Kappa Journal Conclave Issue (Summer 2017)

The Kappa Alpha Psi ®

An Ocial Publication of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

WELCOME TO THE CITY BEAUTIFUL

From left: Marion L. Campbell and Erick B. Wicker Lead the Local Planning Committee

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SUMMER 2017—CONCLAVE EDITION VOLUME CIII, ISSUE 2

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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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VOLUME CIII, ISSUE 2

SUMMER 2017— CONCLAVE EDITION

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) Art Director Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter KappaJournal1914@gmail.com Deputy Editor for Features Clarence Tucker Norfolk (VA) Alumni Chapter ctuckermpt@gmail.com Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni Chapter aaronwilli02@yahoo.com Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter GrandHistorian1911@gmail.com Advertising Sales Director Sherman K. Kizart Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter Van Jordan 1989–1990 Mel L. Davis 1990–1999 Feature Writer Aaron Williams 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. shermankizart@att.net Office: (312) 421-4803 Cell: (312) 371-4127

Local Conclave Planning Committee Co-Chairmen, Marion L. Campbell and Erick B. Wicker along with their chapters and committee members, have been hard at work with the Grand Chapter Meeting Planning Committee to bring the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting to the Rosen Shingle Creek from July 18-22, 2017. To get to know them in this issue, see their Q&A. 86 Cover Story

Journal Notes

Grand Polemarch’s Message

Kappa News: Centennials and Anniversaries

20 Senior Kappa Spotlight 22 Alumni Spotlight 24 Kappas in the Community

Getting to know the Planning Committee of Lambda Omega. 69 Cover Story: Undergraduate Spotlight

32 83 rd Grand Chapter Greetings 52 Grand Chapter Meeting Planning 62 Cover Story Spotlights 96 An Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Speaks 132 Health & Wellness 136 Kappa History: A Look Back 146 To The Chapter Invisible 165 Special Investigative Report 168 The Gallery 220 The Kappa Alpha Psi Directory 224 A Look Back at the 82 nd Grand Chapter Meeting

Grand Board Member Jimmy McMikle leads with Learn 2 Live Initiative. 24 Kappas in the Community

62 Edward L. Blacksheare, Sr. Welcomes you with a Lifetime of Service to the Community.

92 Roll Call of the Province Polemarchs.

Cover photo and above: Nancy Brown/106FOTO.com

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JOURNAL NOTES

The Stories and Personalities Behind the Planning of the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting

bers, we were able to talk with long-time Grand Chapter Meeting Planner, Kevin “KJ” Johnson, who is also the president of the National Coalition of Black Meet- ing Planners during the May Grand Board Meeting (see page 52). We also looked in on our 12 "Chief Administrative Officers" better known as our Province Polemarchs, and conduct- ed a Province Roll Call (see page 92). We also hear for the first time from Ju- nior Province Vice Polemarch – Florida, Alexander Belot, originally from Orlando (Alpha Xi 2016) (see page 72). Why, you might ask? The Kappa Alpha Psi Journal is a historical document. It reflects and records living history. Long after the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting is written into the annals of Kappa Alpha Psi ® a brother may wonder not only about the names and faces of those who planned it but also about what those names and faces were thinking as it was being planned. Many of our documents are written as a record of completed tasks and events. In general, the Journal provides the op- portunity for you, the reader, to also un- derstand the character , even the person- ality , of the brother whose photograph you are viewing. This is what makes the Journal such a vital part of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Over the last seven issues of the Journal over which I have had stewardship, you’ll recall that we have had to play catch up from Winter 2015 through to this issue—we have taken your feed- back and have been more deliberate in focusing more deeply into the subjects of each of our stories. So, they are a bit

longer. The photos, where possible, have been more telling of the moment. And oh, what stories the Journal has been able to tell! Your stories of how you and your chapters have served, implemented facets of Kappa’s Six-Point Plan under the 33 rd Administration’s theme of Rebirth, Reclaim, Recommit, by Leaving No Brother Behind, and your individual achievements from neophytes to 60-plus year members—our record has been outstanding. This issue is no exception. Consider Kappa Alpha Psi’s newest initiatives in partnering with the Celgene Corpora- tion in Standing in the GAAP (see page 134), or the outstanding work of the Learn 2 Live program (see page 24). We talk with Grand Board Members Julun (see page 58), Taylor (see page 60) and Finney (see page 123) as well as the Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton, III, Esq. (see page 88) who share their thoughts on life, the Con- clave and fraternity. Finally, the Eta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at the University of Nebraska celebrated its Centennial (see page 8), the Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Northwestern University celebrates its Centennial this year (see page 11) and the Delta Pi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Michigan State University is recognized for its 60 th Anni- versary (see page 16). In this season of success and celebration of positive, life- sustaining work throughout our commu- nities, we have much to be both proud and humbled that God has allowed us to accomplish these very good works as members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . Happy 83 rd Conclave, my brothers!

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq.

