Copyright 2026 by Upsilon Sigma Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc
Edited by: Bro. Attorney Charles Bracey. Cover and Page Designs: Bro. Dr. Jessie E. Kilgore, Jr.
Contributors: The Hon Bro Justice Carl Walker, President; Bro Obeddie Hawkins, VicePresident; Bro Dr Jessie Kilgore, 3rd Vice President, Hon Bro Clarence Johnson, Financial Secretary; Bro. Dwayne Cecil, Treasurer; Bro. Dan Miller, Recording Secretary; Bro. Anthony Driver, Corresponding Secretary; Bro. Garrett Smith, Parliamentarian; Bro. Charles Bracey, Esq., Chapter Legal Counsel; Bro. Rev. Mario Caple, Chaplain; and Bro. Reggie Wynne;
All rights reserved No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.
Printed in the United States of America
ISBN: 978-0-578-86388-7
Upsilon Sigma Alumni Chapter 4941 S Martin Luther King Blvd Chicago, IL 60615 www.upsilonsigmapbs.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/upsilonsigma
Front Matter
Cover Page 1
President Recognition 2
Chapter Report Title Page 3
Vision & Mission 4
Publication Information 5
Table of Contents 6
City of Chicago Feature 7
Chapter Leadership Messages
President’s Message 8
1st Vice President’s Message 9
Leadership & Recognition
Chapter Leadership 10
Lifetime Achievement Recognitions 11
Fraternity & Chapter History
Fraternity History 12
National History 12
Chapter History 12
Chapter Standards & Membership
Standards Self-Assessment Tool 13
Membership Growth & Retention 14
Chapter Demographics 15
2025 Chapter Roster 16
Programs & Operations
Program Implementation Assessments (PIA) 17
Chapter Operations 18
Risk Management 19–20
Standing Committees
Social Action Committee 21
Bigger & Better Business Committee 22
Education Committee 23
Sigma Beta Club 24
Sigma Zeta Relations Committee 25
Social Media Committee 26–28
Carnation Ball Committee 29
Membership Intake (MIP) Committee 30
Service in Our Community 31
Entertainment Committee 32
National Pan-Hellenic Committee 33
Wellness Committee 34
Chapter Recognition & Highlights
Brothers on the Move 35
Chapter Events 2025 36–41
Sister Organization Spotlight
Our Sisters – Zeta Highlights 42
Closing Reflection
Fraternity & Chapter Historical Reflection 43
CHICAGO, IL
The City of Chicago is one of the most beautiful cities in the world because of its location near Lake Shore, and because of its stunning architecture. With buildings like the Willis Tower, the Art Museum, The John Handcock Building, the Water Tower, The Field Museum, and engineering gems like Navy Pier, Wacker Drive, and not to mention the rush on Rush street and the most Magnificent Mile of all, Chicago is breathtaking and beautiful. Officially, the City of Chicago, is the most populous city in the State of Illinois and the third most populous city in the United States. With an estimated population of 2,664,976 in 2025, it is also the most populous city in the Midwestern United States. Chicago is the county seat of Cook County, the second most populous county in the U.S., while a small portion of the city's O'Hare Airport also extends into DuPage County. Chicago is the principal city of the Chicago metropolitan area, defined as either the U.S. Census Bureau's Metropolitan Statistical Area (9.4 million people) or the Combined Statistical Area (almost 10 million residents), often called Chicagoland. It constitutes the third most populous urban area in the United States after New York City and Los Angeles.
Located on the shores of freshwater Lake Michigan, Chicago was incorporated as a city in 1837 near a portage between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River watershed and grew rapidly in the mid-19th century. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed several square miles and left more than 100,000 homeless, the city rebuilt. The construction boom accelerated population growth throughout the following decades, and by 1900, less than 30 years after the great fire, Chicago was the fifth-largest city in the world. Chicago made noted contributions to urban planning and zoning standards, including new construction styles, the development of the City Beautiful Movement, and the steel-framed skyscraper.
Chicago is an international hub for finance, culture, commerce, industry, education, technology, telecommunications, and transportation. It is the site of the creation of the first standardized futures contracts, issued by the Chicago Board of Trade, which today is part of the largest and most diverse derivatives market in the world, generating 20% of all volume in commodities and financial futures alone. O'Hare International Airport is routinely ranked among the world's top six busiest airports according to tracked data by the Airports Council International. The region also has the largest number of federal highways and is the nation's railroad hub. The Chicago area has one of the highest gross domestic products (GDP) in the world, generating $689 billion in 2018. The economy of Chicago is diverse, with no single industry employing more than 14% of the workforce. It is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Allstate, Boeing, Caterpillar, Exelon, Kraft Heinz, McDonald's, Mondelez International, Sears, United Airlines Holdings, US Foods, and Walgreens.
Chicago's 58 million tourist visitors in 2018 set a new record and Chicago has been voted the best large city in the U.S. for urban Magnificent and Park on improvisational music. Illinois the
CHICAGO IS....
Chicago is home to...
2,664,450 residents
50 wards
77 community areas
100 neighborhoods
8 major league sports teams, including two MLB teams
Former President Obama
Chicago is is a foodie destination...
More than 7,300 restaurants
7 AAA Diamond-rated restaurants
26 Michelin-starred restaurants
40 James Beard Award-winning restaurants, and host of the annual James Beard Awards
54 Bib Gourmand winners
144 dog-friendly restaurants
Chicago is is a biking city...
