APCAA Spring 2026 Digest
- 7 days ago
- 43 min read
Updated: 21 hours ago
This edition of the APCAA Digest features updates on 63 Brothers from the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and their professional developments, transitions, artistic pursuits, industry projects, awards, and recognitions.
Additionally, this Digest edition covers historic new acquisitions for The Alpha Rho Chapter Collection at Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library, the 2026 Morehouse College Commencement and Class Reunions, and provides for the launch of three new editorial items:
Around The Horn With Alpha Rho Chapter;
Alpha Rho Chapter Brothers On The Move, and
Alpha Rho Chapter Fit Check.
Alpha Journey: Encourages Transition From Corporate America To Luxury Hotel Venture
The year was 1992, and the movie everyone at school was talking about was Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Like most kids, there were two things I took away from that film: first, I needed a Talkboy voice playback toy; and second, I had to find my way into a suite at the Plaza Hotel. Watching Kevin McCallister navigate a five-star world, complete with a butler delivering an ice cream sundae on demand, revealer a level of luxury and service I hadn't known existed.
Every summer following the release of that movie, while attending Alpha conventions and family vacations, my parents were sure to remind me that my name was not Kevin — and ordering room service was strictly off-limits. It wasn't the opportunity to have an ice cream sundae in a bathrobe while watching R-rated movies that stayed with me, although I would have gladly accepted that life. For me, it was witnessing a level of service that fostered a sense of belonging. Even as a child, I recognized that great service created a sense of ownership and genuine connection.
That feeling of connection is exactly what I plan to provide to every guest at the 145-room hotel and restaurant I've undertaken in the heart of Oakland. While Hollywood sparked my imagination, my true blueprint for entrepreneurship was formed much closer to home. I fortunately had a front-row seat to the life of a founder right in my own living room. I can still recall walking past our formal living room after dinner and seeing young adults from the neighborhood seeking legal advice or riding along with my father following our weekend haircuts to pick up files from his law office.
As his career transitioned from law to pursuing complex business deals, my vocabulary was soon filled with terms like "joint ventures" and "percentage splits." I didn't fully grasp the mechanics then, but I was drawn to autonomy, the fact that he was never tethered to a desk, but was instead out in the world building something of his own. Transitioning into entrepreneurship from Corporate America feels like a natural evolution. Oakland is a unique city with deep roots and a fierce sense of local pride; it reminds me of the spirit I felt growing up in Houston.
Breaking News: Historic 1936-37 Morehouse "M" Book Once Owned By Tuskegee Airman Capt. William J. Faulkner Jr. Joins Alpha Rho Chapter Collection
By Bro. BMaynard Scarborough / Fall 1980
APCAA Digest Executive Editor & Collection Founder/Curator
ATLANTA, GA / Monday June 29 2026 — A piece of Morehouse College history has come home. The Alpha Rho Chapter Collection has acquired a genuine 1936-37 "M" Book that once belonged to Morehouse Class of 1940 graduate and decorated Tuskegee Airman Captain William J. "Billie" Faulkner Jr., adding a rare and deeply personal artifact to one of the most ambitious fraternal archival projects in the country.
Published by the Student Activities Committee of Morehouse College, the "M" Book served as an all-purpose student handbook — part yearbook, part field guide, part civic catechism. Acquired in spring 2026 and remarkably preserved nearly 90 years after it was printed, the 80-page, 8-by-6-inch booklet was hand-crafted to orient incoming students to nearly every dimension of campus life.
This second known "M" Book annual imprint is authenticated with the (2) owner autographs.
Its pages hold photographs and biographical sketches of the student body and college leadership, a full student directory, profiles of the administration and faculty, the academic calendar, a history of the college, school cheers and fight songs, campus periodicals, facilities, codes of conduct, student organizations, athletics, class leadership rosters, and a record of campus activities. Taken together, it offers an unusually intimate look at HBCU culture in the years immediately preceding World War II — a period for which detailed, student-level documentation is scarce.
The Airman Behind The Book
The man who once carried this handbook did not live to see it become history. William J. Faulkner Jr. was born in 1918, the son of the Rev. and Mrs. William J. Faulkner Sr., with his father serving as dean of the Fisk University Chapel. A graduate of Pearl High School, the younger Faulkner went on to Morehouse College, graduating with the Class of 1940.
Two years after the United States entered World War II, Faulkner enlisted on August 17, 1942. He completed the famed Tuskegee pilot program and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant on April 29, 1943, becoming, by most accounts, the first African American from Nashville commissioned in the Army Air Forces. Assigned to the 301st Fighter Squadron of the U.S. Army Air Corps, Faulkner flew dozens of combat missions over Europe. In September 1944, he was awarded the first oak leaf cluster to the Air Medal for "meritorious achievement in aerial flight while participating in sustained operational activities against the enemy."
Less than two months later, on November 7, 1944 — with 56 combat missions behind him — Captain Faulkner was reported missing in action over Austria. His parents waited through the fall, finally receiving word two days before Christmas that their son had been killed on the day he disappeared, his P-51C possibly brought down by mechanical failure, though other accounts hold that he was shot down. He was ultimately awarded the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters. Captain Faulkner rests today at the Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial in France, the final resting place for the largest number of American World War II dead in Europe — 10,489 graves.
"Pioneers" Preserved In Print
Faulkner's "M" Book also preserves the names of several Alpha Rho brothers identified within its pages as early "pioneers" of the chapter. Among them: Carlton Walter Rhetta, Secretary of the Student Activities Committee; Alfred Russell Brooks (Fall 1927) and William Nichols Jackson (Fall 1930); Butler Alfonso Jones (Spring 1934), Editor-in-Chief of the Maroon Tiger and chapter president; Anthony Thomas Quarles (Fall 1934), Senior Class Representative; George Washington (Fall 1933), Vice President of the Chi Delta Sigma Debate Society; and James Edward Nix (Spring 1934), Junior Class President. Their entries place Faulkner's keepsake squarely within the broader story of student leadership at Morehouse in the 1930s.
"Captain Faulkner's 'M' Book is more than a memento — it's a witness to who we were as students and brothers in the years just before the world changed forever,” remarked collection founder and association president Bro. BMaynard Scarborough. “Preserving it feels less like archiving and more like a sacred trust. We're proud Alpha Rho was the first chapter in our 650-chapter global network to take this step, and even prouder the work continues to grow."
A Growing Archive — And A First Of Its Kind
The Faulkner "M" Book now joins the Alpha Rho Chapter Collection at the Atlanta University Robert W. Woodruff Library, a repository already home to treasured artifacts connected to multiple Morehouse College presidents and other influential alumni statesmen.
The Collection was launched in 2023 by the Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA), and in the years since has steadily built an archive spanning a wide range of artifacts tied to chapter and college history. Notably, it stands as the first such institution established among Alpha Rho's network of 650 chapters and associations worldwide — a distinction that has positioned it as a model for how fraternal organizations might preserve and present their own histories within an academic research setting.
That growth will be on full display this fall. The Collection is scheduled to host family members and estate trustees connected to two of Morehouse's most storied presidents during a grand opening exhibit at the start of Morehouse College Homecoming Week on Thursday, October 8, 2026. Expected attendees include relatives of Bro. President Dr. John Hope, including his son, Hope II (Fall 1929), and grandsons Hope III (Fall 1955) and Richard (Fall 1958), as well as family connected to Bro. President Dr. Hugh M. Gloster (Fall 1930).