T he approach of this Conclave edition of The Kappa Alpha Psi Journal is not unlike the approach of the 33 rd Admin- istration, which has refined its focus to six key areas through Kappa's Six-Point Plan. This issue is designed to provide some perspective behind the men who have toiled in the vineyards in planning the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting (see page 62). From Brothers Campbell and Wicker on the cover to the committee members from the Lambda Omega of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at the University of Central Florida, Zachary Evans (see page 69) and Kevin Louidor (see page 71), are all featured (Brother Louidor was recently elected to the Southern Province Board of Directors). In addi- tion to local planning committee mem-

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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 83 RD GRAND CHAPTER MEETING MESSAGE

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

W hen the Apostle Paul observed that there were issues in the churches of Galatia in that they were not being the best stewards of the gifts God gave them, he wrote a letter that bears the admonition found in Galatians 6:10 that reads; “So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” As we prepare to journey to Orlando, Florida for the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, let us take full advantage of every oppor- tunity that will come our way, recogniz- ing that we were founded on Christian principles, and our journey has been much like the churches in Galatia. We, with our imperfections, sometimes shirk our responsibilities and often need to reclaim the heritage that is the foun- dation that our Founders laid for our prosperity. Often, as I travel throughout Kappa land, meeting with brothers who have dedicated their lives to service, I learn of the good work they have done with the citizens they serve without precon-

ditions, except need. These faithful brothers, who have had the opportunity to achieve in their field of endeavor, know first-hand what it takes to move from one condition to another. They know that our earthly destinations may be a distance from where we are, and we often need help along the way. They know this, because most of us have come from circumstances where re- sources to travel to the destination have been unavailable and more than not, meager. These brothers have learned that human beings can move their dire circumstances to a better place called “opportunity.” It becomes our duty as members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, to do what it takes to change the lives of people, especially people in the local communities where we have developed relationships and know their condition. As we finish our planning for our Grand Chapter Meeting, let us take the “opportunity” to avail ourselves of the many activities that are on the conclave schedule. Have fun, but take time to put on the armor of faith and prepare to better serve our constituents. Now that we’re two years into the 33 rd administration, we have the opportunity

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GRAND POLEMARCH'S 83 RD GRAND CHAPTER MEETING MESSAGE

A Kappa chooses to work in the garden, where he nurtures the flowers with care. He does it because it’s an opportunity to enjoy the fruits that it bears. A Kappa chooses gardens that need care; it’s an opportunity to help it grow. He does it because God wants him to help; He does it because God told him so. There are opportunities everywhere we go, a time and a place to practice Φ NΠ. The work of a Kappa never subsides; a Kappa keeps working until he dies. —KAPPA OPPORTUNITY by Earl T. Tildon

to reflect on the promises we made at the 82 nd Grand Chapter Meeting in New Orleans in 2015. We have the opportunity to prove to you that we have left the podium where we made promises and retreated to the trenches where we rolled up our sleeves and went to work for the good of Kappa. We will roll-out the “State of the Fraternity Report,” hoping that the committees and commissions will demonstrate in their reports that they have done due diligence in honoring the trust you placed in this administration to keep its promises and serve you well. When we get to Orlando and sound the gavel for this important Grand Chapter Meeting, we will be asking you whether you believe we were good stewards in keeping our mighty Ship Kappa steady and moving forward. We will be asking you to continue to hold us account- able for what you have charged us to do. As you reflect on your observations during these two years, we ask you to commit yourself to help us do better in the coming days. The incumbent 33 rd administration is filled with committed elected and appointed servants who have expressed interest in continuing to fulfill the roles that have been given to us. We ask you for your support as we move toward the third year of this

administration.

You have proved this with your continu- ous support. We’re hopeful that you agree that we should take positions on public policy issues that affect Kappa and our constituents, and agree that our Public Policy Committee has been proactive in addressing these issues. In my visits to chapters around the country and beyond, I have had the op- portunity to share with you the progress we have made in the implementation of the signature Six-Point Plan of the 33 rd administration. I have listened intently as you have shared your thoughts with me as a matter for the good of the fraternity. We believe that you are encouraged that we have dedicated ourselves to changing the paradigm of our initiation process that has enabled us to remove the moratorium on membership intake, both at the alumni and undergraduate levels. It is noted that in 2016 the 33 rd Administration produced the highest total number of undergraduates that were initiated in a one year period in the history of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . The admin- istration also produced the highest total of undergraduates and alumni brothers during a one year period in 2016 with

When the Grand Chapter Meeting is over and our conventioneers have gone their separate ways, what will they have said positively about Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.? More specifically, what will our brothers in the Bond have said about our corporate stewardship? We hope that they will say that they support our work in the area of phi- lanthropy where we have partnered with the National African American Museum of History and Culture; that they believe in our military and are glad that we established the Military and Veterans Affairs Commission; that they are pleased that we formed the Broth- ers of the Shield Committee to explore opportunities to bridge the gap between citizens and law enforcement, especially situations that have adversely affected our Black youth; and that you believe that we should honor our elders and that the formation of the Senior Kappa Endowment Advisory Board to provide resources in support of our senior broth- ers is a great thing to do. In addition, we know that you are pleased that we once again joined with the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospi- tal and its “Sunday of Hope” initiative.

