Kappa Journal Post-Conclave Issue (Fall 2017)

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The 33 rd Administration LEAVING A LEGACY ♦ BUILDING A FUTURE

KappaAlphaPsi.org

FALL 2017—POST CONCLAVE EDITION VOLUME CIII, ISSUE 3

brighter futures 36

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 3

FALL 2017— POST 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 Van Jordan 1989–1990 Mel L. Davis 1990–1999 Keflyn X. Reed 1999–2010 Jonathan P. Hicks 2011–2014 Thomas L. Cunningham IV 2014–2015 Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. 2016— Editor Art Director Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter KappaJournal1914@gmail.com Deputy Editor for Features Clarence Tucker Norfolk (VA) Alumni Chapter ctuckermpt@gmail.com Deputy Editor for Photography Michael L. Hume Belleville-O'Fallon (MS) Alumni Chapter mlhphotography@hotmail.com Feature Writers Dr. Charles H.F. Davis Grand Chapter charles.hf.davisiii@gmail.com Earl T. Tildon Winter Park (FL) Alumni Chapter Earltildonkapsi@aol.com Dr. Samuel Odom New Orleans (LA) Alumni Chapter riverjordan19eleven@gmail.com Aaron Williams Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni Chapter aaronwilli02@yahoo.com Contributing Copy Editor Erick B. Wicker Winter Park (FL) Alumni Chapter erickwicker@hotmail.com Graphic Arts Contributor Justin L. Tyson Atmore (AL) Alumni Chapter justin.tyson38@gmail.com Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter GrandHistorian1911@gmail.com Advertising Sales Director Sherman K. Kizart Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter

The Orlando (FL) Alumni Chapter, the Winter Park (FL) Alumni Chapter and the Lambda Omega of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at the University of Central Florida begin the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting with a community service project that exemplifies leaving a legacy and helping young people with building their futures in the Pine Hills Neighborhood. 42 Diamond Life Center Unveiled

Journal Notes

Grand Polemarch’s Message

10 Junior Grand Vice Polemarch's Message 12 LEAD Kappa 2017 41 83 rd Grand Chapter Public Meeting 74 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting Awards 102 83 rd GCM Sponsor Acknowledgements 106 83 rd GCM Guide Right Activities 116 Senior Province Polemarchs' Spotlight 136 Cadets Earn Military Scholarships 146 33 rd Administration Earns Second Term 152 Undergraduate Grand Chapter Officers Speak

National Silhouettes of Kappa Alpha Psi ® Support Kappa with a contribution to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. 140 National Silhouettes Spotlight

270 Kappas & Kinsmen

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

US Military recognitions are a large part of the 83 rd GCM in Inaugural Salute. 124 MVAC Expands Mission

Cover photo Nancy Brown/106FOTO.com

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VOLUME CIII, ISSUE 3

FALL 2017— POST CONCLAVE EDITION

IN THIS ISSUE

Contributing Photographers Gregory L. Williams Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter Kristerpher J. Smith Grand Chapter Delmar L. Whittington II Atlanta (GA) Alumni Chapter Public Events Photographer Nancy Jo Brown 106FOTO.com International Headquarters 2322-24 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590 Phone: (215) 228-7184 www.KappaAlphaPsi.org 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.

The 33 rd Administration is poised to be sworn in for a second term under the leadership of Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. 146 The 33 rd Administration in Pictures

161 Law, Justice & Advocacy Series 174 Kappas Maintain Order in Carson City, Nevada 182 Jealous Plans to Make Maryland "Stronger Together" 190 Alpha Gamma Celebrates 90 Years 193 Kappas in Sports 198 Kappa Klassic to Return in 2018 202 State of the Kappa Alpha Psi ® Foundation 206 Kappa Commentary 214 A Look Back: Kappa History 222 To the Chapter Invisible 250 The Gallery 274 The Kappa Alpha Psi ® Directory

"The Young Six" take over. 152 #Undergraduate (Em)Power(ment)

166 Kappas and the NBA Law and Justice

188 A Centennial is Celebrated in the Western Province.

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#ChangingOurStory

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JOURNAL NOTES

The 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting Fills a Community with Hope by Leaving a Legacy and (Literally) Building on its Future

was matched by the very words of the speakers. This approach will enable this issue to stand the test of time in helping future readers understand what was on the minds and in the hearts of the participants during the Meeting. In the age of “Instagram Stories,” publications like The Journal are criti- cal to record the historical moments of achievement, not merely for the mo- ment, but for all time. With nearly 30,000 Journal subscrib- ers and less than ten percent of those serving as registered delegates, much of what happens at a Grand Chapter Meet- ing is not witnessed live. We invite you then to live in the mo- ments as if you were there. Legacy proj- ects like the Diamond Life Center fills a community with hope (see page 42). Being able to document the unveiling was most rewarding. The Journal also had an eye for under- graduate participants. In many cases, undergraduates made history defending the honor of their provinces in various National Guide Right activities, from participation in the Conclave quiz bowl (see page 106), to securing full scholar- ships from members and sponsors (see page 136), from serving as presiding officers (see page 98) to being keynote speakers, undergraduates were intimate- ly involved in the execution of the Grand Chapter Meeting. Then, there is Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. He set the course and charge for the Grand Chapter Meeting and beyond (see page 6). And as more than 500 pages of catch-up issues of the Journal have captured, brothers and