For a chapter with more than a century of history, the addition of Captain Faulkner's "M" Book is more than a new acquisition — it's a reminder that the smallest surviving objects can carry the weight of an entire era, and an entire life.
Morehouse College Atlanta Alumni Association Elects Bro. Stephen P. Chester 2026-28 President
APCAA Staff
The Morehouse College Atlanta Alumni Association is proud to announce the election of Bro. Stephen P. Chester, a Fall 1998 initiate, as its President for the 2026–2028 term. Chester's election reflects the trust and confidence of his fellow alumni in his proven leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep commitment to the Morehouse legacy of service and excellence. As he steps into this role, Chester is expected to bring fresh energy to the Association's mission of strengthening alumni engagement, mentorship, and community impact across Atlanta.
Chester brings a wealth of business acumen to his new post as Co-Founder of ATL-Cruzers, LLC, the parent company behind The Peachtree Trolley, Georgia Trolley Services, and Atlanta Adventure Tours. Through these ventures, he has helped shape how locals and visitors alike experience the city, building a hospitality and tourism brand rooted in Atlanta pride. His entrepreneurial success has positioned him as a respected voice in the city's business community and a natural fit to lead an alumni organization focused on both fellowship and forward momentum.
In addition to his business leadership, Chester serves as a Board Member for the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, further underscoring his commitment to promoting and elevating Atlanta on a regional and national stage. His combined experience in entrepreneurship, tourism, and civic leadership makes him well-equipped to guide the Morehouse College Atlanta Alumni Association into its next chapter. Members and the broader Morehouse community look forward to the vision and energy Bro. Chester will bring to the organization over the next two years.
Bro. Ian J. Chamberlin and Morehouse Team Take Home First Place Emmy Award for Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant Documentary "Before The Bell"
APCAA Staff
Bro. Ian Chamberlin has added a prestigious honor to his growing list of accomplishments, joining fellow Morehouse Men Steve Jackson, Mateo McIntosh, and Makai Brown to win First Place in the Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant competition, earning an Emmy Award for their documentary "Before The Bell." The film, inspired by the Morehouse College boxing program (@morehouse.boxing), showcases the dedication, discipline, and brotherhood found both inside and outside the ring, and reflects the storytelling talent and technical excellence this team of young filmmakers brought to the project.
The documentary offers an intimate look into the world of Morehouse boxing, capturing the training, mindset, and personal journeys of student-athletes as they prepare for competition. By highlighting the program through the lens of "Before The Bell," Chamberlin and his collaborators were able to spotlight a lesser-seen side of Morehouse athletics while demonstrating the caliber of production talent emerging from HBCU sports media programs. Their win in the Coca-Cola-sponsored competition places them among an elite group of young creatives recognized for excellence in sports storytelling.
This Emmy win is a testament to the power of collaboration and the strength of the Morehouse brotherhood, as Chamberlin, Jackson, McIntosh, and Brown combined their individual talents to produce a work that resonated on a national stage. Their achievement not only brings recognition to the Morehouse boxing program but also reinforces the College's legacy of producing leaders who excel across disciplines, from academics and athletics to media and storytelling. The team's success is expected to inspire future Morehouse Men to pursue excellence in sports media and production.
Atlanta's Eta Lambda Chapter Elevates Bro. Ian A. Barrett To Board Member At-Large
APCAA Staff
The Eta Lambda Chapter of Atlanta is pleased to announce the elevation of Bro. Ian A. Barrett to the position of Board Member At-Large. This new role recognizes Barrett's dedication to the chapter's mission and his consistent record of service, and it positions him to help guide the chapter's strategic direction as it continues to grow its impact across the Atlanta community. His fellow brothers look forward to the insight and energy he will bring to this expanded leadership role.
Barrett currently serves as a Program Manager with The Scholarship Academy, where he works to expand access to educational and financial resources for students pursuing higher education. His professional focus on empowering young people through scholarship guidance and academic support reflects the same values of uplift and service that define his work within the chapter. This blend of professional expertise and fraternal commitment makes him a natural fit for a role centered on broadening the chapter's reach and influence.
Beyond his work with The Scholarship Academy, Barrett is recognized as a Social Impact Leader in the Atlanta marketplace, known for his efforts to drive meaningful change through community-centered initiatives. His track record of civic engagement and passion for empowering others align closely with the chapter's ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence and service footprint in Atlanta. As he steps into his new position, Bro. Barrett is expected to be a valuable asset to the Eta Lambda Chapter's continued growth and community impact.
Bro. Reginald W. Sharpe Joins Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's Delegation For Historic Vatican Audience With Pope Leo XIV
APCAA Staff
Bro. Sharpe, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, was recently invited by 57th Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson to join an official delegation of city, business, and faith leaders traveling to Rome, Italy, for a historic audience with His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV. The visit marked a significant moment not only for the delegation, but for the city of Chicago itself, given the Pope's own roots in the Chicago area. Being selected to represent the city on such a global stage speaks to the respect Bro. Sharpe has earned in both his pastoral and community leadership circles.
Reflecting on the experience, Bro. Sharpe noted how refreshing it was to witness the Pope's moral clarity, global leadership, and cosmopolitan compassion at a time when those qualities feel increasingly rare on the world stage. The audience offered delegation members a rare opportunity to engage directly with the Pontiff on issues of faith, justice, and global responsibility, and for Bro. Sharpe, it was an experience that reinforced the importance of principled leadership rooted in service to others.
During a personal exchange, Bro. Sharpe asked the Pope for advice he could carry forward as a young leader. Pope Leo XIV's response left a lasting impression: "Cultivate your connection with the God within. Stand with courage and speak out." Bro. Sharpe carries that guidance forward as he continues his own work and leadership journey, inspired by a moment that few are given the chance to experience.
It Matters Where You Bank: Inside Liberty Bank's 50-Year Mission To Expand Access To Capital
From a New Orleans start in 1972 to a modern push for mission-driven lending, the country's largest African American-owned bank argues that deposits are more than dollars-they're decisions about who gets to build. Banking can sound like spreadsheet language-balances, interest rates, credit scores, applications. But on the ground, it's never abstract. It's keys in a first-time buyer's palm. It's inventory on a small business shelf. It's whether a neighborhood can keep its anchor institutions — or grows new ones.
Liberty Bank and Trust Company began in New Orleans with a clear purpose: expand access to capital in the African American community. Founded by Brother Dr. Norman C. Francis [Sigma Lambda, '67) and Alden J. McDonald Jr., the bank opened at a moment when many Black families and entrepreneurs ran into closed
doors — mortgages out of reach, small- business financing scarce, consumer credit offered on unfair terms. Liberty was part of a broad wave of Black-owned financial institutions-more than 100 nationwide at its peak-built to serve borrowers and neighborhoods mainstream banking too often ignored.
Any bank can say it has a mission. The harder question is whether it can hold onto it when the economy turns-or when the water rises. In the 1970s and 1980s, building a loan portfolio in communities with limited credit history drew considerable scrutiny from competitors and examiners trained on conventional underwriting. Liberty started modestly-operating out of a double-wide trailer in a historic Black neighborhood — but its solid foundations endured the 1987 stock market crash, the late-1980s Louisiana oil bust, the U.S. savings and loan crisis and the housing crisis of the mid-2000s. Everything changed in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina flooded our facilities and scattered our employees and customers across the Gulf Coast region.
This new challenge demanded that we adopt new ways of working embracing agility, innovation, and resilience-while renewing our commitment to rebuild stronger and better than before.
