The Oracle - Fall/Winter 2023

VOLUME 93 | NO. 45 | FALL/WINTER 2023

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC.

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC.

ATTN: GRAND KRS 3951 SNAPFINGER PARKWAY DECATUR, GA 30035

PLEASE EMAIL ALL EDITORIAL CONCERNS, COMMENTS AND INFORMATION TO:

BROTHER NORM SENIOR INTERNATIONAL EDITOR OF THE ORACLE EDITORTOTHEORACLE@OPPF.ORG

PUBLICATION AND GRAPHIC DESIGN

BROTHER QUINEST BISHOP, SR. BRAND & MEDIA DIRECTOR/IHQ QBISHOP@OPPF.ORG

ON THE COVER

42nd Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Brother Ricky L. Lewis

*DEADLINES FOR THE ORACLE*

WINTER ISSUE (JAN) - DEC. 1ST

SPRING ISSUE (APR) - MAR. 1ST

SUMMER ISSUE (AUG) - JUL. 1ST

FALL ISSUE (NOV) - OCT. 1ST

THE ORACLE EDITORIAL BOARD

International Editor of the Oracle

Brother Norm Senior

3951 Snapfinger Parkway

Decatur, GA 30035

Email: EditorTotheOracle@oppf.org

Undergraduate Editor

Brother Ryan Thomas

International Director of Photography

Brother James Witherspoon

District Directors of Public Relations

1st Brother Alexander Jones

2nd Brother Zanes E. Cypress, Jr.

3rd Brother Calvin Beidleman III

4th Brother JT Thomas

5th Brother Irwin Todd

6th Brother Jamie Brunson

7th Brother Sean Bland

8th Brother Eleualio Abraham

9th Brother Na’Shon Edwards, Sr.

10th Brother Michael Durrett

12th Brother Jason Jones

13th Brother Dr. Carl Bampoe

Assistant International Photographers

Brother Galvin Crisp

Brother C. Delray Brown

Brother Jayson Jones

Brother Wayne Pollard

Emeritus Photographer - the late Brother John H. Williams

Copy Editors & Contributing Writers

Brother Benjamin Foster, Jr.

Brother Bernard S. Little

Brother Billy Mathis

Brother Bishop Joe Chase, Jr.

Brother Carl A. Blunt

Brother Carlton Lampkins

Brother Clarence Labor, Jr.

Brother Crispin Abad, Sr.

Brother Damon Scott

Brother Darius Hinton

Brother Darryl Orlando Ledbetter

Brother Devon A. Doss

Brother Dontrell Baines

Brother Emery Ailes

Brother Erogies Grigley, Jr.

Brother Fred Thomas III

Brother Hal J. Dumas, Jr.

System Program Engineer

Brother Cornelius Beidleman

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: OPPF.ORG

FACEBOOK & YOUTUBE: @OFFICIALOMEGASPSIPHI INSTAGRAM & TWITTER: @OFFICIALOPPF

On the Cover

Brother Ivory Gene Cooper

Brother J.L. Jackson

Brother Jeremy Neal

Brother Jerome L. Nesbary

Brother John Cooper

Brother Jonathan Matthews

Brother Lamar Cole

Brother Larry Hammond, Sr.

Brother Nijel Redrick

Brother Reginald Clark

Brother Reginald Whitaker Jr.

Brother Roger Henderson

Brother Samuel Summerville

Brother Tamal Burise

Brother Ural H. Hill

Brother Walter Gill

A Photograph of 42nd Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Brother Ricky L. Lewis

Since the first publication in 1919, the Oracle has chronicled the individual and collective expressions of our shared value system – a convention rooted in friendship, defined by a set of complementary and consequential cardinal principles, and measured by the extent of its usefulness to mankind.

A read of past Oracles is indeed an education in what is worthwhile. Because while I believe history is always

watching, I consider it my job and your job to manifest, document, and project the same Omega excellence. I trust history will be pleased with what it sees and our inheritance will be paid forward!

I am excited for the opportunity to tell the Omega story – your story.

How will you make your part of the Omega story worth reading?

Brother Norm Senior, International Editor of the Oracle

“I remain genuinely humbled & honored to serve you and Omega as the International Editor of the Oracle, the Fraternity’s official Organ.”

Council

The Supreme Council is the board of directors for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and is the highest governing body outside of the assembly of the Grand Conclave.

The board is made up of 24 brothers that are elected and appointed into office: 9 Grand Officers, 3 Undergraduate Representatives and 12 District Representatives.

Established November 17, 1911 Howard University. Washington, DC

Ricky Lewis 42nd Grand Basileus

Professor Frank Coleman 1890-1967

Mark E. Jackson 1st Vice Grand Basileus Ryan Thomas 2nd Vice Grand Basileus

Sherman Charles Grand Keeper of Records & Seal

Johnnie B. Smith Grand Keeper of Finance

Clement Osimetha Grand Counselor

Roi Johnson Grand Chaplain

Anthony Perkins Grand Marshal

Dr. David E. Marion Immediate Past Grand Basileus

of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

John Faison, Jr. Undergraduate Representative

C’Jai Payne Undergraduate Representative Tyler Span Undergraduate Representative

Dr. Oscar J. Cooper 1888-1972

Dr. Ernest E. Just 1883-1941

Bishop Edgar A. Love 1891-1974

Founders of Omega Psi Phi

1ST DISTRICT: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont; 2ND DISTRICT: Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania; 3RD DISTRICT: Virginia and Washington, DC; 4TH DISTRICT: Ohio and West Virginia; 5TH DISTRICT: Kentucky and Tennessee, 6TH DISTRICT: North Carolina and South Carolina; 7TH DISTRICT: Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi; 8TH DISTRICT: Colorado, Iowa, Kansas,

DISTRICT MAP - OMEGA PSI PHI

1ST DISTRICT: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont;

Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota and South Dakota; 9TH DISTRICT:

2ND DISTRICT: Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania;

3RD DISTRICT: Virginia and Washington, DC;

10TH DISTRICT: lllinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin;

Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas; 10TH DISTRICT: lllinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin; 12TH DISTRICT: Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming; 13TH DISTRICT - INTERNATIONAL:

4TH DISTRICT: Ohio and West Virginia;

5TH DISTRICT: Kentucky and Tennessee,

6TH DISTRICT: North Carolina and South Carolina;

12TH DISTRICT: Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming;

7TH DISTRICT: Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi;

8TH DISTRICT: Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri,

Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota and South Dakota;

9TH DISTRICT: Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas;

13TH DISTRICT - INTERNATIONAL: Bermuda, Canada, China, Dominican Republic, Germany, Ghana, Hawaii, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Panama, The Bahamas, The Netherlands, St. Croix VI, St. Thomas VI, St. Maarten, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Bermuda, Canada, China, Dominican Republic, Germany, Ghana, Hawaii, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Panama, The Bahamas, The Netherlands, St. Croix VI, St. Thomas VI, St. Maarten, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Lennitt Bligen 1st District Representative

Delrecole “Rico” Gales 2nd District Representative

Conrado B. Morgan 3rd District Representative

David Reliford 4th District Representative

Sam Mckenzie 5th District Representative

Al White 6th District Representative

Reginald M. Harris 7th District Representative

Kermit Ervin 8th District Representative

Harold Bailey 9th District Representative

Sean T. Long 10th District Representative

Kwame Dow 12th District Representative

Tracy D. George 13th District Representative

Omega’s Former Grand Basileis

Past National Presidents (Grand Basileis) of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

“The value of our Fraternity is not in numbers, but in men, in real brotherhood. Eight men thoroughly immersed in the true Omega spirit are far greater assets than eighty with lukewarm enthusiasm.” ~ Bro Walter Herbert Mazyck (Alpha Chapter 1913)

*Denotes Omega Chapter (Deceased)

f 1st Edgar A. Love* 1911 - 1912

f 2nd Oscar J. Cooper* 1912 - 1913

f 3rd Edgar A. Love* 1913 - 1915

f 4th George E. Hall* 1915 - 1916

f 5th James C. McMorries* 1916-1917

f 6th Clarence F. Holmes* 1917 - 1918

f 7th Raymond G. Robinson* 1918-1920

f 8th Harold H. Thomas* 1920 - 1921

f 9th Jasper Alston Atkins* 1921 - 1924

f 10th John W. Love* 1924 - 1924

f 11th George E. Vaughn* 1924 - 1926

f 12th Julius S. McClain* 1926 - 1929

f 13th Matthew W. Bullock* 1929 - 1932

f 14th Lawrence A. Oxley* 1932 - 1935

f 15th William E. Baugh* 1935 - 1937

f 16th Albert W. Dent* 1937 - 1940

f 17th Z. Alexander Looby* 1940 - 1945

f 18th Campbell C. Johnson* 1945 - 1947

f 19th Harry T. Penn* 1947 - 1949

f 20th Milo C. Murray* 1949 - 1951

f 21st Grant Reynolds* 1951 - 1953

f 22nd John E. Potts* 1953 - 1955

f 23rd Herbert E. Tucker, Jr.* 1955 - 1958

f 24th I. Gregory Newton* 1958 - 1961

f 25th Cary D. Jacobs* 1961 - 1964

f 26th George E. Meares* 1964 - 1967

f 27th Ellis F. Corbett* 1967 - 1970

f 28th James S. Avery* 1970 - 1973

f 29th Marion W. Garnett* 1973 - 1976

f 30th Edward J. Braynon, Jr. 1976 - 1979

f 31st Burnel E. Coulon* 1979 - 1982

f 32nd L. Benjamin Livingston* 1982 - 1984

f 33rd Moses C. Norman, Sr.* 1984 - 1990

f 34th C. Tyrone Gilmore* 1990 - 1994

f 35th Dorsey C. Miller 1994 - 1998

f 36th Lloyd J. Jordan 1998 - 2002

f 37th George H. Grace 2002 - 2006

f 38th Warren G. Lee, Jr.* 2006 - 2010

f 39th Andrew A. Ray 2010 - 2014

f 40th Antonio F. Knox, Sr. 2014 - 2018

f 41st David E. Marion  2018 - 2022

Omega’s International Committees

f International Achievement Week Christopher Norman Bernard Clayton

f Budget Lee Rideout Ronald Thompson

f Career Development/ Robert S. Cunningham, Jr. Enrique Jackson

GE Omega for Life

f International Chapter Advisors Dr. Paul D. Adams Cody Charles (ICA)/ Advance Degree and Undergraduate Affairs

f Charles R. Drew Scholarship E. Newton Jackson, Jr., PhD G. Stewart, PhD

Commission/Scholarship

f Community and Civic Affairs Ulysses S. G. Sweeney, IV Kraig Karrere

f Corporate Relations/ Claude Tolbert

Honorary Impact

f Credentials & Voting Gregory Epps Edward Arrington

f International Economic Sylvester Wilkins Harry Harrell

Development /Marketing

f Fatherhood and Mentoring/ Earl Wilson Ray Bell and BBBS/YLC Keith G. Pemberton

f Fiscal Management Fred Alexander Willie Barnes

f Grand Tribunal Brian Beverly Michael Jefferson

f International History & Archives Keir Pemberton Jonathan Matthews

f HR Committee Walter Banks Stephen Smith

f Medical Health Affairs/Prostate Dr. Delon Brennan Dr. Jedan Phillips

f Membership Raymond ‘Raybo’ Bourgeois Joe Williams

f Protocol Gary C. Clark Willie Williams and Kenneth A. Brown

f Recommendations Dylan Bess Lawton Connelly

f Reclamation Marion Williams Gary Jiles

f Retention Kenny Calvin Frank Borris

f Registration Carjonne Cooper Brian Bernard

f Risk Management Mike Lyles Rob Warren

f Site Selection Dr. Steve Johnson

f Social Action /VREM Derrick “Deek” Ivory William “Mack” McDonald

f Sports & Entertainment Mark Stevens Jerry Mackey

f STEM Lee G. Willis Dr. Carl E. Allen

f Talent Hunt Larry C. Pough Dr. Carlton Lampkin

f Technology Nathan Hunter Greg McKoy

f Conflict Resolution Brian Gundy Robert Littlejohn

f Ways and Means Carlos Miller Tony Knox, Jr.

f Rules Kurmell Knox Amos Townsend

f Investment Stafford Thompson, Jr. Robert Shoffner

f HBCU Initiative Dr. Quinton Ross, Jr. Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr.

Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr. 30th Grand Basileus

Dr. Dorsey C. Miller 35th Grand Basileus Lloyd J. Jordan 36th Grand Basileus

Dr. George H. Grace 37th Grand Basileus

Dr. Andrew A. Ray 39th Grand Basileus

Dr. Antonio F. Knox, Sr. 40th Grand Basileus

Amazon, like Omega Psi Phi, has always represented growth for me. I have always appreciated the endless opportunities to expand my knowledge.

Omega Psi Phi prepared me for my leadership role in so many ways. Our cardinal principles and teachings have helped me become the leader I am.

J. Ofori Agboka VP, PXT Global Operations

Justin James Lopez

Sr. Media Producer, Amazon Design Services

RICKYLEWIS@EARTHLINK.NET

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc

International Headquarters

3951 Snapfinger Parkway

Decatur, GA 30035

Telephone: (404) 284-5533

Fax: (404) 284-0333

Greetings Brothers,

Message from the Grand Basileus T

Throughout Omega our district meetings are happening. This is the time that as leaders and influencers we come together to share information as we continue bringing uplift to ourselves, families, friends, and our communities.

Since the 83rd Grand Conclave in Charlotte, I have traveled to several districts, listened to brothers, and carried the message of the good work brothers are doing to uplift our communities. I am pleased to report that Omega is in great shape, but we desire to persevere, to do better and achieve more. Continue to go Next Level

We can be proud of our accomplishments; there is room and opportunity for us to reach more mountain tops. I shall mention a few for your consideration:

• Achieve a financial membership goal of 40,000 by October 31, 2023.

• Continue to have successful International meetings;

• Continue to develop partnerships with community stakeholders to build our newest mandated programs of STEM and Fatherhood and Mentoring;

I have been asked about the wisdom of the fraternity having its 84th Grand Conclave in Tampa, given the assertion by elected officials that the study of African American history was of “little educational value”. I indicated that plans for the 84th Grand Conclave are taking shape and all systems are go for holding it in Florida.

February has just ended. It is the month selected by Brother Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 to celebrate the history of black folks, he chose February, the shortest month, for many reasons: (1) the 13th Amendment freeing African Americans from slavery was signed in January 1865 by president Abraham Lincoln; (2) the second week of February honors the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

Our founders challenged us to “develop a certain amount forthrightness and ambition, for the perfection of any accomplishment requires perseverance.” Perseverance, our theme for this issue, bolsters our beloved Fraternity. Accordingly, engage your district leadership in a robust discussions about how we can better impact the lives of those we serve.

Finally, brothers, the study of history is valuable; the study of American history and world history is important; the study of cultures in the United States of America makes us a better people; the study of Black History Matters! We live in a society and culture that is diverse, equity is expected, inclusivity and opportunity are revered. I challenge you to think deeply about this issue and persevere.

I encourage you to ask questions, and ask some more questions. Questions help us grow!

I look forward to seeing you and hearing from you soon! Thank you for your service to Omega.

42nd Grand Basileus Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

I am pleased to report that Omega is in great shape, but we desire to persevere, to do better and achieve more. Continue to go Next Level.”

OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC.

Brothers,

Giving honor to God and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I humbly thank you for electing me to serve as your First Vice Grand Basileus at the 2022 Charlotte Grand Conclave.

Message from the First ViceGrand Basileus G

As many of you know, this is not my first “rodeo”. With your support and with much gratitude, I thank you for allowing me to serve on the Supreme Council as Second Vice Grand Basileus, Third District Representative and two terms as your Immediate Past Grand Keeper of Records and Seal. I’ve had the honor and privilege to serve under and work with seven Former Grand Basilei. The experience gained over my 34+ years of service has prepared me for the task at hand.

Currently, I am working with the First Vice District Representatives and the International Committees to ensure programmatic alignment with the Strategic Plan and to ensure that the good work of Omega continues to go “Next Level”.

We will focus our efforts and actively engage the brotherhood on strengthening the Royal Purple and Old Gold thread that bonds the Brotherhood…one to another.

As we continue to work to earn the Brotherhood’s confidence in our leadership team, during my tenure, we will visit every District in Omega to increase transparency and avail ourselves to the brothers’ concerns. While meeting platforms such as Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet are great, they can never replace the face-to-face contact and the brotherly love that comes about when two or more of us are gathered. I believe in meeting with brothers and “exchanging ideas”. I believe in Friendship!

In addition to our efforts to strengthen brotherhood within Omega, we will prioritize and renew our commitment to community service and social responsibility. As a fraternity, we have a responsibility to serve and uplift our communities and we will work together to make a positive impact.

I look forward to working with each and every one of you to achieve our shared goals and lead Omega to even greater heights. Let us continue to uphold the principles and values that define our great Fraternity and make us proud to be Omega Men.

Thanks again for your continued support and I hope to see you in the Bahamas for the Dr. Moses C. Norman Sr. International Leadership Conference as we come together to elevate Omega to the NEXT LEVEL!

In Friendship, Mark

E. Jackson, First Vice Grand Basileus Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

We will focus our efforts and actively engage the brotherhood on strengthening the Royal Purple and Old Gold thread that bonds the Brotherhood…one to another.”

Message from the Executive Director

Greetings, My Brothers,

A man I hold in high esteem, Judge H. Carl Moultrie, better known as “Mr. Omega” once stated “Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming."

As the International Executive Director of our beloved Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., I approach my roles and responsibilities with Mr. Omega's statements in mind. It brings me great self-satisfaction to know we are still following the charge and continuing to make Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Next Level.

At International Headquarters (IHQ), we are enthusiastically working on a variety of projects, programs, and processes that will boost Fraternity life and continue to provide a level of customer service that rivals that of some of the most successful Fortune 500 companies.

Brothers, I encourage you to visit our website, oppf. org , to remain informed about all the fantastic things occurring throughout the Omega universe. Our team routinely updates website content with current information and valuable resources. The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Job Board is a tool that features career opportunities for Brothers at all career levels. If you're job searching, I encourage you to visit jobs.oppf.org/ sign-up and take advantage of its many offerings and features. Feel free to share this link with family and friends, as they can access some of the provided features.

These vital elements are a few of the building blocks to success and are all tools that fuel my hope and desire to craft the best version of IHQ possible.

My Brothers, I call on you to continue to support and strengthen your families, lifelong friendships, Fraternal circles, and communities. Persist in honoring your many commitments to Omega. Be intentional about reclaiming Brothers, restoring them to a financial standing with Omega.

Thank you for all you do to make Omega bolder, brighter, and better! Continue to stay safe…

John F. Howard International Executive Director Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated

“We put Manhood first because we think that character is more essential as we look for prospects in Omega than any other one thing.

Secondly we put Scholarship, there is a place for mediocrity in our society but, not in Omega. We want men whose minds are at least above the average, that they can make a contribution to the life of an institution and to the world.

Then Perseverance; we want men who will realize that they have a

responsibility to stand by any project that they may begin and see it through.

And finally, Uplift; which puts man in connection with the community in which he lives and lets him realize that he has a responsibility to those who are less fortunate than himself; that he must also do what he does with the idea of service to the community and to the nation.

Bring all these together, we have the true Omega Man.”

“There is a place for mediocrity in our society but, not in Omega.”

JOURNEY FROM LOVE TO LEADERSHIP

An Interview with Brother Ricky Lewis, 42nd Grand Basileus

By Brother Larry Hammond, Sr.

INTRODUCTION

It’s been said when you believe in something with all of your heart and mind, you bring it to life.

There is a song, “All of My Love…” sung by multiple university based Black Greek lettered organizations including Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The inspiration for this song is the 1970s soul rendition of “Love, Peace, and Happiness” by the Chamber Brothers.

Love is about Prospering relationships, Preserving what you have built, and Protecting what you love.

As a student and teacher of leadership, I have observed and studied leaders in multiple facets including public and civic sectors, private and non-profit domains, and the religious provinces. One of the things that I look for is what drives those leaders to be successful (or not successful) and motivates them to take on the mantle of leadership in their respective areas. Leadership isn’t easy. Every day brings a new set of challenges and obstacles to overcome. Those that aspire and choose to take on leadership roles are often compelled by a myriad of forces that inspire them to succeed and prosper.

In my work as a leadership coach, I see my clients consistently bombarded with problems, issues, complaints, and crises. The choices they make as they tackle these day-to-day challenges are a big part of what distinguishes them as good, or great leaders (or in some cases, a bad leader).

In this article, the question you will learn the answer to is: “What drives Ricky Lewis to lead a 111-year-old historically significant organization?”

Ricky Lawrence Lewis was born in Pensacola, FL later moving to Los Angeles, CA. He graduated from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA, where he was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in 1981. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity,

Inc., founded in 1911, at Howard University, is a historically African American fraternal organization. Lewis is a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and is now serving as the organization’s 42nd Grand Basileus.

I first met Ricky about fifteen years ago. I became involved in a program that he founded and is now the Executive Director, the Youth Leadership Conference and Mentoring Program in Los Angeles (YLC). This program has impacted the lives of over 8,800 young men over the last 28 years. Lewis sees this conference as one of his greatest accomplishments. This is where I experienced Ricky’s leadership abilities first-hand. He is a no-nonsense leader, stickler for time, and a detail-oriented person determined to get it right. Ricky was direct and assertive and accepted no excuses for falling short on goals. I also saw a man truly caring about the young people the program is intended to serve. This task was a mission of commitment – it took time, effort and dedication to pull it off; there was no paycheck, no financial gain, only the satisfaction of serving and making a difference in the lives of the youth participants.

I attended several meetings at Ricky’s home chapter, Tau Tau, one of the largest chapters in Omega Psi Phi where I observed Ricky working with his “Team.” Because of the size of the chapter, meetings are run in a very disciplined manner. Members that want to speak have to be recognized by the president and line up to address the body and are governed by strict time constraints. Ricky seemed to always have something to say about almost every issue. Now, everyone did not always agree with him, but they always listened intently because they knew what he was saying came from the heart and was meant to strengthen the organization and its purpose. It was evident that his intentions were related to duty and honor towards the fraternity.

PROSPERING

One of the most important elements a leader needs to focus on in guiding any organization is to ensure its prosperity. Seeing that an organization grows and thrives is one of the most essential challenges a leader must face. Leadership does come with its own rewards and benefits. Among them are, reflecting your leadership values, and gaining the commitment of the people you are leading. Most important is effectively elevating an organization’s status and stature.

When I sat with Ricky Lewis to talk to him about his views on his leadership style, his values and goals, I wanted to know his plans for prospering the fraternity. I pondered why he thinks that he is the right man to lead this fraternity after emerging from a global pandemic. His response, “This fraternity has been a huge part of my life for over 40 years. I know how things work.”

Lewis wants members to look at what he has done and let his body of work speak for itself. Along with leading the YLC, he has served in multiple leadership roles in the fraternity including serving

as the 12th District Representative, and as “second-in-command” as the 1st Vice Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi. These attainments only scratch the surface of the leadership roles that he has occupied in his over 30 years of service to the organization.

While Lewis admits that he is not a perfect leader and that he is constantly looking to find ways to improve, he asserts that he is a “servant leader” and that he works to be a tool that serves those inside and outside of the fraternity. When asked, why should people follow him, he replied that “I will always do my best for the organization and not what is best for me”. His goal is to move the needle forward. He wants to “build to the next level”. He mentioned that, prior to being elected to this position, while campaigning around the country, he was told that he can’t use that idiom because that is what the then current leader of the organization said during his campaign. Lewis’ retort was, “why not? – The Ford Motor Co. builds their cars to the next level; Apple® builds their devices to the next level. They didn’t produce the first iPhone™ and then jump straight to the

14 model. It came in increments, with each rendering building on the previous model.” Ricky’s mode of operation is to lead incrementally.

In some leadership circles, and in this instant gratification world that we live in, leaders are often pushed to make grand changes and solve problems overnight. Ricky’s approach leans towards building on previous accomplishments and continuing to build on the successes of the organization. Lewis sees his leadership role as a relay race. Leaders of this organization pass the baton to the next leader to build on previous achievements. He will take what he has learned from others and infuse that knowledge going forward to grow the organization and protect its standing in the community. He intends to work to give people the resources that they need to succeed. He seeks his guidance and inspiration from other leaders in the fraternity and likes to talk to those who will “give it to him straight”. It is with the help of his leadership team, and fraternity members, that he is confident he will make sure Omega prospers under his stewardship.

PRESERVING

The history of Omega Psi Phi is steeped in tradition and customs. Preserving its legacies and mores are essential to its survival. When I coach leaders, I use a strengths-based approach to help leaders focus on what they do best and how to accentuate those qualities to further their leadership objectives.

When Lewis was asked about his leadership strengths, he says he listens to everyone because “you never know what you will learn.” Lewis says he has no problem talking to leaders from the Divine Nine (Black sororities and fraternities) for advice. He says it is important to listen to a variety of opinions, as well as descents, and ideas from all facets. Lewis sees himself as a consensus builder and embraces the “huddle up” approach to garner other people’s perspectives. He wants to hear what is going on and does not like surprises. He strives to treat everyone with respect. Good leadership is about listening and respecting others and their opinions. Much too often leadership goes wrong because of a failure to listen. Dealing with complex situations and solving problems rests on the leader’s ability to hear what is actually happening, and respecting and gaining viewpoints from a wide variety of people.

As a child, Ricky says he never wanted his parents to go to a PTA meeting at school and receive bad news about him. Their opinion of the son they were raising was important to his development as a man and a leader. Lewis says he leads with integrity – his word is his bond, and you must do what you say you are going to do. He says that he attributes this philosophy from his parents, Harvey and Ethel. They taught him these values that he now lives by.

One of his father’s moral codes was don’t owe anybody and pay your debts. He would say, “If you owed somebody $20, and you only have $20”in your pocket then you don’t have any money”. His mother would exhort him to keep his affairs in order and stay in good stead with others. She would say, “When somebody knocks at your door, you should not have to worry about who it is.” A Leader that builds trust with their followers encompasses these values and shows people that they matter. These are qualities that successful leaders possess, and what great leaders exemplify consistently in their leadership roles.

While campaigning for the new position as 42nd Grand Basileus and now serving in that position, Ricky travels frequently around the country and

connects with the membership to attend events and meetings with the senior leadership team and fraternity members constantly. Lewis works tirelessly in his effort to promote the fraternity’s agenda while advancing its programs. This, along with countless other duties and responsibilities fills his long days. Oh, and did I mention, that while doing all of this, he has full-time job in the aerospace industry and a wife and two sons. One son is an adult and a captain in the U.S. Army, the other is in high school. So, I asked him, with an already full plate how do you balance time between work, family, and the fraternity. He says he strives to be a good husband and father and that it is only because of their unwavering support that enables him to meet all of his demands. He avowed that we all only have 24 hours in a day that and says that it is necessary to get things done early.

Lewis rises, most days, at 4:30 a.m. and sends out emails sometimes after midnight. And, as good leaders must do, he makes plans. Planning is a crucial element for leaders to set priorities and get things accomplished. Plans set boundaries and drive decisions that help leaders to accomplish their goals.

f CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

PROTECTING

I asked Ricky Lewis, what keeps him awake at night (as far as the fraternity goes)? His response - “protecting the brand, brother, protecting the brand”. Despite the mountain of good that fraternal organizations do in the community, they do get their fair share of negative impressions. The motto of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity is “Friendship is Essential to the Soul”. The brand of the organization is grounded in supporting the activities and thinking that constructs a positive image rooted in friendship and service. Maintaining a positive identity of the fraternity is of paramount concern for Lewis. Any actions that damage the perceptions about the organization hurt the fraternity’s viability and reputation. “Having a positive brand gives you a seat at the table at the highest levels of influence”, says Lewis. “I will always protect the brand and reputation of Omega Psi Phi.”

Brand stature is a vital element in the growth and survival of the institution in the 21st century. Now that Mr. Lewis is officially the 42nd Grand Basileus of Omega, he will be listed as one of the 100 most influential Black Americans. He assumes this great honor with a sense of humble acceptance. He insisted that nothing has changed for him. His commitment and intentions don’t change and his goals remain firm. While he does not expect to solve all of the organizational problems, he will give his all to enhance its imprint. Lewis also believes it is important to, “do everything in his power not to sink the ship”.

Lewis concedes that in this world of social media and cell phone cameras, it is increasingly more difficult to maintain a positive image that exudes the image and principles that most members expect to portray. However, he believes that with faith and a strong reliance on his leadership skills that the organization will continue to flourish and grow. To him, “protecting the brand” means keeping it around for generations to come, and that it means coming together to ensure that the brand remains strong.

CONCLUSION

So now we come to the question at hand; what drives Ricky Lewis to take on the massive task of leading this great organization? While other leaders that I have studied are driven by virtuous causes, business successes; financial gains; or political motivations, it became apparent, during this interview, with Ricky Lewis, that none of those reasons applied. It was obvious that his motivation is driven by apparently something more powerful. His inspiration is driven by love. When he talks, he sounds like a man with an incorruptible dream; a passion that at its inner core is about love of ideals woven in friendship and brotherhood. It is about a love for the people in this organization and the purpose they serve to each other and the community. When he refers to “protecting the brand” he speaks as if he is talking about a loved one; something that he deeply cares about. His journey to leadership is not guided by money, power, or cause, but by his love and devotion to the organization.

“All of my love, peace and happiness I will give to Omega” epitomizes Ricky Lewis’ inspiration and aspiration.

It is truly a journey from love to leadership.

Brothers we have a Mental Health Movement on our hands at full tilt. The Movement is a Zeitgeist Moment, Spirit of the Times response to a Paradigm shift in the universe. Since the COVID19 Pandemic traumatized the world in general and America in particular the normal is abnormal. Brothers are simultaneously experiencing a Renaissance of ideas in solutions to communal problems. We are at the precipice of a new age in the 21st Century for African Americans in Managing our Mental Health and Omega Psi Phi is at the forefront of this Change. At the Undergraduate Summit in Atlanta, the Grand Council Hosted a Brother You’re On My Mind Discussion. We, in the Talented 10th District, had the opportunity to attend this session which capped a year of demonstration project activities in our district.

We, The Talented 10th District Brother You’re On My Mind Mental Health Committee have gone all out this year to help reduce stress and depression amongst the Brothers, our families and the communities we serve through mental health education. Since Inaugural Brother You’re On My Mind Day, November 16th 2022 we have sponsored Panhellenic Panel Discussions on Mental Health at Local High Schools, Webinars, Group Sessions at our Fraternity House and even during Monday Football Games. The Program was founded in 2017 by Past Grand Basilei Antonio F. Knox and Dr. David Marion. It’s Mission is to Change the Dialogue on African American Men and Mental Health in America. It is a partnership between Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc and The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities.

There are two goals Goal 1: To collaborate on efforts to educate brothers, their families and the communities we serve on the effects of depression and stress, and Goal 2: To communicate

the importance of seeking help for mental health problems and to encourage affected individuals to get information from their health care providers and others in order to obtain appropriate treatment.

Our 38th District Representative Sean Long decided to put boots on the ground to this Fraternity wide effort during his administration. We set up an organizational structure with mental health professionals at the helm which gave us a distinct advantage. Brother Dr. Ural Hill, a Licensed Professional Counselor became the first Chairman of this Special Committee, in his recruiting he sought passionate advocates for Psychological and Social Change. We added Vice Chairman Brother Dr. Trenton Federick, a Clinical Psychologist and Secretary Brother Larry Ato Polk, JD an Attorney. We appointed Statewide Coordinators for each of the 5 States in the 10th District. Brother Dr. Michael Till, a Clinical Psychologist over Michigan, Brother Ryan Mason, a committed mental health advocate over Indiana, Brother Paxton Collins a Psychologist over Illinois, Brother Dr Kweku Smith, A Clinical and Sports Psychologist over Wisconsin and Brother Ronnie King over the State of Minnesota.

We invite all Brothers to this very active and impactful Movement. Our success as a people begins with the breaking of the chains of psychological slavery which rests on a foundation of mental health. We Challenge you to Start your own committees and feel free to join us Each 3rd Friday night there is a Brother You’re On My Mind Zoom Session hosted by our own Brother Chris Ford and Sigma Omega Chapter at 8pm CST Zoom Meeting ID 826-1033-1310 Passcode 778539. Let’s Set Our People Free Brothers, Lifting As We Climb!

MENTAL HEALTH COMMITTEE OF THE TALENTED TENTH DISTRICT BROTHER URAL H. HILL, PhD

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GRAND CONCLAVE

The brothers of the “Mighty Sixth District” welcomed brothers and guests to Charlotte, NC, locally known as the Queen City, on the occasion of the 83rd International Grand Conclave of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. It had been twenty years since this meeting was held in the Queen City, so brothers were welcomed back in a major way!

Through collaboration between Pi Phi Chapter, the fraternity’s largest chapter (400+ members), the local undergraduate chapters Rho, Epsilon Zeta, Alpha Epsilon Delta, along with brothers of the Sixth District’s Cluster III, and Quettes, worked tirelessly over the last few years, to make sure that this conclave was a success.

The conclave would not have been a success if it were not for the leadership of our 41st Grand Basileus, Brother Dr. David Marion; the Supreme Council Members; IHQ staff; Grand Marshal, Bro. William “Bill” Council; Bro. Al White, 43rd Sixth District Representative and his executive team, and many other brothers who rolled up their sleeves and led from the front. Their diligence and industrious efforts helped to ensure that our 83rd Grand Conclave was a most rewarding event for all in attendance.

Thousands of Omega Men from around the world descended upon Charlotte, North Carolina, to attend the 83rd Grand Conclave. With well over 6,000 registered Brothers, the 83rd Grand Conclave went into the archives as the most widely attended Grand Conclave in Fraternity history. The official dates of the 83rd Grand Conclave were July 22-26, 2022, but brothers began arriving days earlier. The Conclave was hosted at the Charlotte Convention Center, and the staff was most hospitable. The 83rd Grand Conclave was unique in the fact that there were several registration options.

Brother William “Bill” Council Grand Marshal - 83rd Grand Conclave

The Weekend Experience was available for brothers to take advantage of attending the Conclave during the beginning weekend. The 83rd Grand Conclave Weekend Experience Registration Included: Conclave Souvenirs, access to the reception, a weekend vendor pass and a step show ticket. There was also a remote registration package which included conclave souvenirs and allowed brothers around the world the opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of the conclave.

Brothers and guests alike had a phenomenal time in the Queen City, Charlotte, NC, which is nested in the heart of the Mighty Sixth District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.

The city of Charlotte reported that the Grand Conclave was responsible for an estimated $7.3 million in economic impact for the city. Omega showed up in a major fashion!

INSTITUTIONAL RACISM - PANEL DISCUSSION / PUBLIC PROGRAM

DIVINE 9 - PUBLIC PROGRAM

YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

STEM PROGRAM

TRAINING

OMEGA CAMP

The Mighty Men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. are known for their ability to march (stepping without music), and party hop aka block hopping (stepping to the rhythm of music) most commonly referred to as hopping! Leon Spencer III, a fitness enthusiast, saw that brothers were not excluded from COVID weight gain, which was the direct result of society as a whole settling into less active lifestyles during and following the nationwide shutdown. To offset the negative impacts of a sedentary lifestyle, Bro. Spencer, the Michael Jordan of hopping, put together the Omega Training Camp (OTC) workout, which features High Intensity Hop Training” (HIHT). He implemented OTC during the midst of the pandemic.

The name, Omega Training Camp, was inspired by The War Chapters during World War 1 - Fort Des Moines and Camp Howard. The thought behind OTC was to offer an alternative workout to weight training or limiting exercise equipment. It started with Leon hopping as a form of cardio. He realized that hopping helped him maintain and even increased his cardiovascular health. Seeing the benefits of hopping first hand prompted Leon to utilize his social media platform to expose others to the many benefits of hopping, such as weight loss, stress relief, increased endorphins, improved cardiovascular health, and an overall sense of improved well-being. Out of this, Omega Training Camp was born!

Prior to the Omega Training Camp, Leon hosted what he refers to as “The Lab Boot camp”. This was a one-time session at MacGregor Park in Houston that incorporated “High Intensity Hop Training” which consisted of hopping in intervals similar to High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), for an hour. He knew, from personal experience that hopping could be used to get in shape and lose weight quickly...and for those reasons, he decided to take it to the next level. During the Texas Greek picnic (TGP) in 2020, he hosted a session with visiting brothers from around the country to gather data and video footage for marketing and advertising purposes. His goal was to turn it from a one-time event into a Health Initiative Program. After the Texas Greek Picnic, Executive Director Brother John Howard, approached him to discuss hosting the camp at the 2022 Grand Conclave in Charlotte, NC.

With the world finally getting back to some level of normalcy and the announcement that OTC was added to the 2022 Conclave events list, Leon received a lot of attention on social media and decided to challenge himself to create a 3-month program that would offer health benefits to fraternity members while also improving their hopping skills. Once he marketed the “Omega Training Camp - Conclave Shred 3-Month Program” to fraternity members, it became a trendy craze for brothers to join virtually. The demand was so great that he also toured around the country and internationally hosting in-person sessions.

As it relates to the future sustainability of OTC, Leon’s already a step ahead...pun intended! At a fraternity level, his plans are to present the program to the Supreme Council in an effort to host the camps at the majority of all district events, major Fraternity meetings, and Health Initiative events the Fraternity takes part in. On a more personal level, he has plans to continue hosting programs to help support brothers’ weight loss and desired attempts at hop improvement, around key times of the year (spring break, summertime, homecoming season, etc.) in person and/ or virtually. Lastly, he plans to continue hosting onetime sessions across the world as requested.

SUCCESSES & HIGHLIGHTS

• Officially hosted a camp at a district meeting (12th D in Vegas),

• Officially hosted various Ad-Hoc Sessions (Dallas, TX, and Newark, NJ),

• Hosted a session with over 100+ participants at Grand Conclave in Charlotte, NC.

• Completed a 6 week program, with documented results including getting a brother off of blood pressure medication, cholesterol medication, and weight loss upwards of 22lbs in 6 weeks!

• Completed the Conclave Shred 3-month program, resulting in positive benefits for participants, ranging from weight loss between 15 and 30lbs, decreased blood pressure, improved body physique and improved blood work numbers

• Participation from every District in the Fraternity including: 182 Chapters across 32 states; International Bruhz in Hawaii, Tokyo, and England; 32 Bruhz participated in person; 153 Bruhz participated virtually

83RD GRAND CONCLAVE SURVEY (235 RESPONSES)

• Every District participated in the Grand Conclave Session

• The oldest Bruh that has participated in an Omega Training Camp Session crossed in Spring '77

• 91.9% were interested in having Omega Training Camp hosted in their District, city, or state

• 81.7% are interested in participating in an On Demand option of an Omega Training Camp Program

International Talent Hunt

by Brother Crispin A. Abad, Sr. and Brother Carlton Lampkins, Ed.D

Since its first Talent Hunt Program held on April 19, 1946, in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. through the International Talent Hunt Committee in partnership with the Omega Life Membership Foundation have provided financial assistance to thousands of students throughout the United States and abroad. This year’s program was held on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at the Charlotte Convention Center. Twelve high school students representing each of the fraternity’s districts performed in the areas of vocal music, instrumental music, and dance. These students advanced from local, state, and district competitions in order to qualify to participate in the International Talent Hunt Demonstration. In celebration of 76 years of the “second oldest mandated program” of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., it was fitting that three additional programs were implemented to compliment the International Talent Hunt Demonstration in the “birthplace of the Talent Hunt” – Charlotte, North Carolina.

First, the International Talent Hunt Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., presented a master class featuring undergraduate and graduate students from the prestigious Juilliard School in New York for the benefit of students participating in the Talent Hunt Demonstration. The master class included performances by the Juilliard students in the categories of vocal and instrumental music, as well as dance. To the delight of all in attendance, the Juilliard students demonstrated excellence in instrumental and vocal music and dance performances, ranging from classical to

jazz. This was followed by a panel discussion that engaged the students, as well as parents and other members of the audience. The culminating activity happened when Talent Hunt students were invited to do impromptu performances for the Juilliard students. Those who accepted the opportunity received invaluable, constructive feedback that will stay with them, as long as they continue to pursue the performing arts. Students and parents alike testified to the tremendous mentoring impact of the Juilliard Master Class.

Next, during the Talent Hunt Demonstration Program, the International Talent Hunt Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the local Pi Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., made a public presentation of fourteen (14) violin kits to educators and students from the Albemarle Road Middle School. This donation was intended to help a local under-resourced school having a limited number of string instruments. The purpose was to enhance its struggling string orchestra program and ultimately help the academic development of its students through early exposure to string instruments and music. This program quickly attracted the attention of the local media because of the positive community outreach. The String

Instrument Donation Program was a resounding success and had a tremendous impact on the school and the local community.

At the invitation of the International Talent Hunt Foundation, Inc., the Juilliard Master Class and Talent Hunt Demonstration were attended by numerous visiting college professors who were invited to witness the tremendous talent on display and to recruit and offer scholarships for their respective schools. Doing this greatly expanded the national exposure for the Talent Hunt participants beyond any past efforts. The Visiting Professor Program also proved to be a tremendous success as expressed by the visiting professors, students, and parents in attendance.

The 2022 International Talent Hunt Demonstration was the highlight of this 76-year celebration and was produced by the International Talent Hunt Committee. This display of exceptional talent included musical and dance performances by the winners of the twelve districts that make up the fraternity. There were 3 classical violin solos, 3 contemporary dance routines, one classical flute presentation, and 5 vocal performances that included a classical aria, “O Isis Und Osiris” from Mozart’s opera, The Magic Flute. These stars of tomorrow were supported by 1000+ spectators, one of the largest audiences in the history of Talent Hunt Demonstrations at Omega’s Conclaves. Each of the champions received a personalized plaque, a commemorative medal of the occasion, and a check for $1500, $1000 from the Omega Life Membership

Foundation, Inc., and $500 from the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Even though the air conditioning was functioning in the Charlotte Convention Center where the activities were held, the stages occupied by our performers were blazin’ hot! What a phenomenal experience, from morning to night!

We thank all our artists, coaches, mentors, parents/guardians, families, friends, community members, professors, Board of Directors of the Omega Life Membership Foundation, Inc. and the International Talent Hunt Foundation, Inc., and the officers, staff, and members of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for their positive energy and support for our young people!

To help us sustain these programs, please make a secure, online tax-deductible donation at www internationaltalenthuntfoundation.org or scan the QR Code below or use your smartphone to “text to give” by texting – Talent Hunt to 302-548-0911.

‘92 That Year!

30th Anniversary Celebration. 1992-2022 (Charlotte, NC)

The 83rd Grand Conclave Conference of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated was held in Charlotte, North Carolina from July 22 - 26, 2022. During the bi-annual Conclave, the fraternity conducts business meetings based on the rules and bylaws of the fraternity, to shape the future of the fraternity and address changes and social action concerns, including international elections. The agenda is a good mix of business, social events, mandated programs, and other fraternal events that are formal and informal. In addition to the activities and festivities of the “Clave,” a historical gathering also took place during that same period in Charlotte. The brothers initiated into Omega in 1992 were there celebrating their 30 years in the fold!

The brothers commonly known as “that year”, were amongst the 7,000-plus brothers that were fully registered to participate in the activities of the Conclave. Brothers of “That Year” were fully engaged as chapter delegates, candidates for grand office, and international committee chairs. There were over three hundred fully registered “92” brothers that received their 30-year service award pins. And in the spirit of reclamation, over two hundred additional brothers took advantage of the weekend registration process. While “That Year” had a “clave within a clave,” strict adherence to the 83rd Grand Conclave’s overall schedule and timelines were taken into consideration when planning and executing the “92” agenda and activities. That was done to allow and ensure the full participation in the 83rd Conclave activities by the registered “92” brothers, and to avoid any conflicts with the planned events of the fraternity in general.

While the 30th anniversary was being celebrated in 2022 in Charlotte, NC, this was not the first organized celebration of its kind for the brothers of “92”. The impetus to continue the legacy was the gathering and celebration of the 25th anniversary that was celebrated in 1997 in Washington DC. The 1992 25th Anniversary was result of the brothers of "That Year" vacationing together celebrating their 20th year in the fold. The core of the group consisted of Kirk Kirby (Zeta), Christopher Williams (Psi), Ed Poindexter (Gamma Epsilon), Shelton Williams (Pi Gamma), Robert Epps (Pi Gamma), Cliff Watkins (Pi Gamma), S. Raschid Muller (Phi Omicron), and Jarvis Bradley (Alpha Zeta). The committee hosted a Friday night Cigar Social at TG Cigar's, a Saturday Fellowship Luncheon at the host hotel, and a day party on Saturday with a brother’s only hospitality in the evening, and then concluded on Sunday with a meeting and gathering of reflection on the campus of Howard University. A photo to memorialize the

moment, was capped with a sendoff cookout.

