Kappa Journal Spring Issue (Spring 2017)

Left to Right: James E. Freeman, Samuel F. Patterson II and Willie E. Hopkins Kennedy Meeks PREPARATION +

EXECUTION = ACHIEVEMENT

WINTER 2016 SPRING 2017 VOLU E CIII, ISS E 1 VOLUME CII, ISSUE 4

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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 2017

VOLUME CIII, 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 Keflyn X. Reed 1999–2010 Jonathan P. Hicks 2011–2014 Thomas L. Cunningham IV 2014–2015 Editor (Interim) and Art Director Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter KappaJournal1914@gmail.com Van Jordan 1989–1990 Mel L. Davis 1990–1999

Kennedy R. Meeks (Theta Omicron 2015) having won the 2017 NCAA ® Division I Men's Basketball National Championship, pauses on the court to reflect on life after graduation from the University of North Carolina. 62 Cover Story

Deputy Editor Randy L. Barber Gaithersburg-Rockville (MD) Alumni Chapter rlb1911@gmail.com Deputy Editor for Features Clarence Tucker Norfolk (VA) Alumni Chapter ctuckermpt@gmail.com Advertising Sales Director Sherman K. Kizart Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter

Journal Notes

Grand Polemarch’s Message

Undergraduate Affairs Message

National Founders' Day Observance

26 67 th Southern Province Council 46 Kappas on Capitol Hill 53 Alumni News 62 Cover Story: Kennedy R. Meeks 73 Kappas in the Arts 82 Health & Wellness 84 Kappa Authors 86 Kappa Archive Recovery Initiative 90 To The Chapter Invisible 97 Kappas & Kinsmen 99 The Gallery 106 The Kappa Alpha Psi Directory

Hooker is recognized as a stalwart in the Middle Eastern Province. 25 Kappa News

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.KappaAlphaPsi1911.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.

Las Vegas native is Closed Banquet Speaker for 67 th Southern Province Council. 40 Undergraduate Spotlight

NOLA Celebrates 80 Years with 80 Bicycles 50 Kappas News

Deric Augustine is Making all the Right Moves 73 Kappas in the Arts

Cover photo: Getty Images. Above photo by Lauren Cowart Photography.

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JOURNAL NOTES

From Paying Homage to the Founders to the Glory Found in “Madness”— The Journal Reflects on a Season of Achievement

Students of the Year—along with their parents—begin the sojourn to be named among the best during the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting, which will be held in the Southern Province just a short time from now. Guide Right programs and advisors vie for the Bert V. Wadkins, Jay Crosby and Leon W. Steward awards. For the last five issues, the Journal has highlighted province CRWLCs and other leadership meetings in the West- ern, Northern, Eastern, Northeastern and Middle Eastern provinces (see also page 25 in this issue). In this issue, we focus on the 67 th Southern Province Council hosted by the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC), the Delta Psi Chapter, Omicron Delta Chapter and the Xi Lambda Chapter. Attended by no fewer than four Grand Polemarchs, several Laurel Wreath Laureates, Elder Watson Diggs Awardees, two past Grand Historians, several Province Polemarchs and multiple National Committee Chairmen, they, along with more than 400 others, supported the JAC’s Ninth Annual Public Meeting (see page 30). This issue also features the South- ern Province Council closed banquet speaker, a brother who was born in the North Central Province, a man from Nevada whose mission is to improve the linguistic skills of those afflicted with speech challenges (see page 40). We take stock in the accomplishments of the current administration in the con- text of our times, for the activities of the Council reflect the outcomes outlined in Kappa's Six-Point Plan. Kappa Alpha Psi ® was also afflicted with a certain sickness: March Madness. Not seen this bad for more than a de- cade, one of our own achieves greatness

on the court: Kennedy R. Meeks. His story is our story (see page 62). For the second year, Kappa Alpha Psi ® has returned to Washington, DC for Kappas on Capitol Hill: James “Biff” Carter Legislative Policy Conference. The participation was excellent (see page 46). The advocacy and education on issues of concern to us continues. Kappas are representing well in the endeavor of the fine arts, from acting to touring exhibits to writing, producing and directing the stories of our time. We feature three such brothers in this issue (see page 73). I have had the personal honor to include my father-in-law in a salute to Kappas in the Military just two issues ago. In this issue, I drafted Lt. Colonel (R) Clarence "CJ" Jackson's, obituary. He, along with other great Kappa men, have enriched our lives and the communities in which they served. With the assistance of Brother Aaron Williams, the Journal will work to honor every Kappa that we become aware has transitioned into the Chapter Invisible to ensure they are recognized according- ly (see page 90). We ask that you alert IHQ and the Journal at the soonest, so that we may discharge this solemn duty efficiently. Finally, under the Healthy Kappas/ Healthy Communities initiative, Kappa has been deeply involved and well rep- resented from the shores of the Erie in Ohio to el Rio de la Plata in Uruguay, on the issue of Sudden Infant Death Syn- drome and our Safe Sleep initiative (see page 82). Here’s to another great year in Kappa Alpha Psi ® !

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq.

