Kappa Journal (Philanthropy Issue)

GERALD K. FREENY LEADS 130 TH ROSE PARADE WITH THE "MELODY OF LIFE"

KappaAlphaPsi.org

SUMMER 2018

brighter futures 36

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in this issue The Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal

Summer 2018 VOLUME CIV, ISSUE 2

42 nd Imperial Potentate Carl D. Parker has a great term as leader of the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North and South America and its Jurisdictions. Page 52

13 84 TH GRAND CHAPTER MEETING PRESS CONFERENCE All roads lead to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. heads to the next Conclave.

Orange Bowl Committee Sean A. Pittman, Esq. as its in- domitable leader, broke ground on a $3 million community facil- ity. The Orange Bowl Commit- tee is extending its philanthropy throughout the South Florida region. Page 50

"The Melody of Life" is the theme for the 2018-19 Year Gerald K. Freeny leads the 2018-2019 Tournament of Roses ® , which includes substantial involvement in the community. Page 46

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Journal Notes

Grand Polemarch’s Message

Junior Grand Vice Polemarch's Message

10 Kappa Commentary 12 Kappa News 18 Kappa Alpha Psi ® Foundation 22 Kappa Silhouettes 27 Guide Right 46 Cover Story 59 To the Chapter Invisible 76 The Gallery 81 Kappa Alpha Psi ® Directory

24 Kappa's Annual St. Jude's Sunday of Hope Service Hosted by the Honolulu (HI) Alumni Chapter.

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The Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal

19 The Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation

Building the Dream Klassic—2018 is also about Mentorship and Scholarship.

GUIDERIGHTACTIVITIES PHILANTHROPICNEWS SERVICETOHUMANITY

Alpharetta-Smyrna (GA) Alumni Hosts a VIP signing day for its star Kappa Leaguers who are heading off to college. Page 38.

26 $300,000 Finishes Piney Woods Pledge Kappa has provided more than $1M to Piney Woods School over the years. 56 Kappa History A Look Back at George A. Johnson.

35 Charlotte (NC) Alumni Chapter Supports 6 th Annual Healthy Achievement 5K hosted by the chapter's foundation.

Kappa's Director of Development Sherman K. Kizart receives Federal Communications Commission appointment. Page 54

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JOURNAL NOTES

A Celebration of Service & Philanthropy, “Guiding” Future Generations “Right”

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 Writer Aaron Williams Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni Chapter aaronwilli02@yahoo.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

I n May 2018, I was honored as my alma mater , Nova Southeast- ern Univer- sity, conferred upon me the Doctor of Hu- mane Letters in recognition

descent to ascend to one of the most well-known philanthropic organizations whose parade is watched by millions annually, is an achievement not only for his community but also for Kappa Alpha Psi ® . We celebrate the first non-South Florida-based chairman of the Orange Bowl Committee, Sean A. Pittman, a well-known servant-leader the state of Florida (see page 50). We check in on the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation’s next steps in its philan- thropic vision and spotlight the 2018 Building the Dream Klassic (see page 19), which focused on scholarship and mentorship. The national event is surely a model of service and philanthropy. Finally, The National Guide Right Com- mittee hosted its inaugural National Guide Right Conference. See page 31. We survey examples of mentorship, scholarship and service among the chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi ® —from the Sunday of Hope in Hawaii (see page 24) to awards presentations in Philadelphia (see page 36). We hope you enjoy these examples of achievement in service, philanthropy, and mentorship through the examples and programs featured.

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq.

of my life of service to date.

As the commencement speaker for the two undergraduate ceremonies held that day, I was able to share portions of my journey and how I have been blessed through the intersections of life that afforded me the opportunity to serve others on three continents. Like so many Kappas, my story is about overcoming obstacles and turning roadblocks into stepping stones of achievement. It was also nice to see a member of the Pi Phi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® graduate that day. A life of a Kappa Man is indeed a life of service to humanity. This issue features examples of such service in the form of a celebration of the ascension of Gerald K. Freeny to the Chairmanship of the Tournament of Roses ® (see page 46). For a hometown Pasadenan of African

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

International Headquarters 2322-24 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590 Phone: (215) 228-7184 www.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.

Ferguson conferred the Doctor of Humane Letters from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. From left: President George L. Hanbury II, Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Brad A. Williams, and Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ralph V. Rogers.

Cover photo furnished by Pasadena Tournament of Roses.

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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 ®

GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

Brothers, It's Time to Give...

