This edition includes the list of accepted nominations, a feature article on the South Fulton (GA) Alumni Chapter, and more.
KHRONICLE The Southeastern Chronicling Achievement in the Southeastern Province since 1996
Expansion and Growth: The Southeastern Province welcomes the South Fulton (GA) Alumni Chapter!
WINTER 2025
VOLUME 21 , ISSUE 2
SoutheasternProvince .org
CONTRIBUTING REPORTERS Table of Contents DAMON PEEBLES SOUTH FULTON (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER
DERIANE COX ALPHARETTA-SMYRNA (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER BRENT STEPHENS DECATUR (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER JORDAN BATES COLLEGE PARK (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER JAMES HAMILTON COLUMBIA (SC) ALUMNI CHAPTER DOMINIQUE RIGGINS ALBANY (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER RICKY BUSSEY LAWRENCEVILLE-DULUTH (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER
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Message from Province Polemarch Greetings and province updates from Brother Brian C. Mock
Alumni Chapter News Community initiatives and events from alumni chapters across the Southeastern Province.
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Province Nominations Accepted Nominations for Offices to be Elected
Honorable Achievements This section showcases the achievements of brothers in every field of human endeavor.
JOHNNY MCDONALD SAVANNAH (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER
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Candidate Biographies A listing of received biographies and headshots of candidates
The Directory A listing of elected officers and appointed area directors, committee chairmen, and staff members. Achievement Academy Updates This page provides information on available undergraduate scholarships and awards
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Feature Article: South Fulton (GA) Alumni Chapter An article about the chartering of the newest alumni chapter in the province and their work so far
PAST EDITORS Willie J.. Heggins II 1996-1998 Willie L. Todd, Jr., Ph.D. 1999-2005 Rick Mitchell 2006-2008 Corey L. Smith 2008-2021 C. Douglas Johnson, Ph.D. 2021-2023 EDITOR Tyran L. White Charleston (SC) Alumni Chapter KhronicleSubmissions@southeasternprovince.org
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Achievement since 1926
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. “Training for Leadership Since 1911” Southeastern Province Georgia ◆ South Carolina ◆ Nigeria ◆ South Africa ◆ United Arab Emirates
Dear Brothers of the Southeastern Province, My Dear Brothers, Words cannot express the outpouring of love and support you have given me and my family during this process of dealing with my father’s passing during the Province Council. It is much appreciated by my family, and we are eternally grateful. That is brotherhood at its finest. In the words of my Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Willie Hopkins, “That’s the brotherhood I know.” I hope this message finds you all in good spirits and health. As we approach the 99th Province Council , I am filled with excitement for the opportunity to gather in Augusta, Georgia . This conference, hosted by the Augusta Alumni, Grovetown Evans Martinez Alumni, and Aiken Alumni Chapters, as well as the Nu Nu and Pi Xi Chapters, promises to be a remarkable event brimming with camaraderie and new updates that will undoubtedly enrich our collective experience. As we prepare for this significant gathering, I want to remind each of you to be particularly mindful and watchful during the Membership Training Academy (MTA) season. It is crucial that all MTA Chairmen, Advisors, and chapter leadership fully understand the importance of adhering to our guidelines for the program. These guidelines are not merely suggestions; they are designed to ensure that our members receive the best training and support possible. Let’s commit to upholding these standards to foster a strong and united province. We have a momentous year ahead of us as we launch this administration’s new platform of “Operation 100.” We are preparing for innovative programs outlined in the “State of the Province Address” and we have already begun the work to implement those. As stated, Brother Dr. Leo Brown will lead the charge in developing our inaugural leadership development program. We will continue to lean towards increasing the list of corporate sponsorships. Brother Anthony Clark has agreed to lead that effort as our newly appointed Corporate Affairs Chair. Brother Antonio Martez, who has been instrumental in our other sponsorships, will continue to keep those relationships advancing and assist Brother Clark. Regarding communications, we are poised to launch our centennial rewrite of the province history book. This project, led by Brother Dr. Christopher Johnson, will be this province’s biggest rewrite. Additionally, I have asked Brother Solomon Shaheen to produce a historical documentary on this region. Furthermore, I urge everyone to keep in mind the best interests of our province and your respective chapters. Leadership is a responsibility that requires respect and collaboration. Those in leadership positions are there by design, and working together with them will yield the best results for all of us. I look forward to seeing all of you in Augusta and to an inspiring and productive Province Council. Together, let’s make this event a memorable one as we strengthen our bonds and work towards our shared goals. Lastly, one program we are looking forward to is the joint C. Roger Wilson Leadership Conference in 2025 in conjunction with the Southern Province. This event has been introduced as a celebration as both provinces have milestones occurring in 2026. The Southern Province will celebrate 75 years of existence and, of course, our province’s 100th anniversary. I will leave you with this. We invite you to be part of the transformation of the province. We are looking for you! In fact, we cannot do it without you. Yours in the bond. Operation 100! What a wonderful and progressive fraternal year we just experienced as it was capped off with a successful Province Council in Charleston, SC. Hats off to the brothers and silhouettes of the “Lowcountry Coalition of Kappas,” better known as the L.o.C.K. You all made the experience easy and one to remember. We were equally gracious to have our Senior Grand Vice Polemarch, Attorney Robert L. Jenkins in attendance as our guest and closed banquet speaker. It was a pleasure to have him with us in his hometown.
