In 1906, seven amazing men on the campus of Cornell University changed this country and our world forever. By establishing the first African-American fraternity, these men created an organization that would bond men together with the mission of scholastic excellence, community service and providing leadership for the African-American community. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated has made an impact in education, community service, politics, mentorship, and the lives of countless individuals, including myself. In 2013, the legacy that these men created continues to serve and impact the lives of thousands through programs and both local and national initiatives. I have personally been able to see men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated that hold fast to integrity, responsibility, true brotherhood and honor. Through those actions they have established a high bar for those seeking membership, such as myself.
As a child growing up in Southeast Washington, DC I was raised with a strong sense of community and love for all. Growing up I saw two different Washington’s, one with the White House and the other with the evident impact of violence and drugs. From a young age I always inquired about how and why two areas in the same city could be so different. I can remember attending an elementary school that lacked the proper resources and the difference once I moved to another school in the Maryland suburbs. The impact of what I saw as a child never left me and inspired me to do my part to ensure that children in all areas had equal opportunities. That drive inspired me to get involved in leadership within the schools that I have attended and also to offer suggestions and solutions at the educational institutions where I am currently employed. Over the years I have come to see how disparities exist not just in the classroom but also in so many areas that impact our everyday life. I believe that this passion for making a positive change and helping enhance our community existed in those seven remarkable men in 1906.
My parents, even in tough times, always made sure that my siblings and I understood amongst other lessons, the importance of doing well in school, helping others, and accountability. I was also raised with a strong conviction in my faith and an understanding of God ‘s call for us to make a difference by caring for the least, the lost and the left out. Making a difference has so many different meanings, but it is something that I have always strived to do. My faith tells me that there is no greater example then that of Jesus’ servant leadership, which I strive to exude daily.
The men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated that I have had the privilege of being in contact with all stand out amongst the crowd. I have had the privilege of interacting with many prominent men through work and community endeavors and often found that
those whom I heavily admired shared the common brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. My sponsor, Dr. Lloyd T. McGriff is one of those men that have had a major impact in my life and also my introduction to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. His example and mentorship has guided me through my college experiences and challenged me to be a greater leader and community servant. Being the first member of my immediate family to attend college, I needed that guidance and advice to help me make decisions during my college years and beyond. Serving in a role as not only a mentor but also my Pastor, Dr. McGriff has taught and delivered principles that reiterate the parallels of my faith and those of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
I desire to uphold the goals and mission of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated through brotherhood, being an example at all times, and building on the firm foundation established by the seven Jewels. In a world facing so many problems and obstacles, I desire to be a change agent. I have seen and experienced the impact that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated has had and I desire to be a part of that on-going legacy. I was blessed during my senior year of high school to receive a scholarship from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, which helped me financially, but, also provided an introduction that left a lasting impact on my life.
I aspire to be a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated to continue the work of this remarkable brotherhood, to serve my community with like minded brothers, and through my working and development becoming a better father, brother, son, uncle, and member of society. Many of the principles and values that I hold high in my life, parallel those of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. As I researched Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and after meeting so many different members at various points in my life I discovered this brotherhood of like-minded men are bonded together to “make a difference”.
To Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated I look to contribute dedication, creativity, hard work, honor, and a commitment of holding up the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated banner in a manner that would make The Jewels proud. I look to use the knowledge that I have in the Audio/Visual and Media fields to the advantage of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and programs that are sponsored. I wrote a proposal recently that granted my radio station, WHUR-FM the ability to start what will be known as the HBCU Radio Network on Sirius XM Satellite Radio. This national channel will launch in February 2013 and I look forward to making sure that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated is given opportunities to highlight programs and initiatives and other opportunities on the air that will provide a great deal of exposure. I will use current resources and those gained in the future to always give Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated an avenue to be heard and to highlight the work that has been so impactful in our community over the last 106 years.
Additionally, I will offer opportunities for our Beau’s in the Beautillion Program to learn more about media and specifically how they are seen and often portrayed in the media. Mentoring young men has been very impactful in my life and I look forward to being a mentor to youth and give them information that I did not have at their age that could potentially change their direction in life.
Additionally, I would like to get involved with the Brother’s Keeper Program and avail myself to serve this Fraternity in other areas as needed.
I clearly understand that being a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated means more than just wearing a t-shirt and showing up every now and then. I am looking forward to continuing the work of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated through the national and local level service opportunities and by working to keep the integrity of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated at a high level, living up to the motto of “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All”.