5th Annual Chicago Culture Ball To Honor Bro. Jason T. Mercer With 2026 Leadership Award At Obama Presidential Center
The Chicago Culture Ball is where the visionaries, creators, and leaders shifting the paradigm get their flowers. This is more than a gala it’s where legacy is cemented and the future is sparked.
With nearly two decades of experience across finance, investing, strategy, and mergers and acquisitions, Cleveland Avenue's Jason Mercer has built a career helping businesses grow with intention and long-term vision.
His journey spans financial institutions and multinational public companies. Over the last decade, he has focused on investing in and advising businesses across the food and beverage industry, bringing together capital, strategy, and execution to help companies scale.
Whether in the boardroom or behind the scenes, Jason’s leadership has helped shape businesses built to last. We honor him August 15th at the Obama Presidential Center.
Dr. Alfred R. Watkins Joins The AUCC As Senior Director Of STEM-Social Sciences (STEM-S) And Data Science Initiatives
The Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Alfred Watkins as its new Senior Director of STEM-S and Data Science Initiatives. Dr. Watkins brings a wealth of experience spanning science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and data-driven strategy, positioning AUCC to expand its leadership in innovation, education, and workforce development. A recognized leader in STEM education and workforce development, data science strategy and implementation, innovation ecosystems, and emerging technologies, Dr. Watkins has spent his career working at the intersection of policy, education, and industry — helping organizations build sustainable, future-focused programs that strengthen technological capacity and talent pipelines through public-private partnerships that drive economic growth.
In his new role, Dr. Watkins will lead the strategic development of AUCC's STEM-S (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Social Sciences) initiatives, oversee the expansion of data science programs across member institutions, and guide the growth of the Data Science Initiative into a full-fledged Institute. He will also foster partnerships with industry, government, and academic stakeholders, drive innovation in curriculum design and experiential learning, and support workforce readiness in high-demand technical fields.
Dr. Watkins' appointment marks a pivotal moment for AUCC as it advances its mission to enhance access to high-quality STEM education and promote interdisciplinary collaboration across its member institutions. His leadership is expected to support transformative programs that prepare students for success in an increasingly data-centric global economy, positioning AUCC to expand its footprint in STEM-S innovation, strengthen data science education and applied research, build stronger interdisciplinary and cross-sector partnerships, and drive measurable impact in student success and workforce development. The AUCC warmly welcomes Dr. Watkins and looks forward to the impact of his leadership in advancing its mission and strategic goals.
First-term GLAMAA President Bro. Robert L. Cole Launches B.E.E.A.M. Awards With Los Angeles Scholarship Luncheon
APCAA Staff
The Greater Los Angeles Morehouse Alumni Association (GLAMAA) hosted its 2026 B.E.E.A.M. Awards Luncheon on June 27, 2026, at the Los Angeles Marriott. The event, themed "Tomorrow's Leaders Today," celebrates Black excellence and supports the development of Morehouse students through scholarship, mentorship, and alumni engagement. The awards ceremony raised $108K+ and recognized several individuals for their contributions to their respective fields and communities:
Business Award: Anwar Daniels '04, Founder and CEO of Flowt.
Entertainment Award: Hon. Kevin Ross '85, television personality and judge.
Advocacy Award: Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson '95, President of the Los Angeles City Council.
Education Award (Posthumous): Kenneth Brown '91, aerospace engineer and educator.
Medicine Award: James E. T. Jackson '85, CEO of Alameda Health System.
Brother of the Year Award: Dr. Maurice Hale '86, interventional cardiologist and founder of Diagnostic Imaging Network.
B.E.E.A.M. Trailblazer Award: Dr. Lawrence Carter, distinguished educator and former Dean of the Martin L. King, Jr. Chapel.
Event Leadership and Support: The luncheon was led by GLAMAA President Robert L. Cole, Jr., with Brooke Thomas serving as the Emcee. Rev. Dr. Seth W. Pickens provided the invocation.
APCAA Acquires Bro. Johnie Macon Floyd Archival Collection, Preserving Rare 1947 Alpha Rho Chapter Initiatory Banquet Program
APCAA Staff
APCAA has secured the archival holdings of Bro. Johnie Macon Floyd, a collection highlighted by an original companion Initiatory Banquet program connected to the iconic chapter photograph taken on Monday, March 10, 1947. The historic image was captured in the Graham Jackson Room at Frazier's Cafe Society, located at 880 Hunter Street, S.W., in Atlanta, Georgia, and remains a significant visual record of the era, offering a rare and tangible link to a defining moment in the fraternity's history.
Bro. Floyd's own story is one of remarkable achievement long before his connection to this historic archive. A 1945 graduate of Bristol (CT) High School, he distinguished himself early as a gifted athlete, competing in scholastic football and earning recognition as his league's quarter-mile champion in track. He carried that excellence forward to Morehouse College, where he served as team captain during his senior year, captured numerous individual race victories, and anchored a mile relay team that remained unbeaten across three seasons.
Following his collegiate career, Bro. Floyd turned his talents toward coaching and mentorship, guiding numerous league championship teams alongside Jim Bates at Greene-Hills School in both basketball and baseball. He went on to coach Little League and became a beloved cross-country coach at Bristol Eastern during the 1960s, leading the program to a state championship in 1967 and three separate undefeated dual-meet seasons. Through the preservation of his archival collection, APCAA honors not only a pivotal piece of fraternity history but also the enduring legacy of a dedicated athlete, coach, and educator.
Bro. Mikal E. Driver Honored as 2026 Atlanta Changemaker By The Atlanta Hawks And Be The People
APCAA Staff
Bro. Mikal E. Driver has been named a 2026 Atlanta Changemaker by The Atlanta Hawks and Be The People, an honor recognizing individuals whose work is making a tangible difference in the Atlanta community. The recognition celebrates leaders who are reshaping the city's future through innovation, education, and civic impact, and Driver's selection reflects the meaningful contributions he has made in the areas of learning, development, and community empowerment.
Driver is Co-Founder of Motion & Method, an organization dedicated to advancing purposeful growth and impact-driven work within the Atlanta community. Alongside this venture, he also co-founded Prodigious Academy: Advanced Learning & Character Development, Inc., an initiative focused on cultivating academic excellence and strong character in the young people it serves. Through both organizations, Driver has demonstrated a consistent commitment to building pathways for growth, education, and opportunity for the next generation of leaders.
By honoring Driver as a Changemaker, The Atlanta Hawks and Be The People are spotlighting the kind of grassroots leadership that strengthens communities from the ground up. His work bridging character development with advanced learning underscores a holistic approach to youth empowerment, one that extends far beyond the classroom. As he continues to grow the reach and impact of Motion & Method and Prodigious Academy, Bro. Driver stands as a testament to the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and community investment in Atlanta.
Bro. Darian O. Nwankwo Honored With Human Performance & Scientific Innovation Award At AI Next Awards & Conference 2026
Darian Nwankwo is a computational scientist, entrepreneur, and innovator working at the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, optimization, and human performance technologies. As a PhD candidate in Computer Science at Cornell University, Darian is dedicated to applying advanced machine learning systems and Bayesian optimization techniques to solve real-world human performance challenges. This academic foundation informs every aspect of their entrepreneurial work, bridging rigorous computational research with practical, real-world impact.