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GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

less than 50 percent participating the MTA period. However, we are the first to emphasize that there are still challenges that will demand our constant vigilance in our MTA process. We solicit your support in helping Chapter Advisors in their oversight over our chapters. We also hope that brothers who have labored tirelessly and willingly in this 33 rd administration have felt the appre- ciation that brothers have expressed for their service. In this conclave issue of the Kappa Jour- nal, you will see coverage of stewardship of the 33 rd administration. You will see what your officers and support team has done in support of the mission and objectives we promised in New Orleans. I am grateful to Brother Cleveland Fer- guson III, Esq. for his dedicated service as Interim Editor. He assumed the position at a time when we were behind in our constitutional mandate to publish four Journals annually. He and his team have done a yeoman’s job in getting the Journal production to a place where we are now, on time as you want us to be. Thanks for supporting Brother Ferguson, and thanks for the work you have done that gives us great things to talk about.

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Supports the National Museum of African American History and Culture

There are four pillars upon which the National Museum of African American History and Culture stands. We honor these pillars and have chosen to participate:

 It provides an opportunity for those who are interested in Afri- can American culture to explore and revel in this history through interactive exhibitions  It helps all Americans see how their stories, their histories, and their cultures are shaped and informed by global influences  It explores what it means to be an American and share how American values like resiliency, optimism, and spirituality are reflected in African American history and culture  It serves as a place of collaboration that reaches beyond Wash- ington, D.C. to engage new audiences and to work with the myriad of museums and educational institutions that have explored and preserved this important history well before this museum was created

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STEPPIN’ UP TO HEALTH

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

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP ®

The Eta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at the University of Nebraska Celebrates its Centennial E ta Chapter was chartered at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska on March 12, 1916. The petitioning members at that time were R. K. Jewell, C.C. Mays, A.W. Reason, C.T. Ross, V.B. Young, A. L. Kerford and A. B. Moss. The weekend was full of fellowshipping and renewing of old ties. A highlight event included a special proclamation given by the governor of the State of Nebraska, Pete Ricketts who proclaimed the date of April 15, 2016, to be Kappa Alpha Psi ® Day. 100 YEARS

A ceremony was held where Kappa mem- bers and friends along with representatives from the University of Nebraska attended to dedicate a memorial Kappa Rock that was placed on the campus. The ceremony included speakers by the undergraduate chapter Polemarch Brodrick James, Greek Advisor Ms. Linda Foulz and Middle Western Polemarch Damon Barry.

During the weekend of April 14, 2016, more than 50 Eta Alumni members gathered to celebrate the 100 th anniversary of the Eta Chapter. The Middle Western Polemarch, Damon Barry was present to help members celebrate this glorious occasion.

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KAPPA NEWS

The Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Northwestern University Celebrates a 100 Year Legacy of Achievement

Theta History T he Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was char- tered on April 21, 1917, by Founders Elder W. Diggs, Byron K. Armstrong and Paul W. Caine. The charter initiation line included: E. Wilbur Johnson, Ira M. Hen- derson, Thurman F. Charleston, Carlyle F. Stewart, Roy M. Young and Joseph Goddard. Stewart served as Theta’s first Polemarch and Goddard as its Keeper of Records. The charter was not formally recognized by Northwestern University until 1923. Two years after its establishment, Theta collaborated with the Iota of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at the University of Chicago and the newly estab- lished Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter to host the 8 th Grand Chapter Meeting in Chicago, Illinois. Throughout the years, Theta struggled to remain active due to the meager number of Black men enrolled on the Northwestern Univer- sity campus. The first such instance of dormancy was during World War II (1939-1945). From this period of idleness due to a deple- tion of its members to serve in the war, Theta was first reactivated in 1947 by Grand Historian Emeritus and Past Permanent Kappa Alpha Psi Journal Editor, William L. Crump (Alpha Mu 1941) and Russell H. Dawson (Xi 1938) and remained largely active at North-

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KAPPA NEWS

western University until 1956, and was inactive again from 1956 to 1968. The Scroller Club which reactivated Theta, was named Kappa Ship Black is Beautiful Bismarck, and crossed the burning sands on June 17, 1968. The reactivation of Theta on the campus of Northwestern University by Dan Davis (Alpha Rho 1967) opened the door for a greater Black presence and social life on campus. Theta’s reactivation also served as a catalyst for other Black fraternities and sororities to be accepted and establish charters on Northwestern’s campus. Theta was the first Black Greek Lettered Organization (BGLO) to charter a chap- ter at Northwestern. In addition, other

BGLOs which subsequently established chapters at Northwestern, went dormant and had not reactivated their chapters until after Theta returned in 1968.

The most meaningful of these goals was the creation of the Theta Alumni Associ- ation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organiza- tion, designed to support undergraduate students both at Northwestern Univer- sity and at Loyola University of Chica- go and ultimately to keep the legacy of Theta Chapter moving forward into the fraternity’s bicentennial!

