Winter 2022: Konclave on the Bay - DRAC Chartered

The Kappa Alpha Psi ®

An Ocial Publication of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Kappa Comes to Tampa to Kick Off The 86 th Grand Chapter Meeting

KappaAlphaPsi1911.com

WINTER 2022

VOLUME CVIII, ISSUE 4

WINTER 2022

Journal Notes

10 Grand Polemarch's Message

14 Alumni News

28 Cover Story

48 A Look Back: Kappa History

52 To the Chapter Invisible

68 The Directory

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

VOLUME CVIII, ISSUE 4

WINTER 2022

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 Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter KappaJournal1914@gmail.com Assistant Editor Clarence Tucker Norfolk (VA) Alumni Chapter ctuckermpt@gmail.com Feature Writers

18 21

Nicholas Cole Earl T. Tildon Dr. Samuel Odom

Chapter Invisible Section Manager Aaron Williams Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter

aaronwilli02@yahoo.com National Photographer Michael L. Hume

Belleville-O'Fallon (IL) Alumni Chapter mlhphotography@hotmail.com Feature Photographers Kevin Sellers Gregory L. Williams Graphic Artist Keith C. King Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter GrandHistorian1911@gmail.com Advertising Sales Director John F. Burrell, Executive Director Phone: (215) 228-7184 International Headquarters 2322-24 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590 Phone: (215) 228-7184 www.KappaAlphaPsi1911.com

Province Reporters

Northern Brandon Jackson bmj1911@outlook.com

South Central Jarvaun Lindsay theonlyjarvaun@gmail.com

Eastern Dr. DeAndre Howard provincereporter@epkapsi.org Southern Julius L. Collins southernprovincenews@gmail.com Southwestern Aljay Foreman aljayforeman@yahoo.com Southeastern Dr. C. Douglas Johnson cdouglasjohnson@yahoo.com Middle Eastern Quentin Mitchell kwin10mitchell@gmail.com Northeastern Dermal McCrear nepdiamondnewsletter@gmail.com Middle Western Frank Smith franksmith831@yahoo.com Submit all chapter-related material to your respective Province Reporter for consideration for publication in The Journal. Western Jeffrey Brown pacificreporter@kapsi-western.org North Central Bond A. Thomas Jr. achiever@kapsi-ncp.org East Central Brandon Fenty brandon.fenty01@gmail.com

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.

REGIONS BANK PRESENTS THE FINANCIAL LITERACY COACH ERIC SMITH Set Yourself Up For Success. At this upbeat, informative seminar sponsored by Regions, you’ll learn practical, day-to-day smart money habits that are designed to help you embrace your financial future. Eric Smith, known as "The Financial Literacy Coach," has shared his financial success programs with tens of thousands of college students, professional athletes and those in corporations across America.

https://www.regions.com/next-step

INFORMATION FOR THIS EVENT BELOW: Kappa Alpha Psi Konclave – 7/20/2023 Tampa, Florida 10-11:45am This interactive event will include high-end financial wellness, a Regions Green Bike giveaway, and other prizes. Reserve your seats today

Courage is staring your severe aortic stenosis (heart valve failure) in the face and saying “not today”

Heart valve disease impacts all communities

More than 2.5 million people over the age of 75 in the United States are suffering from aortic stenosis (heart valve disease). If the disease progresses and goes untreated, symptoms worsen, and heart valve disease can lead to severe illness or death. Common symptoms of heart valve disease are chest pain, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Patients sometimes confuse these symptoms with normal signs of aging. African-Americans are at greater risk for earlier onset of heart valve disease, with few being diagnosed or referred for treatment when they have symptoms and their disease progresses to heart valve failure. Don’t wait. Ask your doctor about heart valve failure and potential treatment options, including transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), an option that doesn’t require open heart surgery. Join as Edwards Lifesciences and Kappa Alpha Psi discuss heart valve failure and its impact on the Black community. Date: July 20th | Time: 8am-12pm Location: JW Marriott Water Street (HB Plant Salons A-C) Visit HeartHealthKappa.com to learn more about the event and heart valve disease.

Edwards, Edwards Lifesciences, and the stylized E logo are trademarks or service marks of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2023 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation. All rights reserved. PP--US-6272 v2.0 Edwards Lifesciences • One Edwards Way, Irvine CA 92614 USA • edwards.com

Delight Effortlessly

Welcome Kappa alpha psi! With miles of dazzling waterfront, authentic culture, cuisine and nightlife, Tampa Bay has a million ways to play. All with an easy, laidback vibe.

VisitTampaBay.com

JOURNAL NOTES

Reflections on Achievement

dimmed our resolve in Phi Nu Pi. See page 28.

