I GHT THE
THE 590TH HOUSE OF ΑΦΑ EST. MAY 31, 1981
SERVING PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY.
VIRGINIA
Dedicated to Brother Chester “Chet” Fields Johnson
Chet enjoyed a 27 year career with the United States Army, where he rose to the rank of Colonel, which enabled him and his family to move and live outside of the United States in Okinawa, Japan, and Nuremberg and Zweibrucken, Germany. While in the Army Chet worked in various Finance and Comptroller positions until he retired in 1980. After retiring from the United States Army Chet went on to work for Amtrak for approximately 15 years.
We Are Xi Alpha Lambda
The men of XAL consists mostly of active and retired military officers, government civilians, educators, and businessmen, and are leaders in the community who are constantly striving to project the positive image of Alpha men as Servants of All. The brothers of XAL have formed partnerships and actively participate in various community outreach programs throughout the Northern Virginia area. Some of the programs include the Alpha Academy mentorship program, Hopkins House ‘Make a Difference Day,’ Thanksgiving Day Homeless Shelter Feeding, Adopt-aHighway, March of Dimes March for Babies, and a myriad of additional projects and events.
More than 20 years ago, Xi Alpha Lambda created the Ira Dorsey Scholarship Endowment Foundation, Inc. (IDSEF) a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation founded in honor of our late charter Brother Ira Dorsey for the sole purpose of raising money for charitable and educational purposes. This organization is committed to providing one-time cash scholarships to prospective college students who meet certain academic and extracurricular criteria. Over the years, IDSEF has provided financial assistance scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,500 to more than 100 young men and women from throughout Northern Virginia, Maryland and the greater metropolitan Washington D.C. area.
The brothers of XAL are continually at work in ongoing efforts to hold the Light of Alpha high in every aspect of life. XAL membership has consistently included brothers who serve at the National, Regional, and State level in various offices servicing the fraternity. As a chapter we have amassed several awards and achievements at all levels of the fraternity including Eastern Region and VACAPAF Chapter of the Year along with receiving recognition from local organizations for our contributions. We are a proud brotherhood and chapter with rich roots in service and scholarship and an ongoing legacy of excellence.
ILLUMINATING OUR PATH: THE LIGHT SHINES ON
Editor’s Corner
Goodwill is the monarch of this house.
Welcome to another issue of The Light!
I am excited to present this new issue, a magazine that highlights the good work of Alpha! I have been deliberately working to bring different perspectives of our chapter to all readers. I am thrilled to continue fulfilling my mission of offering insightful articles, thoughtprovoking features, and the voices of brothers who want to share their story.
In this issue, I delve into the representation that our chapter holds: our stamp on this community, the great programs that we are upholding and an introduction of our 2024 Neophytes. From our work at VACAPAF, zooming into our work at local middle and high schools, our chapter has worked tirelessly to curate content and influence that is not only informative, but also engaging and inspiring.
Creating this issue, specifically, has been a discovery of inspiration and innovation. I continue to aim to provide a platform for voices that need to be heard and stories that deserve to be told.
As always, I welcome all feedback and support, as they are truly invaluable as I strive to improve and evolve with each issue.
Otherwise, please take a moment to look through this issue and take pride in what we are doing in our community. Please provide me with any feedback on what you see to editor@xal1906.com.
Thank you.
-Bro. Russell Roache, Jr., Fall 22 editor@xal1906.com
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY FORMALLY RECOGNIZES XI ALPHA LAMBDA
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors celebrates our chapter, for 43 years of dedication to the improvement and support to its county. This sits on the shoulders of the work of our brotherhood in the areas of: mentoring youth, battling food insecurity, cleaning
streets, issuing scholarships, promoting the right to vote and generally serving the community and its needs. This is a momentous step in our journey to be the light that shines throughout the community.