Why “That Year”? What is the meaning behind that now infamous moniker that can be shared? While the fraternity has made many changes and adapted to the norms of society since its humble beginnings. Initiation into the fraternity in 1992 followed the heels of a moratorium on the initiation of new members. The Intake process Membership and Selection Program (MSP) was introduced to replace the Lampados club. “That Year “signifies the dawn of the new and sunset of the old. And with that, taking on the new and unknown and owning it, while facing the world of Omega gave way for the new brothers to embrace the weight of the changes in 1992, and under those changes and new dawning, “That Year” was born.

With the “clave within a clave,” a template has been set for future generations for “years groups” to celebrate their future anniversaries. While it will be difficult to duplicate without the fortuitous synching of the Conclave with a milestone year, the added fact that the brothers and sands of 1992 had been closely tied to each other since they crossed was helpful. With that, the challenge is hereby set forth and brothers are welcome to repeat and duplicate this feat!

That Year 30th Executive Committee members included Brother Hal J. Dumas Jr (Beta Gamma), Brother Verron J. Hayspell (Beta Gamma), Brother Kyle Whitfield (Zeta) , and Brother Myron Knox (Zeta).

An Omega “hooks up” to the executive committee! While spearheading the planning and organizing the events, they also took on the task and heavy lifting of rounding up a subcommittee of brothers and chapters that included Henry Goshay (Gamma Sigma), Kammal Smith (Gamma Omega), Markel Waters (Gamma Kappa), Jerry McCord (Rho Psi), Sean Stevenson, Sr (Psi Psi), Malcolm Stafford, Sr (Beta Theta), Clarence Labor, Jr (Gamma Pi), and Mo Cheatham (Theta). This collective effort enabled the chain reaction of brothers reaching out to their line brothers and sands to pull the rest of the brothers of “92” into the planning and daily/weekly dialogue. The ongoing conference calls were key in further organizing the mass of brothers to sign up and buy into the

idea of the gathering in Charlotte. And in addition, social media tools and applications were employed to foster the direction of the planning in that good ole Omega spirit. With the subcommittees and registration in place, and after many dedicated months, days, and hours of planning the events. The fruit of the collective labors of the brothers produced a monumental week of events that included but not limited to the following:

• Greet and Meet Happy Distribution of welcome package (Keepsakes, paraphernalia, pins, hats, cups, and more

• Social Action event at the Reedy Creek School in Charlotte, NC. The Brothers of 1992 collected and distributed six hundred Books to the school library.

• An all-Omega Comedy show featuring brothers of Omega Psi Phi.

The “That Year” Cookout that welcomed all brothers and guests was held at the Revolutionary Park. With the “That Year” flag flying high, generous amounts of food and drinks were at hand for all, accompanied by great music. The human “92” was photographed with a drone by Bro. Terrence Jones (Tau Mu). And the “92” human field design was by Bro. Clarence Labor, Jr (Gamma Pi).

The “That Year” Party that was held in conjunction with Live Nation at the Fillmore.

Bro. Dumas’s summation of the week of events was “I would rather see a sermon than hear one any day. For the eye is a better pupil than the ear would ever be.”

In between each “That Year” activity, brothers were busy and tasked with participating in scheduled events of the Grand Conclave by attending meetings, planned activities and

mandated programs while proudly displaying their “That Year” insignia, pins, and paraphernalia.

Overall, the accomplishments and contributions to the Omega Psi Phi fraternity by “that Year” group of Omega men will continue, with more work to be done. The subsequent meetings with the newly elected Grand Basileus (Bro. Ricky Lewis) and other members of the Supreme Council and district leaders, was a testament to the success of the 30th year celebration and contribution to the overall success of the Conclave. Coupled with the support of the 30th year celebration and marching orders beyond Charlotte, the discussions were about moving Omega Psi Phi Fraternity onward and forward with each brother’s individual and collective efforts and contributing regardless of chapter, district, or year of initiation with Mother Omega in mind, guided by Service and smothered with FRIENDSHIP!

Long live the tradition setting brothers of 1992 and long live the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity!

By Brother Clarence Labor, Jr with contributions by Brother Hal J. Dumas, Jr. and the “That Year” Oracle committee.

84TH GRAND CONCLAVE

by Brother Dr. Emery Ailes

The Grand Marshall Brother Anthony Bill Perkins of Pi Iota Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, and chapter members are proud to announce that Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. will hold its 84th Grand conclave in Tampa Bay in July 2024. The national conclave will be epic for a historically Black fraternal organization in Tampa Bay, which has hosted smaller regional gatherings in recent years. “This is a major success for Tampa Bay as a convention destination,” said Santiago Corrada, president and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “We’re honored to host Omega Psi Phi in a community where, from Clara Frye to Moses White to Perry Harvey Sr., the African American community has a long history of achievement and influence.”

Brothers of Pi Iota’s Grand Conclave Core Team along with Ms. Sherri Brown, VP of the Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee of Visit Tampa Bay, met recently and welcomed the International Executive Director of Omega Psi Phi Inc., Bro. John Howard, and the 83rd Grand Marshal, Bro. Anthony Bill Perkins Council to Tampa Bay and provided hospitality. Bro. Anthony Perkins, the 84th Grand Marshal, was accompanied by members of Pi Iota Chapter. The meeting was the first of many meetings as we prepare for the 84th Grand Conclave in July of 2024.

Founded at Howard University in 1911, Omega Psi Phi has more than 750 chapters around the world. In Tampa Bay, the membership of Omega Psi Phi includes Rev. Dr. Emery Ailes, Senior Pastor of Pristine Spring Hill Baptist Church, Minister of Social Justice and civil rights activist.

Visit Tampa Bay estimates that the week-long gathering will attract 8,000 members and their guests and fill 7,000 room-nights. The conclave could have an economic impact of $2.3 million on the local economy.

OMEGA PSI PHI IS PROUD TO HOST:

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Roscoe Lee Browne earned a degree in Literature and Philosophy from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, and his master’s degree from Columbia University. Browne also found success as an athlete, winning two American indoor championships and setting records in the 800 meters, and winning the 1951 world championship. He began his acting career with a small role in a 1956 New York Shakespeare Festival production of ‘Julius Caesar’.

Bro. Browne, renowned internationally for his commanding presence on stage, screen, and television, was a classically trained actor. With his unique voice and exceptional talent, he solidified his position as one of the great actors of the 20th century.

f 1976 Nominee Primetime Emmy

f 1995 Nominee Daytime Emmy

f 1992 Nominee Tony Awards (2)

f 1988 Winner Image Awards (NAACP)

f 1989 Nominee Soap Opera, Digest Awards

f 1972 Winner Western Heritage Awards

ROSCOE LEE BROWNE WAS BORN ON MAY 2, 1922 IN WOODBURY, NEW JERSEY THE SON OF SYLVANUS BROWNE, A BAPTIST

MINISTER, AND LOVIE LEE.

Browne received an Emmy Award for his recurring role as Dr. Foster on ‘The Cosby Show’, a nomination for ‘Barney Miller’, and achieved critical acclaim for his work on ‘All in the Family’ and ‘Soap.’ His list of television credits included performances in ‘Law and Order,’ ‘E.R.,’ ‘Will and Grace,’ and ‘New York Undercover.’ He also did voiceover work for numerous cartoons, including animated versions of ‘Batman’ and ‘Spider-Man.’

1986 Primetime Emmy Award Winner. Outstanding Guest Performer in a Comedy Series. The Cosby Show (1984)

A Piece of Omega’s Hidden History Brother Dr. J.H.P. Westbrook

OMEGA’S BLACK KLANSMAN

By Brother Dr. Carl A. Blunt 32nd FVGB

In February, I had the privilege of participating in an 8th District history program highlighting notable brothers from the Metro Denver area. Among the notable brothers would of course be 6th Grand Basileus, Bro. Dr. Clarence Fitzhugh Holmes. While conducting research on the 6th Grand Basileus, I learned about Bro. Joseph Henry Peter Westbrook.

Historical research is a combination of science and art. The science behind historical research can be distilled down to an accepted checklist of tactics and procedures to establish validity. The artistic approach to historical research may involve deductive reasoning and interpretation of circumstantial evidence. Between the scientific and artistic approaches, there's the opportunity for fortuitous discovery. That is what occurred with Bro. Dr. Westbook’s amazing story. While conducting the research on Bro. Holmes, I noticed an article titled Two Men Who Paved the Way for African American Activists in Denver focused equally on Bro. Dr. Holmes and Bro. Dr. Westbrook. Seeing Dr. Westbrook referenced as prominently as Dr. Holmes piqued my interest. Following that interest led me to look further into Dr. Westbrook.

According to Terri Gentry of the Black American West Museum in Denver, her grandfather Dr. Thomas Ernest McClain was the first licensed Black dentist in Colorado and best friends with Dr. Westbrook. Dr. Westbrook was a light-skinned Black physician from Hernando, Mississippi. His grandmother and mother had both been enslaved. Though they likely weren’t allowed to pursue educational endeavors, they endowed

Joseph with a thirst for knowledge. He graduated from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in 1900. In 1907, Dr. Westbrook moved north to Denver to escape restrictive segregation policies and to grow his medical practice. For 35 years Dr. Westbrook practiced in the Five Points area of Denver, which at the time was a culturally vibrant, diverse, thriving, and self-sufficient working-class community.

Dr. Westbrook quickly became one of the most prominent citizens in Colorado. His prominence is exhibited through his service to the community. He served as an officer on Denver’s Interracial Commission; a member of the YMCA Board of Directors; a member of the NAACP; a delegate to the Republican National Convention; a Sunday School superintendent; and as one of twelve charter members of Chi Phi Chapter in 1927, along with Bro. Grand Basileus Holmes.

Among Dr. Westbrook’s impressive resume, the most astounding position of service he held was his biggest secret. As a light-skinned Black American, Dr. Westbrook infiltrated the local KKK chapter. He risked his life for eight years, in order to protect Denver’s Black population. He kept them abreast of any impending plans of violence and intimidation. There were some local Black businessmen who were aware of his dangerous ruse. They kept his secret and provided him with whatever protection they could.

According to family members, Dr. Westbrook told of a chilling incident that occurred at one of the Klan meetings. At that meeting, the Grand Wizard said “there is going to be a n**** trying to infiltrate our group. But I don’t care how blue the

eyes or how blond the hair, I can tell a n**** anywhere. And, when we catch him, we are going to castrate him and hang him up for public display.” Dr. Westbrook said he was sitting right there looking at the man when he said that, and they never suspected that it was him.

On a February 7, 2022, Lost History Podcast, Terri Gentry shared that Mrs. McClain, her grandmother, told her that Dr. Westbrook kept a loaded shotgun in his house and office at all times and that you could see on his face the toll that the alternate and secret life took. The family believes that extreme stress resulting from his courageous

involvement with the KKK likely impacted his health. Bro. Westbrook’s activism continued until his sudden death of a heart attack in 1938.

It's not known if Spike Lee’s Oscarwinning, 2018 film BlacKkKlansman was based on Bro. Westbrook’s infiltration of the Ku Klux Klan. The Colorado History website states that whether those involved in the movie were aware of Westbrook’s actions in the 1920s and 1930s is unclear; However, “it is clear that Westbrook’s activism paved the way for African American activists in Colorado nearly one hundred years later.”

“BLUNT & OUT FRONT” A Special to The Oracle

By Brother Carl A. Blunt 32nd First Vice Grand Basileus

Photo: Bro. Dr. Joseph Henry Peter Westbrook

Dr. Robert L. Gill: The Invisible Shadow, Part II

By Brother Dr. Walter Gill (Pi Chapter, 1957) | son of Dr. Robert L. Gill

In 1945, Dr. Robert L. Gill began teaching history at Morgan State College. He was recently discharged from the U.S. Army and his last assignment was the Tuskegee Army Airfield. At Morgan, Gill would continue his legacy as a mentor for some, instructor for many and role model for all. He was quick to join Pi Omega Chapter. On the Fraternity’s national level, Gill was a member of the editorial board of the Oracle with Langston Hughes and 23 other Brothers. In the late forties, he also served as the Fraternity’s Public Relations Director. In 1949, he was appointed as Grand Historian.

Dr. Gill’s wife. Rubye, was one of six Omega wives who founded the Quettes in Baltimore. Their husbands were employed at Morgan. In 1947, the Gills added a daughter, Roberta, to their family.

Pi Omega had hosted the Third District Conference on May 16-17, 1946. The theme was “The Technique for Increasing Fraternity Consciousness.” Gill conducted one of three Workshops, “Breaking Down Inequalities in Public Education.” A time of segregation, many of the Brothers stayed at the Negro-owned York Hotel. Gill became chair of Achievement Week in 1947 and served until 1967. In Gill’s first year, the Chapter recognized Morgan Coaches Edward Hurt, Talmadge Hill, Kenneth Brown and “Pinky” Clark, all Omega men. A year later, Gill wrote “Omegas Hurt and Hill- Builders of Character and Champions, that” appeared in the May, Oracle. It was one of his many articles for the journal.

Dr. Gill was a long-time advisor for Pi Chapter at Morgan. He occasionally sat in on chapter meetings and sometimes made an unannounced visit to a “session.” Gill would offer sage advice, when asked and, would

guard the school and Fraternity from libel. He was prophetic. J. Haywood Harrison was a brilliant student who wanted to join the Fraternity, but would not have stood the “rigors.” Gill met with the chapter and told then in no uncertain terms to “Keep your hands off Haywood.” Harrison’s “pledging’ was probably much like the process today. Harrison went on to be elected the Sixth Second Grand Basileus.

Dr. Gill took numerous courses at the University of Baltimore Law School. As a result, he taught political science classes at Morgan. Legions of students can recount his disciplined and thorough lectures, mixed with mischievous humor. With a smile on his face, he was always available for advice or counsel in the halls, his office or while walking across campus. He was the advisor to several senior classes. Many of his students became lawyers, city and state delegates, judges, a mayor, but all successful.

Photo: Dr. R. Gill shaking the hand of his son, Walter, shortly after the senior Gill read his son’s line into the Fraternity in Dec., 1957.

His first draft of the second history book was 1400 pages, enough for three volumes. The Four-Brother Editorial Committee reduced it to 426 pages, and then to the final 139 pages. Brother Gill held his composure at this “slight,” just as he had done when he was a shoo-in for Ambassador to Ethiopia in 1952 and it was denied. Gill’s Baltimore home was open to Brothers and other students for advice, counsel, fun and frolic, as well as their summer home in Shadyside, Maryland. Gill and a cousin founded the Gill Family Reunion. The first reunion was attended by over 500 relatives and was held at Morgan. Brother Gill entered Omega Chapter July 29, 1983. Dr. Gill taught at 22 other colleges and universities, to include the University of Maryland Extension Programs in Asia. He had always been financial with the Fraternity and had missed only four Grand Conclaves. Dr. Robert L. Gill, this “Invisible Shadow,” should be invisible no more but celebrated as a Famous Omega Man.

Dr. Robert L. Gill: The Invisible Shadow, Part I was published in the Fall 2021 edition of The Oracle

Photo: Pi Omega 1965 Achievement Week. Dr. Gill, chairman chatting with awardees. Left to right Basileus and Omega Man of the Year, James Grant, Mrs. Victorine Q. Adams, Chair, Provident Hospital Drive, Mrs. Rubye C. Gill, Member, Baltimore Recreation and Parks Board, and the main speaker Dr. Benjamin Smith, Professor of English, Morgan State College.

Photo: Pi Omega Achievement Week - 1949 - Dr Gill presents Pi Omega Achievement Awards to Morgan State College Coaches Eddie P. Hurt - Daniel Pinky Clark - Talmadge Hill and Ken Brown - All were Omega men

Brother Fred Gray, Sr. Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom

By Brother Damon Scott

Fred Gray, Sr. is a name that many Omega Men of a certain age and era know very well. While he may not be a household name for others, citizens of the United States certainly know, and have benefited from, much of his life’s work which has had an enormous impact on American law and society.

He was the first civil rights attorney hired by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who once described Gray as “the brilliant young Negro who later became the chief counsel for the protest movement.” His list of clients reads like a veritable Who’s Who of the civil rights era . . . Dr. King, Rosa Parks, Congressman John Lewis, and even organizations like the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

He also has represented some lesser known names who were associated with landmark court cases that set legal precedent: James Hood and Vivian Malone, the first two Negro students admitted to the University of Alabama in 1963, despite Governor George Wallace’s attempt to block their entry by physically standing in the doorway of a campus building; and Charles Gomillion who was the named plaintiff in the Supreme Court decision that ruled gerrymandering was unconstitutional, as the district in question was found to be “drawn with the sole purpose of depriving its Negro residents of any political power.”

And that just scratches the surface of the accomplishments in a storied legal career that most recently has been recognized by President Joseph Biden, who awarded Brother Gray with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honor. Medal recipients are “individuals who have made an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”

In a ceremony on July 7, 2022, in the East Room of the White House, the President commented that “When Rosa Parks refused to move to the back of the bus, Fred Gray represented her at the front of the courtroom. Fred’s legal brilliance and strategy desegregated schools and secured the right to vote. An ordained minister, he imbued a righteous calling that touched the soul of our nation.” Accolades like that do not come along every day.

Like so many of his generation, the well-respected civil rights icon came from humble beginnings. Born in late 1930 in Montgomery, Alabama, he was the youngest of five children whose father died when Fred was only two years old. As a teenager, he attended a Christian boarding school where he became somewhat of a boy preacher, assisting the headmaster in traveling the country to visit churches within the Church of Christ nondenominational fellowship. After graduation, he enrolled in what was then called Alabama State College for Negroes, now known as Alabama State University. It was on Alabama State’s campus that young Fred became interested in seeking Omega, and then entered the Lampados Club. He was initiated into Omega in 1949 through Gamma Sigma Chapter. Two years later, he earned his baccalaureate degree in 1951.

Based on his early preaching experience, and the dreams of his mother, Fred had plans to become a minister, which was one of the few professions open to Negro men at the time. However, during his junior year, one of his college professors encouraged him to consider applying to law school, which he eventually decided to do. But there was one major barrier in his path . . . no law school in the State of Alabama would admit Negro students. So Brother Gray began researching universities in the North, and, based on its reputation for having an excellent law school, applied and was accepted into Western Reserve University, now known as Case Western Reserve University, in Cleveland, Ohio. There, he also could work part time while attending the School of Law. Reflecting on the reason he had to leave the South to being with, he wrote in his memoir, “In September 1951, with barely enough money to cover expenses, I took a segregated train to Cleveland to begin law studies.”

After earning his law degree in 1954, Brother Gray made the decision to move back home to Montgomery, “determined to destroy everything segregated that I could find” as he described it. There, he would need to obtain five character references from experienced local attorneys just to sit for the Alabama bar exam. He recalls that there were fewer than five experienced Black lawyers in the entire state at the time. But he was able to secure support from several white lawyers, including one who was the brother-in-law of a sitting Supreme Court Justice. Once admitted to practice in Alabama, he faced yet another obstacle . . . no white attorney would hire him. With only one other Black lawyer in Montgomery, Brother Gray decided to rent a small office from a Black minister who would serve as an adviser to him, and also referred clients to him.

Wanting to focus his practice on civil rights matters, he became an active member of the local NAACP chapter. In March 1955, Claudette Colvin, a 15 year old girl, was arrested in Montgomery for refusing to relinquish her seat to a white woman on crowded city bus.

Attorney Gray, who at the time was only 24 years old and less than a year out of law school, decided to represent her. That would prove to be a pivotal decision that launched his young career into the civil rights movement.

Nine months later in December, a young woman by the name of Rosa Parks also refused to give up her seat to a white man on a city bus, and her subsequent arrest would eventually lead to the start of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

ed representing young college students who were arrested for staging and participating in sit-in demonstrations to protest segregated lunch counters. And that eventually led to his representation of young students, both Black and white, who became known as “freedom riders” because they demonstrated by riding buses throughout the South to protest segregation on buses and in terminals.

Young Miss Colvin and five other women became the original plaintiffs in the lawsuit filed by Attorney Gray, who, in preparation for the case, consulted with attorneys for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, including Thurgood Marshall prior to his appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court. That case, Browder vs. Gayle, ultimately ended segregation on Montgomery city buses based on the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the 14th Amendment to United States Constitution.

While the Montgomery bus boycott was being waged, another incident occurred in Alabama that also would have an impact on Brother Gray’s career. In 1956, the Attorney General for the state of Alabama effectively prohibited the NAACP from operating in the state. Attorney Gray provided legal counsel to the organization for several years, filing multiple cases in both state and federal courts, until the NAACP was permitted to operate in Alabama. He also protected the freedom of association guaranteed by the 1st Amendment to the United States Constitution by preventing Alabama officials from obtaining the membership list of the NAACP.

Beginning in the early 1960s, Gray start-

Some of his other noteworthy civil rights cases include Dixon vs. Alabama, which established due process rights for students at public universities in 1961; and Gomillion vs. Lightfoot, which in 1962 prevented the city of Tuskegee from implementing an electoral redistricting plan that excluded, discriminated against, and ultimately disenfranchised residents in Negro neighborhoods, violating the 15th Amendment to United States Constitution. That Supreme Court decision would help lay the groundwork for the legal principle of “one man, one vote,” that governs redistricting after every decennial census. The case also derailed the efforts of other jurisdictions around the country attempting to deny Negroes the right to vote.

In 1963, Gray was the lead attorney in a class action suit filed against Auburn University, which at the time was segregated. The plaintiff was successful and Auburn was forced to desegregate. That same year, Gray filed another suit against the Macon County Board of Education, which eventually led to a court order requiring all Alabama public schools to desegregate. Attorney Gray would eventually file successful lawsuits that helped to desegregate over 100 local school districts, and public colleges and universities, in the State of Alabama.

Two years later, Fred Gray led the charge on another seminal legal battle that would have repercussions for generations to come. In 1965, Negro Alabamians were denied the right to vote and had begun to organize protests and marches in an effort to end that particular form of discrimination. On Sunday, March 7th, civil rights activists, organized by Dr. King, future Atlanta Mayor and U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, Rev. Hosea Williams, and Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) co-founder and future congressman John Lewis, led citizens who could not vote on a march from historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma; their intended destination was 50 miles east to the state capital in Montgomery.

However, once the marchers crossed the Alabama River and reached the south side of the Edmund Pettus Bridge, they were met by police with attack dogs and state troopers on horseback wielding tear gas and clubs who beat and gassed them and commanded the unleashed dogs to attach the unarmed citizens. The incident, which became known as “Bloody Sunday,” is one of the worst attacks on private citizens simply attempting to exercise their right to vote during the civil rights movement.

That attack would lead march organizers to enlist the legal counsel of Attorney Gray, who filed suit in district court against Alabama Governor Wallace. Williams vs. Wallace, which was ultimately successful, protected the marchers’ right to assemble and peacefully walk along the public highway from Selma to Montgomery, free from harassment,

threat, interference, or arrest from law enforcement or any state official, such that they would be able to petition their state government for redress of grievances. Those pivotal marches led to the passage by Congress, and signing by President Lyndon B. Johnson, of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Another seminal case with Attorney Gray as counsel was Mitchell vs. Johnson, filed in 1966, to remedy systematic exclusion, limitation, and restriction of qualified Negroes, based solely on their race, from service on civil and criminal juries in Macon County, Alabama. Were it not for this litigation, which was decided in favor of Gray’s plaintiffs, juries might have looked much differently for years to come in the state.

Brother Gray also represented litigants in a class action suit concerning another infamous and controversial incident in American history, the Tuskegee Experiment. This egregious violation of public trust by the federal government was a study conducted to observe the effects of untreated syphilis in almost 400 rural Black men for approximately 40 years dating back to the Great Depression. During that period, more than 100 of the patients died, either directly from, or due to complications caused by, the disease. It additionally infected the wives of more than three dozen of the patients, some of whom also gave birth to infected babies.

Once the experiment was uncovered, Gray filed suit in Pollard vs. U.S. Public Health Service on behalf of more than 70 of the men who were subjects and still alive.

The settlement awarded $10 million and medical treatment to the men and their families who were infected. The discovery of the incident and subsequent legal action led to the enactment of federal laws and regulations requiring ethical standards and protection of human subjects in medical experiments and studies. Those protections might not exist today were it not for the legal prowess of Attorney Fred Gray.

As a result of his advocacy on behalf of the Tuskegee victims, Brother Gray helped to establish the Tuskegee Human and Civil Rights Multicultural Center, which serves as a memorial to those Black men who perished because of the Experiment. The Center also educates the public on the contributions made in the field of human and civil rights by Native Americans, and Americans of African and European descent.

In 1970, Gray decided to try his hand at politics. It resulted in him becoming one of the first two African Americans elected to the Alabama state legislature since Reconstruction. Quite fittingly, his district included Tuskegee and parts of Macon County, both of which were jurisdictions subject to litigation filed by Gray in an effort to protect and expand the civil rights of their residents. He represented the district in the Alabama legislature until 1974.

Brother Gray has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career of “firsts.” He served as the president of the National Bar Association in 1985, and later became the first African American president of the Alabama Bar Association in 2002. In 2004, he received the American Bar Association’s Thurgood Marshall Award, and also Harvard University Law School’s Charles Hamilton Houston Medallion, which is named after the first general counsel of the NAACP and former dean of Howard University School of Law who mentored Thurgood Marshall when he was a Howard Law student.

In 2021, the city of Montgomery, Gray’s birthplace, honored him by renaming the street where he grew up, “W. Fred D. Gray Avenue.” It was previously named W. Jefferson Davis Avenue, after slave owner and president of the Confederacy during the Civil War. The name change was proposed by the first African American mayor of Montgomery, Brother Steven Reed (1998 Theta Alpha). And in 2022, both the University of Alabama

School of Law and Princeton University awarded Gray honorary doctorate degrees.

Brother Gray also has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Omega Psi Phi.

The 2022 recipient of the Omega Lifetime Achievement Award is Congressman Brother James Clyburn, the Majority Whip for the United States House of Representatives. In his acceptance speech for the award, he paid homage to Brother Gray. “This is special to be getting an award that also has been given to Fred Gray; I know Fred Gray very well, I know him from the 60s. Just several days ago, the President of the United States gave Fred Gray the Presidential Medal of Freedom. And for me to be getting an award that he has gotten . . . is just outstanding.”

Today, at the age of 91, Fred Gray continues the practice of law, serving as senior partner in his own firm, Gray, Langford, Sapp, McGowan, Gray, and Nathanson, based in Tuskegee, where he lives with his wife, Carol Porter Gray. He also is an author, having written Bus Ride to Justice: The Life and Works of Fred Gray, an autobiography about his life and career as legal counsel at the forefront of the American civil rights movement. Upon reading it, President Barack Obama wrote in a letter to Gray that stated in part, “Today, we stand on the shoulders of giants who helped move us toward a more perfect Union, and I appreciate you sharing your story.”

To say the least, Attorney Fred Gray has had a storied and very consequential legal career. It is one that has impacted and been connected to the NAACP, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., desegregating public schools and universities, gerrymandering and one man one vote, Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, lunch counter sit-ins, freedom riders, the march from Selma to Montgomery over the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Bloody Sunday, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, expanding access to jury service, the Tuskegee Experiment, and now, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Accordingly, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. salutes and congratulates our Brother, Fred Gray, Sr. (1949 Gamma Sigma), a civil rights pioneer, advocate, giant, and icon!

Brother Fred Gray, Sr. Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom Continued

Lest We Forget

43rd Grand Conclave

The Oracle - March 1957

Baltimore, MD --Five major addresses were featured on the program of the 43rd Annual Grand Conclave held here, December 27-30, The speakers included: Brother James M. Nabrit, professor of Law and secretary of Howard University, Washington, D. C.; Brother Fred Gray, Montgomery, Ala.; attorney for the defendants in the famed Alabama bus boycott; Brother Warmoth T. Gibbs, president

of the Agricultural and Technical College, Greensboro, N. C.; Brother Walter N. Ridley, head. Department of Psychology, Virginia State College, Petersburg, and Brother Edgar A. Love, Baltimore. Bishop of the Methodist Church and founder of the fraternity.

With better organization, less politics and other distractions, more time was available at the grand conclave for speeches. There were a number of them and all were really outstanding. Brother Fred Gray, right center, Montgomery, AL—attorney for the bus boycotters—gives out more information to J. T. Brooks, Montgomery; Carl Earles. Los Angeles, grand counselor and Ernest Reeves, Institute, W. Va., Second Vice Grand Basileus, all national officers

Brother Fred Gray On "The Southern Viewpoint on Segregation" Circa. December 1956

BrotherFred Gray, attorney for defendants in the celebrated Montgomery, AL. bus boycott case, delivered one of the principal Conclave addresses on, "The Southern Viewpoint on Segregation".

He said, "As a result of the Southern tradition, most white southerners have come to believe deeply, sincerely and completely that they have a God-given right to control colored people." Brother Gray who was the center of a storm that brewed in his state when he was found ineligible for the military draft, gave a fiery, but optimistic, view of the racial situation in the deep South.

"At this crucial time in American history," he said, "I believe that there is a great deal of soul searching going on, and that ultimately means that something constructive can and will be done.

"However," he said, "One of the tragedies of the present situation is that in many parts of the South the people of both races who want to discuss the question of justice and

segregation are afraid to speak.

"The white man is afraid to say anything even though he knows the colored people are right and that segregation is morally and legally wrong. "He is afraid because of what other die hard, unrealistic whites who are attempting to roll back time a hundred years may say and do to him.

"The segregationist", Bro. Gray said, "is disturbed because he is finally discovering that the colored people will no longer accept the position of second class citizens." Bro. Gray said that the recent laws which some Southern states are passing to circumvent integration "just make us more determined."

"They can legislate until dooms day," he said strongly, “But none of these bills will stop the freedom train as it moves toward the distant station of full integration.”

"We may slow down for a crossing, or it may be necessary for us to reduce our speed so that we can receive the

correct signal given by the flagman, but the wrecking crew is at work, and God rides the train with us, and we are going to arrive into the station of full integration in due time."

Photo: Conclave Speakers

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

FOUNDERS’ DAY 2022

On November 17, 2022, the Brothers of the Washington, DC chapters (Alpha, Omicron Gamma, Delta Theta, Kappa Psi, and Alpha Omega) and Third District of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. celebrated the 111th anniversary of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

This celebration was the first Third District in-person Founders Day event since 2019. The chairman of this illustrious event was Brother Larry A. Brown. Numerous Omega Brothers participated in this committee planning and execution.

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Founders’ Day 2022

The celebration was held in Cramton Auditorium on the campus of Howard University, the Birthplace of Omega. Brother Conrado B. Morgan – Third District Representative, and the brothers of the Third District were joined by brothers from across the world. Notable Brothers in attendance were Brothers Ricky Lewis – 42nd Grand Basileus; Mark Jackson – First Vice Grand Basileus; John Howard – Executive Director; Kenneth Foster –Assistant Executive Director; several District Representatives, and Dr. Andrew A. Ray – 39th Grand Basileus.

Cramton Auditorium was filled with the Third District Executive Council, numerous chapter Basilei, and hundreds of brothers from across the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Enthusiasm filled the room as Brothers, including Floyd Robinson (Alpha Chapter ’48) the most senior brother in attendance, greeted each other and enjoyed the fellowship.

Brothers Xavier Manning (Alpha Chapter); Javan White (Omicron Gamma Chapter); Jayden Bourne (Delta Theta Chapter); and Eric E. Harley (Delta Theta Chapter) all received the esteemed honor of standing in to represent the Four Founders of the Fraternity.

The Master of Ceremony was Brother Kenneth A. Brown. Greetings were brought forth by Brother John Howard (Executive Director). Brother Ricky Lewis (42nd Grand Basileus) was the Keynote Speaker. Brother Grand Lewis greeted and encouraged the brothers. He left the brothers with four points from his message.

f Save our sons – Challenge to continue to teach and encourage our youth

f Brother, you are on my Mind – Challenge to continue checking in on one another

f Save our HBCUs – Challenge to start and give to endowments

f Invest in Omega – Challenge to become and remain financial

Brother Dr. Andrew A. Ray (39th Grand Basileus) greeted and encouraged the Brothers. The room was silent as all the Brothers (newly initiated to those with 70-plus years of service) attentively listened to the great words shared (an experience the Brothers will never forget) by Brother Dr. Andrew A. Ray. Afterward, the Brothers gathered around the Monument to continue the fellowship and celebrate the founding of the GREATEST Fraternity known to man – Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.

Lest We Forget

the Beginning”

On November 17, 1911, at Howard University, Washington, D. C., the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded by three men, Brothers Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman, in company with Professor E. E. Just. These three men having thoroughly gone over the situation, saw keenly the necessity of such a movement and decided to plant the first or Mother, chapter of a Greek letter fraternity to be founded at a historically black college or university.

Today the Fraternity numbers more than seven hundred and fifty undergraduate and graduate chapters in seventeen countries and five continents including the United States, Africa, Canada, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean.

More than two hundred thousand stalwarts—Sons of the Shield— bear Omega’s standard onward to a future made more bright by the glorious reflection of the fadeless past.

“In

A RIDE FOR THE GENERAL

By Brother Billy Mathis

Asmall

group of cycling brothers retraced General Young's horse ride from Ohio to DC by bike beginning on Sept 1st. As part of this effort they decided to raise funds for the Brigadier General Charles Young Foundation and did a check presentation at Wilberforce. The following link is the fundraising site: https://www. gofundme.com/f/the-perseverance-cycling-tour

The group arrived back in Washington, DC on Monday, Sept 5 (Labor Day) and ended up at the gravesite of General Charles Young to pay our respects. Bro. General Kip Ward gave commentary along with 1st Vice Grand Basileus, Bro. Mark Jackson and the Third District Representative, Bro. Conrado Morgan.

A purpose for all people.

At the core of our purpose—to build better lives and communities—are the values that guide us to be intentional about diversity, equity, and inclusion. We do the work every day to diversify our leadership, empower all teammates, and fight for the opportunities we all deserve. Because we believe a culture where we can live and contribute our authentic selves is a stronger one.

GREETINGS BROTHERS,

The spirit of Omega is alive and prevalent everywhere I go, and I

2023 INTERNATIONAL UNDERGRADUATE SUMMIT

At our Fraternity’s first International Undergraduate summit since January 2020, undergraduate brothers gathered in Atlanta, GA from all over the world for a weekend full of information, networking, and brotherly fellowship. The 2023 IUGS had the largest number of registrants in the summit’s history, thanks to the planning, leadership, and courage of 2nd Vice Grand Basileus Ryan Thomas, along with the help of his International Undergraduate Representatives: John Faison, Jr., C’Jai Payne, and Tyler Span. The summit took place at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in the heart of the 7th district.

The summit offered helpful training for both undergraduates and advisors. Sessions for undergrad brothers covered topics such as risk management/sec training, QueZone Training, Brother You’re On My Mind, and Omega Training Camp. A Brother You’re On My Mind session moved some brothers to tears, and career development tips, along with a career fair, led to some brothers leaving Atlanta with job offers. Brothers from IHQ also provided opportunities to fellowship amongst brothers with a TopGolf event and an undergraduate after party. Additionally, brothers had the opportunity to get MSP certification.

f CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Atlanta was an ideal location for the summit, which was a great success after a global pandemic. “Don’t call it a comeback. We were able to accommodate our young brothers, even with registration going over 900. Within the sessions, brothers could let loose and be their real and authentic selves,” said Bro. Grand Thomas. Multiple brothers left the summit with a multitude of positive comments about the event.

Bro. Jasahn Rankin (5-21- Mu Epsilon) said, “I enjoyed myself tremendously. The thing I loved the most was how it got real during the roundtable session. Not only was it a real authentic conversation, but it stayed that way throughout the session and weekend.”

IHQ outdid themselves and then some to host our bloodline in “the A.” The young brothers left well-equipped to take on the business of Omega at their respective chapters. The summit aimed to cultivate and build leaders for the future, so that Omega can continue to be a shining light and example for the world. This goal was met and exceeded.

The bar is set high for 2024!

Phi Sigma: A Driving Force Behind AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s Expansion Across the Fraternity

Three years after this partnership began to take shape, AHF and BLACC were back in front of Omega’s youth at the 2023 Undergraduate Summit in Atlanta. So what started as an idea and opportunity in Cleveland and the Fourth District, is now growing across Omega.

On a snowy and bitter cold night during Black History Month, just as the Coronavirus was beginning to tighten its grip on our world, several brothers of Zeta Omega Chapter descended upon the campus of John Carroll University in the Cleveland suburb of University Heights, so named for the college that calls the community home. The graduate brothers braved the inclement weather to support the brothers of one of the undergraduate chapters that Zeta Omega advises, Phi Sigma, a citywide chapter which houses brothers from Case Western Reserve University, Notre Dame College, Baldwin Wallace University, and Lake Erie College. Brothers gathered at John Carroll for two reasons; first, to host an educational town hall meeting, and secondly, to introduce the campus to Omega Psi Phi in an effort to expand the chapter there.

The town hall meeting was a collaboration between Zeta Omega, Phi Sigma, and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF). AHF conducts health advocacy work in 16 states around the country. Founded in 1987, the Los Angeles-based organization

Brother Lamar Cole and Brother Damon Scott | Cleveland Ohio

Cleveland, Ohio City-Wide Chartered at Case Western University; houses Brothers from Case Western Reserve University, Notre Dame College, Baldwin Wallace University, and Lake Erie College.

Phi Sigma Chapter

Photo: Bro.Tyler Span (Center) - UG Rep at 2023 Omega Psi Phi International Undergraduate Summit

began as a network of friends dedicated to creating dignified hospice care and committed to its mantra of “fighting for the living and caring for the dying.” It has since expanded its work, turning some of those hospices into health care centers, and building a new paradigm for HIV care, both in the United States and around the world. Today, it is a global nonprofit organization providing high-quality, cutting-edge medicine to, and advocacy for, over 1.7 million people, irrespective of their ability to pay, in 45 countries. It is currently the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care worldwide.

AHF funds its mission to rid the world of AIDS through a network of pharmacies, health and wellness centers, affordable housing locations, healthcare contracts, food service programs, thrift stores, and other strategic partnerships. Generating new and innovative ways of treatment, prevention, and advocacy have been the hallmark of its success since its inception. As the organization addresses barriers to care for it clients, it also creates and implements new programs, expands the delivery of healthcare,

and influences policy with the goal of saving more lives in communities across the U.S. and abroad.

Throughout its three decades of work, AHF has created several affinity groups, one of which is the Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition (BLACC). The group was developed to organize a coalition of African American cultural influencers and health advocates. Through the use of innovative, culturally relevant messaging and initiatives, BLACC works to revolutionize outreach to African Americans by elevating and increasing education about sexual health. It focuses on bringing greater awareness to the social justice issues disproportionately impacting the health and wellness of the Black community.

A portion of AHF’s work is to help create collaborations between its affinity groups and partners to expand its reach to various demographics. And one of the most important groups that benefit from its work is sexually active youth, from teens to those in their late 20s and early 30s. So when AHF staff discovered the opportunity to connect and work with Omega Psi Phi, they knew it was a chance to expand their network.

That expansion occurred through the foresight of Brother K. Carlton Cloud (1964 Psi Psi), a member of Zeta Omega Chapter for more than 50 years. He was familiar with Ms. Tracy Jones, National Director of Advocacy for AHF, who works in the organization’s Cleveland offices. Understanding her mission of outreach to youth, Brother Cloud introduced her to former Fourth District Representative Lamar Cole (1989 Psi Theta) who was then the Fourth District First Vice District Representative, and a member of Zeta Omega Chapter. That initial introduction eventually led to another one, this time between Ms. Jones and then Fourth District Representative Bobby Robinson (1985 Gamma Lambda).

And from there, the connection blossomed. Brothers Robinson and Cole helped develop a partnership with Omega and AHF. It started with Zeta Omega, and then expanded throughout the Fourth District. As a result of that relationship, the organization began to conduct educational workshops on college campuses throughout the Fourth District’s footprint. Over the ensuing years, AHF held town hall meetings on the campuses of West Virginia State and Marshall University in West Virginia, and Ohio University, Ohio State, and Kent State in Ohio.

The purpose of these events is to provide educational information about safe sexual practices, sexually transmitted disease and infection, and HIV/ AIDS to an audience for whom the subject matter is very relevant . . . college students. Ms. Jones is an excellent presenter who captures her audience’s attention with informative materials that typically include a short film and photographic examples of the subject matters. When she speaks to students who attend her presentations, initially they can be very uncomfortable with the topic; however, they eventually realize it is an opportunity to learn about their own health, as well as ask questions on any of the information covered. Ms. Jones also works to engage students in health advocacy efforts. For example, she has taught students how to write letters to their congressional representatives to advocate for lower prescription drug costs.

In reflecting on that town hall meeting with the students in Cleveland, Ms. Jones laughingly shared “When I walked into the room, there was standing room only . . . filled with beautiful black and brown faces! I was so excited,

especially considering the weather was horrible! We had a great training and the young people were totally engaged. I think I may have had a better time than they did.” According to Brother Malik Anderson (2019 Phi Sigma), who helped to organize the event, “The importance of Phi Sigma Chapter sponsoring this event was to educate our peers on the importance of our own health.

Just one month prior, Ms. Jones and two of her colleagues made a formal presentation to then Omega Grand Basileus, Dr. David Marion, and the Supreme Council at the International Undergraduate Summit in Little Rock, Arkansas in January 2020. AHF and BLACC hosted a Lunch and Learn and advocacy session on HIV/AIDS that featured celebrity ambassador, actor Lamman Rucker, during the Undergraduate Summit.

And as a result of that presentation, the collaboration with Omega expanded to include the Twelfth District as well. Then, in December 2021, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. entered a national partnership agreement with AHF and BLACC. This partnership stemmed from the previously established local relationships that the organization had with both the Fourth and Twelfth Districts.

AHF, BLACC, and Omega agreed to establish a pilot program for participating chapters throughout the fraternity. BLACC has 11 local offices in

eight states where AHF has a presence, including California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, and Texas. Twenty chapters throughout Omega in these states, including ten undergraduate and ten graduate, were identified to participate in the pilot program.

Accordingly, those chapters now participate in activities for National Testing Day, which is June 27th, as well as World AIDS Day, which is December 1st. The project also will encourage brothers and chapters to engage in advocacy initiatives around national Black HIV awareness with local AHF and BLACC teams throughout the country.

Three years after this partnership began to take shape, AHF and BLACC were back in front of Omega’s youth at the 2023 Undergraduate Summit in Atlanta. So what started as an idea and opportunity in Cleveland and the Fourth District, is now growing across Omega.

This partnership with AHF and BLACC is important because it positions Omega to be an integral part of a solution for a disease that disproportionately affects African Americans and the Black community. Despite the existence of medications that can control HIV and even reduce viral transmission, HIV is still a leading cause of death and a health threat to millions worldwide.

Part of the reason for the prevalence in the Black community is that many

African Americans lack access to the education, testing, support, and healthcare options that others have. Furthermore, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases carry a degree of stigma, shame, and guilt that can lead to depression and other mental health problems for those who have them.

The goal of Omega’s relationship with AHF and BLACC is to draw attention to HIV/AIDS prevention through partnered advocacy. We do not want people in our communities to suffer in silence; many forms of treatment are available. AHF offers free condoms, testing, and treatment at more than 450 clinics worldwide.

Another aspect of this partnership is to serve as a resource for the Men of Omega, especially our undergraduate and younger brothers, who are studying health sciences and are planning to enter healthcare as a profession. Internship opportunities with AHF in the areas of public health, information technology, finance, marketing, and human resources are available. For more details, brothers interested should visit the organization’s website, aidshealth.org

Relationships such as this one between Omega and organizations like AHF and BLACC put the fraternity in place to provide Uplift to both the communities we serve, as well as our young brothers who will continue to lead Omega well into her second century of social action.

A mosaic of differences unites us.

Cigna believes that a diverse workforce is essential to growth. Different perspectives, experiences and cultures, when brought together, help us innovate better, faster – and create more positive health outcomes in the communities we serve.

NU PSI CELEBRATES 95TH ANNIVERSARY

Virginia State University - Petersburg, VA,

On December 12, 2022, the Nu Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated celebrated 95 years of positively impacting the campus of Virginia State University and the community through committed and dedicated service. The illustrious history of the Nu Psi Chapter, chartered on December 12, 1927, began with the vision of the distinguished Brother Luther Porter Jackson of the Delta Omega Chapter.

The 95th Anniversary Celebration Banquet began with the presentation of the Nu Psi Chapter’s 95th Anniversary Luther Porter Jackson “Trailblazer“ Award. The award

presentation was followed by a keynote speaker message from Brother Milton D. Harrison (75’ Nu Psi/ 34th 2nd District Representative) and concluded with a Memorial Tribute to Nu Psi Brothers that entered Omega Chapter since the 90th Anniversary. Additional activities included remembering the past, reflecting on the present, focusing on the future, and a pledge goal of $95,000 towards the Nu Psi Endowment Fund at Virginia State University. Nu Psi’s 95th celebration weekend was highlighted with activities recognizing Nu Psi’s influence on the community, a Toy Drive, and Brotherly fellowship. It concluded with a worship service led by Brother Minister Milton Robinson (80’ Nu Psi).

