The Sphinx Magazine: The Entrepreneurial Issue Volume 112, No 1 by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

THE NATION’S SECOND OLDEST AFRICAN AMERICAN MAGAZINE IN PUBLICATION

CONTENTS

features

in this issue

WHERE PRECISION MEETS PURPOSE: THE VISION BEHIND VITAL LOGISTICAL SERVICES

ALPHA JOURNEY ENCOURAGES TRANSITION FROM CORPORATE AMERICA TO LUXURY HOTEL VENTURE

HIDEOKI BESPOKE OFFERS DISTINCTIVE DESTINATIONS FOR LUXURY CRAFTSMANSHIP THAT REFLECTS CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE AND INDIVIDUALITY

Letters

General News

Alpha Chairmanship

What Every Alpha Should Know

Economics | Entrepreneurism

Literary | Entertainment

Licensed Manufacturer & Vendor Directory

BUILDING THE INFRASTRUCTURE BEHIND CULTURE

Alpha Award Of Honor/ Alpha Award Of Merit Recipients

BUILDING THE NEW BLACK WALL STREET: CAPITAL, COMMUNITY, & BROTHERHOOD

Omega Chapter

113

Leadership Directory

FROM ADVERSITY TO ENTERPRISE: IS TODAY’S CLIMATE SPARKING A NEW BLACK ECONOMIC RENAISSANCE?

SKYROCKET MERGES STORYTELLING, TECHNOLOGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN FULLSERVICE MEDIA COMPANY

IT MATTERS WHERE YOU BANK: INSIDE LIBERTY BANK’S 50-YEAR MISSION TO EXPAND ACCESS TO CAPITAL

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. develops leaders, promotes brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities.

CONTENTS

Official Organ of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. SPECIAL EDITION SPRING 2026 | Volume 112, No. 1 apa1906.net EDITOR OF THE SPHINX Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC EWebb@apa1906.net CONTRIBUTORS Lucien J. Metellus, Jr., Sean L. McCaskill, Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC, Dr. Donald G. Nicolas, Adrian Stratton, MBA, CPP, PRP, Eugene JJ. Radcliff, B.S., JD., Tkeban Jahannnes, Adrian Stratton, MBA, CPP, PRP, Thomas E. Cummings, Ed.D., Dr. Brian D. Agnew, Ke’Shawn Alexxander, Larry Allen, Jr., Kenneth Asher, Dr. Alphonso A. Buie, Jourdan Brunson, Terrence D. Byerson, Jr., Dr. Emmanuel Cherilien, Archie Clay, III, Bryan L. Cook, Richard Hodge, Lovise Jiles, Dan Johnson, Kenneth Johnson, Esq., MCP, AIA, NCARB, NOMA, Kerry Johnson, John S. Kendall, Esq., Ashbury Lockett, JD, MBA, Armani Madison, Morris Mayfield, III, Michael McCreary, Christopher McKinley, Jr., Darrell L. McNair, Herman Miller, Jr., Ferondo Moore, Noah J. Moore, Dr. Randal Pinkett, Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, Dallas Grundy, Lawrence Hibbert, Antonio Riley, Derek Robinson, Chris Ross, Victor Scotti, Jr., Dr. Armond E. Sinclair, Dr. Policarpio Soberanis, Dr. Markus Smith, Kalven L. Trice, MS, MPA, Kenneth Quan Webster, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) DeWayne Wells, James Wesby, Christian J. Williams, Clarevonte “Clay” Williams, Kiante Bush, Bryant Williams, Jerome Wilson, Kevin M. Yates, Rob “YB” Youngblood, Van L. Strickland, Christopher A. Evans, Harry Johnson, Jr., Dedrick Thomas, Jerome Dotson, Jr., Damon Hawkins, Justice Houser, Todd McDonald, Lewis M. Roman, III PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE Ramon Peralta, Jr., L.H.D., Chairman and Chief Creative Advisor, Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC, Editor of The Sphinx, Eric G. Stephens, Derrick Jones, II, Derek D. Adams, PMP, Philip Wilkerson, III, and LaMarcus J. Hall, Ph.D. EDITORIAL OFFICES Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 2313 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 212I8-5211 www.apa1906.net COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Jamal Wiggins COVER DESIGN: Nicole McCoy PRINTING Mercury Publishing Services, Inc. (800) 634-9409 DESIGN Nicole McCoy Senior Graphic Designer Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

IN THIS ISSUE This special edition of The Sphinx on “Entrepreneurship” highlights the need and possible rise of a new “Black Wall Street” movement, as well as the Fraternity’s efforts to encourage entrepreneurship and cooperative economics, within its operations, and among the Brotherhood, itself. The issue also profiles both emerging and top Alpha entrepreneurs throughout the Fraternity while each of the issue’s respective departments, except Omega Chapter, focuses on the business and entrepreneurship theme.

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FOLLOW ALPHA PHI ALPHA

@APA1906Network

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MAIL

MAIL FROM THE BROTHERHOOD

BROTHER TERRENCE D. MACK, ESQ. RHO CHAPTER Good morning Brother Eric Webb: Congratulations and thank you so much regarding the Spring 2025 issue of The Sphinx and the comic book. I have every Sphinx magazine I have received during my almost 35 years (1991 through 2026) of active, good-standing membership in "The House."

who understands the meaning of the word "jawn"), July 16–20, 2025, at the Pennsylvania (not Philadelphia, as some people mistakenly say) Convention Center and the Philadelphia Downtown Marriott. 06 good Brother!

I want to commend you because the Sphinx magazines that have been published and distributed to Brothers under your leadership as Editor-in-Chief of The Sphinx have been the best I have ever received and read. Your Sphinx magazine issues have been even better than my favorite one, the Centennial Issue, Fall/Winter 2006 – Volume 91, Numbers 3-4, that I have loved so much that I have had a copy of its cover on one of my bedroom walls for almost 20 years. I was glad I had the opportunity to interact with you while at the 96th General Convention, which took place in my birthplace and current domicile, Philadelphia, PA (yes, I am a Philly cat

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FROM THE GENERAL PRESIDENT

Letter from the General President Greetings, “It requires more than just the ability to sell, to conduct a successful business one must be able to buy well, which means having contacts and the development of credit. One must be satisfied with a large number of small profits in lieu of a small number of large profits. One must appreciate the value of advertising and be possessed of the necessary capital to see it through.” — Jewel Eugene Kinckle Jones

Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. General President GeneralPresident@apa1906.net

Jewel Jones challenges us as Alpha men to understand the mechanics of economic power—capital, credit, networks, and disciplined growth. His words remind us that economic empowerment is not accidental; it is strategic, intentional, and rooted in collective responsibility. As the world around us shifts, Alpha Phi Alpha must continue to be a beacon towards building economic strength, within the communities we serve and globally. This issue of The Sphinx Magazine® is dedicated to Brothers who are doing exactly that—entrepreneurs who are creating jobs, generating wealth, and expanding economic opportunities. They follow in the legacy of Brothers such as John H. Johnson (Ebony and Jet Magazines), Thomas J. Burrell (Burrell Communications), Jesse Binga (founder of Chicago’s first privately owned African American bank), and William F. Packard (Founder and Executive Chairman, GAA Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management). These Brothers understood the power that economic independence serves as a cornerstone for freedom. Inside this issue, you will meet Brothers across industries—technology, fashion, media, real estate, and more—whose work deserves our support. Their success is not just personal; it strengthens the economic fabric of our communities. I encourage you to read their stories, amplify their work on social media, and when possible, invest in or purchase their products and services. Circulating our dollars among our own is not merely symbolic—it is necessary to provide for a future generation yet to be. Brotherhood calls us to lift one another in every step forward. This issue of The Sphinx Magazine® is more than a publication; it is a gold print for economic self‑determination. May it inspire you to pursue your own ventures that assist in generational development—knowing that your Fraternity stands with you. I look forward to the moments when we can shake hands, exchange greetings, and depart as friends once again. Always Fraternal. S

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FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Letter from the Executive Director My Brothers of Alpha, I pray this message finds you mentally and physically strong.

Sean L McCaskill Executive Director seanmccaskill@apa1906.net

In 1939 while speaking on unity, Jewel Brother Vertner Woodson Tandy stated, “We deemed it essential that such a fellowship of Negroes of training and culture emphasize unity, in order that they might best serve the needs of large masses of people, hungry for leadership and in need of honest, altruistic guidance.” The words uttered 90 years ago continue to serve as a clarion call for Alpha Brothers to answer and complete the struggle for equality. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was forged for such times. Since the U.S. Presidential inauguration, the Trump administration has consistently pursued policies that have a detrimental impact on African Americans. The reality of today’s times is we must understand that hoping, wishing, shaming, complaining, begging, retreating, and refusing to fully participate in a capitalist system are not the ways towards equality. The Black dollar has never been utilized in this system to demand respect and engage in cooperative economic practices for Black people across the system. The foundation for success within a capitalist system is financial literacy and the empowerment of African Americans to control their dollars. Improving financial literacy empowers African Americans to make informed decisions, which leads to tangible and long-lasting positive outcomes. That is why "Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers" and Brother-toBrother Networking are so important – our new campaigns and philosophy encourage us as an organization as well as individual Brothers to patronize the businesses of our Brothers and network with each other, first. If Alpha Brothers are not available, then seek out other Black businesses and service providers second, before looking to others. This cooperative economics approach ensures that we are valued as customers and as a community and can subsequently create and increase the value of our own independent economies within our community. At the General Office, we are actively reevaluating our business relationships, their associated customer service and pricing, and whether we have been effectively creating an ecosystem where our dollars circulate within our Brotherhood and within Black business communities. This effort has led us to seek alternative vendors, resulting in significant cost savings. Previously, we were overcharged and underserved, and our ongoing patronage was being taken for granted. We strongly encourage all Alpha Brothers to adopt this approach. This special edition of The Sphinx is dedicated to this ideology and to fostering and celebrating entrepreneurship within the Brotherhood. Enjoy the special edition and remember; things will change when those who know better do better. S

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FROM THE EDITOR OF THE SPHINX

Letter from the Editor of The Sphinx Greetings Brothers, Today, white supremacy works to eliminate hard-fought voting and civil rights gains for African Americans through its academically disguised Project 2025 playbook, whose ultimate endgame is the cultivation of a new and permanent Black underclass as well as a social existence reminiscent of the 1950s and earlier.

Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC Editor ewebb@apa1906.net

And they are getting closer thanks to the elimination of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) policies, the dismantling of the Department of Education, the removal of high-ranking and highly qualified African Americans in both federal and corporate roles, new limits to the landmark Voting Rights Act as well as the erasure of educational and economic opportunities for African Americans. Our response, however, is clear. Malcolm X notably said that: “Of all our studies, history is best qualified to reward our research,” meaning that the response or answers to the problems and challenges we currently face can be found in how we and others overcame similar ones in the past. During Segregation, we learned to not only survive, but even at times, thrive through self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and cooperative economics. Noted by financially prosperous Black towns and communities such as Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Greenwood District with its more than 600 businesses, and Durham, North Carolina’s Parrish Street, African Americans became self-sustainable and built wealth. Thanks to Black institutions like the Negro Baseball League, the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance, various Black newspapers, and other Black businesses, which became economic engines capitalizing on legal and social isolation that ensured the repeated circulation of Black dollars within our communities. Once again, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity must lead by example and be a guiding light to our entire Brotherhood and the communities we serve through both our agenda and practices. This special edition of The Sphinx dispenses with many of its traditional departments and features to showcase the efforts of the Fraternity and our Brotherhood to increasingly embrace cooperative economics through its Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers Campaign conceived by Executive Director Brother Sean L. McCaskill, as well as how it promotes and adopts entrepreneurship through the Fraternity’s ongoing Alphaprenuer Competitions at both general and regional conventions. We also highlight a growing number of Brothers who have embraced entrepreneurship part time, as well as those who have abandoned corporate America altogether and have committed themselves exclusively. As always, it is both my honor and pleasure to serve as your Editor of The Sphinx. S

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GENERAL NEWS

GENERAL NEWS BY DR. DONALD G. NICOLAS [BETA BETA LAMBDA, ’22]

General President Lucien Metellus and Divine Nine Organizations Recognized at 2025 Historic Orange Bowl Classic

The 2025 Invesco QQQ Orange Blossom Classic (OBC) delivered a powerful celebration of HBCU culture, unity, and Black Greek–letter excellence, highlighted by a historic Tribute to the Divine Nine. Held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the event brought together national leaders from the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, honoring their enduring legacy of service, scholarship, and community leadership. The tribute took place on August 30, 2025, as part of the OBC weekend, which has become one of the nation’s premier showcases of HBCU pride. Miami Gardens Councilman Reggie Leon hosted the ceremony, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration. The stadium’s façade was illuminated with the shields of each Divine Nine organization, symbolizing unity and shared purpose across generations of Black leadership. Distinguished leaders were highlighted by General President Lucien Metellus and included Danette Anthony Reed, International President and CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Orlando Grant, the 24th International Grand Polaris Elect of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.—were honored for their contributions to education, civic engagement, and cultural advancement. The tribute emphasized the Divine Nine’s pivotal role in shaping social progress and strengthening communities nationwide.

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GENERAL NEWS

The broader OBC weekend amplified this spirit of excellence. Thousands gathered for receptions, luncheons, and cultural events, including a keynote by actress and Howard alumna Wendy Raquel Robinson, who spoke about mentorship and the transformative power of HBCU experiences. Game day continued the momentum, showcasing electrifying performances from bands, cheer squads, and Divine Nine members, all contributing to an unforgettable atmosphere of unity and celebration. The 2025 Divine Nine Tribute ultimately served as a vibrant reminder of the organizations’ historic impact and ongoing leadership. It strengthened bonds across the HBCU and Greek communities while setting the stage for even greater collaboration and cultural celebration in the years ahead. S

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns the Death of Civil Rights Movement Icon and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Frater Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns the death today of the late Civil Rights Movement icon and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Frater Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., a founder of the Rainbow PUSH Organization, and protégé and close aide of the late Brother Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was 84. “We the men of Alpha lift up his family and community in prayers,” said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. “The strides we have made as a nation can be directly tied to the work of Jesse Jackson and now more than ever we need more people that will fight the good fight.” Frater Jackson rose to national prominence in the 1960s and became one of the most influential civil rights leaders in America. Over the years, Frater Jackson cemented his legacy not only as a prominent Civil Rights Movement icon, but as an influential national and international statesman. His activism and notable economic boycotts against Anheuser Bush, Coca Cola, CBS television affiliates, and Kentucky Fried Chicken through his organizations, led to minority job concessions from white businesses, and became a blueprint to push for social and economic justice for African Americans. In international matters, Frater Jackson traveled to Syria and successfully secured the release of a captured American Navy pilot, who was shot down on a mission to bomb Syrian positions, after he made a dramatic personal appeal to Syrian President Hafez al-Assad in 1983. After an invitation by Cuban President Fidel Castro, he negotiated the release of 22 Americans held there a year later.

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GENERAL NEWS

His bold, but unsuccessful 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns, demonstrated that an African American candidate could stage a viable campaign for the highest office in the country, making him a force to be reckoned with. In 1990, he would be elected to the United States Senate for the District of Columbia, serving one term as a shadow delegate. Over the last several decades, he continued to tirelessly advocate for justice and equal protection for African Americans and people of color from speaking out about the shooting and murder of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman to expressing support for pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses, comparing them to divestment campaigns for South Africa. Today, the nation, not only African Americans, has lost a champion. The Fraternity offers its sincerest condolences to his family, Fraternity, friends, and all who admire him. S

Statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on ICE Aggression and Disregard of Civil Rights and Rule of Law

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. abhors and condemns the escalating aggression and disregard of civil rights and rule of law by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) in U.S. cities across the country and urges the U.S. Congress and federal courts to act. ICE is a regulatory agency, not a law enforcement agency, and should not be permitted to wear masks as well as harass, detain, assault, or kill with little or no accountability. No one is above the law, and no agency is above the U.S. Constitution. Over the past year, ICE has sent a clear message that current immigration efforts are not about the security of our borders nor the enforcement of our immigration laws and policies but instead about providing a license to target minority people in this country, regardless of citizenship, under the guise of immigration enforcement.

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GENERAL NEWS

And with recent revelations that ICE members include a leader of the Proud Boys and members of other white nationalist/supremacist groups, should give lawmakers more than pause and sound an alarm about the vetting and deeply disturbing direction and so-called enforcement of this agency. Be clear, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and its Brotherhood have long stood at the forefront for the advancement and equal protection of disenfranchised people in the public sector, and that is unwavering. Therefore, the Fraternity supports its members and chapters participating in peaceful protests, with the approval from the Regional Vice President, when they align with advocacy on behalf of our communities. Alpha Phi Alpha does not condone or support violent protest or the destruction of property. We also encourage Brothers and Chapters to action in the following ways: 1. Chapters should immediately set aside time to meet with their current congressional district representatives and discuss our concerns as an organization about the aggressive nature of ICE. 2. Implore Congress and the President to come together to provide immigration reform that addresses the concerns of Americans with a path to citizenship for “Dreamers” {undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, growing up to consider America home, often educated here, and contributing significantly to the economy, yet lacking permanent legal status}. 3. Chapters should engage in voter registration, education, and voter turnout efforts in the 2026, 2027, and 2028 elections, while partnering with like organizations. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will not be silent while the rights and freedoms of U.S. citizens and people in search of the American promise are trampled and ICE operates like 21st Century slave patrols in this country. Our freedom and democracy depend on it. S

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CHAPTER NEWS

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and The D9Network, a New ‘Divine Nine’ Digital Platform for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs, Announces Collaboration

This first-of-its-kind collaboration strengthens the mission of both organizations to amplify Black economic power, visibility, and community connections nationwide. Through this partnership, Alpha Phi Alpha members can: • Gain exclusive access to a curated platform for business visibility and networking. • Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and professionals to build partnerships that drive economic power. • Take advantage of tools, resources, and events designed to strengthen legacy-building efforts within the Divine Nine community. “Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is pleased to partner with The D9 Network in this unique collaboration that supports our in-house initiative of ‘Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers,’ which already encourages our members to patronize businesses and services of fellow members,” says Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. “This partnership now helps to expand our support to other members of the ‘Divine Nine,’ who own businesses and are also entrepreneurs.” D9Network CEO Brother Sean Reed McGee echoes those sentiments. “As an Alpha man myself, this partnership is deeply personal,” says McGee. “Our goal with The D9Network has always been to connect our Divine Nine family, elevate Black businesses, and ensure the Black dollar keeps circulating within our community. With this endorsement, Alpha Phi Alpha sets the tone for what collaboration and brotherhood can achieve.” Alpha Phi Alpha chapters, members, and affiliates are now invited to join The D9Network, where they can showcase their businesses, access valuable resources, and collaborate on initiatives that drive empowerment forward. For more information and to join, visit www.thed9network.com. S 10

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GENERAL NEWS

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Donates $20,000 to Cancer Research in Honor of late Alpha Brother and ESPN Anchor/Sportscaster Stuart Scott Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s General Board of Directors recently agreed to donate $20,000 to the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund with the V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity. The late Brother Scott, who was 49 when he passed away in 2015, was a 1984 Mu Zeta Chapter initiate of the Fraternity at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a celebrated ESPN Anchor/ Sportscaster. “We are proud to continue to honor the memory of our dear Alpha Brother, who was a courageous advocate for cancer research and epitomized our moniker as ‘Men of Distinction,’,” says Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. “Despite his own cancer fight, Brother Scott recognized that minorities were disproportionately affected and unselfishly chose to bring awareness.” Brother Scott’s sister and V Foundation for Cancer Research board member, Susan Scott, echoed his sentiments. “Alpha Phi Alpha was a meaningful and defining part of Stuart’s life. He loved the brotherhood, lived its values, and took deep pride in being an Alpha man — a bond shared with my brother Stephen as well,” says Scott. “To see that brotherhood continue to honor Stuart through this gift, and through their commitment to cancer research, means more to our family than words can fully express.” The V Foundation and ESPN established the Stuart Scott Fund in memory of celebrated ESPN sportscaster Stuart Scott. Brother Scott was a dedicated friend to the V Foundation and a champion for cancer research. He enrolled in a clinical trial during his own cancer journey and was especially driven to improve outcomes for African Americans and other minorities disproportionately affected by cancer. The fraternity first began supporting the foundation with the ‘Give and Go Challenge’ in 2020. “We are profoundly moved by the generosity of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,” says Clark Kinlin, Interim CEO at the V Foundation. “By supporting cancer research for underrepresented groups through the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund, this contribution helps us close the gap in healthcare outcomes and ensures that lifesaving breakthroughs reach every community.” The Foundation has awarded more than $22.1 million in research grants in his memory. S

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ALPHA CHAIRMANSHIP

BY BROTHER ADRIAN STRATTON, MBA , CPP, PRP [OMICRON ZETA LAMBDA , ’08]

Entrepreneurial Rules

anaging a business organization can be a rewarding experience for entrepreneurs. Often beginning with an idea, turning that idea into a successful operation requires more than just creativity and hard work. Entrepreneurs should understand and follow specific rules to ensure their organization operates smoothly and navigates avoidable obstacles. Below are three rules that entrepreneurs and organizations of all types can implement to operationalize ideas without overlooking critical details. Understand Necessary Compliance Requirements Every organization, no matter how large or small, must operate within a legal framework if it wishes to achieve long-term success. This means understanding the rules and regulations that apply to the specific industry and location where an organization operates. These requirements can vary significantly depending on the place (or

places) of business, customer or client locations, and organization type. Failure to comply with applicable requirements can result in fines, penalties, or even a forced closure. To avoid these issues, entrepreneurs should research the specific rules and regulations that could apply to their organization. Taking the time to understand rules and regulations related to compliance will help to ensure an organization remains in good standing. Keep Detailed Records Keeping detailed records is another critical rule for entrepreneurs. Detailed recordkeeping includes everything from maintaining accurate and timely financial statements to documenting meeting minutes. Accurate records help organizations monitor true business progress, make informed decisions, and stay organized. Detailed records also provide a clear picture of the financial health of an organization, which is essential for fulfilling tax obligations, securing

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ALPHA CHAIRMANSHIP

loans, or attracting investors. Entrepreneurs will also need to maintain records of official actions, such as decisions made during meetings with partners or advisors. These records may be required for compliance and can also serve as an important reference if disputes arise. Combined with other important documents, such as a strategic plan or competitor analysis, detailed records may also yield unique insights that could help to create or defend a competitive advantage.

Entrepreneurship is a rewarding but challenging journey. While there is no guarantee for success, following these rules can significantly improve the chances of building a thriving business organization: •

Avoid costly mistakes

•

Maintain an accurate record of activities

•

Strategically seek advice by understanding compliance requirements

•

Keep detailed records

•

Utilize relevant expertise from an advisory team

Build a Relevant Advisory Team No entrepreneur can succeed alone. Building an advisory team is a key rule for achieving sustained success. An advisory team is a group of experienced individuals who can provide guidance, share expertise, and offer valuable insights. Carefully selected advisors can also help an entrepreneur navigate challenges and make strategic decisions. An advisory team might include mentors, industry experts, or professionals. For instance, if launching a startup, an entrepreneur might seek advice from an industry veteran or a financial advisor who specializes in startups, while those looking to acquire an existing business might assemble a different team with acquisition expertise. Advisor input can help to refine the business model, secure funding, and even scale operations. Governing documents should clearly define the rights and obligations of advisors.

