Kappa Journal (Undergraduate Affairs Issue Spring 2018)

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UNDERGRADUATES CONVERGE ON WASHINGTON, DC FOR "KAPPAS ON CAPITOL HILL"

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UNDERGRADUATE AFFAIRS EDITION

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Financial education is about more than learning financial terminology. It’s about setting yourself up for a better future. Regions is honored to be a part of this great community and to provide you with the skills that can help you reach your financial goals. We are committed to giving you knowledgeable advice and guidance so you can keep life moving forward. Regions is proud to provide financial education to the Kappa Leadership Development League, a program of Kappa Alpha Psi ® Fraternity, Inc.

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SPRING 2018 ISSUE: UNDERGRADUATE AFFAIRS EDITION

VOLUME CIV, ISSUE 1

IN THIS ISSUE

The Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal Established 1914 First Editor Frank M. Summers, Esq. Past Permanent Editors Lionel F. Artis 1921–1937 G. James Fleming 1938–1950 William L. Crump 1950–1975 Earl S. Clanton 1975–1985 Jonathan P. Hicks 1985–1989 Van Jordan 1989–1990 Mel L. Davis 1990–1999 Keflyn X. Reed 1999–2010 Jonathan P. Hicks 2011–2014 Thomas L. Cunningham IV 2014–2015 Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. 2016— Editor Art Director Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter KappaJournal1914@gmail.com Deputy Editor for Features Clarence Tucker Norfolk (VA) Alumni Chapter ctuckermpt@gmail.com Deputy Editor for Photography Michael L. Hume Belleville-O'Fallon (MS) Alumni Chapter mlhphotography@hotmail.com Feature Writer Aaron Williams Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni Chapter aaronwilli02@yahoo.com Graphic Arts Contributor Justin L. Tyson Atmore (AL) Alumni Chapter justin.tyson38@gmail.com Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter GrandHistorian1911@gmail.com Advertising Sales Director Sherman K. Kizart Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter

Making the Cover: Undergraduate Grand Chapter Officers, from left: Ivan Garcia, Terrell Richardson, Christopher Raxton, Nathaniel Girma, Christopher Cross and André Juwan Earls. On the cover with the Officers is Ryan Tucker, the new Director of Undergraduate & University Affairs. 40 Gallery on Location

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Journal Notes

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Grand Polemarch’s Message

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Junior Grand Vice Polemarch's Message

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Director of Undergraduate Affairs Message

10 Kappas on Capitol Hill 18 Legislative Policy Conference Gallery 23 Kappa Leaguers on Capitol Hill 25 Undergraduate Chapter Achievement 42 The Gallery: Undergraduate Campus Leaders 52 Part 2: A Historical Reflection by Second Grand Polemarch Irven Armstrong 57 To the Chapter Invisible 66 Kappa Alpha Psi ® Directory

Omicron Pi comes to the United States Air Force Academy. 39

shermankizart@att.net Office: (312) 421-4803 Cell: (312) 371-4127

International Headquarters 2322-24 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590 Phone: (215) 228-7184 www.KappaAlphaPsi.org

Gallery: There were workshops and opportunities for networking during Kappas on Capitol Hill. 18

44 Frank E. Burns, Jr. Among the Featured Campus Leaders

Published quarterly by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., 2322-24 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19132-4590. Periodic postage paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: $10 per year. USPS 291-300. No responsibility may be assumed by the Journal for receipt or return of material, news stories, photographs or creative pieces. Postmaster: Send address changes to: 2322- 24 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590.

27 Upsilon Chapter Celebrates 95 Years.

Cover photo design by Justin L. Tyson.

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For more information about scholarship opportunities and becoming an Army Officer, contact Mr. Jay Hansen at 912-220-7730 or email jay.a.hansen.civ@mail.mil

© 2015. Paid for by the United States Army. All rights reserved.

St. Jude Welcomes Back Kappa Alpha Psi as a National Volunteer Partner! Thank you for all you have done and will do for the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ® .

©2016 ALSAC/St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital (24270)

JOURNAL NOTES

Here's to the Undergraduate Members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® !

in which to be proud. For example, the Texas Christian University chapter, the Kappa Epsilon of Kappa Alpha Psi ® has Frank Jackson, current Polemarch of Kappa Epsilon with a 3.5 GPA. In his last two semesters he earned a 4.0, including a semester abroad in Quito, Ecuador. Kappa Epsilon enjoys the fifth highest GPA of all male Greek organiza- tions on campus. The campus is 51% Greek with roughly 10,000 undergradu- ate students. Sam Luke of Kappa Epsi- lon is the current Reporter for Area II in the Southwestern Province. The work at the Texas Tech University, the Iota Upsilon of Kappa Alpha Psi ® is led by Akintomide Emmanuel Shittu, a senior at majoring in Management Information Systems and with a minor in Computer Science. Since his arrival at the university in the fall of 2014 he has maintained a 3.69 GPA and re- mained on the Dean's or President's Lists. He has served on the executive board of the African Students Organiza- tion and has also excelled in internships

with Anadarko Petroleum Company and USAA. Dayo Olabode is completing his Bach- elors degree in Mechanical Engineering. With a 3.0 GPA he is using his leader- ship in Iota Epsilon to inspire others through the African Student Organiza- tion and National Society of Black Engi- neers. Other inspirational stories can be found beginning with page 42. Our thanks to Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Cross for his leadership in calling for undergraduate submissions for this issue. The Grand Polemarch's call was in conjunction with Kappas on Capital Hill (see page 10), which gave us an oppor- tunity to photograph the Undergraduate Grand Chapter Officers on location in Washington, D.C. along with the new Director of Undergraduate & University Affairs and Guy L. Grant Awardee Ryan E. Tucker, MPA. We hope you enjoy this issue.

