APCAA Summer 2026 Digest
This edition of the APCAA Digest features updates on 40 Brothers from the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and their professional developments, transitions, artistic pursuits, industry projects, awards, and recognitions.
The Summer 2026 Digest covers historic new acquisitions and the Grand Opening announcement for The Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection at AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library, the 2026 SpelHouse homecoming events and AP line anniversaries, and another 36 features.
APCAA Awards $20,000 In B.O.L.D. Scholarships To Incoming Morehouse Freshmen, Marking Five Consecutive Years Of Educational Excellence
Tri-Cities High School graduates Ryan Brown and Kenrique Jackson receive $10,000 scholarships as APCAA continues its commitment to investing in the next generation of Morehouse scholars.
APCAA Staff
The Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) proudly announced the selection of Ryan Brown and Kenrique Jackson, two graduates of Tri-Cities High School in East Point, Georgia, as recipients of its prestigious 2026–2027 B.O.L.D. Scholarships, awarding each incoming Morehouse College freshman $10,000 toward his college education. The combined $20,000 investment marked the fifth consecutive year that APCAA has fulfilled one of the signature scholarship commitments established in its organizational mission. Through this sustained initiative, the association continues to demonstrate that its dedication to educational advancement extends beyond the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., directly supporting promising young men as they begin their academic journeys at Morehouse College.
The scholarships were formally presented at the historic Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel on the Morehouse College campus by APCAA Chief Scholastic Officer Bro. Robert P. Williams, Deputy B.O.L.D. Officer Bro. Mikal E. Driver, and APCAA President and Founder Bro. BMaynard Scarborough. The occasion brought together the scholarship recipients and their parents for a celebration of academic promise, personal achievement, and the transformative opportunities associated with a Morehouse education. As fellow graduates of Tri-Cities High School, Brown and Jackson shared an especially meaningful distinction, having emerged from the same educational community to earn recognition through APCAA's competitive scholarship initiative.
Adding to the significance of the presentation was the presence of several distinguished Morehouse College and Alpha Phi Alpha leaders who welcomed the scholars and their families. Among those attending were Morehouse College Atlanta Alumni Association President Bro. Stephen P. Chester; former Eta Lambda Chapter President Bro. Avery D. Kenley; Morehouse College Vice President Bro. Henry M. Goodgame; and Morehouse Multimedia Director Bro. Kennard L. Garrett. Their participation underscored the strong network of institutional, alumni, and fraternal support available to the young scholars as they prepared to enter Morehouse for the 2026–2027 academic year.
For APCAA, the fifth consecutive year of B.O.L.D. Scholarship awards represented far more than a recurring financial contribution; it demonstrated the association's ability to translate its founding mission into measurable, sustained impact. The 2026–2027 awards further strengthened the association's record of investing in the future of Morehouse College while honoring Alpha Rho Chapter's century-long tradition of scholarship, achievement, and service. As Brown and Jackson begin their Morehouse journeys, they carry not only the distinction of being APCAA B.O.L.D. Scholars but also the encouragement of an alumni brotherhood committed to helping the next generation succeed.
On The 62nd Anniversary Of His Passing, Charter Member Bro. Dr. Rozier E. Bland’s Prized Artifact Finds Its Forever Home In The Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection At AUC Woodruff Library
After 26 years in his care, Intrepid 25’s Bro. Ahuacan D. DeGruy entrusts the treasured history book to AUC Woodruff Library, ahead of the collection’s 2026 grand opening.
APCAA Staff
Atlanta, GA, October 15, 2026 – Sixty-two years ago today, on October 15, 1964, Alpha Rho Chapter Charter Member Bro. Dr. Rozier Earl Bland passed on. Today, a prized artifact from his life has a permanent home, thanks to a brother who spent over 25 years making sure it was never lost.
Bro. Ahuacan D. DeGruy, the tail of Alpha Rho’s Spring 1999 line the Intrepid 25, has completed a brilliant legacy relay. He has selected the Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection at AUC Woodruff Library as the forever home for Bro. Bland's signed history book, which was acquired by DeGruy more than two and a half decades ago. He kept it in his personal care, showed it to brothers who visited his home, and most recently shared it with his son Bro. Jaden DeGruy, who crossed the burning sands himself at George Washington University's Nu Beta Chapter in the fall of 2025.
DeGruy’s devotion to the chapter’s legacy began during his undergraduate years, when he served as Alpha Rho’s chapter historian. He has long championed the archival acquisition strategy for both Alpha Rho Chapter and Alpha Phi Alpha history at large.
“This historical find has always been near and dear to me," he shared. As Chapter Historian, I remember researching our Chapter’s Charter Members, incessantly poring over the files housed in the Office of Alumni Relations. I wanted to ensure that, for future Alpha Rho Brothers, our 13 Charter Members weren’t simply names we memorized, but real people with real stories — Morehouse Men, our prophytes, who laid the foundation upon which we proudly stand today."
Remembering Captain Bland
A 1925 graduate of Morehouse College and Meharry Medical College, Captain Bland built a remarkable record in his profession. He left many connections in Memphis, Tennessee to serve his country in the U.S. Army Medical Corps. He later maintained a wide practice across the tri-state area and headed the city-controlled Wellington Clinic.
Bro. Bland was a former president of the Bluff City Medical Society and chairman of the insurance section of the National Medical Association. He was initiated into the fraternity by Atlanta’s Eta Lambda Chapter as a Morehouse undergraduate and held membership in Nashville’s Chi Chapter and Memphis’s Alpha Delta Lambda Chapter. He is interred at Green Lawn Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio.
A Campaign Built on Trust
DeGruy’s priceless gift is the latest result of a campaign launched in 2023 by the Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA).
“Bro. DeGruy has been a believer in this work from the very beginning,” said APCAA President and Archives Collection Founder Bro. BMaynard Scarborough (Fall 1980). “For this campaign to succeed, brothers had to trust us with the things they have treasured for decades. That this book arrives on the anniversary of Bro. Bland’s passing makes the moment even more meaningful. When a keeper of it for 26 years says this collection is where it belongs, that is the highest endorsement we could receive.”
Engagement with APCAA’s 851-member organization has also brought in artifacts tied to other charter members: Bros. Fr. Henry James Charles Bowden, Charles Johnson Dunn, and Cassander Woodliff Sellers. The collection also holds items related to Fraternity Jewel Henry Arthur Callis, former Morehouse College presidents Bro. Dr. John Hope, Bro. Dr. Hugh Morris Gloster, and Bro. Wiley Abron Perdue, and Omega Psi Phi’s Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays.
The initiative has made the Morehouse-affiliated brotherhood the first and most recognized chapter-specific association to establish an international research center-led partnership.
View from the Donor's Level
Reflecting on the impact his donation has made to the mission of the association, DeGruy added that "It's with great pride (and relief) that this precious historical artifact now has a home where all Alpha Brothers, future Brothers, and the general public can view and appreciate this remarkable piece of Alpha Rho Chapter history.”
2026 SpelHouse Homecoming Survives The Storm
Hurricane Isaias forced a one-day postponement, but more than 19,000 attended Morehouse’s football game as alumni and students celebrated a cherished HBCU tradition.
By Brooke Leigh Howard www.ajc.com + APCAA Staff Curated Images
SpelHouse survived. The weather threatened to wash out SpelHouse homecoming, but the celebration went on. Hurricane Isaias forced Morehouse College to postpone its Saturday homecoming football game against Savannah State University, along with accompanying festivities, disrupting a weekend of celebrations shared with neighboring Spelman College.
The storm made landfall Friday evening near Destin, Florida, before weakening overnight to a post-tropical cyclone. But its impact continued across Georgia, where it downed trees and power lines and left more than 120,000 customers without electricity Saturday, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution previously reported.
