ACHIEVER Fall 2023 C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference MIDDLE EASTERN PROVINCE MEP Leadership Development Priorities Training for Leadership All Year Long Undergraduate Perspectives Black Men and Mental Health Awareness University of North Carolina at Pembroke Michael F. Brown 23rd Middle Eastern Province Polemarch Immediate Past Polemarch Dr. Lascel A. Webley, Jr. 24th Middle Eastern Province Polemarch Sterling Freeman Middle Eastern Province C Rodger Wilson Chairman Brent C. White III Grand Board of Directors Undergraduate Member
3. History of the C Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference 4. Leadership message – Province Polemarch 5. Leadership message – Sr Vice Province Polemarch and Jr. Vice Province Polemarch 6. CRWLC Committee Chairman 7. Future Middle Eastern Province Events 8. - 9. CRWLC Schedule 10. - 11. CRWLC Presenters 12.- 13. Welcome to UNC-P- Lumberton (NC) Alumni and Nu Omicron 14. Journal Submissions 15. Brother Tobe Jr feature 16.-17. MEP Welcome back to school 18.-19. Political Affairs 20.-23. Athletes of the Middle Eastern Province 24.-25. Military Affairs 26.-27. MEP highlights of the 86th Grand Chapter Meeting TABLE OF CONTENTS MEP ACHI EVE R
ABOUT THE C. RODGER WILSON LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE During a fall weekend each year, each of the twelve Provinces (Regions) of Kappa Alpha Psi® Fraternity, serve as hosts of the C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference. The C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference (CRWLC) as it is presently known, began as the Undergraduate Leadership Conference implemented by Kappa Alpha Psi®’s 16th Grand Polemarch, C. Rodger Wilson. The first Undergraduate Leadership Conference was held on August 24, 1961, as part of the Golden Anniversary Grand Chapter Meeting in Indianapolis, IN. 56 Undergraduates from 51 different chapters were in attendance. In direct relationship to the conference, “C. Rodger”, as he was affectionately known, coined a phrase in 1957, which we still use today as one of our principle themes, “Training for Leadership”. C. Rodger realized that the Fraternity needed a formalized system by which it could emphasize the theme. It was under this model which the conference was born as a national program in the undergraduate interest. This program would be a school of leadership training and the curriculum would be planned to demonstrate the techniques of leadership and to stimulate the desire to become leaders and to aid them to become better Fraternity men. More specifically, the curriculum would include professional aspects of leadership, scholarship, chapter organization, pledge training, alumni relations, Fraternity songs, history, law and traditions. Although not initially included within the original plans, Guide Right (the Fraternity’s program to serve our youth) eventually became a part of these leadership programs as well. Initially, the Undergraduate Leadership Conference was held as a national conference located at one venue on an undergraduate campus, today, the CRWLC is held annually in each Province with the same goal in mind; but now has expanded to educate and train both Alumni and Undergraduate members with professional aspects to effectively execute individual chapter procedures. Following his death, the Undergraduate Leadership Conference was renamed the “C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference” in C. Rodger Wilson’s honor. MEP ACHI EVE R 3
Issue 27 | 234 My Brothers, elcome to Lumberton, NC and the 2023 Charles Rodger Wilson Leadership and Training Conference (CRWLTC) of the Middle Eastern Province. We know many of you have traveled far distances and/or sacrificed attendance at other events. As such, we appreciate your attendance and commitment. Brother Sterling Freeman, the CRWLTC Chairman, and his committee have worked tirelessly to prepare a conference that not only honors the directives of the National Committee, but also offers valuable local relevance. We trust that the information provided, topic discussions, and networking opportunities will assist in strengthening your chapter and result in personal benefits to you, your chapter, and your respective communities. However, for this to occur, we ask for 3 things form you. First, we ask for your undivided attention. We ask for you to be engaged and intentional about identifying information and tools that will enhance you and your chapter. Second, we ask that you offer feedback. At the conclusion of the conference, we need to hear from you regarding possible enhancements. Third, we ask that you return home and share what you’ve learned. Each of us represent a small fraction of the members in our chapter. Therefore, to impact our chapters and local community, we will need to share aspects of things learned here with other members back home and implement them in our chapters. Hence, your willingness to share is invaluable. With that said, I am eager to observe the ways in which this conference may begin to catapult your chapter to greater heights. If at any point, I can be of any assistance to you or your chapter, please do not hesitate to contact me. Now, and forever... Yours in the Bond, Dr. Lascel A. Webley, Jr. 24th Province Polemarch Middle Eastern Province Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. C RWL T C P R O V I N C E P O L E M A R C H WE L C O M E N O V E M BE R 1 0 , 2 0 2 3 Dr. Lascel A. Webley, Jr. Polemarch Damian Tucker, Esq. Senior Province Vice Polemarch Brice Briclandji Junior Province Vice Polemarch Donzell Newkirk Keeper of Records Cory Cooper Keeper of Exchequer Evan Bracy Board Member, Undergraduate Keith Crosby Board Member, Alumni Marvin Robinson Board Member, Alumni Dr. Chris Wilks Board Member, Alumni Tkaii Gaither Strategus Nick Brown Lt. Strategus Anton Durrah Historian Leonard Jones Nominations Chairman Michael F. Brown Immediate Past Polemarch Lascel A.Webley Jr. W 4 MEP ACHI EVE R
