Statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on ICE Aggression and Disregard of Civil Rights and Rule of Law
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on ICE Aggression and Disregard of Civil Rights and Rule of Law
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. abhors and condemns the escalating aggression and disregard of civil rights and rule of law by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) in U.S. cities across the country and urges the U.S. Congress and federal courts to act.
ICE is a regulatory agency not a law enforcement agency and should not be permitted to wear masks as well as harass, detain, assault, or kill with little or no accountability. No one is above the law, and no agency is above the U.S. Constitution.
Over the past year, ICE has sent a clear message that current immigration efforts are not about the security of our borders nor the enforcement of our immigration laws and policies but instead about providing a license to target minority people in this country, regardless of citizenship, under the guise of immigration enforcement.
And with recent revelations that ICE members, include a leader of the Proud Boys and members of other white nationalist/supremacist groups should give lawmakers more than pause and sound an alarm about the vetting and deeply disturbing direction and so-called enforcement of this agency.
Be clear, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and its Brotherhood have long stood at the forefront for the advancement and equal protection of disenfranchised people in the public sector, and that is unwavering.
Therefore, the Fraternity supports its members and chapters participating in peaceful protests, with the approval from the Regional Vice President, that aligns with advocacy for our communities. Note that Alpha Phi Alpha does not condone or support violent protest or destruction of property.
We also encourage Brothers and Chapters to action in the following ways:
- Chapters should immediately set aside time to meet with their current congressional district representatives and discuss our concerns as an organization about the aggressive nature of ICE
- Implore Congress and the President to come together to provide immigration reform that addresses the concerns of Americans with a path to citizenship for “Dreamers” {undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, growing up to consider America home, often educated here, and contributing significantly to the economy, yet lacking permanent legal status}.
- Chapters should engage in voter registration, education, and turn out of voters in the 2026, 2027 and 2028 elections, while partnering with like organizations.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will not be silent while the rights and freedoms of U.S. citizens and people in search of the American promise are trampled and ICE operates like 21st Century slave patrols in this country.
Our freedom and democracy depend on it.
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The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and The D9Network, a New ‘Divine Nine’ Digital Platform for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs, Announces Collaboration
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
Sean Reed McGhee
CEO, The D9Network
Cell: 732-616-3476
MONDAY, JANUARY 19, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and The D9Network, a New ‘Divine Nine’ Digital Platform for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs, Announces Collaboration
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and The D9Netwok, a new ‘Divine Nine’ digital platform for Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, are partnering to elevate Black-owned businesses, spotlight professional excellence and circulate the Black dollar.
This first-of-its-kind collaboration strengthens the mission of both organizations to amplify Black economic power, visibility, and community connections nationwide. Through this partnership, Alpha Phi Alpha members can:
“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is pleased to partner with The D9 Network in this unique collaboration that supports our in-house initiative of ‘Alpha Dollars Touching Alpha Brothers,’ which already encourages our members to patronize businesses and services of fellow members,” said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. “This partnership now helps to expand our support to other members of the ‘Divine Nine,” who own businesses and are also entrepreneurs.”
D9Network CEO Brother Sean Reed McGee echoed those sentiments.
“As an Alpha man myself, this partnership is deeply personal,” said McGee. “Our goal with The D9Network has always been to connect our Divine Nine family, elevate Black businesses, and ensure the Black dollar keeps circulating within our community. With this endorsement, Alpha Phi Alpha sets the tone for what collaboration and brotherhood can achieve.”
Alpha Phi Alpha chapters, members, and affiliates are now invited to join The D9Network, where they can showcase their businesses, access valuable resources, and collaborate on initiatives that drive empowerment forward.
For more information and to join, visit www.thed9network.com.
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The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Donates $20,000 to Cancer Research in Honor of late Alpha Brother and ESPN Anchor/Sportscaster Stuart Scott
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
JANUARY 16, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Donates $20,000 to Cancer Research in Honor of late Alpha Brother and ESPN Anchor/Sportscaster Stuart Scott
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s General Board of Directors recently agreed to donate $20,000 to the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund with the V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity.
The late Brother Scott, who was 49 when he passed away in 2015, wasa 1984 Mu Zeta Chapter initiate of the Fraternity at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a celebrated ESPNAnchor/Sportscaster.
“We are proud to continue to honor the memory of our dear Alpha Brother, who was a courageous advocate for cancer research and epitomized our moniker as ‘Men of Distinction,’,” said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. “Despite his own cancer fight, Brother Scott recognized that minorities were disproportionately affected and unselfishly chose to bring awareness.”
Brother Scott’s sister and V Foundation for Cancer Research board member, Susan Scott, echoed his sentiments.
“Alpha Phi Alpha was a meaningful and defining part of Stuart’s life. He loved the brotherhood, lived its values, and took deep pride in being an Alpha man — a bond shared with my brother Stephen as well,” said Scott. “To see that brotherhood continue to honor Stuart through this gift, and through their commitment to cancer research, means more to our family than words can fully express.”