With severe weather threatening Atlanta, organizers moved the game and affected homecoming activities to Sunday, hoping to preserve the celebration while keeping students, alumni and visitors safe.
But the change of plans wasn’t enough to keep students, alumni and faculty away from one of Atlanta’s signature HBCU traditions. “The magic and the power is in being together,” said Henry Goodgame, Morehouse’s vice president of external engagement and alumni relations and chairman of the homecoming committee. “Whatever affords us an opportunity to do that, that’s the blessing.”
Goodgame, a 1984 Morehouse graduate, said homecoming typically draws about 33,000 people. He acknowledged that the weather and schedule change could affect attendance, but said organizers prioritized the safety and experience of the SpelHouse community.
Morehouse defeated Savannah State 34-23 before a crowd of more than 19,000, according to the college’s official football box score. A sea of maroon swept through B.T. Harvey Stadium as Morehouse students and alumni showed their school pride in matching sweaters, pullovers, jerseys and letterman jackets. Flecks of Spelman blue dotted the crowd.
Bro. C. Howie Hodges II Appointed To Washington National Cathedral’s Governing Board, Known As “The Chapter”
Howie Hodges is the CEO of CH Hodges, Inc., a firm specializing in political, regulatory, and reputational risk analysis, as well as impact investing strategy. In this role, he advises large investment banks, national tax credit equity fund syndicators, equity investment companies, family fund investors, and philanthropic organizations focused on housing and community development projects. Mr. Hodges is also a partner at CentriCapital, a Washington, D.C.-based impact platform focused on economic development, investments, and technology.
An active member of Washington National Cathedral, Mr. Hodges previously served as an elected member of the Cathedral Congregation Committee (CCC). He currently serves as the Chair of Stewardship and the Co-Chair of the Advisory Committee for the Racial Justice & Spirituality Residential Retreat, and regularly volunteers as a lay reader.
Additionally, Mr. Hodges serves as an independent corporate board director of Citizens Bancshares Corporation (Citizens Trust Bank) in Atlanta, GA, where he is a member of the Audit & Compliance, Asset & Liabilities, and Loan committees. He has served as a board director for several national civic organizations and, along with his wife Elizabeth, is a Legacy Society member of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture.
Mr. Hodges earned a Bachelor of Arts from Morehouse College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He also completed the Executive Leadership Program at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. He resides in Falls Church, VA, with his wife, Elizabeth Jackson Hodges.
From A Rediscovered Original 1924 Charter To The 15 Sphinxmen Letters Of Fall 1981: Alpha Rho Chapter’s Archival Collection Adds Another Rare Find
Handwritten correspondence from The Phenomenal 15 Pledge Line, written 14 days into their six-week pledge period, joins the APCAA Archival Collection at Woodruff Library on the 45th anniversary of their initiation.
APCAA Staff
Since launching its artifact acquisition campaign in 2023, the Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) has built the Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection at the Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library into one of the most closely watched chapter-led preservation efforts in the fraternity. The acquisitions have been historic: the rediscovery of Alpha Rho’s original 1924 charter, a centennial year of programming that celebrated 100 years of the chapter, and priceless artifacts tied to charter members and to Morehouse College President Bro. John Hope and other presidents. The campaign has also made APCAA the first and most recognized chapter-specific association to establish an international research center-led partnership.
Today, the collection adds a find of a different kind, one that is smaller in scale but equally consequential. In recognition of the 45th anniversary of the Phenomenal 15’s initiation into Alpha Rho Chapter, APCAA announces the acquisition of a rare collection of original, handwritten “Sphinxmen 15” letters. They were written in the fall of 1981 to Miss Angela Y. Dawson, a Spring 1981 initiate of the Fortuitous 53 at Howard University’s Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Written just 14 days into the Phenomenal 15’s six-week pledge period, the letters offer an intimate, firsthand glimpse into the lives of young Morehouse men preparing to join the distinguished brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. They expand the collection’s focus on the personal experiences, social relationships, and undergraduate traditions that shaped Alpha Rho Chapter’s history, the kind of everyday detail that official records rarely capture.
The announcement comes just weeks before the collection’s grand opening on December 3 at 3:00 p.m. at AUC Woodruff Library, which will include the unveiling of the Morehouse College Presidential Series. Together, the charter, the centennial, the presidential artifacts, and now a suite of letters from 1981 show a campaign that values the landmark and the personal equally.
The correspondence dates to an era fondly remembered as Alpha Rho’s “Golden Decade,” when the chapter maintained an undergraduate membership averaging approximately 45 to 65 brothers each academic year. During this period, fraternity and sorority pledge lines were prominent fixtures of Atlanta University Center campus life, attracting considerable attention from students and returning alumni.
A recurring theme throughout the newly acquired letters was an invitation for Ms. Dawson to visit Morehouse during Homecoming, when pledge groups frequently became centerpieces of the festivities. The letters capture the excitement, anticipation, camaraderie, and social connections surrounding one of the most memorable experiences in undergraduate Greek-letter life.
Pledging during the latter decades of the 20th century was a highly visible experience, extending beyond the individual pledge groups to the broader campus community. Sphinxmen would emerge for breakfast as early as 6:00 a.m., dressed in coordinated attire, before moving together in formation throughout campus until late in the evening. Their synchronized movements, public appearances, and shared responsibilities became defining features of the undergraduate experience. Against this historical backdrop, the handwritten letters are especially revealing: they document the personal voices of young men navigating the demands of pledging while maintaining friendships and relationships beyond Morehouse.
On Friday, November 20, 1981, these 15 young men completed their journey and crossed the burning sands into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., through the Alpha Rho Chapter at Morehouse College. The Phenomenal 15 consisted of:
#1 Albert L. Vivian; #2 Michael S. James; #3 Carr T. Preston; #4 Victor A. Tall; #5 William T. Barnes III; #6 Theodore M. Alexander III; #7 Ernest W. Quarles; #8 Stewart A. Rainer; #9 Henry M. Goodgame Jr. (Line President); #10Anthony L. Trufant; #11 Wade H. McKinney IV; #12 Noah E. Wills III; #13 Cyril J. Turner; #14 Brian K. Buchanan Sr.; and #15 Craig B. Douglas.
Their pledge period was directed by Bro. Kenneth G. Bostic (Spring 1980), who served as Dean of Pledges, assisted by Bros. BMaynard Scarborough (Fall 1980), Wesley L. Palmer Curl (Spring 1980), and Frank J. Kidd III (Fall 1979) as Assistant Deans of Pledges. The Phenomenal 15 also established a remarkable chapter milestone that continues to stand 45 years later: four legacy members — Bros. Theodore M. Alexander III, William T. Barnes III, Wade H. McKinney IV, and Noah E. Wills III — entered Alpha Rho with familial connections to the chapter through their fathers or uncles. Their initiation underscored the powerful tradition of intergenerational brotherhood and the enduring influence of Alpha Rho within Morehouse families.
The acquisition further distinguishes the APCAA Archival Collection as an expanding repository of chapter-specific historical materials, complementing its collection of original documents, photographs, publications, memorabilia, and other artifacts spanning more than a century of Alpha Rho history. By preserving these previously inaccessible letters, APCAA is broadening the historical record beyond institutional milestones to include the personal correspondence and everyday experiences that illuminate the chapter’s culture, traditions, and influence.
As APCAA prepares for the December 3, 2026, grand opening of the Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection at the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library, this acquisition marks another significant milestone in the association’s commitment to preserve our past, document our present, and provide future generations with a permanent place where Alpha Rho history can be studied and experienced.
And to be 1,924% clear, APCAA’s undertaking represents an unprecedented commitment to chapter-specific historical preservation within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Through its professionally curated archival collection and exhibition environment, the association has established a permanent foundation for protecting, interpreting, and promoting Alpha Rho’s extraordinary legacy, including artifacts dating back to the chapter’s earliest years.
