Crescent Magazine - The Cristal Years

SUMMER 2021

CONTENTS

EDITOR

Steve E. Ballard

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Build Upon The Branding, Presence And Impact Of The Sigma Beta Club

CONTRIBUTORS Steve E. Ballard Dr. Kent L. Poindexter

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Christopher P. Fleming Ann Alphonse Studios

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Provinding A Comprehensive Strategy To Position Sigma For Long Term Financial Solvency

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EDITORIAL OFFICE

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 145 Kennedy Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-5294 (202) 726-5434 www.phibetasigma1914.org

Elevating The Brotherhood Experience!

08

The Vision: A Brotherhood of Conscious Men Actively Serving Our Communities

14

Investing In The Brotherhood

23

Sigma Wellness: Advocacy For A Better Life Experience For The African American Male

28

Honoring Our Commitment To Expand Our Program Outreach And Impact

39

Strengthening Our Corporate Partnerships For Greater Impact In The Community

48

Expand & Protect The Sigma Brand

58

A Great Time To Be A SIGMA!

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In Memoriam

The Crescent Magazine is published twice annually by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Micheal E. Cristal International President

POSTMASTER

Please send address changes to: The Crescent Magazine Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 145 Kennedy Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-5294

Summer 2021

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FROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT

GREETINGS TO MY CONSCIOUS BROTHERS IN SIGMA!

Honorable

MICHEAL E.

CRISTAL

35th International President

As I approach this last greeting in our magazine as your International President, I am almost overwhelmed by the thoughts of what we have accomplished in these last four years. Even in the throes of an international crisis, our fraternity has managed to live up to its motto in magnificent ways! We provided service support well above and beyond expectations.

Our brothers responded to the calls from their respective campuses and communities for assistance without hesitating. And we’ve supported one another through the loss of loved ones and friends and encouraged our collegians to fight the good fight in achieving their academic goals. And when we lost two Sigma giants who led the causes of equal rights and justice, Sigma responded! What a blessing it is to have served with all of you! In these past four years, we have shown ourselves and the world what it means to be a Brotherhood of Conscious Men, Actively Serving Our Communities!

Phi Beta Sigma has a different look and feel today. We are truly united in “Our Cause”, and it shows in the interactions between brothers. Some might suggest that the pandemic forced us to work together, and that the tragedy of COVID-19 caused us to stop and consider the importance of what we do. I would suggest that the past 15 months was our catalyst to be what we say we are—a true brotherhood! Let me also say that if we had not been united in the cause of “getting into good trouble” prior to the pandemic, we might not be in the positive position in which we find ourselves today. We are truly in a good place at this moment; and we have one another to thank for what’s been accomplished in these past four years.

I take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your support and prayers during my term as your International President.

I also thank you for embracing the idea of putting our Brotherhood First and understanding that this is what makes us what we are today. To the International Headquarters team for their tireless efforts to keep us moving forward, and our General Board who worked with me to make the dreams I put forth in 2017 a reality, I say thank you! Lastly, I want to thank my family Marty, Lauren, Brandon (Sigma) and Jaylen, for their unwavering support; and I want to thank you for loving and supporting my family. May we all continue to make Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity the best that it can be!

God’s blessings be with you!

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FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

BROTHERS, WE MADE IT! In fact, we have done more than managed to survive to see another Conclave. We have continued the work of Sigma in spite of everything that might have suggested that we were not in a position to keep going, or to even think of having a Conclave. But thanks be to God, we have done and achieved more than we imagined—even as we had to work at a disadvantage, keeping things afloat while working from our homes and spaces other than our Headquarters.

As most of you know we are preparing for an exciting phase in the life of our Fraternity—the construction of a new International Headquarters, which will provide us with the latest technology and much-needed workspace. So while many organizations will return to some sense of normal in these next few months, we will still be working remotely. But I believe that we have shown that change may be an inconvenience for the moment, but ultimately those who are committed to progress will do what needs to be done.

Honorable DARYL A.

ANDERSON International Executive Director

So thank you all for your patience with us and your encouragement as we do everything possible to make sure that the work of Sigma continues to be done. Thank you as we move toward August and Conclave Myrtle Beach! This Conclave will serve as another example of how brothers can work together to create the successes we desire.

This is our opportunity to put our best foot forward and to show the world that Phi Beta Sigma is living up to its motto “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity”.

Many blessings to you as we converge in person and virtually on Myrtle Beach!!

Summer 2021

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FROM THE EDITOR

GREETINGS BROTHERS, At the onset of this administration, the Honorable Brother Micheal E. Cristal, launched the now extremely identifiable phrase, “A Brotherhood of Conscious Men Actively Serving Our Communities.” Honestly, initially hearing the tagline conjured question marks as to its meaning. Four years later, there’s no question as to not only its meaning, but its value proposition, foundational purpose and over-achieving impact.

The meaning is in the tag line’s intent and purpose, for Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity as a whole as well as its regions, states, chapters and members--all took this vision and mission to heart. Through intentional collaborations and engagement, President Cristal’s leadership and leaders carved out a plan to support a natural progression of service, which ultimately impacted the communities we serve.

It was and will always be very simple. By supporting the Trilogy of Change, the focus is placed on the lifeline of our culture and bloodline of our fraternity: the youth. Investing in and mentoring collegians and young alumni sets the stage for putting productive citizens in our communities.

STEVE E.

BALLARD Editor

This administration over-performed on deliverables; Phi Beta Sigma has been front and center in the public eye in addressing social justice issues and concerns affecting the African American male. The nation witnessed Phi Beta Sigma’s commitment to being a collective voice against police brutality during Black Lives Matter demonstrations, as well as providing COVID-19 pandemic support, voter education and registration drives for the general election, mentoring young teen males, career and professional development for our collegiate ranks, and the eradication of prematurity birth efforts.