As Founder & CEO of TechnicallyFit LLC, Darian is building intelligent systems that transform wearable data and user feedback into highly personalized training and recovery programs. Through a powerful AI-driven infrastructure, TechnicallyFit is helping redefine how individuals and teams optimize performance, recovery, and long-term wellness using evidence-based technology. At the core of this innovation is the company's proprietary "HeartCore Engine," an advanced intelligence layer designed to convert physiological signals and behavioral insights into actionable recommendations. By combining coaching expertise with machine learning and optimization systems, the platform delivers adaptive and scalable performance guidance tailored to each user's needs.
Darian's work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, physiology, optimization science, and wearable technology, with a mission to make elite-level performance guidance more accessible, intelligent, and measurable through technology-driven personalization. With experience spanning both academia and industry, Darian has built a reputation for translating rigorous computational research into impactful real-world applications. Their leadership reflects a growing movement toward AI-powered health, wellness, and human performance ecosystems that prioritize adaptability, personalization, and measurable outcomes.
Beyond technical innovation, Darian is passionate about collaborating with future-focused leaders and organizations shaping the next generation of impact-driven businesses. Their participation at the AI Next Awards & Conference highlights the increasing role of AI in advancing human capability, scientific discovery, and performance optimization. The conference celebrates pioneers like Darian Nwankwo who are leveraging artificial intelligence and scientific innovation to create transformative technologies that improve lives and shape the future of human performance.
Alpha Rho Chapter's Second Unofficial Fraternity House Still Stands And Will Soon Host Today's Brotherhood
APCAA Staff
A remarkable historical discovery has revealed a direct connection between the college-era home of legendary Atlanta physician Dr. Asa Greenwood Yancey Sr. and the first unofficial home of the Alpha Rho Chapter. The original Yancey family home, once addressed at 676 Beckwith Street and now located at 676 Thomas W. Cole, Jr. Drive SW on the campus of Clark Atlanta University, sits just three blocks from the site of the Alpha Rho Chapter's 90th Anniversary Memorial Obelisk—a location identified by charter member Bro. Henry J.C. Bowden as the traditional meeting site where chapter brothers gathered before processing to an off-campus meeting location.
The home's significance runs deeper than mere proximity. It was, in fact, the college-era residence of Dr. Yancey, who was initiated into the fraternity in the Spring of 1935 and would go on to become one of Atlanta's most noted physicians. During his time as a student, the Yancey home served not only as his personal residence but also as a gathering place for various chapter meetings and events throughout the 1930s, making it an integral part of Alpha Rho's early institutional life.
This discovery paints a vivid picture of the chapter's formative years, when brothers would convene at the traditional meeting site near what is now the Memorial Obelisk before making their way to the nearby Yancey home for meetings and fellowship. The close geographic relationship between these two historically significant locations underscores how deeply woven the chapter's early activities were into the physical and social fabric of the surrounding community, with just a few blocks separating the site of formal commemoration from the informal hearth of brotherhood.
Today, the former Yancey home carries on its legacy of service in a new form, serving as the headquarters of the Conference of National Black Churches. This continuity of purpose—from a college student's family home and fraternal gathering place to a hub of faith-based leadership—adds a fitting new chapter to the property's storied history.
The unearthing of this connection adds a rich new layer to the legacy of both Dr. Yancey and the Alpha Rho Chapter, illustrating how the personal and the fraternal were intertwined from the organization's earliest days. As the chapter continues to honor its history through markers like the 90th Anniversary Memorial Obelisk, this discovery serves as a powerful reminder that the roots of brotherhood often run through the everyday spaces—like a family home on Beckwith Street—that quietly shaped generations of leaders.
Alpha Rho Chapter's Spring 1982's Reviviscent 9 Reunites in Washington, D.C. to Mark 47th Anniversary
APCAA Staff
The Spring 1982 line, known as the Reviviscent 9, gathered in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the 47th anniversary of their initiation, a milestone reunion filled with brotherhood, reflection, and remembrance. The eight surviving members of the line came together to honor decades of friendship and shared legacy, using the occasion to reconnect and reaffirm the bonds forged nearly five decades ago. The reunion stood as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of their brotherhood over the years.
A highlight of the weekend was a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, where the brothers paused to reflect on Dr. King's legacy and its connection to their own journey of service and leadership. Standing together at the memorial offered a meaningful moment of unity for the line, tying their personal history of brotherhood to the broader legacy of civil rights leadership that continues to inspire generations. The line also took time to honor the memory of their brother, Christopher J. Richardson, who passed away in 1997 and remains an integral part of the Reviviscent 9's story.
The full Spring 1982 Reviviscent 9 line includes: Russell Isham Buchanan, Rollie Howling Farthing, Stanley B. Mosby, Daniel Daugherty, Brent G. Bailey, Harry E. Gillespie, Terrance L. Jeter, Darryl Raymonde Harris, and the late Christopher J. Richardson. Forty-seven years after their initiation, the bonds forged by these nine men continue to stand strong, with this reunion serving as a reminder of the lifelong brotherhood that defines their shared legacy.
Bro. Kito A. Lord Honored For Men's Health Month: A Message Of Movement, Mindfulness, And Community
Today, we honor Dr. Kito Lord, MD, MBA at Regional One Health, University of Tennessee Health Science Center!
What song, quote, or motto keeps you motivated? “A Long Walk” by Jill Scott keeps me motivated. It reminds me that wellness does not always have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with movement, meaningful conversation, and making time for the people who help keep us grounded.”
From your perspective, what does Men’s Health Month mean to you, and why is raising awareness around men’s health important? “Men’s Health Month is an important reminder that health is more than just physical. It includes mental, emotional, and personal well-being. It is a time to remind men not to overlook symptoms, delay checkups, or avoid conversations about how they are really doing. Raising awareness helps normalize preventive care and honest conversations so men can live longer, healthier lives and be present for the people they love.”
What message, advice, or words of encouragement would you share with men regarding prioritizing their health, wellness, leadership, or personal well-being? "Be honest with yourself about where you are, then focus on small, realistic steps toward where you want to be. It is easy to compare yourself to others or feel like you should already be further along, but progress usually happens one step at a time. Enjoy the process. Find habits, hobbies, friends, and family that support the version of yourself you are trying to become, because health is better built in community than in isolation.”
Thank you Dr. Lord, for sharing your insight, encouragement, and perspective as we recognize Men’s Health Month and the importance of prioritizing wellness, leadership, and personal well-being.
Morehouse College Celebrates 142nd Commencement: 13 Chapter Brothers Graduate As Chris Paul Delivers Keynote Address
APCAA Staff
Morehouse College held its 142nd Commencement Exercises on Sunday, May 17, 2026, on the College's Century Campus, celebrating a graduating class of 578 young men stepping into the next chapter of their lives. Among the graduates were 13 Brothers of the chapter, whose achievement added a special layer of pride to an already momentous day for the fraternity and the broader Morehouse community. The ceremony capped off a full weekend of commencement and reunion activities that began May 14, drawing thousands of alumni, family members, and friends back to the historic campus.
The day's keynote address was delivered by 12-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympian Chris Paul, who has never needed a basketball court to make an impact, and on commencement day proved it once again. Paul, who completed his own degree at Winston-Salem State University after beginning his collegiate career at Wake Forest, used his address to connect his journey as an HBCU graduate to the path now ahead of the Class of 2026. In addition to his keynote, Paul received an honorary doctorate of humane letters, joining a distinguished group of past speakers who have included presidents, civil activists, and other accomplished leaders.