A s we prepare for our 84 th Grand Chapter Meeting in Philadelphia next year, I often think about the op- portunities that summertime offers to Kappa’s in a non-conclave year. Typi- cally, the host chapter of a conclave is busier than usual during an “off” year because of the time required to ensure a countless number of “i’s” are dotted and “t’s” crossed. Many of us know from tried-and-true experience that it’s the only way to guarantee a successful Grand Chapter meeting. Philadelphia Alumni, is in fact already working and mobilizing countless resources to ensure we enjoy our 84 th Grand Chapter Meet- ing. But for the rest of Kappa, summer can be somewhat of a downtime, when monthly meetings are postponed and focus is on socials like black-and-white balls, family outings, Kappa boat rides, and youth service activities through our Guide Right programs. This year we introduced our first Kappa League National Conference. It was a resound- ing Kappa success. Nevertheless, it’s also the perfect time to engage in the fraternity’s philan- thropic initiatives. During conclaves, we traditionally conduct a community service project, where Kappa leaves its mark on the town through voluntary public service. In 2017, for instance, host chapters, Orlando and Winter Park actually executed the conclave’s theme “Leave a Legacy/Build a Future” around the concept of giving back to the com- munity. Those chapters collaborated

with a local community partner, The Ex- perience Christian Center, to establish the Diamond Experience Learning Cen- ter. This facility is enabling access to the Internet and technology to students and families in the underserved Pine Hills community of Orlando, Florida. When the conclave is over and thou- sands of brothers, their families, friends and associates have ventured back home, surely we must consider the pub- lic perception of us by local citizens of all walks. After all, our conclaves affect a community economically, politically and socially. More directly, however, how will we as a fraternity evaluate our philanthropic stewardship? Serving others, whether through com- munity volunteerism or charitable dona- tions, is woven into the DNA of Kappa Alpha Psi ® . It’s what we do. It is who we are. It is embedded in our objec- tives, “To inspire service in the public interest.” And, I repeat, summer offers a ripe opportunity to support such causes through visits while vacationing and, importantly, financial contributions. As chapters have held their summer retreats, I trust that you reflected on our objective, and then identify opportuni- ties for volunteerism and philanthropy for your chapter. Luckily, on a national scale, Kappa has longstanding philanthropic initiatives that I highly encourage brothers to par- ticipate in as a way of serving the less fortunate. You can find details on them and how to contribute on our website

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GRAND POLEMARCH'S MESSAGE

Every brother should accept responsibility for supporting the [Senior Kappa] Endowment. This is all about Kappa commitment, the future of us and generations of yet unborn Kappas to follow. Give to your endowment my brothers!

and the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation’s website. Some of these initiatives are relatively new such as our partnership with The Smithsonian National Afri- can American Museum of History and Culture, located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., which opened in September 2016. As a founding and contributing donor, we are helping the museum showcase many unknown as well as widely familiar African American contributions to our nation’s greatness. The museum has evolved into a prime locale for public ceremonies and perfor- mances while serving as a highly desired exhibition space for representing Black history and culture. I’ve been delighted with the overwhelm- ingly positive response from brothers about Kappa’s renewed support of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its “Sunday of Hope” initiative. Since the start of the 33 rd Administra- tion in 2015, Kappa has raised more than $2 million for St. Jude, becoming its leading African American fundraising organization. Surely this news is good for our brand, but, brothers, the chil- dren St. Jude cares for continue to have dire needs. African Americans exceed 40 percent of the patient total. Lastly, let’s not forget The Piney Woods School, which, by the way, is 109 years old! Kappa continues to raise funds to fulfill a commitment to the Mississippi- based school, which was established to

educate the children of former slaves. Today, due to the rash of school shoot- ings, we know and feel the need for children to be trained in a safe environ- ment. In 1909, Piney Woods addressed that need by providing a safe place for African Americans to learn and serve as a cultural and academic retreat. Cur- rently, Piney Woods students mainly come from lower to middle-income families, but most of these youth attend on scholarship. The good news is that support from Kappa and other donors has helped Piney Woods achieve a 98 percent rate of college-bound graduat- ing seniors. We also partner with our Silhouettes to further the cause of educating others on infant safe sleep measures. We spon- sor classes, raise money, and purchase and donate safe cribs so every infant we encounter can live and have a chance at life. The First Lady of Kappa reminds us in Safe Sleep to “Change the Tradition by Changing the Position.” I believe we can Preach from that message right to the Brotherhood. Some chapters have also worked with our Silhouettes to help our victims of domestic violence by donating re- sources, both financial and otherwise, to centers that offer assistance to this vulnerable group of brothers and sisters. Nationwide, our Health and Wellness Committees reach masses of people with their Healthy Kappa’s/Healthy

Communities initiatives. They perform free health screenings, and oftentimes the information they provide saves lives. Finally, I must take this opportunity to thank all of our brothers who have committed to the Senior Kappa En- dowment. Every brother should accept responsibility for supporting the endow- ment. This is all about Kappa commit- ment, the future of us and generations of yet unborn Kappas to follow. Give to your endowment my brothers! Other philanthropic programs worthy of your gifts include the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation, 1911 Mobile Cause, iKare Disaster Relief and Kappa Kamp. Kappa makes a difference through our philanthropy! Again, summertime brings the time and opportunity to give through monetary donations, visits to the charitable institutions the fraternity supports, and hands-on, grassroots vol- unteerism. I charge you to participate in Kappa through these types of philan- thropic options. Each brother himself is a gift to be shared with others in this respect, so please let it not remain unopened or little used.