Forty-five years after the Phenomenal 15 entered Alpha Rho’s brotherhood, their handwritten words have found a permanent home — ensuring that the voices of 1981 will continue speaking to generations yet to come.
Save The Date: Grand Opening Of The Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection Set For Thursday December 3rd At AUC Woodruff Library
The First and Most Extensive Chapter-Specific Archival Collection in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
APCAA Staff
On Thursday, December 3, 2026, on the eve of the historic 120th Anniversary of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) will formally unveil The Alpha Rho Chapter Archival Collection at the Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library. This landmark occasion will celebrate more than a century of Alpha Rho's distinguished legacy at Morehouse College while establishing a permanent home for the preservation, exhibition, and scholarly exploration of its extraordinary history.
The 3:00 p.m. Grand Opening Ceremony will feature a historic presentation of artifacts associated with legendary Morehouse College Presidents, national fraternity leaders, and distinguished Alpha Rho Chapter luminaries whose achievements helped shape Morehouse College, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the broader American experience. Among the distinguished guests joining this landmark celebration will be legacy family members of Bro. Dr. John Hope, Morehouse College's first African American President, whose pioneering leadership helped establish the institution's enduring tradition of academic excellence, intellectual advancement, and the development of generations of Black leaders.
Their participation will add special historical significance to the occasion, connecting the descendants of one of Morehouse's most influential presidents with a new generation dedicated to preserving his legacy and that of the institution he helped shape.
Among the ceremony's most anticipated highlights will be the unveiling of the first-ever list of Alpha Rho Chapter Living Legends, honoring the chapter's distinguished leadership during its most recent century of achievement. This inaugural recognition will celebrate brothers whose exceptional contributions, enduring service, and commitment to the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha have helped advance the chapter's legacy and influence across generations.
Taking place on the eve of the Fraternity's 120th Founders' Day, the Grand Opening will represent a historic convergence of brotherhood, institutional heritage, archival preservation, family legacy, and intergenerational recognition. Through rare historical documents, photographs, personal memorabilia, and other significant artifacts, the exhibition will illuminate the remarkable contributions of generations of brothers whose leadership extended from the Morehouse campus into education, civil rights, public service, business, and national affairs. The occasion will mark another significant milestone in APCAA's continuing commitment to preserve our past, document our present, and provide future generations with a permanent place where Alpha Rho's history can be studied, experienced, and celebrated.
Thursday, December 3, 2026 | 3:00 p.m.
Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library
Followed by Alphas Of Atlanta's Annual Historical Walk
A Historic Celebration on the Eve of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.'s 120th Anniversary
MLK Jr. Memorial Chapel at Morehouse College | 7:06 PM
Birmingham Homicides Drop To Historic Lows Under Mayor Randall Woodfin’s Leadership
Birmingham is set to have its fewest homicides in 75 years as Mayor Randall Woodfin credits community violence intervention efforts.
By Hannah P. www.thegrio.com
Black mayors across the country are delivering the change their communities need. From Mayor Brandon Scott in Baltimore to Mayor Brandon Johnson in Chicago, local Black leaders have helped drive down violence and homicides. Among them is Birmingham, Alabama’s Mayor Randall Woodfin, who is making real investments into keeping residents safe and, in turn, seeing the results of these efforts. Under Woodfin’s leadership, Birmingham is reportedly on track to end the year with its fewest homicides since 1951.
“Birmingham is on track for our fewest homicides in 75 years,” Mayor Woodfin wrote on Facebook. “Homicides are down 46% from this time last year and 74% from 2024…That means families are getting answers, and the people responsible are being held accountable. This is what happens when you invest in the people and the strategies that actually work.”
According to the Birmingham state legislature, in 2025 the city experienced 63 homicides, a nearly 51% decline from the 130 that had been reported in 2024. Fast forward to today, in October 2026, Woodfin reports only 34 homicide cases, of which 31 have been closed. However, the Birmingham mayor credits this success to the men and women of the Birmingham Police Department, the city’s chief of police Michael Pickett, and its community violence intervention workers.
Bro. Rev. Devon J. Crawford Selected For Inaugural Aspen Religion Fellows Program Advancing Religious Diversity And Pluralism
APCAA Staff
Bro. Rev. Devon J. Crawford has been named to the inaugural class of Aspen Religion Fellows, a distinguished group of 10 emerging leaders selected for an 18-month initiative designed to strengthen religious understanding, foster meaningful dialogue, and advance pluralism across American society. The fellowship brings together rising leaders from five sectors — clerical leadership, climate, media, nonprofit, and social trust — representing a broad spectrum of institutions, including religious organizations, higher education, philanthropy, major media outlets, and nonprofit organizations. At a pivotal moment in American life, the initiative encourages participants to embrace the concept of “thick pluralism,” recognizing the importance of maintaining deeply held religious and cultural identities while building authentic relationships across differences.
The inaugural cohort convened in October 2026, beginning an 18-month experience that includes two additional multi-day gatherings, one associated with the 2027 Aspen Ideas Festival. Each fellow will also receive a $15,000 stipend to develop and advance a project promoting pluralism and meaningful engagement across religious and cultural communities. Through this combination of leadership development, collaborative learning, and project-based support, the fellowship seeks to equip participants with the relationships and resources necessary to make a lasting impact in their respective fields. Bro. Crawford's recognition reflects his growing influence as a faith leader and his commitment to building bridges across communities, while exemplifying Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.'s longstanding ideals of scholarship, leadership, and service.
Bro. William V. Guy / Fall 1953 Walks The Red Carpet At A Different World Series Premiere At Morehouse College
APCAA Staff
On September 21, 2026, the MLK Jr. Memorial Chapel at Morehouse College hosted a special screening of A Different World. Among those in attendance was Alpha Rho Chapter's living legend, the Rev. Bro. William Vincent Guy. He sat beside his daughter, series star Jasmine Guy, and his granddaughter, Imani Guy Duckette. For a family with deep ties to the show that made Whitley Gilbert a household name, the evening on the Morehouse campus was a homecoming.
Rev. Guy's connection to the series goes beyond being a proud father in the audience. He once stepped onto the set himself, appearing as an uncredited extra in the Season 4 finale, Episode 25, "The Hand That Robs the Cradle." He played a security guard standing nearby during Dwayne and Whitley's emotional goodbye, just before Whitley leaves for New York. Behind-the-scenes photographs from that day show him on set with his daughter and with cast members Kadeem Hardison (Dwayne), Cree Summer (Freddie), and Lou Myers (Mr. Gaines).
Fans may know him for that brief moment on screen, but his life's work has been in the pulpit and the classroom. The Reverend Dr. William Vincent Guy is a respected theologian and educator who served as the fifth senior pastor of Atlanta's historic Friendship Baptist Church for 37 years, from 1971 to 2007. He led the congregation through an era of spiritual growth and community impact, and he retired with the title of Pastor Emeritus. Alongside his ministry, he taught philosophy and religion as a professor at Morehouse College, the campus where this year's screening took place.
His voice has remained a fixture of Atlanta life long after his active pastorate. In 2014, he delivered the poignant final sermon at Friendship's historic Mitchell Street location before the church relocated. In 2021, he delivered the eulogy at the funeral of baseball legend Hank Aaron. Whether standing quietly in the background of a beloved sitcom or at the center of the city's most solemn farewells, Rev. Guy has lived a life of service, scholarship, and faith.
Introducing Silverback Hospitality: The Operating Partner Behind Atlanta’s Most Ambitious Brands
Every city has brands it loves. Atlanta has more than most. The popsicle cart that became a summer ritual. The bitters bottled a few miles from the bars that pour them. The brewery whose cans show up at every backyard cookout. The crowd is already there and the demand is already real.
