Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni's January/June 2024 Digest + Centennial Celebration Re-Caps
This edition of the APCAA Digest features updates on 39 Brothers from the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and their professional developments, transitions, artistic pursuits, industry projects, awards and recognitions.
Also — we announce several leadership enhancements for the association, provide updates on recent APCAA Archive acquisitions for the Woodruff AUC Library, and welcome the chapter's most recent members, the Spring 2024 Centennial 23.
Bro. Robert P. Williams Named Principal Of B.E.S.T Academy At Benjamin S. Carson All Male Middle And High School
APCAA Staff
Dr. Robert Williams' school administrator career began as an assistant principal at Washington High School, followed by an interim principal position at Kennedy Middle School, assistant principal at E.L. Connally Elementary, and finally an assistant principal at BEST Academy (6-12). He managed the implementation of STEM practices school-wide and partnerships such as Project ENGAGES (Engaging New Generations at Georgia Tech in Engineering and Science), which contributed to BEST Academy (6-12) becoming Cognia STEM certified.
BEST Academy is a 227,000 square foot middle and high school constructed on a steeply sloped 15-acre site. BEST is Atlanta’s first all-male school in more than 60 years. Operated by Atlanta Public Schools, the site is in the campus of West Fulton Middle (High) School. The curriculum focuses on business, engineering, science, and technology thus the name- “BEST” Academy.
Williams currently serves as APCAA's Chief Scholastic Officer and is the principal author of the association's B.O.L.D. Centennial Scholarship Program which presents our first $20,000 in grants this July to incoming Morehouse College freshmen.
Atlanta Police Department Promotes Bro. Ralph M. Woolfolk IV (Spring 2007) To Major - Violent Crime Interdiction Section
Major Ralph Woolfolk IV is a proud Atlanta native and Commander over the Violent Crime Interdiction Section (VCIS). VCIS is responsible for fighting criminal street gang activity, firearms crime and narcotics related crimes in the City of Atlanta. Prior to promotion to Major, he ushered in a wave of new and analytical focused processes and brought a targeted response to the City’s Special Enforcement Section, encompassing Homeland Security Unit, Gangs, Fugitive, Repeat Offender and Auto Crimes Enforcement, where he was assigned as a Captain.
Through data analysis, surveillance, targeted enforcement and inter-agency cooperation with local, state and federal partners, he oversaw a dramatic decrease in gang related violence in a little over a year. During this time, Woolfolk oversaw a nationally recognized operation entitled “Operation Heatwave,” aimed at combating violent crime through the identification and apprehension of violent offenders associated with criminal gang activity. Championing the use of evidence-based practices, he worked with executive leadership to reconfigure the Violent Crime Interdiction Section to realize the next generation of targeted enforcement of repeat violent offenders.
Before promotion to Captain, Woolfolk served as the Commander of the elite Homicide Unit, achieving one of the highest clearance rates on record. Prior to serving as the Commander of the Homicide Unit, Woolfolk served as a lieutenant in Zone 5, where he also commanded the Field Investigations Team. During his time as lieutenant, he worked in the Executive Protection Unit, responsible for managing the safety and security of the mayor, as well as several VIP and dignitary visitors to the city.
NBA Hires Bro. Albert L. Sanders (Fall 1998) As Executive Vice President Of Referee Operations
The NBA has hired Albert Sanders as its new executive vice president, head of referee operations. Sanders, who has spent the past several years working as Google's director of government affairs and public policy, spent another several years before that working in various positions in government, including as an associate counsel to President Barack Obama.
"I'm excited for the opportunity to use my experience in strategic oversight and planning to further enhance the NBA's officiating program," Sanders said. "It will be a privilege to work with such a talented group at a world-class organization that values innovation, creativity and integrity." Longtime NBA referee Monty McCutchen, who has been in the league office for the past six seasons and is the NBA's senior vice president of referee development and training, is remaining in his role and will work "in concert" with Sanders, the league said.
Sanders will direct the NBA officiating program with responsibility for the recruitment, hiring, supervision and evaluation of all referees, and he will also oversee the NBA's Replay Center. While Sanders has a higher title than McCutchen, both of them will report directly to Byron Spruell, the NBA's president of league operations.
"Albert is a proven team leader who excels at bringing key stakeholders together to engage on challenging issues and identify needs and opportunities," Spruell said in a statement. "Our officiating program will benefit greatly from his expertise in operations management and organizational strategy."
Alpha Rho's Centennial Great Gathering Immortalized By Attendance Of 505 Members, Five Fraternity General Presidents, A Sitting U.S. Senator, And Presentations By Legacy Members Of Chapter Legends
APCAA Staff
The Chapter's January 6, 2024 "Centennial Great Gathering" was developed as a two-part happening: A black-tie VIP reception & dinner, followed by a live performance of the original stage presentation "The Alpha Rho Show" — a multi-act presentation on the Chapter and its luminaries throughout the past century. Some 505 Alpha Rho Men (62% of the living membership) traveled from around the globe at take part in this once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Brothers M. Lavell Sanders (Fall 1979) and Richard Makerson III (Spring 2001) served as Co-Chairmen of the weekend's signature experience at the legendary Marriott Marquis Hotel in downtown Atlanta.
