In This Issue
OUR CHAPTER
Mu Lambda is Alpha's eleventh alumni chapter, chartered October 1, 1923, in Washington D.C. The chapter was established, in part, in response to the desire of graduate brothers, many whom were initiated into Beta Chapter at Howard University, to give aid to the undergraduate brothers and continue the work of Alpha. Chartered by 22 distingushed men of Alpha which included Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray and Jewel Robert Harold Ogle.
CHAPTER LEGACY
There has been six members who served as the General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and two whom served as the Eastern Region Vice President. Mu Lambda is equally proud of our current brothers making their mark in the Washington D.C. community and beyond. Our chapter has many entrepreneurs, activists, political leaders, philanthropists, academicians, ministers and so much more. Our diverse brotherhood age range is between the ages of 25 and 98. We all work together to maximize the brotherhood of Alpha by following the Objective, Mission and AIMS of our Fraternity.
FIRST OFFICERS
The officers elected at the first meeting were Brother Harold StrattonPresident, Brother John Lowery-Vice President, Brother Victor DalySecretary, Brother Daniel W. EdmondsTreasurer, and Brother Nathaniel Allison Murray (Jewel)-Chaplain. Mu Lambda was thus established and was on its way into history!
www.mulambda.org
1. Torch Cover - March 2026 - Womne’s History Month
2. Chapter Cover Image - The MIGHTY
3. In this Issue
4. Executive Board, Committee Chairs, Charter Members, Past Presidents
5. The Presidents’ Message
6. The Vice-Presidents’ Message
7. Navigating the Disability Claims Process
8. Eastern Region Convention
9. Mu Lambda Brother’s Birthdays
10. Fatherhood Reflections
12. From Presence to Policy
15. Fluoride Study
16. Excellence in Action
18. In Service and Brotherhood
19. March for Babies
21. Alpha Phi Alpha Reimagines Legacy Through Men of Distinction
22. Mu Lambda Mixtape
23. Karaoke Dance Party
24. Chapter Brother Business Advertisements
36. Message from the Editor
37. Espirt De. Fraternite
Executive Board
President
Mikael E. LaRoche
Vice President
Karl Bruce
Recording Secretary
Marcus Spells
Corresponding Secretary
Swain Riley
Financial Secretary
Lloyd Ross
Treasurer Michael Young
Chaplain
William “Tony” Hawkins
Historian
Ameer Baker
Archivist
James Heck
Intake Coordinator
Mark Jones
Assoc. Editor/Sphinx
Randall Clarke
Dir. Ed. Activities
Sean Perkins
Sergeant-at-Arms
Frank King
Parliamentarian
Pierre Boynton
Director of Technology
Garrett Miller
Editor of the Torch
Christopher Butts
Member at Large
Jason Jefferson
Risk Management Officer
Joseph Gibbs
General Council
Vacant
Immediate Past President
John “Tony” Wilson
Committee Chairs
Brother’s Keeper
Joseph Housey III
Budget and Finance
Ross Lloyd
Communications
Randell Clarke
Technology
Garrett Miller
Constitution
Jason Jefferson
DC National Pan Hellenic Council
James Morgan III
Auditing
Juan Powell
Health & Wellness
Ted Darlington
Membership
Timothy Fitzgerald / Jonathan Brown
Hospitality/Men Who Cook
Swain Riley
Beta Chapter Advisor
James Harmon III
Ritual
Ryle Bell / Garrett Miller
Nominating
Samuel Armstrong
Programs/Chapter of the Year
Christopher Butts
Public Policy
George Walker
Social
Xavier Thompson
Community Service
Jeffery Taylor
Fundraising
Antonio King
Archival and History
James Heck / Ameer Baker
Intake
Mark Jones
Charter Members
Arthur Curtis*
Merrill H. Curtis*
Victor R. Daly*
Eugene L. C. Davidson*
Arnold Donawa*
Walter Garvin*
William L. Hansberry*
Charles H. Houston*
Edward Howard*
Joseph R. Jones*
R. Frank Jones*
J Edward Lowery*
Clarence H. Mills*
Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray*
Norman L. McGhee* FN4
Jewel Robert Harold Ogle*
Louis H. Russell*
James N. Saunders*
Emory B. Smith*
Harold C. Stratton*
J.H.N. Waring*
Charles H. Wesley* FN3
CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923
WASHINGTON, D.C.