Our incredibly deserving Bro. Rob Blackwell has been awarded with two prestigious honors - the
2023 Outstanding Alumni Brother of the Year Award and the esteemed 2024 District Director Award.
]
This moment fills our hearts with pride and admiration for Bro. President's outstanding commitment, unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership that consistently raise the bar for all of us in XAL. His tireless efforts for our fraternity and the uplifting of our community are nothing short of
inspirational, and these well-deserved accolades truly showcase the profound impact he has.
Let's also extend our heartfelt congratulations to Bro. Dash (not pictured) for receiving a well-earned
District Director Award.
The achievements of these remarkable Brothers only serve to highlight the incredible strength and passion of our XAL family at the VACAPAF level.
Brothers President and Vice President led a workshop educating brothers, from all over Virginia, in the importance of their time on the internet. The purpose of this workshop was to share best practices for using technology on a variety of VACAPAF Chapter Operations topics including Event Management, Digital Payments, Cybersecurity, File Management, Website Management, Social Media, and Applications/Communication Tools. This workshop consisted of two parts: a presentation of technological best practices by experts in each area and an open discussion at the conclusion of all presentations. Attendees of this workshop departed with a concrete understanding of how they could best use modern technology to enhance their Chapter Operations within VACAPAF.
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY’S OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI
Three remarkable individuals were recently recognized as Clemson’s Outstanding Young Alumni, on May 2. Among these alumni stands Bro. Marque Macon.
Marque Macon, a graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Clemson, currently holds the role of vice president and administrator at Inova Health System in Fairfax, Virginia. His remarkable influence in the healthcare field is not only evident through the numerous accolades he has received, but also through the significant impact he has made on healthcare operations with his groundbreaking performance-improvement strategies.
Beyond his professional achievements, Macon's dedication to Clemson University is truly inspiring. As a board member and active participant in alumni organizations, he plays a crucial role in fostering a vibrant community both on campus and beyond. His unwavering commitment to mentoring programs embodies Clemson's core values, making him a shining example of an Outstanding Young Alumnus.
MLK ORATORICAL CONTEST
On behalf of the Oratorical Committee, we thank everyone for their support of this year's event. The contestants this year, like previous years, were phenomenal! It was encouraging to see their passion and
We had four of our brothers represent in the role of judges: Bro. John Bradsher, Bro. Hershel Holiday and Bro. Clifton Townsend. Each student’s speech was rated in the following factors: intellectual quality of content, logic
WHEELING UNITY: A BROTHERHOOD BIKE
Aheartfelt tribute goes out to our incredible Brotherhood
Enrichment Chair and esteemed Veteran, Mike Gibson (far left), for his outstanding leadership in organizing a powerful 20-mile Memorial Day weekend Bike Ride for the Brothers of XAL and a cherished visiting Brother from APL. The Brotherhood Enrichment
Committee, under Mike's dedicated guidance, plays a crucial role in nurturing the well-being and physical fitness of our Brotherhood through the transformative AlphaPhit program. Let us come together in unity and gratitude as we honor our Brotherhood and reflect on the significance of Memorial Day.
Highway Heroes: Reviving Our Roads
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) sponsors an Adopt-A-Highway program that allows community organizations to adopt a two-mile section of a state-maintained highway to keep clean. Participation in the VDOT program allows the fraternity to serve the community and receive well deserved public recognition. The program saves the Virginia taxpayers millions of dollars a
Go ahead and mark your calendars for our next event!
picking up litter in Lorton/Springfield, Virginia four (4) times a year. Xi Alpha Lambda has participated in the Virginia Adopt-AHighway program (Fairfax County) for almost twenty (20) and has been recognized by VDOT for its tireless efforts in support of the program.
Ten to fifteen brothers on average participate in each of our four litter collections. In 2023, we collected approximately fifty-
September 14 December 14
We’re Not “Dunn” Inspiring
We are thrilled to celebrate our beloved Bro. BG Gracus Dunn and his selection as the Keynote Speaker for the prestigious 78th Southwestern Regional Convention's 1st Military Affairs Breakfast! This incredible honor is a true testament to Bro. Dunn's unwavering dedication and unwavering commitment to our community.