This issue of The Crescent offers a compilation of the achievements of the Cristal administration as it promoted his theme A Brotherhood of Conscious Men Actively Serving Our Communities. There’s so much more that could be presented in this volume, however the printed book must have a beginning and an end. The full impact of this administration will be tangibly absorbed as the fraternity celebrates record-high membership, bold new corporate partners, a scholarship foundation with impact, collegians’ engagement with corporate executives, global mentoring and a new International Headquarters building.

Brother Cristal and I have journeyed through Phi Beta Sigma alongside each other since our respective initiations 39 years ago. Spring 1982 produced the initiation of promising future leaders, I on April 2nd and he on April 3rd. Our fraternity involvement has paired us on many projects, events and committees. I’m proud to witness and be a part of the administration’s success.

I trust you will enjoy this reflection!

Summer 2021

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Write the Vision . . .

THE VISION:

A BROTHERHOOD OF CONSCIOUS MEN ACTIVELY SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES

As the newly elected 35th International President, Micheal E. Cristal was well prepared for the task before him—an impressive Sigma leadership resume and nearly a decade of experience in corporate leadership with the Kroger Company were the tools he brought with him to move the fraternity further in its efforts to be transformed. His skills and talents would be the base upon which he built his vision for the next four years and beyond for Phi Beta Sigma. He envisioned an organization of professional men moving in their respective circles to change the world through their affiliation with the fraternity--”A Brotherhood of Conscious Men Actively Serving Our Communities ….”

The theme of this administration spoke to the vision of President Cristal.

He believed that by encouraging change in the focus and attitudes of brothers about fraternity membership, the organization would begin to move in the direction which was envisioned by Most Honorable Founders Taylor, Morse and Brown. Men who understand the realities of living in a world still burdened by the effects of classism, economic disparities and racism, and yet were willing to put their heads together to be world changers—by starting in the communities in which they lived and worked. Active service to better communities would make for stronger communities. And stronger communities can make for a more positive, productive world.

How could he make the vision a reality? By investing in the Brotherhood. On the campaign trail he listened as members spoke of feeling unappreciated for their efforts. Cristal paid attention to those who shared that they were still trying to figure out the “privileges” associated with being financially active in Sigma. Similar to other Black Greek-lettered organizations, Phi Beta Sigma was spending more time bragging about and catering to members in the upper echelon and practically none listening to, encouraging and making resources available to the masses. So as he began to “write the vision” Brother Cristal kept these things in mind and moved to create a reality for Sigma which would put the organization in better shape fraternally, financially, socially and spiritually. The Centennial was a great celebration of what had been done in the first one hundred years. So what would move the “Wondrous Band” forward in its second century?

President Cristal began by presenting “Six Pillars” upon which his vision was built: 1. Creating Centers of Excellence within the International Headquarters that deliver Superior Customer Service for our members 2. Continual investments in our loyal members and chapters 3. Build upon the Branding, Presence and Impact of our Sigma Beta Clubs 4. Sigma Wellness: Advocacy for a Better Life Experience for the African American Male 5. Introduce a comprehensive strategy that will position us for Long-Term Financial Solvency 6. Expand and Protect the Sigma Brand

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These pillars would provide the foundation for the “Trilogy of Change” to be presented to the Brotherhood.

This trilogy was the cornerstone of the vision, helping the members to understand the reason for Sigma’s existence—to serve our communities.

Thanks to our committed leaders and chapters, we’ve positioned the Fraternity being relevant for our members through our mantra Brotherhood First. We’re providing services to our members and chapters within their communities. We’ve delivered measurable programmatic change within our communities, and the collegians see Phi Beta Sigma as the Fraternity where you will receive mentoring and support in gaining meaningful employment upon graduation. We addressed many of the structural deficiencies of our organization that were suppressing us from experiencing exponential growth. Lastly, we’re recognized as a premier organization that provides mentoring, nurturing and development of young men of color through our Sigma Beta Club.

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Trilogy of Change The Trilogy of Change was the Fraternity’s effort to become better acquainted with local communities and to say to them “We have not abandoned or forgotten you.” The President believed that this three-pronged approach would force Sigma to focus on African American males, who would be the present and future leaders of the stronger communities which he envisioned. The Trilogy of Change consists of: 1. Mentoring African American youth through the Sigma Beta Club 2. A focused approach in cultivating and supporting Collegiate members and young Alumni members, by providing continuous mentorship for these brothers 3. Cultivating the African American community through a comprehensive mentoring approach, a trajectory of limitless possibilities experienced by young males, thus having a significant impact on the community.

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In September 2017, the newly formed General Board met on the campus of Howard University to begin preparing to implement the vision. At its Strategic Planning Retreat, the Board identified ten focus areas to be presented to the Brotherhood: 1. Brotherhood Experience

6. Programs

2. Membership Growth

7. Polices and Procedures

3. Finances

8. Fundraising

4. Marketing and Branding

9. Corporate and Government Partnerships

5. Technology

10. Training and Advisor Development

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YOUR MISSION YOUR PRINCIPLES YOUR CULTURE YOUR MOTTO YOUR CREED YOUR MEMBERSHIP!

GO TO

members.phibetasigma1914.org

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ONGOING INVESTING IN OUR LOYAL BROTHERS

The Cristal administration committed to making it clear that the active members are the most vital part of Phi Beta Sigma. The fraternity would cease to exist without the commitment of individuals and chapters who meet their financial obligations and provide active support to the causes, i.e. the members who show by their actions a genuine love for Sigma. President Cristal made it clear that his team would be ever mindful of those who showed by their actions their loyalty, and such loyalty deserved to be rewarded. He understood that many brothers give their time and resources at the sacrifice of their families and personal lives. Membership may have its privileges—but those who dedicate themselves to the promotion and support of the organization’s programs should be acknowledged.