Headlining as host for The Alpha Rho Show was television personality and director/producer Shaun Robinson, a Spelman College alumna who was crowned as Miss Alpha Rho Chapter in 1982.
This milestone celebration was made possible by the underwriting strength of APCAA's Centennial Captains — 170 Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni who signed-on to emphasize that centennial fundraising remain true to the association's founding mission: scholarships.
Here's a sampling of the Alpha Rho Men (by Line) who left their mark at this historic gathering, as we began our year-long centennial celebration:
Alpha Rho's Centennial 23 Enters The Chat In Spectacular Fashion While Linking To The Chapter's Storied Legacy
APCAA Staff
This brilliant mini-documentary is much more than the probate performance for Alpha Rho Chapter's most recent line, The Centennial 23, primarily because it demonstrates the mindful execution of the partnership between the line's leadership board (Bros. Grantley Whitaker, Kingsley John, Roney Howard, and Alexander Harris) and APCAA's centennial leadership team.
In an effort to blend the April 2024 arrival of the C23 into the year-long centennial programming, the video's storytelling captures perspectives on the chapter's storied 100-year legacy on the campus of Morehouse College, and features historical elements about legendary members and landmark occasions like the raising of the 90th Anniversary Memorial Obelisk — now standing on the exact sacred college site where the chapter's charter members gathered as they carried out the public business of the fraternity in 1924.
Truly — worth the 20-minute experience!
Bro. BMaynard Scarborough, Fall 1980
APCAA President
GHSA Celebrates 50th Anniversary Of Southwest Atlanta’s 1973 Championship Season (Bro. Ted Sparks — Spring 1955)
There was history on the horizon when the 1973 GHSA Football season kicked off. Southwest Atlanta was coming off its first-ever undefeated regular season—a 10-1 finish—and had its sights set on becoming the first-ever Atlanta Public School to capture a state title. The Wolves achieved that goal and closed the 1973 season with a 21-7 win over Americus to cap a perfect 13-0 season. In the process, Southwest Atlanta became the first All-Black football team to win a GHSA state championship and the first and only Atlanta Public School to win a football state title. On December 13, 2023, Score Atlanta and the GHSA will recognized the 1973 state championship team at Mercedes-Benz Stadium after the Class 5A championship and before the Class 7A championship kicks off.
“One of the big stories at our Georgia High School Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in October was the induction of Anthony Flanagan,” said Score Atlanta president I.J. Rosenberg, who is also the executive director of the GHSFHF. “Anthony is not with us anymore but the number of people that showed up for him was amazing. I had one former woman call me and get a ticket for herself. Her husband had passed but he had taught Anthony at Southwest and out of respect for her husband and Anthony, came to the event. This was a very special team.”
Southwest Atlanta head coach Ted Sparks had improved the Wolves overall record in each season since he took over in 1969 and the foundation was built for his fifth year at the helm to achieve the ultimate goal. The growing success on the gridiron came as the average GPA on the team was excelling north of a 3.4 GPA and the statewide attention was also sharpened after head coach David Jones and the Wolves basketball team won the state title in the winter of the 1972 season.
APCAA Welcomes Bro. Hamilton Earl Holmes Jr. (Zeta Pi Spring 1987) And Luke Holbrook Jackson (Alpha Chapter Spring 2022) To Signature Centennial Legacy Conversations Series
APCAA Staff
In keeping with our ongoing centennial year programming, two legacies of legendary Alpha Rho alums [Bro. Hamilton Earl Holmes, Jr. (son of AP Brother Hamilton Earl Holmes Sr. Fall 1960) and Bro. Luke Holbrook Jackson (grandson of AP Brother Maynard Holbrook Jackson Spring 1956) joined us on June 5, 2024 for the second in our series of "Centennial Legacy Conversations."
The elder Bro. Holmes was the first Black student admitted to both the University of Georgia and Emory University Medical School. And the elder Bro. Jackson was the first Black Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia. AP Brothers from as far back as Fall 1962 joined in the session.
The gathering provided another opportunity for the association to pour historical knowledge into the newest members of the Chapter (the Centennial 23) and establish the first ever "AP-To-A Link-Up" between the two Atlanta and Ithaca, NY campuses. AP will host the Alpha Chapter Brothers during our centennial homecoming in October 2024.
Smithsonian American Art Museum Appoints Bro. Robert C. Davidson (Fall 1964) As Chairman
The Smithsonian American Art Museum has announced today that Robert “Bob” C. Davidson, Jr. of Pasadena, California, has been appointed chair of the museum’s board of commissioners. Davidson has been a member of the museum’s board since 2016 and was the chair of the collection committee from 2021 through 2023.
