“D.V.A History”

As pertained in the archives of the Grand Chapter, The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was approved for a charter on the 16th day of May 1998 by the Grand Board of Directors of Kappa Alpha Psi. The charter was presented to the chapter on the 13h day of June 1998. The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter is located in region four, the western region of the Eastern Providence. The Danville, (VA) Alumni Chapter was a result of a split of the Martinsville (VA) Alumni Chapter, which was established on June 2, 1956 in Martinsville, Virginia. Brothers from Danville have been affiliated with the Martinsville chapter since 1963, but always longed to have a chapter to call their own.

On the 13th day of June 1998, 18 men were presented a chartered by Eastern Province Polemarch Anthony B. Hill, who was a strong advocate for the charting of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter. Those 18 men were Brothers Cephus Archie, Malvin Carr, David Coleman, and Harold Bruce Craft, Bennie Dix (deceased), William Flippen, Frederick Fowler, Rodrick Galloway, Howard Graves, Zachary Hairston, Sylvesta Jennings, C. Keshon Kelly (Shon), Lewis Marshall, Anthony Pass, James Pickens, P. Edward Thomas, Elisha Arnold Woody, and Kirby Wright.

Chapter Charter Officers were:

Malvin Carr, Polemarch
Fredrick Fowler, 1st Vice Polemarch
James Pickens, 2nd Vice Polemarch
Cephus Archie, Keeper of Records
Sylvesta Jennings, Keeper of Exchequer
David L. Coleman, Strategus
Lewis Marshall, Lt. Strategus
Zachary Hairston, Historian
David L. Coleman, Reporter
Howard Graves, Membership Intake Chairman
Elisha Woody, Director of Guide Right
Kirby Wright, Director of Reclamation
Kirby Wright, Board of Directors
Edward Thomas, Board of Directors
Lewis Marshall, Board of Directors

2000

In the spring of 2000 the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter received the Eastern Province’s Chapter Growth Award for a small alumni chapter at the Province meeting held in Hampton, VA. On November 10, 2000 the Danville, (VA) Alumni Chapter crossed its first line, “Two Karets of Kontinuance” Christopher Hill and Stacey Frazier. C. Keshon Kelly served as the Dean of Pledges and Dwayne Cherry served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. This was the beginning of a Growth period for the “DVA” Chapter under Chapter Polemarch P. Edward Thomas. Also during the fall of 2000 the Chapter reclaimed a number of brothers form the Alpha Nu Chapter, North Carolina A&T State University and formed a great bond with the younger brothers of the Alpha Nu chapter.

2001

In the spring of 2001 the Chapter was awarded the Eastern Province’s third place William Thomas Carter chapter of the year award. Also in the spring of 2001 brother Keshon Kelly won the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award. Brother Kelly went on to receive a National William L. Crump History Award at the Conclave in Cleveland, OH in August of 2001. The Chapter crossed its second line on October 27, 2001 “Five Soldiers of Fortune” Terry Polk, Jameel May, Danny Harris, Keith Best, and Mike Sliver. This was the first line in the history of the Eastern Province to all cross as Eastern Province Life Members. Christopher T. Hill served as the Dean of Pledges and Corey K. Alexander served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. The chapter was led in this successful period by Polemarch P. Edward Thomas.

2002

In the spring of 2002 the chapter was named the Eastern Province’s William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of the Year. The Chapter also received its second Eastern Province’s Growth Award for a Small Alumni Chapter. Brother Keshon Kelly received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award for the second consecutive time. The chapter was led in this successful period by Polemarch P. Edward Thomas.

2003

In the spring of 2003 on March 15, 2003 the chapter crossed its third line “2 Kommitments of the Krimson Kause” Clinton D. Stackhouse II, and Jamon T. Williams. Montoya Milton served as the Dean of Pledges and Jameel May served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. Also in April of 2003, The “Do-It-All DVA” Chapter was not only named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year for the second time in two years, and were also named 2003 Paul W. Caine International Small Alumni Chapter of the Year in July at the National Conclave in Charlotte, NC, led by Chapter Polemarch, C. Keshon Kelly. Also in the spring of 2003 Brother Keshon Kelly won the Eastern Provinces William L. Crump History Award for the third consecutive time, and went on to win his second National William L. Crump History Award at the Conclave in Charlotte, NC in July of 2003. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch C. Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

2004

In the spring of 2004 the Chapter hosted the Eastern Province Council; this was the first time ever that the Eastern Province Council was held in Danville, VA. The chapter did an outstanding job hosting the Province, led by Polemarch C. Keshon (Shon) Kelly and chapter planning Chairman Brother Kirby Wright. At the 2004 Province Meeting the Chapter Received the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Medium Size Chapter of the Year award, the third consecutive province chapter of the year award for the chapter. The Chapter also received its third Eastern Province’s growth Award. Also Brother Christopher T. Hill received the Eastern Province William L. Crump History Award, the fourth consecutive year a member of the chapter has won that award. The chapter in the fall of 2004 Co-hosted the C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference along with the Theta Psi Chapter VA-Tech, Polemarch Corey K. Alexander and chapter planning Chairman Keshon (Shon) Kelly led the chapter in this event. By the end of the fall of 2004 the Chapter was becoming known around the Eastern Province as the “Do-it-All” Chapter. This was due to the work the chapter was doing in the fraternity as well as guide right, community service, membership intake, social activities and hospitality. The nick name was befitting and the chapter affectionately became known as DVA, “The Do-it-All” Chapter.

2005

The chapter went on in the spring of 2005 to win the Eastern Provinces William Thomas Carter Medium Size Chapter of the Year. This was the fourth consecutive Chapter of the Year for Danville (VA) Alumni. Also in the spring of 2005 Brother Jerry A. Heath, Jr. won the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award, marking the fifth consecutive year a member of the Chapter had won that award. This was all accomplished under the leadership of Polemarch Corey K. Alexander. In June of 2005 Brother C. Keshon (Shon) Kelly was appointed as a special operating assistant to Eastern Province Polemarch Lt. Col. Rufus F. Clanzy and served until January 2006. Brother Heath went on to receive a National Crump Award at the Conclave in St. Louis in July of 2005. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Corey K. Alexander.

2006

In the spring of 2006 on March 11, the chapter crossed its fourth line, “4 Links to the Legacy,” Linwood H. Little, Edward L. Burton, Terry T. David, & Harry J. Johnson. Keshon Kelly served as the Dean of Pledges and Trevor Edwards served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. Also in April of 2006, The “Do-It-All DVA” Chapter was named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year for the fifth consecutive year. Brother Jerry A. Heath received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award for the second consecutive time and the 6^th consecutive time a member of the chapter has won this award. The Chapter was being lead at this time by Polemarch Kirby Wright. Also at the Province Council 2006, Brother Keshon Kelly (Shon) was elected to serve on the Eastern Province’s Board of Directors. A seat in which Brother Kirby Wright held from 1994-2000. Brother Wright has also held the position of Operating Assistant to the Province Polemarch (2001-2007). The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Kirby Wright.

2007

In the spring of 2007, The “Do-It-All DVA” Chapter was named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year for the sixth consecutive year. Brother Mike T. Silver received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award for the seventh consecutive time a member of the chapter had won this award. Also at the Province Council, Brother Keshon Kelly (Shon) was elected to serve the Eastern Province as the Alumni Voting Delegate to the 78^th Grand Chapter Meeting for the (second consecutive time) in Minneapolis, MN July 16-21, 2007. Brother Kelly also received the Eastern Province’s Linwood Hardmon Chapter Advisor of the year award for his advising and serving the Theta Psi Chapter (VA-Tech). During the 78^th Grand Chapter Conclave, Brother Mike T. Silver received the National William L. Crump History Award, making this the fourth consecutive Conclave that a member of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter had received the award. Brother C. Keshon (Shon) Kelly, who served as the Eastern Province Kwiz Bowl Chairman, was also appointed to serve on the National Kwiz Bowl Committee. During the 78^th Grand Chapter Meeting, the team that Brother Kelly put together to represent the Eastern Province in the National Kwiz Bowl Competition, took first place and made the Eastern Province back to back defending National Kwiz Bowl Champions, led by Brother C. Keshon (Shon) Kelly. On August 25, 2007 new Eastern Province Polemarch John T. Lanier (native of Danville), named Brother Edward Thomas as one of his new operating assistances, giving Danville (VA) Alumni another member to serve at the Eastern Province Level. In November 2007, Province Polemarch John T. Lanier recommend to the Grand Polemarch DeWayne Murray to appoint Brother Kirby Wright as the Eastern Province Representative to the National Laurel Wreath Commission. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Kirby Wright.