FN1
6th General President 1915-1916
FN2
General Secretary 1915-1916
7th General President 1916-1917
FN3
14th General President 1931-1940
FN4 General Secretary 1920-1926
FN5
8th Eastern Regional Vice-President 1950-1953
FN6
23rd Eastern Regional Vice-President 2000-2001
Executive Director MLK Memorial
Past Presidents
1. Harold Stratton* 1923 - 1924
2. Howard H. Long* FN2
3. Charles H. Wesley* 1926 - 1928
4. Frank Adams*
5. R. Frank Jones*
6. James B. Browning*
7. Jewel Henry Arthur Callis* FN1
8. U. Simpson Tate*
9. Claude Ferebee*
10. George O. Butler*
11. C.C. House* 1938 - 1940
12. Verdie L. Robinson*
13. Walter M. Booker* FN5
14. Jack Bond*
15. Millard R. Dean*
16. Frank Davis*
17. Clifton Hardy*
18. Herman Johnson*
19. Howard Jenkins*
20. C.C. House* 1952 - 1954
21. William F. Nelson*
22. Aubrey E. Robinson*
23. Joseph Waddy*
24. Edward J. Austin*
25. Elgy Johnson* 1964 - 1965
26. George H. Windsor* 1965 - 1967
27. James T. Speight* 1967 - 1969
28. Harold Sims* 1969 - 1970
29. Eddie L. Madison* 1970 - 1972
30. Wilbur Sewell* 1972 - 1974
31. Charles Walker Thomas* 1974 - 1976
32. Theodore Taylor* 1976 - 1978
33. Elmer Moore* 1978 - 1981
34. William E. Calbert* 1981 - 1983
35. Osmond Brown* 1983 - 1986
36. Vernon Gill 1986 - 1988
37. LeRoy Lowery, III 1988 - 1990
38. Morris Hawkins* 1990 - 1992
39. C.C. Jones 1992 - 1995
40. Vincent Orange 1995 - 1997
41. Melvin White 1997 - 1999
42. LeRoy Lowery, III FN6 1999 - 2001
43. James Haynes 2001 - 2002
44. Rudolph Harris* 2002 - 2004
45. Edwin Norwood 2004 - 2006
46. James McDonald 2006 - 2008
47. Timothy Fitzgerald 2008 - 2010
48. Kwame Ulmer 2010 - 2011
49. LeRoy Lowery, III 2011 - 2013
50. Eddie Neal 2013 - 2015
51. LeRoy Lowery, III 2015 - 2017
52. Joel Grey 2017 - 2018
53. Eddie Neal 2018 - 2020
54. John “Tony” Wilson 2020 - 2023
* Omega Chapter Brothers Footnote (FN)
The President’s Message
APRIL 2026 MESSAGE
Brothers of Mu Lambda,
I greet you all as we enter the month of April, a time that brings renewal, reflection, and renewed energy within our communities and within ourselves. As we observe this Holy Week, I extend my sincere wishes to each of you and your families for a safe and blessed Easter. Additionally, to our brothers who practice the Islamic faith, I offer a heartfelt Eid Mubarak, recognizing the spirit of discipline, sacrifice, and celebration that marked the conclusion of Ramadan in March.
With the changing of the season and the long-awaited break in the weather, we are presented with new opportunities to reconnect in fellowship, this time outdoors. I encourage each of you to take advantage of these moments, whether through chapter activities, informal gatherings, or simply reaching out to a brother you have not seen in some time. Brotherhood is strengthened not only in meetings, but in shared presence and genuine connection.
This is also a season of achievement. I want to extend encouragement and strength to all brothers who are completing their tertiary degrees. Your commitment to scholarship embodies one of the core tenets of our dear Fraternity. I share in that journey with you, as I have recently successfully presented my Capstone at the Howard University School of Business and will be walking in May to receive my Executive MBA. This milestone is not mine alone. It is a reflection of the support, encouragement, and accountability that exists within this brotherhood.
I would also like to thank the many brothers actively engaged in the business of the Fraternity. Your presence and participation matter. As we prepare for the MAAC District Meeting this weekend at the University of the District of Columbia, and look ahead to the Eastern Regional Convention in Atlantic City, I commend those who continue to represent Mu Lambda with distinction and purpose.