Chicago has the second-highest percentage of commuters riding their bikes to work
Bicycle commute times in the region average only 23 minutes
303 miles of bike lanes
19 miles of lakefront bicycle paths along Lake Michigan
On behalf of the Men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Upsilon Sigma Chapter, I bring greetings as our chapter celebrates 98 years of service and continue in the tradition of the men who laid the foundation for our fraternity and chapter. More than 112 years ago, our revered founders A. Langston Taylor, Charles I. Brown, and Leonard F. Morse founded our fraternity with a focus on the ideals of Brotherhood, Scholarship and Service. As a chapter, we havemaintained thoseideals.
I appreciate the voice of the Hon. Bro. Clarence Johnson who keeps us anchored in the rich history of our fraternity and chapter. Our executive team and chapter members joined my vision to increase our presence in every facet of service to youth, our community, and humanity, and I send a heartfelt "thank you" to each of my chapter brothers for giving their heart, mind, body and soul to the success and growth of our chapter. We are proud of our serviceandproudtobe the largestchapter in the Great LakesRegion with nearly170financialmembers Duringthepastseveralyears,wehaveaddedapproximately20brotherstoourchaptereach year. Our chapter is fully engaged in the Illinois One Sigma concept, and we have been active with Founders' Day celebrations Inaddition,wehaveengagedotherchapterstoparticipateinservice WeareproudofourMembershipIntake Teamforcontributingtothisgrowth
Our new members are phenomenal workers who love our great fraternity We are also elated to have built working relationships with local Sigma and Zeta Chapters, and we have demonstrated strong and unwavering support for our brothersduringtimesofbereavementandjoy
Amongst our greatest achievements is the consistent increase in our social media presence We can be found via our Website,FacebookorInstagram UpsilonSigmaChapterengagedinextensiveservice WemaintainedanactiveSigma Beta Club that met regularly We also supported the March of Dimes, the American Heart Association, Sickle Cell Foundation,andmanylocalcharities
We have engaged in many programs to support the local community which included the Sigma House Block clean up, programstosupportsmallbusiness,Thanksgivingturkeygiveaways,toydrives,coatdrives,voterregistrationdriveswith Rainbow Push, and blood drives in conjunction with the American Red Cross We are extremely proud of our signature annualCarnationBall&CrescentMoonAwardswhichawardedseveralscholarshipstoyoungAfricanAmericanmen
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Upsilon Sigma Chapter as the 1st Vice President during 2025. While there has been a multitude of challenges throughout the entire year, the chapter’s 168 membership has been resilient in carrying out the principles of this wondrous band. I give God all the praise and honor for sustaining Upsilon Sigma as well as for His undeserved mercy and grace. Our chapter’s success can also be contributed to the amazing leadership of our dedicated President, the one and only, Honorable Brother Judge Carl Anthony Walker, DSC 165. I have learned some invaluable lessons while being under his tutelage. He’s the epitome of Brother, Scholarship and Service. This is one of the reasons why Upsilon Sigma Chapter has exceeded expectations year after year.
Overall, the men of Upsilon Sigma has embodied the characteristic of the chapter’s 99 years of history—the Chicagoland Premier Chapter. When a strategic plan or programmatic thrust is charged from the national, regional or state level, Upsilon Sigma Chapter is eager and ready to fulfill the need. This is clearly demonstrated as Upsilon Sigma Chapter has birthed a number of International Presidents including our present 37th President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Honorable Brother David A. Turner.
Furthermore, Upsilon Sigma Chapter has led the city of Chicago, the State of Illinois as well as the Great Lakes Region in executing chapter growth through an intentional focus on transparency and genuine brotherhood. In providing an array of programs and activities that appeal to each member’s interest, this has encapsulated Upsilon Sigma Chapter’s incomparable reputation.
I was introduced to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. as a Sophomore in high school which led me to my induction into the Sigma Beta Club. The spirit of the fraternity led me to pledge in 1990 at Mississippi State University—Theta Iota Chapter. A year later I transferred into Chicago’s Iota Alpha Chapter where I served as Vice President, Treasurer and Carnation Ball Chair. Later in life, I received open arms into Upsilon Sigma Chapter where I have served as 1st Vice President, Treasurer, Sigma Beta Club Coordinator, State of Illinois Sigma Beta Club Coordinator, Co-Chair of Social Action Committee and an active member of multiple committees. I’m humble to serve Upsilon Sigma Chapter as I‘m just a servant who lives his life by one thought: the meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.
Sincerely,
Bro. Obeddie R. Hawkins 1st Vice-President, Upsilon Sigma Chapter
LEADERSHIP
2025 Executive
Hon. Judge Carl A. Walker, CPA, DSC 165 Chapter President
Bro. Obeddie Hawkins 1st Vice-President
Bro. Atty. Michael Jarard 2nd Vice-President
Bro. Dr. Jessie Kilgore 3rd Vice-President
Hon. Bro. Clarence D. Johnson Financial Secretary/Keeper of Records
Bro. Dwayne CecilTreasurer
Bro. Dan Miller Recording Secretary
Bro. Anthony Driver Corresponding Secretary
Rev. Mario CapleChaplain
Hon. Bro. David A. Turner, MSA, CPA International President
Leadership A Legacy of Leadership
Bro. Garrett Smith Sargent at Arms/Parliamentarian
Bro. Dwayne Cecil Director Bigger Better Business
Bro. Eugene Robinson Director of Education
Bro. Paul Hayward Director of Social Action
Bro. Reginald Wynne Director of Membership Intake
Bro. Keewaun Stokes Director of Membership Intake
Bro. Charles Bracey, Esq. Director of Scholarships
Bro. Marquis WilliamsCentennial Chair
Bro. Garrett Smith Sigma/Zeta Relations
Past International President
Hon. Bro. Arthur W. Mitchell
Hon. Bro. George W. Lawrence
Hon. Bro. Maurice Moore
Past International Treasurer
Hon. Bro. Ephriam Persons
Past International Auditor
Hon. Justice Carl Anthony Walker, CPA
Past Regional Directors
Bro. John Tardiff
Hon. Bro. Chester Riley
Hon. Bro. Clarence D. Johnson
Hon. David A. Tuner, MSA, CPA
Distinguished Service Chapter
DSC #15 - Hon. Bro. Hugh Fisher Lewis
DSC #20 - Hon. Bro. George W. Lawrence
DSC #44 - Hon Bro. Maurice A. Moore
DSC #60 - Hon. Bro. Andrew Childress
DSC #64 - Hon. Bro. Ephraim E. Person
DSC #87 - Hon. Bro. Chester Riley
DSC #114 - Hon. Bro. Dr. Howard Felder
DSC #126 - Hon. Bro. Clarence D. Johnson
DSC #165 - Hon. Bro. Justice Carl Anthony Waker, CPA
Past Regional Legal Counsel
Hon. Bro. Justice Carl Anthony Walker, CPA
Current Regional Legal Counsel
Bro. Michael Jarard, Esq.
