UNITED WE STAND: THE FIERCE URGENCY OF NOW - A statement from the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Presidents
Council of Presidents
Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, Vice Chairman, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Danette Anthony Reed, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Reuben A. Shelton, III, Esq., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Ricky Lawrence Lewis, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Elsie Cooke-Holmes, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Chris V. Rey, JD, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Dr. Stacie NC Grant, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Rasheeda S. Liberty, Chairwoman, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Sean D. Housen, Sr. Ed.D, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
UNITED WE STAND: THE FIERCE URGENCY OF NOW
A statement from the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Presidents
Since the first decade of the 20th Century, Black Greek-lettered organizations have worked to protect the interests and Constitutional rights of African Americans on college campuses and in the communities they serve. Now, more than 100 years later, the 2.5 million+ members of the nine National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations find themselves standing vigilant against Jim Crowesque attacks from those who seek to undermine the foundational freedoms of Black people and marginalized communities across our United States.
Emboldened by divisive white nationalist rhetoric from prominent American political leaders and influential media figures, state and local officials have introduced and adopted laws that target efforts to diminish and/or erase diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at public institutions. For example, Florida’s governor recently signed legislation that bans the state’s public colleges and universities from spending money on diversity, equity and inclusion programs – a clear retrograde for our nation’s education system.
In addition, members of K-12 school boards across America have considered and adopted policies to severely limit students’ exposure to perspectives, research and ideas that deviate from narrow – and sometimes inaccurate - depictions of American culture and history. As a result, educators have been blocked from presenting books and curricular topics that examine systems of oppression like slavery, racism, and sexism; as well as historical stories of marginalized people that overcame said oppressive systems to make this country a better place.
As a result, local school districts have been transformed into political battlegrounds where extremist activists wage divisive and faux attacks on so-called “woke culture” while seeking to impose a neo-segregationist framework in public education. This is a deliberate attempt to undermine the intent of the United States Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education by devaluing the benefits of integration and culturally inclusive curriculum. This is not a popular movement, but one driven by a small group of well-funded, extremist activists with a clear intent – to destroy public and culturally inclusive education as a public good.
Many of the same political leaders who are motivated to ban books that present difficult truths about the sins of America are utterly silent and unwilling to grapple with daunting challenges like gun violence which continues to plague the communities in which we live and serve. Issues like the irresponsibly laxed availability of assault weapons, which has facilitated mass shootings of American children, should be countered with sensible gun legislation to protect the lives of all Americans.
Yet all around us, the courts and elected officials are constantly eroding our rights; including a woman’s right to bodily autonomy. A small minority of Americans appear to wield outsized influence, leaving the majority feeling increasingly disempowered. In the face of systemic social, political, and economic injustices, it’s impossible to overstate the ominous impact that overturning Roe v. Wade will have on the lives, safety, and wellbeing of not just women, but men and families alike. Additionally, the sheer consequences of inaction at a time such as this would have a devastating impact on the lives and liberties of many generations to come.
At this pivotal moment in history, the NPHC’s Council of Presidents reaffirms our commitment to civic engagement and through our chapters, will present programming to inform our communities of the potential consequences of laws that would erode or prevent the expansion of our rights.
We will stand united and steadfast in leading and organizing efforts to oppose restrictive laws and work to enact laws that will expand freedoms for all Americans.
We will continue to push our members to fully engage in the political system as voters, election volunteers and elected officials.
And like our organizations’ founders and elders, we’ll use our talents and resources to fight against oppression because complacency is too high a cost to pay today and sacrifice for future generations.
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The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Incorporated (NPHC) is currently composed of nine (9) International Greek letter Sororities and Fraternities: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. For more information, visit www.nphchq.com or CONTACT: Donna Jones Anderson, 470-898-8655, president@nphchq.com
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns the Victims of Allen, Texas Mass Shooting
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
May 10, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mourns the Victims of Allen, Texas Mass Shooting
Prays for Survivors’ Recovery, Including Alpha Brother Irvin P. Walker, II
BALTIMORE, MD. – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns the victims and prays for the survivors of the deadly mass shooting in Allen, Texas, which left eight people dead and seven people injured, including a member of the Fraternity on Saturday, May 6. Alpha Brother Irvin P. Walker, II, who was shot multiple times, including in his chest and once in the right shoulder, is currently recovering after major life-saving surgery.