A special acknowledgment is due to Brother Tony Wilson, who serves diligently as our Financial Secretary and as President of the Foundation. His leadership, discipline, and commitment to excellence continue to motivate not only the work of this chapter, but my own growth as an Alpha man and as your sitting president.
As I reflect on the months ahead, I do so with both pride and anticipation. I look forward to closing out my time as President as my third term comes to an end, confident in the strength, stability, and direction of Mu Lambda. What we have built together will continue to thrive because of your commitment and our shared vision.
Let us continue to move forward together—with purpose, with unity, and with the understanding that our greatest strength lies in our collective effort.
Fraternally,
Brother Mikael E. LaRoche, (10-Mu Lambda-13)
President 2024 - 2026
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.- Mu Lambda Chapter
Vice President’s Message
APRIL 2026 MESSAGE
Greetings Brothers,
I hope the warmer spring temperatures and later sunsets are actively lifting your spirits. As always, it is my esteemed pleasure to serve as your 2025-26 Chapter Vice President, may this message bring you happy feelings and words of inspiration.
To all my brothers that continue to sacrifice your time, talents and tender; the chapter is ever so grateful for your consistency in showing up. With your support, the legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha is made flesh and therefore our work can be felt in our community and simultaneously be seen around the world. This past month we have participated in Spring IMDP, Omega services, House of Ruth Sip and Paint, a Poker tutorial and fellowship, supported Brother Governor Wes Moore at the Maryland state capitol, fed numerous senior brothers, held stroll practices, attended neophyte presentations for fellow chapters in the Area, held a host of committee meetings, and other service and social events AND YET; we are still poised to do even bigger and better things.
What a blessing it is to be amongst such great men of distinction and valor; but be not proud of yourselves my brothers, be grateful that the Great Creator has given you such an honor to be called to serve. The good book advises us to be not weary in well-doing and so my charge for you dear brothers this month is to top even your best efforts. As we think about the selection of next year’s chapter leadership, please do so carefully and with intention. Take time to decide who best represents our fraternity values that will move us to the next level.
Lastly, take care of yourselves and one another. Remember that goodwill is the monarch of this House, so express it freely and give it liberally. What is a brotherhood, if we forget to create space for us to be brotherly?
I love you Brothers to life.
Fraternally,
Brother Karl Bruce
Vice President (12-Mu Lambda-13) 2025 - 2026
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Mu Lambda Chapter
MU LAMBDA BROTHER’S BIRTHDAYS
APRIL 2026
Bro. Arlester Brown - 1st
Bro. Swain Riley - 3rd
Bro. Jeffery Taylor II - 4th
Bro. Hilton Etienne - 5th
Bro. Jeffery Fleming - 5th
Bro. Sean Plater - 5th
Bro. Andreas Williams - 5th
Bro. Thomas Duckenfield III - 6th
Bro. James Laws Jr. - 11th
Bro. Vincent Orange Sr. - 11th
Bro. Quran Allen - 16th
Bro. Brian Anderson - 16th
Bro. DeAngelo Copeland - 22nd
Bro. John Mabry - 22nd
Bro. Adrian James - 25th
Bro. Junious Whitaker - 25th
Bro. Frederick Rogers - 26th
Bro. Cheo Scott - 26th
Bro. Carlos Powers - 28th
THE WEIGHT AND WONDER OF LEGACY
There’s a quiet thought that lives in the back of many fathers’ minds, especially those of us who wear the Black and Old Gold. It’s not always spoken out loud. It doesn’t need to be. But it’s there. Will my son become an Alpha man too?
For brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., legacy is more than lineage. It’s history. It’s responsibility. It’s a living connection to something far greater than ourselves. Something built on scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the unapologetic pursuit of service. So naturally, when you become a father, and especially when you have a son, your mind drifts there. Not out of expectation. But out of curiosity. Out of hope. And if I’m honest, out of pride.
As fathers, we want to give our children everything: guidance, opportunity, wisdom. But we also want to give them something just as important: Freedom. The freedom to choose who they will become. The freedom to define their own path. And that’s where the tension lives.
Because while there is a deep, unspoken joy in imagining your son walking the same path you once did (crossing, learning, growing, and becoming within Alpha Phi Alpha), there is also a responsibility to ensure that dream doesn’t
become a burden for him to carry. I never want my son to feel like he has to become an Alpha man because I am one. I want him to understand what Alpha Phi Alpha represents. To see the impact. To feel the brotherhood. But ultimately, I want him to choose it for himself. Or not.