Paul was not the only honoree recognized that day. Chris Womack, chairman, president, and CEO of Southern Company, received an honorary degree in recognition of his corporate leadership and his company's $50 million HBCU initiative supporting scholarships and technology access across six states. The ceremony also paid tribute to the Rev. Dr. Lawrence Edward Carter Sr., founding dean of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, who is retiring this summer after 47 years of service to the College. Carter's recognition drew one of the ceremony's longest standing ovations, a fitting send-off for a man who was personally recruited to Morehouse by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. himself.
The Rev. Dr. Winford Kennadean Rice Jr., a 2014 Morehouse graduate and senior pastor of Beulah Baptist Church in Atlanta, delivered the baccalaureate address earlier in the weekend, offering graduates a message rooted in his own journey from Morehouse man to community faith leader. His remarks set a reflective tone heading into the main commencement ceremony, reminding graduates of the values instilled in them throughout their time on campus.
This year's commencement carried added significance as the first presided over by Morehouse's newly inaugurated 13th president, Dr. F. DuBois Bowman. Bowman, reflecting on the resilience required to reach graduation day, told the graduates that Morehouse is a mountain — not just any mountain, but one comparable to Kilimanjaro, requiring endurance, grit, patience, and persistence to climb. Having been inaugurated only months earlier, Bowman's leadership marked a full-circle moment for the College, as he returned to lead his alma mater into its next era.
The commencement weekend doubled as Alumni Reunion Weekend, with milestone classes returning to campus to reconnect and celebrate. Fraternity brothers marking reunion years ending in 1 and 6 gathered for a full slate of activities, including receptions, campus tours, and opportunities to reconnect with line brothers and classmates across generations. For the 13 chapter Brothers crossing the stage as new graduates, the presence of these returning alumni offered a living reminder of the brotherhood they were now formally joining as Morehouse Men.
As the ceremony drew to a close and diplomas were conferred, the Class of 2026 — chapter Brothers included — left Century Campus carrying forward the legacy of leadership, service, and excellence that has defined Morehouse College for nearly a century and a half. The weekend's blend of celebration, honor, and reunion underscored the enduring strength of the Morehouse bond, one that stretches from the newest graduates to alumni who first walked the campus decades ago.
Class Of 2016 Morehouse College Alumni Impactful Service Award Presented To Bro. Austin C. Easterling
APCAA Staff
Bro. Austin C. Easterling, an Assistant Director and Product Strategist at Moody's Analytics, was honored with the Class of 2016 Impactful Service Award during Morehouse College's Reunion Weekend, recognizing his dedication to service and his continued commitment to the values instilled during his time on campus. The award celebrates alumni whose professional achievements and community contributions reflect the highest ideals of the Morehouse legacy, and Easterling's selection speaks to the impact he has made both within his industry and beyond it.
The award was presented by Bro. Henry M. Goodgame, Morehouse's Vice President of External Relations and Alumni Engagement and reunion chairman for the Class of 2016, who highlighted Easterling's achievements as emblematic of the class's collective impact a decade after graduation. As Easterling continues to build his career in financial technology and strategy at Moody's Analytics, his recognition serves as a reminder of the lasting influence Morehouse alumni carry into their professional lives, and the ongoing bond that connects classmates long after they leave campus.
Profile: From Wolf Of Wall Street Dreams To Building His Own Venture: Bro. Michael L. Lomax's Entrepreneurial Journey
Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Lomax.
Hi Michael, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I had always wanted to be an entrepreneur since I was a kid. I grew up inspired by business, ambition, and culture. One movie that really stuck with me was The Wolf of Wall Street. Beyond the lifestyle, what resonated with me was the energy, the belief in building something bigger than yourself, and creating momentum around an idea.
As a graduate of Morehouse College, my options coming out of school felt limited at first. I took an opportunity with Sherwin-Williams in a rotational leadership management program. That role moved me from Atlanta to Nashville, then Arkansas, and eventually Dallas. For nearly two years, I was mixing paint, learning operations, customer service, leadership, and sales from the ground up.
Eventually, I transitioned into a sales role at another company here in Dallas, and for the first time, I felt like I was surrounded by what I imagined the “Dallas sales elite” looked like. The office had this fast-paced energy — people on treadmills while working, shouting across cubicles, competing, closing deals. It honestly reminded me of scenes from The Wolf of Wall Street. I remember even winning a free iPad through a sales competition, and moments like that made me realize I understood business more than I had given myself credit for.
Still, I knew I wanted to build something of my own.
Meet The 2026 Kansas City Star Summer Intern Class
By Hannah Wise www.kansascity.com
The Kansas City Star is proud to announce our 2026 summer intern class. Many of the students selected for our internship program come to us with local ties to the Kansas City area.
The paid journalism positions include breaking news coverage, local government reporting, sports reporting, visual journalism, and audience engagement. Our 10-person intern class was selected from more than 230 applicants. Three of our interns join us through specialized programs: McClatchy’s HBCU News Internship, the Ida B. Wells Society Investigative Internship and the Sports Journalism Institute Internship.
Freddrell Green is a rising senior journalism major on the social justice track with a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation at Morehouse College. He is a native of Athens, Georgia. This summer, he will be interning with The Kansas City Star as an Ida B. Wells Society Investigative Fellow.
On campus, Freddrell serves as the managing editor of the Maroon Tiger. He is a Center for Black Entrepreneurship Scholar and the president of the Morehouse College Association of Black Journalists. Off campus, he hosted and produced the Education Matters radio show and wrote for the Atlanta Voice.
Freddrell’s ultimate passion lies at the intersection of mass media and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Greenlit Media, an independent media company that creates human-interest content for African American audiences in Northeast Georgia. Its mantra is to “put the story where the goats can get it.” Freddrell hopes that Greenlit Media can grow into the leading African American multimedia conglomerate to serve as both a network for original content and an agency for custom content services.
Bro. Robert Newman III Named To Americans For The Arts (AFTA) Executive Committee
We are proud to announce that Bro. Robert Newman III has been appointed to the Executive Committee of the Americans for the Arts (AFTA) Board, joining new Board Chair Kristina Newman-Scott and fellow Executive Committee members Marc Folk and Theo Edmonds in this new chapter of leadership. Bro. Newman steps into this role as a trusted voice at a pivotal moment for the arts and culture sector nationwide, and his appointment reflects the confidence placed in his leadership and vision as AFTA charts its path forward.
Bro. Newman currently serves as Director & Lead Curator for Artfullwalls Fine Art Gallery, where his curatorial expertise and passion for the arts have helped shape meaningful cultural experiences within the gallery community. That deep, hands-on knowledge of the arts landscape makes him a natural fit for this new leadership role at AFTA.
With Bro. Newman now part of this new leadership team, AFTA is well-positioned to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead. We are proud to see him take on this expanded role and are ready for what's next.
Bro. Kenneth A. Williams Joins Employer Engagement Roundtable Hosted By World Business Chicago And City Of Chicago
APCAA Staff
Bro. Kenneth A. Williams, Senior Director, Public Sector at Guild, participated in an Employer Engagement Roundtable hosted by World Business Chicago and the City of Chicago, joining more than 40 employers and ecosystem partners to explore collaborative strategies for addressing talent needs in an increasingly fast-changing environment. The roundtable brought together key stakeholders from across sectors to grapple with one of the most pressing workforce challenges of the moment: how to prepare Chicago's labor market for the accelerating pace of AI-driven change.
