The Premier Magazine - Spring 2023 Edition

THE PREMIER

The Official Magazine of the Southern Region

Dr.ErrickFarmer

PREMIERE SOUTHERN REGION EXECUTIVE BOARD

BROTHER DR. ERRICK FARMER

SOUTHERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR

BETA LAMBDA SIGMA

BROTHER KENNETH STRAUGHTER

1ST VICE REGIONAL DIRECTOR

DELTA MU SIGMA

BROTHER LYRIC COSBY

REGIONAL SECRETARY

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

BROTHER MARCUS SEARLES

FINANCIAL SECRETARY

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER KEVIN KEYS III

2ND VICE REGIONAL DIRECTOR

SIGMA BROTHER FRANK WRIGHT

REGIONAL TREASURER

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

BROTHER RODNEY BAIN JR.

DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER DWIGHT CALLAWAY

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

XI CHI SIGMA

BROTHER LOUIS SUTTON

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL ACTION

GAMMA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER LEON MOODY

DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE AFFAIRS

TAU SIGMA

BROTHER TOM RANDOLPH SIGMA-ZETA RELATIONS

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER JOSEPH GRIFFIN JR.

CO-DIRECTOR OF TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

THETA ETA SIGMA

BROTHER DR. PHILLIP HARRIS

CHIEF OF STAFF

ZETA IOTA SIGMA

BROTHER RICKY MOSS

DIRECTOR OF PUBLICITY

GAMMA PI SIGMA

BROTHER CHARLES THOMAS

DIRECTOR OF BIGGER & BETTER BUSINESS

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

BROTHER WILLIE DIGGS II

DIRECTOR OF SIGMA BETA CLUB

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER RUBEN GRANT DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

BROTHER BRANDON BRIM

DIRECTOR OF MILITARY AFFAIRS

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

PREMIERE SOUTHERN REGION EXECUTIVE BOARD

BROTHER DR. TONY BOLDEN

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PLANNING

XI CHI SIGMA

BROTHER ESMOND

JOHNSON DIRECTOR OF AWARDS AND STANDARDS

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER WELLINGTON FERGUSON DIRECTOR OF RISK MANAGEMENT

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER ABRAHAM EVANS III

ALABAMA STATE DIRECTOR

TAU SIGMA

BROTHER ROY EDMONDS

IMMEDIATE PAST REGIONAL DIRECTOR

RHO SIGMA

BROTHER RODNEY BAIN

BAHAMAS STATE DIRECTOR

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

BROTHER DANIEL SMITH

FLORIDA STATE DIRECTOR

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

BROTHER SEDRIC SCOTT

MISSISSIPPI STATE DIRECTOR

DELTA TAU SIGMA

BROTHER DR. WALTER STEPHENS

GEORGIA STATE DIRECTOR

KAPPA ZETA SIGMA

BROTHER DR. BERNARD MITCHELL

REGIONAL CHAPLAIN

MU SIGMA

SOUTHERN REGION FINANCIAL CHAPTERS OF 2022

ALUMNI

ALPHA ALPHA IOTA SIGMA

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

ALPHA CHI SIGMA

ALPHA ETA SIGMA

ALPHA IOTA SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

BETA DELTA SIGMA

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BETA LAMBDA SIGMA

BETA NU SIGMA

BETA PI SIGMA

BETA SIGMA SIGMA

BETA ZETA SIGMA

DELTA ALPHA SIGMA

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

DELTA LAMBDA SIGMA

DELTA MU SIGMA

DELTA OMICRON SIGMA

DELTA PHI SIGMA

DELTA TAU SIGMA

DELTA UPSILON SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON OMICRON SIGMA

EPSILON THETA SIGMA

ETA DELTA SIGMA

ETA ETA SIGMA

ETA LAMBDA SIGMA

ETA MU SIGMA

ETA ZETA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA EPSILON SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA MU SIGMA

GAMMA PI SIGMA

GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA ZETA SIGMA

IOTA RHO SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA CHI SIGMA

KAPPA EPSILON SIGMA

KAPPA LAMBDA SIGMA

KAPPA ZETA SIGMA

LAMBDA BETA SIGMA

LAMBDA EPSILON SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

MU SIGMA

NU BETA SIGMA

NU MU SIGMA

NU PSI SIGMA

OMICRON MU SIGMA

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

OMICRON PI SIGMA

OMICRON TAU SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PI ALPHA SIGMA

PI DELTA SIGMA

PI OMICRON SIGMA

PI TAU SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO IOTA SIGMA

RHO SIGMA

RHO XI SIGMA

SIGMA DELTA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

TAU BETA SIGMA

TAU SIGMA

THETA ETA SIGMA

THETA IOTA SIGMA

THETA RHO SIGMA

THETA SIGMA SIGMA

XI CHI SIGMA

ZETA IOTA SIGMA

ZETA MU SIGMA

ZETA PHI SIGMA

ZETA SIGMA SIGMA

ZETA UPSILON SIGMA

Editor-in-Chief

Bro. Roy Edmonds

Regional Director of Publicity

Bro. Ricky Moss

Regional Director of Publicity

Bro. Joseph Fenderson - Alabama

Bro. Deion Williams - Georgia

Bro. Byron Keys - Mississippi

Bro. Teddy Feracho - Florida

Contributing Editors and Writers

Bro. Dr. Errick Farmer - Regional Director

Bro. Kenneth Straughter -

1st Vice Regional Director

Bro. Michael Moody

Bro. Rodney Bain

Bro. Dr. Tony Bolden

Bro. Joe Griffin

Bro. Ruben Grant

REMEMBERING OUR SIGMA LEGENDS BRO. DR. W.S.M. BANKS

BY BRO. MICHAEL MOODY

Born in Amite County, Miss , on December 15, 1915, William S M Banks, Jr received his early education from his mother at home, who instilled in him an abiding respect for acquiring knowledge He was the second of five children born to William S.M. "Mutt" and Adeline Banks. In 1937, despite the hardships of the Great Depression years, Banks used his athletic skills and work ethic to earn a degree from Dillard University, in New Orleans, Louisiana. While there, Banks became a charter member of the Epsilon Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. He was then encouraged to continue his education for a MA and went on to earn a Master’s degree from Fisk University in Sociology. He landed a position at Fort Valley State and in 1940 began his 38-year association with the institution.

In 1942, his tenure at Ft Valley was interrupted by World War II where he served as a Company Commander in the 92nd Infantry Division and rose to the rank of Captain He married Hattie Louise Bryant on July 11 of that same year The 92nd Infantry Division was the only AfricanAmerican infantry division that participated in combat in Europe during World War II The 92nd Infantry Division served in both World War I and World War II The military was then segregated The divisional nickname, "Buffalo Soldiers Division", was inherited from the 366th Infantry,

one of the first units organized in the division

After his honorable discharge, and receipt of the Silver Star, Banks returned to Fort Valley State, and completed a doctorate at Ohio State. He served as a professor of Sociology and the chairman of the division of Social Sciences. He was also a former president and commissioner of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and a past Director of the Southern Region of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Additionally Banks was Athletic Faculty Representative at Fort Valley State College from 1943 until he became Academic Dean at the college in 1967. He was always very active in the conference affairs He was elected conference president in 1964 and served through 1966 He guided the conference through many dangerous periods during his term in office During the period when the conference was trying to decide which national body to cast its allegiance with, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) or the National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), President Banks guided the membership through many heated discussions of both associations until they required an institution to be a member of one W S M Banks was elected to the office of Conference Commissioner in 1966 replacing the retired Commissioner B T Harvey He served until 1966, retiring when he was selected as Dean of Fort Valley State College

W.S.M. (Bill) Banks, II passed away on Tuesday, December 25, 2007, at Laurel Bay Healthcare in Macon, Georgia. He was 92 years old. He spent his life developing a deep and wide circle of friends, colleagues, and admirers. In every aspect of his life, as an educator, father, and husband he demonstrated strength, kindness, dedication, and true concern for others

During his years at Fort Valley State College Dr Banks served as the first chairman of the Social Sciences Division and as Dean of the Faculty He also showed an intense interest in and support for college athletics He was an active member of Trinity Baptist Church, and a favorite among Sunday School teachers In 1968 he became the president of the Dillard University Alumni Association In his autobiography, a study of the impact of racial and class attitudes as much as personal achievement, William Banks describes his experiences growing up in a poor African American family in rural Mississippi and working his way up through distinguished military service and concerted effort to earn a doctorate at Ohio State and a career as a professor of sociology at Fort Valley State University. After his retirement in 1978, he was able to devote more time to fishing, golf, bridge, pinochle, and his beloved Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. In 1980 Dr. Banks, along with three other emeriti, was recognized by the college for his contributions to producing graduates who served humanity as teachers, public servants, educators, policy makers and scholars The annual Banks-Pierro-Rutland-Bellamy Social Sciences Colloquium and Scholarship Fund are ongoing Fort Valley State University initiatives