F R O M T H E S E N I O R P R O V I N C E V I C E P O L E M A R C H n the spring semester of 1992, I was a freshman at UNCW and attended a forum on Greek life which included all the Divine 9 organizations. While listening to the speakers, a brother of Kappa Alpha Psi began to speak. As he spoke, I was drawn into every word he said regarding achievement and brotherhood. It was on that day, I knew I wanted to become a brother. Since crossing those burning sands in the garage of Brother James Braye, I have tried to live the oath taught to me during those years. As an undergraduate, I navigated trying to maintain a chapter while keeping up with the academic goals. Now thirty-one years later, I have the privilege of serving the mighty Middle Eastern Province as Senior Vice Province Polemarch.I never envisioned when I sat in Brother Braye’s office on the campus of UNCW that I would serve in such a capacity. I only wanted to be the best brother I could be.I have served as VicePolemarch and Polemarch at both myundergraduate and the Rocky Mount Alumni I Chapter. During my term as Polemarch of Rocky Mount Alumni, my vision was this: ONE BROTHERHOOD … ONE PURPOSE … ONE OUTCOME … ACHIEVEMENT! It was that theme that led our chapter to accomplish our goals. In this current role, it is my desire to assist the Province Polemarch Webley in advancing our province as with past leadership. I strongly believe brotherhood is the key to moving forward and we should be true to our objective “to unite college men … in a bond of fraternity.” If we move with the same purpose, leading with the foundation of brotherhood, there’s only one outcome that can be produced. That outcome is achievement. I have been in the halls, in the meetings, in the suites and social activities, both locally and nationally. Those experiences reinforce the conceptualization and strength of the bond we share, now and forever. Brothers, I’m here to assist you and our chapters anyway possible. The one lasting expression Brother Braye always said to us at Mu Nu, Kappas play hard; but the next morning we get up and get the work done. Let’s get this work done … in the name of Kappa and for the cause of achievement. Yours in the Bond, Brother Damian L. Tucker, Esq. MEP ACHI EVE R F R O M T H E J U N I O R P R O V I N C E V I C E P O L E M A R C H unning to become the Junior Province Vice Polemarch was one of the best decisions I ever made. Being elected was one of my biggest achievements. It is a rare opportunity to lead, motivate, and have a long-lasting influence on the members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. I decided to run for JVP because I am strongly dedicated to our fraternity's ideals and values. I also want to create an environment where every member feels welcomed, appreciated, and supported. By planning our annual events, encouraging open communication, and advancing a culture of respect and inclusivity, we will aim to deepen the links of brothers. Brotherhood life offers opportunities for both academic and personal development in addition to social activities. I want to establish educational projects that assist and cheer on our members as they strive to achieve. Our goal's core component is giving back to the community. By planning more charitable events, volunteer opportunities, and collaborations with neighborhood organizations, I'm determined to increase our fraternity's efforts to involve the community Yours in the Bond, Brice Bricklandji R 5
Greetings, my Brothers: On behalf of Brother Dr. Lascel Webley, the 24th Administration of the Middle Eastern Province, and the Conference Committee, thank you for attending the 2023 C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference. We are thrilled to have your presence and participation, which promises to make it a powerful experience. Brothers, this conference is a staple within the culture of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. As such, the Committee, in its planning, invested significant time and energy to honor our tradition and its namesake, Brother Wilson. Carrying on this legacy is as important as it has ever been, given the need for educated Black Men to be skilled and courageous leaders in an effort to make a meaningful difference on behalf of those we affect, influence and love. You will find your time at the conference both intellectually and experientially stimulating. We will learn from the expertise of our presenters and from the collective wisdom we hold as a community of Brothers. Therefore, I encourage you all to listen actively, reflect deeply and share thoughtfully. If we all show up in this way, our conference is sure to be a success. I want to offer special thanks to Polemarch Webley, all of the members of the Committee, the Brothers of Nu Omicron, and all who have worked tirelessly to make this conference happen. Enjoy, Brothers! Yours In The Bond, Brother Sterling E. Freeman, Chair 6 MEP ACHI EVE R