Other Prominent Members of Upsilon Sigma Chapter
Hon Justice Charles E Freeman, First Black to Serve on the Illinois Supreme Court
Hon. Mayor Harold Washington, First Black Mayor of the City of Chicago
Hon. LaShawn K. Ford, State Rep & Candidate for U.S. Congress
Bro. Randy Crumpton, Esq. 168 Members Strong!
SALUTES THE FOLLOWING
BROTHERS
FOR THEIR YEARS OF CONTINUED SERVICE
60 PLUS YEARS OF SERVICE
Bro. Dr. Edward Hubbard
Hon. Bro. Clarence D. Johnson
Bro. Rutherford Wilson
50 PLUS YEARS OF SERVICE
Bro. Terrence Boone
Bro. Larry Copeland
Bro. Eric Daniels
Bro. Craig Harris
Bro. Jeffrey Johnson
Bro. J. Michael Johnson
Bro. Dr. Michael Miller
Bro. William Miller
Bro. Lloyd Strong
Bro. Melvin Warfield
FRATERNITY HISTORY
NATIONAL HISTORY
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C., January 9, 1914, by three young African-American male students. The Founders, Honorable A. Langston Taylor, Honorable Leonard F. Morse, and Honorable Charles I. Brown, wanted to organize a Greek letter fraternity that would truly exemplify the ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service.
The Founders deeply wished to create an organization that viewed itself as “a part of” the general community rather than “apart from” the general community. They believed that each potential member should be judged by his own merits, rather than his family background or affluence… without regard to race, nationality, skin tone or texture of hair. They desired for their fraternity to exist as part of an even greater brotherhood which would be devoted to the “inclusive we” rather than the “exclusive we”.
From its inception, the Founders also conceived Phi Beta Sigma as a mechanism to deliver services to the general community. Rather than gaining skills to be utilized exclusively for themselves and their immediate families, they held a deep conviction that they should return their newly acquired skills to the communities from which they had come. This deep conviction was mirrored in the Fraternity’s motto, “Culture For Service and Service For Humanity”.
Today, Phi Beta Sigma has blossomed into an international organization of leaders. No longer a single entity, members of the Fraternity have been instrumental in the establishment of the Phi Beta Sigma National Foundation, the Phi Beta Sigma Federal Credit Union and The Sigma Beta Club Foundation. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, founded in 1920 with the assistance of Phi Beta Sigma, is the sister organization of the Fraternity.
CHAPTER HISTORY
About Upsilon Sigma Chapter (Click on any image to enlarge) The Upsilon Sigma Chapter of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was chartered September 11, 1927 by Brothers; Summer Colum, MD, Austin Gray, MD, Milton Johnson, MD, William M. Jones, George W. Lawrence, JD, Hugh Fisher Lewis, U.C. McClerkins, George W. Prince and John E. Smith.
Upsilon Sigma Chapter Charter The chapter immediately flourished and became a driving force in the African American community in Chicago. In the beginning, the chapter met at a funeral establishment on South Indiana. The chapter's annual Drikel Ball on the Thursday immediately following Thanksgiving opened the social calendar for the formal event in Chicago.
In 1949, a program was started to buy a fraternity house in Chicago. The tireless effort of brothers in the chapter resulted in the purchase of "The Sigma House" at 4941 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive.
Upsilon Sigma has been the mother chapter of the Great Lakes Region. During the administration of brothers Chester Riley and Clarence Johnson, Both Directors of the Great Lakes Region (1974-1980) more than 61 chapters of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity were chartered or reclaimed thought the region.
Under the Leadership of our President Judge Carl Walker, DSC 165, we have grown from 39 members to 168 members in 7 years.
STANDARDS SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL
Name of Chapter: Upsilon Sigma Chapter
City/Community: Chicago, Illinois
Chapter Address: 4941 South Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Chicago, IL. 60615
Chapter President: Hon. Justice Carl Anthony Walker, DSC 165
Telephone: (312) 719-8047
Email: Info@upsilonsigmapbs.org
Chapter Level Status: Silver Chapter Members: 168
Chapters in Marginal Status will be placed on performance review until performance is brought up to a minimum of Bronze Status.
-All Reports Will Be Submitted Electronically-
Prior to submitting, chapter will confirm that all information presented in report is accurate and true. Any falsification in this report will result in chapter suspension. Each Regional Director will review and approve his chapter's report and forward to National Headquarters for processing. Any chapter that does not submit report to Regional Director during the required period will be suspended.