As a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc , Dr Banks along with well-known brothers like Cornelius V Troup, Robert H Beasley, and William H Pipes chartered the Beta Delta Sigma Chapter in Fort Valley, Georgia in December of 1941 After the second World War, Banks served in many capacities in the fraternity as Beta Delta Sigma Chapter president, Georgia State Director, and Southern Regional

Director

Alabama StateConference

The Alabama Sigmas convened in Mobile, AL for their 2023 Alabama State Conference from April 13- 26, 2023. During the conference, they held a job fair that welcomed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the US Park and Recreation as well. Both of these companies also aided in doing workshops during the conference as well This year wasanelectionyearwhereanewstateboardwasinstalled attheendoftheconference Bro AbrahamEvansIIIwasreelected to serve as the Alabama State Director The new members of the executive board were Bro Marcus Speakman, who became 2nd Vice State Director and Bro AmirKelly,whobecamecollegiatemember-at-large

On Friday evening, they held the Collegiate Step Show where the Gamma Beta Chapter will move on to compete in the Southern Regional Step Show On Saturday evening, they have the Miss Phi Beta Sigma – Alabama Pageant The pageantwaswonbyScottariaScottfromTuskegeeUniversity Sheservesalsoas the Beta Kappa chapter Miss Phi Beta Sigma, and she will go on to compete for Southern Regional Miss Phi Beta Sigma As they concluded the state conference, one brother was selected to be nominated to the Outstanding Sigmas of the Southern Region. Bro. Kevon Chesson of the Alpha Eta Sigma Chapter in Montgomery, AL is the brother that was selected for OSSR. He also serves as the Alabama State Secretary and is a Gold Life Member. The Next Alabama State ConferencewillbeheldinTroy,ALin2024.

Outstanding Sigmas of the Southern Region

he Outstanding Sigmas of the Southern Region (OSSR) is a chapter for brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. who are members of a chapter in the Southern Region (Alabama, The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi) and have rendered outstanding service in the fraternity and community. Since 1981, 123 Phi Beta Sigma men have been inducted in the OSSR. Of the 123 men, three have served as International President of the fraternity and sixteen have received the highest individual honor of the fraternity, the Distinguished Service Key. Fifteen members of the OSSR have served as Southern Regional Director of Phi Beta Sigma.

The genesis of The Distinguished Service Chapter of the Southern Region of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. began during the early stage of Regional Director Brother William “Bill” Stanley and Vice Regional Director Brother Earl Davis administration in 1980. Brother Stanley asked Brother Davis to choose a special project that he would like to develop for the membership of the Southern Region. Having worked on the Southern Region Executive Board as State Director of Florida and having observed how hard many of the brothers from each State of the Region worked and their high level of community involvement, there needed to be a way to give these brothers the highest recognition that could be received at the regional level. Brother Davis also felt that this would be an avenue for choosing brothers for the Distinguish Service Key Chapter at the National Level. Brother Stanley felt this was a great idea and asked him to develop the idea so it could be presented to the Regional Board for approval

First, Brother Davis wanted to come up with a name that would not be in conflict with the National Distinguish Service Key Chapter. Several names came to mind before he came up with the name “The Distinguished Service Chapter of the Southern Region”. He presented the name to Brother Stanley, and he thought it was great. The next step was to develop the program so it could be presented to the Executive Board.

At the next scheduled Executive Board Meeting, Brother Davis presented the idea of establishing a special chapter. The chapter would be for deserving members to be inducted into, that would not conflict with the existing Distinguish Service Key Chapter at the National Level. After a lengthy discussion and some changes, the Board approved the program including the Membership Guidelines

“THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CHAPTER OF THE SOUTHERN REGION”

The induction into the Distinguish Service Chapter of the Southern Region is the highest honor given to a brother at the regional level. This honor is granted to a deserving brother by members of his State, pending approval of the Southern Region’s body, during the annual Regional Conference. For a member to receive this honor, he must be recommended by his Alumni Chapter in writing and to his State’s Distinguished Service Chapter Committee. The program requirements followed this presentation.

This program was ratified by each State of the Southern Region. Brother Davis worked with each State Director in choosing brothers who met the program requirements. At the 1981 Regional Conference, the first ten (10) brothers were inducted into the Distinguished Service Chapter of the Southern Region.

CHAPTER FOUNDER: Brother Earl Davis 1981 FIRST INDUCTEES/CHARTER MEMBERS Brothers:

Jerome Auls

L.D. “Doc” Bussey

Earl Davis

John Duncan

George Ellis

William Fails

David Hickman

Walter Hurns

Damon Miller

Roswell O. Sutton

These 10 charter members represented the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. Each year, State Directors bring to the Regional Conference, names of brothers to be inducted into this very special chapter.

Years later, the name was changed to “The Outstanding Sigmas of the Southern Region”.

There are many recognizable names in the OSSR. The late congressman and civil rights activist, Honorable John Lewis was inducted in 2018 Another civil rights activist, Hosea Williams is the only member of the OSSR to be inducted posthumously in 2001. A third key figure in the civil rights movement, Hon. Demetrius C. Newton is one of three International Presidents to become members of the special chapter. Newton is a civil rights attorney who represented Rosa Parks and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was also the first American of African descent to hold the position Speaker Pro-Tempore for the Alabama State House of Representatives. Seventeenth International President, Hon. Roswell O. Sutton and 28th International President, Hon. William E. Stanley, Jr are the other two presidents. Sutton, like two Hon. Charles W. Moore and Hon. John Turner are three OSSR members who gained emeritus status for the General Board positions of President, Treasurer, and General Counselor respectively.

O.S.S.R

Sutton, Moore, Turner are also members of the Distinguished Service Chapter (DSC), the highest individual honor obtained by a Phi Beta Sigma man. The DSC key has been earned by 16 members of the OSSR. Those include the previously mentioned John Lewis, Roswell O. Sutton, Charles W. Moore, and William Fails, who is a member of the inaugural OSSR class.

Outside of civil rights activists, International Presidents, and DSC members, the OSSR has members who have held key positions in the fraternity and National Panhellenic Council (NPHC). Marco McMillan served as the 5th International Executive Director of Phi Beta Sigma while Rev Julius C Simmons served as the National President of the NPHC. Simmons is one of five Phi Beta Sigma men to hold the position. Current International Historian, Mark “Mallet” Pacich, and International Director of Bigger and Better Business, Terrance Gibson have earned their places into the OSSR chapter. Sixteen Southern Regional Directors are member of the OSSR including current Southern Regional Director, Dr. Errick Farmer.

Perhaps one of the more unique fact about the OSSR is only brother has been inducted as a member of a collegiate chapter. Reginald Turner was a member of the Eta Beta (University of Mississippi) Chapter when he was inducted into 1991.

All members of the Outstanding Sigmas of the Southern Region have rendered noteworthy service to the fraternity and community. Many have held several chapter positions when included president and have grown their current alumni to four or five times the size of the previous ten years. Several brothers placed their stamps at the state level and set items in place that are the standards and rules today. A few more brothers loaned their time and talents to advance the Southern Region to become the “Premier” region. A select few brothers have extended a hand to make an impact on the international level of the fraternity. All of the brothers in the OSSR have left an everlasting effect on the communities as a whole.

WELCOME

TO THE BROTHERHOOD

OUR2022INITIATED BROTHERS

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA BETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