Yours in the bond,
Brother Brian C. Mock, 27th Southeastern Province Polemarch "This Belongs to Us, This is Our Time."
Achievement since 1926
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY, INCORPORATED SOUTHEASTERN PROVINCE
99th Southeastern Province Council BRIEF CANDIDATE BIOGRAPHIES
SENIOR PROVINCE VICE POLEMARCH
OSCAR R. NEELY Greenville (SC) Alumni
Oscar Neely Is the UI Eligibility and Records Reviewer with South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce in Greenwood SC. The last four years Oscar held the Out of School Coordinator of SC Jobs for America’s Graduates Program of SC Department of Employment Workforce and is a Global Career Development Facilitator. He has been a coach in Greenville County Schools for 38 years. He has the most wins of any boys’ basketball coach in the history of Mauldin High School as Head Coach for 8 years. He graduated from Mauldin High School in 1977 and Claflin University in 1982. Oscar Neely unselfishly gives of himself as a community volunteer. He serves both in the Church and the Community. At his Church he is the Chairman of Deacon Ministry; Past President of the Brotherhood Ministry; Superintendent of Sunday School; and a
Sunday School Teacher. In the Community, he has been the Local Director of the Kevin Garnett, Greg Buckner, Josh Howard, and Trevor Booker NBA Basketball Camp since 1998. Oscar has served as a member of Greenville County Disabilities and Special Need Board; Greenville County Neighborhood Accountability Board; Fountain Inn Community of Concerned Citizens. As a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Oscar has served in the Southeastern Province for 43 years, a Life Member of the Province, becoming a member in 1979 Gamma Nu Chapter Claflin University, where he served as Polemarch and Guide Right Director. As a member of Greenville Alumni Chapter, Oscar served as Fundraiser Chairman, Guide Right Director, Social Chairman, Reclamation Chairman, Vice Polemarch, and Polemarch, and served as Delegate at Province Council Meeting and Grand Chapter meeting representing Greenville Alumni; Oscar is currently a Member of the Board of Directors of Greenville Alumni Chapter. At the Province level, Oscar has served as the Chairman of Southeastern Province Guide Right Youth Program for the last 16 years, Vice Chairman National Guide Right Commission Youth Program for the last 14 years; and Chaplin of National Guide Right Commission. Oscar is a Lifetime Member of Kappa Alpha Psi as well Lifetime Mentor of Middle and High School students. Oscar is a member and Chaplin of the Claflin University Alumni Chapter of the Upstate, President of the Peg Leg Bates Foundation. Among his many Awards which should not exclude impacting the lives of many young athletes in the area including NBA Hall of Fame Kevin Garnett of the Boston Celtics. Oscar was name SC 2016 Jobs for America’s Graduates Specialist of the Year, 2010 Delta Academy Community Service Award Winner, 2010 Salvation Boys and girls Club Mentor of the Year and was the 2011 Kappa Man of the Year Greenville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. for the fourth time. Oscar Neely is a person of outstanding character and integrity. He carries himself in a dignified and respectful manner. He is married to the former Gayle Whiteside and the father of three daughters (Dana, Hope, and Paulisha) and four grandchildren (Shameria, Harmony, Addison, and Noah). He is a caring and compassionate person who is always striving to help make life better for those whom he is involved with. Oscar Neely is a people person who enjoys inspiring and motivating people-especially young people. His reputation and record in the Greenville Community is truly outstanding. His work as a coach, counselor, leader, mentor, motivator, and role model is felt throughout the Greenville area and beyond. Oscar represents the best qualities as a community mentor and a Kappa Man. He makes many personal sacrifices that contribute to the success and wellbeing of numerous young people. He feels very strongly that he should use his GOD given talents for the benefit of others. His dedication and commitment to service is genuine and his passion is FOR REAL.
Achievement since 1926
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
PROVINCE JUNIOR VICE POLEMARCH VICTOR MATTISON, JR. Clemson University Chapter, the Lambda Kappa
My name is Victor Mattison Jr. I am a Spring 2023 initiate of the Clemson University chapter, the Kappa Lambda. I am a Junior Physics major at Clemson University, aspiring to become an aerospace systems engineer. I currently serve as Junior Vice Polemarch for the Southeastern Province and previously held the position of Strategus (2023-2024). Additionally, I served as Polemarch for my undergraduate chapter from December 2023 to December 2024. Throughout my journey in Kappa Alpha Psi, I have had the privilege of graduating from the Lambda Class of Undergraduate Leadership Institute and the LEAD Kappa Program, earning the honor of becoming a Kappa Fellow. Under the leadership of Jimmy McMikle's 35th administration, I traveled to destinations such as Phoenix, Philadelphia, Indiana, and the Dominican Republic, building bonds with brothers
nationwide. My history with Kappa Alpha Psi spans over a decade, beginning with assisting Greenville Alumni’s Kappa Knight Ball choreography from 2014 for six consecutive years. I also proudly served in Kappa League from my sophomore to senior year of high school, embracing the principles of leadership and service from a young age. My tenure as Junior Vice Polemarch has given me invaluable insight into the responsibilities and potential of this role. With another term, I intend to apply the lessons learned, foster greater collaboration, and implement initiatives that strengthen and enhance our province and brotherhood. Thank you for your consideration and for the opportunity to continue serving our beloved fraternity.