The Fraternity is outraged and condemns the acts of the alleged mass shooter, Mauricio Garcia, who was found to have Neo-Nazi ideation and killed eight people, including three children. We mourn those lives lost in this deadly tragedy and offer our deepest condolences to the families of the eight victims. We also pray for the speedy recovery of its seven victims, including Brother Walker, a Spring 1997 Delta Sigma initiate at Grambling State University and member of the General Organization.
While the gunman’s motive is unclear, these senseless mass shootings must stop, as well as the ease and accessibility of assault weapons, which have been repeatedly used to cause this type of carnage.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., who is holding its 97th General Convention and 117th Anniversary Convention in Dallas, Texas this July, urges Congress and state legislatures to enact common sense gun control laws, which limit the accessibility of assault weapons and helps to prevent these deadly tragedies, which are now occurring almost monthly across the country.
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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 Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Announces Burning Sands As Official Golf Partner
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
April 21, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ANNOUNCES BURNING SANDS AS OFFICIAL GOLF PARTNER
BALTIMORE, MD – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. announced Burning Sands as its ‘Official Golf Partner’ – having signed an exclusive three-year agreement to manufacture, sell, and advertise golf bags with Alpha trademarks.
Founded by the Nobles Family in Huntsville, AL in 2021, Burning Sands is a Greek Paraphernalia Company that is focused on introducing quality, high end attire and accessories to all D9 organizations.
“We are focused on providing items that fall outside of the cultural norms and show how dynamic we are as a people,” according to Burning Sands’ website. “We as Black Greeks embody style, fashion and culture and we at Burning Sands want to help shine the light on how brilliant we are.”
As an official partner, Burning Sands, and others pay a premium license fee and depending on success, the Fraternity may receive royalties. Other Fraternity official partners include RG Apparel for IMDP blazers, Sphinx Reserve for Online Shop, Greek Traditions for subscription boxes, and Herff Jones as maker of the Official Badge and certain jewelry pieces that includes the Fraternity Shield.
“Burning Sands makes a top-notch product, and we are excited to partner with them as our ‘Official Golf Partner’,” said Brother Sean L. McCaskill, the Fraternity’s executive director. “The fact that the company is Alpha Brother-owned makes the partnership that much more rewarding since it supports our effort to ensure ‘Alpha dollars touch Alpha Brothers’.”
To purchase, Burning Sands’ official Alpha golf bags, visit: https://burning-sands.com/
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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 Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.
Statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on the Expulsion of Two African American Tennessee State Representatives
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
April 7, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on the Expulsion of Two African American Tennessee State Representatives
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. denounces the expulsion yesterday of two African American lawmakers from the Tennessee State House of Representatives for engaging in a peaceful protest at the state capitol and leading a chant from the House floor after a deadly school shooting in Nashville.
The resolution, which expelled Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson, failed to oust another lawmaker, Rep. Gloria Johnson, who is white, for her identical participation in the protest.
The Right-wing claims that these representatives violated house rules on conduct and decorum flies in direct opposition to constitutional free speech and these duly elected lawmakers’ responsibilities to advocate for their constituents.
Regrettably, these undemocratic and unprecedented expulsions are an effort to silence an overdue discourse on a deadly issue that plagues our country and endangers the lives of our children and citizens.
Let us not forget that three teachers and three children lost their lives in this deadly tragedy. We should not want those who represent us to be passive and silent after these incidents.
We encourage all who believe in justice to do anything they can to help ensure these men are restored to their rightful place to represent their communities.
About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., headquartered in Baltimore, MD, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Visit and follow on Twitter @apa1906network.