ALPHA ZETA

BETA BETA LAMBDA

BETA BETA LAMBDA

BETA KAPPA

BETA KAPPA

BETA PI

BETA PI

BETA PI

BETA PI

BETA PI

BETA RHO

BETA RHO

BETA RHO

BETA RHO

BETA UPSILON

BETA UPSILON

BETA UPSILON

BETA UPSILON

BETA UPSILON

BETA UPSILON

BELL GREEN

HARRIS

HARRIS

HURNS

LAWSON

MCFARLAND

SMITH

TAYLOR

WASHINGTON

WINSTON

ANDERSON

BRIGGS

BROWN

CARSON

ESTES

GANT

HAYES

LEWIS

DEMERITTE

GRANT HOLT

MILLER

ALEXANDER

CHARLTON

KNOWLES

MILLINE

VINSON

MCCLENDON

MISHION

ROSS

WILSON-REED

ALEXANDER COOKS

GREENE

JOHNSON

MICHEL PIERRE

D'ANDRE

TSZAUNTE

JEREMY

STANLEY

JORDAN

CORWIN

ANTHONY

JERRY

AUSTIN

ELIJAH

MARCUS

ELIJAH

SHANNON

JACORIAN

PATRICK

ROBERT

JAVIAN

HORACE

MARK

TYLER

THEODORE

JORDAN

DERRICK

MALIK

PHERON AARON

ALI

JAVIER

RODNEY JUSTIN

EPSILON THETA SIGMA

EPSILON THETA SIGMA

EPSILON THETA SIGMA

EPSILON THETA SIGMA

IOTA RHO

IOTA RHO

IOTA RHO

IOTA RHO

IOTA RHO

IOTA RHO

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

KAPPA ALPHA SIGMA

BURNS

ELLERSON

JENKINS

RUFFIN

DE ZAYAS

DEVALLON

EVANS

HOLMES

LANOT

WALKER

BELUE

EVERETT

FELTON

HURELL

JACKSON

OSUNDE

SMITH

SIMS

CLARKE

KING

DADZIE

GODFREY

HOLNESS

LEGGETT

PAUL

SHEPARD

MICHAEL

BARRY

CHARLIE

JAYLON

DAVID

ABNER

DOMINIC

BRANDYN

WOODY

TYLER

ANDRE

MILTON

CARLOS

O'BARRETT

JAJUAN

NOSA

GARY

SEMION

ZAKARRYA

TREVON

FIIFI

JABARI

DEANTHONY

BRYAN

X'ZAVIER

NICKOHLAS

OMICRON MU SIGMA

OMICRON MU SIGMA

OMICRON MU SIGMA

OMICRON MU SIGMA

OMICRON MU SIGMA

PI DELTA SIGMA

PI DELTA SIGMA

PI RHO

PI RHO

PI RHO

PI RHO

ALLEN

SPAULDING

WHITTEN

JACKSON

RANDOLPH

JONES

STYNES

ALIMI

ANDREWS

BARNES

REEVES

JOHN

SAMUEL

SCOTTY

WILLIAM

TAVEYUS

JAMES

CLIFFORD

FARIHAN

JAYLIN

SABIAN

DE'MONI

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

PI UPSILON SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

SIGMA ETA SIGMA

THETA IOTA SIGMA

THETA IOTA SIGMA

THETA IOTA SIGMA

THETA IOTA SIGMA

THETA IOTA SIGMA

THETA DELTA

THETA DELTA

THETA DELTA

THETA DELTA

RHO XI SIGMA

RHO XI SIGMA

BRADSHAW GRAY

HATCHER

JOHNSON MCCORD

MCCORMICK

MCCORMICK

ROUNTREE RUSH

BABINEAUX GRADY HARRIS JONES PAGAN

PENMAN REYNOLDS SHAKOOR-DIX

JASON

PHILLIP

QUENTIN

ALLEN

JERMAINE

JEFFERY

JEFFERY

MICHAEL

DANNY

JOSHUA

JAMES

ERIC

TERRENCE

JUAN

FREDERICK ROBERT

DEKENDRICK

STINSON

TERRELL MOORE PRATT

BROOKS

RICHEY

THOMAS DUMAS

HOUSTON ORMAN

WILLIAMS

LAWERY

STEPHENS JR.