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. I n late January 2018, Grand dergraduate Affairs.

Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. decided to commission this issue with the theme of focusing on Un-

As such, the call was sent through In- ternational Headquarters across Kappa Land to submit headshots of brothers who had at least a 3.0 grade point aver- age and who was also a leader on their respective college campus. In this issue, we have examples of chapters who are representative of all that undergraduates accomplish on their college campuses across the country (see page 25). Would that the photogra- phy was in keeping with the printing re- quirements, as we could have had some wonderful visual presentations of their work. Nevertheless the editorial team worked with the submissions to provide you with this view of their service.

Brothers from the Texas A&M University-Commerce, the Eta Phi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . See their achievements on page 37 in this issue.

In them, Kappa Alpha Psi ® has much

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STEPPIN’ UP TO HEALTH

Keep uplifting others and taking care of your family, your health, your wealth, your Kappa brothers and yourself. Go to aarp.com/blackcommunity .

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP ®

GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

Undergraduates Achieving Despite 21 st Century Stresses

A s the old adage goes, nothing worthwhile comes easily. And as undergraduate Kappas are learning, this certainly is the case in achieving a college education. Our younger brothers are finding that earning a degree mandates discipline, teamwork, critical thinking and adapting to all sorts of people and environments. Social settings are included, because a robust college experience is one in which a student can enjoy parties, sports and other extracurricular activi- ties that can produce friendships and networking opportunities that extend well beyond the undergraduate years. Successfully managing an academic workload in addition to job, family and community service responsibilities undoubtedly is a struggle. This seem- ingly daunting task is overcome many times through personal sacrifice and resilience. Against that backdrop, I am absolutely amazed by the outstanding accomplish- ments our collegiate brothers continue to make. We see this regularly through the talented and stellar brothers who participate in the Undergraduate Lead- ership Institute (ULI). This expertly structured and intense leadership pro- gram, which takes place each non- conclave year, enhances undergradu- ates’ ability to lead in the fraternity, on

campus and in a community.

Aside from ULI, it’s just as evident from the impressive roster of activities that outlines our fraternity’s six spring 2018 initiatives for college members: Disas- ter Relief, St. Jude’s Children’s Re- search Hospital, and Greeks Learning to Avoid Debt, Mental Health Aware- ness, Kappa Kamp and Undergraduate Leadership Institute. This agenda was developed by the undergraduate Grand Board members in partnership with the Council of Junior Province Vice Polemarchs. Don’t forget IKare Disaster Relief which was started by our under- graduates. The list continues with the participa- tion we have seen in LEAD Kappa, an offshoot of ULI and occurs each year of the Grand Chapter Meeting. Since the conception of LEAD (Leadership Enhancement and Development) Kappa at the 81 st Grand Chapter Meeting in Houston, undergraduate members have learned to improve their knowledge, skillsets and capabilities with leadership as a foundation. LEAD Kappa occurs in a four-day span comprising 50 hours of instruction and practical application. In Orlando during the 83 rd Grand Chap- ter Meeting, it was heartwarming to see recent graduates come back and share how their LEAD experience facilitated

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GRAND POLEMARCH'S MESSAGE

When our brothers graduate, they have definitely earned their degrees. One's diploma is more than a piece of paper signifying completion of college. It is a reminder that despite the odds, they navigated the rough waters that often beleaguer Black men, to conquer them and achieve. Keep achieving, good brothers!

their transition into the corporate world. We are excited to host LEAD Kappa again at the 84 th Grand Chapter Meet- ing in Philadelphia. When thinking about our undergradu- ate brothers these days, I find it almost unbelievable how they can sustain high GPAs, campus leadership roles, and active fraternity involvement. Gamma Pi Chapter at Alcorn State Univer- sity provides a perfect example. Four chapter brothers recently maintained 4.0 GPAs for consecutive spring and fall semesters. Even more, eight Gamma Pi brothers graduated with honors, and one of their own, Rodrick Patterson, became our National Undergraduate Guide Right Committee co-chairman. For many of our younger brothers, these good things are happening amid per- sonal and family issues. Unfortunately, those are capped with 24/7 news of vio- lence, poverty, political shenanigans and much worse. The era in which we live, is arguably the most taxing historically – mentally as well as financially – due to intensifying problems that are leading to higher suicide rates, weakening family structures and growing challenges for people of color. We must applaud these brothers for their endurance and for exemplifying honorable achievement. Going to college, staying in college, and graduating from college is never easy.

When our brothers graduate, they have definitely earned their degrees. One's diploma is more than a piece of paper signifying completion of college. It is a reminder that despite the odds, they navigated the rough waters that often beleaguer Black men, to conquer them and achieve. Keep achieving, good brothers! On the flip side, I salute the efforts that seasoned brothers are making to help both our own undergraduates and college-bound, forge a path to profes- sional and lifelong success. Brother Christopher E. Johnson stands out for his work as chairman of the Achieve- ment Academy, which aims to improve the social, professional, and leadership experiences of our collegiate members. With a focus on mentoring and coach- ing, the academy is helping to keep recent graduates active in the bond and teaching them the steps toward earning advanced degrees. Be sure to get en- gaged with the Achievement Academy, whether you are an undergraduate or alumni brother. Our undergraduates need our guidance to steer their academic, professional and personal lives. While our alumni brothers have a wealth of knowledge to share with our younger brothers and can even learn more about this generation to better relate to them. Deeping the

understanding of each other helps us to fill in the gaps when we are in need.