chapters have heeded the call of Kappa's Six-Point Plan. Reclamation has been reinvigorated (see page 202). Guide Right is being supported at all three levels. Kappa is connected with military personnel, vet- erans (see page 124) and Senior Kappas equally. (See e.g. page 188). The Kappa Alpha Psi ® Foundation is stronger than ever (see page 202) and the “Building the Dream Klassic” will return (see page 198). Undergraduates are back on the yard and are being ably led by the fully empowered "Young Six" (see page 152). These are stories that shine a light of achievement in every field of human endeavor. Our Byron Kenneth Armstrong Award- ees (see page 74) and Guy Levis Grant Awardees (see page 76), are examples of reinforcements that will continue to build our future as they leave college campuses and transition into Alumni Chapters. We also honor those who are rest- ing from their labors, those who have reached that far off Golden Shore with Brother Aaron Williams’ research (see page 222). You will therefore see more chronicling of those who have entered the Chapter Invisible. The next issue will honor the Iota Chapter Centennial, chronicle National Founders’ Day and the achievements rendered throughout the Fall semester. Let us continue to achieve and the Journal will be there to chronicle those achievements for generations to come.

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq.

T he Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal is a historical document. As the flag- ship publication, each issue should chronicle the most significant events and stories of the previous quarter as we seek to Leave a Legacy and Build a Future. It should highlight the chapter activi- ties and individual accomplishments that inure to the benefit of the fra- ternity in general and the platform of the administration, in particular. This issue attempts to honor those guiding principles. Staff assiduously pored over available materials and events to chronicle the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting, a series of events that made an impact, indeed that made history in a community that will be edified for years to come. This issue is not a perfect transcript. Nevertheless, where we were able to do so, photography of the moment

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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 POST-CONCLAVE MESSAGE

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

I n 2015, the 33 rd Administration was sworn in to lead our great fraternity from 2015 to 2017. This swear- ing in ceremony challenged us to carry out the business of the fraternity, consistent with the Constitution, Stat- utes and other documents of authority. The 33 rd Administrative team took the oath of office honoring the Holy Bible and the long list of officers throughout the 107 years of the fraternity. We did this with unanimity and awareness of the awesomeness of the tasks and the expectations of our brothers who gra- ciously cast their ballots on our behalf. Thank you, brothers, for your continued support of the 33 rd Administration and Kappa's Six-Point Plan. In 2017, you re-elected the 33 rd Ad- ministration to lead our Noble Klan for the next two years. We are grateful for your votes of confidence, and look forward to working for you, to push Kappa to heights unseen. And now, in this post-83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting Kappa Journal, you will see throughout, highlights that should make you proud, including: the dynamic Conclave Wor- ship Service, featuring Rev. Dr. Ran- dolph Bracy, Jr.; 50 members of LEAD Kappa who made us proud dressed in

black and white, worshipping together; the tour of the local community services project; the Inaugural Military Salute; the swearing in of the 33 rd administra- tion; and other conclave features. Today, I seize upon the opportunity to give an accounting of our stewardship. I pause to acknowledge the imperfections of our administration and to share with you the progress we’ve made along this journey. As you know, those of us who you have elected cannot do the work our frater- nity requires by ourselves. We must depend on those who labor where the rubber meets the road. You, my brothers are the glue that holds our Kappa ship together. The leadership is dependent upon the work you do and the coopera- tion you get from the constituents we serve. The administration invoked the name of Jesus as it began its work. We remem- bered that Kappa Alpha Psi ® was found- ed on Christian principles and with this foundation each of us becomes an instrument of faithful stewardship over all that God has given us. He has given us ten Founders, who had the vision

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GRAND POLEMARCH'S POST-CONCLAVE MESSAGE

...I have worked in a profession that has carried me into many troubled communities. I have witnessed first-hand the most serious problems and needs we have, especially in our minority, low-income communities. I have also learned what needs to be done to make life better for our people who continue to have difficulty rising above the poverty level and causing the crime rate to decrease to a level of safety.