GAMMA ZETA SIGMA

GAMMA ZETA SIGMA

MU EPSILON

MU EPSILON

MU EPSILON

MU EPSILON

MU EPSILON

MU EPSILON

ALPHA BETA IOTA

ALPHA BETA IOTA

ALPHA BETA IOTA

ALPHA BETA IOTA

ALPHA BETA IOTA

ZETA IOTA SIGMA

ZETA IOTA SIGMA

BRADFORD SMITH

BONILLA CENE

CHRISTIAN

EDMOND TELUSMOND

WEBSTER

CABRERA CHERY

GODFREY

JOSEPH

PIERRE

ALFRED CLOUD

PI ALPHA

PI ALPHA

PI ALPHA

PI ALPHA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

LAMBDA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

ADJIN-TETTEY

ANDERSON

D'ALESSANDRO

DANIELS BANKS

HARRIS

JOHNSON

MCBURROWS

RUCKER

SCOTT

USHER

WALLACE BURKE

GOOCH III

GRAHAM

PETERSON JR. REESE

MATTHEW

JAMARI

DAMIAN

SHANNON

KENRIC

MONTAYE

LARRY

ERVIN

DEMETRIUS

XAVIER

CLYDE

JARED

CARLTON

MILTON

JAN

JOHN

MARCUS

DONALD

DOUGLAS

CHAVEZ

LA'WALLICE

MARKEL

ERIC

DANIEL

DEVYN

TYQUAN

BLAZE

XAVIER

QUINCY

DARRELL

MILES

HENRY

GIANCARLO

KENINESON

XAVIER

EDGARDO

JEFFREY

ELKIJUAN

FABIO

RYAN

RACKELL

HERNST

RYAN

BIENESS

DEVIN

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

RHO BETA SIGMA

BETA BETA BETA

BETA BETA BETA

THETA ETA

THETA ETA

THETA ETA

THETA ETA

THETA ETA

THETA ETA

THETA ETA

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

ALPHA PI

SINCLAIR

SMITH

WOOTEN

DANIELS

GYIMAH

GREER

GREER

KUYKENDALL

MCCRIMON

WILLIAMS

WINDING

WOMACK BUCKLEY

BROWN

BUSH

CUNNINGHAM

DICKSON

LORAINEY

MCBURROUGH

PERTILLO SANDS

ERNEST

DESMOND

MICHAEL

MOZIAH

ANDREW

JAKEEM

JUQUAN

ANTHONY

DARIUS

CLAUDIO

ROWYAN

JAYLIN

TYREASE

MATTHEW

ADRAIN

MARKIVIOUS

SHILO

ZACHARY

JUSTIN

JAELON

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

BRANTLEY

CRAWFORD

DEAN

FERGUSON

LATHAM

ROY

SMITH

SMITH

BILLINGSLEY

GLOSTON

ANTONIO

TERENCE

JAMES

WILLIAM

MYRON

MARQUIS

HORACE

PRESTON

DAVID

SHERWIN

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

EPSILON GAMMA SIGMA

RHO SIGMA

RHO SIGMA

RHO SIGMA

RHO SIGMA

RHO SIGMA

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA EPSILON

GAMMA RHO DELTA

GAMMA RHO DELTA

GAMMA RHO DELTA

GAMMA RHO DELTA

MCCALL NETTER SMITH

WYCHE BULLARD CEASAR

EXAVIER RICHARDSON TAYLOR

BALL CURRY

FRAZIER JONES JONES

MONROE WESLEY MERCHANT

WHITEHEAD II

BETA LAMBDA SIGMA

BETA LAMBDA SIGMA

WILSON BARR CHIWARA

WASHINGTON

GAMMA IOTA GAMMA

GAMMA IOTA GAMMA

GAMMA IOTA GAMMA

ZETA NU

ZETA NU

ZETA NU

ZETA NU

ZETA NU

KAPPA ZETA

KAPPA ZETA

LAMBDA TAU

LAMBDA TAU

LAMBDA TAU

LAMBDA TAU

ALPHA CHI SIGMA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

GAMMA ZETA

TAU BETA SIGMA

TAU BETA SIGMA

ROBERT

SCOTTY

DEMETRISH

WILLIAM

KEENAN

PERRY

JAMESON

SIMEON

ORVILLE

ALBERT

PHILIP

LANDON

TYLER

JORDAN

VANCE

BYRON

PHAR-I

KERRY

DAVLIN

CA'SHUN

ANDREW

JEFFREY

TAU BETA SIGMA

TAU BETA SIGMA

TAU BETA SIGMA

TAU BETA SIGMA

GAMMA GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA GAMMA SIGMA

TAU SIGMA

TAU SIGMA

TAU SIGMA

TAU SIGMA

TAU SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

ALPHA PHI SIGMA

KAPPA DELTA

KAPPA DELTA

KAPPA DELTA

KAPPA DELTA

GUNTHER

HARDY

HERMAN

LONDON

ROGERS

RYMER

WILSON

ALMODOVAR

KNIGHT

RANDAU

RANDAU

JONES

AMADU

FUNCHES

TAYLOR

JACKSON

TURNER

WILLIAMS

CAPPS

JOHNSON

KING

MCGILL

LENNY

ANTHONY

EARL

WILLIE

DELVIS

SAMUEL

JONATHAN

MICHAEL

PATRICK

JOHN

CHARLES

RUSSELL DAWUDA

RICHARD

MAURICE

BRIAN

DAMONE

MICHALLEE

JAMEION

STEPHON

JUSTYN DESMOND

NEELEY ROBERTS WOODS ENO

FRANK

MICHAEL

XAVIER

BENN-ALPHA

RADFORD

SCOTT

STALLINGS

VASSOR

FRANKLIN

WISE

MARSHALL

JOHNSON

JOLTEUS

TURNER

RIGGINS

MCCRARY

RANSOM

ROBBINS WEEMS

BRYANT

ROGERS

ROWELLS

WILLIAMS

AMERSON

GUESS

JOHN-MALIK

KYDAE

WENDELL

DEION

ALBERT

DEON

HASEEM

LE'MONN

FRANBERT

SHELDON

RICCO

RANCE

KEVIN

RICHARD

JULIAN

RONALD

JORDAN

I'JAWON

TRE'QUON

KHARY

STERLING

KAPPA DELTA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

GAMMA DELTA SIGMA

ZETA KAPPA

ZETA KAPPA

ZETA KAPPA

ZETA KAPPA

SUMPTER

DAVIS

TOOMBS

FENELUS

JEAN

JOSHUA

JASON JOSHUA

WOODLEY

CHRISTOPHER

AZARD

BIEN-AIME

JACKSON

RICKENBACKER

SINGLETON

THOMAS

BRITTON

FARMER

OTOO

WILLIAMS

ROSMY

CALEB

TRUDELL

DAMANI

TROY KENNETH DAMIAN

DARIUS

NANA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

PHI BETA SIGMA SIGMA

BOWE

BROWN

EVANS

HOLMAN

RUCKER

SAMPSON SIMS

TIGUE

KEILON KAREEM

LAMONTE

MELVIN KELTON

DONALD

REGINALD

CHRISTOPHER ANTONIO

WILCOX

JALEN

GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA SIGMA

GAMMA SIGMA

BETA DELTA SIGMA

BETA DELTA SIGMA

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

BETA EPSILON SIGMA

CORNISH FLEMING

GREATHOUSE JONES PHELPS SIMS

CALLEN DAVIS

HAYWOOD

TURNBORE WRIGHT

BRIAN

DECARLOS

JOSEPH

STEPHAN

TERRENCE

TERRELL

BRANDON

BRIAN

THEORY

JAN

MICHAEL

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

ALPHA ETA SIGMA

COX

GREENWOOD

HIELD

HOWARD

JENKINS

MINGO

SANDERS

STOKES

THOMPSON

WATKINS

FITZPATRICK

MATTHEW

DARYL

NATHANIEL

ANTONIO TERRANCE

ONDREAL

DOUGLAS

ANDREW BENTON

DONTAVIOUS KELVIN

GAMMA EPSILON SIGMA

GAMMA EPSILON SIGMA

GAMMA EPSILON SIGMA

GAMMA EPSILON SIGMA

THETA RHO SIGMA

THETA RHO SIGMA

NU BETA SIGMA

NU BETA SIGMA

NU BETA SIGMA

NU BETA SIGMA

NU BETA SIGMA

PI TAU SIGMA

PI TAU SIGMA

PI TAU SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA ETA SIGMA

GAMMA MU SIGMA

GAMMA MU SIGMA

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

OMICRON PHI SIGMA

ETA LAMBDA SIGMA

ETA LAMBDA SIGMA

ETA LAMBDA SIGMA

SIGMA DELTA SIGMA

SIGMA DELTA SIGMA

SIGMA DELTA SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

MU SIGMA

GORDON HOPKINS LEWIS TAYLOR

FREEMAN

YOUNG

JOHNSON

LEWIS

NICHOLS SMITH

SUTTON

GRIFFIN

PIPPINS

STALLINGS

JOHNSON

COLEY

HICKMAN

JACKSON

JAMISON

MAGEE

MOORE

WILLIAMS

BROWN

WOOD

BULLOCK CHANCELLOR

ROBINSON

JOHNSON

SAULSBERRY

STEWART

EBERHART

JONES

WILSON

BOULDIN

JEFFREY

VINCENT

MARKIET

KARSTEN

GREGORY

JIMMY

RODERICK

ANSIL

LATONIO

JERMAINE

DAVID

KENYA

CARLOS

DEVONTE

BORIS

KELVIN

ROGER

SAMMY

TERRENCE

GABRIEL

JEFF

ERIC

ROBERT

DONALD

RICHARD

ERNEST

YAKARIEL

XAKYLAN

KEITH

KEON

DWIGHT

DARRYLL

KEYONN

MONTERRO

BUCKNER

CHILDS

ALPHA ETA SIGMA

ALPHA ETA SIGMA

ALPHA ETA SIGMA

ALPHA ETA SIGMA

DELTA MU SIGMA

ETA MU SIGMA

ETA MU SIGMA

ETA MU SIGMA

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

DELTA EPSILON SIGMA

PI OMICRON SIGMA

PI OMICRON SIGMA

PI OMICRON SIGMA

DELTA UPSILON SIGMA

DELTA UPSILON SIGMA

KAPPA CHI SIGMA

KAPPA CHI SIGMA

KAPPA CHI SIGMA

ROGERS

THOMAS

TYSON

HOGAN

JACKSON

BELL

JOHNSON

MARSH

BETHEL

SMITH

SYLVESTER RODNEY

DANIEL

DARYL TORIN

CEDRIC JONATHAN

DOUGLAS

HARRINGTON BERLIN

EDDINS

LANGE

RANKIN

DANIELS

EVANS

COLEMAN

GREEN

STALLINGS

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

ALPHA ALPHA THETA SIGMA

OMICRON TAU SIGMA

ALPHA OMICRON ALPHA

ALPHA OMICRON ALPHA

ALPHA OMICRON ALPHA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

TERRY

WELLS

BROWN CHERRY

HOBBS

LITTLE

THOMAS

DURRAH

GARRIE

WARE

BIEN-AIME

BLUE

BRITTON

TREVELL

MICHAEL

RODRICK WILLIE

DEWAYNE

DAVID BRIAN DION RANDY TELLY

TA'KI KURT

LUTHER JAYLON

ERIC JESSIE SAMUEL

JARIUS

BRANDON

CHRISTIAN

CHRISTOPHER

CUDJOE

DAVIS

FISHER

ELIJAH

ZACKEREY

JOHNNY

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

FLOYD

GARDNER

ROTHIEL JEREMIAH KALEB SAMUEL

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

ALPHA ETA

BETA BETA PHI

BETA BETA PHI

BETA BETA PHI

BETA BETA PHI

BETA BETA PHI

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

GAMMA BETA

ALPHA PSI ALPHA

ALPHA PSI ALPHA

ALPHA PSI ALPHA

THETA ZETA

THETA ZETA

SIGMA

SIGMA

SIGMA

SIGMA

SIGMA

SIGMA

SIGMA

GAMMA PSI

GAMMA CHI

GAMMA CHI

ETA EPSILON

ETA EPSILON

GAMMA PI

GAMMA PI

GUYTON

KENDALL

LEWIS

LOUIS

MCCLAIN

NUNNELLY

OLODUDE

PERKINS

SRINIVASA

THOMAS

WEIR

WEST WILLIS

MIDDLETON

BLACKMON

CHAPMAN

HAMMONDS

KHAN

BALLARD

COOKE DAVIS

DAVIS

DOSTER

HARRIS MOORE

MOORER

PRESLEY

STEWART

HILL

TOWNSEND

JULIEN

BENTLEY

GREER

BURNETTE

HENDERSON II

MATTHEWS

PERRY SR

SAMUEL

SHIELDS

THOMAS

TUNSTALL

HAMLET IV

MONTES

DIX

GLENN CHASE

DALEY

MYRON

JORDAN

ARTISE

KESHAWN

ANDRE

JOSEPH

JACOB

KEENAN

CHANDRAHASA

DEVIN

KEITH

KAMARI

KHEDGEN

ETHAN

JOVAN

KEVIN

TWIA

JAVION

JEREMY

ANDRE KYLE

REGINALD

ANTONIO

TONY

KEMONTE

RODNEY

ANQUAVION

JAMES

LONDELL

JOHNTAVIS

KHARIS

MICHAEL

BRAXTON

KAMRON

KENNETH

MARVEN

REGINALD

DANIEL

QUANTAVIOUS

QUANTORI

JEREMIAH

SIR RONALD

BRIAN

BRANDON

JAMES

SEAN

ONEIL

GAMMA PI

GAMMA PI

GAMMA PI

BETA BETA KAPPA

ZETA PHI SIGMA

ZETA PHI SIGMA

ZETA PHI SIGMA

ZETA PHI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

SIGMA XI SIGMA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

GAMMA ALPHA DELTA

ZETA SIGMA SIGMA

ZETA SIGMA SIGMA

EPSILON DELTA

METAYER

THOMAS

WOODARD ALDER BANKS

FINKLEA

FULFORD

MEANS

BARKSDALE

BRAGGS

BROWN

CALIXTE

ORIGENE

WARD

BAKIRDGI

BOLDON

HOLLIDAY

RUTLEDGE

SATURNE

AIMABLE

DEFREITAS

EL HAMDANI

GRULLON

JAMES

MALONEY

NEWTON

SAINT-IL

SCOTT

BONHAM

EDWARDS

SMITH-WALKER

JAMESLY

JONATHAN

TRAVALES

NICHOLAS

DELMANDAIN

JORDAN

KENTA

TOMMIE

DEON

RICARDO

MICHAEL

JIMMY

REGINALD

REGINALD

ALEXANDER

DE ANDRE TYRIEK

PAUL

JOSHUA

STEVEN

KYRON

OMAR

ANTHONY

CHRISTOPHER

QUINCY

JAHBARI

STEFANO

ISAIAH MATTHEW

ROBERT

KRISTOPHE

Florida 2023 State Conference

The Florida Sigmas convened in Gainesville FL for their 2023 Florida State Conference from January 27th - 29th. The conference was hosted by the brothers of the Epsilon Omicron Sigma and Zeta Kappa chapters.