Psi Fraternity, Inc., live by the Golden Rule, through the 86 th Grand Chapter Meeting, you will see care for those around us in the surrounding commu- nity through our health and career fairs, and our focus on historically underuti- lized businesses being lifted up by our economic infusion. You will see examples of those who have labored in the vineyards of life being edified as beacons of faith, hope and love through the Humanitarian Awards. You will witness the culmination of collegiate achievements in the awards named after our Founders, Armstrong, Grant and Diggs. These examples remind us that—while many are careening through the ca- cophony of confusion, where norms are upended and compromise is considered cowardice and contempt for others is considered reflective of Christ—these others are more like the words in Ro- mans 1:22 "professing to be wise, they became fools." Despite "these others", those whom we recognize are reflective of Matthew 5:16 in that they are "letting [their] light shine before others, that they may see [their] good deeds and glorify [our] Father in heaven." So, when you see that the 34 th Admin- istration has invested more than $1 million in our undergraduate members to better ensure their capacity for leadership and that their soil is fertile to grow the "fruit of the Spirit" rather than be drunk with the wine of the world, it shows that the effects of the pan- demic, supply chain, current occupiers of political and church offices have not

For their efforts, we can be both grateful and thankful for the leadership, steward- ship and resolve of this administration and the unique circumstances that befell it. The administration truly considered relationships, long-term impacts and dis- charged its fiduciary responsibilities in ways that grew the Fraternity, the corpo- rate fisc, and alliances in the nonprofit, for-profit and governmental realms. We are 75 (see page 26), 110 (see page 24) and even 112 productive years into training for leadership as men of culture, patriotism and honor! And while others were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage...being unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, the promise is "so will be the coming of the Son of Man." Those in power will continue to flex their majorities and work their will on earth. We will continue to labor in the vineyards and store up our treasures in heaven (see the Foundation ad on page 54 and please give!). These truths bring great comfort in times such as these. I look forward to seeing each of you at the 86 th Grand Chapter Meeting, the Konclave on the Bay as we continue to serve in the world, while not being of the world.

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq., Editor P articipating in the work of the 34 th Administration under the leadership of Grand Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq. has shown the resilience of individual fortitude, organizational health and well- being, and the importance of leadership. This administration has turned the lemons of the pandemic, the stumbling blocks of supply chain interruptions and the vagaries of technological challenges into the sweet lemonade of achieve- ment. Achievement can be found in the Konclave on the Bay Kickoff, where the host of the kickoff ceremony is a living example that not even the sickle cell trait can hold you down from letting your voice be heard. See page 12. It is no secret that the State of Florida laws and policies have been transformed in ways and by means that exemplify the old adage "elections have conse- quences."

Amen.

Yours in the Bond, Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Editor

Even as we members of Kappa Alpha

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GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

Konclave on the Bay: It is One You Will Remember

is also a time for members to partici- pate in workshops, attend seminars, and engage in discussions about the future of the Bond. The 2023 Conclave will take place from July 18-23 in Tampa Bay, Florida. The title of this year's event is "Kon- clave on the Bay"; and reflects the return to brighter days ahead where we can celebrate values the fraternity was founded upon and the principles that have guided its growth and suc- cess over the years. There are many reasons why members should attend the Conclave in Tampa. First, it is an opportunity to connect with brothers from across the country. The Conclave is a chance to meet new people, make new friends, and strengthen existing relationships. It is an opportunity to network with other Kappa members and build con- nections that can be beneficial both personally and professionally. In addition to networking, the Conclave offers a range of educa- tional and informative workshops and seminars. These sessions cover a variety of topics, from leadership development to community service initiatives. Members can learn new skills, gain knowledge about the fraternity's history and traditions, and get inspired to make a positive impact in their communities. Another reason to attend the Conclave is the entertainment. The event features a range of social activi- ties, including parties, concerts, and other fun events. This is a chance to let loose and have fun with fellow Kappa Alpha Psi members, while also celebrating the fraternity's accom- plishments and looking towards the future. Finally, attending the Conclave is

an opportunity to give back. The fra- ternity has a long-standing tradition of community service and philanthropy, and the Conclave is a chance to par- ticipate in service projects and chari- table initiatives. Members can make a positive impact in the local Tampa community, while also representing the values of Kappa Alpha Psi. The Conclave in Tampa is an event that no member should miss. Take this opportunity to connect with fellow brothers, have fun, and give back. It is the perfect opportunity to live the mantra of the 34 th Administration that promotes Breaking Barriers that divide us and Building Bridges that bind us in perfect unity. It reflects the values that have made Kappa Alpha Psi one of the most respected and admired fraternities across the world. So, mark your calendars for July 18-23 and make plans to attend the Conclave in Tampa. We look forward to seeing you there! ♦♦♦ Opposite page: Visit Tampa Bay and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, previewed the 86 th Grand Chapter Meeting that will be held July 18-23, 2023. Hosted by ESPN commentator, Ryan Clark (Nu Iota 2001), Kappa Alpha Psi announced programs and activities that will high- light Tampa Bay as well as honor local community members with a Distin- guished Citizens Award. Local dignitaries such as Mayor Jane Castor and Hillsborough County Com- missioner, Gwen Myers. Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay and Sherri Brown, Vice President of Multicultural Sales and Development were in attendance.

Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq. Grand Polemarch B rothers, COVID 19 reared its ugly head and shut us down for a few years. But now we are back and will soon have an in-person Grand Chapter Meeting (Conclave) for the first time since 2019. The Fraternity’s Conclave is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year for members of the fraternity. This year, the Conclave will be held in Tampa, Florida, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for all at- tendees. The Conclave is an opportunity for brothers to come together, bond, and celebrate the achievements of the fraternity over the past few years. It

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PUBLISHING ACHIEVEMENT IN EVERY FIELD OF HUMAN ENDEAVOR

SCENES FROM THE KONCLAVE ON THE BAY KICKOFF

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NATIONAL NEWS

ESPN's Ryan Clark Hosts Konclave on the Bay

Ryan Clark, NFL Analyst and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Commentator, center, serves as Master of Ceremony with the Grand Chapter Officers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

R yan Clark (Nu Iota 2001), served as Master of Ceremony for the Konclave on the Bay kickoff with the leadership of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Clark, who joined ESPN ® as an NFL ® analyst in February 2015 on the day he retired from professional football, is also a co- host of DC & RC, a program focusing on mixed martial arts (MMA) topics. Premiering July 8, 2021, Clark teams with ESPN’s Daniel Cormier, a legend in the Octagon and now an MMA commentator. The weekly show is seen on the ESPN app, @ESPN on YouTube and Twitter, as an audio podcast, and on ESPN2 ®. Clark brings to the show the die-hard passion of a super-fan and a genuine understand- ing of MMA. For NFL topics, the 13-year NFL safety and Super Bowl champion regularly appears on NFL Live, Get Up and SportsCenter. Also, Clark hosts the weekly digital series FaceFirst and is the Founder of DB Precision – an academy dedicated to elite level training with professional athletes.

NFL seasons (2002-14) and included a Super Bowl XLIII title and two AFC Championships. He played a major- ity of his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers (2006-13), two years with the New York Giants (2002-03) and two stints with the Washington Redskins (2004-05 and 2014). Clark played in 177 NFL games with 16 interceptions over the course of his career. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2011 and recorded 100 tackles in each of the last four seasons (2011- 14). While still an active NFL player, Clark made regular ESPN guest analyst ap- pearances in 2013 and 2014 and he was part of ESPN’s on-site coverage of Super Bowl XLIX in Arizona. A native of Marrero, Louisiana, Clark graduated from Louisiana State Uni- versity with a degree in mass com- munications. At LSU, Clark started 36 consecutive games for the Tigers and was an All-SEC second team selection in 2000.

sickle cell disease, has been involved with sickle cell awareness, research, treatment and programming. In 2012, he formed Ryan Clark’s Cure League to raise awareness about the sickle cell trait with hopes of eventually finding a cure. Clark and his wife, Yonka, have three children: Jaden, Jordan and Loghan. The family also has a dog named Harley J.

He can be followed on Twitter at @ Realrclark25.

Here's to Brother Clark!

Clark, who suffered a splenic infarc- tion during his playing career due to

Clark’s playing career spanned 13

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Camden Coleman Interns With the By Nicholas Cole

C amden Coleman (Nu Rho 2020) grew up in a house- hold where music and opera were the norms. But when he was selected to serve as an intern with the largest classical music organization in North Ameri- ca - the Metropolitan Opera in New York, he had no idea he would have such a profound impact.

high for the whole cohort," said Alicia Kelley-Bah, Diversity Equity & Inclusion Manager at Metropolitan Opera. The Metropolitan Opera (com- monly known as the Met Opera) is an American opera company based in New York City. The non-profit Metropolitan Opera Association operates the company, with Peter Gelb as general manager.

The goal of the summer 2022 internship program is to provide training and long-term mentor- ship to 15 students (aged 18–24) per year. The program is designed to enable and support participants in pursuing careers at the Met and other leading performing arts com- panies.

Among its many offerings, the program included a general

"He has set the bar very, very

Metropolitan Opera in NewYork

orientation and overview of all areas of the Met's operations; Assigned staff mentors dedicated to performing arts management and opera production; Opportunities to attend performances and socialize with fellow interns and Met staff, and weekly seminars featur- ing special presentations by Met senior staff. During the internship, each participant selected principal areas of interest ranging from production and season planning, marketing and communications, finance and develop- ment, staffing and HR, and education. "I chose finance," said Coleman (Nu Rho 2020). "I've always had a passion for business and finance, and both my parents were professional op- era singers. Their early lives were spent

traveling around the world, singing at the largest opera companies. Later, they became professors of vocal per- formance at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. I grew up listen- ing to them sing and teach others to sing, and I attended the local operas that were produced by the University. Thus, the opportunity at the Met was the perfect chance to combine these two interests." Coleman, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound former defensive back and team captain for the Vanderbilt University football team, revealed that during his internship, he served as an assistant to the Production Finance Coordinator, Jazzmyne Wong.

purchases that are made by the shops that put things on stage, from wigs, makeup, and costumes, to large set pieces and lights seen on stage," said Coleman. "We are also responsible for making sure bills are paid and provide general support for all of the adminis- trators in the production department at the Metropolitan Opera. His general responsibilities included purchasing and paying for items needed to produce shows at the Met. "Specifically, this means that I log, code, and submit purchase orders, distribute and process invoices, cor- respond with administrators and vendors about purchases and billing, assist with payroll for the department, reconcile AMEX reports, and provide general support for other administra-

"Together in the production department, we facilitate all of the

"The most important skill required for this role is attention to detail, and this was something that my experience with Kappa has ingrained in me."

tors," Coleman revealed. "My respon- sibilities have grown over time as I have worked in this position." The internship team was so im- pressed with Coleman's achievements that they extended his internship. Coleman started his internship in May 2022 and was brought back as a temp between the summer and fall in- ternship cycles; and is now once again an intern for the fall cycle of the Met's internship pro- gram.

