Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc

04/02/2026

The Black & Gold Initiative Foundation and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter has established this scholarship for African American male students who are graduating high school seniors. The purpose of this scholarship is to financially assist the student in their pursuit of a post-secondary education.

03/12/2026

As part of its Voteless People is a Hopeless people program, the Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. wants to encourage you to make your voices heard in every election, including the primary happening NOW and ending on March 17, 2026. The first thing to know is that the time to vote is NOW. You can vote early at a number of locations in town that are convenient for you. Check out the times and locations of early voting polling places in Champaign county here: https://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/many-ways-vote/early-voting-information. On election day, you should be able to vote at one of these polling centers: https://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/vote-centers. We also believe it is important that you know before you go, check out a sample ballot and information on the candidates here: https://ballotpedia.org/Champaign_County_Sample_Ballot_(Illinois). We should never sit out an election. Let’s make our voices heard.

02/27/2026

In celebration of Black History Month 2026, the Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated proudly honors the enduring legacy of distinguished Alpha men from across the great State of Illinois men whose excellence has shaped the arts, enriched culture, influenced politics, and strengthened the very fabric of our communities through scholarship, service, leadership, and an unwavering love for all mankind.

This week we honor Brother Brigadier General Charles Edward McGee (Tau, ’40), a trailblazing military leader and one of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. Born December 7, 1919, in Cleveland, Ohio, Brother McGee dedicated over 30 years to the United States Armed Forces, completing an extraordinary 409 combat missions across World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War

Initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Tau Chapter on December 1, 1940, while studying engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, his fraternity membership reflected his lifelong commitment to scholarship, service, and leadership.

From flying his first mission in Italy in 1944 to later commanding the 51st Fighter-Interceptor Squadron during the Korean War, Brother McGee consistently broke barriers during an era of segregation and discrimination.

Rising to the rank of Colonel before retiring in 1973, he continued to inspire future generations as a public speaker, STEM advocate, and champion for diversity in aviation.

02/21/2026

This week we honor Brother Professor David Blackwell (Tau, ’37–’38) (1919–2010), a pioneering scholar and teacher in mathematics, statistics, and game theory. Internationally renowned, he co-names the Blackwell–Rao theorem and originated foundational concepts including the Blackwell channel, Blackwell contraction mapping theorem, and Blackwell order—principles that became essential to modern computer science and the rise of artificial intelligence. He also authored one of the earliest Bayesian textbooks, Basic Statistics (1969), widely used in undergraduate courses across the English-speaking world for decades.

Brother Blackwell was the first African American inducted into the National Academy of Sciences, the seventh African American to earn a PhD in mathematics in the United States, and the first to receive a mathematics doctorate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He was also the first African American tenured full professor at UC Berkeley, where he taught from 1954 to 1988, and he also served on the faculties of Southern University, Clark College (Atlanta), and Howard University.

A brilliant mind and Too Tuff Tau Brother, he was posthumously awarded the National Medal of Science in 2012 by President Barack Obama.

02/14/2026

In celebration of Black History Month 2026, the Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated proudly honors the enduring legacy of distinguished Alpha men from across the great State of Illinois men whose excellence has shaped the arts, enriched culture, influenced politics, and strengthened the very fabric of our communities through scholarship, service, leadership, and an unwavering love for all mankind.

Today, we celebrate our beloved Brother, Arthur Cooper “Coop” (HT ’71). Brother Coop was a gentleman of extraordinary character and quiet strength. He was a loyal friend, a patient mentor, a steady guide, and a trusted colleague. Most of all, he was a devoted Fraternity Brother whose love for the sacred bonds of Alpha Phi Alpha ran deep and true. His presence inspired confidence. His counsel brought clarity. His example set the standard.

Beyond the Fraternity, Brother Cooper was a true trailblazer. As a licensed independent insurance agent with State Farm, he stood among African-American pioneers in the insurance and indemnity sector. At a time when representation mattered deeply, he made his mark within one of the nation’s leading underwriters, helping families and businesses across Illinois secure protection and peace of mind. His professionalism and integrity opened doors and created pathways for others to follow.

Brother Coop showed up with encouragement, accountability, and genuine brotherly love. He did not merely speak of uplift; he embodied it. He did not simply wear the letters of Alpha; he lived their meaning daily. Through wisdom, patience, and principled leadership, he strengthened the brotherhood and elevated every space he entered.

02/11/2026

In recognition of Black History Month 2026, the Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated humbly pays due homage to the legacies of a few Alpha men drawn from the bevy in the State of Illinois who have defined and inspired the arts, culture, politics, and the way communal life is lived through their manly, deeds, scholarship and love for all mankind.

We are proud to begin our series this First Friday in February with esteemed Life Member, Brother Senator Roland Wallace Burris (Beta Eta, ’55). Brother Burris is the first African-American elected to statewide office in Illinois (1978, State Comptroller; in office, 1979-91). He is also the second African-American elected to serve as a state Attorney General in US history (following Brother Senator Edward Brooke of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) whenBrother Burris was elected to serve in that office from 1991-1995. A member of the Illinois and US Democratic Party, Burris is a resilient advocate of civil and human rights, consumer and worker protection, gun control laws, equal rights for women in the workforce, fair business practices, and mindful education reform.