Planning for a Historic Celebration

The Theta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi ® celebrated the 100-year anniversary of its charter at Northwestern University (and formal recognition at Loyola Uni- versity of Chicago) during the weekend of April 13-16, 2017 in Evanston, Illinois. Planning for this historic celebration was begun by the Theta Alumni and Undergraduate brothers in 2015 with 12 specific goals for the Centennial Cel- ebration—all twelve goals were achieved!

The Occasion

Most events were held in Evanston, Illinois, either on the campus of North- western University, or at the host hotel, the Hilton Orrington/Evanston. Events included an undergraduate seminar: "Why Black Greeks Are Still Relevant," a

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brothers-only luncheon, a plaque dedica- tion for the Northwestern University Af- rican American Studies Program Build- ing (The Black House), a Jazz & Jokes Concert fundraiser, a Guide Right com- munity service project, an undergraduate step show, a formal Centennial ball and finally culminating in an Easter Sunday worship service. Over 100 Theta brothers from every decade, participated with enthusiasm, vigor, fellowship and brotherhood; begin- ning with members of the revered Theta reactivation line of 1968: Kappa Ship B.I.B. Bismarck. Theta undergraduates, with the sup- port and guidance of Theta alumni, kicked off the weekend with an under- graduate seminar titled “Why Black Greeks Are Still Relevant.” The event was hosted on campus and received coverage from the Daily Northwestern newspaper. The event was open to all undergradu- ates, faculty and Pan-Hellenic members. The seminar venue was both well attend- ed and well received by all participants. The discussion was enlightening, and served well as a format which the Theta chapter plans to duplicate in the future. Thursday, April 13, 2017– Undergraduate Seminar

Above: The brothers convene at The Rock. Middle: The Theta Chapter dedicated a commemorative plaque at the Black House. Opposite Page: The Theta Chapter holds a Guide Right event.

Friday, April 14, 2017– 100 Nupes Walk the Yard & Historic Plaque Dedication at the "Black House"

Plaque Dedication Ceremony at the home of African American Student Af- fairs or commonly known as the “Black House” to Northwestern undergradu- ates. Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles Jr., and Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott were present for this historic dedi- cation of the plaque, which commemo- rates the historical significance of Theta chapter to the Department of African

Early Friday morning, brothers ea- gerly assembled on Northwestern’s cam- pus and took a walk across the yard and down memory lane (see map for land- marks visited), which ended with the

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American Studies.

Brothers-Only Luncheon

The Theta brothers host- ed an opulent brothers-only luncheon that included several honored guests in- cluding: Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles Jr., Grand Board Member Ronald V. Julun, Grand Historian Kev- in P. Scott, North Central Province Polemarch, Korlon L. Kilpatrick II, as well as the 12 th and 20 th North Cen- tral Province Polemarchs, Eldridge T. Freeman Jr. and Michael C. Hughes Jr. Chapter Polemarchs from Chicago (IL), Gary (IL), Joliet (IL), Maywood-Whea-

his Shipmate, Dwain A. Perry (Theta 1983).

that was performed to near perfection. The step show culminated with broth- ers young and seasoned, hitting the Bop Kane, and doing the Half-step and the Fat Man, while the younger brothers did the Kappa Stroll.

ton (IL), Richton Park, Des Moines (IA) and of course, Theta also headed the dais. In all, more than 150 brothers were assembled, and the proceedings were led by Master of Ceremonies and past Theta Polemarch, Paul V. Johnson (Theta 1974). A documentary film by Tony G. Wil- liams (Gamma Beta 1993), chronicling the 100-year legacy of Theta Chapter was debuted, and was an incredible expe- rience for all the brothers in attendance. Brother Davis was acknowledged for his efforts which reactivated Theta in 1968 by being honored with a white Kappa blazer, also signifying his recent 50-year membership in Kappa Alpha Psi Frater- nity, Inc. The Centennial Jazz & Jokes Concert Fundraiser event was held at the beauti- ful Mary C. Galvin Recital Hall overlook- ing Lake Michigan and Chicago’s famous lakefront skyline. The event was emceed by John Marshall Jones (Theta 1980), who provided comic relief along with Calvin Evans (Champaign-Urbana (IL) Alumni 2009). The Soul Message Band and John Ray Jr. (Theta 1983) performed soulful renditions of songs by Stevie Won- der and The Gap Band, accompanied by Jazz & Jokes Concert Fundraiser

Saturday April 15, 2017– Guide Right Program

Θ The brothers of Theta and the Evan- ston (IL) Alumni Chapters met to kick off the Guide Right Program, in partner- ship with the Theta Alumni Association, and the Family Focus Evanston youth mentorship program. Brothers gathered and socialized with families from the community, as well as discussed the goal of this initiative to mentor the male youth of the Evanston community. Undergraduate Step Show After the Guide Right program, the Theta Nupes headed to a familiar place on the yard, “The Rock” located at the center of Northwestern’s campus. The Rock is a large ancient stone that all Northwestern Greeks symbolically paint for notable celebrations. In fact, all The- ta initiates have historically painted The Rock with Krimson & Kreme and Theta’s Greek letter. As in years past, the broth- ers assembled at noon to show the entire campus that the Nupes still run the yard! The undergraduate brothers put together a step show that will long be remembered for the hard work, practice and execution