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November 10th Registration 3:00pm-9:00pm Location: Thomas Hall Atrium Area 6:30pm-7:30pm General Session I – Sheldon “Jackpot” McAlpin Town Hall Location: Thomas Hall Auditorium 7:30pm-8:30pm Networking Event Saturday, November 11th, 2023 9:00am-10:00am Registration 10:00am-10:45am General Session II – Black Men and Mental Health Awareness Location: Thomas Hall Auditorium Dress Code: Friday, November 10th, 2023 | Rep Your School + Jeans Saturday, November 11th, 2023 | Kappa Casual (Polo/Button Up/Cardigan) + Slacks) Thursday, November 9th, 2023 MTA Classes 10:00am - 8:00 pm Sandy Grove Baptist Church 1601 M.L.K Jr Drive Lumberton NC 28358 (Kappa Kasual for Brothers) November 9th MTA Ceremony & Pinning| 9:00 pm - 12:00 am Lumberton Junior High School 82 Marion Road Lumberton NC 28358 (Suit and Tie for Ceremony) Friday, November 10th, 2023 MTA Cluster Community Service Project starts at 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm James A. Thomas School of Business (Atrium) University of North Carolina at Pembroke 333 Braves Drive Pembroke, NC 28372 Description: In this session, participants will hear from a panel of speakers who will expound upon leadership lessons from their respective fields of human endeavor and connect those lessons to the life of conference namesake, Brother C. Rodger Wilson. This session will include a respondent who will provide a summation of and provide insight to the panel discussion, and time for participants to “sound off” with their take-aways (i.e. insights, reflections and questions to ponder). Location: Thomas Hall Atrium Area Location: Thomas Hall Atrium Area Description: In this session, speakers will provide both personal testimony and professional insights on the mental health experiences of Black Men. Participants will grow in empathy through personal story and take away practical information to aid them in intentionally stewarding their mental health. 8 MEP ACHI EVE R
10:45am-10:55am IHQ Video Presentation Location: Thomas Hall Auditorium 11:10am-12:05pm Concurrent Sessions – Introduction of the MEP Leadership Development Priorities Location: Thomas Hall Classrooms Description: In these sessions, participants will be apprised of the provisional plans for implementing one of the four MEP Leadership Development Priorities. Participants will also provide feedback for consideration as the Work Groups finalize plans for presentation to the MEP Board. ROOM 215: Leadership Point of View Session: A Leadership Point of View (LPOV) is projected to be a two-to-three-page document that outlines a broad definition of leadership and its case for “training for leadership.” The LPOV will also speak to the Province’s leadership development goals and strategies for accomplishing them. And, it will outline what the Province’s current foci are for developing leadership capacities. ROOM 220: Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship Program: The MEP Fellowship opportunity will offer an undergraduate(s) the opportunity to work closely with formal leadership at the Province level. The Fellowship will include leadership development of both hard and soft skills. The MEP Fellow(s) will assist Province Leadership with planning, communicating about and implementing tasks, activities and events affiliated with the Leadership’s Scope of Work ROOM 236: Undergraduate/Alumni Council: The Undergrad/Alumni Council will be responsible for helping to disseminate information and facilitate activities that will help grow leadership capacities among members across the Province. The Council will also be entity to support communication and feedback loops between Alumni and Undergraduates, with the goal of aiding the Province is maintaining relevant and effective programming for leadership development. ROOM 255: Formal Onboarding Process: The onboarding process will be codified and implemented as a matter of practice to aid transitions in leadership for all positions at the Province level. The onboarding process will include a formal session(s) to orient new leaders to the scope of work, relevant documentation, and mechanisms of support for the specific leadership position they are taking on. The session will also include a review of current issues – at the Chapter, Provincial and International Levels - that affect said position. 12:15pm-1:15pm LUNCH Location: UNC Pembroke Cafeteria 1:30pm-2:15pm General Session III – Training for Leadership All Year Long Location: Thomas Hall Auditorium Description: In this session participants will review and brainstorm ideas for educational and experiential activities that the Province Board and Local Chapters can employ to facilitate regular leadership training and development opportunities for Brothers across the Province. Concurrent Sessions – Officers Training Location: Thomas Hall Classrooms Description: In these session participants who are currently and/or interesrted in becoming Chapter officers will get an overview of the Scope of Work for the positions of Polemarch, Keeper of Exchequer and Keeper of Records. ROOM 215 - Polemarch Session ROOM 220 – KOR Session ROOM 236 - KOE Session ROOM 255 - Advisor * *Advisor Session runs until 3:30pm 2:25pm-2:55pm General Session IV Location: Thomas Hall Auditorium Undergraduate Perspectives Description: In this session participants will acquire information and ideas to building and fortify their Chapter Brands and getting meaningfully involved in their local campuses. 2:55pm-3:15pm Conference Wrap Up Location: Thomas Hall Auditorium 4:00pm UNC P Football Game MEP ACHI EVE R 9