The museum’s board of commissioners was established in 1908 as an advisory board that meets twice a year in Washington, D.C., to counsel the director about matters of policy and fundraising, and to review proposed major acquisitions. Davidson is the first African American chair of the museum’s commission in the organization’s history.
“As a noted art collector and business executive, Bob Davidson brings important expertise and connections in the arts to this new leadership role,” said Stephanie Stebich, The Margaret and Terry Stent Director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. “He has championed the collecting mission of the museum as well as provided knowledge and experience of strategic, financial and public governance matters.”
Bros. Gregory T. (Spring 1987) And Jordan G. Burrell (Fall 2013) Featured As 'Today Show" Commemorates 30 Years Of The TODAY Plaza
Monday, June 3, 2024 — Just days after the TODAY plaza opened in 1994, Al Roker met a family with a young baby. Thirty years later, Jordan Burrell and his father Gregory are back outside Studio 1A!
Glīd Appoints First Chief Operating Officer Bro. Craig A. Woolridge (Fall 1982)
Glīd, the maker of the autonomous road-to-rail patent-pending shipping technology, today announced the appointment of Craig Woolridge as the Chief Operating Officer (COO).
In his capacity as COO, Woolridge will lead the company’s program, finance, marketing, and human resource teams. His appointment aligns with the vision of CEO Kevin Damoa to continue to streamline decision-making processes while bolstering Glīd’s mission to fast-tracking deployment with excellence.
Craig Woolridge is a highly respected sales and marketing leader known for his expertise in increasing organizational value. He has a proven track record of success in various sales and account management positions within the financial sector. Craig excels in building and managing relationships, developing long-term business strategies, and delivering innovative client solutions. He prioritizes business growth and innovation and has exceptional skills in operations management and sales strategy development.
Bros. George B. Walker (Fall 1989) And Jonathan TG Wilkins (Spring 1999) Inducted Into 39th Annual College of Ministers and Laity At Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel
The Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College convened the 39th Annual College of Ministers and Laity on Thursday, April 11, 2024 on the historic campus of Morehouse College. This signature program was designed by the Founding Dean of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, the Rev. Lawrence Edward Carter Sr., PhD.
The College of Ministers and Laity is a distinguished gathering that has drawn some of the brightest minds across various disciplines since its inception in 1985. This year, the induction class includes an ecumenical cohort of over 100 individuals who will be inducted into the esteemed Board of Preachers, Collegium of Scholars, and Board of Sponsors.
Bro. Walker reflected: "My commitment to ensuring that everyone has a life free of bias and has the ability to make decisions that bring them peace and wholeness has been a lifelong goal and vocational calling. It is truly humbling to be acknowledged for the work that I have dedicated myself to."
Google Annex Unveiled At Morehouse College Creates New Opportunities For Students, Faculty (Bro. Ernest D. Holmes — Spring 2018 and Bro. Alfred R. Watkins — Spring 1984)
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Google unveiled The Google Annex at Morehouse College on Monday, May 13, 2024. The ceremony was part of Morehouse’s 140th commencement week activities. Google executives, students, college officials and community members were all in attendance. The new innovative lab is in Morehouse’s Charles Merrill Hall.
“This is an exciting development for our students. Many of our students have expressed the desire to create projects outside the classroom and we really did not have that facility until today, to facilitate that. So, now we have an innovation lab coming online today,” said Dr. Alfred R. Watkins, chair of the Computer Science Department at Morehouse College.
The innovative lab, sponsored by Google, has 10 dedicated workstations. The workstations have Alienware machines with the latest software and hardware for students to create and collaborate on different projects like coding, and other things starting in the fall.
Bro. Jason T. Mercer (Fall 2003) Joins More Than 90 Diverse And Women-led Firms At Bank Of America VC Summit
By Kwame Anku
"Food for thought: Seven “Brothers in Purpose” together in New York City for Bank of America’s VC Summit. These men lead seven venture capital funds and collectively they manage hundreds of millions of dollars. Over half of the group started those funds themselves. 10 years ago this picture wasn’t possible. 10 years from now what will the picture look like and what will it represent?
We can make excuses or we can make it happen. We chose to make it happen. Saluting my brothers today for being pioneers and being the change we wanted to see. Just getting started!"
Pictured above: Kwame Anku — Black Star Fund, Marlon C. Nichols — MaC Venture Capital, James Norman — Black Operator Ventures, Hamet Watt — Share Ventures, Jason T. Mercer — Cleveland Avenue, Marell E. — Exceptional Ventures, and Brian Hollins — Collide Capital.
Smithsonian's New York Hirshhorn Gala Honors Bro. Derek A. Fordjour (Delta Chi, Spring 1993) With 2023 Artist x Artist Award
By APCAA Staff
The Hirshhorn New York Gala is a rare occasion in the art world where artists come together to celebrate each other while raising vital funds for the Hirshhorn’s year-round free education and art programs. On November 6, the Gala honored an extraordinary group of artists who share an appreciation for one another’s work and thinking. These artists represent the interdisciplinary, intergenerational, and global depth of the art world today.