We have been fortunate to have VyStar Credit Union as our presenting sponsor for the last two years and they hosted a series of workshops to assist brothers in elevating and becoming more knowledgeable surrounding key financial topics. The brothers of the state of Florida also hosted various community service projects where they raised over $1,000 to donate to the Fisher House in Gainesville which assists veterans during their time of medical crisis.

During the 2023 state conference they hosted their State Miss Phi Beta Sigma Pageant and State Stepshow with the brothers from the Gamma Pi Chapter placing first place in the step show and Kensia Saint-Hilaire was crowned as the next Miss Phi Beta Sigma that would represent the state at the regional pageant and step show. They also held their oratorical and debate competition where Kevin Chapman and Woody Leant placed first and Spencer Davis won the oratorical competition.

Bro. Sean Parker | 1st Vice

Bro. Silas Powell | 2nd Vice

Bro. Eric Wilson | Treasurer

Bro. Joe Griffin | Education

Bro. Robert Smith | Social Action

Bro. Shaka Rose | Bigger and Better Business

Bro. Ackimo Charles | Collegiate Affairs

Bro. Christopher Lampley | Sigma Beta Club

Bro. Barry Farmer, Bro. Anthony Simmons, and Bro. Kordell Wilson as District Directors.

Bro. Daniel J. Smith II, was elected as the 29th State Director of Florida alongside Brothers

Florida Sigmas | The State of Brotherhood

Moore Receives Award Named After Him. Stephens Elected Georgia State Director for 2023-25. 2023 Georgia State Conference

Wrap Up

Over 300 men of Phi Beta Sigma and guests gathered in Augusta, Georgia for the 2023 Georgia State Conference. In a muchanticipated event, brothers who traveled from as far as Iowa, Texas, and New Jersey convened at the Augusta Marriot Convention Center to fellowship, recognize the work of brothers and chapters, and elect officers for the 2023-25 term. Well known brothers, such as Immediate Past International President, Hon. Micheal Cristal, current International First Vice President, David Turner, and current International Treasurer, William Frazier were among the Georgia brothers for conference.

The weekend conference kicked off on Wednesday, March 1 with a virtual candidates’ forum. Candidates for elected state executive board positions presented their platforms and answered questions from the brotherhood. The conference continued Thursday, May 2, with a virtual plenary session. Program (Bigger and Better Business, Education, Social Action, and Sigma Beta Club) directors and Director of Collegiate Affairs presented their reports that evening. Several conference committee reports followed that during Thursday’s virtual business session.

The Georgia State Conference moved to in-person on Friday, March 3. The brothers and guests were greeted by brothers of the host, Epsilon Gamma Sigma Chapter of Augusta, Georgia, and sisters of the local chapters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Brother Sherwin Gloston of the Epsilon Gamma Sigma Chapter won the Billboard Jackson Entrepreneurial Competition which occurred during the late afternoon.

Friday evening was eventful with the opening ceremony, Miss Phi Beta Sigma Georgia Pageant, and Step Show. Brothers and guests bid their farewells and sent best wishes to outgoing Georgia State Director, Monaleto C. Irby whose family was in attendance to celebrate his stint in the Georgia State Director. After Irby declared the 2023 Georgia State Conference open, contestants for Miss Phi Beta Sigma Georgia took stage to see who would wear the title for 2023-25 and advance for the opportunity to become Miss Southern Region in April. During the intermission periods, step teams representing collegiate chapters moved with precision for a chance to represent Georgia in the Southern Region Step Show Competition. When the pageant and step show were done, Ms. Mozzie Ellis, representing the Gamma Zeta Chapter of Savannah State University, and the Gamma Zeta Chapter Step Team took home first place.

Saturday was the most important day of the 2023 Georgia State Conference. The Necrology was held to induct recently passed brothers into the Omega Chapter. The morning plenary session featured minutes reports from the remaining officers. Brother Monaleto C. Irby delivered his final State of the State Address which highlighted his accomplishments as Georgia State Director. Updates were provided by the Southern Regional Director, Dr. Errick Farmer, and International First Vice Director, Bro. David Turner.

Program directors awarded brothers and chapters at the collegiate awards luncheon. Director of Sigma Beta Clubs, Kenneth Ford, recognized Lambda Sigma (Atlanta) as the Sigma Beta Club of the Year and Christian Harden of the Lambda Sigma Chapter as the Sigma Beta Club Advisor

of the Year. Director of Social Action, Dolphus Blackmon, awarded Social Action Chapter of the Year to Alpha Pi (Fort Valley State University) at the Collegiate Chapter Level and Rho Beta Sigma (Gwinnett County) at the Alumni Chapter Level. Director of Bigger and Better Business, Devon Cange, named Chi (Morehouse College and Alpha Pi (Fort Valley State University) as the Collegiate Bigger and Better Business Chapters of the Year. Gamma Pi Sigma (Macon), Epsilon Gamma Sigma (Augusta), and Xi Chi Sigma (Atlanta) were named alumni Bigger and Better Business of the Year.

Corey Sapp, Director of Education, named Chi Chapter and Tau Beta Sigma (Savannah) Chapter as the Education Chapters of the Year for the collegiate and alumni chapter types respectively. Chi Chapter also received an award for the Highest Chapter Grade Point Average (GPA). Brother Ralph Brown, Jr. of the Tau Beta Sigma Chapter received the Teacher of the Year Award.

The Collegiate Awards Luncheon also saw several additional awards given to collegiate brothers and their alumni advisors. Kydae Scott of Zeta Nu (University of Georgia) Chapter was the recipient of the Leonard Francis Morse, Sr. Leadership Award. The Dr. Ivorite Lorimer Scruggs Education Award went to Fariham Alimi of the Pi Rho (Georgia Southern University) Chapter. Tre’Mon Williams of the Gamma Zeta Chapter was acknowledged for his Outstanding Community Service. Georgia State Director of Publicity, Deion Williams of the Tau Beta Sigma Chapter was awarded the Collegiate Chapter Advisor of the Year. The Pi Alpha Chapter received the Collegiate Social Media and Website Award.

During the Collegiate Awards Luncheon, Casey Hunter, Jr. and Justin Pertillo of the Alpha Pi Chapter won the Debate Competition while Andrew Gyimah of the Beta Beta Beta (Clayton State University) was victorious in the Oratorical Competition. The highlight of the Collegiate Luncheon was International Treasurer Emeritus, Hon. Charles W. Moore, being named the second recipient of the award named after him, The Charles W. Moore Award.

From l to r: Dr. Errick Farmer, Southern Regional Director; 35th International President, Hon. Micheal Cristal; Monaleto C. Irby, Georgia State Director; Hon. Charles W. Moore, International Treasurer Emeritus; Bro. Robert L. Eason, President of Lambda Sigma Chapter; Hon. Bill Stanley, 28th International President pose for photo after Bro. Moore receives the award named after him.

Ms. Mozzie Ellis Miss Phi Beta Sigma Georgia 2023-25

Brothers from the Chi (Morehouse College) Chapter pose with Dr. Errick Farmer, Monaleto C. Irby, Corey Sapp, Rashaan Skrine, and Kenneth Wilkerson after receiving the Highest Grade Point Average Award.

After personal and professional workshops proceeded the luncheon, the final plenary session ensued with the final committee reports. The elections took place in this session of the conference. The brothers choose the following brothers as elected officers for the 2023-25 term:

• Dr. Walter Stephens, Jr –State Director

• Kenneth Love, Sr. – First Vice State Director

• Adrian Cunningham, Jr. – Second Vice State Director

• Kelvin Bryant – Secretary

• Don Andrew – Financial Secretary

• Rasheed Marshall – Treasurer

• Jadon Whipple – Director of Collegiate Affairs

• Devon Cange – Director of Bigger and Better Business

• Corey Sapp – Director of Education

• Ucal Palmer, Jr. – Director of Social Action

The Classic Man Awards ended Saturday’s events. The chapter of the year awards given to

• Collegiate Small – Chi Chapter

• Collegiate Medium – Pi Alpha Chapter

• Collegiate Large – Alpha Pi Chapter

• Alumni Small – Gamma Pi Sigma Chapter

• Alumni Medium – Tau Beta Sigma Chapter

• Alumni Large – Xi Chi Sigma Chapter

Georgia State Treasurer, Rasheed Marshall, received the R.O. Sutton Award as most outstanding executive board member for 2022. Brothers were pleased with outcome of the conference.