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Entrepreneurs who create an ideal operating environment based upon a strong foundation have the opportunity to develop an idea into success. S Brother Adrian Stratton, MBA, CPP, PRP, serves as General Parliamentarian for the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

FEATURE

WHERE PRECISION MEETS PURPOSE: THE VISION BEHIND VITAL LOGISTICAL SERVICES BROTHER VAN L. STRICKLAND [KAPPA ALPHA, ’ 82] AND BROTHER CHRISTOPHER A. EVANS [DELTA GAMMA, ’ 87] PHOTO BY: BROTHER JAMAL A. WIGGINS [ZETA SIGMA, ’99]

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FEATURE

n an industry where details define outcomes and experiences shape legacies, Vital Logistical Services (VLS) has emerged as a trusted force in event planning and execution. Founded in 2024, VLS represents more than a business venture—it is the culmination of decades of leadership, service, and a shared commitment to excellence between co-founders, neighbors, and fraternity brothers, Brother Van L. Strickland (Kappa Alpha Chapter, Fall 1982) and Brother Christopher A. Evans (Delta Gamma Chapter, Spring 1987). At the heart of VLS is a partnership rooted in both professional distinction and personal trust. Brother Strickland, the company’s CEO and founder, brings a remarkable 33-year career with NASA, where he led program operations and strategic communications for complex, high-stakes initiatives. Managing teams of more than 40 professionals in a fast-paced, technical environment, he developed a reputation for precision, leadership, and results-driven execution. Yet, Brother Strickland’s impact extends far beyond federal service. For more than three decades, he has been a central figure in large-scale event planning within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., serving as director of general conventions and leading major gatherings at the district, regional, and international levels. His expertise in venue selection, contract negotiation, and comprehensive event coordination

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laid the foundation for what would become VLS—a firm built to deliver excellence at scale. Complementing Brother Strickland’s strategic vision is Christopher A. Evans, VLS’s chief operating officer and co-founder. Brother Evans brings 36 years of Department of Defense experience, with deep expertise in contracts, acquisition, and small business programs. His background in operational efficiency and logistical planning provides the structural backbone that allows VLS to execute seamlessly across a wide range of event types. Brother Evans is equally accomplished in the event planning arena. As associate director of conventions for Alpha Phi Alpha since 2017 and director of conventions for the Southern Region from 2021 to 2025, he has worked alongside meeting professionals nationwide to identify premier venues, negotiate advantageous agreements, and oversee travel and lodging logistics. His leadership ensures that every engagement is both strategically sound and operationally flawless. Together, Brothers Strickland and Evans form a partnership that is both complementary and powerful. Where Brother Strickland brings visionary leadership and stakeholder engagement, Brother Evans delivers operational discipline and executional 15

FEATURE

"For Brothers Strickland and Evans, events are more than gatherings—they are opportunities to connect communities, celebrate achievements, and create lasting impact.

precision. Their longstanding friendship and shared values—service, professionalism, and community impact—serve as the cultural foundation of VLS. The inspiration behind Vital Logistical Services emerged from years of firsthand experience navigating the complexities of event planning. Time and again, the founders encountered a fragmented industry where clients were forced to manage multiple vendors, increasing risk and reducing efficiency. Recognizing this gap, they envisioned a “single-source provider”—a firm capable of managing every aspect of an event with consistency, care, and expertise.

offers end-to-end services that integrate strategy, logistics, and execution. Each event is treated as a unique experience, designed with intentionality and delivered with precision. The result is not just a well-run event, but a seamless, stress-free experience for clients and attendees alike. What truly sets VLS apart, however, is its commitment to purpose-driven planning. For Brothers Strickland and Evans, events are more than gatherings—they are opportunities to connect communities, celebrate achievements, and create lasting impact. Their work reflects a deep understanding that behind every event is a story, and behind every story is a responsibility to deliver excellence. As Vital Logistical Services continues to grow, its foundation remains clear: a partnership built on trust, a standard defined by excellence, and a mission centered on creating moments that matter. Through the combined strengths of its founders, VLS is not only shaping events—it is redefining what exceptional event planning looks like. S

That vision now defines VLS’s approach. Whether planning a corporate conference, executive retreat, or milestone celebration, the firm

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FEATURE

SPRING 2026

WHAT EVERY CHAPTER NEWS

ALPHA SH

OULD KNOW

HOW TO EFFECTIVELY PROMOTE YOUR EXPERTISE OR BUSINESS WITHIN THE FRATERNITY

BY BROTHER TKEBAN X.T. JAHANNES [DELTA ETA, ’ 86]

One of the biggest failures of entrepreneurs, business owners, and subject-matter experts is lack of marketing and promotion. As members in good standing, Brothers have several ways to access, communicate with, and network with the Brotherhood, who might be interested in the products or services you oﬀer or who may wish to collaborate professionally. Here are a few ways to further foster awareness. 1.

Join a specialized group in Alpha Elite that could use your expertise or is a network of Brothers in that area.

2. In Alpha Elite, create a business overview in your biography with links to your website, social media, and work samples.

3. Teach a Masterclass or webinar series on Alpha University under one of the three colleges (College of Leadership, College of Brotherhood, College of Personal & Professional Development).

KEEP IN MIND! Create a group or groups of similar interest at any time. Many Chapters have groups to communicate through Sphinx Hub instead of using unsecure apps like GroupMe or Flare.

BY BROTHER EUGENE J. RADCLIFF, B.S., JD. [XI NU LAMBDA, ’08]

Artificial Intelligence, Economic Transformation, and the Path Toward a New Black Wall Street

rtificial Intelligence (AI) represents one of the most significant structural shifts in economic production since the advent of industrial mechanization. More than a technological trend, AI is a generalpurpose economic technology that is redefining productivity, labor markets, firm formation, and wealth creation. For Black entrepreneurs, this moment carries particular importance. AI is reshaping the barriers to entry across industries and creating conditions that could accelerate a modern era of Black enterprise, one that echoes the cooperative economic spirit of historic Black Wall Streets while operating within a digital and globally connected marketplace. From an economic perspective, AI reduces the marginal cost of many knowledge-based

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ECONOMICS | ENTREPRENUERISM Photo: Black entrepreneur analyzing data on a laptop or AI dashboard. AI-driven analytics and automation tools are lowering startup costs and increasing competitiveness for small, knowledge-based firms.

activities. Tasks that once required specialized labor or large administrative teams, such as data analysis, marketing optimization, customer engagement, logistics forecasting, legal research, and even creative production, can now be automated or augmented through AI systems. This compression of operating costs lowers capital requirements for new ventures and increases the scalability of small firms. In practical terms, entrepreneurs can now launch and grow businesses with leaner teams, fewer overhead constraints, and access to analytical capabilities that were once exclusive to large corporations. For Black entrepreneurs, who have historically faced disproportionate barriers to capital, credit, and institutional networks, this shift is economically consequential. AI tools can serve as equalizers in productivity, enabling firms with limited initial resources to compete more effectively in national and global markets. A small consulting firm can leverage predictive analytics. A creative enterprise can deploy AI-assisted production and distribution. A logistics or service business can utilize machine learning models to improve efficiency and pricing. These developments illustrate how AI functions as a multiplier of human capital, amplifying expertise, creativity, and strategic insight. SPRING 2026

At the macroeconomic level, AI is accelerating the transition toward a knowledge- and dataintensive economy in which intangible assets like intellectual property, algorithms, data infrastructure, and digital platforms play an increasingly central role in wealth accumulation. This transformation carries a critical implication: participation alone is insufficient; ownership is essential. Entrepreneurs who build and control AI-enabled products, platforms, and services are positioned to capture a disproportionate share of economic value. For Black business leaders, this underscores the urgency of moving beyond consumer adoption of technology toward producer and owner roles within the AI ecosystem. The concept of a new "Black Wall Street” must therefore be understood not solely as a geographic concentration of storefronts and offices, but as an interconnected economic network built on digital infrastructure, shared capital, and collaborative enterprise. AI makes it possible for clusters of Black-owned firms to operate across cities while remaining economically linked through partnerships, supply chains, and shared markets. Digital platforms allow for coordinated commerce, collective branding, and knowledge exchange in ways that were previously constrained by physical proximity. This environment aligns closely with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s “Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers” campaign. Economic theory has long recognized the multiplier effect of circulating capital within defined networks. When members of a professional community invest 19

ECONOMICS | ENTREPRENUERISM

Photo: Group of Black professionals collaborating in a tech-forward workspace. Economic clustering in the digital era allows Black-owned enterprises to form connected networks resembling a modern ‘new Black Wall Street.'

" The concept of a “new Black Wall Street” must therefore be understood not solely as a geographic concentration of storefronts and offices, but as an interconnected economic network built on digital infrastructure, shared capital, and collaborative enterprise. 20

in, purchase from, and mentor one another, they strengthen internal markets and accelerate business survival and growth rates. In the AI era, this internal circulation of capital can support Black-owned technology consultancies, digital service firms, fintech ventures, media platforms, and data-driven enterprises. Early-stage funding, professional services, strategic partnerships, and access to markets can determine whether innovative ideas evolve into scalable firms. AI also has implications for labor economics and workforce mobility. As automation reshapes traditional employment patterns, demand is rising for skills in data literacy, digital strategy, process automation, and AI oversight. Black professionals who cultivate these competencies can transition into higher-productivity roles or launch AIenhanced ventures within their existing industries, from healthcare and real estate to entertainment and financial services. Entrepreneurial success in this environment will often depend on combining domain expertise with technological fluency. However, economic opportunities are not distributed automatically. Without intentional investment, education, and network support, existing disparities could be replicated in emerging sectors. Ensuring that Black

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ECONOMICS | ENTREPRENUERISM

entrepreneurs are represented as founders, investors, and technology owners in the AI economy is therefore both an economic development priority and a matter of long-term wealth equity. The convergence of AI innovation, reduced barriers to firm formation, and strengthened internal economic networks presents a historic opening. A new Black Wall Street is emerging, not confined to a single district, but expressed through digitally connected enterprises built on knowledge, ownership, and collaboration. Through strategic use of AI and intentional circulation of Alpha dollars, today’s entrepreneurs can build enduring institutions that expand prosperity across communities and generations. S

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Brother Eugene J. Radcliff holds a B.S. degree in Economics/Finance from Southern University at New Orleans and a Juris Doctor in Law from Loyola University School of Law. A Fall 2008 Xi Nu Lambda Chapter initiate, he is the proud father of Brother Brent M. Radcliff, a Spring 2013 Mu Chapter initiate and former general counsel. Both Brothers are attorneys, entrepreneurs, and business strategists whose work spans law, international property, media, technology, and economic development initiatives focused on expanding ownership and opportunity in the digital economy.

CHAPTER NEWS ECONOMICS | ENTREPRENUERISM

BROTHER THOMAS E. CUMMINGS, ED.D. [IOTA KAPPA LAMBDA, ’79 - POSTHUMOUSLY SUBMITTED]

African American Male Entrepreneurs: A Study of the Key Success Factors

n 2020, businesses majority-owned by Black or African Americans accounted for only 3% of all U.S. firms classifiable by race and ethnicity of their owners (Leppert, 2023). In 2022, the Small Business Association reported that there were 33.2 million small businesses in the United States of which 20% were minority-owned (Sehmbi and Murphy, 2023). According to the Pew Research Center, 55% of Black or African American businesses in 2020 were owned by males (Leppert, 2023). Past references indicate that only 39% of this population’s businesses survived beyond 4 years while their White and Asian counterparts’ survival rates were 92% and 91%, respectively, for the same period of time (Turner, 2016; U.S. Census Bureau, 2007).

Overview To determine how African American male entrepreneurs have been successful, a research study with the following guiding question was conducted: What do successful African American male entrepreneurs think are the keys to obtaining success and sustaining their businesses beyond four years? 22

Participants The study participants included seven African American male entrepreneurs who conduct business in the Monroe County sector of western New York. In 2016, there were approximately 451,000 businesses in New York state. About 12.1% of those businesses were in Rochester, New York’s Monroe County (SBA, 2016). In 2023, the Greater Rochester Enterprise (GRE) reported a total of 35,050 businesses in Rochester of which approximately 98% are considered small businesses (GRE, 2023). Table 1 provides a demographic profile of the participants who owned 51% or more of the equity within their businesses and had a minimum of 12 years of product or service-related business experience. The annual revenue for these companies ranged from less than $500,000 to more than $10,000,000.

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Table 1: Participant’s Demographic Profile Participant

Education

Age

Business Entity Type

First Business

Start-up Financing

Years in Business

Annual Revenue

Bachelors

>50

S-Corp

Yes

Personal

<$5,000,000

High School

<50

Sole Proprietor

Yes

Personal

<$500,000

High School

>50

C-Corp

Personal

<$10,000,000

Bachelors

>50

S-Corp, C-Corp, LLC

Personal

<$10,000,000

High School

>50

S-Corp

Yes

Personal

<$5,000,000

Bachelors

>50

Sole Proprietor

Yes

Personal

<$5,000,000

Masters

>50

Sole Proprietor

Yes

Personal

<$500,000

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CHAPTER NEWS ECONOMICS | ENTREPRENUERISM

Results The study findings resulted in the development of a model comprised of six themes (Figure 1) defining how the participants view the keys to success in starting and sustaining a business. The white circles in Figure 1 represent success factors which are important and common for all entrepreneurs. The gold circles represent success factors which the study participants deemed critical for the success of African American male entrepreneurs.

Figure 1: Key Success Factor for African American Male Entrepreneurs

Business Opportunity Recognition

Resilient Mindset

Prepare for Direct and Systemic Racism

Strategies to Access Financial Capital

Key Success Factors

Utilization of Mentors

Factors common for all entrepreneurs Factors common for African American male entrepreneurs

Success Factors Critical for African American Male Entrepreneurs Strategies to access financial capital. Seizing opportunities and being successful requires having access to financial capital and a clear understanding of finance to sustain businesses during the early stages. Many of the study participants started their businesses with limited financial resources, including personal funds, savings or using monies received as a “buy-out” from a corporate downsizing. They 24

cited the importance of understanding debt management and developing an established banking relationship as banks do not aggressively pursue lending opportunities with African American male-owned businesses. Banks often require stricter criteria and higher interest rates for African American borrowers due to perceived credit risks (Bates and Robb, 2016; Fairlie, Robb & Robinson, 2020). Preparation for direct and systemic racism. All the participants experienced direct and systemic racism. These acts of racism often occurred when meeting with White clients/people for the first time. As a result of these interactions, participants had to make decisions regarding the disclosure of the owner's identity as an African American male, whether to refrain from engaging with individuals displaying racist attitudes, or to employ a white individual to serve as a liaison. Direct and systemic racism can have tangible and real negative effects on the survival and success of the business if one fails to anticipate and employ an adaptive strategy. Resilient mindset. Even though African American male entrepreneurs are often overlooked for business opportunities, it is important for them to maintain a resilient mindset. There were many tough and sometimes conflicting decisions the study participants needed to make to survive and stay in business. All indicated that going out of business was not an option. Thus, strategies used for maintaining resiliency included reinvestment in the business, building targeted networks, utilizing technology, and staying visible in the marketplace.

Success Factors Critical for all Entrepreneurs Detailed business knowledge. Knowledge of one’s business establishes credibility with stakeholders, customers, and suppliers. It also enables strategic market positioning to gain competitiveness. To understand the business, participants noted the importance of having intimate knowledge of their products or services relative to the market needs. THE SPHINX®

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Utilization of mentors for business success. Participants cited the importance of having a mentor as a resource to improve business success. Each participant also noted the impact mentors have had on their success as African American male business owners. The gender of the mentor did not matter, nor did the race. What mattered was the connection or trust created between the mentor and the entrepreneur, and the relevant experience of the mentor.

References

Recognizing and seizing business opportunities. Being a successful African American male entrepreneur suggests having a level of astuteness. Specifically, one must have the ability to see opportunities weighed against capabilities, to determine financial capital needs and to make appropriate business decisions. Having a plan to demonstrate success, sustainability and to minimize risks is essential.

Leppert, R. (2023). A look at Black-owned businesses in the U.S. Pew Research Center. Retrieved from https://www. pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/02/21/a-look-at-blackowned-businesses-in-the-u-s/

Conclusion The purpose of this study was to identify key success factors needed for African American male entrepreneurs. The participants were seven entrepreneurs who had been in business for at least 4 years and were currently operating a product or services business in Monroe County in Rochester, New York. They provided valuable insights into the requirements for business survival and success. The themes and the resulting model developed provides a roadmap for aspiring and current African American male entrepreneurs and has added to the limited body of knowledge on this topic. S

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Bates, T. & Robb, A. (2016). Impacts of owner race and geographic context on access to small-business financing. Economic Development Quarterly, 30(2), 159-170. Fairlie, R., Robb, A. & Robinson, D. (2020). Black and white: access to capital among minority-Owned startups. Working Paper, 28154. National Bureau of Economic Research. Greater Rochester Enterprise. (2023). Community Profile. Retrieved from https://www.rochesternyprospector.com/ community-profile.html#:~:text=Businesses%20and%20 Jobs,the%20top%20industries%20by%20jobs%3F

Sehmbi, K. & Murphy, R. (May 11, 2023) Small-Business Statistics: Numbers to Know for 2023. Retrieved from https:// www.nerdwallet.com/article/small-business/smal-businessstatistics#citation-list. Turner, E., (2016). African American entrepreneurial sustainability. (Doctoral dissertation). Available from ProQuest Dissertation and Theses Database. (UMI No. 10125163) U.S. Census Bureau (2007). 2007 Survey of Business Owners. Retrieved from: http://census.gov U. S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy (2016), New York state small business profile. Retrieved from https:// www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/advocacy/New_York.pdf.

Brother Thomas E. Cummings, Ed.D., was a 1979 Iota Kappa Lambda Chapter initiate, a Life Member of the Fraternity, and former member of the Eta Rho Lambda Chapter in Rochester New York. Dr. Cummings retired from the Eastman Kodak Company after a 31-year career in Senior Management, and then continued as president of his entrepreneurial enterprise, Thomas E. Cummings, Inc.

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ALPHA JOURNEY ENCOURAGES TRANSITION FROM CORPORATE AMERICA TO LUXURY HOTEL VENTURE BROTHER HARRY JOHNSON, JR. [ALPHA RHO, ’ 05] PHOTOS BY: BROTHER JAMAL A. WIGGINS [ZETA SIGMA, ’99]

he year was 1992, and the movie everyone at school was talking about was Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Like most kids, there were two things I took away from that film: first, I needed a Talkboy voice playback toy; and second, I had to find my way into a suite at the Plaza Hotel. Watching Kevin McCallister navigate a five-star world, complete with a butler delivering an ice cream sundae on demand, revealed a level of luxury and service I hadn’t known existed. Every summer following the release of that movie, while attending Alpha conventions and family vacations, my parents were sure to remind me that my name was not Kevin—and ordering room service was strictly off-limits. It wasn’t the opportunity to have an ice

cream sundae in a bathrobe while watching R-rated movies that stayed with me, although I would have gladly accepted that life. For me, it was witnessing a level of service that fostered a sense of belonging. Even as a child, I recognized that great service created a sense of ownership and genuine connection. That feeling of connection is exactly what I plan to provide to every guest at the 145-room hotel and restaurant I’ve undertaken in the heart of Oakland. While Hollywood sparked my imagination, my true blueprint for entrepreneurship was formed much closer to home. I fortunately had a frontrow seat to the life of a founder right in my own living room. I can still recall walking past our formal living room after dinner and seeing young adults from the neighborhood seeking legal advice or riding along with my father following our weekend haircuts to pick up files from his law office. THE SPHINX®

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As his career transitioned from law to pursuing complex business deals, my vocabulary was soon filled with terms like "joint ventures" and "percentage splits." I didn’t fully grasp the mechanics then, but I was drawn to autonomy, the fact that he was never tethered to a desk, but was instead out in the world building something of his own. Transitioning into entrepreneurship from Corporate America feels like a natural evolution. Oakland is a unique city with deep roots and a fierce sense of local pride; it reminds me of the spirit I felt growing up in Houston. When the opportunity arose to acquire and revitalize a waterfront hotel in Jack London Square, the excitement was matched only by the weight of the responsibility. Pursuing entrepreneurship is inherently daunting, but entering a space that employs hundreds of individuals and taking over a property that the city plans to use as an anchor for the area carries an immense level of responsibility. However, my journey through Alpha has taught me that we do not walk alone.

to Brother Euclid Walker, whose extensive experience in banking and hotel ownership provided an invaluable roadmap. I also consulted Brother Todd McDonald to discuss the financing landscape for a project of this scale. Both answered the call with enthusiasm and insight. Furthermore, Brother Gordon Greenwood, a distinguished Bay Area attorney, provided the critical direction needed to secure the right legal counsel to protect this investment. My path toward entrepreneurship leans heavily on the principles of Alpha Phi Alpha. Beyond the bricks and mortar, I am building a space that ensures the "genuine connection" I felt as a child is available to all. This project is a commitment to economic uplift and community pride. The journey ahead will be long, but I move forward with confidence because I do not move alone. I hope my story inspires others to activate the Brotherhood, trust in our network, and remember that our greatest successes are rarely achieved in isolation. S

Whether navigating the complexities of hotel operations or designing a concept that honors the local culture, I’ve leaned heavily on the Brotherhood, which for me started at Morehouse College through the Alpha Rho Chapter. The fraternity’s network became my ultimate sounding board. When the opportunity first surfaced, I immediately reached out 28

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"Whether navigating the complexities of hotel operations or designing a concept that honors the local culture, I’ve leaned heavily on the Brotherhood, which for me started at Morehouse College through the Alpha Rho Chapter.

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HIDEOKI BESPOKE OFFERS DISTINCTIVE DESTINATIONS FOR LUXURY CRAFTSMANSHIP THAT REFLECTS CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE AND INDIVIDUALITY BROTHER DEDRICK THOMAS [KAPPA BETA, ’ 95] PHOTO BY: BROTHER JAMAL A. WIGGINS [ZETA SIGMA, ’99]

ounded in 2006 by Brother Dedrick Thomas, Hideoki Bespoke, located in Atlanta, Georgia, has grown from humble beginnings into one of the nation's most distinctive destinations for luxury craftsmanship. What began out of the trunk of Thomas’s car has evolved into a refined, appointment-only atelier specializing in bespoke and custom clothing, footwear, leather goods, and accessories, with each piece thoughtfully tailored to reflect the client’s lifestyle and individuality. A native of Pickens, Mississippi, a town with a population of less than one thousand,

Brother Thomas’ journey into entrepreneurship is rooted in discipline and vision. He graduated magna cum laude from Mississippi State University with a degree in Industrial Engineering, a foundation that later shaped his meticulous approach to design and business operations. Before launching Hideoki Bespoke, he built a strong career across supply chain management, distribution, information technology, and logistics, working with globally recognized fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Donna Karan, Hugo Boss, and Lord & Taylor. He later returned to Mississippi, where he opened four grocery stores to serve his community. In 2008, he sold the stores and went on to own the semi-professional basketball team, the Mississippi Hardhats.

