International President's Message
Welcome to the Fall 2025 edition of The Crescent On the Yard! As the leaves turn and a new academic year has begun, we are proud to bring you another issue that celebrates leadership, scholarship, and the enduring brotherhood that defines our collegiate members. This season’s edition shines a light on the next generation of visionaries who continue to move our fraternity – and our communities – forward with purpose and pride.
In this issue, we are honored to introduce the three newly elected collegiate leaders who now stand at the forefront of our brotherhood. These young men embody the spirit of excellence and service that our Founders envisioned, and their stories remind us that leadership is not only about holding a title, but about inspiring others to act. Each shares his vision for the future, and commitment to building upon the strong foundation laid by those who came before.
We also highlight the seven collegiate leaders who represented our fraternity’s seven regions at the 54th Annual Legislative Conference of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. In their own words, these brothers reflect on their experiences in Washington, D.C.
– from networking with national leaders to amplifying the voices of young Black men in spaces where change is shaped. Their testimonies remind us that Sigma’s presence in such arenas is not only symbolic, but essential to ensuring that our fraternity’s legacy of advocacy and impact continues to thrive.
Enjoy this issue!
Hon. Bro. David A. Turner, International President
INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Greetings, my Brothers and Friends! It is with great excitement and pride that I welcome you to the latest edition of The Crescent On the Yard – the official journal dedicated to the collegiate members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. This publication is a celebration of who we are as collegiate brothers: scholars, leaders, and change agents committed to making a difference both on and off the yard.
I encourage you to meet and be inspired by the new collegiate leaders who are stepping forward to guide us into the next chapter of Sigma excellence. Our goal is to represent the best of collegiate leadership and remind us that the future of the fraternity is bright because it rests on capable, service-driven hands.
You’ll find powerful reflections from the collegians who proudly represented their regions recently during CBC Week 2025. In their own words, they share what it meant to
bring Sigma’s voice to a national platform – to connect with policymakers, build networks, and advocate for the campuses and communities we serve. So dive in, read deeply, and be inspired to continue leading, serving, and making history in true Sigma spirit!
An Open Letter to Collegiate Advisors & Collegians
The Power of Social Media’s Influence on Recruitment
Bro. Monaleto C. Irby, International Director of Collegiate Affairs
My Brothers,
I come to you with a heart for the Brotherhood and a love for our organization. We have made tremendous strides over the years. We continue to carve out our rightful space in this NPHC world. As we continue to build our Brotherhood and solidify our space amongst the Divine 9 community, it is important that we continue to provide positive and impactful images for potential candidates and corporate sponsors.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. is a multi-million-dollar international organization. We should move in a way that we understand our global impact. I am encouraging Brothers to recruit from that mindset. Be mindful of giving our letters to those who do not have the capacity to understand our efforts. Our Mission Statement is detailed in stating: “The Brothers of Phi Beta Sigma are the Fraternity’s most valuable resource and strength. They are the primary means by which the Phi Beta Sigma objectives will be achieved.” This is the simplicity of it all but has shown sometimes to be the most difficult piece to navigate in our Brotherhood. Brothers, you must understand you are the resource that keeps this organization operating and moving in spaces of influence. It is you, personally, that can add value to our organization or cause us to miss the mark of positive impact.
It is incumbent upon us to teach our new members the importance of the journey they are taking. Our Brotherhood must understand the importance of how we look and portray our organization through social media and other forums. We cannot continue to take a black eye because Brothers refuse to “transcend all personal responsibility”.
We cannot use our letters to portray degrading images and/or messaging on social media (towels, shirts, or hats); and we surely cannot sell those to the Brotherhood for continued negative portrayal of our historic 111-year organization. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., continues to be a solid force in our communities. We should continue to be of “Culture for Service and a Service for Humanity.”
When you joined this organization, your intentions should have shifted from personal gain to contributing to the betterment and future of our organization.
Yes Brothers, we must be committed to holding ourselves accountable for actions that can bring reproach upon the organization. It is time to start having hard conversations with alumni and collegians alike about how they individually portray Phi Beta Sigma in their local communities and on campuses. Behavior that damages our image and stifles our recruitment efforts should be addressed immediately. We all have the responsibility of Protecting the House of Sigma. We all must be GateKeepers to our Brotherhood. Not only focusing on who we bring in, but who we call Brothers. GateKeeping is before offering membership and continues until the Brother reaches the Omega Chapter. It is an ongoing effort.