"We really can't afford to lose Camden right now," Kelley-Bah stressed. "We started with around 190 applicants. Of those 190, I did all the screenings. I narrowed it down to 86 applicants, and then of those 86, I then selected 35 that we presented to the departments. Camden was a shining star from the very beginning. I thought that he was really engaging and excited about the opportunity. It was also really unique in that he had some exposure to opera." Coleman, who is scheduled to graduate from Vanderbilt University in December of 2022, grew up in Champagne, Illinois, where his father is a professor and jazz musician. His mother, neé Cynthia Haymon, is a renowned operatic performer and retired professor. Regarding how Kappa Alpha Psi prepared him for his internship, Cole- man explained, "The most important skill required for this role is attention to detail, and this was something that my experience with Kappa has ingrained in me. Additionally, in the

process of becoming a member and during my time as a member, the value of how you present yourself and interact with others has always been emphasized. This is something that has taken me a long way in life and in this role - simply carrying yourself in a certain way that distinguishes you from the crowd." In addition to the fraternity, Cole- man noted that football also taught him how to be a leader amongst different groups of people, how to perform at a high level under extreme pressure, and take constructive criti- cism and use it to his advantage. "These are all things that Kappa taught me as well," said Camden. "Football also taught me how to manage my time effectively since I had to get up at 4 or 5 a.m. and often wouldn't be able to go to sleep until 11 p.m. I learned how to navigate multiple responsibilities simultane- ously and do them all at an excellent standard."

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AUMNI NEWS

115 th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Warren D. Miller Inducted Into University of Southern Mississippi Hall of Fame

W arren D. Miller, was Kappa Iota of Kappa Alpha Psi. He is a member of the Jackson (MS) Alumni Chapter and a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Miller is a Past Polemarch and Life Member of the Decatur (GA) Alumni Chapter. He earned his degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern Missis- sippi in 1987. After graduating, Miller moved to Atlanta, GA for 24 years. He worked in Corporate Computer Sales as a Headquarters Account Manager for The Home Depot, Turner Broadcasting Systems, the City of Atlanta and started a Technology Integration Services Certi- fied State Board of Contractors Low Voltage infrastructure business. He worked on the 1996 Atlanta Commit- tee for the Olympic Games as a Venue Technology Manager. While in Georgia, he served as a Chief of Staff for a Mem- ber of Congress. His many contributions at USM initiated in 1982 at the University of Southern Mississippi Chapter, the began as a student. During that time, he worked under Larry “Doc” Har- rington and served as the USM Golden Eagles Football Head Equipment Manager from 1981-86. He is a member

salute in recognition to his lifetime of national service to the fraternity and community, he received the coveted award and became the 115 th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Recently, Miller at the recommendation of 71 st Laurel Wreath Laureate Brother Congressman Bennie Thompson was appointed to the FEMA National Advisory Council (NAC), serving as a Key Policy Advisor to the FEMA Administrator in Washington, DC. He served seven years as the State President of the Mississippi Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MS VOAD) and was elected and served on the National VOAD Board of Directors (2015-21). Miller serves on the Board of Directors of the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc and serving as a National Director for Disaster Manage- ment. In December 2021, Brother Miller received a Presidential Appointment by President Joe Biden to serves as the Senior Advisor in the Office of Disaster Assistance in the U.S. Small Business Administration. Brother Miller’s family has a deep USM Legacy, his wife, Tracey (1991), daughters Chesnee (2017) and Tristen (2020) are each USM Alumni.

of the USM M-Club and the university athlete’s letterman club. Brother Miller was involved in the IFC, the NPHC and the SGA Student Judicial Council. In recognition of his on campus Greek life activities, he was inducted into the Lambda Sigma Society and the Order of Omega. He served on the Southern Miss Alumni Association Board of Di- rectors (2011-15) and is a Life Member of the University Alumni Association. In 2011 he was inducted into the “USM Greek Hall of Fame.” Brother Miller served as the Dep- uty Chief of Staff for the 31 st Grand Polemarch Dwayne M. Murray, Esq. (2007-2011). Miller provided Grand Conclave registration technology sys- tems support and back-office support during the Grand Chapter meetings from 1999-2019. In July 2021, as a

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PUBLISHING ACHIEVEMENT IN EVERY FIELD OF HUMAN ENDEAVOR

ALUMNI NEWS

Grand Board Member Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq. is recognized in the January 2023"Modern Man" Edition by DC Luxury Magazine.