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He applied this knowledge to create

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Hideoki Bespoke as more than a clothing label; it became a personalized experience rooted in craftsmanship, precision, and the camaraderie of the right friends. These experiences provided Brother Thomas with a unique perspective on the inner workings of entrepreneurship and the global fashion industry, equipping him with both the technical expertise and strategic insight needed to build his own brand. He applied this knowledge to create Hideoki Bespoke as more than a clothing label; it became a personalized experience rooted in craftsmanship, precision, and the camaraderie of the right friends. Operating through a private, appointment-only model, the brand offers each client a tailored journey, from initial consultation to final fitting. Every garment is designed with careful attention to detail, ensuring that it not only fits impeccably but also aligns with the client’s identity and lifestyle. This approach has attracted a diverse clientele, ranging from entrepreneurs and executives to professional athletes, political figures, and entertainers. The brand’s ethos: “Traditional elegance meets modern sophistication with confidence, precision, and the unexpected,” is reflected in every aspect of the business, from the craftsmanship of its garments to the immersive, highly personalized client experience. SPRING 2026

Brother Thomas’ entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a clear sense of purpose. Building a luxury brand from the ground up required not only technical skill but also a willingness to take risks and remain committed to a long-term vision. From navigating the early challenges of starting a business independently to establishing a respected name in a competitive industry, his path reflects both determination and strategic growth. As the brand continues to evolve, Hideoki Bespoke remains firmly rooted in its original mission: to deliver garments and experiences as distinctive as the individuals who wear them. With a new location set to officially open in May 2026, in the heart of Buckhead on the renowned Peachtree Road, the company is entering an exciting new chapter, one that reflects its growth while remaining true to its foundation of craftsmanship and personalized service. Through Hideoki Bespoke, Brother Dedrick Thomas has not only built a business, but a legacy. A legacy defined by precision, commitment to excellence, and the camaraderie of the right friends and family. S 33

CHAPTER LITERARY NEWS | ENTERTAINMENT

BOOK SHELF

CULTURE DESIGN How To Build A High-Performing, Resilient Organization With Purpose Today's leaders are navigating a storm of competing demands: rising economic and social pressures, rapid technological disruption, and a workforce that expects greater purpose and accountability than ever before. In this unpredictable climate, a weak culture erodes trust, loyalty, and performance. A strong one, by contrast, makes the difference between clarity and confusion, resilience and fragility. It's time to get intentional about your company's culture. In this practical and inspiring book, you'll find a clear, actionable framework—rooted in design thinking and inclusive leadership—to help you shape a culture that’s resilient, empowering, and built to last.

Culture Design brings together the expert perspective of Brother James D. White, a 1981 Zeta Alpha Chapter initiate of the Fraternity, informed by more than 30 years of operating experience across sectors and in the boardroom, with his daughter Krista White's millennial perspective of modern workers' expectations from their company and its culture. This powerful combination produces a masterful joint outlook on what makes leaders best suited to build cultures that work for all. Together, they've written an essential book with one central message: culture design is an indispensable pillar of strategy for organizations to thrive in the coming decades and beyond. Amazon.com S

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FOUNDATIONS OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP Built on decades of experience and hard-earned wisdom, Foundations of Entrepreneurship offers a practical and honest guide to what it really takes to lead and sustain a successful venture. Brother John A. Sims, Jr., a 1967 Delta Upsilon Chapter initiate of the Fraternity, distills lessons from corporate leadership, consulting, and entrepreneurship into 10 essential areas every CEO must master. The book reads like a candid conversation, blending real-world examples with actionable insight into today’s evolving business landscape.

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More than a business manual, it reflects a legacy of knowledge passed forward. Brother Sims co-wrote the book with his daughter, Chantrise Sims Holliman, EdD, a 2017 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. initiate, representing excellence across generations. Amazon.com S

FEATURE BROTHER JEROME DOTSON JR. [NU RHO, ’ 15] PHOTO BY: BROTHER JAMAL A. WIGGINS [ZETA SIGMA, ’99]

BUILDING THE INFRASTRUCTURE BEHIND CULTURE

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resh off a back-to-back win at the Alpha Pitch Competition, Brother Jerome Dotson, Jr. is not just celebrating a milestone, he is accelerating a mission. As a product strategist, creative director, and founder, Brother Dotson has built his career at the intersection of technology, culture, and entrepreneurship, with a focus on creating systems that empower creatives to build sustainable careers. Brother Dotson’s journey did not begin with Musicade. Over the past decade, he has led product development and creative strategies across multiple industries, building and scaling products while developing a deep understanding of how ideas evolve into impactful businesses. His experience spans technology, marketing, and brand development, giving him a rare ability to see both the technical and cultural layers of a business. That foundation led to the creation of Musicade, a platform designed to solve a problem Jerome experienced firsthand. While artists and creatives are essential to culture, the infrastructure supporting them is fragmented. Booking gigs, managing events, securing payments, and building teams often require multiple disconnected tools. Musicade

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brings all of that into one ecosystem, allowing creators to collaborate, monetize, and scale their work more efficiently. At its core, Musicade is more than a product. It is a belief that the people who shape culture should have ownership, access, and opportunity. The platform enables artists, DJs, photographers, and event producers to connect, organize shows, and generate income, while also giving venues and brands a more efficient way to discover and book talent. Brother Dotson’s approach to building Musicade has been deeply rooted in community. Instead of relying solely on traditional marketing, he has focused on activating local ecosystems through live events, partnerships, and university networks. This grassroots strategy has driven strong early traction, with hundreds of users on board through real world experiences that translate directly into digital engagement. His philosophy is simple: gigs bring creators, creators bring audiences, and audiences drive growth.

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Winning the Alpha Pitch Competition for a second consecutive time is both validation and momentum. It reflects not only the strength of the business but the clarity of the vision. Jerome is currently raising capital to scale Musicade, with a focus on expanding into new markets, enhancing the platform’s marketplace capabilities, and increasing access to opportunities for creatives nationwide.

"At its core,

Beyond Musicade, Brother Dotson operates as a creative strategist through his agency work, helping early-stage brands transform ideas into market ready products. His process centers on research, design, and execution, guiding founders through the complexities of building and scaling a business. Across all of his ventures, a consistent theme emerges: he builds with intention, and he builds for impact.

ownership, access,

Brother Dotson also uses his platform to advocate for a broader cultural shift. Through initiatives like “Take Back the Culture,” he speaks to the need for artists and creatives to reclaim ownership in an industry that often benefits from their work without fully supporting their growth. His work sits at the intersection of innovation and advocacy, ensuring that as technology evolves, it does so in a way that benefits the people creating value.

Musicade is more than a product. It is a belief that the people who shape culture should have and opportunity.

As he steps further into his role as a full-time founder, Brother Dotson embraces the challenges that come with it. His journey reflects resilience, discipline, and a willingness to bet on his vision even when the path is uncertain. From building products behind the scenes to standing on stages pitching his company, he continues to evolve while staying grounded in his mission. For Brother Jerome Dotson Jr., the goal is not just to build a successful company. It is to reshape the infrastructure of an entire industry and create lasting opportunity for the communities that power it. S

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FEATURE BROTHER DAMON HAWKINS [EPSILON BETA, ’ 93] PHOTOS BY: BROTHER JAMAL A. WIGGINS [ZETA SIGMA, ’99]

BUILDING THE NEW BLACK WALL STREET: CAPITAL, COMMUNITY, & BROTHERHOOD

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here is a critical question being asked in communities and fraternity chapter meetings across the country: What would it take, in this generation, to build Black Wall Street 3.0? For Brother Damon Hawkins, the answer is not rhetorical, it is a strategic business plan and intentional action. Initiated through Epsilon Beta Chapter at Fresno State University on July 25, 1993, he (former EB Chapter President, former IZL Chapter President, and current Western Region District Director for Southern California) has spent over three decades doing what Alpha men do best: leading from the front and pulling others up behind him. His trajectory from Fresno to Los Angeles, anchored by Iota Zeta Lambda, is a story of intentional return; actively returning capital, knowledge, and opportunity to the people who need it most. As chapter president from 2021 to 2023, Brother Hawkins led the “Hub City” chapter in raising over $130,000. But the number that defines his tenure is 30,000. This is the number of families who were reached through a large-scale food initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic that mobilized more

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than $1 million in resources. That is Alpha service translated into direct community infrastructure. His vision extends far beyond emergency relief. As a real estate investor and strategist with the Haltere Group and The Lee Adrion Company, Brother Hawkins has educated more than 100 investors on wealth-building fundamentals, breaking down syndication, retirement planning, and estate structuring for people never previously invited into those conversations. He has helped raise over $2.5 million in investment capital directed into long-term, multigenerational assets. This is not charity. This is economic architecture. That philosophy crystalizes in his most significant milestone: a $3 million investment partnership alongside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in a student housing development at Jackson State University — directing capital into an HBCU community and using real estate as a vehicle

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for institutional reinvestment in Black education. This investment is also projected to yield $1.5 million in scholarship dollars for the College Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. That is “Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers” lived out in concrete, steel, and scholarship.

"Brother Hawkins led the “Hub City” chapter in raising over $130,000. But the number that defines

Brother Hawkins has also led a statewide Financial Literacy Campaign in partnership with The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and The Colleges of Law, equipping participants with tax-advantaged strategies, retirement planning tools, and a generational-wealth mindset, circulating knowledge and capital within the Brotherhood and refusing to let wealth stop at the individual.

his tenure is 30,000.

Looking ahead, Brother Hawkins is leading the charge in building “The Billionaire Project,” a technologydriven platform helping financial professionals scale through automation and systems, ultimately putting retirement security and estate planning in more Black families’ hands. In 2023, he also helped charter the Phi Sigma Chapter at Cal State Dominguez Hills, extending the network of brothers who will carry this work forward. The most durable investments, after all, are in people.

million in resources. That

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This is the number of families who were reached through a large-scale food initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic that mobilized more than $1 is Alpha service translated into direct community infrastructure.

The original Black Wall Street was burned down because it threatened a system determined to put a ceiling on Black progress. The new one will be built through the dedication and ingenuity of Brothers like Brother Damon Hawkins. Brick by brick. Brother by Brother. And it is already here. S

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BY BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB, DDIV., CPLC [NU, ’89]

FROM ADVERSITY TO ENTERPRISE: Is Today’s Climate Sparking a New Black Economic Renaissance?

“I still see Black men being shot, Black bodies lying in the street. I still smell smoke and see fire,”

says Olivia Hooker, who was six years old during the Tulsa, Oklahoma Race Massacre and later became one of the bestknown surviving witnesses, and the first Black woman in the U.S. Coast Guard.

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n the summer of 1921, the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma — later known as “Black Wall Street” — stood as one of the most prosperous Black communities in the United States. Historians estimate that the district encompassed roughly 35 blocks of Black-owned businesses, including banks, hotels, newspapers, theaters, restaurants, and professional offices before its Black residents were murdered and the community destroyed over jealousy and a racially motivated lie during the two-day long Tulsa Race Massacre. Its destruction became a somber symbol of how fragile Black wealth had been — and in many ways, remains. Today, against a backdrop of persistent racial inequities, a hostile political climate, and socioeconomic exclusion, a growing number of Alpha Phi Alpha members and other African Americans are turning — or being pushed — toward business ownership, not just as an aspiration, but as a strategy for survival.

This special edition of The Sphinx turns the spotlight on Alpha Brothers building businesses — and on the Fraternity’s efforts to fuel that momentum at the General and regional

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conventions through its Alphapreneur Competition as well as with its cooperative economics initiative, ‘Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers,’ where the patronage of Alpha-owned businesses is encouraged and utilized. As a Fraternity, whose Jewel Founders were inspired by the Niagara Movement and structured to cultivate Dr. W.E.B. Dubois’ ‘Talented Tenth’ – an elite and intellectual, leadership vanguard of exceptional Black men to guide the masses toward social, political, and economic equality, promoting these priorities in concert with political advocacy may be the key to combatting political and socioeconomic disenfranchisement as new restrictions to opportunity and wealth are levied. In 1909, Dubois was inducted as an honorary member of the Fraternity through the Epsilon Chapter at the University of Michigan. “Given the (recent) documentary on (Brother Dr. W.E.B.) Dubois, there was a point in which he said during the Great Depression, African Americans had to turn inward, and he began to look at strategies similar to those strategies that were used by Booker T. Washington and Marcus Garvey that we had to

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begin supporting our own,” says the Fraternity’s General Historian Brother Dr. Robert L. Harris. In the past, Washington, Garvey and the Honorable Elijah Muhammed, all placed Black entrepreneurship, cooperative economics, and selfsufficiency at the center of their movement’s platforms towards Black independence and freedom. Historically, these ideologies, both were born and flourished amid the rise of domestic terrorism (lynching), Jim Crow segregation, and discrimination, which have always ironically followed a period of African American progress, i.e., Reconstruction, eras of prosperous Black communities such as Greenwood, Oklahoma’s Black Wall Street, Wilmington, N.C., and others. It is no coincidence that the historic first African American United States presidency was followed by a racist backlash of police killings of unarmed African Americans, and the rise of the white supremacist-intertwined and cultlike MAGA Movement with its leader Donald Trump who is literally the polar opposite, both in intellect, education, ethics, decorum, and presence as former President Barack Obama. President Trump encourages the replacement of accomplished and highly-credentialed African Americans and women with lesser qualified and often, mediocre white men and women.

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Former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson once famously said, "If you can convince the lowest white man he's better than the best colored man, he won't notice you're picking his pockets. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he'll empty his pockets for you." And pocket-picking is precisely what the American public is experiencing as allegations of fraud, abuses of power, and corruption by the Trump administration run rampant at taxpayer expense. But is this shift signaling the emergence of a new era of Black economic empowerment akin to Black Wall Street or are systemic barriers too entrenched to allow such a transformation to flourish with the Trump administration’s sweeping attacks on African American access,

employment, opportunity, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent gutting of the Voting Rights Act. "Black entrepreneurship has never depended on favorable circumstances,” says Brother Don Cravins, the nation’s first Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development (within the Biden Administration) and currently leading the National Minority Supplier Development Council. “It has always been driven by vision, resilience, and the ability to recognize opportunity where others see obstacles. I remain confident that Black entrepreneurs will continue to build, innovate, and grow.” To avoid discrimination, Brother Dr. Harris observes that African American entrepreneurs are finding success specifically with internetbased businesses and brick-andmortar franchises.

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57%

Increase in Black-Owned Employer Businesses

70,000+ New firms added

65.7% Revenue Growth

“With the internet, African Americans have been able to advertise their goods, their services and it’s been something whereby it’s difficult for others to discriminate against African Americans because of their use of the internet,” he says. “(And) When you look at McDonald’s, you don’t know who necessarily owns that franchise, so franchises have become important.” This is all thanks to the internet’s anonymity and reach, as well as the popularity and racially neutral nature of established franchises.

A Growing Shift Toward Entrepreneurship Recent data shows that African Americans have been launching businesses at a noteworthy pace in the

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69.5% Payroll Growth

last decade. Between 2017 and 2022, Black-owned employer businesses increased by nearly 57%, adding more than 70,000 new firms to the U.S. economy, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey, the Brookings Institution’s analysis, Driving Prosperity: How Black-Owned Businesses Fueled Recent Economic Growth; as well as the Pew Research Center, 2025. Blackowned firms grew their total revenue by 65.7% and expanded payroll by 69.5% — rates that outpaced many other demographic groups.

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Equally striking are attitudinal indicators: more than one-fifth of Black adults say that owning a business is essential to their personal definition of financial success. Brother Justice Houser, 26, is a former serial entrepreneur whose company, SkyRocket Media Services, has managed the Fraternity's social media platforms and digital presence since 2019. SkyRocket has also been contracted to provide audiovisual equipment and services for several General Conventions, as well as various district and regional conventions in recent years. Brother Houser began his entrepreneurial journey during his sophomore year of high school.

“In high school, I started multiple businesses,” says Brother Houser, a Spring 2019 Nu Tau Chapter initiate of the Fraternity at the University of Montevallo in Tuscaloosa, Alabama “I started a shoe-reselling business. I started an e-commerce drop-shipping business, and then ultimately, I started SkyRocket, which at that time we were just a social media marketing company, helping people create their content and post their content. I was just a one-man band at the time, so it was just me. I was trying to figure out what I could do and how to do it better, investing in myself, in books and online courses and mentorship and things of that nature. Ultimately, that led me to do all things digital rather than just social media and graphics. That led me to do websites, video production, and marketing strategy. The COVID-19 Pandemic led to getting more involved in technology and production, livestream production and in-house audiovisual production.” Brother Houser, whose company has gone from no capital and working solo out of his family home or dormitory room to a ‘seven-figure company,’ with his own brick and mortar office and studio and actively partnering with more than 50 creatives, professionals, or agencies around the country, says his big break was landing the Fraternity as a client.

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He explains that while entrepreneurship is challenging and isn’t for everyone, he says that it “is the fastest way to achieve my desired result, which is freedom eventually, but more than that, opportunity for impact across a higher scale.”

“Alpha was the biggest break for me for sure,” he says. “I 1,000 % wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunity to grow working with Alpha, and Alpha has introduced me to a ton of networking relationships that led to more opportunities working with the NAACP, the Urban League, the 100 Black Men and other nonprofit organizations focused on the Black community.”

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“I don’t think I would have had the opportunity to reach as many; through my work with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. we’ve had hundreds of millions of impressions of my work, directly or indirectly seen around the world,” Brother Houser says. “I don’t think the potential impact I’ve already had working with college students around the country, being able to travel and visit other places, being able to tell stories that are super impactful that might not have ever been heard, I know that wouldn’t have happened (with me working) in corporate America versus with this opportunity with Alpha Phi Alpha and other organizations. Being an entrepreneur has opened doors to meet people that I never thought – being able to meet Andrew Young, being able to meet Mrs. Myrlie B. Evers, to be around and see not only how the Fraternity works, but how Congress and politics works, upper C-Suite top 500 companies work, and being able to sit in some of those meetings.” 51

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For many, entrepreneurship is less about optional ambition and more about agency — a way to build financial stability in a system many perceive as inequitable. Surveys indicate that many Black adults believe the U.S. economic system does not treat Black people fairly, and many express mistrust of traditional corporate and financial institutions. This trend is evident across sectors and demographics, but nowhere is it more pronounced than among Black women. According to the 2025 Wells Fargo Impact of WomenOwned Businesses Report, Black/ African American women lead upwards of 2 million businesses, with revenues growing impressively — over 80% between 2019 and 2024. This “entrepreneurial exodus” from traditional employment reflects both necessity and choice, as many Black women reshape their economic futures in the face of labor market instability and exclusion. 52

Why Now? Hostility, Exclusion, and Economic Frustration To understand why entrepreneurship is gaining traction among African Americans — and why talk of a modern “Black Wall Street” has re-emerged — we need to consider the broader context of exclusion and inequity. Despite progress since the Civil Rights era, racial gaps in wealth and opportunity persist stubbornly. In 2025, the median wealth of Black households remained a fraction of that of white households, a reality shaped by historical discrimination in housing, employment, education, and credit markets.

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Economic exclusion isn’t just an abstract idea. Legal decisions in recent years — including a Supreme Court rollback of race-conscious contracting policies — have removed some support mechanisms designed to help minority businesses compete, leaving many to navigate markets with fewer tools and less institutional backing. In San Antonio, for example, the removal of minority business preference points in city contracting has led to skepticism about whether equity goals can be achieved in a “color-blind” policy environment. Similarly, many Black entrepreneurs contend with capital barriers that result directly from systemic exclusion: Black business owners are significantly more likely to be denied loans and less likely to receive full financing than their white counterparts. Venture capital funding — a cornerstone of modern business scaling — goes to Black founders at a tiny fraction of the rate it does overall — in some years, less than 1% of total VC dollars, according to Crunchbase venture capital data. In this climate, entrepreneurship becomes not merely an avenue to wealth but a form of resistance — a way to circumvent exclusionary systems and craft one’s own economic destiny.

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“In the current day, you need startup funds to develop a business,” says Brother Dr. Harris. “(In the past) We had relied upon the government, the Small Business Administration, and what have you, those opportunities are no longer available to us. I think we’ve got to look at a broad plan. There’s individuals who say ‘why do I need to vote,’ well, that’s one of the reasons why we need to vote as a means to get government support unless we begin through organizations like the Divine Nine and others, churches, we’ve got enough clubs and organizations, to establish a Black Development Bank that we could support entrepreneurs in starting up businesses.”

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He also points to the strip malls in Clemson, South Carolina, where Latino entrepreneurs have pulled their resources to purchase, establish and occupy them as well as East Indians who have purchased franchises such as Dunkin Donuts, 7 Eleven, and some of the motels, and utilize and rely on labor within their family structure that allows lower wage costs. “I think we’ve got to look at this kind of entrepreneurship,” he says.

Entrepreneurship as Community Strategy Unlike many individual career paths, entrepreneurship offers the potential for collective impact. Black-owned businesses contribute billions to the U.S. economy, create jobs, and often reinvest profits into their communities. Forbes and Brookings Institution analyses alike note that closing the gap between Black business ownership and population share could generate hundreds of thousands of jobs and

billions in additional wages and tax revenue for local economies. This potential — and the desire to harness it — fuels talk of “another Black Wall Street.” But the modern context is both more complex and less romanticized than the Greenwood of 1921. Rather than a single, concentrated district where wealth could circulate internally, today’s entrepreneurial landscape is dispersed: tech startups in innovation hubs, small retail enterprises across cities, and serviceoriented firms in neighborhoods where employment options are limited. Some modern Black business owners are explicitly building networks and ecosystems that echo the mutual support of early Black business districts, while others focus on digital platforms that extend reach beyond geographic confines. Moreover, a cultural shift is taking place. As structural barriers stiffen, Black communities are experimenting with alternative economic strategies — not just business ownership, but collective investment, cooperative enterprises, community development financial institutions (CDFIs), and localized economic ecosystems. These efforts echo the principle of economic self-determination that undergirded past eras of Black enterprise.

THE SPHINX®

BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES ONLY

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OF ALL U.S. FIRMS

Barriers Still Loom Large Yet significant barriers temper enthusiasm for a Black Wall Street reprise. Blackowned businesses still represent a disproportionately small share of all U.S. firms — roughly 3% despite Black Americans comprising around 14% of the population. Wealth gaps, credit constraints, educational inequities, and digital access disparities linger, making business sustainability and growth difficult without structural support. Additionally, the modern economy poses new challenges: automation threatens jobs in sectors with higher Black employment, while digital divides limit access to online entrepreneurial opportunities. Finally, while entrepreneurship offers a pathway to wealth creation, not all businesses reach scale. Many Black-owned firms remain small, with limited revenue and few employees — a constraint that can limit broader community economic impact without additional capital and infrastructure support.

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A New Paradigm of Black Economic Power? So, is this moment a catalyst for another Black Wall Street — or something different? Some scholars and entrepreneurs argue it’s neither a replication nor a mere aspiration, but an evolution. Today’s context combines historic lessons with modern tools: digital platforms, crowdfunding, decentralized finance, and global markets that offer Black entrepreneurs’ possibilities unimaginable a century ago. Communities are building “nodes” of economic empowerment in multiple sectors and locations rather than one concentrated district. This decentralized model may be more resilient to the kinds of external threats that toppled Greenwood. Digital

outreach, diverse revenue streams, and dispersed networks mean that modern Black entrepreneurship isn’t confined to a single physical space vulnerable to attack or gentrification. Instead, economic power may grow in a web — a constellation of ventures that collectively shift wealth patterns. Yet without intentional investment in equitable capital access, public policy support, and structural change, these growth risks remaining uneven and episodic rather than transformative.

Toward a Future of Agency and Equity What then would it take for the narrative of Black entrepreneurship to translate into broader Black economic power? Experts point to several priorities:

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Targeted Capital Access Closing the financial gap, including increasing venture capital directed to Black founders and expanding community-based financial institutions, is essential.

Policy and Institutional Support: Public policies that incentivize equitable contracting, mentoring, education funding, and infrastructure support can create conditions where Black businesses thrive. Community Ecosystems: Strengthening local networks, reinvesting profits within communities, and building cooperative economic structures can mirror the mutual support that made historic Black business districts successful.

Cultural Valorization of Enterprise: Encouraging entrepreneurship as a respected and supported career path from schools to communities can nurture future generations of Black innovators and leaders.