2008

In the spring of 2008, Brother Edward Thomas received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award, for the 8th consecutive time a member of the chapter has won this award. Also on May 17, 2008 the chapter held its ten year anniversary at the Mercedes Club in Danville, VA. The event was chaired by Brothers C. Keshon Kelly and Edward Thomas. Chapter Past Polemarch Corey K. Alexander served as the Master of Ceremonies, Grand Board Member Anthony B. Hill was the key note speaker for the event. In attendance were Past Grand Polemarch Howard L. Tutman, Jr., Past Grand Keeper of Records Terry Blount, Current Grand Keeper of Records Alford “Al” White, National Sports Cluster Chairman and Chapter member Johnny S. Newman, Eastern Province Polemarch John T. Lanier, Sr., Past Eastern Province Polemarch Clarence F. Nelson, Jr. Past Eastern Province Polemarch Charles Brockett, Past Eastern Province Polemarch Lt.Col. Rufus F. Clanzy, Current Middle Eastern Province Polemarch Sheldon L. McAlpin, Eastern Province Sr. Vice Polemarch Dwight E. Thomas, Eastern Province Board of Director Members William N. Pickney and Cleave Packer. Also in attendance were National William L. Crump History Awardees Mike T. Silver and Jerry A. Heath, Jr. both members of the chapter. National William L. Crump History Awardees Terry Blount and C. Keshon Kelly were also in attendance. The chapter celebrated and commemorated the past ten years of its existence and accomplishment. Brother Johnny S. Newman, Jr. joined the chapter in May of 2008. Brother Newman a native of Danville played 17 seasons in the NBA (National Basketball Association). Brother Newman also serves as the National Sports Director for the Grand Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi (2005-Prsent). The chapter was led in this successful period by Polemarch Kirby Wright.

2009

In the fall of 2009 the chapter decided to honor charter members and longtime chapter members by naming chapter awards after them. The chapter named the awards as follows:

The Community Service Award shall be named the “Sylvesta L. Jennings” Community Services Award
The Guide Right Award shall be named the “Bennie L. Dix Guide Right Award”
The Fraternity Service Award shall be named the “The Lewis “Randy” Marshall Fraternity Service Award”
The Professional Service Award shall be named the “David L. Coleman Professional and Business Award”
The New Member of the Year Award shall be named the “The Christopher T. Hill New Member of the Year Award”
The Kappa man of the year award shall be named the “Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter Kappa Man of the Year Award”
The Polemarch’s award shall be named the “Malvin L. Carr Polemarch’s Award”
The Chapter’s Lifetime Achievement award shall be named “The Kirby Wright Lifetime Achievement Award”

In the spring of 2009, DVA “Do-It-All Chapter” was named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year, for the 7^th time in 8 years. Brother Keshon Kelly, received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award (for the fourth time), this marked the ninth consecutive time a member of the chapter has won the award. Also at the Province Council, Brother Keshon Kelly (Shon) was elected to serve the Eastern Province as the Alumni Voting Delegate to the 79^th Grand Chapter Meeting for the (third consecutive time) in Washington, D.C. Also Brother Kelly received the Eastern Province’s Linwood Hardmon Chapter Advisor of the Year award for his advising and serving the Theta Psi Chapter (VA-Tech), this was the second time in three years that Brother Kelly had received this award. Also Brother Edward Thomas received the Eastern Province Polemarch’s Award. The chapter was also selected first place winner for the Eastern Province Alumni Chapter Website of the Year award. Brother Kelly, who also served as the Eastern Province Kwiz Bowl Chairman, was also appointed to serve on the National Kwiz Bowl Committee for the third consecutive conclave. Brother Kelly was also appointed to serve on the National Resolutions Committee for the 79^th Conclave as the Eastern Province representative. Brother Keshon Kelly also received the President’s National Community Service Award from President Barack Obama for his outstanding community service efforts during this year.

In the spring of 2009 on March 14, the chapter crossed its fifth line “2 Krystallizations of a Krimson Dream” James “Jay” Jennings and Mitchell Delva. Keshon Kelly served as the Dean of Pledges and Edward Thomas served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

2010

In the spring of 2010, DVA “The Do-It-All Chapter”, was named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year, for the 8^th time in 9 years. Brother James “Jay Jennings, received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award, this marked the 10^th consecutive time a member of the chapter has won the award. Brother Kelly received the Eastern Province’s Linwood Hardmon Chapter Advisor of the Year award for his advising and serving the Theta Psi Chapter (VA-Tech), this was the third time in four years that Brother Kelly had received the award. Also at the Province Council, Brothers James “Jay” Jennings and Keshon Kelly were awarded with the Province Polemarch’s Service Award. Also in the spring of 2010 on March 26, the chapter crossed its sixth line, “4 Flickers of a Krimson Flame,” Tremaine Kidd, D’Javon Alston, Cameron Johnson and Mario Edmonds. James “Jay” Jennings served as the Dean of Pledges and Linwood Little served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. On May 1, 2010 the Colligate Chapters of the Eastern Province held the first annual I.W.E. Taylor Charity Banquet to honor Brothers that aide and serve the colligate brothers within the Eastern Province and also to raise money for the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Brothers from Danville that attended that even were Edward Thomas, Keshon Kelly and Cameron Johnson. Brother Kelly received the Colligate Support Award for his service and support to the Virginia Polytechnic and State University Chapter, the Theta Psi of Kappa Alpha Psi. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

2011

In the spring of 2011 DVA “The Do-It-All Chapter” was named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year, for the ninth time in 10 years. Brother Mike Silver, received the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award, this marked the 11^th consecutive time a member of the chapter has won the award. Also in the spring of 2011 on March 10, the chapter crossed its seventh line “M.A.D.E. M.E.N.” (Molded into Authentic Diamonds of Excellence) – (Materialized into Everlasting Nupes)” Frank Lucienne, Chantin Collins and Micha Braswell. D’Javon Alston served as the Dean of Pledges and Linwood Little served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. Also in 2011 during the 80^th Grand Chapter Meeting (Centennial Conclave) Brother Mike T. Silver received the National William L. Crump History Award, making this the fifth out of the last six Conclaves that a member of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter has received the award. During the fall of 2011, Brother Edward Thomas was appointed as the Director of Logistics by the 25^th Eastern Province Polemarch Howard L. Tutman, III. Brother James “Jay” Jennings was appointed as the Region 4 MOIP coordinator for the Eastern Province. Brother Keshon Kelly was appointed as Vice-Chairman of the Eastern Province By-laws committee and Brother Johnny Newman was appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Eastern Province C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Committee. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch P. Edward Thomas.

2012

In the spring of 2012 DVA “The Do-It-All Chapter” on March 15, 2012 crossed its eighth line, “Spring 2012 “Ternary of Tragedy & Triumphant”, Dennis Mills and Quinton Keith. James “Jay” Jennings served as the Dean of Pledges and Keshon Kelly served as the assistant Dean of Pledges. Also in 2012 during the Eastern Province Council held in National Harbor, MD Brother P. Edward Thomas was elected to the Eastern Province Board of Directors, Alumni Region 4. Brother Keshon Kelly was appointed as the Eastern Province Director of Organizational Effectiveness. Brother James “Jay” Jennings was awarded with the Eastern Province Polemarch’s Service Award. The chapter was led in this successful period by Polemarch P. Edward Thomas.

2013

In the spring of 2013 DVA “The Do-It-All Chapter” was named the Eastern Province William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of The Year, for the 10th time in 12 years. Also in the spring of 2013, during the Eastern Province Council Chapter Polemarch James “Jay” Jennings was elected to the position of Eastern Province Reporter. Brother Keshon Kelly was appointed to serve on the National Constitution and Statues committee. Brother Kelly was also appointed as Vice-Chairman of the Eastern Province Historical Committee. Also in May the chapter celebrated its 15^thyear anniversary, which was held at Longhorn Steak House in Danville. During the celebration the chapter reflected on the past 15 years of our existence. Also chapter awards for the year were presented. Among the awards given were the chapters “Kirby Wright Life Time Achievement Award.” The 2^nd recipient of the award was Brother Keshon Kelly, the 3^rd Recipient of the award was Brother Johnny S. Newman, II.