PROVINCE KEEPER OF RECORDS PLEZ JOYNER Stone Mountain-Lithonia (GA) Alumni
Brother Plez A. Joyner is a 1982 initiate of the Georgia Tech Chapter, the Lambda Delta of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He has been active in the fraternity since his initiation as an undergraduate and has been a presence within the Southeastern Province for the past twenty plus years as a Board Member and/or a Committee Chair. As an undergraduate at Georgia Tech, Brother Joyner served as Polemarch, Keeper of Exchequer, and Dean of Pledges. He was Polemarch when Lambda Delta was the undergraduate host for the 1985 Province Council Meeting held in Atlanta, Georgia. After graduation, Brother Joyner spent a few years as a member of the Atlanta (GA) Alumni, working with the Kappa League Program, before joining the Stone Mountain- Lithonia Alumni (GA) Chapter in 1997.
As a member of Stone Mountain-Lithonia Alumni, he is a two-time recipient of both the Chapter Man of the Year Award and the Phi Nu Pi Award. He has served as Stone Mountain-Lithonia Alumni’s Polemarch, Keeper of Records, and Board Member. In the Southeastern Province, Brother Joyner has been elected to the offices of Keeper of Records and Nominating Committee Chair. In addition, he has also served as Advisor Committee Co-Chairman, Membership Intake Chairman, Website Committee Chairman, Chapter Certification Committee Chairman, and Technology Committee Chairman. On the Grand Board level, Brother Joyner has served on the Strategic Planning Committee and was the secretary for the 74th Grand Chapter Local Planning Committee when the Grand Chapter Meeting was held in Atlanta in 1999. Currently, Brother Joyner is the Keeper of Records for the Southeastern Province, as well as, serving as the Advisor to the Lambda Delta Chapter for his twenty-second consecutive year during which time the chapter has never been subject to any disciplinary action by the university or the fraternity. Brother Joyner is also serving in his seventh year as the Advisor Training Coordinator for the National Advisors Committee where he is tasked with the training program for all the Alumni Advisors serving the Fraternity in the United States. Professionally, Brother Joyner is the Chief Operating Officer for the Bronner Bros., Inc., where he oversees the day- to-day operations of the manufacturing facility, accounting department, and human resources. He holds a bachelor’s
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Tech and has over twenty-five years’ experience in management consulting. He was married to the late Corrine Robinson Joyner for 31 years and he is the father of a 21-year-old daughter, Corrina Simone, who is a sophomore in college. If re-elected to serve the Southeastern Province, Brother Joyner plans to continue to bring to the Executive Board the sense of dedication and servant leadership that he has shown over the past 40 years in Kappa. He will continue to use his keen sense of innovation and deep knowledge of the Constitution and Statutes to ensure that the Southeastern Province remains the best Province while working with the Province Polemarch to ensure that every brother in the Southeastern Province can Achieve in Every Field of Human Endeavor.
PROVINCE KEEPER OF EXCHEQUER COREY SMITH Alpharetta-Smyrna (GA) Alumni
Corey L. Smith, currently serves the Southeastern Province as Keeper of Exchequer and has held that position since 2020. He is a member of the Alpharetta-Smyrna (GA) Alumni Chapter and is a 2004 initiate of the College Park (GA) Alumni Chapter. Brother Smith is a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. as well as a life member of the Southeastern Province and has worked tirelessly for Kappa Alpha Psi in several capacities since his initiation and asks for your vote to continue working as your Southeastern Province Keeper of Exchequer. Brother Smith was born and raised in Americus, GA. He graduated in 1998 from Albany State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics. Corey went on to receive a Master’s of Public Administration Degree in Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation from Georgia State University in 2003. He also attained a Graduate Certificate in
Planning and Economic Development in 2003 from Georgia State University. In addition to Southeastern Province Keeper of Exchequer, Brother Smith has served Kappa in many roles. He served on the 84th Grand Chapter Awards Reception Committee, the 82nd Grand Chapter Constitution and Statutes Committee, and the 81st Grand Chapter Elections Committee. He was also Editor-in-Chief/Reporter of the province newsletter “The Southeastern Khronicle” from 2008-2021. Corey is a member of the Southeastern Province MTA Committee where he has been the Testing Coordinator for over a decade and is also a member of the Southeastern Province Finance Committee. Brother Smith previously served the province as Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, Director of Membership Development, and Director of Administrative Services. While with the College Park (GA) Alumni Chapter, Corey served as Keeper of Exchequer, MOIP/MTA Chairman, Guide Right Chairman, and Silhouette Liaison. Professionally, Brother Smith has spent 26 years with the Georgia Department of Labor and is currently the Assistant Director with the Workforce Statistics Division where he oversees the production of Georgia statistics including the unemployment rate, occupational wages, job gains/losses, and industry and occupational employment projections. Brother Smith became a member of the Pride of Albany, Masonic Lodge #360 PHA in 1996 and has served as a member of the Georgia High School Association as a softball, baseball, and basketball official since 2009. Corey is married to Erica Greene Smith and is the proud father of a daughter, Dominique.
No biogragraphical information submitted. PROVINCE STRATEGUS SEMON M. TEKLEMARIAM University of Georgia Chapter, the Zeta Iota
Achievement since 1926
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
PROVINCE LT. STRATEGUS GRAYLEN T. SMITH Georgia Institute of Technology Chapter, the Lambda Delta
No biogragraphical information submitted.