Yours in the Bond,

Thomas L. Battles Jr. Grand Polemarch

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JUNIOR GRAND VICE POLEMARCH'S MESSAGE

Brothers All: I hope this issue of the Journal finds you all well! We are halfway through the year of 2018 and brothers everywhere are achieving like never before. Since the last correspondence, brothers have had a chance to assemble together at Province Council taking care of the business of our great and Noble Clan. Along with that, brothers, includ- ing myself, have graduated from college, graduate school and doctorate programs, truly achieving in the manner in which our beloved Founders envisioned. Brothers, I hope that while you all are in school and/or on the job achieving in every field of human endeavor, that you take time for personal and spiritual relax- ation, family vacation, and last but not least, give back to the Bond which have given so much to you. For many of us, the change of season brings new things for our lives and new changes in Kappa Alpha Psi ® . For instance, in the last edition of the Journal I wrote that after college I would

be teaching in a Teach for America program, but on the eve of my gradu- ation, God changed the course for me life to pursue seminary at Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. For Kappa, we have had the chance to see a new program come to life, the inaugural National Kappa League Conference which was held in Charlotte, NC July 13-14, 2018. I was humbled to be able to speak to the hundreds of young Kappa Leagu- ers about the importance of being bold, loyalty and truth. Brother Kevin Burnett and the other good brothers on the National Guide Right Committee did an exceptional job with putting this con- ference together. To be able to give back and be a part of this conference has undoubtedly been one of the highlights of my journey so far in Kappa. Another new initiative that has oc- curred this summer is the approval for the inaugural National Founders’ Day Undergraduate Summit where under-

graduates from all over will have the chance to come together and discuss issues facing our fraternity. I along with the other undergraduate Grand Chapter Officers, the Council of Junior Province Vice Polemarchs, and the Director of Undergraduate and University Af- fairs, Brother Ryan Tucker, are hard at work to construct a curriculum for this summit that will benefit undergraduate brothers everywhere. The issues we will address will cover ev- erything from rights and power given to undergraduate brothers in the Constitu- tion and Statutes to how to effectively combat hazing. We will even have an opportunity for undergraduates to have a closed-door panel discussion with the leadership of the fraternity. Though this will be the inaugural National Founders Day Undergraduate Summit, it is my hope and desire that in future years this will grow to be a major investment into the future of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. just like the

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JUNIOR GRAND VICE POLEMARCH'S MESSAGE

Christopher G. Cross, Junior Grand Vice Polemarch, center, flanked by Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. and Senor Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq., receives applause for his work in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

Undergraduate Leadership Institute and Lead Kappa. Also, undergraduate brothers as we approach the beginning of the school year and you are beginning to plan your chapter’s semester activities, be mindful of the Grand Polemarch’s initiatives in Kappa’s Six-Point Plan. Moreover, include programs related to the undergraduate Grand Chapter Officers’ and Council of Junior Prov- ince Vice Polemarchs’ initiatives such as voter registration, mental health, financial literacy and iKare. I also advise that when we plan social events, that we ensure our market- ing and advertising reflect positive branding practices, and we maximize our efforts to bring in maximum profit with these events. Brothers, it is also important that we prioritize the business of Kappa by ensuring the chapter is registered for CRWLC, the inaugural NFD Undergraduate Summit, and most importantly, the

84 th Grand Chapter Meeting in August 2019 in Philadelphia, PA. Finally, it is also important that as un- dergraduates we abide by the policies in the Membership Training Academy so that we may not contribute to the cur- rent paradox that Kappa Alpha Psi ® finds itself in where the very thing which is meant to sustain and help the fraternity thrive, intake and initiation, is the very thing that poses the deadliest threat to the future of our fraternity. However, I am confident in my faith and hope for undergraduate brothers to utilize MTA to initiate the next generations of leaders and achievers! Yours in the Bond, Christopher G. Cross Junior Grand Vice Polemarch

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KAPPA COMMENTARY: NATIONAL CHAPLAIN'S MESSAGE

Revive Us

By Rev. Dr. Tony C. Evans, Sr. National Chaplain

T he came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it hand of the Lord