In the fall of 2013 the chapter underwent some needed changes and updated all current governing documents and began a much more structured approach to chapter business. New chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly and chapter By-laws chairman Kirby Wright along with Edward Thomas Eastern Province Region 4 Alumni Board led this effort. The chapter began establishing a scholarship fund. Also during the fall of 2013, Brothers Keshon Kelly, Marvin Martin and Edward Thomas began exploring interest of young men on the campus of Radford University; with the hopes of being able to one day establish a chapter there.

Also in the fall of 2013 the chapter decided to add a new chapter award to honor a senior or 50 year Brother for Service to the Chapter and the Chapter Polemarch, the award was named the “Cepheus Archie Senior Contribution Award.”

2014

In the spring of 2014 D.V.A. “The Do-It-All Chapter” on March 22^nd crossed its ninth line. The DVA Line was in collaboration with The Radford University Colony of the Theta Psi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi that was being established, led by advisors Keshon Kelly, Marvin Martin and Edward Thomas, the line crossed and was named “Kollaborative Learning” because of the collaboration of the colony and Alumni Chapter. The line consisted of Justin Hairston (D.V.A), Christian Walker (RUC), Darian Dixon (RUC), Isaac Clement (RUC), Kameron Scott (RUC) and James Pointer (RUC). Brothers Keshon Kelly and Marvin Martin served as the Deans of Pledges for the line. The line was introduced to the campus of Radford University on Friday April 11, 2014 in the first probate show in front of the clocks of Heth Hall.

Also during the spring of 2014, The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was awarded the Eastern Province’s William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of the Year for the 11th time in 13 years. Also during the Eastern Province Council Brother DeAndre T. Howard was elected to the position of Eastern Province Reporter. Brother James Pointer (Radford Colony) was elected as the Eastern Province Region 4 Undergrad Board Director 2014-2015. Polemarch Keshon Kelly was awarded the Eastern Province Meritorious Service Award by the Eastern Province Polemarch. Brother Marvin Martin was 2nd Place for Advisor of the Year in the Eastern Province for 2013-2014. During the 2013-2014 year the chapter saw growth, a new found love for the chapter in the membership and our exchequer increase, with the change in direction and leadership the chapter began to flourish even more, this was all done on the leadership of Chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly.

In the fall of 2014 the chapter continued with Strengthen the newly established colony at Radford University. Advisors Keshon Kelly, Marvin Martin and Edward Thomas, worked throughout the summer months to obtain all the requirements to apply for an official charter for Radford University. Through a lot of hard work and effort, The Radford University Chapter, The Rho Theta (E) of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was approved for a charter on the 15th day of August 2014 by the Grand Board of Directors of Kappa Alpha Psi. Eight men were granted the rights to a charter by The Grand Board of Directors and the 26th Eastern Province Polemarch Cornelius “Neil” Hudgins, IV. With the Help of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter and the Virginia Polytechnic Institution & State University Chapter the Theta Psi (E) of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. The eight charter members are Brothers Darian Dixon, Christian Walker, Isaac Clement, Kameron Scott, James Pointer, Keshon Kelly, Marvin L. Martin, Jr. and P. Edward Thomas. The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter began preparing for a formal charting ceremony, but on September 22, 2014, a National Moratorium was put into effect, placing the charting on hold.

2015

Also in the fall of 2015, the Chapter decided to change a chapter award. Under advisement of chapter Awards & Achievements Chairman DeAndre Howard the chapter decided to stop giving a Fraternity Service Awards because it was too similar to the Kappa Man of the Year criteria. The Chapter voted and unanumsily decided to give a Chapter Service Award and named it after three times Chapter Polemarch and Charter Member Brother Keshon Kelly. The new award is officially called the “Keshon “Shon” Kelly Chapter Service Award.”

In the spring of 2015 DVA “The Do-it-All” chapter, on the weekend of January 23-25, The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter in conjunction with the Virginia Tech Chapter the Theta Psi and the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta hosted the 41st Annual Virginia Chapters Founders Day Observance. The chapter set up hospitality on Friday the 23rd at the Courtyard Marriott in Danville. Brothers were able to come in and register and fellowship. The Alpha Phi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. came by and presented the chapter with arrangement of pink T-Roses and best wishes on a successful weekend. On Saturday, the 24th of January the chapter continued with Registration and Hospitality until the actual Closed Banquet began. Past Grand Chapter Keeper of Records and Exchequer and the 97th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee, Brother Al White, gave a moving Keynote address. After the banquet the host chapters continued with hospitality at the Courtyard and also hosted and after party at Ten Ten Jazz and Blues Club in Danville. Among those in attendance over the weekend were Past Grand Chapter Keeper of Records and Exchequer and the 97th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee Brother Al White, Past Grand Board Member and 21st Eastern Province Polemarch Anthony B. Hill, Past Eastern Province Polemarch’s, Clarence Nelson and Rufus Clanzy, Eastern Province Keeper of Records Guy Dorsianville, the 26th Eastern Province Polemarch Neil Hudgins, IV(current) and the 23rd Middle Eastern Province Polemarch Carlos D. Watson, Esq. (current), Eastern Province Board of Directors Members, Mike Edwards, Troy Lindsey, Ed Thomas, James Pointer and Middle Eastern Province Board Member Alfred “Buddy” White. There were 130+ brothers in attendance over the weekend.

Also during the spring of 2015 at the 90th Eastern Province Council, The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was awarded the Eastern Provinces William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of the Year for the 12th time in 17 years. The chapter also for the first in the Eastern Province won the very first Guide Right Program of the Year for a Small Chapter. Also for the very first time in the Eastern Province 1st Place – Guide Right Director of the Year for a Small Chapter was awarded to Brother Edward Thomas (Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter). Brother Edward Thomas was awarded the Eastern Province’s William L. Crump History Award; this marked the 11tth time in the past 13 years a member of the chapter has won this award. This also was Brother Thomas’s second time winning the Eastern Province William L. Crump History Award. Eastern Province Meritorious Service Award was given by the 27th Eastern Province Polemarch Linwood J. Smith, Jr. to Brothers DeAndre Howard and Keshon Kelly for service above and beyond to the Eastern Province. Province Polemarch Smith also gave the Province Polemarchs appreciation awards to Brothers Keshon Kelly and James Pointer (Rho Theta) for their service during his administration. Eastern Province Quiz Bowl Champions was The Radford Univ. Chapter, the Rho Theta – (Brothers James Pointer & Kameron Scott). During the Eastern Province Council Polemarch Keshon Kelly was elected to the position of Eastern Province Reporter. Brother Edward Thomas was elected to serve a second term as the Eastern Province Alumni Board Director, Region 4. Brother Darian Dixon (Rho Theta) was elected as the Eastern Province Region 4 Undergrad Board Director 2015-2016 and elected to the National Nominations Committee at the 82nd Grand Chapter Meeting.

On May 16, 2015 the chapter has a monumental accomplishment by crossing our 10th line in chapter history, which was also first line to cross on our chapters establishment date of May 16th. This also was monumental, as the chapter reversed how our lines line up, tallest to shortest back to shortest to tallest which is more of a traditional way and was the way the initial charter line of Spring 97 was lined up. The line of “Khanging Lanes” was Micah Knight and George J. Durham, Jr., Brother Edward Thomas served as the Dean of Pledges for the Spring 2015 line.

In August at the 82nd National Grand Chapter meeting held in New Orleans, LA the chapter won its first ever “Jay Crosby International Guide Right Program Chapter of the Year for a Small Chapter. The Chapters Guide Right Program is led by Chapter Guide Right Director Edward Thomas. This was the only award the entire Eastern Province received at the 82nd Conclave. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch C. Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

On Saturday August 29, 2015 the Chapter held its first HBCU Scholarship Benefit Black and White Ball. The event was held at the Stratford Conference Center in Danville, VA. The program featured HBCU Alumni sharing their experiences as students at these institutions. Also Brothers Marvin Martin and Justin Hairston performed a step routine to give the crowd a taste of Greek Life. The Benefit was Chaired by Brother Phillip Hayes and co-chaired by Brother Larry Ford. There were over a 120 guest in attendance that enjoyed fellowshipping and dancing throughout the evening. Also the chapter celebrated winning the Jay Crosby Guide Right Program of the Year Award at the 82nd Grand Chapter Meeting in New Orleans, August 10-16, 2015. The chapter through the benefit raised over $1,500.00 for our HBCU Scholarship Endowment fund.