T he vitality of rebirth and at a time when so many mark this time resolving to hit the reset button in their lives, National Founders’ Day gives us a collective opportunity from Korea to South Africa from Germany to the Ca- ribbean and all across America to recall the purpose of Kappa Alpha Psi ® (see page 8). We pay our respects to the past, improve the moments of life in the present through service, and work to endow our foundations nationally and locally for the future. Also, this was the season of Province Councils. In a Conclave year, Province Councils take on the added respon- sibility of thoughtfully considering resolutions for proposed changes to the Constitution and Statutes. Chapters of the Year—small, medium and large prepare to represent their provinces; renewal marks the season. As we remember our vows and commitment to the fraternity,

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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 ® .

GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

My Dear Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.:

E very Spring, brothers begin to speculate about the col- lege teams that will make the playoffs and end up playing in the coveted “Final Four.” We always hope that our school will be among the elite in this prestigious cat- egory. Most of us hope in vain because only four schools will have representation in the “Final Four.” This year, we congrat- ulate all brothers who call the University of North Carolina their alma mater. In this issue of the Journal we honor Brother Kennedy Meeks, a March 21, 2016 initiate at the University of North Carolina, the Theta Omicron of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Brother Meeks is a big, powerful dude. He not only was an outstanding player for North Carolina, but delivered a career-best 25 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, including eight at

the offensive end. This accomplishment that Brother Meeks is enjoying is simply another milestone that another Kappa has reached on the journey to achiev- ing in every field of human endeavor. While Brother Meeks basks in the glory of surviving the “Final Four” the rest of us will do like we normally do, root for our brother and pass the loving cup on his behalf. Here’s to Brother Meeks! In this issue you will also see coverage of the 2017 Founders’ Day observance in Atlanta, Georgia. The fraternity cel- ebrated its 12 th Annual National Found- ers’ Day Banquet on January 7, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia at the Atlanta Marriott Gateway. The Atlanta Metro Chapters served as hosts for the event where over 700 good Kappa men attended. Continu- ing the vision of the 33 rd administration the program reinforced the theme of Re-

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GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

While Brother Meeks basks in the glory of surviving the “Final Four” the rest of us will do like we normally do, root for our brother and pass the loving cup on his behalf. Here’s to Brother Meeks!

birth, Reclaim, Recommit, By Leaving No Brother Behind. The program speaker was Rev. Dr. Gerald L. Durley, Senior Pastor Emeri- tus of the historic Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta. Rev. Durley earned his PhD in Urban Education and Psychology from the University of Mas- sachusetts. He was also one of the first volunteers from the US Peace Corps in Nigeria. Rev. Durley participated in the Civil Rights Movement with Martin Lu- ther King Jr. Since 2011, he has been part of the International Civil Rights: Walk of Fame. In July 2015, his work on climate change was recognized by the White House. He spoke eloquently about the dedi- cation required to overcome the many ob- stacles that may impede Kappa’s future. He illustrated how the effort needed for

the fraternity’s continued growth must be on level with the dedication superior athletes use to achieve despite adversity. During this great occasion we hon- ored Brother Gonzalo Paul Curiel, Unit- ed States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. I am sure that the attention Brother Curiel has received as presiding judge over the Trump Univer- sity litigation has made us proud, know- ing that our brother renders judgements fairly and in compliance with the law. Also, we honored Mayor Kasim Reed of Atlanta. Kasim Reed is the 59 th Mayor of the City of Atlanta. He was elected to second term in 2013 and took the oath of office on January 6, 2014. Elected with a clear mandate for fiscal reform, Mayor Reed has increased core city services and reduced the City’s spending during the

worst recession in 80 years.

The Banquet was a huge success thanks to the dedication and hard work of the local planning team. My brothers, we are in the midst of final planning for the 83 rd Grand Chap- ter Meeting in Orlando, Florida in July 2017. Our planning includes your full participation. Our brothers in the Orlan- do and Winter Park Alumni Chapters are working on our behalf to make sure you are proud of this conclave.

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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 .

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UNDERGRADUATE & UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS MESSAGE

Why Being a Real Kappa Man Means

Taking Responsibility for Your Actions!

By William Dunbar, Director of Undergraduate & University Affairs

Each man is questioned by life; and he can only answer to life by answering for his own life; to life he can only respond by being responsible. - Unknown In my personal reflection as a Kappa man and father, two main attributes undergird both: being loyal and taking responsibility for one’s actions. While loyalty is essential in our brotherhood, I am focusing on accountability. I’ve found that we all encounter struggles when it comes to taking responsibil- ity. Sometimes, it seems like we will do anything to avoid it. The main culprit seems to be our egos. We think of ourselves as strong, smart and better than the rest of the men we encounter. We’re very competi- tive. We like the idea of being the best, and although we very well know that we aren’t, we don’t like thinking about individual shortcomings or achieving less than our goals. Every time we do something wrong or fail at something, it shows some of our shortcomings. The truth is, although we all know we fail at times, we don’t like being reminded of the possibility. However, the only way to diminish failure and reduce our shortcomings is by accounting for them. Planning in advance, seeking help when needed, learning all we can and striving to im- prove helps to create the environment that develops us into Real Kappa Men: men that do their best to come as close as possible to the concept of the perfect man. We all should strive for perfection even though we know all humans are inherently flawed as it relates to Godly