Then the call comes. A stadium wants the brand on its concourse. A hospital system asks about wholesale. A campus wants it in the dining program. And the brand faces a problem its founders never signed up for: serving an institution without breaking the thing that made the brand beloved. Those opportunities are why Silverback Hospitality exists.
Silverback Hospitality is a multi-brand hospitality operating partner based in Atlanta. We invest in proven, Atlanta-born food and beverage brands and operate alongside their founders, bringing the financial discipline, capital, and distribution those brands need to perform at institutional scale. An operating partner is exactly what it sounds like. Not a franchise operator collecting fees. Not a passive investor watching from a distance. A partner who does the operating: staffing, supply, compliance, reporting, and the daily discipline institutional buyers require.
We scale the brand without absorbing it. The founder keeps the brand. We bring the engine. Your brand, our infrastructure. That is the whole idea.
Bro. George B. Walker Honored At The 6th Annual James Baldwin Legacy Awards
Bro. George B. Walker was among the distinguished honorees recognized during the 6th Annual James Baldwin Legacy Awards, presented by the National Black Justice Collective (NBJC) on Thursday, October 1, 2026. The signature celebration honored the courage, resilience, leadership, and revolutionary impact of Black Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+, and Same-Gender Loving (GBTQ+/SGL) men and masculine elders whose contributions have helped transform communities, break down barriers, and inspire future generations.
Walker’s recognition placed him among an extraordinary group of trailblazers celebrated for their commitment to visibility, empowerment, and lasting social change. Inspired by the enduring legacy of acclaimed author and civil rights advocate James Baldwin, the annual awards highlight individuals whose lives and accomplishments reflect the importance of authenticity, advocacy, and the pursuit of equality.
The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a leading national civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer+, and same-gender-loving (LGBTQ+/SGL) people, including individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, the organization works to advance equity, protect civil rights, and amplify voices that have historically been marginalized. Learn more at NBJC.org.
OceanTree Financial’s Jason Lowe Tackles The Money Questions We Should All Be Able To Answer
APCAA Staff + The Royal Gazette
Jason Lowe, chief operating officer of OceanTree Financial, was featured in The Royal Gazette in a piece titled “Money questions we should probably know the answers to.” The article, written by Mikaela Ian Pearman and published September 4, 2026, has Lowe answering some of the financial questions most people think they should be able to answer but often can’t.
The article opens with a familiar point: we all know we should be saving for emergencies and putting money toward our financial goals, yet knowing and doing are two different things. By starting with these everyday habits, the piece sets up a practical, approachable conversation about personal finance. It is aimed at readers who want clear answers rather than financial jargon.
The feature gives Lowe a public platform to share his expertise as a leader at OceanTree Financial. For readers, it is a reminder that building financial confidence starts with asking the basic questions. The full article is available through The Royal Gazette.
Bro. Dr. T. Lydel Newsome Named Among Bethesda Magazine’s Top Doctors For 2026
APCAA Staff
The Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) proudly congratulates Bro. T. Lydel Newsome, MD, on his selection to Bethesda Magazine’s Top Doctors 2026 edition. A board-certified internal medicine physician with Adventist Medical Group, Dr. Newsome has distinguished himself through his commitment to evidence-based medicine, preventive healthcare, and patient education. He earned his medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and completed his internal medicine residency at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore. His professional interests include the management of diabetes, thyroid disease, and high blood pressure, with an emphasis on helping patients better understand their conditions and take meaningful steps toward improving their long-term health.
Beyond his clinical practice, Bro. Newsome has demonstrated a strong commitment to medical research and the advancement of healthcare knowledge. His research and presentations have addressed such complex medical conditions as Lyme carditis, hypopituitarism, and nonischemic cardiomyopathy, and his scholarly work has appeared in the Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives. Central to his philosophy of care is the belief that informed patients are better equipped to make decisions that positively influence their health.
Bro. Newsome's dedication to service extends beyond the examination room and into the communities he serves. He has volunteered with organizations including the Eastside Community Health Initiative and Compass for Kids, Inc., reflecting a personal commitment to improving lives through community engagement. His recognition in Bethesda Magazine’s Top Doctors 2026 edition represents a distinguished professional achievement and reflects the enduring Alpha Phi Alpha ideals of scholarship, service, and excellence.
Alpha Rho Chapter Undergrads Honor Bro. Henry M. Goodgame At 2026 Morehouse College SGA Inauguration
APCAA Staff
During the September 10 2026 Morehouse College Student Government Association Inauguration at the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, SGA President Bro. Chris O. Lambry Jr. and Vice President Bro. Sheik A. Kante led a special presentation recognizing Alpha Rho Chapter Undergraduate Advisor Bro. Henry H. Goodgame for his distinguished record of service. Before members of the Morehouse community gathered for the annual inauguration, Goodgame was presented with a formal proclamation celebrating his longstanding commitment to the students, ideals, and institutional mission of Morehouse College.
The resolution highlighted Goodgame’s contributions not only to Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., but also to the broader advancement of the Morehouse community. Through his leadership, mentorship, and guidance of undergraduate brothers, Goodgame has helped connect the chapter’s tradition of scholarship, leadership, and service with Morehouse College’s enduring mission of developing men committed to excellence and consequential leadership. The proclamation further recognized his efforts in advancing Black excellence and strengthening opportunities for successive generations of Morehouse students.
The recognition carried particular significance as it was presented by two current student leaders who represent the continuing legacy of leadership cultivated on the Morehouse campus. By honoring Goodgame during the 2026 SGA Inauguration, Brothers Lambry and Kante placed his service within that continuing tradition — acknowledging an advisor whose influence extends beyond the chapter and into the life of the College itself. For Alpha Rho, the proclamation stands as another testament to the chapter’s century-long relationship with Morehouse and to the alumni brothers who continue to invest their time, leadership, and experience in preparing the next generation to carry that legacy forward.
APCAA Celebrates Bro. Henry M. Goodgame’s Induction Into The 100 Black Men Of Atlanta’s Class Of 2026, Honoring His Legacy Of Leadership, Mentorship And Community Service
APCAA Staff
The Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) proudly congratulates Bro. Henry M. Goodgame on his induction into the Class of 2026 of the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, a distinguished organization dedicated to mentorship, education, economic empowerment, and the advancement of African American communities. This prestigious recognition celebrates Bro. Goodgame's longstanding commitment to servant leadership, institutional advancement, and the development of future generations of Black leaders. His induction places him among an influential network of accomplished professionals and community leaders who share a commitment to creating opportunities, inspiring excellence, and strengthening the greater Atlanta community.
Currently serving as Vice President for External Affairs and Alumni Relations and Chief Engagement Officer at Morehouse College, Bro. Goodgame plays a pivotal role in strengthening relationships among the College, its alumni, corporate partners, community stakeholders, and supporters. His leadership reflects the enduring Morehouse tradition of producing men who embrace responsibility, service, and positive social change. Beyond his executive responsibilities, Bro. Goodgame has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., particularly through his service as Undergraduate Advisor to the Alpha Rho Chapter.
Bro. Goodgame's induction into the 100 Black Men of Atlanta represents another significant milestone in a career devoted to building relationships, empowering young people, and advancing institutions that shape the future of Black America. His selection reflects the shared values of Morehouse College, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the 100 Black Men of Atlanta — organizations united by their commitment to educational excellence, mentorship, and community transformation.
Alpha Rho’s Unpredictable 13 Celebrate 50 Years Of Brotherhood, Achievement And An Enduring Legacy
APCAA Staff
Fifty years after crossing the burning sands into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the Fall 1976 “Unpredictable 13” of Alpha Rho Chapter at Morehouse College reunited for a memorable golden anniversary dinner celebrating five decades of brotherhood, professional achievement, and lifelong friendship. Brothers traveled from near and far for a special weekend of fellowship, reflection, and celebration, reconnecting with the men who shared one of the most defining experiences of their undergraduate years. The milestone gathering was thoughtfully curated by Billette Owens Ashford, wife of Bro. Dr. Robin D. Ashford (Fall 1976), whose efforts helped create an unforgettable occasion honoring the extraordinary bonds that have connected these Morehouse men across generations.