to put in place an organization that would survive and thrive for more than a century. Let us pause for a moment to give thanks: Dear Lord we thank you for granting our Founders wisdom in an era when the plight of African Americans was plagued by racism, discrimination and inequality beyond measure. Thank you for putting your armor around them, keeping them safe in a state where the Ku Klux Klan was prominent and extremely influen- tial. Yet You God enabled our Founders to fulfill their dream in the midst of racism that existed at the University of Indiana at Bloomington. For this we say thank you. As we in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity look back at our Founder’s plight, let us remember the words in Mark 4:39, “Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.” We thank you God for granting calm to our beloved Found- ers, and calm for our standard bearers throughout these many years. We ask all of this in the name of Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith. Amen. When I permitted my name to be placed on the ballot for the position of Grand Polemarch I asked myself, ‘What is your vision, Thomas?’ I immediately

turned to the book of Proverbs 29:18 where it is written: “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” I had read and heard these prophetic words throughout the years, and surely these words apply to me especially when I am given a duty to serve my people. I still had to answer the question: ‘What is your vision Thomas?’ My brothers, I pondered this relevant question and asked the Lord to help me craft an appropriate answer in my heart that will let my brothers know that my vision is not only what I see for our fraternity in the future, but how I can walk by faith and still cause the future of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity to be bet- ter than I found it when my tenure as Grand Polemarch is through. My vision, when I accepted the office of Grand Polemarch, was to strengthen the brand of our fraternity. The first action was to change the direction we were going with the Kappa Journal. We changed editors and published all past due issues. My vision was to implement The Kappa Six-Point plan to enhance our purpose and dedication to humanity.

promised that we would work hard to implement The Kappa Six-Point Plan. Let me tell you how we’re doing to bring the plan to life. 1. ENHANCE OUR COMMUNITY SERVICE First, we promised to continue to build a fraternity that will last forever, first, by taking action to raise the bar in our community service. We took this initia- tive because the needs of our people demand that we place emphases on the needs of the people who live in the communities we serve. As many of you know I have worked in a profession that has carried me into many troubled com- munities. I have witnessed first-hand the most serious problems and needs we have, especially in our minority, low-in- come communities. I have also learned what needs to be done to make life bet- ter for our people who continue to have difficulty rising above the poverty level and causing the crime rate to decrease to a level of safety. I am also aware of the disparities in our criminal justice system that leaves many of our minority households without a male image present because of incar- ceration. This means that organizations such as fraternities and sororities need

As we began this 33 rd administration we

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GRAND POLEMARCH’S POST-CONCLAVE MESSAGE

to step up to the plate and apply the skills of their people to the unmet needs of our people. We are increasingly rais- ing the bar in our community outreach to make a measurable and significant difference in the lives of the constitu- ents we serve. Brothers, our National Guide Right Program has historically been our best vehicle for delivering services to African American boys. We are continuing to increase our initiatives geared at reach- ing boys and becoming mentors, tutors and instruments of upward mobility, enabling these boys to be proactive con- tributors to their families and local com- munities. And so, we learned to live. We also partnered with the National Society of Black Engineers to promote science, technology, engineering, and math edu- cation with an effort to produce 10,000 new Black engineers annually. We promised to modify our infrastruc- ture so that our International Headquar- ters will have the capability and resourc- es necessary to meet the 21 st century requirements of our fraternity. We have begun this process by interviewing candidates for the position of Director of Undergraduate & University Affairs. We have also advertised for the position of Executive Director. Both of these positions are necessary to the upgrading 2. INFRASTRUCTURE

of our personnel infrastructure and the management of the day-to-day opera- tions of our fraternity. We have also upgraded our technology capabilities, and we are in the cloud, making good use of technology available to us. 3. UNDERGRADUATE DEVELOP- MENT As Founder Diggs indicated in 1924, “Kappa Alpha Psi is a fraternity which endeavors to contribute a worthy and definite part to the education of its members by taking advantage of and providing situations which lead to a development in social, physical and intellectual power.” The 33 rd Adminis- tration has held true to this maxim in providing leadership opportunities to our undergraduate leaders. During the month of September, our undergraduate leaders attended the fraternity’s Executive Leadership Retreat in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where they were challenged to understand the fundamental work of leaders: creating a Vision, building an Alignment around that vision and Execution of the vision. Additionally, during the month of October our delegation of undergradu- ate leaders attended the National Pan Hellenic Conference in Dallas, Texas. During this inspiring conference our collegiate brothers were successful in refining their leadership skills, sharing

ideas and best practices with their peers along with networking with their NPHC members and national leadership. Nineteen collegiate brothers, 13 Junior Province Vice Polemarchs and six elected undergraduate Grand Chapter officers attended an undergraduate lead- ership retreat in Miami, Florida. This was a three-day conference learning best practices and leadership skills training. In June 2016, 67 undergraduate broth- ers attended a weeklong experience at the Undergraduate Leadership Institute (ULI). As ULI participants, brothers networked and fellowshipped with fraternity leaders and undergraduate brothers. Partici- pants also learned: ways to improve their chapters; to understand and appreciate leadership styles similar to and different from their own; to engage in meaningful dialogue about the concept of leadership in the 21 st century; to understand the importance of being an agent for change and not a keeper of the status quo; to develop skills related to managing one’s “brand” and career; and about career op- portunities with our corporate partners. Then at the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting in 2017, LEAD Kappa took center stage with our undergraduates. Hosted by our corporate partners, our undergradu- ates received a glimpse of the corporate world and a future in the military. Our

As Founder Diggs indicated in 1924, “Kappa Alpha Psi is a fratenity which endeavors to contribute a worthy and definite part to the education of its members by taking advantage of and providing situations which lead to a development in social, physical and intellecutal power.”