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. CONDEMNS THE MEMPHIS POLICE OFFICERS’ BRUTAL AND SUBSEQUENTLY DEADLY BEATING OF UNARMED TYRE NICHOLS
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
January 28, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. CONDEMNS THE MEMPHIS POLICE OFFICERS’ BRUTAL AND SUBSEQUENTLY DEADLY BEATING OF UNARMED TYRE NICHOLS
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. condemns the Memphis police officers' brutal and subsequent deadly beating of unarmed Tyre Nichols.
While we applaud authorities' swift decision to terminate these officers and the grand jury's decision to charge them with second degree murder, kidnapping, and other charges, justice is yet to be served.
Incidents of police brutality and the shootings of unarmed Black citizens continue to be commonplace. As a Fraternity with a storied history as a champion for social justice, we urge the U.S. Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021 and for local and state officials to ensure their local police departments revamp and enact comprehensive training programs for their police officers.
Alpha Phi Alpha stands in support of the Nichols family and offers them our prayers and heartfelt condolences. We ask that our fellow Alpha Brothers, who choose to participate in protests do so peacefully as well as refrain from the reposting the videos of the heinous beating out of respect for the Nichols family.
Lawmakers and authorities must take a stand today and put an end to police brutality and the shooting of unarmed Black citizens.
About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., headquartered in Baltimore, MD, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Visit and follow on Twitter @apa1906network.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Announces New Partnership with Black Tech-Based Cancer Charity, Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
November 25, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC., ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH BLACK TECH-BASED CANCER CHARITY, ORA LEE SMITH CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Collaboration Hopes to Raise Awareness and Critical Funds to Eradicate Cancer
BALTIMORE, MD – The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation have partnered to raise awareness and critical funds for human trials for a new treatment to eradicate cancer for the 9 million people who die each year.
During Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s 95th General Convention in 2019, the Board of Directors voted unanimously to partner with the Ora Lee Smith Cancer Foundation, a Black tech-based cancer charity. Recently, Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, General President, executed and signed an MOU solidifying the new partnership.
“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is committed to supporting the efforts of the Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation,” said General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. “Everyone has a loved one, or knows someone, fighting this disease. We strongly believe that the Foundation’s research offers a promising opportunity to revolutionize the way cancer is treated, save lives, and improve the health outcomes for millions of cancer patients worldwide.”
Ora Lee Smith Founder, Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green, an internationally-recognized cancer researcher and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., has developed a new, revolutionary treatment using Laser-Activated Nano-Therapy (LANT) technology – specifically designed to destroy cancer cells while leaving healthy cells intact.
“I thank the General President, the Board of Directors, and the members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., for joining our efforts,” said Dr. Green, who established the foundation to ensure her treatment is accessible and affordable “It takes a lot of courage to be the first and take action on a vision to go beyond hope. This is a testament to their leadership and commitment to our families, our community, and our future.”
To date, Dr. Green’s research with LANT technology has been proven to eliminate tumors in mice in just 15 days after one 10-minute treatment without any observable side effects and maintains the patient’s dignity. LANT, which is also a multi-cancer platform therapy, has implications for a variety of solid tumor types, including breast, colorectal, ovarian, skin, brain, anal, and prostate cancers.
Within the African American community, an estimated 224,080 new cancer cases and 73,680 cancer deaths were expected to occur in 2022.
Under the partnership, the Fraternity is planning a variety of activities to support the foundation, including:
- November 28, 2022 - Partnership Launch Webinar at 7 PM EST - Streamed live on FB, YouTube, and Brotherhood Portal
- November 29, 2022 - Giving Tuesday through December 6, 2022,
- December - End of Year Appeal to the Brotherhood and their friends and family
To learn more and donate, visit: OraLee.org/Alphas.
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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 Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke, and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Partners with Indiana University's Kelley School of Business
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
George Vlahakis
Associate Director of Communications and Media Relations
Indiana University Kelley
November 16, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Partners with the Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business
Effort seeks to increase more African American and Latinx enrollment in business and management graduate programs
BALTIMORE, MD – The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has partnered with the Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business ensuring more of its members pursue graduate degrees in business and management.
As part of the partnership, Alpha Brothers receive application fee waivers and an opportunity for no less than three full tuition fellowships for those admitted to Kelley’s full-time, in-residence MBA program each year. Fellowship recipients may also receive support to attend the Fraternity’s Regional and General conventions.