Derek Fordjour was born in 1974 in Memphis, Tennessee to parents of Ghanaian heritage. He earned a BA at Morehouse College before receiving an MEd in Arts Education at Harvard University and an MFA in painting at Hunter College. He was recently appointed the Alex Katz Chair at Cooper Union and serves as a Core Critic at the Yale School of Art. He was named the 2016 Sugarhill Museum Artist-in-Residence and the 2018 Deutsche Bank NYFA Fellow.
Recently one-person exhibitions were held at the Pond Society, Shanghai; Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis; and Petzel Gallery, New York. His work is included in the collections of the Brooklyn Museum; Dallas Museum of Art; Guggenheim Museum, New York; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; Pérez Art Museum Miami; The Studio Museum of Harlem, New York; and Whitney Museum, New York among others. The Metropolitan Transit Authority of New York commissioned Fordjour to create a series of mosaics for Manhattan’s 145th Street subway station which were unveiled in 2018.
National Guard Names Washington, DC Law Center For Retired Bro. Colonel Victor A. Tall (Fall 1981)
APCAA Staff
Retired Colonel Victor A. Tall has been honored as the namesake of the National Guard's District of Columbia's Law Center. Prior to his 2022 retirement, Colonel Tall served as principal agency counsel to five presidentially appointed Commanding Generals and the DC National Guard (DCNG enterprise).
His responsibilities included the administration, oversight, and execution of all agency legal programs, with areas of legal practice being administrative law, contract law, environmental law, fiscal law, government ethics, labor and employment law, military justice and operational law. He also served as legal advisor for Command Special Emphasis Programs: Agency Ethics Program, Agency Counter Drug Operations, Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention Program, Military Support to Civil Authorities Operations, and Joint Diversity Executive Council.
Morehouse College MARCH Ambassadors Program Launches In Washington, DC — Bro Rollin F. Jackson (Spring 2023) Selected In 12-Member Inaugural Class
Morehouse College students are embarking on an ambitious leadership and advocacy journey. The newly launched Morehouse Advocacy Reaching Capitol Hill (MARCH) program is more than an initiative; it’s a bold endeavor. The MARCH program is preparing its students to travel to Washington, D.C., where they will address social and political issues impacting African-American communities through a blend of academic insight and poignant real-world narratives.
MARCH was meticulously crafted by Dr. Kendrick Brown, provost at Morehouse, and his dedicated team. Together, they have ushered in an innovative era at Morehouse by selectively appointing 12 student ambassadors to pioneer the program’s inaugural chapter. In a fusion of academia and active policy reform, MARCH ambassadors will immerse themselves in comprehensive advocacy training as well as developing and refining policy proposals on important issues like fair housing and healthcare. They will go to Capitol Hill, engaging with Congress members, especially the Georgia delegation, to share their insights and seek collaborative solutions.
“What this is about is enabling men of Morehouse to have a chance to speak passionately and knowledgeably about issues they care about in the community,” Brown said. “And to have an opportunity to connect with members of the federal government and Congress, White House, and to be able to connect with alumni and friends of the college in the D.C. area.”
Leadership Highlight: Bro. Reginald A. Mathis (Fall 1989) President Of Alpha Phi Alpha’s Beta Beta Lambda Chapter In Miami, Florida
In an effort to highlight the people who are leading graduate chapters across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s Beta Beta Lambda Chapter in Miami and did an interview with Reginald A. Mathis the President of the chapter. The position of president of a Black fraternity chapter is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes. Reginald A. Mathis, who works as an attorney, has been in the position of president for 3 months.
We interviewed Mathis, who is a Fall 1989 initiate of his fraternity and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in the digital age.
APCAA Archives Caucus Fortifies With New Members, Appoints Bro. Christopher D. Gooding (Fall 2011) As Curator For Catalogue And Centennial Exhibits
APCAA Staff
Following an early 2024 season of spectacular acquisitions for the APCAA Archives at the Robert W. Woodruff AUC Library, the association's archives caucus has expanded its roster of leaders to include seven new members who will work in partnership with founding caucus co-chairmen, Bros. Kevin P. Smith (Fall 1989) and Cecil P. Brown (Fall 1962).
To lead as curator for the association's acquisitions strategy and upcoming centennial exhibits, APCAA has tapped Bro. Christopher D. Gooding (Fall 2011) who will proactively source artifacts from legacy generations of Alpha Rho Men, and also concentrate on compiling the comprehensive catalogue of existing memorabilia housed outside of the official archives.
Additionally, Bro. D. Alexander Jackson (Spring 2018) has stepped up to lead as caucus administrator and liaison with the Woodruff AUC Library staff and archives donors. And rounding out the team enhancements are five Brothers who will serve as "Acquisition Agents" who represent targeted segments of our 833-member association, they include: Bros. Adam L. Smith (Spring 1984), Sean D. Holloway (Spring 2001), Jordan J. Tafari (Spring 2017), and Isaiah A. Horne (Spring 2019). Neophyte Joshua A. Vaughn (Spring 2024) will fill the OTY position left vacant with the recent election of founding caucus member Bro. Rollin F. Jackson (Spring 2023) as SGA president for the 2024-25 school year.