In the face of political hostility, economic exclusion, and persistent inequality, entrepreneurship has emerged as both a response and a strategy — a way for many African Americans to reclaim agency, build assets, and envision new models of prosperity. SPRING 2026

Whether this culminates in a Black Wall Street-like era isn’t a simple question of replication, but of transformation: can the lessons of the past be harnessed to catalyze a more inclusive economic future? If the last decade’s trends are any guide, the answer lies not in nostalgia, but in the grit, creativity, and communal determination of Black entrepreneurs shaping their own futures — one business at a time.

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“The marketplace rewards value, and America’s future growth will increasingly depend on the talent, creativity, and competitiveness of entrepreneurs who are helping shape the next chapter of the American economy,” Brother Cravins says.

“As for Alphapreneurs, I have every confidence that Alpha men will continue to be at the forefront of that progress, bringing the same tradition of leadership, scholarship, and service that has defined our Fraternity for nearly 120 years to the world of entrepreneurship and enterprise." S

References *Internet sources also contributed to this article. Tulsa Race Massacre, photograph, 1921~; (https:// gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc1619126/: accessed June 23, 2026), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society. Tulsa Race Massacre, photograph, June 1921; (https:// gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc1618199/: accessed June 23, 2026), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society. Tulsa Race Massacre, photograph, 1921; (https:// gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc1619656/: accessed June 23, 2026), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society. Getty Images, Credit: Pacific Press

Brother Eric Chirstopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC, a Spring 1989 Nu Chapter initiate, Life Member of the Fraternity, and member of Rho Tau Lambda Chapter, is director of communications and editor of The Sphinx. He is also the founder of ECW Enterprises doing business as The Words By Webb helps HBCUs, D9 organizations, faith-based institutions, nonprofits, and mission-driven leaders strengthen their reputation.

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THE ALPHA PAGES Meet, network, and patronize with Top and Emerging Alpha Entrepreneurs in industries ranging from a cigar lounge to a digital urology platform. Find or contact them through Alpha MX and Alpha Elite.

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S LLAR O D A G ALPH CHIN U O T ERS OTH R B A ALPH

BROTHER DR. BRIAN D. AGNEW

BROTHER KE’SHAWN ALEXANDER [SIGMA ETA LAMBDA '25]......................

BRIVADO CIGARS

RAISING OVERACHIEVING STEM ACADEMICS (R.O.S.A.) CREATING OPPORTUNITY PATHWAYS I N STEM, FINANCIAL LITERACY AND ECONOMIC MOBILITY

[ALPHA ALPHA LAMBDA, '14].............

Brother Dr. Brian D. Agnew is an Alpha entrepreneur whose work blends luxury, legacy, and leadership. He is the founder and CEO of Brivado Cigars, a premier Blackowned cigar brand and membership-based lounge headquartered in Orange, New Jersey. Recognized as a Top 5 Black-owned cigar line in the United States, Brivado has earned national attention for its premium blends, refined branding, and intentional communitycentered ethos. What began as a passion rooted in Alpha Phi Alpha’s Brotherhood Smoke tradition evolved into a full lifestyle enterprise. Brivado Cigars offers handcrafted cigars alongside an upscale lounge experience designed to feel like a modern Black country club — a place where professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives gather to connect, collaborate, and circulate “Alpha Dollars” with purpose. Beyond commerce, Dr. Agnew is deeply committed to civic engagement and community empowerment. He played a leadership role in the Black Men Vote: StarStudded Leadership Forum, helping to educate and mobilize voters while reinforcing the importance of political participation and collective responsibility. A seasoned communications executive, local media publisher, and volunteer firefighter, his work consistently reflects service, strategy, and impact. Through Brivado Cigars, Dr. Brian D. Agnew is building more than a business — he is helping shape a modern blueprint for Black ownership, economic circulation, and Brotherhood-driven prosperity. 60

Brother Ke’Shawn Alexander is an entrepreneur and nonprofit founder committed to building pathways of opportunity at the intersection of STEM education, financial literacy, and economic mobility. As the founder and president of Raising Overachieving STEM Academics (R.O.S.A.), a 501(c)(3) organization, Alexander leads efforts to equip underserved students and families with the tools, exposure, and confidence needed to thrive in highgrowth industries. Through flagship initiatives such as Finance Fest and the Leap Forward Program, R.O.S.A. delivers hands-on learning experiences that connect hundreds of students and families to career pathways, entrepreneurship, and realworld financial education. The organization’s work is designed to address generational wealth gaps early, by introducing young people to STEM innovation, responsible financial decision-making, and professional networks that expand what is possible. Brother Alexander’s vision reflects a growing Black entrepreneurial imperative: building institutions that develop future leaders and strengthen community-based economic power. By investing in youth development and workforce readiness, R.O.S.A. contributes to the foundation of a modern “Black Wall Street,” rooted in education, ownership, and impact.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER LARRY ALLEN, JR.

[SIGMA PI LAMBDA, ‘24]............

JACKSONVILLE BOUNCE HOUSE RENTALS, INC. SERVES FAMILIES, SCHOOLS, AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Brother Larry Allen, an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s Sigma Pi Lambda Chapter (Orange Park, Florida), is the founder and owner of Jacksonville Bounce House Rentals, Inc., one of the largest inflatable entertainment companies in the state of Florida. Brother Allen launched the business over 15 years ago with a single inflatable and a vision to build something that would serve families, schools, and community organizations with excellence. Today, Jacksonville Bounce House Rentals offers a full lineup of bounce houses, water slides, obstacle courses, concessions, and event equipment for birthdays, corporate functions, school celebrations, and large-scale community events. Known for its professionalism, safety standards, and dependable service, the company has earned a reputation as a trusted partner throughout Northeast Florida. Its slogan, “We Keep the Party Jumping,” reflects both the fun it delivers and the consistency of its operations. As an Alpha entrepreneur, Brother Allen uses his platform to promote youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and community development. His company provides local employment opportunities while serving as a real-world example of disciplined business ownership and generational impact. Through Jacksonville Bounce House Rentals, Brother Allen demonstrates how Alpha Dollars touching Alpha Brothers can translate into sustainable growth, community uplift, and entrepreneurial leadership. SPRING 2026

BROTHER KENNETH ASHER

[EPSILON GAMMA LAMBDA, ’24].......

KASHER CAPITAL, INC. SPECIALIZES IN PRIVATE LENDING, CAPITAL STRUCTURING AND PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP ADVISORY Brother Kenneth Asher is the president and CEO of KASHER Capital, Inc., a boutique financial services firm specializing in private lending, capital structuring, and public-private partnership advisory. Through KASHER Capital, he finances investor real estate portfolios while structuring capital frameworks that mobilize private and public investment for infrastructure and long-term economic transformation across emerging markets and undercapitalized communities. A Harvard graduate and seasoned finance executive, Brother Asher operates at the intersection of capital markets, governance, and economic development, with a focus on expanding capital access across the African diaspora. His work is grounded in a core belief: ownership and prudent capital deployment are essential to sustaining community stability. He structures financing solutions for housing and commercial projects, advises on public-private partnership models, and engages institutional and government stakeholders to align private capital with infrastructure and sustainable development efforts in the United States and abroad. For Brother Asher, entrepreneurship means disciplined stewardship and building systems that intentionally circulate capital and strengthen economic agencies within the community. Through institutional leadership, mentorship, financial innovation, and strategic partnerships, he remains committed to expanding ownership pathways and ensuring Alpha dollars continue to touch Alpha Brothers. 61

BROTHER DR. ALPHONSO A. BUIE [SIGMA ETA LAMBDA, '25]........................................

PLACE OF PEACE INTERIOR DESIGNS, LLC OFFERS LUXURY DESIGN SERVICES IG: @PLACE_OF_PEACE_LLC Brother Dr. Alphonso A. Buie is the founder and principal designer of Place of Peace Interior Designs, LLC, an Atlanta-based luxury interior design firm specializing in creating serene, elevated, and purpose-driven environments. Rooted in the philosophy that space directly influences well-being, Place of Peace transforms residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional interiors into refined sanctuaries that balance beauty, function, and intention. With a professional background spanning hospitality management, culinary arts, higher education, and entrepreneurship, Brother Dr. Buie brings a multidisciplinary lens to design— merging operational efficiency with aesthetic excellence. His firm is known for its signature approach: layered textures, thoughtful spatial planning, and curated finishes that evoke calm while communicating prestige. Services range from full-scale renovations and new-build design to staging, brand-driven environments, and bespoke design installations. Place of Peace has been featured in regional and national publications and continues to expand its footprint through high-profile collaborations, multi-unit developments, and community-centered projects. Under Brother Dr. Buie’s leadership, the firm also emphasizes mentorship, economic empowerment, and excellence in Black entrepreneurship.

BROTHER JOURDAN BRUNSON [NU RHO, ’12]...........................

KINKOFA: BUILDING THE DIGITAL HOME BASE FOR BLACK LEGACY KINKOFA.COM | FOUNDERS@KINKOFA.COM

When Jourdan Brunson and his co-founder Meshia Rudd-Ridge discovered they were longlost cousins through genealogical research, they didn't just find family, they found a mission. Together, they built kinkofa, a digital platform for Black legacy where families and communities can discover, preserve, and share their stories and history. kinkofa gives Black families a place to organize photographs, documents, and recordings, capture oral histories, build family trees, and prepare what they'll pass on — all in one trusted place. Preserve The Culture™ mobilizes Black families and communities to preserve their stories through events that make digitization and preservation tools accessible to all. kinkofa's work has been supported by a Library of Congress Community Collections Grant, and the platform has been featured in Forbes, Essence, and Ebony and presented at SXSW, AfroTech, and the Society of American Archivists. In 2023, Brunson won the Alphapreneur Competition at Alpha's General Convention.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER TERRENCE D. BYERSON, JR. [MU RHO, ‘10].....................................................................................................................

THE NEW COOL: WHERE ACCESS CREATES OPPORTUNITY Founded in 2023 by Brother Terrence “TJ” D. Byerson, Jr., a Spring 2010 Mu Rho Chapter initiate at Towson University, The New Cool is a Baltimore-based nonprofit rooted in a simple, but powerful belief: exposure changes everything. Raised with a deep commitment to service, Byerson launched the organization to give back, starting with the very communities that shaped his perspective. A Harlem native, Byerson grew up surrounded by young people full of talent, ambition, and potential. What was missing was the access to experiences to expand their vision of what’s possible. The New Cool was created to close that gap. The organization focuses on exposing youth to life after high school and empowering them to navigate it confidently. Through its Immersion Program, students engage with real-world environments, ranging from corporate offices and trade industries to college campuses and entrepreneurial spaces. These aren’t just conversations; they are lived experiences. Beyond youth development, The New Cool extends its impact through community service. Inspired by his daughter, Tatum, the organization has supported initiatives for the unhoused, including donating winter essentials in partnership with Baltimore City and the Rho Tau Lambda Chapter. Additional efforts include providing resources like basketball to fellow nonprofit initiatives. By combining exposure with mentorship, life skills, and service, The New Cool helps young people move from potential to purpose. At its core, the mission is not just about preparing young people for success, but instilling the confidence within them that has always existed.

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BROTHER DR. EMMANUEL CHERILIEN [NU GAMMA LAMBDA '19].............

TANK EDDUCATES LLC HELPS SCHOLARS EARN AND USE DEGREES Brother Dr. Emmanuel Cherilien, better known as “Dr. Tank,” isn’t just helping scholars earn degrees; he is helping them use them. As the founder of TANK EdDucates LLC, Dr. Tank has built a nationally recognized educational consulting firm focused on transforming academic achievement into purpose-driven impact. With more than six years in full-time entrepreneurship, Dr. Tank has emerged as a trusted voice at the intersection of education, leadership, and social justice. Through keynote speaking, faculty and staff professional development, culturally responsive leadership training, and social-emotional learning initiatives, TANK EdDucates LLC partners with schools, universities, and organizations across the country to create meaningful and measurable change. One of his organization’s most celebrated offerings is the Degree to Purpose Workshop, which speaks directly to a question many students quietly ask: “What comes next?” This program equips scholars with the tools to teach, publish influential work, and launch consulting ventures rooted in their expertise. Participants routinely describe the experience as eyeopening, strategic, and transformational. To date, Dr. Tank has delivered more than 100 national and international presentations and has supported more than 1,000 doctoral students through mentorship, coaching, and professional development. His work is grounded in culturally responsive practices that prioritize access, accountability, and belonging. Through TANK EdDucates LLC, Dr. Tank is redefining what it means to lead in education, proving that when purpose meets preparation, impact follows. 64

BROTHER ARCHIE CLAY, III [GAMMA PHI '11].............................

LUXURY LIFESTYLE FASHION BRAND, BRAIN LOVE, ROOTED IN MENTAL WELLNESS, PERSONAL EVOLUTION, AND SELF-LOVE BRAINLOVE.STORE

Brother Archie Clay, III is the Founder and CEO of Brain Love, a luxury lifestyle fashion brand rooted in mental wellness, personal evolution, and self-love. Based in Atlanta, Brain Love was built on the belief that true success begins within — and that what we wear can reflect who we’re becoming. After co-founding a nationally recognized fashion brand, he entered a season of reflection that led to the creation of Brain Love. What began as a personal reset has evolved into a fast-rising brand at the intersection of fashion, wellness, and culture. Brain Love offers premium apparel and accessories — including hoodies, tees, hats, and varsity jackets — crafted with elevated quality and intentional storytelling. Under his leadership, the brand has secured major retail placements inside Bloomingdale’s and continues expanding nationally. Beyond product, Brain Love is known for communitycentered activations that spark dialogue around healing, growth, and ownership. His work has earned notable recognition, including Best Luxe Footwear (2025) in Best of Atlanta Magazine, Best Atlanta Fashion Brand by Jezebel Magazine, Most Influential HBCU Alum by Historically Black Since, and being named among Atelier Magazine’s Most Influential People of 2026. Brother Clay is committed to legacy-driven entrepreneurship, mentoring the next generation, and building ventures that contribute to a modern Black Wall Street rooted in ownership, purpose, and impact.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER BRYAN L. COOK

[SIGMA DELTA LAMBDA, ’24]........

developARCHITECTURE OFFERS CLIENT-FOCUSED DESIGN SOLUTIONS Brother Bryan L. Cook, principal and founder of developARCHITECTURE since 2015, applies 19 years of architectural experience to commercial projects and custom designs that embody Black entrepreneurial excellence. A Lawrence Technological University graduate with bachelor's (2006) and master's (2011) degrees in architecture, he holds registrations in Michigan and Ohio. Guided by "listen. promote. provide.," his firm follows a four-step process: Get to Know You, The Reality Check, The Reality and Assurance. This client-focused method delivers tailored solutions. A flagship accomplishment is Detroit's Motor City Kwanzaa Kinara, a cultural landmark, Brother Cook co-designed and helped build with his father. "Personally, it means a lot because it was the first professional project my dad and I worked on together. Professionally, it's something I am incredibly proud of as it highlights what's possible with great clients," he says. Exemplifying the entrepreneurial imperative toward a new Black Wall Street, Brother Cook serves as his chapter's recording secretary and national programs committee chair. He also redesigned the chapter lapel pin, The Jeweled Shield, for all to wear. Brothers can download a free Project Planning Pack at developarchitecture.com.

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BROTHER RICHARD HODGE

[THETA MU LAMBDA, ’14].........

HODGE IDEAS INC. TAKES PHOTOGRAPHY AND SPECIAL EVENTS MATERIALS TO THE NEXT LEVEL Brother Richard Hodge is the Creator and Founder of Hodge Ideas. He is a creative photographer and digital designer who has taken many photographs and special event printed materials to the next level. He creates unique products and memorabilia that are not only visually stunning but unique and appeal to the masses. With more than 20 years of experience in on-site special event photography and event staging, Brother Hodge has worked across a variety of industries and venues throughout the United States. The innovative designs and custom photography produced by Hodge Ideas have been featured prominently at conventions, trade shows, award presentations, and educational institutions year after year. Brother Hodge takes pride in delivering high-quality products and services in a timely manner while maintaining project budgets and identifying additional custom branding opportunities that enhance each client's vision. By combining current design trends, exceptional event photography, and creative design techniques, he consistently delivers memorable experiences that keep clients returning year after year.

BROTHER LOVISE JILES

[THETA MU LAMBDA, ’13]...........

EXPLORING NEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH MNK REALTY PROFESSIONALS LLC AND COPPER STILL MARTINI LOUNGE AND SPEAKEASY Brother Jiles was born and raised on the south side of Chicago where he attended a small private school - Howalton Day School. He graduated from Hyde Park Career Academy High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology from Illinois State University and an MBA from Keller Graduate School. He has worked in the Information Technology field since college and during that time he co-founded and ran a successful IT consulting firm. Brother Jiles is now the owner of MNK Realty Professionals LLC, a real estate brokerage firm and development company and a co-owner of Copper Still Martini Lounge and Speakeasy in the south suburbs of Chicago. His mission includes sharing his resources with others by supporting several charities and developing and mentoring youth, specifically young Black men. At an early age, Brother Jiles’ father instilled an entrepreneurial mindset, where he continually looks for avenues to share his expertise with others while exploring new opportunities.

BROTHER DAN JOHNSON

[THETA MU LAMBDA, ’19].......

STRIKES & BITES OFFERS COMMUNITY-CENTERED ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE Brother Dan Johnson brings more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience in real estate, construction, consulting, and ministry leadership. In 2025, he opened Strikes & Bites, a bowling and entertainment venue in Lansing, Illinois. His vision was to create more than just a bowling alley; he sought to build a community-centered destination where family, food, and fun come together. Recognizing that bowling is an activity that spans generations, Brother Johnson created a place where children, parents, and grandparents could gather and enjoy this timeless pastime together. The venue features USBC Gold Standard-certified lanes, a fullservice kitchen, a modern bar with multiple flatscreen televisions, private event spaces, and areas designed to host community initiatives, meetings, and team-building activities. Strikes & Bites is more than a new business venture for Brother Johnson—it is a platform for legacy building. His daughter, Rachel, serves as co-owner, making the enterprise a true family endeavor and an investment in future generations.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER KENNETH JOHNSON, ESQ., MCP, AIA, NCARB, NOMA [NU RHO, '89]............................

ARCHITECTURE, URBAN DESIGN, AND POLICY LLC DELIVERS ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES SHAPED BY AN ENTREPRENEURIAL COMMITMENT As a founder-led, minority-owned design practice, my firm delivers comprehensive architectural services shaped by an entrepreneurial commitment to innovation, adaptability, and community impact. We provide full-scope design solutions for interior renovations, building expansions, and new ground-up construction, serving a diverse client base with projects that span single-family residential, commercial, restaurant, dental office, multifamily, and mixed-use developments. Our work ranges from intimate one-story structures to mid-rise buildings, reflecting the versatility required of a modern architectural enterprise. Our portfolio extends across Illinois, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Ghana, demonstrating both regional depth and global reach. Beyond design, we support clients through zoning variances and municipal approvals—an essential service that transforms ambitious ideas into buildable, code-compliant realities. In 2025, our entrepreneurial approach to design excellence earned international recognition. The firm received two prestigious honors: the Rethinking The Future Global Architecture & Design Award and The Architecture Community World Design Award, both celebrating our commitment to forward-thinking, culturally responsive architecture. As we continue to grow, we remain driven by the belief that architecture is both a business and a vehicle for empowerment. We proudly serve clients anywhere in the United States and around the world as your Design Architect, advancing a practice rooted in creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

SPRING 2026

BROTHER KERRY G. JOHNSON [KAPPA, ’86]............................

KGJ DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION INTERSECTS STRATEGIC DESIGN, VISUAL STORYTELLING, AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP WWW.KERRYGJOHNSONDRAWS.COM E: CONTACT@KERRYGJOHNSONDESIGN.COM LINKEDIN: WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/IN/KERRYJOHNSON/ IG: @CARICATUREKERRY

Brother Kerry G. Johnson is a seasoned multimedia content creator and creative executive whose work sits at the intersection of strategic design, visual storytelling, and community leadership of KGJ Design and Illustration. Brother Johnson has built a brand known for delivering visually compelling, purpose-driven content that strengthens audience engagement and brand identity. Through his company, Brother Johnson provides a full spectrum of creative services, including multimedia production, digital content development, and professional illustration. A distinguished children’s book illustrator, Brother Johnson, brings narratives to life with culturally rich, imaginative visuals that support authors, educators, and publishers seeking meaningful representation and artistic excellence. Brother Johnson’s professional influence extends well beyond the creative sector. As Vice President of the African American Community Roundtable of Howard County (Maryland), he plays a key role in advancing initiatives focused on advocacy, equity, and civic engagement. Further demonstrating a commitment to leadership and service, Brother Kerry G. Johnson was recently appointed to Howard County’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Planning Commission, contributing creative and strategic insight to one of the county’s most significant cultural observances. He utilizes creativity, strong leadership, and a clear vision not only to achieve significant business success but also to ensure a lasting positive contribution to the community. 67

BROTHER JOHN S. KENDALL, ESQ. [GAMMA THETA, ’81]........................

LAW OFFICE OF JOHN S. KENDALL, P.C. IS A CHICAGO-BASED OFFICE SPECIALIZING, AND REPRESENTING CLIENTS, IN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW NATIONWIDE. Brother John Kendall, the Fraternity’s Associate General Counsel on Trademarks, graduated from the University of Dayton (BSEE 1985) and The Ohio State University (JD 1990); and is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (1993). Through his comprehensive understanding of the intricate nuances of intellectual property (“IP”) law, and his deep well of experience-based knowledge spanning over three and a half decades in licensing copyright and trademark rights, he has a demonstrated track record of success in obtaining, expanding, maintaining and enforcing IP rights. Similarly, he has solidified his reputation as a trusted client-centric advocate who provides tailored IP solutions that align with the specific needs of his client’s whether they be a start-up or small business, non-profit or Black Greek Lettered Organization. Over the years, he has distinguished himself during many standout moments while representing clients. First, as co-counsel, he helped reinstate the lawsuit initiated by Divine Nine Fraternities and Sororities against Converse in 2003 for trademark infringement and unfair competition, then successfully negotiated a settlement worth $1 million, including money, product and internships (https://sgbonline.com/ trademark-case-against-converse-reinstated/) (only Alpha’s Greek Letters were registered and it was done by Brother Kendall in 1999). Second AKA (“SKEE WEE”) and AΦA (“1906”), the only Greek Letter Organizations in the world to have a U.S. sound mark (approximately 300 out of more than three million U.S. Trademarks) were registered by Brother Kendall.

BROTHER ASBURY LOCKETT, JD, MBA [NU SIGMA, ’78]...........................

AALS INC. HELPS EQUIP EARLY STAGE ENTREPRENUERS & SOLOPRENUERS Initiated in 1978 as a charter member of the Nu Sigma Chapter at Stanford University, Brother Asbury Lockett has dedicated his professional life to building stronger entrepreneurs and stronger economic ecosystems. As Founder of AALS Inc., he serves as a smallbusiness strategist and author, focused on equipping early-stage entrepreneurs and solopreneurs with practical tools to launch, grow, and sustain profitable ventures. Over the past two decades, Brother Lockett has advised more than 500 entrepreneurs and partnered with organizations including Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), Women’s Business Centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership to expand access to sound business guidance. He is the author of The Small Business Startup Revolution: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Success, a resource that demystifies business formation, financing, and operational strategy for aspiring founders. His work reflects a belief that disciplined entrepreneurship is central to building generational wealth and advancing a modern vision of “Black Wall Street.” Through ongoing mentorship of young Alpha Brothers and emerging founders, Brother Lockett actively supports the Fraternity’s “Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers” campaign— reinforcing a culture where knowledge, capital, and opportunity circulate intentionally within our community. His mission remains clear: empower entrepreneurs, strengthen Black enterprise, and help shape the next era of sustainable economic leadership.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER ARMANI MADISON [ALPHA GAMMA, ’14].....