the negative. We have to believe we can achieve the impossible in our lives and continue to push ourselves to evolve as we commit to taking small consistent steps in the right direction. We cannot be consistently inconsistent and expect to achieve our goal to be Real Kappa Men. In closing, I am in the daily struggle alongside all of you as we strive for this ideal. Some days will be better than others, but what I have learned is that if you make the commitment to strive for perfection each day you will begin to see results. So as you become leaders in your chapters and on your campuses, think about what it means to be Real Kappa Men. Be loyal. Be accountable. Be responsible for your actions. As al- ways, I humbly serve you in my capacity and will always be here to help you on your journey of Phi Nu Pi.

standards. Nevertheless, we should have the understanding that working towards perfection is the only pursuit worthy fol- lowing in life. To take responsibility we must first accept that we have ultimate control of our responses to situations. We have to remove all blame from others and those in society that we encounter. We have to choose progress over perfection. We have to continue to move closer toward achieving the goals that we set for our- selves. When we make mistakes we can’t let them define us. When doubt tries to paralyze us, we have to remind our- selves of the last time our doubts were wrong and choose to direct our thoughts towards the positive and not dwell on

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12 th National Founders' Day Observance Atlanta, Georgia

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Photo by: trekandshoot / Shutterstock.com

KAPPA NEWS

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The 12 th National Founders’ Day Observance Ignites the Spirit of Phi Nu Pi

A gainst the backdrop of a high of 31 de- grees followed by a low of 21 degrees on the evening of January 7, 2017, in Atlanta, Georgia at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, Thomas L. Battles, Jr., the 33 rd Grand Polemarch knew a fire was about to burn, sufficient to awaken within each member a high ideal to achieve during the new calendar year. Perhaps it is more accurate to say it was as if “…there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.” More than 700 men gathered together with a unity of purpose. Despite the harsh, bitter wind just outside the door, the men of Kappa Alpha Psi ® were bonded together with a spirit of fra- ternity to honor the 10 men who first sowed the seeds of achievement, during the 12 th Annual National Founders’ Day Observance.

Master of Ceremony, Grand Board Member Jimmy McMikle, presided over the gathering. E. Delane Rosemond, Esq., Southeastern Province Polemarch, moved the audience with a stir- ring greeting which was met by The Honorable M. Kasim Reed (Atlanta (GA) Alumni 1999), Mayor of Atlanta and The Honorable Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Pi 1966), U.S. Representative of Georgia’s Second District. As Grand Board Member Deion L. Garner provided the occasion, the melodious sounds of the Kappa Chorus soon followed. The other Province Polemarchs joined Brother Rosemond in a thundering Province Roll Call, which was followed by a comprehensive reflec- tion on the work of the fraternity under the leadership of the 32 nd Grand Polemarch, William “Randy” Bates, Jr., Esq., led by Grand Board Member Linnes Finney, Jr., Esq.

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A view from the Grand Polemarch: Thomas L. Battles, Jr., as he walks into the ballroom on one of the coldest nights of the year in Atlanta to warm applause. Photo by: Delmar Whittington II

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KAPPA NEWS

From left: 32 nd Grand Polemarch William "Randy" Bates, Jr., Esq., 27 th Grand Polemarch Robert L. Harris, Esq., The Honorable Gonzalo P. Curiel, 26 th Grand Polemarch Dr. Ullysses McBride, Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. and 29 th Grand Polemarch Howard L. Tutman, Jr.

The 26 th Grand Polemarch Dr. Ullysses McBride introduced a brother he met when he was at Indiana University, now The Honorable Gonzalo P. Curiel (Alpha 1974), to a standing ovation that seemed to shake the very foundation of Stone Mountain. Brother Curiel thanked the brothers assembled for the outpouring of love and issued a word about being steadfast in the face of adversity, to another rousing ovation. Next, Grand Board Member Matthew N. Simmons was to introduce the speak- er. It was not the expected Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts III (Pi 1968), pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York, as the weather prevented him from getting to Atlanta. It was in fact, the in- comparable Dr. Gerald L. Durley (Alpha Theta 1962). Brother Durley was born in Wichita, Kansas, grew up in Cali- fornia and graduated from high school in Denver, Colorado. While earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psycholo- gy, playing on a championship basketball team, and serving as student government president at Tennessee State University,

he became very active in the Civil Rights Movement. After graduating, Dr. Durley became one of the first Peace Corps volunteers to enter Nigeria, West Africa. From Africa, he ventured to Switzer- land where he enrolled in postgraduate studies at the University of Neuchantel. When he returned to the United States, Dr. Durley enrolled in Northern Illi- nois University where he again became intensely involved in the struggle for human dignity, and earned one of the first Masters Degrees in Community Mental Health. He went on to earn a Doctorate Degree in Urban Educa- tion and Psychology from University of Massachusetts and a Master of Divinity Degree from Howard University. Dr. Durley retired as Pastor of Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta— now holding the title as Senior Pastor Emeritus. He is a highly-sought after speaker on civil and human rights issues and the environment. It seemed that he brought it all to bear during this Found- ers’ Day Observance.