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH & RETENTION
Upsilon Sigma Chapter has been keenly focused and intentional in our implementation of membership growth and retention policy. This is evidenced by our explosive growth to 168 members during 2025 (an increase of 26 members). Our Retention, Recruitment and Reclamation program has focused on retaining current members, recruiting new members and reclaiming former members who have been inactive for years.
To meet our goals, we engaged in the following:
Maximizing Event Participation - When hosting social events associated with any of our 3 core programs, we have gone through great lengths to ensure maximum participation. This has included the use of social media (Facebook, GroupMe, Email and Text Blasts) as well as personal phone calls. These outreach efforts took place on a 10 day out, 7 day out, 3 day out and day prior basis. This has resulted in brothers not only being able to interact with each other socially but to do so, in many cases, for a worthy cause. We also make a point to provide updates of chapter, state, regional and national activities of Phi Beta Sigma.
Pastoral Care - We have been very intentional in our efforts to support and uplift brothers during these trying times. From birthdays, to wedding and fraternity anniversaries, to support during a loss, Upsilon Sigma shows concern and interest in many non-Sigma activities of members. We make an effort to recognize the achievements of our brothers during chapter meetings, committee meetings and via call of support. Additionally, some of the pastoral care initiatives are also supported through many programs such as Ask a Doctor, Mental Health programming, etc. We also monitor lack of engagement monthly to ascertain the wellness of members.
Retention
Recruitment Reclamation
CHAPTER DEMOGRAPHICS
Upsilon Sigma Chapter is extremely diverse and members range in age from 25 years old to the upper-90s. The Honorable Bro. Clarence Johnson (DSC 126) is 87 years of age, and our oldest member is Bro. Dr. Edward Hubbard at 97.
As of December 31, 2025, we have four active members who have served the fraternity for more than 60 years (Bro. Dr. Edward Hubbard, Hon. Bro. Clarence D. Johnson, Bro. Larry Copeland, and Bro. Rutherford Wilson who transitioned on January 17, 2026). We have two surviving members of the Distinguished Service Chapter (Hon. Bro. Clarence D. Johnson, DSC 126 and Hon. Bro. Judge Carl Walker, DSC 165).
We are extremely proud to have our International President Hon. Bro. David Turner as a member of our chapter. 99% of our members have bachelor’s degrees. We have one appellate court justice, one trial court judge, 20 members with law degrees, nearly 20 members in law enforcement, more than 15 members with PhD’s, two airline pilots, and a host of ministers, educators, and other professionals.
Chapter Demographics
2025 CHAPTER ROSTER
NAME
Jalen Anderson
Sokoni Babb
Edward Bailey
Steve Ballard
Gregory Ballard
Marcus Banks
Raymond Barney
Dwayne Betts
Lloyd Biddle
Kenneth Bivens
Terrence Boone
Charles Bracey
Eric Brady
Anthony Brakie
Ronald Branch
Donte Bridges
Larry Brookins
Shawn Brown
Stanley Buford
Garry Cain
Mario Caple
Joseph Carter
Kevin Catching
Eric Cato, Jr.
Eric Cato, Sr.
Johnny Cavers
Dwayne Cecil
N. Keith Chambers
NAME
Gerald Chaney
Michael Childress
Ronald Cole
Keith Conner
Larry Copeland
Amiri Curry
Eric Daniels
Joseph Deloney
Aaron Deroux
Renaldo Dixon
Burnell Dixon
Tyrone Dowdell
Tracey Drew
Antoine Drink
Brian Driver
Anthony Driver
Mark Dunham
Aaron Dunlap
Darryl Earl
Calvin Edwards Jr
Kenneth Elam
Michael Evans
Alex Felton
Oliver Fifer
Lashawn Ford
Patrice Foster
Anthony Frazier
James Fuller
NAME
Wayne Garris
Ricky Granderson
Stanley Hamilton
Andre Hampton
Craig Harris
Isadore Hart
Obeddie Hawkins
Paul Hayward
Bryant Hedrick
Timothy Higgins
Charles Holley
Ronald Holt
NAME
Lamarr Johnson
Jordan Johnson
J. Michael Johnson
Tim Jones
Judge Preston Jones
Edward Jones
Robert Jones
168 STRONG
Larry Horne
Arthur Horton
Edward Hubbard
Robert Humphrey
Alphonso Ingram
Herman Jackson
Terrance Jamison
Michael Jarard
Fritzgerald Jenkins
Clarence Johnson
Wayne Johnson
Jeffrey Johnson
Billy Johnson
Mitchell Johnson
Eddie Johnson
Tyronne Johnson
Daniel Johnson
Ore Jones
Edison Jones
Naieem Karriem
Jessie Kilgore
Lionel Kimble
Bobie Knight, Jr
Joshua Lavender
Andrew Leonard
Mitchell Lesane
Trevell Lewis
Todd Lindberg
David Linnear
William Little
Shaun Little
Larry Lloyd
Alden Loury
Darrin Lowery
Kevin Lyles
Willie Mangum
Antonio Mannings
Avrione Martin
Haven Matthews
NAME
Mark McDaniel
Bernard McLaurin
Adrian Mercado
Kenneth Miles
Michael Miller
Daniel Miller
William Miller
Basil Muhammad
Gerald Pauling
Glenn Pickett
Henry Price
Byron Pullen
Paul Pyles
Shamsu Raheem
Christo Rias
Levi Richardson
Michael Rivers
Bryan Robertson
Eugene Robinson
James Ross
Blake Sercye
Brendan Shiller
Garrick Smith
William Smith
Kasimeir Smith
Adekunle Sosina
Khari Stewart
Keewaun Stokes
NAME
Lloyd Strong
Arthur Sutton
Delroy Taylor
Ray Tolbert
David Turner
Judge Carl Walker
Marshall Walker
Melvin Warfield
Eric Warner
Thomas Warner
Ken Washington
Jeffrey West
Charles Westerhaus
Tyrone White
Edwin Whitfield
Derrick Williams
Eric Williams
Larry Williams
Marquis Williams
Ronald Williams
Landon Williams
KierWilliams-Thomas
Lester Wright
Terrance Wright
Byron Wright
Reginald Wynne
Ryan Wynne
Reginald Wynne Jr
CHAPTER OPERATIONS
Chapter operations are excellent and still improving. The entire chapter meets every month on the second Saturday at 5:00 p.m. over zoom. Our president along with our Executive Committee, Chaplain and Wellness Committee have focused on the engagement of all brothers.