On November 11, 1976, the 13 members of the Unpredictable 13 entered Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., through the historic Alpha Rho Chapter at Morehouse College. The distinguished line consisted of #1 Jerome A. Luke, #2 Raymond F. Vaughan, #3 Rev. John J. Hunter, Esq., #4 Dr. Robin D. Ashford, #5 The Honorable Tarik B. Sugarmon, #6 Steven M. Scott, #7 Clarence E. Williams, #8 Michael D. Williams, Esq., #9 Frederick L. Thornton Jr., #10 Richard J. Williams, Ph.D., #11 William C. Bohannon, #12 Richard H. Griggs, Esq., and #13 Gregory P. Head. Bro. Kevin Robinson served as Dean of Pledges, helping guide the young men through their journey into the fraternity.
Following graduation, members of this remarkable line pursued distinguished careers across law, education, business, healthcare, banking, the military, and public service. Among their professional achievements were careers as attorneys, a chief executive officer, a college professor, a bank vice president, a dentist, a military officer, and a judge. Their collective accomplishments reflect the ideals of scholarship, leadership, perseverance, and service that have long defined the Alpha Rho tradition.
For the Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA), the golden anniversary of the Unpredictable 13 represented another powerful illustration of the chapter's enduring legacy and the lifelong relationships forged through the shared experience of brotherhood at Morehouse College. From their initiation in the fall of 1976 to their 50th anniversary celebration in 2026, these brothers have exemplified the meaning of an enduring fraternal bond — supporting one another, serving their communities, and carrying the Alpha Rho legacy into their respective professions and families.
From Nickname To Federally Protected Brand, Bro. Robert L. Williams Jr. Celebrates Entrepreneurial Milestone With Federal Trademark Registration
APCAA Staff
What began as a memorable nickname has officially become a federally registered trademark! Congratulations to Bro. Robert L. Williams Jr. (Fall 2004), affectionately known as “Bobby Butter,” on successfully securing federal trademark registration for his distinctive brand. This achievement represents an exciting milestone in his entrepreneurial journey, transforming a recognizable identity into a legally protected brand with opportunities for future growth and expansion. Through vision, creativity, and an appreciation for the value of intellectual property, Bro. Williams has demonstrated that building a successful brand requires not only imagination and determination but also the foresight to protect what makes it unique.
The successful trademark registration, facilitated by ARS Counsel, underscores the importance of protecting the names, identities, and creative assets that entrepreneurs work diligently to establish. As ARS Counsel emphasizes, building a brand takes vision, creativity, and hard work, but protecting that brand is equally important. For Bro. Williams, this achievement marks another chapter in the evolution of “Bobby Butter,” a nickname that has grown beyond its origins into a recognizable and legally protected brand. The Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) proudly celebrates this accomplishment by its Fall 2004 initiate and looks forward to the continued growth, innovation, and opportunities ahead for Bobby Butter. True Forever!
Bro. Rev. Dr. Patrick C. Thompson Elected Vice President Of Sigma Lambda Chapter Following Centennial Year
APCAA Staff
Bro. Rev. Dr. Patrick C. Thompson has been elected vice president of the Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in New Orleans for 2026. He joins President Bro. Dr. Brian L. Turner and the chapter’s leadership team at a historic moment, as Sigma Lambda marks 100 years since its founding in 1925 under the banner “A Century of Alpha Excellence in New Orleans.”
As vice president, Thompson will help guide a chapter whose centennial leadership is united under the themes “One Brotherhood. One Legacy. One Future.” and “Service. Leadership. Excellence.” His election places him among the officers charged with carrying Sigma Lambda’s century of service into its next chapter.
Bro. John L.G. White Expands Global Energy, Technology And Infrastructure Partnerships Across China And Mexico
APCAA Staff
Bro. John L.G. White (Spring 2005), a 2007 graduate of Morehouse College, continues to distinguish himself as an international business leader advancing strategic partnerships at the intersection of energy, technology, infrastructure, and economic development. In June 2026, Bro. White participated in a multinational business delegation to China that brought together companies from the United States, Mexico, and South Korea. The delegation visited Bairang New Energy's headquarters in Shenzhen and toured its groundbreaking 10 MW/80 MWh carbon dioxide energy-storage demonstration project in Wuhu, exploring innovative technologies designed to strengthen electrical grid resilience, support industrial energy demands, and power next-generation data centers.
A major outcome of the visit was the signing of a strategic cooperation memorandum between Bairang New Energy and Clairvant Systems, a technology company in which Bro. White serves as co-founder and shareholder. The agreement established a framework for technology collaboration, joint project development, and international market expansion, initially targeting the deployment of advanced energy solutions in Mexico and potentially throughout North America.
Bro. White's international engagement also extended to Mexico, where he met with Veracruz Governor Rocío Nahle García and participated in discussions surrounding the state's Puerta Este MX initiative, an ambitious effort to attract international investment, modernize industrial infrastructure, and expand regional economic opportunities. His additional engagements in Ciudad Juárez further demonstrated his commitment to connecting global technology innovators, investment capital, and infrastructure development opportunities across international markets.
As President and CEO of AeroSphereTech and co-founder and shareholder of Totale Strata and Clairvant Systems, Bro. White is helping build an interconnected portfolio of enterprises focused on advanced energy storage, air-supported infrastructure, modular Compute Dome™ facilities, artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and operational intelligence technologies. Together, these initiatives seek to strengthen industrial competitiveness, accelerate technological innovation, and establish more resilient infrastructure capable of supporting sustainable economic growth.
Previously recognized as a member of the prestigious Kauffman Fellows Class 25, Bro. White represents the expanding global influence of Morehouse College graduates and the Alpha Rho Chapter's enduring tradition of leadership, scholarship, and entrepreneurial excellence.
Bro. Christopher D. Gooding Elected To Alpha Phi Alpha Board As Director Of Educational Activities
APCAA Staff
Bro. Christopher D. Gooding of Gamma Iota Lambda, the Brooklyn Alphas, has been selected to serve on the chapter's Board of Directors of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as Director of Educational Activities for the 2026-2027 fraternal year. The new role places Gooding on the fraternity’s governing board, where he will help guide the organization’s educational activities for the year ahead.
His selection is a point of pride for the Brooklyn Alphas and for Gamma Iota Lambda, whose brothers will see one of their own help shape the fraternity’s direction at the international level. As he steps into the office, Gooding joins a board charged with carrying forward the fraternity’s legacy of service, scholarship, and leadership.
APCAA Selects Brothers Marley D. Ewell And Brisco L. Anderson For 2026–27 Guardians Of The Obelisk Team
APCAA Staff
The Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) has selected Bro. Marley D. Ewell (Spring 2025) and Bro. Brisco L. Anderson (Spring 2026) to serve on its Guardians of the Obelisk Team for the 2026–27 academic year. In this distinguished undergraduate leadership assignment, the two brothers will serve as fraternal custodians of the Alpha Rho Chapter 90th Anniversary Memorial Obelisk, helping safeguard one of the chapter's enduring symbols of brotherhood, remembrance, and institutional legacy.
They will also serve as undergraduate docents for the APCAA Archival Collection at the Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library, introducing visitors, students, alumni, and researchers to the chapter's remarkable history and preserved artifacts.
Bro. Ewell brings valuable research experience to his appointment, having completed a summer research internship at Stanford University's Graduate School of Education in Palo Alto, California. During the internship, he analyzed research data, prepared reports for faculty and administrative leadership, and collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to advance ongoing projects. Bro. Anderson brings an equally impressive combination of professional experiences spanning media, marketing, and emerging technology. In New York, he has served as a Media Buying and Planning Resident at VaynerMedia, supporting campaign strategy, research, planning, and performance analysis.