PROVINCE HISTORIAN DR. CHRISTOPHER E. JOHNSON Decatur (GA) Alumni
It has been the greatest honor to serve the brothers of the Southeastern Province as Historian since March 2009. We have published four editions of our history book. With your assistance we are working to publish our fifth volume, the centennial edition. Other provinces are looking to the Southeastern Province to mentor them as they look to publish their history. Our history book has generated income to fund scholarships for the province each year since publication. This year will honor two undergraduates with the Ira Flowers Community Service Award, funded by a grant from my 2024 National Association of REALTORS ® Good Neighbor Award. I look forward to serving with the Southeastern Province Board of Directors to chart the next chapter of our history with your vote.
I look forward to seeing you at our 2025 Southeastern Province Council in Augusta, GA.
PROVINCE REPORTER TYRAN L. WHITE Charleston (SC) Alumni
Brother Tyran L. White is a 2001 initiate of the Claflin University Chapter, the Gamma Nu Colony of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. at Charleston Southern University. He became a chartering member of the Charleston Southern University Chapter, the Omicron Mu. He became inactive in the fraternity after his undergraduate years but has maintained his active status since his return. Brother White was born in Charleston, South Carolina to Willie and Naomi White, III and the second of four children. With his father serving in the United States Army, he grew up various locations throughout the United States. He graduated in 1999 from Waynesville Sr. High School in Waynesville, Missouri before matriculating to Charleston Southern University for college. Brother White transferred to Allen University and was an active member of the Allen University Chapter, the Beta Rho of Kappa Alpha Psi
Fraternity, Inc. He graduated from Allen University in 2004 with his bachelor’s degree in English. Brother White is currently a member of the Charleston (SC) Alumni Chapter where he has served as chair for their St. Jude’s and Reclamation committees. He currently serves as the Keeper of Records. In the Southeastern Province, Brother White has served in various positions and roles, many of them concurrently. He was appointed as the Social Media Committee Chair by Past Polemarch E. Delane Rosemond, Esq. where he revitalized old and established new social media accounts for the province. After serving a few years in that position, he was appointed as the Director of Communications and Technology, a position that he currently holds. He has also served as the Technology Committee Chair and the “unofficial” photographer for the province. As Technology Committee Chair, he led the efforts to establish an online repository for photos and videos from province events. Brother White currently serves as the Province Reporter and Editor-in-Chief of “The Southeastern Khronicle.” As the Editor-in-Chief, he embraced the challenge of building the current publication from scratch and moving the province forward by providing a digital platform to house and share our publication with brothers in the province and throughout the world.
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
Professionally, Brother White serves as an educator. He has served as a teacher for the past 9 years and has 13 years of experience in the field of education. He currently teaches high school English at Fort Dorchester High School in North Charleston, South Carolina. This is his 5th year at the school. He also serves as one of the assistant Track and Field coaches where he focuses on student-athletes who run middle distance (long sprints) and hurdles.
PROVINCE CHAPLAIN DR. VARDRY A. FREEMAN Greenville (SC) Alumni
Dr. Vardry A. Freeman joined the brotherhood of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated in Spring 2006 as an initiate of the Greenville, SC Alumni Chapter. As an active and dedicated member, Dr. Freeman has served in the following capacities: Southeastern Province Chaplain (2 terms), Greenville Alumni Chapter Chaplain, and Chapter Board member. He has also been onvolved in the Kappa Knights Program, Fundraising Committee, St. Jude Committee, and Board of Chaplains under Dr. William Meanes, Past Grand Chaplain.
Pastor Freeman realizes that ministry expands beyond the edifice of the church and desires to make a genuine difference in the lives of God’s people. He serves as an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Baptist Ministers’ Fellowship of Greenville and Vicinity (leading as its President from 2018 to 2020), the Progressive National Baptist Convention, SC Education & Mission Convention, a member of the Triune Mercy Center and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Department Foundation.
PROVINCE CHAPLAIN MELVIN S. NORRIS Newnan-Fairburn (GA) Alumni
No biogragraphical information submitted.
PROVINCE INTERNAL AUDITOR THEOPLIOUS F. WLEFARE Greenville (SC) Alumni
Theoplious (“T”) Welfare was initiated in the Alpha Lambda Chapter at South Carolina State University and is a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., life member of the Southeastern Province, and a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation Million Dollar Club. He is an active member of the Greenville, SC Alumni Chapter and has held the following positions: Polemarch, Vice Polemarch, Keeper of Exchequer, Board of Directors, Chairman of Budget/Audit Committee, Financial Management Committee, Fundraising Committee, Planning Committee, and Founders’ Day, and Silhouettes Liaison and Co-Chair of the First Kappa Knight Program and Sponsor of the First Grand Kappa Knight. Province and National activities included Southeastern Province Internal Auditor, Chairman of Province Planning Committee for the 39th Province
Council, Province Council Delegate, and Grand Chapter Meeting Delegate. Educational and professional profile consists of B.S. Degree from South Carolina State University in Chemistry, M.B.A. from Clemson University with concentration in finance and management, Staff Process engineer and Site- wide ISO Quality Management System Coordinator with Mitsubishi Polyester Film, LLC, Certified Lead Internal Auditor, Certified Six Sigma Black Belt in Statistical Techniques, Marketing Specialist with Hoechst Celanese, and Physical Testing Lab Manager with American Enka. Currently retired from a position of Staff Marketing Technical Service Engineer with Mitsubishi Polyester Film, LLC.