at the observance just hours before on January 7. With multidimensional wit and humor, command and charisma, Dr. Durley ushered in the Spirit in a manner that placed the ephemeral concerns about the impending transition in national leadership into the context of whose we are and what has helped the fraternity thrive over the course of 106 years. He so transfixed the audience with a spirit of rededication to Phi Nu Pi, that the conflagration that was his oratory will long be felt beyond that cold, wintry night. The audience in attendance was so moved by the countenance of such a powerful orator, that the Grand Polemarch was able to appeal to broth- ers and channel that Good Old Kappa Spirit that was ablaze from Dr. Durley’s remarks into raising five figures in sup- port of Kappa initiatives within minutes. Thereafter, all hearts and minds were clear to receive reflections by Grand

He discussed getting the call to speak

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KAPPA NEWS

Above, left: The 30 th Grand Polemarch, Samuel C. Hamilton, is announced. Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Chastin L. Gammage, center, poses with members of the Council of Junior Vice Polemarchs, Below, left: Rev. Dr. Gerald L. Durley, Senior Pastor Emeritus of Providence Missionary Baptist Church, Atlanta, Georgia prepares to speak. Elder Watson Diggs Awardees Eric Morris (86 th ), Clarence F. Nelson, Jr. (92 nd ) and William B. Croom (94 th ).

Historian Kevin P. Scott, as he presided over the tribute to the Founders: Elder Watson Diggs, Dr. Ezra Dee Alexan- der, Byron Kenneth Armstrong, Henry Tourner Asher, Marcus Peter Blakemore, Paul Waymond Caine, George Wesley Edmunds, Guy Levis Grant, Edward Giles Irvin and John Milton Lee. With our energy renewed, the brothers burnished the shield and prepared to re- enter the bitterness that awaited them in the spirit of Phi Nu Pi once again. Here’s to Kappa Alpha Psi ® !

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Above: "Somebody say, 'Yes!' Now let the church say, 'Amen.'

Below: Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., delivers the response to Rev. Dr. Durley's powerful remarks to the brothers, exhorting the brothers assembled to further invest in the cause of achievement with their time, talent and resources.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Above: Members of the administrative team to the Grand Polemarch, Sherman K. Kizart, Ronald E. Range, 74 th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Myron L. Hardiman, Grand Polemarch Battles, Dr. Leo T. McCauley Brown and E. Kenneth Glass, Jr. Below: The members of the 33 rd Administration of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. assemble prior to the opening of the 12 th National Founders' Day Observance. Front row: E. Desmond Taylor, Chester Leaks, Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., Thomas L. Battles, Jr., Chastin L. Gammage, Linnes Finney, Jr., Esq. and Matthew N. Simmons. Back row: Kevin P. Scott, Chauncy E. Haynes, Jimmy McMikle, Ron V. Julun, Brandon Grant, Denzel B. Washington and Deion L. Garner.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

As has been tradition, the immediate Past Grand Polemarch is recognized for his stewardship of the fraternity during his administration. The 32 nd Grand Polemarch William "Randy" Bates, Jr., Esq., was honored for his achievements. From left, back row: The Honorable M. Kasim Reed, Grand Polemarch Bates, 30 th Grand Polemarch Samuel C. Hamilton and 29 th Grand Polemarch Howard L. Tutman.

The Honorable M. Kasim Reed, the 59 th Mayor of the City of Atlanta, Georgia was recognized for his leadership at the 12 th National Founders' Day Observance.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation President Michael Dubose, left, and Southeastern Province Polemarch E. Delane Rosemond, Esq., greet 42 nd Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Dr. Cornelius W. Grant, center. At right: 102 nd Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Alvin L. Barrington.

Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., and Grand Keeper of Records & Exchequer Chester Leaks prepare to be introduced as Alfonza Mobley, left, Vice Chairman of the National Grand Chapter Meeting Planning Committee and Chief of Staff of Operations to the Grand

Polemarch, Myron L. Hardiman assist with logistics.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Above: Guy Levis Grant Awardees Ryan E. Tucker (Alpha Sigma 2010), Brennan Holbrook Northington McMurry (Mu Rho 2009) and Dr. Marvin D. Carr (Alpha Iota 2007). The Guy L. Grant award was established in 1974 at the 59 th Grand Chapter Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, by 21 st Grand Polemarch Elbert E. Allen. The award was first presented in 1976 at the 60 th Grand Chapter Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana. The award is the highest award reserved for undergraduate members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity; it is bestowed upon collegiate members who demonstrate scholarship, community leadership and meritorious achievement in school, as well as in the local community or region. Recipients are selected based on petitions submitted to the Achievement Commission, a 13-member committee appointed by the Grand Polemarch.

Left: 27 th Grand Polemarch Robert L. Harris, Esq. and 26 th Grand Polemarch Dr. Ullysses McBride.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Above left: The Honorable Sanford D. Bishop Jr. representing middle and southwest Georgia in the United States Congress, gives remarks during the observance. Above right: William R. Bates III and C. Lamont Bates congratulate 32 nd Grand Polemarch William "Randy" Bates, Jr., Esq.