Issue 27 | 234 P R ESE N T E R S MEP ACHI EVE R Town Hall Panel November 10, 2023 6:30pm-7:30pm Dwayne Campbell is the Chief Information Officer for the City of Fayetteville where he is responsible for overall technology strategy, governance and innovation while providing support and guidance for operational business needs. He has over 31 years of experience. He has managed projects for companies such as Microsoft, Broadway & Seymour, Bank of America, PNC Bank, and Mecklenburg County. Dwayne holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Information Systems from UNC-Greensboro and a Masters of Business Administration from Pfeiffer University Joseph King Davis, Jr., Life Member of the Durham (NC) Alumni Chapter, is an initiate of the North Carolina Central University Chapter, the Alpha Kappa of Kappa Alpha Psi (Spring 1976), presently and serving as Board Member of the AK Foundation since its inception. Brother Davis is a retired educator, presently, 46 years of service with Durham Public Schools as teacher, Coach, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, Interim Principal, Central Office Administrator. Brother Davis has chronicled over 44 years of uninterrupted service to the Middle Eastern Province, appointed the 19th Province Polemarch in 1993. He served as Province Chaplain for 26. Received the 113th Elder Watson Diggs Award at the 85th Grand Chapter Meeting. Brother Davis is a lifelong member of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church denomination, elected/appointed to numerous Local Church, District and Episcopal District posts. Sheldon McAlpin is an entrepreneur as an Independent Insurance Agent. He is the 21 st Middle Eastern Province Polemarch and the 105 th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee. Brother McAlpoin attended Gadsden State Jr. College and a graduate of Alabama A&M University in Normal Alabama (Huntsville, Ala), where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Class of 1977. Brother McAlpine is the Father of two beautiful daughters, Brittany Cynte, and Khiari Jaynay, and a son, Ian. Married to the former Rosalyn Jackson. Dr. Rodney L. McCrowre is an accomplished professional with a strong background in education and a significant presence at Fayetteville State University's Broadwell College of Business and Economics. Dr. Rodney L. McCrowre serves as an Assistant Professor of Management, Assistant Department Chair, and the Director of Pre-Business Programs at FSU's Broadwell College of Business and Economics. His impressive career spans over sixteen years and has been dedicated to both K-12 educational settings and Higher Education. Dr. McCrowre's diverse responsibilities have included responsibilities in TRIO Programs, Early College High Schools. Dr. McCrowre's academic journey includes a BS in Business Administration from Fayetteville State University, a Master of Business Administration from Webster University, and a Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. Damian L. Tucker is a partner in the law firm of Hester & Tucker, PLLC and has practiced law in Nash, Edgecombe and Wilson Counties for about 25 years. He is a graduate of N. Nash HS and went on to obtain his degrees from UNC Wilmington and NCCU School of Law in 1998. He returned to Nash county and begin his professional career with the District Attorney’s Office. Damian’s practice includes criminal defense and personal injury and he has tried dozens of cases to verdict over his career. He is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. where he served as general counsel for the Middle Eastern Province for 12 years. He was recently appointed and now serves as Senior Province Vice Polemarch. He serves the community in many capacities through work with his fraternity and on several local boards Mental Health Awareness November 11, 2023 Damian Locklear has served as Executive Director of Structured Family Interventions, LLC since August of 2006. SFI provides mental health and substance abuse services to children and adolescents in numerous counties in North Carolina and Georgia. Brother Locklear also serves as a school administrator in Chapel Hill, NC. He is a Spring 2012 initiate of the Smithfield (NC) Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Rufus Delro Williams, Jr., MPAS, PA-C is originally from Raleigh, NC. He graduated from Wake Forest University in 1996 with a BS in Health and Sport Science. He completed his PA training at Wake Forest University School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program in 1999. He obtained a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha in 2003. Rufus has practiced in the field of Emergency Medicine/Urgent Care Medicine since 2007. Prior to working in Emergency Medicine Rufus has worked in Cardiothoracic Surgery, Nephrology and Hospitalist Medicine. 10