Achievement since 1926
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Some of the awards received are the 2018 Leadership Award, the Polemarch’s Award, Achievement Award, and the Outstanding Leadership Award from the Greenville Alumni Chapter, Awards of Appreciation from the Southeastern Province, Distinguished Service Award and Hero’s Award from South Carolina State University Alumni Association, and Leadership Award from Hoechst Federal Credit Union for the terms served as a Director on the Board of Directors. Past Treasurer of Reedy River Missionary Baptist and presently serving as a Trustee at the Reedy River Missionary Baptist Church in Mauldin, SC. I consider it a great honor to serve as the Province Internal Auditor and take the responsibility very serious. Consequently, my mission is to ensure a strong Province internal control system to prevent theft and embezzlement and to deter “Honest” Brothers from misconduct.
PROVINCE NOMINATING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN DOMINIQUE W. RIGGINS Albany (GA) Alumni
Brother Dominique W. Riggins is a Spring 2016 initiate of the Claflin University Chapter, the Gamma Nu of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Since his initiation, he has remained actively engaged in the fraternity and has been a presence within the Southeastern Province, serving both as a Board Member and Committee Chair. As an undergraduate at Claflin University, Brother Riggins served as President of the Sophomore Class and, as a Junior, was President of the Student Government Association (SGA). He also completed two consecutive terms as Vice-Polemarch of the Gamma Nu Chapter. He was a member of the Eta Class of the Fraternity’s Undergraduate Leadership Institute (ULI). His academic and leadership excellence was recognized with the highest student award for outstanding service at Claflin University, as well as the Leadership and Service Award for the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
He achieved the highest cumulative GPA in his major and was honored as a Presidential Scholar, the only senior to graduate with such distinction. Additionally, Brother Riggins was a member of the Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. After graduation, Brother Riggins joined the Albany (GA) Alumni Chapter, where he has continued his active involvement in the fraternity. He has served as a member of the Undergraduate Board of Directors (SC) and as Junior Province Vice-Polemarch of the Southeastern Province. His service extends to the national level, where he served on the Council of Junior Province Vice-Polemarchs and as National Vice Chairman of the Membership Training Academy (MTA). At the 83rd Grand Chapter Meeting in Orlando, FL, he was a delegate and member of the Grand Chapter Nominating Committee. He was bestowed the 94th Guy Levis Grant Award at the 84th Grand Chapter Meeting in Philadelphia, PA. Currently, Brother Riggins serves as the Nominating Committee Chair for the Southeastern Province, Polemarch of the Albany (GA) Alumni Chapter, and Advisor to the Albany State University Chapter, the Delta Xi. Professionally, Brother Riggins is an assistant principal at Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School, a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School, in Dougherty County, Georgia. In recognition of his dedication to education, he was named Teacher of the Year for Dougherty Comprehensive High School for the 2022-23 school year. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Albany Civil Rights Institute. Brother Riggins is an active member of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Albany, GA.
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - ALUMNI (GA) ODELL TAYLOR, JR. Lawrenceville-Duluth (GA) Alumni
Odell Taylor Jr., is the son of Rev. and Mrs. Odell Taylor Sr., where they raised he and his five sisters in Buckatunna, Mississippi. He is a 1995 graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Journalism and a 2004 graduate of the University of Phoenix with a Master of Business Administration and is currently employed with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt as a Segment Director of Intervention overseeing 14 states for the organization. He is a Spring 2000 initiate of the Greenville (MS) Alumni Chapter, and since his time in Georgia has held memberships within the Southeastern Province chapters of College Park (GA) Alumni Chapter, and Lawrenceville- Duluth Alumni Chapter, and currently serves on the SEP Board of Directors as the (GA) Alumni Chapter Board of Member.
Most notably, he had the opportunity to serve as the Polemarch of the Lawrenceville-Duluth Alumni Chapter for four years, and during this administration the chapter experienced tremendous growth in terms of memberships and provincial awards recognition. One main point of emphasis for him is that he initiated the chapters 20K for 20 schools’ scholarship endeavor program which at that time provided a $1,000 scholarship to a deserving African American male student within each of Gwinnett County high schools which still is in place today. Also, during his tenure, the chapter received the Reclamation Award (Large chapter), Large Chapter of the Year award (3 consecutive year), Guide Right Directors awards.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - ALUMNI (GA) ANTHONY B. CLARK Atlanta (GA) Alumni
Brother Anthony B. Clark, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, has resided in Atlanta, Georgia, for the past 14 years, and is currently serves as the Polemarch of the Atlanta (GA) Alumni Chapter. He has been married for 28 years to Andrea and is the father of Tyler, a Fall 2022 initiate of the Atlanta (GA) Alumni Chapter, and Logan. Brother Clark attended Morgan State University and is a Fall 1988 initiate of the Morgan State University Chapter, the Alpha Iota of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. While earning a degree in Telecommunication, he was a scholar athlete participating in football and was a 4-year letterman. His professional career span 33 years in the Bio Onology and Pharmaceutical arena. He currently serves as a Regional Business Director for Nuvation Bio. At Nuvation, he is chairman of the DE&I's Community Outreach pillar. Brother Clark heeds the call to give voice to those in need.