Centennial Ball

On Saturday evening, after very little rest, visiting brothers, Theta brothers, their friends and family, and friends of Theta all assembled in the Grand Or- rington Ballroom at the Hilton Orrington/ Evanston Hotel for an elegant formal affair of more than 250 guests. Grand Polemarch Battles gave strong words of encouragement to the brothers and their guests to be vigilant in the face of the pressures faced by our community, and urged all assembled to be informed and engaged citizens. After the meal, the brothers and their guests danced, laughed, and the Nupes even broke out in more impromptu strolling and stepping. Former The- ta Polemarch, Dwight White (Theta 2014), who is now a graduate student at the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, painted a portrait of Founder Elder Watson Diggs. This amazing artwork was successfully auc- tioned, with the proceeds donated to the Theta Alumni Association.

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History Credits for the above items: Kevin Scott, Dan Davis, Frank Payton Jr., James Liddell and Yaw Ofosu. Above right: K.S.B.I.B. Bismarck.

Θ The Ball finale was a check presentation from the Theta Alumni Association in the amount of $2,500 to Polemarch, Gianni Cook (Theta 2016). These funds are intended to assist Theta undergraduates defray ex- penses necessary to maintain Theta Chapter’s annual man- dated certification with the Fraternity, as well as on cam- pus expenses. In that Good Ole Kappa Spirit, the evening was high- lighted by a serenade to the beautiful silhouettes and sig- nificant others with Theta’s traditional rendition of The Pin Song and The Sweetheart Song. Sunday April 16, 2017– Easter Worship Service On the morning of Eas- ter Sunday, the brothers worshiped together at Faith Temple Church of God in Christ in Evanston, Illinois. The Holy Spirit was ever present in the sanctuary and brothers presented the con- gregation with $700 for the church’s scholarship fund. Closeout Gathering After church, the broth- ers returned to the host hotel to share Chicago’s fa- mous Giordano’s pizza, and say their final good byes at the end of an action-packed weekend. Brothers were still excited, enjoying the fellow-

ship and sharing in what will be remembered as one of the greatest centennial celebra- tions in Kappa Alpha Psi ® history!

years of the Theta legacy of Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor, which continues to be written into the history of our beloved Kappa Alpha Psi ® .

Theta Alumni Association

By attending the Theta Centennial Celebration, all brothers in attendance reig- nited their commitment to Kappa Alpha Psi ® . After this Centennial, it is now expect- ed that many Theta brothers be reclaimed and become active in alumni chapters in their home cities. God willing, the Theta Alumni Association will pros- per and serve as a guiding light for Theta Chapter for the next 100 years. This is the beginning of the next 100

Contributors: Terrell Tate, Yaw K. Ofosu, Kevin P. Scott and P. Scott Montgomery.

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KAPPA NEWS

The Delta Pi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Michigan State University Celebrates 60 Years

T he Delta Pi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Michigan State University (MSU) celebrated its 60 th Anniversary dur- ing MSU’s Homecoming weekend last year. Chartered on May 1, 1956, Delta Pi has initiated more than 400 members into the Most Noble Clan. A pillar of the Northern Province, Delta Pi had a record 200 brothers registered for this historic occasion. The weekend’s festivities kicked off on Friday, October 14 th with 18 holes of golf at College Fields Golf Club. Kirk D. Rhodes (Delta Pi 1969), the reigning champion, once again dominated the links shooting a 78. Awards were also given to the winning team: Rhodes, Harold W. Bulger (Delta Pi 1969) and Clarence Willis, Jr. (Delta Pi 1969). Other award recipients included George S.D. Williams (Delta Pi 2012) for the longest drive, and Renaldo Major (Delta Pi 2008) for closest to the Pin. The day’s festivities concluded with a closed banquet at Causeway Bay Hotel, hosted by up-and-coming comedian Timothy E. City (Delta Pi 2009). The closed banquet was more than simply the culmination of a day of brothers compet- ing on the links. During the banquet, Delta Pi made numerous philanthropic presentations, including: a $500 donation to the Michigan State Black Alumni Association (MSUBA) and a $1,000 collection to end hunger in Mississippi. Darnell Manning (Delta Pi 1983) and CEO of the Mississippi Food Network Dr. Charles H. Beady, Jr. (Delta Pi 1968) accepted the donations, respectively.