Not only that, but Bro. Dunn was also graciously presented with an award by the Southwestern Regional VP, further solidifying his exceptional contributions and impact. This is a momentous occasion that truly exemplifies Bro. Dunn's incredible leadership and inspiring presence.
Let us continue to support and uplift Bro. BG Gracus Dunn as he continues to soar Onward and Upward in his journey towards making a lasting difference in the world. Congratulations, Bro. Dunn, you are a true inspiration to us all!
EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH DONATIONS
We had the honor of helping the Missionary Ministry at Ebenezer Baptist Church refill their food pantry. We donated items, including soups, pancake mix, canned vegetables, cereal, pasta and more!
ALIVE!
On April 13, a group of 15 Brothers, accompanied by a few children, participated in community service for the Alexandria community.
Instead of our usual food bagging activity, we split into two separate groups.
Group 1 worked outdoors to clean up planter boxes at a facility in the Del Ray section of Alexandria. Alive will use these boxes to grow herbs, etc for the Alive program.
Group 2 was active in filling bins with canned goods, collecting inventory for pallets of food for future distribution and cleaning up of the warehouse.
BUS BARN - FEBRUARY 2024
We extend our gratitude to the Brothers who participated in the ALIVE (Alexandrians Living Ecumenically) community service project at the Bus Barn in Alexandria, VA. Their efforts resulted in the preparation of over 300 bags of non-perishable food items and the staging of approximately 8 pallets of hand sanitizer for upcoming community distribution.
THE GRIO PROJECT
The Grio Project is a meaningful initiative that aligns with the tradition of a Grio, who historically shared stories with younger generations. In Africa, Griots sang songs that passed down traditions and wisdom to empower the next generation. The project embodies resilience and determination, resonating with the success of those who overcame adversity. It aims to preserve and enrich our cultural heritage through storytelling, spanning various aspects of life such as education, religion, politics, and the military.
The importance of passing down wisdom to our current generation cannot be overstated. The younger generation is curious, creative, and eager to learn, but may lack the guidance or understanding of their predecessors. The Grio Project provides a platform for them to engage with and
benefit from the experiences, creativity, and wisdom of past generations.
It is crucial for us to reflect on our own experiences and consider the significance of sharing our stories with the youth. By doing so, we contribute to their development, creativity, and passion. It is a reciprocal exchange that not only enriches their understanding but also strengthens our cultural identity and sense of self.
In a society where equality is a focal point, it is imperative for us all to contribute positively towards progress. The Grio Project serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and empowerment within our community. It encourages us to embrace change and evolve, while also preserving our roots and traditions for future generations.
SUCCESS IN GRAND STYLE
The candidate forum in March was a resounding success. With over 100 attendees braving inclement weather and a midweek schedule, the event featured engaging discussions on critical issues and six candidates presenting their platforms to a diverse and engaged audience. An Omega fraternity member praised the efforts, requesting a copy of the questions posed to the candidates for use in their own chapter’s forum and commending the setup and technology.
Heartfelt thanks are extended to all the brothers who attended, with special acknowledgment to the leadership, Brother President Blackwell and Brother Vice President Williams, for their unwavering support. Additionally, recognition is given to: Brother Melvin Brown, Brother Ronal Butler, Brother Sid Evans, Brother Gerald Gladney, Brother Al Phillips, Brother Vern Saunders, Brother Aaron Slack, and Brother Patrick Xantus for their invaluable contributions.
Appreciation is also extended to the 2024 Neos who attended. The candidates noted
that this was the most attended event they have participated in this year.
The committee convened the following week to share lessons learned and discuss strategies for improvement, as this was the inaugural event.
A voter registration drive is being planned before the November election at a school or community college in Prince William County. Any suggestions to enhance voter education, engagement, or advocacy are welcome. Thank you once again, Brothers, for all your support!