Together, Ewell and Anderson represent a new generation of Alpha Rho leadership committed to connecting the chapter's historic achievements with its future. Through their responsibilities at the Memorial Obelisk and the Woodruff Library, the Guardians of the Obelisk will help ensure that Alpha Rho's legacy is not merely preserved, but actively interpreted, celebrated, and shared with future generations of Morehouse Men and the broader community.
Bro. Michael C. Webb Named City Of Houston October 2026 Employee Of The Month
Michael Webb, Associate Staff Analyst – Administration, Operations Division, has been named the City of Houston Controller’s Office Employee of the Month for October 2026, recognizing his exceptional dedication, initiative, teamwork, and commitment to public service. Webb has distinguished himself as an invaluable resource across multiple divisions, consistently demonstrating the organizational expertise, adaptability, and collaborative spirit that contribute to the office’s success.
His contributions have supported several prominent initiatives, including the Reality Check Town Hall Series, Morehouse Takes City Hall, Black History Month and Hispanic Heritage programming, Bring Your Child to Work Day, and the expansion of the Controller for a Day program. Through these efforts, Webb has helped strengthen community engagement, expand educational opportunities, and introduce young people to the importance of civic leadership and municipal government. His genuine enthusiasm for mentoring the next generation has become a defining characteristic of his service.
Recognized for his positive attitude, resourcefulness, and willingness to take ownership of important responsibilities, Webb exemplifies a proactive approach to leadership. Rather than waiting for direction, he anticipates organizational needs, identifies opportunities to contribute, and follows through with professionalism and purpose. His selection as October 2026 Employee of the Month reflects the City Controller’s Office’s appreciation for his outstanding contributions and the meaningful impact of his service to the City of Houston and its residents.
Alpha Rho Brothers Make History With First-Ever Joint Ride In The 2026 Anchor House Ride For Runaways
APCAA Staff
Two generations of the Alpha Rho brotherhood came together for an extraordinary journey of endurance, philanthropy, and service as Bros. Ahuacan D. DeGruy (Spring 1999) and DeWayne H. Tolbert (Fall 1979) became the first Alpha Rho Chapter team to participate in the 2026 Anchor House Ride for Runaways. The historic undertaking brought together brothers initiated two decades apart, united by a common commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable young people.
The 48th Annual Anchor House Ride for Runaways Classic Ride, held July 11–18, 2026, challenged participants to complete a remarkable 500-mile cycling journey, beginning in Winchester, Virginia, and concluding in the Trenton, New Jersey, area near Lawrence Township and Quaker Bridge Mall. Over eight days, DeGruy and Tolbert joined fellow cyclists in an inspiring demonstration of physical determination and charitable purpose, transforming miles traveled into meaningful support for young people facing some of life's most difficult circumstances.
More than a test of stamina, the annual cycling event served as a major fundraising initiative benefiting Anchor House, Inc., a Trenton-based nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting youth and young adults ages 12–24 who have experienced abuse, neglect, homelessness, or the challenges of aging out of the child welfare system. Through its programs and services, Anchor House provides critical assistance to young people seeking safety, stability, and opportunities to build independent futures.
The 2026 Classic Ride proved especially successful, raising $502,841 and surpassing its $500,000 fundraising goal. Against this backdrop of generosity and community commitment, the participation of Bros. DeGruy and Tolbert carried special significance. Their shared experience demonstrated how Alpha Rho's bonds of brotherhood extend well beyond Morehouse College, bringing alumni together across generations to support causes that address pressing social needs.
Bro. Tolbert, a Fall 1979 initiate and former Alpha Rho Chapter President, and Bro. DeGruy, a Spring 1999 initiate and former chapter historian, exemplified the spirit of intergenerational brotherhood through a shared commitment requiring preparation, perseverance, and personal sacrifice. Their 500-mile journey was not simply about reaching the finish line; it was about advancing a mission that offers hope and opportunity to young people in need.
Morehouse Graduate Lawrence Carter Named 2026 Venture Fellow In High Street Equity Partners’ Fifth Fellowship Class
APCAA Staff
Lawrence Carter of Morehouse College has been named a 2026 Venture Fellow in the fifth fellowship class of High Street Equity Partners (HSEP). Through hands-on rotations across the firm, fellows learn the business of venture from the inside out while bringing fresh perspectives and meaningful contributions to the team. Carter joins the class with expertise in private markets and management consulting, having worked across portfolio and investment teams at an institutional real estate firm and advised senior executives at McKinsey & Company as a business analyst focused on growth strategy.
His work has spanned consumer, logistics, and financial services clients, with a consistent focus on translating complex analysis into strategic decisions. Carter studied philosophy at Morehouse College, graduating magna cum laude, and previously served as a venture capital fellow at Republic. He is passionate about frontier technology and working with founders to expand human capacity, a focus that fits the fellowship’s emphasis on learning venture from the inside.
Bro. Rollin “RJ” Jackson Jr. Elected Vice President Of Johns Hopkins Black Student Union
APCAA Staff
Rollin “RJ” Jackson Jr. has been elected vice president of the Black Student Union, a Johns Hopkins University student organization. A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Jackson is a second-year MAIR student focusing on Technology and Innovation in the Americas. He steps into the role as a graduate student with a strong academic record and a clear interest in how technology and global affairs shape the communities he hopes to serve.
Jackson earned his bachelor’s degree in political science, with a minor in international studies, from Morehouse College, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude. This past summer, he worked as a corporate public relations intern at Apple in Cupertino, California. His internship focused on executive visibility, company reputation, sustainability, racial equity justice initiatives, supply chain, accessibility, and retail.
Outside the classroom and the office, Jackson enjoys listening to music, going to concerts, cooking, and spending time with his friends. As vice president, he brings together academic achievement, professional experience, and a personable approach to the Black Student Union and its members.
Bro. Trysten A. Williams Screens Documentary From Rodeo To Polo At 2026 Morehouse Film Festival
APCAA Staff
Bro. Trysten A. Williams brought his documentary to the Morehouse Film Fest, where it screened as part of the “Shorts Block: Claiming Spaces” program on Friday, September 25, 2026. The 5:30 p.m. "From Rodeo to Polo" is a short-documentary film about chronicles the triumphant journey of the first-ever HBCU polo team at Morehouse College as they prepare for their USPA qualifying match. The screening was held at the Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation and the Arts at Spelman College. Williams described the showing as a homecoming of sorts, announcing to followers that his documentary was screening “at its home” at the festival.
The “Claiming Spaces” block spotlighted filmmakers from underrepresented communities who take the reins to tell stories about identity on their own terms. Williams’s documentary was part of that lineup, placing his work among a group of films centered on voices and perspectives that are often overlooked on screen. The festival’s festival-goers were able to purchase tickets to the block through the Morehouse Film Fest’s schedule.
Williams also joined the audience for a post-screening Q&A, giving attendees a chance to hear directly from the filmmaker about his work and creative process.
Watch The Replay! Atlanta Tour Operator Stephen P. Chester Champions Collaborative Partnerships
To Expand Tourism Opportunities
There is a third way to sell tours, somewhere between fighting for your own search rankings and handing your bookings to the OTAs: selling your city together with the operators around you. In Atlanta, a group of operators who tested it this past summer is now talking about turning it into a company of its own. Stephen Chester, who runs ATL Cruzers and Peachtree Trolley, is one of them, and he built his business without paying for online marketing in a city where visitors usually come for something other than sightseeing.
The conclusion is that a small operator’s reach comes from relationships, and those relationships multiply when operators stop treating each other as competitors. A group of complementary operators can answer a big group request that none of them could take alone, and it carries more weight with the buyers who move volume into a city. Listen to this one if you run tours in a place people visit for work, family or a ballgame. You’ll come away knowing who in your city you should be working with, and why the slow early years are part of the deal.