And then there’s the other side of the thought. The one we don’t always prepare ourselves for: What if he chooses differently? What if one day, with the same clarity and conviction we hope he brings to any decision, he says he wants to join another fraternity?
If I’m being real, that’s not an easy moment to imagine. Not because of ego. Not because of competition. But because Alpha Phi Alpha is deeply personal. It shaped me. It refined me. It gave me brothers, perspective, and purpose. It is a part of who I am. So, the idea of my son choosing something else naturally comes with a pause.
But then I remind myself, this was never about replication. It was always about formation. If I’ve done my job as a father, then I’ve raised a young man who thinks critically, chooses intentionally, and aligns himself with values that matter. And if he finds that alignment somewhere else, then my role is not to question him. It’s to support him. Fully.
Maybe legacy isn’t as simple as we once imagined. When we are younger, before fatherhood, before responsibility settles in, we often define legacy in straight lines. A continuation. A mirror. A passing down of name, tradition, and affiliation as if the goal is for the
next generation to pick up exactly where we left off. But fatherhood has a way of reshaping that thinking.
It softens it. It stretches it. It deepens it. Because when you’re holding your son for the first time, you’re not thinking about letters. You’re thinking about life. About who he will become, how he will move through the world, how he will treat people, and what values will anchor him when you’re no longer there to guide him. And that’s where the definition of legacy begins to shift.
Legacy isn’t just about replication, it’s about impartation. It’s about the values you live out in front of your son when no one else is watching. It’s about the integrity he witnesses, the discipline he absorbs, the compassion he feels, and the standard he learns to hold himself to. It’s about the quiet lessons, how you respond under pressure, how you treat others, how you carry your responsibilities as a man. Those are the things that stay with him. Long before he ever considers what organization he might join, or if he joins one at all.
So maybe legacy isn’t measured by whether our sons wear the same letters. Maybe it’s measured by whether they carry the same principles. Whether they walk with purpose. Whether they lead with character. Whether they understand that their life is meant to be lived in service of something greater than themselves. If those things are present, then the legacy is already alive, regardless of where it shows up.
Of course, there is still something deeply meaningful about continuity. About the idea of generations connected through a shared brotherhood, a shared language, a shared commitment to Alpha’s ideals. That kind of legacy carries history with it. It tells a story that spans decades. But even that kind of legacy should be rooted in inspiration, not expectation.
Because when a son chooses that path on his own, it means something entirely different. It means he saw it. He felt it. He believed in it. Not because he was told to but because he was drawn to it. And that kind of legacy? That kind of continuation? It’s not just inherited. It’s earned.
So, I’ve come to understand that this journey of quiet reflection on legacy, fatherhood, and brotherhood, is not about choosing one truth over the other. It’s about learning how to hold both. At the same time. In one hand, there is a deep and undeniable pride in what Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has meant to me. The lessons. The brotherhood. The shaping of my character. The responsibility to serve. These are not small things, they are foundational. They are a part of how I see the world and how I move within it.
So yes, the thought of my son one day choosing that same path brings a unique kind of joy. It’s about connection. A shared understanding that doesn’t require explanation. A bond that stretches across generations. A moment where past, present, and future feel aligned.
But in the other hand, there is something equally powerful. The understanding that my son is not here to become me. He is here to become himself. And that means trusting him enough to make decisions that reflect his values, his experiences, and his sense of purpose, even when those decisions look different from what I might have imagined.
Because what matters most is the man he becomes. It’s whether he walks with integrity. Whether he stands on principle. Whether he understands the weight of his decisions and the impact of his presence.
If he becomes an Alpha man, I will celebrate with a fullness that is hard to describe. And if he chooses a different path, I will still stand just as tall beside him, because that choice, made with clarity and conviction, is its own kind of legacy.
In many ways, holding both truths is the work. It is the quiet discipline of fatherhood. The ability to carry pride without pressure. To carry hope without expectation. To carry legacy without limitation.
And maybe that’s the real lesson in all of this. That the greatest inheritance we can give our sons is not a path already chosen for them, but the confidence, character, and courage to choose their own.