His personal, fraternal, and professional life provides the opportunity to blend philanthropic activities. Brother Clark is the past Vice President, and current Trustee, of the Atlanta Diamond Foundation which supports the Atlanta (GA) Alumni Chapter's Guide Right, Senior Kappa, and Scholarship efforts. While serving as the chapter's Fundraising Chairman, Brother Clark has led efforts raising more than $220,000. He has brought corporate resources to the fraternity as well such as: AARP, Immunomedics, Axiom Construction, and Celgene Corporation ($65,000 sponsorship, 83rd Grand Chapter Meeting) as part of the Grand Chapter's Healthy Kappas, Healthy Communities committee. He is currently Chairman of the Corporate Affairs Committee in the Southeastern Province. He is also involved with his undergraduate chapter's Achievement Initiative Foundation serving as a founding member. Brother Clark contributes to the National Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation, becoming a President's Contributor and Thomas J. Bradley Contributor. Brother Clark is a founding member of the Morgan Sate Kappa Endowed Scholarship Fund and has a name endowment at Morgan State University. He achieved this named endowment by paying back his football scholarship to the university's foundation. Brother Clark has been “IN GOOD STANDING” for his entire 36 years in the bond. He is a Grand Chapter Life Member and a Southeastern Province Life Member. He's held membership in the Alpha Iota, the Baltimore (MD) Alumni (E), and the Atlanta (GA) Alumni (SE). The Clark family is dedicated to special needs programs and education. They spend time working with the Marcus Autism Institute in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Bayes Achievement Center in Huntsville, Texas.
Achievement since 1926
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PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - ALUMNI (GA) WILLIAM H. BROOKS Atlanta (GA) Alumni
William Harold Brooks, affectionately known as "Butch", was born on November 16th 1963, and was Student Council President during his senior year of high school, graduating from Neptune Sr. High School in June of 1982. He attended Morehouse College and earned a B.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Mathematics in July of 1987. His professional career commenced two months after graduating from Morehouse College, moving to Washington, DC, and working at RJO Enterprises, Inc. in Lanham, MD. He was the youngest Computer Engineer in the Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence (C3I) Division of the company. Butch left RJO in 1989, and moved back to Atlanta working at Compuadd, a company out of Austin, TX for two years and then started working for The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a contractor in Atlanta, GA, where he set up the Atlanta DEA’s first ever computer networking system in a solo effort. It was at this time that other agencies noticed his skill set for networking and computers. While working as a contractor
with the DEA, he established his contracts with the U.S. Attorney's Atlanta office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation until 1998. With a short stint at Scientific Atlanta (now Cisco) from 1998 until 2000, Butch went to work for Worldspan, now Travelport, from 2000 until 2020, a span of 20 years, holding titles of Engineer, IT Manager, Technology Change Manager, and Director. He also worked at USAA as a Technology Change Manager, The Walt Disney Company as a Technology Change Manager, and now Charles Schwab as an Organizational Change Manager. Butch was PTA President for several years in the school system where his children attended school, was President of the DADS Association simultaneously, and was a yearly invited member of the Superintendent's forum. Butch was initiated into the Atlanta Alumni Chapter during the Spring of 2013 along with his line brothers "The Ten Sons of the Diamond." He has chaired almost every committee in the chapter and has been, at least, a member of all of the committees. He has held the positions of Strategus, Keeper of Records, and Vice Polemarch, and he is the immediate past Polemarch of the chapter. He was elected in a late election during the heart of the COVID pandemic in 2020, and during his tenure as Polemarch, the Chapter established the Atlanta Diamond Foundation and accomplished a myriad of other successes, which include: 1. Increasing membership under his leadership from 73 brothers to 255 brothers in two and a half years as Polemarch. 2. Winning Reclamation Chapter of the Year under his leadership in the Southeastern Province every year. 3. Winning Website of the Year Chapter under his leadership in 2021 and 2022. 4. Having the largest reclamation in the history of Kappa under his leadership in 2022 with 73 reclaimed brothers (also 72 in 2023). 5. Being the first chapter (pilot chapter) in the history of Kappa under his leadership to receive a merchandising license to sell Atlanta Alumni Chapter goods and paraphernalia in the online "Kappa Store." 6. Raising the largest amount of funds in the history Atlanta Alumni under his leadership at $239,000.00. 7. Starting out with an exchequer of $36,000.00 in 2020 and ended with an exchequer of $130,000.00 in 2023 under his leadership. 8. Distributing the largest amount of scholarships to students in the history of the chapter under his leadership. 9. Being co-creator of the Cigars and Kocktails fundraiser, the largest fundraiser in the history of Atlanta Alumni Chapter. 10. Initiating a full sponsorship on Atlanta Alumni's holiday baskets with AARP because of his engagement.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - UNDERGRADUATE (GA) JORDAN N. KARIM Georgia Institute of Technology Chapter, the Lambda Delta
No biogragraphical information submitted.