Issue 27 | 234 P R ESE N T E R S MEP ACHI EVE R Leadership Development Priorities November 11, 2023 11:10am-12:05pm Leadership Point of View Devin Brown is a results-driven leader of business operations and growth with over 20 years of experience in strategically linking operational excellence to organizational vision, process improvement, and advocacy. Devin has a proven record of his ability to collaborate with key stakeholders to set key performance indicators, develop infrastructure, and execute comprehensive operational strategies. Devin professional experience includes various leadership and consulting roles across the financial services, community impact, and economic development fields. Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship Collins D. Hines is a President/Owner who specializes in partnering with Professional Recruiting Firms and Global Life Science Corporations providing consultative services in the areas of Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices, and Biotechnology on a varied project by project basis. He founded Services and Solutions, LLC in 2013, bringing nearly three decades of experience in Global R&D, Commercial Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory environments to the company. Collins earned his B.S. Degree in Business Administration from ECU. He is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Undergraduate/Alumni Council Clem Lacy is a highly accomplished executive, rhetorical activist, and entrepreneur with domestic and international experience in operations, P&L management, multi-channel product sales, inventory management, raw material purchasing and public relations. He has over forty years professional work experience in public and private leadership roles of increasing responsibility. Clem is a top-performing leader with experience analyzing complex business challenges and implementing solutions. He has expertise in delivering results through effective leadership of small and large teams in numerous business environments. Formal Onboarding Process Mark Flowers is a Fall 2022 Winston Salem (NC) Alumni of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He has served as 2023-2024 Guide Right Chairman and Fall 2023 MTA Committee Member. Mark graduated from North Carolina Central University in 1994 with a B.A. in Political Science. He is a Program Administrator with the Quality Education Institute, Winston Salem, NC. He has been married to Tina Flowers for 28 years and has two children and three grandchildren. Training for Leadership All Year Long November 11, 2023 1:30pm-2:15pm Rev. Dr. Sterling Freeman is a leadership coach, organizational and cultural change agent, facilitator, counselor and public speaker. All of his work is grounded in an equity lens and motivated by a desire to create spaces where Black and Brown people have full freedom to thrive. Having been in Christian ministry since 1996, Sterling also brings a pastoral orientation to this work, and is inclined toward deep listening, holding empathy and meeting people where they are. Sterling is a Co-Founder and Principal with CounterPart Consulting, LLC and Associate with OpenSource Leadership Strategies. Sterling holds a Master of Divinity from the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, a BA in Economics from Davidson College, certificates in business strategy and economics from the London School of Economics, and the Doctor of Ministry Degree in Global Leadership from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University. He is also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Sterling lives in Durham with his wife, Michelle, and their daughter Joia. Polemarchs Session: Lascel Webley KOR Session: Donzell Newkirk. KOR Session: Cory Cooper UG Perspectives: Evan Bracy Mental Health: Daniel Dunston 11
Issue 27 | 234 Brothers, I am Gerald Gaddy, Polemarch of the Lumberton Alumni Chapter. On behalf of my chapter brothers, I welcome you to the 2023 C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference. Located in one of the most economically challenged counties in the state of Norh Carolina, our chapter has always placed a massive focus on uplifting and empowering the residents of Lumberton and Robeson County as a whole. The 2023-2024 fraternal year will be no different. During this period, we plan to impact our community with various activities to include: · Bi-Monthly Roadside Cleanup · Voter Registration Drives · Winter Coat Collection and Distribution · Thanksgiving Adopt a Family · Annual Holiday Donation to Southeastern Hospice House of Lumberton · Christmas Social/Toy Drive · Academic Signing Day · Run/Walk 5K · Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament In addition to the activities we have in place, we also have brothers in the chapter that are doing great work in our community. The following are just a few brothers that represent us in the county. · Brother Marcel Coe serves as the Board Chairman of the Robeson County Department of Social Services · Brother Gerald Gaddy is a member of the Fairmont ABC Board. · Brother Clarence McNeill serves as the Commissioner of the Town of Fairmont. · Brother Maurice Townsend, a Fairmont native, has taken steps to revive and contribute to the local community. He is the owner of multiple businesses in the town to include The Picnic, Rolling Boil Low Country Seafood, and Main Street Kitchen, which will be opening soon. Since our chartering on August 24, 1984, the Lumberton Alumni Chapter has been a powerful force in our city and surrounding communities. We strive to embody our fundamental purpose of achievement in all we do today and beyond. Again, Brothers thank you for attending and welcome to Lumberton. Yours in the Bond, Brother Gerald Gaddy Polemarch #MEPCRWLC WE L C O M E T O U N C PE M B R O K E 12 MEP ACHI EVE R
