“The year 1906 was in the middle of a liberal, progressive movement whose philosophy was remolding America’s social, economic and political institutions. Paradoxically, the Negro in America has reached the nadir. Riots and lynchings occurred without redress. The denial of the franchise was entrenched in law and sustained by the courts. Education and schools were...
Today we honor The Foundation Jewel Vertner Woodson Tandy, for his inspired life of manly deeds and heroic living in spite of handicaps and physical obstacles. A son of a prominent and respected African American contractor in KY, Jewel Tandy enrolled at Cornell University in their Architect Program after attending Tuskegee Institute to study architecture...
Today we honor and reflect on The Faithful Jewel Robert Harold Ogle, for his high ideals and precepts of Alpha Phi Alpha that binds us in lasting friendship and brotherhood as exemplified. It was in the rented room of Jewel Ogle at the home of Archie and Annie Singleton where the idea of the fraternity...
Today we honor and reflect on The Compassionate Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray for spreading the spirit of true fraternity into developing universal brotherhood. He was a strong advocate in discussions of becoming a fraternity and seconded the motion to become a fraternity. Jewel Murray served on Committees for constitution, organization, grip, and treasurer in the earlier stages. History records that he, along with other Jewels, set up some...
Today we honor and reflect on The Devoted Jewel George Biddle Kelley, for providing leadership, demonstrating scholarship, and advocating civil rights. He was most vocal, believing that the fraternal structure better served their efforts to address the social problems confronting them and the race, and argued personal commitment beyond club membership was needed to fight racism and issues of human rights. A descendant of slaves,...
Today we honor and reflect on The Visionary Jewel Eugene Kinckle Jones, for his noble example in making the high ideals and moral standards of Alpha Phi Alpha his guide in life. Jewel Jones indelible mark in our history as one of the first initiates and Founder. Known for his versatility, he is credited with the “first steps of expansion”...
Today we honor and reflect on The Beloved Jewel Charles Henry Chapman, a Brother beloved in the bonds and for building character and respect from all mankind. He was a Businessman, Professor, Humanitarian, and founder of the Beta Nu Chapter (FAMU). Jewel Chapman was the first chairman of the Committees on Initiation and Organization for...
Brothers, as we embark on celebrating 115 years since the founding of our beloved Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on December 4th, 1906, and honoring our “SEVEN BELOVED JEWELS” of this great fraternity. This year, instead of providing you with a long biographical sketch of their lives, I would like to do something different. This year, leading...