That’s what Kappas do! We set the pace, and we make sure our brothers have the resources to set the pace as well. Cincinnati Alumni deserves a hearty round of applause. Its Grant-in-Aid awards totaling $20,000 this year will steer 21 seniors toward future academic achievement. That’s just one example of the myriad of avenues where our alumni brothers are looking out for our undergraduates. Kappa Alpha Psi ® was founded as an undergraduate fraternity, and we will continue to ensure that our undergradu- ates not only survive, but thrive! This edition of the Journal is dedicated to our undergraduates. These brothers are the future of Kappa and I’m elated to say, our future looks bright! I am so proud to share these stories with a global audience through the Journal. The world is seeing how Kappa Alpha Psi ® is making a positive difference in so many ways.

Yours in the Bond,

Thomas L. Battles Jr. Grand Polemarch

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JUNIOR GRAND VICE POLEMARCH'S MESSAGE

Christopher Cross, Junior Grand Vice Polemarch, left with members of the Kappas on Capitol Hill delegation after a successful policy discussion.

Brothers All:

B elow are the major initiatives of Province Vice Polemarchs (JVPs), as we seek to Leave a Legacy and Build a Fu- ture for those who come behind us. the Undergraduate Grand Chapter Officers and the Council of Junior • All undergraduate chapters should raise $300.00 dollars to donate to the Kappa Foundation for disaster relief OR donate items totaling to $300.00 worth or more to area affected chapters • Provinces should commit at least one weekend of community service throughout the 2017-2018 school year to affected areas St. Jude’s Research Hospita l • Undergraduates in each province col- lectively should raise $1,000.00 for St. Jude • Chapters should increase Sunday of Hope donations by 10% of the previous year Hurricane Harvey/Irma Relief

• Each chapter should include a fund- raiser for St. Jude Greeks Learning to Avoid Debt • Each chapter should include finan- cial literary event in their Kappa Week • Implementation of financial literacy training should occur in every Province’s C Rodger Wilson Leadership Confer- ences • Partner with Regions Bank and NPHC to host events on student loans, debt reduction, credit cards, etc. • Undergraduate chapters should col- laborate with advising alumni chapters and respective alumni associations to establish a rainy day funds for the undergraduate chapters Mental Health Awareness • Undergraduate chapters imple- ment at least one mental health forum throughout the school year where some- one from the mental health field speak on the importance of mental health awareness, specifically targeted for the

Black community • Include mental health awareness in the Healthy Kappas Healthy Communi- ties Initiative • Educate MTA candidates on the ef- fects hazing has on mental health Kappa Kamp • Each undergraduate chapter should collaborate with advising alumni chap- ter to send one kid to Kappa Kamp • Each Province should sponsor at least three (3) undergraduate brothers to volunteer/intern at Kappa Kamp If we focus our collective effort in these areas, we will see a measurable, scale- able impact in our respective communi- ties, in our Provinces and across Kappa Land.

Yours in the Bond,

Christopher Cross Junior Grand Vice Polemarch

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DIRECTOR OF UNDERGRADUATE & UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS' MESSAGE

Greetings Brothers of this Noble Clan

I am truly excited to serve you as your Director of Undergraduate & University Affairs for Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. To have the op- portunity to lead our next generation of leaders into the upcoming academic cal- endar year means so much that words cannot describe. I am excited to bring new innovative ideas to the table to assist our fraternity with next-level thinking. Undergraduate brothers, please be mindful to push the importance of academic excellence; graduation should continue to be your main objective. Continue encouraging your fellow undergraduates to apply for the Under- graduate Leadership Institute (ULI). This week-long training will give you the tools, skill sets and added abilities to make a positive transition from the collegiate level to the work force. Be mindful to put in place the under- graduate initiatives developed by the Undergraduate Grand Board Members in conjunction with our Council of Ju- nior Province Vice Polemarch’s on your college campuses. These goals have been developed to keep you on the path to achievement.

As we continue to work to improve our fraternity, we must be mindful that Kap- pa Alpha Psi ® has been a beacon of light for thousands of young men who paved the way for us. We must be proactive in preserving our organization, which means that we must make sure that the rules and regulations of the fraternity are followed with no exceptions. We must understand the severe consequences that result when illegal activities such as hazing exist anywhere in Kappa. These consequences are more than penalties for individuals who are perpetrators or recipients, but for the fraternity-at-large who must participate in litigation, settlements and potential fines. You must be the doorkeeper that makes sure that Kappa continues through the twenty-first century and beyond. We have a lot of work to do; let’s stay engaged and ready to answer the call to service.