In his vision, President Cristal provided an outline of how the fraternity would do more to recognize the work of its brothers, which included: 1. Making awards to loyal members and chapters on a regular basis for contributions above and beyond requirements 2. Committing to communicating more with the Brotherhood 3. Appointing a “Value Proposition Committee” to develop a program to encourage non-active members to return to the fold while providing incentives which highlighted the benefits of being reconnected 4. The creation of Centers of Excellence at the International Headquarters, designed to provide more access to the ongoing activities of Sigma 5. Making membership growth and development a major priority— making numbers count as the push continues for bringing in new members (the result was realizing the largest membership numbers in Phi Beta Sigma’s history!

6. The launching of the Sigma E-Learning Center, to promote the further growth and development of the membership

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SIGMAS SAVE LIVES A SALUTE TO

Phi Beta Sigma’s First Responders and Essential Healthcare Workers Dedicated to serve during this global health crisis.

JULY 2020

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Communication has been a vital part of the commitment to keeping brothers in the know about their fraternity. During his administration President Cristal pushed for having The Crescent Magazine published on a consistent basis, with at least two issues per year becoming the standard. Additionally, the Communications team launched the Crescent on the Yard, a digital magazine focused on the collegiate membership.

The Technology team at the International Headquarters was pressed into involvement with this effort, providing insight and resources which allow members to be in contact and in the know at a moment’s notice. The Sigma App was launched, featuring quick access to the international website, BluPrint, Conclave, push notifications and more. Brothers were provided live access to General Board meetings and other significant events (including the celebration of the 107th Founders Day celebration) via livestreaming. Even the COVID-19 pandemic could not keep Phi Beta Sigma down—brothers were engaged on a weekly basis in special online gatherings to support and encourage each other through the most difficult period of this world crisis.

The appointed Value Proposition Committee introduced several innovations to keep brothers engaged and encouraged, including: the SigmaLink (via LinkedIn); the Sigma Loyal Service Recognition program; sharing of birthday greetings and Sigmaversary e-messages to acknowledge milestone celebrations; the Neo Portal for new members; and the SigmaLINK Job Manual.

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BUILD UPON THE BRANDING,

Throughout his campaign and his administration, President Micheal Cristal provided a vision of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity as a leader in the work of making African American communities stronger. His vision placed particular emphasis on educating and supporting Black males in their early years. From the statement of his administration’s theme to the promotion of the Trilogy of Change, the President remained steady in his understanding of the purpose of his time in office: The Trilogy of Change is our mission and vision. Its purpose is evident by the bright light currently beaming on our Sigma Beta Club, our culture’s future, under the leadership of Bro. Jenabu Williams, International Director of Sigma Beta Clubs.

PRESENCE AND IMPACT OF OUR SIGMA BETA CLUB

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The Sigma Beta Club was an idea which came into fruition in 1954 under the leadership of the National Director of Education, Brother Dr. Parlett L. Moore. As the 20th International President of the fraternity and an educator, Dr. Moore understood how the residents of Black communities were at a major disadvantage with regard to obtaining the education and training needed to be productive. His influence combined with the voices of other Black Greek-lettered organizations forced the Supreme Court to decide favorably in the Brown vs. Board of Education case. Dr. Moore embraced that same energy in moving his beloved fraternity to establish the first Sigma Beta Club in 1954. Its purpose—to provide mentors from the ranks of Black professional men for young men who had little or no exposure to higher education and its potential benefits.

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While Phi Beta Sigma embraced the idea of doing its part to support its communities, the active support of Sigma Beta Clubs has not always been a priority for the fraternity. The Cristal administration determined that the promotion of this program must take precedence if Black organizations and communities are to survive and thrive. The Trilogy of Change proposed making African American young men a focal point in empowering Black communities. Some of the highlights of the push to promote the Sigma Beta Club during this administration include: 1. The 2018 National Sigma Beta Club Leadership Conference, held at Dillard University (New Orleans, Louisiana) 2. “Real Talk” 2019 promoted the theme “They Need Us to Survive”, to emphasize the importance of being present in Black communities 3. Development of a partnership with the National CARES Mentoring Movement in 2020 4. The National SBC program hosted a virtual graduation ceremony celebrating its participants around the country 5. Sigma men were present at President Barack Obama’s Mentoring Conference 6. The Fraternity made a donation of $50,000 to the National Sigma Beta Club Foundation 7. The induction of Wayne Brady as an Honorary Member of Phi Beta Sigma led to his appointment as a National Spokesperson for the Sigma Beta Club. Brother Brady is known for his work with community organizations providing support to disenfranchised youth.

8. Signed a MOU with the National Sigma Beta Club Foundation. Defining clear roles and responsibilities of the NSBCF and the fraternity. The International Director of Education will serve on the NSBCF Board of Directors.

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PERHAPS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT OF THIS ADMINISTRATION’S EFFORTS TO PROMOTE THE SIGMA BETA CLUB HAS BEEN

MENTORING OVER 4,200 YOUNG MEN OF COLOR!

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SIGMA WELLNESS:

For most people “wellness” means taking care of one’s physical being.

For many years “Sigma Wellness” has been associated with engaging in exercise and training to look and feel good, with less emphasis on avoiding habits which can lead to health problems or how to manage one’s health once diagnosed with a medical condition. There has been hardly any mention of wellness meaning care for the mental, emotional, spiritual and the aspects of life which provide peace and contentment— financial security, positive relationships, living as stress free as possible, for example. The fact is all of these factors contribute to our wholeness or wellness as human beings.

ADVOCACY FOR A BETTER LIFE EXPERIENCE FOR THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MALE

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Within the Cristal administration was an understanding that African American men have the highest rates of death at earlier ages as a result of being Black. In addition to less than adequate health care, Black men die from undiagnosed illnesses, refusal to seek medical care and management, stress related illnesses as a result of living in less than favorable conditions, and at the hands of other Black men. These and other issues put the African American male at greater risk than all other racial, ethnic and gender groups in America. With this understanding, Sigma Wellness had to provide a more wholistic approach as to how Black men can take better care of themselves, for the sake of their communities. All programs under the International banner were required to consider how Sigma Wellness could be included in their work.

