The Middle Westerner | Volume 2

VOL. 2

NOV. 2023

MIDDLE WESTERNER POLEMARCH AND JVP ADDRESS

NUPES IN ATHLETICS

IVORY “BUCK” JOHNSON

IVORY “BUCK”JOHNSON. JR 61st Elder Watson Diggs awardee and 11th MWP Polemarch.

WWW.KAPSIMWP.COM

CONTENTS THE MIDDLE WESTERNER

OF

ACHIEVEMENT Photos: kfranciscophotos.com

2 A Message from the Polemarch 3 A Message from the Junior Vice Polemarch 4-21 Provincial Pulse What‘s going on around the MiddleWestern Province?

17-21 Nupes in Sports What are our undergraduate brothers doing in their respective courts?

22-24 Senior Kappa Spotlight Highlighting our senior Kappas.

25-26 Undergraduate Spotlight This year's most-awaited thriller 27 C.Roger WiIson Conference 28 History of the MWP 29 A Message from the Editor A message from the creator of this newsletter, brother Addam M. Francisco.

BOOKISH MAGAZINE

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A MESSAGE FROM THE POLEMARCH SHANNON L. ARMSTRONG, SR

Thank you for taking the time to view our Province newsletter. When I was appointed Province Polemarch, I decided to revitalize our newsletter because I believe it is important to recognize and celebrate our achievements.

Having a platform like the Middle Westerner is important, so we can share all our accomplishments with the entire Province and the world via our social media networks.

I am pleased to report we just wrapped up a highly successful C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference that took place October 27th and 28th in Kansas City Missouri. Our amazing Chairman, Dr. Fred Hammond III did an outstanding job planning and organizing an aspiring conference.

I would also like to thank the Province Planning Team as well for all the behind the scenes logistics. In addition, the Kansas City Alumni Chapter and the Nu Epsilon Chapter did a great job hosting.

Please enjoy the second edition of our Province newsletter.

Thank you Brothers for your submittals. We cannot have a successful newsletter without your continued support.

I look forward to seeing everyone at the 102nd Middle Western Province Council Meeting in Wichita Kansas, March 21st and 23rd.

2

A

MESSAGE

THE

JUNIOR

POLEMARCH DOMINGO Brothers, I am excited to report that I attended the NPHC Leadership Conference in Chicago Illinois on October 26th-28th. It was an amazing experience and it was an honor to represent our great Province. I learned a lot about leadership and I was able to foster many fraternal, personal and business relationships. I look forward to sharing my experiences with the Brothers here in the Middle Western Province, especially passing on important information to all the undergraduates.

This is an exciting time for our Province. Brothers lets continue the momentum we have built under the 21st administration and let us continue to achieve at the highest level. Enjoy the newsletter and I look forward to seeing you Brothers soon. YO! MWP | 3

WARD

FROM VICE

A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

TOPEKA ALUMNI The Topeka (KS) Alumni Chapter made a meaningful presentation at Washington Elementary School in Junction City, MS. The chapter generously donated $5,400, allocating $200 per class, to support teachers with essential supplies for their year-round preparation. This act of kindness reflects the chapter's commitment to fostering an enriching educational environment.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

MUSKOGEE ALUMNI On Thursday, August 17th, Faith Deliverance and the Muskogee Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. played a vital role in the 8th & 9th grade academy's "Meet the Teachers" event. Their involvement included serving and supporting the dedicated educators who will be shaping the minds of the future leaders of our community and beyond. We express our gratitude to Mrs. Bunch and the entire Academy Administration for welcoming us into your school; it was indeed an honor to contribute to this important event!

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

KANSAS CITY ALUMNI The Kansas City Guide Right Foundation hosted its annual White Party in Kansas City, Missouri. This signature event is organized by the philanthropic arm of the Kansas City Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. It brings together a community of supporters to celebrate and contribute to the Foundation's impactful initiatives.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

LANGSTON ALUMNI MWP Senior Province Vice Polemarch, Shawn Oglesby recently attended the monthly chapter meeting of the Langston (OK) Alumni, where Polemarch Morgan Smith led a highly productive session. The gathering provided an opportunity for insightful discussions and collaborative efforts among the members.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

ALPHA PI A heartfelt shoutout goes to the Alpha Pi chapter at Langston University for their outstanding commitment to community service. These dedicated brothers recently lent their time and efforts to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, contributing to the fight against hunger in their local community. Their selfless act of volunteering not only embodies the spirit of brotherhood but also exemplifies the positive impact that student organizations can have on the broader community. Great job, Alpha Pi chapter, for making a difference and inspiring others to follow in your footsteps!