Dr. Walter Stephens, Jr. Newly Elected Georgia Sttate Director

Rasheed Marshall

Georgia State Treasurer and 2023 Recipient of the R.O. Sutton Award

Brothers of the host chapter, Epsilon Gamma Sigma Chapter of Augusta, Georgia.

MISSISSIPPI ON THE RISE

For 47 years and 64 years, respectively, the Theta Eta chapter and the Delta alpha sigmas have left a significant Blu and White mark on Hattiesburg, Mississippi. In February, the other 26 chapters of Mississippi made their way to the Hub city to join the Hattiesburg brothers in painting the whole city Blue that weekend. February 3-5 2023, the brothers assembled on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi to have their first plenary session. The spirit of our god was in the building after delivering all our brothers safely to the conference in the form of a mighty opening prayer from the State of Mississippi Chaplin, who also serves as the regional chaplain Bro. Bernard Mitchell. After the approval of all the formal things that have to be approved first, the brothers learned the state of the Great Southern region from our regional director Brother Errick Farmer, Ph.D, who made the brothers amped and proud to be the host state to take over Flowood with the rest of the region. Mississippi State Director Bro. Sedric Scott gave his state of the state address, letting everyone know that we are still moving in the right direction as a state and that the brothers of Mississippi are M.A.B.s. Saturday, we continued to exemplify brotherhood scholarship and service, not necessarily in that order. That morning Service started when the brothers gath-

ered together the hundreds of toiletries that we donated to one of the local middle schools where many students do not have access to those items at home. As a Sigma, you never stop learning. Class was in session through various breakout sessions ranging from leadership strategies to chapter branding. There was also a very engaging collegiate conversation that Educated a large number of new members who were in attendance on several topics.

The rest of the evening Brotherhood was going strong as we were treated to some warm greetings from elected officials of the city of Hattiesburg, The beautiful state director of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated – State of Mississippi, the lovely sisters of the Hattiesburg chapter, and members of their pan. While enjoying some deliciously seasoned fried chicken and sides, the brothers were entertained by a display of precision from the brothers of Theta Eta, who will be representing the state in the regional competition as well as our representing debate team. After the presentation of awards and officer report presentations, the brothers came together to sing our fraternity hymn. Before we went our separate ways to prepare for the night, we came together to cement our Blue and White display on the University of Southern Mississippi campus by taking a photo that displayed us rising up to continue to grow.

By: Byron Keys

The State of the Bahamas

Over the years, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. has expanded its reach to several countries, including the Bahamas. The Bahamas State of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. is an integral component of the fraternity, and it has been making significant contributionstothe local community since it became a statein2004.

The Bahamas became a state of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. in 2004 with the chartering of the Beta Beta Lambda Chapter at the now University of The Bahamas, joined the Delta Epsilon Sigma ChapterinNassau,Bahamas.Theaddition ofthischapterbroughtnewenergytothe fraternity, and it paved the way for the addition of more chapters in the country. TheOmicronPiSigmaChapterinFreeport, GrandBahamawassubsequentlyaddedto the state. With these three chapters, the state of the Bahamas has become a significantpartoftheglobalPhiBetaSigma FraternityInc.community.

The state of the Bahamas has a strong commitment to promoting academic excellence, leadership, and community service. The fraternity offers several scholarships to students in the Bahamas who arepursuinghighereducation,andit provides mentoring and tutoring services tohelpthemachievetheiracademicgoals. The fraternity is also involved in several community service initiatives, partnering with local organizations to provide assistancetothoseinneed.

Oneofthekeyobjectivesof the state of the Bahamas is to expand the fraternity throughout the other islands in the country. This expansion will help to promote the fraternity's values and make a positive impact in communities across the country.

The state of the Bahamas has been led by several dedicated state directors over the years. Tyro Brice, Gerrard Sawyer, Christopher

Saunders, Wellington Ferguson, and Rodney Bain have all made significant contributions to the fraternity's growth and development in the country. These leaders have helped to promote the fraternity'svaluesandhaveencouragedits members to take an active role in their communities.

ThestateoftheBahamasofPhiBetaSigma Fraternity Inc. is an important part of the fraternity's global community. The fraternity's commitment to education, community service, and leadership has madeasignificantimpactintheBahamas. The state's three chapters and its dedicated leaders have worked tirelessly to promote the fraternity's values and makeapositiveimpactinthecommunity. The state of the Bahamas is looking to expand the fraternity's reach throughout the country, and its efforts will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on communitiesacrossthecountry.

PHIBETASIGMA-SOUTHERNREGION TRAININGANDPROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT

Many books, works, presentations, seminars, etc., have been developed over the years to describe what is “effective leadership” or what are the traits of an “effective leader”. Good leadership... effective leadership… collaborative leadership… disciplined leadership… facilitative leadership…, all describe formats of “getting a group or organization to move towards a specific direction to achieve a particular goal or objective.” Here in the first of our professional development series for the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Southern Region, “The 6 traits of Effective Leadership for the Men of Sigma”, presented and developed by the Leadership Development and Training committee of the Southern Region, we present “What are the elements that best describe effective leadership, how is effective leadership measured, and what makes an effective leader?”

Mark Sanborn, New York Times Best Selling Author and Professional Speaker describes leadership in the following way, “Leadership doesn’t just happen. It’s not an accident. It’s the product of years of commitment, tough decisions, careful choices, and hard work. Leaders are refined by difficult situations and propelled forward by successful ones.”

It is our hope that the membership of our great fraternity will benefit from our work in this extremely important subject. We work to refine, develop and mold our brothers to become successful and effective leaders within our organization and in our communities.

PROBLEM-SOLVING:

The process of finding solutions to difficultorcomplexissues.

Proceedwithapositiveattitude

Definetheproblemclearly Identifying all the causes and providesolutionsfast Take complete responsibilities for yourdecisions

Utilize a sense of urgency, do not allowproblemstolinger

"Sometimestheeasiestwaytosolve problemsisnottoparticipateinit”

-ShannonL.LeeSr.-

THEVISIONDRIVENCHAPTER:

Vision is an essential ingredient for businessleadership

Areyoualeaderoramanager?

Whatdifferencedoesvisionmake?

Whatexactlydoyouwant?

Areyoubeingclear?

Doesitinspire?

Isitpractical?

Canyousellit?

Howwillyourovercomeresistance?

Isitalreadytoolate?

Areyouready?

ARE YOU A LEADER OR MANAGER?

Managers:

Execute the vision

Use vision to keep everyone on track

Keeps their eyes on short term goals

Chapters need both leaders and managers to be successful. Be sure you have leaders that lead, not manage.

Mission:

Define the chapter’s business

Set the chapter objectives

Detail how to reach the chapter objectives

Vision:

Forecast the future of the chapter

Outline how to market the chapter

Predict the impact the chapter wants in the community

HOW WILL THE CHAPTER OVERCOME RESISTANCE?

Every chapter MUST have

Tenacity Integrity

COMMUNICATION:

1. 2 3. 4.

Courage ·What is Communication?

·Communication Methods

·The Role of Communication in Leadership

·What are the different communication styles?

DIPLOMACY and LEADERSHIP:

In times of constant crisis mode as the new normal in organizational relations due to constant change, leadership needs to create concepts for cooperative stabilization of expectations.

Definitions:

Diplomacy – the art of dealing with people in a sensitive and effective way

Leadership – the action of leading a group of people or an organization.

Good diplomacy skills enable leaders to handle sensitive issues, navigate tricky conflicts and look at the facts objectively, without biased interpretation. A diplomatic leader will therefore create a healthy culture where people can work well together, even in stressful environments.

TEAM BUILDING:

Understanding your team

Creating a team plan

Highlighting the value of individuals that make up the team

Open communication (open door policy)

"Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work."

- Vince Lombardi, NFL Coach -

SUCCESSION PLANNING:

What is Succession Planning?

Why is Succession Planning

Important?

Benefits of Succession Planning

Challenges of Succession Planning

How to get started

TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Director of Military Affairs

February 2023 Southern Regional Board Meeting Update

1. International Military Affairs Committee (IMAC) Updates:

Since our last update to the Regional Board, the IMAC approved the release of the “Military” link on the BluPrint. The intent of this link is to create a greater connection between the brothers and the IMAC through blogs, discussion boards, and a resource library. Regional Board Assistance Needed? Not at this time.