Chapter Budget
Upsilon Sigma has a written budget which is developed on an annual basis to reflect changes in economic conditions and chapter membership. Revenue is primarily derived from our annual Carnation Ball & Crescent Moon Awards Gala, the receipt of chapter dues, member donations, and other fundraising activities.
A monthly report is given by both the Financial Secretary and the Treasurer
Chapter has current and written bylaws
Upsilon Sigma has a written constitution governing our structure and operation.
Chapter has current retention policy.
The Alumni Chapter Member Retention Policy is designed to promote long-term engagement, reclamation of inactive members, reactivation into full participation, and commitment to life membership by fostering strong brotherhood, service, mentorship, and lifelong connection. The chapter commits to a culture of connection, accountability, respect, and flexibility, recognizing that engagement may fluctuate due to personal and professional responsibilities, and that retention is a shared responsibility between leadership and members. The policy defines retention as sustaining active involvement, reclamation as reconnecting with disengaged members, reactivation as supporting their return to financial and program participation, and life membership as a permanent commitment to the fraternity. Guided by principles such as cross-generational brotherhood, intentional outreach, respect for life stages, continued purpose, and lifelong commitment, the chapter will implement strategies that include meaningful programs and fellowship, consistent personal contact, flexible engagement options, maintaining and reviewing alumni rosters, prioritizing relationship-based outreach to inactive members, and providing clear, supportive pathways for reclaimed members to return to active status.
Chapter Committee Meetings
Each committee has set meeting dates every month. We also have a consolidated committee meeting one to three times per month as needed.
Chapter Operations
RISK MANAGEMENT
Members Personal Property
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Upsilon Sigma Chapter assume no liability or responsibility for any loss or damage to any personal property of members, even if used in conjunction with fraternity activities. Each member is required to have insurance or to be self-insured for damage to his property.
Abusive Behavior
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Upsilon Sigma Chapter have high expectations for the conduct and behavior of members. No member shall engage in abusive behavior against anyone, whether member or someone attempting to become a member.
Alcohol and Drugs
The possession, sale, use or consumption of ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, while on chapter premises or during a fraternity event, in any situation sponsored or endorsed by the chapter, or at any event an observer would associate with the fraternity, must be in compliance with any and all applicable laws of the state, province, county, city and institution of higher education, and must comply with either the Bring Your Own Beverage (BYOB) or Third Party Vendor Guidelines.
No alcoholic beverages may be purchased through or with neither chapter funds nor the purchase of the same for members or guests are undertaken or coordinated by any member in the name of or on behalf of the chapter. The purchase or use of a bulk quantity or common source(s) of alcoholic beverage, for example, kegs or cases, is prohibited.
OPEN PARTIES, meaning those with unrestricted access by non-members of the fraternity, without specific invitation, where alcohol is present, are forbidden.
No members, collectively or individually, shall purchase for, serve to, or sell alcoholic beverages to any minor (i.e., those under the legal drinking age).
The possession, sale, or use of any ILLEGAL DRUGS or CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES while on chapter premises or during a fraternity event or at any event that an observer would associate with the fraternity is strictly prohibited.
No chapter may co-sponsor an event with an alcohol distributor or tavern (tavern defined as an establishment generating more than half of annual gross sales from alcohol) at which alcohol is given away, sold or otherwise provided to those present. This includes any event held in, at, or on the property of a tavern as defined above for purposes of fundraising. However, a chapter may rent or use a room or area in a tavern as defined above for a closed event held within the provisions of this policy, including the use of a third party vendor and guest list. An event at which alcohol is present may be conducted or co-sponsored with a charitable organization if the event is held within the provisions of this policy.
No chapter may co-sponsor, co-finance, attend or participate in a function at which alcohol is purchased by any of the host chapters, groups, or organizations.
All recruitment or membership intake activities associated with any chapter will be non- alcoholic. No recruitment or membership intake activities associated with any chapter may be held at or in conjunction with a tavern or alcohol distributor as defined in this policy.
No member or pledge, associate/new member or novice shall permit, tolerate, encourage or participate in “drinking games”. The definition of drinking games includes but is not limited to the consumption of shots of alcohol, liquor or alcoholic beverages, the practice of consuming shots equating to one’s age, “beer pong”, “Beirut”, “flip cup”, “century club”, “dares” or any other activity involving the consumption of alcohol which involves duress or encouragement related to the consumption of alcohol.
No alcohol shall be present at any pledge/associate member/new member/novice program, activity or ritual of the chapter. This includes but is not limited to activities associated with “bid night”, “big brother/big sister night” and initiation.
RISK MANAGEMENT
Hazing
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Upsilon Sigma Chapter does not condone hazing of any kind.
“…Hazing is a broad term encompassing any action or activity which does not contribute to the positive development of a person; which inflicts or intends to cause physical or mental harm or anxieties; which may demean, degrade or disgrace any person regardless of location, intent or consent of participants…any action or situation which intentionally or unintentionally endangers student for admission into or affiliation with any student organization.”