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Publishing achievement for more than 100 years DP The highlight of the evening was a ceremony to honor Delta Pi’s members with at least 50 years in the Bond: George Brooks (Delta Pi 1959), Dalton A. Roberson (Delta Pi 1959), Harold R. Henderson (Delta Pi 1962), Harold R. Yates (Delta Pi 1962), Robinson S. Nunn (Delta Pi 1963), John F. Robert- son (Delta Pi 1963), Michael A. Snipes (Delta Pi 1963), Charles Patrick (Delta Pi 1964), Donnell Moorer (Delta Pi 1965), Thomas E. Bradley (Delta Pi 1966), John E. Berry (Delta Pi 1966) and Dr. Charles H. Beatty, Jr. (Delta Pi 1966) Each honoree received a plaque and a standing ovation along with other gifts. Chapter Roll Call was delivered by 24 th Northern Province Polemarch Kevin D. Kyles (Delta Pi 1984) who also received the Delta Pi Achievement Award. Saturday was all about football, food and fun. Despite a less-than-stellar performance by the Spartan Football team, the day began with tailgating and fellowship on Michigan State’s campus. Thanks to the culinary delights of chef Brian Swift (Delta Pi 1993) and near- perfect weather conditions, everyone in attendance was able to escape the reality of another Spartan loss on the gridiron. Saturday’s festivities were capped by Lansing (MI) Alumni hosting the Hospi- tality suite led by Lansing (MI) Alumni Polemarch Tyrone D. Sanders, Jr. Esq. (Delta Pi 1992).

The 60 th Charter Anniversary was well attended and received by the broth- ers and the campus alike. A special thank you goes out to the Delta Pi 60 th Reunion committee led by David O. Branch (Delta Pi 1976) for organizing an outstanding Anniversary weekend. Committee members included: Maxie C. Jackson (Delta Pi 1957), Charles J. Smith (Delta Pi 1969), Kevin D. Kyles, Darryl E. Campbell (Delta Pi 1998), Kerry D. Adams (Delta Pi 1992), Brian Swift, Eric K. LaShore (Delta Pi 1996), Dreux M. Baker (Delta Pi 2006), Kyle S. Barnes (Delta Pi 2009), Tim City, Ahmad M. Proctor (Delta Pi 2009) and George Williams.

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SENIOR KAPPAS SPOTLIGHT

Akron Doctor, 90, Isn't Ready to Hang up his StethoscopeAnytime Soon Special to the Journal by Betty Lin-Fisher

Dr. Russell L. Platt, Sr., above, was initiated April 18, 1947, with his brother Ernest Platt, at the Alpha Lambda of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at South Carolina State University. He is a graduate of South Carolina State University, The Ohio State University, and Meharry Medical School. He also served as 2 nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force Medical Services. His son, Russell L. Platt, Jr., was initiated at the Gamma Tau of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Kent State University in 1984.

D r. Russell L. Platt, Sr. came to Akron to train as a doctor because he knew that as a person of color in the 1960s, he would not get a job in a hospital in the south. Platt knew “regrettably” that even though he wanted to practice medicine in his hometown in South Carolina, it wouldn’t be accepted culturally. Dr. Russell L. Platt, Sr. was initiated on April 18, 1947 in the Alpha Lambda of Kappa Alpha Ps i® with his brother, Er- nest Platt, at South Carolina St. Univer- sity. He is a graduate of South Carolina St. University, The Ohio State Univer- sity and Meharry Medical School. He also served as a Second Lieutenant in the US Air Force Medical Services. He then became the first African Ameri- can to finish his residency at Akron City Hospital and stayed to build his life and practice in Akron. He would become one of the first African American doc- tors to have an integrated practice of both Caucasian and African American patients. Now, after 51 years in private practice and 57 years living in the com-

munity, he’s still going strong.

“People look on the outside, but he’s very good with patients. He’s all right with me. We’re going to pray for 15 more years,” Kirklin said. Platt, who says he has probably cared for more than 25,000 patients, isn’t taking new patients. People ask all the time, he said. “My life expectancy is such that I don’t think it’s fair. I get asked fairly often and some of them say ‘I don’t care,’ ” he said. And it’s “yet to be determined” who would take over for his practice, he said. “Unfortunately, I don’t know that many of the younger doctors who are new in practice and the older, or those who are middle aged, they have patients and I don’t know if they’re taking new pa- tients,” he said. Platt’s current patients say they’ll stick with him as long as they can. Dr. Brian Hayes (Akron (OH) Alumni 1997), a radiologist at Akron Radiology Inc., has known Platt since Hayes was a student 24 years ago at what is now Northeast Ohio Medical University.

Platt, who turned 90 on July 10, still sees patients three times a week and serves as the physician attending numer- ous health fairs for Summa Health. He is likely the longest-serving doctor with an affiliation to City Hospital, of- ficials said. But retiring is “not in my vocabulary,” Platt said, while sitting in an exam room in a West Akron medical office he shares with another physician. He is temporar- ily using a walker in addition to his cane because “of a little fall,” but otherwise he’s still healthy, he said. “I love what I do and without being pre- sumptive I think I’m pretty good at what I do,” he said. Platt’s patients have no problem with his age, saying he’s still got what it takes to care for them. “He’s always been on point,” said Raniece Kirklin, who has been Platt’s patient for 15 years. Her two adult chil- dren and husband also see Platt.