The discussion highlighted a striking disconnect in the current landscape. While 58% of workers displaced by AI have had to pivot to entirely new occupations, only 16% of employers are currently utilizing their existing education benefits to prepare their workforce for AI readiness. Williams and fellow participants examined how this gap between employer resources and actual workforce preparation is playing out across Chicago's economy, underscoring the urgency of translating awareness into action.
Despite these uncertainties, the roundtable identified several actionable steps employers can take today. Williams emphasized that employers already possess many of the tools needed to build resilient career pathways, including education benefits, incumbent worker training, and internal mobility programs, but the real challenge lies in redirecting these existing resources toward future needs.
Discussions also underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration, braiding funding sources such as incumbent worker training, WIOA, education benefits, and philanthropic capital to transform isolated programs into collective outcomes for Chicago's workforce. Participants agreed that AI literacy must be woven into everyday work processes rather than treated as a standalone skill, noting that successful adoption depends on genuine behavior change, not training modules alone.
Bro. Justin M. Rhim Serves As Panelist At Greater Baltimore Urban League Business Summit
APCAA Staff
Bro. Justin Rhim participated as a panelist at the Greater Baltimore Urban League (GBUL) Business Summit, joining the "Building Baltimore's Future: State & Local Contracting Opportunities" panel to discuss pathways to access, development, and equitable growth across the city. Rhim brought his expertise as Director of Program Engagement for Laisar Management Group, where he is currently subcontracting as Project Manager of Workforce Development and Community Outreach for Clark/Stacy Witbeck (CSW) on the B&P Tunnel Replacement project, one of Baltimore's most significant infrastructure initiatives.
As a Director at a company known for designing and managing high-performing supplier diversity programs, Rhim brought a wealth of insight to the panel, drawing on his work building the systems, relationships, and reporting that transform inclusion commitments into verified outcomes and competitive advantage. His participation in the Business Summit reflects his ongoing commitment to advancing equitable growth in Baltimore, and offered fellow leaders valuable perspective on the intersection of workforce development, contracting opportunity, and community impact.
Bro. Wesley L. White Serves As Guest Speaker At Cornell Tech
APCAA Staff
Bro. Wesley L. White, a Partner at Orrick and an experienced IP trial and tech attorney operating at the intersection of law, technology, and finance, returned to the classroom at Cornell Tech as a guest teacher for Mark Alan Underberg's "Entrepreneurial Law for Non-Lawyers" course. The course introduces students to the principal legal issues involved in starting, managing, and operating a technology-oriented business, and White spent the morning covering intellectual property issues facing startups and entrepreneurs.
White's guest appearance gave students a firsthand look at the practical IP challenges technology founders face as they build and scale their businesses, drawing on his own experience navigating complex legal issues at the crossroads of law, technology, and finance. He described the experience as rewarding, noting the group's engagement and the insightful questions raised throughout the session, a testament to both the strength of Cornell Tech's program and White's ability to make complex legal concepts accessible to non-lawyers.
Bro. Milliard J. Collier Participates In "Ask A D9 Doctor" Panel Discussion At Sundresses & Seersuckers XV
APCAA Staff
Bro. Milliard J. Collier joined a distinguished group of Southeastern Region Jack and Jill moms and dads as a panelist for the "Ask A D9 Doctor" Panel Discussion, sponsored by the Annual Sundresses & Seersuckers XV Event on April 11, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. The panel brought together members of Jack and Jill and the Divine Nine on the same stage, offering a wonderful display of excellence and collaboration across organizations united by a shared commitment to service.
The free event provided attendees with a safe space to receive honest, expert insight on topics ranging from preventative care to mental wellness, giving families direct access to trusted voices within their own community. Bro. Collier's participation on the panel reflects his continued dedication to health education and community service, and stands as a testament to the impact that comes when organizations like Jack and Jill and the Divine Nine come together in service of a common purpose.
Bro. Mario D. Ball Serves As Guest Speaker For JCHS Baccalaureate Service
APCAA Staff
Bro. Mario D. Ball served as guest speaker for the JCHS Baccalaureate Service, hosted by the Ball-Watson Community Engagement Foundation, on Sunday, May 17. The service honored the graduating Class of 2026, offering students a meaningful send-off as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives beyond high school.
Ball currently serves as Area Vice President of Sales for WATCHMAN, Electrophysiology, and Cardiac Rhythm Management at Boston Scientific, bringing a wealth of professional leadership and industry expertise to his remarks. His address offered the graduating class insight drawn from his own career journey, and his involvement with the Ball-Watson Community Engagement Foundation reflects his continued commitment to investing in the next generation as they celebrate this milestone achievement.
Social Venture Network Welcomes Bro. Vincent F. Ferguson To Annual Gathering — A Revival
Bro. Vincent Ferguson, known widely as "VFerg," will serve as a Conversation Catalyst at Social Venture Network's Annual Gathering — A REVIVAL — this June in Santa Fe, joining some of the most courageous, values-driven business leaders across the country for three days of connection and dialogue. Ferguson's return to SVN marks a full-circle moment: his first experience with the organization came as a performer with his band, Cuzins the Band, using live music and creative facilitation to build community and help attendees navigate difficult conversations together. This time, he steps into the role of speaker, exploring the intersection of arts, education, and technology from June 17th through 19th.
A Morehouse College graduate and alumnus of Harvard's Graduate School of Education, Ferguson brings a rare blend of business acumen and creative vision to his work. After beginning his career on Wall Street, he transitioned into transformational facilitation, specializing in social-emotional learning, cultural storytelling, and immersive creative experiences. He is the founder of Amplify the Human, a global initiative that uses music, storytelling, and emerging technology to help educators, artists, and organizations reimagine learning and human connection in the AI era, as well as Higher Level Music, a venture that has amassed millions of streams globally. He also serves as Chief Disruption Officer at Indigo Productions, one of New York City's leading media studios.
Ferguson's creative and educational partnerships span major organizations including Marvel, Disney, Microsoft, Netflix, and Building Beats, alongside his consulting work with Langston League to design culturally relevant music curricula for underserved students and his mentorship with Carnegie Hall's Future Music Project. Originally from Evans, Georgia, and now based in The Bronx, Ferguson has built a career fully expressed at the intersection of expression, equity, and scale. His return to Santa Fe as a Conversation Catalyst reflects the continued impact of his work bridging business, education, and the arts, and promises to bring fresh insight to SVN's community of mission-driven leaders.
Bro. Zack "Holliwood" Bond Kicks Off Guala Fireside Chat Series: World Cup Edition
APCAA Staff
Bro. Zack "Holliwood" Bond, founder of Audio Attire, headlined the launch of the Guala Fireside Chat Series: World Cup Edition, a summer series spotlighting the brand owners making moves in Atlanta. The June 23rd event brought together intimate conversation, an exclusive restock, good drinks, and good people, kicking off a series built around real community and the entrepreneurs shaping the city's culture.
Bond, who also serves as Executive Assistant for Usher Raymond IV's How You Hear It Inc., brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial vision and industry experience to the conversation as founder of Audio Attire. As the inaugural guest of the series, Bond's fireside chat offers attendees a rare, up-close look at the journey behind his brand, setting the tone for a summer of authentic conversations with Atlanta's rising business leaders.
Bro. Scott R. Ellison Honored As Father Of The Year By Morehouse College Houston Alumni Chapter
APCAA Staff
Bro. Scott R. Ellison was honored by the Morehouse Houston Alumni Chapter as Father of the Year on June 20th, a special recognition made even more meaningful by the fact that he was nominated by his nephew, Vaughn Poole, a Houston resident and proud Man of the House. The honor celebrates Ellison's dedication to fatherhood and family, values deeply woven into the Morehouse legacy of leadership and service that extends well beyond the classroom.
