrack for major institutional moments including Homecoming and Tailgate events. Through these flagship celebrations, he has energized thousands of students, alumni, faculty, and guests, reinforcing his reputation as a key contributor to one of the nation’s most historic collegiate communities.

DJ Biz also operates in the corporate and brand entertainment space, serving as a Corporate DJ for Amazon and Red Bull, where he delivers curated musical experiences for activations, branded events, and professional environments that require both polish and cultural awareness.

His performance portfolio extends into high profile entertainment and celebrity spaces, including DJing for Vice President Kamala Harris and sharing musical platforms with artists such as Lola Brooke, Wyclef Jean, Ne-Yo, Capella Grey, Toosii, Big Boogie, and GloRilla.

Beyond entertainment, DJ Biz is a committed community leader and entrepreneur. He is the founder and creative force behind the service initiative Simon Says, a program dedicated to youth empowerment, exposure, and belief building by introducing young people to diverse career paths and opportunities early in life. Through this initiative, DJ Biz uses music and mentorship as tools for impact and inspiration.

He is also the founder of Trinity Productions, a full scale production company that supports live events, music curation, and entertainment experiences. Through Trinity Productions, DJ Biz has expanded his creative reach, building structured, professional event experiences that merge artistry with execution across campus, corporate, and community settings.

DJ Biz’s presence is also felt in Atlanta’s entertainment landscape, including performances at The Slingshot ATL and his work with the Mentorship Academy at The Epicenter, where he uses music to inspire, engage, and elevate youth development spaces.

DJ Biz is more than a DJ. He is a brand, a builder, and a cultural strategist. Through Simon Says, Trinity Productions, and his expanding national footprint, he continues to shape experiences that merge entertainment with purpose, ensuring every stage he touches becomes a moment of impact, energy, and lasting memory.