Chartered February 4, 1989 Issue 27 | 234 #MEPCRWLC WE L C O M E T O U N C PE M B R O K E CAPI TALCI T YKAPPAS.C OM Brother Ken Middleton: (LT. Strategus 00-01) Middle Eastern Province Brother Jay Holder: (LT. Strategus 01-02) Middle Eastern Province Brother J. Cory Locklear: (Junior Vice Polemarch 05-06 Brother J. Cory Locklear: Middle Eastern Province, (2006-2007 Undergraduate Kappa Man of the Year) (2006 ULI Kappa Fellows Beta Klass Inductee) (Meritorious Award from Lumberton Alumni) Brother Lee Hammonds Jr. (Undergraduate Advisor of the Year 2012) Middle Eastern Province, (UNCP Greek Life Advisor of the Year 2013). Brother Tavis Richardson (UNCP Emerging Leader of the Year 2015) Past Grand Chapter Officers: Brother J. Cory Locklear: Grand LT. Strategus (2007-2009) Past Province officers 2019 Conclave Kane Twirling Competition: Brother J Cory Locklear (1 st Place) Provincial Awards Middle Eastern Province Expansion Chapter of the Year (2012) MEP ACHI EVE R Nu Omicron Chapter 13
J O U R N A L Submissions to the Kappa Alpha Psi Journal for your chapter must be submitted to the Province Journal liaison. They must come from your chapter Reporter and be approved by your chapter Polemarch. For proper consideration, article subject matter should be (1) of national importance and reflective of the tenets of Kappa Alpha Psi such as Kappa's Six-Point Plan, (2) significant professional achievements or milestones of individuals or chapters within three (3) months of the deadline and should fit within the standard categories: Alumni News, Guide Right, Kappa Authors, Kappa News, Kappas in Sports or Undergraduate News. Submissions do not have to conform to the themes, but they could be reordered as a result of the themes. For more information see “The Journal MEP Submission Form” on the MEP website under MEP News. For questions or assistance with Journal submissions for your chapter, please contact the Province Reporter, Brother Quentin A. Mitchell at [email protected] S U B M ISSI O N S 14 MEP ACHI EVE R
A T H L E T I C S MEP ACHI EVE R Brother Brandon Lavar Tobe Jr is a student athlete at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Known as BJ he is currently part of the football team. Brother Tobe was born and raised in Prosperity, South Carolina. He plays the challenging position of cornerback where he is matched up on the opponent’s wide receivers, tight ends, and running backs. To be the best and on the top of his game, he must also be a student of the game on and off the field. To even give himself at being successful on the field he must handle his work off the field as a student on campus and academically in the classroom. Being a student athlete is sometimes difficult, you will be both mentally and physically challenged. Some challenges Brother Tobe has encountered has been time management, making time for my schoolwork, and his personal life. This can be a challenge for any college student and one that is even more of a challenge balancing responsibility on being part of an athletic team. He overcame these challenges by simply planning ahead. Currently he services as the Polemarch of the Nu Omicron chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Time management to Brother Tobe is everything, to make time for Kappa he plans ahead, having my days set on the calendar. At times he sets his focus to work for Kappa and kappa only. Brother Tobe takes advantage of his free time once he chooses a day to take care of his schoolwork for the week. He utilizes his free time before football practices and meetings to make time for Kappa business. Lastly, Brother Tobe makes time for the greatest Fraternity ever established by communicating with my fellow brothers. If he is not able to be somewhere physically, he knows that he can communicate with his chapter brothers to get things in order or even possibly make it virtually. Brother Brandon Tobe Jr Making plays on and off the field By Brother Brandon Tobe Jr - Nu Omicron 15
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Representative Robert Reives II has served in the North Carolina House of Representatives since 2014. He represents House District 54, serving constituents in portions of Randolph and all of Chatham County. Representative Reives is the first African American elected to the state house from Lee and Chatham counties. Along with Senator Valerie Foushee, he is part of the first African American delegation to represent the predominantly white district of Chatham County, NC. Robert Reives II is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. Upon entering the NC General Assembly, Brother Reives was immediately tapped for leadership serving as Freshman Caucus Co-Chair and as Sergeant at Arms of the NC Legislative Black Caucus. Leader Amongst Leaders Brother Reives is still looked to for leadership as he has worked across party lines in his role.as Deputy Democratic Leader of the House, as Vice-Chair of the Education – Community. Colleges committee and as Vice-Chair of the Judiciary III committee. His other legislative committee assignments include Agriculture, P O L I T I C A L A F F A I R S Finance, and Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House, House Select Committee on Redistricting, Joint Select Committee on Judicial Reform and Redistricting Legislative Ethics