OVER A HUNDRED CHILDREN WERE BLESSED FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

OnNovember 2, 2022, the Brothers of the Nu Psi Chapter, Third District of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, participated in the annual Virginia State University (VSU) toy drive in Petersburg, Virginia.

Over 100 toys were collected and scheduled to be donated! All had a great time. The Brothers were excited, knowing their efforts would bless numerous families during the holiday season.

6TH DISTRICT HOLDS UNDERGRADUATE SUMMIT

North Carolina and South Carolina

The Sixth District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., held its annual Undergraduate Summit on October 8, 2022, on the campus of Saint Augustine’s University, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The undergraduate host chapters were Delta Psi, Kappa Epsilon, and Kappa Lambda.

Over 130 brothers representing the various chapters, Undergraduate Advisors, District Executive team, Former District Representatives, along with the 40th Grand Basileus Brother Dr. Antonio Knox were in attendance. Sixth District Representative Brother Al White brought welcoming remarks and prayer.

The morning general session opened with the topic of Chapter Leadership Responsibility and the Fraternity Infrastructure presented by Brothers Aaron Williams (Mu Epsilon Basileus) and Reginald Howell (Undergraduate Advisor Chair, S.C.). The presentation was followed by Special Event Checklist training (SEC) presented by Brother Mike Boykin, Esq. (District Counselor).

Next, the mid-morning presentations consisted of professional development, and financial planning. Mr. Rob Trujillo,

a financial consultant representing Regions Bank, shared valuable financial information on the advantages of being financially savvy (i.e., managing your money, not allowing money to manage you). Ms. Christal Graves, representing SAS Company, gave a presentation on “Presenting the Best You” as it relates to resume writing and interviewing. Ms. Kendra Agnew, representing TE Connectivity, spoke of internships and long-term employment within the company.

Prior to the lunch break the Undergraduate brothers went into breakout sessions (Brother You’re on my Mind, Social Media Training, and Discretion) being led by Brother C’Jai Payne, Brother John Faison, International Undergraduate Representatives, Brother Brennen Massenburg, 6th District 2nd Vice District Representative, and Brother Ralph Clinkscales, N.C. Undergraduate Representative, respectively. Brother Preston Bowditch served as the moderator for these sessions.

The keynote speaker of the day was Brother Lilo Abraham, Former International Undergraduate

Representative, who spoke on the “Transition from Undergraduate Life to Graduate Life”. Following the keynote address Brother Julius Cromwell, Delta Psi 1955 enlightened the brothers on how to conduct a meeting and shared some Robert Rules of Order highlights.

The Summit closed with remarks from Brother Byron Patton, Undergraduate Advisor Chair, N.C., who thanked all who presented, attendees, and sponsors.

KAPPA CHAPTER PARTICIPATES IN MLK DAY OF SERVICE

Syracuse University - Syracuse, NY

The Brothers of Kappa Chapter took a trip to Syracuse’s Southwest Community Center where Brothers participated in the center’s MLK Day Of Service for the 15th consecutive year. The center held a large clothing drive starting at 8:00am. Kappa Chapter Brothers sorted and folded donated clothing items, assembled boxes, and aided in loading the boxes onto trucks. The Brothers also met and spoke with Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, who participated in the event as well. Brothers worked with members of the Divine 9, Southwest Community Center workers, and many other volunteers.

As Kappa Chapters continues its partnership with the Southwest Community Center, Brothers reflect on a day of service, fellowship, and uplifting the community.

Pictured: Kappa Chapter Brothers, and the Honorable Ben Walsh Mayor for the City of Syracuse

Matthew Robinson attended Pennsylvania State University, graduating in 1958. Bro. Robinson became well known throughout the 1960s for writing and producing blackoriented television dramas and public affairs programs. His reputation gained the attention of CTW when they formed in 1966.

Their vision was to create a children's program that would speak to children of all races and cultures, with special attention aimed at urban and black children, who had never been the focus of kids' shows before.

Brother Matthew Robinson’s (‘55 Nu) portrayal of the character Gordon on Sesame Street, one of the first positive depictions of a Black man on television, contributed to the representation and inclusion of Black people in popular media and culture.

MATTHEW ROBINSON WAS BORN IN 1937 IN PHILADELPHIA.

ROBINSON GREW UP IN A FAMILY OF PERFORMERS AND MUSICIANS, WHICH INSPIRED HIS OWN PASSION FOR THE ARTS

After Sesame Street, Bro. Robinson went on to write for two top-rated '70s sitcoms, "Sanford and Son" and "Eight Is Enough." He then wrote for Bro. Bill Cosby's show for seven seasons beginning in 1983, where he not only wrote but also co-produced many episodes. Additionally, Robinson wrote and produced films.

THE MIS-EDUCATION OF Omega Men

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity has a rich and storied history. A history that should make every Omega man eager to absorb as much as they can, recite it, hold it up at every opportunity, preserve it and pass it on whenever appropriate.

Early Omega history however is often unclear, not well documented, and sometimes contradictory. Since history can be viewed as an art as opposed to a science, those facts are not uncommon in historical research.

A textbook definition of the elements of historical research describes it as analytical in nature, and makes use of all the available data. Accuracy is one of the most important aspects of research. It is the pursuit of truth with the help of study, observation, comparison, and experiment. Historians seek knowledge of the past using historical sources such as written documents, oral accounts, art and material artifacts.

Researching early Omega history involves applying several tactics (i.e.) reviewing and verifying documentation, applying interpretation, deductive reasoning, cross checking, connecting the dots and often valuable historical information is just stumbled upon. Unfortunately, the opportunities we have enjoyed of conducting oral interviews with our senior members is rapidly becoming less and less of an option.

There is a vast difference in the level and dedication of those who claim to be students of Omega history. Some are casual about it, others are compelled by it, and a few are consumed with it.

Here is an example of researching true Omega history and cross-checking the existence of Theta Chapter at the University of California at Berkeley in 1920.

Grand Basileus Annual Message

“Nine years have elapsed and today Omega Psi Phi has fifteen chapters reaching from Epsilon chapter on the Atlantic Coast to Theta Chapter on the Pacific and bears the unique distinction of being the first Greek Letter Fraternity among the Negro college men to have spanned the continent”.

~ Harold H. Thomas, Oracle, August,1921

National Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Meets in Ninth Annual Convention, Nashville Tennessee

“The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity is a national organization among Negro college men, having present thirteen chapters throughout the country, the most recently organized chapters

By Brother Dr. Carl A. Blunt 32nd FVGB

being Theta in the University of California; Iota, in Atlantic City; Kappa, in West Virginia Institute; Lambda in Norfolk, Virginia; Mu, in Philadelphia; and Nu, in Penn State”.

~The Sphinx, February 1921

“Among the institutions of learning which are to be represented are University of California, Harvard, Yale, Penn State, Lincoln, Howard, University of Minnesota, Meharry Medical, and Talladega. The Omega Psi Phi is the first Greek letter fraternity to have been established in a Negro University”.

~New York Age, December 17th, 1921

1922 May Oracle shows Theta & Iota both inactive. This is where Omega historical research takes an uncanny turn. How many times have we heard the phrase “They Said”?

It is a vague term that is used to insinuate a collective agreement on an impending decision, or an attempt to provide verification from an unnamed or unidentified group.

In normal vernacular, “they” can be just a pronoun, but when it’s attached to “so called” Omega history it becomes a historical poison pill when treated as historical research.

They Said: The 14 wraps represent Alpha Chapters 1st line.

They Said: You can’t wear a white frat shirt until you been in the frat for 20 years.

They said: The original colors of Omega were not Purple and Gold.

Omega is in peril. Our true history is being hijacked and chronicled with an alternative oral history that is eating away at the core of our legacy like a flesh-eating virus. The phrase “They Say” is replacing the textbook elements of research.

We now have new classifications of Omega history. There are manufactured Omega categories being presented to new initiates instead of our true history. Now don’t be alarmed, there will not be any ritualistic secrets revealed here even though many brothers treat Omega Fun facts Folklore and “Betty” as such.

Omega Fun Facts is one of those categories that is defined as true information that has no historical value or impact. (How tall is the frat and What are the 33 Essentials of the fraternity).

There is Omega Folklore where facts are misinterpreted and presented as factual history.

(We wear gold boots because of the dust on Colonel now Brigadier General Young’s boots, and the wreath was taken off the 1940 escutcheon to memorialize Founder Just’s death).

Then we have “Betty” whose information is either false, non-verifiable, or has no Omega historical value.

(Omega men were branded so that they would be identified if they died in battle during WW I and we say Sons of Blood and Thunder because that was the name of Alpha chapters first line).

With true Omega history; however, information and facts about Omega has value and can be verified.

Another piece of misinformation I was taught was that Founder Love said in a speech that Omega’s mascot bulldog was named Tenacity. This is what he actually said:

“Perseverance is the motor force for Manhood and Scholarship. This means activity that is constant and persistent with tenacity and bulldog courage”. ~Oracle, September 1964

Alternative facts are threatening the core foundation of Omegas beliefs. There is an alternate challenge from the one I was taught. The new one begins with “What Do You Know”, There is an alternative hymn. Brothers do not come together to sing “Omega Dear,” but when “Atomic Dog” comes on, the floor fills up. Alternate history. Many cannot remember the words to the Sacred Oath we all took.

My father told me that a man is not truly dead until his deeds are forgotten. I say if Omega continues on this path of alternate existence and our true history is being forgotten then Omega’s days will be numbered.

By Brother Carl A. Blunt 32nd First Vice Grand Basileus

“BLUNT & OUT FRONT”

A Special to The Oracle

Legacy 8th District Father and Son Celebrate Milestone

By Brother Ivy Williams

Tommy Jewell II has been a stellar member of Omega Psi Phi and loyal member of the 8th District. His commitment and dedication is example for all to follow. On the 24th of February the Brothers of Nu Rho Chapter partnered with the City of Albuquerque New Mexico and members of local and state government to celebrate this Brother in a very special way. The Nu Rho Chapter was even honored by the presence of 1st Vice Grand Basileus Mark Jackson in the celebration of this milestone. Tommy Jewell II celebrated his 98th birthday. Members gathered to honor and celebrate the achievements of the man who we have come to know as Brother Incredible.

Many would wonder what makes this man so incredible. On the 23rd of February Brother Jewell celebrated turning 98 years old. On the 28th of February Brother Jewell celebrated 75 years of dedicated service to Omega Psi Phi fraternity. 75 years of consecutive financial service. He is currently the oldest brother in the fraternity still serving on his Chapter’s Executive Council. Brother Jewell serves as the Chaplain of the Nu Rho Chapter and still provides valuable input to the chapter and mentors the younger brothers throughout the District. Tommy was initiated in the Alpha Epsilon Chapter in the mighty 12 District in Phoenix, Arizona in 1948. He moved to New Mexico in 1954. In 1964 the Nu Rho Chapter was chartered and Tommy Jewell was a Charter member.

Brother Jewell served in the military and also was a school teacher. He officially retired from teaching at the age of 94. He had dedicated 70 years of his life to educating children. Brother Jewell has had the honor of teaching Children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren alike. Because of him, this country has thousands of Doctors, Lawyer, Teachers, Principles, politicians, inventors, who have been educated by this great man. This is the positive light he shines on Omega. Yet he did not stop there. He gave Omega and even more special gift.

Brother Jewell has a son Tommy Jewell III who is also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Brother Jewell III was initiated in the Sigma Tau Chapter (Border State Ques) on December 14, 1974. He is also a Charter member of the Eta Eta Chapter (New Mexico State) which was chartered in spring 1975. Brother Jewell III has served the Nu Rho Chapter for many years and held multiple chapter positions. Brother Jewell has also served as the 8th District Counselor and has had close to 50 years of dedicated service to Omega. Tommy Jewell III is also the first African American Judge appointed to the Superior Court in the State of New Mexico. Yet it is with humility that he honors his father. “I am grateful for having my father still around to give guidance and wisdom” Jewell said.

What truly makes Tommy Jewell II so incredible is the fact that he has an ability to bring people together. It is through his work that you can see the links between Districts and Brothers. Brother Jewell loves to sit around and fellowship with brothers and in part wisdom. Once he was asked “You were made in the 12th and you are now in the 8th, which do you claim”? He simply replied; “I claim Omega Psi Phi”. Here is Brother Incredible. He was initiated when Harry Truman was president. Brother Jewell has served Omega and seen the administration of 14 different Presidents. He has witnessed this country evolve. Brother Jewell has met and conversed with our founders. He saw legislation that would integrate the US Armed services. He has been a part of the Civil Rights Movement. He has seen multiple genres of music evolve. He has educated over 100,000 children. He gave Omega a Legacy through his son who has made history in his own right. Both he and his son are Life Members of Omega Psi Phi with Life Member numbers 1226 and 1227. He still continues to serve on the E Council. If any man in this fraternity deserves the title Brother Incredible, it would be Tommy Jewell II. Congratulations to Brother Incredible Tommy Jewell II. Long live Brothers Tommy Jewell II and Tommy Jewell III. Long Live Omega Psi Phi Fraternity!!!!

THE DENTIST OF SAINT PAUL

In May 1951, Brother Albert Morello Butler was elected as the Fraternity’s 10th District Representative. “Doc” Butler, as he was often referred to, was regarded as the “Dentist of Saint Paul.” Between 1926 until his death in 1975 he served as the dentist for St. Paul Minnesota’s largely African American community. Simultaneous to his dentistry practice, he worked as a janitor for the state of Minnesota, a position he held for 50 years.

“Doc” Butler was born in Superior, a small town nestled in the northwest corner of Wisconsin on October 30, 1900. He was the youngest of eight children born to James and Louisa Butler. James Butler was a caterer and Louisa stayed at home to raise their large family. In March 1913 tragedy visited as his father James Butler passed away. Albert was 13 years old when he lost his father, leaving his mother and older siblings to care for him.

Albert grew up to be a standout athlete. In high school, he ran the 100-yard dash in 9.9 seconds and played alongside College and NFL Hall of Famer Ernie Nevers. Had it not been for an injury he received after being kicked near his eye in a 1920 game, he might have had the opportunity to play college football. On May 8, 1921, as a college freshman Albert Butler and eight of his classmates became the chartering members of XI chapter at the University of Minnesota, the fourteenth chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. After graduation, he decided to pursue a career in dentistry.

In the mid-1920s, while completing his studies in Dentistry, Brother Butler inquired about employment with the state of Minnesota. Because of attitudes during the time, the only position offered to him was as a janitor. He began his employment with the State of Minnesota’s Highway Department, where he cleaned office buildings. Brother Butler completed his degree and passed the state licensing

By Brother Jerome L. Nesbary 10th District History and Archives Chairman

exams in dentistry on July 7, 1926, he immediately began practicing dentistry in St Paul. The lead into the Great Depression caused him to maintain his position as a janitor to sustain his family financially.

Years after graduation and well into his adult life, Brother Butler remained close to his undergraduate chapter. He often served as an officer. Many chapter meetings took place in his home. That included the “victory reorganization meeting” held in November of 1945, where Brother Butler was elected to complete the calendar year as the chapter Basileus. By the mid 1940s the state of Minnesota and its solitary chapter had been moved from the 8th District to the 10th District. Dr. Butler became as well-respected throughout the 10th District as he had been in the 8th District.

In May 1951, brothers of the 10th District elected Brother Butler to succeed Gilbert Stephens Marchman as its representative. Marchman was a skillful and highly sought after public accountant who served as an auditor for many organizations including the national NPHC office and the Shriners. Brother Butler was re-elected for two additional terms, serving through 1954. Brother Butler was the last 10th District Representative from the state of Minnesota.

In May 1971, Dr. Albert M. Butler received a plaque for 50 years of service to the state. It was a prestigious honor bestowed by the Governor of Minnesota. At the time he was only the third person to receive the honor. He was quoted saying “I am receiving today the recognition that is basic to every man’s nature.” He retired from his janitorial position a few days after the ceremony. He continued to practice dentistry until his death on May 13, 1975.

Dr. Albert Morello Butler by all accounts was the second African American to practice dentistry in the state of Minnesota. Leander Raymond Hill, a graduate of Meharry Medical College and member of Omega Psi Phi is believed to be the first. Albert “Doc” Butler was a devoted family man, he lived a life indicative of our cardinal principles, he was a true leader of men. He was the Dentist of Saint Paul, the Janitor, and the District Representative.

A New Era of Human Resource Management at IHQ

By Brother Hardy Dorsey

When Bro. Dr. Andrew Ray became the 39th Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in 2010, one of his first initiatives was to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the International Headquarters (IHQ). He focused specifically on IHQ’s processes & procedures and the general morale of staff. Through his experiences serving on the "Personnel Committee" in earlier years, Bro. 39th GB Ray understood the value of efficient staff operations. Through individual and group meetings with staff, Bro. 39th GB Ray quickly identified the need to establish more structure to IHQ operations and usher in a new era of Human Resources initiatives in order to increase IHQ’s efficiency.

Bro. 39th GB Ray began by asking a longtime friend, Brother William (Bill) Madison, who had just retired as Sr. Vice President & Corporate Officer, Administration & Human Resources, Entergy Corporation to conduct a needs assessment and action plan to transform IHQ Human Resources programs and processes into a world-class status. With the acceptance of the needs analysis and proposed strategic action plan, Bro. 39th GB Ray asked Bro. Madison to lead the transformative effort. Although there was a Human Resources Committee "on the books" as an Ad Hoc committee, it had been dormant for a number of years. Bro. Madison knew that if he could assemble a team of brothers who were Human Resources Professionals, he could accomplish Bro. 39th GB Ray's goals for the fraternity.

Bro. Madison began by selecting the following brothers as members of his team: Bro. Hardy Dorsey (Eta Sigma, ’67) — retired corporate executive and Management Consultant; Bro. Joe Anderson (Mu Psi, ’67) — retired Sr. Human Resources Manager; Bro. David Reliford (Iota Psi, ’76) — owner, Executive Search Firm; Bro. Wayne Crosse (Nu Upsilon, ’73) - Human Resources Manager and Bro. Eugene Jones (Upsilon Sigma, ’84)- Human Resources Manager.

Using the Needs Analysis as a guide, the team met with Fraternity leaders and employee groups to prioritize its actions. Key areas of focus included:

• Sourcing a permanent Executive Director

• Updating HR Policies & Practices

• Conducting External Salary Study

• Establishing Position Descriptions, Pay Classifications & Organizational Structures

• Establishing a Performance Management / Assessment Process

• Initiating tax advantage & benefit programs i.e., 401(k) Plan

• Employee Development & Succession Planning

One of the first tasks of the newly activated committee was to select a new Executive Director. Bro. Madison called on committee member, Bro. Joe Anderson to develop a selection process to identify Omega men with the requisite skills for the job. Using his staffing expertise, Bro. Anderson was able to develop a national search process that identified and considered Omega men from across the nation for the position of Executive Director, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. That process resulted in the selection of Bro. Kenneth Barnes as Executive Director. Bro. Barnes did an outstanding job as executive director for 10 years. The committee applauds his service to the Fraternity.

At each critical point in the planning/execution processes, the Human Resources Committee presented its recommendations to the Supreme Council for guidance and concurrence. As progress was made and staff performance expanded, the Supreme Council recognized the dynamic nature of HR practices and the important role staffing and retention of personnel played in the achievement of fraternity goals. As a result, the Human Resources Committee was elevated to Standing Committee status.

In 2014, at the conclusion of Bro. 39th GB Ray's tenure, as Bro. 40th GB Knox was elected, Bro. Mike Wright, was appointed as Chair of the Human Resources Committee and continued the work which had begun in this new era of Human Resources Management. At that time Bro. Wright was working as Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of a major corporation.

In 2018, Bro. Dr. David Marion was elected 41st Grand Basileus, he appointed Bro. Hardy Dorsey, Chair, HR Committee and the important work of the HRC continued. Bro. Dorsey is a retired Corporate Executive and Management Consultant who had already served on the HR Committee for eight (8) years as Vice Chair. Bro. Dorsey (Eta Sigma, ’67) will continue to serve on the committee as Vice Chair Walter Banks (Iota Zeta, ’83) will become the new Chair of the Human Resources Committee. Bro. Banks is Chief Human Resources Officer for a major corporation. Other current members include Bro. Stephen Smith (Chi Gamma Gamma, ’91) vice chair, Bro. Joe Anderson (Mu Psi, ’67), and Bro. Ted Pauling (Iota Iota, 2011). All committee members are career Human Resources professionals.

The Human Resources Committee continues to contribute at a high level addressing the following:

• Revising the Human Resources Manual in 2021 with current updates on policies

• Introducing a new Employee Assistance Program for all staff

• Introducing new technology for performance management efficiency

• Completed national searches for Bros. John Howard, executive director and Kenny Foster, assistant executive director (2020 & 2021)

• Continues to provide training to the leadership team and staff

• What had begun in 2010 by Bro. 39th GB Ray as the new era of Human Resources

• Management" at IHQ continues in 2022 as the standard for how Omega conducts business

Newly elected Grand Basileus, Bro. Ricky Lewis has indicated that his goal is to continue a high level of excellence in Human Resources Management. He understands its value and that it has served to elevate Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. as a leading organization among the "Divine Nine" greekletter organizations.

Super Bowl LVII Features Four Omega Men

Therewere several stories surrounding the actual game of football that was played in the NFL’s Super Bowl Fifty-seven between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs on February 12, 2023. One example is the fact that the head coach of one team had also served in that same role for the other team. Another interesting factoid is that Super Bowl LVII was the first time that two biological brothers, Eagles center Jason Kelce and his younger brother Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, played against each other in the big dance. And, of course, history was made as the big game featured not one, but two Black quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and his counterpart, Jalen Hurts of the Eagles.

Many fans of the game may know that the player at the helm of Philadelphia’s offense is also an Omega Man. Brother Jalen Hurts was initiated into Omega in 2020 through Alpha Tau Chapter in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. However, he was only one of four sons of Omega who were present under the bright lights on Super Bowl Sunday. The other three were his teammate, Eagles rookie linebacker Brother Nakobe Dean (2021 Beta Zeta), Chiefs rookie cornerback Brother Joshua Williams (2021 Delta Gamma) and the Chiefs Offensive Coordinator Brother Eric Bieniemy, Jr. (1990 Chi Phi)

Brother Bieniemy was an All-American running back for the University of Colorado Buffaloes. He was the nation's second leading rusher with the Buffaloes in 1990, racking up 1,628 yards in route to scoring 17 touchdowns, and was part of Colorado's national championship team that same year. He finished third in the Heisman Trophy balloting and was selected in the second round, 39th overall, by the San Diego Chargers in the 1991 NFL Draft.

At the conclusion of his professional playing career, Brother Bieniemy returned to Colorado to complete his degree, and also to accept the position as the team’s running backs coach, before being promoted to offensive coordinator. He eventually made his way to UCLA, again as running backs coach, and helped lead the Bruins to

By Brother Damon Scott

victory in the 2005 Sun Bowl. Following that, he returned to the NFL, this time transferring his running backs coaching talent to the Minnesota Vikings. In 2013, he accepted an offer from Kansas City head coach Andy Reid to become that team’s running backs coach. Five years later, he was promoted to offensive coordinator.

Bieniemy has been a primary candidate for an NFL head coaching position since the 2019 offseason, and often has been cited as an example of the problem with league owners not hiring enough successful Black coordinators as head coaches. Brother Bieniemy is a member of Beta Omega Chapter in Kansas City.

In high school, Brother Jalen Hurts participated in powerlifting. As a sophomore, he squatted 500 pounds and eventually became regional finalist in the 198-pound weight class. Then, he began to focus his athletic prowess on football. Upon graduating, he enrolled at the University of Alabama where he played his first three seasons of college football, helping the team win the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Information Sciences at Alabama, and then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for his final year of player eligibility. There, he helped lead the Sooners to a Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. He finished his college football career in 2019 with the second highest number of votes for the Heisman Trophy.

Selected by the Eagles in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Hurts became their starting quarterback near the end of his rookie year. He had a breakout season in 2022 and impressively led his team to within a field goal of winning the Super Bowl.

Brother Hurts is an advocate for women in sports and employs an allfemale management team, including his communications, marketing, social media, and sports agent team members. In 2021, he also participated in the NFL's My Cause, My Cleats initiative that empowers players to express their

commitment to the causes they support through creative artwork and custom designs on their game cleats. Brother Hurts chose to show his support for The One Mindset Foundation, whose purpose is to provide blueprints and assistance to help under-resourced inner-city communities.

Brother Joshua Williams was the first player from a historically Black college or university (HBCU) chosen in the 2022 NFL Draft, selected in the fourth round as the 135th overall pick. His school, Fayetteville State University in North Carolina, is the reigning Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) champion.

In his rookie season playing in the AFC Championship game, Brother Williams made five tackles, four of them solo. He also caught a huge interception off of a tipped pass late in the fourth quarter that helped his Chiefs cement a Super Bowl berth. In the big game, he recorded four tackles in the Chiefs 38-35 victory over the Eagles. While playing in college, he was once quoted in an interview saying, “I knew wherever I played, if I played hard, somebody would come find me."

Brother Nakobe Dean was a mechanical engineering major at the University of Georgia where he played linebacker for the Bulldogs. He excelled in that position so much that he won the 2021 Butkus Award, which is given annually to the top linebackers at the high school, collegiate and professional levels of football. Dean is one of three players who have won the award both in high school (2018) and in college (2021).

In 2022, he was named the Arthur Ashe Jr. Male Sports Scholar of the Year by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education. Brother Dean was drafted by the Eagles in the third round as the 83rd overall selection of the 2022 NFL Draft.

These four Brothers of Omega have been very impressive and successful in their professional careers thus far. We will continue to keep watchful eyes on them to see what their hard work, and Perseverance, has in store for them next.

IN PROFESSIONAL OMEGAS

FOOTBALL

Compiled by Brother Samuel Summerville

Rho Upsilon Highlights Achievement Week

Brother Brandon Woods | Bridgeport, CT

Providing uplift to local, national and world communities, a fitting theme for the 2022 achievement week. At Rho Upsilon chapter, located in Bridgeport, CT, the brothers decided to prioritize the local community, with a week full of service activities purposed to uplift the underserved populations in the area. The week began by extending an annual initiative, Heat For the Feet, to a local veterans organization focused on providing housing and services to the unhoused veteran population in Bridgeport. At Home for the Braves, in the South End of Bridgeport, residents were elated when they saw brothers in purple and gold, entering with donations of winter hats and socks for all. The Heat For the Feet program was established in 2015, by Bro. IPB Keith Coote (Rho Upsilon Fall 1975). The program has been a beacon of light to the residents of the Prospect House Shelter in Bridgeport. Starting out with a donation of socks, the initiative has grown and persisted yearly. The chapter has donated a variety of winter items including socks and gloves and the residents look forward to us returning each year. This year was no different. On Wednesday, brothers donated hats and gloves, along with dinner from a local business and Bridgeport staple, Arthur's Famous Pizza. The goal of continuing and increasing the efforts around Heat for the Feet was indeed met.

Brothers went on to visit the Village Initiative Project, a college prep program for high school students. Bro. Basileus Brandon Woods (Rho Upsilon Spring 2014); the undergraduates of the chapter, Bros. Jalen Madison, Terron Mallory & Bayo Gbowu Jr. (Rho Upsilon Spring 2022); and Bro. KF Calvin M. Jones II (Rho Upsilon Fall 2011) led a discussion on the college admissions process, scholarships and financial aid, as it relates to student athletes. The undergraduates, who play football at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT, provided insight on their experience as well as best practices for students seeking to get recruited or play collegiate sports. The discussion was robust, and ended with information about the International High School Essay Contest and future scholarship opportunities.

On Founders’ Day, brothers took time to volunteer at the Bishop Jean Williams Food Pantry in Bridgeport, CT. Bags and boxes of food were packed and handed out to the community. The Bishop Jean Williams Food Pantry serves roughly 300 families weekly. This effort was coordinated by Bro. KF Calvin M Jones II. In the evening, brothers gathered to handle the business of Omega, in our monthly chapter meeting, and went on to celebrate and fellowship with brothers in neighboring chapters to end the night.

Rho Upsilon ended the week on Sunday, uplifting the brothers in the chapter with a Thanksgiving potluck dinner, held at the Move Yacht Club in Bridgeport, CT. We were joined by brothers from Alpha Nu, Chi Omicron, & Epsilon Iota Iota. Brothers spent the evening watching football, indulging in delicious food and libations, story telling and sharing district and fraternity history. As Rho Upsilon nears the 70th anniversary of its chartering, it is clear that the chapter is strong and growing. Still climbing. Still lifting.

Sigma Nu Volunteers at 28th Annual

Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading

The brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Nu chapter served as helpers and volunteers for the organization, the Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading (LHCPR) on February 5, 2023.

The program shares the works of our brother the late Langston Hughes. As stated on their website, LHCPR does this specifically because of the poet’s proven ability to scrutinize, illuminate and engage critical thought around prevailing structures and realities. With work centering creative survival,

Brother Kedrick Robinson | Providence, RI

development, self-actualization, individuality and political mobilization, Hughes’ work becomes a natural conduit for engaged conversation and deep consideration. The sophistication of the poetry produced by Hughes is of a quality and breath that it easily engages both new- and ‘old’ comers. The LHCPR utilizes this work to create community, facilitate pedagogies empowering free will, independent thinking, and empathy.

The brothers helped by assisting with checking each audience member before entering the event for Covid-19

vaccination card, rapid test for those without a card and handing out masks to wear during the event.

The event featured 28 readers and 16 musical interludes that highlighted how Bro. Hughes’ poetry portrayed what life was like for African Americans, from their suffering to their love of music.

This event, which began in 1995, is a collaborative program between Rhode Island School of Design Museum and the Langston Hughes Center for the Arts and Education.

Brother Gonsalvo Cotobus Williams (‘17 Gamma) was born in Newberry, South Carolina, in 1896 to Gonsalvo Cobotus Sr. and Alice (Simmons) Williams. He received his AB from Benedict College in South Carolina in 1916 and went on to attend Harvard College, where he received his BS degree in 1918.

Following his education at Harvard, Williams attended Officers' Training Schools at Camp Devens in Massachusetts and Camp Taylor in Idaho. In 1918, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant of Field Artillery and served in France from 1918 to 1919. He matriculated at Harvard Medical School in 1919; however, he withdrew from the program in 1921.

Undeterred, Williams continued his pursuit of a medical degree and enrolled in Yale Medical School, where he received his MD in 1925. Following his graduation, he served as an intern and resident at the Grasslands Hospital in Westchester County, New York. In 1927, Williams began his own private practice in Dobbs Ferry, New York, where he dedicated himself to providing medical care to his patients. Bro. Williams served as Grand Keeper of Seals for Omega Psi Phi circa 1921.

Community Ques Introduce Boys To The HBCU Classic

Brother Matt Stevens | East Rutherford, NJ

TheHistorically Black College and University (HBCU) New York Football Classic got underway on Saturday September 17, 2022 at MetLife Stadium. The stands were filled with football fans, fierce rivals, alumni, and college students. Among the spectators were the youth from the Dr. Ernest Everett Just Mentoring Program.

For many, this football classic was a rich tradition, especially for the rival HBCUs. But for Brothers Michael Wilson and William S. Parrish Jr., Morehouse College and Hampton University alums, respectively, this year’s inauguration game was more than a spectacular pageantry

of football teams and the Battle of the Bands competition.

“We were excited to see the boys get to be part of the HBCU experience,” said Michael Wilson, Eta Pi Chapter’s Basileus. “It’s a unique family experience of bonding and camaraderie that they will never forget. Eta Pi Chapter is committed to helping boys progress in life and seeing the world through a broader lens.”

“The HBCU Classic is important to expose students and families to the culture, legacy, and pride that comes with the HBCU experience.” As founder of HBCU Greatness and President of the North Jersey Chapter of the Hampton Alumni Association, Brother Parrish helps youth secure scholarships to HBCUs. As a follow up to the game, he will present the scholarship opportunities to youth involved in the mentoring program. “Similar to these young men, I graduated from Clifford J. Scott High School in East Orange in 1985, and one of the best decisions I made was attending Hampton University. It deepened my sense of culture and provided me with a nurturing atmosphere to excel.”

Brother Matt Stevens, Coordinator of the Mentoring Program, said the “HBCU Classic game is also important because it was the first of fifty (50) mentoring activities the Chapter plans

for 2022-2023.” The boys started the day at a workshop hosted at the Park Avenue School in Orange NJ. Where they practiced decision making and exercised critical thinking skills. Afterwards they boarded the bus and traveled to the game with their coaches. Jamal Jenkins, a 12 year old youth football player, stated “today was my first time attending a college football game and we really enjoyed all the food and other things to do in the parking lot.” He was referring to the traditional tailgate party which served over one thousand people this year. Brother IPB Jonathan Moore, Upsilon Phi Chapter, Morehouse College alum, secured Morehouse College T-Shirts for each youth. Brother Moore shared “the Morehouse College Alumni Association is proud to support the mentoring program.”

The Dr. Ernest Everett Just Mentoring Program partners with the CLEO CLICKS organization which is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Program (OJP), Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP).

To learn more, contact Brother Matt Stevens at OmegaMentors@icloud.com or visit etapichapter.org

Bro. Ivan Bates Elected Baltimore City State’s Attorney

Brother Craig Owens | Baltimore, MD

OnJanuary 3, 2023, Ivan J. Bates was sworn in as the 26th State’s Attorney for Baltimore City. With over 25 years of experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, Brother Bates has the knowledge and skills to move Baltimore forward in his new role.

“I am honored to be elected and look forward to continuing to serve”, Bates said. “If you are breaking the law, you will be prosecuted, and we will protect our good citizens,” Ivan stated in an interview with a Baltimore news station after his inauguration.

Ivan is the managing partner of the law firm Bates and Garcia, LLC, which he started in 2006. As a skilled defense attorney, he has successfully navigated the complex criminal justice system. Bro. Bates once served as the co-counsel on a case argued before the Supreme Court of the United States, Maryland vs. Blake, highlighting one of his many career accomplishments.

In his rise to prominence, Bro. Bates has become well known throughout Baltimore and the City State’s Attorney’s Office for his legal acumen. Prior to becoming a well-known defense attorney, he was a successful prosecutor from 1996 to 2002. Serving as an Assistant State’s Attorney (ASA) for Baltimore City was Ivan’s first position after passing the bar exam in 1995. He soon became an ASA in the Homicide Division and began advocating for families victimized by violent crime.

As a teenager, Ivan was unsure about his future career. After graduating high school in Virginia,

Ivan enlisted in the United States Army following the path of his father. While in the military, Bro. Bates graduated from the French Commando School where he was trained in special operations. Ivan served in foreign and domestic missions while assigned to the 32nd Air Defense Artillery Command in Europe.

Ivan completed his undergraduate studies at Howard University where he received several prestigious awards including the Lyndon Baines Johnson Internship and the General Motors Volunteer Award. Inspired by Justice Thurgood Marshall, he pursued a career in law. He attended William & Mary Law School in Williamsburg, VA where he obtained his law degree in 1995.

While campaigning to become the Baltimore City State’s Attorney, Bro. Bates presented a clear plan to fight crime and protect senior citizens and the disabled. When asked about his decision to enter politics, Bro. Bates stated, “ I thought long and hard about the sacrifices required, my reasons for running, and whether I was in a position to make a positive difference. As the father of a five-year-old daughter, whose safety and well-being are my top priorities, and the managing partner of a law practice, I knew that running for office would be no easy task. I am humbled by prior successes—which allowed me to reflect on the path that brought me to Baltimore more than 25 years ago. This is a city that I love, that has always been good to me, and now I am able to help.”

Nu Tau Chapter

My Brother’s Keeper Foundation HBCU Tour

Brother Michael Logan

Albany, NY

NuTau Chapter partnered with My Brother’s Keeper Foundation (MBK) on two (2) HBCU Tour events. The events were held with the support of MBK Mentors, Albany High School Administrators, College/University Administrators, and Omega Men from chapters Epsilon Sigma and Nu Tau.

This project had virtual and physical components. The first component was to ensure students had the opportunity to receive information about higher education from a variety of institutions, we facilitated virtual tours. The virtual tours ensured participation from and exposure to various institutions that unfortunately could not be visited in-person.

The second component was a physical tour of HBCUs and historical places. This allowed participants to experience the history of the campuses we visited first hand. Further, it provided the opportunity to learn about higher education in an interactive environment.

Virtual Tour: 25 to 30 participants were in attendance. 15 to 20 are high schoolers planning to further their

f Continued on Page 84

Mu Omega Chapter QueVets participate in the Philly Veterans Day Parade

Brother David R. Benson| Philadelphia, PA

My Brother’s Keeper Foundation HBCU Tour Continued

TheMu Omega Chapter QueVets were represented well in the 2022 Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade which occurred on Sunday, November 6, 2022. The QueVets are military veterans of Mu Omega Chapter. This was the city’s eighth year having the parade to honor our nation’s veterans, and the fifth time that there was participation from the Mu Omega Chapter’s QueVets. The mission of the Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade is to honor all who have served, with emphasis on “Veterans Taking Care of Veterans.” Over 100 groups participated in the parade, but the QueVets were the only Greek Letter Organization of the Divine Nine represented.

The parade started at 16th and JFK Boulevard and proceeded around City Hall, down Market Street and ended beyond the Reviewing Stand at 5th and Market. QueVet Chairman Bro. David Benson, led fourteen QueVets dressed in custom jackets, black berets, white shirts and purple ties marched proudly as they displayed their custom purple and gold banner carried by QueVet Bros. Howard James and Reggie McNeil. They were followed by Bros. Bill Smith; Gary Thompson; Garfield Jackson, Sr.; Bobby James; Colonel Jackson (Gamma Pi); and Rochelle Chavis. Two World War II veterans, Bro. William Harris, Ph.D. at 100 years old, and Tuskegee Airman Bro. Nathan Thomas at age 96, paraded in specially detailed vehicles. Bringing up the rear were three presidentiallooking SUVs decorated in purple and gold and topped with flags and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., banners.

The vehicles were driven by QueVet Bros. Ras Mayo; Fred Whiten; Tim Turner; Christopher Williams; and Joseph Wells. Upon the MC’s introduction, there was a loud roar from enthusiastic spectators as the QueVets approached the viewing stand. Bro. Nathan Thomas was interviewed by a reporter from 6-ABC News, the local news outlet that televised the parade. The interview highlighted Brother Thomas’ experiences as a Tuskegee Airman.

education. The following colleges and universities: Howard University, Lincoln University, Morehouse College, Delaware University, and Virginia Union University led presentations going into great detail about the application process, financial-aid process, dorm housing, and course offerings among other topics.

Campus Tour (Of the 25 participants, there were 15 young men in attendance. The group toured Howard University and Bowie State University as well as major landmarks throughout the Maryland and Washington D.C. area.

The virtual and onsite campus tours were successful on all levels of accomplishment. The students were thoroughly engaged. They asked questions and shared comments with the college administrators and the MBK team. In addition, many of the students experienced things for the first time. For some, this was the first time they took a chartered bus, flew in an airplane, stayed in a hotel, or saw landmarks like the White House and other landmarks. It was great connecting through the shared experience while preparing for a brighter future. Nu Tau and Epsilon Sigma chapters will continue to practice and honor the four (4) cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

We greatly appreciate all that contributed to the success of the HBCU tour events. The Brothers look forward to next year’s tour and Omega’s continued endeavor to Uplift our youths’ futures.

Participating Omega Men: Bro. Basileus Michael Logan, Bro. Dr. Boyd ServioMariano, Bro. Eric Adams, Bro. Troy Miller 1-22-NT, Bro. Gary Guy 2-22-NT, Bro. Pierce Perkins 3-22-NT, Bro. Zion Ledyard 3-21-ΕΣ and Bro. Dadrian Mikell 4-21-ΕΣ.

$30,000 in Scholarships during Achievement Week

Brother Shawn Joseph |Montgomery County, MD

MuNu Chapter awarded 31 scholarships to Black male students matriculating from Montgomery County Public Schools. The scholarship awards were a part of the Chapter’s annual Achievement Week program. Additionally, the Chapter donated $9,000 to the George B. Thomas Learning Academy, a program founded by Mu Nu Chapter, that tutors hundreds of students in Montgomery County Public Schools. In total, the Chapter gave $31,950 back to the community.

Former Grand Basileus Lloyd Jordan, Esq, served as the keynote speaker. He charged Brothers to protect life and liberty. He also reminded the audience of the role Omega has played fighting for social justice for Black people in America. Achievement Week Chair, Dr. Shawn Joseph, Co-Director of the American Association for School Administrators and the Howard University Urban Superintendent Academy shared “Mu Nu Chapter strives to uphold our cardinal principle of scholarship by recognizing the achievement of outstanding African American men, and this year, there was a commitment to dramatically increase the amount of scholarship money we awarded to students and the community.”

Mu Nu Chapter’s Foundation is critical to the success of its scholarship program. The Foundation hosts numerous activities, including an annual golf tournament and a Mardi Gras as fundraisers to support the Chapter’s philanthropy.

Basileus Walter Neighbors shared, “This year, our chapter had a goal to provide every student we recognized with a

monetary award along with a certificate of achievement. As a result, 4 students received a $5,000 scholarship, and the remaining 27 students received $100 for maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher, and the chapter provided a $250 scholarship to its local essay contest winner.”

Over 100 Omega men and community members attended the event. This year’s event was particularly special because the Chapter honored Bro. Dr. Adam McKee Jr., former 1st Vice Grand Basileus with the Founders’ Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Lee Evans, principal of Magruder High School in Montgomery County, was the Citizen of the Year. Bro. Eulvid Rocque served as the Business Person of the Year. Bro. Dr. Lorenzo Prillman was the Outstanding Educator of the Year. Bro. Joel Leigh won the Superior Service Award. Bro. Gabe Brown received the Omega Man of the Year award.

Mu Nu Chapter Photo with Grand Basileus Ricky L. Lewis

Mu Nu Gives over

Donates $10,000 and Hosts Achievement Week Prayer Breakfast

TheThird District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., hosted a prayer breakfast and awards banquet on November 13, 2022, as a kickoff to Achievement Week. The event was held in celebration of the chapter’s 50th anniversary. It showcased the chapter’s commitment to supporting its community and honoring its legacy. The event was held at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in Fairfax, Virginia. It was a resounding success.

The Master of Ceremonies was Brother Garrett James, and the guest speaker was Minister Don Hutchins, who delivered an inspiring message that touched on the theme of “The Golden Promise – Upholding Our Legacy and Forging the Future TOGETHER.”

A significant moment during the event was the presentation of over $10,000 in donations to organizations and nonprofits in Alexandria, Virginia. The donations were made possible through the Third District Foundation. The brothers of Psi Nu were honored to host Third District luminaries, including Brother Shawn R. Lacey, First Vice District Representative, Brother Calvin C. Beidleman, III, Director of Public Relations, and Brother Pitman Rock, Ways & Means Chair.

f The Psi Nu Achievement Week Awards were presented to several deserving brothers, including:

f Omega Man of the Year - Brother John Gordon

f Superior Service Award - Brother Dennis Craig

f Founders Award - Brother Garrett James and Brother Yao Tyus

f Brig. General Charles Young Military Achievement Award - Brother Corey Griddine

f Chapter Citizen of the Year - Laurese M. Gerald

The music was arranged by Brother Tyrell Dale (DJ Richyrell), and soloist Samika Roy entertained the guests with beautiful performances. Chef Jess of DMV Cooking prepared a delicious menu.

During the Season of Giving

Third District Brothers Lifting as We Climb: Providing for the Community

TheBrothers of the Third District of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., continue to “Live Their Creed.” The Brothers honor the Founders and the cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift, as demonstrated by their unwavering commitment to Service and community each holiday season. Brothers collaborated with various community leaders and partners across Washington, DC, and Virginia to feed over 300,000 community residents in need. Additionally, Brothers donated over $1,000 and 1,000 toys to families in need. Numerous families were blessed tremendously with the outpouring of love and affection from the Men of Omega.

Chapter stories across the District

As Thanksgiving Day approached, chapters rose to the occasion. Alpha Omega Chapter – Brother Ransom Miller III established Project GiveBack, a food drive, nearly three decades ago. Initially it was a lunchroom project, making food baskets for students and their families’ to prepare during the Thanksgiving break. “That year, we did six food baskets, and this year, we are doing 2,500 boxes,” Miller said. He added, “this equates to more than 300,000 meals for families in need.” Project GiveBack provides opportunities to make a difference in the lives of local residents.

Psi Alpha Alpha – The Fairfax County Ques joined the “Project Giveback” team and 240 other volunteers to unload supply trucks, sort and package groceries, and distribute food in the Gum Springs community in Alexandria, Virginia. A total of 600 families received enough food for a week worth of meals, along with other necessities. The event exceeded the brothers’ expectations. They were overwhelmed to have the ability to serve so many families during the season.