2. Southern Regional Military Affairs Updates: A. Fisher House Region Meeting. Later this month, I will meet with the local Fisher House leadership to discuss ways we can collaborate with the organization across the region. I’ve been invited to attend the regional meeting in Atlanta in May 2023 and prior to the conference, I will draft talking points and share them with the Southern Regional Board. There are 91 Fisher Houses globally and of the 91, 10 are located in the Southern Region.

B. Monthly SRMAC Meetings. We continue to hold monthly SRMAC meetings with State level Military Affairs Directors. Current discussions and plans are:

1. State Conference Attendance. I’ve asked state level Directors to encourage attendance and active participation of veteran brothers during their respective state conferences. I’ve also asked state level Directors to obtain data on the number of veteran brothers attending the conferences so that we can start officially recording that data. We’ve also discussed having local JROTC/ ROTC Color Guard support for conference opening ceremonies and possibly establishing our own state/ regional level Color Guard Team for official events.

2. Spring 2023 Support Efforts. I’ve asked state level Directors to reach out to brothers in their states who are preparing to either join the military (enlistment/ commission) or retire between now and July to send the data up to the Region so that we can draft certificates of congratulations in their honor. We are currently finalizing certificate design options for review by the Regional Board.

By: Byron Keys

TAKES

From the SIGMAS

Synarus Green the current state secretary for Mississippi and a candidate for state representative district 72 in Jackson, helped spearhead a social action project that assisted thousands of citizens in the city of Jackson, Mississippi during their 2022 water crises. Bro. Green was available to provide insight into this ongoing dilemma and the moves that were taken to help combat it at that time.

If you know your his tory or read the national website, you would know that Formed in 1934, the Social Ac tion program was conceived by Bro. Elmo M. Anderson focuses on improving the general well-being of disenfranchised people. The mission of the International Social Action Program Is to encourage social, polit ical, and philanthropic leadership which strengthens our re spective communities and our membership.

After a harsh cold snap at the end of the year in 2021, The city of Jackson, Missis sippi, was hit with a water crisis the follow ing summer that left a town with over 100,000 without clean water.

“The city of Jack son has two water treatment plants and treatment plant, and one was down. And so the city of Jackson, whereas it was, for lack of better mathematical terms, was pretty much operated by two wa ter-providing facilities ended up only having one fully functional. It had been operating in that in that shape for a number of years”.

So that summer, the plant suffered a critical malfunction. And since it was the only plant providing water to the entire city, it meant that the entire city was

without water. And so that’s what the water crisis was”.

Jackson, Mississippi, is one of the poorest capital cities in America and is located in its most impoverished state with a predominately African American population. “Mississippi has 80% persistent poverty. Hines county is one of those counties that’s in the persistent poverty area, which means that having a pallet of water is dependent upon you having disposable income.” In these terrible water conditions, late august of 2022 left people of the community trying to stay afloat and adjust to not having clean water to drink, bathe, and brush their teeth and having daily “boil water” alerts.

to categorize it, the southern region, definitely with the help of my great brother Louis Sutton, came through to help.” His help was limited to just supplying resources/support but helping to coordinate and create a structure for how the fraternity has good policies and procedures around emergency declarations. “That’s not always what we’re built for, but you learn how to manage edge and do better in those spaces in the crisis itself.”

This crisis is far from over, and the home team will continue to hold down the forte. “I thank the brothers for what they did for Jackson because it was laudable.” “We’ve got to be conscious enough to see how communities are growing and adapting and evolving. To see that when it creates a hardship for those people who we say that we are consciously serving, that we appropriately and adequately give the response as

One thing that Bro. Green would like his blu and white family to remember: “we got to maintain a mindset of seeing our conferences, our meetings, our kickbacks as moments of revitalization moments. Similar to revivals, and if you want to give the church analogy, revivals where we come together to be reminded of what our responsibility is so that when we go back home, we’re excited about being conscious and seeing where the need is.” “And so that should be the takeaway from our regional conference and every regional conference. When you leave here, what are you

message got around what the need was.”

“We had a huge amount of assistance from the brothers in the Gulf Coastal region, brothers from New Orleans, brothers from Texas really came through to provide, even well after the actual, quote/unquote designation for the emergency was removed by the mayor and the governor.”

“Months after, there were brothers who were still checking and asking whether or not we needed water and sending water. So it was definitely a lot of support that came from Phi Beta Sigma. And like I said, if you had

Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter

Nassau, Bahamas

The Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. in Nassau, Bahamas is celebrating 45 years of culture for service and service for humanity. The chapter was established on May 20, 1978, at the British Colonial Hilton under the auspices of Hon. Bro. Richard M. Bullard, Jr. – National President. The charter members are Bro. Enoch Backforde, Bro. Danny Strachan, Bro. Kevin A. Hanna, Bro. Freddie A. Munnings Jr. and Bro. William H. Dean.

The setting and list of attendees at the chartering ceremony were impressive, including Bro Charles Wright – National 1st Vice President; Bro. William Doar – National Executive Director; Bro. George Ellis – Chairman of the Caribbean Expansion Committee and Bro. Earl Davis – State Director of Florida. Local Black Greek Lettered Organizations were represented as well by Soror Jackie Marshall –Theta Epsilon Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.; Soror Mellany Zonicle – Eta Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Frater Bill Wallace –Bahamas Alumni Association of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Frater Charles Albury – Iota Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Dr. John Godet of Pi Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

The first officers of the newly formed chapter were Enoch Backford as President, Kevin Hanna Sr. as Vice President, William Dean as Secretary, and Freddie W. Munnings Jr. as Chaplain. We must thank the charter members for bringing Sigma to the Bahamas and recognize all the brothers who contribute to making Sigma Bahamas felt throughout the Bahamas.

The past presidents of the Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. have played a significant role in shaping the chapter. The list of past presidents includes Enoch Backford, Phenton Neymour, Kareem Hanna, Dave Munroe, Olu Tinibu, Troy Clarke, Demario Minus, Arana Pyfrom, Harrison Lockhart, Gerrard Sawyer, Rodney Bain, Derek Smith, Esmond Johnson, Greg Smith These brothers have all contributed to the growth and development of the chapter, and their impact is felt to this day.

The chapter has been led by several presidents who have all contribute to the growth and success of the fraternity. However, some of these presidents have unfortunately passed away and joined the Omega Chapter. We will pay tribute to Enoch Backford, Phenton Neymour, and Kareem Hanna.

Enoch Backford was the first president of the Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter. He was an outstanding leader who helped to lay the foundation for the chapter's success. Unfortunately, he passed away and joined the Omega Chapter in 2015. His passing was a significant los to the brotherhood, and his contributions will always be remembered.

Phenton Neymour was another president of the Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter. He was an active member of the fraternity for over 35 years and active in the local Pan-Hellenic Council, mainly the Primary School Student of the Year Foundation. Neymour was dedicated to serving the community and his contributions were instrumental in the chapter's growth. He passed away and joined the Omega Chapter in 2019.

Kareem Hanna was the most recent president of the Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter to join the Omega Chapter. He served as an enthusiastic leader who was committed to the growth and success of the fraternity. He notably contributed to the experience of brotherhood within Sigma Bahamas. Unfortunately, he passed away and joined the Omega Chapter in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

The passing of these presidents was a significant loss to the Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter and the broader Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. within The Bahamas. Their brotherhood is missed, and their contributions to the growth and success of the fraternity will always be remembered. However, their legacy lives on, and the current members of the fraternity are inspired by their dedication and service to Sigma Bahamas.

It is important to note that the success of the Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter would not have been possible without the charter members who brought Sigma to the Bahamas in 1978. The chapter owes its existence to its dedication and hard work. The current members of the fraternity also contribute to making Sigma Bahamas felt throughout the Bahamas through their various community service projects and initiatives.

The Delta Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in Nassau, Bahamas has been fortunate to have several outstanding presidents who have contributed to its growth and success. The passing of Enoch Backford, Phenton Neymour, and Kareem Hanna was a significant loss to the fraternity. However, their legacy lives on, and their dedication to Sigma Bahamas will always be remembered. The chapter also owes its existence to the charter members who brought Sigma to the Bahamas in 1978. The fraternity thanks all of the brothers who contribute to making Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. felt throughout the Bahamas.

PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY THETA BETA CHAPTER

December 1946

Edward P. Jimson, M.D. Regional Director of the Southern Region.

To the President, Officers and Fellow Greeks of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., hereby submit my report covering my tenure of service for the year 1946, for the Southern Region which includes the vast territory of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida; an area wherein lies the greatest number of Sigma men. Men with great enthusiastic spirit and desire to make the Fraternity what it should be

Many communications were sent and answered in an effort to inactivate the many chapters that were put to sleep by the World War II. The results have been most gratifying as evidenced by the Regional Meetings held in Birmingham in the month of April and in Atlanta in the month of October. Plans have been mad and Nu Beta Sigma Chapter of Jacksonville, Fla., will welcome the Southern Region in the month of April 1947.

