Crescent On The Yard - Winter 2024

BELIEVING IN OUR LEADERS OF TODAY:

WINTER 2024

ADVANCING BLACK PATHWAYS

We’re dedicated to building a more equitable future for the Black community.

To create stronger pathways toward economic success, we’re: • Committing $30 billion over five years to help close the racial wealth gap • Providing educational business programs and on-demand resources for entrepreneurs • Expanding wealth-building programs, tools and resources • Deepening our relationships with HBCUs, and expanding student development programs To learn more, visit jpmorganchase.com/ABP

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International President’s Message InternationalSecond Vice President’s Message Believing in Our Leaders of Today Introduction of the 2023-25 International Collegiate Affairs Council

Protecting the House of Sigma.#Gatekeepers

ON THE COVER

Brothers Ethan McLean, Arness Georgetown, II and Vanderbilt Thompson.

ABOVE PHOTO

Brother Darious Rubin, Mister Benedict College

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Campus Royalty Celebrated Sigma Men who were crowned Campus Kings

2024 & You : Maintaining a Balance While Handling the Business of Sigma A pull-out check list of key actions to help you experience a successful and balanced service life in the fraternity.

Five Ways to Calm Your Mind and Grow Your Body Brother Roland Seward offers ways to practice self-care while advancing the fraternity’s programmatic initiatives

The Winning Circle: Sigma Stepping Champions Phi Beta Sigma collegiate chapters are celebrated 1st Place Step Show winners

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

LAYOUT & DESIGN

EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITORIAL OFFICE

Bro. Steve E. Ballard

Arness Georgetown Monaleto C. Irby Ethan McLean Maynard Minor Roland Seward Vanderbilt Thompson

Marvin B. Manigault Jr

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

BELIEVING IN OUR LEADERS OF TODAY Greetings Sigma Brothers, As I move across the seven regions of this Brotherhood, I’m pleased and impressed by the caliber of collegian leaders who are representing Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. on college campuses. These awesome young men are pushing the envelope on traditional leadership styles--ushering in a new level of fortitude that’s gaining traction each and every year.

The members of the International Collegiate Affairs Council (ICAC) are examples of the new regime of dedicated young leaders. Recently elected into office at Conclave Houston, The Crescent On the Yard offers a closer look at the General Board members who represent the collegians’ voice and interest. Read about them, pay attention and get connected – their mission is to advocate your needs to the Brotherhood.

Speaking of campus leaders, we also recognize and celebrate the collegiate Sigmas who reign as Campus Kings. Their crowning offers the unique opportunity to represent the campus and fraternity in the best light. I’m confident that you’re representing us well.

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I love to step!! In a previous issue of The Crescent, we showcased the historical significance of the Black-Greek Letter Organization’s culture of stepping. During my collegiate years, and I still enjoy today, I was a part of the chapter’s step team. Across the nation, during Homecoming 2023, many Sigma chapters took the winning title of First Place. We congratulate the winners in this issue.

These and other articles of interest are provided in this Winter 2024 edition. Thank you to the editorial team for your time and talents and please enjoy this issue.

Hon. Chris V. Rey, JD International President

INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE To my fellow collegiates, I hope that each of you had a restful break, allowing you to recharge and return to your campus with a renewed sense of purpose and energy. As we begin this new semester, I extend my warmest wishes to each collegiate member of our Fraternity. I hope these next couple months will be filled with academic accomplishments, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences.

Congratulations are in order for the outstanding participants and winners of the recent step shows! We recognize the significant effort and time commitment that performing in a step show requires, and I would like to express my utmost pride and appreciation for your dedication to representing the fraternity with excellence.

After viewing countless videos featuring unique themes and complex routines, there is no doubt that your hard work and commitment left a lasting impression on your college campus.

Your accomplishments not only reflect your individual talents, but the collective strength of the Fraternity.

A special shoutout to our Campus Kings and Queens who have earned their crowns.