Psi Nu – Collaborated and participated in the “Firefighters and Friends-giving” event at the Charles Houston Recreation Center in Alexandria, VA. Brother Melvin Stallings coordinated the event. The Psi Nu brothers assisted in serving a delicious Thanksgiving dinner to over 50 people and gave away 30 care packages.

Upsilon Nu – The generous donation of $4,400 from Brothers and community partners, the chapter was able to provide food baskets for 123 families in the Richmond, Virginia, area. To ease the expenses around the Christmas holiday, each basket was supplied with enough food to feed a family of six individuals.

“Toys for Tots and Christmas Cheer” – Delta Omega Chapter worked tirelessly to prepare and deliver over 950 toys to various schools, churches, and families in the local communities throughout Richmond, Petersburg, and Sussex, Virginia. Toys for Tots is a program that was founded by the U.S. Marine Corps in 1947. Its mission is to provide toys to underprivileged children. The Delta Omega Toys for Tots 2022 campaign was able to support and help fulfill this mission. Toys for Tots brings joy and happiness and uplifts the lives of several hundreds of underprivileged children within the local community on average.

Kappa Iota Iota – Provided the residents of Newport News, Virginia, with more than $2,800 through grocery giveaways and Christmas Basket donations. The Brothers delivered baskets to 26 ecstatic recipients. Other supporters stated, “our gratitude goes out to the residents, Brother Keenan Williams, and the Brothers of Kappa Iota Iota Chapter.” The “Service” chapter is at its best!

Sigma Mu Mu – In Sterling, VA, Brothers collected and donated 204 toys and 15 bikes for distribution to local disadvantaged families as part of the Toys for Tots program. The program has evolved and grown exponentially for over seven decades, delivering hope and the magic of Christmas to over 291 million less fortunate children since 1947.

The Salvation Army Kettle Bells were ringing - Alpha Iota Chapter and The Golden Fold supported the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. Omega men of the Alpha Iota Chapter and the young leaders of The Golden Fold volunteered as bell ringers and raised over $700 in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, and Chesapeake.

Tau Rho chapter participated in the Salvation Army campaign supporting the Fredericksburg, VA area by raising over $350. Additionally, over 75 coats, sweaters, and other items were collected, purchased, and donated to the Thurman Brisben Center in the Rappahannock region of Virginia.

Alpha Omega Chapter Celebrates Centennial Anniversary

On November 4, 2022, in Washington, D.C, Brothers of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., along with their families and friends came from near and far to celebrate the 100th anniversary of one of the most prestigious chapters in the Fraternity, Alpha Omega Chapter.

The souvenir journal provided to the patrons of the lavish affair states, “In the spring of 1922, the following eight Alpha Chapter alumni established Alpha Omega Chapter, the first graduate chapter in Washington, D.C.: Cato Wesley Adams (initiated 1916), George Edward Brice (initiated 1914), Walter Spurgeon Burke (initiated 1914), Gordon David Houston (elected/honorary 1915), Campbell Carrington Johnson (initiated 1916), Charles Leonard Johnson (initiated 1915), Charles Herbert Marshall, Sr. (initiated 1920), and Garnet Crummell Wilkinson (elected/honorary 1916).”

The journal noted that the Alpha Omega Chapter’s centennial gala provided a retrospect of Alpha Omega, “a visit from the hills from whence cometh our strength. We are re-examining our well-laid foundation as we reach further and higher, imbued with the collective knowledge of those who have come before us and ever knowing and appreciating that Friendship is Essential to the Soul.” Former Grand Keeper of Finance, Third District Representative, and Grand Marshal of the Omega Psi Phi Centennial Conclave, Brother Kenneth A. Brown, served as master of ceremonies for the evening. “I’m just overwhelmed by the number of district and national officers who took time out of their busy schedules to be with us tonight,” he said.

Brother Lloyd Jordan, Esq., the 36th Grand Basileus of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., called Alpha Omega Chapter “one of the most respected” in the fraternity. He said, “that can be attributed to the men who have come through and been part of the chapter and their service to mankind and the community.”

The current 1st Vice Grand Basileus of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Brother Mark Jackson, a member of the Alpha Omega Chapter, said, “This is home for me.” He shared that Alpha Omega Chapter and Delta Theta Chapter, where he was initiated, provided a strong foundation for his fraternal life.

Other International and District Officers at the event were Brother Sherman Charles, the current Grand Keeper of Records and Seal; Brother Clement Osimetha, the Grand Counselor; and Brother Conrado Morgan, Third District Representative.

Brother Norman K. Jenkins, the owner of the Marriott Marquis, which served as the venue for the affair, said the evening’s event humbled him. “The fact that my chapter, Alpha Omega Chapter, chose this venue to host this most significant time in history of our chapter is humbling. I say, ‘Thank you.’ This hotel has hosted 20-some odd world leaders and three U.S. presidents, but in my mind, this is the most important event.”

Alpha Omega Chapter’s Immediate Past Basileus Brother Lucius Dalton, who was Basileus during most of the planning stage of the event, called it a “celebration of 100 years of brotherhood, friendship, and service to humanity and community.” He

acknowledged Alpha Omega Chapter’s 45th Basileus Brother Gregory Boykin, “who under his leadership created the Centennial Committee, envisioning this celebration.”

“For the next 100 years, Alpha Omega Chapter will continue to be committed to positively impacting our community, nation, and world from political, economic, and social justice perspectives. Our work has not ended; it continues,” Brother Dalton stated.

Brother Mark W. Robinson, Chair of the Centennial Committee, recognized eight Brothers as Alpha Omega Chapter’s Living Legends.

Alpha Omega Chapter’s Living Legends:

f Bro. Robert Fairchild

f Bro. Kenneth A. Brown

f Bro. Gary C. Clark

f Bro. Amos Townsend

f Bro. Larry A. Brown

f Bro. Robert Warren Jr.

f Bro. Mark Jackson

f Bro. Steve G. Johnson

The musical selection provided by Jose Andre Montano, the Washington D.C. Chapters’ Talent Hunt winner was a bright moment of the event. However, the highlight of the evening were the videos underscoring “The Story of Alpha Omega Chapter.” The videos remarked on the Chapter and Chapter Brothers’ involvement in the fight for civil rights; efforts in advancing health, wellness, and medicine; and other social action initiatives. Brothers Rohulamin Quander and Donnie Lucas led the effort in creating the videos and were assisted by Brothers I.G. Cooper, Ransom Miller, Gregory Boykin, and Walter Hill. Other contributors include Brothers Perry Anderson, Dewey Stanyard, Michael Long, Norm Senior, Donnie Lucas, Frank Borris, Delray Brown, and Reginald Whitaker.

Brother Frank Borris, Basileus of Alpha Omega Chapter, concluded, “For the near term, we shall focus our energy on celebrating our honored history, recognizing those who answered Omega’s call, and leveraging this moment to propel Alpha Omega into its next 100 years.”

Zeta Omega Brother Selected for Kroger’s Go Fresh & Local Supplier Accelerator Cohort

Brother Damon Scott| Cleveland, OH

Bro.Claude Booker (1989 Theta Epsilon) remembers first being interested in food and cooking back when he was a little tike. He was inspired by his father who would let him stand on a foot stool and watch him cook when he was knee high to a grasshopper, as the saying goes. That inspiration would eventually develop into a passion for food, which his father supported. As a graduating senior, young Claude decided to attend culinary school at the top ten ranked Johnson and Wales College of Hospitality Management, instead of accepting one of the several athletic scholarships he was offered to play collegiate football.

Today, some 35 years later, professional chef, caterer, and restaurateur, Booker has been recognized nationally for his culinary skills and tasty recipes. In 2021, Bro. Booker’s small business, known as Simply Southern Sides, was selected to participate in the inaugural Kroger Foods Go Fresh & Local

Supplier Accelerator cohort. Kroger, the largest grocery retailer in the United States, developed the program to discover the best, most innovative, and freshest local and regional products for its customer base in stores across the country. According to Dan De La Rosa, Kroger’s Vice President of Fresh Merchandising, “We are proud to partner with these extraordinary suppliers to bring exciting new products to our customers and introduce them to more locally made favorites.”

Kroger invited growers and producers to join its first supplier accelerator program, which resulted in over 1,000 applications. From that very large pool, 15 finalists were selected to participate in a pitch competition. During the competition, finalists were grouped by region. Each finalist presented a ten minute pitch and provided samples to the judging panel, who were invited to ask questions and learn

more about the brands and their founders. The judges then narrowed the list and named five winning brands to form the cohort. The businesses will get on-shelf product placement in Kroger stores and business development coaching from organizations and executives participating in the incubator program.

“This is huge for our business. Starting in the summer of 2022, we will be in 11 different Kroger divisions, which is over 1,000 stores.” said Bro. Booker. “We won in part for the innovation we bring to the produce department.”

Simply Southern Sides consists of all natural seasoning and spice mixes that help with easy preparation of homemade soul food staples like collard greens, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and peach cobbler, all made from scratch. Bro. Booker came up with the business brand he calls Soul Food Starters, which he created during the height of the pandemic, when he needed to pivot from his core business of supplying buffets due to the decrease in-person events. This transition is evidence of his business acumen and ingenuity.

Prior to creating Soul Food Starters and Simply Southern Sides, Bro. Booker was a caterer, which he says came natural to him “because I love giving and making folks happy . . . and feeding people does that for me.” When asked about his favorite type of cuisine to prepare, he shared “I am a classically trained chef; with that said, my favorite is Southern and soul food. Whether the soul food leans towards traditional, Caribbean, Creole, or Gullah, I love the influence our African heritage brings to it. I love the history behind it . . . how these recipes for generations have been passed down orally and are still rooted in us, is such a blessing.” And one specific dish that he likes to prepare? “I love making my ‘barbequed’ jerk chicken; it is a crowd favorite!”

Brothers and many supporters of Omega in the Greater Cleveland area and throughout northeast Ohio are very familiar with Bro. Booker’s excellent culinary skills. He has prepared a full soul food dinner buffet for the preboarding party for the Zeta Omega Annual Boat Ride, the chapter’s largest fundraiser, for the last several years. He also fed a large cadre of brothers and their guests in April 2019 during the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Psi Gamma Chapter being chartered at Kent State University.

Beyond his love of preparing delicacies and sustenance for the Brotherhood, one of his most memorable honors is being selected as the official caterer when the city of Cleveland hosted the Republican National Convention (RNC) in the summer of 2016. Brother Booker reflected “I got to challenge myself by feeding more than 10,000 folks a day. We were one of 50 contenders and I had two auditions to prove that we could do it. We wowed the selection committee and I had the challenge of feeding all those visitors to Cleveland for four days straight! I was honored to represent the city of Cleveland, and for other

Black caterers, who oftentimes are not given the chance to showcase their talents.”

He was asked to ponder about advice he would provide to brothers or anyone else who is interested in pursuing a profession in the culinary arts, as well as any guidance to chapters working with caterers or other entities to plan events. First, to individuals with a desire for cooking/catering, “It is a rewarding industry. If you have the passion for it, I would say pursue it. Don’t let anyone steal your dreams and hopes. If it is your goal, never stop working on it.” For chapter event planning, “Review various catering menus and caterers online before you engage with them. Be knowledgeable, and it will help with budgeting and the fraternal ask for brothers.”

For any brothers and supporters of Omega who live near a Kroger Foods, starting in summer 2022, stop in to purchase some Simply Southern Sides all natural seasoning and spice mixes, and prepare your palate for a scrumptious treat of some down home soul food, courteous of the culinary skills of Bro. Claude Booker!

Zeta Omega

Brothers Ride in Support of Mental Health

“The purpose of the ride is to support mental health. In today’s world, it’s hard for a man to exist because he has to take care of his family, take care of himself, and learn how to navigate through everyday trials and tribulations. Because that’s so dominant in our society, we need at least one day where there’s no women riding with us and we can just focus on ourselves . . . on being men, and have peace of mind. So we take a ride.” Bro. Johnnie Lemons (1990 Zeta Omega) becomes very passionate when he talks about riding his motorcycle, and even more so when he is asked about the group of men with whom he rides.

Bro. Lemons, a retired law enforcement officer, is one of the co-founders and organizers of a very large event that occurs every year on the third Sunday in the month of June, Father’s Day. He explains that the annual event started 14 years ago in 2008, unfortunately as the result of a tragedy. He has a friend who also was a law enforcement officer, and whose son sadly took his own life. The young man’s father became so depressed and distraught over losing his son, that he actually contemplated

Brother Damon Scott| Cleveland, OH

taking his own life as well.

So that’s when his friend, Brother Lemons, decided to take action. He tried to help his friend by redirecting his thoughts away from harming himself. He realized the best, and maybe only, way to do that was for them to get on their motorcycles and go for a ride . . . and to do it on Father’s Day. That day, on their first ride, there were five friends who “rode and rode until our friend seemed to have peace of mind and appeared okay,” shared Lemons.

The following year, they decided to do it again, and the group expanded to eight in total for the second ride. Bro. Lemons recalled that it rained really heavily that year . . . but they still rode anyway. And that was the beginning of what has become an annual tradition. Over the last decade plus, the event has continued and the group has grown in number. It grew by word of mouth and association, and in 2022, the number totals between 300-400 men riding their bikes together on Father’s Day, in an effort to support each other’s, and their own, mental health.

on Father’s Day

Having enjoyed the event and how it evolved and grew from just that initial small group, another idea came to Bro. Lemons. It was now time to share this comradery with his brothers in Omega. So he asked a couple brothers who he knew had their own bikes if they were interested in joining the group for the Father’s Day ride. Their enthusiasm was evident, so much so that they decided to form their own group of brothers who joined the annual event, and also ride and fellowship with each other on a regular basis. Thus, the “Omega Riders” were born. The group now consists of nine brothers, all of whom were initiated in Zeta Omega Chapter. They are Brothers Johnnie Lemons and Jeffrey Willis (both 1990), Miguel Sanders (1997), Lance McElrath (2004), Elige Longino (2007), James Lassiter (2009), Michael Tucker (2016), and Dennis Ivey and Earl Lee (both 2017).

Realizing the success he experienced with getting some Omega Men involved with the event, Bro. Lemons also started to incorporate other groups into the Father’s Day ride. As the membership grew and evolved, so did the group’s purpose and mission. They eventually

decided that they wanted their fellowship and dedicated time to good mental health to help provide uplift in their community. So they began collecting contributions that they agreed to donate to local nonprofit organizations that provide mental health care and services to those in need.

This year, on Sunday, June 19th, a bright, sunny, and warm morning, first tens, then hundreds of men on bikes gathered in the large overflow parking lot of a Home Depot just a few miles outside of downtown Cleveland. The plethora of motorcycles displayed a wide variety of bikes and bikers; some bikes are larger than others, some louder, several have music blaring from their custom designed sound systems, and a few are very intricately painted with unique designs. Most of the riders are African American.

And it was a beautiful day for a ride. Before he and a couple other speakers started calling for the attention of the riders, who began to form a large circle around them, Bro. Lemons shared a final thought about the ride and the path they will take. “I try to pick routes through the Cleveland Metroparks System where we can see the trees and the sites, feel the wind . . . so that we as men can have that time to atone, think, reflect, and just have fellowship with one another.”

At the end of their time together, they had collected a total of $1,300 that they donated to the Healing Care Counseling Center. The organization provides compassionate, culturally competent, trauma-informed therapy to adults, teens, and families in the Greater Cleveland community.

Psi Tau Uplifting Black Men

Omega Men Lead Workshop at BMW

Brother Rico Walker | Lexington, KY

of Psi Tau Chapter led a workshop for some of the African American males who are a part of the Black Male Working Academy located in Lexington, Kentucky. The BMW Academy is an organization of over 450 students who attend public schools in Lexington and surrounding counties. The mission of BMW is to educate, motivate, and activate the potential for excellence that lies within every African American male. On this date, Omega Men from Psi Tau Chapter led a discussion on Problem Solving and Good Decision Making. During the discussion, Brothers talked about the different steps that one should take when trying to solve a problem, starting with defining the problem, brainstorming the different solutions, picking a solution, testing that solution out, and reviewing the results.

Members

Then, if the problem is not solved the first time, repeat the steps until a resolution is found. This provided a good opportunity for some of the attendees to get advice from someone other than those they encounter every day in school.

Brothers in attendance were John Douglas (Epsilon Nu 1972); Tommy Walker (Delta Sigma 1977); Philip Chenault (Phi Eta 1984) Leander Ridgeway (Theta Omega 1989); Charles Duke (Psi Tau 1999); and Quentin Moore (Psi Tau 2001).

The StoQ Brothers

BuildingEntrepreneurs for Success in Tennessee (BEST) welcomed the StoQ Brothers to their team of curriculum experts and reentry coaches for justice-impacted inmates at the Debra K Johnson Rehabilitation Center in Nashville, TN. On December 2, 2022, the StoQ Brothers launched the first of an 8-week series in Financial Education training class for the 16 women who are currently enrolled in

the BEST program. StoQ brothers will be on-site at the prison from December 2022 to March 2023 to provide weekly sessions that will prepare BEST program participants with the knowledge and skills they need to plan for successful reentry. StoQ Brothers deliver quality investment education by focusing on the core methodologies and strategies of trading. The mission is to deliver superior investment results

by addressing the structures that hinder marginalized communities from making impactful decisions regarding their economic development. Through online and in-person sessions, training, and workshops, StoQ Brothers foster a diverse, connected, and collaborative culture that encourages different ways of thinking and differentiated insights to be successful. BEST Executive Director, Dr. Gretchen Wolfe, states that

Brother Bryan White | Omega Lambda Lambda Nashville, TN

Kappa Sigma Chapter celebrates 85th Anniversary

KappaSigma Chapter and their alumni group celebrated its 85th anniversary during Lane College’s homecoming weekend. Bro. Demetris Johnson, Basileus and SGA president, helped plan and execute three days of events geared toward building bridges between young and seasoned members, supporting the chapter’s scholarship endowment, and celebrating a historical milestone which started on December 3, 1937, by Bro. Z. Alexander Looby, Fifth District Representative.

Kappa Sigma Chapter’s 85th Anniversary weekend began with a meet and greet hospitality activity on Thursday, October 6th with Brothers receiving anniversary packets and enjoying fellowship. On Friday, October 7th, members attended a building renaming program on Lane College’s campus honoring two alumni Bros. Judson Pickard (1968) and John Potts (1969) for their distinguished careers and financial donations. Bro. Jacoby Jones (2008) received the Young Alumni Achievement Award and was inducted into Lane’s Hall of Distinction. The day ended with the chapter’s

85th anniversary banquet with guest speaker, Bro. Clifford Wimberly (1971). Bro. Eric Brent (1999) served as master of ceremonies and Bro. Martez Edwards (2002) shared remarks as chairman of the 85th anniversary committee. Lane College’s president, Dr. Logan Hampton addressed the Brothers to recognize the chapter’s contributions down through the years. There was a moment of silence to remember the Brothers in Omega Chapter. On Saturday, October 8th, members assembled for an alumni chapter meeting before proceeding to the tailgate event which was attended by over 100 Brothers, friends, and classmates. The day closed with members gathered on the campus for singing and marching.

The 85th anniversary weekend was a tremendous success in terms of participation, the outstanding events, and the chapter’s commitment to Lane College. The alumni group has established a 501(c)(3) charitable organization named Project Uplift to support philanthropic endeavors on the campus and in the community.

“Integrating the StoQ Brothers’ program with BEST’s approach – merging mental health and personal entrepreneurship –helps BEST participants to have a much broader understanding of the landscape of financial responsibility and planning they will experience when the gates open for them.” The StoQ Brothers vision is to create growth, impact, and sustainable movements toward financial security for marginalized communities. They accomplish this mission by empowering students with financial knowledge and resources. Key concepts include: having a Growth Mindset; creating a vision for their personal and financial futures; how

to create Smart short- and long-term goals; introduction to budgeting; and developing a plan to create generational wealth. Building Entrepreneurs for Success in Tennessee is in its 8th year of providing evidence-based programming that merges personal behavioral health and trauma recovery with practical applications of vocational skills and small business operations. Please learn more about StoQ Brothers at www.stoqbrothers.com and Building Entrepreneurs for Success in Tennessee at www.besttn.org

Theta Omega Centennial Celebration/Banquet

Brother Anthony Jones | Louisville, KY

OnNovember 19, 2022, Theta Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., celebrated 100 years of service with a gala. The gala began at 6pm with a Welcome Reception that allowed brothers, their families, and guests to fellowship along with our award winners.

Bro. George Demaree served as Master of Ceremonies for the event. He celebrated our history and why it’s important to be an Omega Man. He spoke on the significance of our cardinal principles and what each one meant. He closed and introduced Theta Omega Chapter’s Basileus, Bro. Darryl VanCleave.

Bro. VanCleave wholeheartedly thanked the wives and significant others of brothers of Omega Psi Phi “because without their blessing, the men of Theta Omega would not be able to provide the service and community uplift as we have done for the last 100 years.” He also touched on our chapter’s history and thanked everyone for attending. Committee Chairman, Bro. Monnie Hankins, introduced the special guests for the evening and elaborated on the evening’s program.

The 100th anniversary celebration also incorporated the Achievement Week program in the Gala. Throughout the night, many Omega men, students, community leaders, and mentors,who worked in concert to do the work of the fraternity. Additionally, a multitude of students were awarded scholarships in recognition of their academic achievements. Essay award recipients that were present were also recognized. Now these amazing scholars and future leaders will have the opportunity to attend college with additional funding courtesy of Theta Omega Chapter. This truly was a tremendous evening for all those who were present.

Brother Dr. James Netters Sr. (‘67 Epsilon Phi) was a distinguished spiritual and community leader, known for his significant contributions to civil rights and social justice in Memphis.

In 1967, he became the first Black member of the

Memphis City Council, and he played a pivotal role in resolving the 1968 landmark sanitation workers’ strike.

In addition to his political activism, Dr. Netters was a mentor to young people in Memphis. He founded the Youth Service Organization, one of the first initiatives in the city to provide inner-city kids with a safe haven from the streets and teach them about social responsibility.

He also grew his congregation from 50 to over 4,000 and helped to establish Westwood Manor Affordable Housing for Seniors.

Dr. Netters was a respected public figure and served as the Chairman of MLGW’s Board of Commissioners. He was also present on stage during the historic 1963 March on Washington and witnessed Martin Luther King Jr’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.

Citizen of the Year Metro Councilwoman Donna Purvis

Omega Man of the Year Brother Elliott Kelly

Epsilon Mu Nu Bro. Singleton Wins Second Grammy

For the second time in the last three years, the Charleston-based band Ranky Tanky has done it again. Ranky Tanky is a two-time Grammy Award Winner. The band’s members are Quentin Baxter on drums; Kevin Hamilton on bass; Quiana Parler on vocals; Clay Ross on guitar and vocals; and Bro. Charlton Singleton, Xi Psi 1991, on trumpet and vocals.

Ranky Tanky first won a Grammy for Regional Roots Music Album in 2020 for “Good Time,” the group’s sophomore album that featured everything from revamped Gullah and gospel field recordings and lullabies to jazz and soul originals. The ambassadors of Gullah culture have won a Grammy again in the same category this year for their latest album, a live record: “Live at the 2022 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.”

Ranky Tanky was formed in 2016 in Charleston, SC. The band name means, roughly, “work it” or “get funky.” The Gullah language, rhythms and musical practice are integral pieces of the group’s music, and the original songs, as well as traditional call-and-response tunes, often feature nature inspired elements specific to the South Carolina coast.

Herman Boone was an American football coach who was born on October 28, 1935, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. He is best known for his role as the head coach of the T.C. Williams High School football team in Alexandria, Virginia, during the early 1970s. Boone took over the football program in 1971, at a time when the school was integrating and faced racial tensions. Despite initial resistance and skepticism, Boone led the team to an undefeated season and a state championship in 1971, a feat that brought the community together and inspired the film Remember the Titans, which was released in 2000.

Herman Boone became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in the spring of 1958 at North Carolina Central (Tau Psi). He graduated with both a B.A. and a M.S. degree.

Before coaching at T.C. Williams High School, Boone coached at a number of high schools in North Carolina and Virginia. He also served in the United States Army, where he played football and coached teams. After retiring from coaching, Boone worked as a public speaker, using his experiences to promote diversity and teamwork. Herman Boone passed away on December 18, 2019, at the age of 84. He left behind a legacy of overcoming adversity and inspiring others to work together towards a common goal.

Brother Herman I. Boone

The Mighty Sixth District receives the Partners In Tourism Award

TheCharlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA) announced the winners of the 16th Annual Partners in Tourism Awards, held at the Charlotte Convention Center last week and sponsored by Carowinds. With an estimated 475 representatives from Charlotte’s tourism and hospitality industry in attendance, the event honored and recognized individuals and businesses that have shown resilience, promoted growth and supported the continued recovery of the region’s $6 billion visitor economy. The Mighty Sixth District received the Partners In Tourism Award as the Local Champion.

This past summer, Charlotte traded its Carolina blue for purple and gold during a week in July. The community beamed with pride to welcome the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., 83rd Grand Conclave, which was hosted by the Sixth District. The Sixth District has been a constant supporter of the Queen City, having hosted three Grand Conclaves in Charlotte, an international leadership summit, international undergraduate summit, and numerous other district meetings. Conclave attendees were excited to reconnect in the Queen City. The citywide convention had a record attendance, with over 6800 registered, generating more than 7900 total room nights and an estimated $7.3 million in economic impact. Many components of the grand conclave left a positive mark in Charlotte. The Youth Leadership Conference, STEM program, and a career recruitment fair, showcased the fraternity’s motto, Friendship is essential to the soul, during their time in the Queen City. The committee was thrilled that Omega continues to choose Charlotte as one of their preferred gathering places, and they were excited to honor the Fraternity as the host city..

Iota Iota Chapter Donates A Car to Wake County Family

WhenBasileus Marvin L. Whitaker, Jr. took office. One of his main goals was to donate a car to a family in need. Basileus Whitaker worked to put a plan in action that would change a family’s life for the better. After several months seeking a donor, the chapter was able to collaborate with Ms. Sara Sider. Through her philanthropy efforts she donated a 1996 Infiniti G20 sedan. Mr. Anthony Hedgepeth of A&H Auto in Rocky Mount, North Carolina also sponsored the endeavor by offering his automotive services. The Triangle Uplift Foundation assisted with receiving the vehicle and

making sure documentation was proper. Mo Johnson, who is the Director of Garner Road Community Center in Raleigh, North Carolina identified a family she knew in need of a vehicle. Basileus Whitaker, Executive board, and 2022 initiates were on hand to present the car to the family on October 12, 2022. The mother explained how this would make her life easier by having transportation to go to and from work, as well as, transport her children around. Never in her wildest dreams did she think something like this would ever happen to her.

The Mighty Epsilon Epsilon Chapter Celebrates their 75th Anniversary Brother Vincent Goree (Spring 87) | Columbia, SC

TheMighty Epsilon Epsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., celebrated their 75th Anniversary on the campus of Benedict College in Columbia, SC. The chapter was founded on May 8, 1947. The celebration covered a week full of events. The theme of the 75th Anniversary was “Learn it! Live it! Love it!”

The Brothers started their anniversary events with a Mentorship, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership Development program. This program lasted for eight weeks. The students of Benedict College were challenged to create and present business plans to the chapter. The chapter then selected two promising business plans and presented the future entrepreneurs with monetary donations, certificates of completion, 75th Anniversary plaques, and a mentor to help them start their businesses.

As part of the 75th Anniversary, EE Chapter, in-conjunction with Benedict College, hosted a threeday career fair for Benedict Students and the surrounding community. Participants included agencies and organizations from the federal government, private sector, and small business owners. Collectively, the agency participants provided insights about career development opportunities, job opportunities, and hiring practices. Students engaged with agencies recruiters and Human Resources Specialists to apply for vacant positions and developmental opportunities.

On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of that week, the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter partnered with the Omicron Phi graduate chapter of Columbia, SC, to lead some community service events. The chapter hosted a Covid Vaccine Drive, Blood Drive, and conducted Wellness Checks. The purpose of these events was to help minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus and to provide much needed blood supply to the Red Cross.

On Thursday, the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter hosted their inaugural golf event. The participation was outstanding with over 100 golfers in attendance. This event served as a platform to display true Brotherhood and to rebuild relationships. The fellowship and Brotherhood was truly amazing as lines played together and competed against one another. This event captured the true meaning of Brotherhood.

brothers had a chance to fellowship afterwards. The ceremony was very endearing to the undergraduate brothers. They had the opportunity to be inspired by all speakers, as well as meeting the true Bridge Builders of the chapter.

On Friday afternoon, the brothers hosted “The Ques of Comedy” show featuring Brother Rickey Smiley, Brother Joe Torry, Brother Howie Bell, and Brother Tyler Chronicles which took place at the Columbia Township Auditorium. This event was full of cheers and laughter. It was truly an event that captivated the entire audience.

On Saturday, the Chapter had their inaugural “Purple Tie” event. The guest speaker was the Honorable Congressman, Brother Jim Clyburn. The event was attended by Benedict College President and members of Delta Sigma Theta Inc.

Thursday afternoon, the Brothers of Epsilon Epsilon invited several chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., to participate in their 75th Anniversary Step Show. The Epsilon Epsilon Brothers performed and showcased the various stepping styles over the decades of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. The Divas of Delta Sigma Theta delivered a powerful performance that captivated everyone’s attention. The step show turned out to be a very successful event.

On Friday morning, the chapter had the unveiling of the brick ceremony on the campus of Benedict College. The purpose of this ceremony was to cover the Chapter’s history and to unveil the Chapter Bricks. The Chapter dedicated a brick for each member that was initiated into the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter. These bricks were added to the Epsilon Epsilon plot. During the ceremony there were many impactful stories shared and many

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis and many other dignitaries were in attendance. This event was truly amazing and historical. There were Brothers from the 1950's to the present representing the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter. The Brothers marched in by the year that they pledged while dressed in their Gold Epsilon Epsilon 75th Anniversary Blazer.

On Sunday, the Chapter culminated the event by attending First Nazareth Baptist Church, where the pastor is Brother Reverend Blakely Scott. During the ceremony the Brothers presented Brother Reverend Blakely Scott with an honorary brick for all the hard work he has done with the chapter over the years.

In closing, the 75th Anniversary was a huge success. The fellowship and brotherhood was truly amazing. The reuniting of lines and spending time with the Chapter’s Bridge Builders was truly priceless. “Learn it! Live it! Love it!”.

Long Live Epsilon Epsilon!

Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High School Opens

Creating Tomorrow’s Aviation and Aerospace Leaders.

AlabamaAerospace and Aviation High School (AAHS) opened its doors to 100 very excited 9th and 10th graders. This free public charter school located in Bessemer, AL is the first school of its kind in the state of Alabama. Bro. Ruben Morris (Beta Mu Nu Chapter Spring 2021) is the Founder and CEO. The mission of AAHS is to prepare a diverse student body for leadership positions in the aerospace and aviation industries through a rigorous, authentic, and industry-aligned aerospace and defense education. Students will be thoroughly trained in a multitude of commercial, industrial, and military applications including aerospace engineering, aeronautics, astronautics, and computer science including cyber security. Students will also be introduced to aerospace organizations who conduct research, design, manufacture, operate, and/or maintain both aircraft and spacecraft.

On opening day, as the students were led into the auditorium, they were warmly greeted by brothers of Alpha Phi, Beta Mu Nu, and Kappa Delta Chapters. Following prayer and introductions, Bro. Morris shared with the student his vision for AAHS. He shared his admiration towards providing the students with a highquality education and preparing them for impactful careers in the aerospace aviation industry. Bro. Morris stated, “Alabama needed an aerospace charter school. Right now, fewer than two percent of pilots are Black, and for females, it’s less than half a percent. That’s a problem! For this school, we want to be a leader not only in Alabama but also

nationally. We want to be a school that people come to look at as the standard for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.” The future looks very bright for AAHS as they have begun partnerships with Auburn University, Stillman College, and Lawson State Community College. These institutions will provide curriculum & instructional support, tutors, college tours, guest speakers, internships, summer camps, and dual enrollment programs. Students will routinely visit Bessemer Municipal Airport for field trips, instructional support, and flight hours. AAHS is also in the construction phase of a new 55,000 square foot, $20 million building located at the Bessemer Airport which is scheduled for completion in 2024.

Recognizing Bro. L. Clifford Davis on 75 Years in Omega

Brother Brandon Kitchin

L. Clifford Davis (Tau Chapter Fall 1947) received his Service Award from the fraternity for 75 years in the Fraternity during the Ninth District Meeting held in Dallas, TX on Friday, April 29, 2022. Bro. Davis is currently an active member of Epsilon Alpha Chapter in Fort Worth, Texas and is 97 years old. During the first plenary session on Day 1, Ninth District Representative, Bro. Harold Bailey, suspended his report for several minutes to recognize Bro. Davis upon his arrival into the conference room. Bro. Davis was brought to the Sheraton Hotel and escorted to the front of the conference room by fellow brothers from Epsilon Alpha.

Bro.

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Manhood, Inc. Omega Sparks of Sigma Phi Chapter participates in the 2022 International Youth Leadership Conference

Montgomery, AL

Manhood,

Inc., more specifically The Omega Sparks, the mentoring program of Sigma Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., participated in the 2022 International Youth Leadership Conference in Charlotte, NC to kick off the Fraternity’s Conclave. The Omega Sparks Chairmen, Brothers James Lovejoy and Robert Thomas, prepared a first class event with transportation sponsored by City Jet, a private charter airline owned by Ron Mays, President of Manhood, Inc. The event was free for young men in the 9th through the 12th grades. Omega Men from throughout the world helped facilitate the event, which was held in the New Science Center at Johnson C. Smith University.

In addition to Manhood Inc., and the Omega Sparks, Regions Bank and Coca Cola were co-sponsors of the event. The event consisted of workshops that discussed topics

such as self-enhancement, goal setting, academic success, health and wellness, Manhood 101, financial literacy, social and personal responsibility, civic engagement, and conflict resolution.

The young men also had an opportunity to meet with 41st Grand Basileus, Dr. David Marion and then 1st Vice Grand Basileus, Rickey Lewis (42nd Grand Basileus). Brothers Lovejoy and Thomas presented Grand Basileus Marion with an award on behalf of Manhood, Inc. Brother Fred King from Omega Iota Iota Chapter served as a chaperone assisting with the twenty-seven (27) young men. Brothers Lovejoy and Thomas should be commended for coordinating such a first class event. It provided a memory of a lifetime for the young men, which prayerfully planted a seed of pursuing their dreams to their hearts desire.

Recognizing Bro. L. Clifford Davis on 75 Years in Omega

During his recognition, Bro. Davis received an honorary plaque as well as a standing ovation from the constituency of brothers in attendance. Bro. Davis then stood before the brothers to express his gratitude on being recognized as well as what it meant to him to be amongst so many brothers. Bro. Davis spoke about his fraternal career and the importance of remaining active and involved in Omega, as he stated that he has attended at least 80% of all chapter, District and Conclave meetings during his 75 years in the Fraternity.

Prior to his recognition at the Ninth District Meeting, Bro. Davis received a celebration hosted by his Epsilon Alpha

brothers in a night of fellowship at Cigar International in Fort Worth on March 8th. Bro. Davis thoroughly enjoyed himself and was quoted as saying he has “enjoyed the taste of a good cigar since the age of 14 and he would have liked nothing more than to puff on one around his brothers and friends.”

We applaud Bro. Davis for your commitment to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Thank you for being an inspiration to countless brothers over your decades of service!

Sigma Delta Chapter Celebrates its Fifty-Year Anniversary

TheBrothers of Sigma Delta Chapter celebrated 50 years on the campus of Auburn University, in Auburn Alabama. The Chapter was established May 19, 1972, when its charter line “The Purple Smoke Gang” was initiated. These 14 brothers chartered the first Black Greek-letter Organization at a Predominantly White Institution (PWI) in the state of Alabama. The Purple Smoke Gang had fourteen initiates: Vernell Barnes; Jimmy Knight; Clifton Kirksey; Washington Carr; Norman Eubanks, Charles Smith; Bernard Bailey; Melvin Little; Jonathan Allen (Omega Chapter); George A. Smith; Harold Drain; Donald Williams; Henry Aldridge; and Jeff Green (Omega Chapter). Bro. D.C Madison, who was the undergraduate advisor, played an instrumental role in helping establish Sigma Delta at Auburn during a time when Auburn was in the early stages of being integrated. Bro. Madison, a member of Iota Omega Chapter in Tuskegee, AL, was one of the first Black people to hold an administrative position at Auburn University.

The 50th Anniversary celebration took place on the Auburn University Campus during the weekend of May 19, 2022. All 12 living members of the Purple Smoke Gang along with Bro. Madison attended the 50th Anniversary. The anniversary was well attended with brothers initiated in every decade since the seventies. There were more than 150 brothers registered for the event. During the celebration the chapter announced a scholarship endowment that honors the 14 charter members.

Sigma Delta Chapter has a history of service to Auburn University, the City of Auburn, Lee County, the state of Alabama, and the Fraternity. The Chapter introduced Black Greek culture to the University and community. Early in the Chapter’s existence, the Brothers of Sigma Delta fought to make Auburn a place where Black people could thrive. During the late 70’s, the Brothers removed a confederate flag from a football game at Jordan Hare Stadium.

The flag is still in the Chapter’s possession. The Chapter has a history of providing uplift to the community and University through mentoring programs, food drives, blood drives, and providing scholarships, among other initiatives. The Chapter has earned many awards such as Undergraduate Chapter of the Year at the State level.

Several members initiated through the Chapter have served in prominent leadership roles in the Fraternity. Brothers initiated through Sigma Delta have served as Graduate Chapter Basilei; 2nd Vice Second District Representative; State Representative of Alabama; Chairman of International Committees; and Executive Director of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Additionally, Sigma Delta Brothers have earned prestigious awards such as 7th District Omega Man of the Year and International Omega Man of the Year.

Beta Omega City Hall Proclamation

Talland proud with their black suits and purple ties prominently visible, the men from The Beta Omega Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity walked on the 26th Floor and into the Kansas City Hall Chamber. There they stood behind the lectern, heads held high, as Fifth District-at Large-Kansas City Councilman Lee Barnes read a special proclamation.

“We recognize the men of Beta Omega Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity today for being strong advocates for social justice and civil rights in Kansas City Missouri for the last 100 years.” Councilman Barnes read.

The special resolution honored Beta Omega during the chapter’s recent Centennial Anniversary for its rich history of service and was unanimously endorsed by all council members in the Chamber. The resolution acknowledged Beta Omega’s continued commitment to provide uplift in the community, affect lives, and enact change in The Greater Kansas City community

“Congratulations to my D-9 Brothers on 100 years and we wish you 100 years more.” Councilwoman and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Member, Ryana Parks-Shaw said.

Third District Councilwoman Robinson supported the proclamation in a short speech and praised the Fraternity for its commitment to selfless service.

“We really appreciate all of the leadership that you share with the community, especially the scholarship program for the young people,” Robinson said. “We thank you for being the glue, that brings the Kansas City region together to really do some special things. We pause today to recognize you, to thank you, and to encourage you to continue on in your mission.”

8th District Representative Kermit Ervin, (‘88, Theta Delta Delta) addressed the Council Chamber and named many prominent members of Beta Omega Chapter that included Roy Wilkins, editor of the Kansas City Call, and executive director of the NAACP (1921, Xi Chapter); Dr. Carl Peterson, Research Medical Center, Chief of Surgery (Psi, ‘35); Attorney Harold Holiday Sr., civil rights trailblazer (‘38, Beta Omega); Derrick Thomas, (‘96, Beta Omega) Hall of Fame Kansas City Chief linebacker. Later, Ervin said the Ceremony was an important moment for the Fraternity.

“As a Black organization with 100 years of history in the city of Kansas City, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Beta Omega chapter is officially a pillar of the community. The work that we do, and that the brothers before us have done should be acknowledged as part of the great history of Kansas City,” Brother Ervin said.

Brother Ervin stated that the image of the current Omega Man in his suit and tie was on full display for Council members to see. “We wanted to present ourselves as exactly who we were and who the Beta Omega Chapter has always been. We are educated, professional, intelligent, thoughtful, passionate and compassionate men of like minds and values. We are men who believe in being community servants. We are selfless men. We are fathers, brothers, sons, uncles, grandfathers and friends who have an innate belief that lifting others as we climb is a duty.....and we embrace it.” Ervin said.

Brother Anthony Willis (‘01, Iota Sigma) and Brother Edward Atkins (‘96, Chi Phi) worked with City Hall officials to make sure the Resolution Day for Beta Omega went smoothly.

Immediate former Beta Omega Basileus, Howard Johnson III (‘12, Beta Omega) believed that the Proclamation celebrated the hard work and dedication of every member who has served.

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Omega sQuire to Omega Man, and Back Again

TheBrothers of the Beta Upsilon Chapter in Omaha, NE., have displayed a passion for service and mentoring for decades. Beta Upsilon is home to the first Project Manhood mentoring program, launched by Bros. Saluhu Issaka, Trevis Sallis, and Anthony Trottman in 1992. Over the years, this mentoring program has garnered high recognition and received thousands of dollars in grants and contributions. As we all know, 30 years after its beginning, this is now a signature mentoring program in the Fraternity.

Project Manhood is now known as Project Manhood and Friends, as the program has taken on the additional opportunity to serve young women. The program has sustained an impact on elementary students; there was a notable drop off of continued support after the young boys entered their middle and high school years. Brothers were able to maintain relationships through the church, sports, or other community connections with some of the mentees, but there was no formal program to keep them connected.

In 2007, Bros. Tyrone Brice, Barry Thomas, Osuman Issaka, and Skyler Johnson set out to fill that gap and established the Omega sQuires Mentoring Program at North High School. The sQuires program established cardinal principles of leadership, fitness, scholarship, and professionalism. Since its inception, the Omega sQuires have registered their classmates and teachers to vote, led STD Awareness campaigns, participated in 8th District step show exhibitions, and been awarded full-ride collegiate scholarships. Over the last 15 years, Omega sQuires have graduated high school and entered some of the nation’s finest higher learning institutions.

Many of them have noted the relationships they built with the Frat as students as a motivator for them to become college-educated men and Omega men. Bro. Chris McCroy is one of the mentees that went on to Morehouse College and then joined Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Bro. McCroy serves on the district level as District Chaplain and has this to say of his experience as a sQuire, “As a high school student, the Brothers of Omega stood as stalwart examples of uplift, support, and mentorship. The Brothers always stood ready to encourage and guide me to actualize all my dreams and aspirations.”

Bro. Nick Banks, former 2nd Vice Eighth District Representative, participated in Project Manhood as a young boy but was one of the mentees that kept in contact with the Frat before the sQuires Program was established.

Bro. Banks went on to Co-chair the sQuires program for years with Bro. Fred Whitted. Together they took it to another level of engagement. Under their watch, six sQuires have now also become Omega men, including Bro. C’Jai Payne, who is the International Undergraduate Representative at Large; Bro. DeValon Whitcomb, who served as 8th District 2nd Vice Representative and was one of 22 collegiate players from across the nation named to the American Football Coaches Association’s Allstate Good Works Team for his work in the community; Bro. Kristoffer Bridges, who served as 2nd Vice Eighth District Representative; and Bro. Tyree Stovall, who currently serves the Eighth District as Undergraduate Representative AtLarge.

Bro. Banks said this when asked about seeing his fingerprint in the lives of brothers in leadership roles in the Fraternity, “Simply because it is our duty does not minimize the honor it has been to serve. Omega is to serve as the light upon the hill; I have felt responsible for ensuring that light provides guidance and safe passage for everyone in their respective journeys. As the poem goes, ‘I am building this bridge for [them].”

A new school year has begun, and some familiar faces are leading the program’s efforts. Bro. DaShawn McGary has returned to the program that had a role in setting him up for success. When asked about his direction for the Omega sQuires, Bro. McGary said, “Having the full support of my brothers and the kids’ enthusiasm has me excited for the program year. Being a former sQuire, I was able to see firsthand the impact of the Omega sQuires Mentoring Program.

The committee has set many short and long-term measurable goals to achieve this program year. I am planning to keep the program structure as the founders originally designed it to be with additional tools and programming to ensure everyone has the same experience I had when I was a member, if not better.”

Beta Upsilon chapter is proud of the sustained efforts of Omega sQuires over the years and is also excited to see what new opportunities are coming around the corner. One thing can be said without question, as long as we continue to lift as we climb, we will continue to reach higher heights.