According to the policy of our National Organization, "No chapter, colony, student or alumnus shall conduct nor condone hazing activities. Hazing activities are defined as: “Any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off fraternity premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. Such activities may include but are not limited to the following: use of alcohol; paddling in any form; creation of excessive fatigue; physical and psychological shocks; quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips or any other such activities carried on outside or inside of the confines of the chapter house; wearing of public apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; and any other activities which are not consistent with academic achievement, fraternal law, ritual or policy or the regulations and policies of the educational institution or applicable state law.”
As a certified members of Phi Beta Sigma, we are privileged to recruit and train new members of our great brotherhood and aid in providing them with a positive fraternal experience. However, with this privilege comes great responsibility. Certified members have to be able to provide guidance, attend chapter meetings, executive board meetings, and council meetings. In addition, members have a duty to report hazing.
Risk Management
Increase social awareness
Provide additional support to the homeless population
Heighten political awareness
Improve participation in the core national social action programs (i.e., March of Dimes, etc.)
Strengthen community partnerships
BIGGER & BETTER BUSINESS COMMITTEE
BBB
2026 Goals
Bigger & Better Business Committee will adopt a business and show our support by following them on various social media platforms and actively reposting news of their products, services and achievements on our social platforms.
Black Send Initiative we set a goal of $100,000.00 to spend in the black community by continuing recording each dollar a brother spends to support small businesses. The challenge this year is to get out and spotlight at least three businesses by holding promotional events onsite.
The challenge this year is to get out and spot light at least three businesses by holding promotional events onsite.
SIGMA BLACK SPEND
In our ongoing effort to support Black-owned businesses, we are excited to continue the International Black Spend Initiative. This initiative adds a vital layer to our mission by fostering development, promotion, growth and relationship-building within the community. For 2025 our chapter set an ambitious goal to invest $50,000.00 in local Black owned businesses. We are proud to report that we exceeded this goal, spending a total of $64,178.45 across more than 80 different businesses.
As we plan for 2026, the BBB Committee is committed to adopting and supporting a Black-owned business by engaging with them on various social media platforms and actively sharing news about their products, services and achievements. Our goal for the upcoming year is to increase our investment to
Black Business Spotlight
On May 17, 2025, Bigger and Better Business proudly highlighted Let’s Eat to Live Restaurant on Chicago’s South Side as a shining example of community-centered entrepreneurship and health-focused dining. Under the visionary leadership of Carmilla Coq’mard Muhammad, the restaurant embraces a true farm-to-table philosophy, with a significant portion of its fresh vegetables grown in an on-site garden adjacent to the restaurant. This hands-on approach ensures not only quality and freshness, but also reinforces a deeper commitment to sustainability, wellness, and food sovereignty within the community.
Carmilla’s dedication to excellence in cuisine and exceptional customer service reflects her profound respect for the culture, history, and resilience of Chicago’s Black community. Every dish served is rooted in nourishment—both physical and cultural—blending wholesome ingredients with flavors that honor tradition while promoting healthier lifestyles.
For Chef Carmilla, food has always been more than a profession; it is a lifelong expression of love for family, community, and collective well-being. Let’s Eat to Live represents the culmination of these values—a welcoming space where people gather not only to eat, but to connect, learn, and feel cared for. Through her work, Carmilla Coq’mard Muhammad continues to uplift and empower marginalized communities, demonstrating how food can be a powerful tool for healing, pride, and unity.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE
EDUCATI N
We continued our Committee School Partnership with Wendell Green ES Education & Scholarship Committee February 2025 Report at 1150 W 96th St, Chicago, IL 60643. The Principal is Bro. Dowdell. Our School Partnership for the upcoming 2025 Event Dates are as follows: January 23, 2025 - Spelling Bee ● May 2025 - Math Down ● May/June 2025 - Career Day ● August 18, 2025 - Back to School Rally ● December (the week of the 8th or 15th) 2025 - Science Fair School Partnership Updates ● The Wendell Green Spelling Bee took place on January 23rd ○ 32 Students Participated ○ 7 Rounds ○ The last three rounds only had young men remaining. ○ 7th Grader - Yizrakhyah won 1st Place - Received a $100 Gift Card ○ Runner Up received a $50 Gift Card ● Thank you to all the Brothers that showed and supported the day, and a special thanks to Bro. Dowdell. Our Future Events will happen May 2026 { Math Down} and June 2026 will be Career Day.
2026 Goals
Support principal and Brother Dowdell and Green Elementary school.
Provide volunteer support for Green’s annual science fair.
Provide volunteers and financial support for Green’s annual spelling bee.
Provide volunteers and support for Green’s annual math competition.
Support Green’s Back to School festivities in August 2025
SIGMA BETA CLUB
SIGMA CLUB
2026 Goals
Remain in good standing with the NSBCF
Build better continuity with former Sigma Betas
Develop Sigma Beta Club Scholarship
Drive more engagement with Wendell E. Green School for potential Sigma Beta
Softball Game with the Sigma brothers in the summer
Integrate more initiatives with other local Sigma Beta Club
Provide additional cultural/educational opportunities for the Sigma Beta Club
The Sigma Beta Club h their class progress gratitude and apprec techniques and a gra graduate in 2025: Fre and A&M College - Bat announce that in 202 became a member of This is the second con a member of the frate
Here is the breakdown Sigma Beta Club in 20
SIGMA ZETA RELATIONS COMMITTEE
NE VE D
2026 Goals
Continue to solidify our relationships with our appropriate Zeta chapters.
Attend and support upcoming Zeta events.
Continue to build and train our team.