“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is renowned for its development of global leaders across every field, including business,” said General President Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. “As the world’s first and leading intercollegiate Fraternity founded by African American men, the Fraternity is uniquely equipped to successfully partner with the Kelley School of Business and fully realize its goal of increasing African American and Latinx pursuit of business and management graduate degrees.”
Kelley’s MBA program, which is typically completed in 21 months, offers a strong focus on academics, professional development, career development, and experiential learning, including global learning and leadership development opportunities.
The Fraternity ensures at least 10 Alpha Brothers apply and three enroll each Fall semester in the Kelley MBA program. Program applicants, which are notified within 60 days, are reviewed based on prior academic performance, work experience, standardized test scores, English proficiency scores, essays, interviews, and leadership experience.
“We are proud of a heritage at Kelley that highlights the importance of developing leaders who reflect our increasingly diverse society, through a learning environment that is supportive for all,” said Ash Soni, interim dean of the Kelley School and The Sungkyunkwan Professor. “Alumni of Alpha Phi Alpha have included a Supreme Court justice, a UN ambassador, civil rights leaders and, of course, many successful businessmen. We hope this new partnership similarly will contribute to promoting greater diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
The program will also offer webinars and opportunities targeting the Fraternity’s College Brothers about business careers and graduate business education at Kelley as well as special sessions with Alumni Brothers to assist in the business school application process, the agreement stated.
The partnership ends June 30, 2026.
For more information, visit: https://blogs.iu.edu/kelleyschool/2022/11/16/new-partnership-with-alpha-phi-alpha-encourages-members-to-pursue-a-kelley-mba/
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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 Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Launches New Job Board in Partnership with Professional Diversity Network, Inc.
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
Mina Olivas
Partnership Engagment Liaison
PDN
(630) 215-7797
November XX, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Launches New Job Board in Partnership with Professional Diversity Network, Inc.
BALTIMORE, MD – The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the world’s first and largest intercollegiate Fraternity founded by African American men, collaborated with Professional Diversity Network, Inc. (PDN), one of the largest diverse networks in the nation, to launch an easy-to-access job board for its more than 85,000 current alumni members.
The new fully integrated job board https://apajobs.com/ is located at the Fraternity’s website.
“The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is excited to announce the launch of its fully integrated job board in collaboration with Professional Diversity Network, Inc.,” said General President Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. “This pivotal resource is long overdue and helps fulfill and enhance our mission of developing leaders and promoting academic excellence through establishing a direct path to career planning and success for our members.”
The Fraternity, which has initiated more than 200,000 members with over 8,000 active College Brothers and more than 85,000 Alumni Brothers.
“Alpha Phi Alpha is one of the great historically Black Fraternities," said Mike Hall, Executive Vice President of PDN. “Their global membership is composed of college educated men who are highly engaged in their local communities. PDN welcomes APA as a highly valued partner.”
PDN’s focuses is to provide access to networking, training, educational, and employment opportunities.
Through an online platform and our relationship recruitment affinity groups, PDN provides their employer clients a means to identify and acquire diverse talent and assist them with their efforts to recruit diverse employees. Their mission is to utilize the collective strength of our affiliate companies, members, partners, and unique proprietary platform to be the standard in business diversity recruiting, networking and professional development for women, minorities, veterans, LGBT, and disabled persons globally.
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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 Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.
***
Professional Diversity Network, Inc.
Professional Diversity Network, Inc. (PDN) is a developer and operator of online and in-person networks that provides access to networking, training, educational and employment opportunities for diverse professionals. Through an online platform and our relationship recruitment affinity groups, we provide our employer clients a means to identify and acquire diverse talent and assist them with their efforts to recruit diverse employees. Our mission is to utilize the collective strength of our affiliate companies, members, partners, and unique proprietary platform to be the standard in business diversity recruiting, networking and professional development for women, minorities, veterans, LGBT, and disabled persons globally. For more information about PDN, please visit: www.prodivnet.com
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Congratulates Brother Wes Moore on Historic Maryland Gubernatorial Election Win
Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
November 9, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Congratulates Brother Wes Moore on Historic Maryland Gubernatorial Election Win
Brother Moore First African American Governor-Elect of Maryland
BALTIMORE, MD – The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. congratulates Brother Wes Moore on his historic Maryland Gubernatorial Election win yesterday to become the first African American Governor-Elect of the state.