Membership Intake is a time for learning and growing in Phi Beta Sigma. This learning and growth period does not have an expiration date. We must continue to keep our new members engaged in the business of the organization. Phi Beta Sigma cannot be the hot topic of Greek shenanigans (a constant black eye). Hold your brothers accountable. Hold yourself accountable. Do you believe in the principles of Phi Beta Sigma? Do you herald and defend it even against the world? Are you a credit to the organization? Now, whether you think you are or not, you are correct. This is where we must continue to encourage and pour into the brothers who understand and continue to provide teachable moments to Brothers who need that extra brotherly reminder.
Hear my heart. Understand my passion. Receive this in Brotherhood. It’s for the Love of the Brotherhood that I submit this.
Creating Gatekeepers to Protect the House of Sigma!
Fraternally, Bro.
M. Irby
Bro. M. Irby
Introducing the New Collegiate Leaders of Phi Beta Sigma
Phi Beta Sigma convened Conclave 2025 in Tampa, Florida to celebrate the theme “Dream Big. Act Bold. Always Believe!” The organization elected a new slate of Brothers, eager to set the theme in motion by campaigning to lead the Brotherhood for the next two to four years.
Elected to represent the collegiate ranks of the fraternity are three young leaders hailing from chapters located on the HBCU campuses of Jackson State University, Virginia State University and North Carolina A & T University.
The Crescent On the Yard is proud to give you a brief introduction to the talented young visionaries representing the voice, concerns and mission of the collegiate members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
DEVEAN M. BUSH BROTHER
INTERNATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
I was initiated in Spring 2025 into the Alpha Beta Chapter at Jackson State University. My chapter experience thus far has been nothing short of incredible, and I remain committed to fostering strong collegiate engagement in my role as International 2nd Vice President. My primary goal
while in office is to enhance communication and collaboration among collegiate brothers across the fraternity and ensure they have the tools necessary to build and sustain strong chapters both now and in the future.
Jaylen was initiated in Spring 2024 into the Alpha Alpha Alpha Chapter at the illustrious Virginia State University, Richmond, VA. My chapter experience as of yet has been amazing in every way possible, especially when it comes to how my chapter has poured into me. That is what lead me to become International Collegiate
Member at Large. My primary goal, while in office, is to create and innovate ways for collegians and alumni throughout the fraternity to connect with each other, and ensure that they have whatever they may need to pour into each other; the same way this Brotherhood has poured into me.
Senior studying English | North Carolina A&T State University
I was initiated into the Eta Chapter in Spring 2023. Throughout my time in the fraternity, I have served in several leadership roles, including Chapter Historian, Step Master, Southeast Regional Second Vice President, and NPHC Joint Greek Council Vice President. Currently, I serve as a group leader within the fraternity’s 2025 Emerging Leaders Cohort.
As an officer, I am committed to strengthening Phi Beta Sigma’s influence on collegiate brothers by fostering meaningful collegiate growth and increased member engagement. My vision centers on creating opportunities that challenge my brothers to develop personally and professionally while deepening their connection to the fraternity’s mission and values.
Young Visionaries
The 2025 Inductees of the Alaine Leroy Locke Scholars Honors Chapter represent the pinnacle of academic and leadership excellence within Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. These distinguished collegiate members embody the intellectual spirit and visionary ideals of Dr. Alaine Leroy Locke – the first African American Rhodes Scholar and a guiding force of the Harlem Renaissance. As the fraternity’s highest scholastic achievers, they exemplify the profound harmony between scholarship, service, and cultural progress, standing as beacons of integrity, intellect, and innovation in higher education.
Each inductee not only excels within the classroom, but serves as transformational leaders and role models on their campuses and within their communities. Through their dedication, they continue the chapter’s enduring legacy of intellectual advancement and social responsibility. Their commitment to uplifting others through education and leadership mirrors Locke’s belief in the power of knowledge as a catalyst for collective progress. The 2025 class thus stands as a testament to Phi Beta Sigma’s ongoing mission to cultivate men of culture, character, and achievement –men who lead by example and elevate the communities they serve.
THE 2025 ALAINE LEROY LOCKE SCHOLARS HONORS
CHAPTER INDUCTEES
#38 Esteemed Brother Jeremy Jackson, Central State University
#39 Esteemed Brother Tyshaun Herron, Bowling State University
#40 Esteemed Brother Matthew Okocha, Ohio State University
#41 Esteemed Brother Daniel Hillman, Jackson State University
#42 Esteemed Brother Ethan McLean, North Carolina A&T University
#43 Esteemed Brother VonTré Wright, University of Texas-Arlington
DELTA ALPHA CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT ON
Quincey Constant
Brother Quincey Constant is a former member of the Sigma Beta Club and sophomore majoring in Biology at WinstonSalem State University. He is from Charlotte, North Carolina and has been elected by his peers to serve as 2025-2026 Mr. Sophomore for his class.