—One Kappa

Ryan E. Tucker, MPA Director of Undergraduate & University Affairs

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Kappas on Capitol Hill: James “Biff” Carter Legislative Policy Conference 2018

By Britton L. Smith, Chairman – Political Action Committee

The eastern facade of the US Capitol Building, Washington, DC. Photo by Vlad G./Shutterstock

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KAPPAS ON CAPITOL HILL

T he 13 th Annual National Founders Day was held from January 4-7, 2018 at the Sheraton Music City Hotel in Nashville, TN. Held in the South Central Province, host chapters included: the Meharry Medical Col- lege Chapter, the Kappa of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Tennessee State University Chapter, the Alpha Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Middle Tennes- see State University Chapter, the Eta Gamma of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Vanderbilt University Chap- ter, the Nu Rho of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Nashville (TN) Alumni Chapter, the Murfreesboro (TN) Alumni Chapter, the Hendersonville (TN) Alumni Chapter and the Brentwood (TN) Alumni Chapter. W ith a highly contentious political cli- mate, the return of Kappa Alpha Psi ® to Capitol Hill was highly anticipated. During the annual James “Biff” Carter Legislative Policy Conference on Capitol Hill, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. held a wide range of semi- nars, workshops and panel discussions to encourage its members and the minority community at large to fully participate in the country’s political processes on March 4-6, 2018 in Arlington, Virginia and on Capitol Hill. The return of the legislative conference marked the fraternity's commitment to civic engagement. Led by Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. along with 27 th Grand Polemarch Robert L. Harris, Esq., and numerous Kappa dignitaries, the delegation engaged “For 107 years, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has padded the way to make a difference in

this world,” stated Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. touting such partnerships as the Global Infant Safe Sleep Center to “ensure the lives of our children and educating parents on safe sleep methods” to internal initiative such as the Senior Kappa Affairs Endowment Fund to “guarantee we can leave a legacy and build a future,” Grand Polemarch Battles praised the membership for its demonstrated brotherhood, dedication and hard work. Chapter Polemarchs John Henry Ford, MBA, Nashville (TN) Alumni Chapter; Michael Lane, Sr., (Eta Gamma 1975) Murfreesboro (TN) Alumni Chapter; Ronald Douglas, Jr., Hendersonville (TN) Alumni Chapter; and Billy Williams, Brentwood (TN) Alumni Chapter worked with Kendrick D. in high-level briefings on Capitol Hill. Those briefings which began on Monday, March 5, 2018, included state and federal perspectives on a variety of important issues including: crimi- nal justice reform, voting rights, veterans affairs, school choice and men’s health. It was important for the conferees to not only understand the current factual situations for each of these topics but also the policy changes the executive branch was now promulgating. Delegates needed to know how those changes affected positions in upcoming published reports, proposed administrative regulations and funding changes that may occur in federal

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Members of the United States Congress and the 2018 James "Biff" Carter Legislative Policy Conference delegates. Delegates included Grand Chapter Officers, Province Polemarchs, National Commission Chairmen, National Committee Chairmen, IHQ Staff, other appointees and Brothers All. Members of Congress beginning eighth from left include: The Honorable Al Lawson and The Honorable William Lacy Clay, along with Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Christopher Cross, 27 th Grand Polemarch Robert L. Harris, Esq., and Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., along with The Honorable Alcee L. Hastings, The Honorable Sanford Bishop, The Honorable Bennie Thompson, The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries and The Honorable A. Donald McEachin.

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2018 KAPPAS ON CAPITOL HILL DELEGATES

programs and oversight responsibilities of congressional committees. In summary, the James "Biff" Carter Leg- islative Conference was about empowering attendees to understand the nexus between federal action and the need for advocacy to preserve, change course or explain the effects of the proposed changes to members of Congress and legislative aides to ensure that their views would be considered in upcoming policy discussions. Dorian L. Spence, Director of Special Litigation and Advocacy for the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, opened the plenary discussion on voting along with Grand Board Member Ronald V. Julun and Wade Henderson. Other presenters included Nigel Stephens, Major Gen- eral Hawthorne Proctor (Ret.), Andre Douglas, Maquel Marshall, Dr. Chris Johnson, and Dr. Marvin Carr along with a host of other well-qualified subject matter

experts. Brothers were provided talking points and ad- ditional information regarding the various topics. More than 100 Brothers convened on Capitol Hill to meet with Members of Congress and their staff on Tuesday, March 6 th to advocate for the issues discussed the day before. Members of Congress who are Kappas and participated were: • The Honorable Alcee L. Hastings House (D-FL, 20 th ) 1993–Current (Alpha Delta 1954) • The Honorable Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. House (D- GA, 2 nd ) 1993–Current (Pi 1966) • The Honorable William Lacy Clay, Jr. House (D- MO, 1 st ) 2001–Current (St. Louis (MO) Alumni 2003) • The Honorable Bennie G. Thompson House (D- MS, 2 nd ) 2011–Current (Gamma Rho 1969) • The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries House (D-NY, 8 th )

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Britton L. Smith, foreground along with the delegates of the 2018 James "Biff" Carter Legislative Policy Conference convene for a weekend of education, empowerment and advocacy.

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2013–Current (Mu Kappa 1989) • The Honorable A. Donald McEachin House (D-VA, 4 th ) 2017–Current (Beta Kappa 1980) • The Honorable Alfred J. Lawson Jr. House (D-FL, 5 th ) 2017–Current (Tallahassee (FL) 2016) The day began as the American Red Cross served as hosts to the brothers in attendance at their national headquarters for breakfast and addressed members about pertinent emergency management planning and partnerships with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Following breakfast, several prominent Kappa Congressional and Senate staffers spoke to the body about their work, services of their offices and

pathways to employment for young brothers seeking a career in politics. Brothers were treated to a very encouraging message by Congressman Sanford Bishop (GA-2) who served as the keynote speaker at the Howard L. Tutman Jr. Luncheon held in the Rayburn House Office Build- ing on Capitol Hill. Members of Congress Bennie Thompson and Al Lawson provided riveting remarks as well. The event culminated with a reception in honor of Kappa Alpha Psi's ® Members of Congress. Throughout the reception several Member of Congress stopped by to express their support for the work that Kappa Alpha Psi ® is doing.