some ways are a familiar picture of the fraternity. They represent all the broken- ness, all the fears, all the hopelessness and confusion. They represent all the sickness and diseases of humanity. But all hope is not lost. We have to awaken the conditions of “Dry Bone” syndrome that has entered in the lives of some brothers. I am sharing this message, not to criti- cize the fraternity that I have proudly been active and committed to for 44 years, but I came to prophesy to those dry broken places, I came to release the power of God into the fraternity’s valley places, and I came to tell you that there is a dry bone specialist in the fraternity. You don’t have to stay in the condition you are in now. There is a next level! A level that is in alignment with achieve- ment in every field of human endeavor. “Good enough” is never a statement of a Great Kappa Man. It is time to revive us! As the great- est fraternity known to mankind, this is our challenge. Brothers aligning together behind our 33 rd Grand Pole- march Thomas L. Battles, Jr.’s charge of Rebirth, Reclaim, and Recommit by Leaving no Brother Behind. Making our spirituality known through our ac- tions. Making our spirituality visible in all we do! Revive us, through education, revive us through Guide Right; revive us through the Kappa Foundation. As I close, Brothers, I’m telling you, there is a wind blowing, there is a fire falling, there is a resurrection power surfacing. That power is God! God will raise us. He’s the God of the resurrec- tion, He is the God of revival.

tor, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Pleasant- ville, New Jersey, delivered powerful messages to a full house for the three nights. The remarkable accomplish- ment of this spiritual filled worship and praise service was the inclusion of other members of the Divine Nine: the Alpha Kappa Alpha “Singing Pearls,” the Alpha Phi Alpha Ensemble, the Delta Sigma Theta Chorus and the Huntsville Alumni Kappa Chorus. This was quite a difference from “Wine, Women, and Song.” I congratulate Polemarch Carlen J. Chestang, Jr. and the brothers of Huntsville Alumni. Well done! The spirit of the Lord is here…. The brothers of Huntsville Alumni have begun a movement that is captured in the scriptural text found in Ezekiel 37:1- 10 “Can these bones live?” Let me bring the point directly home to Kappa: “Can Kappa Live?” The reason of my focus on revival is to bring to light the awesome omnipotent resurrection power of the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost produces revival. In the Book of Ezekiel, we see the awesome power of God, resurrect- ing, healing and restoring. We see God putting broken things back together again. We see hope coming into hope- less situations. We see that there is no problem, no situation, no condition too hard, or too big for God. My message to you today is to tell you similar to the bones talked about in Ezekiel: Kappa will live again! Our existence has been hampered and threatened by isolated acts of hazing, suspensions, charters re- voked, brothers falling into non-financial status, and acts that are not in align- ment with our Founders (10 God fearing Christian Men) views and purpose of this great fraternity. It’s time for a Kappa Revival!

was full of bones. Then caused me to pass by them all around and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry. And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” So I answered, “O Lord God, You know. ” – Ezekiel 37:1-3. We are “Men of Achievement” in every field of human endeavor. Down through the years, since our inception, Kappa Men have been connected to achieve- ment. But it is in times like these, that we need to re-engage in our fundamen- tal purpose, to be re-energized using our God-given gifts and talents, to heighten our spirituality in claiming victories over the many challenges, that lie in front of us. The Word of God is very clear in giving us a starting point. In Matthew 6:33, Seek Ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all things will be added unto you . Brothers, this is a simple formula for Achievement. My message for you in this issue, while focusing on “Education, Guide Right and the Foundation,” is “Revive Us.” We can do all things through Christ that strengthens us. (AL) Alumni Chapter after hosting their “6 th Interdenominational Spring Revival” held at the First Missionary Baptist Church, where Rev. Dr. Julius R. Scruggs serves as Pastor. It was an overwhelming success. Brother Rev. Willie Dwayne Francois III, Senior Pas- This past spring, I received some great and exciting news from the Huntsville

To God be the Glory!

Ezekiel looks at this valley of bones— dried, broken and scattered, and in

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KAPPA COMMENTARY: NATIONAL RECLAMATION

More than 1700 Brothers Are Reclaimed

I n ancient Greece, in times of war the Polemarch served as the supreme leader of the army “trumping” the

Jesus once said, “The harvest is plenti- ful, but the workers are few.” We have a playbook in Guide Right and Kappa League that can change the trajec- tory of our entire race. If that sounds far-fetched imagine 100,000 achievers contributing to Guide Right. A Guide Right Chairman of one can touch five to 10 boys, but what if a Guide Right Chairman had a committee of five to 10 brothers? That same com- mittee could then reach 20 to 30 young men. And although there are some amazing chapters with Kappa Leagues of 40-plus, if there is one boy we do not reach we must strive to do more. Guide Right is one of if not the most important reason for reclamation. Every active brother in Kappa is a member of the Reclamation Committee and should also seek to contribute to Guide Right. Guide Right should give inactive broth- ers a renewed purpose for coming home to Kappa. There are inactive members whose professions could positively affect the trajectory of so many coming home to Kappa. Inactive brothers may not have the time to join the chapter or serve the com- mittee, but maybe the brother will be willing to sponsor an event, buy a pizza, or send a Kappa Leaguer to camp. Thank you to all the brothers toiling the fields to harvest young minds, but let’s challenge our inactive brothers to join the fight and help turn the tide for a brighter tomorrow.