Despite the controversy that often surrounded his political life, Burris remained a steadfast voice for progressive causes intending to impact the lives of the residents of the State of Illinois for the better. Brother Burris served as both the National Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Operation PUSH (1977), and as the Vice-Charman of the Democratic National Committee (1985). He is among the stalwarts of a long and esteemed tradition of African-Americanpoliticians in the state of Illinois to have committed the balance of their service to impacting the public good for all who call Illinois their home.

02/06/2026

If you’re interested in joining Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., we invite you to attend of Alpha Awareness Seminar to learn about our history, mission, and what it truly means to be an Alpha.

01/23/2026

The Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., asks you to partner with us as we develop leaders, promote academic excellence, and advocate for our community. We are hosting a popcorn fundraiser to support our efforts to positively impact youth through scholarships and mentorship. Simply by purchasing popcorn, you can help us continue to offer advocacy and leadership development for our Champaign youth.

Click here to buy our delicious popcorn and 50% of your purchase benefits this fundraiser.

12/13/2025

We are excited to welcome you to the 2025 Jewels Gala: Unmasking Greatness Through Legacy, Power, and Endless Possibilities!

Here’s what to expect for an unforgettable evening:
📍 Location: I Hotel "Heritage Halls" | 1900 S. 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820
📅 Date: 12/13/2025
🕕 Doors Open: 6:00 PM | Program Starts: 7:06 PM

Evening Highlights:
Cocktail Hour begins at 6:00 PM
Enjoy live music from "One Night Only"
The Cash Bar, SIlent Auction and Photo Booth will be open
Program Begins at 7:06 PM
Dinner Served at 7:25 PM
Masquerade Masks:
Masks are requested to embrace the theme but are not required—feel free to join us as you are!

Dress to impress, bring your best smile, snow boots, and get ready for an evening of elegance, inspiration, and celebration.

If you have any questions, please contact Sam Mosley, II at 773-772-6719

We can’t wait to celebrate greatness with you!

Warm regards,

2025 Jewels' Gala Planning Committee
Black and Gold Initiative Foundation & Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter

12/06/2025

TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY TO PURCHASE!

The link and details are below.

On Saturday, December 13th, 2025, we walk through those doors with legacy in our bones and greatness on our shoulders.

The 7th Annual Jewels’ Gala “Unmasking Greatness: Through Legacy, Power, and Endless Possibilities” isn’t just an evening of elegance. It’s a declaration of purpose.

A night to unmask power, honor legacy, and fuel the futures of young men through the Arthur B. Cooper Scholarship.

This year’s masquerade theme invites you to embody the excellence you come from and invest in the greatness rising behind you.

✨ We are honored to celebrate seven extraordinary leaders whose impact moves communities forward:

• Joan Walls — Excellence in Leadership

• Dr. Asia Fuller — Excellence in Education

• Dr. Mila Thomas Fuller — Excellence in Business

• Shandra Summerville — Phenomenal Woman Award

• Mayor Deshawn Williams — Community Game Changer

• Dr. Ollie Watts Davis — Trailblazer Award

• Dr. Bobby J. Smith II — Young, Gifted, and Melanated Award

Join us as we honor their brilliance and unmask the possibilities ahead.

🎟️ Tickets: https://bit.ly/7thAnnualJewelsGala

📍 I-Hotel Conference Center

🗓️ Saturday, Dec. 13 | 🕕 Doors Open at 6PM

11/27/2025

Welcome the Newest Members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Zeta Xi Lambda Chapter

Fall 2025: S.S. G.N.R

Ace I.L.LmAtic - Bro. M. Alvarez Dixon
Deuce S.M.O.O.T.H Criminal - Bro. Kameron Nelson
Tre Do or D.I.E - Bro. Kelly Walton
Anchor P.R.I.N.C.E. Phury - Bro. Justin Michael Hendrix

Chapter Dean of Membership Development: Bro. DeMarlon S. Brown (ZN ‘09)

11/20/2025

On Saturday, December 13th, 2025, we walk through those doors with legacy in our bones and greatness on our shoulders.

The 7th Annual Jewels’ Gala “Unmasking Greatness: Through Legacy, Power, and Endless Possibilities” isn’t just an evening of elegance. It’s a declaration of purpose.

A night to unmask power, honor legacy, and fuel the futures of young men through the Arthur B. Cooper Scholarship.

This year’s masquerade theme invites you to embody the excellence you come from and invest in the greatness rising behind you.

✨ We are honored to celebrate seven extraordinary leaders whose impact moves communities forward:

• Joan Walls — Excellence in Leadership

• Dr. Asia Fuller — Excellence in Education

• Dr. Mila Thomas Fuller — Excellence in Business

• Shandra Summerville — Phenomenal Woman Award

• Mayor Deshawn Williams — Community Game Changer

• Dr. Ollie Watts Davis — Trailblazer Award

• Dr. Bobby J. Smith II — Young, Gifted, and Melanated Award

Join us as we honor their brilliance and unmask the possibilities ahead.

🎟️ Tickets: https://bit.ly/7thAnnualJewelsGala

📍 I-Hotel Conference Center

🗓️ Saturday, Dec. 13 | 🕕 Doors Open at 6PM