Those Members included Congressman Bobby

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KAPPA NEWS

Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Cross and Grand Board Members Andre Juwan Earls and Christopher Raxton ensured that the undergraduate members were out in force during the 2018 James "Biff" Carter Legislative Policy Conference in Washington, DC. Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Cross, second from left, remarked "Now is the time, more than ever in recent history, for undergraduates to understand the issues and inspire their counterparts to become actively engaged in the process. Early in life, we were taught right from wrong, but governing one's personal conduct is only half of the battle. We must be civic minded and understand right from wrong in the context of policy. When we do that and act on the side of justice for all people, then we will have exercised the influence necessary to ensure a more just society." Scott (VA-3) Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-3) Congresswoman Brenda

must get people registered to vote. Where? Everywhere possible. Neighbor- hoods. Churches. College Campuses. Homecomings. Family Reunions. Gro- cery Stores. Fraternity Meeting. Party With a Purpose – any place where you have a captive audience. We must ener- gize people to vote…that means you all need to become deputies. My wife and I are deputized to register voters in Texas. The second step is voters education. What are the rules—that if you do not follow them—will prevent you from voting? Where do you talk to people about voter education? What issues can impact voter registration? How do you overcome them (i.e. ID Card to vote)? If you are away from home (i.e. College, Military, etc) how do you vote? What is early voting? When is the early voting period?

important to this step. However, if you do not get the people to the polls, you wasted time registering and educating them. When is the voting period. Early, Absentee, and November (1st Tuesday). Every state has early voting periods (ap- proximately six weeks prior to November voting day) and a process for absentee voting. Please consult your state govern- ment for specific rules and regulations. In a perfect world, we should encourage people to vote early…the day of voting should be treated as a last chance. Spon- sor programs to take our brothers and sisters to early voting; don’t wait until the last minute.

Lawrence (MI-14) Representative Stacey Plaskett (U.S. V.I.) Congress- woman Sheila Jackson-Lee (TX-18) who presented Grand Polemarch Battles with a resolution recognizing Kappas on Capitol Hill, James “Biff” Carter Legisla- tive Policy Conference. National Political Awareness Committee Chairman Britton Smith along with the Province Political Awareness Commit- tee Chairmen and brothers who serve as staff members on Capitol Hill and in the White House were commended for their efforts in making the 2018 Legislative Policy Conference a Kappa success. *** Grand Board Member Ronald V. Julun provided some stirring remarks to the Del- egation. An excerpt appears below.

Stay Woke…Don’t Sleep!

Edmund Burke once said: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

The third step is voters participation/ turnout. The first two steps are equally

I commend the state of Pennsylvania for fighting and winning the redrawing

...The first step is voters registration. We

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KAPPA NEWS

of its US congressional district lines. Previously in Pennsylvania, 13 of its 18 districts were drawn for Republican majorities despite Democrats holding a 5-4 voting margin. The districts were recently redrawn to be diverse and not dilute the minority vote. We saw in Alabama that good men and women organized to help Doug Jones win in the US Senate. They did not sleep; they acted.

As I close, I decided to borrow words from a song I frequently hear on the radio from Yung 6ix called Stay Woke. I need your help…I am going to say a phrase and when I point to the audience I want you to say, “And I Stay Woke.” Got it? Always grinding…and I stay woke/ Never sleeping…and I stay woke/ Haters creeping…and I stay woke/ Trump is tripping…and I stay woke/ Hate rising…and I stay woke/ Working smart…and I stay woke/ Progressing Kappa…and I stay woke/

Kappa Men do not sleep when there’s work to do!

Above: Grand Chapter Nominating Committee Chairman Chauncy E. Haynes, Grand Board Member Ronald V. Julun and Grand Board Member Jimmy McMikle. Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., presents the Humanitarian Award to Congressman John Lewis awarded during the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting. For more information on Congressman Lewis, visit https://johnlewis.

I am glad our Founders were awake and aware when they formed this great fraternity. Their dedication has enabled great men to do what others only talked about.

Always voting…and I stay woke/ Loving GOD…and I stay woke.

Brothers, let’s get out the vote…and stay woke!!!

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2018 JAMES "BIFF" CARTER LEGISLATIVE POLICY CONFERENCE

THE GALLERY

Above from left: Congressman Bishop, Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Cross, Grand Polemarch Battles with Congressman McEachin; Congressman Thompson and Grand Polemarch Battles with Congressman Hastings. The delegates met with the American Red Cross and networked with other professionals during Kappas on Capitol Hill. Opposite Page: Grand Polemarch Battles with fellow Florida A&M University Alumnus, Congressman Lawson.

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THE GALLERY

2018 JAMES "BIFF" CARTER LEGISLATIVE POLICY CONFERENCE

From left: Congressman

Sanford Bishop, Congresswoman Robin Kelly, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, 27 th Grand Polemarch Robert

L. Harris, Esq., Congressman

Bobby Scott and Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr.

Below: Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. and a delegation from the James "Biff" Carter Legislative Policy Conference greet The Honorable James E. Clyburn of South Carolina. Rep. Clyburn also serves as Assistant Democratic Leader, the third-ranking Democrat in the United States House of Representatives.