Below are the brothers who assisted with reclamation this past fraternal year along with the reclamation totals by Province. The Vice Chairmen of the National Reclamation Committee are T. Eugene Connaway, who also serves as Outreach Chairman and Henry Jacobs. Byron Scott (228) Middle Eastern Henry Jacobs (135) Western Samuel Gibbs (71) Northern William Doxie (70) Middle Western Frank Smith (67) Southeastern Lawrence Davis (179) South Central Terence Tunstall (137) North Central Keith Baker (118) East Central Arthur R. Ward Jr. (43) Southwestern Ronald Lockett (356) Northeastern Joseph Cordero 116) William "Bill" Bayne- Leagues of 40-plus, if there is one boy we do not reach we must strive to do more .” Province Reclamation Chairmen: Eastern Paul Robinson (120) Southern “A Guide Right Chairman of one can touch five to 10 boys, but what if a Guide Right Chairman had a committee of five to 10 brothers? That same committee could then reach 20 to 30 young men. And although there are some amazing chapters with Kappa

authority of the King. In Kappa Alpha

Psi ® , we have the Grand Polemarch, Province Polemarchs, and Chapter Po- lemarchs who lead their respective areas and communities. During my time as Polemarch of Dulles- Leesburg (VA) Alumni Chapter I walked with an air of confidence as a leader of men in the best fraternity on Earth. But there were also times that two nagging questions weighed heavily on my heart. Are we at war? And if we are at war, how strong is Kappa’s army? I submit to you that our community has long been at war. Young men and boys are confronted daily with poverty, drop- ping out of high school, drugs, and lack of strong male role models. To put it frankly, it is a matter of life and death. Kappa Alpha Psi ® through Guide Right has led—and continues to lead the way impacting the lives of young men. For close to a century, Guide Right has men- tored young men, helped them to choose careers, and sent boys to college. The Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation and alumni chapter foundations have given millions of dollars in scholarships to both achievers and those in need who otherwise may not have gone to school. But I ask you again, “How strong is Kappa’s army?” What does this have to do with Kappa and Reclamation?

Grand Chapter (64)

The total number of brothers reclaimed is 1704. Here's to Kappa Alpha Psi ® !

Yours in the Bond,

Paul Robinson National Reclamation Chairman

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Photo credit: Sean Pavone: Independence Hall inPhiladelphia, PA.

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84 TH GRAND CHAPTER MEETING KICKOFF

T he 13 th Annual National Founders Day was held from January 4-7, 2018 at the Sheraton Music City Hotel in Nashville, TN. Held in the South Central Province, host chapters included: the Meharry Medical Col- lege Chapter, the Kappa of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Tennessee State University Chapter, the Alpha Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Middle Tennes- see State University Chapter, the Eta Gamma of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Vanderbilt University Chap- ter, the Nu Rho of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , the Nashville (TN) Alumni Chapter, the Murfreesboro (TN) Alumni Chapter, the Hendersonville (TN) Alumni Chapter and the Brentwood (TN) Alumni Chapter. A t a press conference on Friday, July 20, 2018, in the Philadelphia Mayor’s Recep- tion Room of City Hall, national, regional and local representatives and members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. announced that the 84 th Grand Chapter Meeting is coming to Philadel- phia in 2019. P iladelphia Director of Commerce Harold Epps, a memb r of Omega Psi Phi Frat rnity Inc., of- ficially welcomed the fraternity to Ph ladelphia nd presented Grand Polem rch Thomas L. Battles Jr., local leaders and Grand Chapte Meeting planners replicas of the Philadelphia Liberty Bell and tha ked the fraternity for sel c ing Philadelphia. He shar d his background, the influence several Kappa men had on his life nd c reer and how both Kappas and Omeg share the same spirit of brotherhood a d “For 107 years, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has padded the way to make a difference in

this world,” stated Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. touting such partnerships as the Global Infant Safe Sleep Center to “ensure the lives of our children and educating parents on safe sleep methods” to internal initiative such as the Senior Kappa Affairs Endowment Fund to “guarantee we can leave a legacy and build a future,” Grand Polemarch Battles praised the membership for its demonstrated brotherhood, dedication and hard work. Chapter Polemarchs John Henry Ford, MBA, Nashville (TN) Alumni Chapter; Michael Lane, Sr., (Eta Gamma 1975) Murfreesboro (TN) Alumni Chapter; Ronald Douglas, Jr., Hendersonville (TN) Alumni Chapter; and Billy Williams, Brentwood (TN) Alumni Chapter worked with Kendrick D. community service. Philadelphia City Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown a d Cher lle L. Parker both members of D lta Sigma Th ta S rority Inc., Penn ylvania St te Repres ntative Steph Kin- sey and Pennsylvania S ate Senator Sh rif Street both members of K ppa Alph Psi ® welcome the Kappas o Phil d lphia, shared some history of the fraternity, its relevance and i fluence in the Philadelphia region and presented the national and local leadership with citations and resolu ions. Julie Cooker Graham the CEO of the Phila- delphia Convention and Visitors Bureau also thanked the Kappas for choosing Philadelphia as the location of their next Grand Chapter Meet- ing. She reiterated what Harold Epps stated