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AUMNI NEWS

Greenville's Trevor Stuart will Represent Jamaica in 2023 World Lacrosse Tournament

T revor M. Stuart (Greenville (SC) AL 2021), played in the Pan American World Lacrosse Qualifier in Medellin, Colom- bia, July 17-23, 2022, with the Jamaica National Lacrosse Team. Trevor’s father was born in Jamaica in 1965; in 1968, he and his parents emigrated to New York, and this qualified him as an eli- gible player for Team Jamaica. Brother Stuart is a dual citizen of the United States and Jamaica. Brother Stuart made significant con- tributions to the team as a starting at- tackman in all four games. The Jamaican team beat Colombia 7-2, the U.S. Virgin Islands 5-4, and Peru 7-2, but fell to Puerto Rico in the championship game 6-5. With their record, the team quali- fied to play in the World Games in San Diego next summer from June 21-July 1, 2023. They will compete in a field with 29 other nations for the title of the best lacrosse team in the world. The team finished 13 th in the 2018 games. Due to an injury, he was not able to participate in those games. Stuart played high school lacrosse in Atlanta at Allatoona High School. During his senior season, he was named team captain, 1 st Team All-State, Geor- gia All - American, and his team won the 5A State Championship. He became the first Division 1 lacrosse commit from his high school, setting the standard for players following him. He played Division 1 lacrosse at Furman University from 2016-2020, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ur- ban Studies. During his playing career, he contributed to Furman’s 2016-2017 Conference Championship season. He currently coaches a youth lacrosse team in Greenville called the Greenville RiverHawks that travels

across the southeast. During the organi- zation’s second year, Trevor’s team won a tournament in Nashville in June and came in second place in the Charlotte tournament. As a Greenville Men’s Lacrosse League member, the best players in the city were chosen to participate in the Blue Ridge Classic, a premier men’s summer tournament in the south from July 29-31, 2022. Stuart and his team went undefeated and won the cham- pionship. They brought home the first championship Greenville has ever won in this classic. Stuart is passionate about the growth of lacrosse and making the sport more inclusive for all players to participate. He aims to coach and mentor players to

be great on and off the field.

The matches Brother Stuart will par- ticipate in along with Team Jamaica will air on ESPN and ESPN+ in July 2023.

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AUMNI NEWS

M. W. Corey D. Hawkins, Sr. Esq., Second Youngest Grand Master in the History of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A. M. of Alabama

C orey D. Hawkins, Sr. (Bir- mingham (AL) AL 1995) was born August 27, 1972, in Leighton, Alabama (Colbert County) the second of three sons to Mr. Parker Lee and Mrs. Diann Hawkins. He graduated in 1990 from Colbert County High School with an advanced curriculum diploma. Grand Master Hawkins began hon- ing his leadership and oratorical skills at a young age in the Baptist Church as a member of the Crusaders, an organiza- tion for boys. As a Crusader, he served as Crusader-in-Chief (President) for his

local church chapter (Mt. New Home M.B. Church), Crusader-in-Chief of the Muscle Shoals District and Crusader- in-Chief of the Northwest Alabama Dis- trict. Grand Master Hawkins also won the Crusaders Junior Oratorical Contest many times over at the Muscle Shoals District Level, Northwest Alabama Dis- trict Level, and the Alabama State Level. To this date he still lives by the Crusader Watchword: For with God nothing shall be impossible. Luke 1:37. After graduating from high school, Grand Master Hawkins entered Alabama A. & M. University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education. While at Alabama A. & M. University, Grand Master Hawkins made the Dean’s List on several occa- sions. Upon graduation he matriculated to Birmingham, Alabama, and began a teaching and coaching career in the public school system. As a middle school basketball coach, Grand Master Hawkins won the championship in each division he coached in at least once. He also was named Middle School Coach of the Year twice for his division. As Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach, Grand Master Hawkins was fortunate enough to assist each team to the Alabama State High School Playoffs. One of his great ac- complishments has been the success in transferring the TEAM concept from the basketball court to the administra- tion of the numerous Masonic houses that he has led. While teaching, Grand Master Hawkins worked his way through law school. Upon graduation of the Birming- ham School of Law and having passed the Alabama State Bar exam on the first attempt, Grand Master Hawkins began

his career as a trial attorney.

Attorney Hawkins has been suc- cessful in his professional career. He founded The Hawkins Firm, LLC, Attorneys & Counselors At Law. Since being admitted to practice law in the State of Alabama, he has been admit- ted by the United States District Court, Northern District of Alabama; United States District Court, Middle District of Alabama; United States District Court, Southern District of Alabama; and the United States Court of Appeals, Elev- enth Circuit. Grand Master Hawkins is also a Certified Guardian Ad Litem. Grand Master Hawkins was raised on June 17, 1991, in Hopewell Lodge No. 198, Leighton, Alabama. He has served over all houses both York and Scottish Rite, and has been the guest speaker at many masonic functions. Grand Master Hawkins was elected to his present position on July 24, 2013, at the 143 rd Annual Grand Lodge Com- munication held in Mobile, Alabama. He is currently the youngest Grand- Master in Prince Hall Freemasonry and the second youngest Grand Master ever in the history of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A. M. of Alabama. Grand Master Hawkins is the proud father of one son, Corey D. Hawkins, Jr., and one daughter, Autumn D. Hawkins. He is also an active member of First Baptist Church Ensley. Grand Master Hawkins has always believed that hard work pays off. As a result, he possesses the credentials, qualifications, leadership abilities and experience to be at the helm of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F. & A. M. of Alabama.