Exploring Life & Business With Miles Hickman (Spring 2023) Of The Morehouse Investment Fund
VOYAGE: Today we’d like to introduce you to Miles Hickman. Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
HICKMAN: I am a second-generation college student from Detroit, MI. I grew up playing sports, reading, and exploring as much as I could of what life had to offer. My father, Darrell Parish, originally from Jackson, MS, rose from humble beginnings to become the president of a $10mm medical equipment manufacturing company in Detroit. My mother, Charlene Hickman, was born and raised in Detroit, MI. She is a proposal manager and has her master’s degree. The most impactful person in my life, my mother, is my backbone and taught me much of what I know today. Of all the lessons my parents taught me, the gift of intellectual curiosity is the most impactful. Matched with discipline and consistency, the seeds of curiosity form the renaissance man I aspire to be.
Navigating through diverse educational experiences, I began at a Christian private K-6 school before transitioning to the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy. Despite the loss of my father in 8th grade, I persevered, leveraging my grief as a catalyst for success. Throughout high school, I excelled academically and athletically, serving as Student Senate President, leading the football team to victory as a captain, and earning offers from prestigious universities like Columbia and Brown. Ultimately, I chose Morehouse College for its commitment to my holistic development and personal fulfillment.
Civil Rights Leader C.T. Vivian's Son Speaks On Georgia Voting Rights In 2024 (Bro. Albert L. Vivian — Fall 1981)
Al Vivian stressed the importance of the younger generation's activism, urging them to continue the mission. In honor of Black History Month, 11Alive looked at Black Atlanta's movement from the past and how it's creating a new future. To dream and to disrupt is the essence of Atlanta's Black history. While highlighting the contributions of late civil rights icons Hosea Williams and the late Congressman John Lewis and continuing the work to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s dream, there is the next generation of people in Atlanta carrying on their legacy in the fight for equality and justice.
These efforts are history in the making. 11Alive's DREAM x DISRUPT: Black Atlanta's Bold Movement is a collective effort to go beyond the surface and push the envelope to tell unapologetic stories to make a bold statement: that change is never convenient or comfortable but is always necessary.
Bros. Alexander Jackson, Micah Holmes and Xavier Holston-Sims (Spring 2018) Launch Morehouse College Business Conference In Hometown Arena
The Morehouse College Sports Business Conference (MCSBC) aims to be the premier platform that connects HBCU students, leadership, & culture to the larger sports business industry & adjacent markets. MCSBC looks to provide the education, exposure, & empowerment our HBCU students and communities need to be the leaders, disruptors, & innovators of tomorrow in sports business.
According to Holston-Sims: "In 2022, We set our sights on creating a sports conference at Morehouse College, dedicated to providing a platform for all HBCU students to learn from Sports Executives and network with premier companies in the industry. Fast forward to March 2, 2024 our vision came to life. With the help from a number of talented students from Morehouse, Spelman, and CAU, we hosted the inaugural Morehouse College Sports Business Conference.
Special thanks to our team! We are grateful for our partners - @socialchangefnd and @the_bsba - the amazing panelists, and all the companies that helped open a pathway for future leaders in sports & entertainment. This is just the beginning!"
Bro. Dr. Louis Wade Sullivan (Fall 1951) Honored As 2024 Georgia Trustee By The Georgia Historical Society
By Kenna Simmons www.georgiatrend.com
Nearly 300 years ago, England’s King George II charged the first Georgia Trustees with establishing the new colony of Georgia. Their motives for serving were to be strictly humanitarian, with the motto, “Not for self, but for others.” Servant Leaders: Carol Tomé and Dr. Louis Sullivan are named this year’s Trustees, the highest honor the state of Georgia confers.
The Georgia Historical Society and the governor’s office reestablished the Trustees in 2008 – appointing two people annually whose accomplishments reflect that motto. To be named a Trustee is now the highest honor the state can confer. This year’s Georgia Trustees are Dr. Louis Sullivan, 17th U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and founding Dean of the Morehouse School of Medicine, and Carol Tomé, CEO of UPS. The two will formally accept the state’s highest honor on April 27 at the Trustees Gala in Savannah.
Like the Trustees of the past 15 years, Tomé and Sullivan’s accomplishments reflect the ideals of those original Trustees. Both share a strong work ethic and an enthusiasm for serving others, and both acknowledge family members who came before them, whose humble roots helped them stay grounded even as they reached for the stars. Read more about these remarkable leaders and all that they have done to make Georgia – and the world – a better place:
Bro. Tarrik Mabon (Spring 2005) Leads Mt. Vernon Mustangs To First GHSA State Championship Title
The Mount Vernon Varsity Boys Basketball team made school history on Saturday afternoon, March 9, defeating the Paideia Pythons 48-40 at the Macon Centreplex in the IA-DI State Championship to bring home the program's first State Title since moving to the league. Congratulations to Head Coach Tarrik Mabon, assistant coaches, players, managers and to the MV community on a historic season!