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SENIOR KAPPA NEWS

Platt mentored Hayes and many other African American students. About 20 years ago — when Platt was 70 — Hayes chose Platt as his own doctor. “I thought, ‘I’ll have a couple of years with him and find a new doctor.’ Here we are in 2017 and I still see him twice a year,” Hayes said. “You hear that knock on the door. He smiles, he sits down, he starts talking with you and you’re the only thing he’s thinking about at that moment,” said Hayes. “He’s still as sharp as a tack.” “For all [doctors], especially for the minority physicians who got to be men- tored by him and watched his example, his direct encouragement was one thing, but to watch him and how he practices and how he balances work and family, it’s encouraging to us that ‘I can do this and I can do this well,’ ” Hayes said. Hayes said Platt was a trailblazer. Platt knew at an early age that he wanted to be a doctor. But that wasn’t common for an African American in what Platt calls the “tiny town” of Latta, South Carolina. His hero was his family doctor, Dr. F.L. Carpenter, who “was the old-fashioned doctor. He was the Norman Rockwell doctor. He did almost-daily house calls,” recalled Platt. Carpenter, who was Caucasian, saved Platt’s life when he was an infant, reviv- ing Platt after he went into respiratory arrest from a whooping-cough incident. “When I was old enough to recognize this, my passion was to be a doctor like Dr. Carpenter, somewhat because he saved my life,” Platt said. Carpenter died before Platt went to medical school, but knew of his aspirations. Platt told his mother when he was about five years old that he wanted to be like Early calling

Dr. Carpenter.

cians should emulate, said Dr. Dale Murphy, past president of the Summa medical staff, who has known and worked with Platt for more than 40 years. Platt’s bedside manner is “what we try to teach our residents — to really know a patient,” said Murphy. “Russ takes care of people. Oftentimes there’s a big dif- ference between giving someone pills to take and wanting people to be well.” When asked how medicine has changed in his more than 50 years in practice, Platt said technology and politics of managed care and insurance. “No longer do we have control of the pa- tients — what they get or what tests you can do and what medications you can give. In fact, we don’t run the practices anymore,” he said. But for as long as he can, Platt said he’ll continue to care for his patients. Earlier this year, he stopped making regular rounds at City Hospital. “I have a bad hip and recently had a little accident. With hip prosthesis, those halls got longer and longer,” Platt said. He also spends a lot of time with his six children and 10 grandchildren. His late wife of 50 years, Barbara, died unexpect- edly in 2011. Platt said he tells people to take time for their kids: “You can’t go back. Take care of those kids while you can — go to their concerts, take them to piano les- sons, take them to horse shows, attend horse shows.” And as for his work: “I would say that mine is a calling, really. It’s not just a career or a passion I chose. “My journey to where I am now was a long journey and wasn’t that easy. Be- sides, I’ve put in too much time to give it up.” Decades of change

“She said, ‘That’s some mighty big talk, son.’ I said, ‘I’ll find a way.’ She said, ‘If you decide to do that, we’ll do everything we can to help you,’ ” he recalled. “And they did.” Platt also has a son, Russell Platt, Jr., who was initiated into the Gamma Tau of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Kent St. University in 1984. And in many ways, Platt has become that Norman Rockwell-style doctor himself. He is beloved in the community and a popular fixture at Summa com- munity health fairs for about 15 years, said Robert DeJournett, Summa Health director of community relations and diversity. Platt hands out his cellphone number for after-hour emergencies instead of having an answering service. His pa- tients respect his privacy and don’t take advantage of having the number, he said. “Why should I pay somebody else to call somebody else to tell me to call some- body else when that somebody else can call me themselves?” he asked. “Actually, you would think it would be a little abused. Many times, they don’t call when they should because they don’t want to bother me. It’s not a problem.” Platt even carries a little black doctor’s bag, said DeJournett. “He has built quite a reputation when we go out to the community. People are asking where he is,” DeJournett said. Early in Platt’s career, racism was still pretty blatant. “Even his colleagues did not look kindly on him because of his color. He had to win them over and show that he could compete with the best of them,” DeJour- nett said. Today, Platt is beloved by everyone and the type of doctor that aspiring physi- It wasn’t always that way.

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Alumni Spotlight Pace One of 10 Winners of the National Urban League Young Professionals Honors Award

I n July, the National Urban League Young Profes- sionals (NULYP) will recognize Dr. Stephen Daniel Pace (Southfield (MI) Alumni 2007) as one of 10 outstanding young professionals who exemplify the National Urban League mission through their profes- sional and personal contributions to community and service. This class of YP Honors recipients represent a diverse field of industries and backgrounds, but share the common value of excellence in service. Dr. Pace is an Advanced Battery Algorithm Engineer at General Motors, where he develops the propulsion systems of the industry’s top electrified vehicles. “This inspirational group of young professional men and women exemplify the mission of NULYP. We are proud to honor their vast accomplishments and dedication to community service and empowerment,” said NULYP President Carlos Clanton. As a student, Dr. Pace studied at Prairie View A&M University where he obtained his Bachelor's of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. He continued his edu- cation at Michigan State University where he obtained

both his Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Electrical Engineering.