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AUMNI NEWS

Kappa Alpha Psi Sponsor Comes Home After 53 Years What I am Most Proud of

By Donald L. Woolridge, Sr.

T he year is 1967. Craig Taylor, a 28-year old member of staff in Western Kentucky Univer- sity’s (WKU) criminology and scientology department, is about to take a chance that will lay the groundwork for Black Greek Letter Organizations on campus for years to come. A few things were taking place behind the scenes in an effort to bring more “Divine Nine” fraternities and sororities to campus. At this point in time, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was the only Divine Nine organization that had been established at WKU. In the spring of 1967, a group of stu- dents came together to form the “Kappa Q Club” that represented the interests of Divine Nine Organizations Kappa Alpha Psi and Omega Psi Phi. The students were told they had to have a probationary club for one year before they could char- ter a fraternity on campus. On order to do that, they needed a sponsor; enter Taylor, a White professor on a predominantly White teaching staff. “In the 1960s, the band was still play- ing ‘Dixie’ at ballgames and there were still a lot of Confederate flags around. It was a different world,” Taylor said. Howard Bailey was a member of the Kappa Q Club. When the students got to the part of the fraternity application that required a faculty advisor, Taylor immedi- ately came to mind. “I said, ‘Well, there’s Dr. Taylor in sociology’, and we already noticed that the faculty in the sociology department were much more receptive and conscious of race, which you would expect,” said Bailey. “So we decided, ‘let’s see, Dr. Taylor – I’ll ask him.”

State University and helped them get a chapter (Eta Beta); we went to Morehead and five or six other schools. If Craig Tay- lor hadn’t made that decision, all of that may not have happened.” Taylor grew close with many mem- bers of the fraternity and would even have thoughts of joining the organization himself, but had to sideline the idea due to other circumstances in his life. Bailey said there were multiple times Taylor told him he thought he would join, but the birth of a child, the strenuous tenure process and Pat’s passing prevented him from pursuing the dream. “He had those kinds of setbacks going on, but was al- ways interested in becoming a member of Kappa Alpha Psi,” Bailey said. Finally, in the Spring of 2022 at the age of 81, Taylor officially joined Kappa Alpha Psi and became a member 53 years after the Epsilon Rho Chapter was chartered. “I’ve told Howard (Bailey) and everybody else that’ll listen, that of all the things that I’ve accomplished in my fifty- some years here, this is what I’m proudest of,” Taylor said. “I’m glad Howard asked me and I was glad I was able to help. I’ve really enjoyed watching the organization, watching it grow.”

Bailey had previously been a student of both Taylor and his wife, Pat, and had already built somewhat of a relationship with them through pure coincidence. After Bailey brought the idea to Taylor’s attention, he asked Pat what she thought. Pat, a faculty member in WKU’s English department, was very supportive of the notion. “She could have said ‘no’ for a lot of reasons, but she said it’s the right thing to do,” Taylor said. With Pat’s endorse- ment, Taylor signed off as the sponsor of Craig Taylor started teaching sociology at WKU in 1967 and talked about current events in the Civil Rights Movement during his classes. When he told his wife about sponsoring a Black fraternity, he thought she'd tell him not to in case people higher up at the school disagreed. "She said it was the right thing to do, Taylor said.

the club, paving the way for the two fraternities to join the campus in 1969. Bailey was on the charter line of the Ep- silon Rho Chapter at WKU, also known as the “Nasty 19”, and Taylor served as an advi- sor for the chapter for a while. “If Craig Taylor hadn’t said ‘yes’, I don’t know where history would have taken us,” Bailey said. “After we got chartered, we went to Murray

Craig H. Taylor (Bowling Green (KY) AL 2022) and Howard E. Bailey (Epsilon Rho 1969).

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Made Men Entertainment, LLC Hosts Events and Collaborates with Fraternity Chapters Across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) The Art of a Day Party

By Aaron Williams

Texas (UNT) in 2004 with a B.A. degree in business management and entre- preneurship. In addition to joining the Fraternity in 2003 via the Zeta Upsilon Chapter at UNT, Day is also a Charter Member of the professional co-ed busi- ness fraternity Alpha Kappa Psi. After graduation, Day transitioned into the financial services industry, where he worked for 15 years for Countrywide ® , Bank of America ® , and Citi Mortgage as a senior mortgage loan officer. His specific areas of expertise were residential lending, banking, sales, credit analysis, and client experience. During this time, he assisted home buyers with purchasing and refinancing residential homes around the country and was ranked in the Top 25 loan offi- cers with Citi. Day earned top com- pany awards recognizing his work and business generated. Made Men Entertainment, Inc. While working as a mortgage broker, Day decided in 2010 to start his busi- ness in event management. Initially named 5 Made Men Entertainment and later updated to Made Men Entertain- ment, Day's vision was to redefine the social experience for young professionals in the Dallas market. "I felt like a lack of upscale events in Dallas where like-minded individuals could socialize and network. I wanted a brand that symbolized elegance, style, luxury, and a mature environment—an atmosphere where attendees dressed to impress. The vision was to create some- thing legendary, unique, and purposeful. An entertainment company that could do more than just throw parties." "I wanted to uplift the black com- munity by promoting black-owned small businesses and giving back to those in need. You would see Made Men on social media working in the homeless shelters and raising money for college scholarships. It's always been more