The event was filled with memorable moments, including the introduction of Ellison and Poole by the Honorable Keith Jackson, a close friend, fellow Morehouse Brother, and father-in-arms who has walked alongside Ellison in raising their sons together. That bond of brotherhood added a personal and heartfelt dimension to the evening, reflecting the kind of lifelong connections Morehouse fosters among its alumni and their families.
Ellison currently serves as Director of Operations and Business Development at Dai Technologies Corporation, where his professional leadership mirrors the same commitment to excellence he brings to his role as a father. He is the proud father of a recent Phi Beta Kappa graduate and another son set to begin his undergraduate studies at Morehouse College, continuing a family legacy rooted in the institution's tradition of academic excellence. Ellison's Father of the Year honor stands as a fitting tribute to a man whose impact reaches from his own household to the broader Morehouse brotherhood.
Bro. Kennard L. Garrett Honored With Mentorship Award By Atlanta Morehouse College Alumni Association
APCAA Staff
Bro. Kennard Garrett has been honored with the Mentorship Award by the Atlanta Morehouse College Alumni Association, recognizing his sustained commitment to guiding and developing the next generation of Morehouse Men. The award celebrates alumni whose influence extends beyond their own professional accomplishments to the mentorship and investment they pour into others, and Garrett's selection reflects the deep impact he has made on students and colleagues throughout his career at the College and beyond.
Garrett currently serves as Director of Multimedia at Morehouse College's Ray Charles Performing Arts Center, where he plays a central role in shaping the creative and technical development of the institution's artistic programs. He is also CEO of PACE Recordings, further extending his influence as a producer and creative entrepreneur. An award-winning, Emmy-nominated producer, musician, arranger, educator, and app developer, Garrett brings a rare combination of artistic mastery and technical innovation to everything he touches, qualities that have shaped his approach to mentoring emerging talent.
Garrett's multifaceted career, spanning music production, education, and technology, has positioned him as a trusted guide for students and young professionals navigating the creative industries. His Mentorship Award is a fitting recognition of a career built not only on individual achievement, but on the deliberate and consistent investment he has made in others, a legacy that continues to shape the Morehouse community and beyond.
Maroon Tiger Newspaper Honors Alpha Rho Morehouse Men And Miss Maroon & White With 2026 "Man Of The Year" Awards
Bro. Isaiah Christopher Evans I Phyrric 14 I Spring 2025 I APID No. 1435, Bro. Noah Dean Cathey I Tenacious 19 I Spring 2026 I APID No. 1453, and Bro. Sheik Amad Kante I Tenacious 19 I Spring 2026 I APID No. 1454
APCAA Staff
The Morehouse College Maroon Tiger Newspaper honored a distinguished group of student leaders at its 2026 "Man of the Year" Awards, recognizing undergraduate Brothers Isaiah Evans in "The Establishment" category and Sheik Kante and Noah Cathey in "The New Guard" category. The awards celebrate students whose leadership, character, and contributions to campus life exemplify the values and legacy of Morehouse College, honoring both established leaders and rising voices shaping the institution's future.
Evans' recognition in "The Establishment" category reflects his standing as a seasoned campus leader whose influence and impact have been felt across the Morehouse community throughout his time on campus. Kante and Cathey, honored in "The New Guard" category, represent the next wave of student leadership stepping into prominence, signaling the continued strength and depth of leadership emerging from the current student body. Together, the three honorees embody the full spectrum of leadership that defines the Morehouse experience, from established influence to rising promise.
The celebration also extended across the Atlanta University Center, honoring 2025-26 Miss Maroon & White Stoney McKnight, a graduating Spelman College senior who also served as the 2024-25 Alpha Rho Chapter Miss Black & Gold. McKnight's dual recognition highlights the strong bonds of partnership and shared purpose between Morehouse and Spelman, as well as her own record of leadership and service across both campuses.
As these honorees close out this chapter of their collegiate journeys, their recognition by the Maroon Tiger stands as a lasting testament to the leadership and legacy they've built within the Morehouse and Atlanta University Center community.
Promotions, Start-Ups & Highlights
Bro. Alex Harris, Preeminent 19, Spring ’18, Jewel, recently participated in a mutual aid trip to Havana and Sorora, Cuba with ReglaSOUL’s Farming and Sustainability Program. The experience allowed him to deepen his understanding of food sovereignty, sustainable agriculture, and Afro-Cuban history while working alongside farmers and visiting both urban and rural agricultural projects.
As a chef and food storyteller, Bro. Harris used the journey to further explore the relationship between land, culture, and nourishment. Through engagement with activists, educators, and
community leaders, he gained deeper insight into the intersections of race, sustainability, and economic empowerment. The trip strengthened his connection to the African diaspora and
reinforced his commitment to using food as a vehicle for education, storytelling, and community transformation. [APID No. 1332]
Bro. Stephen Fisher, Prodigious 17, Spring ’15, Line No. 13, recently graduated from the University of Michigan Stephen M. Ross School of Business with a Master of Business
Administration. As one of the nation’s top business schools, Michigan Ross is recognized for developing leaders who are prepared to drive innovation, strategy, and impact across industries.
Following this achievement, Bro. Fisher will begin working in a marketing and strategy role in the New Y ork metropolitan area. His accomplishment reflects a continued commitment to
professional excellence, leadership, and purposeful growth, and he stands as a strong example of
the talent and ambition represented within the brotherhood. [APID No. 1297]
Bro. Ernest Holmes, Preeminent 19, Spring ’18, Line No. 10, was recently published twice within the last month, contributing to important conversations at the intersection of artificial
intelligence, education, and workforce development. His first publication was with the Digital Education Council in collaboration with Google.org, where he co-authored a report titled The
AI Skills Opportunity Map, examining how AI is affecting skills across the modern workforce.
Bro. Holmes also contributed to a second publication through the International Computing Education Research Conference. The study, titled Measuring Student Self-Efficacy for
Programming with Generative AI, explores the development of an instrument to measure
students’ confidence and comprehension in both computer science and AI skills within an AI-integrated introductory computer science course. Through this work, Bro. Holmes continues to demonstrate scholarly excellence, innovation, and leadership in shaping how emerging technologies are understood and taught. [APID No. 1335]
Bro. Alex Jackson, Preeminent 19, Spring 2018, Line No. 12, has been accepted into Harvard
Divinity School’s Master of Divinity program as a member of the Class of 2029. This fall, he will move to Boston to begin his studies at one of the world’s leading institutions for theological education, religious scholarship, and public leadership.
Bro. Jackson’s academic focus will center on Christianity at the intersection of culture and
commerce, exploring how faith, community, and institutional life engage with broader social and
economic systems. His acceptance into Harvard Divinity School marks an extraordinary milestone and reflects his continued commitment to intellectual growth, spiritual leadership, and meaningful service. [APID No. 1337]
Bro. Jaylon Johnson, Novellus 18, Spring ’19, Line No. 15, recently graduated from Tufts
University School of Dental Medicine with a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. During his time at Tufts, he made history as the first African American to serve as Class President for all
four years, while also completing his preclinical requirements three months ahead of graduation.
His clinical excellence further earned him selection into a semester-long esthetic dentistry elective as one of the top clinical students in his class.