BROTHER MORRIS MAYFIELD III [MU LAMBDA BETA, '24].........

BELL'S MASTER BLEND OFFERS BOLD FLAVOR FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS

MAYFIELD EMPIRE LEGACY REPRESENTS MULTIPLE VENTURES

BELLSMASTERBLENDSAUCES.COM

Brother Morris Mayfield, III is a leadership practitioner, entrepreneur, and communicator focused on developing people and strengthening community through service and enterprise. He leads Mayfield Empire Legacy, an umbrella enterprise that houses leadership development and consulting services along with family ventures, including his wife’s travel and leisure services and baking business— reflecting a shared vision of generational growth and economic empowerment.

Bell's Master Blend is a family-owned gourmet sauce company that I proudly co-own with my parents, Kevin and Monique Bell. Our story is rooted in Atlanta, where they spent more than 20 years building a reputation for creating bold, flavorful sauces that bring people together and turn every meal into a memorable experience. We turned that foundation into a growing brand. In just over two years of formal operations, we have generated $63,270+ in sales and sold 4,870 units across wholesale, retail, e-commerce, and food service. We have placement in 41 retail stores across multiple states, including Ace Hardware locations, specialty retailers, and AIpowered stores. Our sauces are also sold on Amazon and Walmart.com. Our flavor lineup reflects tradition and creativity. We offer Buffalo Mild, Wicked Hot, Twisted Teriyaki, Hot Lemon Pepper Zest, and DT3 Hot BBQ Fusion. Each sauce works just as well on wings as it does on pork, beef, poultry, seafood, tofu, vegetables, soups, and salads. Our slogan, “Yes! We Have The Sauce,” captures our promise to deliver bold, high-quality flavor in every bottle. Our growth has been community driven. We host in-store demos and tastings that turn first-time buyers into repeat customers, and stay active in food festivals, community markets, and seasonal events to build brand loyalty. We also completed the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs Retail Readiness Academy and the Chase Coaching for Impact Program and are proud to be Supplier Diversity Certified and Georgia Grown Certified. Every milestone reflects family legacy and a commitment to quality.

SPRING 2026

Through Mayfield 3 Consulting, he provides leadership development, organizational communication strategy, and mentorship grounded in real-world experience guiding teams in high-pressure environments. His entrepreneurial reach also extends into lifestyle branding through Mokaciá Clothing Brand and the Day On Stay On Clothing Company, both centered on discipline, resilience, and personal excellence. The author of two books, Brother Mayfield shares leadership insight across multiple media platforms. He produces and hosts The Barracks Room podcast, maintains a weekly YouTube channel, and operates a communication website focused on professional development. Across every venture, his mission remains consistent: build disciplined leaders, strengthen networks, and create platforms that empower the next generation of Alpha men and the communities they serve.

BROTHER MICHAEL MCCREARY [THETA MU LAMBDA, ’13]..........

EMBASSY CIGAR LOUNGE & FLOSSMOOR SOCIAL OFFERS HIGH-END SOCIAL AND DINING EXPERIENCES Brother Michael McCreary is one of the investors of two new popular businesses in Flossmoor, Illinois. Launched in 2024, The Embassy Cigar Lounge is a spacious and sophisticated destination for cigar enthusiasts. This visually modern space offers high-end cigars and a wide selection of premium worldwide liquor brands with relaxing spaces that set it apart from many. The lounge also offers an exclusive membership program for patrons who wish to indulge regularly, along with access to an indoor golf simulator that provides members with an additional recreational and social experience Brother McCreary’s additional entrepreneurial accomplishment opened Fall 2025 and is named Flossmoor Social. A dynamic new highend restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful dishes and cocktails for visitors who dine in for brunch or dinner. It offers a vast dining menu, excellent customer service and good highquality food. This is the new hot restaurant in Flossmoor. It prioritizes the clients’ overall experience by delivering an ambiance that keeps reservations booked. Brother McCreary’s entrepreneurial spirit and eye for innovation have led to the success of these two business ventures. In February, Flossmoor Social kicked off 2026 by participating in restaurant week along with 500 other restaurants throughout the state of Illinois.

BROTHER CHRISTOPHER MCKINLEY, JR. [XI NU LAMBDA, ’13]......................

CHRIS MCKINLEY EVENTS ROOTED IN EXCELLENCE, INTENTIONAL DESIGN AND EXPERIENCE Brother Christopher McKinley, Jr. (Xi Nu Lambda, Fall ’13) is a respected entrepreneur and event professional whose work reflects service centered entrepreneurship in practice. Through Chris McKinley Events, which offers event planning and design services for corporate and private clients, Brother McKinley services Utah and Louisiana with a brand rooted in excellence, intentional design and experience driven strategy, and a commitment to uplifting both community and commerce. In 2026, Chris McKinley Events celebrates a decade of service, marking ten years of producing thoughtful, high impact experiences that blend luxury with purpose. Brother McKinley’s leadership and creative vision have earned regional and national recognition. He was named a 40 Under 40 honoree by Baton Rouge Business Report for his entrepreneurial leadership and business impact through Chris McKinley Events. His work earned the 2026 cover of the 25th Anniversary edition of Utah Valley Bride magazine and has been featured in Munaluchi Bride Magazine, Black Enterprise, and Rocky Mountain Bride, further establishing his reputation within the event and wedding industry. Beyond private enterprise, McKinley’s work with the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce has been transformative. He has helped plan and design signature initiatives such as the Annual Black Wealth Conference and Mardi Gras in the Mountains, and served as lead planner & designer during the 2023 NBA All-Star activations that were in partnership with the Utah Black Chamber, advancing Black business visibility, economic empowerment, and collective progress while strengthening pathways for ownership, leadership, and generational impact. THE SPHINX®

BROTHER DARRELL L. MCNAIR [EPSILON DELTA, ’81]...............

MVP GROUP OF COMPANIES OVERSEES DIVERSE PORTFOLIO SERVING AUTOMOTIVE TO DEFENSE TO THE MEDICAL INDUSTRY As the owner of the MVP Group of Companies, this accomplished entrepreneur has transformed a minority-owned enterprise into a multi-faceted powerhouse. With a career rooted in Fortune 500 discipline at Ford Motor Company and IBM. Brother McNair has successfully bridged the gap between corporate rigor and entrepreneurial agility. He oversees a diverse portfolio—including MVP Plastics and All Foam Products, serving critical sectors from the automotive to defense and the medical industry. Under his leadership, MVP Group has seen growth in company revenue and geographic presence with locations in Ohio, Illinois, and Texas. He recently launched a strategic alliance in Asia, to onshore manufacturing, poised to double company revenue. Beyond the balance sheet, Brother McNair is a dedicated civic pillar, serving on numerous prestigious boards from the Federal Reserve Bank, Medical Mutual of Ohio, The Cleveland Port Authority, and currently chairing the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED). Proving that true business excellence is measured by both innovation and community impact. Brother McNair is a graduate of Baldwin Wallace University (MBA) and Kent State University (BGS) where he was initiated in Alpha Phi Alpha in 1981. Darrell is a life member and active with Delta Alpha Lambda (Cleveland, OH).

SPRING 2026

BROTHER HERMAN MILLER, JR. [THETA MU LAMBDA, ’18.......

LIKE HOME SENIOR LIVING LLC. OFFERS MISSION-DRIVEN SENIOR LIVING Brother Herman Miller Jr. is the co-founder of Like Home Senior Living LLC, a mission-driven senior living company established in 2021 with his wife, Dr. Kimberly Battle-Miller. Their vision became a reality in 2024 with the purchase of a, ranch-style home in Park Forest, IL named “Papi’s House,” that honors Dr. Battle-Miller’s late father, whose VA Loan Benefit helped make the purchase possible. This home was created so Dr. Battle-Miller could bring her father, her 96-year-old godmother, and his 75-year-old cousin together under one roof, eliminating the emotional and logistical burden of managing care across multiple locations as their dementia progressed. Papi’s House provides a safe, peaceful, and nurturing environment with 24-hour caregiver support. The home is staffed by a dedicated team of eight skilled and experienced caregivers trained to support individuals across varying stages of dementia, cognitive impairment, and physical disabilities. Caregivers prepare fresh, healthy meals daily and provide intentional physical and mental stimulation designed to promote mobility, preserve independence, and optimize quality of life. The founders are actively seeking an angel partner with the knowledge, experience, and willingness to help guide the organization through Medicaid licensure and nonprofit development— someone who shares their belief that aging adults deserve not just care, but a true home.

BROTHER FERONDO MOORE [BETA ZETA, ’91]...........

MOORE FAMILY RESTAURANTS, CHURCH’S TEXAS CHICKEN FRANCHISEE – WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA For Brother Ferondo Moore, entrepreneurship is more than business; it is legacy, empowerment, and community investment. His journey began behind the counter of his family’s neighborhood convenience store, where he learned firsthand the value of ownership and service. After graduating from college in 1993, Ferondo returned home to build upon that foundation. Inspired by local entrepreneurs pursuing a Church’s Chicken franchise, Ferondo envisioned expanding his family’s enterprise. Despite facing financing barriers often encountered by Black business owners, he remained steadfast. In 1999, he and his family opened their first Church’s location within one of their convenience stores, a breakthrough that transformed vision into reality. Today, the Moore family operates two Church’s Texas Chicken restaurants in Wilmington, North Carolina. The business is proudly 100% family-run, spanning four generations, with his children actively engaged in leadership and operations. With more than 25 years of service as a Church’s Texas Chicken Legend, Ferondo’s influence extends throughout the franchise system. He is currently seeking to serve on the Church’s Independent Franchise Association (CIFA) Board to strengthen franchisee success further. Brother Moore’s story reflects the spirit of a modern Black Wall Street, generational wealth, and reinvestment in community.

BROTHER ATTORNEY NOAH J. MOORE [UPSILON DELTA, ’12]................

THE LAW OFFICE OF NOAH J. MOORE PROVIDES CLIENTS WITH COMPASSIONATE GUIDANCE AND RELENTLESS ADVOCACY Brother Attorney Noah J. Moore, founder of The Law Office of Noah J. Moore, is an entrepreneur dedicated to providing every client with compassionate guidance and relentless advocacy. A proud Jackson, Mississippi native, Moore graduated from Rust College in 2014, and Indiana Tech Law School, and began his legal career in 2017. After gaining invaluable experience serving clients as Of-Counsel for several years, he launched his own practice in 2020 with one clear mission: to fight for injured individuals and help them reclaim control after an accident. Brother Attorney Moore’s journey is rooted in grit, determination, and fight —values that continue to shape the way he approaches every case. His firm focuses on personal injury representation, ensuring clients receive the support and strong legal protection they deserve during life’s most difficult moments. More than just an experienced attorney, Brother Moore is deeply committed to serving his community and making a lasting impact beyond the courtroom. He actively supports aspiring law students through mentorship opportunities, guidance, and involvement in programs designed to uplift the next generation of legal professionals. Attorney Moore believes in giving back through service, leadership, and community engagement, ensuring that others have access to the encouragement and resources needed to succeed. Through outreach, mentorship, and a strong commitment to public service, Moore continues to build a practice rooted not only in advocacy, but in meaningful community support and long-term positive change.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER RAMON PERALTA, JR [MU PHI, ‘89].......................................................................................................................

PERALTA DESIGN: LAUNCHING BRANDS FOR GROWING BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS SINCE 2008 Peralta Design is a full-service mission-driven digital marketing agency with offices in Shelton, Connecticut, and Palm Coast, Florida founded in 2008 and led by Brother Ramon Peralta. Operating under the trademarked promise "We Launch Brands®," the agency helps small to midsized businesses and organizations across the globe build, launch, and grow memorable brands. Its team of seasoned professionals delivers seven core services: brand strategy and brand identity design, web design and software development, digital marketing, and video and animation. What sets Peralta Design apart is its blend of award-winning creativity and forward-thinking growth strategy. As an AI-first agency, the firm integrates emerging technology into every engagement, helping clients work smarter while staying authentically human. Whether launching a startup from scratch or refreshing an established brand, Peralta Design partners with clients as a long-term growth engine — delivering measurable results through ongoing retainer relationships built on trust, craft, and consistency.

BROTHER DR. RANDAL PINKETT [KAPPA PHI LAMBDA, ‘07], BROTHER DR. JEFFREY ROBINSON [KAPPA PHI LAMBDA, ‘07], BROTHER DALLAS GRUNDY [TAU EPSILON LAMBDA ‘25], AND BUSINESS PARTNER MR. LAWRENCE HIBBERT..................

BCT PARTNERS: ADVANCING EQUITY THROUGH PRECISION ANALYTICS™ WWW.BCTPARTNERS.COM

BCT Partners – co-founded by Alpha men Brother Dr. Randal Pinkett, Brother Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, Brother Dallas Grundy, and business partner Mr. Lawrence Hibbert – is a pioneering consulting firm committed to harnessing data, technology, AI, and human-centered strategies to transform lives, accelerate equity, and create lasting change. Rooted in a shared vision of using innovation for social impact, BCT has grown into a nationally recognized leader serving government agencies, nonprofits, corporations, and philanthropic organizations working to improve outcomes for children, youth, families, and communities. At the heart of BCT’s impact is its groundbreaking Precision Analytics™. Much like precision medicine transformed healthcare, Precision Analytics™ leverages advanced data science, AI, machine learning, and practitioner wisdom to optimize social programs and services by delivering real-time insights into what works, for whom, and under what conditions. It provides automated decision-support tools that help frontline workers tailor services, alongside dashboards and reporting tools that help leaders demonstrate the value of their investments. From strengthening workforce pathways and improving health for vulnerable populations to advancing the wellbeing of children and families and accelerating small business growth, Precision Analytics™ equips mission-driven organizations with actionable intelligence that drives meaningful, measurable change. As BCT Partners expands its international footprint, its founders embody the spirit of Alpha entrepreneurship – leveraging excellence, innovation, and collective uplift. Through its work, BCT exemplifies “servants of all,” shaping a more equitable future through technology, AI, and datadriven impact. SPRING 2026

BROTHER DEREK ROBINSON [ALPHA ETA LAMBDA, ’24].................

BROTHER ANTONIO RILEY [DELTA PSI, ’90]..........................

HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE AND SEASONINGS ‘MAKE YOUR FOOD SAY SOME’M’

BLACK RESTAURANT WEEK AMPLIFIES THE VOICES OF CHEFS, CATERERS, AND RESTAURATEURS

WWW.RILEYSRIBZ.COM

WWW.BLACKRESTAURANTWEEKS.COM

Brother Antonio Riley is founder and proprietor of Riley’s Ribz LLC. Inspired by family and friends to take his passion for barbecue to the next level, he started bottling his homemade barbeque sauce and seasoning rubs. Brother Riley has sold thousands of units of BBQ Sauce and Rubs (Spices) since beginning to selfmarket in July of 2013. Our motto is spreading the flavor one household at a time, and our registered trademark is “Make Your Food Say Some’m.” Our products can be found in select Jewel stores as well as various supermarkets throughout the city and suburbs of Chicago, IL. The company also ships worldwide.

Founded in 2016 by Warren Luckett, Falayn Ferrell, and Brother Derek Robinson, Black Restaurant Week (BRW) began as a localized mission in Houston to ignite curiosity about the city's diverse Black-owned culinary scene. Recognizing that many minority-owned businesses lacked the substantial marketing budgets required to compete in a saturated industry, the trio developed a solution: a comprehensive, multi-city marketing platform designed to amplify the voices of chefs, caterers, and restaurateurs. Over the last decade, BRW has evolved into a global movement. Their "More Than Just a Week" initiative has supported over 5,000 culinary professionals across 40+ states and expanded internationally to Canada and South Africa. Their impact is quantifiable; participating businesses report average sales increases of 15% to 34%, contributing over $75 million in economic impact to major hubs like Atlanta, Washington, DC, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston. Beyond seasonal events, the partners launched the Feed the Soul Foundation, a non-profit arm providing business development grants and emergency financial relief. By bridging the gap between corporate DEI initiatives and grassroots culinary talent, Luckett, Ferrell, and Brother Robinson have redefined the food industry’s landscape, proving that cultural heritage is a powerful engine for economic equity.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER CHRIS ROSS [XI SIGMA, ’90]..................................

CTFR CONSULTING LLC IS KEEPING THAT SAME GREEN ENERGY Brother Chris Ross aka (Legrand), a Philadelphia native now living in Atlanta, GA, is a hip-hop artist, climate activist, host of the Keep That Same Green Energy® podcast and founder of CTFR Consulting LLC. Keep That Same Green Energy®, the signature platform of CTFR Consulting LLC, is Brother Ross’s answer to a big climate problem: ** lots of passion, not enough consistency. The platform helps people and organizations move beyond slogans and one-time campaigns by building clear plans, repeatable systems, and proof-based communication that earns trust. His work blends strategy, education, and storytelling to drive real behavior change— because sustainability only matters if it sticks. From consulting and speaking engagements to podcasting and thought leadership, CTFR Consulting LLC, gives leaders the tools to execute, track progress, and share outcomes with integrity. Its north star is simple: credibility first—no performative sustainability, no vague claims, just action backed by evidence (“receipts”). As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Brother Ross is expanding this mission with momentum. He recently appeared on the UMustLearn Radio Show, he was selected as a Climatebase Climate Fellow (Cohort 9) and has pitched CTFR Consulting LLC at the Alpha South Pitch Competition. To learn more, visit keepthatsamegreenenergy. org and follow: Instagram @ keepthatsamegreenenergy, TikTok @ theofficiallegrand, YouTube youtube.com/@ keepthatsamegreenenergy, and Substack @ keepthatsamegreenenergy.

SPRING 2026

BROTHER VICTOR SCOTTI, JR. [PSI, ’10]............................

THE DONNA JEAN HAIR RESTORATION CLINIC (OUR S.P.A.C.E. STUDIOS LLC) REDEFINES CLINICAL SCIENCE AND BLACK HAIR CARE WWW.OURSPACESTUDIOS.COM

Brother Victor Scotti, Jr. is redefining the intersection of clinical science and Black hair care. After a decade in corporate operations at Google and Netflix, Victor pivoted to found The Donna Jean Hair Restoration Clinic, a specialized practice dedicated to medicalgrade hair restoration and trichology. Based in Arlington, Virginia, the clinic serves those navigating medical hair loss—specifically oncology and alopecia patients—by providing bespoke cranial prostheses (medical wigs) and clinical scalp treatments. The clinic is more than a business; it is a profound tribute to his mother, Donna Jean Scotti, who fought an eight-year battle with multiple myeloma (blood cancer). A woman of high scholarship and service, Donna Jean pledged Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (Nu Psi Chapter) in 1970 and entered the Omega Rho Chapter on January 24, 2026. Her legacy of resilience is the clinic’s heartbeat, driving its mission to close the "dignity gap" in healthcare for Black and Brown patients. By merging tech-sector precision with empathetic patient care, Victor is reclaiming the ritual of restoration, ensuring that even in the face of illness, Black excellence is preserved. His work exemplifies the modern Alpha entrepreneurial imperative: circulating the strength of our brotherhood toward innovative Alpha-led enterprises that provide healing, highdemand services, and community restoration.

BROTHER DR. ARMOND E. SINCLAIR [IOTA BETA LAMBDA '25] AND DR. POLICARPIO SOBERANIS................................................................................

ANANSI LABS AND THE AIME PLATFORM FOR DEFENSE MISSION ENGINEERING Anansi Labs, LLC is a defense technology company supporting the defense industry through advanced software for mission engineering and decision analysis. Modern defense operations require commanders to act under uncertainty, time pressure, and adversarial conditions. As missions grow more complex and data driven, the challenge is no longer access to information, but confidence in how that information is translated into action. Anansi Labs addresses this challenge through its flagship product, Artificial Intelligence Mission Engineering (AIME). AIME is a software platform that evaluates competing courses of action, quantifies operational risk, and produces decision outputs with defined performance bounds. In practical terms, this enables commanders to compare options, understand trade offs, and see how sensitive a recommendation is to uncertainty or changing conditions. Rather than treating artificial intelligence as a prediction engine, AIME is built to support responsible, reviewable decision making in complex operational environments. AIME is engineered for environments where verification, repeatability, and accountability are essential. Many modern AI tools prioritize speed or adaptability, but offer limited insight into how conclusions are reached. The platform exposes assumptions and constraints directly. Each decision artifact includes supporting context such as inputs, assumptions, and parameters so results can be reviewed, reproduced, and challenged within established mission engineering and analysis processes. AIME is supported by multiple provisional patents reflecting original approaches to mission engineering, decision assurance, and risk bound artificial intelligence developed internally at Anansi Labs. Anansi Labs was co-founded with Dr. Policarpio Soberanis, whose technical leadership and perspective have been instrumental in the company’s development. While not a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Dr. Soberanis brings a Belizean and global viewpoint that strengthens the firm’s engineering culture and reinforces the value of diverse expertise in solving complex technical challenges. Brother Dr. Sinclair views Anansi Labs as part of a broader Black entrepreneurial presence in high consequence technology sectors, grounded in technical rigor, ownership of intellectual property, and long-term contribution. The AIME platform reflects a commitment to building tools that meet the seriousness of the environments in which they are used and the responsibility entrusted to those who rely on them.

THE SPHINX®

BROTHER DR. MARKUS SMITH

[IOTA BETA LAMBDA '23]..............

MARKUS SMITH REAL ESTATE TEAM LISTED AMONG TOP 500 REAL PRODUCERS IN OKLAHOMA CITY In Oklahoma’s competitive real estate market, Brother Dr. Markus Smith stands as a leader distinguished not only by production, but by purpose – his success forged from humble beginnings, having grown up impoverished in some of the most violent neighborhoods of his city during the 1970s and 1980s. As founder of the Markus Smith Real Estate Team, he has generated nearly $100 million in individual sales and successfully closed nearly 500 homes, earning recognition among the Top 500 Real Producers in Oklahoma City. His excellence has also been acknowledged nationally by Top Agent Magazine, Newsweek, and other respected industry platforms. Yet, the true measure of this Alpha Entrepreneur is reflected in his enduring commitment to service. For more than 30 years, Brother Dr. Smith has invested in community uplift through philanthropy, donating thousands of dollars toward scholarships, school supplies, hunger relief, and essential resources for underserved families. His impact is historic – his business became the first corporate sponsor to donate 16,000 meals to the Oklahoma City Community College Food Pantry, while also supporting Christmas toy drives, homeless care packages, and educational initiatives across the state. In December 2023, his lifetime of service was recognized with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, signed by President Joe Biden, honoring sustained contributions to community and civic life. A 5-Star Premier Agent on Zillow, Brother Dr. Smith is also a motivational and commencement speaker, author, and professor, exemplifying Alpha Phi Alpha’s legacy of leadership through service, excellence, and impact.

SPRING 2026

BROTHER KALVEN L. TRICE, MS, MPA, CEO [IOTA BETA LAMBDA '81]......................