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2018 JAMES "BIFF" CARTER LEGISLATIVE POLICY CONFERENCE

THE GALLERY

Above: Richard Mattox, Dave Hardrick, Britton Smith and Mandela Barnes participate on a panel during the 2018 James "Biff" Carter Legislative Policy Conference. Below: Brothers pause during a break in the Conference and greet Grand Board Member Christopher Raxton and Grand Chapter Nominating Committee Chairman Chauncy E. Haynes.

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THE GALLERY

2018 JAMES "BIFF" CARTER LEGISLATIVE POLICY CONFERENCE

Left, Wade Henderson, President of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, and Counsel to the Leadership Conference Education Fund, leans into his point during the 2018 James "Biff" Carter Legislative Policy Conference. Below, undergraduate delegates pose with Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Cross and Undergraduate Grand Board Member Earls, center.

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GUIDE RIGHT

Kappa Leaguers on Capitol Hill

By Britton L. Smith

W hat started as a very mod- est idea by Congressman Don McEachin (VA-4), grew beyond his wildest imagination. In addi- tion to Rep. McEachin’s home chapters, of Richmond (VA) Alumni and Peters-

burg (VA) Alumni, they were joined by Kappa Leaguers and their chaperones from Brooklyn-Long Island (NY) Alumni Chapter, Columbia (MD) Alumni Chap- ter, College Park/Sandy Springs (MD) Alumni Chapter on Thursday, June 21,

2018. Fellow members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Congressman Alcee Hastings (FL-20), Congressman Sanford Bishop (GA-2) , and Congressman Al Lawson (FL-5), met with the chapters, shared their wisdom with the young men, and took pictures on the steps of the United States Capitol. Attendees of Kappa Leaguers on Capitol Hill Day began their day with meetings with Members of Congress in their respective offices. The par- ticipants were then treated to lunch, where a short program was emceed by Kappa member and District Director to Rep. Donald McEachin, Eldon Burton (Petersburg (VA) Alumni 2013). During this program, participants heard from Chief of Staff to Rep. Robin Kelly (IL- 2), Brandon Webb (Fredricksburg (VA) Alumni 2009) and Congressman Alcee Hastings. Attendees then completed their day with a tour of the Capitol before returning home. The event was truly a success! Con- gressman McEachin has committed to making this an annual event.

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Undergraduate Chapter Achievement and Campus Leadership

Undergraduate Chapters showcase their achievements through activities and individual accomplishments in a way that lets the reader know that Kappa Alpha Psi ® is here to stay for at least another 107 years.

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS

Alpha Chapter Leading the Way on Campus

T he Alpha Chapter has been involved in many campus activities and works hard to ensure the fraternity is well represented on the Indiana Univer- sity-Bloomington (IU) campus. For example, the chapter intentionally collaborated with 31 different student organizations on student-led initiatives. The chapter received the Outstanding Community Service and Commitment to Cross-Collaboration Award for its ef- forts. In addition, Grant Prather (Alpha 2016) and Diquis (D.Q.) Manley (Alpha 2017) both were awarded the Living the Ritual Awards and Commitment to Fra- ternity Life by the IU Student Life and Learning and Dean of Students offices respectively. In another example, the chapter was noted for sponsoring a “Kappa Khrist- mas” for students, which provided new shoes to children attending the event. Brother Prather is a member of the Indiana University Student Association (IUSA). Justin (J.T.) Balogun (Alpha 2017) is the NPHC President. Domi- nick Harris (Alpha 2017) is the NPHC treasurer, and Jovan Williams (Alpha 2017) is a Co-founder and Director of Marketing for the George Taliaferro Sport Association which is named after George Taliaferro (Alpha 1946). Members of the Alpha Chapter in Bloomington, Indiana.

Guide Right The chapter’s Guide Right program is coordinated with the Krimson Lead- ership Academy Initiative, an after school mentoring program sponsored by Brian Richardson (Eta Kappa 2010), an on-campus faculty member in the IU School of Public Health. The Academy is held at Fairview Elementary School located near the IU campus. Every Fri- day afternoon, chapter members arrive at the school to mentor the students. In addition to its Guide Right initia- tive, the chapter has participated in many charitable initiatives. 721 East Hunter In 2017, the chapter seized on the opportunity to return to fraternity’s historic beginnings with residing in the fraternity’s first house located at 721 East Hunter. Residing at the house so integral to the history of the fraternity has provided the chapter brothers with a unique task: Tour guide. Brother Manley stated, “Probably once a week brothers from other chapters visit the Bloomington campus. Upon arrival Alpha Chapter will give them a “Moth- erland Tour.” This tour includes the site of the former Elder Watson Diggs Memorial House which now is campus police headquarters, the site where

Brother Taliaferro integrated the famed restaurant now known as Buffalou- ies, the IU School of Public Education where Founder Elder Watson Diggs had to learn from outside of the classroom to many of the famed buildings and landmarks on campus ending with a stop at 721 E Hunter. Many campus tours actually mention the house as it is only one block away from Rawles Hall on Third Street and Kirkwood and the rest of what makes up the heart of Indiana University.” The chapter continues to convert the house into a Kappa Museum and use it as a meeting place, a chapel for brotherhood and as an attraction for visiting brothers. Province and National Participation At the 97 th North Central Province Council Meeting held in South Bend, IN, Brother Prather was elected to the Province Board of Directors. Also, while in South Bend, he was also chosen as the North Central Province’s Outstand- ing Undergraduate of the Year. Broth- ers Prather, Hubbard and Booth are also members of the Theta Class of this year’s Undergraduate Leadership Institute (ULI). Here's to the Alpha Chapter!.