Quincey was selected as one of fifteen student leaders to participate in the John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) fellowship cohort in Atlanta, Georgia. After completing an extensive interview and application process, he was selected from a national pool for the 2025-2026 cohort.
The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) program is an undergraduate fellowship that equips students with the necessary skills to become effective social justice and civic leaders. Since its creation in 2017, the Young Leaders program has focused on building the power of young people and supporting them as the next generation of human rights defenders. In 2022, the program was restructured and rebranded to pay homage to the beautiful and inspiring friendship between Hon. Brother John Lewis and Robert F. Kennedy. Both Lewis and Kennedy shared a joint dream of building a more just and equitable future and worked towards one where all young people can see this come to fruition.
Students representing over a dozen universities from across the country gathered in Atlanta, GA, a historic center for the Civil Rights Movement, to reflect on Congressman John Lewis’s legacy and learn what it means to lead with courage. The program focused on sharpening one’s professionalism, from interview preparation to public speaking, while also introducing them to tools for advocacy and leadership.
The JLYL program is a year-long fellowship that prepares college students for a future in community organizing and civic engagement. Throughout the upcoming academic year, fellows will collaborate with other students and organizations to engage their campus and local communities in human rights work through a robust capstone project.
When asked, what valuable information did he learn from/ about the JLYL Conference? Constant replied, “One of the biggest lessons learned was that impact doesn’t have to be global. If what you do helps just one person, it still matters and that’s the kind of leadership that lasts. We explored how to make meaningful change in our own communities and understanding that even small, local efforts can have a powerful ripple effect.”
Sigma Collegians Meet the Moment in Washington, DC
Each year, through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, the nation’s most esteemed group of minority U.S. Senators and House of Representatives, sponsors an Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. This year’s theme was “Made for this Moment: Power, Policy & Progress.” The annual conference is the leading public policy convening focused on issues impacting African Americans and the global Black community.
Phi Beta Sigma’s regional directors selected seven Sigma
collegians to travel to Washington, D.C. to experience one of the nation’s most powerful gatherings of the year. The young leaders were afforded the opportunity to engage and fellowship with fraternity leaders representing all levels, dialogue with the nation’s top political brass and policy makers and experience the social scene of corporate and business leaders at the highest level.
In their own words, some of the participants share their personal experience at CBC-ALC: 54
Made for
for This
Iota Theta Chapter University of Dayton
Initiated: Fall 2024 Great Lakes Region
BROTHER CHANCELON RICE
My name is Chancelon Rice, President of the Iota Theta Chapter at the University of Dayton. I had the honor of representing the Great Lakes Region in Washington, D.C. at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 54th Annual Legislative Conference. The experience was nothing short of inspiring, eye-opening, and transformative.
From the moment I arrived, the energy in the nation’s capital was electric. After checking in, I jumped right into sessions centered on social action, advocacy, and leadership. Each discussion reflected Phi Beta Sigma’s mission to uplift our communities through service, scholarship, and brotherhood. Early in the week, I joined a meeting of the National Pan-Hellenic Council’s collegiate leaders, composed of second vice presidents from each
organization. Hearing how each group planned to make an impact throughout the week showed the strength that comes from unity and collaboration within the Divine Nine.
At the main resource fair, I connected with companies and organizations committed to empowering people of color in today’s social and political climate. I also had the opportunity to meet several small Blackowned businesses that shared stories of perseverance and purpose despite ongoing challenges. Those conversations reminded me of the resilience within our community and the importance of supporting one another’s growth.
Throughout the conference, I attended panels led by legislators, advocates, and financial professionals who
encouraged us to take up space in both corporate and civic leadership. We discussed the importance of representation, community engagement, and leading with intention. I left each session feeling more informed and motivated to use and expand my platform to create meaningful change. One of the most impactful moments was visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Walking through the exhibits was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more there is to do.
During the week, I also had the privilege of meeting and learning from several incredible leaders, including Dr. Yolanda W. Page, President of Stillman College; Representative Maxwell Frost of the U.S. House of Representatives; Senator Andrea Hunley of the Indiana
State Senate; Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant, International President and CEO of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.; Danette A. Reed, Supreme Basileus of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; and Orlando Grant, International Grand Polaris of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Each conversation reinforced the belief that progress begins when service meets strategy.