The Sigma Zeta Relations Committee of Upsilon Sigma is organized to partner and support our Zeta Sister Chapters in the Chicagoland area. We believe that our efforts will build lasting and significant relationships with our constitutionally bound sorority sisters.
Our Committee has assigned all team members to their appropriate Zeta chapters with which we partner, build relationships, support their events and initiatives, and garner support for our events and activities.
SOCIAL MEDIA COMMITTEE S CIAL MEDIA
2026 Goals
Increase Total Page Likes by 10%
Increase Total Page Followers by 10%
More posts and followers on Instagram (post growth by 30% and Followers by 10%)
Further develop the YouTube Channel (increase subscribers to 20)
Implement more relevant videos on all social media platforms
Regardingour2025 activities,theUpsilon Sigma Chapter'sSocialMediaCommittee embarked ona project to revitalize our online presence, specifically focusing on Instagram and Facebook. We recognized theimportance of theseplatforms for connecting withour community andthebroader Blu and White family. Throughout the year, the committee diligently collected photos and videos from a wide range of chapter events, including service projects, social gatherings, academic workshops,andleadershipconferences.
Beyond simply gathering existing content, committee members made a concerted effort to attend numerous events themselves, acting as dedicated photographers and videographers to ensure we captured high-quality, engaging material. This proactive approach allowed us to showcase the diverse activities and accomplishments of the Upsilon Sigma Chapter. Our primary objective in 2024 was to not only re-establish our presence on these platforms, but to also significantly expandourreachandengagement.
We aimed to create a dynamic online space that reflected the vibrancy of our chapter. By consistently posting compelling content, we successfully connected with numerous chapters within our local area, as well as chapters throughout the region. This increased connectivity has fostered a stronger sense of community and facilitated valuable collaborations. Furthermore, we believe thatourenhancedsocialmediapresencehasservedasavaluable toolforrecruitmentand forshowcasingthepositiveimpactoftheUpsilonSigmaChapter.
CARNATION BALL
CARNATIONBALL MMITTEE
CFor more than 60 years, Upsilon Sigma Chapter has celebrated its annual Carnation Ball. In 2009, Judge Carl Walker introduced the Crescent Moon Awards to pay tribute to women of African descent. The Carnation Ball & Crescent Moon Awards Gala is the chapter’s signature event. In 2025, there were more than 600 people in attendance. We received an acknowledgment from the Office of the International President, Bro. David Turner; Great Lakes Regional Director, Bro. Rev. Dr. Willie Garrett; Illinois State Director, Bro. Malcolm Whiteside. There were approximately 50 Illinois Justices and Judges present. Thank you committee leads Bros, Justice Carl Walker, Dwayne Cecil, Keewaun Stokes, and Anthony Driver. We also thank our MC’s Bros. Attorney Michael Jarard, and Rev. Mitchell Johnson, J.D.
The 2025 Carnation Ball & Crescent Moon Awards Gala happened on a beautiful night on October 18, 2025. We salute our chapter brothers for their work, and we are proud to have honored more than 150 women with the prestigious Crescent Moon Award through the years.
2026 Goals
Issue more than $5,000 in scholarships
Continue to pay tribute to women of African descent.
Increase attendance to 700 Honor chapter brothers
Continue high profile attendance
2025 Annual Report
UPSILON SIGMA Chicago,
MEMBERSHIPINTAKE MMITTEE
CMembership Intake is crucial for our chapter. As such, Upsilon Sigma Chapter takes the responsibility to bring in new members as one of its most important functions. During the 2024 year, we were excited to welcome three new Brothers into our Wondrous Band: �������� S.S B.A.M. 12/15/24 20:09.10 Brother Mark McDaniel - Captain, ProfeΣΣor Brother Edward Bailey - Deuce, ViΣinary Brother Landon Williams - Anchor, Bull'Σ Eye
2026 Goals
Complete Fall and Spring Intake Supply continuing Sigma education to new brothers
Increase the number of MIP Certified Brothers Engage in projects beyond the traditional
The brothers of Upsilon Sigma have been very busy serving the Chicagoland area. There is much work to be done in this city that we love, but our cause speeds on. Here are various events that we were involved in during the year of 2023.
ENTERTAINMENT MMITTEE
CThe Upsilon Sigma House, located at 4941 S. Martin Luther King Drive, has throughout its history served as a place for entertainment, meetings, and other events. On February 11th 2024 the members of Upsilon Sigma Entertainment Committee hosted the Superbowl with Members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc (ZTZ).
2025 ACTIVITIES
Fratmas Party
Real Bro's Cook! (BBQ at the Sigma House)
Skating Party
Greek Games Night
Brother's Sports Outing (attend a baseball or basketball game)
Sigma Jersey Night
Bowling outing
Upsilon Sigma Chapter remains active with the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc. of Chicago.
WELLNESS MMITTEE
CThe Wellness Committee is designed to enhance health & wellness. Team Members will contact Chapter Members who are experiencing the loss of a loved one. On behalf of the Chapter, we send sympathy cards to grieving members and provide an in-person visit if needed. Team Members will follow-up on Omega Ceremony if the occasion warrants such involvement. Team Members will console and provide emotional support. We are here for the heart, spirit & mind of our brothers.
2026 Goals
Continue to promote wellness checks on chapter members
Continue to motivate participation in all chapter programs and service projects
Continue to improve health education and member satisfaction
BROTHERS ON VE THEM BROTHERS ON THE MOVE
Justice Carl Anthony Walker was sworn in as a Justice of the First District Illinois Appellate Court after serving for 12 years as a Cook County judge Justice Walker was elevated to the Illinois Appellate Court by the Illinois Supreme Court He is a native Chicagoan who grew up in Englewood. He was retained to serve on the Illinois Appellate Court for another 10 years.