CAPACITY BUILDING, CONSULTING, & ANALYSIS, LLC (CBCALLC) ASSESSING STRATEGIC NEEDS & DEVELOPING SOLUTIONS Brother Kalven Trice is a visionary leader with over 45 years of experience as a senior economist, planner, business owner, and conservationist. He became the first African American to lead a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) field-based agency in Arkansas in 1997. During his 13-year tenure as Arkansas State Conservationist, Kalven successfully managed over 250 employees and 90 offices, overseeing a conservation portfolio worth over a quarter of a billion dollars. In 2020, Brother Trice retired from the USDA after 40 years and founded CBCALLC. CBCALLC helps clients assess their strategic needs and develop solutions through public and private funding sources (grant writing). He served as a principal subject-matter expert for the EJES Joint Venture Partners ($20 million), the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ($3 million), and the Arkansas Black Mayors Association (ABMA) ($96 million). The Central Arkansas Sphinx Foundation, a 501(c)(3) community service organization affiliated with Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., is managing grants funded through USDA, which were written by CBCALLC. Three grants totaling $2.3 million from the USDA provide technical and financial assistance to Pulaski County residents on urban conservation, community and backyard gardening, and awareness of USDA programs and agencies. The Memphis Dawah Association was awarded over $750,000 in 2024 for similar activities. CBCALLC authored the ABMA grant ($96 million), which includes planning, design, and construction dollars to address flooding in 19 majority-minority communities across Arkansas.

BROTHER KENNETH QUAN WEBSTER [DELTA PHI, ’90]...........................

BREATH’G VEGAN OFFERS HEALTHY SOUTHERN COMFORT CUISINE AS A HEALING TOOL WWW.BREATHGVEGAN.COM

Brother Kenneth Quan Webster is Co-Owner of Breath’g Vegan, a southern comfort vegan cuisine restaurant in Merrillville, Indiana. He is passionate about promoting a healthier lifestyle through plant-based eating. After his wife Donna Webster, co-owner of the restaurant, was diagnosed with cancer, her dedicated research led her to discover how to detox her body to heal her cells by transitioning to a vegan lifestyle. Thus, this phenomenal business was created, and they understand that food is more than just sustenance, it's a way of life and a “serious” tool for healing. Whether you're a long-time vegan or just starting on your plant-based journey, there is something flavorful and delicious on the menu for everyone. Brother Webster is a first-time entrepreneur who has successfully transitioned the business from a popular food truck throughout the years to an actual full-service brick and mortar building that launched its grand opening in Fall 2025. This restaurant offers the best cooked “made to order” food like wings, pizza, tacos, chili and sandwiches with a variety of fresh vegetables, spices and nutrients your body needs. If you value healthy vegan food, we highly encourage you to stop by not only for the great tasting food but for a bright positive environment at one of the most popular places in the area.

BROTHER LIEUTENANT COLONEL (RET.) DEWAYNE WELLS [EPSILON PSI LAMBDA, ’93]............

JEREMIAH’S ITALIAN ICE EXPANDS TO GONZALES, LOUISIANA Brother Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) DeWayne Wells was initiated into Epsilon Psi Lambda in Fall 1993 and remains an active and dedicated member of the chapter. He is a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel with a lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and community development. Brother Wells and, his wife, Erica Wells brought Jeremiah’s Italian Ice to Gonzales, Louisiana. As committed community leaders and strong supporters of youth development and education, the Wells family is dedicated to making a positive impact. Their investment in Jeremiah’s reflects both sound business leadership and a desire to create a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice operates more than 180 locations nationwide and continues to grow rapidly, offering high-quality Italian ice, soft ice cream, and its signature Jelati®. For Brother Wells and his wife, this venture represents more than business ownership; it is an investment in their community. The location has created local jobs, provided opportunities for young people, and strengthened partnerships with schools, churches, and community organizations. “Our goal has always been bigger than just owning a business,” he says. “We want Jeremiah’s to be a place where families feel welcome and supported,” she adds, “This store represents teamwork, faith, and excellence.”

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BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB, DDIV., CPLC [NU, ’89]................................

ECW ENTERPRISES, LLC HELPS HBCUS, D9 ORGANIZATIONS, FAITHBASED INSTITUTIONS, NONPROFITS, AND MISSION-DRIVEN LEADERS STRENGTHEN THEIR REPUTATION AND DRIVE IMPACT THEWORDSBYWEBB.COM | IG: @THEWORDSBYWEBB

Brother Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC, is a nationally recognized strategic communications advisor, executive counselor, award-winning journalist, and bestselling author who helps mission-driven institutions protect their reputation, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and amplify their impact. As founder of ECW Enterprises, LLC, doing business as The Words By Webb, Brother Webb advises Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, faith-based organizations, nonprofits, advocacy groups, and communitycentered leaders on strategic communications, executive thought leadership, media relations, crisis communications, brand positioning, and organizational storytelling. Through consulting, writing, and speaking, he equips Black institutions and their leaders, particularly, to communicate with confidence, safeguard their legacy, and increase their influence in an increasingly complex and competitive environment, which he has also done throughout his more than 30-year-career. His approach combines strategic counsel with compelling narratives that honor legacy, inspire action, and advance institutional goals. Currently, Brother Webb also serves as director of communications and editor of The Sphinx for the Fraternity. Under his leadership, the fraternity has expanded its national visibility, strengthened stakeholder engagement, and enhanced its reputation among members, partners, media, and the public. A National Black Authors Tour bestselling author, Brother Webb has written five books, hundreds of articles, speeches, and thought leadership pieces, receiving numerous awards and honors. His forthcoming book, “Please, Fail Already!!!” is expected in 2027. SPRING 2026

BROTHER JAMES WESBY [DELTA PHI, ’95].........................

PROTEGRA HEALTHCARE STAFFING SOLVING CRITICAL WORKFORCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES Brother James Wesby is a healthcare entrepreneur focused on solving critical workforce and risk-management challenges through innovative, scalable solutions. As the founder of Protegra Healthcare Staffing, he has built a trusted staffing partner for healthcare organizations nationwide, specializing in placing highly qualified clinical professionals, including Allied Healthcare Professionals and Healthcare Executives. Protegra is recognized for its relationship-driven approach, speed to market, and ability to deliver talent in hard-tofill and competitive markets, helping healthcare systems maintain continuity of care while reducing operational strain. In addition to Protegra, Brother Wesby is the Co-Founder behind Risk Ready App, “All in one Hub,” a technology-driven platform designed to help users Get, Be, and Stay Ready for whatever life throws their way. The Risk Ready App integrates preparedness before a loss, protects them during a loss, and guides them after a loss. Risk Ready Platform navigates the process into a single, user-friendly experience— empowering policyholders while reducing risk exposure during critical moments. After James and his family lost their home due to a fire in July 2024, the platform reflects James’ belief that proactive planning and compassionate design can help policyholders control their claims journey for better, predictable outcomes. Across both ventures, Brother Wesby is known for identifying gaps in traditional systems and building solutions that blend operational efficiency with human-centered impact. His work continues to influence how healthcare organizations staff smarter and how policyholders prepare for the unexpected positioning him as a forward-thinking leader at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and risk innovation.

BROTHER CLAREVONTE “CLAY” WILLIAMS [BETA ALPHA ’12] AND BROTHER KIANTE BUSH [BETA ALPHA, ’16] .............................................. BROTHER CHRISTIAN J. WILLIAMS [GAMMA LAMBDA, ’14].............

CJW CONSULTING GROUP, LLC SERVES THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY Brother Christian J. Williams has established himself as a leader in the Professional Development industry. In October 2018, he launched CJW Consulting Group, a professional development firm that focuses on resume writing, personal statement writing, LinkedIn optimization and career consultations. In April of 2019, Brother Williams resigned from his career in supply chain at a major automotive OEM to pursue the full-time business. Since launching the business, Brother Williams has had tremendous success. He has aided clients in nearly every industry imaginable and generated ~$6.4M in total reported salary increases, averaging ~$26,000/client. His clients have been hired by major companies such as Google, CitiBank, CVS Health, McKinsey & Co., PayPal, Stellantis, Corewell Health, Amazon, Accenture, Lowe’s, The Timberwolves, General Motors and many more. His clients have been accepted into major universities including Northwestern University, the University of Michigan, Georgetown University and The University of California Berkeley. Due to his success, Brother Williams has been invited to many speaking engagements including but not limited to: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Michigan District Conference (2025), Combating Unemployment, Civic Center TV 89.3 Lakes FM (2025), National Urban League Conference (2023), and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Midwestern Regional Convention, Check My Resume Workshop (2020).

VENTURE FOR THEM AND FUND. FWD ARE BUILDING BLUEPRINT FOR BLACK ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND GRANT OPPORTUNITIES Alpha Brothers Clarevonte “Clay” Williams and Kiante Bush are building a modern blueprint for Black economic empowerment through entrepreneurship, technology, and collective investment. As co-founders of Venture for Them, they lead a nonprofit accelerator and investment platform dedicated to expanding access to capital, education, and entrepreneurial ecosystems for early-stage founders, with a strong focus on historically underrepresented communities. Together, Brother Williams and brother Bush have guided Venture for Them in hosting annual entrepreneurship conferences at universities nationwide, deploying capital to early-stage entrepreneurs, and delivering accelerator programming and mentorship that supports scalable, job-creating businesses. Their work reflects a contemporary vision of a “new Black Wall Street”—one rooted in collaboration, innovation, and intentional economic circulation. The duo also co-created Fund.Fwd, a technology platform designed to democratize access to funding by curating verified grant opportunities and enabling entrepreneurs to discover and apply for capital directly through a centralized digital experience. Fund.Fwd addresses one of the most persistent barriers facing Black entrepreneurs: access to timely, transparent, and actionable funding information.

Brother Williams has been recognized with the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 40 under 40 Award (Alpha Class), Oakland County 40 under 40 Award, Michigan Chronicle 40 under 40 Award, and the Oakland County Board of Commissioner’s Black Excellence Award.

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BROTHER BRYANT WILLIAMS [GAMMA RHO, ’07]...............

BROTHER JEROME WILSON [BETA ETA, ’96].........................

NURTURED NUTS FOUNDER COMMITTED TO TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE OF FOOD THROUGH SCIENCE

FIRST CALL UROLOGY EXPANDS ACCESS FOR UNDESERVED, RURAL, AND URBAN COMMUNITIES

Bryant Williams is a Purdue University alum, who received a BS in Chemical Engineering, and is an entrepreneur committed to transforming the future of food through science and innovation. He was initiated as a Fall 2007 member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at the Gamma Rho chapter.

Brother Jerome Wilson is the founder and CEO of First Call Urology, a digital-first urology platform created to expand access to specialty urologic care for underserved, rural, and urban communities across the United States. A physician assistant by training, Jerome built First Call Urology to address a critical access gap—urology remains one of the most underserved medical specialties, with long wait times and significant travel burdens for patients.

With over 15 years of experience across research and development, product commercialization, and supply chain within leading consumer packaged goods companies, Bryant has built a reputation for bringing innovative food products to market at scale. He is the founder and creator of Nurtured Nuts, a breakthrough food technology venture focused on addressing one of the most pressing challenges in public health: peanut allergies. Through the application of advanced CRISPR gene editing technology, Nurtured Nuts is pioneering the development of allergen removed peanuts designed to eliminate the proteins responsible for severe allergic reactions. This innovation has the potential to safely reintroduce peanuts into environments where they have long been restricted, including schools, airlines, restaurants, and public institutions, opening the door to both improved safety and expanded access to nutritious food options. Nurtured Nuts is currently in development, with a focus on scientific validation, regulatory pathways, and strategic partnerships to bring this innovation to market. The company’s mission is rooted in creating a world where individuals and families no longer have to live in fear of peanut exposure.

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First Call Urology delivers high-quality, boardcertified urologic care through a scalable telemedicine-first model, while maintaining the ability to provide hybrid in-person care when clinically necessary. The company partners with Federally Qualified Health Centers, employers, and community organizations to improve early detection, chronic disease management, and patient outcomes while reducing unnecessary emergency department utilization and overall healthcare costs. Brother Wilson’s leadership is grounded in service, equity, and economic empowerment. Through community health initiatives, health fairs, and trusted partnerships, First Call Urology brings preventive education and screening directly into communities that have historically lacked access to specialty care. His entrepreneurial work reflects Alpha Phi Alpha’s commitment to uplift communities while building sustainable, Black-owned enterprises that create measurable impact.

BROTHER KEVIN M. YATES

[THETA MU LAMBDA, ’24]................

MEALS IN THE MEANTIME CONFRONTS FOORD INSECURITY THROUGH ACTION, COMPASSION AND LEADERSHIP Brother Kevin Yates is the founder and president of Meals in the Meantime, a community-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit he launched in May 2021 to confront food insecurity through action, compassion, and leadership rooted in Alpha Phi Alpha’s aim of service for all mankind. Guided by the belief that food insecurity is a condition, not a condemnation, Meals in the Meantime exists to fill the food gap with nourishment and dignity for individuals and families across Chicagoland’s south suburbs. Under Brother Yates’ leadership, Meals in the Meantime operates mobile, drive-thru, pop-up food pantries that provide grocery bags of free, healthy, high-quality food. To date, the organization has distributed more than 31 tons of nourishment, including fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. This work is powered by community partnerships and the service of more than 200 volunteers, including committed Brothers of the Theta Mu Lambda Chapter. Recognized with multiple awards for community impact, Meals in the Meantime illustrates how purposedriven enterprise can transform compassion into measurable impact, advancing the Fraternity’s mission by turning service for all mankind into sustained action that restores dignity and brings the community together for a common good.

BROTHER ROB “YB” YOUNGBLOOD [GAMMA, ’00]................................

YBCONNECTS, LLC EQUIPS FOUNDERS, EMERGING LEADERS, STUDENTS, AND ORGANIZATIONS Brother Rob “YB” Youngblood is the founder & chief connecting officer of YBConnects, LLC, a strategic connectivity firm that equips founders, emerging leaders, students, and organizations to unlock opportunities through purposeful relationships. In many circles, Bro. Youngblood is known as “The LinkedIn Locksmith”. Through his guidance, founders have generated over $166 million by leveraging strategic branding and LinkedIn consulting. Brother Youngblood is also the co-author of two professional development books— Speak-Up: The Ultimate Guide to Dominate in the Speaking Industry and Collaboration Creates Currency—underscoring his expertise in communication, career alignment, and professional growth. He has delivered workshops, presentations, and one-on-one consultations to 1,000+ college students, training them to align educational experiences with career goals and to use LinkedIn and digital platforms to expand visibility and access opportunities. In addition, Brother Youngblood has consulted with alumni associations and nonprofit organizations to strengthen engagement and expand professional networks. Through sustained relationship-building, he has facilitated professional seminars for more than 250 nonprofit executives and cultivated a professional network of over 13,000 individuals. His work consistently bridges people, ideas, and resources, creating pathways for collaboration, growth, and longterm impact. At YBConnects, Brother Youngblood demonstrates that connection is not just social; it is strategic, measurable, and transformative.

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FEATURE

SKYROCKET MERGES STORYTELLING, TECHNOLOGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE

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FEATURE

IN FULL-SERVICE MEDIA COMPANY BROTHER JUSTICE HOUSER [NU TAU, ’ 19] PHOTO BY: BROTHER JAMAL A. WIGGINS [ZETA SIGMA, ’99]

rother Justice Houser is a visionary entrepreneur, creative strategist, and the Founder & CEO of SkyRocket, a full-service media, marketing, and production company dedicated to helping brands, organizations, and institutions scale with intention and impact. Under his leadership, SkyRocket has provided services for major national organizations and institutions, including the NAACP, the Urban League, 100 Black Men, the National PanHellenic Council (NPHC), and most notably Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., at the local, district, regional, and national levels. With a foundation rooted in creativity, leadership, and execution, Justice has spent nearly a decade building a multi-division enterprise that merges storytelling, technology, and infrastructure into scalable business solutions. Brother Houser’s entrepreneurial journey began at just 16 years old when he launched his company as a one-man social media marketing venture. What started as a small operation quickly evolved into a full-scale company as he identified

SPRING 2026

a growing need for high-quality digital content, branding, and production services. While pursuing his Bachelor of Business Administration in Management at the University of Montevallo, he continued to refine his skills, expand his network, and develop systems that would later become the backbone of SkyRocket’s success. Today, SkyRocket operates as a multi-faceted ecosystem composed of several divisions, including SkyRocket Professional Services (digital marketing, branding, and consulting), SkyRocket Studios (a creative rental and event space), SkyRocket Productions (fullservice AV and live production), and SkyRocket Entertainment (content creation and media ventures). Together, these entities form a vertically integrated platform that allows clients to move seamlessly from concept to execution. In addition, SkyRocket is developing digital tools and technology platforms for creatives, business owners, and institutions—expanding its ecosystem with innovative solutions set to be released beginning in 2027. 85

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Through large-scale conventions, leadership conferences, and community initiatives, Brother Houser and his team have consistently delivered high-level production, marketing, and strategic support. He credits much of his “takeoff” to the relationships, mentorship, and guidance he has received from the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha—whose influence has played a pivotal role in shaping both his leadership style and entrepreneurial journey. One of Justice’s key strengths is his ability to build systems that scale. Rather than focusing solely on creative output, he emphasizes infrastructure— developing standard operating procedures, team frameworks, and operational models that allow businesses to grow sustainably. This system-driven approach has positioned SkyRocket as both a service provider and a long-term strategic partner for clients seeking to elevate their brand and operations. Beyond client work, Justice is committed to creating opportunities for other creatives and entrepreneurs. Through SkyRocket Studios, he has cultivated a collaborative environment where creators can access professional resources, develop their craft, and

grow their businesses. As part of his long-term vision, he plans to franchise SkyRocket Studios—expanding into major cities across the Southeast and eventually nationwide. In addition to SkyRocket, Brother Houser is actively developing ventures across multiple industries, including Grime Gurus, Riverbend Landscaping Service & Supply, and several apparel brands. Each aligns with his broader mission of building scalable businesses that generate both economic opportunity and long-term value. At the core of everything Brother Houser builds is a commitment to excellence, execution, and purpose. He believes success is not just about ideas, but about the discipline to bring those ideas to life consistently. Looking ahead, his goal is to scale SkyRocket into a nationally recognized media and production powerhouse while building a legacy rooted in impact, ownership, and opportunity. S

...success is not just about ideas, but about the discipline to bring those ideas to life consistently.

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

BROTHER TODD MCDONALD [ALPHA RHO, ’ 01]

IT MATTERS WHERE YOU BANK: INSIDE LIBERTY BANK’S 50YEAR MISSION TO EXPAND ACCESS TO CAPITAL

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FEATURE

rom a New Orleans start in 1972 to a modern push for mission-driven lending, the country’s largest African American–owned bank argues that deposits are more than dollars—they’re decisions about who gets to build. Banking can sound like spreadsheet language—balances, interest rates, credit scores, applications. But on the ground, it’s never abstract. It’s keys in a first-time buyer’s palm. It’s inventory on a small business shelf. It’s whether a neighborhood can keep its anchor institutions—or grow new ones. Liberty Bank and Trust Company began in New Orleans with a clear purpose: expand access to capital in the African American community. Founded by Brother Dr. Norman C. Francis [Sigma Lambda, ’67] and Alden J. McDonald Jr., the bank opened at a moment when many Black families and entrepreneurs ran into closed doors—mortgages were out of reach, small-business financing was scarce, and consumer credit offered unfair terms. Liberty was part of a broad wave of Black-owned financial institutions— more than 100 nationwide at its peak—built to serve borrowers and neighborhoods mainstream banking too often ignored. Any bank can say it has a mission. The harder question is whether it can hold onto it when the economy turns—or when the water rises. In the 1970s and 1980s, building a loan portfolio

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in communities with limited credit history drew considerable scrutiny from competitors and examiners trained on conventional underwriting. Liberty started modestly—operating out of a double-wide trailer in a historic Black neighborhood—but its solid foundations endured the 1987 stock market crash, the late-1980s Louisiana oil bust, the U.S. savings and loan crisis and the housing crisis of the mid2000s. Everything changed in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina flooded our facilities and scattered our employees and customers across the Gulf Coast region. This new challenge demanded that we adopt new ways of working— embracing agility, innovation, and resilience—while renewing our commitment to rebuild stronger and better than before. My path to Liberty started with milestones that shaped my sense of service: I crossed Alpha Rho in Spring 2001, graduated from Morehouse College in 2003 and joined Liberty full-time. For nearly two decades, I worked across each of the bank’s major functions—earning an education in how mission-driven community banking shows up in everyday life for families and small businesses. In April 2021, I became Liberty’s second president, succeeding my father, Alden J. McDonald Jr., our first president. Watching him—and our team—work side by side with business owners and households to strengthen financial wellbeing is still my north star as we grow Liberty so our impact can multiply. 89

"Banking...on

FEATURE

Mission-driven banks—institutions that intentionally align products, lending, and service with measurable community outcomes—make up only a small share of the more than 4,000 banks operating in the United States. No family or business should rely on only one institution, but I believe everyone should consider keeping at least one mission-driven bank in their financial mix. Financial inclusion is still unfinished work. Today, only about 20 Blackowned (African American-owned) banks operate nationwide—and many consumers don’t know they exist, much less what they were built to do. As the largest African Americanowned bank in the United States, Liberty focuses on expanding smallbusiness lending and supporting homeownership in underserved communities; more than 90% of our loan portfolio serves individuals and businesses in those areas. And Liberty isn’t exclusive: customers of every background can choose to bank with a mission-driven institution. Supporting a mission-driven bank like Liberty is practical as well as principled. Deposits strengthen a bank’s balance sheet, which increases its ability to lend. The more deposits these institutions hold, the more they can finance first-time homebuyers, small businesses, and community anchors that create jobs and longterm stability. Put plainly: deposits become loans—and loans can generate considerable wealth. 90

the ground, it’s never abstract. It’s keys in a firsttime buyer’s palm. It’s inventory on a small business shelf. It’s whether a neighborhood can keep its anchor institutions—or grow new ones

I hope readers will look at their financial lives with a wider lens— and consider institutions that have demonstrated a long-term commitment to their communities. Liberty serves an ecosystem that includes some of the nation’s largest companies and some of its smallest entrepreneurs, and we’re working to grow that ecosystem responsibly. If you’re looking to buy a home, strengthen your business, refinance existing business debt, or even secure a low-interest rate credit card, reach out to Liberty Bank to explore options. Because when you decide where to place your money, you’re also deciding what—and who—gets financed. It matters where you bank. Libertybank.net THE SPHINX®

BROTHER SAMAJH P. ROBINSON IMMEDIATE PAST SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER DEVONTE D. ROLLE IMMEDIATE PAST SOUTHERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER JEREMY C. HENDERSON IMMEDIATE PAST EASTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER OWEN KNAPPER, JR. IMMEDIATE PAST WESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER AIDEN FISHER IMMEDIATE PAST MIDWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

PA S S I N G T H E TO R C H

BROTHER BROTHER THEODORE R. YOUNG II EASTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER DAVIONNE M. JAKES MIDWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER MAURICE D. FENCH, JR. SOUTHERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER JORDAN K. SMITH-ACQUAH SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

BROTHER DEVIN S. TORRES WESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

LICENSED MANUFACTURER & VENDOR DIRECTORY

LICENSED MANUFACTURER AND VENDOR PARTNERS Alpha One Greek & Promotional Items LLC alpha1greek@gmail.com www.alphaonegreek.com

Greek Traditions darrin@blackpagesusa.com www.greektraditions.net

Real Greek Apparel Company info@realgreekapparel.com www.realgreek.com

MANUFACTURERS 3 Sisters Embroidery, LLC 3sistersgreek@gmail.com www.yard-collective.com