The Officers of the Southern Region have been most diligent and most cooperative during the entire year. Brother Johnson has worked untiringly and most proficiently. Every chapter, active and inactive have received two sets of complete minutes of the happenings in the Southern Region.

Brothers Lynwood Brown, Hightower and J.A. Jackson were present at the April meeting. Our National President Geo. A. Parker and Treasurer Geo. Hightower were present at the October meeting. Both meetings were very well attended by large numbers of delegates, and the spirit of Sigma was so manifested that everyone realized that the cause of Sigma is rapidly speeding on its way. All chapters in the Southern Region are now active, or in the process of becoming active, and permission is pending the setting up of two new chapters in Florida, one in Georgia and one in Louisiana at Shreveport. One chapter of graduates was set up last month, in Alcorn, Mississippi.

The following are the chapters in the Southern Region of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

1.

11. Mu Sigma, Miss.

4. Alpha Lambda, La. 12. Nu Beta Sigma, Fla

17. Alpha Beta, Miss.

18. Epsilon Alpha, Dillard

19. Rho Sigma, Fla.

20. New Chapter, Alcorn, Miss.

The following is the report of the Treasurer of the Southern Region

Regional Director Bro. E. P. Jimson

Associate Regional Director “ P. D. Jackson

Secretary “ R. O. Johnson

Assistant Secretary “ J. A. Tillman

Treasurer “ R. S. Green

Chaplain “ Leonard Morse

Sergeant-At-Arms “ S. W. Sullivan

Director of Social Action “ Ernest Wright

Associate Director of Social Action “ A. J. Johnson

Director of Bigger & Better Business “ G. B. Love

Associate Director of Bigger & Better Business “ I. S. Bolden

The Southern Region has expended every effort to open the eyes of the citizens to Negro Business. Bigger and Better Business has been the most outstanding feature of the Fraternity during the year. May the spirit of Sigmas continue to accelerate as it has recently; and may we look forward to a stronger foundation as our cause speeds on its way.

Respectfully submitted,

Edward P. Jimson, M.D. Director

SOUTHERN REGION

Number 145

By: Byron Keys

In December of 1920, our second national president, the Hon. Bro. Ivorite L. Scruggs, who had written the words of our fraternity hymn as well as coined our fraternity motto “culture for service, service for humanity,” formulated the “Key Chapter,” which is better known as the Distinguished Service Chapter. The Distinguished Service Chapter, which is considered the highest honor a member of our great fraternity can achieve, has initiated over 200 brothers throughout the years. Having produced so many great brothers into our great fraternity, only 2 of the initiates into the Distinguished Service Chapter have been from Mississippi chapters. The Hon. Archie A. Alexander who was one of the founders of the Alpha Beta chapter at Jackson State University, and the Hon. Carlia E. Oatis Jr. ( who also has a first cousin in the DSC who is an Alcorn graduate) has been the loan two to represent the great state of Mississippi so far, with more to come.

The Hon. Carlia E. Oatis Jr., the “Duke,” was also an initiate of the Alpha Beta Chapter. Years after finishing at Jackson State, and fighting in WW2, He became one of the charter members and founders of the Gamma Epsilon Sigma chapter located in Meridian, Mississippi, where he helped hold the chapter together for over 50+ years and was one of the earlier State directors of Mississippi. Outside of these significant accomplishments, the Hon. Bro. Oatis was an educator and

music man. Our great brother served as a band director for TJ Harris High School, also located in Meridian, Mississippi, for 39 years. They gained national acclaim by being featured in the Junior Rose Bowl parade. Bro. Oatis gave his services to Kate Griffin High School in Meridian, serving as one of their past principals and assistant principals.

Bro. Oatis served Phi Beta Sigma as a sigma man should, but what is a Sigma man without “ service to humanity.” As a co-founder, he helped develop the National Council of Meridianiates, Inc., and the Council of Organizations, Inc., which have greatly impacted the communities and city as a whole of Meridian. For his service to the city of Meridian, in 2004, the city declared a C.E. Oatis Jr. Day. The brothers of the Gamma Epsilon Sigma chapter, the city of Meridian, and members of the numerous organizations he participated in could probably rave about his accomplishments days. Having been an asset to this world for 86 years, In 2011, our Hon. Brother was committed to the omega chapter. The brothers of Gamma Epsilon Sigma continue to honor him by living up to the standards that were set forth by the Hon. Bro. Carlia E. Oatis.

Hon. Carlia E. Oatis, Jr.

DSC #145 - Gamma Epsilon Sigma 2003

Florida Sigmas Hall of Fame

“Florida – The State of Brotherhood”

In the spring of 2019 soon after State Conference and my election I attended the conferences of our States within the Southern Region. One of my platform items was to improve our conference experience and honor our Seasoned Sigmas and I wanted to see best practices from those around us. During this time I witnessed the honors bestowed upon brothers for their work during the year and over the course of their time as a Sigma Man. In addition, I attended our Sisters of Zeta Phi Beta State of Florida annual conference to also see how they did the same for their members.

We had a Sigma Man of the Year for both Collegiate and Alumni as well as an Advisor of the Year award and we had our Outstanding Sigmas of the Southern Region for Regional level and Distinguished Service Chapter for the National level. I wanted to have something that recognized the body of work in the State of Florida for our brothers. I brought my idea to our 1st Vice State Director Brother Brady Talley and we discussed at length the goals and the best way to implement it.

We decided a Hall of Fame with a limited amount of inductees per year based on the works (Sigma and Community) of the brothers within the State. Our goal was to bring to light brothers who work hard within the fraternity and within the community but may not be known on a region or national basis. We wanted to set these members apart so we decided a Gold Medal was appropriate and to have them completely stand out a White Fraternity Blazer with the Shield and the lettering "Florida Sigmas Hall of Fame" beneath it. We unveiled the initial class at the 2020 Florida State Conference.

We hoped to surprise the recipients as well as the Brotherhood so the initial Committee was Brother Talley and myself and the vote was unanimous for the initial Class. Honorable Brother Sidney McCray, Honorable Brother Ray Smith and Brother Damon Miller Sr. (Omega Chapter) were announced on January 25th 2020 at the Joint Luncheon in front of 1,000 members of the Blue and White family to include our 35th International President Michael E. Cristal. After State Conference and the presentation which was well received I set in motion to make this a permanent part of our body.

In discussion with Brother Talley, my chief of staff Brother Gary Cobb and myself we developed the plan to have our District Directors be the HOF Committee and that nominees would come from the district and be voted upon by the HOF Committee. We met with the District Directors over the course of 6 months to develop the criteria and forms and presented the proposal to the State Executive Board for discussion and approval. The proposal was adopted unanimously by the Executive Board and the standing committee was established.

2020 Honorable Sidney McCray

2020 Honorable Ray Smith

2020 Damon Miller,

Beta Beta Lambda Chapter University of the Bahamas

TheBetaBetaLambdaChapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. has a rich history of service and achievement in the Bahamas. This chapter was the first undergraduate chapter of any black greek letter organization to charter outside the continental United States of America. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the brothers who had a vision of spreading Sigma throughout the Bahamas.

The chapter was chartered on November 5 2004, after a rigorous process that involved organizing documents and signatures at the College of The Bahamas. The first officersofthenewlyformedchapter werePresident – DerekWSmithJr., Vice President - Emille M. Hunt, Secretary - Gerardo Williams, Treasurer - D'Angelo Reid, and ChairofEducation – RM.BaileyIII. The chapter has initiated over 80 brothersandwillcelebrate20years inNovember2024.

Pastchaptermembershavegoneon to serve as graduate chapter presidents. State Director of the Bahamas, Bro. Rodney D. Bain, a 2008 initiate, is the first brother to serve as undergraduate president, graduate president, and state director. Bro. Bain is also the first

Bahamian-initiatedbrothertoserve as state director. This is a testament to the quality of leadership fostered within the chapter. The chapter has also won numerousawardsattheuniversity, regional, and even conclave levels. Bro. Dr. Trevor Johnson, a 2015 initiate, graduated as the valedictorian with the highest GPA of the entire graduating class of 2016 at The University of The Bahamas.

Oneofthechapter'sstapleeventsis the sleep-out for the homeless, which has been happening for over a decade. This event provides much-needed support for the homeless population in the Bahamas and raises awareness of the issue of homelessness. The chapter's commitment to service is also demonstrated through its participation in other events such as the March of Dimes Walk for BabiesandtheAIDSWalk.

The Beta Beta Lambda Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. has made significant contributions to the Bahamas and has demonstrated the power of brotherhood and service. The chapter's legacy will continue to inspireandshapethelivesofyoung menintheBahamasandbeyond.