Justice Walker is a prime example of how hard work and determination can allow someone to reach goals
Hon. Brother Justice Carl Walker - A Brother On The Move
Congratulations to Bro. Michael Jarard on recently being named one of the Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Illinois as well as being named one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers in the nation! Jarard’s greatest recognition has been through his extensive trial experience in the criminal state and federal courts Throughout Jarard’s 14 + year history, he has first chaired hundreds of trials and adversarial hearings, both civil and criminal Jarard has a ninety-five percent success rate on misdemeanor and felony trials while never losing a jury trial in his practice.
Brother Michael Jarard - A Brother On The Move
Congratulations to Bro Ronald Branch in his new role as Senior Human Resources Manager for Zenith American Solutions Bro Branch has an extensive background in Human Resources Leadership and has strategically moved throughout several industries (e g , insurance, consumer products, engineering, higher education, financial services, etc ) over the past several years. In his current role, Bro. Branch supports multiple sites in the Midwest in executing their people initiatives, providing great internal customer support, and driving Human Resources functional excellence and process improvement
Brother Ronald Branch - A Brother On The Move
Bro Dr Jessie E Kilgore, Jr is a lifelong educator that has dedicated his life to improving the lives of children To that end, Bro Dr Kilgore founded an online teacher training program in Michigan to certify teachers across the State of Michigan As a result of his success in Michigan, Bro. Dr. Kilgore's company, #T.E.A.C.H. (Training Educators And Creating Hope) has been approved to certify educators in four additional states, North Carolina, Indiana, Arizona and Alabama Bro Dr Kilgore has also submitted applications to several additional states including New Jersey, Louisiana, Washington D C , and Pennsylvania
Brother Dr. Jessie E. Kilgore, Jr. - A Brother On The Move
CHAPTER EVENTS 2025
TURKEYS,TOYS&COATS
It was Written, “And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungry, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Let our brothers of Sigma keep on feeding, visiting, clothing, helping, serving and loving the sheep of God so that He may say well done.
THANKSGIVINGDAYOFSERVICE
Upsilon Sigma Brothers Larry Horne and Larry Williams orchestrated Christmas Toy drives, Turkey Giveaways, and Coat Drives in 2025 They served the community and helped to uplift many people during 2025
CHAPTER EVENTS 2025
MARCHOFDIMES
Upsilon Sigma was presented an award for our work with the March of Dimes We love to help with the March of Dimes, and our brothers never get tired of giving our blood
UPSILONSIGMACHAPTER
ATTENDSCONCLAVE
The warm and humid heat of Texas did not hinder the desire of our brothers to come together. The brothers of Upsilon Sigma enjoyed their time of unity at Conclave in Indianapolis. Our brothers had a good time getting together with our brothers around the country, and we enjoyed learning more about Phi Beta Sigma, Incorporated
VOTERREGISTRATION
In 1964, the KKK killed two Jewish men and a Black man who were Freedom Riders fighting for our right to vote. We honor heroes like them every time we vote. The brothers of Upsilon Sigma mobilized in 2024 to get Black people registered to vote for the first woman and member of the Divine Nine for President of the United States
OURSISTERS
Our Sisters are Powerful Women of Color
Chakha Khan. The lovely and talented and beautiful Chaka Khan became a member of Zeta Phi Beta in 2020, along with her friend and actress Vivica Fox. With one of the most powerful and gifted voices of our time, this sister from the southside of Chicago is a legend.
Sister Minnie Ripperton. She was one of the greatest singers of our time, with considerable influence on singers like Denise Williams and Mariah Carey. She became a member of Zeta Phi Beta in 1974. With one of the greatest soprano voices of all time and incredible range, this great singer joined the sisterhood in the 1970s.
Dionne Warwick. became a member of Zeta Phi Beta in 1978. Known internationally for her music that spans 60 years, our sister is a successful performer and actress
Esther Rolle. She became a member of Zeta Phi Beta. A graduate of Spellman and Yale, she is most famously known for her role on Good Times as Florida Evans.
Honorable Mention for our famous Zeta sisters includes singer Angie Stone, gospel singer Anita Wilson who sings “Jesus Will,” singer Towanda Braxton, singer Sarah Vaughan, Talk show hostess Sheryl Underwood, activist Anita Hill, singer Syleena Johnson, actress Janet Dubois & model Vanessa Williams.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C., January 9, 1914, by three young African-American male students. The Founders, Honorable A. Langston Taylor, Honorable Leonard F. Morse, and Honorable Charles I. Brown, wanted to organize a Greek letter fraternity that would truly exemplify the ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service. This deep conviction was mirrored in the Fraternity’s motto, “Culture For Service and Service For Humanity”
The Upsilon Sigma Chapter of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was chartered September 11, 1927 by Brothers; Summer Colum, MD, Austin Gray, MD, Milton Johnson, MD, William M Jones, George W Lawrence, JD, Hugh Fisher Lewis, U C McClerkins, George W Prince and John E Smith
Upsilon Sigma Chapter immediately flourished and became a driving force in the African American community in Chicago. Upsilon Sigma has been the mother chapter of the Great Lakes Region. During the administration of brothers Chester Riley and Clarence Johnson, Both Directors of the Great Lakes Region (1974-1980) more than 61 chapters of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity were chartered or reclaimed thought the region.
In spite of numerous obstacles, Upsilon Sigma was still able to flourish From increasing our membership, to conducting high level programming, our cause speeds on We look forward to the year 2025 and beyond and will work to ensure that Upsilon Sigma Chapter remains a driving force in the greater Chicago area and the state of Illinois