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

ALPHA PI

BETA NU The Beta Nu Chapter in St. Louis, Missouri, extended a warm welcome to the incoming class of 2027. Eager to make a positive impact, the Brothers enthusiastically volunteered their time during move-ins at Harris Stowe, UMSL, and SLU, showcasing their commitment to community engagement. Kudos to the Brothers for their outstanding efforts!

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

FAYETTEVILLE ALUMNI & IOTA TAU Demonstrating their unwavering dedication to the Northwest Arkansas community, the Fayetteville (AR) Alumni and the Iota Tau chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi have taken a proactive step by adopting a section of the interstate for quarterly cleanup initiatives.

This thoughtful and ongoing commitment reflects their passion for maintaining a clean and vibrant environment, leaving a positive impact on the local community they proudly serve.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

KANSAS CITY ALUMNI’S RECEPTION FOR SHANNON ARMSTRONG In a celebration of achievement and camaraderie, the Kansas City Alumni Chapter warmly hosted a reception to extend congratulations and honor Brother Shannon L. Armstrong Sr., the esteemed 21st Polemarch of the Mighty Middle Western Province of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. The event was a testament to the collective pride and support of the Brothers as they recognized Brother Armstrong's significant role and accomplishments within the fraternity.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

THE NAACP HONORS BRO. ARMSTRONG Brother Shannon Armstrong Sr., received a well-deserved Community Service Award from the Johnson County Kansas branch of the NAACP. The recognition was a tribute to Brother Armstrong's extensive years of dedicated community outreach and, notably, his recent appointment as the Province Polemarch of the Middle Western Province of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Congratulations to Brother Armstrong for this well-earned honor!

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

KANSAS CITY ALUMNI’S RECEPTION FOR SHANNON ARMSTRONG In a celebration of achievement and camaraderie, the Kansas City Alumni Chapter warmly hosted a reception to extend congratulations and honor Brother Shannon L. Armstrong Sr., the esteemed 21st Polemarch of the Mighty Middle Western Province of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. The event was a testament to the collective pride and support of the Brothers as they recognized Brother Armstrong's significant role and accomplishments within the fraternity.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

ALPHA PI HELPS HELPS WITH CAREER FAIR The Alpha Pi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi at Langston University spent time on September 19th helping to prepare the student body for the upcoming career fair. They taught students how to tie a tie and provide business dress tips when interviewing.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

PROVINCE POLEMARCH ATTENDS IHQ TRAINING Province Polemarch Shannon L. Armstrong Sr. attended training at the International Headquarters of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. with 35th Grand Polemarch Jimmy McMikle, Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Robert Jenkins Esq., Grand Keeper of Exchequer Rhen Bass and the entire Council of Province Polemarch’s.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

MUSKOGEE ALUMNI TAKES KAPPA LEAGUERS TO NSU HOMECOMING Muskogee Alumni seized the opportunity to treat a select group of Kappa Leaguers to an unforgettable experience at NSU's Homecoming!

The day unfolded with a captivating college campus tour, where the vibrant atmosphere of academic life came to life. The Kappa Leaguers reveled in the festivities, joining in the spirited parade and soaking up the lively atmosphere of tailgating.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

NORMAN ALUMNI HAS A FISH FRY MWP Senior Vice Polemarch Shawn Oglesby attended the Norman (OK) Fish Fry on November 4th, supporting their scholarship fund.