Brother Moore, a 2000 Sigma Sigma Chapter initiate at John Hopkins University and a member of Delta Lambda Chapter in Baltimore, is an investment banker and television producer, who has also authored five books, including The Other Wes Moore and The Work.
“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. congratulates Brother Wes Moore on his historic Maryland Gubernatorial Election win last night,” said General President Willis L. Lonzer, III, Ph.D. “As Maryland’s first African American governor, Brother Moore continues the Fraternity’s unparalleled legacy of leadership and firsts. He joins the list of Alpha’s other men of distinction in public service, who are US senators and congressmen, mayors, state representatives and senators, city councilmen, and others, who proudly serve the United States as a nation, states, cities, and communities. We look forward to the progressive and thoughtful leadership he will provide to the state of Maryland and the example he offers to the people of the United States of America.”
Brother Moore, who graduated from Hopkins, received a master’s degree from Wolfson College, Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. He also proudly served several years in the U.S. Army and the Army Reserve. In addition, Brother Moore, the former CEO of The Robin Hood Foundation – one of the nation’s largest anti-poverty organizations, was the host of Beyond Belief on the Oprah Winfrey Network, as well as the executive producer and writer for Coming Back With Wes Moore on PBS.
In July, Winfrey, endorsed Brother Moore through a campaign advertisement, calling him a “transformational leader.”
“This moment that we’re in demands of different type of leader,” said Winfrey. “For governor in Maryland, you have one in my friend, Wes Moore.”
Brother Moore, who is married with two children, lives in the Guilford community in north Baltimore.
“With the Fraternity’s General Office headquartered in Baltimore, MD, we are especially excited and proud to have a fellow Alpha Brother leading the state, who lives in the city and has led a life of dedicated public and community service,” said Brother Sean L. McCaskill, the Fraternity’s executive director. “We are committed to providing our support to him in the state as well as fostering further opportunities to provide service to our communities.”
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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 Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.
Hiring Graphic Designer - Digital Content Creator
Graphic Designer – Digital Content Creator for
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated
Job Title: Graphic Designer and Digital Content Creator
Location: Baltimore, MD
Status: Full Time/Salary
Salary: Consummate with Qualifications + Company Benefits
Job Category: Administrative Professional 1
Position Overview
The Fraternity’s General Office is in Baltimore, Maryland and has responsibility for managing
the daily operational and programmatic functions of the fraternity; which include budget and
finance administration, membership services engagement and support, public relations,
marketing and communications, event and program coordination, vendor and partner relations,
and board and national officer management and administrative support. The Graphic Designer
and Digital Content Creator is a part of the Communications Department and provides graphic
design assistance that is consistent with the image and brand of the fraternity. The Graphic
Designer and Digital Content Creator also supports the graphic and printing needs of the
general office departments, and collaborates with General committee chairs and programs in
maintaining approved print and digital imagery. In addition, the Graphic Designer and Digital
Content Creator has responsibility for maintaining online communication tools and manages
access, coordination, and approval to various project management platforms. This function also
includes serving as the departments dedicated project manager and involves ensuring the
adherence to set timelines and project related goals. The Graphic Designer and Digital Content
Creator also has responsibility for managing regular updates to the fraternity’s
website and oversees the development, implementation, and management of new technology
platforms. The individual is this role will also support the media and software related IT needs
of the general office. In addition, the Graphic Designer and Digital Content Creator will support
communications tools including the development of presentations, online newsletters, and
other forms of online communications. In collaboration with the Director of Communications
and Editor-of-The Sphinx, the Graphic Designer and Digital Content Creator will also assist in
coordinating the fraternity’s vendor licensing and brand protection strategy. The Graphic
Designer and Digital Content Creator is a full-time position and will be based in Baltimore,
Maryland at the fraternity’s General Office.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
The Graphic Designer and Digital Content Creator performs a wide range of duties including
some or all the following:
Graphic Design and Digital Content Creation
• Creates visual aspects of marketing materials, websites, and other media, including
infographics, logos, social media graphics, etc.