Custom Creations customcreationsllc@gmail.com www.customcreationsmfg.com

Savage Promotions, Inc. K_savage@comcast.net www.savage-promotions.com

AD Greek adgreekinfo@gmail.com www.adgreek.com

Designed 2 Dribble, LLC crs030909@gmail.com www.designed2dribble.com

Stuart Consulting Group, Inc. brad@nsemblem.com www.nsemblem.com

Big Boy Headgear, Inc. joanne@bigboygear.com bigboygear.com

Express Design Group, Inc 618.539.9998 sales@greekgear.com www.greekgear.com

Trendzio Jewelry LLC ralphpierre@trendziostore.com www.trendziostore.com

Buffalo Dallas Merchandise & Apparel buffalodallas4611@gmail.com www.buffalodallas.com

The King McNeal Collection mr.mcneal1@gmail.com www.kingmcneal.com

Craftique Mfg. Co. dhogue@craftiquemfg.com www.craftiquemfg.com

My Greek Boutique info@mygreekboutique.co www.mygreekboutique.co

The Cultural Exchange Shop www.theculturalexchangeshop.com

National Convention Sales NationalConventionSales@gmail.com www.blackgreekstore.org

Worldwide Origins, LLC worldwideorigins1@gmail.com www.worldwideorigins.com

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LICENSED MANUFACTURER & VENDOR DIRECTORY

VENDOR PLUS APGG/Stuff4Greeks monica@s4g.com www.s4g.com Betty’s Promos Plus, LLC support@bettyspromosplus.com bettyspromosplus.com Bolton Business Services, LLC hbolton@aol.com Burning Sands LLC www.burning-sands.com info@burning-sands.com Captain Stitch Embroidery & More, LLC www.captainstitch.com Info@CaptainStitch.com Creative Woods creativewoodsonline@gmail.com CustomICED Designs LLC. www.customiceddesigns.com customiced.designs@gmail.com Distinctive Specialties (Greek Paraphernalia) rarecasellc@gmail.com www.distinctivespecialties.com Douggiebutterhoodz, LLC askew_marcus@yahoo.com www.dbhoods.com

Fire-N-Ice Greek Apparel & Embroidery artistaylorjr@gmail.com www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61571077991861 Foote Prints footeprintsfour@gmail.com https://www.footeprintsfour.com/ fratrings ana@fratrings.com fraternityrings.com Gratia Pearl gratiapearl@gmail.com www.gratiapearl.com Greek Divine patasilveretc@yahoo.com www.greekdivine.com Greek Store By Darshi darshik@aol.com www.mygreekletter.com Kanework LLC, dab Greek Kustoms kaneworkkanes@yahoo.com www.kanework.com

National Convention Sales NationalConventionSales@gmail. com www.blackgreekstore.org Phorever Phirst, LLC phoreverphirst@gmail.com www.phoreverphirst.com Soror Bling vendor@sororbling.com www.sororbling.com Student Union, LLC www.stdntunion.com Support@stdntunion.com Turf Gear turfgear@turfgear.com www.turfgear.com W.E. Lusain Apparel, LLC ericlusain@gmail.com www.welusain.com Winters Industries jerimewinters@yahoo.com www.wintersindustries.com

Love Me Greek customerservice@lovemegreek.com www.lovemegreek.com

VENDORS Believe Greek Apparel & Accessories Believeaccess12@gmail.com www.believeaccessories.com

BT’S Sportswear btsgreekwear@gmail.com www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100064073953739

Brothers and Sisters Greek Store orders@ brothersandsistersgreekstore.com

College Crib, Inc collegecrib@gmail.com www.collegecrib.com

The Cultural Exchange Shop www.theculturalexchangeshop.com Doom Wear Designs info@doomwear.com www.doomwear.com

www.brothersandsistersgreekstore.com

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LICENSED MANUFACTURER & VENDOR DIRECTORY

Greek CertiPHIed Apparel greekcertiphied@gmail.com www.greekcertiphied.com

Quality Laser Designs LLC curtis@qualitylaserdesign.com qualitylaserdesign.com

IWW DISTRIBUTIONS, LLC iwwdistributions@gmail.com www.iwwdistributions.com

Relentless Threadz Apparel, LLC RelentlessThreadzllc@gmail.com relentlessthreadzapparel.online/

Jewel Merch Limited Liability Company Christiangpeer123@gmail.com greekandfraternal.com/Alpha_Phi_ Alpha_7.html

Schaffes’s Wooden Treasures schaffes@comcast.net www.schaffeswood.com

Pat’s Exclusives patsexclusives@gmail.com www.patsexclusives.net Perfect Apparel, LLC www.perfectapparel.com

Uzuri Kd Kidz/ Uzuri Greek uzrikidkidz@yahoo.com www.uzuri-greek.myshopify.com X-Press Yourself Worldwide xpressyourselfsw@aol.com www.xpressyourselfgear.com

Ph1rst Pham LLC kevindixon28@gmail.com www.instagram.com/ph1rstpham/ Positive Vibes Books, LLC positivevibes2va@gmail.com www.perfectapparel.com

Get the Sphinx Hub App The official mobile app for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated members. Download via the Apple Store

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ALPHA AWARD OF HONOR / ALPHA AWARD OF MERIT RECIPIENTS

ALPHA AWARD OF HONOR AND ALPHA AWARD OF MERIT

n 1952, the General Convention established the Alpha Award of Honor and The Alpha Award of Merit. These have become, by tradition and practice, our greatest awards. The awardees were initially chosen by a committee headed by the venerable Brother Taliaferro "Tollie" Harris. At some point in our history, 1952 Brother Eugene Kinckle Jones Brother Thurgood Marshall Brother Garrett Morgan 1953 Brother Archibald J. Carey Brother Rufus Clement 1954 Brother Rayford W. Logan Mary McLeod Bethune 1955 Brother John H. Johnson T.R.M. Howard 1956 Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. Brother Arthur Shores 1957 Roy Wilkins Brother Austin T. Walden 1958 Brother Sidney Jones Marion Anderson 1959 Brother James W. Parker Pres. William V.S. Tubman John Howard Morrow 1960 Brother Adam Clayton Powell Brother Aaron Brown 1961 Brother Lester B Granger W.M.G Halm

the selection became a function of the Office of the General President. In recent years, the Award of Honor has been presented to non-members and the Award of Merit to members. Unfortunately, however, our current records do not make a distinction between the recipients of the awards.

1962 Brother Whitney M Young Brother Harry W. Richardson

1976 Brother Franklyn Williams William Tolbert

1963 Brother Edward Brooke Brother Franklyn Williams

1977 Brother William T. Coleman Henry “Hank” Aaron

1964 Brother Floyd McKissick Pres. John F. Kennedy

1978 Constance Baker Motley

1965 Brother Charles H. Wesley Pepsi Cola Company 1966 Brother Thurgood Marshall 1968 Brother Wyatt Tee Walker Brother Henry G. Parks 1969 Brother Theodore Berry Barbara Jordan 1970 A. Leon Higginbotham 1971 Brother Roscoe Cartwright Brother Samuel Gravely Muhammed Ali 1972 Brother Eddie Robinson Brother Damon Keith Brother Robert Brown

1979 Brother Lionel H. Newsome 1980 Brother Richard Arrington Parren Mitchell 1981 Albert T. Holland, Jr. 1982 Brother Malvin R. Goode Tom Bradley 1983 Brother Roland Burris Brother T.J. Jemison 1984 Brother Julian Dixon 1985 Brother William H. Gray III 1986 Brother Ernest N. Morial Randall Robinson

1973 Brother Robert W. Harrison Brother Eugene D. Jackson 1975 Lowell Perry Brother Maynard Jackson

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ALPHA AWARD OF HONOR / ALPHA AWARD OF MERIT RECIPIENTS

1987 Brother Walter Washington 1989 Brother Louis Sullivan 1992 Cecil L. Murray Brother Augustus M. Witherspoon 1993 Brother Eddie Robinson Brother Edward Brooke Lionel B. Richie, Jr. 1994 Brother Ozell Sutton Brother Dennis Archer M. Alexis Herman 1995 Brother Charles C. Teamer Brother John Hope Franklin 1996 Brother Thomas Pawley, III Brother James R. Williams 1997 Brother Andrew Young Brother Thomas Winston Cole, Sr. 1998 Brother Henry H. Brown Brother Huel D. Perkins 1999 Brother Emmett W. Bashful Brother Frank A. Dee Brother Hobart Sidney Jarrett 2000 Brother Lee P. Brown Brother Milton C. Davis Brother Maynard Jackson Brother Marc H. Morial Brother Henry Ponder 2001 Brother Norman C. Francis Roderick D. Gillum Brother Joe Samuel Ratliff 2003 Brother Adrian L. Wallace Brother James “Tiny” Blanton Brother William F. Pickard 2005 Brother Horace Dawson Brother Ernest L. Holloway Brother Robert “Bob” Willis

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2007 Brother Alfred Bailey Brother Harry E. Johnson, Sr. Harris Rosen 2008 Brother Sylvester L. Shannon Brother Joseph E. Heyward Soledad O’Brien 2009 Brother Robert Wright Brother James Huger Brother Roger Youman Tommy Hilfiger Calvin Peete Smokey Robinson Mary Wilson Otis Williams Martha Reeves 2010 Brother Jibreel Khazan Brother Wendell T. Foster, Jr. 2011 Brother Darryl R. Matthews, Sr. Brother Jerry Butler Brother Arthur Fleming Chris Womac Brother Dr. Earl W. Stafford Brother Ed Jackson, Jr. Frank Jenkins Brother Frank Russell, Jr. Brother George Reaves Brother Gregory Phillips Brother John H. Carter Joseph S. Ratliff Robert Bob Wingo Brother Tyrone Means Brother Vic Carter Brother George Sealey Brother Roderick D. Gillum Brother Julian Dixon Brother Joe Samuel Ratliff Brother Harold Navy Marian Wright Edelman Caryl Stern R. Guy Vickers Patrick Joseph Kennedy Brother Richard Marshall Steve Gursky Vivian Rogers-Pickard John Conyers, Jr. Constance A. “Connie” Morella John W. Warner Paul Sarbanes Daniel Paul Amos Earl G. Graves, Sr. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. Lerone Bennett Jr.

2013 Darryl L. Wilson Cynthia M.A Butler-McIntyre 2015 Brother Marion Barry Brother Stuart Scott Brother Warren Washington 2017 Brother Otis Moss, Jr. Eric Holder Mitchell J. Landrieu 2019 Brother Robert Lee Harris, Jr. Brother Freeman L. Hrabowski, III PH.D Brother Charles B. Rangel Brother Robert C. “Bobby” Scott Brother Robert Smith, M.B.A. Brother Hill Harper Stanley Nelson, B.F.A. 2021 Brother Aaron Crutison, Sr. 2023 Brother Charles Q. Brown, Jr. Brother Mark S. Tillman Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson 2024 Congressman Brother Danny K. Davis H.E. President Rep. of Liberia, Brother Joseph Boakai, Sr. Congressman Brother Steven A. Horsford Governor Brother Wes Moore Brother Ford Tucker Johnson, Jr. Virginia Speaker of the House of Delegates Brother Del. Don Scott Illinois Speaker of the House of Representatives Brother Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch Brother Lionel B. Richie, Jr. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 2025 Brother Dr. Everett B. Ward Brother Premier the Honorable Edward David Burt Brother Nathaniel “Tiny” Archibald Brother Congressman Gregory W. Meeks Elsie Cooke-Holmes Kimberly Bryant Senator Cory Booker Macy’s Inc.

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BY BROTHER REV. JEROME J. WASHINGTON, PHD [SIGMA LAMBDA, ’92]

Brother Kojo Jefferies Adorkor Enters Omega Chapter

rother Kojo Jefferies Adorkor, a longtime member of the fraternity whose life reflected decades of service, leadership, and commitment to Brotherhood transitioned to Omega Chapter on February 18, 2026, after 67 years of membership. Brother Adorkor transitioned to Omega Chapter on February 18, 2026, after 67 years of membership. Brother Adorkor was born August 22, 1934, in Monrovia, Liberia. In 1954, he traveled to the United States to pursue technical training in automobile mechanics at the Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, now known as the Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology. After completing his studies there, he continued his education at West Virginia State College (now West Virginia State University), where he studied Technical Science. While a student at West Virginia State, Brother Adorkor was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on December 13, 1958, through the Alpha Zeta Chapter with fellow students Howard G. Hicks Jr. of East Meadow, New York; Everett Kenneth Hobson of Washington, D.C.; George Lee Rich Jr. of Washington, D.C.; and Charles E. Wells Sr. of Lawrence, Pennsylvania.

The group represented a generation of Black college students who came of age during the Civil Rights era and who went on to build careers while contributing to their communities through professional service, military duty, church leadership, and family life. Following his studies in the United States, Brother Adorkor returned to Monrovia, Liberia, where he remained active in the Fraternity through the Eta Epsilon Lambda Chapter. During his time there, he served as corresponding secretary and maintained a strong connection to Alpha’s mission and programs.

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In 1976, at the request of the Fraternity’s 23rd General President, Brother Ernest N. “Dutch” Morial, Brother Adorkor served on a liaison committee during Alpha Phi Alpha’s historic International General Convention held in Monrovia. The gathering marked the first time the Fraternity’s international convention was held on the African continent and symbolized a significant connection between Africa and the African American diaspora.

Brother Adorkor was the last surviving member of his Fall 1958 Alpha Zeta initiation line. He will be remembered as a man of dignity and quiet strength who maintained deep loyalty to Alpha Phi Alpha and its ideals across nearly seven decades of membership.

A funeral service honoring Brother Adorkor’s life was held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Durham, where members of Alpha Phi Alpha conducted Throughout his life, Brother Adorkor the Fraternity’s traditional Omega Service. remained actively connected to Alpha. In later Members of the Beta Theta Lambda Chapter years, he affiliated with Beta Theta Lambda expressed condolences to Brother Adorkor’s Chapter in Durham, where brothers say he family, friends, and all who were touched by continued to exemplify the Alpha’s guiding his life and legacy. S principles of Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for All Mankind.

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BY BROTHER DR. DUDLEY C. GRADY, JR. [SIGMA LAMBDA, ’22]

Brother Dr. Norman C. Francis: Nation’s Longest Serving College President

n Monday, March 2, 2026, family members, friends, former students, and colleagues gathered to celebrate and honor the life of Brother Dr. Norman Christopher Francis (Sigma Lambda, ’67). Dozens of Brothers from across the country compassed the Xavier University of Louisiana Convocation Center to transfer him into the Omega chapter, sharing personal reflections and stories of Brother Dr. Francis’s profound impact, one that words alone could never fully capture. Brother Dr. Francis was born in Lafayette, Louisiana to Mabel Coco Francis and Joseph Abel Francis, and was raised with his four siblings in a devout Catholic household. His parents instilled in him the values of hard work and treating everyone with dignity and respect at an early age, principles Bro. Francis carried throughout his life. After graduating as valedictorian of his high school class, he began his collegiate journey at Xavier University of Louisiana, working in the university library in exchange for tuition, room, and board. As a student, he served as class president each year before becoming student body president his senior year. After earning his math degree in 1952, he integrated Loyola University New Orleans College of Law as its first Black law student and ultimately became its first Black graduate in 1955. While at Loyola, he formed a lifelong friendship with fellow law student and future mayor Moon Landrieu, whose exposure to Francis’s experiences with segregation in Jim Crow South helped shape their shared commitment to improve race relations in New Orleans. After a brief time in the Army, he returned to the city to help integrate 100

federal agencies for the U.S. Attorney’s Office while representing notable Xavier students Rudy Lombard and Oretha Castle Haley in a civil rights case and serving as counsel for the Congress of Racial Equality. Despite his success in law, he chose to devote his career to education, where he believed he could make an even greater impact. In 1957, he became Xavier’s Dean of Men. In this role, he agreed to house the Freedom Riders in the university’s dorms to protect the civil rights activists after they had been attacked by a segregationist mob in Alabama. The Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, who led the institution at the time, felt Brother Dr. Francis was the leader necessary to guide the school into a new chapter in its history. He began his tenure as the first lay president of the university on April 4, 1968, the same day Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. This marked a pivotal moment for the nation. Brother Dr. Francis served as university president for nearly five decades until his retirement in 2015. Today, Xavier University of Louisiana stands among the nation’s leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities, distinguished by its success in preparing students for careers THE SPHINX®

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in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It proudly ranks as the #1 university in the nation of Black graduates who go on to complete medical school, #1 in graduating Black students in physical and biological sciences, and a premier producer of Black pharmacists in the country. When the city of New Orleans was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, Brother Dr. Francis led the university and city in recovery. His counsel was sought by leaders at the local, state, and national levels. At the same time, he chaired the Louisiana Recovery Authority, overseeing Road Home, the largest housing recovery program in the nation’s history. Against extraordinary odds, the university reopened in January 2006, a reflection of Brother Francis’s resilience, his dedication to rebuilding New Orleans, and his steadfast commitment to the students he served. Brother Dr. Francis is a co-founder of Liberty Bank and Trust Company, one of the largest Black-owned financial institutions in the country, with more than $1 billion in assets and branches in 11 states. He is also recognized as one of the early investors in the New Orleans Saints and played a key role in bringing the NFL franchise to the city. Over the course of his career, he received numerous honors and recognitions, including several honorary doctorates, service as an advisor to eight U.S. presidents on education and civil rights issues, the naming of Norman C. Francis Parkway in his honor, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Sigma Lambda, Brother Dr. Francis’s chapter of initiation, conducted the Omega service, led by Brother Robert Carter, III, chapter president, and Brother Kendrick Miller, Chaplain. Brother Harry E. Johnson, Sr., 31st General President, served as presiding officer, while Brother Dr. Rodney Welch, Southwestern Regional Vice-President, presented a resolution from the fraternity. Also in attendance was Brother Charles C. Teamer, Sr., 27th General President, and former New Orleans Mayor and National Urban League CEO Brother Marc Morial, who delivered the eulogy the following day. Brother Morial’s father, former New Orleans mayor and 23rd General President, Brother Ernest “Dutch” Morial, was eulogized by Brother Dr. Francis at his 1989 funeral. This exchange reflects the deep bonds of leadership, service, and brotherhood that has shaped generations of Alphas in New Orleans. To a few, he was known deeply as a loving father, grandfather, and family member. To many, he was the university president—a transformational leader who was humble, compassionate, and unwavering in reminding them of their mission as Xavierites—and someone they always looked forward to seeing enter the Barn for basketball games with his bride of 60 years, Blanche. To the great majority, he was a New Orleans hero, a giant in civil rights, a trailblazer in business, and one of the most prolific figures in the history of American higher education. We are honored to be a part of your story. Rest well, our dear Brother. S

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Brother Dr. Ernest Earl Gibson: A Professional Career Marked by Excellence and Compassion

rother Dr. Ernest Earl Gibson lived a life that exemplifies the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Born on August 16, 1928 in Dania, Florida to Bahamian parents, he was raised by devoted family members who instilled in him discipline, humility, and a commitment to education. His formative years at the historic Bordentown School, often called the Tuskegee of the North, helped shape his vision for leadership and service. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Brother Dr. Gibson later attended Tuskegee Institute, where he earned a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management and was initiated into the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha in 1953. He later remained active in the fraternity as a member of the Theta Mu Lambda Chapter until his transition to Omega Chapter in December 2025. His professional career was marked by excellence and compassion, particularly in higher education, where he served students not only through his roles as an administrator, but through personal mentorship, advocacy, and quiet acts of generosity. In 1963, Brother Dr. Gibson and his beloved wife Carolyn managed the AG Gaston Motel in Birmingham, Alabama, a critical headquarters of the Civil Rights Movement. There, he worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders, enduring surveillance, threats, and violence while remaining steadfast in his commitment to justice. Those experiences shaped a lifelong dedication to civic engagement and community leadership.

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After relocating to Illinois, Brother Dr. Gibson became one of the first administrators at the College of DuPage, where he served for thirty years and helped diversify faculty across the institution. He later earned both master’s and doctorate degrees. In Alpha Phi Alpha, he was a founding member and first president of the Mu Mu Lambda Alumni Chapter and a Life Member #399. Known as a true gentleman, devoted family man, and respected leader, Brother Dr. Gibson lived his 97 years with integrity, faith, and purpose. His life of service stands as a powerful reflection lived and displayed as a member for 72 years of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. S

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BY BROTHER WILBUR JACKSON, JR. [GAMMA ’66]

Brother Reverend Jethroe “Jeff” Moore II: A Brother’s Brother and Champion for Justice

orn on November 14, 1958, in Portsmouth, Virginia, and raised in San José, California, Brother Reverend Jethroe “Jeff” Moore II lived a life defined by service, justice, and unwavering commitment to community. A true Brother’s Brother, he transitioned to Omega Chapter on December 26, 2024. Throughout his life, Brother Moore embodied the spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., serving with distinction in the fraternity, the church, and countless civic institutions while advocating tirelessly for equity and human dignity. Brother Moore was initiated into the Epsilon Mu Chapter at San Jose State University on May 9, 1981, on the line of Ogboni. As a College Brother, he quickly distinguished himself as a gifted leader and accomplished Step Master, leading “EM” to multiple local, regional, and national step show championships. His leadership continued to flourish as he served as Dean of Pledges for the line of Khalfani, guiding 14 aspirants to cross on December 4, 1982. Soon thereafter, he was elected Chapter President (1983–1984), during which time EM was named the 1984 Western Region College Chapter of the Year. During his collegiate years, Brother Rev. Moore developed advocacy, organizing, and leadership skills that would later define his life’s work. He mentored numerous brothers, modeling accountability, discipline, and servant leadership—values that reflected the highest ideals of Alpha.

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Following graduation, Brother Rev. Moore continued his Alpha service as an Alumni Brother, assuming the presidency of the Eta Sigma Lambda Chapter in San Jose, CA. Under his leadership, the chapter expanded its service footprint and strengthened its impact across the community. This period marked the deepening of his lifelong commitment to social justice, equity, and civic engagement. Brother Rev. Moore emerged as one of the most respected civil rights leaders in Silicon Valley as President of the San José/Silicon Valley NAACP, a role he held from 2008 through 2024, making him the longest-serving president in the chapter’s history. He also served as 1st Vice President of the California/Hawaii State NAACP Conference. In these capacities, 103

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he championed environmental justice, educational equity, police accountability, and equal protection under the law, working collaboratively and courageously with elected officials, law enforcement, educators, and community advocates to effect meaningful change.

the Central Coast Baptist Association and served on the California Southern Baptist Executive Committee, extending his impact across the faith community. Additional service includes the Santa Clara Valley Water District Environmental Advisory and Redistricting Committees; South Bay Ministers Union; Clean Slate Steering Committee; Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) Community Coordinator; Independent Police Auditor Committee (IPAC); Santa Clara County Blue Ribbon Commission on Foster Care; School-Linked Services Committee; and as an original member of the San José Police Department Community Advisory Board.