In April of 2024, Mabon was recruited to Orlando, Florida's First Academy as the 6th Head Boys Basketball Coach in the program's history. In addition to his coaching duties, Mabon serves as Director of Student Discipleship and Culture.
Bro. Jason R. Blake (Fall 1998) Takes Over As President Of PepsiCo Beverages Canada
PepsiCo Canada has promoted Jason Blake to president of PepsiCo Beverages Canada. He succeeds Mike Ruff, who is moving into the role of president of the PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) North Division following Richard Glover’s retirement. Blake – previously SVP, commercial for PBNA South Division – will oversee all aspects of the business and lead its more than 5,000 employees across Canada. The executive joined the company more than 16 years ago. He also previously served as PBNA’s chief sustainability officer.
"I take on this role with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility, and I am eager to contribute to the continued success and growth of our business in Canada. My focus will be on continuing this business’ legacy of investing in talent, building great teams, strong consumer and customer relationships, and progressing on our PepsiCo Positive journey. I couldn’t be more thrilled to join this organization and help propel great careers and even better results in the years to come."
Blake has held roles across food and beverages in customer management, channel strategy and retail sales after beginning his career in corporate strategy and development.
Bro. Wayne H. Davis (Fall 1998) Recognized By Savoy Magazine As "One Of The Most Influential Executives In Corporate America"
Wayne Davis is Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for The Hertz Corporation, one of the largest worldwide vehicle rental companies, operating the Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty vehicle rental brands. In this role, Davis is responsible for leading the Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty brands and shaping the company’s global marketing strategy, which includes e-commerce, loyalty, media planning and sponsorships, to drive effective brand reach and customer engagement.
Under his leadership, the ‘Hertz. Let’s Go!’ campaign featuring Tom Brady and Emmy-nominated actress Yvonne Orji has continued to drive success resulting in increased brand awareness.
Prior to joining Hertz, Davis held several brand leadership roles at GE Appliances, including leading and increasing sales for its Haier, Hotpoint and Café brands during his tenure. He was also the Commercial Leader for FirstBuild, GE’s innovation hub, where he launched the Opal Nugget Ice Maker.
Davis was a member of the 2020 Class of Leadership Louisville’s Bingham Fellows, and in 2018, named one of the Louisville Business First Forty Under 40. Davis holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Morehouse College and an MBA from Xavier University.
Savoy Magazine Recognizes Bro. Curley M. Dossman (Fall 1970) As "One Of The Most Influential Executives In Corporate America"
Curley M. Dossman is the President of Community Programs, Georgia-Pacific and Vice President, Koch Companies Community Fund. In these roles, Dossman oversees all the company’s community-based programs nationwide and the company’s philanthropic giving. He works closely with Chief Executive Officer Christian Fischer, other company executives, and civic leaders in Atlanta and across the country. Advises senior management and HR leaders on cultural issues and diversity strategies across all Koch Companies.
Throughout his career, Dossman has assumed positions of increasing responsibility in the government and public affairs arena. In 1984 he joined AT&T as Regional Attorney for the Southeastern U.S. Just prior to joining GP in late 1994, he was state vice president, government affairs for AT&T, where he was responsible for representing that corporation’s interests in the legislative, regulatory and industry relations areas.
Dossman serves on the board of the 100 Black Men of America, Immediate Past International Board Chair, 100 Black Men of Atlanta, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Savannah State University, Board of Visitors and the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame. He received a Bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College and a Law degree from Washington University School of Law.
NEW ACQUISITION: APCAA Archives At
Robert W. Woodruff AUC Library
By APCAA Staff
Bro. Joshua McNair (Fall 2003) closed on a swift acquisition of this 1923 Torch Yearbook that popped up earlier today from a random vendor, Elliot's Bin in Atlanta. Widely prized among collectors as the first known Morehouse College yearbook, it also features undergraduate images of 7 or 13 Alpha Rho Chapter Charter Members.
Even though the library has a digitized version of the book (likely from a loaned copy), the Alpha Rho Alumni Association (APCAA) will deposit this latest acquisition into the new APCAA Archives at the Robert Woodruff AUC Library in conjunction with our centennial observance, January 5-7 2024. Thanks Josh ... it's definitely a historic find!
NEW ACQUISITION: 88-Year-Old Bro. Dr. Albert Miles Davis Ceremonial Paddle Presented To Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association’s Archives At Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library
APCAA Staff
On Monday, March 18, 2024, The Alpha Rho Chapter Alumni Association (APCAA) welcomed the family of the late Bro. Dr. Albert Miles Davis (Fall 1936) as they presented his treasured ceremonial fraternity paddle to the APCAA archives at The Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library.