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GRAND POLEMARCH’S POST-CONCLAVE MESSAGE

We implemented a 10% Come Home Initiative, permitting brothers who had been inactive for four (4) years to qualify for 10% of their National dues to be gifted back to their undergraduate chapter of initiation. The purpose is to incentivize undergraduate chapters to actively reclaim alumni who are not In Good Standing via social media and other chapter communications.

Nupes! We leave no brother behind.

of our Six-Point Plan. We will be moving at a fast pace between now and 2019, when we will convene in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and pass the torch of achievement to the 34 th Administration. Let us make sure that we can report that we kept our promises. I want to thank our Board of Directors and the IHQ Staff for their hard work and sacrifices to make Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the best fraternity in the world. Our vision rests solely on your involve- ment and commitment to find your place among the brotherhood. As we bring undergraduates back on college campuses, I call upon all alumni broth- ers from our undergraduate campuses to commit to a spirit of excellence. Your voice has been heard on the yard. We now need to hear the voice of our undergraduates on the yard; Excellence in achievement, excellence in mentor- ing, and excellence in supporting your beloved undergraduate chapters. We call on you to promote excellence and scholarship among our undergraduate chapters. Let our undergraduate voices proclaim the Kappa of our dreams. Let’s be good Nupes and keep Kappa moving forward; working hard for a better Kappa Alpha Psi ® .

undergraduates are ready for the future!

5. NEW MEMBER RECRUITMENT & TRAINING In addition to our proactive reclamation program, we are aggressively reaching out to recruit mature members who are achievers, with the goal of organization- wide sustainability. This level of recruit- ment is not limited to undergraduates, but to alumni members as well. We are working to make sure that every brother that comes through our Membership Training Academy (MTA) is trained sufficiently to contribute to the growth and sustainability of our fraternity. We expect that these members will dedicate themselves to protecting the fraternity by sound adherence to the rules and regulations that we have vowed to ob- serve and respect. 6. EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TRAINING & SUCCESSION PLAN- NING We are identifying and developing exceptional talent for leadership devel- opment and succession planning. In October 2017, we convened an Execu- tive Leadership Training & Succession Planning session at our International Headquarters offices. It is my prayer that each of you will embrace my vision for our revered fra- ternity, and take ownership of a portion

4. RECLAMATION

My brothers, we are a membership organization, which means we do not have the luxury of losing members for any reason. We need every member. In the 33 rd administration, we have energized our efforts with a goal of growing the Fraternity’s financial roll by identifying and implementing effective strategic initiatives aimed at energizing inactive membership. We implemented a 10% Come Home Initiative, permit- ting brothers who had been inactive for four (4) years to qualify for 10% of their National dues to be gifted back to their undergraduate chapter of initiation. The purpose is to incentivize undergraduate chapters to actively reclaim alumni who are not In Good Standing via social me- dia and other chapter communications. We have also implemented a Reinstate- ment Incentive Program recognizing the pool of disciplined brothers who desire to be In Good Standing but lack the financial means to do so. In an effort to bring these brothers home, the Grand Board of Directors agreed to cut fines in half. The program allowed a member, who was expelled or suspended prior to January 1, 2010, to pay 50% of the total fine. Dozens of brothers took advantage of the incentive raising $11,000 in three months. Kappa is calling! Come home,

Yours in the Bond,

Thomas L. Battles, Jr.

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JUNIOR GRAND VICE POLEMARCH'S MESSAGE

Greetings Good Brothers:

T o say that the 83 rd Grand extremely honored and humbled to have been elected the 62 nd Junior Grand Vice Polemarch of our Noble Klan. I, and the other elected officers will work hard to serve you over the next two years. As your Junior Grand Vice Polemarch, I promise to make sure undergradu- ates voices are heard. Our 33 rd Grand Polemarch, Thomas L. Battles, Jr. sees undergraduate leadership as integral to the success of Kappa’s Six-Point Plan. Therefore, I and the other elected of- ficers will implement initiatives alongside the Council of Junior Province Vice Polemarchs to ensure undergraduate brothers are at the forefront of our fraternity. One of our many goals is to have undergraduates not only serving on national committees but also vice chairmen or co-chairmen of committees. We will do everything in our power to Chapter Meeting in Orlando, Florida was phenomenal, would be an understatement! I’m