Below: Guy L. Grant Awardees Anthony B. Hill (Alpha Pi 1977), Dr. Marvin D. Carr (Alpha Iota 2007), Dr. Mark D. Rigsby (Beta Upsilon 1980) and Reginald R. Jackson, MD. (Zeta Iota 1990).

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

The Province Polemarchs join Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., center. From left: Darren Jordan (East Central), E. Delane Rosemond, Esq. (Southeastern), Carlos D. Watson, Esq. (Middle Eastern), Korlon L. Kilpatrick, II (North Central), Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq. (Eastern) and Bertram K. Orum (Southern). Back row: Leonard E. Clemons (South Central), Craig C. Chisholm (Northeastern), Theron A. Hightower (Southwestern), Kevin D. Kyles (Northern) and Gilbert D. Brown III (Western). Not pictured: Damon O. Barry, Esq. (Middle Western).

Below: William L. Crump Awardees Keshon Kelly, left, and Cornelius Hudgins IV, join Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott. 32 nd Grand Polemarch William "Randy" Bates, Jr., Esq., accepts an award from Linnes Finney, Jr., Esq. and Grand Polemarch Battles.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Elder Watson Diggs Awardees from left: Emerson Lattimore (81 st ), W. Kenneth Jackson, Sr. (80 th ), Dr. K. Bernard Chase (59 th ) Myron L. Hardiman (74 th ) and Eric Morris (86 th ). Back row: Alvin L. Barrington (102 nd ), William B. Croom (94 th ), Donald C. Bland (88 th ), Willie High Coleman, Esq. (90 th ) and Clarence F. Nelson, Jr. (92 nd ).

From left: Grand Chapter Officers Deion Garner, Matthew N. Simmons, E. Desmond Taylor, Chastin L. Gammage, Denzel B. Washington and Brand Grant confer before being introduced at the 12 th National Founders' Day Observance. Right: The Honorable Gonzalo P. Curiel and 26 th Grand Polemarch Dr. Ullysses McBride chat before the processional into the banquet hall.

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THE GALLERY: NATIONAL FOUNDERS' DAY

Western Province Chapters Celebrate National Founders' Day By Gary L. Harbour

Over 200 members of the Western Province of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity gathered to celebrate 106 years of service in observance of National Founders’ Day at the Los Angeles Harbor Marriott. Brothers hailed from the following California-based alumni chapters: Anaheim, Beverly Hills, Century City-Irvine, Inglewood Long Beach, Los Angeles, Pasadena, Riverside, South Bay and Ventura County. Western Province Polemarch Gilbert D. Brown III

(Delta Theta 1969), Ventura (CA) Alumni Chapter Polemarch Walter Henry (Delta Nu 1974), Senior Affairs Chairman George C. Sims (Delta Delta 1959) and 83 rd Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Rhen C. Bass, Sr. (Delta Nu 1974). The keynote speaker was 4-Star General Dennis L. Via United States Army, Retired, and 72 nd Laurel Wreath Laureate. General Via, with his trademark dynamism, edified the brothers with a stirring speech encouraging all to rededicate themselves to the tenets of Kappa Alpha Psi ® .

TSU Leadership Assembles Dr. Austin A. Lane, front row, center, President of Texas Southern University, is flanked by fellow members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® who gathered together during National Founders’ Day. Front row, from left: Raphael X. Moffett, Vice President for Student Affairs; Laurel Wreath Laureate Bobby Wilson, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Lane, Wendell Williams, Special Assistant to the President; Charles McClelland, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. Second row: Brian Armstrong, David Anderson, Winslow Jeffries, Kevin Adams, Leonard Spearman. Third row: Ernest Brown III, Michael Boone, Adam Garcia, Neil Venable, Shannon Broussard. Top row: Darrell Bunch, William Randy Bates III and Ryan Mason.

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KAPPA NEWS

WilliamE. Hooker wins LifetimeAchievement Award at 76 th Middle Eastern Province Council

The 76 th Middle Eastern Province Council honored William E. Hooker with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Below MEP Polemarch Carlos D. Watson, Esq. presented Hooker with the award.

the second highest achievement award conferred by Kappa Alpha Psi Frater- nity, Inc. Throughout the years he has received numerous awards at all three levels of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. including the Distinguished Service Award for serving as MEP Province Keeper of Records & Exchequer from 1971 - 1983 and the 1971-1972 Raleigh (NC) Alumni Kappa Man of the Year. Also, at the 76 th MEP Council the Province Board of Directors approved a proposal by the Greater Raleigh Kappa League and the body unanimously ap- proved the establishment of the Annual William E. Hooker Kappa Leadership & Development League Summit. The inaugural summit will be held in the Fall 2017 on the campus of North Carolina State University. Brother Hooker, with a deep history and background in education, was emotional and thankful for the opportunity to have a leadership summit named after him. As a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. one can always find Brother Hooker with a smile and sharing that Good Old Kappa Spirit.