Dr. Pace is an active mentor, where he works with several high school students in Metro-Detroit. His passion for mentoring stems from a desire to help young people achieve success in both their personal and professional lives. His approach to mentoring fo- cuses on three key areas: development of character values, goal setting and strategic planning. Dr. Pace is part of the leadership team for Gen- eral Motors’ African Ancestry Network (GMAAN), which is a corporate-sanctioned employee resource group for all African Ancestry employees globally. GMAAN seeks to enrich the lives of GM employees by providing employee development opportunities, community outreach events and product awareness and advocacy workshops. Dr. Pace has been active in GMAAN since joining GM in 2013. Dr. Pace is a native of Kansas City, Kansas. He cur- rently resides in Troy, Michigan where he lives with his wife. The couple is expecting his first child in July. Dr. Pace will be honored at the NULYP National Convention July 26-29, 2017.

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KAPPAS IN THE COMMUNITY

Kappa Alpha Psi ® Launches a Signature National Initiative: "Learn 2 Live" A pproximately 500 middle and high school students poured into the church sanctuary of The First Cathe- dral in the Greater Hartford Area of Connecticut a year ago for the launch 60 chapters and represents over 4,000 members worldwide comprised of chief executive officers and command-level law enforcement officials from federal, state, county, municipal law enforcement agencies and criminal justice practitioners. The mission of the organization is, “To ensure Equity in the administration of justice, in the provision of public service to all communities, and to serve as the conscience of law enforcement by being com- mitted to JUSTICE BY ACTION.” Equipping America's Youth With a Set of Rules of Engagement

of Kappa Alpha Psi’s “Learn 2 Live” national initia- tive. Since that date, 20 Learn 2 Live forums have taken place in various cities across the country, providing grass roots training that equip current and future generations of young persons of color with information, education and instruction that may literally save their lives when forced into inter- action with law enforcement. The forums target young persons of color who stand in harms way as potential victims of tragic outcomes resulting from encounters with law enforcement personnel. More specifically, the target age span includes middle school; high school, college-aged students as well as persons of color in their twenties. The Learn 2 Live initiative will feature a total of 100 forums in various cities across the country, from the initia- tive’s launch through the end of the 33 rd Adminis- tration. “Learn 2 Live” is a collaborative effort with the National Organization of Black Law Enforce- ment Executives (NOBLE). NOBLE has nearly

Each Learn 2 Live forum is divided into three parts. Part one is NOBLE’s recently developed presentation, “The Law & Your Community,” which is designed to provide insight and understanding into three key subject matters. Law enforcement and community policing is the first. The second subject matter is an individual’s legal rights. The third subject equips attendants with a set of law enforcement rules of engagement, which includes recommended legal steps to follow in the event that an individual feels as though his or her rights have been violated in a police encounter. The rules of engagement provide a strategic game plan when forced to deal with law enforcement personnel during a traffic stop, in the community or if they are called to one's home setting. An experienced

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NOBLE trainer ensures that information is disseminated in a professional and comprehensible manner consistent with the program’s design and intent. The second component of each forum allows persons to experience a set of simulated mock police encounters. Youth volunteers are selected from each forum’s audience to participate in staged scenarios that combine engaging interactive activity with visual learning to reinforce critical concepts, ideas and information that may literally save their lives. The forum recreates a traffic stop, community encoun- ter and a home visit. The forum concludes with an interactive police panel discus- sion featuring officers of local and state police departments as well as from other agencies or organizations affiliated with the law enforcement system qualified to add constructive value to the panel. The panel discussion allows student and community attendants to engage in dialogue with local law enforcement personnel in a non-threatening question and answer format that allows both parties to increase familiar- ity, dispel misconceptions and ill-conceived notions while enlightening and cultivating positive thinking and appropri- ate action. This format also allows police intimate interac- tion and dialogue with the persons who they have sworn to protect and serve.

gal system

 Factual understanding of one's legal rights

 Practical strategies and tools to utilize when dealing with people  Opportunities for more desirable outcomes when encountering law enforcement officials. The initiative is not an indictment, proclamation, sweeping generalization or statement of condemnation on police or po- licing. In fact, Kappa Alpha Psi and NOBLE both acknowl- edge the need for and importance of policing, recognizing the thousands of dedicated upstanding persons who wear a badge with honor and dignity throughout the United States. However, the exceptions to that rule make initiatives like this one necessary. We had a chance to sit down and talk about Learn 2 Live with the initiative’s National Chairman and member of the Grand Board of Directors, Jimmy McMikle, a Spring 1991 initiate of the Alpha Chapter, Indiana University. McMikle: We had to; it was a must! The lives of our young people are at risk and at stake. The subject of policing in African American communities is arguably the largest civil rights issue of our current era. Incidents of racial profiling, a lack of comprehensive policing policies and the increas- ing frequency of tragic outcomes between law enforcement and persons of color has produced an environment of fear, Q: Why did you develop the initiative Learn to Live?

“Learn 2 Live” objectives are to provide persons:

 Increased awareness on law enforcement and com- munity policing  

 Statistical perspective of persons of color and the le-

Grand Board Member Jimmy McMikle facilitates a law enforcement panel in Hartford, Connecticut. Photos provided by: Jimmy McMikle

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