84th Grand Chapter Meeting Edition (Summer Issue)

KAPPA NEWS

him for life challenges and triumphs in the business world of education, success as a leader and the importance of achievement and giving back to community and Discuss and declare how Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. shaped his educational pursuits, ethos and values as a leader and how Kappa compelled him to adopt and embrace the philosophy of living a life dedicated to the service of others. After graduating from high school and completing my service in the United States Army, I earned a Bachelor’s of Applied Science from Fayetteville State University (FSU), a Master’s from North Carolina Central University (NCCU), and my Ph.D. from Virginia Tech (VT). When I arrived at FSU in 1992, I immediately acclimated myself to campus by joining a few student organizations, and working on the university’s newspaper and yearbook staff. It was during my involvement on campus that I was first introduced to fraternities. As a first- generation college student, although I had an extremely immediate interest in Kappa Alpha Psi. The moratorium in place at the time prevented undergraduate membership. “Upon entering North Carolina Central University to work on my master’s in the fall of 1995, I had the pleasure of meeting Brother limited understanding of fraternities I had an

“Philanthropy is part of the lifeblood of a university. At WVSU it is an essential part of our budget. Our alumni, partners, friends, and supporters help us provide scholarships and endowments that help so many Yellow Jackets. Students who come to WVSU with hopes and dreams of a better future do so because they believe in us and the quality of our university. Unfortunately, in these difficult economic times, many of our students face financial challenges. Hence, that is why fundraising to support our students, instruction, and improve our campus is a top priority. This past year we have raised over $2.5 million dollars up from over just $1 million the year prior. This becomes more significant when one understands that nearly 80 percent of the $2.5 million raised is cash

Wendell Andrews. He was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi and exemplified a true Kappa man. I recall vividly the day he approached me and invited me to learn more about the fraternity. Brother Wendell and I would talk daily about Kappa. Kappa was endearing to him; the way a child is endearing to a parent or a wife to a husband. He loved Kappa and his loyalty to the fraternity inspired me. He expanded my perspective of the fraternity. He challenged me to use Kappa as a catalyst to challenge social justice, develop the next generation, and advance my career. He became a good mentor and friend to me, and helped me cross the burning sands into Kappa Chapter. Brother Andrews transitioned to the Chapter Invisible in 2014, but what I learned from him will forever be a profound part of me. “I am a Life Member of our Noble Clan, and Charter member of the Blacksburg (VA) Alumni Chapter and our fraternity has afforded me an arena to hone my leadership skills, build self- efficacy and mature as a man. I owe a huge thanks to both Brother Andrews and Kappa, they play an important role in my life at a significant point in my life. Without them where might I be?” Dr. Jenkins is a Life member of Kappa Alpha Psi. FNP through the illustrious Durham (NC) Alumni

and unrestricted. That is rarely accomplished. Pledges and promises to give account for most fundraising and many colleges and university which delay funding getting into the hands of students. It should not be lost on anyone that to raise $2.5 million dollars for an HBCU in West Virginia (one of the poorest states in the country) is no small accomplishment. I am proud of my team. Finally, this fundraising season which began July 1 st has gotten off to a great start. I am establishing an endowed scholarship for my incredible alumna, Mrs. Katherine Johnson, who inspired the hit movie “Hidden Figures.” My goal was $250,000. We have surpassed $350,000. IV. Reflect upon how Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated prepared

46 |  84 TH GRAND CHAPTER MEETING ISSUE  THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for 105 years

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