In September of 2015 the 28th Eastern Province Polemarch Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq. appointed Brother Keshon Kelly as the Chief Administrative Assistant to the Eastern Province Polemarch, Brother Edward Thomas as the Eastern Province Social Action Chairman, Brother Marvin Martin as the Eastern Province Advisors Committee Vice Chairman and Brother Kirby Wright as the Eastern Province By-Laws Committee Vice Chairman. Also during the fall of 2015 the Chapter decided to re-name the Bennie L. Dix Guide Right Award. The new named agreed on by the chapter was the “Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award, which honors the first chapter member to go to Chapter Invisible Brother Bennie L. Dix and The Chapter’s first ever Eastern Province Guide Right Director of the Year for a Small Chapter, Brother Edward Thomas.

2015 may have been the most successful year of the chapter’s 17 year history to date. The success was due to the chapter member’s hard work and cohesiveness throughout the year and all was under the direction and leadership of Chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly.

2016

On January 9, 2016 the 33^rd Grand Polemarch appointed Brother Keshon Kelly to be the chairman of the National Quiz Bowl Program. Brother Kelly served as the Eastern Province Quiz Bowl Chairman form 2005 -2015 and led the Eastern to four First place finishes and one second place finish during the National Quiz Bowl competitions.

On Saturday March 5, 2016 The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter hosted the chartering ceremony for the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi. The ceremony started at 6:30 pm and was facilitated by the 28th Eastern Province Polemarch Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq. The ceremony was held at the Negril Academy in Danville, VA. The 26th Eastern Province Polemarch Cornelius “Neil” Hudgins, IV presented Rho Theta their official Charter. Also Polemarch Hudgins presented each charter member of the new chapter with a certificate as a charter member of the Rho Theta chapter. The charter members are Christian Walker, Darian Dixon, Isaac Clement, Kameron Scott, James Pointer, Keshon Kelly, Marvin L. Martin, Jr. and P. Edward Thomas.

There were approximately 50 Brothers in attendance for the ceremony, which included the Eastern Province Sr. Vice Polemarch Charles Gilbert, Eastern Province Board Member Kenneth Madison, Past Eastern Province Board Member Kirby Right, Past Eastern Province Reporter and Polemarch of the Roanoke (VA) Alumni Chapter Emanuel Arnold, Lynchburg (VA) Alumni Chapter Polemrach Tori Callands, past and present members of the Virginia Tech Chapter, the Theta Psi, and members of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter.

After the ceremony was concluded, a reception was held, hosted by the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter and the Rho Theta Chapter. Brother’s fellowshipped, told stories, and toasted to the newly charted Radford University Chapter, the Rho Theta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

The chartering of Rho Theta now gives the Eastern Province’s Region IV, four undergraduate chapters, the University of Virginia Chapter the Eta Sigma, the VA Tech Chapter the Theta Psi, the James Madison University Chapter the Nu Lambda and the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta.

On March 12, 2016 the chapter crossed our 11th line in chapter history. The line of “Kinesthetically Kreated” consisted of Brandon T. Evans and Shakeel A. Harris. Brother Marvin L. Martin, Jr. served as the Dean of Pledges and Brother George J. Durham, Jr., served as the Assistant Dean of Pledges for the Spring 2016 line.

During the spring of 2016 at the 91^st Eastern Province Council, The Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was awarded the Eastern Provinces William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of the Year for the 13th time in 18 years. The Chapter also received the Eastern Province’s Publications and Publicity Award. Chapter Polemrach Keshon Kelly was awarded the Eastern Province’s Linwood Hardmon Chapter Advisor of the Year for the Rho Theta Chapter (Radford University). This marked the fourth time Brother Kelly has won the award. The Eastern Province Meritorious Service Award was given by the 28th Eastern Province Polemarch Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq., to Brothers Keshon Kelly and Edward Thomas for service above and beyond to the Eastern Province. Province Polemarch Jenkins also gave the Province Polemarchs appreciation award to Brother Keshon Kelly for service to him during his administration. Also during the Eastern Province Council Polemarch Keshon Kelly was re- elected to the position of Eastern Province Reporter. Brother Cameron Dupree (Rho Theta) was elected as the Eastern Province Region 4 Undergrad Board Director 2016-2017 and Brother Jamal Washington (Theta Psi) was elected as the Eastern Province Strategus. Also one of the biggest accomplishments during the Eastern Province Council was when the 28^th Eastern Province Polemarch Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq., bestowed upon Chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly the Eastern Province’s Pillar of the Province Award, which is the highest award any Brother can win in the Eastern Province. Brother Kelly is the first Brother in the history of the Chapter to receive the award as a member of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter. Brother Kirby Wright has received the award in the past, but was a member of the Martinsville (VA) Alumni Chapter when the award was received.

During the spring of 2016 Brother Keshon Kelly & Kirby Wright became donors to the National Sr. Kappa Endowment Fund. Brother Kelly was the first member of the chapter to become part of the fund with Brother Wright following shortly after him. They both received the original pin of Kappa Alpha Nu as members and donors to the Endowment.

On Monday May 16, 2016 the chapter had a luncheon to celebrate our 18^th year chapter anniversary, also to celebrate our chapters 10th line anniversary “Khanging Lanes” Brothers Micah Knight and George Durham, Jr. (1 year Kappaversary). We also celebrated the chapters senior Brothers as May is Senior Kappa Month. Chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly gave remarks during the luncheon also he had the most current chapter history printed up and passed out to the brothers. The Danville (VA) Alumni chapter has had a very fruitful and successful 18 years as a chapter. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

On Thursday September 8, 2016 The 33rd Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. appointed Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly to the National Information Technology &Documentation Committee. This committee is responsible for all Information Technology, documents and administrative items on the national level. Brother Kelly’s efficiency for origination and structure is why the Grand Polemarch chooses him to serve on this national committee.

On Saturday October 1, 2016 the Chapter held our second HBCU Scholarship Benefit Black and White Ball. The event was held at the Stratford Conference Center in Danville, VA. The program featured HBCU Alumni sharing their experiences as students at these institutions. Also Brothers of the Rho Theta Chapter performed a step routine to give the crowd a taste of Greek Life. The Benefit was Chaired by Brother Phillip Hayes and co-chaired by Brother Larry Ford. There were over a 140 guest in attendance that enjoyed fellowshipping and dancing throughout the evening. Among the guest present were Roanoke (VA) Alumni Chapter Polemarch Emanuel Arnold, the Past Mayor of Danville Sherman Saunders, City Council woman Joyce Glaise, and members of the other Devine night Greek organizations in the Danville, VA community. The chapter through the benefit raised over $1,500.00 for our HBCU Scholarship fund. Chapter Guide Right Director Edward Thomas oversees the program.

On the weekend of October 27-30, 2016 the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta and the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter together played host to the 2016 CRWLC and Eastern Province fall MTA Cluster on the campus of Radford University, in Radford, VA. The conference and cluster saw over 300 plus brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi emerge on the campus of Radford University for the first time ever. Brothers of the chapter were on hand for the whole weekend making sure the chapters did all that was expected of them as the host. The chapters provided hospitality to all the brothers in the hotel and the hosted the second annual Kappaween party on that Saturday night October 29, 2016 for all the undergraduate brothers. 28th Province Polemarch Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq., expressed gratitude for the hard work that went into hosting the conference and making this historical event a success. Chapter Polemarch Keshon Kelly and Rho Theta Chapter Vice Polemarch Cameron Dupree brought greetings to the Province and Conference on behalf of the chapters.

2017

On February 1, 2017 Brother Edward Thomas was appointed by the 33rd Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. to serve on the National Social Action Committee as the representative for the Eastern Province. On February 3, 2017 Brother Edward Thomas was appointed by the 33rd Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. to serve on the National Constitution and Statues Committee as the representative for the Eastern Province. On February 25, 2017 Polemarch Keshon Kelly was appointed to the National Information Technology Committee by the 33rd Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr.