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about the economic impact on the region this conclave will have. This event will bring an estimated 10,000 del- egates, members and their families to Philadelphia July 30 through August 4, 2019, pumping millions of dollars into the economy from transportation, hotels accommo- dations, meals, to local retail businesses and activities. The biennial event features meetings, seminars, training sessions, workshops, concerts and activities that high- light the vision and good work the fraternity does around the world. Almost three years ago, the Philadelphia (PA) Alumni Chapter of created a committee chaired by entrepreneur Sam Patterson with the specific goal of bringing a Grand Chapter Meeting back to Philadelphia. Philadelphia last hosted a conclave in 1995. The local planning com- mittee and province leadership, under the tutelage of Province Polemarch Craig C. Chisholm, collaborated with the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau

to make a presentation to the Grand Board of Direc- tors. They hosted visits by the Grand Board who toured the city, met with civic and elected officials and frater- nity leaders who promoted the benefits of coming to Philadelphia. The Grand Board of Directors selected Philadelphia for the site of their 2019 Grand Chapter Meeting in 2017. In addition to conducting the fraternity’s business and providing an opportunity for members and their families to fellowship, the fraternity also makes a conscious deci- sion to have a positive impact on the city and region that hosts the Grand Chapter meeting. Philadelphia (PA) Alumni Chapter Polemarch L. Douglas Harrell shared the selected organization the 2019 Grand Chapter Meeting will benefit. “The impact we hope to have is to give back to the School District of Philadelphia. One of the things we do when we come to a city is make a significant contribution to the community, where we

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KAPPA PHILANTHROPY: SENIOR KAPPA ENDOWMENT FUND

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KAPPA NEWS

From left: Grand Board Member Ron V. Julun; Grand Board Member Jimmy McMikle; Grand Board Member Linnes Finney, Jr., Esq.; Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq.; Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr.; Junior Grand Vice Polemarch Christopher G. Cross; Grand Board Member Andre J. Earls; Grand Chapter Nominating Committee Chairman Chauncy E. Haynes; and Grand Historian Kevin Scott.

have the conclave. This conclave coming up we targeted the Philadelphia School District. I’ve spoken to the superinten- dent William Hite who is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , he couldn’t be here today because he is out of town; and, we will be making a significant impact on the educational forums that go on in Philadelphia.” Polemarch Harrell is committed to increasing the profile and presence of Kappas in the region, getting more mem- bers involved in the community service and empowerment initiatives of the fraternity and making the larger commu- nity aware of what the fraternity does. He is calling all Kappas in the area who are not engaged to become involved, get re-energized and become a part of the planning and programs that benefit the community. “Brothers can contact me through PhillyKappas.com, E-mail me directly or call me at (215) 307-9327.” Other local officials on hand to give the fraternity an official welcome included former mayors: The Honorable Rev. Dr.

W. Wilson Goode, Sr. and The Honor- able John F. Street. “It’s the basis for our theme, Kappa – Great Men Achieving Great Things,” said Grand Polemarch Battles. “We aim to leave a significant and indelible mark on Philadelphia through public service initiatives from now through the conclave and long afterward.” Senior Kappa Affairs Endowment Fund The Senior Kappa Affairs Endowment Fund Wall was also unveiled during the kickoff weekend. The Senior Kappa Affairs Endowment Fund (SKAEF) is an initiative promulgated by the 33 rd Administration. The purpose is to raise funds to provide financial resources to fund increased and sustainable pro- grams and services for senior members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Senior Kappas are those who are at least age 60. Legacy Badge Program Each member who completed his pledge to SKAEF would receive the Legacy

Badge. The legacy badge, as has been outlined in the pages of previous issues of the Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal, celebrates the fraternity’s first name and is crafted with white enamel and golden metal. Those who have contributed thus far have their names permanently displayed in the Kappa Alpha Psi ® International Headquarters Building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 1

Northeastern Province Polemarch Craig C. Chisholm.

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SENIOR KAPPA AFFAIRS ENDOWMENT FUND

Above: The men of Kappa Alpha Psi ® built a wall for the Senior Kappa Affairs Endowment Fund. Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., 30 th Grand Polemarch and Laurel Wreath Laureate-Designate Samuel C. Hamilton and Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation President and Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Michael J. Dubose. Senior Grand Vice Polemarch Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq.

Above: Province Chairmen of the Senior Kappa Affairs Committee are among those who greeted the Grand Polemarch.