Your leadership, charisma, and commitment to service have set a high standard for all of us. Your achievements not only reflect the

excellence of Phi Beta Sigma but also inspire others to strive for greatness. As ambassadors of the Fraternity, your impactful presence on your campus and within your communities is parallel to the values and commitment to excellence that defines our Fraternity, both on and off-campus. I am extremely proud of all of you for taking on roles that embody the principles and contribute significantly to the positive influence of Phi Beta Sigma within our wider community.

As we navigate the challenges and triumphs of the semester ahead, let us stand united as Brothers, supporting each other in our academic pursuits and personal endeavors.

This semester, embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and make a positive impact on our campus and beyond. Here’s to a semester filled with achievements, brotherhood, and the continued success of Phi Beta Sigma!

GOMAB! Ethan McLean International Second Vice President

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BELIEVING IN OUR LEADERS OF TODAY: Introducing the International Collegiate Affairs Council The collegiate ranks of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., houses the light of the organization’s future. As young Sigma Men, they believe in the organization’s principles and are transforming its traditions to transcend to the next generation. As such, their interest and needs are of great concern to the Brotherhood, so much so that a council of officers’ primary mission is to carry such interests.

In this issue of The Crescent On the Yard, we profile the General Board members who make up the International Collegiate Affairs Council and each shares his personal goals for his position. Please allow us to introduce to you Brother Ethan McLean, International Second Vice President, Brother Monaleto C. Irby, International Director of Collegiate Affairs, Brother Arness Georgetown II, Collegiate Member-at-Large 1 and Brother Vanderbilt Thompson, Collegiate Member-at-Large 2.

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BROTHER ETHAN MCLEAN INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Bro. Ethan McLean, the International Second Vice President is a junior Chemical Engineering student and Cheatham-White Scholar at North Carolina A&T University, Greensboro, NC. Ethan is a Spring 2022 initiate into the Eta chapter, where he currently serves as the chapter president. In his role, Ethan is leading initiatives to enhance the efficiency and operation of the chapter by implementing standards and templates, streamlining the work being done. He strives to build on the legacy of his grandfather, Hon. Brother Robert McLean, and his father, Brother Rod McLean, who have inspired him with their dedication to incorporating high ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service into everyday life.

In his pursuit of a career as a chemical engineer, Ethan has gained valuable internship experience with Eastman Chemical, Abbott Labs, and is set to join Lockheed Martin this summer. Rooted in research and development, Ethan is drawn to the intellectual challenges, project diversity, and innovative aspects of the field. His career aspirations are driven by a desire for a missionbased career, seeking to meaningfully and positively impact the world around him, through

his daily work. Beyond his professional and academic endeavors, Ethan is an avid reader and enjoys mountain biking on trails across the East Coast. He believes balancing his intellectual pursuits with an active lifestyle is key to staying relaxed, recharged, and ready for the next challenge.

In his capacity as the International Second Vice President, Ethan ran a campaign focused on three pivotal pillars: Literacy Champions, Engagement Pipeline, and Connection to Alumni. His vision includes implementing targeted collegiate literacy programs to empower young men of color with essential reading skills. Additionally, he aims to strengthen the connection between collegiate members and alumni by more efficiently facilitating connections for internships, full-time job opportunities, and professional growth.

Finally, Ethan aims to make higher-level engagement within the Fraternity more accessible and affordable for undergraduates. He has identified key focus areas, including amplifying the visibility of the International Collegiate Affairs Committee, establishing more direct and valuable benefits for collegiate

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BROTHER MONALETO C. IRBY INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE AFFAIRS Bro. Monaleto C. Irby, the second oldest of seven, is a native of Demopolis, AL. He graduated with an Advanced Diploma from Demopolis High School in 1993, where he received a full athletic scholarship in football to Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL. While at Jacksonville State, Bro. Irby was well entrenched in the campus community as an athlete and student leader. He was a Senator with the Student Government Association, and a member of the Inspirational Voices of Christ Gospel Choir. Irby was initiated in Pi Kappa Chapter in Spring 1996, a proud #13 “The Balladeer” of 17 Blu Playas.