In a midterm election year, moments of proximity to power matter. They matter not just for visibility, but for voice. For influence. For the ability to move conversations from ideas to action. That spirit was on full display as brothers of Mu Lambda joined more than 120 brothers from across the region at the 22nd Annual Alpha Night in Annapolis Reception, hosted by the Mid-Atlantic Association of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Representing 34 chapters, the gathering was a strategic convening. A space intentionally designed to bring brothers into direct conversation with elected officials, policymakers, and stakeholders shaping decisions across the Commonwealth. And in a time where so many of our communities are navigating complex and urgent challenges, that kind of access is not just valuable, it is necessary.
ENGAGEMENT THAT MOVES BEYOND OPTICS
Too often, civic engagement is reduced to symbolic presence of handshakes, photos, and polite conversation. But Alpha Night in Annapolis reminded us that engagement, when done right, can be something far more impactful. It becomes a bridge. A bridge between lived experience and legislative action. Between community needs and policy solutions. Between awareness and accountability.
Brothers engaged in direct, candid conversations with elected officials discussing not just what is happening in our communities, but what must happen next. Because proximity creates opportunity. And opportunity, when paired with preparation and purpose, can lead to change.
The conversations throughout the evening reflected the realities facing many AfricanAmerican communities today, realities that require both urgency and sustained attention.
Among the issues discussed:
Economic Opportunity and Wealth Gaps
From access to capital for Black-owned
businesses to equitable workforce development pathways, brothers emphasized the need for policies that don’t just open doors, but ensure long-term economic mobility and stability.
Education Equity
The disparities in funding, resources, and access continue to impact outcomes for Black students. Conversations centered on strengthening pipelines, supporting educators, and ensuring that zip code does not determine opportunity.
Healthcare Access and Outcomes
Persistent inequities in healthcare, particularly around maternal health, chronic illness, and access to quality care remain critical. Brothers elevated the need for policies that center both access and trust within healthcare systems.
Criminal Justice Reform
From sentencing disparities to reentry support, discussions highlighted the importance of creating systems that prioritize fairness, restoration, and long-term community stability.
Voting Rights and Civic Access
In a midterm election year, protecting and expanding access to the ballot remains foundational. Ensuring that communities are both informed and empowered to participate is essential to sustaining a healthy democracy.
These are not new issues. But they are unresolved ones. And that is precisely why spaces like Alpha Night matter.
One of the most powerful aspects of the evening was the recognition that policy change does not happen in isolation. It requires alignment. It requires advocacy. It requires relationships. Moving an idea from concept to legislative passage is a process, one that depends heavily on engaging the right stakeholders at the right time with the right message. Events like Alpha Night create the conditions for that process to begin, or to accelerate.
They allow brothers to:
• Share firsthand accounts that humanize data and statistics
• Build relationships with legislators and decision-makers
• Identify champions who can sponsor or support legislation
• Understand the nuances of the legislative process
• Align community priorities with policy opportunities
Because ultimately, policy is not just written, it is influenced. And influence is built through consistent, credible engagement.
A CALL TO CONTINUED ACTION
As the midterm election cycle continues, the work does not end with one evening. If anything, it begins there. The conversations must turn into collaboration. The connections must turn into commitments. And the commitments must turn into measurable outcomes. Because our communities are not waiting. And neither should we.
Mu Lambda’s presence at Alpha Night in Annapolis is a testament that when brothers show up prepared, informed, and united, we don’t just participate in the process. We help shape it.
There are moments in education that reflect more than achievement, they reflect transformation. For Mu Lambda Brother Dr. Jason Jefferson, Principal of Park View High School, this is one of those moments.
Park View High School has been named a 2025 National ESEA Distinguished School, a prestigious national honor awarded to only 63 schools across the country by the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators. Established in 1996, the program recognizes schools that demonstrate exceptional success in improving student outcomes through the effective use of federal resources.
Park View earned this distinction in Category 2: Closing the Achievement Gap Between Student Groups, a recognition that speaks not only to academic progress, but to purpose-driven leadership and an unwavering commitment to equity.