make sure the successful programs that brothers are doing on campuses are highlighted and implemented on the national level. Though our fraternity consists of undergraduate and alumni chapters, we must not forget that we are an undergraduate fraternity first and foremost. Let us not forget our Found- ers were undergraduates. However, we as undergraduate brothers cannot lead Kappa if we are not taking care of the business of Kappa. We must become adept at running business meetings in accordance with the Constitution & Statutes and Robert's Rules of Order. We must safeguard our chapters from those who are not financial and uphold actions that jeopardize the future of our fraternity. It is imperative that under- graduate brothers develop a relationship with their advising alumni chapter so that it will be a relationship of equals, not of one domineering the other. This administration, especially the under- graduate officers, commits to travel

across the country teaching under- graduate brothers about the business of the fraternity, financial literacy and risk management so undergraduate brothers can be equipped to lead our fraternity. Again, I thank the good brothers for voting Andre Earls, Christopher Rax- ton, Ivan Garcia, Terrell Richardson, Nathaniel Girma, and I to be the voice of the undergraduates in this season of the 33 rd Administration. We are blessed to have a Grand Polemarch who desires undergraduate brothers to be empow- ered and at the helm of our fraternity. Furthermore, I share that same desire and pledge to do all in my power so that undergraduate brothers can lead Kappa and achieve in every field of human endeavor!

Yours in the Bond,

Christopher Cross

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LEAD Kappa 2017: The Pre-Conclave Leadership Experience 50 Hours of Hands-on Learning for 50 Leaders

By Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III

A view from Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando, Florida, the site of the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting. Photo by shutterstock.com

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A t the 81 st Grand Chapter Meeting in Hous- ton, Texas, at the advisement of 32 nd Grand Polemarch William “Randy” Bates, Esq., the inaugural Leadership Enhancement and Devel- opment program for Kappas (LEAD Kappa) began as an effort to provide an additional opportunity for collegiate brothers to improve their knowledge, skills and abili- ties around concepts of leadership. Under the direction of Jwyanza B. Watt, and a trusted group of dedicated brothers serving as the Brain Trust, LEAD Kappa was conceptualized as an extension of the fraternity’s flagship leadership program, the Undergraduate Leadership Insti- tute, which takes place each summer in a non-Conclave year. LEAD Kappa, then, took shape as a immersive, pre-

Conclave leadership experience designed to increase the capacity of Kappa Alpha Psi's ® undergraduate members for leadership across multiple contexts—in the frater- nity, on campus, in their community, and in corporate America. The curriculum for LEAD Kappa participants is ro- bust and intensive. The four-day program involves nearly 50 hours of instruction and hands-on learning as partici- pants engage in cooperative group living and continuous socialization, primarily through team building activities, small group discussions, large group lectures, and analyz- ing case studies in leadership. In addition, LEAD Kappa introduces participants to various speakers and panel-

Left more "beautiful" than we found it

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS: LEAD KAPPA 2017

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Campus Day: Members of the LEAD Kappa Class on the campus of the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida.

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS: LEAD KAPPA 2017

Part of leadership is mentorship, providing an example of what is attainable along with a sharing of the skills necessary to achieve the mentee's goals. LEAD Kappa had several opportunities to experience that with the Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida at the John Bridges Community Center in Apopka, Florida.

ists from our nation’s preeminent colleges and universities, non-profit organizations, and strategic partners from top businesses and corporations whom provide practical examples of leadership-in-action. As a program, LEAD Kappa is committed to the following learning outcomes for each participant: 1. To gain understanding and appre- ciation for leadership styles similar to and different from their own 2. To engage in meaningful dialogue about the concept of leader- ship in the 21 st century 3. To better prepare for a successful transition from college life to the professional workforce 4. To learn ways to improve achieve- ment within their undergrad- uate chapter 5. To network and fellowship with fraternity leaders and under- graduate brothers 6. To build lifelong relationships

with fellow participants In January, the Fraternity an- nounced its plan to continue the LEAD Kappa program during the 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting in Orlando, Florida. After releasing the application, and the spring Membership Train- ing Academy had concluded, LEAD Kappa staff were tasked with sorting through more than 100 competitive applicants. Using discrete criteria such as undergraduate classification, major concentration, grade point average, college or university type, from the many, few were chosen. Ultimately, a diverse group of 50 of Kappa Alpha Psi’s best and brightest undergradu- ates were selected to participate in the 2017 LEAD Kappa program. Repre- senting 35 different undergraduate chapters from across all 12 provinces, this year’s cohort included Chapter Polemarchs, Junior Province Vice Polemarchs, and candidates for the fraternity’s Grand Board. On Saturday, July 14 th , the 2017 LEAD Kappa program was underway as brothers far and wide descended

into the city of Orlando and thru the doors of the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort and Hotel. Upon their arrival, brothers were ushered into a welcome luncheon at which point Director Watt and Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III, serving as the Director of Curriculum, facilitated a meet-and-greet icebreaker to allow participants to familiarize themselves with one another. Then, the program expectations and commit- ments were outline for the participants to ensure brothers fully understood the important work to be undertaken for the next four days. Once lunch concluded, brothers boarded the buses en-route to Orlando Tree Trek Adven- ture Park to undergo team building exercises on a high-ropes course. After arriving at the park, broth- ers were organized by event staff into small teams in which they received safety training on the proper use their gear and course apparatuses. Next, in the sweltering 98-degree heat, each team strategized how to tackle the two-hour elevated excursion through the park. Unsurprisingly, many broth- ers were reticent about their concerns