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS

Upsilon Chapter Celebrates 95 Years Recounts Rich Legacy

By Leonard Herring Jr. , Chairman–National VIP and Entertainment Outreach Committee

T he Upsilon Chapter chartered on April 25, 1923 at the Uni- versity of California Los Ange- les boasts a who’s who of dis- tinguish alumni such as the 18 th Grand Polemarch and Laurel Wreath Wearer, Thomas A. Bradley Esq. (Upsilon 1938) who served five terms as Mayor of the City of Los Angeles, California Lt. Governor Mervyn M. Dymnally (Up- silon 1950), noted Los Angeles Public Administrator, the 25 th Grand Polemarch and Laurel Wreath Wearer Randall C. Bacon (Upsilon 1958), UCLA Vice Chancellor and Vice President of the University of California System Winston C. Doby (Upsilon 1964) , scientist and 1936 Olympic Bronze Medal Winner Brother James “Jimmy” LuValle (Upsi- lon 1933), U.S. Open and Wimbledon Tennis Champion and Laurel Wreath Wearer Arthur Ashe (Upsilon 1963), famed Civil Rights Attorney and Laurel Wreath Wearer Johnny L. Cochran, Jr. (Upsilon 1956), actor of iconic comedy show “Sandford and Son” Witman Mayo (Upsilon 1956), among others.

and its members as it celebrated its 95 th Charter Day and Anniversary Week. The week began with a tour of the campus of UCLA and community service projects on voter registration, political aware- ness, a professional etiquette workshop and a “Knowledge of Him and Her Relationship” discussion sponsored by the undergraduate chapter—all of which were well attended and received. UCLA Chancellor Gene Block remarked that the university would be celebrating its Centennial and added how impor- tant it was that the members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® having been established only four years later has helped to provide distinguished leadership, unparalleled accomplishments and diversify to the UCLA community and to society. The weekend began with a Loving Cup Ceremony and Reception at the Los An- geles Kappa House on Friday. The Up- silon Chapter Charter Day Celebration Luncheon featured The Honorable Gon- zalo P. Curiel (Alpha 1974) as keynote speaker at UCLA’s Tom Bradley Hall on Saturday. The weekend concluded with Upsilon’s Family Barbeque at the UCLA

Sunset Recreation Center on Sunday. The event ended with an official photo of the alumni and present members of the Upsilon Chapter in front of Bradley Hall. Brothers in attendance received commemorative souvenirs that marked the occasion. The Western Province Council of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity also recognized the achievements of the Upsilon Chapter with a Resolution from 23 rd Western Province Polemarch Gilbert D. Brown.

The week of April 22 – 29, 2018 marked a milestone for the Upsilon Chapter

From left: Erick D. Jackson (Upsilon 2016), Judge Curiel and Charter Day Committee Chairman, Kevin D. Kinsey (Upsilon 1981).

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS

Alpha Zeta Chapter Spurs Founder's Honor Prepares to Endow Scholarship for Members Through University

O n October 19, 2017 our beloved Founder Elder Watson Diggs was honored posthumously with a Dis- tinguished Alumni Award from Indiana State University. The alumni award cer- emony kicked off the 2017 Indiana State University homecoming weekend. The university historian uncovered a treasure trove of archival information, letters, photographs, honors and accom- plishments achieved by Founder Diggs while he was a student. These docu- ments were shared with the fraternity and a request was made and approved by the university to award him with the university’s highest alumni honor. Founder Diggs was a 1908 graduate of the university when it was originally called Indiana State Normal School. He is credited with helping to integrate the United States Army Reserves in Indiana; which would allow African Americans to serve our country. A special video was created and honored Founder Diggs. Dignitaries on hand including Senior Vice Grand Polemarch Reuben A. Shel-

Alpha Zeta Endowment Established at ISU

ton III, Esq., who accepted the Distin- guished Alumni Award on behalf of the fraternity. The brothers in attendance joined Brother Shelton as he recited Invictus as part of his remarks. It was a proud, sacred, and unifying moment. The Distinguished Alumni Award is now housed in the national archives of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . On Friday, October 20, 2017 a breath- taking memorial bench made of polished red granite stone was dedicated near Normal Hall, one of the original build- ings on campus where Founder Diggs matriculated. The bench includes an inlaid photo- graph of Founder Diggs, the fraternity coat of arms as well as the following inscription: “In honor of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and its founder, ISU’s Distinguished Alumnus Elder Watson Diggs “The Dreamer”—Alpha Zeta, Est. 1928.” Diggs Memorial Bench Dedicated

In October 2013, Paul A. Chaney Sr. (Alpha Zeta 1988) shared his vision to establish an endowment fund for the Chapter. Due to the collective efforts of Brothers Steve Chaney, Mel Burks, Hollis J. Thomas, Michael Love, Russell Randle, Clifford Grimes Steve Nibbs, Lamont Perry, Claude Grimes, and Ro- land Shelton an academic endowment was established. A goal was set to raise $25,000. On Saturday, October 21 st , during the homecoming game a check for nearly $28,000 was presented to the Indiana State University Foundation CEO. As of this summer 2018 the team has raised a total of $34,000. The Chapter is well on the way to achieving their target of $50,000 by the end of the 2018 calen- dar year. The generous donations made Kappa Alpha Psi ® —the first African American organization to have a fully endowed scholarship at Indiana State University.