Since 1926, the Middle Eastern Province has been a mighty force within Kappa Alpha Psi ® . Covering North Carolina and Southern West Virginia, it continues the rich legacy and tradition estab- lished by those of days past. Brother Hooker has been an outstanding member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. since joining the Delta Gamma of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Shaw University in 1957. During the past 59 years, he has served as the Polemarch and Keeper of Records of the Raleigh (NC) Alumni Chapter, served as Province Keeper of Records & Exche- quer and appointed the 17 th MEP Province Polemarch.

A t the 76 th Middle Eastern Province (MEP) Council of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. William E. Hooker was presented the Lifetime Achievement award. The award was presented to Brother Hooker by the 22 nd Province Polemarch Carlos D. Watson, Esq.

On the national level he has been a key member of the Achievement Commis- sion and the Laurel Wreath Committee. At the 78 th Grand Chapter Meeting Brother Hooker was presented with the 84 th Elder Watson Diggs Award, which is

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Official Photo of the 67 th Southern Province Council of Kappa Alpha Psi ®

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Kappa Alpha Psi ® Furthers SIDS Awareness Campaign During 67 th Southern Province Council

I n keeping with Kappa Alpha Psi’s ® national, multiple-city campaign to reduce infant mortality and bring awareness to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC) donated 25 portable cribs to students enrolled in the Duval County Public School Systems’ (DCPS) Teen Parent Sup- port Center, based on the campus of the A. Philip Randolph Academy, on Thursday, April 20 th . During his remarks Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., challenged everyone to appreci- ate that it’s the responsibility of fathers and other men, just as well as women, to keep babies safe while sleeping and help them reach their first birthday. Through the Healthy Kappas/ Healthy Communities initiative, and in partnership with the Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi ® as well as the

Dr. Edward R. Scott II, National Chairman of Health and Wellness assists, Grand Polemarch Battles in distributing cribs during the SIDS awareness presentation sponsored by the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter.

Global Safe Sleep Center, local chapters have shared the message of safe sleep practices as a way to reduce infant mortality with various stakeholders and encouraged them to place the baby on his or her back (not the stomach) and in his or her own bed (not with a parent or care-

giver, or on a sofa or soft mattress).

“Too many babies are dying,” said Gregory Flowers, principal organizer of the event and Keeper of Exchequer, of JAC. “There are protective measures parents and caregivers can take to reduce the

The Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC) in partnership with the Southern Province Silhouettes, coordinated a donation of cribs in recognition of SIDS awareness at the A. Phillip Randolph Academy to kick of the 67 th Southern Province Council. Front frow, rom left: Sallie Moore (Jacksonville), Hattie Emanuel (Jacksonville), Kathryn Neal, Southern Province Corresponding Secretary, First Lady Geraldine Battles, Southern Province Coordinator Brenda Beale and Jacksonville Silhouettes President Marti Chapman. Dr. Stacy Scott, next to Grand Polemarch Battles, coordinates with Kappa Alpha Psi ® on these efforts as a part of the Global Safe Sleep Center.

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risk of this happening to their baby and we want to get that message out here in Jacksonville.” Infant mortality is considered a basic measure of public health for countries around the world. “It is truly evident that Kappa Alpha Psi ® has embraced its national platform to foster strong families by providing young women, men and children with the resources they need to thrive,” stated Dr. Pamela M. Davis, Executive Director of the Office of Prevention & Alterna- tive Programs for DCPS. “The event was a great oppor- tunity to link teen parents with a high-quality resource that they perhaps would not have other- wise purchased for themselves.” Florida’s infant mortality rate is decreasing, but that isn’t the case in Duval County where the infant mortality rate is higher than the state average. For Afri- can American babies, the number is disproportionately higher, according to the Duval County Health Department. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents and caregivers follow the guidelines to the right.

• Babies should always sleep on their backs, at nighttime and naptime. Tummy and side sleeping are not safe • Use a safety approved crib with a firm mattress and a tight- fitting sheet for sleep. Room share with your baby by making sure their crib is placed near your bed for at least the first six months • Do not share a bed or couch with your baby. Make sure your baby has its own separate sleep space. Never let your baby sleep on soft surfaces such as adult beds, water beds, sofas, chairs, comforters and sheepskins • Keep all soft bedding out of your baby’s crib. This includes loose bedding, stuffed animals and bumper pads • Avoid overheating. Dress your baby like you would dress and keep the room temperature comfortable, not too warm • Pregnant women should receive regular prenatal care • Do not smoke during or after your pregnancy and avoid exposure to second hand smoke. These put your baby at a greater risk of dying fromSIDS • Avoid alcohol and illicit drug use during pregnancy and after birth • Breastfeeding is recommended • Use a pacifier at naptime and nighttime after breastfeeding has been established • Do not use commercial devises marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS such as wedges and positioners. None have been proven safe or effective

26 th Grand Polemarch Dr. Ullysses McBride, Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. and Dr. Edward R. Scott II, sign the roll during the SIDS awareness presentation hosted by the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC). Back row: JAC members James Perkins, Mark Chapman III and Dr. Frank S. Emanuel. Right: Kathryn Neal, Southern Province Polemarch Bertram K. Orum, Brenda Beale and First Lady Geraldine Battles also supported the event.