Bro. Irby was elected chapter President in the Fall and coordinated and hosted the chapter’s first Miss Blue and White Pageant.

In the Spring of 1997 Bro. Irby was crowned the first Black Mr. JSU in February and Alpha Zeta’s Mr. University in March. He graduated in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Social Work. He is currently completing courses for a Master in Public Administration with a concentration in Justice.

Eleven days after graduating, he began work as a Case Manager. His professional career has positioned him in several roles from a Counselor, Program Director and Director in several programs servicing youth in Alabama, before moving to Georgia in 2007. He is currently employed with the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, where he currently serves as the Deputy Director

of Regional Development. Irby is a Georgia P.O.S.T certified Master Training Instructor and serves on the agency’s policy committee. He is a certified Verbal Judo Instructor, Training Center Faculty for the American Heart Association and Coordinator of the agency’s Basic Life Savers Course.

In May 2020, Irby created MCI Motivated Intervention Solutions, LLC., which focuses on leadership and staff development. Irby is also a member of the National Blacks in Criminal Justice and the American Probation and Parole Association. Bro. Irby is the Immediate Past State Director of Georgia (2019-2023), Georgia’s 1st Vice State Director (2017-2019), State Director of Sigma Beta Clubs (2015-2017), and Alabama’s State Director of Collegiate Affairs (20062008). He has served as 1st Vice President of Xi Chi Sigma Chapter, Atlanta (2016-2023) and President of Zeta Mu Sigma Chapter, Anniston (2004-2008) As the International Director of Collegiate Affairs, he says, “I’m committed to making a positive impact in the organization. My decision to seek the office was rooted in the belief that collegiate brothers must make an impact on their campus.

I truly believe that by making this impact, it can help with recruitment efforts. The collegiate voice has to be elevated and we must engage with our young brothers to assure that they are invested for the positive outcomes of their chapters.

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BROTHER ARNESS GEORGETOWN II INTERNATIONAL COLLEGIATE MEMBER-AT-LARGE 1 Bro. Arness Georgetown, II, a native of Jackson, Mississippi, proudly became a member of the Alpha Beta Delta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma

Looking ahead, Arness plans to attend law school after graduation, although the specific destination remains undecided. As a Collegiate

Fraternity, Inc. in the spring of 2022. Growing up in Jackson, Arness was immersed in the warmth of a “Blue and White” family, where both his parents and many relatives were dedicated members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

Member-At-Large, Arness is focused on boosting the office’s visibility by connecting with collegians through events like office hours. His key objectives include amplifying the collegiate voice on the board, enhancing program offerings, and building a stronger bond between collegiate and alumni brothers. Bro. Arness is determined to create a more inclusive and supportive Phi Beta Sigma community, fostering collaboration and understanding among its members.

Currently a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in political science at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN, Arness has made his mark as a dedicated student and leader. He has actively served as a Student Senator, taken on the role of President of the campus chapter of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, and a four-year starter on the Rhodes basketball team since his freshman year.

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BROTHER VANDERBILT THOMPSON INTERNATIONAL COLLEGIATE MEMBER-AT-LARGE 2 Bro. Vanderbilt Lawrence Thompson, II is a California native, where he grew up for the first part of his life, relocated to Georgia for a few years, and eventually moved to Maricopa, AZ. After graduating high school, he attended Central Arizona College and received an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Science. Vanderbilt was then admitted to the illustrious Grambling State University, Grambling, LA. He’s a Senior studying Biology. His objective is to attend medical school to become a doctor, with an emphasis in Surgical Critical Care or plastic surgery. He joined the Xi Chapter in Fall 2020--he’s the 4 on his line.

S.T.E.M majors and Sigmas in Science and help brothers build relationships with other brothers who share particular degree paths in medicine.

Brother Thompson shares, “I will strive for excellence in the position and submit myself to hear all ideas and feedback to create an open atmosphere and value-driven brotherhood.”