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UNDERGRADUATE NEWS: LEAD KAPPA 2017

Above, from left: Ericka Dunlap,the first African American to be crowned Miss Florida and later Miss America in 2004 discusses etiquette during the Corporate Day Session,. Leonard K. Spencer (Gamma Epsilon 1992) presents with his team at Disney ® . Participants engage in team-building. Major General Hawthorne Proctor, US Army Retired, makes a point during Corporate Day to the participants.

traversing the course, which at times in- volved treks as high as 30 feet above the ground. However, where some showed reservation, others provided encourage- ment as members of their teams under- took the obstacles at-hand. It was only a matter of time before the brothers found use for that good “ol’ Kappa Spirit,” sing- ing several Kappa classics popularized by impeccable voice of the late Brother Jonathan P. Hicks. By course-end, brothers were no doubt tired, but also energized having cemented a foundation on which to build stronger relationships as the week continued. Sunday began with a focus on heal-

ing the spirit at New Covenant Baptist Church, where Brother Rev. Dr. Ran- dolph Bracy, Jr., a Fall 1966 initiate of the Gamma Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® at Bethune-Cookman College, delivered an impassioned sermon to the congrega- tion. Fraternity leaders and the LEAD Kappa participants were enthralled by Brother Bracy’s charge for courageous moral and ethical leadership in this national moment of social controversy and political challenge. Once service concluded, the brothers swiftly moved into “Campus Day” at the University of Central Florida (UCF). With the sup- port from local LEAD Kappa participant Kevin Louidor, and other undergradu-

ates from the Lambda Omega Chapter, brothers undertook a campus tour of the classrooms and university facilities utilized by UCF students. Wearing their respective college and university para- phernalia, the brothers widely explored the more than 1000-acre university grounds before arriving at the Harris Corporation Engineering Center. There, participants were engaged in classroom style learning sessions related to the theory and practice of leadership. First, Brother Anthony G. Stepney, a certified professional with the Professional Golf Association and a Spring 2015 initiate of the Winter Park (FL) Alumni Chapter, introduced LEAD Kappa to the impor-

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Left: Participants' understanding of the classic game: Rock, Paper, Scissors will be forever transformed due to the LEAD Kappa twist. Above: a mentee immediately began to put the lessons of photography he just learned to good use. Below: Recently graduating members discuss their transitions into the corporate world. Brothers George Williams, Kristerpher J. Smith, Past Junior Grand Vice Polemarch, and Anthony Outland are pictured below.

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LEAD Kappa 2017: Regions Financial Corporation Day. Brother David A. Christian, Senior Vice President and Regional Manager for Community Affairs (center) and his team lead the day's workshops.

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tance of golf as a relationship facilita- tor and professional advancement tool in Corporate America. Then, Brother Andre J. Heath, a Spring 1996 initiate of the Kappa Iota Chapter at the University Southern Mississippi – where he now serves as the Assistant to the Dean for Recruitment, Retention, and Strate- gic Initiatives – presented theories of transformative leadership to improve the standing of their chapters and contribute positively to their institutions. Closing out the day, Brother Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III, a spring 2004 initiate of the Theta Eta Chapter at Florida State Uni- versity and a professor at the University of Southern California, brothers were challenged to radically reimagine their understandings of manhood and mascu- linity and the role their gender identities played in performing leadership on-cam- pus, in the fraternity, and beyond.

joined in the evening by representatives from Home Depot, a new corporate partner for LEAD Kappa. Their expert team introduced the organization’s need for highly-skilled leaders and diverse talent within the management pipeline. In addition, the Home Depot team facilitated an interactive workshop to strengthen the participants interviewing skills. The workshop included detailed prescriptions for successfully expressing interest in position vacancies, proper protocol for phone and video interviews, navigating interpersonal interactions before, during, and immediately follow- ing the interview. A corporate dinner succeeded the presentation in which participants met with the Home Depot team in breakouts for further questions. Following the dinner, participants were met with a final workshop on social and professional etiquette. This workshop

an informative dialogue with program participants. In particular, the GE Kappa panelists were able to recount some of the challenges and obstacles the in- curred when making the transition from college life to an international leader in business innovation. Panelists also solicited questions, leaving no oppor- tunity for our undergraduates to get as much information as possible regarding their future leadership and representing the fraternity well as future business leaders. Finally, Brother Henry Daniels facilitated a candid conversation with President and Chief Executive Officer of Military Systems with GE Aviation, Tony Mathis. Following a corporate lunch with the morning’s presenters, the program continued as representatives from the United States Army and U.S. Military

Ultimately, a diverse group of 50 of Kappa Alpha Psi's ® best and brightest undergraduates were selected to participate in the 2017 LEAD Kappa program. Representing 35 different undergraduate chapters from across all 12 provinces, this year's cohort included Chapter Polemarchs, Junior Province Vice Polemarchs and candidates for the fraternity's Grand Board of Directors.