Publishing achievement for more than 100 years

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Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter Hosts 9 th Annual Public Meeting and Honors Local "Divine 9" Presidents

T he Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC), the Delta Psi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Edward Waters Col- lege, the Xi Lambda of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at the University of North Florida, the Omicron Delta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Jacksonville University and the Jacksonville Silhouettes, welcomed more than 460 regis- tered delegates to the 67 th Southern Province Council held at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville in Jacksonville,

Florida— the “Birthplace of the Southern Province,” from April 20- 23, 2017.

bers, simulcast in the Lynwood Roberts Room, a reception hall, and streamed live through the City of Jacksonville website. Contemporaneous tweeting, snap- chatting and Facebook feeds also carried the event in real-time. Special guests included the 30 th Grand Polemarch Samuel C. Ham- ilton, the 32 nd Grand Polemarch William “Randy” Bates, Jr., Esq., the 25 th International President of

9 th Annual Public Meeting

The weekend began with the Public Meeting held on Thursday, April 20 th —Jacksonville’s ninth—held in conjunction with Province Council. More than 400 Kappas and guests attended the standing-room only, hour and a half event held at the Jacksonville City Council Cham-

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Foundation Presents $30,000 in Scholarships to College-Bound Students

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Dr. Norma Solomon White, and the Grand Epistoles (Grand Historian) of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Angela P. Spears. Previous public meetings have honored a mix of civic and business leaders, service organizations, small businesses and corporations under the themes of achievement, educa- tion, entrepreneurship, humani- tarianism and servant-leadership. The centennials of the Divine Nine

members have also been recognized.

program provided the opportunity for an international audience to see the strength of unity, collaboration and the regional impact of the Divine Nine. The chapter also saluted its Man of the Year, Charles H. Mal- press, Jr. (Jacksonville (FL) Alumni 1990). The Jacksonville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Guide Right, Schol- arship & Development Foundation, Inc., under the leadership of Dr. Herman Miller, Jr., (Alpha Xi 1968)

This year, with Seventh Southern Province Polemarch and 91 st Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Dr. Frank S. Emanuel (Alpha Xi 1965) presiding, the JAC honored the local chapter presidents of the National Pan-Hel- lenic Council through pre-recorded vignettes highlighting the communi- ty service conducted in communities throughout northeast Florida while providing advice and encouragement to the scholars in attendance. The

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Next page: More than 400 Kappas and guests filled Jacksonville City Council Chambers to witness the 9 th Annual Public Meeting. The 10 scholars got a bird's- eye view of the action from the 19-member City Council Chambers dais. They were able to view the honorees' videos on the monitors in front of them and watch the live presentations before being honored themselves with an individualized video introduction and $3,000 each.

Above: Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. presented the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter's Man of the Year award to Charles H. Malpress, second from right. Jacksonville Alumni Polemarch Mark Chapman III, second from left, and Province Polemarch Bertram K. Orum also congratulated Brother Malpress. Brother Malpress, who has served as the Southern Province Representative to the National Chapter Advisor's Training Cluster, had been the advisor to both the Delta Psi (Edward Waters College) and Omicron Delta (Jacksonville University) chapters for more than a decade in Jacksonville.

also awarded $30,000 in scholarships to high school seniors in collaboration with the William & Betty Cody Foundation, the Curtis W. Paris, Jr. Memorial Fund and other endowments, bringing the to- tal awarded to more than $550,000 over the last 20 years. Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. brought remarks and Southern Province Polemarch Bertram K. Orum presented a donation to the local branch of the NAACP. A welcome reception followed thereafter. On Friday, April 21 st the First Busi- ness Session was called to order by Southern Province Polemarch Bertram K. Orum. Special guests included 30 th Grand Polemarch Samuel C. Hamilton, 32 nd Grand Polemarch William “Randy” Bates, Jr., Esq., Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., Southeastern The First Business Session

Province Polemarch E. Delane Rose- mond, Esq., North Central Province Polemarch Korlon Kilpatrick II and Chief of Staff to the Grand Polemarch Myron L. Hardiman. After roll call the Adoption of Rules and Code of Ethics for the 67 th Southern Province Council were properly moved, seconded and approved. General Counsel and 77 th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Cleophus Thomas, Jr. Esq. presented on the topic of Risk Management focusing on impor- tance of officer responsibility, knowledge of standards and university rules, risk of property ownership, and the nuances of risk management principles with individual and group responsibility. He emphasized the necessary stewardship of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at all levels of the fraternity. Thereafter, Grand Polemarch Battles declared, “Protect the brand you inher- ited.”