“
Even when the polls are open to all, Negroes have shown themselves too slow to exercise their voting privileges. There must be a concerted effort on the part of Negro leaders to arouse their people from their apathetic indifference.... In the past, apathy was a moral failure. Today, it is a form of moral and political suicide.
-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“
This quote from one of our most esteemed brothers is still relevant today, over 50 years later. The real question is what are we going to do as Alpha men to mitigate this apathy and prevent this moral and political suicide? Rest assured, the Xi Alpha Lambda Voteless People, Hopeless People (VPHP) committee has been making plans. The committee consists of the following brothers:
‣ Brother Melvin Brown
‣ Brother Ronal Butler
‣ Brother John Chapman
‣ Brother Sid Evans
‣ Brother Al Phillips
‣ Brother Rick Roach
‣ Brother Will Russell
‣ Brother Vern Saunders
The VPHP committee’s goals focus on voter education, engagement, and advocacy. Specifically, we are planning events and programs to educate voters about candidates in federal, state, and local races, as well as distribute educational materials about state and local elections. We plan on engaging and challenging those who seek to restrict Americans from making their voices heard and we will work year-round to make sure all eligible Americans — especially first-time voters, non-college youth, new citizens, communities of color, and low-income Americans — can register and vote. And finally, we will advocate to increase voters’ access to the polls, including expanding early voting and automatic and online voter registration. Our goal is to register 100 new voters by October and participate in a minimum of three voter education events.
Clearly, we need your help and support and ask you take the following three actions:
1. Download the attached QR code.
2. Share the attached QR code on social media and with your network. We are working with “When We All Vote” to make sure every eligible person is registered to vote. It is easy and simple to use – just point your smartphone’s camera at the code to register.
3. Get involved with the VPHP committee and support the planned events.
Contact Brother Joe Ward at joeward78@gmail.com or (703) 864-6207 to get started.
Creating Champions
Alpha Academy / Alpha Scholars
The Young Men learned how to tie bow and traditional ties this evening! “EVERY LITTLE STEP WE TAKE” makes a difference!
Thank you to all of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Xi Alpha Lambda Chapter Mentorsof our Alpha Academy - South County Middle School - who came out this evening and dedicated themselves to teaching and imparting knowledge (beyond ties) under our Session Topic of:
“Your ‘Super Bowl’ – You’re A Champ: How to Be A ‘PLAYER (Noble CHARACTER)!’ –Dressing for SUCCESS, Mentally and Physically – Part II!” Specifically, THANK YOU, Bro. Mark Ausbrooks and Bro. Abdul Mumuni!
SESSION
IV:
‘THE PLAYOFFS: HOW TO BE A ‘PLAYER!’ –DRESSING FOR SUCCESS, MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY – PART I
We continued “Stackin’ Days” with this evening’s topic. To complement this topic, we included a Yoga Session.
Thank you, Dr. Aprile Giordano Atwater of “YOMEI (Yoga for Mindful Emotional Intelligence),” for coming out to share your practice with our Mentors and Mentees!
And thank you to the following Brother-Mentors for taking time to come out after work and through the DMV traffic to share and pour into:
+ Bro. Ron Atwater, Co-Chair;
+ Bro. Brian Marshall;
+ Bro. Abdul Mumuni; and
+ Bro. Lamont Bessicks.
It was another GOOD DAY!
OClimbing STEMs
n February 3, Alpha Academy/Scholars traveled along with Future Kings to participate in their annual college tour to Hampton University. This year, they also invited Omega U, Sigma Beta Club, and Kappa League to participate. We continue to support programs that mentor the youth to realize their potential to achieve greatness, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics(S.T.E.M). We had two Alpha Brothers and approximately ten young men who participated in this inaugural event. We look forward to our continued relationship with Future Kings and introducing our young men to STEM education.
challenges for incoming freshmen; academics; other activities that college students can participate in on campus; and resources available to ensure college student's success. George Mason Patriots played the University of Richmond Spiders at the basketball game ending with a 64 - 46 WIN. In spite of the rain, the event was an overall success and I believe that all the young men benefited from the experience. I want to thank the four Alpha Academy/Scholars, the twelve young men, and the one parent that participated in the event.