Committee, and the Revenue Laws Study Committee. In his tenure Brother Reives has been recognized for his legislative leadership by the League of Conservation Voters with their Green Tie Rising Star award and has been endorsed each election by the NC State AFL-CIO, the North Carolina Association of Educators, and the Sierra Club. As a former assistant DA, Brother Reives approaches legislation with an eye towards protecting those who are marginalized, vulnerable and oppressed. His experience as a certified mediator and attorney gives him a skill set to help opposing factions reach consensus and resolve conflict. Brother Reives has sponsored legislation to strengthen public schools and to help protect children, the disabled, the environment, and property rights. He listens to the needs of the citizens of Lee and Chatham Counties and has championed specific legislation to help Lee and. Chatham Counties meet their vision of tomorrow. In 2020 his peers elected him House Democratic leader. MEP ACHI EVE R Serving the state of North Carolina through leadership Above Representative Reives II speaks during a press conference 18
by Marissa Greene Achiever from the start Prior to becoming a legislator, Brother Reives earned a renowned Pogue Scholarship while studying at UNCChapel Hill for a B.S. in Business Administration/Finance.Brother Reives continued his studies at UNCChapel Hill and received his J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Law. After graduating from law school Brother Reives returned to his community and became the first African American assistant district attorney in Harnett and Lee county.A little over four years later Brother Reives entered private practice and has been a partner in the the first African American law firm in Sanford, Wilson, Reives, & Silverman. For two decades, Wilson & Reives has been known as community benefactor sponsoring education scholarships and numerous community events. Brother Reives continues his service to his sponsoring education scholarships and numerous community events. Brother Reives continues his service to his Ecommunity outside of the NCGA by being a board member of the Lee County Educational Foundation, a board member of the First Citizens Bank local advisory board, a board member of Lee County Boys Girls Club, a member of the Executive Committee of the Lee County Democratic Party, past president and present member of the Eleventh District Bar Association, and past president and present member of the Lee County Bar Association. Serving NC through leadership Above Rep Robert Reives II speaking to the NC Legislature MEP ACHI EVE R 19
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MEP ACHI EVE R Zion Flemming Epsilon Beta Fayetteville State Football #70 Offensive Tackle Jevon Johnson Mu Iota UNC Greensboro Basketball #25 Guard Teshaun Smith Kappa Xi NC State Football #22 Defensive Back Malcolm Reed Alpha Kappa NC Central Football #46 Defensive Back Michael Reese Iota Xi Duke Football #59 Defensive End Mark Burks Pi Mu Colony Wingate Wingate Football #26 Defensive Back Brone Brinson Rho Zeta Methodist Basketball #12 Guard 21
MEP ACHI EVE R Trey Creamer Zeta Delta UNC Charlotte Football #3 Defensive Back Terry Moore Iota Xi Duke Football #23 Safety Jonte Miles Gamma Omicron St.Augustines Football #19 Wide Receiver Isaiah Dunn Pi Mu Colony Wingate Wingate Football #52 Offensive Tackle Anthony Barrett Gamma Omicron St.Augustines Football #35 Punter/Placekicker Barrett Crawford Alpha Tau Bluefield State Baseball #38 Catcher Malik Bowen Sims Iota Xi Duke Football #18 Wide Receiver Henry Young Kappa Xi NC State Track & Field Sprinter Tyrese Wolfe Alpha Tau Bluefield Football #0 Defensive Back Scott Walker Epsilon Beta Fayetteville State Football #88 Tight End 22
MEP ACHI EVE R Dom Shoffner Zeta Delta UNC Charlotte Football #6 Quarterback Reggie Bryant Alpha Epsilon Johnson C. Smith Football #9 Wide Receiver Jonte Miles Gamma Omicron St.Augustines Football #19 Wide Receiver JaDun Michael Nu Theta Elon Basketball #2 Forward Isaiah Rozier Gamma Omicron St.Augustines Track & Field Sprints/Triple Jump/Long Jump Jacob Cowan Theta Omicron UNC Chapel Hill Football #93 Defensive Lineman Devin Smith Alpha Kappa NC Central Football #22 Wide Receiver BJ Tobe Nu Omicron UNC Pembroke Football #30 Defensive Back Kellyn West Pi Mu Davidson Football #15 Wide Receiver Khilan Walker Iota Xi Duke Football #21 Cornerback 23
M I L I T A R Y A F F A I R S 8 MEP ACHI EVE R 1 1 Above General Charles Hamilton, AMC commanding general, presented retired Command Sergant Major James Sims the award. MEP ACHI EVE R Historical moment for one of the world’s most recognizable military installations The Fayetteville Fort Bragg (NC) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated was chartered on February 25, 1957 as the Fayetteville (NC) Alumni Chapter. The charter members of the Chapter were Ernest E. Miller, Booker T. McNeil, James L. Hawkins, Vernon P. Trent, Jasper McMillian, Calvin T. Daniels, J. Edgar McMillian, Willie E. Currie, John T. Gibson and C. Mason Quick. These outstanding men paved the way for this chapter by instilling the principles of leadership and achievement in every field of human endeavor. The name of the chapter was changed to the Fayetteville Fort Bragg Pope AFB Alumni Chapter in the early 1980’s to represent the numerous Brothers who were stationed at the respective local military installations. When