Penn State Kappas recognize community leadership
Gilbert Brown used the example of a man throwing starfish back into the ocean one by one to exemplify the difference kindness makes to one person.
Brown was the keynote speaker at Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc.’s, annual Kappa Koronation on Saturday night. The event took place at the Atherton Hotel, with more than 80 students and alumni attending.
Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc., President Jonathan Jenkins (senior-finance) said the night recognized positive work by members and community members and celebrated the work Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc., has done throughout the semester.
“It’s a time for Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc., members to acknowledge our work to the community and the leaders of the community as well,” Jenkins said.
Brown, Class of 1969, gave a speech on the importance of community service and activism and his own experiences as a young man. He encouraged members to help reduce statistics and help more young black men graduate college.
He commended them for their work with programs like Kappa Kamp and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and encouraged “answering the call” to make a difference and give back.
Maurice Saunders, president of the Delta Theta chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Alumni Association, said fraternity members are dedicated to the community and continue to come back and mentor new members.
“To me, it’s more reflection in looking at things in the past and in progress,” Saunders said of the night.
Among awards like Mr. Phi, Mr. Nu and Mr. Pi, which were presented to Richard Ashby, Ahmed Ngobeh and Canute Forbes, respectively, new awards highlighted members of the community.
The recipient of the Outstanding Student Leader award was University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA) presidential candidate Christian Ragland.
Another surprised winner was Parris Sandlin, Class of 2000, who received the Richard Mahoney Award for his continued service to the fraternity.
“I didn’t expect it,” he said. “African-American men need a lot of guidance from others who have made it through — I try to give back.”
New members were introduced at the event also. New member Melvin Davis (freshman-telecommunications) said in addition to having a good time, he liked the chance to network with alumni.
“It’s a good experience to see all the old brothers come back,” he said. “They give inspiration.”