On Monday, the LEAD Kappa brothers were early at work dressed in well-tailored dark suits for “Corporate Day,” wherein partners from several businesses and government organiza- tions facilitated workshops on profes- sional leadership. First, Tanya Spencer, Global Sales Operations Leader for General Electric (GE), made a presenta- tion on the role of personal branding and brand leadership in the business world. Ms. Spencer brought with her more than two decades of corporate experi- ence and expertise with the company, which she effectively transformed into key takeaways to assist a new generation understanding the potential impacts of social media, interpersonal com- munication, and professional attire on career trajectories. Next, brothers from a cross-section of professional sectors within General Electric engaged in

Cadet Command presented opportuni- ties for leadership in our nation’s armed services. Among the presenters were Colonel Cedric Carrington, a Spring 1991 initiate of the Alpha Xi Chapter at Florida A&M University, Dr. Samuel Odom, a Fall 1993 initiate of the Beta Gamma at Dillard University, and Lieutenant Colonel Miles B. Caggins III, a Spring 1996 initiate of the Beta Chi Chapter at Hampton University, all active-duty. Collectively, the decorated military brothers addressed how their leadership philosophies, which began as undergraduate Kappas, became battle tested through their basic training and subsequent officer commissions, navi- gating leadership structures in organiza- tions, and service in war periods and combat. To conclude the day, brothers were

was led by Ms. Ericka Dunlap, the first African American woman to be crowned “Miss Florida” before later earning the prestigious title of “Miss America” in 2004, who is now a successful entrepre- neur and candidate for home district on the Orlando City Commission. The last full-day of programming was off-site, beginning with meetings at Disney Studios. Under the guidance and direction of Senior Manager for Supplier Diversity, Brother Leonard K. Spencer, a Spring 1992 initiate of the Gamma Epsilon Chapter at Tuskegee University, LEAD Kappa spent time with several organizational leaders at Disney to learn about operational logistics, facilities, and career opportunities available at the worldwide leader in entertainment and leisure. But, perhaps the most exciting

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portion of the day was spent inspiring service in the public interest as LEAD Kappa arrived in nearby city of Apopka to mentor and support Black youth at the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida. Entering the gates of the John Bridges Community Center, the broth- ers were met by the smiles of joyful Black boys and girls. Some were holding signs reading “We Love the Kappas” and “Welcome, Kappa Alpha Psi” while oth- ers waved anxiously as brothers departed the bus. Almost instinctively, our under- graduate brothers excitedly responded with high-fives, hugs, and smiles of there own. After making their way inside the center, the brothers took their seats to receive a formal welcome from one of the Boys and Girls Club members. Immediately following, a proclama- tion from Office of the Orange County Mayor to the fraternity was announced, which recognized the important work being done by LEAD Kappa during the Conclave in and around the City of Orlando. Once the felicitations concluded, a competitive tournament of the age-

old classic “Rock, Paper, Scissors” was facilitated as an icebreaker. In pairs, participants competed in a best-of-three format until a victor was determined. Each winner then found another worthy opponent as the competitors whom were previously defeated cheered in support. Brothers were then broken up into men- toring teams to accommodate the more than 50 middle and high school-aged boys and girls. In their groups, the broth- ers undertook one-on-one discussions to learn more about each participant and share their own stories of navigating school, community, and the decision to attend college. Then, as teams, small group conversations were facilitated. In their small groups, the youth were asked to think about their dreams and aspira- tions for the future. As each participant shared, the groups were instructed to “clap it up” and provide encouragement as a form of support. Throughout, the brotherly love and sisterly affection were palpable. As many former Boys and Girls Club participants themselves, the LEAD Kappa brothers shared many of the lived experiences and cared about

the aspirations of those with whom they were working. What remained evident throughout was the deep appreciation for the investment our college men were making. More importantly, it was the investment from those who looked like the youth they were serving. The remaining half-day of the pro- gram was dedicated to further develop- ing professional skills and networking opportunities. Though the support of Brother David Christian, Senior Vice President and Regional Manager for Community Affairs at Regions Financial Corporation, and his team of Regions Bank professionals including Cecelia Bailey, Tiffany Kirk, Rob Lindsey, and Nikki Ming-White, brothers attended a series of financial literacy and wealth management workshops. On Thursday, July 20 th , brothers at- tended a reception for all graduates of the fraternity’s undergraduate leadership programs. Each participant received a formal certificate of completion, which was signed by the program director, di- rector of curriculum, and our 33 rd Grand Polemarch, Brother Thomas L. Battles, Jr. Then equipped with new skills and