APCAA's president BMaynard Scarborough, GM Alzay F. Calhoun, CFO Amin S. Aleem, and caucus leaders joined Bro. Davis' wife Mrs. Myrtle Reid Davis (former Atlanta City Councilmember and the first woman to run for the office of Mayor of Atlanta) and daughter Ms. Stacey Davis Stewart (CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving/MADD) in the presentation and discussion about Bro. Davis' professional contributions to Atlanta's African American community, and how the artifact was recently discovered in the holdings of his daughter, the late Fulton County Magistrate Judge Stephanie C. Davis.
The 88-year-old artifact will become the association's most significant fraternal holding, and will be incorporated into select ceremonial events during the chapter's 2024 centennial year, and beyond.
Also in attendance for the presentation was close Davis family friend Bro. Richard M. Shropshire (Kappa Theta) of the UNCF, who is also the grandson of legendary Morehouse College sociology department chairman Dr. Walter R. Chivers (namesake of Chivers Dining Hall on the historic campus).
NEW ACQUISITION: APCAA Archives At
Robert W. Woodruff AUC Library
NEW ACQUISITION: APCAA Archives At
Robert W. Woodruff AUC Library
Revolutionizing Education: How AI Can Empower Teachers In The Classroom (Bro. Winston W. Roberts — Fall 2013)
By Adam Stone www.teachmag.com
Educators like Winston Roberts at KIPP BOLD Academy are leading the way in utilizing AI in the classroom to maximize student engagement and save teachers valuable time. Winston's advice on equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven future was featured in the latest edition of TEACH Magazine.
ACollegeReunion.com Shines The Spotlight On Bro. Robert L. Cole (Spring 1986)
Robert L. Cole, Jr. is an activist, community leader, and screenwriter. He is a Los Angeles native and an alumnus of Morehouse College.
Washingtonian Magazine's 500 Most Influential People of 2024 Features A Three-peat For Brother Frederick S. Humphries, Jr. (Fall 1980)
Microsoft's Fred S. Humphries, Jr. has been named in the Washingtonian's 500 Most Influential People of 2024 for individuals who are playing big roles in Washington’s current policy debates. This selection marks the third consecutive year Humphries has been featured in the annual publication.
As the Corporate Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs at Microsoft, Humphries supported a Senate bill aimed at endorsing multi-cloud technologies as a solution to issues arising from current cloud implementation within the government. While it has won bipartisan support, the bill remains in committee.
According the the publisher: Washingtonian Magazine's selection process was two fold, "First, we look for those who have deep subject-matter expertise and significant understanding of how the nation’s capital works, with the goal of getting action. Second, we want people who understand the nuances and complexities of a particular issue area. And third, we focus on policy subjects we think are of special relevance right now to our slate of elected officials."
US Black Engineer And Information Technology Magazine Selects Bro. Jonathan A. Green (Spring 2007) For Modern-Day Technology Leader Award
Career Communications Group's US Black Engineer and Information Technology Magazine honored Jonathan A. Green with the 2024 Modern-Day Technology Leader award at the BEYA (Black Engineer of the Year) STEM Conference in Baltimore, Maryland.
Remarked Green: "Modern-Day Technology Leaders are men and women who are demonstrating outstanding performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Helping organizations protect sensitive data and harness the power of emerging technologies while still maintaining digital trust with their customers is what energizes me. I’m honored by this recognition and want to send a huge thank you to my Deloitte champions for nominating me, especially Joe Beal."
Bro. Fred U. Clark III (Spring 2009) Named Director Of Marketing For Target's Roundel Brand
Experienced marketing executive Fred Clark, MBA '10 has been named Director of Marketing for Roundel at Target, one of the fasting growing businesses in the company. Roundel is Target's media business that offers scalable media and ad tech solutions anchored on people-based Target guest data, brand-positive environments, and outcome-based approaches.Roundel works to gain an "unparalleled understanding of the Target guest, and designs considered, intuitive, and human media experiences that engage audiences on their terms."A 2010 Morehouse graduate, Clark earned his MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Most recently, Clark was the Sr. Manager of Go-To-Market Strategy for Roundel. Prior to Roundel, Clark worked for the Coca Cola Company, where he held various roles including Manager of Multicultural Engagement, and he was also on the Brand Management team for Powerade. A Houston native, Clark worked for Shell Energy company in ascendant roles including Sr. Capital Planning Advisor, Sr. Commercial Advance Advisor and Financial Analyst.
Alpha Rho Chapter Undergrads Take Georgia District Honors At 2023 Conference In Augusta, Georgia
APCAA Staff
Congratulations to the Alpha Rho Chapter seated at Morehouse College on winning the Georgia District College Chapter of the Year at our 2023 ΑΦΑ Georgia District Conference. Another BIG Congrats to Scholarship Recipients Brothers Miles Colbert, Miles Hickman, Rollin Jackson, Jr., Kingsley John, Dawit Mesele, and Kamar Montgomery. Lastly, shoutout to Brother Rollin Jackson, Jr. for winning the GA District College Brother Leadership Award!