Publishing achievement for more than 100 years

THE JOURNAL SUMMER ISSUE | 17

THE KAPPA ALPHA PSI FOUNDATION

Taking the Next Bold Step in the New Way Forward: Why the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation is Poised to Lead the Black Philanthropic Movement

2017-18 Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation Board of Directors –standing from left: James Simms, Director; William Croom, Director Emeritus; Donald Bland, Director; Cain A. Hayes, Director; Linnes Finney, Jr, Esq., Director; Robert L. Greene, Director; and Adolphus M. Pruitt, Director. Sitting (from left to right): L-Mani Viney, Executive Director; Christopher G. Cross, Director; Michael M. Adkinson, Secretary; Thomas L. Battles, Jr., Grand Polemarch and Director; Michael J. Dubose, President; Janice Hall-Dean, President of National Silhouettes and Director; A. Ronald Berryman, Treasurer; Chester Leaks, Director; and Robert L. Harris, Esq., Director Emeritus; Not Shown: Rodney C. Adkins, 1st Vice President, Reuben A. Shelton II, Esq., Director, Kennis E. Wilkins, Director, Pierre A. LeVeaux II, Director, Gregory S. Thomas, Director, Melvin C. Hopson, Director Emeritus; and Henry E. Parker, Director Emeritus .

I n the 2015 winter edition of the Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal, the Kappa Foundation unveiled its then new strategic direction known as the New Way Forward. Its objective was to restructure the operations of the Kappa Foundation. Three years later, the Kappa Foundation has positioned itself to take its boldest step yet: to become one of the most influential Black-led philanthropic institutions in America. To understand why believe we are in the position to take this step it is im- portant to understand where the Kappa Foundation has come from. Under the leadership of president Mike DuBose, the entire board of directors and the un- wavering support of Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. through the 1911 initiative, the Kappa Foundation has been able to increase its endow- ment by $2 million dollars, acquired over $300,000 in grants from the

Kellogg Foundation and Kenan Trust for supporting Guide Right programs, increased scholarship awards for under- graduates and bolstered its operations with the hiring of a full time executive assistant. The foundation also strength- ened its board with the appointments of new members James Simms, Bob Greene and Silhouette President Janice Hall-Dean who is leading the new com- munity grant initiative. Heightening our fundraising prow- ess, the Celebration of Achievement luncheon, under the leadership of Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Donald Bland, exceeded expectations in its first year and the Building the Dream Klassic, under the leadership of Laurel Wreath Wearer Rodney C. Adkins, which has quickly become one of the nation's and philanthropy’s most prominent funding raising events in support of young Men of Color. Lastly, the Kappa Foundation has expanded its national profile by

becoming the only Black Greek Lettered Foundation to become members of the Association of Black Foundation Execu- tives and the CEO/Foundation presi- dents board of the Executive Alliance of Boys and Men of Color. Though much as been accomplished under the New Way Forward taking the next bold step is not only desired but also essential to the advancement of Boys and Men of Color in America. With the end of the Obama presi- dency and My Brother’s Keeper as a federal program, there was a 30% loss of funding from philanthropic institutions towards programs for Boys and Men of Color. Of the institutions that still fund these initiatives, many lack in diversity on their boards or only fund programs regionally. The Kappa Foundation is one of the only philanthropic institu- tions that is minority-led, has a national portfolio and continues to increase its funding to support programs and initia-

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THE KAPPA ALPHA PSI FOUNDATION

Building the Dream Klassic 2018: Golf ♦ Tennis ♦ Spa ♦ Fitness ♦ Scholarship ♦ Mentorship

tives supporting boys of men of color in America. So, what must be done to take this next bold step in the New Way Forward to assume the national mantle of leadership in Black-led philanthropy? Going forward the Kappa Foundation has set its agenda to accomplish three critical objectives: • Aggressively increase its endowment through its fundraising strategy to strengthen and sustain long term funding support for Guide Right, Un- dergraduate initiatives, scholarships and programs that support better life outcomes for its members. • Continue to increase our national influence through partnerships, so- cial media and work in the non-profit space. • Work hand in hand with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. to build a culture of philanthropy with its membership. With the development of the upcom- ing capital campaign drive, the K-100 Executive Club, Kappa National Non- Profit Network as well as the Economic Summit and Celebration Luncheon at the 2019 Grand Chapter meeting and the next installment of the highly antici- pated Building the Dream Klassic, the Kappa Foundation is expanding its ef- forts to increase its engagement with the members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® to inspire investment in its philanthropic activities. The rationale is simple. The members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® , and the programs it supports represent a microcosm of the communities of color and the issues it confronts, in America. Ultimately philanthropy is influence. Therefore, as we work to increase the philanthropic power of the Kappa Foun- dation, we in turn increase its power to chart the path of the programs, initia- tives and policies that impact lives of men of color in America. This is the next bold step we must take in our New Way Forward.

Anthony G. Stepney, Golf Chairman, center, posed with the 2018 Building the Dream Klassic Schol- arship Winners.