-Bro. Tony Walker
On March 09, 2023, Alpha Academy/Scholars traveled to George Mason University to participate in the George Mason Experience. Thanks to Mr. Jack Fulco at the Office of Admissions to provide the College 101 presentation and Mr. Jalen Stephens, a junior at George Mason University who served as our Mason Ambassador. Jalen answered questions about admissions; student demographics; residency life;
Do You Want FRIES With That?
On February 10, Xi Alpha Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. hosted PROJECT ALPHA @ Potomac Middle School, Dumfries, VA, 10:00 am –2:30 pm.
The conference was designed to provide education, motivation, and skill-building on issues of responsibility; Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired ImmunoDeficiency Syndrome; other sexually transmitted infections; teen pregnancy and prevention; abstinence/ virginity; sexual assault and abuse; and intimate violence in relationships.
We broke the conference down into three parts:
1) Consent and Healthy Relationships; 2) Symptoms and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections; 3) Anatomy 101, Protection and Prevention of teenage pregnancy.
To discuss Consent and Healthy Relationships, we utilized the game, Kahoot to spice up the lesson material. Referencing consent, the young men also discussed using the acronym FRIES:
Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific
This acronym was created by Planned Parenthood to make it easier to remember the five key aspects of consent. As you see within this acronym, consent is not based on how a person dresses, gender roles, or saying “yes” under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Consent is given when a person has a clear mind and is able to communicate exactly what they want and do not want to do in order for everyone involved to come to a mutual agreement. The group finally
discussed the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases(STD)/ sexually transmitted infections (STI)and the importance of wearing contraceptives. The educators displayed the different types of protection for both men and women. To emphasize the spread of STD/STIs, the young men each had a coded piece of paper highlighting a possible STD/STI then they copied the names of other participants. Depending on how their card was coded, determined how protected they were against the spread/acquisition of these infections/ diseases.
Finally, the PPMW shared their free chat hotline for questions by texting “PPNOW” to 774636.
Throughout the event, we distributed $200 in gift cards in appreciation of the youth participation. There was a total of 14 participants in the event which consisted of ten students, three Brothers of Xi Alpha Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc and three Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington (PPMW) educators and we thank them for their twelve years of support.
Bro. Vincent Garrett
Line Name: 1awlessness
School: American Military University
Field of Study: Computer System Security
Current Occupation: All-Source Intelligence Analyst/Senior Enlisted Leader at National Intelligence University
“I am thankful for the warm brotherly welcome into the House of Alpha. I am ready to make major contributions and do the work of Alpha within several of the programs that Xi Alpha Lambda provide to the community.”
SPRING 2024 Pharaohs of Babylon #1 #2
Bro. Lawrence Hayes
Line Name- 2traight Country
School - Mississippi State University
Field of Study - Criminology
Current Occupation- Physical Security
“Going forward, I am excited to be able to give back to my community & build bonds with brothers as we go on this Alpha journey.”
Bro. Caleb Minus
Line Name: T3PHlon
School: Virginia Military Institute
Field of Study: International Studies
Current Occupation: Program Analyst
“I am grateful and honored to be welcomed into such an accomplished house, within this historic fraternity, and will strive to uphold the commitment to and characteristics of Alpha. 06TTGB!!!”
Bro. Ben Young
Line Name: C4UTION
School(s): University of Miami, New York University School of Medicine
Field of Study: BS in Biology and Spanish, MD
Current Occupation: Gastroenterologist
“I am excited about working together with the brothers to do great things within the chapter and the community.”