Among the ideas put forth was a greater emphasis on mentorship—local chapters would be encouraged to identify the needs of their community and develop programming which encouraged active engagement with members of the community. Over the course of the Cristal administration more chapters became aware of the need to help students who wanted to attend college but were struggling with how they could afford to do so. The result of their advocacy and mentoring was Phi Beta Sigma providing $4 million in scholarships to college-bound students in the community to ease financial burdens and $320,000 in scholarships to Sigma collegians.

Sigma Week on Capitol Hill provided more opportunities for the exchange of ideas and the dire need for mentoring and support for African American young men.

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The Sigma Executive Leadership Council took up the mantle to give collegiate members opportunities to engage with Sigma brothers with successful careers in the corporate world.

The Council recognized the necessity of being mentors, coaches and advisors to collegiate members preparing to face life in the real world. Who better to help young men become solid professionals in their careers than those who have lived, learned and succeeded?

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by Sodexo North Developed In-Kind Senior Manager | Business Improvemen Edge, Brother Phillip Chapter | Rome, GA Alumni Rho Iota Sigma

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HONORING OUR COMMITMENT TO EXPAND OUR PROGRAM OUTREACH AND IMPACT

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Phi Beta Sigma significantly expanded its outreach to local communities during this administration. Sigmas across the country rolled up their sleeves and amassed more than 900,000 services hours in 3 ½ years—even during the COVID-19 pandemic! The call to serve was answered by thousands of brothers, our sisters of Zeta Phi Beta and members of Sigma Beta Clubs, all who recognized the needs of their communities and put forth the effort to do whatever they could to make a difference. And the need was particularly great over the last 18 months, during which the country was hit hard by the world-changing pandemic, natural disasters and the turbulence of a political regime particularly unfavorable to people suffering from economic challenges and those of color.

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Time and again the men of Sigma stepped up to serve. In the early months of the pandemic, as people struggled to keep necessities in their homes such as food and toiletries, brothers pitched by staffing food pantries, passing out masks and hand sanitizer and organizing efforts to collect and distribute the necessities which were in short supply. As the level of despair and anger continued rising during the summer 2020 riots over police brutality, the fraternity stepped up to lend its support to people hurting, helping merchants whose businesses were vandalized with cleaning up.

Brothers acknowledged their understanding of the Cristal administration theme—some call it “being woke”—Sigma men recognized it as being “conscious men”, answering the call to serve wherever needed.

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And Phi Beta Sigma continued to make its presence felt in the larger community.

The fraternity has been a vocal presence in public conversations

about the issues of police brutality in communities of color, voter suppression, the effects of economic disparities on African Americans and the ongoing issues related to the pandemic have taken place through forums such as Real Talk, Sigma Week on Capitol Hill, and the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors.

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The call to conscious service included making strides to help the growth and empowerment of Black communities— some of the work done by program teams includes: 1. The Bigger and Better Business launch of Sigma Business Partners 2. Chapters across the country mobilized to promote Project VOTE in 2020 3. The launch of SigmaPAC1914, the first SuperPAC created by a D9 Organization 4. Through the Adopt-A-School initiative, chapters became more engaged with the schools in their local communities 5. Launched a partnership with John Hope Bryant Operation Hope’s One Million Black Businesses Initiative; working to support one million African American businesses

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View and apply for fresh and exciting jobs from top leading companies. To help prepare for this event, find out which companies will be participating, register for the event and you will receive job alerts with the positions available.

•

Learn and interact with organizations about their open jobs, their company culture, and why they value diversity in the workplace.

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Chat live with employers/recruiters and get interviewed through chat and audio conference.

Participating Companies (Partial list)

Visit www.phibetasigma.vfairs.com for more information.

STRENGTHENING OUR CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS FOR GREATER IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY

There is something very special about the relationships established in joining Greek-lettered organizations—they exist to provide a place where like-minded persons can engage and support one another.

Membership in Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity provides the chance for men of kindred spirits to use their abilities and talents to give back to their communities, and to build networks of people who have a similar vision. Ideally, the fraternity works with the community to establish how it can best serve its neighbors and encourages members to make networks within those communities which will engage and strengthen the communities. These networks include corporate entities, government municipalities, social service agencies and sacred institutions, all of which cannot exist without the communities which utilize them. Partnerships require give and take—each entity needs something from the other. Successful partnerships work when each group achieves its stated goals.

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The Cristal administration achieved success in motivating brothers to do their part, and in turn being able to cultivate and develop partnerships which served the greater good. Phi Beta Sigma maintained and strengthened its partnerships with several community and social service groups, by making the extra effort to provide financial support.

We’ve donated over $1.2 million to the below organizations: •

The March of Dimes $911,000 with record-setting amount of $303,000 in 2021

•

The NAACP $75,000

•

National Urban League $50,000

•

National Action Network $25,000

•

United Negro College Fund $25,000

•

Thurgood Marshall College Fund $25,000

•

National Sigma Beta Club Foundation $50,000

•

PBS Federal Credit Union $50,000

The fraternity made good on its financial promise to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. A check was presented for $200,000, ultimately completing the fraternity’s commitment of $500,000.

The organization presented a check for $250,000 completing our Howard University Endowment of $500,000 three years early.

Sigma continued to nurture its relationships with its partners in service to the community, including: •

AARP

•

NAACP

•

NOBLE

•

National Urban League

•

American Cancer Society

•

Operation Hope

•

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated

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A new historic partnership was formed with the Ralph Lauren Corporation to heighten awareness of racial disparities and social injustice in America. The agreement provided for the following engagement: •

Addressing cultural awareness opportunities within the fashion industry

•

Provided $15,000 sponsorship to Conclave Myrtle Beach

•

Provided two internships to our collegiate brothers

•

Provided billboards within New York City and Los Angeles to support us broadcasting our Social Unrest Message and Sigma Beta Clubs.