Pope AFB closed, the name then changes to the Fayetteville Fort Bragg Alumni Chapter to be consistent with the closing of the base.However, recent events have prompted the organization to change its name to the Fayetteville (NC) Alumni Chapter. This decision was made after Fort Bragg, the military installation after which the organization was named, was renamed to Fort Liberty. Fort Bragg was named after Confederate General Braxton Bragg however, in the wake of the national reckoning on race many have questioned the appropriateness of naming military bases after Confederate generals who fought to preserve slavery. In 2020, following the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent protests, the United States Army announced that it would be renaming several military bases named after Confederate leaders, including Fort Bragg. The renaming of Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty is a significant event in the history of the military installation and the local community. It reflects a renewed commitment to inclusivity and equality, and acknowledges the role that the military has played in perpetuating systemic racism. It presented an opportunity for the chapter to explore a name change. The chapter has been a prominent force for good in the local community. However, the association with the former name of Fort Bragg presented a challenge for the organization. As a historically Black fraternity, there is a deep commitment to social justice and racial equality. Being associated with a military installation named after a Confederate general conflicted with those values. The decision changes the name of the chapter to Fayetteville (NC) Alumni Chapter was not taken lightly. It was made after careful consideration and consultation with members of the organization and the local community. The new name reflects the organization's commitment to the local community and its desire to distance itself from any association with Confederate leaders. It also aligns with the values of inclusivity and equality that are central to the mission of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc. Moving forward, the Fayetteville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc. will continue to be a force for good in the local community. Its commitment to social justice and racial equality remains as strong as ever. The name change is a reflection of the organization's willingness to adapt and change in response to the evolving social and political landscape. It is a testament in resilience and strength of the organization, and is commitment making a positive impact in the world. By Brother Kevin Jones - Fayetteville (NC) Alumni 24
Six former Soldiers and Army Civilians were inducted into the Army Materiel Command Hall of Fame for their exceptional leadership, service and contributions to the Army Materiel Command and the Army. The U.S. Army Materiel Command(AMC) is the primary provider of materiel to the United States Army. The Command's mission includes the management of installations, as well as maintenance and parts distribution. Brother James Sims was one of the six inductees. General Charles Hamilton, Army Materiel Command commanding general, presented retired Command Sergant Major James Sims, a plaque during AMC's Class of 2023 Hall of Fame Ceremony at Redstone Arsenal, AL, Sept. 21, 2023. General Hamilton and retired CSM Sims are both members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Brother Sims is a member of the Fayetteville(NC) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Sims, who served for 33 years and was the 15th command sergeant major of AMC. As AMC’s command sergeant major, he offered his extensive operational experience and exhibited extreme care and concern for Soldiers and civilians, ultimately leaving a profound impact on the enterprise. Brother Sims is the first Command Sergeant Major in the history of the Quartermaster Corps to rise from private E-1 to E-9 at the four-star level. During his time of serving he has had more than five combat deployments. Some of his notable assignments included 3rd U.S. Infantry “Old Guard”, 82nd Airborne Division, and 7th Special Forces Group. Brother Sims embodies what it means to be a Kappa man and lives the motto Achievement In Every Field of Human Endeavor. M I L I T A R Y A F F A I R S 8 MEP ACHI EVE R 1 1 Above Retired Command Sgt Major James Sims Above General Charles Hamilton, AMC commanding general, presented retired Command Sergant Major James Sims the award. Outstanding career in serving our country MEP ACHI EVE R By Brother Kevin Jones - Fayetteville (NC) Alumni 25
BROTHER DR. LASCEL A. WEBLEY - APPOINTED 24TH MIDDLE EASTERN PROVINCE POLEMARCH BROTHER MICHAEL F BROWN - ELECTED AS GRAND CHAPTER NOMINAT IONS CHAIRMAN BROTHER BRENT WHITE - ELECTED GRAND BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNDERGRADUATE MEMBER BROTHER BRYCE DICKERSON - 101ST GUY L . GRANT AWARDEE BROTHER CORREGGIO PEAGLER - 53RD BYRON K ARMSTRONG AWARDEE BROTHER THOMAS SINCLAIR III - FOUNDERS’ CHAPTER ADVISOR AWARD ALPHA NU - EDWARD G. IRVIN CHAPTER OF THE YEAR (MEDIUM SIZE) CHARLOT TE (NC) ALUMNI - PAUL W. CAINE CHAPTER OF THE YEAR ( LARGE SIZE) M IDDL E E A S T E R N P R O V I N C E Achievements 26 MEP ACHI EVE R
MEP ACHI EVE R Charlotte (NC) Alumni - Paul W. Caine Chapter of the Year (Large Alumni) Alpha Nu - Edward G.Irvin Chapter of the Year (Medium Undergrad) 27