The day of activities continued with the official photograph, health screenings and committee meetings. Student of the Year Competition Held at the Beach This year’s family outing was held at a wooded preserve that abuts a beach and the Atlantic Ocean called Hanna Park in Atlantic Beach, Florida. The chap- ter coordinated a full-service barbecue experience under the theme: Kappa Kar- nival Kookout. Hundreds of Kappas and guests enjoyed the fellowship amidst the hip-swaying sounds of soca and calypso from the Atlantic Ocean, to the cabanas on the beach to the main pavilion in the preserve. With the Southern Province leadership’s blessing, the Student of the Year Competition was held at the out- ing. All patrons and their families were transported to the event and later trans- ported back to the hotel. This too, was a standing-room only event. The evening

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The Second Business Session

concluded with the “Nupe Klassic: Kollege Night” party back at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

– Mark Williams, Jr. [Jacksonville (FL) Alumni]. The Bert V. Wadkins Award- ees were: Small – Keon Links [West Palm Beach (FL) Alumni], Medium – Michael Connors [Miramar-Pem- broke Pines (FL) Alumni] and Large – Nicholas Rankins [Montgomery (AL) Alumni]. Jay Crosby Award winners were: Small – West Palm Beach (FL) Alumni, Medium – Miramar-Pembroke Pines (FL) Alumni and Large – Mobile (AL) Alumni.

The Second Business Session was called to order and led by Senior Province Vice Polemarch Chauncy E. Haynes. Special recognition was given to Laurel Wreath Laureate and Elder Watson Diggs Awardee, Dr. Ralph J. Bryson, Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Earl T. Tildon, Past Middle Eastern Province Polemarch Sheldon McAlpin, North Central Province

Guide Right Awards Announced

Saturday, April 22 nd was ushered in by the Sunday of Hope Fellowship Break- fast where Rev. Dr. Robert L. Mitchell (Alpha Xi 1957) delivered a message entitled, “The Race that God has Set Before Us.” Southern Province Guide Right Chair- man LaShante A. Keys (St. Petersburg (FL) Alumni 2000) announced the 2017 Province Guide Right Awards. Winners of the Student of the Year Competition included: first place – Tyrese Stewart [West Palm Beach (FL) Alumni], second place – Nate Larkins [St. Petersburg (FL) Alumni] and third place – Marcus Richards [Jacksonville (FL) Alumni]. Winners of the Leon W. Steward Award were: first place – Steven M. Larson [Winter Park (FL) Alumni], second place – George E. Preston [Mobile (AL) Alumni] and third place

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Participants greet the Grand Polemarch. In the background, is William L. Cody, Sr. and Silhouette Betty A. Cody. They have supported the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC) through their foundation, which sponsors the Dr. Caroline A. Cody Memorial Scholarship, as well as by serving on the JAC Foundation and the Chapter's golf committee for more than 20 years. They have helped the JAC Foundation

to provide more than $550,000 in scholarships to students in the Jacksonville community.

in all of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . Highlights included the number of initiates since the last Province Council, the positive adherence to Kappa’s Six-Point Plan among the chapters in the Southern Province and the future of expansion: including the Leesburg (FL) Alumni Chapter and the establishment of a colony at the University of the Bahamas (Epsilon Mu), becoming the fraternity’s first international undergraduate chapter, the Grand Board Meeting being held on May 19-20, 2017 in Orlando, and the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting being held from July 18-22, 2017. There will be a renewed focus on undergraduate development at the upcoming C. Rodger Wilson Leader- ship Conference. Province Polemarch Orum noted “to whom much is given, much is required.” Grand Board Member and Ninth Southern Province Polemarch Linnes Finney, Jr. Esq. moved for acceptance of the State of the Southern Province. It was seconded by Birmingham (AL) Alumni Chapter Polemarch Brian Ruggs. The motion passed unani- mously. Grand Polemarch Battles

Senior Province Vice Polemarch Byron Thornton, and Laurel Wreath Laureate-Designate Rodney C. Adkins. A presentation was given by David Christian and his colleagues from Regions Bank with respect to its partnership with Kappa Alpha Psi ® . Grand Board Member and Ninth Southern Province Polemarch Linnes Finney, Jr., Esq. presented the Grand Chapter Report identifying the 33 rd Administration’s Six-Point Plan: 1. Community Service 2. Infrastructure 3. Undergraduate Development 4. Reclamation 5. New Member Re- cruitment & Training and 6. Execu- tive Leadership Training & Succes- sion Planning. He also provided updates on Guide Right celebrating 95 years, Healthy Kappas/Healthy Communities, Kappas on Capitol Hill, Kappa Kamp, the Foundation [1911 Project], Military/Veteran Af- fairs Commission activities and the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting. Next, Province Polemarch Orum delivered the State of the Southern Province address proclaiming the Province continues to be the bench- mark of leadership and achievement

then took a point of personal privilege and reappointed Bertram K. Orum as the Southern Province Polemarch. The session continued with Keeper of Records Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq., providing the 66 th Southern Province Council Report and Keeper of Exchequer Ralph Altice presenting the Financial Report. Senior Province Vice Polemarch Haynes presented candidates for 2017-2018 officers as provided by the Nominations & Elec- tions committee. Voting immediately followed. The day continued with the Under- graduate Luncheon program which highlighted Southern Province Jr. Province Vice Polemarch (AL) Bryant Williams, a two-time cancer survivor, sharing his personal story of encour- agement under the theme “Hope For a Better Future” and posing the question, “What type of legacy do you want to leave?” He suggested that everyone strive to leave a legacy worth living up to. His words were met with a standing ovation by the participants.

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