On April 7-9, 2017 During the Eastern Province Council Held at the College Park Marriott & Conference the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was awarded the Eastern Provinces William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of the Year for the 14th time in 19 years. Brother Edward Thomas received the Pillar of the Province Award- The Highest Award offered by the Eastern Province- He is the second member of Danville (VA) Alumni to ever receive the award as a member of Danville (VA) Alumni. Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was awarded the Eastern Province’s Publication and Publicity award for the second consecutive year in a row. The chapter received Jay Crosby Small Guide Right Chapter of the Year and the Burt V. Watkins Guide Right Director of the Year – Brother Edward Thomas. The Eastern Province Polemarch’s Award went Brother Keshon Kelly and he was also elected as Eastern Province Historian and Alumni Voting Delegate to the 83rd Grand Chapter Meeting. Elected as Eastern Province Region 4 Undergraduate Board Director and Undergraduate Member to the National Nominations Committee- Brother Jamal Washington (Theta Psi Chapter), Elected as Eastern Province Strategus – Brother Emmanuel Mack (Theta Psi Chapter), Elected as Eastern Province Lt. Strategus – Brother Harrison Hughes (Rho Theta Chapter), Elected as Eastern Province Undergraduate Delegate to the 83rd Grand Chapter Meeting – Brother BJ Keen (Rho Theta).

On Saturday May 6, 2017 The Chapter held our first annual Old School Kappa Kickback Party at the Pepsi Building by the Community Market. There were approximately 75 people in attendance. Brothers and their guest fellowshipped, ate, drink, danced and enjoyed a fun evening. Brothers Larry Ford and Philp Hayes was the chairman for this event. The event was successful and made a profit that will be added to our scholarship fund.

On Saturday June 18, 2017, the chapter held its 16^thannual Kappa Kookout. The Kookout was held at the Blanks Club in Danville, VA with over 50 people in attendance. The following Chapter awards were presented at the Kookout.

Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award- Brother Ed Thomas
David Coleman Professional Service Award – Brother George J. Durham, Jr.
Sylvesta Jennings Community Service Award – Brothers William Flippen & Edward Thomas
Keshon Kelly Chapter Service Award- Brother Phillip Hayes
Christopher Hill New Member of the Year Award – Brother Shakeel Harris
V.A Kappa Man of the Year Award – Brother Keshon Kelly
Malvin Carr Polemarch’s Award- Brother DeAndre Howard
Cepheus Archie Senior Brother Award – Brothers William Flippen & Kirby Wright

On the week of July 17- 23, 2017 Brothers Ed Thomas, Kirby Wright, Marvin Martin, Johnny Newman, George Durham, Micah Knight and Polemarch Keshon Kelly attended the 83^rdGrand Chapter meeting in Orlando, Fl. Brothers BJ Keen and Devin Dixon represented Rho Theta and Brother Jamal Washington Represented Theta Psi. Brother Thomas served on the National Constitution & Statues Committee and the National Social Action Committee. Polemarch Kelly served on the National IT/Documentation Committee and Chaired the National Quiz Bowl. The Eastern Province finished second in the Quiz Bowl represented by Brothers Jamal Washington, BJ Keen and Devin Dixon. Brother Dixon is the Eastern Province Vice Polemarch. Brother Keen along with Brother Kelly served as the Eastern Province voting delegates. Brother Washington served on the National Nominations Committee. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of Polemarch Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

On Saturday September 31, 2017 the Chapter held our third annual HBCU Scholarship Benefit Black and White Ball. The event was held at the Stratford Tuscarora Country Club in Danville, VA. The program featured HBCU Alumni sharing their experiences as students at these institutions. The Benefit was Chaired by Brother Phillip Hayes and co-chaired by Brother Larry Ford. There were over a 130 guest in attendance that enjoyed fellowshipping and dancing throughout the evening. Among the guest present was Past Mayor of Danville Sherman Saunders, City Council woman Joyce Glaise, and members of the other Devine Nine Greek organizations in the Danville, VA community. The chapter through the benefit raised over $3000.00 for our HBCU Scholarship fund. Chapter Guide Right Director Edward Thomas oversaw the program. Also the Chapter shared with the guest the partnership with St. Jude’s and collected over $400.00 for St. Jude’s Children’s hospital.

2018

On March 24, 2018, the chapter crossed our 13th line in chapter history. The line of “Faces of Fear” consisted of DeVon Wellington, Mark Frasier, Ridge Williamson, and Terrell Davis. Brother Marvin L. Martin, Jr. served as the Dean of Pledges, and Brother George J. Durham, Jr., served as the Assistant Dean of Pledges for the Spring 2018 line.

On April 5-8, 2018 During the Eastern Province Council Held at the Norfolk Sheraton Waterside the chapter and Brothers had the following accomplishments.

1st Place – William Thomas Carter Small Alumni Chapter of the Year – Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter
Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter Awarded the Eastern Province’s Publication and Publicity award
Reclamation Award for a Small Chapter – Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter
Linwood Hardmon Chapter Advisor of the Year – Brother Marvin L. Martin, Jr.
Eastern Province Polemarch’s Award – Brother Keshon Kelly
Eastern Province Meritorious Service Award – Brother Edward Thomas
Elected as the Eastern Province Junior Vice Polemarch – Brother Tyleik Edmunds (Theta Psi)
Elected as Eastern Province Historian – Brother Keshon Kelly (Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter)
Elected as Eastern Province Region 4 Undergraduate Board Director – Brother Ricky Rogers (Rho Theta)
Elected as Eastern Province Strategus – Brother Kyler Thompson (Rho Theta)
Elected as Eastern Province Lt. Strategus – Brother Michael Turner (Theta Psi)

Also during the 93rd Eastern Province Council in Norfolk, VA April 5-8, 2016 the Chapter participated in a Social Action Project called “Socks & Shoes” this was a project to collect socks and shoes for a local area homeless shelter. The project was led by Brother Edward Thomas. The chapter donated approximately 60 pair of shoes mostly donated by, By Brothers Ed Thomas, Marvin Martin and Polemarch Keshon Kelly. The project collected over 400 pair of shoes and over a 1000 pair of socks.

On Saturday April 14, 2018, two of our chapter brothers, Kirby Wright and Harry Johnson were recognized at the 2^ndAnnual Danville Economics through Entertainment (ETE) Honors. This is an opportunity to thank the individuals that strives to make a meaningful contribution to the Danville Pittsylvania County area, through community, education, and economic development.

On Saturday May 19, 2018 The Chapter held our second annual Old School Kappa Kickback Party at the Pepsi Building by the Community Market. This year’s Kickback was also the 20^thanniversary celebration for the chapter. Brothers and their guest fellowshipped, ate, drink, danced and enjoyed a fun evening. Polemarch Keshon Kelly brought greetings on behalf of the Chapter. Brother Kirby Wright gave reflections on the past 20 years as our chapter has grown and flourished. Brothers Larry Ford and Philp Hayes was the chairman for this event.

The Chapter Awards Chairman presented the following awards to Brothers for the work they have done this fraternal year. Also the Chapter’s Lifetime Achievement Award was presented as we do every five years in accordance with our chapter milestone years.

Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award- Brother Ed Thomas
David Coleman Professional Service Award – Brother DeAndre T. Howard
Sylvesta Jennings Community Service Award – Brother Phillip Hayes
Keshon Kelly Chapter Service Award- Brother Keshon “Shon” Kelly
Christopher Hill New Member of the Year Award – Brothers Isaac Clement & Lee Roy Johnson
V.A Kappa Man of the Year Award – Brother Edward Thomas
Malvin Carr Polemarch’s Award- Brothers Marvin L. Martin, Jr. & George J. Durham, Jr.
Cepheus Archie Senior Brother Award – Brother Kirby Wright
Kirby Wright Lifetime Achievement Award – Brother Edward Thomas

A committee that consisted of Brothers Larry Ford, Philip Hayes, Edward Thomas, Marvin Martin, George Durham, and DeAndre Howard led by Polemarch Keshon Kelly planned and executed this event. Some brothers attended from neighboring chapters and members from the local Pan Hellenic Council that were also present. There was a display of chapter awards, achievements, accomplishments, and compliance requirements from the past 20 years set up along with a slide show of photos of the chapter from the past 20 years. Not only was the event successful but also made a profit that will be added to the Chapter’s Scholarship Fund.