Watch The Replay! Bro. Dr. Italo Brown Featured On Stanford University Emergency Medicine Podcast Exploring Health Equity, Community Trust And The Future Of Healthcare
APCAA Staff
Bro. Dr. Italo Brown, a nationally recognized leader in social emergency medicine and health equity, is featured in a compelling episode of Stanford University's Emergency Medicine podcast, joining host Dr. Matthew Strehlow for an insightful discussion on the complex challenges confronting emergency physicians and the importance of addressing their underlying causes. From overcrowded emergency departments and prolonged patient boarding to repeat visits and difficult hospital discharges, many of the most pressing problems in emergency medicine originate well before patients arrive for treatment.
Drawing upon his extensive community-based work, Dr. Brown examines how social conditions, healthcare accessibility, and longstanding barriers to care influence patient outcomes. His conversation challenges healthcare professionals to look beyond the emergency department and recognize the importance of understanding the communities they serve.
Throughout the discussion, Bro. Brown emphasizes that meaningful improvements in healthcare begin with building trust, listening to community voices, and incorporating local knowledge into the development of effective solutions.His approach to social emergency medicine demonstrates how stronger relationships between healthcare institutions and underserved populations can help address systemic inequities while informing more responsive public health policies and advocacy initiatives. The conversation also explores the expanding role of artificial intelligence in healthcare and the importance of ensuring that emerging technologies support equitable, patient-centered care.
Watch The Replay! Bro. David N. Richardson Takes Center Stage For An Engaging T-Mo Talk
APCAA Staff
Brother David N. Richardson took center stage on June 4, 2026, during the T-Mo Talks program in Overland Park, Kansas, delivering a personal and thought-provoking presentation about overcoming adversity, discovering one's voice, and the transformative power of human connections. Through reflections on his own life experiences, Brother Richardson explored how individuals are shaped by a series of interconnected communities, from family and childhood influences to friendships, educational experiences, and professional relationships.
A central theme of Brother Richardson's presentation was his personal journey of overcoming a speech impediment and the profound influence of those who supported and encouraged him along the way. Rather than focusing solely on the challenges he faced, he emphasized how those obstacles ultimately helped shape his sense of purpose and commitment to helping others. His message illustrated how the encouragement, mentorship, and compassion of others can turn personal struggles into opportunities for growth, leadership, and meaningful service.
Reflecting on the experience, Brother Richardson shared that some of life's greatest obstacles can become the very experiences that define one's purpose. He described finding his voice as the beginning of a larger mission to build bridges for others, recognizing the importance of extending the same support and encouragement that helped him navigate his own challenges. His appearance at T-Mo Talks offered a compelling reminder that personal achievement is rarely accomplished in isolation and that the communities surrounding us play an essential role in shaping who we become.
Bro. Earl N. Caldwell II Welcomes Industry Leader To Loyola Chicago Sports & Entertainment Law Class
APCAA Staff
Bro. Earl Caldwell, an adjunct professor at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, was featured for opening his Loyola Sports & Entertainment Law class to a guest speaker on August 23, 2026. Caldwell invited Eric J. Troy, MA, founder and CEO of Eficionado, LLC, to address his students on “AI’s Impact on the Global Sports Sector,” a session exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming the business of sports and shaping its future. By bringing a working industry leader into the classroom, Caldwell gave his students a direct look at the technology changing the field they are preparing to enter.
Troy publicly thanked Caldwell for the invitation, saying it was his pleasure to serve as guest speaker and expressing appreciation for the opportunity to engage the next generation of sports and entertainment law professionals. The session reflected the theme highlighted on the program, “Bridging sports, law & technology to shape the future,” and showed Caldwell’s commitment to connecting legal education with the fast-moving world of sports, entertainment, and innovation.
Bro. Marcus N. Daniels Brings On-The-Ground Insight To Bisnow's Mid-Atlantic Industrial & Manufacturing Summit
APCAA Staff
Bro. Marcus N. Daniels joined industry leaders at Bisnow's 2026 Mid-Atlantic Industrial & Manufacturing Summit in Jessup, Maryland, for a timely panel on the state of industrial leasing and tenant demand across the region. The Mid-Atlantic remains one of the most supply-constrained industrial markets in the country, and demand is holding steady across the Baltimore-Washington corridor, Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads. The panel focused on what leasing professionals are seeing on the ground: how tenant requirements are evolving, where activity is concentrating, and what ultimately drives site-selection decisions in today's market.
Several themes stood out from the discussion. Power availability and delivery timelines are becoming increasingly important in site selection, and well-located small- and mid-bay industrial and flex space continues to draw strong interest. Tenants are also looking well beyond rental rate, with a heavy focus on functionality: loading, clear height, outdoor storage, parking, access, and speed to occupancy. The takeaway for owners in a supply-constrained market is that those who understand what tenants actually need, and can move quickly, hold a meaningful advantage.
Bro. Daniels shared the stage with moderator John Dettleff of JLL and fellow panelists Karen Cherry of Prologis, Mustafa Popal, CFA, of EQT Real Estate, and Andrew Hudson of ARCO Design/Build. He also thanked Bisnow for continuing to bring together the owners, developers, investors, lenders, brokers, contractors, and other leaders shaping the future of industrial real estate across the Mid-Atlantic. In his words, it was a day of great conversations, great connections, and another strong event.
Bro. Shannon Joyner Joins Metro Atlanta Chamber And International Leaders To Explore The Lasting Economic And Community Impact Of Global Sporting Events
As another chapter of FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States comes to a close in metro Atlanta, we're reflecting on one of the biggest lessons this tournament has reinforced: the impact of global sporting events reaches far beyond the match itself.
This morning, the Metro Atlanta Chamber welcomed leaders from the United Kingdom and metro Atlanta for a conversation on how sports can create lasting value for the communities they serve - from driving economic opportunity and tourism to inspiring future generations and strengthening international connections.
The conversation also explored how Atlanta and the UK are leveraging major sporting events as platforms for innovation, investment, and community impact, and why the true legacy of hosting is measured not only in unforgettable moments, but in the opportunities those moments create.
Thank you to Rachel Galloway, Andrew Saltzman, Jeremy Parkins, Shannon Joyner, Mayor Andre Dickens, Mary Waters, and everyone who joined us for such a thoughtful discussion.
Bro. Camron Yarber Honored Among Inaugural SpelHouse Legends During 2026 Homecoming Celebration
APCAA Staff
Bro. Camron Yarber, a distinguished member of Morehouse College's Class of 2011, was recognized as one of the inaugural SpelHouse Legends honorees during the 2026 SpelHouse Homecoming celebration. The recognition celebrates accomplished Morehouse alumni who have transformed promise into purpose through professional achievement, entrepreneurship, leadership, cultural influence, and meaningful community impact. As a member of the inaugural class of honorees, Bro. Yarber joined a distinguished group of classmates whose achievements reflect the enduring tradition of excellence associated with Morehouse College.
The SpelHouse Legends initiative celebrates the extraordinary contributions of its alumni while strengthening the bonds of fellowship and shared accomplishment that continue long after graduation.
Bro. Yarber currently serves as Director, Direct-to-Consumer Strategy – Disney+, Hulu & ESPN at The Walt Disney Company, where his leadership places him at the intersection of entertainment, digital innovation, and the rapidly evolving streaming industry. His professional accomplishments exemplify the intellectual preparation, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence that have long distinguished Morehouse graduates.