The V Foundation and ESPN established the Stuart Scott Fund in memory of celebrated ESPN sportscaster Stuart Scott. Brother Scott was a dedicated friend to the V Foundation and a champion for cancer research. He enrolled in a clinical trial during his own cancer journey and was especially driven to improve outcomes for African Americans and other minorities disproportionately affected by cancer. The fraternity first began supporting the foundation with the ‘Give and Go Challenge’ in 2020.
"We are profoundly moved by the generosity of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,” said Clark Kinlin, Interim CEO at the V Foundation. “By supporting cancer research for underrepresented groups through the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund, this contribution helps us close the gap in healthcare outcomes and ensures that lifesaving breakthroughs reach every community.”
The Foundation has awarded more than $22.1 million in research grants in his memory.
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The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns the Transition of Brother Charles Robinson, III, the Fraternity’s 19th Editor-of-The Sphinx to Omega Chapter
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns the Transition of Brother Charles Robinson, III, the Fraternity’s 19th Editor-of-The Sphinx to Omega Chapter
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns the death yesterday of the late Brother Charles Robinson, III, the Fraternity’s 19th Editor of the Sphinx, an award-winning print, broadcast, and digital journalist, who was also recently honored with the National Association of Black Journalists Lifetime Achievement Award. He was 69.
The late Brother Robinson, a 1975 Theta Rho Chapter initiate of the Fraternity at the Virginia Commonwealth University and longtime member of Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter in Columbia, MD, was a devoted 50-year Brother. He served as Editor-of-The Sphinx, the nation’s second oldest African American publication in print from 1991-1993.
Within NABJ, Brother Robinson held numerous leadership roles on multiple levels, serving as president of the Baltimore Chapter of NABJ’s Association of Black Media Workers and had worked as a senior political reporter for Maryland Public Television, where his name is also included on Maryland Public Television’s Wall of Fame.
In 2023, he contributed a featured article, “The Right Time” on the election of Brother Governor Wes Moore for The Sphinx Magazine.
Brother Robinson resided in Baltimore County with his wife, Robbie, and has two children – including a son, who is a Brother of our beloved, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
The Fraternity offers its sincerest condolences to his family, chapter, friends, and all who admire him.
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The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. EARMARKS $600,000 IN GIVING AND SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HBCUs AND MAJORITY MINORITY INSTITUTIONS
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. EARMARKS $600,000 IN GIVING AND SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HBCUs AND MAJORITY MINORITY INSTITUTIONS
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. earmarked $600,000 in giving and scholarships for HBCUs and Majority Minority institutions across each of the Fraternity’s five regions. This is in addition to contributions made to other institutions, such as Tuskegee University and Paine College.
In October, the Fraternity’s General Board of Directors approved the action with each region to announce the seven institutions awarded $17,000 in their respective regions and on their respective social media platforms.
“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is committed to its mission of promoting academic excellence as well as providing support for HBCUs and educational opportunities for African Americans as well as other disenfranchised people,” said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. “These contributions are aimed at helping to somewhat offset the loss of educational support for disenfranchised students due to cuts in federal funding at these institutions as well as due to the dismantling of Diversity, Equity &Inclusion (DEI) opportunities in higher education.”
Central State University, The University of the Bahamas US Foundation Inc., Barber Scotia College, Wilberforce University, Bluefield State University, UNCF - Northern California, Charles Drew University, Morgan State University, The University Foundation at Sacramento, Jackson State National Alumni Association Inc. and Charles Drew University are among some of the institutions awarded.
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The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. SECURES COURT ORDER AGAINST QUALITY LASER DESIGN LLC IN TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT CASE
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. SECURES COURT ORDER AGAINST QUALITY LASER DESIGN LLC IN TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT CASE
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the nation’s first intercollegiate Fraternity founded by African American men and known for leadership and community service, today announced a decisive legal victory against Quality Laser Design LLC (“Quality Laser” after a court issued a permanent injunction and other relief for trademark infringement. The court order mandates that Quality Laser immediately cease all use of the registered trademarks “1906”, “AΦA”, and other Fraternity marks, which were found to be used without permission or a license.
The lawsuit against Quality Laser, Case No. 3:24-cv-02923-G in U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas (“Litigation”), filed on November 21, 2024, alleged that Quality Laser intentionally, without authorization and with the intent to deceive, used the Fraternity's marks, leading to consumer confusion and dilution of its brand's goodwill. The court found that Quality Laser's actions constituted a clear case of trademark infringement under the Lanham Act.
"This ruling is a significant victory not just for Alpha Phi Alpha, but for the integrity of our brand and the trust we have built with our membership, community, and stakeholders," said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Executive Director Sean L. McCaskill. "The court's order sends a clear message that we will not stand by and allow others to infringe upon our intellectual property and mislead consumers."
In addition to the permanent injunction, the court ordered Quality Laser to cease using Alpha Phi Alpha’s trademarks or using any mark, design or similar logos. It is important to note that Quality Laser agreed to pay Alpha Phi Alpha’s attorney’s fees and related costs.