On Saturday June 9, 2018, the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter held its 17th Annual Kappa Kookout. The Kookout was held at the Blanks Club in Danville, VA with over 120 people in attendance. The chapter also celebrated its 20th anniversary and the hard work for the year, recognizing Brothers for the work they have done in different areas during the year. The Chapter recognized Brother Terry David for being named the new Executive Director of the Chapel Hill Training Outreach Project (CHTOP) in Chapel Hill, NC and outgoing Polemarch Keshon Kelly for leading the chapter for the past 5 years and for being re-elected Eastern Province Historian and being the Chief of Staff to the 28th Eastern Province Polemarch Robert L. Jenkins, Esq., Brothers from neighboring chapters such as Martinsville (VA) Alumni, Greensboro (NC) Alumni and Ashville (NC) Alumni were present; members of the local Greek community also attended this event along with many family members and friends.

Also, during the Kookout the Chapter also presented two $750.00 scholarships to our HBCU Scholarship fund recipients for the 2018 year. Mr. Samuel Branch (George Washington High School) who will be attending Hampton University and Mr. Jaylan Fitzgerald (Dan River High School) who will be attending Norfolk State University. These are the 5th and 6th recipients of the Chapters HBCU scholarships. Brothers Edward Thomas, Ridge Williamson, Phillip Hayes and Polemarch Keshon Kelly head the chapters Scholarship Fund Committee. Brothers Mark Frazier and Ridge Williamson chaired the Chapter Kookout. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of 11^th Polemarch Keshon (Shon) Kelly.

On Saturday September 29, 2018 the chapter held its Fourth Annual HBCU Scholarship Benefit Black and White Ball. This year the chapter honored one of its charter members, Brother William T. Flippen, a 1968 graduate of Virginia State University, by naming the scholarship award after him. The event was held at the Tuscarora Country Club in Danville, VA. Chapter Polemarch Edward Thomas gave welcoming remarks. The program featured the most recent scholarship recipients sharing their experiences as students at their institutions. A group of Brothers from the chapter performed a step routine to give the crowd a taste of Greek Life. This effort was coordinated by chapter Vice Polemarch Marvin L. Martin, Jr., Brother Phillip Hayes chaired the Benefit with a committee of 6 Brothers from the chapter. There were over a 125 guest in attendance, including local politicians and members of other Divine Nine organizations that enjoyed fellowshipping and dancing throughout the evening. The chapter through the benefit raised over $2,000.00 for their William T. Flippen HBCU Scholarship Fund.

On November 2, 2018 the chapter crossed our 14th Line in Chapter History. The line “Two Trained in the Tradition” consisted of Darwin Carter and Johnnie Moultrie. Brother Marvin L. Martin, Jr. served as the Dean of Pledges and Brother George J. Durham, Jr., served as the Assistant Dean of Pledges for the Fall 2018 line.

2019

On March 22, 2019, Polemarch Edward Thomas led the Social Action Committee, as chairman, to collect over 700 hygiene bags to be donated to the Boys and Girls Club for the Roanoke Valley. The gallon size storage bags included soap, wash cloth, tooth brush, tooth paste and deodorant. The bags will be donated to the children of the Roanoke Valley Boys and Girls Club as needed.

On Saturday March 23, 2019 the chapter crossed our 15^th line in Chapter history. “Three Souls Of DVA” consisted of Patrick Corey Pickard, Diontez Jacques Venable, and Joshua Wayne Prince. Brother Marvin L. Martin, Jr. served as the Dean of Pledges and Brother George J. Durham, Jr., served as the Assistant Dean of Pledges for the Spring 2019 line.

On April 11, 2019, at the 94th Province Council, Polemarch Thomas lead the Province Social Action Committee in collecting many items, including suits, shoes, kitchen ware, hygiene items that will to be donated to Green Drop Organization, and the proceeds will be donated to the veterans in the DC Metropolitan area. On April 13, 2019 at our 94th Eastern Province Awards and Achievement Luncheon the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter won several chapter awards. The awards were Publicity & Publication Award, given by Chairman Keshon Kelly, the Eastern Province Website Award for small chapter, and the Eastern Province Jay Crosby Award, given to the chapter for the most outstanding Guide Right Program. Also, at the 94th Eastern Province Council, Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter won the William Thomas Carter Small Chapter the Year Award. This is the 16th time out of 21 years the chapter has won the award. Also, at the council, Brother DeAndre Howard won the Polemarch’s Award for outstanding work for the Province Polemarch Robert Jenkins, Esq. Polemarch Edward Thomas won the Eastern Province Bert V. Wadkins Award for Small Chapter, for the most outstanding Alumni Guide Right Advisor. The most outstanding achievement was by Brother Keshon Kelly. After a heated and disturbing debate, Brother Kelly won the highest elected office in the province, Province Senior Vice Polemarch by an over whelming vote percentage of 52.5% on a three-man race. Chapter members in attendance at the 94th Eastern Province Council were Brothers DeAndre Howard, Isaac Clement, 1^st Vice Polemarch Marvin Martin, Polemarch Edward Thomas and Province Senior Vice Polemarch Keshon Kelly.

On April 16, 2019, Averett University hosted a forum, Meet the Greeks; it was set up to introduce the students to the Divine Nine. Province Senior Vice Polemarch Keshon Kelly gave a brief history of Danville (VA) Chapter and Vice Polemarch, D’ante Lambright, of the Rho Kappa Chapter. Those in attendance were Brothers Isaac Clements, Terrell Davis, Philip Hayes, Polemarch Edward Thomas and Province Sr. Vice Polemarch Keshon “Shon” Kelly.

On Wednesday May 8, 2019, the chapter laid to rest Charter Member our beloved Brother Cephus N. Archie. Brother Archie was the chapter’s first Keeper of the Records and a life time educator. Brother Archie was a loyal, faithful and dedicated member of our chapter from the day we were chartered until the day he went to the Golden Shores.

On Saturday June 8, 2019, the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter held its 18th annual Kappa Kookout. The Kookout was held at the Blanks Club in Danville, VA, with over 100 people in attendance. The chapter also celebrated the hard work for the year, recognizing Brothers for their work in different areas during the year. Brothers DeAndre Howard presented chapter awards to the brothers that were chosen for awards for this fraternal year. Awardees were as follows:

The “Sylvesta L. Jennings Community Service Award,” Phillip L. Hayes, Jr.
The “Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award,” William T. Flippen
The “David L. Coleman Professional and Business Award”- George Durham
The “Keshon “Shon” Kelly Chapter Service Award” Marvin L. Martin, Jr.
The “Christopher T. Hill New Member of the Year Award” -Johnnie D. Moultrie
The “Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter Kappa Man of the Year Award” – Keshon Kelly & Dr. DeAndre T. Howard
The “Malvin L. Carr Polemarch’s Award” – Phillip L. Hayes, Jr.
The “Cephus Archie Senior Contribution Award” – Kirby Wright

Also, during the Kookout the Chapter presented three $500.00 scholarships to our HBCU Scholarship fund recipients for the 2019 year. 7^th Recipient Ms. Aliyah Fitz a graduate of Dan River High School Class of 2019 Attending North Carolina A&T State University. 8^th Recipient Ms. Kelsie Nibblet a graduate of George Washington High School Class of 2019 attending Virginia State University. 9^th Recipient Ms. Kamryn Smith a graduate of Galileo Magnet High School Class of 2019, attending Florida A&M State University. The Chapter Kookout was chaired by Brothers Johnnie Moultrie, Patrick Pickard, Diontez Venable, and Josh Prince. The chapter had these accomplishments under the leadership of 12^th Polemarch P. Edward Thomas.

On Saturday October 5, 2019 the chapter held their fifth annual HBCU Scholarship Benefit Black and White Ball. The event was held at the Tuscarora Country Club in Danville, VA. Chapter Polemarch Marvin L. Martin, Jr., gave welcoming remarks. Polemarch Martin preformed a step routine to give the crowd a taste of Greek Life. The chapter coordinated this effort. Brother Phillip Hayes chaired the Benefit with a committee of 6 Brothers from the chapter. There were over a 120 guest in attendance, including local politicians and members of other Divine Nine organizations that enjoyed fellowshipping and dancing throughout the evening. The chapter through the benefit raised over $2,300.00 for our William T. Flippen HBCU Scholarship fund. This will be given to deserving youths in the Danville community attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

2020

In the beginning of 2020 the US and the rest of the world were hit with COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus pandemic, an ongoing global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The outbreak was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 30 January 2020, and a pandemic on 11 March. As of 29 June 2020, more than 10 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported in more than 188 countries and territories, resulting in more than 500,000 deaths; more than 5.1 million people had recovered at this time. The Pandemic continued as the summer of 2020 passed by.

Due to the pandemic the Eastern Province postponed the annual Province Council which was scheduled to take place on April 2-5, 2020 in Baltimore, MD. The Eastern Province followed suit with all of Kappa Alpha Psi as all 12 Provinces cancelled or postponed their Province Councils and other scheduled activities and the Grand Chapter suspended all activities.

In May of 2020 the chapter presented three awardees the William T. Flippen HBCU scholarship. Each recipient received a $500.00 scholarship to the HBCUs of their choice in the Fall 2020. Alexandria Woods, a graduate of Tunstall High School, attending Norfolk State University, majoring in Biology. Jalen Williams, a George Washington High School graduate, is attending Virginia Union University majoring in Physics/Engineering. Christian Carden, a George Washington High School graduate, is attending Virginia State University majoring in Computer Science.

On Saturday, June 13, 2020, the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter held a virtual awards banquet, due the global COVID-19 pandemic. The chapter celebrated the hard work for the year, recognizing Brothers for their work in different areas during the year. Brothers DeAndre Howard presented chapter awards to the brothers that were chosen for awards for this fraternal year. Awardees were as follows:

The “Sylvesta L. Jennings Community Service Award,” Phillip L. Hayes, Jr.
The “Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award,” P. Edward Thomas
The “David L. Coleman Professional and Business Award”- Dr. DeAndre T. Howard
The “Keshon “Shon” Kelly Chapter Service Award” Isaac Clement
The “Christopher T. Hill New Member of the Year Award” – Patrick Corey Pickard
The “Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter Kappa Man of the Year Award” – Marvin L., Martin, Jr.
The “Malvin L. Carr Polemarch’s Award” – Patrick Corey Pickard
The “Cephus Archie Senior Contribution Award” – Larry Ford

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic the chapter was not able to hold our annual year end Chapter Kookout which was greatly missed by all the chapter members as well as friends, family and the community that supports the chapter. Also due to the COVID-19 Pandemic the chapter had to cease all activities for the remainder of the fraternity year. The chapter had accomplishments and was led through these unprecedented times under the leadership of 13^th Polemarch Marvin L. Martin, Jr.

On September the 11-12, 2020 the Eastern Province held the first ever Virtual Province Council, it was a scaled down Province Council that was held through Zoom Technology that allowed brothers to meet from their homes. Due to the National Pandemic, meeting in person was impossible. During the 95th Eastern Province Council, during the awards ceremony held by the Province the Danville (VA) Alumni chapter was awarded the William Thomas Carter Small Chapter of the Year, First Place for the 17th time in the last 22 years. Also, the Undergraduate Chapter of the Year, Third Place was awarded to the Radford University Chapter, The Rho Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi. The Linwood Harmon Chapter Advisor of the Year, Second Place, was awarded to our chapter Polemarch and Rho Theta Co-Advisor Marvin L. Martin, Jr. Individual Chapter Awards awarded by the province were the following.

Fraternity Service – Patrick Pickard
Community Service – Phillip L. Hayes, Jr.
Professional Service – George J. Durham, Jr.
Brother of the Year – Marvin L. Martin, Jr.

On September 23, 2020 the Eastern Province held a special election to fill vacant positions on the Board of Directors and Province Officers. Brother Johnnie D. Moultrie of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter ran for the position of Province Reporter. The Eastern Province Board of Directors elected Brother Moultrie to fill the position. Brother Moultri is the 4th member of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter to be elected as the Eastern Province Reporter.

2021

On April 9-10, 2021 the Eastern Province held the second Virtual Province Council, it was a scaled down Province Council that was held through Zoom Technology that allowed brothers to meet virtually from their homes. Due to the National Pandemic the ability to meet in person was not possible. During the 96th Eastern Province Council, during the awards ceremony held by the Province the Danville (VA) Alumni chapter Individual Chapter Awards awarded by the province were the following.

Fraternity Service – Keshon Kelly
Community Service – P. Edward Thomas
Professional Service – Dr. DeAndre T. Howard
Brother of the Year – Marvin L. Martin, Jr.

Also, during the 96^th Eastern Province Council Brother Dr. DeAndre T. Howard was elected as the Province Reporter Brother Howard was elected by the Eastern Province Council for the position. Brother Howard is the 5^th Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter member to be elected as the Eastern Province Reporter. This is also his second tenor in holding the position. As he was elected in 2013 to be the Eastern Province Reporter. DeAndre was also elected as the Eastern Province Alumni Voting Delegate for the 85^th Grand Chapter Meeting. Brother Howard is the second brother from Danville (VA) Alumni to be voted as a voting delegate to a grand chapter meeting representing the Eastern Province. Brother Keshon Kelly has been elected a voting delegate representing the Eastern Province on 4 different occasions.

Also, Brother Paul S. Robinson, III Polemarch of the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi and Eastern Province Strategus was elected as the Region 4 undergraduate board member to the Eastern Province board of directors. During the Province Council a resolution submitted by the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter was voted on and passed unanimously to support Brother Johnny S. Newman, II’s petition for the coved Elder Watson Diggs Award at the 85^th grand chapter meeting which will be held in July 2021. Brother Newman is the first ever member of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter to submit a petition for and be considered for the Elder Watson Diggs Award.

On April 23, 2021 the Chapter congratulated our Brother, the 4^th, 9^th and 11^th Chapter Polemarch, P. Edward Thomas on becoming our newest 50-Year Member. Brother Thomas was initiated on April 23, 1971 at the Virginia State University Chapter the Alpha Phi or Kappa Alpha Psi. Because of the pandemic we were unable to celebrate with Brother Thomas in person but the chapter made sure he received his 50-Year pin and traditional white blazer.

On May 6, 2021 The Eastern Province Board of Directors held a special election to fill the Eastern Province Undergraduate Voting Delegate position for the 85^th Grand Chapter Meeting. The Board elected Brother Paul W. Robinson, III the region 4 undergrad board director and Polemarch of the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta as the Eastern Province Undergraduate Voting Delegate for the 85^th Grand Chapter Meeting/Conclave. This is the 3^rd time a Brother from Rho Theta has been elected as an Eastern Province Voting Delegate for Conclave. Brothers James Pointer and Bernard Keen, Jr. have been elected to this position in the past.

On Saturday May 15, 2021 the Grand Board of Directors of Kappa Alpha Psi approved the National Achievement Commissions vote to award Johnny S. Newman, II of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter the 116^th Elder Watson Diggs award. This marks the first ever Elder Watson Diggs Awardee for the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter.

On Friday May 21, 2021, the chapter lost Charter Member William T. Flippen to the Chapter Invisible. Brother Flippen was a huge supporter of Guide Right and a life time educator. Brother Flippen was a faithful and dedicated member of our chapter since our inception. The Chapter has named our HBCU Scholarship after Brother Flippen, The William T. Flippen HBCU Scholarship will forever carry his love of education and our Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Brother Flippen will be remembered in our chapter for his contributions until he went to those the Golden Shores.

On Saturday June 12, 2021, the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter held a virtual awards banquet, due the global COVID-19 pandemic. The chapter celebrated the hard work for the year, recognizing Brothers for their work in different areas during the year. Brothers DeAndre Howard presented chapter awards to the brothers that were chosen for awards for this fraternal year. Awardees were as follows:

The “Sylvesta L. Jennings Community Service Award,” P Edward Thomas
The “Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award,” P. Edward Thomas
The “David L. Coleman Professional and Business Award”- Marvin L. Martin, Jr.
The “Keshon “Shon” Kelly Chapter Service Award” Isaac Clement/Dr. DeAndre T. Howard
The “Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter Kappa Man of the Year Award” – Dr. DeAndre T. Howard
The “Malvin L. Carr Polemarch’s Award” – Keshon “Shon” Kelly
The “Cephus Archie Senior Contribution Award” – Kirby Wright

The chapter had accomplishments and was led through these unprecedented times under the leadership of 13^th Polemarch Marvin L. Martin, Jr.

2022

On Monday January 3, 2022, the chapter lost Charter Member P. Edward Thomas to the Chapter Invisible. Brother Thomas was a huge supporter of the chapter in many areas since our inception in 1997-1998. He was a 50-Year Brother and Eastern Province Pillar of the Province. He served the chapter as the 4^th, 9^th and 12^th Polemarch, and just about every other position. He led our Guide Right Program for many years and was named the Eastern Province Guide Right Director of the Year on two different occasions and led our chapter to win guide right chapter of the year twice for the Eastern Province and International Guide Right chapter of the Year at the 82^nd Conclave in New Orleans, LA in 2015. Among many of his accomplishments he was also a proud Charter member of the Radford University Chapter the Rho Theta of Kappa Alpha Psi. Ed was a Life Member of the Kappa Foundation Million Dollar Club and Eastern Province Life Member. Ed was a loyal and dedicated member of the Fraternity since he pledge in the spring of 1971 at the Virginia State University Chapter the Alpha Phi of Kappa Alpha Psi. The Chapter has named our Guide Right Award after Ed, the Dix/Thomas Guide Right Award will forever carry his name. Ed will be remembered in our chapter for his contributions, his hard work, his loyalty and fidelity and positivity until he went to those the Golden Shores.

On March 17-20, 2022 During the Eastern Province Council Held at the Richmond Downtown Marriott & Conference Center the chapter and Brothers had the following accomplishments.

Re-Elected as Eastern Province Reporter – Brother Dr. DeAndre T. Howard, Elected as Eastern Province Strategus – Brother Andre Newell (Rho Theta Chapter). Brother Johnny Newman was the speaker for the Public Meeting and was given a plaque of appreciation for his participation from the Eastern Province. Brother Newman was also awarded the Province Polemarch’s special commendations award for his service at the 2022 Eastern Province council meeting.

Polemarch Howard also received the Province Polemarch’s leadership Citation. The Brothers that participated in the province council were Chapter Polemarch Dr. DeAndre T. Howard, Brother Christian Walker and Brother Johnny S. Newman, II. The chapter also had the following brothers recognized in the following areas:

Professional Service- Brother Marvin L. Martin, Jr.
Community Service- Brother P. Edward Thomas, Jr.
Fraternity Service- Brother Keshon Kelly
Brother of the Year- Brother Isaac Clement.

The chapter had accomplishments and was led by our 14th Chapter Polemarch Dr. DeAndre T. Howard.

As we continue to deal with the International Pandemic the Grand Chapter, Eastern Province, and Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter remains to find creative ways to continue with Kappa Business.

Polemarchs of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter

Chartering Polemarch 1998-1999……………………..…………………… (1st) Malvin Carr

1999…………………………………………………………..………(2nd) James Pickens, Sr.

2000………..…………………………………………….……………. (3rd) Frederick Fowler

2000-2002…………………………………………..……………..(4th) P. Edward Thomas

2002-2004…………………………….………………………… (5th) C. Keshon Kelly (Shon)

2004-2005……………………………………..…………..…………(6th) Corey K. Alexander

2005-2008…………………………………………………….…….…………(7th) Kirby Wright

2008-2010..………………………………………………………(8th) C. Keshon Kelly (Shon)

2010-2012…………………………………..………….……………..(9th) P. Edward Thomas

2012-2013..………….………………………..…………………(10th) James “Jay” Jennings

2013-2018……………………………………………………(11th) C. Keshon Kelly (Shon)

2018-2019……………………………………..………….……(12th) P. Edward Thomas

2019-2021…….;……………….………………………………(13th) Marvin L. Martin, Jr.

2021-Present………………………………..……………(14th) Dr. DeAndre T. Howard

50-Year Brothers of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter

*Lewis Randy Marshall…..The Bluefield State College Chapter, the Alpha Tau, April 13, 1946
*Gerald D. Tuffin, Jr..…… The Bluefield State College Chapter the, Alpha Tau, April 17, 1948
Kirby Wright ………………………….……………..Princess Anne (MD) Alumni Chapter, April 9, 1960
*William T. Flippen….….……The Virginia State College Chapter, the Alpha Phi, December 16, 1967
Johnny Moody…..………… The Virginia Union University Chapter, the Alpha Gamma, April 4, 1970
Larry Ford….………….……….…. The Norfolk State University Chapter, the Epsilon Zeta, May 8, 1970
* Edward Thomas……..………………… Virginia State College Chapter, the Alpha Phi, April 23, 1971

* Denotes Deceased

Eastern Province Pillar of the Province Awardees Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter

1991…………….………..…………………….…………………………..………..Kirby Wright

2016……………………………………………………..…..……………Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2017………..……………………………………………..……………..….…. Edward Thomas

National Awards of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter

116^th Elder Watson Diggs Awardee (2021)……………………………………………………Johnny S. Newman, II

National Kappa Scholar Award (1999)……………………………….………………………….Keshon “Shon” Kelly

National Kappa Scholar Award (1999)………………………………………………………………….Jerry A. Heath, Jr.

William L. Crump History Awardee (2001)………………………………………………………Keshon “Shon” Kelly

William L. Crump History Awardee (2003)…………………………….……………………………Keshon “Shon” Kelly

Paul W. Caine Small Alumni Chapter of the Year (2003)………………………….Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter

William L. Crump History Awardee (2005)………………………………..…………………………Jerry A. Heath, Jr.

William L. Crump History Awardee (2007)…………………………….…………….……………………Michael T. Silver

William L. Crump History Awardee (2011)…………………………………………………………Michael T. Silver

Jay Crosby National Small Alumni Chapter Guide Right Program of the Year (2015)….Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter

Kirby Wright Life Time Achievement Awardees Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter 2008- Present

2008……………………..…………………….…………………………..…… Kirby Wright

2013……………………………………………………..…..……… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2013………..……………………………………………..….….…. Johnny S. Newman, II

2018……………………………………………………..……………Edward Thomas

Kappa Man of the Year- Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter 2001- Present

2001……………………..……………………………………………..…… P. Edward Thomas

2002………………………………………………………………..……… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2003………..……………………………………………..….……………. Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2004…………………………………………………………………..…………….. Kirby Wright

2005…………………………….……………………………………..…… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2006……………………………………..…………………..……..… …… P. Edward Thomas

2007…………………………………………………….………..………… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2008..………………………………………………………………….…… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2009…………………………………….…….…….Keshon “Shon” Kelly& P. Edward Thomas

2010..………….……………………..………………………………..…… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2011………………………………………………………….……….……… P. Edward Thomas

2012..………………………………………………………………….…… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2013..……………………………………………………………………….…… James Jennings

2014..………………………………………………………………….…… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2015..………………………………………………………………….…… Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2016..…………………………………………………….…………………. Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2017…..………………………………………………….…………………. Keshon “Shon” Kelly

2018…………………..…………..……………………………………..…… Edward Thomas

2019…………………………..…………Keshon “Shon” Kelly & Dr. DeAndre T. Howard

2020………………………..……………………….……………….……………Marvin L. Martin, Jr.

2021……………………………..…………..……………………………….Dr. DeAndre T. Howard

New Member of the Year- Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter 2001- Present

2001……………………..……………………………………………….…… Christopher T. Hill

2002…………………………………………………………………………..……… Jameel May

2003………..………………………………………………..….……………. Jamon T. Williams

2004………………………………………..……………………..…………….. Trevor Edwards

2006………………………………………………………………..……..… …… Linwood Little

2008..………………………………………… …………………….…… Johnny S. Newman, II

2009…………………………………….………………………………….……. James Jennings

2010..………….……………………..………………………….…………..…… D’Javon Alston

2011……………………………………………..……………….……….……… Frank Lucienne

2012..……………………………………………………………………..…….…… Dennis Mills

2013..…………………………………………… …….…… Phillip Hayes & DeAndre Howard

2014..…………………………………………………………….……………….…… Larry Ford

2015..…………………………………………………………………….…… William T. Flippen

2016..…………………………………………………….……………. …George J. Durham, Jr.

2017.…………………………………………………..………………..…………Shakeel Harris

2018……………………………………………..….………Isaac Clement & Lee Roy Johnson

2019………………………………….……………………………………………Johnnie D. Moultrie

2020…………..…………………………….…………………………………. Patrick Corey Pickard

2021……………………………………………………………………………………………Christian Walker

History of the Danville (VA) Alumni Chapter