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Achievement since 1926
PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - ALUMNI (SC) MICHAEL J. MYERS Kingstree (SC) Alumni
Michael Jerrod Myers was born July 9, 1991, to Mary F. Hannah and the late Nathaniel Myers Jr. in Florence, SC. Raised in the Suttons Community of Williamsburg County, Michael matriculated through public school in Kingstree, SC. Michael graduated as valedictorian of his 2009 class and enrolled at the University of South Carolina in August 2009, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering in 2014 and receiving his master’s degree in Engineering Management in December 2016. Michael is a program manager for AMAROK: Ultimate Perimeter Security, focusing on enterprise strategy and continuous improvement. Michael is also an adjunct instructor for Project Management and Agile Fundamentals for Midlands Technical College and Allen University. Michael has professional experience in multiple industries, including the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Electric Utilities, State
Government, and Higher Education. In his passion for project management, Michael started a consulting firm, Altitude Consulting, LLC (based in Columbia, SC) where he provides Project Management education and training for professionals seeking project management certifications. Michael’s execution of Project Management training is recognized and licensed by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education and is an approved training partner for the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce Development. Having trained 100+ students in Agile Project Management and in preparation for their PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, Michael’s firm holds a 100% certification achievement for students that have completed his course and taken the exam with a 100% first try pass rate. Michael’s firm also provides personalized business consulting services and career services through resume reviews and interview preparation. Michael is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc where he serves as the Project Manager for the Fraternity’s National Digital Infrastructure Team, the National Risk Management co-chair, an Operating Assistant for the Grand Keeper of Records, and on the Southeastern Province Board of Directors as the South Carolina Alumni Board of Director. As the project manager for the Digital Infrastructure Team, Michael is currently tasked with the implementation of the Fraternity’s new website and member access portal. To date, Michael has successfully led his team to the creation of 3 critical operational functions and coordinated the implementation training for ALL chapters internationally, reaching over 250,000 members. In his role as National Risk Management co-chair, Michael has spearheaded the creation and standardization of Risk Management training for the Fraternity and that has resulted in policy updates to reduce threats and increase opportunities for Fraternity success. During his first year as the SC Alumni Board of Director, Brother Myers has established a monthly call with South Carolina leaders to disseminate national and provincial updates, develop solutions for chapter level concerns, and support the growth of South Carolina participation on province committees and in province initiatives through brainstorming sessions and coaching chapters on how to optimize efforts and achievements. Having been appointed to the Leadership Training program by Province Polemarch Mock, Brother Myers has been actively supporting Brother Leo Brown, chair, in developing specialized training focused on chapter operations, community outreach, business partnerships, and leadership and skills training. Through his membership, Michael’s passion for service is evident in his participation and advocacy of March of Dimes through their March for Babies and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital recognizing and participating in annual Sunday of Hope worship services. Michael’s greatest inspiration and blessing is his wife, Phonecia Myers. They currently reside in Columbia, South Carolina and have 1 dog, Major. They are members of Second Calvary Baptist Church on Mason Road where they both are bible study leaders and Michael serves as chair of the Missions Ministry. Michael’s guiding scripture is Matthew 7:7: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Achievement since 1926
The Southeastern Khronicle | Winter 2025 | 13
PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
No biogragraphical information submitted. BOARD OF DIRECTORS - ALUMNI (UAE) CARLOS A. THOMAS Abu Dhabi (UAE) Alumni
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - UNDERGRADUATE (SC) BRYSON A. PETERSON University of South Carolina Chapter, the Zeta Epsilon
Bryson Peterson is currently a Junior at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC. He pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Integrated Information Technology. Since coming to USC Bryson has been active in NAACP as well as AAAS(Association of African American Students). He was initiated in the Zeta Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi the first semester of his freshman year which has allowed him to grow through leadership roles, and taught him invaluable skills and life lessons while also providing him a brotherhood to fall back on while facing the challenges of going to a predominately white institution. He is also on the SGA as a Student Senator and a MAPP mentor for incoming black and brown students. Prior to entering his freshman year at Carolina, Mr. Peterson was an honor student at South Aiken High School graduating with a 4.1 GPA. His unparallel sportsmanship
was exemplary as a captain of the Varsity football team, and a member of the Varsity basketball and track teams. He was a mentee in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kappa Upsilon Omega Chapter’s, College Admissions Process (CAP) where he worked closely with chapter members to apply for college scholarships, attended job-related workshops, and participated in community service projects. Mr. Peterson served as Sunday School teacher for children ages 5-8, Youth Director at Rosa Spring Baptist Church and choir member on the Young Adult Choir at Ridge Hill Baptist Church. He participated in annual Christmas programs and developed his speeches to recite in support Black History programs. Mr. Peterson is seasonally employed with Blush Box Curated Gifting, Oxon Hill, MD as an apprentice where he performs duties as team lead responsible for managing staff, tracking work hours, developing training plans, tracking inventory, and providing daily briefs regarding project progress and updates to senior management. Since 2016, Mr. Peterson has worked for his elderly neighbors by cutting grass, removing weeds, blowing, and edging yards, trimming hedges, and removing trash. Honors and awards include Beta Club, Choices Scholarship Program recipient, Community Service Award, Culinary Arts Certificate, 2023 Mr. BUSC Sophomore and the Terrell G. Johnson Commitment award In his spare time, Mr. Peterson enjoys fishing, gardening, and weightlifting.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - UNDERGRADUATE (SC) ELIJAH K. OWENS Clemson University Chapter, the Kappa Lambda
I was born with an innate curiosity and a drive to understand how things work. From an early age, I found myself drawn to problem-solving, building, and engineering concepts. My journey has been one of continuous learning, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of my life.