T he Second Annual Building the Dream Klassic or "the Klassic" was held on March 1-4, 2018 at the PGA Na- tional Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. "The Klassic featured golf, tennis, spa and fitness but also the event includes educational sessions," stated Laurel Wreath Wearer Rod Adkins, Chairman of the Klassic. "The most important piece of this are the activities around the young men. These young men represent our future. So we provide them with experiences as a part of this event. And hopefully those experiences will be lasting enough to make a difference in their lives," Adkins continued. Robert Rush, above, pictured second from left, a senior at Harvard Univer- sity was a recipient of the Building the Dream. Scholarship. "To be a recipient, is a humbling and grateful experience for me. I came into Kappa Alpha Psi ® wanting to be

exposed to a network of Black men who are out in the world trying to change it for the better, while also taking the time to reach back down and build up other young Black men who are looking to do the same thing," he continued. Those experiences included spending time with such dignitaries as Katrina Adams, Chairman of the Board and President of the United States Tennis Association, Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski III, President of the University of Mary- land, Baltimore County, Tanya Spencer, Global Sales Operations Leader for GE, and John E. Jacob, past CEO of the National Urban League, among others. Oscar P. Robertson and Samuel Jones served as Honorary Co-Chairmen. Oth- er members of the Klassic Committee included: Silhouette Michelle Adkins, Rich Coleman, Linnes Finney, Jr. Esq., Clifford Franklin, Silhouette Naiema Freison, Wilburn Hardison, Leonard Herring Jr., Kelly Holloway, John E. Ja- cob, Pierre LeVeaux, Sherman K. Kizart, James Simms, Anthony Stepney, L-Mani Viney, and Silhouette Janice Savin Wil- liams. What follows are snapshots of a fantastic weekend of philanthropy and mentorship.

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2018 BUILDING THE DREAM KLASSIC

Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr., Foundation President and Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Michael J. Dubose and event chair and Laurel Wreath Wearer Rod Adkins worked to ensure a first class experience for participants, students and guests throughout the weekend. USTA Chairman and President, Katrina Adams, Sam Jones, Oscar Robertson, Tanya Spencer Global Sales Operations Leader for GE, and Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski III, President of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, among others made an immeasurable impact on the young men who were part of the program.

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2018 BUILDING THE DREAM KLASSIC

THE GALLERY

Golf, tennis, spa and fitness were only part of the 2018 Building the Dream Klassic experience. Educational workshops and opportunities to interact with mentors and thought leaders figured prominently into the weekend's activities.

Publishing achievement for more than 100 years

THE JOURNAL SUMMER ISSUE | 21

KAPPA NEWS

National Silhouette Philanthropy Supporting Kappa Alpha Psi ® Chapters with the Safe Sleep Initiative

T he Kappa Alpha Psi ® Fraternity, Inc. Safe Sleep Mini-grant Program officially launched on Father’s Day and more than 90 chapters applied to participate. As part of Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), renewed its partnership with Kappa Alpha Psi ® . With the support of the Global Infant Safe Sleep (GISS) Center team, the mini-grants will enable Brothers and Silhouettes to lead and host activities in their communities, where they can share safe infant sleep messages in culturally sensitive ways. This partnership, established in 2015, focuses on fathers and the unique role they can play in reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related causes of infant death, such as suffocation. undergraduate and alumni chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi ® and to members of the Silhouettes, the wives and widows of Kappa members. Grantees receive up to $1,000 to conduct safe infant sleep educational activities, with a focus on efforts in states with the highest SIDS Following a competitive process, NICHD/Kappa awarded 55 mini- grants across the United States to

rates—this focus is a key component of the ongoing partnership. “Fathers, uncles, brothers, sons — men in our communities can really make a difference in reversing these trends,” said Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Bat- tles, Jr. “We have educated thousands of Kappa brothers and families about saving babies’ lives. These mini-grants will allow our brothers to go into their communities to share these important messages with others nationwide.” The Kappa and Silhouette activities continued throughout the summer. The list of the 55 mini-grant recipients: are: Silhouette Affiliations • The Columbia (SC) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Bowie/Mitchellville (MD) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Decatur (GA) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Houston (TX) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Norristown (PA) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Greenville (SC) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Huntsville (AL) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Indianapolis (IN) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes

• The Mobile (AL) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Augusta (GA) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Toledo (OH) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • The Denver (CO) Alumni Chapter Silhouettes • Then New Orleans (LA) Alumni Chap- ter Silhouettes Undergraduate Chapters • The University of Florida Chapter the Zeta Phi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Jacksonville University Chapter the Eta Mu of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Chapter the Gamma Sigma of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Indiana University Chapter the Alpha of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Wright State University Chapter the Xi Tau of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Georgia Institute of Technology Chapter the Lambda Delta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Bowling Green University Chap- ter the Beta Xi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The West Virginia University Chapter the Epsilon Chi of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Marshall University Chapter the Epsilon Delta of Kappa Alpha Psi ® • The Kent State University Chapter the

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