The court's decision validates Alpha Phi Alpha's exclusive rights to “1906”, and “AΦA” marks, which has been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)] since 2006.
"We are committed to protecting our brand and will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent others from unlawfully profiting from our reputation," McCaskill added.
About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
STATEMENT OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ON THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEMENT OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ON THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
In the spirit of our mission statement, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. stands in unwavering solidarity with our Brothers and all Americans who have been furloughed due to the ongoing government shutdown.
This moment demands principled leadership. We call upon lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to come together with urgency and resolve to restore government funding, protect access to healthcare, and ensure the stability of the institutions that serve our nation.
The shutdown not only disrupts livelihoods, but it undermines the dignity of public service and the wellbeing of families across this country. Our Brothers—many of whom serve in critical roles across federal agencies—deserve better. Their dedication to community and country should never be collateral damage in political gridlock.
Alpha Phi Alpha remains committed to amplifying the voices of those affected, advocating for equitable solutions, and holding our elected officials accountable to the people they serve. We urge Congress and the Administration to act swiftly, restore operations, and prioritize the health and security of all Americans.
About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
STATEMENT OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ON RECENT HAZING ALLEGATIONS AT SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEMENT OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ON RECENT HAZING ALLEGATIONS AT SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has placed the Beta Sigma Chapter at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Immediate Cease and Desist Directives for allegations of Hazing.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Rapid Response Team is currently gathering information as to what happened and the involved parties.
But to be very clear…if it is determined by the Rapid Response Team, the University or Law enforcement that the collegiate members hazed then the Chapter along with those individuals will be subjected to penalties and sanctions of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Any Member who directly or indirectly participated in these illicit activities will be permanently expelled and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will encourage the University and Law enforcement to pursue the maximum penalties allowed.
Hazing has no role in the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity., experience. It is not condoned, nor will it be tolerated. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. regularly educates its Chapters and members on their Health, Safety, Risk Management and Legal Guidelines, including but not limited to Hazing and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., policies, and procedures.
About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
STATEMENT OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. GENERAL PRESIDENT LUCIEN J. METELLUS, JR. IN ADVANCE OF SCOTUS RULING ON LOUISIANA V. CALLAIS
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEMENT OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. GENERAL PRESIDENT LUCIEN J. METELLUS, JR. IN ADVANCE OF SCOTUS RULING ON LOUISIANA V. CALLAISRead more
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. MOURNS THE DEATH OF FORMER ALPHA FIRST LADY, EUNICE W. PONDER, ED.D. – 28TH GENERAL PRESIDENT BROTHER HENRY PONDER
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
ewebb@apa1906.net
Cell: 443-635-5911
Friday, Sept. 26, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. MOURNS THE DEATH OF FORMER ALPHA FIRST LADY, EUNICE W. PONDER, ED.D. –
28TH GENERAL PRESIDENT BROTHER HENRY PONDER
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns the death of former Alpha First Lady, Eunice W. Ponder, Ed.D. – the wife of 28th General President Brother Dr. Henry Ponder. Mrs. Ponder passed away on Sept. 20. She was 96.
The Fraternity offers its sincerest condolences to her family, friends, sorority, and all who admired her.
Mrs. Ponder, who lived a life of service, was a public-school teacher then a university professor and administrator as well as First Lady of Benedict College (1973-1984), Fisk University (1984-1994), Talladega College (2001-2004), and Langston University (2010-2012).
She attended Langston University, where she majored in business education and was a proud member of Beta Upsilon chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She graduated in 1951, later earning a master’s degree at Oklahoma State University in 1958, and subsequently an Ed.D. in higher education from the University of South Carolina in 1981. She became a development administrator then business management professor at Benedict.
At Fisk University, where she became First Lady in 1984, she also taught business management at the university, and served on numerous nonprofit boards, as well as was a member of The Fleur de Lis Bridge Club and The Links, Inc.
Mrs. Ponder, who retired in 1991, was a Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a Platinum Member of The Links, Inc., and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.
She is survived by her husband of 73 years, their daughters, Edna Cheryl and Anna Katheryn, and their Norfolk Terrier, Pearl.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 11:00am at the Leamington Beach Club: 100 S. Shore Drive, Hilton Head Island, 20028. In lieu of flowers, her family asks that you consider a gift to Memory Matters: 117 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926 or https://www.mymemorymatters.org/explore.
Read full obituary at: https://www.compassionfuneralservice.com/obituary/eunice-ponder
About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; late former Congressman Adam Clayton Powell; late former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; legendary activist, actor and performer, Paul Robeson, former Ambassador Andrew Young; late former Senator Edward Brooke; scholar, Cornel West; Senator Raphael Warnock; Congressman Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; General CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; six other members of the U.S. Congress, numerous state, and local lawmakers across the United States, as well as President of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Boakai, Sr. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, and other parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.