Alpha Phi Alpha chapter marks 75th year
The Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. will celebrate its 75th Charter Day at 7:06 p.m. Monday at Barraque Street Baptist Church, 1800 W. Pullen St.
The keynote speaker will be the fraternity’s 34th general president, Mark S. Tillman. The celebration will also pay tribute to Thomas Vaughns, 103, who has been a member of Alpha Phi Alpha for 75 years. Special musical guest will be Nicky Parrish, renowned international recording artist and BET Apollo winner, according to a news release.
The chapter invites the community to join them for an evening of celebration, reflection and inspiration as they commemorate their 75th anniversary.
The speaker, Tillman, is known for his leadership and vision. Under his guidance, Alpha Phi Alpha became a founding donor of the Smithsonian National African American Museum of History and Culture in Washington,
D.C. He also secured a $1 million grant to support the mentoring of young men, according to the release.
The honoree, Vaughns, exemplifies dedication, commitment and a life-long allegiance to the fraternity’s principles.
“His remarkable military service as an enlisted aircraft mechanic in both World War II and the Korean War, including his service with the Tuskegee Airmen, showcases his unwavering bravery and patriotism,” according to the release.
Musical artist Parrish’s “soulful voice and exceptional talent will captivate the audience as she pays tribute to the legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha,” according to the release.
Fraternity brothers Chris Watkins and Darnell CannWard Sr. will also showcase their musical talents.
Alpha Phi Alpha President Jackie Harris commented on the celebration.
“This celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the significant contributions that Alpha Phi Alpha has made in our community through manly deeds, scholarship and love for all mankind,” Harris said. “We are proud to showcase our rich history and honor the remarkable individuals who have shaped our chapter over the past 75 years.”
Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek letter fraternity established for African-Americans, was founded in 1906 at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. The fraternity was initially formed as a study and support group to empower minority students who faced educational and social racial prejudices, according to the release.
The Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter was established on Dec. 11. It was founded by L.H. Williams, the regional director, and a dedicated group of charter members, including Chester E. Hynes, Kenneth Johnson, Charles L. Shepard, Robert W. Gray Jr., Burgess B. Lawson, Carl L. Marshall, Sammie J. Banks, Bismarck S. Williams, Tyrone Greene, Willie Hill, Harold H. Phippas Jr., John McLinn Ross and Ray F. Russell. The chapter remains dedicated to serving Pine Bluff and surrounding communities through various community service projects, educational initiatives and mentoring programs. Their commitment to uplifting and empowering individuals reflects the core principles of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, according to the release.
Details: William Campbell at wecampb@gmail.com or (870) 723-4262.