As the new Collegiate Member At Large 2, his objectives are to be a strong and transparent advocate for the collegiate voice, build new platforms and opportunities specifically for

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18 • THE CRESCENT ON THE YARD

BY BRO. MONALETO C. IRBY

“I believe in the principles of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and my loyalty to these transcends all personal responsibility. I believe that I should be a credit to the organization, and I should at all times safeguard its reputation with the best in conduct. I believe in the unity of purpose as expressed in the motto: Culture for Service and Service for Humanity. These things constitute the true test of a Phi Beta Sigma man.”

The “phire” still burns inside of me every time I recite our Creed. It gives me energy to keep moving forward, for “Our Cause Speeds on Its Way”. It is with this intentionality, and love for this Brotherhood and respect for this organization that we must do our part to protect the House of Sigma. It is our duty to be Gatekeepers to this hallowed ground of Sigma.

OUR MISSION STATEMENT The brothers of Phi Beta Sigma are the Fraternity’s most valuable resource and strength. They are the primary means by which the Phi Beta Sigma objectives will be achieved. In order to accomplish the Fraternity’s objectives, it is essential that systems are instituted that effectively embody “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity” and promote brotherhood, scholarship and service.

Our website tells everyone who visits that from its inception, the Founders 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, the Founders of Phi Beta Sigma 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 our motto. It should be with great pride that you protect this 110-year storied organization founded by mature educated collegiate men. They continued to set the bar by choosing other mature collegians who would make up our charter members. I often imagine how those conversations and discussions took place -how those collegiate men chartered a path for others to join some 110 years later. It is our duty to continue to hold that standard. We must protect our interests.

We must be Gatekeepers.

Our collegiate standard was set many years ago.

From a well thought out motto, to our founding principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service, our founders were intentional in their movement. It was this movement that showed a commitment to assuring that our civic and campus communities were positively affected. This is why serving as Gatekeepers to our organization is important; it protects the House of Sigma.

A gatekeeper is defined as a person or thing that controls access to something. You are the person that helps to determine who has access to the sacred ground of Sigma.

• How we protect our letters • How we make a positive impact in the communities • How we continue to uphold the standards of the organization • How we display the image of Sigma • How we use our platforms of influence • How we recruit • Who we select who joins our Brotherhood This House is Full of Blue and White. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc, is our Brand. We are all responsible for protecting the brand and upholding the set standards. Anything else is selfish and destructive to the fabric of the Brotherhood and Organization.

“I believe in all that Phi Beta Sigma represents and I will herald and defend it, even against the world” - Bro. Abraham M. Walker; May 4, 1914 WINTER 2024 • 19

CAMPUS ROYALTY

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Allhail theKing!

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity is proud to recognize our collegiate members who reign as their campus’ Homecoming King or Court Attendants for 2023-2024.

Oneil Daley

Tylan Hunt

Christopher James

Mister Edward Waters University 2023-2024 Gamma Pi Chapter

Student Body Beau The University of Southern Mississippi Theta Eta Chapter

Homecoming King 2023 Nova Southeastern University Gamma Alpha Delta Chapter (President)

Darious Rubin

Kamal Sanders

Michael D. Stewart, Jr.

10th Mister Benedict College Gamma Lambda Gamma Chapter Benedict College

Mister Senior – Homecoming 2023 Virginia State University Alpha Alpha Alpha Chapter (President)

Jackson State University Alpha Beta Chapter Note: Made history by being the first Sigma to be on Jackson State’s Royal Court.

Kalix Timo

Jordan Wheeler

Roosevelt Williams

Mr. Sophomore – Homecoming 2023 Nova Southeastern University Gamma Alpha Delta Chapter

Mister Junior – Homecoming 2023 Benedict College Gamma Lambda Gamma Chapter

NPHC President – Royal Court Texas College Homecoming 2023 Texas College Beta Phi Chapter

WINTER 2024 • 21

2024 &

YOU

Maintaining a Balance While Handling the Business of Sigma”

A new year has begun, and I want you to know that you are doing an amazing job navigating the journey called higher education. It is not always easy, but your dedication, hard work, and resilience are truly commendable. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories (big or small), and remember that every step that you take is shaping a brighter future for yourself.