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS

Clockwise: Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., accepts the 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award on behalf of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. at Indiana State University (ISU). The members of Alpha Zeta pose with ISU President Dr. Deborah Curtis after introducing its new members to her, an annual Alpha Zeta tradition. Alpha Zeta displays its array of awards. A photo of the memorial red granite bench dedicated at Indiana State University. Undergraduates Excel and Achieve Accolades The Alpha Zeta Chapter had a very successful year, by focusing on principle, character and achievement consistent with the standards and values of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . This resulted in: • The Outstanding Program Award for “The Elephant in the Room,” addressing unconscious bias on the ISU Campus. • The chapter adopted three families by providing food and gifts for Christmas with a budget of 1500.00. • The chapter won the "Sycamore Blue" Award at the ISU Sycamore Leadership Award ceremony for the joint scholarship award they made in conjunction with a Terre Haute community based organization entitled “Moms helping Moms" to a single mother. • Receiving the Presidents Cup Award” for the Best Undergraduate Chapter. • Receiving the Alumni Engagement Award, Leadership Development Award, “Community Service Award” and the The “Penny Wars Champions Award” for being the top fundraiser. • A.L. Steele, Jr. (Alpha Zeta 2017) received an Academic Achievement Award from the Charles E Brown African American Cultural Center. • Roosevelt Harris (Alpha Zeta 2016) is the Vice President of the NPHC. Polemarch Jaylin Suggs (Alpha Zeta 2016) won the NPHC member of the year award. The NPHC Advisor of the Year Award was awarded to Claude Grimes (Alpha Zeta 1973). Here's to the Alpha Zeta Chapter!

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS

Beta Omicron Chapter Continuing the Legacy

duced Kappa League to James Madison Memorial High School in Madison, WI. Currently mentoring twenty Kappa leaguers, the chapter meets weekly with these young men planning summer col- lege tours, community service initiatives, encouraging college preparation courses, and a primary focus on personal and pro- fessional development, which is fostered through their event titled, “Black Label.” This event has offered the student body and surrounding community an opportu- nity to engage with young professionals and receive advice as they prepare for the UW career fair. While executing over 10 events throughout the academic year, the event the chapter is most proud of was hosting the 2017 North Central Province C. Rodger Wilson Leadership welcomed four new brothers into the chapter with a diverse set of skills and talents. Israel Oby, a rising sophomore from Madison, WI. Glenn Harris Jr. is also a rising sophomore majoring in international business from Frankfurt, IL. Milan Pavlic, a rising junior from Athens, GA is majoring in international studies. Lastly, Mekhi Johnson is a rising sophomore from Madison, WI majoring in political science. These brothers are excited about the continuing the legacy of Kappa Alpha Psi ® on the campus. Conference (CRWLC) last fall. In the Spring 2018, the chapter In addition to the four new members, Brother Apkan was elected North Central Province Jr Vice Polemarch at the 97 th North Central Province (NCP) Council Meeting held in South Bend, IN.

Front row, from left: George Akpan, Jr., Marquise Mays, Arrington Farrar, Charles Fatunbi, Milan Pavlic, Israel Oby. Back row: Dante Nash, Tyler Lampkins, Rishard Bournes, Glenn Harris Jr. and Mekhi Johnson. By Marquise Mays T he Beta Omicron Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was chartered in 1946, and became the first Black- Tyler Lampkins serves as the Keeper of Records. Brother Lampkins is a graduat- ing senior from Milwaukee, Wisconsin majoring in biology.

Greek Lettered Organization Estab- lished on the campus of a college or university in the state of Wisconsin. Seventy years later, the chapter is still thriving and achieving in every field of human endeavor. The mission of culti- vating a space for Black men interested in a lifelong bond, accountability and achievement still stands strong as the current members continue to break barriers at the University of Wisconsin- Madison (UW–Madison). Currently, the chapter consists of 11 brothers with various interests, majors, and life goals, which speak on behalf of their individuality and their strong com- mitment to the brotherhood of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . Brother George Akpan Jr. is a senior from Milwaukee, Wiscon- sin, majoring in electrical engineering and serves as the Polemarch. Brother Marquise Mays who serves as Vice Polemarch, is a graduating senior from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, majoring in journalism. Brother Charles Fatunbi is a graduating senior majoring in indus- trial engineering from Coon Rapids, Minnesota. Fatunbi currently serves as the Keeper of Exchequer. Brother

Vice Provost and Dean of Students, Lori Berquam, praises the organization for continuing the legacy of the Wiscon- sin Idea, “The Beta Omicron Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. excels in the three pillars of the Wisconsin Idea that our great university is founded upon: Wisconsin Experience, Discovery, and Innovation,” she continues to add, “The Wisconsin Experience revolves around the idea that together we create and apply learning inside and outside of the classroom to make the world a bet- ter place. Therefore, the Beta Omicron chapter actively works to incorporate effective program planning, innovation, leadership service, valued membership and social justice into their mission and the events and programs they hosted this past year.” Beta Omicron has sponsored campus events resulting in significant campus and community impact, bridging the gap between communities, and encouraging cross-collaboration and difficult conver- sations through a program called Kappa Kare. Also, ensuring brothers spend time in the community, the chapter intro-

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