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PROVIDING A COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY TO POSITION SIGMA FOR LONG TERM FINANCIAL SOLVENCY

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As a successful corporate executive, Brother Micheal Cristal came to the position of International President with a wealth of talent and experience in how to ensure financial growth and success. His corporate background prepared him for success in leadership with the fraternity. Along with Brother William Frasier, International Treasurer, they’ve achieved record success over the last four years, with plans to significantly raise the income of the Fraternity. While initially he pursued alignment and cooperation through the signing of a MOU with the Phi Beta Sigma National Foundation to secure the financial strength of the Fraternity, it ultimately did not deliver the expectations needed for the Fraternity. Through the leadership of President Cristal, Phi Beta Sigma dissolved our relationship with the PBSNF and started a new foundation, the PBS Impact Foundation, Inc. The PBS Impact Foundation will ultimately manage the annual Impact ONE fundraising campaign, will ultimately provide the financial resources for our programmatic focus areas removing that responsibility from the fraternity...the ultimate goal is for the PBS Impact Foundation to work in tandem on positioning the fraternity for long term financial solvency.

The President approached his goal of financial solvency by working with the General Board to establish new fiscal policies, designed to encourage greater responsibility in spending by members at all levels of the organization. We’re setting a path toward significantly improving the financial strength of the fraternity with two goals in mind: (1) finding additional revenue, and (2) reducing expenses that were invisible to the members.

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President Cristal, with over 35 years in retail experience, challenged the General Board that it was time to retire the name Sigma Exchange as it did not support the image of Sigma. With support coming from the IHQ Team, the Branding Committee introduced a new name more fitting of the goal of the store; reflecting the culture, professionalism and comfort of our members. During 2019 Blu Culture Collection was launched offering better pricing, more variety to support the Brother’s Sigma attire needs, as well as Sigma Beta Club and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and better customer service. Year-To-Date Sales are +55% vs Last Year, trending towards $400,000 in Sales for 2021.

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Another goal of the President was to make the Phi Beta Sigma Federal Credit Union a more viable option for financial services to the Brotherhood.

With a donation of $50,000 to the Credit Union and some marketing work by the administrative team, the Credit Union has experienced an increase in the numbers of members who are utilizing it for saving and borrowing money. Brothers now understand that using the Credit Union is one more way to invest in the financial growth of the fraternity.

The fraternity signed a MOU with PSCFCU defining clear roles and responsibilities of the credit union and the fraternity. The International Director of Bigger and Better Business will serve on the PBSFCU Board of Directors. All new members make an investment towards the PBSFCU that supports the financial viability of the Credit Union.

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Summer 2021 47

EXPAND & PROTECT

THE SIGMA BRAND

48 The Crescent Magazine

In establishing his vision for Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, President Cristal understood the need for consistency in the public presentation of the organization. Over his nearly four decades as a member, he was aware that one could not depend on the Sigma “brand” being the same around the country. Brothers were not well versed in the procedures and protocols established for major events, sometimes even disregarding the dress codes for the Orchid Ball or an Omega Chapter ceremony. This was a prime opportunity to reintroduce the Sigma brand to the membership, and to reestablish the rules and procedures which set the fraternity apart from other organizations.

In addition to the theme which highlighted his term in office, Hon. Brother Cristal, along with Brother Kevin Davis, Publicity and Branding Chairman, pushed the idea of ONE SIGMA, ONE BRAND as a slogan to pull the organization back to its basic tenets. He also highlighted his idea of honoring the loyal, faithful brothers by reminding members of the most basic reason for the fraternity’s existence—Brotherhood First!

With these spoken reminders as a guide, brothers began to show their pride in Sigma.

As the time came for the “changing of the guard”, i.e. moving into a new presidency, there had already been thoughts on how to make the website more useful. Toward the end of the previous Presidential administration work had begun on updating and rebuilding the website, with the idea of making it more interactive. With the relaunch of the site early in the Cristal administration, several significant upgrades were established.

Besides a new look, brothers were able to access more information through the BluPrint database. The new website provides access to fraternity materials such as manuals and forms, and chapter officers can update records through the Chapter Portal. The site features video presentations for collegiate members and “how-to” information.

Summer 2021 49

The Crescent Magazine was a primary source of information for the membership during the Cristal administration. President Cristal made sure to have the publication distributed twice yearly, marking highlights of “Sigma Life” and special events directly associated with the Fraternity. The Communications team began publication of the “Crescent on the Yard” which was aimed at addressing collegiate life on college campuses. The weekly newsletter became another important information source. Its name was changed to BCM, in keeping with the theme of the Presidential administration.

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SUMMER 2018

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FALL/WINTER 2018 SUMMER 2019

SIGMA MEN: BUILDING BIGGER AND BETTER BUSINESS

Honorable

MICHEAL E. CRISTAL

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WINTER 2019

BATTLE FOR

AMERICA

E X E R C I S I N G O U R V O T I N G S T R E N GT H

35th INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT

TRILOGY OF CHANGE

ELEVATING A BROTHERHOOD OF

CONSCIOUS MEN ACTIVELY SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES

DWAYNE ASHLEY DEVON HENRY

FOUNDER/CEO, TEAM HENRY ENTERPRISES

IT STARTS WITH OUR YOUTH

SUMMER 2019

SPRING 2019

R. DONAHUE PEEBLES

FOUNDER/CEO, THE PEEBLES CORPORATION FOUNDER/CEO, BRIDGE PHILANTHROPIC CONSULTING

PHI BETA SIGMA’S PLAN FOR VOTER MOBILIZATION

WINTER 2020

SIGMA & ZETA

TRILOGY OF CHANGE OUR FUTURE

50 The Crescent Magazine

GETTING

READY FOR THE WORLD Graduating Class of 2019

STRONGER TOGETHER FOR 100 YEARS

READY!