As one who was once where you are in your academic and fraternal experience, I encourage you to keep pushing boundaries by continuing to learn and grow. Your potential is limitless, and the world is waiting for the incredible impact only you can make.

As you begin 2024 and the spring semester, here are 24 reminders to help you personally create balance and handle the business of Phi Beta Sigma. I encourage you to use these reminders as a collaborative check list for your chapter throughout the academic year. Your collective focus will manifest in proven results:

1. Things may not always go according to plan, be ready to pivot.

2.Do not put an age on when you want to accomplish a particular goal. Set the goal and then work to achieve it.

3.Everyone and everything are not what they POST to be. Do not let what you see on social media dictate where you think you should be in life.

4.Learn to live in the moment because you will never get that time back.

5.It is ok to not always know what you want to do in life all the time. Take a moment and you will figure it out.

6.Disappointment is not only a part of life, but it is healthy.

7.Build a solid network and you will unlock endless opportunities and possibilities for your personal and professional growth.

8.Never stop learning. Always be a seeker of knowledge.

9.Get comfortable with saying No. 10.Learn good money and credit management skills now and it will make things so much easier as you get older.

11.Do not be afraid to show emotion. As men we are often taught not to show our emotions and by doing that it could lead to unhealthy relationships.

12.Invest in yourself because if you do not invest in yourself, no one else will.

13.Never apologize for who you are and what you accomplish in life.

14.Get comfortable being uncomfortable, it builds character.

15.Pay chapter tax and insurance inclusive of late fees, if it was not paid by Dec 31st.

16.Retrieve your chapter’s current chapter financial roster from the Chapter Portal in The BluPrint.

17.Obtain a copy of the Certificate of Insurance from IHQ and send to the college/university Greek/ Fraternity & Sorority Life Coordinator.

18.Submit an updated chapter roster to Greek/ Fraternity & Sorority Life Coordinator 19.Share your chapter’s Events Calendar with the advising Alumni Chapter President and anyone else deemed appropriate.

20.Designate a representative(s) to attend monthly advising Alumni Chapter meetings.

21.Attend regional conference and/or state meeting and be sure to send a registered chapter delegate.

22.Submit the chapter’s P.I.A.’s via the chapter portal in The BluPrint by the end of the month for all events held each month.

23.Discuss transferring to an alumni chapter after graduation with all graduating seniors.

24.LIVE! Do not be afraid to live life to the fullest.

Here’s to a year filled with discovery, prosperity and the boundless opportunities that await.

BROTHER MAYNARD MINOR Brother Maynard Minor is a member of the International Collegiate Advisor University Committee. His engagement with the collegiate ranks of the fraternity are plenty, having formerly served as a Collegiate Advisor to Gamma Chapter at Morgan State University, Eastern Regional Deputy Director of Collegiate Affairs, Immediate Past Eastern Regional Director of Collegiate Affairs and Past International Collegiate Affairs Committee. He’s currently a member of the Nu Sigma Sigma Chapter, Harford County/Metro Baltimore, MD. WINTER 2024 • 23

Five Ways to Calm Your Mind and Grow Your Body

By Brother Roland Seward Mélange Wellness

As you return to school this semester, some of the same headaches and stressors will be there from last semester. You will deal with teachers not speaking clearly, making sure you are registered for all the classes you need, and knowing where all of your classes are located on campus. Let’s not mention the social aspect that every college professional must navigate, in order not to be an outcast in their own dorm -- the list goes on. With all of these frustrations and tedious tasks that you must endure, it is easy to become overwhelmed.

For these reasons and more, we will share five ways to calm your mind and help you grow your body at the same time. These five things have been proven to ease tension in your everyday life. As you turn up when you hit the frat parties or buckle down when it’s time to go to class, remember these five things. If done correctly, you will cultivate a balance that keeps your mind and body right for the rest of the school year.

1.Drink water.