If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in. —Rachel Carson

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Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek. – Barack H. Obama “

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practical tools, the 2017 LEAD Kappa class was ushered into the fraternity and their campuses anew, poised to make an immediate impact in their chapters and at their institutions throughout this school year. Above right: Brother Henry Daniels facilitated a candid conversation with President and Chief Executive Officer of Military Systems with GE Aviation, Tony Mathis. Middle: Brother David A. Christian, Senior Vice President and Regional Manager for Community Affairs at Regions Financial Corporation, along with his team presented a series of financial literacy and wealth manage- ment workshops. Tanya Spencer, Global Sales Opea- tions Leader for General Electric, provided key takeaways to assist the participants in understanding the potential impacts of social media, interpersonal communication and professional attire on career tragec- tories. Below: Dr. Davis, Alvin Barrington and Director Jwyanza Watt are pictured with members of the U.S Army and MG(R) Hawthorne Proctor, Dr. Samuel Odom and Lt. Col. Miles Caggins III.

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LEAD Kappa 2017 participants with Miss America (2004), Ericka Dunlap.

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It is good to be in the House of the Lord one more time. We are joined by 50 members of our fraternity who are participating in our LEAD Kappa leadership program this week. We are also joined by Kappa stalwarts, among them: 30 th Grand Polemarch Samuel C. Hamilton, 94 th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Earl T. Tildon, the venerable Bob Billingslea and Rev. Dr. Randolph Bracy, Jr., who will give the Word this morning. This is an excellent start to our 83 rd Grand Chapter Meeting. —Thomas L. Battles, Jr. “

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Alumni members recognize the leadership of Kappa Alpha Psi ® in the form of the 50 men (in black), from 35 different undergraduate chapters, from across all 12 provinces who participated in the Leadership Enhancement and Development program for Kappas, LEAD Kappa. LEAD Kappa is a four- day program involving more than 50 hours of instruction and hands-on learning as participants engage in cooperative group living and continuous socialization, primarily through team-building activities, group discussions and case studies in leadership. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. —Hebrews 10:24-25

Kappa Alpha Psi ® was founded on Christian principles. As such, no leader- ship program would be complete without a fellowship service.

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Dr. Bracy Asks: What Would Jesus Do?

B eginning with the text from Luke 10:25-37, Dr. Randolph Bracy began his message discussing the conversa- tion between Jesus and "a certain lawyer" questioning what he needed to do to inherit eternal life. Dr. Bracy pointed out that Jesus asked the lawyer what did the he know about the law on this matter. Verse 27 states “and he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself.” Having answered correctly Jesus said if that if the lawyer did this, he would live. But, as verse 29 states, the lawyer went further, asking Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Dr. Bracy then took the congregation through the parable of the Good Samaritan: 30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. 34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. 36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves? 37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, go, and do thou likewise. In framing his message around the theme: What Would Jesus Do?, Dr. Bracy reminded the congregation that “We live in some perilous times.” He discussed that everyone is looking for answers to the troubling questions in their daily lives. "Those who believed that a post-racial society was achieved as evidenced by the election of President Obama received a rude awakening in the first year of the 45 th president’s term," stated Bracy. He then “called the roll” related to the retrenchment in the disregard of the lives of Black people. Beginning with a discussion of the disparate impact of Stand Your Ground—the law that eliminates the duty of retreat and permits the use of deadly force to anyone who perceives danger in Florida. Beginning with the Travon Martin case in Sanford, Florida Dr. Bracy reminded the congregation of the deaths of Phi- lander Castile, Dontre Hamilton, Eric Garner, John Crawford III, Michael Brown, Ezell Ford, Donte Parker, Tamir Rice, Eric Harris, Walter Scott and Freddie Gray. “I could go on but you get the point. When I listen to the rag-tag rhetoric of President #45, Donald John Trump in blasting the theme Make America Great Again over and over and over again, I’ve come to the conclusion that what is being said means different things to different people.” He then talked about the president's mantra vis à vis People of Color's understanding of the phrase and juxtaposed it with the tenets of the Pledge of Allegiance and how we must work to ensure its meaning for all Americans equally. Dr. Bracy then began to set the stage by weaving his theme to the scripture. He reminded the congregation that it was the late Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor (Alpha Phi 1938, Chapter Invisible 1997), pastor of the Abyssinian Church of Harlem, New York whom Dr. Bracy recalls making the point that any time one sees the phrase “a certain man (or a certain woman) in Scripture you can take that generality and make it a particularity. You could take the liberty of inserting yourself in the story and make the story you hear your story.” He encouraged the congregation to notice in the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus used the word “certain” three times. “He says, ‘A certain man went down from Jerusalem,‘ ‘a certain priest and a Levite‘ and ‘a certain man of Samaria,’” encouraging the audience to follow Dr. Proctor’s admonition in understanding this parable by placing themselves in each of these roles. Then ask: what

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