• Creates and edit short videos or animated graphics for social media, etc.
• Organizes elements of a design, such as the icons, photographs, and other components
necessary
• Oversees editing and voice-overs to assure quality production
• Other duties as assigned
Project Management
• Archives and curates all creative content libraries, i.e. photos, videos, etc.
• Consults with clients to create cohesive designs that reflects the fraternity’s brand and overall
goals
• Simultaneously manages on multiple projects based on current client workload
• Other duties as assigned
Technology
• Monitors and update websites, marketing activities and member benefit programs for
continuous improvement
• Support software related IT needs of the General Office
• Coordinates the development, implementation, and management of new technology
platforms
• Develops and coordinates multimedia packages—letters, brochures, video, point-of-purchase
displays
• Other duties as assigned
Brand & License Management
• Assists in the development of new fraternal marketing, communication, and branding policies
and procedures
• Assists in the management brand protection efforts
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications & Required Skills
A candidate who is successful in the graphic designer and technology position will have the
following skills, competencies, and qualifications:
• Bachelor's Degree in fine art design, computer science, marketing, communications, or a
related field required
• 3-5 years in professional commercial and graphic design with a non-profit or creative
marketing agency, etc.
• Knowledge of non-profit and volunteer-driven organizations
• Skilled at computer web software and their graphic applications
• Previous experience in production and design procedures for graphic material (both print and
online)
• Experience working with WordPress, Mailchimp, Drupal, and other communication platforms
templates
• Extensive experience with Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, specifically with mockups,
web design and multimedia presentation
• Working knowledge of Coding, CSS3, HTML5 and JavaScript
• Adaptive design eye and skill
• Ability to absorb and apply constructive criticism from peers and clients
• Proven project management skills; implementing collaborative objectives
• Relevant background in media business development
• Web Coding and development experience
• Knowledge of new web and print media technologies and software
• Expert in managing time and completing given tasks with the defined timeframe
• Ability to solve complex problems
• Strong attention to detail; excellent organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities
and meet deadlines
• Strong ability to incorporate feedback for immediate improvement
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to timely deliver on
commitments
• Demonstrated experience working in a team-based environment
• Strong ability to balance long-range strategic planning and short-term positive progress
• Expert listening skills and ability to interact with people, at all levels, effectively
• Effective judgement and decision-making skills
• Proven experience in identifying and implementing process improvements/needs
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About Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated
Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African-
Americans, was founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by seven college men who
recognized the need for a strong bond of Brotherhood among African descendants in this
country. The visionary founders, known as the “Jewels” of the Fraternity, are Henry Arthur
Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel Allison
Murray, Robert Harold Ogle, and Vertner Woodson Tandy.
The Fraternity initially served as a study and support group for minority students who faced
racial prejudice, both educationally and socially, at Cornell. The Jewel founders and early
leaders of the Fraternity succeeded in laying a firm foundation for Alpha Phi Alpha's principles
of scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the uplifting of humanity. Alpha Phi Alpha
chapters were established at other colleges and universities, many of them historically Black
institutions, soon after the founding at Cornell. The first Alumni Chapter was established in
1911. While continuing to stress academic excellence among its members, Alpha also
recognized the need to help correct the educational,
economic, political, and social injustices faced by African Americans. Alpha Phi Alpha has long
stood at the forefront of the African American community's fight for civil rights through leaders
such as: W.E.B. DuBois, Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Edward Brooke, Martin Luther King, Jr.,
Thurgood Marshall, Andrew Young, William Gray, Paul Robeson, and many others. True to its
form as the “first of firsts,” Alpha Phi Alpha has been interracial since 1945.
To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, three to five professional references, as well as
provide a graphic design samples, or a link to a graphic design portfolio to: