So why do it?

Well, it’s the first full week of a new year. A year that holds much promise of things to come. As of today we’re approximately 84 days out from when chapter delegates, of the Eastern Region, will elect a new Vice President.

Much time has been spent on the phone speaking with Brothers regarding their interests regarding which direction the Region should proceed. Even more time has been spent writing and replying to Brothers’ emails, and writing letters and note cards, regarding the same.

But most of all, much money and time has been dedicated to a process to elect a Brother for an office that has no official compensation package, no benefits package (such as medical or retirement); as a matter of fact, for a position more inline with a full time job, there’s nothing that adequately repays the victor for his dedication, fortitude and tireless hours of service to administrate and lead the best region of Brothers within our great Fraternity.

So why do it? Glad you asked (or should I say thought) that question.

When first aspiring to become a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, via the Mu Upsilon chapter, during my days at Frostburg State University, there was never a thought of receiving tangible compensation for carrying out the work of the Organization. As a matter of fact, my thoughts and comments all revolved around how becoming a member would help to make Alpha the best organization in the world.

In my interview I spoke of how my leadership skills would be an asset to an already august body of men, and I spoke of how my “analytical skills” would ensure we critically considered all issues of the day, facing the members and society at-large. (SIDE NOTE: Dean Rock Diamond, James Gowen, Jr., this is your queue to interject how ALL Alpha men have this skill — LOL.) My only desire was to truly become a vigilantly dedicated member for all that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity stands.

Fast forward almost 22 years later and a confession is in order. The passion remains. Having become a more “seasoned” Brother within the ranks, matters once mis-understood or easily dismissed as a College Brother are now poignantly clear. Issues once taken for granted now serve as fuel for progressive movement and advocacy. Moreover, watching the youthful exuberance in the eyes and actions of present day College and Alumni Brothers, identifies the need to remain actively involved and serve as a mentor whenever and whereever the situation calls for such.

Alpha Phi Alpha is a Brotherhood. An attentive reading of our history will point out how our Founders, our Jewels, focused on this fact. What most common folk may not realize is that this is a Brotherhood that exists and stands to ensure men of Alpha are the best they can be. The best scholars and and most of all, the best example of men of character in this world.

We are indeed, “…the school for the better making of men. [We] are Alpha Phi Alpha.”