Watch The Replay! Children’s Healthcare Of Atlanta COO Ron Frieson Joins Rick Makerson For An In-Depth Conversation On Trailblazing Corporate Leadership, Family Legacy And Healthcare Innovation
APCAA Staff
Ron Frieson, COO of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, sits down with Rick Makerson on location to talk about the career path that took him from BellSouth's executive ranks to running operations for a system that serves over a million patients a year. Ron talks about being BellSouth's first Black president of state operations, becoming the company's first Chief Diversity Officer, and the family legacy behind the Frieson Black Cultural Center at the University of Tennessee.
He also breaks down how Children's thinks about technology at the new Arthur M. Blank Hospital, from RTLS boards replacing whiteboards to AI scribes cutting down physician documentation time. Ron explains why healthcare's slower pace of adoption isn't always a bad thing.
Dr. Corydon Wilson Presented Real-Time Bias Detection Tool At ACEP Research Forum 2026
APCAA Staff
Dr. Cory W. Wilson, a fourth-year emergency medicine resident (PGY-4), presented at Research Forum 2026 during the ACEP Scientific Assembly in Chicago. His presentation, “Creating and Implementing A Real-Time Bias Detection Tool for Standardized Letters of Evaluation of Emergency Medicine Residency Applicants,” examined how bias can be identified as it appears in the evaluation letters that help shape who is selected for emergency medicine training.
His selection for the Research Forum put Wilson’s work in front of colleagues and leaders from across emergency medicine. His project addressed fairness in the residency application process, with the aim of building a tool that flags bias as letters are written, rather than after the fact. It reflected a growing focus on making physician training pathways more equitable.
Bro. Jason Crain Shares Insights On Building AI Agents At “Let’s Talk Innovation”
APCAA Staff
Jason R. Crain, an AI solutions and product leader, served as guest speaker at “Let’s Talk Innovation” on October 16, 2026, at the Wells Fargo Learning Lab. The session, “How Big Companies Scale: CAPSTONE: Building AI Agents to Optimize Business,” ran from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. Crain joined host Shakiri Murrain, Director of Innovation Solutions at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, for a conversation on how large companies scale and how AI agents can help optimize business operations.
Crain brought his experience in AI solutions and product leadership to the discussion, giving attendees a look at how organizations can apply AI agents to work more efficiently as they grow. The event, which closed the “How Big Companies Scale” series with its capstone session, offered entrepreneurs and business leaders a practical view of where AI and innovation meet.
Watch The Replay! Bro. Rev. Otis Moss III And Son Bro. Eli Moss Explore Faith, Family Legacy And The Power Of Storytelling On Harriette Cole’s Dreamleapers Podcast
APCAA Staff
Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III and his son, award-winning filmmaker Eli Moss, were featured guests on Harriette Cole’s Dreamleapers podcast on Saturday, October 24, 2026, for an engaging conversation exploring the intersections of faith, family legacy, voting rights, and the transformative power of storytelling. The father-and-son duo reflected on the enduring influence of their family's commitment to social justice, the importance of preserving historical narratives, and the responsibility of using creative expression to inspire meaningful change. Central to their discussion was Otis' Dream, a compelling storytelling project rooted in the family's history and its connection to the continuing struggle for voting rights, dignity, and equality.
The conversation also highlighted Unashamed Media Group, the family-founded production company through which Rev. Dr. Moss and Eli Moss are bringing stories of resilience, justice, and hope to broader audiences. Combining the elder Moss's spiritual leadership and commitment to social advocacy with Eli's creative vision as an award-winning filmmaker, their collaborative work demonstrates how storytelling can bridge generations, preserve cultural memory, and encourage civic engagement. Their appearance on Dreamleapers underscored the powerful intersection of faith, filmmaking, and family purpose, offering listeners an inspiring perspective on how the lessons of the past can inform the pursuit of a more equitable future.
Bro. Auzzy J. Byrdsell Moderated “Human After AI” Panel At 2026 GrindCon Conference In Boston
APCAA Staff
Bro. Auzzy J. Byrdsell, an accomplished journalist whose professional career includes reporting for two of the world's most respected news organizations, The Guardian and The Boston Globe, served as moderator of the thought-provoking “Human After AI” panel discussion at the 2026 GrindCon Conference in Boston, Massachusetts. Currently a journalist with The Guardian, Bro. Byrdsell previously contributed to The Boston Globe, covering culture, art, and news while developing a professional reputation for reporting on the people, ideas, and cultural developments shaping contemporary society.
Joining on the panel were Kristy Legoas, an attorney specializing in trademarks, copyright, and brand protection; Brandon Tory, technology entrepreneur, founder of Boo, and artist; and Drea Hudson, founder of Booger Money. Together, the panel represented a cross-section of journalism, technology, law, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries, offering perspectives on the opportunities and challenges emerging from the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence.
Drawing upon his journalism career at The Guardian and The Boston Globe, Bro. Byrdsell brought a distinctive editorial perspective to a discussion exploring the intersection of technology, creativity, intellectual property, and human ingenuity. His experience covering cultural developments and contemporary issues positioned him to guide a conversation about how artificial intelligence is transforming professional industries while raising important questions about originality, authenticity, and the enduring value of human judgment. The panel highlighted the importance of ensuring that technological innovation remains connected to human experience, creativity, and social responsibility.
Alpha Rho Chapter Legacy Runs Through New Imagine Medical & Dental Group In Atlanta
APCAA Staff
Imagine Medical & Dental Group (IMDG), a new practice founded by Dr. Charis Chambers, Dr. India L. Collier, and Dr. Zerita Buchanan, is preparing to open in Atlanta, and the Alpha Rho Chapter family has a special connection to it. Dr. Collier is married to Bro. Benjamin C. Collier III (Spring 2008), and Dr. Buchanan is the daughter of Bro. Brian K. Buchanan Sr. (Fall 1981), so the practice’s founding team includes two families with deep ties to the brotherhood.
The three founders are 2010 graduates of Spelman College, and the trio say their AUC connections “run deep.” They are also Spring 2008 initiates of the Eta Kappa and Mu Pi chapters. IMDG’s office is located at 1075 Zonolite Rd NE in Atlanta, and the practice is inviting prospective patients to join its waitlist to receive the latest updates. For the Alpha Rho brotherhood, the launch is a chance to celebrate the achievements of the families connected to the chapter and to support a new Atlanta practice led by three Spelman alumnae.
Flashback! The 1982 Alpha Rho Chapter Black & Gold Ball & Banquet Celebrates An Evening Of Elegance, Brotherhood And Tradition
APCAA Staff
The Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., at Morehouse College celebrated an unforgettable evening of elegance, fellowship and tradition on Friday, April 30, 1982, with its 9th Annual Black & Gold Ball & Banquet, held at Atlanta’s Diplomat Restaurant. Presented under the theme “An Evening With the Men of Distinction,” the gala brought together Alpha Rho brothers, Spelman College students and distinguished guests for one of the chapter’s signature social occasions. A highlight of the festivities was the crowning of the seven-member Alpha Rho Court, led that year by Spelmanite Miss Jackie Johnson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The evening’s photographs capture the excitement and sophistication of the occasion, with elegantly dressed court members receiving floral bouquets amid the proud smiles and applause of their Alpha Rho hosts.
Under the leadership of Bro. DeWayne H. Tolbert (Fall 1979), who served as Alpha Rho Chapter President during the 1981–1982 academic year, the Black & Gold Ball & Banquet continued a cherished tradition celebrating the chapter’s enduring relationship with the women of Spelman College and the broader Atlanta University Center community. The occasion reflected an era when formal social gatherings were an important expression of Alpha Rho’s campus presence, leadership and commitment to brotherhood. More than four decades later, the surviving photographs and original banquet program offer a remarkable glimpse into the chapter’s history, preserving the personalities, pageantry and traditions that helped define the Alpha Rho experience.
APCAA Quarterly Digest Certified By Executive Editor Bro. BMaynard Scarborough, Fall 1980 / APID No. 815
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