WINTER 2021

Brotherhood First: A GREAT TIME to be a Sigma!

This administration understood the importance of offering consistent, ongoing communication to the organization. The pandemic and its global reach provided a clear example of the importance of good communication protocols and networks. Even as the world was slowed down by COVID-19, Phi Beta Sigma kept its membership informed. Consulting with medical professionals and anyone who could provide insight on how to survive, information and active support was shared with the Brotherhood. During the summer of unrest and protests over police brutality, Phi Beta Sigma made its presence and purpose known to local communities—to provide help in any way possible, and to help ease the tensions brought on by the difficult times.

Summer 2021 51

ELEVATING THE BROTHERHOOD EXPERIENCE!

A key element to moving the brotherhood of Phi Beta Sigma in a new direction has been dependent upon changing how members understand the organization. Phi Beta Sigma is much more than its motto and slogans, letters and colors. The Founders agreed that real brotherhood came about as a result of the sharing of positive experiences and shared ideals. Brotherhood takes place when gather together under a shared set of beliefs . . .”Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!”

Part of making the vision of a “brotherhood of conscious men actively serving their communities” become a reality is working to make sure that brothers have good experiences. That entails making every effort to be inclusive, to assure members that they matter. This is done by planning and programming activities which capture the interests of brothers, which became a monumental task over the last 18 months.

Summer 2021 53

54 The Crescent Magazine

The availability of technology is one way to enhance the Brotherhood experience. As this publication goes to press, the Brotherhood is preparing for its first Conclave which will include virtual participation.

Prior to the pandemic no organization would have considered hosting their largest gathering with a virtual audience. Today that has become a part of the “new” normal of the 21st Century. It is just one of the ways to elevate the Brotherhood Experience!

Phi Beta Sigma hosted its 107th Anniversary Global Founders Day Celebration via livestreaming—thousands participated and appreciated the opportunity to convene, even if it was via the internet. The event reached 830,000 people and trended number 11 on Twitter on January 9th. But this was one of several occasions which invited men of Sigma around the globe to meet virtually—the General Board held its first livestreamed meeting in 2018, and the resulting success made livestreaming a new way for ‘brothers to get together in unity.’

Summer 2021 55

56 The Crescent Magazine

Elevating the Brotherhood Experience also entails bringing new members into the fold. Over the past four years Phi Beta Sigma chartered 31 new and 74 reactivated chapters worldwide, including one in Accra, Ghana and the first chapter chartered in Toronto, Canada. We were also blessed to bring in new members via Honorary Membership: 2017 – Terrence Roberts 2018 – Harry Keels Thomas, Jr., Ben Vereen 2020 – Wayne Brady and Bill Duke These gentlemen have made their presence known and are elevating the profile of the fraternity through their active presence.

Summer 2021 57

With a strategic plan for membership growth in hand, along with the commitment teamwork from vice presidents, regional directors and IHQ, the fraternity reached a historic milestone by achieving the largest membership since its founding.

The membership growth plan is celebrated by including several opportunities to the membership:

A GREAT TIME TO BE A SIGMA!

•

Waived late fees

•

Launched virtual MIP

•

Chapter growth incentives

•

“Come Back Home” Reclamation

•

Engaged with Campus Based Professionals webinars

•

Cloud Based Training

A historic decision was made to redevelop our International Headquarters Building. Under the vision and leadership of President Cristal, the General Board voted to tear down the existing IHQ and build a new historic $20 Million Corporate Office featuring a 5-story building. The first floor will house the IHQ operations and the top floors will be affordable housing units. The new building will provide additional revenue streams that will support the fraternity long term financially. The project is being developed in collaboration with Bro. Don Peebles’ Peebles Corporation.

58 The Crescent Magazine

President Cristal was the FIRST International President to have been initiated in the fraternity at a predominantly white institution (PWI).

President Cristal was initiated on April 3, 1982 and received the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2018.

MSU

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY

59 The Crescent Magazine

In

Memoriam As we prepare for what may prove to be one of the most historical conclaves of our history, we take time to remember those who have moved on to the Omega Chapter since Conclave Las Vegas.

No doubt the effects of being victimized by the spread of COVID-19 impacted the ranks of Phi Beta Sigma. As the world struggled to make sense of what was happening, in the midst of mourning losses of its own, this Brotherhood engaged in collective efforts across the country to help its families and communities to cope with this world-changing event.

Over the course of this current administration, four Sigma men whose untiring work made a difference in the lives of many, moved from labor to reward, leaving fond memories and legacies for us to embrace and imitate. We remember them, and all of the men of Sigma who broke the circle of life and stepped into eternity. They set the pace for our brotherhood to “march on” even more determined to be what Honorable Founders Taylor, Morse and Brown intended …..the greatest Fraternity on earth!

Brother

GERALD D.

SMITH 1945-2018

Brother Gerald Smith served as the Fraternity’s second International Executive Director, titled National Executive Secretary when he assumed the position in 1978. But his service did not begin or end there. Brother Smith served as Editor of the Crescent Magazine and the 16th Regional Director for the Eastern Conference. His journey in Sigma started at Howard University where he was initiated into the Alpha chapter in 1968. He would spend the rest of his life in Washington, DC, mentoring brothers in the Alpha, Alpha Sigma and Sigma Sigma Sigma chapters. Many Sigmas in the area were acquainted with Brother Smith and came to appreciate his pearls of wisdom as they sought to become immersed in the culture of the fraternity.

But Gerald Smith was much more than a Gold Life Member Sigma—he was a scholar, historian, community organizer and activist. His deep love of African American culture led him to form the African Renaissance Institute, a think tank dedicated to research and providing a deeper understanding of the struggles of African people living in diaspora in America. He proclaimed himself a “born again African” as a result of his never-ending quest to learn and share more about Africa and how Black people in America were purposely kept in the dark about their rich history.