According to KQED News (January 10, 2025), Brother Moore “harshly criticized San José police officers for their aggressive and violent response to protests following the murder of George Floyd” and, at one point, “stood between protesters and officers” to ease tensions downtown. Under his leadership, the NAACP also filed a lawsuit against the city, which later settled for more than $3 million. Alongside his civic leadership, Brother Rev. Moore answered the call to ministry with In addition to his leadership with the NAACP, equal conviction. He served as interim pastor Brother Moore served with distinction in of Emmanuel Baptist Church and founded numerous civic, educational, and faithRehoboth Christian Center in San José, based organizations. He co-founded the ministering to the spiritual and social needs of Black Leadership Kitchen Cabinet, a unique the community. and collaborative organization dedicated to serving the needs of the African American Despite the breadth of his public service, community of Silicon Valley. His extensive Brother Moore remained deeply devoted service further included the American to his family. Alongside his wife, Audrey, he Leadership Forum; African American Student was committed to raising their two sons and Advocate for the East Side Union High School living out at home the values he championed District; the Santa Clara County Complete in public. Count Census Steering Committee; NAACP The legacy of Brother Rev. Jethroe “Jeff” California/Hawaii Executive Committee Moore II endures through the countless lives Religious Chair; Peace Officer Standards he touched—his family, Alpha brothers, and Training (P.O.S.T.) Commissioner; and the NAACP, faith communities, educators, the Santa Clara County Juvenile Justice and public servants, and all who continue the Child Welfare Models for Change Executive work of justice he so passionately advanced. S Steering Committee. He also co-founded

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BY BROTHER RODNEY ROBINSON [ALPHA GAMMA,’87]

Brother Dr. John Percival Reasoner, Jr.: A Physician Combining Clinical Excellence with Service, Education, and Enduring Sports Commitment

rother Dr. John Percival Reasoner, Jr., of Colorado Springs, Colorado, transitioned to Omega Chapter on January 22, 2026, at Memorial Central Hospital. He was 71. Born on February 8, 1954, in New Haven, Connecticut, to Mary Dolberry Reasoner and John Percival Reasoner, Sr., he grew into a physician whose career combined clinical excellence with service, education, and an enduring commitment to sport. He was widely known for his warmth, steady leadership, and belief that medicine was at its best when practiced in service to others. Brother Dr. Reasoner graduated from Brown University and was a 1974 charter member and initiate of Alpha Gamma Chapter. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, a master’s physicians and volunteered his time as a doctor degree in microbiology, and his medical degree for local high school sports teams, believing from the University. Board-certified in Family that mentorship was as important as mastery. Practice and Sports Medicine, he served as During his military career, he led physician a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army training programs at Fort Belvoir Military Medical Corps from 1980 to 2000. Parallel Medical Center in Fairfax, Virginia, and at to his military service, he worked extensively Dwight D. Eisenhower Military Medical with the U.S. Olympic Committee from 1986 Center in Augusta, Georgia, before serving as to 2010, including as volunteer physician for Chief of Primary Care at Evans Army Hospital the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, head in Colorado Springs. physician at the 1995 U.S. Pan American Games in Argentina, the 2002 Salt Lake City A proud member of the U.S. Army’s 101st Winter Olympics, the 2004 Paralympic Games Airborne Division, Brother Dr. Reasoner deployed to Iraq during Operation Desert in Athens, and the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Shield/Desert Storm from September 1990 to Brother Dr. Reasoner, who was also a April 1991. He later deployed to the United Life Member of the Fraternity, took pride Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia from March in teaching. He educated generations of to October 1992. SPRING 2026

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After retiring from the Army, Brother Dr. Reasoner continued his leadership in civilian medicine, serving as Medical Director for Emergicare Medical Clinics, Medical Director for Centura Health Urgent Care Clinics in Colorado Springs, and Medical Director for the U.S. Olympic Committee. He also gave generously to his professional community, serving on the board of the El Paso County Medical Society and as its president from 2013 to 2015.

In 1976, he married Dolores “Lorrie” Seeley. Their marriage spanned more than 49 years and anchored a life defined by service and family. He is survived by his wife, Lorrie; his children, Alleona and John “Jack” Percival Reasoner III; his daughter in-law Rachele Ann Reasoner and his granddaughter, Alicia Murden, as well as three cousins, three nephews, and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and John Reasoner; his uncle, Alfred Reasoner; and his aunt, Zadie Williams.

Away from hospitals and stadiums, he was an enthusiastic sports fan, an avid gardener, and a devoted observer of the natural world. He delighted in birds and the small visitors— squirrels and rabbits—that wandered through his yard, finding in them a quiet counterbalance to a life of responsibility and motion.

Brother Dr. Reasoner often said he was “perfecting the prototype,” believing that each generation should leave the next better equipped to meet the world. By that measure, his work—as a physician, teacher, husband, father, and grandfather—stands as his most enduring achievement. S

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Founding Member of 1970s and 1980s Exclusive Foxtrappe Brother Ernest Reginald (Reggie) Smith, Jr. Transitions To Omega Chapter

rother Ernest Reginald (Reggie) Smith, Jr. was born on October 17, 1943 at Freedman’s Hospital in Washington, D.C., transitioned to Omega Chapter on Saturday, March 7, 2026. He graduated from Archbishop Carroll High School in Washington, D.C., and subsequently attended Howard University, but completed his studies at the University of Maryland, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business in 1971. Prior to graduation, however, he served in the US Army as a Military Police Officer assigned to the US Consulate in Berlin, Germany during the Vietnam era. In the 1970s, he was a founding member of Foxtrappe (often referred to as The Fox Trap) which was a premier, upscale private club in Washington, D.C. During the 1970s and 1980s, the venue served as a social hub for affluent Black professionals, including business leaders and celebrities. In addition, Brother Smith was a member of Black Ski, Inc. (BSI) of Washington, D.C., a nonprofit premier ski club, established in 1972, for people of color in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Brother Smith, who was initiated into the Iota Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on April 4, 1984, later worked at C&P Telephone, (renamed Verizon), until his retirement in 1994. He retired a second

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time from Catholic University in 2007 after a decade of service there. Brother Smith subsequently served as a part-time real estate agent for Town and Country and Coldwell Banker, as well as an enrolled agent for H&R Block. He retired from Coldwell Banker in 2009 and H&R Block in 2013. For more than 20 years, Brother Smith served the community as a member of Kappa Epsilon Lambda Chapter, where his youngest son, Brother David Smith, a 2002 Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter initiate of the Fraternity in East Point, Georgia, was also a member. S

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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns the Transition of Brother Charles Robinson, III, the Fraternity’s 19th Editor– of–The Sphinx to Omega Chapter

lpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns the death yesterday of the late Brother Charles Robinson, III, the Fraternity’s 19th Editor of The Sphinx, an award-winning print, broadcast, and digital journalist, who was also recently honored with the National Association of Black Journalists Lifetime Achievement Award. He was 69. The late Brother Robinson, a 1975 Theta Rho Chapter initiate of the Fraternity at the Virginia Commonwealth University and longtime member of Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter in Columbia, MD, was a devoted 50-year Brother. He served as Editor-of-The Sphinx, the nation’s second oldest African American publication in print from 1991-1993. Within NABJ, Brother Robinson held numerous leadership roles on multiple levels, serving as president of the Baltimore Chapter of NABJ’s Association of Black Media Workers and had worked as a senior political reporter for Maryland Public Television, where his name is also included on Maryland Public Television’s Wall of Fame. In 2023, he contributed a featured article, “The Right Time” on the election of Brother Governor Wes Moore for The Sphinx Magazine.

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Brother Robinson resided in Baltimore County with his wife, Robbie, and has two children – including a son, who is a Brother of our beloved, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The Fraternity offers its sincerest condolences to his family, chapter, friends, and all who admire him. S

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A COMPREHENSIVE MEMORIAL LIST OF BROTHERS WHO TRANSITIONED TO OMEGA CHAPTER FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2025 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2026. For each member, included is his name, chapter of initiation, date of initiation, and date of death or date of reporting of death. All of the information is based on what is submitted by chapters and family members, which has been reconciled with the Fraternity’s records. *Indicates was mistakenly omitted from publication in prior Omega Chapter Listing.

Adams, Jarvis T. Kappa Upsilon 3/30/02 4/29/26

Broadnax, David L. Kappa Theta Lambda 6/1/82 12/30/25

Cooper, Blakeley Rho 11/24/01 12/16/25

Adams, Jesse B. Beta 4/14/62 1/20/26

Brock, Theophilus C. Alpha Pi 4/10/82 1/1/26

Cotton, Corey Zeta Gamma 3/24/99 3/1/26

Adorkor, K. J. Alpha Zeta 12/13/58 2/18/26

Brown, Albert M. Nu Beta Lambda 6/13/80 1/1/26

Cotton, Paul A. Omicron Lambda Alpha 3/23/85 1/27/26

Akowe, Babatunde I. Nu 4/25/98 11/7/25

Brown, Michael O. Beta Sigma 11/14/80 12/13/25

Cuby, Lester J. Beta Delta Lambda 1/27/90 1/30/26

Alsop, James C. Beta Gamma 4/13/66 4/12/26

Burke, Darryl C. Beta Sigma Lambda 7/31/81 1/1/26

Davis, Larry D. Nu Kappa 12/1/77 12/13/25

Anderson, Robert L. Theta 9/10/68 11/17/25

Butler, Alan J. Iota Chi Lambda 11/7/20 1/1/26

DeWitt, Marc L. Chi Lambda 11/5/05 4/23/26

Armstrong, Larry C. Alpha Epsilon Lambda 1/25/03 12/6/25

Cantrell, James H. Beta Phi 12/19/66 1/1/26

Didley, William A. Alpha Chi Lambda 6/10/89 1/21/26

Bailey, James A. Theta Zeta Lambda 6/17/88 12/7/25

Cherry, Norman R. Kappa Lambda 12/1/71 1/24/26

Driskell, Lewis E. Gamma Phi 10/1/53 1/31/26

Banks, Jimmie Gamma Chi 5/1/63 12/17/25

Childers, Sr., Clifton B. Iota Upsilon Lambda 5/17/75 2/3/26

Dunn, Charles P. Eta Omicron 3/1/80 4/22/26

Barkley, Mark E. Epsilon Lambda 2/6/94 4/19/26

Christian, Clarence Beta Xi 11/19/66 2/20/26

Floyd, Vernon H. Beta Nu 4/1/49 1/1/26

Bates, John E. Mu Beta Lambda 1/1/79 12/15/25

Cohee, William Kappa Omicron Lambda 11/1/81 1/1/26

Floyd, Willie G. Xi Beta Lambda 7/3/82 12/15/25

Bennett, William R. Gamma Iota 4/2/55 3/11/26

Cook, Charles A. Gamma Upsilon 3/15/70 1/1/26

Fowlkes, Mitchell D. Gamma Rho 12/9/76 11/12/25

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

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Francis, Norman C. Sigma Lambda 12/1/67 3/2/26

James, Harry B. Alpha Chi Lambda 6/19/84 12/25/25

Perry, James Theta Chi 4/1/77 3/23/26

Frierson, William J. Gamma Alpha 11/18/72 12/25/25

Jefferson, Richard J. Delta Upsilon Lambda 6/6/86 4/11/26

Pettaway, Ronald G. Epsilon Alpha 8/1/68 11/10/25

Fruge', Paul J. Xi Chi Lambda 2/26/86 4/18/26

Jones, George Beta Omicron 11/23/63 3/14/26

Pittman, Michael Theta Sigma Lambda 3/7/20 2/7/26

Gibson, Ernest E. Gamma Phi 4/27/53 12/30/25

Jones, Howard Xi Alpha 4/14/01 3/30/26

Rasberry, Darryll D. Eta Omicron 11/6/89 3/18/26

Gray, Larry E. Beta Pi 11/1/70 1/26/26

Jones, Theodore Alpha Eta Lambda 4/25/76 1/1/26

Roberts, Talmadge Beta 5/10/55 1/1/26

Hailey, George E. Gamma Zeta 10/1/54 2/14/26

LeDoux, Leondre Zeta Psi Lambda 10/10/03 2/6/26

Robinson III, Charles F. Theta Rho 3/22/75 12/15/25

Hall, Kevin Iota Psi 3/4/89 3/30/26

Lee, Keith J. Xi Lambda 7/1/95 4/6/26

Ross, Curlee Alpha Delta 11/1/52 3/12/26

Hamiter, Theo Zeta Rho 3/1/73 4/5/26

Mcfarland, David Gamma Pi 11/8/97 4/25/26

Rutherford, Jonathan C. Omicron Omicron 4/16/94 1/14/26

Harris, Charles W. Alpha Rho 1/1/48 11/15/25

Morris III M.D., William F. Beta Nu 12/1/49 1/1/26

Rutledge-Wade, Quandrico Xi Phi 3/29/97 1/29/26

Harrison, Patrick J. Iota Lambda 4/19/97 2/16/26

Moss, Percy C. Beta Upsilon 11/21/59 12/8/25

Santos, Antonio F. Epsilon Mu 4/23/77 1/1/26

Hatchel, Robert E. Alpha Omicron 5/1/59 12/15/25

Nixon, Robert L. Gamma Zeta Lambda 11/15/08 11/15/25

Saunders, Voneric Gamma Nu 4/9/89 11/1/25

Henderson, Alvin L. Pi Psi 11/14/87 1/1/26

Ogburn, Floyd Gamma Omicron 11/25/67 2/15/26

Scott, David A. Beta Nu 11/12/64 4/22/26

Hughes, Hollis E. Gamma Eta 4/4/64 11/22/25

Page, Jerome W. Alpha Iota 4/1/54 2/8/26

Simmons, DeJuan L. Omicron Alpha Lambda 11/6/16 12/30/25

Jackson, Johnny Gamma Sigma 11/22/75 1/1/26

Peet, Ellis L. Delta Psi 2/26/89 1/1/26

Smith, Ernest R. Iota Upsilon Lambda 4/28/84 3/7/26

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

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Thomas, Joseph L. Eta Gamma Lambda 3/19/22 11/2/25

Wilcox, Gerald W. Beta Nu 5/26/77 1/1/26

Woods, Samuel M. Mu Beta 5/17/85 1/3/26

Walker, Alfred Eta Phi Lambda 4/1/68 11/20/25

Wilder, Elmon Iota Upsilon Lambda 6/7/86 3/1/26

Wright, Anthony C. Kappa Iota Lambda 5/15/99 1/22/26

Wallace, Landon A. Beta Eta 3/28/09 12/5/25

Wilkens, Leonard R. Zeta Pi Lambda 8/23/85 11/9/25

Wright, James L. Eta Gamma 4/14/84 12/2/25

White, James L. Alpha Sigma Lambda 5/1/71 11/20/25

Williams, Jerry L. Xi Alpha Lambda 4/15/85 4/7/26

White, Jonathan L. Alpha Phi Lambda 2/22/25 11/16/25

Wilson, Douglas F. Beta Rho 11/9/89 3/18/26

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY LEADERSHIP DIRECTORY BOARD OF DIRECTORS GENERAL PRESIDENT Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. generalpresident@apa1906.net IMMEDIATE PAST GENERAL PRESIDENT Dr. Willis L. Lonzer III 36@apa1906.net GENERAL TREASURER Dr. Ainsley A. Reynolds general.treasurer@apa1906.net GENERAL COMPTROLLER Wardell Glass, Jr. comptroller@apa1906.net EASTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Rasheen E. Smith eastvp@apa1906.net EASTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Jeremy C. Henderson eastavp@apa1906.net MIDWESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Franklin Stacy, Jr. midwestvp@apa1906.net MIDWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Aiden Fisher midwestavp@apa1906.net SOUTHERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Matthew S. Bradford southvp@apa1906.net SOUTHERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Devonte D. Rolle southavp@apa1906.net SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Dr. Rodney D. Welch southwestvp@apa1906.net SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Samajh P. Robinson southwestavp@apa1906.net WESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Frederick L. Jackson westvp@apa1906.net WESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Owen L. Knapper, Jr. westavp@apa1906.net

APPOINTED OFFICERS CHIEF OF STAFF Malik G. Goodson chiefofstaff@apa1906.net EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sean L. McCaskill SeanMcCaskill@apa1906.net GENERAL COUNSEL Wayne C. Harvey, Esq. counsel@apa1906.net GENERAL HISTORIAN Dr. Robert L. Harris, Jr. historian@apa1906.net GENERAL PARLIAMENTARIAN Adrian B. Stratton, PRP parliamentarian@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION OFFICIALS DIRECTOR OF CONVENTIONS Van L. Strickland director.conventions@apa1906.net DIRECTOR OF LOGISTICS Dr. Kenyatta N. Shamburger logistics@apa1906.net

SPRING 2026

DIRECTOR OF TRANSPORTATION LOGISTICS D. Dee Horn transitmgmt@apa1906.net GENERAL CHAPLAIN Rev. Cassius L. Rudolph chaplain@apa1906.net SECURITY DIRECTOR Perrye K. Turner security@apa1906.net SERGEANT AT ARMS Eugene L. Aiken, Jr. sergeant.at.arms@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENT Rodney T. Frank awards@apa1906.net RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Joseph K. Byrd resolutions@apa1906.net RULES AND CREDENTIALS Louis Bates, Jr. rules@apa1906.net

COMPETITIONS BELFORD V. LAWSON ORATORICAL CONTEST R. Sylvester Owens oratorical@apa1906.net HOBART S. JARRETT DEBATE COMPETITION Terrence Bunkley debate@apa1906.net JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN COLLEGIATE SCHOLARS’ BOWL Gregory L. Bailey scholars@apa1906.net MISS BLACK AND GOLD PAGEANT Sean A. Bellamy pageant@apa1906.net STEP SHOW COMPETITION Dr. Cecil A. Duffie step.show@apa1906.net

STANDING COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN BUDGET AND FINANCE Donald E. Jackson budget@apa1906.net BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (COMMISSION) Dr. Leroy David Stewart BED@apa1906.net COLLEGE BROTHERS AFFAIRS COMMISSION Anthony J. "AJ" Rucker college@apa1906.net CONSTITUTION Troy D. Small constitution@apa1906.net EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES Dr. Gregory Vincent education@apa1906.net ELECTIONS John M. Williams elections@apa1906.net ENDOWMENT AND CAPITAL FORMATION Avery L. Cohen ECF@apa1906.net FRATERNAL STANDARDS Alex DeJarnett FS@apa1906.net GRIEVANCES AND DISCIPLINE Kevin L. Jones, Co-Chair Hon. Lewis Nixon, Co-Chair grievances@apa1906.net

HISTORICAL COMMISSION Dr. Robert L. Harris Jr. historian@apa1906.net HOUSING COMMISSION Rey Hollingsworth Falu housing@apa1906.net HUMAN RESOURCES James Waters, Jr. HR@apa1906.net LIFE MEMBERSHIP Matthew S. Bradford life@apa1906.net MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Alprentice O. Rawls MD@apa1906.net MILITARY & VETERAN Maj. Gen. Ondra Berry, Co-Chair Jermaine L. Jenkins, Co-Chair military@apa1906.net PUBLIC POLICY Dr. Leonard C. McKinnis II public.policy@apa1906.net PUBLICATIONS Dr. Leo Witton publications@apa1906.net RACIAL JUSTICE COMMISSION Hon. Brandon L. McGee, Jr., Co-Chair Dr. Darryl A. Peal, Co-Chair racial.justice@apa1906.net

PROGRAMS & PARTNERSHIPS A. CHARLES HASTON BROTHER’S KEEPER Dante L. Merrell bk@apa1906.net A VOTELESS PEOPLE IS A HOPELESS PEOPLE Hon. Darryl J. Brackeen, Jr. VPHP@apa1906.net GO-TO-HIGH SCHOOL GO-TO-COLLEGE Tamir D. Harper GTHGTC@apa1906.net PROJECT ALPHA Dr. Tarrynce G. Robinson, Sr. project@apa1906.net BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Dale H. Long, Co-Chair Darryl L. Irby, Co-Chair BBBSA@apa1906.net BOY SCOUTS Kenneth W. McIver scouts@apa1906.net MARCH FOR BABIES Byron D. Gautier MOB@apa1906.net MARCH OF DIMES Byron D. Gautier MOD@apa1906.net

SPECIAL COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN ALPHA UNIVERSITY Elijah M. Jenkins, Co-Chair Victor F. Kyler, Co-Chair alphau@apa1906.net AUDIT Gordon L. Miller audit@apa1906.net COLLEGE LIFE TO CORPORATE LIFE Allan G. Younger C2C@apa1906.net

DIVERSITY EQUITY & INCLUSION - EXTERNAL Alikhan Morgan, Sr. DEIexternal@apa1906.net FINE ARTS Charles Curtis finearts@apa1906.net HAZING TASK FORCE Parker Burton, III hazing@apa1906.net HBCUS TASK FORCE Kelsey L. Rushing, Co-Chair Adrian L. Scott, Co-Chair HBCU@apa1906.net HEADQUARTERS ASSESSMENT Ronald D. Stovall, Jr., Co-Chair Thomas A. Tatum, Co-Chair HAC@apa1906.net INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS Robert L. Farmer III international.affairs@apa1906.net INVESTMENT Densel V. Fleming investment@apa1906.net LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE Dr. Steven B. Skinner LDI@apa1906.net M.I.S. AND TECHNOLOGY Mark Dusseau, Co-Chair Keylan G.Morgan, Sr., Co-Chair MIS@apa1906.net

FOUNDATIONS ALPHA PHI ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION R. Leandras “Bob” Jones building@apa1906.net ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION CORPORATION Samuel D. DeShazior sdeshazior@aol.com ALPHA PHI ALPHA EDUCATION FOUNDATION Arthur Fleming education@apa1906.net JEWEL HERITAGE PROJECT FOUNDATIONS E. Eric Elmore JHP@apa1906.net

PAST GENERAL PRESIDENTS 36TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Dr. Willis L. Lonzer III 36@apa1906.net 35TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Everett B. Ward 35@apa1906.net 34TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Mark S. Tillman 34@apa1906.net 33RD GENERAL PRESIDENT Herman “Skip” Mason Jr. 33@apa1906.net

POLITICAL AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT (COMMISSION) Roy M. Tatem, Jr. PCE@apa1906.net

32ND GENERAL PRESIDENT Darryl R. Matthews Sr. 32@apa1906.net

PROTOCOL & LOGISTICS Dale A. Gresson protocol@apa1906.net

31ST GENERAL PRESIDENT Harry E. Johnson Sr. 31@apa1906.net

RECLAMATION Norbert L. Robinson reclamation@apa1906.net

30TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Adrian L. Wallace 30@apa1906.net

RETENTION Hebrew L. Dixon, Co-Chair Dariyen J. Carter, Co-Chair retention@apa1906.net

29TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Milton C. Davis 29@apa1906.net

RITUAL AND CEREMONIES Dr. Ryle A. Bell ritual@apa1906.net SENIOR ALPHA AFFAIRS Billy C. Mitchell, Co-Chair Charles King, Jr., Co-Chair senior.affairs@apa1906.net SPECIAL NEEDS Parker Burton, III, Co-Chair Dr. Devon L. Scott, III, Co-Chair disabilities@apa1906.net STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS Dr. Kevin P. McAllister strategicpartner@apa1906.net STRATEGIC PLANNING Jeffrey Hines strategic@apa1906.net SURGEON GENERAL Dr. Jeffery E. Sterling surgeongeneral@apa1906.net TIME AND PLACE Blake W. Moorman TP@apa1906.net

28TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Henry Ponder 28@apa1906.net 27TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Charles C. Teamer Sr. 27@apa1906.net ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. General Office 2313 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 554-0040 membersupport@apa1906.net www.apa1906.net

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY JEWEL FOUNDERS Henry Arthur Callis Charles Henry Chapman Eugene Kinckle Jones George Biddle Kelley Nathaniel Allison Murray Robert Harold Ogle Vertner Woodson Tandy

UNIVERSITY PARTNERS Bryan S. Cotton univpartners@apa1906.net WORLD POLICY COUNCIL Hon. Donald R. Cravins, Jr. WPC@apa1906.net

DIVERSITY EQUITY & INCLUSION - INTERNAL Dr. Jamie R. Riley DEIinternal@apa1906.net

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Come BaCk to the house.

Brother,

Are You the missing piece?

T H E SPH INX ®| |SPRING SPRING2017 2026| |INAUGURATION SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE

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