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A I L C P N I U V L O SE R P

ST LOUIS ALUMNI On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, the 14th Annual Golf Classic Tournament was held in Forest Park. Brother Sam Boyd, III, Brother Theron Morgan, and the entire golf tournament committee made contributions towards executing an outstanding event. Approximately 160 golfers showed up to golf and raise funds for the Guide Right Foundation of St. Louis, Inc. and the Krimson Achievement Youth Foundation. BJC’s PECad (Program for Eliminating Healthcare Disparities) department attended the event. They were raising awareness around prostate cancer screening for Black men, as we know that we are disproportionately affected by this kind of cancer. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated goods & services, volunteered time, and sponsored teams or holes! You helped ensure the golf tournament was a success!

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

ST LOUIS ALUMNI The St. Louis Alumni Chapter has a strategic partnership with BJC Healthcare. As part of our health initiative, during Juneteenth weekend, on Saturday, June 17, 2023, led by Brother Kel Ward and Brother Ty Carlock, the chapter participated in Christian Hospital’s Summer Health Expo. It was a fun-filled day focused on family health and well-being.

There were plenty of activities for kids and the entire family. This free event included screenings for adults & children, access to community resources, workout sessions, a bubble bus & balloon artists, refreshments, giveaways, and musical entertainment by the Dirty Muggs. Among those in attendance were Brother Dr. Arnold Bullock, one of the top urologists in the State of Missouri, and Ms. Lori Weatherspoon, one of the first Black female Chief Nursing Officers at BJC. The St. Louis (MO) Alumni Chapter was awarded a proclamation from Christian Hospital and BJC for having the most registered members in any organization to attend the event.

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P

ST LOUIS ALUMNI On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, the 14 th Annual Golf Classic Tournament was held in Forest Park. Brother Sam Boyd, III, Brother Theron Morgan, and the entire golf tournament committee made contributions towards executing an outstanding event. Approximately 160 golfers showed up to golf and raise funds for the Guide Right Foundation of St. Louis, Inc. and the Krimson Achievement Youth Foundation. BJC’s PECad (Program for eliminating healthcare disparities) department attended the event.

They were bringing awareness around prostate cancer screening for Black men, as we know that we are disproportionately affected by this kind of cancer. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated goods services, volunteered time, and sponsored teams or holes! You helped to ensure the golf tournament was a success!

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A I L C P N I U V L O S R E P ALPHA PI’S 90TH ANNIVERSARY BANQUET

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Nupes in sports The men of Kappa Alpha Psi are men of Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor. That includes athletics.

This section will highlight the undergraduates who are taking care of business in the classroom, in their respective chapters, and in their respective sports.

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Nupes in sports Demarius Smith Norman Alumni BRother Smith helped team usa Earn a bronze medal in the mixed 4x400 during the pan-aN games in santiago, Brazil

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Nupes in sports

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Kobey Stephens

Kyshon Murray, JR

University of Central Oklahoma Epsilon Gamma Chapter, Strategus Defensive Back

University of Central Oklahoma Epsilon Gamma Chapter, Polemarch Defensive Back

cam smith

quinton conley

Blaine Green

Oklahoma State University vice polemarch, Zeta Theta DEfensive back

kansas university Mu chapter, keeper of records tight end

Oklahoma State University Zeta Theta wide receiver

Nupes in sports

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Darius Ragland

tra ranson

Lindenwood university beta nu, keeper of records defensive back

lindenwood university beta nu, mta chairman linebacker

Malik Sylvester

Isaiah Eppinger

Makale Cummings

CUlver-Stockton College Epsilon Eta, MTA Chairman Wide receiver

CUlver-Stockton College Epsilon Eta Wide receiver

CUlver-Stockton College Epsilon Eta, historian Nose Tackle

Nupes in sports

chris rogers

Joseph Spaulding

culver-stockton college Epsilon eta, keeper of records Defensive end

Truman State university Epsilon eta, keeper of exchequer Wide receiver

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bobby ezzard

carlos price

lian benn

CUlver-Stockton College, Epsilon Eta, vice polemarch Wide receiver

CUlver-Stockton College Epsilon Eta, polemarch cornerback

missouri s&T iota omega, polemarch offensive line

Nupes in sports xavier bell Wichita state University delta upsilon point guard

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senior kappa spotlight

Photos: Kfranciscophotos.com

senior kappa spotlight Kenneth W. Arinwine was born in Wellston, OK and is a 1955 graduate of Langston University with a degree in education.

Kenneth W. Arinwine

He was initiated into Kappa through the Alpha Pi Chapter on December 15, 1952. In addition, Kenneth holds a Master’s Degree in Administration from the University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University. Brother Arinwine is a past Oklahoma City Alumni Chapter Polemarch (1976-1978) and was the Keeper of Records for 13 years. He has served as a high school principal in the Oklahoma City School System. Brother Arinwine has served in several different organizations, some of which include Steward and Trustee with St. Mary CME Church, the Alumni Association at Langston University, Vice President of the National Oklahoma City Douglass High School Alumni Association and Chairman of the Kappa Alpha Psi Oklahoma City Alumni Scholarship Foundation. He is also a Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Life Member (1970).

Brother Arinwine, a widower (Fayetta James) is the proud father of two daughters who are both UCO graduates. He was the first of three siblings to a^end and graduate college. He a^ended Langston University on a baseball scholarship, the first of its kind. In 2009 Brother Arinwine was inducted into the Langston University Athletic Hall of Fame. He has received the Distinguished Langston Alumni Award.

He has also had the honor of receiving the Oklahoma City Alumni Chapter's Biennial Achievement Award, the Polemarch's Award and the Founders' Award.

Brother Arinwine has nephews from Alpha Pi and Zeta Omega.

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senior kappa spotlight

Ullyses Wright First Vice President, Johnson County NAACP Johnson County, Kansas

Ullyses Wright is a graduate of Langston University an (HBCU) with a Bachelor of Science degree. He served as the Co-Chair of the 2023 Freedom Fund Banquet for the Johnson County NAACP where there were more than 450 guests in attendance, and $60,000.00 raised.

Ullyses Wright is a past Chairman of the National Participant Advisory Board for the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trail (SELECT) conducted by the Southwest Oncology Group, and funded by the National Cancer Institute. He also managed the Prostate Cancer Screening program at the Black Health Care Coalition and served on the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Baptist Medical Center.

He served as a Community Consulting for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics-Underserved Populations (RADx-UP) Covid-19, He serves on the Community Advisory Board at The University of Kansas Cancer Center; he is a Board of Directors member for the National Alliance of State Prostate Cancer Coalitions (NASPCC) and he also serves on the Johnson County Community Correction Advisory Board. He is a former Oklahoma State University County Extension Agent, former Sr. Sales Representative for BASF Corp., and a former Supplier Diversity Specialist at Sprint. He was recently elected by voters in Johnson County to a seat on the board at Water District 1 on November 7, 2023, the first African-American to do so.

Brother Ullyses Wright is a 1972 initiative at Alpha Pi chapter. A 50 year member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. MWP | 30

Undergraduate spotlight Photos: Kfranciscophotos.com

undergraduate spotlight

Elijah Merritt University of NebraskaLincoln (Eta Chapter)

Meet Undergraduate Brother Elijah Merritt, a dynamic individual who crossed the ETA chapter at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the fall of 2021.

Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, Elijah is currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management at the College of Business at Nebraska-Lincoln. Since joining in 2021, Elijah has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both academic and professional growth.

Elijah's educational journey has transcended borders, with two international study experiences under his belt. In the summer of 2022, he immersed himself in the intricacies of international supply chain operations in Barcelona, Spain.

Building on this global perspective, Elijah further enriched his knowledge by studying Business Law in the captivating city of Venice, Italy, during the Summer of 2023.

Adding real-world experience to his academic pursuits, Elijah has embarked on an internship at the prestigious Union Pacific Railroad, a Fortune 150 corporation. In his role as a Logistics and Operations Intern, he has gained invaluable insights into the complexities of the industry.

As he approaches graduation in December, Brother Elijah is set to seamlessly transition into the professional realm. His dedication has already secured him a full-time position at Union Pacific, where he will step into the role of a Senior Logistics Specialist. Elijah Merritt exemplifies the spirit of academic excellence, international curiosity, and a promising future in the field of logistics and operations.