A lot of rookies

make this mistake the first time when they go to a party and get lit. They step on the scene with something to prove: go right to the liquor table and start throwing back shots. As a college graduate and Navy vet, I can tell you that this is the best way to have something drawn on your face in permanent marker! Lol. This is why you must drink water if you are drinking alcohol. For every one alcohol shot you drink, drink a cup of water.

Yes, you might have to visit the restroom all night, but it is better than waking up the next day with a new tattoo marker or being late for your first class.

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Another reason why you must drink, at least, 64 oz of water a day, is because, no one wants to see your ashy ankles. In the winter time most people stop drinking water because they believe: “I’m not sweating as much, I don’t need to drink that much water.” Wrong! This is the best way to dehydrate.

Adding liquor on top of that; not only do you have ashy ankles but your lips are too dry as well, and no amount of Chapstick will help.

2.Decorate and clean your dorm room.

Your dorm room

speaks volumes of your character.

The place where you lay your head should reflect a space you want to be in. If you know you have midterms coming up and your room smells like your left gym sock gave up the ghost, then your study environment is compromised. You will try to go to the quad or other common areas to study and get distracted by 1,000 other things. Try to incorporate some plants in your room to give that fresh air feel. This also shows others that you care about your space.

Also add a diffuser. This will introduce a pleasant smell like lavender (which is known to relax you), giving your room a chill vibe. Wash your sheets every two weeks. There is nothing better than getting out of the shower and laying on a fresh set of linen. Finally, turn down the color a little. You do not always want your room to be the jump off spot.

Other people may not respect your belongings like you do, no matter how many times you tell them.

5.Celebrate your wins!

This one is my personal favorite. If you believe in

3.Hit the gym.

We all know hitting the gym is important when it

comes to building muscle, but did you know that lifting weight can improve your mental as well as your physical wellbeing? Here are some of the benefits exercising, which can help on your brain.

Physical activity help pump blood to your brain helping you to think. With more blood cells flowing in the brain, it improves all the brain’s functions: learning, memory, focus, happiness, and overall cognitive thinking.

Physical exercise helps to boost testosterone, which helps boost muscle growth, recovery, size, stamina, and much more. Not only will you be a vibe in the classroom, you will be a monster strolling on the yard .

4.Get your sleep.

With all of the

studying and partying, it can be hard to get a good night’s rest. We all know how being tired can affect brain function. So, when you are sleep deprived, it becomes hard to think clearly, your equilibrium is off, your desire to get up and start your day decreases, your hormone levels start to become imbalanced causing mood swings, and the list goes on. As your body sleeps, the recovery process is in full swing. This is when your muscles start to repair themselves and you become stronger. This is also when everything you’ve learned from that day gets transferred from short term memory to long term memory. Meaning, if you have an exam and you stay up all night cramming, it’s less likely that you will remember what you studied than if you got a good night’s sleep the previous night.

Newton’s Third Law: for every action there is an equal but opposite reaction, then you know that life is 50/50. For every bad thing that happens to you there is an equally good thing. If you look for happiness, you will find it. The reverse is also true. If you are the kind of person who celebrates their wins, you will notice when a lot of good things happen to you. Our brains are built to recognize patterns. If you are constantly telling your brain good things are happening, dopamine (the feelgood hormone) will saturate your mind. For example: If you receive an A-minus on a test, some people will see the minus as a negative thing. They will then create stress which will fill the body with cortisol (the break-your- muscles-down hormone) and it can ruin the rest of your day because now you cannot focus on anything but that A-. But on the other hand, a person who celebrates their wins will have more dopamine in their system and think to themselves, “yes, it is an A- but that keeps my grade point average at a 4.0. I still have work to do, but good job pulling off that A.” The reward for having a positive outlook on a situation equals more dopamine.

In conclusion, college life can be tough. There are lots of new experiences one must navigate at the same time. Some people must worry about scholarship, others must worry about home sickness, social acceptance, grade point averages, and more. Taking care of yourself is paramount.

If you keep a watchful eye on your selfcare, both mentally and physically, a lot of the effects the of everyday stressors (anger, depression, weight gain and hair loss) will become dramatically reduced.