Following graduation, Bro. Johnson will pursue a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Dayton, Ohio, with future plans
of becoming a cosmetic dentist. Beyond the classroom and clinic, he also leveraged social media to build partnerships as a brand ambassador for companies including Waterpik, Orascoptic, Uniform Advantage, and Aspen Dental. His journey reflects leadership, discipline, innovation, and a powerful commitment to excellence in the field of dentistry. [APID No. 1359]
Bro. Aylon D. Gipson, Centennial 23, Spring 2024, Line No. 19, has announced that he will be attending the University of Virginia School of Law this fall, a milestone he credits to the unwavering support of his family, friends, mentors, and colleagues throughout the process. Gipson graduated from Morehouse College with a degree in Economics on a full academic and service-leadership scholarship, an achievement that laid the foundation for the many honors and opportunities that followed during his time on campus.
While at Morehouse, Gipson distinguished himself academically and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, in addition to being selected as a White House HBCU Scholar. Before beginning law school this fall, he spent two years as a Legal Analyst at Goldman Sachs and also worked as a Pre-Law Intern at Latham & Watkins, building a strong foundation in both finance and law. As he prepares to begin this next chapter at UVA Law, Gipson's journey stands as a testament to the caliber of leadership and academic excellence cultivated at Morehouse College. [APID No. 1430]
AP ON THE MOVE curated by Adjunct Editors Bro. David A. Smith (Spring 2024/APID No. 1423) and Jarod D. Harper (Spring 2018/APID No. 1341)
Bro. Elijah J. Bradley Wins 2026 Morehouse College Parents Council Scholarship Essay Award
APCAA Staff
Bro. Elijah J. Bradley has been named the winner of the 2026 Morehouse College Parents Council Scholarship essay competition, an honor that recognizes exceptional writing and reflection from students within the Morehouse community. The Parents Council Scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate not only strong academic promise but also a thoughtful, compelling voice, and Bradley's winning essay stood out among his peers for its depth and clarity.
This recognition adds to Bradley's growing list of accomplishments and reflects the kind of intellectual engagement and personal reflection that Morehouse College aims to cultivate in its students. The Parents Council's continued investment in scholarship opportunities like this one underscores the vital role families play in supporting the next generation of Morehouse Men, and Bradley's achievement stands as a proud moment for both himself and the broader Morehouse community.
Brothers Sean D. Holloway and Richard Makerson III Share Surprise First Meeting With Widow Of Pioneering Bro. Dr. Warner E. Meadows Jr. At Atlanta Ballet Gala
APCAA Staff
Brothers Sean D. Holloway and Richard Makerson III, both initiated Spring 2001, experienced a surprise and deeply meaningful first meeting with Mrs. Janet Meadows, widow of legendary Bro. Dr. Warner E. Meadows Jr. (Fall 1949), during the Atlanta Ballet Gala on April 11. The unexpected encounter brought together two generations of the fraternity's legacy, connecting current Brothers with the family of a man whose contributions to medicine and civil rights left a lasting mark on Atlanta and the broader Morehouse community.
Dr. Meadows, a Birmingham native, graduated from Morehouse College with a B.S. in Chemistry in 1952 before earning his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in 1956. He went on to become one of Atlanta's pioneering African American surgeons, a career defined by both medical excellence and a fierce commitment to breaking down barriers in the field. His life's work stood as a testament to the values instilled in him as a Morehouse Man and Brother of the fraternity, values that Holloway and Makerson recognized instantly in their conversation with Mrs. Meadows.
Among Dr. Meadows' most significant achievements was his partnership with Dr. Clinton E. Warner in co-founding the Atlanta Surgical Professional Association, the first African American incorporated group practice in the state of Georgia. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Meadows was also a dedicated advocate for civil rights within medicine, joining other prominent Black physicians across the South in the fight to desegregate hospitals and medical conferences. His willingness to challenge institutional barriers, even as he built a distinguished surgical career, cemented his legacy as a trailblazer whose impact extended far beyond the operating room.
For Holloway and Makerson, meeting Mrs. Meadows offered a rare and moving opportunity to connect directly with the family of a man whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Black physicians and Morehouse Brothers alike. Dr. Meadows, who passed away in 2004, remains remembered as one of the first Black surgeons in Atlanta, and this chance encounter at the Atlanta Ballet Gala served as a powerful reminder of how the bonds of brotherhood transcend time, connecting Brothers across decades to the enduring legacies of those who came before them.
Thomas Henry Randle Jr. peacefully departed this life on May 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of intellect, brotherhood, faith, and unwavering pride in the life he lived. Born on October 1, 1948, to Queenie Wright-Randle and Thomas Henry Randle Sr., Thomas was their cherished and devoted only child.
Raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Thomas developed a strong sense of identity and community from an early age. As a child, he was baptized at Union Hill Baptist Church, where his spiritual foundation was nurtured and remained with him throughout his life. Thomas excelled academically and went on to attend Morehouse College, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics in 1971. While at Morehouse, he was initiated into the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated in the fall of 1967, beginning a lifelong
commitment to the bonds of brotherhood and the fraternity’s mission of service. He was also known to be a mentor for young children at a local recreation center.
Known affectionately as a self-proclaimed “Spartan,” Thomas carried himself with determination, resilience, and pride. He valued education, fellowship, and meaningful connection, always bringing wisdom and character
to those fortunate enough to know him.
In his golden years, Thomas found joy, camaraderie, and community through communion with his family, as well as House 2 House Football Club, where he shared his love of fellowship and spirited conversation. When duty called he stepped up to take on role of caretaker for his mother, Queenie prior to her transition.
Thomas Henry Randle Jr. will be remembered for his thoughtful mind, steadfast spirit, deep-rooted faith, and the dignity with which he lived his life. Though he leaves this earthly home behind, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family of many cousins and friends.
Alpha Rho Chapter Brothers Join Cleveland's Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter To Honor Bro. Herman Edward Gregory Jr. In Omega Chapter Services
APCAA Staff
Brothers of the Alpha Rho Chapter joined members of Cleveland, Ohio's Delta Alpha Lambda chapter on June 10, 2026, to provide Omega Chapter services honoring Bro. Herman Edward Gregory, Alpha Rho's most recent oldest surviving initiate. The service stood as a solemn tribute to a brother whose life spanned decades of dedication to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and whose passing marked the closing of a remarkable chapter in the fraternity's history.
The ritual was led by DAL Chaplain Bro. Sam Dickerson, who was joined by Alpha Phi Brothers Audley Mackel III (Fall 1974) and Audley Mackel IV (Fall 2009), Sean M. Moss (Fall 1980), and Morehouse College Alpha Brother Michael Young. The presence of multiple generations of Brothers, including a father-and-son pairing in Mackel III and Mackel IV, underscored the enduring, generational bonds of brotherhood that Alpha Phi Alpha continues to cultivate, bonds that carried Bro. Gregory's legacy forward even in his final tribute.
Bro. Gregory was educated in the Cleveland Public School System and graduated from Glenville High School in 1944. He went on to attend Ohio State University before transferring to Morehouse College in 1946, where he was inducted into the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on October 26, 1946. His long life and decades-long standing as a Brother of Alpha Rho made him a living link to the chapter's earliest history, and his Omega Chapter service was a fitting final honor for a man whose journey from Cleveland to Morehouse helped shape the legacy so many Brothers now carry forward.
APCAA Quarterly Digest Certified By Executive Editor Bro. BMaynard Scarborough, Fall 1980 / APID No. 815
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