MAN & WOMANHOOD, SCHOLARSHIP and UPLIFT at NU RHO

BROTHER BOOKER T. WRIGHT | SANTA FE, NM

TheNu Rho Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in Albuquerque New Mexico has focused for the last several years on the youth of our community. This has become necessary because the school systems here, and in fact across the nation, have traditionally done a poor job teaching Black History. The lack of teaching in this area is a disservice because it does not encourage or instill a sense of pride and self-worth in young students of color. Relative to other cities, Black people

employed public service announcements via radio, and taken advantage of wordof-mouth. While our outreach efforts are concentrated in areas of the Black community, no individuals are excluded from participation.

by this group headed by Brother Ron Shinault.

NU RHO GOLF TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISERS

To support our youth encouragement programs and to raise money for scholarship awards the chapter

represent an even smaller minority in New Mexico. However, we have a large responsibility in mentoring, educating, and encouraging our youth. This need has been underscored recently by the uproar and misinformation in many areas about the purported teaching of Critical Race Theory.

We have therefore embraced the nationally mandated programs of the Talent Hunt and the Essay Contest. As an organization of college-educated, professional men we are in a unique position to offer a healthy alternative to our youth from the stereotypes so prevalent in the news media and motion pictures. With more than 110 years of history we have the track record to demonstrate our perseverance in furthering the goals of Black Excellence.

Our local membership has worked hard at engaging our local youth to participate in our essay contests and talent programs. Naturally, our focus has been outreach to the Black community in Albuquerque and surrounding areas. Our members have worked hard to identify and encourage Black students to participate in our yearly essay contests and talent competition. We have reached out to students through Black churches, public and local schools in our area, and social media. We have

One such organization of which bears a special mention is the New Mexico Black Leadership Council (NMBLC) with which the Nu Rho Chapter has collaborated with great success. The NMBLC is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization purposed to create a "viable and sustainable social profit to serve the Black community in New Mexico." Among the stated focus areas of the NMBLC are civic engagement and positive youth development. To these ends the in NMBLC has been a tremendous benefit in the sponsorship, planning, marketing, and production of our recent Talent Hunt Programs. Their program's founder and director Mrs. Cathryn McGill has been a dynamic force in promoting the contact between Nu Rho Chapter and local talented youth. For the past two years our Talent Hunt shows, which are usually

has sponsored an annual Open Golf Tournament. We have a standing Golf Committee which works in cooperation with our Scholarship Committee ,and our Talent Hunt Committee to coordinate event dates and budgetary needs. Funds raised through business and civic donations and golf entry fees flow directly into the Nu Rho Foundation, which is the Chapter’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Scholarship awards and competition prize awards are granted from our foundation.

The chapter is grateful to the continuing support of our major golf tournament sponsors including; Wells Fargo Bank, NAPA Auto Parts, and generous contributions from Chapter Members.

live, have been produced and distributed digitally due to the COVID pandemic. Our chapter owes a debt of gratitude to Ms. Cathy McGill and her staff for their expertise in the video production, staging, and presentation of our events.

NU RHO YEARLY SCHOLARSHIP

Our desire to motivate area high school students to excellence in academics and communication skills has resulted in the establishment of our high school scholarship program. Early in the fall of the academic year we make announcements to local schools of this program and invite high school seniors to apply. Scholarship awards are based upon academic performance and an essay written on a topic selected by the Scholarship Committee. We are appreciative of the hard work performed

The local contributions mentioned above have enabled us to provide three cash awards up to $1000 each for talent hunt winners; three cash scholarships to recipients of our yearly essay contest winners, and three cash awards to our scholarship winners. First Place essay contest winners from our chapter have gone on to win first-place and secondplace honors at the Eighth District Meetings, respectively.

Beta Omega Continued

“This was a very proud moment for Beta Omega Chapter. Our founders would be very excited for the legacy moving on.” Johnson said.

He stated that he was glad the organization was able to include the special moment as part of Centennial Celebration Week of Events. “Long live Omega Psi Phi Inc. Beta Omega Chapter. Standing tall and brave, and weathering the storm. Keep on pushing for many years,” Johnson said.

For two years, and several months of in person and Zoom meetings, the brothers of the Beta Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. had worked hard making plans to celebrate this day: The Centennial Anniversary Banquet.

“This will only be once in a lifetime for us as Beta Omega members.” Howard Johnson III, Beta Omega’s Basileus said. “This will go down in history, and looking around the room, seeing the “The House Built by Love” will be memorable.”

The Centennial Anniversary themes of service and community tied Beta Omega’s history to a rich fraternal legacy. During his keynote address, Bro. Lewis spoke on the importance of service and community, and highlighted historical facts from 1922. During its early days the chapter saw doctors, lawyers, educators, and community leaders make up the core of its membership.

Memorabilia and photographs of Beta Omega’s storied history were on display

during the Banquet. Compiled by Brother Mandrid Willliams, the exhibit compiled over 260 pages of research, interviews and personal trips made to Omega Psi Phi headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, and the 8th District Archives at Lincoln University in Jefferson City. “I reached out to brothers-local and at different chapters. And I’m still not finished.” he said. “If you have got anything; flyers, Oracles, anything that references Beta Omega - we want it.”

Professional historian Erik Stafford gave a historical presentation about Beta Omega’s role in the Kansas City civic, political, social and professional scene.

“Finding out all the people in Kansas City's black community that were members of the Beta Omega Chapter was significant.” Stafford said. “The number of doctors that were here in Kansas City during segregation was very interesting,” Stafford said.

Men such as Dr. William A. Love (‘11, Alpha), a doctor from Howard University; Roy Wilkins (1921, Xi), editor of the Call Newspaper and future executive director of the NAACP; and Attorney Harold Holliday, Senior (1938, Beta Omega), the first African-American to graduate from UMKC, worked during the chapter’s earlier days to keep Beta Omega alive and relevant in Kansas City. It gave me great honor to know that I have served as a part of the chapter that was founded by our Brother Dr. William A. Love, brother of Founder Edgar Amos Love.” said Kermit Ervin, (‘89, Theta

Delta Delta) the 35th 8th District Representative. “These stories, pictures

and history will exist well beyond us and the story has to be told in the right way."

During the Banquet program, Brother Ricky Lewis also thanked brothers and acknowledged significant others for their sacrifices. 26 brothers were commissioned Beta Omega chapter life members. Tomie Williams, Ruskin High School senior and also self-published author, was recognized for his first place International Achievement Week essay contest win.

“We are still active and growing 100 years later and that means the world to me,” Johnson said. Brother Dr. Roger C. Williams Jr. (‘65, Tau Sigma) served as the master of ceremony at the Banquet. Later, he talked about being a young graduate member moving to Kansas City in the late 1960’s who was turned off by what he perceived to be eliteness and disconnect from some of the older more established members. And although he is one of those older and more established members he said he is pleased with some of directions in which the Fraternity is evolving.

“I see great things for Beta Omega,” Williams said. “because we have great Men coming in. They won’t do things like us, they won’t dress like us, they won’t think like us. My generation and the men that I admired, that generation is gone. When you see me, remember I had another shining star. Your star is not like that, but that’s okay because you are going to conquer and accomplish things that people didn’t even think about.”

Xi Omega Partners with local Alpha Kappa Alpha Chapter for Breast Cancer Awareness

Brother Elton Sykes | Tulsa, OK

TheBrothers of the Xi Omega Chapter and the Sorors of the Alpha Chi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., collaborated to celebrate their 22nd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness W.A.L.K. and Health Fair.

Real Men Read Program: Promoting the Importance of Reading

Brother Keith Taylor | New Orleans, LA

The Health Fair has been a staple within the Tulsa community since 2001. It has been a driver for health awareness regarding cancer in Tulsa’s Black community. Activities included on-site doctors visit, mammogram referrals, and breast cancer education for both men and women. Overall, the event focused on spreading the knowledge and importance of early diagnosis and the benefit of early treatment. The event reached well over 500 participants. The Brothers that participated in this endeavor look forward to holding an even more impactful event next year.

A special thank you goes to the committee chair, who served as the contact person in securing the venue and working out the logistics of the event.

Stepping for Success

Brother Terrance Kinard | El Paso, TX

The Sigma Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through its Fatherhood Initiative program, partnered with the El Paso-Southern New Mexico Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., for the Inaugural Stepping for Success event. The intent of the event is to provide mentorship by educating the youth on the origination of stepping in Black Greek Letter Organizations. Stepping is an art of self-expression and sharing this with our youth is undoubtedly a testament of our history that needs to be spotlighted. With the partnership of the El Paso Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi, Inc., we taught the

Reading is an essential skill that opens up a world of opportunities for children. It is crucial to instill a love of reading in young learners, as it not only helps develop their literacy skills but also enhances their imagination and creativity. Understanding the significance of reading, the Rho Phi Chapter and the Omega Men Foundation have been organizing their annual Real Men Read Program for the past 14 years, which emphasizes the importance of reading to students in grades kindergarten, first, and second.

This year’s Real Men Read Program was held at the Mary M. Bethune Elementary School of Technology and Literature, where the brothers read books to the students, focusing on the significance of reading in their lives. The program aimed to motivate students to develop a love for books and encourage them to become lifelong readers., and has also helped promote literacy in partner schools in the New Orleans area, where Rho Phi Chapter has been organizing the event.

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kids basic step combinations. Additionally, we had a discussion about their future goals and objectives in life. The event was a success; the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Jack and Jill invited the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and the Sisters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., to attend their annual Christmas party, where the youth will be performing the steps that they learned.

Brother Bell is Vice President at World’s Largest Retailer

Brother Lonnie R. Williams, Ed.D. | Arkansas

BrotherGeno Bell serves as vice president of the Consolidation Division, Supply Chain at WalMart USA, the world’s largest retailer! Brother Bell has enjoyed a successful career with Walmart Stores, Inc., for 20 years. He has worked in areas such as Human Resources, Store Operations, Transportation, and Distribution Operations. The company has afforded him opportunities to assume diverse leadership roles within their hierarchy.

Brother Bell attended the University of Arkansas in 1993 on a football scholarship. He later played professional football from 1998-2001 (New York Jets, Buffalo Bills, and Cleveland Browns). Brother Bell attributes much of his professional success to his investment in the success of others. There’s a quote that lies under the signature line of his e-mails, “When it’s time to perform, the time to prepare has passed.” It’s a line he took from his former athletic playbook, but he continues to apply the premise to his business. Brother Bell operates under the belief that success only happens when opportunity meets preparation.

Brother Bell is not all business. Despite the demands of his position, he still makes time for his first passion, Arkansas Razorback Football. On Saturdays during football season, Bell can be heard as the sideline reporter and an analyst for IMG Razorback Sports Network for University of Arkansas Football. He has been in this role since the kickoff of the 2017 season.

Brother Bell is a Life Member of the Fraternity with membership in the Upsilon Chi chapter of Northwest Arkansas. He entered Omega Psi Phi through the Gamma Eta chapter in the Spring of 1994. Brother Bell holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Arkansas and Masters of Science in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is married to Karmen and they have three teenage children.

Pi Omicron Celebrates

75th Charter Anniversary

Brother Major Banks, Jr. | Little Rock, AR

TheBrothers of Pi Omicron celebrated its 75th Chapter Anniversary on June 25th 2022. Pi Omicron was chartered on December 17th 1946. Bro. Harold Bailey, the 26th Ninth District Representative was the keynote speaker. Pi Omicron has a long and distinguished history since its chartering. Members were involved in the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School, the sit-in protest of the 60’s and the integrating the Arkansas National Guard Band. The Chapter's projects include mentorship at the Washington Elementary School, 3 Miles of Men, and the Prostate 5K Run.

The Chapter also honored brothers who had 55 or more years of service in Omega Psi Phi. Bros. Richard Mays Sr., Alpha Chapter ’63; Macon Wilson, Pi Sigma Chapter ’64; Alvin Williams, Tau Sigma Chapter ’65; Willie Brewer, Pi Sigma Chapter ’66; Jimmy Smith Sr., Tau Sigma Chapter ’66; Morris Williams Sr., Pi Sigma Chapter ’67; and William Davis, Pi Omicron Chapter ’67. Bro. Travis Johnson led the effort to put the program together.

Moreover, the Omega Men Foundation, through a grant from the Entergy Corporation, presented the Mary M. Bethune Elementary School of Technology and Literature with a check of $500 to purchase books for their library. This donation will help the school expand its collection of books, making reading more accessible to its students. With their unwavering commitment to education, the Rho Phi Chapter and the Omega Men Foundation have set an excellent example for other organizations to follow.

Real Men Read Program continued...

Formidable Phi Mu Nu

2022 Annual Achievement Week Celebration

Brother Theron Wilson | Indianapolis, IN

PhiMu Nu Graduate Chapter has been blessed to celebrate its fourth annual Achievement Week celebration. Over the years, the chapter continues to see growth as it expands its footprint of impact in the local community of Fishers, Indiana. In 2022, Phi Mu Nu continues to grow its own traditions and create new opportunities of service in the surrounding communities.

On Saturday, November 12, 2022 Phi Mu Nu kicked off this year’s Achievement Week celebration, in partnership with the Minority Health Coalition of Marion County for the “Too Sweet For Your Own Good: Managing Diabetes and K.A.R.E For Your Kidneys” Conference. This event consisted of valuable updates on diabetes awareness, kidney awareness, nutrition management, and much more. This was the first in-person event of this kind since the pandemic for the health-based organization, which was held at IU Health: Fairbanks Hall.

On Monday, November 14, 2022 chapter brothers and local omega men came together to fellowship for Monday Night Football at Dave & Busters. In the spirit of reclamation and retention, Phi Mu Nu makes its efforts to invite unclaimed local brothers together to learn more about chapter events and build friendships. There was a massive turnout of brothers who came out to support this event.

On Wednesday, November 16, 2022, the Chapter supported

event, Assault on Illiteracy. This year, the Chapter partnered with Circle City Prep, a public charter school. The Chapter purchased books for the kindergarten kids and distributed them to the class.

To end the week of celebration, Phi Mu Nu chapter held its Achievement Week Banquet at Daniel’s Vineyard & Winery. This was a beautiful event for the chapter that consisted of a buffet-style dinner, live band, poetry performance and award presentation. Phi Mu Nu honored brothers with the following awards: Omega Man of the Year, Superior Service Award, Citizen of the Year Award, Bull Dawg Award and Fundraising Champion Award.

Phi Mu Nu is grateful for the continual opportunity to impact lives, build friendships and serve for the common good.

Helping Youth to Become College Bound

Rho Gamma Gamma Helps Young Men to Gather Scholarships Brother Darius McKinney | Chicago, IL

the Inaugural 10th District Brother You’re On My Mind Day Webinar Event. This was a new endeavor established by 10th District leaders to bring brothers together. Mental Health awareness has been a strong focus for the Fraternity for some time, especially since the pandemic. This webinar platform allowed the space for brothers to check on the wellbeing of one another.

On Thursday, November 17, 2022 Brothers nationwide celebrated our beloved fraternity’s founding date. Phi Mu Nu gathered together at Havana Cigar Lounge to do a toast for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. There was great support from brothers within the community and from around the surrounding communities of Indianapolis.

On Friday, November 18, 2022, Phi Mu Nu continued its annual

The100 Black Men of Chicago hosted its 20th Annual College Scholarship Fair at the University of Illinois at Chicago [UIC] Forum after a two-year pandemic hiatus. The event connects students to hundreds of colleges from across the nation. It is the largest college scholarship fair targeting Black and Latino students in the Midwest. Rho Gamma Gamma Chapter was in the center of this major event by hosting and supporting young Black males from the Morgan Park Neighborhood of Chicago through its Rho Gamma Gamma OMEGA YES Program. The Rho Gamma Gamma OMEGA YES Program is geared towards raising the standards of education, family values, and spiritual well-being in young Black males of the Morgan Park Neighborhood of Chicago.

In alignment with Scholarship, one of the Four Cardinal Principles of the Fraternity, Rho Gamma Gamma OMEGA YES saw the event as vital to its mentees and ensured they had the support they needed at the scholarship fair. Rho Gamma Gamma Brother Andre Youngblood stated, “I followed them throughout several college tables, and they

Chicago Area Ques Honor Three Civil Rights and Social Justice Icons

Brother Andre Garner | Chicago, IL

Duringa memorable Joint Founders’ Day Celebration on Saturday, November 19, 2022, nine Chicago Area Chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity came together, with a sold-out crowd of nearly 300 guests, to honor three historic leaders. Rev. Jesse L. Jackson; Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright; and Rev. Dr. Al Sampson were honored for their groundbreaking work in civil rights and social justice. All three attended the event at Chicago’s Malcolm X College.

“The attendees at our Joint Founders’ Day Celebration will forever remember being in the presence of these three iconic Omega men under one roof,” said Brother Andre Garner (9-86-Pi Psi Chapter), event organizer and Achievement Week Chairman for Iota Chapter in Chicago. “Beyond that, we were all moved by the emotion and genuine appreciation by our three special guests at the honor of being recognized and appreciated by the local brothers and the community where they’ve lived and raised their own families.”

Rev. Jackson was initiated at Pi Psi Chapter at the University of Illinois in 1960. As a protege of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., he has spent more than 50 years at the forefront of the American Civil Rights Movement and Economic Inclusion from the seat of the Rainbow-PUSH Coalition, which he created in Chicago to continue the work of Dr. King.

Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright was initiated at Zeta Chapter at Virginia Union University in 1960. He served in both the United States Marine Corp and the United States Navy where he trained as a cardiopulmonary technician. He was part of the Bethesda Navy Hospital team assigned to care for President Lyndon B. Johnson following the President’s surgery in 1966. Having earned a master’s degree from the University of Chicago School of Divinity and a doctorate from the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Rev. Dr. Wright has been a renowned voice of Black Theology. He served as Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago for 36 years and now holds the esteemed title of Pastor Emeritus.

Rev. Dr. Al Sampson was initiated at Delta Psi Chapter in 1958 at Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. He was the only member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) staff to be personally ordained by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and has served as Senior Pastor of Fernwood United Methodist Church in Chicago for more than four decades. Rev. Dr. Sampson's extraordinary leadership dates back to his college days at Shaw. While there, he was President of the student body, President of the NAACP on the campus and President of the Youth and College Chapters of the NAACP in North Carolina. He was the SCLC Project Director under Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., playing a critically important role in the campaign for the election of Carl Stokes, the first Black mayor of a major U.S. city, Cleveland, Ohio. When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. sought to fix affordable housing issues in America, he appointed Rev. Dr. Sampson as the National Housing Director of SCLC.

The Chicago Area Ques Joint Founders Celebration was produced by members of Iota, Sigma Omega, Mu Xi, Rho Tau, Rho Gamma Gamma, Theta Kappa Kappa, Chi Lambda Lambda, Omicron Mu Mu and Rho Mu Mu Chapters. Participating chapters were able to honor their respective Omega Man of the Year and Citizen of the Year awardees during the event. Guests were welcomed by The 38th Tenth District Representative, Bro. Sean Long. The Keynote Address was given by the 37th Tenth District Representative, Bro. Derrick Ivory.

Brothers and guests were also treated to a catered meal, cash bar, a live DJ, dancing, 360-degree camera photos and free parking. All services were provided by Black-owned small businesses in the Chicago area at one of the City Colleges of Chicago, named for Malcolm X, which is under the leadership of a Black president.

Nu Omega Chapter Celebrates its Rich 100 Year History

Brother Bill Samuels | Detroit, MI

NuOmega Chapter is the second oldest chapter in the State of Michigan. It was chartered in Detroit on January 24, 1923, less than two years after Phi Chapter at University of Michigan in 1921. The graduate chapter was chartered by Bros. Dr. DeWitt Talmadge Burton; Francis Morse Dent, Esq.; David Smith; Odie T. Davis; Livingston Jeffries; and Charles Washington. From its inception it has been called The Doctor’s Chapter. However, its roster has been graced by many professional men from physicians, educators, corporate executives, to religious leaders, government officials, lawyers and judges. In 1931, the Chapter hosted the 19th Grand Conclave at a time of the nation’s Great Depression era.

As the organizational structure for the Fraternity was developing, Francis Morse Dent, Esq., was appointed by the 14th Grand Basileus, Lawrence A. Oxley, as the 1st Tenth District Representative. He served from 1933 to 1934. He was succeeded by another Nu Omega member, Bro. George A. Isabell, who served from 1934 to 1936. Bro. Isabell would go on to be elected as the 10th Grand Keeper of Records and Seal in 1947, making him the only Grand Officer to date to have hailed from Nu Omega Chapter.

Nu Omega Chapter members Bros. Chester Smith and George Reed, through extraordinary foresight, spearheaded the movement to purchase a permanent meeting place. It took 35 members who each contributed $25 per month towards the down payment for the purchase of the three-story, 14-room, Romanesque mansion located at 235 E. Ferry, (in the Cultural Center area). The Chapter purchased the facility from the YMCA in 1942. The property is referenced in the Gill history book, and it is listed on the State of Michigan’s historic register. This historical purchase was especially significant as it was made during WWII and several years before the Fraternity purchased the building for the first National Headquarters located in

Washington, DC in 1949. Just a few years after acquiring “the frat house” the Chapter hosted the 33rd Grand Conclave in 1947. The mortgage was retired in 1965, the very same year that the Chapter hosted the 50th Grand Conclave again in Detroit.

The Brotherhood has always saw the need to give back and nurture youth in the community, and it was through the true Omega Spirit that the chapter helped to establish both Nu Sigma Chapter and Chi Gamma Chapter respectively at Wayne University in 1938 and the University of Detroit in 1969, the latter being the first Black Greek letter organization on its campus.

Men of Nu Omega Chapter have always distinguished themselves as leaders in the community. In 1961, Bro. Otis Smith served as the 1st Black American on the Michigan Supreme Court and the 1st Black American to serve as the legal counsel for General Motors in 1967. In 1963, Bro. Nicholas Hood II, Pastor of Plymouth Congregational Church of Christ, supervised a 2.3-million-dollar housing development in the City of Detroit. At that time, it was the single largest development by an Black American in Detroit. That same year Bro. Hood, as Secretary of the SCLC, assisted in organizing Dr. Martin Luther King’s March in Detroit, which was the forerunner to the March on Washington later that year. Bro. Hood also served as a member of Detroit’s Common (New City) Council for 28 years.

In 1964, Bro. Robert Millender, attorney, assisted as campaign manager in the election of John Conyers to the US House of Representatives and in the same capacity, assisted in the election of

Coleman Young, the 1st African American Mayor of the City of Detroit, in 1973. In 1965, Bro. Dr. Charles H. Wright solicited and received from brothers of Nu Omega Chapter, the first public funding for the establishment of the Museum of AfricanAmerican History in Detroit. It was the largest museum of its kind in the United States only recently surpassed by the Smithsonian Museum of AfricanAmerican History in Washington DC. Bro. Charles Allen became President of 1st Independence Bank in 1982, one of the largest Black-owned banks in the United States.

It was in 1982 that members again showed extraordinary vision in founding the Detroit Omega Foundation, Inc., (DOFI) as its social action charitable arm. As the fraternity’s mandated programs grew, a number of the programs were delegated to DOFI to carry out. Such programs included the Talent Hunt for musically inclined high school students, the awarding of four-year college Scholarships annually, and providing Holiday Food Baskets for families in

need to name a few. The old Boblo Boat Ride on the Detroit River and the Monte Carlo Casino Mardi Gras events served as both a fundraiser opportunity for the Chapter’s various programs and for entertaining the many friends and supporters throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. It was again in 1990 when the chapter would once again host the 66th Grand Conclave.

In 1998, Bro. Walter Watkins became president of Banc One Michigan. He was the 1st Black American to serve in this capacity. In 1998, the Chapter celebrated its 75th Anniversary in grand style as Omega has always been known; having a great time fellowshipping and enjoying the brotherhood to the fullest. Throughout the new millennium the Chapter has played host to its many programs and social functions. A few

Helping Youth to Become College Bound

asked great questions to recruiters. This is a great result of what the team has been pouring into our young men in this OMEGA YES program.” OMEGA YES mentees gathered much needed information about different colleges and universities, scholarship information, application deadlines, and financial aid and grant information. OMEGA YES also hosted a vendor table at the scholarship fair to assist youth outside of the OMEGA

include the 1000 Que Rally; and the holiday favorite, the Hanging of the Green for members' families; along with its staple of hosting First Friday events every month for members and guests to fellowship and network. Following in the footsteps of Bro. Nicholas Hood, Bro. Andre Spivey, Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church was elected to the Detroit City Council in 2009.

The Chapter received the Tenth District Social Action Award for its outstanding community service efforts from 2005 to 2011, consecutively. Additionally, it earned consecutive Tenth District Reclamation Award for Large Chapters. The Chapter’s roster, at present, has more than 200 members. It is one of the largest chapters in the Tenth District and the Fraternity worldwide. It also boasts some 67 brothers (over

25% of the roster) as members of the Omega Life Membership Foundation, Inc. Today members continue to be proud of all their individual endeavors and successes as professional Omega men. The Brothers have contributed to the Chapter and the community’s overall success through many noble causes and deeds for officially 100 years now.

These are just some of the historical achievements of the Nu Omega Chapter. No doubt, it has a proud heritage that should be celebrated and boasted about. However, we as Omega men cannot rest upon past achievements. As we embark upon the second century of service in the Chapter, we are seeking your commitment to join us in enhancing and influencing the social, economic, and political change for the future of Detroit as the Renaissance City.

YES Program in gathering the proper information needed for scholarships.

“We are taking OMEGA YES abroad because our Young Black Men need us” says Brother Youngblood. Rho Gamma Gamma takes much pride in the OMEGA YES Program, which is mentoring young Black men towards a lifetime of success.

Delta Pi Chapter Celebrates Achievement Week 2022

Brother William Moseley | Tacoma, WA

Brothersof Delta Pi Chapter in Tacoma, WA, celebrated Achievement Week with an array of activities that spanned community service, fellowship, scholarship, and recognition of our founders.

Each year, the chapter conducts a social action project as part of its Achievement Week activities. The Chapter started the 2022 activities day by delivering some muchneeded supplies to the Coffee Oasis-The Loft Youth Shelter. The facility shelters and cares for homeless youth from ages 13 to 17 in the Tacoma community. Since the Chapter initiated this project, we have provided mattresses and linen, coats, backpacks with school supplies, hygiene supplies, COVID-19 supplies, student desks, and kitchen appliances. Julie Easley, Director of Youth Programs, ended the event by saying, “Thank you for your support. You are awesome!” On the same day, we served meals to over 150 homeless adults at the Nativity House in Tacoma. This is one of the Chapter’s ongoing social action projects. We culminated the day with fellowship at the Super Funny Comedy Club, which drew brothers from around the Puget Sound area.

During the week, the Chapter also conducted its annual Thanksgiving Basket Project, which provided turkeys, hams, pies, and all the trimmings to 20 needy families in the surrounding communities. This year’s project also served junior enlisted military members.

However, the highlight of our activities was hosting the Pacific Northwest Founders’ Day Banquet. This event was attended by brothers and their guests from Delta Pi Chapter, Zeta Nu Chapter, Zeta Upsilon Chapter and Chi Alpha Alpha Chapter. The keynote speaker was Brother Lieutenant General Xavier Brunson, US Army, Commanding General of America’s First Corps. His theme was “Friendship Is Essential to the Soul.” During the program, the chapter acknowledged Marte’a Johnson as our international high school essay contest winner. Additionally, Delta Pi Chapter’s officers were installed by Brother Dennis Martinez, 33rd Twelfth District Representative. Delta Pi Chapter presented the following chapter awards:

▪ Omega Man of the Year - Brother Lewis B. Brinson IV

▪ Superior Service Award - Brother Jamaal Walton

▪ Brig. Gen. Charles Young Military Leadership AwardBrother Desmond Boyd

▪ Founders’ Lifetime Achievement Award - Brother William Moseley

▪ Citizen of the Year - Malcolm Waters

In 1925, Brother Brice Taylor became the University of Southern California’s first AllAmerican football player (black or white). Despite being born without a left hand, he participated in the inaugural USC-Notre Dame game in 1926 and was part of the first-ever postseason game held at the LA Coliseum during the Christmas Bowl of 1924. Taylor’s track record was just as impressive, as he posted world-class times. After his playing days, he became the head football coach at

Claflin College in 1927 and Southern in 1928. Taylor broke barriers by becoming the first Black varsity football coach for the LA school district. He also founded Los Angeles Jefferson High School’s inaugural tennis team, producing the first Black tennis player to win an integrated championship in 1948. Brice Taylor was a direct descendant of legendary Native American Chief Tecumseh. Bro. Taylor entered Omega Chapter September 18, 1974 and was inducted posthumously into the USC Hall of Fame in 1995.

Throughout Achievement Week 2022, the Brothers of Delta Pi Chapter exemplified our cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift.

What Really Matters:

My Son Was Charged!

Glancing at the caption, one might easily assume that here’s another case where someone’s son was falsely accused, or some other case of injustice involving our youth. If you were thinking anything along these lines, you probably were not alone. Fortunately, in this case, my son was only charged with the charge I was given, which is for us to “love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (1Jn 4:7). It’s easy to listen to a preacher preach these words in a pulpit from biblical scripture, or even to read them for us. To put them into practice is more than a notion for many people who cross our paths.

Have you ever wondered why it’s such a challenge to express your love for some people that come in and out of your life? Many years went by before I learned the word that best described my late father’s feelings about people he cared deeply about. The word I learned was called maudlin, which simply means “foolishly and tearfully sentimental.” Or “stupidly sentimental” in other sources. The word maudlin can be traced back to biblical times, to the name of a town in ancient Palestine called Magdala. And here’s where it gets more interesting, it is said that ‘Mary Magdalene’ mentioned in the gospels was thought to have come from the town of Magdala. As most of us know in the biblical account, ‘Mary Magdalene’ was often represented as weeping. I have vivid memories of my father on numerous occasions, screaming these words to various people, while tears streamed down his cheeks, “I will love you…if you just let me!” Today, I understand how frustrated he was. No matter how hard he tried to show his love, to express his love for some people, they just wouldn’t let him love them. In other words, they would manage to push back what he was trying to give them.

My father never held back the love he showed to me (much like our heavenly father). His voice telling me that he loved me still echoes in my mind. Man, how I used to cringe as a young boy when he would hug me and rub his stiff whiskers across my cheeks saying, “I just love you son!” You could say his expression of love was maudlin magnified. Even into my young adult years, my father continued to express his love for the people he met. I remember many times I would introduce the girlfriends and wives of friends to my father, he would hold their hand, and never let it go! That was always an awkward moment for a friend of mine to watch my father hold their lady’s hand! But my father’s love for God weaved its way through his life and into the relationships he had with the people he knew…and knew him. “And so, we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.” (1 John 4:16). Truth is, what my father learned about God’s love for us, my father spoke it, lived it, and showed it to me through his actions. My father is gone on to be with our LORD now; but that love never went on vacation, never took a break, and never stopped transforming my life to becoming the loving father that he was to me…and to both of my adult sons. As a father, our duties for our children never end. But the two duties God gave us fathers that stand out the most to me are to “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Prov 22:6). The second one is “Fathers, do not exasperate

f Continued on page 119

The Seaside Ques Continue to Serve

Thefall and winter months for the Omega men of the Omicron Nu Chapter have been thunderously rewarding. The Seaside Ques have continued to serve as beacons within the various communities of the Monterey region in the form of teaching, tutoring, coaching youth sports, volunteering to feed the homeless, and more. The Chapter maintains a strong presence of elders, rich in precious knowledge and wisdom, who continue to guide the Chapter in the valuable traditions of Omega. Within the mentioned time frame, the chapter welcomed three new brothers into the glorious fold of Omega. Our newest members here in Seaside have added to the Omega effort without delay. The brothers of Omicron Nu may be small in numbers, but they’re big in action. One could even say they are “atom-ic.”

Brother William Foxx II 3-22-Omicron Nu led our most recent efforts in support of the Martin Luther King Jr. parade here in Seaside. This event was instrumental in relation to future work with our PanHellenic partners in the region. The Seaside Ques marshaled the parade and were led by one of our very own, Brother Morris McDaniel (’55), who was the Grand Marshall. He and his wife (Mrs. Bobbie McDaniel) have led and participated in this event since the mid 1980s. Mrs. McDaniel orchestrated all plans, while coordinating all community support for the very first MLK parade here in Seaside. She is a charter member of the Monterey Peninsula Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. They were both honored for their hard work and dedication in the continuous fight for Civil Rights.

We are very proud of the work we all do here in this small community. We live daily in the true Omega Spirit by protecting our ability to provide SERVICE to our community.

Basileus: Bro. Arthur Curtright (’96)

Vice Basileus: Bro. William Terry III (’08)

KRS: Bro. Joseph Lucas (’05)

KOF: Bro, Dishan Romine (’22)

Bro. Dishan Romine (right) honors Vice Admiral Cecil. D Haney (retired) into the Naval Postgraduate School Hall of Fame.

Omicron Nu Living Daily in the True Omega Spirit Brother Dishan Romine | Seaside, CA

Omicron Nu serves as Marshalls for the MLK parade of Seaside, CA each year.

Twelfth District hosts congratulatory reception for 42nd Grand Basileus Brother Ricky Lewis

By Brother Jason Jones | Los Angeles, CA

TheMassive and Progressive Twelfth District partnered with the Kinsey Collection to host a congratulatory reception for 42nd Grand Basileus Brother Ricky Lewis at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, Dec. 2, 2022.

The reception was attended by the brotherhood, other Divine Nine organizations and members of the community. The Twelfth District Executive Council, led by Twelfth District Representative Brother Kwame Dow all were present to support Brother Lewis.

In addition to highlighting Bro. Lewis becoming the first grand basileus who was initiated in the Twelfth District, it served as an opportunity to highlight the Kinsey African American Art and History Collection.

Brother Bernard Kinsey, his wife Shirley and their son have made it their work to put together the collection, which is recognized as one of the biggest collections of its kind.

The Kinseys began collecting art that documented the Black experience more than 50 years ago. The exhibition at SoFi is a partnership with Residency Art Gallery, which is located in Inglewood.

The SoFi exhibit “Continuum” features contemporary artists from the greater Los Angeles area and was curated by Khali and Rick Garzon of Residency Art Gallery.

The event served as an opportunity for brothers and the community to fellowship with Brother Lewis, who graciously posed for pictures and conversed with those in attendance much of the evening.

Brother Kinsey led guests on tours of the exhibit, too, offering insights to pieces in the collection. The Kinseys have brought African American art to more than 30 venues since 2006 and have had the SoFi exhibit since Feb. 2022. The stadium, which is home to the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, is a major attraction in Inglewood, drawing visitors from all over.

Zeta Rho Hosts Christmas Mentor Breakfast

Brother James Breedlove | Los Angeles, CA

The Zeta Rho Chapter hosted its annual Mentor/Mentee/ Father/Son Breakfast on Christmas Eve. Over 100 men and youth gathered, fellowshipped, and had breakfast to celebrate and support academic excellence.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Grand Basileus, Brother Ricky L. Lewis, was in attendance and presented, as did 12th District Representative Brother Kwame Dow. Also in attendance was the 12th District Southern California Area Representative, Brother Ed Young.

This year’s event was coordinated by Brother William Rochester and featured several educators, professionals, and students from nationwide universities who are part of the Zeta Rho Chapter Bridge Builders Foundation Start to Finish Scholars Program. The fellowship was strong and spirited. What a great prelude to the holiday to be amongst friends and gaze into our abundantly bright future through the eyes and words of these awesome youth. All youth were given $25 gift cards and purple Bridge Builders Foundation hoodies.

The Elite Epsilon Xi Chapter Participates in Martin Luther King Jr. Walk and Celebration

Brother Abraham Samuel | Sacramento, CA

TheElite Epsilon Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., was part of Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) walk and celebration on Jan. 16, 2023, at Grant High School. In addition to participating in the walk, the Chapter was honored for its service in the Sacramento area.

The Chapter was awarded with a community service award by the Roberts Family Development Center and North Sacramento Del Paso Community Association.

The work of the Chapter from 2020-2022 played a big part in earning the recognition. Epsilon Xi has participated in and hosted several programs and community service events, including:

What Really Matters Continued:

your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Eph 6:4).

I’ve ‘charged’ my Son, Brother Marvis M. Brown (3-10 Phi Lambda) to love in the way that God has charged me to love. “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us, and His love is made complete in us.” (1Jn 4:12). My oldest Son, Michael, crowned me with my first two grandchildren, a girl and boy! And I’m proud to use the word ‘crowned’ because of the scripture “Children’s children are the ‘crown’ of old men, And the glory of children is their father.” (Prov 17:6). What father do you know didn’t want his first child to be his Son? The reality is that none of us gets to choose the gender of our biological children. God, our Supreme architect, and designer, in all His omniscience intended it to be that way. Truth is, you just never know what you’re going to get. You just pray for God to bring that healthy child into your life. Well Brother Marvis never got the Son he thought God might send him, but what he got instead was exactly what God ‘blessed’ him to have: Two Daughters!

David’s son, Solomon, referenced in the Holy Bible as the

▪ Friendship walks during the COVID-19 pandemic

▪ Backpack drives with a focus on the Del Paso Heights community

▪ Mask relief

▪ Talent Hunt

▪ Voter registration

▪ Omega Gents mentoring for teens

▪ Camping and college trips

▪ Webinars/Zoom meetings on estate planning/POA/ health and wellness

▪ Honoring Dr. Gina Warren as Citizen of the Year for her work in the Del Paso community

wisest man that ever lived, is believed to have written the book of Ecclesiastes. Much of what Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes had to do with so many things that he experienced in his life, and ultimately led him to the conclusion things were meaningless, or in other words, did not matter. But what he did say that mattered most in life by the end of the book, was having reverence for God, and the value of life itself!

Brothers, never underestimate the power of God’s unconditional love, and God’s infinite wisdom about the lives where he placed us. We men of Omega Psi Phi can learn a lot from Job’s life written in the book of Job, where the only characters in the book are Job, his three-friends, God, and Satan. Much like our own lives, Satan (tempter, accuser, adversary, liar, etc.) has always sought to alienate man from God since the beginning (Gen 3). Not much has changed since the beginning. We still have Satan in our world focused on driving an irremovable wedge between God and ourselves. But “thank God for God,” as God made it possible for those of us in the body of Christ to have an advocate who knows our hearts and understands our challenges, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” (Php 2:6-7).

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ!

By Michael R. Brown 5-70 Psi Gamma Immediate Past 12th District Chaplain Eta Alpha Alpha Chapter

Bro. Marvis Brown with Daughters Mila and Mya

Brother Dr. Carl Bampoe | Ghana West Africa

Asthe world starts to travel again, Ghana continues to be the preferred travel destination for those wanting to learn more about Africa, especially those of the Diaspora. With the growth of African Americans going to visit Ghana and recent visits from IHQ and other members of the Divine 9, Ghana is slowly becoming a home for all. Tau Chi (TX) Chapter, which was established in Monrovia, Liberia in 1955, and later reactivated in Ghana, West Africa, has become the beacon of light and continues to welcome all back home.

Within the TX Chapter, you have successful Black men who have so much to offer to Ghana and beyond. As members

of Omega Psi Phi, these individuals have done so much to support the country. The current Basileus is a leading fashion designer in the country, not only providing Greek dashikis for Omega men, but for the rest of the D9 as well. We have other brothers who have travel agencies such as Adinkra Group, which has brought over thousands of people and groups such as members of NAACP and many more.

We also have brothers who are leading chiropractic doctors

Canadian Salvation Army Outreach

Toronto, ON, Canada

TheLambda Mu Mu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated— better known as the Canadian Ques—has been in existence in Canada since its chartering in 2010. Amongst the many tasks the brothers of Lambda Mu Mu have undertaken, an ongoing favorite includes the outreach provided to the Bloor Central Salvation Army, located in the heart of the west end of Toronto in Bloorcourt Village. Established in 1969, this diverse church-ran salvation army has provided needs to its community for over 50 years.

The members of Lambda Mu Mu, led by the Basileus, Christopher Infantry, have been committed to helping the Bloor Central Salvation Army with their many deeds of services to the area. Over the past four years (minus a few months due to COVID) members of the chapter have dedicated the first Saturday of every month to provide their support. Serving an average of 6,000 people per year, brothers are providing hot meals in the open cafeteria for patrons to sit down and enjoy their meals. Specifically, Lambda Mu Mu helps serve

food, drinks, sets tables, cleans tables, talks with patrons, and cleans dishes to name a few. During the pandemic, the chapter utilized ingenuity by making “to-go meals” which proved valuable and successful to the community. These meals consisted of a message of positivity to ensure the patrons kept their faith and hope in high spirits. Currently, as COVID cases have dropped significantly, this approach to feeding the community has transitioned into a hybrid option along with sitting down to eat, which has helped raise the output of serviceability for the community.

Lambda Mu Mu is considered a staple in the Greater Toronto Area and continues to serve where needed, also doing events in the nation’s capital as well, Ottawa. Many visiting members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and other NPHC organizations have assisted the Chapter in these efforts over the years and will always keep its doors open to the many brothers that travel to the area to serve the community and fellowship.

Theta Rho Revitalizes the Heritage of the Tuskegee Airmen in Italy

Brother Bruce B. Jones | Aviano Air Base in Italy

Brothersof the Theta Rho Chapter, currently stationed at Aviano Air Base in Italy, are uplifting the heritage of the Tuskegee Airmen who served as military aviators and support personnel in Italy during World War II. The Tuskegee Airmen persevered through segregation, stereotypes, and prejudice to become one of the most highly respected fighter groups of World War II with four hundred fifty (450) of the Tuskegee Army Air Field pilots serving in the 332nd Fighter Group’s 99th, 100th, 301st, and 302nd fighter squadrons in Italy.

Brothers Bruce B. Jones, Emanuel Martin and Franklin Walton are leading the only “overseas” organization dedicated to memorializing the Tuskegee Airmen’s contributions to American and Italian history while also educating and inspiring the next generation of leaders through diversity, inclusivity and scholarship.

The effort began when Brother Jones, and others at Aviano Air Base, remembered the reference to Italy in George Lucas’s “Red Tails” movie. Upon finding the location, they decided to “walk the grounds” of where these heroes were assigned. This led to the discovery of Ramitelli and the historic airfield where the Airmen flew their P-51 “Red Tails” aircraft which logged one of the best fighter escort mission records in WWII. After the war, many of the airfields used by the Allies were celebrated with ceremonies by dignitaries and descendants of the pilots who flew from these locations. At that time, no one represented the Tuskegee Airmen, and Ramitelli became one of

Tau Chi Chapter Continued

the forgotten airfields of WWII. The airfield is now farmland and vineyards, but remnants of the “Red Tails” 332nd’s operations headquarters building are still visible today.

With industry and ingenuity, Brother Jones built support for recognizing the airfield and the Tuskegee aviators through the US Embassy in Rome and Naples, bringing Italy-wide attention to the importance of these historic landmarks. Aviano Brothers coordinated multiple visits to Campomarino and San Martino in Pensilis - the two towns the Tuskegee Airmen spent their time when they were not flying combat missions. With these networks in place, festivals and plans to build commemorative parks and monuments to officially recognize Ramitelli Airfield and the Tuskegee Airmen are in the works. Italian families are also sharing untold stories from

their descendants to highlight their contributions to the history of these American heroes.

As the Brothers of Theta Rho at Aviano help in these historical endeavors, they are also educating the general public on the Tuskegee Airmen’s achievements within Italy, promoting diversity and inclusion for the military and providing scholarship opportunities for families stationed outside the continental United

States. The organization was designated with 501(c) (3) non-profit status by the IRS to allow for tax-free donations, EIN 87-3449091, to support scholarly aspirations. They are also exposing young people to positive stories of people of color that will hopefully open their eyes and minds to the endless possibilities of learning despite societal perceptions based on race.

Despite adversity, restraints, and limited opportunities, the Tuskegee Airmen proved conclusively that African Americans had the intelligence and aptitude to fly sophisticated combat aircraft, inspiring revolutionary reform in the armed forces and preserving the heritage of all those who served.

in Africa, with multiple locations in the metro Accra area. We have non-profits, such as TEAM CSR Ghana, that spearhead and facilitate borehole projects and have raised over 400,000 dollars to provide access to safe drinking water for nearly 100 communities serving over 150,000 Ghanaians. Other nonprofits, such as Thorne Foundation, are also giving brothers the opportunity to give back to society, through the building of

toilet facilities, feeding programs, and adopting schools to provide scholarships. Additionally, we have brothers that own security agencies, telecommunication companies, lounges for your next social event, pharmacies, and construction companies (for when you are ready to settle in Ghana). The Men of Omega in Ghana are building schools,

computer labs, clinics, and so much more. As we say in Ghana - Akwaaba! The Brothers of TX are ready to host and welcome you home. With varied connections through the government, entertainment, sports, and business, we will continue to spread the influence of Omega, not only in Ghana, but on the continent of Africa as a whole.