LEADERSHIP THAT MEETS THE MOMENT
Under Dr. Jefferson’s leadership, Park View High School has undergone a remarkable transformation that is rooted in intentional strategy, data-informed instruction, and a deep belief in every student’s potential. Over the past two years, the school has seen significant
academic gains, particularly in mathematics. The results are both measurable and meaningful:
• Unhoused students: +46-point increase in pass rates
• English learners: +45-point increase
• Black students: +44-point increase
• Economically disadvantaged students: +36-point increase
• Hispanic students: +32-point increase
These gains were not isolated to one subject area. Similar upward trends were seen in reading and science, with notable progress among students with disabilities and other historically underserved populations. This is what closing the gap looks like, not in theory, but in practice.
A BLUEPRINT FOR STUDENT
SUCCESS
The success at Park View is no accident. It is the result of a comprehensive and studentcentered approach to learning. Initiatives such as Math Lab, Math Bootcamp, extended learning opportunities, co-taught classes, and peer tutoring created multiple entry points for students to engage, improve, and succeed. Before- and after-school academies ensured that learning extended beyond the traditional classroom, meeting students where they are and supporting them at every step.
Equally important was the role of educators. Through Collaborative Learning Teams, teachers consistently analyzed data, refined instruction, and targeted learning gaps with precision. Professional development, such as Quality Teaching for English Learners (QTEL) training, equipped staff with the tools to better serve diverse student populations.
While academic strategies played a critical role, the true differentiator at Park View has been its culture. A culture grounded in relationships. A culture rooted in belonging. A culture where students feel seen, supported, and capable.
That intentional focus is reflected in the school’s Annual Climate Survey, where family agreement with the statement “Teachers at this school care about how my child does in school” rose from 85.5% to 96.4% in just one year. Those numbers tell a powerful story. Because before students can excel academically, they must first believe they belong.
A BROTHER’S IMPACT
For Mu Lambda, Dr. Jefferson’s leadership represents more than professional excellence, it reflects the very principles that define Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Manly deeds. Scholarship. Service. His work at Park View High School embodies all three. In his own words, Dr. Jefferson captured the essence of this achievement:
“By combining high expectations, targeted academic support, and strong relationships, we
have created an environment where students believe in themselves and their ability to succeed.”
That belief is now yielding national recognition, but more importantly, it is changing lives.
Park View High School was formally honored at the National ESEA Conference in February 2026 in Denver, Colorado. A fitting stage to recognize a school that has become a model for what is possible when leadership, strategy, and heart align.
In a time when conversations around education often focus on challenges, Park View High School offers a powerful counter-narrative that is one of progress, possibility, and purpose. And at the center of that story is a Mu Lambda brother leading with vision, discipline, and care. Dr. Jason Jefferson’s work highlights that closing gaps is not just about metrics, it’s about mindset.
It’s about believing that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves not just access to education but access to excellence. And when that belief is backed by action, the results speak for themselves.
Recently, the Child and Family Services Agency released a thank you video recognizing donors to the Partners for Kids and Families Programs. The Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter, were included among those recognized for our consistent partnership year after year through the annual CFSA Toy Drive.
While I value the work we continue to do and appreciate everyone who is willing to lend a hand, I want to take a moment to especially recognize Brother Jeffery Taylor for his leadership in Community Service for the Mu Lambda Chapter.
Since being initiated in the Spring of 2022, Brother Taylor has been a force within the chapter. He consistently shows up as a Brother’s Brother and remains committed to every responsibility he takes on. His impact became even more evident when he began working
alongside Brother David Gaston as co-chairs of Community Service. Together, they built a well organized system of service opportunities that not only made a meaningful difference across Washington, DC, but also emphasized collaboration in a way that expanded our reach and strengthened our impact.
The following year, Brother Taylor stepped into the role as sole Community Service Chair as Brother Gaston shifted his focus to educational pursuits. In doing so, Brother Taylor elevated the program even further. Under his leadership, the chapter’s service efforts became more structured, supported by a consistent yearly calendar and an increase in opportunities for Brothers to serve. The growing presence of Mu Lambda Brothers at service events has been both visible and impactful.
Jeffery is exceptional at planning and executing events, and his leadership extends beyond the chapter as he also serves as the Community Service Chair for Area VI of Alpha Phi Alpha. He is someone we can always depend on to listen, to support, and to offer thoughtful perspective. While he contributes in many ways, it is in the area of Community Service where his leadership truly shines.
Brother Jeffery Taylor, these are your flowers We celebrate you today and the example you continue to set. You are making your sponsor, Brother Joseph Housey, proud, as well as all of us who had the privilege of playing a role in your journey into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Keep pushing.