Bro. Grant Bennett Returns To Morehouse College As Project Manager For The Maurice Washington Emerging Leaders Program
By Freddrell Green, Staff Writer www.maroontigermedia.com
For generations, Morehouse College has been dedicated to developing disciplined minds who will lead lives of leadership and service. Those same principles are what drive prospective students to thrive at Morehouse. For Morehouse Alumnus Grant Bennett ‘20, these ideals and culture have stuck with him since he graduated.
Returning to Morehouse was a full circle mission for Bennett. He now works as the Project Manager for the Maurice Washington Emerging Leaders Program. His goals for the program are to continue the legacy of Maurice Washington, collaborating with the various leaders within the administration, and providing a sense of transparency to the student body. Members of administration such as Associate Dean of Student Life and Leadership Kevin D. Chapman Jr. ‘06 are elated to have Bennett back at his alma mater in this new yet familiar position.
“Grant’s return to Morehouse is full circle. We first met during my role as athletic advisor and since then he has been the quintessential man of Morehouse, who has developed into an amazing Morehouse Man,” Chapman said.
Atlanta Magazine Features Bro. Austin J. Byrdsell In: 'Legacy: The Civil Rights Act 60 Years Later'
By Scott Freeman, Rachel Garbus, India Rice & Donnell Suggs www.atlantamagazine.com
BYRDSELL: I never considered myself to be any form of activist, or thought I had those qualities of leadership. But once I began my career as a journalist, I started to see how the work of social justice activists is so much more than leading protests and speaking to crowds, the actions we commonly think of as activism.
I grew up in Atlanta, surrounded by the mystique and prestige of civil rights leaders — especially those who emerged from the Atlanta University Center. When I came to Morehouse College, the campus culture of being well balanced taught me about activism and social justice work. As journalists, I learned, we have the power to provide a level of advocacy for underrepresented voices, which can serve as a catalyst for more transformation in the communities that need it. In my role as editor-in-chief of Morehouse’s student-run Maroon Tiger newspaper, I have led coverage on police brutality, inequality in housing for marginalized communities, the Israel-Hamas war, challenges to gender norms, and more. Through these experiences, l’ve come to see how storytelling creates necessary conversations on a global scale.
We had the good fortune of connecting with Kylen Dent and we’ve shared our conversation below:
Hi Kylen, what role has risk played in your life or career?
DENT: When I contemplate the concept of risks, I fundamentally view them as opportunities. I am a firm believer that every individual’s life is akin to a movie, with ourselves in the starring role. In my personal narrative, I see myself as the main character. Now, consider this: Who would want to watch a movie that lacks risks, lacks those unexpected twists, those exhilarating highs, and those challenging lows?
In my perspective, achieving a successful, meaningful, or even a happy life necessitates embracing a complete and diverse set of experiences. And a significant portion of these experiences comes to fruition through taking risks. It involves stepping out into the unknown, having faith, and trusting that this is where miracles occur, where the divine intervenes. Similar to the thrilling journey of a roller coaster, a life worth living is also inherently risky.
Some of the best experiences of my were risky decisions, from embarking on a four day road trip to my dream school (Morehouse College) after I had been accepted and offered no money, resulting in a full scholarship through the Bonner Scholarship. Or curating concerts with little to no money, which resulted in performances from anyone from Skilla Baby and Domani Harris to Lil Baby and Drake.
Bro. Dr. Corey J. Hébert (Fall 1988) Contributes Forward To 'Sick·le: Awakening The Truth About Sickle Cell Disease
“Sick·le” is a comprehensive guide that chronicles the author’s daughter’s experiences with sickle cell disease and outlines sensible steps to help end the sickle cell cycle. It is full of invaluable information for healthcare providers, parents, and other caregivers. The expectation after reading this book is that you: 1. Find out your sickle cell status, and 2. Sound the alarm that there are people in this country who are dying or living in agony unnecessarily due to the marginalization of this disease.
Jennifer Fletcher, LMSW was born and raised in New Orleans, LA. The licensed medical social worker holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from the University of New Orleans. She also holds a master’s degree in Social Work from Southern University at New Orleans. Ms. Fletcher is a dedicated member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society and the proud mother of an eleven-year-old daughter, Zoey, who was diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SS) at birth.
For the project, she teamed up with the renowned pediatrician, Corey J. Hébert, M.D., who wrote the foreword and provided his medical expertise. Corey J. Hébert, M.D. is an Assistant Professor at LSU Health Sciences Center and Tulane University Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. He has been the Principal Investigator on over 60 phase 1, 2, and 3 FDA-regulated clinical trials on various nutritional and pharmacotherapeutic agents. Dr. Hébert is one of the most sought-after speakers in his field and a frequent on-air contributor to the Discovery Channel, the Dr. Oz Show, Good Morning America, the Today Show, and others.