BROTHER PHILLIP JONES BECOMES YOUNGEST MAYOR IN VIRGINIA

By Brother Devon A. Doss | Annapolis, MD

OnJanuary 10, 2023, Brother Phillip D. Jones (Iota Mu Mu ‘10) was sworn in as the 27th Mayor of Hampton Roads, VA. Having a long history of service, devotion and unselfish living, Bro. Jones plans to help turn around Hampton Roads, VA.

Born in Okinawa, Japan, Bro. Jones' learned what true service meant at a young age. With both of his parents being active-duty Air Force during his childhood, Bro. Jones was driven to serve others. Due to this value and the desire to become a United States Marine, Bro. Jones raised his right hand and took the oath of service early by attending the United States Naval Academy with the 2008 class.

During his time at the United States Naval Academy, Bro. Jones displayed leadership, service, and scholarship not only in the classroom but throughout the Brigade of Midshipmen. Bro. Jones was selected as the Brigade Sergeant Major, the highest rank a 2nd class (Junior) can receive while at the Naval Academy. In 2012, Bro. Phillip Jones graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a B.S. in History as a Burke Scholar with high honors and fulfilled his lifelong aspiration of being a Marine by commissioning as a 2ndLt in the United States Marine Corps.

After commissioning, Bro. Phillip Jones went to the Basic School (TBS) for the United States Marine Corps in Quantico, VA. After completing TBS, Bro. Jones was selected to attend Infantry Officer Course (IOC). IOC is a rigorous three-month course where USMC officers receive intense mental and physical training. Phillip Jones persevered through IOC and joined the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Charlie Company, where he became a Platoon Commander for the first platoon. As a platoon commander, Bro. Jones, and his platoon of 40 men deployed to Okinawa, Japan, to conduct peacekeeping operations in Mongolia and the Philippines. Upon completion of his platoon commander assignment, Bro. Jones was selected by his Company Officer to become the Company Executive Officer. As an executive officer, Brother Jones helped lead 200 Marines on a deployment to North Africa and Europe to support the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response - Africa.

In 2018, Bro. Jones left active-duty service and attended Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. Jones graduated in 2021 with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Public Policy (MPP). Bro. Jones didn't stop there; once he completed this remarkable feat of further education and scholarship, he became a management consultant, advising Fortune 500 companies across all industries. Answering the call to serve is nothing new for Brother Jones; feeling that it was time to serve his local community and lift as he climbed, Bro. Phillip Jones ran for Mayor of Newport News, VA. When asked what made him run for mayor, Jones said, "Growing up in Hampton Roads, I felt I owed something to my hometown." Jones took the leadership attributes he received in the USMC and the principles he received from Omega and applied this to his campaign. Phillip Jones won the city over with his dedication, service, and stalwart campaign and was elected the 27th and youngest mayor of Newport News.

When asked what his goals are while mayor, Bro. Jones responded by saying, "I plan on changing the narrative of Newport News. My goal is to implement better jobs, improve education, invest in public safety and modernize city hall." Embodying the cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Bro. Jones plans on leading and building a better Newport News. In the words of the achieved Bro. Jones, "Without the Brotherhood of Omega Psi Phi and the United States Marine Corps, I wouldn't be the mayor I am today."

by Brother Roger Henderson & Brother Fred Thomas III

Women dressed in beautiful colorful sundresses, men dressed in bright tailored seersuckers and suits, new school and old school music playing in the background, and the delightful aroma of mouth-watering food from the Soul food to Caribbean infused flavor. These were the sights and sounds of Delta Mu Mu Chapter of Omega Psi Fraternity’s famous yearly event, Sundresses & Seersuckers® fondly known as S&S®.

“Whether it is connecting with friends, hanging out with your line brothers, or spending time with your sorority sisters, people come to Sundresses and Seersuckers® to connect with others from all across the country to enjoy themselves for a good cause.”

– Brother Roger Henderson

The Delta Mu Mu Chapter’s annual signature fundraiser, Sundresses & Seersuckers® is a well-known reputable event that has grown and evolved from a one-day affair to a multi-event weekend. Although an entertaining, grown, and sexy affair, S&S® is more than just that. The establishment of this signature event was birthed out of a challenge from the first basileus of the Delta Mu Mu Chapter to create an event that would help with funding of the chapter’s programs.

Over the years, the enhancement of the S&S® weekend of events have made it possible for the brothers to

significantly impact the economic development within the Atlanta Metropolitan area with the establishment of partnerships that have brought in substantial revenue and financial contributions. The sustained collaborations with public and private organizations have continued to positively contribute to the economic development in the local Atlanta area.

This annual event hosted by the Delta Mu Mu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and produced by our 501(c) (3) organization, Commitment to Excellence, Inc., just completed its 11th event and continues to grow. An initial one-day single event affair is now a three-day event that includes:

• The Sundresses & Seersuckers® Meet & Greet – Thursday Night

• The Sundresses & Seersuckers® Golf Outing – Friday Morning

• The Sundresses & Seersuckers® Prequel – Friday Evening

• The Signature Sundresses & Seersuckers® event – Saturday

• The Sundresses & Seersuckers® After Groove – Saturday Night

“Shifting from a one-day event to a multi-day event that has created a global following and a significant positive impact to the economic development within the Atlanta metropolitan area.” – Brother Ray Johnson

The growth of the event cannot just be seen in the number of the events, but also attendance continues to grow

Bro. Roger “Q” Henderson

A PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

with size and representation each year, with the first year being 700 and now multiplying to nearly 10,000 attendees from 42 states and at least 10 countries across the weekend of events. A turning point for S&S® occurred in Year 3, when the event exploded due to the impact of the internet and technology, when a video from the event went viral.

“Now days everything goes viral, but at the time, the brothers did not expect social media to play such a critical role in the success of the event. We now have 18,000+ followers on Facebook.” – Brother Tim Brown

Year 7 was another pivotal moment for Delta Mu Mu’s event, because that is when corporate sponsors were incorporated, which enabled the event to transform into another level of production and prominence.

The financial impact that S&S® has on programmatic initiatives is tremendous. The proceeds from the event fund our Black Rhinos

Mentoring program, scholarship programs, and our social action programs. The Black Rhinos Program addresses the academic, social, and community issues our students face and provide them an opportunity to forge deep relationships with educators, physicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, and other professionals.

The DMM Scholarship recipients are also major benefactors for the funds raised from Sundresses & Seersuckers®. Commitment to Excellence, Inc. (CTE) has provided nearly half a million dollars in scholarships to a multitude of metro Atlanta high school students enrolling in some of the nation's most prestigious colleges and universities.

These scholarships funds aid these students as they begin their journey of academic excellence, positive leadership, and dedication to service, not only with monetary resources but also college counseling and intense advising throughout their college careers to create an enduring legacy.

Since 2009, the Black Rhinos Program has served nearly 1,000 young men and currently serves over 80 young men throughout Metro Atlanta in grades 6 through 12. Nearly $50,000 from the proceeds of Sundresses and Seersuckers® is used on an annual basis to support this influential and inspiring program.

This event can be summed up by a quote from Brother Wendell Span, “The growth of this event from where we started is inconceivable. The original vision was simple, the impact has far exceeded anything we could have imagined.”

COACH, EDUCATOR, MENTOR, AND COMMUNITY LEADER:

THE INSPIRING STORY OF TED

Ginn,SR.

By Brother Lamar

Photo (Right) - Cleveland Mayor Presents Key to the City to Glenville Coach Ted Ginn Sr

Cole and Brother Damon Scott | Cleveland, OH

The Glenville High School class of 1974 graduated a young man by the name of Ted Ginn. Originally from Louisiana, he grew up loving the game of football, and began playing with milk cartons filled with rocks before he had the luxury of playing with an actual football. On the Glenville team, he played linebacker as well as center, which he calls the “party starter” because nothing happens until he who plays in that position puts his hands on the ball.

got to know them personally. He learned about their academic needs, and what was going on in their daily lives, both in school and at home. That led to the coach asking the school principal for a group of teachers dedicated to teaching his players.

The program grew to include students beyond just the football team. Realizing the positive impact he was making in the lives of these young men, Coach

State of Ohio. Ginn Academy stands on the principles of scholarship, leadership and service, and boasts nearly a 100 percent promotion rate in ninth through twelfth grades. Its graduates have earned in excess of $5 million in college scholarships! Coach Ginn says he started the Academy because he wanted to make sure students reached their full potential in life.

The young male students start each day

careers, by providing advice and lining up jobs for interested students each summer. Nationally renowned speakers, such as educator and author Stedman Graham, appear on campus regularly to address the student body. When students face problems and obstacles, they know assistance is available from school mentors who are on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Coach Ginn’s ultimate goal is to transition the Academy into a boarding school that will offer educational and residential opportunities to deserving students in need.

More than a decade and half later, the Founder and Executive Director of Ginn Academy still maintains his role as head football coach where it all started, at his Alma Mater. He says

mentored teenage boys, showing them examples of what Manhood really means; he has educated and helped them understand the importance of their own Scholarship; he has coached his student athletes so that they can employ Perseverance on the football field; and he has provided Uplift to the community around him.

Brother Ginn’s leadership and coaching also has led the Glenville High School football team to accomplish an achievement that is making the community, its residents, and the African American community at large, very proud. The football team, known by its mascot, the Tarblooders, won the school’s first ever Ohio High School Athletic Association

was evident on the face of each of the young men, from both teams, playing in the historic stadium that evening.

The time, energy, and effort that Coach Ginn has invested in his student athletes is evident by their accomplishments on the gridiron. His 2022 roster featured five All-American players, only one of whom is a graduating senior, and four juniors who will be among 15 starters returning next year. They will be a formidable squad that should expect to compete for another state championship in 2023. And 11 of his players are Division I college football prospects for the upcoming academic year.

Coach Ginn also has a veteran coaching staff, eight of whom are Brothers in Omega: Rev. Theopolis Washington II (1989 Psi Gamma; Fourth District Chaplain and also Team Chaplain), Rayshawn Craddock (2003 Upsilon), Bruce Coffey, Jr. (2004 Phi Sigma), Shemal Richmond (2007 Xi Tau), Rodney Brown (2013 Zeta Omega), Theopolis Washington III (2016 Epsilon Kappa), Rodney McFall, Sr. (2017 Zeta Omega), and James Gordon (2021 Zeta Omega). Every Friday after practice, these brothers honor the request of their players and march/step or “set out a hop” for them. It helps build their enthusiasm in preparation for their games.

In recognition of the Glenville High School football championship, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb declared Thursday, December 8, 2022, as “Glenville Tarblooder Day,” and presented Coach Ginn with a Key to the City!

School, Brother Ginn also is a seven-time State Championship Head Coach in Track and Field. He uses athletics to educate the inner city youth who make up his teams. He has assisted over 500 student athletes in furthering their education by obtaining more than 100 scholarships to Division I colleges and universities.

Brother Ginn has coached approximately 30 players who have been drafted by the National Football League. They include current New Orleans Saints cornerback, 2017 Defensive Rookie of the Year, and four time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore; 2006 Heisman Trophy Winner Troy Smith; 2006 first round draft pick and three time Pro Bowler Donte Whitner; and 2007 first round draft pick Ted Ginn, Jr., his son.

When asked to reflect on his philosophy around education, mentoring, coaching, and sports, the coach shares that “education needs to be redefined because kids are different today than they were when I was coming up.” He uses sports as the vehicle to bring the youth in, and he applies his love and passion for helping them. Brother Ginn knows our youth are exposed to so much today through social media and says unfortunately a lot of homes no longer “have a table” or a place “where kids come together in a family setting at least twice a day and talk about what is going on in their lives in a safe environment.” He adds that “you can’t do anything if God isn’t in it; you have to have a spiritual base.”

In his final thought, Brother and Coach Ted Ginn, Sr. says with a smile that he is thankful that he “has the opportunity to

Brother Tony Holder Earns Federal Aviation Administration’s Highest Award

By Brothers J. L. Jackson, Edward R. Davis Jr., Darryl Orlando Ledbetter and Bernard S. Little

Brother Anthony “Tony” Holder (28-70-A), a retired commercial jet airline captain, first let his dreams of flying take flight at the age of 7. That was when he envisioned himself as Superman, made himself a cape from one of his mother’s best bedsheets, and jumped from the window of his family’s first-floor apartment in the Throggs Neck neighborhood of his native Bronx, New York.

Fortunately, Brother Holder wasn’t hurt, nor were his dreams of flying deterred. Those dreams have taken Brother Holder to greater heights, accomplishments and accolades few have achieved in the world of aviation.

On Feb. 25, 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Brother Holder its most prestigious award, The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. Named after the Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, the award recognizes individuals “who have exhibited exemplary aviation expertise, distinguished professionalism, and steadfast commitment for at least 50 years of piloting experience or 50 or more years combined experience in both piloting and aircraft operations,” according to the FAA.

Brother Holder is to the first and only Omega man to receive the award, earned by less than one half of one percent of any person of color.

“After 50 years of being involved in aviation as pilot, engineer and all other things associated with the award, I’m very humbled by the fact that the FAA has vetted and chosen me to receive this award,” he said. “Very few African Americans have received this award, and it just so happened I received it during Black History Month, which was significant in that regard also. It tells me that the FAA looked at me and determined I was worthy to be considered an aviation pioneer in joining the ranks of the few people who ever received the award.”

Brother David Jones, Georgia State Representative, and Brother Christopher Drayton, of Chi Gamma Gamma, Basileus of Brother Holder’s current chapter, along several other Chi Gamma Gamma Chapter Brothers, were on hand for the awards ceremony, held in the Aviation Community Cultural Center at the Fulton County Airport.

Brother Holder retired in 2014 as FedEx international jumbo jet captain of the Boeing 777, one the world's largest twinjets. He has piloted to nearly every corner of the globe. In addition, he has captained the MD-11, DC-10 and Boeing 727 jets and over 15 different civilian aircraft.

“With more than 22,000 hours of total accumulated time and in excess of 3,000 landings, I have current operational experience flying worldwide international routes and airports,” he said.

Brother Holder has also served as the director of the Atlanta Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Aviation and STEM Training (TAAST), motivating high school students to experience and gain knowledge about aviation, aerospace and STEM careers.

of aviation, Brother Holder said, “It’s a story about dreaming big and beating the odds.”

“Growing up in my neighborhood, there were no aviation mentors and no one in my family had ever gone to college. Although I didn’t have the money to go to Howard University (HU), I applied in the spring of my senior year in high school and was accepted as an alternate if someone else decided not to attend HU,” he recalled.

Brother Holder enrolled in HU as an English major at age 17, and one of his roommates during his freshman year was a civil engineer major.

“We went to register for classes together and instead of signing up for classes as an English major, I signed up for everything my roommate signed up for, which put me on the engineering track. My roommate chose Army ROTC, but my curiosity about airplanes helped me to choose the Air Force ROTC program,” he explained.

Brother Holder graduated from HU in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in civil

second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. Although accepted to USAF jet pilot training, he decided to delay it until he completed a one-year Master of Business Administration program at the University of Pittsburgh.

While attending classes in Pittsburgh, Brother Holder noticed that an Air National Guard facility was located near the university. “I could see fighter jets taking off while I was sitting in business classes. For me, this was a distraction because I really wanted to be a pilot.”

He left Pittsburgh and began Air Force pilot training in a one-year program at Reese Air Force Base in Lubbock, Texas.

In the beginning, he was one of two African Americans enrolled in a class of 60 pilot trainees. At the end of that year, the remaining graduating class was 20, with Brother Holder as the only person of color to receive his wings as a USAF jet pilot.

He was stationed in California where he returned to graduate school and completed a master’s degree in systems management at the University

Engineering. He later transferred to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam where he flew the B-52 jet bomber with eight engines and four nuclear weapons on board with targets in Russia.

In May 1978, he was honorably discharged from the Air Force with the military rank of captain, but not before flying a variety of aircraft including the T-33, T-41, T-37, T-38, and B-52.

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Brother Tony Holder Continued

Despite his military aviation accomplishments, Brother Holder said he still felt a need to have a mentor in his field.

One day while reading Jet magazine, he came across a story about Lt. Col. Spann Watson, one of the original Tuskegee Airmen fighter pilots. “I was impressed with his story and wanted to get to know him, but I didn’t know how to make the connection,” Brother Holder recalled. “I decided to write a letter to Johnson Publishing Company to inquire about him.”

Johnson Publishing forwarded Brother Holder’s letter to Watson. “Before you knew it, we were talking to each other on the phone. He became my mentor. About a year later, Colonel Watson called to tell me about a new company in Memphis called Federal Express and asked if I would be interested in interviewing with them. I was 28 at the time. I told the colonel that I was interested, and he assisted in arranging a job interview.”

In 1979, FedEx offered Brother Holder a position as pilot, making him the fourth African American aviator out of the first cadre of seven during its initial growth in eight years to be brought on board. “I was most fortunate to have an original Tuskegee Airman as a mentor, and one of the things Colonel Watson told me was to help others to succeed, and that’s what I’ve tried to do.”

One evening, Brother Holder stopped at a Memphis supermarket and while walking down an aisle, saw an African American teenager, named Jacques Rogers, stocking the shelves wearing an apron. “I suddenly saw myself in that young man because I used to stock grocery shelves while in high school wearing an apron. Although he and I were strangers, I decided to stop and say something to him. I said to him, ‘Young man, what are your plans for your life?’ He looked around and stood up. Then he said to me, ‘I want to graduate from high school, go to college, major in engineering, and become an airline pilot.’ I was stunned.”

Brother Holder became a mentor to the young man, who completed his degree in engineering at the University of Memphis, was accepted in a pilot training program in

Pensacola, Florida, and earned his wings as a U.S. Marine pilot. After serving 20 years as a Marine pilot, Rogers finally got his career wish to become an airline pilot. He now pilots for American Airlines.

Brother Holder has also mentored other teens, advising them in aspects of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math).

“Throughout history, African Americans have continued to prove themselves in so many ways,” Brother Holder said. “I am inspired by the accomplishments of past generations, but I am also proud of the young people who are distinguishing themselves in various fields throughout our nation and world. Education, STEM and Black History should be a daily awareness that we must continue to pass along to our young people,” he added.

Brother Holder is also a member of another unique fraternity, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (The Boule). Founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 15, 1904, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity is the oldest Black Greek-letter graduate-level fraternity. Unlike Omega Psi Phi and the Greek-letter African American fraternities of the “Divine Nine” that began on college campuses and then sprouted with graduate chapters of professional men, Sigma Pi Phi is exclusively a professional organization. African American men of distinction formed a close fraternal union for their mutual benefit and seek to enhance underserved communities.

Several other distinguished national icons in Omega history also have been members of both fraternities include Founder and Brother Edgar A. Love, Founder and the First Honorary Brother of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Dr. Ernest E. Just, along with Brothers Carter G. Woodson, Charles R. Drew, Roy O. Wilkins, Whitney M. Young, William H. Hastie, Benjamin E. Mays, and Vernon E. Jordan, Jr.

Throughout his career Brother Holder has also been a member of the Order of Daedalians, which comprises former military aviators who promote aviation.

“It’s been a wonderful flight,” Brother Holder concluded.

We Are Better Together. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.,

We’re committed to getting to know you—your story, your values and your perspectives. We want your curiosity and ideas. Morgan

Zeta Omega Celebrates BROTHER GEORGE WHITEHEAD'S CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY

On August 3, 1922, in Columbus, Ohio, a baby boy was born to a church pastor and his wife. He was the youngest of four children and his parents named him George Whitehead. After graduating high school in 1940, he enrolled as a freshman at Ohio State University. He understood the scholarly expectations as his father had graduated from Livingstone College in North Carolina in 1904 and also from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania in 1908.

During his freshman year at Ohio State, 18 year old George and two of his close friends were interested in fraternity life. One of his friend’s father was an Omega. So the three of them decided to attend a smoker for the fraternities, which included Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. All three of them then made the decision they would pledge the same fraternity. George was impressed with how the Omegas conducted themselves at the smoker,

as they were all dressed in suits and ties and were known to be scholars on campus. Once he and his friends chose Omega, they were among 12 members of the Lampados Club in 1940; young Whitehead was elected as its President.

After one year had passed, George did not have the $22 initiation fee, which he reminds anyone he tells, was a lot of money at the time! So the line went over in 1941, unfortunately without him. But he persevered and continued as the President of the Lampados Club for a second year; by then he had saved enough money for his fee and was finally initiated into Omega through Iota Psi Chapter in 1942.

In 2022, Bro. George Whitehead proudly commemorates two milestones, 80 years of service to Omega Psi Phi, and becoming a centenarian, celebrating his 100th birthday! Accordingly, the brothers of Zeta Omega Chapter began planning a time to mark this auspicious

occasion with Bro. Whitehead. In the months of July and August, there was a slight increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases in the senior community where Bro. Whitehead resides. Therefore, the celebration had to be postponed.

By the time the chapter began its Achievement Week remembrance in November, it was safe enough for a visit with their esteemed brother. Brothers included him in their three days of observance of the founding of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. The festivities began with the chapter’s annual tradition of re-dedication of brothers at the Colonel (now Brigadier General) Charles Young monument near downtown Cleveland on November 17th. Next was its Russell T. Adrine Achievement Week community awards luncheon on the following Saturday. The week concluded with brothers worshiping together on Sunday morning at the historic Antioch Baptist

Brother Damon Scott

Church, which is pastored by a brother. The culminating event was Zeta Omega brothers gathering after church in salutation to the oldest living brother in Omega’s Fourth District. The surprise visit included a cake with the inscription “Happy 100th Birthday Brother George Whitehead” in purple and gold numbers and lettering. The 80 year Omega Man was honored to be celebrated by his brothers, which included the pastor of his own church, and Fourth District Representative Brother David Reliford, who also is his Iota Psi Chapter brother.

During their time with him, brothers remembered some of his personal history that Brother Whitehead had shared with the chapter over the years. Just prior to his initiation into Omega, the United States entered World War II and Uncle Sam came a calling; so the young 20 year old enlisted in the US Army. Once he had served his country and was honorably discharged at the end of the war, he returned to school at Ohio State. He shared that one of his many fond memories was serving as Dean of Pledges when there were 50 members of the Lampados Club in 1946.

When asked about Zeta Omega specifically, Brother Whitehead recalled contributing $500 toward the purchase of the chapter house in the 1990’s. At the time,

he was working for the State of Ohio Liquor Control Commission and his professional experience would come in handy when he helped acquire the state liquor license for the house. Brothers also remembered that, in the Omega tradition of showing deference and respect for brothers older than ourselves, when Brother Whitehead needed a ride to chapter meetings sometimes, he would call his good friend Brother George Waller, 1947 Phi Sigma, both of whom were in their 90’s at the time, to come pick him up and drive him to the meeting!

Brother Whitehead retired from a very successful law practice that included him becoming the first African American lawyer to specialize in liquor law in Ohio. Just a few years ago he shared that even in his 90’s, as the second generation in his family to earn a college education, he still read and looked in the dictionary to find out what certain words meant.

This stalwart Omega Man is both respected and revered by the brothers of Zeta Omega Chapter, which was chartered in 1923. So as they begin commemorating its centennial year in 2023, brothers also salute the oldest in their ranks, who was born in 1922, and is actually one year older than the chapter itself!

Happy 100th Birthday Brother George Whitehead!

Howard University (HU) Men’s Swimming and Diving Team won the 2023 Northeast Conference (NEC) Championship on Feb. 25 in Geneva, Ohio, and Brother Courtenay Miller (6-09-AΩ) serves as the team’s diving coach. Brother Miller also won the conference award for Outstanding Dive Staff.

“While the men’s team won, the women’s team just missed third place, and many, many conference and pool records were broken,” Brother Miller said.

This was the HU team’s first title in more than 30 years, according to its athletic department, and the win by HU has been described as historic and significant in a sport that is predominantly White.

HU is the only historically Black university with a Division I swimming and diving program, according to Director of Swimming and Diving Nicholas Askew, whose coaching staff for the second consecutive year has been named NEC Coaching Staff of the Year.

Last year, HU’s swimming and diving team was the runner-up for the NEC championship.

“It just feels phenomenal to know that there’s this group of young men and young women who believed that it was possible,” Askew said. Brother Miller expressed similar sentiments.

“I was elated for the win,” Brother Miller shared. “I swam for HU in the 1980s. In fact, my introduction to Omega was by the examples of scholar athletes Kermit Mallette (2480-A), Ayron Fears (17-81-A), Benjamin James (1-82-A), and Roland “Buddy” Lewis (14-84-A), who were my teammates and HU mentors, he added.

“This [year’s] team graduated 14 seniors, most of whom won medals. We had 14 on my entire team. We won first in most sprint races and won or scored in just about every race. There about 32 events, and Howard scored in everyone. I have so much pride and joy to have been working with this program for all my adult life as a volunteer,” said Brother Miller.

He explained he came to diving through gymnastics.“I was a gymnast turned diver. A woman in the community, Ms. Cheryl Reid, was a mentor to everyone. She had three daughters who

Brother Bernard S. Little | Washington, DC

swam and convinced me to try. She got me into HU because here three daughters swam for HBCUs: Howard, Alabama A & M, and Spelman. The rest, as they say, is history,” Brother Miller said.

“My motto is, ‘We are family,’” Brother Miller continued. “I coached each member of the current coaching staff. Also, on this current team is a daughter of a young man who was on the first team I got involved with. I tell every class of freshmen and their parents, ‘This is a four-year experience in a 40-year life journey, and in life, if you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready. Also, ‘To whom much is given, much is required, so enjoy the ride to excellence,” he said.

“These young people do more for me than I most certain could I ever do for them. They give me hope and inspiration,” Brother Miller added.

Brother Miller earned his bachelor’s degree from HU, as well as his master’s in divinity from its School of Divinity. In addition to his HU coaching, he has served as senior pastor at Norbeck Community Church in Montgomery County, Maryland for more than 25 years. He as serves as the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Third District Chaplain, a position he has held for more than three years. In the latter position, Brother Miller established the Third District Worship and Prayer Service, virtually held every Sunday at 1911 (7:11 p.m.) throughout the fraternity and regularly attended by its grand officers, including Grand Basileus Ricky Lewis, 1st Vice Grand Basileus Mark Jackson and Third District Representative Conrado Morgan.

According to 2021 USA Swimming, around 1.5 percent of its

approximately 295,000 competitive swimmers are Black. Black swimmers account for just 2 percent of swimmers at the collegiate level, according to NCAA data.

“We need, in my opinion, strong legislation that’s going to change the cycle that was broken to make sure that there’s more access and make sure that there’s more quality education for water safety,” Askew told ABC News during a recent interview. “Being able to have ‘learn to swim’ programs that can lead to a life in the aquatic arena, not just in a competitive swim, but also in diving and synchro swimming and water polo and all other water sports that we have the opportunity to participate in.”

Because of the HU swimming and diving team’s success, it was recently featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

“We talk about being the only HBCU [with a swim team], but that comes with a warning tag. We don’t want to be a program that’s cut because, even as a competitive program, NCAA swimming is the number one to cut sports and in all of athletics,” Askew said. “We have to be very careful as to the support financially being in the stands, being able to send words of encouragement to the young men and women who are part of the program, as well as to administration.”

Hayes promoted young African American musicians and traditional African American music. He compiled a collection of African American spirituals titled “My Songs: Aframerican Religious Folk Songs” in 1948. In 1950, he became a music professor at Boston University. In 1924, the NAACP awarded Hayes its Spingarn Medal. In the 1960s and 1970s, he received numerous awards and accolades, including a tribute concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City for his pioneering work in classical music.

In 1991, Hayes was inducted into Georgia's Music Hall of Fame. The state also created a historical marker in the performer's honor in the city of Calhoun in 1995. The site is now known as Roland Hayes Park, and a state highway in the region is also named after him. In 2000, the Roland Hayes Museum opened in the Harris Arts Center in Calhoun.

Brother Roland Hayes, was the first African American man to achieve international fame as a concert performer. Hayes rose from sharecropping on his parents’ small Georgia farm to earning $100,000 a year as one of the most celebrated tenors of his time.

ROLAND HAYES WAS BORN IN 1887, IN CURRYVILLE, GEORGIA TO FORMER SLAVES WILLIAM AND FANNY HAYES

In 1920, Hayes was personally requested by King George V and Queen Mary to sing for them in his first European concert. He would go on to tour Europe several more times, singing in seven different languages, and became one of the world’s highestpaid tenors. Hayes continued to train under classical conductors and made his way to the hallowed confines of Boston’s Symphony Hall.

BROTHER FRED LOWERY

By Brother Dontrell Baines | Cookeville, TN LIFTING AS HE CLIMBS

The Brothers of Chi Lambda Chapter would like to give thanks and shed light on one of the best brothers to come out of our chapter and arguably the Fraternity. Brother Fred Lowery, `89 Initiate of the Chi Lambda Chapter at Tennessee Technological University, has been a driving force on many initiatives and service projects but when it comes to scholarship, he has made it his mission to be the change that is needed in order to make a difference for black people.

Fred founded the Lowery Family Fund which supports organizations and initiatives focused on community service, philanthropy and the arts and established three scholarship endowments at Tech:

1. The Fred M. Lowery Award Scholarship Endowment - (Est. 2015) which has the goal of supporting the continued flow of well-prepared students from AustinEast High School (Knoxville, Tennessee) to Tennessee Technological University such that they can contribute to the success of the university as they are being prepared to be future leaders.

To be eligible for this scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

f Must be a prospective or current student in good standing in accordance with current institutional policies.

f Preference will be given to students having graduated from Austin East High School in Knoxville, TN.

f Preference will be given to students with the greatest financial need as reflected in the information provided to the TTU Office of Financial Aid.

f Preference will be given to African American students.

f If no qualifying student from Austin

East High School is eligible for selection each year, secondary preference of eligibility should be extended to an African American student having graduated from another high school in the greater Knoxville, TN area.

2. The Chi Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Scholarship - (Est. 2015), which was formed to support the cardinal principles of the fraternity Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.

3. The Dr. Leo McGee Scholarship Award - (Expected 2022), which was formed to honor the first Faculty Advisor of the Chi Lambda Chapter, Brother Leo McGee, who entered Omega chapter in March of 2021. Brother McGee was a 1963 initiate of the Pi Sigma Chapter (Philander Smith College) and played a huge part of the chapters success and many individuals that have come out of Chi Lambda. Brother McGee was the head of Academic Affairs and a role model to many African American students.

Bro. Lowery’s current role is Senior Vice President of Fisher Scientific and President for the company’s Customer Channels business. He oversees the company’s industryleading channel business for laboratory supplies used in academic and government research. Fisher Scientific serves customers around the world by offering more than 2.5 million products globally, including lab consumables, instruments and equipment, safety products, chemicals and life sciences reagents through a strong sales network and industry-leading website.

Bro. Lowery is an advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion and social responsibility both within the company and externally. He is the founder and executive sponsor of The JUST Project at Thermo Fisher, an initiative named after Brother biologist Everett Ernest Just. As part of this project, Thermo Fisher donated $25 million in equipment and solutions to enable COVID-19 testing at historically Black colleges and universities and committed to hire 500 HBCU graduates over a three-year period. Fred is also one of the founders of the New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund to support charities that provide services to Black and Brown communities across Massachusetts.

Bro. Lowery is a member of the DuPont Board of Directors, Boston Renaissance Charter Public Schools Board of Trustees, Boston Medical Center Board of Directors, and The Boule Foundation. At Tech, he serves on both the university’s Board of Trustees and its Foundation Board.

Bro. Lowery was also the recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Tennessee Tech University because he makes a genuine impact, not only on Tennessee Tech University, but also on the state of Tennessee because of his passion to see young people attend a fantastic institution of higher education such as Tennessee Technological University.

Black Businesses are Thriving, but where are the Black Accountants?

by Brother Darius Hinton

In the 1926 edition of the Oracle, Brother Jesse Blayton enumerates three barriers black accountants faced establishing themselves among black businesses. The barriers are contemporary to his time and presence in segregated Atlanta circa of the1920s. Always the problem solver, Brother Blayton prescribes the following to striving black accountants: "by persistent effort, by adhering strictly to the ethics of the profession, by accepting no job for less than it can be done, and by paying strict attention to, even the most minute details of the work assigned to them."

Blayton believed that within a decade of publishing his article, black accountants would be as sought after as blacks in other professions. He believed that as black businesses continued to bud and prosper, the demand for black accountants would intrinsically increase (i.e., black businesses should demand more black accountants). It is unfortunate that almost 100 years later, not much has changed.

Today, only an estimated 1% of Certified Public Accountants (CPA) are black. The National Association of State Boards of Accountants (NASBA) estimates there are 665,000 active CPAs; this means there are less than 7,000 active black CPAs as of 2021. By contrast, in other prominent professions, the percentages of people identifying as black in recent years are:

f 10% (~44,000) of 443,000 clergy leaders

f 9% (~20,000) of 233,000 US military officers

f 7% (~105,000) of 1.5 million faculty at degree-granting post secondary institutions

f 5% (~65,000) of 1.3 million US attorneys

f 5% (~45,000) of 918,000 physicians

f 12% (63) of 539 members of the 117th Congress

While these professions still lag behind the national proportion of the black population (13% of the US population is black, according to the Census Bureau), all exceed the proportion of black licensed accountants in the country. Objectively, the minimum time required to become a CPA is considerably shorter than the mandatory time to become a sitting congressperson (the minimum age is 25 to be a member of the House of Representatives). The Uniform Accountancy Act, a model law developed by the American Institute for CPAs (AICPA) and NASBA, has been adopted by most states. It requires license holders to complete 150 credit hours (with a substantial number in accounting-related courses), pass a four-part exam, and have at least one year of verified experience by another CPA. Assuming a traditional student starts college at age 18, this student could become a CPA before their 23rd birthday.

Aside from the juxtaposition between professions, it is starkly ashamed that the growth of black businesses does not track the growth of black accountants. In the United States, 1.2 million out of 23 million businesses were black-owned in 2002; in 2022, there is an estimated 3.2 million black-owned businesses out of 32 million. According to the Census Bureau, black employer businesses increased by 8% from 2018 to 2019. Unexpectedly, black accounting firms have fallen with the rise of black entrepreneurship. As of 2021, there were no majority black-owned firms in the top 50 accounting firms, representing $87B of revenue. No black Chief Executives were running any of the top 50 firms either. Less than 1% of CPA partners are black. Black businesses must do more to encourage more black accountants on staff serving them and partners managing their engagements. By requesting that firms have a diverse staff and seeking relationships with black accountants and accounting firm owners, business owners can help contribute to creating equity in the accounting profession.

Potential black CPAs do not see black accountants, creating an ouroboros problem for black CPAs. Although accounting is requisite in supporting commerce and business, the economy's lifeblood, the industry traditionally lacks the appeal and brand awareness associated with other professions. Fiery preachers with soul-inspiring sermons, shrewd attorneys and judges with passionate arguments, and even legislative representatives enjoy the adoration and amplification of the public in acclaimed books, movies, and television shows. Ironically, the unseen accountant is usually responsible for calculating and identifying top-

Lest We Forget

43rd Grand Conclave

Baltimore,MD. December 1956

Martin Luther King Jr. (Montgomery, AL) is honored as "Citizen of the Year for 1956" by Brother Matthew Whitehead, Chairman of the Achievement Committee at the 43rd Annual Grand Conclave in Baltimore, MD in December of 1956.

Source: The Oracle - March 1957

© 1956 Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. All Rights Reserved

ature manhood is the measure of a vulnerable and grounded man and covenant friend in spirit, not the mindset and emotions of a child or wayward man of the world. Only a mature man can be a covenant friend, which is essential to quality and preservation of life. A mature and wise man will not only act like a friend but love like a friend. And, not only that, but he will go to battle, dressed in the full armor of God to defend and save his friend. And, need be, he will speak the truth to a friend when 10,000 warring angels will tell his friend that he was right.

The bible says, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways. Now we see but a dim reflection in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

By Brother Rev. Erogies “Roe” Grigley Jr.

And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.…”. (1 Cor 13:11-13)

Mature Manhood and M

A mature man and true covenant friend put off old and former things, ways of life, lifestyles and acquaintances to live a more blameless and excellent life. One who’s character is above reproach and who’s spirit is positively contagious, and others want to immolate his spirit man. Not hostile or vain and conceited, but to show himself friendly and humbly as an honorable man. He walks upright, acts justly and loves mercy for it is right in the eyes of the Lord. He lets his yes’s be yes and his no’s be no, without concern of bias or ridicule for the stance he takes, that is right in the eyes of the Lord. He pursues life with excellence and honor, never giving up on grace, mercy, righteousness, truth and love.

W here are the Black Accountants, Continued

selling ideas and the costs of developing them. The lack of awareness and familiarity is a factor in the lack of interest in the CPA license.

As Blayton posited in the 1920s, black accountants are as crucial as ever in black commerce. I propose my own set of solutions to the problem of stagnation of blacks entering the profession and pursuing licensure:

1. Increase the number of black accounting professors. Blayton was nicknamed "the Dean of Negro Accountants" and was responsible for Atlanta's booming black business community. Supporting organizations such as "The Ph.D. Project" and "The McNair Scholars" will result in more black Accounting Professors influencing black students in business schools to consider the profession.

2. Business managers and owners, especially black business owners, should negotiate diversity in business relationships with accounting firms or hire black CPA firms directly. Resources at the National Society of Black CPAs and the National Association of Black Accountants are available to assist black business owners in finding qualified, expert accountants in just about any industry. If you are a business owner or manager, consider hiring a black-owned CPA to work with your business.

3. Support black accounting organizations. The National Society of Black CPAs has a remarkable program that focuses on assisting black students with passing the arduous CPA exam. As of November 2022, they have an outstanding pass rate of over 75% (the national average pass rate is less than 50%). Consider recommending students to the program or

donating to the program to assist aspiring CPAs in getting licensed.

Brother Blayton became one of the most prominent businessmen in Atlanta's history while being an astute accountant and professor. As the 10th Grand Keeper of Finance and a man who practiced what he preached, he used the Fraternity's fiscal office to train Morehouse College and Atlanta University accounting students. The accounting laboratory he created in the back office saw the Fraternity's survival through the Great Depression, one of the most trying economic times in United States history.

Let's take his example and support training black accountants, supporting and serving black businesses and nonprofits, and contributing to the flourishing of these essential elements of economic security.

by Brother Darius Hinton

Editorial

Photo: Jesse Blayton

Covenant Friendship

5-Spr-87 Beta Lambda Lambda

“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh; but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God: It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.… Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God.… “You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.” (Romans 8:1-9)

A mature man stands for something greater than self and holds fast to a firm foundation of principles, morals, values and high ideas. He resists the proud and vain spirit, but latches on to the humble and wise spirit, who is willing to stand with his feet planted and shoulders squared when trouble raises its head. He is not easily misled or follows the crowd of popularity. He is not moved by the roar of the crowd for a wrong but moved by the crowd’s willingness to be influenced and led to look outside and beyond themselves, for a greater cause than self, and to right the wrongs of life.

“Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching you have heard from me, with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard the treasure entrusted to you, with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us.” (2 Timothy 1:13-14)

He becomes a pursuant leader that pursues God over provisional power and limited authority! In other words, he embraces humility and servant leadership, thought leadership that places others in esteem and steps out of his comfort zone, to be able to hold others accountable for their responsibilities. For the highest responsibility is to Jesus

Christ, through the Holy Spirit.

Lastly, a mature man in manhood embraces integrity and vulnerability of their life to their coveted accountability partner – covenant friend. Not only do they laugh together, but they cry together. Not only do they live together but are willing to die for one another or die together fighting for each other and a cause greater than themselves. A mature man is willing and able to stand before a covenant friend in manhood and expose themselves naked for any wrong doings and blemishes, without feeling judgment or shame. A mature man – He in essence is willing for his soul to stand naked before God, with all his sins and shame to bear, repenting and asking for forgiveness. He walks away from a sinning man to living as a saintly man, living a righteous life, which is true mature manhood. No longer living a double life with a mask on but striving every day to live in perfect harmony with all humankind and perfecting a growing relationship with Jesus Christ by dying daily to self and the world. It’s not easy, but with the help of the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, this profound character and evasive lifestyle is doable and achievable to be counted as having mature manhood and worthy friend.

If any man's work abides which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.” (1 Cor 3:14)

God promises to reward us, not for our works, but for keeping the faith, loving one another and holding on to His principles, statutes and decrees for His purpose in friendship. Jesus said, I now call you friend, instead of servant, for now you know the ways of the Lord! (John 15:15)

“IF YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND THE DAWN OF MY JOURNEY, YOU WON’T RESPECT MY FUTURE”

By Brother Bishop Joe Chase, Jr. - (II Samuel 6:20-21)

It was once said to me that it’s not good to start a race with a sprained ankle because then it becomes difficult to run or even finish the race, the course, the task at hand. On the flip side, others have said that it’s not how you start in life but it’s how you finish. Even so, as we embarked on our relationship with Her, we learned that lukewarm enthusiasm would not suffice. The expectation in all things was and is to be thoroughly immersed in the true Omega spirit.

Despite the validity of the flip side, the importance of finishing strong, that it does not give us license or any credence to be irresponsible by ignoring the opportunity of a strong start. With faith in God and heart and mind, We are encouraged to know, as Job chapter 8 informs, “though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase.”

We, as Men of Omega, should make it our responsibility, no matter how it ends, to consciously and intentionally start any effort, any project, any purpose the right way according to our cardinal principles. In other words, it should not be left up to strangers how we start even though we know that Romans chapter 8 teaches that all things work together for the good of those that love the Lord and are called according to his purpose. As is the case for those called to serve Omega.

I’m reminded that the Bible says that the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord. It ought to be up to us to determine how we start an endeavor. We ought to have a sense of accountability and responsibility that when we proceed on any matter of importance or significance in our life, especially in working for Her, that we start the right way.

In II Samuel, a passage about David is shared, a friend who is God’s chosen king and Israel’s second king. His whole purpose here in II Samuel chapter 6 was to secure Jerusalem in making it the city of David as ordered and ordained through the authority of God. His first step was to secure the Ark of the Covenant. He understood, historically and spiritually, that if he secured the ark and placed it in position in the city of Jerusalem that the city of Jerusalem would become the primary point, the conduit, the channel between heaven and earth. His first step was ordered, which led to his ultimate success.

So be not dismayed when one does not respect your future because they don’t understand the dawn of your existence. David’s wife didn’t respect what the Lord was doing with him and felt it was a disgrace the way he performed and celebrated recovering the Ark of the Covenant. Men of Omega, they may not understand our hop, they may not understand our bark, they may not understand the shaking of our head. They don’t have to, but they see our success. “Since you don’t understand my dawn, you’ll never have respect for my future.”

XI DELTA CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY WITH $50K CHECK Southwest

Texas State University

Editorial By Brother Bishop Joe Chase, Jr. (Gamma Omega)

“

Honoring Our Kings, Celebrating Black Fatherhood is a dream I’ve had for a long time. For far too long, there have been false and negative stereotypes about Black men, particularly Black fathers, seeped into culture through television and movies.

~ Oprah Winfrey.”

Empowering Black Fathers: The Fatherhood Initiative

By Brother Tamal Burise

As a Black father, it is hard not to think about how part of a dad’s duty will include giving our kids “The Talk.” Many of us, regardless of age, have heard our parents or adults quote “There’s Nothing New Under the Sun” from Ecclesiastes 1:9. “What has been will be again; what has been done will be done; again; there is nothing new under the sun.” Though this scripture is wise and speaks the truth, parenting presents challenges new to today’s black fathers. Maybe we were sheltered from these challenges by our parents, faith, community, or self-imposed segregation. Regardless of the reason, we live in a season where, as fathers, we must address issues such as bullying, mental health & depression, accelerated economic mobility (kids who have always had creature comforts), social media, drugs, and alcohol.

The Fatherhood Initiative Committee of the Delta Mu Mu Chapter is designed to promote responsible fatherhood by helping males and fathers of all ages to achieve more immeasurable awareness of their responsibilities to their families and community. To achieve this success, we empower fathers and their child(ren) by attending

monthly educational services around literacy, and soft skills, exhibiting children to different cultures, teaching them history, and accustoming them to fundamental values. At the same time, its peer advocates facilitate discussions around fatherhood. The aim is to find ways to engage Black fathers in not only raising their children but also in their prenatal care.

This committee is crafting a new approach around the initial intent of the Fatherhood and Mentoring mandated program by bringing new and expecting fathers together with more veteran or seasoned fathers to have a candid discussion about the challenges of being a Black father. In addition, our committee hosts monthly events such as bringing your child to Barnes and Noble, focusing on reading as the gatekeeper to functioning and succeeding academically and civically. As the pillars of language and reading skills, literacy development is a crucial time in a child’s life. Therefore, not just Black fathers

need to understand why literacy development is essential to effectively help children within each stage of their early literacy development. In addition, those with solid literacy skills usually have improved cognitive ability.

Our committee held an event at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta. The importance of LEGOS teaches various soft skills that shape how young children work and interact with others, including creative thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Problem-solving is often one of the most critical skills to stand out in the workplace – it is built early on in life through play. While individuals can exercise as adults to improve this ability, the best way to encourage this skill in kids early is to immerse them in play that involves regularly solving problems for themselves. “Overall, I love what we’re doing! The rap session was extremely valuable with its emphasis on mental health (a topic we as a community often avoid) from a parenting perspective. During the session at Barnes & Noble, it was exciting to watch our children react to a bookstore like a toy store.” – Bro. Carl Bacon ’96 Psi Zeta

Like all children, African American children are born to discover but need experiences to realize their potential. Capabilities materialize through interactions with people and things that shape the brain circuitry governing children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Therefore, Delta Mu Mu Chapter continues to promote the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s values as we will continue to enable and support these future leaders as they impact the world.

Children’s ventures in the social world of family and community play a prominent position in how and how children learn in school. However, the essence of warm interpersonal relationships cannot be overdrawn. That is why our mission is to promote responsible fatherhood by helping males and fathers of all ages to achieve more immeasurable awareness of their responsibilities to their families and community. To achieve this success, we empower fathers and their child(ren) by attending monthly fellowship of like-minded men through life skills building and education.

OMEGA MEN AT WORK:

Creating legislation requiring high schools in Connecticut to offer courses in African American, Puerto Rican and Latino studies

By Brother Dr. Benjamin Foster, Jr.

Enslavement conceals. Liberation reveals.

In the winter of December 2020, Governor Ned Lamont proudly announced that Connecticut became the first state in the nation to require that all high school students be offered courses on African American, Puerto Rican, and Latino Studies. He said, “The courses in our high schools will be an enormous benefit not only to our Black and Latino students but to students of all backgrounds.”

That Governor Lamont could make this announcement and later use it when promoting President Biden’s selection of Connecticut’s Commissioner of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona to be Secretary of U.S. Department of Education is the direct result of Omega men’s utilization of the four cardinal principles through teamwork.

The Omegas involved in the conceptualization of Public Act 19-12, An Act Concerning the Inclusion of African American/Black, Puerto Rican, and Latino Studies are: Dr. Benjamin Foster, Jr., Dr. James Thompson, Jr., Honorable Donald Harris, Jr., Representative Bobby Gibson, and Senator Douglas McCrory. Later, Bro. Dr. David Canton would answer the call and contribute to the development of the African American curriculum with Bro. Foster. Last but certainly not least, was the stupendous support of Rev. Bros. Maurice Porter and Bro. Lyndon Kirkland

San Antonio Texas Governor Appoints Brother Elvis Williams to Teacher Retirement System of Texas Board of Trustees

By: John Cooper / Jeremy Neal

On January 9, 2023, Brother Elvis Williams, a 1994 initiate of Beta Theta Chapter of Omega Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, was appointed to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas Board of Trustees. The Board manages retirement and other benefits for teachers and employees of the state’s public schools and institutions of higher education. TRS is the largest public retirement system in Texas, serving nearly 1.9 million people. TRS improves the retirement security of Texas public education employees through investment management and diligent delivery of pension and health care benefits. Brother Williams’ term is set to expire on August 31, 2027.

Brother Williams of Fair Oaks Ranch is assistant superintendent of operations at Edgewood Independent School District, where he oversees several departments within the school’s operations division including transportation, inventory and warehousing, planning and construction, technology, athletics, and child nutrition services. He has previously held administration positions at Dallas ISD, Del Valle ISD, and Huntsville ISD. Williams volunteers with Big Brothers and Big Sisters and with various committees of Bethlehem Baptist Church. He received a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi Valley State University, a Master of Education from Dallas Baptist University, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education at The University of Texas at Austin.

The Brotherhood of Dr. Carter G. Woodson the late scholaractivist and Father of African American History began this effort in 2018, when Bro. Foster broached Bro. James Thompson, Superintendent of Bloomfield Public Schools about the need for the legislation. Bro. Thompson agreed enthusiastically. His outreach to Bro. Harris, Chairman, Bloomfield Board of Education and member of the State Board of Education, and Bro. Gibson, who was a new legislative representative, proved highly fruitful. Representative Gibson reached out to his boyhood friend and veteran legislator, State Senator Bro. Douglas McCrory for support and guidance.

With the vision and passion of Bro. Carter G. Woodson, Bro. Foster issued the clarion call for historians, academicians, and civil rights activists to meet in October of 2018 at the Bloomfield Board of Education, to expressed their desire and for legislation to be enacted requiring African American History to be taught to our children and youths. Bro. Foster highlighted the upcoming milestone of 400 ears of African American presence in English-speaking North America. Buoyed by this support, Bro. Gibson became the half-back and fullback to get the legislation actualized. Bro. McCrory skillfully served as the legislative quarterback. In our community engagement initiative, Bro. Foster and Bro. Gibson were able to obtain the endorsement of Grand Counselor, Bro. Benjamin L. Crump, at a New London N.A.A.C.P. event where they all spoke.

The crescendo demonstrating of Omega brotherhood came in January 11, 2019, when Bro. Foster’s Institute for Cross Cultural Awareness and Transformative Education in collaboration with Bro. Representative Bobby Gibson convened an exceptional 1619-2019: Four hundred Years

Commemoration at the Connecticut State Legislative Office Building in Hartford. Participants from throughout Connecticut came to voice support and to learn from scholars, elected officials, and members of the clergy. Rev. Bro. Maurice Porter jump-started this passion-filled commemorative event with a powerful Invocation. Among those attending was: Bro. Donald Harris, Jr., Bro. Lyndon Kirkland, Bro. Dr. James Thompson, Jr., Bro. Douglas McCrory, Bro. Dr. David Canton, and Bro. Dr. Benjamin Foster, Jr.

According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History’s calendar, Connecticut was the first state in the nation to hold a 400 Years Commemorative event. Suffice it to say, Bro. Senator Douglas McCrory and Bro. Representative Gibson gained the passion, well-wishes, and support of the ancestors to obtain passage of this historic legislation in 2019. Bros. Dr. Foster and Dr. Canton assisted in the development of the African American curriculum.

Enslavement conceals. Liberation Reveals. Long live Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Seated left to right: Hon. Donald Harris, Sr. and Bro. Dr. James Thompson, Jr. Standing left to right: Hon. Bobby Gibson, Jr., Bro. Dr. Benjamin Foster, Jr. and Hon. Douglas McCrory

Lest We Forget

Front Cover of the March 1965 Oracle

Washington D.C. Mardi Gras Queen, Brenda Parker & Bro. H. Carl Moultrie

The American Red Cross celebrates the men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. as the largest fraternal organization National Blood Program Partner.

The Dr. Charles R. Drew Blood Program continues to set the pace for making an impact for improving health inequities for diverse patients in need of frequent blood transfusion.

If you are interested in your chapter adding to the impact Omega makes in the lives of patients in need of blood transfusions, please follow the link below.

Before Black Lives Matter

The National Student Anti-Lynching League

By Jonathan Matthews, 7-83-A International History & Archives Committee

On March 29, 2022, President Joe Biden signed the Emmett Till Antilynching Act into law, which makes lynching a federal hate crime punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Since 1900, over 200 iterations of federal antilynching legislation were introduced and failed to be passed by Congress. Since day one, African Americans have been at the forefront of advancing this legislation at the highest level of the U.S. government. One of these efforts was spearheaded by an Omega Man.

Between 1889 and 1922, 3,436 African Americans were lynched. To achieve justice for African Americans, The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was formed in 1909. Since its beginning, the NAACP has been a staunch advocate of antilynching legislation. In 1916, the brutal lynching of Jesse Washington in Waco, TX, served as the catalyst for the NAACP to begin a strategic public and legislative campaign to advance a federal antilynching law that had stalled in Congress. 1917 saw the organization hold the now famous Negro Silent Protest Parade with an estimated 10,000 participants on July 28, down Fifth Ave in New York City, as a result of the East St. Louis riots and recent lynchings. The following year, the organization commissioned Walter White, Assistant Executive Secretary, to begin to investigate and report on lynching through its magazine, The Crisis, to increase awareness of the atrocity and brutality of lynching. This led to the NAACP publishing a study, Thirty Years of Lynching in the United States: 1889-1918, in 1919, which presented data by number, year, state, color, sex, and the alleged offense.

1920 saw the organization take two actions to advance its campaign against lynching and promote antilynching legislation. The first was the famous hanging of a 6’x10’ banner atop its national headquarters at 70 Fifth Avenue in New York announcing, “A MAN WAS LYNCHED YESTERDAY” each time a lynching occurred. The second was an essay contest promoted through the March 1920 issue of its magazine, The Crisis, offering prizes of $50, $30, and $20 for the best essays by collegiate students on the topic “The Economic Element in Lynching and Mob Violence.”

Entries were due by May 1, 1920, with the winner being announced in the December 1920 issue of The Crisis. Of the many submissions, one stood out as the best and was selected as the winner: the essay from Arthur Daniel Williams.

Born in 1895 and hailing from Abingdon, VA, Williams entered Lincoln University in the fall of 1914 and was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity through Beta Chapter circa 1916. He earned his BA degree with honors from Lincoln in 1918. After earning his degree, he served his country in WWI as a YMCA Secretary at Camp Lee in Virginia. His work was so impactful that he received public praise from the Governor of Virginia, Westmoreland Davis. After the War, Williams returned to Lincoln where, at the time of being awarded the essay prize, he was working on his divinity degree, serving as Basileus of Beta Chapter, and managing Lincoln’s famed football team. A prized orator at Lincoln and ordained in the ministry in 1920, Williams was also serving as pastor of a presbyterian church in West Chester, PA.

At the time of the essay contest, legislation was working its way through Congress for a federal antilynching law. Introduced by Missouri Congressman Leonidas Dyer (R) on April 1, 1918, as a result of the 1917 East St. Louis riots, and crafted, in part, by the NAACP, the bill sought to classify lynching as a federal crime punishable by up to five years in prison for a city or state official who intentionally fails to protect a prisoner, a minimum of five years in prison for anyone participating in a lynching, and a $10,000 fine against the county where the lynching occurred. By making it a federal crime, the bill aimed at prosecuting those aiding or participating in lynchings, which states rarely did.

Fueled by his essay and passion for justice, Williams turned advocacy into action by forming the National Student Anti-Lynching League (The League) on March 29, 1922, weeks away from earning his second degree from Lincoln, a Bachelor in Sacred Theology. The purpose of The League was to encourage support and passage of the Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill. Williams was able to recruit thirteen students from Lincoln, Howard University, New Orleans University (now Dillard University), West Virginia Collegiate Institute (now West Virginia State University), Hampton Institute (now Hampton University), Storer College, and St. Paul Normal and Industrial School to participate in The League. These students canvas the east coast speaking at churches and fraternal orders, educating, promoting, and drawing support for the Dyer AntiLynching Bill. Besides Williams, two other members of The League had ties to Omega. Future 20th Grand Basileus Milo Cravath Murray, a 1920 initiate into the Fraternity through Alpha Chapter, who, at the time, was completing his studies at Howard University, and Edward Alfred Simmons (Alpha Chapter circa 1922), Alpha Chapter’s Keeper of Records, were members of The League.

It took no time for The League to gain attention and reach the pinnacle of its success. Through the efforts of the highestranking African American in the U.S. government, Special Assistant to the U.S. Attorney General Perry W. Howard Jr., The League secured an audience with President Warren G. Harding at the White House on Friday, June 30, 1922. This was exceptionally rare since only a handful of African Americans previously had an audience with the President at the White House. Williams served as the spokesperson for the delegation, where he “briefly outlined the evils and disgrace of lynching in America” while advancing support for the Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill, which was currently stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee. He also presented and discussed with President Harding a 14-page pamphlet published by the NAACP entitled “Lynching: Its Causes and Cures,” which included his essay. Harding stated there were questions regarding the bill’s constitutionality and advised The League to support amending it so it would pass any constitutional test. The President concluded by stating that “everything will come out all right, for the current is flowing in that direction.”

Through efforts of various organizations, including The League, and public support, Harding pledged his support for the bill noting he would sign it if it passed through Congress. The bill passed the House on January 26, 1922. However, Senate filibusters from southern Democrats caused the bill’s defeat in 1922, 1923, and 1924. It would take a hundred years from Williams’ effort with The League for a federal antilynching bill to eventually become law.

Arthur Daniel Williams went on to have a successful and fruitful career as a pastor, social worker, and civil rights advocate until his passing in 1988. His legacy of uplift for African Americans through his efforts as a 27-year-old divinity student in 1922 is the hallmark that represents the principles and values of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Crowdfunding Life Insurance: An Awesome Wealth Building Tool You May Not Know About

Crowdfunding is a concept that has gained popularity in recent years. People are familiar with using crowdfunding to fund businesses, real estate projects, and charitable causes. However, what many are not aware of is the ability to use this same strategy to fund a life insurance policy.

Life insurance is a powerful financial tool that can create and transfer wealth triggered by an event that has a 100% chance of happening – death. In the United States, 26 U.S. Code § 101 of the tax code states that proceeds from a life insurance contract payable by reason of death are not included in gross income, meaning that life insurance proceeds are generally income tax-free with very few exceptions.

Crowdfunding life insurance is when multiple people come together to fund a sizeable policy on one insured person. For example, siblings may come together to fund a large policy on one of their parents. By pooling their resources, they can purchase more insurance than the parent or each sibling could have afforded on their own. In essence, they are financing their own inheritance. The proceeds from the policy will be income tax-free, unlike inherited 401k or IRA proceeds which will be taxable.

The concept of crowdfunding life insurance has many applications that can be used to create significant wealth, not just within family structures. Churches, schools, fraternities,

and charities can all benefit from this strategy. By pooling resources and purchasing a policy on a key member or leader, organizations can protect against the financial impact of losing a valuable asset while simultaneously creating a financial legacy.

It is important to note that in order to purchase life insurance for another person, you must first prove that you have an insurable interest in their life. This means that you will face significant emotional, financial, or other type of loss that will negatively impact you upon the insured’s death. It is illegal to purchase life insurance on the life of a person with whom you have no insurable interest.

It’s time for us to not only see life insurance as a way of meeting our final expenses, but rather an opportunity to increase the financial legacy we leave behind. Our legacy is the footprint we leave in every aspect of our lives, including our financial impact. Crowdfunding life insurance can be an awesome wealth building tool that can benefit your family, church, alma mater, and even our fraternity.

Editorial by Brother Reginald D. Clark, CFP www.p3retirement.com

Black Americans are about two times as likely as White Americans to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia, but less likely to receive a diagnosis. The Alzheimer’s Association® is working to solve this crisis and provide care and support to those affected, but we need your help.

Learn more and get involved:

» Visit alz.org.

» Call our free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

» Contact your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter.

WHEN WE WEAR THE GLOVES A BROTHER HAS GONE FROM OUR MIDST AND SAILED TO GOLDEN SHORES.

WHEN WE WEAR THE GLOVES A FRIEND HAS PASSED THE FINAL TEST AND WALKS THROUGH PURPLE DOORS.

THE CIRCLE HAS AN EMPTY PLACE A VOICE WILL RAISE NO MORE THE SONG OF FELLOWSHIP AND LOVE UPLIFT FOREVERMORE WHEN WE WEAR THE GLOVES

WHEN WE WEAR THE GLOVES

A LIGHT GOES FROM THIS EARTHLY LIFE THE VISOR CLOSED AGAIN YET ALL THE HEAVENS OPEN WIDE TO LET A NEW STAR IN.

WHEN WE WEAR THE GLOVES A BROTHER LEAVES THE CHAPTER ROLLS AND MOVES TO OTHER WORLDS FOR WHEN WE SAY OUR LAST GOODBYE HE WALKS ON STREETS OF PEARL.

WHEN WE WEAR THE GLOVES BY BROTHER DR.

CARVER A. PORTLOCK

BROTHER ALLEN WILLIAMS

Allen "Rubbs" Williams of New Haven, helped hundreds of people over the years both as a community leader, good neighbor, and a probation officer. Bro. Williams died of colon cancer on Jan. 31, 2023, four days after his 85th birthday.

As a respected Newhallville community leader many people will always remember Bro. Williams for his central role as bartender at the legendary Monterey Cafe jazz club on Dixwell Avenue. It was a role he never outgrew. Later in life, he converted the attic of his Pond Street home to a recreational bar to entertain family and friends.

Bro. Williams is a U.S. Air Force veteran. He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Hazel Williams; "bonus daughters" Sandra Miller and Stephanie Covington; 8 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

He was a beloved husband, father, uncle, brother, grandfather and friend. He was an active member of Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, serving on the council and as an usher. Bro. Williams also wore the purple and gold as Vice Basileus of the Chapter.

Among the many honors he earned over the years were Grand Marshal (with his wife) of the 2001 Freddie Fixer Parade; Omega Psi Phi, 2007 Citizen of the Year; a Certificate of Appreciation from Mayor Toni Harp in 2019; and a Community Service Award from Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church. He was a graduate of New Hampshire College with a BS in Human Services.

BROTHER KEVIN MAURICE MOSES SR.

Kevin Maurice Moses Sr., age 56, dedicated husband, father, son, coach, and mentor, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2022. His family was by his side at St. Francis Hospital. He showed courage in his battle with colon cancer. He faced life's challenges with a smile and an unwavering spirit.

He was born to Janice Hazel Holloway and B.E. "Tony" Moses Sr., on January 10, 1966, in Camden, South Carolina. He was raised in Camden, SC and Rosedale, NY before moving to Connecticut with his family as a young man. He graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1984.

After graduation, Kevin continued his education at Hampton University before transferring to Southern Connecticut State University where he earned a bachelor's degree in communications and met the love of his life, Karen Huggins. While at Southern Connecticut State University, he played on the football team as a wide receiver. On May 2, 1988, he was

initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., via the Chi Omicron Chapter in New Haven, CT. Dedicated to lifelong learning, Kevin was currently working towards a master's degree in education at Strayer University.

Kevin was a pillar of the Bloomfield community for many years. As an assistant coach, he helped lead the school's football team to win ten State Championships and numerous conference and division titles. On March 20, 2022, Kevin became the first African American head coach to lead the school's basketball team to a historic state championship victory at the Mohegan Sun Arena. In July 2022, the school appointed Kevin as the Dean of Students, a position he was looking forward to starting in the fall. Kevin's influential presence in the Bloomfield community touched and transformed the lives of many, including several who went on to become professional athletes. Kevin's work in Bloomfield with his students and players was his life's passion.

Kevin was baptized at The First Cathedral in Bloomfield and was a member for the last several years. Kevin lived out his faith on a daily basis by caring for others and serving as a role model in his community.

BROTHER SAMUEL ABBOTT BURRELL, JR.

Samuel Abbott Burrell, Jr., 89, of Hamden, passed away with his family by his side on April 11, 2022 at MidState Medical Center. He was born to Samuel and Evelyn Taylor Burrell on December 1, 1932, in New Haven. Sam married Gertrude Williams on September 1, 1956. He never missed an opportunity to acknowledge his love and pride for his family. He is survived by his daughter, Evelyn Fay; sons, Samuel Abbott, III and Scott David; and his grandchildren, along with several other relatives.

After graduating from St. Mary's High School in New Haven, Sam served his country in the Korean War as a medic. He received the prestigious Bronze Star for his heroic contributions in the War. Upon his return from Korea, he became a proud graduate of Southern Connecticut State University.

Bro. Burrell was a lover of any and all sports, and baseball was just one sport at the top of his list. He coached American Legion Post 47 baseball from 1956 to 1967 and won several zone championships. To further highlight his love of the game of baseball, Bro. Burrell helped establish The Greater New Haven Diamond Club in 1980. The club was re-established as the Southern Connecticut Diamond Club in 2005. The Burrell Coach of the Year award, "named in honor of legendary coach Samuel A. Burrell, Jr." is awarded during the annual "There's No I In Team" banquet each June. The award honors an area high school coach whose team shows sportsmanship and positive attitudes, two essential attributes of Bro. Burrell.

Sam's association with Yale University began with Jonathan

Edwards College in 1966, when he became Head Tackle Football Coach for Yale's intercollegiate football league. In 1968, he was appointed as an Associate Fellow in Jonathan Edwards College, one of Yale's residential colleges. Also in 1968, Sam was appointed as Yale Head Freshman Baseball Coach, thus becoming the first recorded Black coach in the Ivy League. From 1969 to 1992, he coached freshman baseball and freshman football at Yale. In 1993, he was appointed a Yale Varsity Assistant Coach by Head Coach Carmen Cozza. After impacting the lives of thousands of Yale students, Sam retired from coaching in 1997. Bro. Burrell held many other distinguished positions in his career.

Bro. Burrell was also an active member of the Chi Omicron Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He received the Chapter's Omega Man of the Year Award following his term as Chapter Basileus.

Bro. Burrell was a lifelong member of the Dixwell Avenue Congregational Church in New Haven. Reverend Dr. Frederick Jerome Streets awarded Sam the Certificate of Dedication for God's Work. He received many awards from all different organizations who acknowledged his endless and tireless contributions. Though it was an honor for him to receive these awards, his biggest honor was seeing his students and athletes demonstrate a sense of integrity and pride. He also loved to hear the voices of former students and athletes yell out , "Hey, Coach Burrell!"

SECOND DISTRICT---BROTHER JOHN FRYE JR.

John "Beep" Frye Jr., was born to John Frye Sr. and Inell McClennon Frye on Tuesday February 16, 1937, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Brother Frye was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., at Kappa Omega in 1993. He transitioned to Omega Chapter November 22., 2022. Beep, as he was affectionately called by family and friends, graduated from the former John Harris High School in 1955. In 1960, he was drafted into the United States Army where he served as a Finance Administrator and Paymaster. He was accepted into Officer Candidate School, but elected to end his military service and return to Harrisburg.

On August 20, 1960, he married Shevolkia Fowler. The couple welcomed two sons, Claude Keith, and John Francis III. Bro. Frye earned a Master's Degree from Lincoln University; served on the Harrisburg City School Board; was appointed Harrisburg City Business Administrator; served on the board of Harristown Development Corporation; and served on the board of Alternative Rehabilitation Communities (ARC). Bro. Frye was a proud member of Frontiers International.

Brother John "Beep" Frye Jr. was the Omega Man of the Year in 1994 and has been recognized by various community organizations for his outstanding work and leadership. He is

the quintessential "Bridge Builder," making contributions to society that benefit the next generation and the welfare of mankind.

BROTHER REV. DANA FARMER, SR.

Rev. Dana Farmer, Sr., entered Omega Chapter on Wednesday, December 14, 2022. He was initiated into the Fraternity through Eta Omega Graduate Chapter in Atlanta, Georgia on March 20, 1993. Bro. Rev. Farmer was born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 5, 1965. He was educated in the Atlanta Public School System and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. He served on his high school's alumni association until he passed. Bro. Rev. Farmer was a graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia with a degree in Economics. In his junior year he joined Naval ROTC, where upon graduation he was commissioned in the U.S. Navy.

Bro. Rev. Dana Farmer began his teaching career upon his honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy in 1993. Subsequently, he relocated to New York City with his family. He continued his teaching career within the NY DOE and Catholic school systems until his recent relocation back to his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia.

In NYC, Bro. Rev. Farmer was a beloved member of Psi Lambda Lambda Chapter in Harlem, chartered in 2005. Bro. Rev. Farmer served as Basileus, Vice Basileus, KF, Scholarship Gala Chairman, Chapter and Second District Omega Man of the Year, Co-chair of Second District Reclamation & Retention Committee, and past Corridor 5 Chaplain.

Bro. Rev. Farmer also shared his love of the Lord as an active member and mentor at historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in The Blue Nile Rites of Passage program. He was also as interim pastor and integral part of Hills Avenue Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where he had relocated back to lead the congregation. Bro. Rev. Farmer leaves behind his family, loved ones, fraternity brothers, numerous friends, current/former students, and many who were touched by his genuine friendship.

BROTHER JOSEPH BENJAMIN BAILEY

Joseph Benjamin "Dickey" Bailey transitioned into Omega Chapter on Saturday November 5, 2022. He was surrounded by his wife and daughters. Brother Bailey graduated from Sterling High School in Greenville, SC in 1959 and was part of the SC state championship 4x4 relay team during his senior year. He started his college career at Howard University and eventually completed his studies at Benedict College in Columbia, SC in 1964. During his time at Benedict College, he was initiated into the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

"Dickey," as he was so affectionately known, was a leader in the civil rights movement. He and others, including Congressman (Omega Brother) James Clyburn were honored with a statue in Columbia, SC dedicated to his and their service to the movement.

Being a member of Omega Psi Phi was extremely important to him. He could never talk about Omega without slipping in the conversation somewhere that he was "Omega Psi Phi til the day I die." Throughout his life he was active in Mu Omega (Philadelphia, PA) and with NU NU (Willingboro, NJ). He served on various committees and recently received the prestigious Basileus Award for Service from the NU NU Chapter. He also served with distinction as a member of the 75th anniversary committee of the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter.

BROTHER MARK COSTON, JR.

Mark Coston, Jr. transitioned to Omega Chapter on December 14, 2022. He was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter in July 2005. Bro. Coston graduated Magna Cum Laude from Springfield College, Springfield, Ma. with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Bro. Coston has also attended and received certifications from Dunn and Bradstreet, PCMI, and The American Institute of Banking.

Bro. Coston chaired several event committees within the Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter Harlem Knights Purple and Gold Ball and Black History month excursion. He also represented the Chapter at District and National events as an appointed delegate. Bro. Coston was involved in almost every Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter function since his initiation in 2005. In 2015, Bro. Coston was elected Basileus of Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter and served with dignity, dedication, and pride. His leadership helped Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter elevate its commitment to Omega brotherhood and community service for the youth in Winslow Township.

After completing his final term as Basileus Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter, Bro. Coston moved out of the Winslow Township area and continued his work in Omega as a member of Nu Nu Chapter in Willingboro, NJ. While a member of NU NU he could regularly be seen at Chapter community service events and interacting with students and parents at the annual HBCU college fair. He will be missed by the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

BROTHER JOHN MALCOLM STANLEY

John Malcolm Stanley was born April 11, 1942. He transitioned to Omega Chapter on July 16, 2022. He was initiated through Pi Omega Chapter on April 4, 1988 on the line Geriatric Crew plus Two. Bro. Stanley was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi and served as an active productive member of almost every Pi Omega committee. He was most proud of his role on the Mentorship Committee as a mentor to fatherless young men.

Educated in the Baltimore City Public School System, he graduated from Dunbar high School in 1959. Upon graduation, Bro. Stanley enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. He was honorably discharged in 1963. Professionally, he began his career at the Social Security Administration eventually rising through the ranks to eventually acquire a position as a GS15 Executive Officer in the former Office of Telecommunications and Systems Operations. He retired in 1999 after 35 years.

A lifelong learner, Bro. Stanley graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from University of Maryland Baltimore County and obtained a Master's degree from University of California at Berkeley. A man of varied interest Brother Stanley was a gifted artist, enjoying drawing and painting. An avid golfer, he participated in many golfing tournaments, often adorning his Payne Stewart purple and gold argyle Knickerbocker pants and vest outfit. Bro. Stanley is survived by his three children Leslie, Bryan and Justin Stanley, grandsons Darius Pender and Bryan Stanley Jr. and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

THIRD DISTRICT----

BROTHER ADAM SHAW

Adam Shaw, a longtime member of Alpha Omega Chapter, entered Omega Chapter Dec. 5, 2022.

Bro. Shaw was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on Nov. 26, 1954, by way of Kappa Epsilon Chapter at St. Augustine's University in Raleigh, North Carolina. He gave 69 years of loyal service to the Fraternity, during which time he held high Omega's cardinal principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. Bro. Shaw was a member of Alpha Omega Chapter's Reclamation & Retention Committee, working tirelessly to keep Omega strong and encourage Brothers to remain in the fold to aid that effort.

A staunch supporter of Scholarship, Brother Shaw was a firm believer in how a strong education can lead to a prosperous career and life. He served on Alpha Omega Chapter's Scholarship Committee, and for many years the chapter held its scholarship program at the church Brother Shaw attended, St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. Alpha Omega

Scholarship Committee has consistently provided thousands of dollars of college scholarships to deserving high school students in Washington, D.C., and Bro. Shaw's hard work assisted in this effort.

An avid and skilled golfer, Bro. Shaw lent his talents to the Alpha Omega Chapter's committees that orchestrated the Chapter's annual golf tournament fundraiser. Funds raised from the tournament enabled the chapter to award scholarships and conduct the chapter's numerous social action and community engagement programs.

Bro. Shaw leaves to cherish his memory numerous family members, friends, and fraternity Brothers. His memory will remain everlasting within his Brothers, for he was not just our Brother, he was our FRIEND.

BROTHER EDWARD G. DIXON, JR.

Edward G. Dixon, Jr. transitioned to Omega Chapter on 28 August 2022. Bro. Dixon was born on August 17, 1947 in Washington, DC. He attended North Carolina A&T State University and graduated in 1970. Bro. Dixon honorably served 28 years, active duty in the U.S. Army, and in the reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He also served, in a civilian capacity, with various departments of the United States Federal Government from 1973 until his death.

Bro. Dixon was initiated into Psi Nu Chapter on 19 December 1986. He served in many positions, including Chaplain, Vice Basileus, Basileus, and chapter representative to the Northern Virginia Pan-Hellenic Council. His past Chapter awards include two Superior Service Awards and Psi Nu Chapter 2010 Omega Man of the Year.

BROTHER EARL ADAMS SR.

Earl Adams, Sr., 83, entered Omega Chapter on Jan. 27, 2023. He was born Feb. 21, 1939. Brother Adams was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on Dec. 20, 1971, by way of Alpha Omega Chapter in Washington, D.C.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, Bro. Adams attended and graduated from the city's public school system before matriculating to Virginia Union University. There he studied and graduated with a bachelor's degree in sociology in 1967. While at Virginia Union, he met Kay Evelyn Hobson, whom he married in 1966. From this union, they had two children, Evie Sue and Earl, Jr., also an Omega man.

Bro. Adams moved to Washington, D.C. and joined DC Transit, now known as METRO, as the agency's first African American claims adjuster. Over the course of a nearly 35-year career, Brother Adams was recognized for his performance, especially

his skill as a negotiator. He retired in 2000 and began a second career in various roles for Enterprise Rent-A-Car for 20 years.

Bro. Adams was an active presence in his children's lives. A strong advocate of the scouting program, he was also active in the Fort Washington Recreational Council (FWRC). He was an active parent in the Prince George's County Jack & Jill chapter, a member of both of his children's PTAs, and he taught Sunday School at Fort Washington Christian Church. In addition, he coached both of his children's little league sports teams. He was also a member of the Departmental Progressive Club (DPC) in Alexandria, Virginia.

Bro. Adams gave 52 years of loyal service to the Omega during which time he held high Omega's cardinal principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. He enjoyed fellowship with his brothers, and he and Kay loved attending Omega events, including the annual Mardi Gras Ball.

BROTHER WILLIAM SMITH

William Smith, a retired Army Lt. Colonel, was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Kappa Psi Intermediate Chapter (Washington, D.C.) in 1970. Bro. Smith is Life Member #102. He was known as "Bill." He served the Fraternity in various capacities for more than 52 years, including: Basileus of Kappa Psi Chapter; member of the Founders' Monument Committee which established the Founders' Monument at Howard University; Chapter and Third District Keeper of Finance; member of the Washington, D.C. Chapters' Talent Hunt Committee; member of the Washington, D.C. Chapters' Achievement Week Committee; member of the Washington, D.C. Chapters' Alpha Tau Alpha Housing Board; first treasurer of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Federal Credit Union, established in 1986; delegate to many Third District Meetings; and part-time accountant at the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., International Headquarters when it was located in Washington, D.C.. He received numerous Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Scrolls of Honor awarded by Third District Representatives and was honored as Kappa Psi Chapter Omega Man of the Year. At the time of his passing, Brother Smith was a financial member of Alpha Omega Chapter.

A native of Washington, D.C., Bro. Smith was born on April 11, 1949. He was educated in the D.C. public school system and earned his bachelor's degree in accounting from Federal City College (now the University of the District of Columbia) in 1972. He later earned his Juris Doctorate in Law from Howard University in 1975.

Bro. Smith joined the U.S. Army on May 10, 1974, and served tours of duty in Germany, Japan, and other locations. During his 35-year military career he earned the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster; Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster; Army Achievement Medal with 4 Oak Leaf

Clusters; National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star; Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Hourglass Device; and Army Service Ribbon. His family members described him as the patriarch and historian who worked tirelessly to chronicle the family history for future generations. He was also an avid Washington Commanders fan, always rooting for the burgundy and gold.

He leaves to cherish his memory sisters, Shirley Barrett and Tonga Peterson, and brother, W. Joseph Smith, along with other relatives, friends, and his Brothers of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

BROTHER CHARLES L. BRIGGS

Charles L. Briggs, 73, a former Basileus of Alpha Omega was Born Dec. 19, 1948, in Moss Point, Mississippi. Brother Briggs was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in 1969 through Nu Epsilon Chapter at Alabama A&M University. He was a financial member of the fraternity for more than 53 years. He is Life Member #223.

After college, Bro. Briggs joined Kappa Psi Intermediate Chapter in Washington, D.C, where he served as Basileus and earned its Omega Man of the Year. He later joined Alpha Omega Chapter, where he served in various leadership positions, including Vice Basileus and Basileus. He earned Alpha Omega Chapter's Omega Man of the Year award as well. He also chaired Alpha Omega's Mardi Gras Committee, the Chapter's largest fundraiser, from 1996 to 2015.

Bro. Briggs was also a Master Mason (Eureka Lodge No. 5). He was also a faithful member of The Church of Pilgrims in Washington, D.C. for 43 years, where he was an ordained elder and served on several church committees. Bro. Briggs earned his master's degree in physics and mathematics from Howard University in 1974 and retired from Alion, an engineering company in 2019 after 40-year with the company. Bro. Briggs and his wife Ethel welcomed son Cori into this world on March 28, 1979. Cori also became an Omega Man.

Bro. Charles Briggs later married his second wife, Shirley, and they established the Federal Spring Civic Association, working tirelessly to make their community healthier and safer. In addition to loved ones mentioned above, Bro. Briggs leaves to cherish his memory sons Kenneth, Gregory, and Eric, four grandchildren, and a host of other relatives, friends, and fraternity Brothers.

BROTHER LINWOOD LAWTON

Linwood Lawton was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Kappa Psi Intermediate Chapter (Washington, D.C.) on Dec. 4, 1976. He was also a longtime member of Alpha Omega Chapter, serving on numerous committees.

Bro. Lawton was born July 7, 1950, in Norfolk County, Virginia. He earned his undergraduate degree from Virginia State University. He earned his MBA from the University of the District of Columbia, and his doctorate in education from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Brother Lawton was a business teacher in Washington, D.C. He was also an assistant principal, and eventually retired as principal at Roosevelt Senior High School. He was an adjunct professor in the College of Education and Human Ecology at UDC, and a field supervisor of graduate students at American University. He also retired as a major from the U.S. Army Reserve.

As a devout and dedicated parishioner of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Bro. Lawton served in a number of capacities in the church community. Bro. Lawton earned a black belt in karate and enjoyed working out. He also mentored young men, encouraging them to finish high school and attend college. He also enjoyed traveling abroad.

In Alpha Omega Chapter, Bro. Lawton served on the Alpha Tau Alpha Housing Committee for many years. The committee oversees activities taking place at the fraternity house in Washington, D.C., as well as its financial stability.

In addition to his Omega Brothers, Bro. Lawton leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Carolyn; daughter Candance; and a host of other relatives and friends.

BROTHER JOHNNY P. JOHNSON

Johnny P. Johnson entered Omega Chapter on November 5, 2022, at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, VA. He was born to Johnny Plummer Johnson, Sr., and Viola Evans Johnson in Henderson, North Carolina on January 30, 1936. Bro Johnson was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on January 8, 1954, at Nu Psi Chapter, Virginia State College (now University).

Brother Johnson was a Charter Member of Tau Rho Chapter (1964), Fredericksburg, Virginia, and a Life Member of the Fraternity. He served the Fraternity in various capacities and was always willing to give a kind word to the brothers and provide uplift in a time of need.

Bro. Johnson graduated from Virginia State College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1958. He was captain of the college's basketball team. In 1994, he was elected to the school's Sports Hall of Fame as a legendary point guard. He later pursued graduate studies at Howard University, where he earned a Masters of Fine Arts. Later, he continued his studies at the Corcoran School of Art.

Bro. Johnson taught on every level from grade school to college, including serving as the first African American member of the teaching staff at Mary Washington College and as a faculty member at Germanna Community College. He conducted workshops and community classes, including classes for adults at the Dorothy Hart Community Center for

over 30 years. He also taught art to young Black students at the Harambee 360° Experimental Theater, where he served as board member, and at the Anne Hamrick Community House. His enthusiasm and skills as an educator were recognized by the state of Virginia as its "Teacher of the Year" in 1977. He was the first art teacher to receive this prestigious honor.

Bro. Johnson was a founding member of the Art First Gallery of Fredericksburg. He participated and won numerous awards in many art shows, and his art was featured in galleries and walls across the state and nation, as well as internationally.

Bro Johnson received many awards and recognitions for his outstanding service as an artist, teacher, and humanitarian. In the past few years, he was particularly appreciative of the community's salute to him for his many contributions. Especially meaningful to him was the Johnny P. Johnson Day, July 7, 2018, and Germanna Community College's 2019 Philanthropist of the Year award.

FOURTH DISTRICT----

BROTHER PHILIP CLARK BASS, II

Philip "Flip" Clark Bass, II transitioned to Omega Chapter on February 13, 2022. He was born on August 26, 1950, in Dayton, Ohio, where he graduated from Roosevelt High School after serving as president of both the junior and senior classes. He matriculated to Kent State University, where he was initiated into Omega through Psi Gamma Chapter on May 9, 1969, number Three of "The Defiant Nine."

After earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Urban Sociology in 1972, he then attended the University of Cincinnati where he received a Master's Degree in Community Planning, as well as a Master's Degree in Public Administration. His professional career included working as an Associate Professor at Cleveland State University, and also in risk management, business operations, and transportation management for Dayton Public Schools.

Flip was a passionate lover of music. He was a talented saxophonist who performed, wrote, and/or recorded music with the Ohio Players, Heatwave, Teddy Pendergrass, and Bloodstone. He channeled that passion into writing and became a published author when he wrote a book he titled Pour Some Water on Me: Dayton – The Funk Capital of the World.

Bro. Bass maintained an active membership in Fourth District Chapters Delta Alpha in Dayton and Zeta Omega in Cleveland. He was an avid Cincinnati Bengals fan and ironically, he transitioned the same day that his favorite team played in Super Bowl LVI. He is survived by his mother, three daughters, three sisters, one brother, and five grandchildren.

BROTHER CLIFFORD JOHNSON, JR.

Clifford "Spiffy Cliff" Johnson, Jr., transitioned to Omega Chapter on November 3, 2021. He was born July 19, 1958, in Waycross, Georgia. His family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where he attended South High School. Cliff excelled in football, cycling, bowling, and track, breaking school records in the 50 and 100 yard dash. He also was a faithful follower of all Cleveland sports teams.

After graduating from high school, Cliff attended Ohio University, where he was initiated into Omega through Sigma Psi Chapter on May 7, 1976. He was known for having a funloving personality, always inserting humor into any situation. He kept everyone around him laughing at his antics! Cliff had a reputation for being a sharp dresser, always looking crisp and polished, whether wearing a simple tee shirt and jeans, or donning a suit and tie, which earned him the nickname "Spiffy Cliff."

Spiffy was an awesome cook and caterer, serving his culinary delicacies. He was known for blasting his favorite music and singing every word of the lyrics while he mastered the barbecue grill. He also had a green thumb, growing massive colorful plants in the interior, and around the exterior, of his home.

Cliff and his wife Sheila of 31 years were members of Mt. Zion Congregational Church, in Cleveland, where he faithfully served on the Usher Board, always with a smile and a kind word for those he greeted. He is survived by his wife, four children, eight grandchildren, his mother, and a twin sister.

BROTHER JAMES M. NELLEMS

James M. Nellems was born on May 16, 1947, in Cleveland, OH. He graduated from Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical & Normal College (now University of Arkansas Pine Bluff) in 1969. While attending undergraduate school, Bro. Nellems was initiated into Omega through Tau Sigma Chapter on April 14, 1967. After graduation, he returned to his hometown Cleveland and became a teacher and band director in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). During the late 1970s, he became the band director at Glenville High School, and later retired after 31 years of educational and music leadership in the CMSD.

Bro. Nellems also was considered as a history buff to his family and friends. He served as Zeta Omega Chapter Historian for a number of years. After he formally retired from the role, he would still be known in the Chapter for years to come as "the history Brother!" Whenever younger brothers had the opportunity to meet and talk with him, he was known to

impart quite an extensive amount of Omega history, and Zeta Omega history in particular, upon them. He maintained a very large personal collection of Chapter history in his later years. The knowledge of James Nellems, "the history Brother," certainly will be missed in Zeta Omega and the Fourth District.

BROTHER JAMES MCMULLEN

James "Mac" McMullen was born on November 13, 1952 in Cleveland, Ohio. He worshiped at Friendship Baptist Church and later rededicated his life to Christ at Zion Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, both in Cleveland. James' athletic skills earned him a scholarship to play football at Ohio University. While there, he was initiated into Omega through Sigma Psi Chapter on June 8, 1973, the solo member of the Lampados Club. He was very well-known on campus as "Mac."

In his early professional career, Mac worked as a school bus driver, in the steel industry, and also for United Parcel Service. He eventually became an entrepreneur, starting his own business known as McMullen Appraisers. He also served as a hearing officer on the Cuyahoga County Board of Revision, being responsible for investigating, hearing, and rendering decisions on property valuation complaints and disputes.

Mac's love of sports continued throughout his life. He enjoyed football, basketball, running, and riding his bike. He also coached his son in little league baseball. But anyone who knew him well, knows that his absolute love and passion was being a die-hard Cleveland Browns fan! He was a season ticket holder and member of the Browns legendary "Dawg Pound" since 1981. He and a group of his fellow Browns fans were known for their large tailgate feasts before home games. His enthusiasm for the Browns was honored by the team when he was among several season ticket holders selected to have his picture, donning his favorite Orange and Brown gear, posted on a large banner and displayed around FirstEnergy Stadium.

Bro. McMullen, loved and respected by family, friends, colleagues, and his Fraternity, is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jocelyn, one son, three grandchildren, and three sisters.

BROTHER GEORGE E. PUREFOY

George E. Purefoy was born on September 6, 1927, in Rankin, Pennsylvania. Brother Purefoy was one of seven young men who entered the Lampados Club at Virginia Union University. He was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Zeta Chapter on May 5, 1946. His was the first line in Zeta Chapter after their Big Brothers had returned home from World War II. After becoming a member of Zeta Chapter, his peers elected him as president of the National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) on campus.

Upon graduation from college, Brother Purefoy was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1950 during the Korean War. He served and was honorably discharged. He then relocated to Cleveland, OH, and enrolled in Western Reserve University to begin graduate studies. He spent part of his professional career with the United States Postal Service, and later served as the first African American Assistant District Director of Contract Compliance with the U.S. Department of Labor district offices in Cleveland. In that role, his work included advocating for equal employment rights for all employees.

Brother Purefoy became active with Zeta Omega Chapter in 1984. During his tenure with the Chapter, he served as Keeper of Finance, as well as Dean of Pledges, and was among the seven original signatories for Zeta Omega to purchase its current Chapter House. The Chapter recognized his service to Omega by presenting him with the Zeta Omega Chapter Founders' Award in 1995 and again in 1999, as well as naming him the 2001 Omega Man of the Year for the Chapter.

Brother Purefoy attended Triedstone Baptist Church in Cleveland where he served as a member of the male chorus and the Board of Trustees. He is survived by his granddaughters, Charisse Scott, Denean Blackwell, and Laura Blackwell, and his devoted and dedicated companion, Ms. Gloria Price. The presence of this 75+ year stalwart brother, who fondly introduced himself in chapter meetings as "4-46-Z Squad," certainly will be missed in Zeta Omega Chapter.

BROTHER JAMES MANNS

James Manns transitioned to Omega Chapter on June 25, 2022. He was born on June 19, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee. He attended Mississippi Valley State University, then later transferred to Tennessee State University (TSU). It was on that campus that he first became interested in Omega. He became a member of the Lampados Club in 1964; however, he had to withdraw from school before his line was initiated. He continued to carry the torch for Omega that burned deep within his soul, and vowed to Persevere and one day complete his goal.

Eventually he was able to return to TSU and completed his studies, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Arts. After graduating, he worked 30+ for Union Carbide Corporation, the predecessor to Energizer Battery, in Cleveland, Ohio until he retired. It was around that time he finally realized his goal and was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on April 30, 1994 through Zeta Omega Chapter in Cleveland. In light of his history and long-time love of Omega that spanned 30 years, the brothers who initiated him fondly referred to him as "64/94."

Bro. Manns served as KRS and on many committees in Zeta Omega Chapter. He most recently served the Zeta Omega Centennial Committee as Chapter Historian.

He was an active member of Affinity Baptist Church in Cleveland, where he served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for several years. Bro. Manns was an avid pool player, and also loved playing the game of golf, during which he was known for wearing his unique styled knickers. His fellow golfers, many of whom were Omega Men, joked that he may not have been the best golfer on the course, but he was definitely the best dressed golfer around!

He is survived by his two daughters, two grandchildren, and one sister. His presence in Zeta Omega Chapter definitely will be missed!

BROTHER DONALD KENYETTA HUNT

Donald Kenyetta "Ken" Hunt, 45, was born to Donald Ray Stevens and Nila Jean Hunt on July 18, 1977, in Bluefield, WV. He made his transition on Sunday, January 22, 2023. Ken, known as "Notorious D.O.G." to his line brothers, was a devoted member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Nu Zeta Chapter since 1997 and active in the Chi Alpha Chapter where he served as Social Action Committee Chair.

Ken also served as the 4th District Social Action Committee Chair. He was very proud of the work the Fraternity did to serve the citizens of Bluefield, WV. The Chapter won the Small Chapter of the Year Award for Social Action in 2022 at the National Conclave. He never met a stranger and exudes the Fraternity motto "Friendship is essential to the soul."

FIFTH DISTRICT----

BROTHER JOHN HENRY PERRY, JR.

John Henry "Butch" Perry, Jr., 80, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2022. John was born in Knoxville, TN, on September 10, 1941, to the union of Eula Bell Burnett Perry and the late John Henry Perry, Sr. He was a 1959 graduate of Austin High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Knoxville College in 1964, a Master of Science degree in Education from the University of TN in 1967 and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Education in 1980 from Southern Illinois University. He taught Physical Education for 15 years at Mississippi Valley State University and 18 years at Maryville College, where he served as the head of the department and became the first African American professor to receive tenure. He was a 60-year member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Bro. John Henry "Butch" Perry, Jr., served in the role of chapter Keeper of Records and Seal for both the Beta Epsilon Chapter as well as the Iota Alpha Chapter. He has been recognized as

both Omega Men of the Year as well as Superior Service Award honoree by the Iota Alpha Chapter for his tireless dedication to serve as well as uplifting others. Over the years, two of his favorite roles were serving on the scholarship committee and the achievement committee for the Iota Alpha Chapter. In these capacities, he reviewed numerous scholarship applications and essays and recommended the Chapter's annual scholarship recipients and winning essays winners.

BROTHER DR. THOMAS E MOTLEY SR.

Dr. Thomas E Motley Sr., age 83, of Memphis, TN passed away on Wednesday January 11, 2023, unexpectedly at Methodist University Hospital. Born in Whiteville, Tennessee on May 15, 1939, to the Late Robert and Elma Coleen Motley Owners of Motley and Rivers Funeral Home. Dr. Motley graduated from High School at the Palmer Memorial Institute located in Sedalia, North Carolina. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Howard University and Doctor of Medicine from Howard University College of Medicine. Dr. Motley was a board-certified internal medicine physician, had dedicated over 45 years of compassionate medical care and distinguished service to his community. After completing his Naval career Dr. Motley served the city of Memphis as its first African American Internal Medicine physician. Dr. Motley's service was extensive. He served as medical director for Cardiac Rehabilitation and Department of Preventive Medicine and Methodist Healthcare Systems. He was Chief of Staff for Methodist Extended Care Hospital and was a founding partner of the Eastmoreland Internal Medicine Group.

Dr. Motley also served as a consulting physician for St. Francis Hospital and Baptist Memorial Hospital. In addition to his medical practice, Motley contributed to numerous medical research studies as a clinical science principal investigator. Over the course of his medical career, he had been an active member of numerous scientific and medical organizations including the National Medical Association, The American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, American Heart Association, Association of Black Cardiologists, Bluff City Medical Society and Memphis and Shelby County Medical Society just to name a few. Dr. Motley was also highly devoted to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. He also belonged to multiple community organizations including but not limited to the Omega Psi Phi and the Memphis chapter of Delta Boule.

Dr. Motley was a dedicated family man and was married to Sharon Motley at the time of his death. Dr. Motley and his late wife Comora C. Motley were the parents of the late Thomas E. Motley, Jr. M.D and Todd S. Motley, MD. He was the father-in-law of Ann-Marie Motley, MD and Vanessa Motley. He was the proud grandfather of Chelsie Motley, Madison Motley and Seth C. Motley. Dr. Motley was also the Stepfather to Marzk Jones (Mark).

BROTHER BOBBY JAMES LEVERETT

Bobby "Not Robert" James Leverett, peacefully left for his long-awaited heavenly home with his GOD on January 14, 2022 at 10:11 a.m. Mr. Leverett was born to Mrs. Helen Freeman Leverett and Mr. James Ike Leverett on June 12, 1954 in Lincoln County, Georgia. Mr. Leverett's educational path began at Cansler Elementary, Brownlow Elementary, Christenberry Junior High and graduated Fulton High School, Class of 1973. He began his post secondary education at East Tennessee State University where he played basketball and was a three-year letterman until forfeiting his senior year. His decision to forfeit his senior year was to focus and concentrate on his studies.

Mr. Leverett earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Correctional Services and a minor in Psychology. Upon graduating ETSU, Mr. Leverett immediately set out on his career path. He gained employment with Knox County Juvenile Court as a Senior Probation Counselor. Mr. Leverett worked with Knox County for 14 years. He was then hired by the State of Tennessee (Department of Juvenile Justice/Department of Children Services), where he held various positions in management and administration until his retirement. Mr. Leverett had 25 years of dedicated service with the state as a Correctional Manager IV, Team Coordinator, the first and only African- American to date to hold the position of Regional Administrator of Knox County DCS and Statewide Coordinator for Resource Linkage DCS.

BROTHER ROBERT JEFFERSON

Robert Jefferson served as the eighth Fifth District Representative. Bro. Jefferson was a councilman who served the city's 2nd District from 1988 until 2000 and was a part of numerous significant accomplishments during his tenure. Bro. Jefferson was instrumental in getting Harry Sykes, the first Black person in Lexington, KY to be elected to the city council in 1963. He was a well-respected and dedicated member of the community, who had been involved in Lexington's civic and social organizations since 1957.

Apart from his impressive career as a councilman, Bro. Jefferson earned his undergraduate and master's degrees from Kentucky State University where he was initiated into the Psi Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in 1955. Bro. Jefferson was an Air Force veteran and served on the board of the Lexington Urban League. He was also among the parents who sued Fayette County Public Schools in 1971 to desegregate the school system. Throughout his life, he remained an advocate for equity and fairness, working towards creating a better community for everyone. Lexington will remember Bro.

Robert Jefferson as a trailblazer, mentor, and a dedicated servant of the people. His legacy of activism and advocacy will continue to inspire many for generations to come.

BROTHER JOHN GILDER

John Gilder, beloved educator in the Memphis Community and beyond, entered Omega Chapter January 13, 2023.

Bro. Gilder was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc through Kappa Sigma Chapter at Lane College in 1960. When he entered Omega Chapter he was a member of Epsilon Phi Chapter.

BROTHER DARRELL S. FREEMAN

Darrell S. Freeman, a prominent Nashville businessman, philanthropist, civic leader, and family man departed this life in Brentwood, Tennessee. Known for his service to others whether on corporate boards, in mentoring relationships, or flying supplies to suffering people, Freeman worked tirelessly to increase educational opportunities, inspire entrepreneurs, and make his family proud.

He was a man among men and a leader among leaders. It's very likely that we will never see his kind again. Those left to celebrate his rich life and cherish his memory include his loving and devoted wife of thirty years Gloria and their four children: Ebony, Kenya, Darrell Jr., and Nathan. Other family members, friends, business partners, employees, organizations, fraternity brothers, and countless people who admired his commitment to advocacy, creating opportunities, and building community join his wife and children in remembering a man who served so many so well.

BROTHER MICHAEL LAMAR FOXX

Mike was born in Knoxville, TN on May 29, 1959, to Vernetta and Leonard Foxx, Sr. and grew up in the Lonsdale community. He graduated from Rule High School with the Class of 1977, and later graduated from Alabama A&M University in 1982. During his time at Alabama A&M, Mike's outstanding performance as an offensive tackle led to his induction to the Alabama A&M University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010. Mike's family was the cornerstone of his life. He married the love of his life, Marla (neé Jones) on May 9, 1992, and they welcomed their daughter, Madelyn, in 2005. Mike's passion for assisting and mentoring youth was evidenced by his many years of service as an educator for Knox County Schools and his several years of coaching youth football for Knoxville's Community Development Corporation (KCDC).

Mike was equally devoted to his beloved Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, where he pledged the Iota Alpha Chapter in 1992. For many years, Mike showcased his talents and love of football as the "Golden Voice of the AE Roadrunners" Known as the "Luther Vandross" of Knoxville, Mike loved to share his vocal talents through a myriad of venues, including the United Fellowship Mass Choir under the direction of the late Robert Spencer, and the Men's Choir at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church. He was also an inaugural member of the Crusaders Group at Clinton Chapel and enjoyed spending time playing golf with his friends. Bro. Foxx served was the Chapter reporter and publish numerous articles in the Fraternities national publication "The Oracle."

Additionally, as a Talent Hunt Chair, the Iota Alpha's representative won the national showcase. In 2005, Bro. Foxx was the recipient of the Iota Alpha Chapter's Omega Man of the Year, the highest award given locally for his dedication and devotion to Omega's watch word of "service." Awards/Honors from the Fraternity at all levels.

BROTHER JAMES KENNEDY BARHAM

James Kennedy Barham was born December 5, 1963 in Knoxville, TN. He was a faithful member of Greater Bush Grove Missionary Baptist Church where he served as an usher. James was a graduate of Rule High School where he holds the record in Track and Field. He attended ETSU where he was recently elected as a member of the Southern Conference 100th Anniversary Teams for his career in Men's Track and Field. James set records in track that still stand today. While attending ETSU, he was initiated as a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in the Theta Zeta Chapter, Spring 1984. James later became a member of the Phi Tau Graduate Chapter where he was a loyal member for a total of 37 active years.

SIXTH DISTRICT----

BROTHER SAMUEL E. MURRAY

Samuel “Mayor” E. Murray, husband of Charlotte Murray, died Saturday, November 5, 2022, at Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville, SC at age 82. Mayor Murray served as the former Mayor of Port Royal for 41 Years. Prior to becoming Mayor he was an educator and retired as the Principal of James J. Davis Elementary School in Beaufort, SC.

Bro. Sam Murray was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Omega Alpha Alpha Chapter on March 11, 1989. Brother Murray is Life Member #4606, and has served Omega faithfully for over 33 years. He has served in multiple positions

with Omega Alpha Alpha to include Basileus of the Chapter. He has received multiple awards. Brother Murray was active in multiple organizations and associations.

Mayor Murray has been an ambassador for the community, contributing greatly to the quality of life throughout the Town of Port Royal, Beaufort County, and the State. On June 18, 2022 Murray received the Order of the Palmetto, the state’s highest civilian honor, awarded by the Governor of S.C. The award, per the Governor’s website, is “awarded to South Carolinians who demonstrate extraordinary lifetime achievement, service and contributions of national or statewide significance.”

BROTHER REVEREND BERNARD L. JUDGE

Reverend Bernard L. Judge, 75, of Charleston, South Carolina entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. Rev. Judge was affectionately called, “Shaft” or “Bubba.” He was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in 1968 through Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at Benedict College. When he entered Omega Chapter he was a member of Mu Alpha Chapter.

He is a retired teacher of the Charleston County School District. He is survived by his daughter, Jeana Nalani Judge; sister, Telethia Judge Murry; and companion, Shirley Newton. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Berna Samara Judge and grandchildren, Christian Calab and Canero Noah. His Celebration of Life Service was held on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at Jerusalem Baptist Church in Charleston, SC. His Interment was at Riverview Memorial Park in North Charleston, SC.

BROTHER LARRY W. SHEALEY

Larry W. Shealey was born on May 22, 1947 and a native of Dadeville, Alabama. He was a 55 year Omega Man. He was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. through the Nu Epsilon Chapter at Alabama A&M University in April of 1967. Brother Shealey graduated with honors in 1969. He did further study at Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Virginia. His career included 35 years of service with IBM.

Bro. Shealey was a member of the Xi Omicron Graduate Chapter in Huntsville, Alabama, where he served as Keeper of Finance. Later he affiliated with Beta Phi Chapter in Durham, NC. He was National Co-Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee during 36th Grand Basileus Lloyd Jordan’s administration. He is Life Member #1219. He entered Omega Chapter after a long illness on November 9, 2022. He was preceded in death by his daughter Monique. He’s survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Julia Shealey; his son and daughterin-law, Christopher and Shari Shealey; along with two grandchildren.

BROTHER JOHNNY SIMPSON

Johnny Simpson was born in Orangeburg County to Ruth Simpson-Seabrooks and John Simpson Jr., on Jan. 11, 1948. He entered into eternal rest on Oct. 28, 2022 at Calhoun Convalescent Center in St. Matthews, following an extended illness.

Bro. Simpson graduated from G.W. Carver High School, Cope, in 1966 as class valedictorian. He received a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from South Carolina State University. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Johnny was baptized at an early age at Edisto Baptist Church in Orangeburg. He was a member of the Orangeburg Bar Association, American Bar Association, and the South Carolina Black Lawyers Association, among others.

Attorney Simpson worked at Palmetto Legal Services for numerous years. He joined Palmetto Legal Services as a law clerk in 1981 and was promoted multiple times. In 2002, he went into private practice in Orangeburg, where he served the community for many years. Bro. Simpson was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Epsilon Omega Chapter in 1996. He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Kelvin Walker; grandson, Charles I. Walker; brother, Franklin Simpson; and sister, Catherine Simpson-Green among other relatives and friends.

BROTHER JOHN W. RAMSEUR, SR

John W. Ramseur, Sr., (1-Lambda Psi -1955) entered Omega Chapter on January 10, 2023. He was 87 years old. Bro. Ramseur was born to James Henry and Loretta E. Mobley Ramseur. He was the owner of Robinson Funeral Home in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Established as the Peoples Undertaking Company 1911, it’s the oldest Black-owned business in Rock Hill.

Bro. Ramseur was a faithful member of New Mt. Olivet A.M.E. Zion Church in Rock Hill where he served on the Steward Board. Ramseur was a Life Member of NAACP, a member of the President’s Club at Livingstone College, and a member of Sterling Lodge #344, I.B.P.O.E. of W. He also served over 20 years on the Clinton Junior College Trustee Board, during which time the school achieved accreditation and built a new library.

Bro. Ramseur was a graduate of Livingstone College in Salisbury, NC, received a degree in Mortuary Science from Eckels College of Mortuary Science in Philadelphia, PA, and was an Army veteran. Initiated at Livingstone, he was a 68-year member of the Fraternity. He served dutifully as a member of Kappa Alpha Chapter of Rock Hill for several decades.

He is survived by his children Geoffrey D. Ramseur, Michele D. Ramseur, J. Monique Ramseur, Dawn R. Blair, and John W.

Ramseur, Jr.; seven grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren among other relatives and friends.

BROTHER JAMES E. SPANN

James E. Spann was the youngest of seven children born to Murray and Charity Spann. He was born on June 25, 1942, in Camden, South Carolina. At an early age, he was baptized and accepted Christ as His Lord and savior.

After graduating from Jackson High School, he entered South Carolina State College. After four years he received a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. After relocating to New York, he earned a Masters degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay University. This led to a 35 year career in law enforcement. James was also employed at Newton Funeral Home and Dash’s Funeral Home. He was the owner of Spanns Video and Photography.

In 1987, he and his family joined Mount Pisgah Baptist Church where he began several ministries. He made a great contribution to the media and security ministries until his health began to decline. James was vice president of the trustee ministry.

Next to God, his love for his wife, Sandye was unparalleled. Their union was blessed with two God anointed children, Sherry Veronica Lynn Spann (Deceased) and Rev. Phillip Robert Antonio Spann. James leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Sandye Spann of 53 years; his son, Rev. Phillip R. A. Spann; his devoted sisters, Geraldine Singleton and Ethel Fletcher among other relatives and friends.

BROTHER JAMES LLOYD WHITCOMB JR.

James Lloyd Whitcomb Jr., 78, of Greensboro, NC, passed away Sunday, October 9, 2022. James is survived by his wife, Frances, three daughters, two sons, five siblings, 14 grandchildren, and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

His Celebration of life services were held on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at Greater United Baptist Church, 1409 Deep River Road, High Point, NC. Bro. Whitcomb was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through the Omicron Xi Chapter in 1978. He was a member of Tau Omega at the time of his transition into Omega Chapter.

BROTHER JAMES ROGERS

James Rogers, 55, of Greensboro, NC died Saturday October 1, 2022. Bro. Rogers was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through the Tau Omega Chapter in 2000. He was a member of Tau Omega at the time of his transition into Omega Chapter.

BROTHER GREGORY M. DAVIS

Army SGT Gregory M. Davis II, age 24 of Fayetteville departed this life Friday, September 2, 2022. His Funeral service was held on Saturday, September 17, 2022 He was buried with military honors in Lafayette Memorial Park West.

Bro. Davis leaves to cherish his loving memory: fiancée, Taylor Simone Barber and baby boy, Gregory Lamont Davis III; parents Rev. Gregory & Monica Davis; siblings, Alicea Neomia Davis, Shaquia Monet Sutton, Jena Mercedes Davis; grandparents, Rosa Naomi McLeod Melvin, Dennis & Carolyn Davis Jr; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Bro. Davis was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. through the Psi Delta Chapter at the University of North Carolina.

BROTHER EDWARD GONDER FULLER

Bro. Edward Gonder Fuller was born on November 14, 1927, to Corene and Jarvis Gonder. He entered Omega Chapter in Hickory, North Carolina on September 26, 2022.

He completed prescribed courses of study at Bethune Cookman College earning a Bachelor of Science. He also earned a Master’s Degrees from Appalachian State University and A&T State University. During the summer months he worked at Blowing Rock Country Club and Hickory Country Club.

As Edward loved learning and teaching. He was a teacher at several high schools in Florida and South Carolina. In 1982 he was the Co-Principal at Fred T. Foard High School. After 34 years in the school system, he retired. He was a member of the Delta Nu Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., among numerous other organizations. He served the Fraternity as a Sixth District Area Representative and Registration Coordinator and won Omega Man of the Year, Sixth District. He leaves to cherish his memory; a devoted and special friend Ms. Carolyn Loritts; cousin, Deborah S. Rutledge; and goddaughter, Mrs. Virginia Lee Graves among other loved ones.

BROTHER EDWARD VERNAL ELLIS

Edward Vernal Ellis, of State College, died Saturday January 14, 2023 at his home with his family by his side. He was born on February 9, 1924, in Louisburg, North Carolina to Clarence and Eula Neal Ellis. The family then moved to Raleigh, NC for better opportunities.

Ed lived a long and impactful life serving his country, raising a family and making a meaningful impact as an educator. He was inducted into the U.S. Navy at 18 upon graduating from high school during WWII. He served from June 1943 to April 1946.

He returned to Raleigh and immediately began his undergraduate studies and graduated from Shaw University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology in 1949. He then completed a Masters of Science degree in Public Health from North Carolina Central University in 1950. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. After getting married in 1950 and starting a family, Ed completed his Ph.D at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill School of Public Health in 1964. Ed was the second African American to earn a doctorate from the School of Public Health along with his classmate, colleague and life long friend William Darity.

He is survived by his wife Debra (Sheaffer) and their two children and three grandchildren among other family members and friends.

BROTHER DR. HOWARD MONROE FITTS, JR.

Dr. Howard Monroe Fitts, Jr., passed away on Monday, January 30, 2023, at Duke Hock Family Pavilion at the age 101. Bro. Dr. Fitts grew up in Wilson, N.C., relocating to Durham in 1938 to attend North Carolina College for Negroes. Graduating with a degree in biology in 1941, he taught school for a brief period before being drafted into the U.S. Army. In 1945, Bro. Fitts re-enrolled at NCCU, earning a master’s degree in public health education and, later, a doctorate from the Teacher’s College of Columbia University in New York. Throughout his career, Bro. Dr. Fitts was dedicated to improving life for North Carolinians through teaching, public health advocacy, and support for civil rights.

NCCU Professor Emeritus Dr. Howard M. Fitts Jr. made a profound impact at NCCU. As a recognized advocate for public health, he shared his passion with Eagles during his time at NCCU serving as professor and chair of the University’s Department of Health Education from 1954 to 1987. We honor him for his service and dedication to our country with the United States Army.

BROTHER DEMONT ALEXANDER ROBERSON

SGM (Ret) DeMont Alexander Roberson was born on October 6 , 1970, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Danny and Sharon Roberson. He entered eternal rest on September 1 , 2022, in Columbia , South Carolina. He was 51 years old. At the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Army. He received numerous awards and medals throughout his career proving he was an

exemplary Soldier. DeMont was awarded the highest award, the Legion of Merit. He retired after serving 25 years in the U.S. Army. After serving, DeMont continued his education receiving a masters in Business, from Webster University.

DeMont was initiated into the Chi Iota Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on March 22, 2014. He was a life member of the Fraternity . He served as the Basileus, Keeper of Records and Seal, and received the Omega Man of the Year Award, among other Fraternal accolades. SGM (Ret) DeMont Alexander Roberson leaves to mourn his passing: his partner, Marissa Rowe; his daughter, Brianna Roberson; his mother, Sharon M. Roberson; and his father and stepmother, Danny and Doris Roberson, among many other loving relatives and caring friends.

BROTHER DAVID EARL ALLEN

David Earl Allen was born July 25,1987 in Conway, SC, to Elizabeth Allen Felder and Richard Washington. He made his transition peacefully January 3, 2023 at Atrium Carolina Health in Charlotte, NC.

David attended Allen University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business in 2010. He later attended Webster University and received his master’s degree in 2012. His passion about being the best father he could be. He enjoyed playing drums in church, making loved ones laugh, dancing, being a prankster, and he loved the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity,Inc.

David leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother Elizabeth Allen Felder; stepfather MC Felder; fiancée Amelia Gore; and children Anani l. Allen and David Earl Allen, Jr., along with a host of other relatives and friends.

BROTHER CORNELL MCGILL

Cornell McGill of Washington, NC, died Thursday, October 13, 2022, in Raleigh NC. His funeral services were held at Trinity Episcopal Church. He was buried at Cedar Hill, Washington NC.

Bro. McGill was initiated through the Kappa Epsilon Chapter in 1975. He was a member of the Nu Alpha Chapter at the time of his transition into Omega Chapter.

BROTHER BENTON LANGSTON, JR.

Benton Langston, Jr., was born July 13, 1930, in Effingham, South Carolina to the late Benton, Sr., and Ethel Ruth Hawkins Langston. He was the eldest of nine siblings. His early education began at Meadow Prong Baptist Church Elementary School, a historically Black Rosenwald School in Florence County. He

was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War. After serving, Bro. Langston continued his education and graduated from Morris College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, along with certifications in Biology, Mathematics, and General Science.

His teaching career began at Chestnut High School in Little River, SC. After moving to Rock Hill, SC. Bro. Langston taught at Emmett Scott High School, Sullivan Junior High and Friendship Junior College. He retired after 30 years of teaching. His service was demonstrated through his military and educational careers. He also served at Mt. Prospect Baptist Church in Rock Hill, SC for 58-years. Additionally, he was a loyal brother of the Kappa Alpha Chapter of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He exemplified his genuine love for his family as a loving, humble and faith-filled father, brother and uncle. Our lives will forever be touched for having been loved by him. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Cheryl LangstonBurris and sisters, Ethel Henicks and Fredia Kennedy, along with other family members and friends.

EIGHTH DISTRICT---BROTHER AUGUSTUS BELL, JR.

Augustus Bell, Jr. was born on September 8, 1928, in St. Louis, MO. Affectionately known as Gus; he was a wonderful person and an inspiration to many who knew him.

Gus’s Omega journey began November 21, 1948, when he was initiated into the Omicron Sigma Chapter at Stowe Teachers College (St. Louis, MO). His college education was interrupted when he was drafted into the US Army. He served in Japan during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge, he immediately enrolled at Lincoln University (Jefferson City, MO) and activated with the Eta Sigma Undergraduate Chapter. Upon graduation, he was hired as an instructor in the University’s Laboratory School and the Business Department. He continued his education at the University earning a Master of Education degree. He affiliated with the Eta Alpha Graduate Chapter where he served as Basileus until he returned to St. Louis, where he began teaching at his alma mater, Sumner High School.

In the true spirit of Omega, he became active with our Upsilon Omega Graduate Chapter, regularly attending meetings, serving on the Brother You’re on My Mind Committee and supporting our various projects. Many of us can recall that Gus liked to socialize at our Mardi Gras celebrations and consistently won the best-dressed masquerade contests for many years. When it was founded over twenty years ago, Gus was a charter member of the Omega Elite, a group of mostly Omega retirees, where he served as the Secretary/Treasurer/ Courtesy throughout the years. In 2018, Brother Bell earned the distinction of becoming a 70 year member of our dear fraternity.

Gus not only proudly wore the “Purple and Gold” but, more so, cherished and lived by its cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift. Omega’s motto is “Friendship is essential to the soul”, so it is understandable that he was a friend to all and he loved our brotherhood, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

NINTH DISTRICT----

BROTHER EUGENE DELOACH, SR.

LTC(R) Eugene DeLoach, Sr. was born on Oct. 28, 1965 in Allendale, South Carolina, to Mr. Elijah DeLoach and Mrs. Henrietta Williams DeLoach. He was one of eight children born to the union. Bro. LTC(R) DeLoach was initiated into the Xi Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on April 25, 1985. He served as the Chaplain in the Psi Upsilon Chapter until he entered Omega Chapter. He was a Life Member of the Fraternity, at the International and 9th District levels. He previously served in positions including Basileus; Vice Basileus; Keeper of Records and Seal; Chapter Editor to the Oracle; Chaplain; Keeper of Peace; and participated in a multitude of local and statewide committees. He was also a Silver Life Member of the NAACP where he served as 1st Vice-President of the Lawton branch.

Bro. DeLoach attended South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, SC. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in 1987. As a student he enrolled in the Army ROTC Program. Upon graduation he received his commission as an Army Second Lieutenant in the Signal Corps.

Bro. LTC(R) DeLoach met and married Dr. Regina Michelle (Brown) DeLoach on Dec. 23, 1989, at Fort Polk, LA. Together they have two children: Eugene Jr., and Brandon.

Bro. LTC(R) entered active-duty military service on March 13, 1988 and earned many honors. His awards include: the Legion of Merit; Bronze Star Medal; Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Award); Army Commendation Medal (5th Award); Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award); Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and the National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award). He was also an Airborne graduate.

He was a member of Union Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, Trustee, member of the Choir, Youth Choir Mentor, Sunday School, and Laymen’s Ministry. He was both an active and committed member of the Church.

Cherishing his memories along with his wife and two sons are his grandchildren: Emmanuel, Iris, Samuel, and Daniel, along with many other relatives and friends.

BROTHER ALBERT JOHNSON SR.

Albert Johnson Sr., was born at Taylor Hall on Fort Sill on August 27, 1927. Bro. Johnson was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., on January 18, 1951 as a Charter Member of the Psi Upsilon Chapter. He was instrumental in the growth of the Chapter. He has been recognized with the Superior Service Award. He was also inducted in the first Class of the Psi Upsilon Chapter Hall of Fame.

He attended Winston-Salem State Teachers College in North Carolina (now Winston Salem State University) to earn his Baccalaureate Degree in 1950. Subsequently, he received his teaching certification from Langston University in 1951. In 1959, he earned his Master’s Degree in Education at the University of Oklahoma. During his 44 year career he served in various positions including teacher, coach, counselor, principal, Director of Federal Programs, and Deputy Superintendent. Students and colleagues knew him to set clear and high standards. He established the expectation of accomplishment. Brother Johnson worked closely with Mr. Hugh Bish (Superintendent, Lawton Public Schools) assisting with the district’s desegregation process.

Bro. Johnson’s influence and tireless efforts extended well beyond his work day as he responded to the needs of the community by offering counseling services to parents, providing transportation to those in need and organizing a tutoring program at Barnett Chapel A.M.E Church. He started the Young Man’s Mentoring Program (YMMP), which focused on providing young men with skills and opportunities. Some of Brother Johnson’s honors and awards include: The Oklahoma School Public Relations Association’s Partners in Excellence Award; the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Youth Mentor Award; and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., “Omega Citizen of the Year,” among many others. Beyond his many awards he was a friend, mentor, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, teacher and disciplinarian, all bundled into one.

Bro. Johnson is survived by his wife Tammy; son, Albert Jr.; brother, Emmett Johnson, Ruston, Louisiana; and sister, Lucille Boutte, Lawton, among other family members and friends.

TENTH DISTRICT---BROTHER TAURESE EDGE

Taurese Edge went home to Omega Chapter on February 26, 2023. Bro. Edge was 1-Rho Sigma 01 Purdue University. Upon graduation YKK Chapter Founded 1998, became Bro. Edge’s Graduate Chapter Home. Bro. Edge was the number one on his line

along with Bro. Keith Dix 2-Rho Sigma 01.

Bro. Edge was with some his chapter brothers celebrating a chapter brother’s wife’s birthday hours before departing this world and we will always remember him as a fun-loving, hardworking brother. Bro. Edge would have been so proud of the awesome outpouring of Love from the 100’s of Brothers, friends and family members that traveled to Indianapolis, IN, from all around the country to say a final good bye to our brother.

BROTHER JESSE MATTHEWS

Jesse Matthews, former Basileus of Sigma Omega Chapter has transitioned to Omega Chapter. Bro. Matthews transitioned to Omega chapter on January 8, 2023 surrounded by family and friends. Bro. Matthews was born October 6, 1966 in Bartow, Florida. He was a believer in God’s goodness, a devoted husband, father, brother, leader, mentor, and Omega Man. Bro. Matthews graduated from Florida A & M University where he earned a Data Processing degree in 1988. After college he began his career in Chicago as a Global Technology professional for more than 30 years. He worked for several corporations most notably McDonald’s Corporation where he spent 18 years. At McDonald’s he served as Senior Director of the U.S. Leadership Team, reporting directly to the CIO. Bro. Jesse was a true servant leader at Fellowship Ministry Baptist Church alongside his wife Pam. He was a member of the Intercessory Prayer Team, a member of the Men’s Ministry Leadership Team, and Soulmates Marriage Ministry Leadership Team.

Bro. Matthews was initiated on March 31, 1990 through Sigma Omega Chapter. He served two consecutive terms as the Vice Basileus and three consecutive terms as the Basileus of Sigma Omega Chapter. Bro. Matthews received a 30 year service award and was Omega Man of the year.

TWELFTH DISTRICT----

BROTHER KEVIN G. DAILEY

Kevin Dailey was an educator for 39 years. He spent his entire career at Audubon. Before his appointment as Dean of Students, he served as a social studies teacher, stagecraft instructor, and gospel choir director. He also served as a restorative justice teacher and advisor for the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Bro. Dailey graduated from Howard University, earning a BS in Political Science, followed by his JD Degree. He later received an MS in Educational Administration from

California State University – Dominguez Hills.

Bro. Dailey became a member of Omega Psi Phi via the Kappa Psi Chapter in Washington DC, on April 19, 1981. The Basileus, Bro. Byron Moody and Brothers of Kappa Psi send heartfelt condolences to the family. Kevin’s Line Brother, Alan Graves sent condolences on behalf of the 1981 Line, “FUNK OR WALK.” Bro. Dailey was also active with Lambda and Zeta Rho Chapters in the Los Angeles area. Rest in Omega Chapter Brother Kevin G. Dailey.

BROTHER WILLIAM RALPH DRAPER, SR.

William Ralph “Tony” Draper, Sr. was born on October 8, 1943, to William Henry and Bertha Jeter Draper in Birmingham, Alabama.

As a young man he studied at Tuskegee Institute, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering. There he met and fell in love with his wife Cheryl Cottrell Draper. Relocating to Southern California, he made a career with Hughes Aircraft/ Raytheon as an engineer and then, ultimately, a Program Manager.

He dedicated his life to service and family from a very early age mentoring, tutoring, and supporting young people of his community as a little league coach, board member in the Inglewood Unified School District, after school math tutor, and most of all, as a stellar example of a father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Bro. Draper was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity through Lambda Epsilon Chapter in Tuskegee Alabama on December 8, 1962. Locally here in Los Angeles, he was affiliated with the Zeta Rho Chapter. It is with great respect and humility that we say rest in Omega Chapter.

BROTHER DR. REX FORTUNE

Pioneering school superintendent Dr. Rex Fortune entered Omega Chapter January 29, 2023, just four days after his 81st birthday. Dr. Fortune was called a “giant among giants” whose “work lives on through the countless educators that he mentored.” Bro. Fortune was initiated into the Xi Nu Chapter in 1959.

Bro. Fortune served as the Associate Superintendent of Public Instruction in the California Department of Education and superintendent of two California school districts. He founded Fortune School of Education (FSE), established a Master’s Degree in Education

program for FSE graduates, and worked with his daughter, Margaret G. Fortune, who established a charter management organization. Dr. Fortune served as past chairman of the board of Fortune School of Education and as its director of research and evaluation. He also served as past president of the Pacific Charter Institute board. Brother Fortune received his B.S. degree in biology; a U.S. Army Commission from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University; his MA in educational administration from UC Berkeley; and his PhD in educational administration from Stanford University. “Bridging the Achievement Gap: What Successful Educators and Parents Do Second Edition,” released in October 2018 is his fifth book in Education. All three of his children are college graduates.

Bro. Fortune was born in New Bern, North Carolina on January 25, 1942. He met the love of his life, Margaret, while in college. Fortune is survived by his wife, Margaret S. Fortune; their children, Gwendolyn Fortune-Blakely, Rex Fortune III, and Dr. Margaret Fortune; brother, Dr. Ron Fortune; and two grandchildren, Lenora and Evan.

BROTHER GARY ROSS HARGRAVE

Gary Ross Hargrave was born in Buffalo, NY, on July 18, 1949, to Thomas and Mable Hargrave. He was the second child of seven. Brother Hargrave was raised in the Otay Mesa, Calif., neighborhood of San Diego County, where the Hargrave family and three others were the only Black families in the neighborhood.

Bro. Hargrave attended Southwestern College (Chula Vista, Calif.) for two years before transferring to San Diego State University. While at SDSU, he met his future wife, Maria (married on June 12, 1976). In 1975, he was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Phi Omicron Chapter, the oldest graduate chapter in San Diego County.

Bro. Hargrave served in the Army as a MotorPool Sergeant. He was an avid reader and loved martial arts movies. He attended every Conclave since his initiation and truly embodied the cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. Bro. Hargrave will be cherished by his wife of 46 years, his daughter and son, his daughter-in-law and son-in-law, grandchildren, family, friends, and his fraternity brothers.

BROTHER FRED JACKSON

Fred Jackson entered Omega Chapter on November 8, 2022, at 88 years old. He was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Zeta Nu Chapter in 1983. He served in the leadership positions Basileus, Vice Basileus, Keeper of Records and Seal, and Keeper of Finance. He Chaired the Chapter scholarship program. After 20 years in the Air Force he started a career as a teacher. He rose to the level of Vice Principal of Portland Public School’s Benson High School.

BROTHER ERNEST JEROME MOUTON

Ernest Jerome Mouton entered Omega Chapter at 71 years old. He was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Zeta Nu Chapter March 17, 1992. He served as Chair of the Chapter mentorship program and as a leader in many community service and fund raising activities. Brother Mouton had a long career as a teacher with Portland Public Schools and in real estate.

BROTHER MORRIS PAUL O’KELLY

Morris Paul O’Kelly, the only son of Elvira Tweedy O’Kelly and Morris R.V. O’Kelly was born in Youngstown, Ohio November 21, 1939. He settled in Lynchburg, Virginia where he attended Paul Lawrence Dunbar Negro High School and discovered his love of music. He became a member of the Knights of Jazz Combo and started his professional career as a saxophonist at age 15. Morris received a full academic scholarship to Howard University and became the first in his family to attend college.

While at Howard, studied music education. He played in the university band and sang in the choir which represented the U.S. State Department on a 3-month performance tour of Central America and South America. He was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Alpha Chapter as #4 of the “Noble 9” on December 15, 1958. He met and later married his life companion, Kay Burgess. His master’s dissertation was on the role of the stage band in the public high schools in the District of Columbia. While living in Washington, D.C. Morris and Kay welcomed their daughter Marie. Morris taught middle school during the week, the D.C. Youth Orchestra on Saturdays and played saxophone with the Bobby Felder Band on Saturday nights. In 1969, the young couple moved to Los Angeles. Soon after, Morris and Kay welcomed their second child, Morris William.

Morris taught music in the Compton and Torrance Unified School Districts for over 33 years. Bro. Morris was honored numerous times for his service in music education. Among his most cherished accolades were the NBC Channel 4’s Crystal Apple Award; Los Angeles Philharmonic’s “Unsung Heroes” award; Hollywood Riviera Sportsman’s Club Socrates Award; and certificates and resolutions from the City of Inglewood, and State of California. Family for Morris was more than biology. His earthly presence will be missed by Kay, his wife of 58 years; daughter Marie; son and Omega Brother Morris W. (Wendy), among a host of other family members and friends.

BROTHER LEANDER JOSEPH ROBERTS, JR.

Lt. Colonel Leander Joseph Roberts, Jr. was a long-time educator at Grant High School in Sacramento, Calif. He was a mentor, husband, father, and an Omega man. He entered Omega Chapter on April 2, 2022. He was born in Bordentown,

N.J. He served in the U. S. Air Force. After retirement as a high school teacher, he continued to teach at Grant High, along with his wife. Together, they helped many students pursue higher education. So many of the students absolutely adore them both for their support. He supported students’ education tangibly through scholarship opportunities and the Talent Hunt program sponsored by Epsilon Xi Chapter. Notably, Brother Dr. Tyree Davie expressed his appreciation for Brother Roberts’ impact in his life as a youth and seeing him into his Omega life. Brother Roberts was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He was initiated into the Fraternity at Tuskegee University through Lambda Epsilon Chapter in 1953 as a member of the “Mighty 13.” He and two of his line brothers affiliated with Epsilon Xi Chapter. The trio was honored during Epsilon Xi Founders’ Day program in 2000. Brother Roberts leaves behind wife, Shirley Roberts of Roseville, Calif., and daughter, LeAnne Roberts.

BROTHER GREGORY CHARLES WILLIAMS JR.

Faith, hope, and love was the core of Gregory Charles Williams Jr.’s journey. He never wavered in his faith in God.

Gregory Charles Williams Jr. was born to Mr. Gregory Charles Williams Sr. and Donna Lidge Williams on March 17, 1985, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was an active member of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church from young adulthood. He served passionately in the youth ministry. Greg attended Jacksonville State University where he was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. through Theta Eta Chapter in the Spring of 2005.

He earned a Bachelors of Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, Greg was a Logistics Manager for Ryder Logistics, Inc. in Bessemer, AL. On November 1, 2014, Greg married the

love of his life, Tundra Thomas. He was the devoted father to his amazing children, Ethan Gregory and Amiya Gabrielle Williams. For seven years, Greg defied all odds as he battled against an aggressive form of brain cancer. His tenacity, positive attitude, and strong faith exceeded expectations. He did everything with a loving spirit and endless grace. “God’s Got Me,” became his pillar phrase as he strived daily to overcome the challenges he faced. Greg was a living testimony of God’s faithfulness and an example of what it truly means to walk by faith and not by sight. Surrounded by family and loved ones, Greg gained his wings on Wednesday, December 14, 2022.

BROTHER STANLEY T. WILSON, JR.

Stanley T. Wilson, Jr., (4-02-Omicron Nu), entered Omega chapter on February 1, 2023. Stanley was integral in the reactivation of the Alpha Mu chapter on the campus of Stanford University. He was an elite two-sport athlete for the Cardinals, excelling in football and track. He was a third-round pick of the 2005 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions. He played three seasons for the Lions before a series of injuries ended his career. He was known by loved ones for his infectious smile, love of laughter, and willingness to help others. In the vein of helping others, Stanley and his family generously donated his brain to CTE research to help medical professionals better understand, diagnose, and treat traumatic brain injuries in future generations.

BROTHER KENNETH WAYNE WRIGHT

Kenneth Wayne Write was born to Rebecca C. Wright and Jackson Wright on October 6, 1968. He grew up in Birmingham, Ala. He attended New Pilgrim Baptist Church where he confessed his faith in Christ at an early age. He participated in Sunday school through his adult years. Kenneth attended and graduated from

the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor of Science degree in management and information systems. He was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through Kappa Delta Chapter in 1993. After a brief career in consulting, Ken decided to pursue his passion, becoming a professional DJ. It was his dream to make the world happy through his music mixes and his laidback demeanor.

He was a dedicated member of the Fraternity. He genuinely loved his fraternity brothers. His mother once asked him why he joined this Fraternity, Ken replied, “So that I could have more brothers. I wanted more brothers.”

Ken was married to Hedwige (Didi) Saint Louis, M.D., of Roswell, Ga. He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Didi; a son, Donovan Alexander Wright (16); and a daughter, McKenzie Rebecca-Marie Wright (12) of Roswell, GA, among a host of other relatives and friends. His final days were spent with his mother, father, brother, sister, fraternity brothers, and family. Kenneth “Jukebox” Wright left his mark on many lives through his DJingsomething that gave him true joy.

THIRTEENTH DISTRICT---BROTHER CALVIN ANDRE NANCE, SR.

On October 17, 2022, after a long battle with cancer, the silent shadow of death claimed Bro. Calvin Nance, Sr. On July 22, 2006, Bro. Nance crossed the burning sands into Omega through Lambda Xi Chapter in South Korea. He was also in Tau Rho Chapter (Fredericksburg, Va.). Bro. Nance (Life Member #5477) was a Brother’s Brother who extended Friendship to every brother he met along his journey. He retired from the U.S. Army as a First Sergeant, E-8, NonCommissioned Officer. Calvin served in both peacetime and wartime while deployed to Haiti, Bosnia, Jordan, and Iraq. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, among many other distinguished awards and accommodations. Rest in eternal peace Brother Calvin Nance, Sr., until we meet again.

Lt. Colonel Leander Joseph Roberts, Jr.

TENTATIVE DR. MOSES C. NORMAN, SR. LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE AGENDA

TUESDAY. JULY 11, 2023

f 13th District Meeting

WEDNESDAY. JULY 12, 2023

f 13th District Meeting

f Omega International Youth Leadership Conference

f 1st Vice Grand Retreat

f Golf Tourney - Royal Blue Golf Course

THURSDAY. JULY 13, 2023

f Morning Meditation and Prayer

f Youth S.T.E.M.

f Community Project

f Registration/Pick up Leadership Conference Package

f Supreme Council Meeting

f International Committee Chairmen Meeting

f Grand Basileus Welcome Reception

f Entertainment – Local Chapter Opportunity

FRIDAY. JULY 14, 2023

f Yoga Session

f Registration/Pick up Leadership Conference Package

f Morning Meditation and Prayer

f Vendors Open

f History and Archives Displays

f General Opening Session – 1st Vice presiding “The Leader within You”

f Vaccinations Protects our Future

f Concurrent Workshops

▪ Basileus Training

▪ Keeper of Records and Seal Training

▪ Keeper of Finance Training

▪ Chaplain Training

▪ Fatherhood & Mentoring Training

▪ Protocol Training

▪ SEC Training

f Lunch on your own

f Service Awards Presentation

f Entertainment

SATURDAY. JULY 15, 2023

f Fun Run Walk

f Registration/Pick up Leadership Conference Package

f Morning Meditation and Prayer

f Vendors Open

f Private Business Enterprise

f On The Front Line of Social Justice

f Concurrent Workshops II

▪ Basileus Training

▪ Keeper of Records and Seal Training

▪ Keeper of Finance Training

▪ Chaplain Training

▪ Fatherhood and Mentoring Training

▪ Protocol Training

▪ SEC Trainings

f Ronald E. McNair Undergraduate Luncheon

f Code of Conduct Training

f General Closing Session – 1st Vice presiding

f Local Entertainment

SUNDAY. JULY 16, 2023

f Depart for home. Safe

We are always seeking Brothers with an opinionated view to submit an editorial, a story idea, an article from the history & archives, a poem, or a photo.

If you have those desires, please email Bro. Norm Senior at EditorToTheOracle@oppf.org

Send address changes to: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Attn: Grand KRS 3951 Snapfinger Parkway Decatur, GA 30035.

Brother Shaquille O’Neal

Brother Rickey Smiley

BACK COVER —Caricature Version of the 83rd Grand Conclave Wall

Photo Captions on Page 179