ALPHA PHI ALPHA REIMAGINES LEGACY THROUGH MEN OF DISTINCTION
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. continues to evolve how it tells its story and engages future generations with the release of the second edition of its comic book series, Men of Distinction.
Building on the success of its debut, this latest issue expands a bold and imaginative universe where leadership, brotherhood, and service are brought to life through superhero storytelling. The series follows a group of leaders transformed into powerful figures, each rooted in an ancient and symbolic lineage. Together, they work to protect communities, advocate for students of color, and confront forces that challenge justice and equity.
While creative in its approach, the purpose behind Men of Distinction is deeply intentional.
In an era where younger audiences are shaped by visual storytelling, digital media, and cultural narratives rooted in imagination, Alpha Phi Alpha has taken a forward-thinking step to meet the moment. A comic book offers a bridge between tradition and innovation, allowing the Fraternity to translate its core values into a format that is both accessible and engaging.
This approach recognizes that legacy is not only preserved through history, it is sustained through relevance.
By presenting Alpha’s principles through dynamic characters and storylines, the Fraternity creates an entry point for young people to see leadership as something powerful, aspirational, and within reach. It also provides representation that reflects strength, intellect, and purpose, all qualities that have long defined Alpha men, now reimagined in a way that resonates across generations.
At its core, Men of Distinction is more than a comic. It is a strategic extension of Alpha Phi Alpha’s mission. It reinforces that scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the uplifting of humanity are not static ideals, but living principles that can be expressed in new and innovative ways.
The series also invites reflection among Brothers.
It challenges us to consider how we tell our story, how we connect with those coming behind us, and how we ensure that the legacy we are so proud of continues to inspire long after us.
As the series continues to grow, Brothers are encouraged to explore the newest issue, share it with students and emerging leaders, and embrace this creative evolution in storytelling.
Because whether through the pages of history or the panels of a comic book, the mission remains the same.
To develop leaders. To serve communities. To shape the future.
Get this Month’s Playlist
This month’s Mu Lambda Mixtape is a smooth return to the roots of rhythm and reflection, featuring the timeless sounds of neo-soul icons who defined a generation and continue to inspire the next. From soulful vocals to rich instrumentation and honest storytelling, this collection is a mood for sure. Press play, slow down, and let the sound of authenticity, culture, and creativity carry you through.
Tickets are limited! Scan the QR code to secure your spot and join us as we celebrate 119 years of brotherhood, brilliance, and Black excellence.
FEDERAL DONATIONS TO MU LAMBDA
Brothers, it is that time of year when we begin to think in the spirit of giving and giving thanks. In that spirit, the Mu Lambda Foundation participates in two key funding programs through which federal and District of Columbia employees can share the gift of the giving.
The Combined Federal Campaign - CFC (https://www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign) is a resource that allows U.S. government employees to make regular payroll deductions in support of the Mu Lambda Foundation and its charitable and community service programs.
The DC One Fund (https://os.dc.gov/page/dc-one-fund-each-one-give-one) provides an opportunity for employees of the District of Columbia to do the same. All donations through these funds are tax deductible and deducted from your paycheck regularly. What could be an easier or better way to support the programs you care about?
As open season begins for 2023, you may plan your weekly, biweekly, or monthly contributions to the Mu Lambda Foundation by contributing to charity number 66770 in the CFC, and number 9556 in the DC One Fund.
Let’s make 2023 the best year yet for supporting youth and abused women in the DC area. Thank you for your continued support.
Bro. Kent Benjamin
The Mu Lambda Foundation meetings are monthly on the third Thursday of the month.