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C. RoDger Wilson Leadership conference

The 2023 C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference, was a dynamic gathering hosted collaboratively by the Kansas City Alumni Chapter and the Nu Epsilon Chapter from October 27th to the 28th. Boasting a record-breaking attendance of 220 participants, this year's conference theme, "Embracing Change, Time for Action," set the stage for engaging discussions and activities.

The Nu Epsilon Chapter added an academic flair to the event by hosting the Learn 2 Live forum on the picturesque campus of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Against this backdrop, 35 new members joined the fraternity through our Membership Training Academy, marking the beginning of their transformative journey within the brotherhood.

Beyond intellectual pursuits, the conference prioritized holistic well-being with a Health Fair.

Walmart played a key role by setting up and administering vaccinations, showcasing our commitment to the welfare of our Brothers.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the Brothers whose contributions made the 2023 CRWLC a resounding success. Your unwavering support and dedication elevated the conference, creating a memorable and impactful experience for all. Cheers to embracing change and taking decisive action!

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The Middle Western Province was established in 1920 as the "Seventh Region" of Kappa Alpha Psi, under the leadership of Regional Director Harrison W. Hollie who served in that capacity until 1924.

HISTORY OF THE MWP Regional Director Roy C. Garvin served from 1924 through 1926, then Carl Roman Johnson became Polemarch of what was then described as the "Western Province" of the fraternity.

Brother Johnson served from 1926 through 1929. He was followed by J. S. Hunnicutt (1929-1932), W. H. Beckett (1932-1933), Percy Harold Lee (1933-1955), Wyatt F. Jeltz (1955-1967), Charles F. McAfee (19671975), Art S. Williams (1975-1977), Ed Bivins (1977-1982), Ivory Johnson, Jr. (1982-1991), Cordell A. Stephens, Sr. (1991-1994), Willie H. Burnett, Sr. (1994-1996), Reuben Anderson Shelton, III (1996-1998), Broderick R. Crawford (1998-1999), Adolphus Morris Pruitt, II (19992003), and Elmer J. Crumbley (2003-2009).

MIDDLE WESTERN PROVINCE HISTORY In 1935, the Western Province was renamed the Middle Western Province. At the time, there was one chapter in the Western Province the Upsilon in Los Angeles (CA). In that year, the Middle Western Province was defined to include four states: Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma. In 1939, Colorado was added when Beta Theta was chartered on May 29th of that year in Denver, Colorado. Beta Theta was a "hybrid" chapter that included both undergraduate and alumni members until Denver Alumni was chartered fifteen years later on February 20, 1954.

In 1979, the northwest corner of Arkansas was added to the province when Iota Tau was chartered on April 8th of that year in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Consequently, there are now chapters from six states in the Middle Western Province.

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19.

A note from the editor Addam M. Francisco, Norman Alumni

The bond of our common humanity is stronger than the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices.

Jimmy Carter What's happening, brothers? Thank you for reading the second edition of the Middle Westerner. While this has been a challenging year for me, this newsletter and the trust that our Province Polemarch, Shannon Armstrong, has in my abilities to put together this newsletter has definitely been a bright spot.

Addam M. Francisco

Since the first edition of this publication, I've noticed a new level of hatred in our world.

From gang violence and the ongoing economic struggle placed upon the republic of Haiti to the genocide taking place in the middle east and the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

We're in a very detrimental place in our world, and I'm dedicated to being intentional in my day-today to treat people with kindness and compassion, regardless of their background. I also encourage the brothers of this fraternity to do the same. Where there's division between brothers, there needs to be reconciliation. There's negativity in every direction we look these days, so it's important to prioritize the brotherhood in these moments.

Personally, I'm proud of the direction we're going in. Being at the C. Roger Wilson this year, seeing the record-breaking attendance, watching the undergraduates crossing those burning sands, and getting to meet each undergrad individually was a blessing to me and served as another highlight in an unideal 2023.

Lastly, thank you for taking the time to read our second installment of the Middle Westerner. If you have any ideas for future newsletters, please email me at addamfranciscomwp@gmail.com. Yo!

Yours In The Bond, MWP | 34