Looking back on my time in D.C., I feel even more grounded in my purpose as a collegiate, chapter president, and brother of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. The conference reminded me that leadership is not defined by titles or recognition, but by the work we do to educate, serve, and uplift others. The experience left me more determined than ever to continue pushing our cause forward and ensuring that it always speeds on its way.
Zeta Gamma Chapter, Voorhees University
Denmark, South Carolina
Initiated: Fall 2023
Southeastern Region
BROTHER NICHOLAS BROWN
Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Week Experience Reflection
Attending the 2025 Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Week was an unforgettable and transformative experience that strengthened my pride as a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and deepened my understanding of Black leadership, service, and excellence. The week was filled with powerful moments of connection, inspiration, and brotherhood as collegiate and alumni brothers gathered from across the country to celebrate progress, address challenges in our communities, and continue the fraternity’s legacy of “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.”
One of my biggest takeaways from CBC Week was realizing the profound impact that unity and
representation have when Black leaders come together with a shared purpose. Being surrounded by professionals, elected officials, and fraternity leaders who are actively shaping policies and influencing the future of our people was incredibly motivating. It reminded me that our work as collegiate members are part of a much larger mission—one rooted in service, scholarship, and brotherhood. The discussions during CBC Week reinforced the importance of civic engagement, policy awareness, and community building, values that are foundational to Phi Beta Sigma.
The most inspiring moment for me was meeting both the former and current International Presidents of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Standing among visionary leaders who have dedicated their lives to serving and uplifting
others was a humbling experience. Hearing their words of encouragement and wisdom reminded me that leadership begins with purpose and integrity. They emphasized the importance of using our collegiate years to grow not only academically but also as advocates for change within our communities. That message resonated deeply and reignited my drive to lead by example in my chapter and on campus.
Another highlight of the week was engaging with leaders from other Greek-letter organizations and networking with fraternity brothers from various chapters nationwide. It was refreshing to witness how the bonds of Sigma transcend geography and backgrounds. We all share a common mission of progress through education, empowerment, and service. Conversations with distinguished brothers, including Profound Brother Maxwell, offered valuable insights on professional development, balancing fraternity responsibilities with personal growth, and maintaining the values of Sigma throughout life.
Visiting significant landmarks in Washington, D.C.— including the Lincoln Memorial and the Phi Beta Sigma Centennial Founders Memorial—was both symbolic and moving. Sitting in front of the monument honoring our founders, I reflected on their courage, vision, and commitment to uplifting Black men through education and service. It reminded me that every step I take as a Sigma man adds to their enduring legacy.
To future collegiate brothers attending CBC Week, I would strongly advise taking full advantage of every networking opportunity, panel discussion, and conversation.
Approach each encounter with openness and purpose, and always represent Sigma with excellence. Most importantly, listen, learn, and find ways to apply what you gain to strengthen your chapter and serve your community.
CBC Week reaffirmed my belief that Phi Beta Sigma is more than a fraternity—it is a lifelong movement of men committed to progress, justice, and service.
Beta Beta Lambda Chapter University of The Bahamas
Initiated: Spring 2023 Southern Region
BROTHER JOSHUA GRANT
From September 24th to 29th, I had the incredible honor of representing the fraternity’s Southern Region at the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. The CBC serves as a cornerstone for policy discussions, leadership networking, and community empowerment for African Americans across the United States and beyond. It brings together lawmakers, educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to discuss pressing issues that affect Black communities and strategize for lasting change.
Day 1 began with the NPHC Council of Presidents Dinner. This dinner was a formal gathering where the newly elected chair and other officers of the National Pan-Hellenic Council were introduced. It was a great opportunity to meet and network with Sigma brothers and members of the wider Divine Nine. The atmosphere was filled with pride, tradition, and purpose, as each organization reaffirmed its role in advancing Black excellence through leadership and service.
Day 2 started with a morning of exploring the city before attending a seminar featuring presidents from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) such as
Alabama State University, Alabama A&M, and Miles College. The discussion centered on how HBCUs are driving economic empowerment within their communities, particularly through education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Afterwards, I joined my fellow collegians for lunch, where we shared our goals and aspirations. Later that evening, I attended the Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta “Real Talk” Session, a community-based counteroffensive on Project 2025. For me, it was one of the most impactful events of the entire week.