Gerald D. Smith will be remembered for his many contributions to Phi Beta Sigma and his tireless work on behalf of the cause of African Americans.

60 The Crescent Magazine

Brother

COLONEL DECATUR WARD

MORSE 1935-2020

Living in the shadow of an historical giant can be challenging and even overwhelming for some. Brother Decatur W. Morse, Sr. was determined to defy the challenge of living in the shadow of his father, Most Honorable Founder Leonard F. Morse, Sr. While being the younger of two of the Founder’s sons two join the Fraternity he actually became a member before his older brother Leonard, Jr. As a member of the Eta Chapter, Bro. Morse served as Chapter President and Dean of Pledges at North Carolina A & T College. While Founder Morse established himself as a minister, theologian and educator, Brother Decatur Morse would build on the great legacy of his father through his lifelong career in the Armed Services.

Decatur Morse was a decorated veteran of the United States Army, was commissioned at the Officer Candidate School in Fort Still, Oklahoma.

Like his father he was an advocate of gaining as much education as possible, in order to be well prepared for his career. Brother Morse would serve in the Korean conflict and in Vietnam and would spend eight years in the U.S. Pentagon as a Staff Officer for the Army Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, and later as Deputy Director, Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization Office, Secretary of the Army. For his service in Korea and Vietnam, Bro. Morse would earn numerous medals including the Bronze Star and was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the U. S. Army Artillery and Missile Officer Candidate School, Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 1991. He retired from military service having achieved the rank of Colonel.

For 23 years, Elijah Cummings served the 7th District of Maryland (Baltimore) as its Congressman. Prior to being elected to the House of Representatives, he served on the Maryland House of Delegates for 14 years, eventually becoming the first African American to serve as its Speaker Pro Tempore.

His career in politics was formed early in life, having been born in Baltimore to sharecroppers and experiencing the ugliness of the Jim Crow era as a child. His upbringing led to his becoming an attorney and a fierce advocate for civil rights in Baltimore.

Brother

ELIJAH E.

CUMMINGS 1951-2019

As a member of Congress, Elijah Cummings was a member of the Progressive Caucus and served on various committees, most notably the Oversight Committee which he chaired. His honest outspokenness on the issues confronting communities of color led to his involvement on issues of affordable health care, development of afterschool programs and drug policies.

For his outspoken posture and advocacy for civil rights, Congressman Elijah Cummings was chosen to become an Honorary Member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in 2015.

Summer 2018 61

John R. Lewis started getting into “Good Trouble” during his matriculation at Fisk University, as chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. He gained national attention when he and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led 600 civil rights activists in Selma, Alabama across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Sunday March 25, 1965, where the world watched as he was severely beaten for marching. Early in his college years, John Lewis established himself as a leader in the Civil Rights movement when he emerged as the youngest person to speak at the March on Washington in August 1963.

Honorable BROTHER JOHN R.

LEWIS 1940-2020

Born in Troy, Alabama to sharecroppers, Brother Lewis was no stranger to discrimination and segregation. After being turned down for admission to Troy University, he consulted with Dr. King, who initially advised him to file a discrimination lawsuit. Instead, John Lewis enrolled at the American Baptist Theological Seminary, and was ordained after his graduation. He then enrolled at Fisk University where he became active in the Civil Rights movement.

Brother Lewis became a member of Phi Beta Sigma in 1974 through the Lambda Chapter.

As he continued his involvement in the movement beyond college, Brother Lewis determined that he could best serve his community and his people on the political front. He eventually won a seat on the City Council of Atlanta and later was elected to the United States Congress, where he represented the 5th District of Georgia, from 1986 until his transition. For his work in civil rights, Congressman Lewis received more than 50 honorary degrees from universities around the world. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama and the John F. Kennedy “Profile in Courage” Award for Lifetime Achievement by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. In 2017, Phi Beta Sigma honored this prolific leader in the fight for social justice and equal rights by selecting him to become Distinguished Service Chapter member #180.

62 The Crescent Magazine

Summer 2018 63

Thank You GE N E R AL BOARD 2017 – 2019

INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Jean Lamothe

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Joshua Busby

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORS OF MILITARY SERVICES Daniel Smith | Kevin Williams

INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Frederick Bell

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Ray Smith

REAL ESTATE COMMISSION Rogers Barnes

INTERNATIONAL TREASURER William Frasier

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Dr. Marcus Chanay

INTERNATIONAL CHAIR - AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Keith Coleman

INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNSEL Hon. John M. Turner, Esq.

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Derek Bowmer

INTERNATIONAL CHAIR - SICKLE CELL ANEMIA Ben Otey

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Steven Kniffley

SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Bruce Palmore

INTERNATIONAL CHAIR - MARCH OF DIMES Carlos Williams II

SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Hon. Ronald Carter

PUBLICITY (ENGAGEMENT/BRANDING) COMMITTEE Kevin Davis

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL ACTION Chris V. Rey, J.D.

SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Dr. Chris Brown

HONORARY MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Craig Collins

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE AFFAIRS Theodore “TJ” Lewis, Jr.

SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Kennedy Barnes, Esq.

2019 CONCLAVE PLANNING COMMITTEE Jourdan Morgan Jr.

COLLEGIATE MEMBER – AT – LARGE Darian Hayes

INTERNATIONAL HISTORIAN Mark Pacich

2019 CONCLAVE REGISTRATION COMMITTEE Hon. Charles Talbert

COLLEGIATE MEMBER – AT - LARGE Michael Facey

INTERNATIONAL CHAPLAIN Edmund Sherrill

SIGMA EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP COUNCIL John White | Dr. Bennie Harris | J.R. Reeves

IMMEDIATE PAST INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT Hon. Jonathan A. Mason, Sr.

INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Charles Jones

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Dr. Ernie Hughes

DSC REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GENERAL BOARD Hon. Peter M. Adams, Esq.