Raised in Sharpsburg, Georgia, I pursued my education with dedication, earning recognition in academic and extracurricular activities. My passion for engineering led me to Clemson University, where I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The rigorous coursework, combined with hands-on projects, has solidified my expertise in mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science. Throughout my academic journey, I have balanced studies with professional experiences. I worked at Amazon Fulfillment Center, where I gained firsthand experience in logistics, teamwork, and efficiency. Additionally, my role as a Culinary Runner at Augusta Nationals
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Achievement since 1926
PROVINCE NOMINATIONS
taught me discipline and adaptability in a fast-paced environment. More recently, as an Operations Assistant at Fike Recreational Center, I have developed leadership skills, overseeing safety measures and customer interactions while ensuring smooth daily operations. Beyond academics and work, I am an active member of my university community. I have had the honor of being a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., as well as participating in organizations such as the Clemson NAACP, Clemson Black Square, and the National Society for Black Engineers. These affiliations have allowed me to cultivate leadership, mentorship, and advocacy skills while connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for progress and excellence. My dedication has been recognized through various honors, including the National Honors Society Award and the Omega Psi Phi Outstanding GPA Award. These accolades serve as a testament to my work ethic and drive to excel. As I look toward the future, my goal is to continue growing as an engineer and a leader. I aim to contribute innovative solutions in the field of mechanical engineering while also uplifting and inspiring those around me. My journey has only just begun, and I am excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
2025 Achievement Academy Southeastern Province Council Undergraduate Scholarships and Awards
Kappa Foundation Scholarships: Hillary H. Holloway Scholarship ($1,000) (Two will be awarded in 2025) ⁃ 3.0 GPA (Official Transcript) ⁃ Two letters of recommendations: (1) one from the Chapter Advisor, (1) one from the Alumni Chapter Polemarch ⁃ Must have registered and attended most recent Undergraduate Leadership Summit ⁃ Write a 500-word essay on meritorious achievement Achievement Academy Scholarships and Awards: Dr. C. W. Grant Scholarship ($1,000) ⁃ 3.0 GPA (Official Transcript) ⁃ Two letters of recommendations: (1) one from the Chapter Advisor, (1) one from the Alumni Chapter Polemarch ⁃ Must have registered and attended most recent and Undergraduate Leadership Summit ⁃ Write a 500-word essay on meritorious achievement Undergraduate Future Leaders Award ($500) ⁃ Must have registered and attended most recent and Undergraduate Leadership Summit ⁃ Two letters of recommendations: (1) one from the Chapter Advisor, (1) one from the Alumni Chapter Polemarch ⁃ Write a 500-word essay on your definition of leadership in your chapter Community Service Award honoring Ira Flowers ($500) (Two will be awarded in 2025) (2025 only sponsored by Dr. Christopher E. Johnson) ⁃ Must have registered and attended most recent and Undergraduate Leadership Summit ⁃ Two letters of recommendations: (1) one from the Chapter Advisor, (1) one from the Alumni Chapter Polemarch ⁃ Write a 500-word essay on your community service efforts on in your community.
Please email all documents to Dr. Christopher Johnson, Achievement Academy Chairman, by March 21, 2025 , to drchrisej@gmail.com . Official transcripts must be scanned and sent with your application. Additionally, a professional headshot with a shirt and tie should be submitted. The awards will be announced during the Southeastern Province Council meeting. Checks will be mailed so please include a current address for the award check to be mailed. Any questions contact Dr. Christopher Johnson at drchrisej@gmail.com or 770-652-4302 .
Achievement since 1926
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The Work Begins in the South Fulton area of Ge SOUTH FULTON (GA) ALUMNI CHAPTER CHARTERED
In a historic and much anticipated day, after a year of preparation and planning, the South Fulton (GA) Alumni Chapter (SFAC) was chartered in the afternoon on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Southeastern Province Polemarch Brian Mock presided over the chartering ceremony. Many Brothers in attendance were from the surrounding metro-Atlanta chapters, including their polemarchs, as well as province dignitaries. Several of them stood and expressed good wishes and congratulations to the chapter. "Lasting impact through mentorship, scholarship, and community engagement, all while upholding the rich legacy of Kappa Alpha Psi,” he said. Following the ceremony, many of the charter members and guests celebrated over dinner at nearby Authentic Steak and Seafood.
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Achievement since 1926
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SFAC VOLUNTEERS FOR THANKSGIVING FOOD GIVEAWAY On November 8, 2024, less than one week after its chartering, South Fulton (GA) Alumni Chapter (SFAC) got off to a great start serving the community, by volunteering with the City of South Fulton's Thanksgiving Food Giveaway initiative. Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Jaceey Sebastian (District 4) invited the community to a Thanksgiving food giveaway on Friday, November 8 starting at 4 pm. Several Brothers arrived early for set up, while others came out throughout the afternoon to assist in assembling bags of canned and boxed goods, as well as vegetables. As hundreds of cars pulled up to each station, the brothers placed the side items as well as turkeys into their cars and wished each family a Happy Thanksgiving. Food items for over one thousand families were distributed. In a correspondence email, Sebastian expressed his gratitude,
writing, “Thank you! Very grateful that you and your brothers participated!”
It was the first of several community service initiatives that the chapter had planned to participate in during the holiday season.
Achievement since 1926
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