This panel included Congressman Maxwell Frost, Senator Andrea Hunley, Brother N. Scott Phillips, Sorors Christale Spain and Sydney Kamlager-Dove. The discussion, moderated by Soror Krysta Jones, centered around grassroots empowerment and collective resistance to policies threatening social progress. The major takeaway for me, and my most powerful lesson of the trip was the reminder that voting remains the most powerful tool of citizenship. As Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant, International President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., noted in her opening remarks, our future depends on our willingness to act, organize, and show up at the polls. The panel emphasized the Divine Nine’s historic role in civic
engagement and advocacy, reinforcing how collective action is the foundation of progress in our communities. Afterward, I attended our fraternity’s Legacy of Leaders Reception and visited Howard University with other collegians to see the historic Alpha Chapter’s plot and monument. This was truly an inspiring experience that connected us to the origins of our Fraternity.
Day 3 began with the Black Men Vote Seminar, which explored the challenges and opportunities facing Black men in American politics. This session encouraged critical reflection on representation, equity, and accountability. We also supported Brother John Hope Bryant’s session on building Black wealth, where he passionately discussed the importance of financial literacy, ownership, and education as pathways to liberation. Following this, I joined brothers from the General Board and fellow collegians for lunch before attending the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Reception, where I continued networking and building cross-organizational relationships.
On Day 4, we visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which provided a deeply
emotional experience. Walking through exhibits on slavery, segregation, and civil rights helped me appreciate the resilience of our ancestors and the progress we’ve made through collective struggle. Seeing notable Sigmas like Hon. Brother John Lewis honored for their advocacy reinforced my pride in our fraternity’s enduring legacy of service and justice.
In reflection, CBC Week was more than just a trip. It was a transformative experience. It strengthened my commitment to advocacy, civic engagement, and servant leadership. This trip equipped me with the tools, knowledge that are applicable to my country. Interacting with Phi Beta Sigma leaders and members of the Divine Nine reaffirmed the importance of unity and purpose. To future collegiate brothers: seize every opportunity to represent Sigma on national stages. Engage with leaders, ask questions, and take pride in our history. Remember that our actions, whether it may be big or small, continue the work of those who came before us. CBC Week reminded me that the mission of Phi Beta Sigma is not confined to meetings or events; it lives through how we serve, lead, and votes
KAPPA UPSILON
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSASFAYETTEVILLE
Initiated: SPRING 2023 • ACE
SOUTHWESTERN REGION
BROTHER JAYLEN WILSON
The 2025 Congressional Black Caucus was not only informative, but inclusive and refreshing as well. I was able to spend 3 days and see as much of D.C. as possible. Here are all my experiences in Washington D.C. written down.
When I first arrived, I was met with the collegiate brothers I would be spending all my time with. Brotherhood is a value instilled in all Sigma men across the globe, but this trip truly reminded me just how valuable this brotherhood is. We toured the city together and bounced ideas off each other that could be valuable in our individual chapters. When met with this opportunity, I made it my mission to talk to and experience as many people possible. I am grateful to those seven brothers for enhancing my experience and sharing their chapter values with me.
Along with the exploring, the collegiate brothers and I were tasked with learning as much as possible and attend as many events as possible the caucus offered to us. One of the events that truly resonated with me was the “Real Talk: The Community-Based Counter-Offensive to Project 2025.” There, we were able to hear from multiple brothers and sisters in politics around the country. They gave us insights on how to mobilize our communities and be more impactful as Divine 9 members. My biggest takeaway was from Indiana State Senator, Soror Andrea Hunley; she answered my question on how to operate within fraternity and NPHC guidelines on campus while bringing the black community together. I took her ideas back to my chapter and are already moving towards hosting a “Real Talk” event like this one to engage the community and emphasize the importance of voting.
One of the most impactful conversations I had was a oneon-one conversation with Honorable Brother David Turner. I had the opportunity to ask the International President directly what it takes to become the President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. His answer was ultimately stability. It starts with work and family stability and flexibility. Without support from the family and flexibility in the workplace, it is nearly impossible to put forth the time needed for the position. Hon. Bro. Turner also let me know that dedication is a trait needed to achieve any goal and my goal of becoming the president is no different. Having had the opportunity to speak with Hon. Bro. Chris Rey and Hon. Bro Turner, I can appreciate the approachability and engaging behavior of our fraternity leaders.
As a collegiate brother, the legacy left by older brothers can leave pressure on brothers like me trying to make a
way for myself. This pressure has been heightened for me personally due to my dad being a brother that has done a lot for this fraternity. The Brothers and Sorors at the Congressional Black Caucus continued to encourage and pour into the collegiate bros and me. I was genuinely surprised by how encouraging and welcoming the brothers were to me.
Overall, I truly appreciate the experiences gained and lessons learned in D.C. To summarize the whole trip, I went expecting a short and informative trip, but I left filling inspired and proud of the Sigma Man I am becoming.