Bro. Jordan Rubin
Line Name: Mi5sing Link
#3 #4 #5
Schools: Campbell University, Texas A&M University – CT, and Louisiana State University
Field of Study: Government, Military Intelligence, Aviation, and Public Administration
Occupation: Military Intelligence Staff Aviator and Sensor Branch Chief
“I look forward to cultivating deeper bonds with the brothers of Xi Alpha Lambda! Though many of the brothers have already poured into my life in some way or another, I look forward to continuing to cultivate relationships and strengthen bonds with brothers through service, fellowship, and just doing the work.”
XAL Chapter Directory
CHAPTER OFFICERS
CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Bro. Robert Blackwell, Jr. president@xal1906.com
CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Bro. Jermaine Williams vicepresident@xal1906.com
CHIEF OF STAFF
Bro. Russell Roaché (Acting) chiefofstaff@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Raphael Johnson rjohns55@gmu.edu
RECORDING SECRETARY
Bro. Lamont Bessicks, Jr. recordingsecretary@xal1906.com
Assistant - Bro. Cody Hassan
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Bro. Cody Hassan correspondence@xal1906.com
Assistant - Bro. Lamont Bessicks, Jr.
FINANCIAL SECRETARY
Bro. Abdul Mumuni financialsecretary@xal1906.com
Assistant PENDING
TREASURER
Bro. Caleb Minus treasurer@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Mark Brown, Jr. markbrown937@gmail.com
DEAN OF MEMBERSHIP
Bro. Ron Morris dean@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Luqman McNeil luqman1.mcneil@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Bro. Hershel Holiday education@xal1906.com
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Bro. Patrick Xantus techdirector@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Freddie James technology@xal1906.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR OF THE SPHINX
Bro. Russell Roache, Jr. editor@xal1906.com
HISTORIAN
Bro. Jovan Winchester historian@xal1906.com
CHAPLAIN
Bro. Jerry Jones chaplain@xal1906.com
SERGEANT AT ARMS
Bro. Maurice Hines saa@xal1906.com
PARLIAMENTARIAN
Bro. Ronal Butler parliamentarian@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Malik Haughton malikhaughton1906@gmail.com
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY
Bro. Clarence Taylor 757hokie.ct@gmail.com
XAL Chapter Directory
ALPHA ACADEMY - Potomac Middle
Bro. Tony Walker bownorwu06@gmail.com
ALPHA ADVISORY
Bro. Forte Ward treasurer@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Brandon Blackwell bblackwell1906@gmail.com
ALPHA-PHIT
Bro. Terrell Benns bennstalpha06@gmail.com
ALPHA SCHOLARS - South County Middle
Bro. Stanley Wright stan4himnow@gmail.com
AUDITING
Bro. Joe Ward joeward78@gmail.com
A VOTELESS PEOPLE IS A HOPELESS PEOPLE
Bro. Joe Ward joeward78@gmail.com
BIG BROTHERS, BIG SISTERS
Bro. Tony Walker bownorwu06@gmail.com
BROTHERHOOD ENRICHMENT
Bro. Mike Gibson brotherhood@xal1906.com
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Bro. Maurice Lane moel7@hotmail.com
CONSTITUTION & ELECTIONS
Bro. Ronal Butler constitution@xal1906.com
FOOD DISTRIBUTION, SHELTER & DONATIONS
Bro. Maurice Lane moel7@hotmail.com
HOUSING
Bro. Matthew Brooks housing@xal1906.com
NVA URBAN LEAGUE
Bro. Vernon Saunders saunders1906@gmail.com
PROGRAM
Bro. Wayne Martin program@xal1906.com
PWC NPHC Phillip Foust phillipfoust2011@hotmail.com
Assistant
Bro. Michael Carey careylink@gmail.com
RECLAMATION
Bro. Ron Morris dean@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Robert Dash rdash0626@gmail.com
RELAY FOR LIFE
Bro. Brandon Wright nxtfutureteacher@yahoo.com
TECHNOLOGY
Bro. Freddie James technology@xal1906.com
Assistant
Bro. Brandon Blackwell bblackwell1906@gmail.com
FOREVER HOLD