M ade Men Entertainment, LLC, owned and oper- ated by Jason Day (Zeta Upsilon 2003), a member of the Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni Chapter, has been one of Dallas' leading event management companies for over a decade. Made Men Entertainment has hosted numerous social events through- out the Dallas-Fort Worth MSA and other cities like New York City, Miami, Las Vegas, Houston, and Los Angeles. His company has hosted celebrity events at NBA All-Star Weekends and Super Bowls. Celebrities such as Shaquille O'Neal, Diddy, Biz Markie, Kid Capri, Mannie Fresh, Mya, Lil Wayne, Tank, and Monica have employed Made Men Entertainment to coordinate and host their events. Over the years, Made Man Enter- tainment successfully hosted various events: business networking socials, galas, black-tie formals, comedy shows, plays, concerts, class reunions, pool parties, jazz festivals, and hotel stayca- tions. The target demographic for their events is "a mature, professional crowd" with an age range from the late 20s to the late 40s. The company enforces a strict dress code at most events, which is critical for maintaining certain groups of partygoers. In addition, the company provides services to Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs and offers marketing ser- vices for small businesses. The compa- ny has helped raise college scholarship funds and organize initiatives to feed the homeless every holiday. Day and his company have col- laborated with local Kappa Alpha Psi chapters on several events. Background Day is a Dallas, TX native and at- tended Cedar Hill High School. He graduated from the University of North

than a party to me. Most of my events in the first year were red carpet parties at prestigious venues around Dallas. I branded the company by calling it a "Community for Young Professionals." I would invite my circle of friends that were doctors, lawyers, business owners, and corporate professionals. It helped that I was already known for being a young professional that wore suits to any events I attended. The standards were set from the start. Having an affluent network of individuals was important to sustain this type of social environment. In addition to frequent events throughout the years, Made Men Enter- tainment's signature event is its highly popular New Year's Eve party held for nine years consecutively at Dallas's historic landmark Old Red Museum of Dallas County History and Culture. The museum was built in 1892 and was the first Dallas County Courthouse. Day's company was the only promoter allowed to host parties inside this build- ing, and this was significant because the company was breaking barriers in Dallas. These events annually-averaged 1,500 people in attendance, had one of the Made Men's most diverse crowds with patrons from China, Russia, Egypt, and India. Made Men Entertainment differen- tiates itself by delivering a world-class customer experience and doing things

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different from the norm. "Our niche is special events at upscale venue spaces, lounges, and hotels," said Day. Made Men staff also sets us apart. "We only hire top-level staff members in the industry and we offer competitive pay. These people are experts and well- trained in providing exceptional service." With the COVID-19 pandemic, Made Men Entertainment moved its New Year's extravaganza from the Old Red Museum to another locale in the Dallas area. Managing a Business Made Men Entertainment outsourc- es bookkeeping, tax reporting, and legal counsel while Day handles marketing, networking, planning, and budget- ing. I've been very hands-on with the company. “Either pre-COVID or post-COVID. Any entrepreneur will tell you that there are no days off. Honestly, the hours of work are not as important as getting the job done. I'm constantly marketing, video conferencing, giving presentations, negotiating proposals, and planning. If I had to guess, it would be 40 hours a week doing something I love." Day believes the first step to being successful in this space is maintaining the confidence to become a success- ful entrepreneur. "Without it, you are guaranteed to fail. You must have a vision for your company with long- and short-term goals." Next, Day says, one needs to "possess networking skills, cre- ativity, flexibility, integrity, decisiveness, financial literacy, and a strong motiva- tion to succeed. Starting a business is easier when you have the knowledge and passion for that line of work. Learn everything you can about the industry. Find yourself a mentor." Maintaining a long-term business relationship is essential because rela- tionships can affect a company's growth. "I've had venues write letters of recom- mendation and make phone calls on my behalf to help Made Men leverage new partnership opportunities. These rela- tionships have helped with building my reputation, assisted me in gaining new clients, and provided me with consisten-

