Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has given us some of the most notable men of our time. Many have left an undeniable mark in various fields and the world, from politics to education. And you may not realize it, they’re some of our favorite celebrities, too. So, today, we are spotlighting famous Alpha Phi Alpha members you should know.
The History of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University, Alpha Phi Alpha is the first Black fraternity created to support Black students facing racial challenges in a predominantly white academic setting. The founders—Henry Arthur Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel Allison Murray, and Robert Harold Ogle—aimed to build a support network and promote academic excellence. Since its inception, Alpha Phi Alpha has expanded into a national organization with chapters across the US and beyond, with 686 active chapters, according to the official website. The fraternity continues its mission to uplift and empower Black communities.
Famous Alpha Phi Alpha Members You Should Know
Omari Hardwick
The main character of the hit series “Power,” Omari Hardwick, is a member of the esteemed fraternity. Hardwick is a 1996 initiate of the Zeta Pi chapter at the University of Georgia, according to Watch The Yard.
Roland Martin
Roland Martin is a well-known journalist and commentator who has made significant contributions to media and journalism, particularly on issues affecting the Black community. He initiated into the Pi Omicron Chapter at Texas A&M University in 1989. Martin showed that he still got the moves in an Instagram video, where he is seen strolling.
Keenan Ivory Wayans
We love and know Keenan Ivory Wayans for kickstarting the careers of multiple actors and actresses. The creator of “In Living Color” and the “Scary Movies” franchise pledged Alpha Phi Alpha at Tuskegee University in the late ’70s.
Reverend Raphael Warnock
Raphael Warnock is a reverend and the US Senator from Georgia. He pledged in 1993 at Morehouse College. Warnock was sworn into the United States Senate in the 117th Congress by notable AKA and the current Madam Vice President Kamala Harris.
Darryl M. Bell
Darryl M. Bell is a beloved actor known for his roles in the hit series “A Different World” and the film “School Daze.” In the spring of 1982, Bell became an initiate of the Delta Zeta chapter at Syracuse University.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The iconic civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., pledged Alpha Phi Alpha at Boston University while pursuing his Doctorate. He joined the Sigma chapter in 1952. His leadership in the fight for racial equality remains a cornerstone of Alpha Phi Alpha’s legacy.
Lionel Richie
Lionel Richie is a legendary singer and songwriter. In 1996, the Grammy Award winner crossed the Alpha Nu Lambda Alumni Chapter at Tuskegee University. Richie is also a member of Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Will Packer
Successful film producer and director behind hits like “Girls Trip” and “Night School,” Will Packer pledged the Beta Nu chapter at Florida A&M University. He joined the fraternity in 1996. Packer recently celebrated his youngest daughter for crossing the burning sands.
General Charles Q. Brown Jr.
General Charles Q. Brown Jr. is the first African American military service chief and the second Black officer to serve as the Joint Chief of Staff. He pledged Alpha Phi Alpha during his time at Texas Tech University.
Christian Keyes
Christian Keyes is a model and actor known for his roles in Tyler Perry’s “Saints & Sinners” and “The Last Family.” While attending Ferris State University, he joined the Zeta Beta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He often shows his love for his fraternity on his Facebook and Instagram pages.
These men exemplify the excellence and impact of Alpha Phi Alpha members across various fields. Their achievements highlight the fraternity’s rich history and inspire future generations to continue striving for greatness. Alpha Phi Alpha remains a beacon of leadership and scholarship, and its members continue to make significant contributions to society.
Main Image Credit: Getty Images/Derek White
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