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF THE SIGMA BETA CLUBS Jenabu C. Williams

FINANCIAL INVESTING COMMITTEE Julian Heyward

EASTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Devon Henry

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF RISK MANAGEMENT Hon. Martin B. Currie, CSP

SIGMA/ZETA RELATIONS COMMITTEE Britt Bell

GREAT LAKES REGIONAL DIRECTOR David C. Turner

INTERNATIONAL INTERNAL AUDITOR David A. Turner, CPA

INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sam Walthour

GULF COAST REGIONAL DIRECTOR Howard Redmond

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, SIGMA LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Rafael Matos

INTERNATIONAL DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Steve E. Ballard

INTERNATIONAL DIR. OF BIGGER & BETTER BUSINESS Reginald Sluch

SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Dr. Lawrence L. Rouse SOUTHERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Roy Edmonds SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Michael Murry WESTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Mark Armstrong CHIEF OF STAFF Leonard Lockhart

64 The Crescent Magazine

INTERNATIONAL DIR. OF COLLEGIATE ADVISORS UNIVERSITY Dr. Dwayne Scott INTERNATIONAL DIR. OF STANDARDS, RITUALS AND PROTOCOL James Bailey Jr. INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF SIGMA CARES Dr. Kent Poindexter INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY Mark Elliot Cornelius

LIFE MEMBERS PRESIDENT Earl V. Gamble DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CHAPTER PRESIDENT Hon. Peter M. Adams, Esq. INTERNATIONAL TREASURER EMERITUS Hon. Charles Moore SIGMA BETA CLUB FOUNDATION PRESIDENT Hon. Arthur R. Thomas, Esq. PHI BETA SIGMA NATIONAL FOUNDATION PRESIDENT Hon. Peter M. Adams, Esq.

President Cristal humbly thank the outstanding conscious leaders who labored with him over these last four years.

Together, we’ve positioned Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity to be STRONGER and GREATER for the FUTURE!

GE N E R AL BOARD 2019 – 2021 INTERNATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Chris V. Rey, J.D.

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Ray Smith

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORS OF MILITARY SERVICES Daniel Smith | Kevin Williams

INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Dane Norvell

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Hon. Theodore “TJ” Lewis

INTERNATIONAL CHAIR - AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Keith Coleman

INTERNATIONAL TREASURER William Frasier

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF Lezell Lowe

INTERNATIONAL CHAIR - SICKLE CELL ANEMIA Ben Otey

INTERNATIONAL GENERAL COUNSEL Kennedy Barnes, Esq.

SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Mark A. Armstrong

INTERNATIONAL CHAIR - MARCH OF DIMES Carlos Williams II

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Dr. Marcus Chanay

SSENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Dr. Christopher V. Brown

PUBLICITY (ENGAGEMENT/BRANDING) COMMITTEE Kevin Davis

ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Brandon Cristal

HONORARY MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Craig Collins

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL ACTION Dr. Michael M. Baslee

SENIOR ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT Kennedy Barnes, Esq.

2019 CONCLAVE PLANNING COMMITTEE Jourdan Morgan Jr.

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE AFFAIRS Joshua A. Busby

INTERNATIONAL HISTORIAN Mark Pacich

2019 CONCLAVE REGISTRATION COMMITTEE Hon. Charles Talbert

COLLEGIATE MEMBER – AT – LARGE Matthew Swalek

INTERNATIONAL CHAPLAIN Edmund Sherrill

SIGMA EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP COUNCIL John White

COLLEGIATE MEMBER – AT - LARGE Samuel Sarkodie

INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Charles Jones

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Dr. Ernie Hughes

IMMEDIATE PAST INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT Hon. Jonathan A. Mason, Sr.

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF THE SIGMA BETA CLUBS Jenabu C. Williams

PARLIAMENTARIAN Edwin K. Miles

DSC REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GENERAL BOARD Hon. Theoplis Woodard

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF RISK MANAGEMENT Hon. Martin B. Currie, CSP

FINANCIAL INVESTING COMMITTEE Julian Heyward

EASTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR J.R. Reeves

INTERNATIONAL INTERNAL AUDITOR Larry A. Mungin, CPA

SIGMA/ZETA RELATIONS COMMITTEE Rufus Davison

GREAT LAKES REGIONAL DIRECTOR David A. Turner, CPA

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, SIGMA LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Dr. Bennie Harris

INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Hon. Daryl A. Anderson, Sr.

INTERNATIONAL DIR. OF BIGGER & BETTER BUSINESS Reginald Sluch

GULF COAST REGIONAL DIRECTOR Howard Redmond SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Dr. Lawrence L. Rouse SOUTHERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Dr. Errick Farmer SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Michael Murry WESTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR Kedric Nalls CHIEF OF STAFF Hon. Jeffrey Sneed

INTERNATIONAL DIR. OF COLLEGIATE ADVISORS UNIVERSITY Dr. Dwayne Scott INTERNATIONAL DIR. OF STANDARDS, RITUALS AND PROTOCOL Kenneth Daniel INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF AWARDS Dr. Corey Johnson INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF SIGMA CARES Dr. Kent Poindexter INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY Mark Elliot Cornelius

LIFE MEMBERS PRESIDENT Richard L. Duncan DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CHAPTER PRESIDENT Hon. Peter M. Adams, Esq. PBS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION PRESIDENT Hon. Eric Gilliam INTERNATIONAL TREASURER EMERITUS Hon. Charles Moore SIGMA BETA CLUB FOUNDATION PRESIDENT Hon. Arthur R. Thomas, Esq. PHI BETA SIGMA NATIONAL FOUNDATION PRESIDENT Hon. Peter M. Adams, Esq.

Summer 2021 65

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THE CRESCENT MAGAZINE Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 145 Kennedy Street NW Washington, DC 20011-5294