cy in the ever-changing market. There is a sense of expectation on both sides." "Also, integrity is critical to us, it takes you a long way in this industry. All invoices to employees and venues are paid on time and we are never late. And we never burn bridges, our business relationships are a cornerstone of the company. We market to our database weekly by email and social media. Our events are consistent and at this point, we are a staple in the city." Impact of COVID-19 In March 2020, Made Men Enter- tainment suspended all operations until Texas lifted its mandated lockdown in September. Since the lifting of the lockdown, the business has been chal- lenging. Made Men Entertainment restarted its planned events with limited capacity and mandated patrons and staff wear masks at its events. The company also attempted to host events at larger venues that supported social distancing. Kappa Alpha Psi Day is currently a member of the Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni (RPA), where he has served on the chapter's board of directors since 2020. Previ- ously, Day led RPA's social events as its social chairman for three years. "When I first joined RPA, I quickly realized that I could leverage my com- pany to enhance RPA's presence in the Dallas area's social marketplace. Made Men allowed RPA to become visible in a different market with people who had no affiliation to Kappa Alpha Psi. Being able to reach the general public set the

chapter apart." One of Day's fraternal highlights was chairing the social events for the 2018 Southwestern Province Council Meet- ing, which included a party gala with over 1,700 people in attendance. 2022 Founders' Day Celebration Day and his Made Man Entertain- ment coordinated with seven area alumni chapters: Dallas (TX) Alumni, Ft. Worth (TX) Alumni, Arlington-Grand Prairie (TX) Alumni, Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni, Mansfield-Cedar Hill (TX) Alumni, Denton-Lewisville (TX) Alumni, and Commerce-Greenville (TX) Alumni for a Kappa Alpha Psi Founders' Day Celebration entitled Diamond Af- fair. This event is the first time all seven chapters collaborated on hosting a social event. On Saturday, January 8, 2022, Dia- mond Affair was held at Dallas' House of Blues. The event was well supported despite rain and raised $20,000 for the area chapters' scholarship funds.

The Future In 2018, Day left the mortgage

industry to create my own real estate company, DFW Lifestyle Realty, LLC. I have since become the owner of mul- tiple properties in the DFW area. Day's short-term goal with his new company is to increase his company's investment portfolio and his long-term goal is to invest in commercial real estate. Jason Day lives in Cedar Hill, TX with his wife Jessica and daughter Jordyn.

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Beta Chapter Gathers for its 110 th Charter Day Celebration

By Richmond Briscoe

The University of Illinois Chapter the Beta of Kappa Alpha Psi gathers for its 110 th Charter Day Celebration.

T he University of Illinois Chap- ter, the Beta of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. celebrated their 110 th charter anniversary on February 4th, 2023. The event rec- ognizes this storied chapter’s beginning on February 8, 1913, when Founder Elder Watson Diggs, and several other founders traveled to Champaign, Illinois and established the Beta Chapter. Earl B. Dickerson became the chapter’s first Polemarch. He would later become the fraternity's 5 th Grand Polemarch. The “Greater” Beta Chapter, as it fondly and proudly called by the broth- ers initiated there, are proud of the chapter’s legacy of achievement and leadership. The second oldest chapter in our fraternity has the distinction of initiating four past Grand Polemarchs. The fraternity’s name was changed from Kappa Alpha Nu to Kappa Alpha Psi at the 4 th Grand Chapter hosted by the Beta Chapter. Moreover, there are countless brothers initiated at the Beta Chapter who have achieved in every field of human endeavor. More than 150 brothers attended the celebration, and the evening was spent fellowshipping and reminiscing about their student days. Beta brothers

honored, loved, and sang the praises of the chapter, and the fraternity over and over all night. The event was held in Chicago, Illinois at Metropolitan Club which sits atop Willis Tower, the building was once the tallest building in the world and offered the brothers a spectacular view of the city’s skyline. Of special note was the keynote speaker, Brother L. Robert Johnson, who was initiated at the Beta Chapter. Brother Johnson is an entrepreneur, media magnate, executive, philanthro- pist, and investor. He founded the Black Entertainment Television Chan- nel. Brother Johnson now leads RLJ Companies, a holding company that in- vests in various business sectors. John- son is the former majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. He became the first African American billionaire in 2001. Brother Johnson gave an enlightening, interesting, and inspiring talk about his journey, life, and business ventures. Brother Johnson was presented with a white jacket embroidered with the Beta Chapter crest and token of the chapter’s appreciation. While Grand Polemarch Reuben

A. Shelton, III, Esq. could not attend in person, he congratulated the broth- ers and sent well wished via a recorded video. This grand affair was hosted by the Champaign-Urbana Alumni Chapter, and its subcommittee the Greater Beta Alumni Association. The brothers on this committee worked tirelessly to bring this gathering to fruition. Special thanks to Brother Stephen W. Beard, CEO of Adtalem Global Education, whose gen- erous donation helped make this event possible.

Stephen W. Beard (Beta 1989), President and Chief Executive Officer of Adtalem Global Education.

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W e acknowledge, and stand on the shoul- ders of the illustrious Brothers initiated into the "Greater" Beta Chapter from 1913 to 1968 and still inspiring us until we reach the Golden Shore." “

Left: Robert L. Johnson (Beta 1965) receives his white coat. Above: Dominee D. Daniels, (Beta 2022) Chapter Polemarch. Below: the Brothers assemble for the 110 th Charter Day Celebration and Brother Johnson receives recognition from the Chapter.

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