As This Administration Sunsets: Letter From Our Outgoing President
As I reflect on the incredible journey we've embarked upon together, I stand before you today, humbled and grateful for the honor of serving as your president for the past two years. Each moment has been a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion that resides within this esteemed executive board. Today, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your unique contributions, which have not only propelled our chapter forward but have also left an indelible mark on the legacy we leave behind.
In the sacred spirit of Alpha, we have embraced the notion that progress knows no bounds, that our path is one of unyielding determination. And oh, how we have embodied this philosophy! The standards we set, the bar we raised, will serve as a foundation for the new administration led by Brother Robert Walker, DO, our exceptional chapter president-elect. I am confident that under his capable leadership, our achievements will reach even greater heights.
But before we embark on this exciting new chapter, let us take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments that have defined our tenure. Together, we have conquered obstacles, shattered barriers, and rewritten the narrative of what our chapter can achieve. Our successes have been numerous, and today, I wish to shine a spotlight on a few key milestones:
Restoration of the Scholarship Holiday Ball (2021)
Restoration of the MLK Parade (2022)
ZSL Charter Day Celebration and Brothers Keeper event
2022 and 2023 SoCal District Chapter of the Year / 2022 Western Region Chapter of the Year
Ten new initiates between Fall 2021, and Fall 2022 IMDP
Reactivation and expansion approval from General Board of Directors for Eta Sigma Chapter
Digital transformation in our committees and general body meetings due to the pandemic
Black Men Mental Health Forum & Financial Series
Wakanda Forever Reactivation event
Sphinx Corner Blog / Website and social media rebuild
Re-energized Brothers Keeper Program
District Retreat and District Founders Day
I stand before you today, in awe of the incredible journey we have undertaken, knowing full well that our triumphs would have been mere dreams without the unwavering commitment of the executive board and the exceptional leadership of our esteemed committee chairmen. These individuals have exemplified excellence in their respective roles, igniting the fires of progress within our chapter and fueling our collective success.
Allow me to recognize and applaud the outstanding work of our chairmen, whose dedication has been nothing short of remarkable:
James Carter and Sammie Scales, whose tireless efforts brought the Holiday Ball to life, a celebration that will forever resonate in our hearts.
Jeff Bryant and Clovis Honoré, who spearheaded the VPHP initiative, laying the foundation for a brighter future for our chapter.
Bill Gillespie, a force of innovation and inspiration, leading the charge in BKP, IMDP, and AMP, and leaving an indelible mark on the path we tread.
Kevin Hall, whose remarkable leadership in AMP has ignited a spark of empowerment within our community.
Thomas Van, whose commitment to CAEP has strengthened the bonds of brotherhood and propelled us towards excellence.
Johnnie Welborne, the vanguard of technology and NPHC affairs, who has ushered us into a new era of Alpha's influence.
Daniel Smith, Kenneth Barnes, and Isaac Ford, the champions of Nominations and Scholarship, whose unwavering dedication has paved the way for future generations.
Dexter Egleston, the mastermind behind Sphinx Corner, a beacon of wisdom and knowledge in our chapter.
Brian Samuels, whose tireless efforts in organizing the MLK event have brought our community together in a powerful display of unity.
Daryl Barber and Julius Wiseman, the visionaries behind the March for Babies, whose compassion has uplifted the lives of countless families.
Robert Walker and Christian Bannerman, the ambassadors of Project Alpha and Black Men's Health, whose advocacy has saved lives and empowered our community.
Art DeCuir, the guardian of our chapter's financial stability, whose meticulous budgeting has ensured our continued growth.
Marcel Stewart, the epitome of fellowship and BBQ mastery, whose events have fostered deep bonds of brotherhood and camaraderie.
Norris Charles and Gene Moore, the pillars of the ZSL Foundation, whose unwavering support has fortified our chapter's philanthropic endeavors.
Curtis Price, the embodiment of dedication, who has laid a solid foundation for the SD Alpha Foundation's success.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed members of the Leadership Council, whose unwavering commitment and invaluable advice guided us through the stormy seas of the pandemic, and in the face of mounting media and community pressure surrounding the MLK parade. Your unwavering support and wisdom have been a beacon of light in our darkest hours.
I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to Frank Russell, Reggie Marbray, and David Wynn for their wise counsel and unwavering support throughout this journey. Your guidance has been instrumental in our success.
Furthermore, I extend my sincere thanks to John Rawlins, whose invaluable assistance in Eta Sigma activation has ensured the growth and prosperity of our beloved fraternity.
As I prepare to step down and follow in the esteemed footsteps of Brother Bill Gillespie as Chapter Dean, I am filled with a profound sense of pride. Our goal was to pay homage to the rich traditions and storied history of our chapter while elevating the spirit of fellowship and enhancing Alpha's visibility in our community. Today, I can confidently say that we have not only achieved this but surpassed all expectations. It has been an honor and a privilege to be a part of this remarkable journey.
With gratitude and unyielding brotherhood.
Andre Mitchell, '06
2021-2023 Chapter President