Next
meeting is April 16, 2026
Thursday, January 8
Saturday, January 10
Wednesday, January 21
Thursday, February 5
Saturday, February 7
Wednesday, February 18
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Thursday, February 19 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, March 5
Saturday, March 7
Wednesday, March 18
Thursday, April 2
Saturday, April 4
Wednesday, April 15
Thursday,April 16
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Foundation Meeting
Wednesday, April 15 -19 Eastern Region Convention
Thursday, May 7
Saturday, May 9
Wednesday, May 20
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Thursday, May 21 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, June 4
Saturday, June 6
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Thursday, June 18 Foundation Meeting
Friday, June 19
July 2026
Juneteenth Day
Chapter Vacation
Saturday, August 15
Thursday, September 4
Chapter Retreat
Chapter Meeting
Friday, September 5 ICED or Neat
Saturday, September 6
Alpha Wives Meeting
Wednesday, September 17 Eboard Meeting
Thursday, September 18 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, September 25 The F1RST Breakfast
Wednesday, October 1
102nd Charter Day
Thursday, October 2 Chapter Meeting
Saturday, October 11
Chapter Cookout
Wednesday, October 15 Eboard Meeting
Thursday, October 16 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, November 6
Chapter Meeting Fri-Sat, Novembr 7-8 Annual District Conference
Saturday, November 8
Alpha Wives Meeting
Wednesday, November 19 E-board Meeting
Thursday, November 20 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, November 27 Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, December 4
Thursday,December 4
Founders’ Day
Chapter Meeting
Saturday , December 6 Founder’s Day Breakfast
Saturday , December 6 Karaoke Fundraiser
Wednesday, December 17 E-Board Meeting
Thursday, December 18 Foundation Meeting
Thurssday, December 25 Christmas
BROTHER MALCOLM CARTER
Get the Mu Lambda Chapter App
This official Mu Lambda Chapter App is for members of the chapter to find out about our events, chat with Chapter members, View Chapter Documents, View Chapter Directory, View our monthly magazine (The Torch) Pay Chapter Dues and much more. The ability to effectively communicate with Chapter members will help us continue to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence while providing service and advocacy for our community.
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Mission: House of Ruth empowers women, children and families to rebuild their lives and heal from trauma, abuse and houselessness.
Message from the Editor
BRO. CHRISTOPHER BUTTS EDITOR OF THE TORCH TORCH@MULAMBDA.ORG
April has a way of inviting reflection. Not the kind that looks backward with regret, but the kind that asks us to pause long enough to recognize what is growing within us, around us, and because of us.
As I think about this month and what it represents, I am reminded that growth rarely announces itself in grand moments. More often, it shows up quietly. In consistency. In service. In the small decisions we make each day to show up for one another and for our community.
And that is what continues to stand out to me about Mu Lambda.
This issue of The Torch is filled with examples of Brothers who are doing just that. Showing up. Leading. Serving. Not for recognition, but because it is who they are. Whether it is through community service, educational leadership, civic engagement, or simply being present for one another, the impact is real and it is lasting.
There is also something powerful about this season of the year. April reminds us that renewal is possible. That progress does not always have to be loud to be meaningful. That even after the longest seasons, growth finds its way forward.
ALPHA QUOTE TO SERVE BY...
“Now is the accepted time, not tomorrow, not some more convenient season. It is today that our best work can be done and not some future day or future year.”
Brother W.E.B. DuBois,
As Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., we carry a legacy that calls us to lead with intention and to serve with purpose. But what I continue to appreciate most is how that legacy lives not just in what we say, but in what we do consistently over time.
This month, I encourage each of us to take a moment to reflect on where we are growing and where we are being called to grow next.
Because the work continues. The impact continues. And so do we.
HOUSE
Esprit de Fraternite
Brothers,
It is that time of year again.
The fraternity’s fraternal year runs January 1st to December 31st.
Mu Lambda’s 2025-2026 fraternal year runs September 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. The chapter does not meet during July and August.
It is now time to pay your 2025-2026 dues which will cover you from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.
Ways to make payment:
1. You can pay your dues on mulambda.org by clicking the dues tab at the bottom left of every web page.
2. Bring a check to the chapter meeting.
3. You can pay on the Mu Lambda App
4. Mail it to:
Financial Team
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Mu Lambda Chapter 2405 First Street, NW Washington, DC 20001
Alpha is a life long commitment
An Alpha Phi Alpha man’s attitude should not be “how much can I derive from the Fraternity” but “how much can I do for the Fraternity?” In proportion to what he does for his Chapter and for Alpha Phi Alpha will a member receive lasting benefits from the Fraternity to himself in the way of self-development by duty well done, and the respect of the Brothers well served.
A member’s duties should be:
1. Prompt payment of all financial obligations, the prime requisite for successful fraternal life.
2. The doing of good scholastic work in his chosen vocation, thereby accomplishing the real end of a college course.
3. The reasonable endeavor to participate in general college activities and social service and to excel therein.
4. The proper consideration of all things with appropriate attention to the high moral standard of Alpha Phi Alpha.