Remember to take every day one step at a time. In any situation ask yourself, “What are the short- and long-term effects on my body if I do this?” Do these five things and you will notice a positive upswing in your mood and personality. Bluu Phiii!!!

BROTHER ROLAND SEWARD

Brother Roland Seward is the owner of Mélange Wellness, where SELF-CARE IS SELF-LOVE, an innovative self-care practice, that helps clients realize maximum results through yoga, physical fitness and massage therapy by teaching you different techniques to increase the efficiency of your day-to-day movements. He is a member of the Zeta Chi Sigma Chapter, Prince George’s County Maryland and Metropolitan DC. WINTER 2024 • 25

THE

SIGMA STEPPING CHAMPIONS ALPHA ALPHA ALPHA STAYS ON THE WINNING STAGE

In the heart of Virginia State University, the Alpha Alpha Alpha chapter has established itself as a symbol of excellence and creativity. Their domination of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Homecoming Step Show for several years is a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication. They have not only claimed victory year after year but have also set a standard for creative storytelling through the art of stepping.

The Tri-Alpha brothers’ success extends beyond the NPHC Homecoming Step Show, as they have ventured into various competitions along the east coast, leaving an indelible mark of excellence wherever they perform. Their commitment to the craft and their passion for perfection have not only earned them accolades but have also inspired others to push their boundaries in the world of stepping.

Since 2017, the Tri-Alpha brothers have consistently pushed the boundaries, securing the coveted first-place trophy in the NPHC Homecoming Step Show. Their remarkable journey began with the theme “Kicking It Old School” in 2017, followed by the enchanting “Toy Story” in 2018, the historical “300 B.C.” in 2019, the martial arts-inspired “Karate Kid” in 2021, the intriguing “Jigsaw” in 2022, and the nostalgic “The Little Rascals” in 2023. Each performance not only showcased their exceptional stepping skills but also captivated audiences with imaginative and crowd-pleasing themes.

In celebrating six years of stepping excellence, the Tri-Alpha brothers have secured a lasting legacy and proven that dedication, creativity, and unity are the key ingredients to success. As they continue to make their mark on the stepping world, we applaud their achievements and eagerly anticipate their continued triumphs at the Alpha Alpha Alpha chapter of Virginia State University.

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Here’s to the brothers who have set the stage ablaze, and here’s to many more years of triumphs and creative endeavors!

FALL 2023• 19

Around the country, Phi Beta Sigma collegiate chapters took the First Place Trophy during 2023 Homecoming Step Shows. Here’s a sampling of the winners.

Alpha Beta Chapter

Jackson State University Best Fraternity and People’s Choice Jackson State University Greek Step Show 2023

Gamma Alpha Delta Chapter

Nova Southeastern University Homecoming 2023 Stroll-Off Competition Note: $1,000 Prize; Team members: Stefano Saint-IL, Quincy Lonnie-Maloney, Kyron Defreitas, Christopher James, Jared Scott, Jahbari Newton

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Alpha Eta Chapter

Beta Theta Chapter

Gamma Zeta Chapter

Gamma Lambda Gamma Chapter

Florida A&M University 1st Place Homecoming Step Show Competition

Savannah State University Homecoming Step Show Winners

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Winners UAPB Homecoming 2023 Best Fraternity Competition

Benedict College 1st Place – Fraternity Division NPHC Homecoming Step Show 2023

Gamma Pi Chapter

Edward Waters University 1st Place 2023 Homecoming Step Show

Iota Tau Chapter (PBS) Rho Upsilon Chapter (ZPB)

Fraternity & Sorority Winners Louisiana State University Step Show 2023

Delta Alpha Chapter (PBS) Omega Chapter (ZPB)

1st Place Fraternity & 1st Place Sorority Homecoming Step Show Winston-Salem State University

Theta Eta Chapter

Champions Homecoming Step Show 2023 The University of Southern Mississippi

Xi Nu Chapter

Champions NPHC Homecoming Step Show 2023 East Carolina University

THE

SIGMA STEPPING CHAMPIONS WINTER 2024 • 29