by Sonya Hollins, publisher
editor@comvoicesonline.com
*Today is the last day to sign up for the Alpha Ball. Visit: http://www.mywmu.com/apa50 to register! Sign up here for free tickets to the play. Dennis Archer Luncheon has reached its capacity!
KALAMAZOO (MICH.)– In 1959 a group of young men made a bond to form an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Chapter at Western Michigan University. It took the men three years, however they did it. Today, some of the original founders have become millionaires, highly accredited educators, politicians, and more.
“The bond we formed while in college during the 1960s helped us become who we are today,” said Doug Smith, one of the founders of the fraternity’s Epsilon Xi chapter.
The men will be honored during Homecoming weekend through a play, speaker’s series, luncheon, and banquet. The Onyx Society will participate in the anniversary events as well. The alumni association will sponsor an Afterglow Friday night after Washington’s play, as well as a dance Saturday night after the Alpha Ball in the Bernhard Center.
Here is a list of the entire Homecoming Weekend events which honor the Alphas:
Thursday, Oct. 4- Alpha Speakers Series
Members of Alpha Phi Alpha will be guest speakers at various colleges on campus.
5-7:30 p.m.- Billionaire Panel- Haworth College of Business
African American millionaires will speak during a panel discussion led by Alpha William Pickard, a multimillionaire and owner of six McDonald’s restaurants.
Friday, Oct. 5- Lunch with Dennis Archer
Noon- Bernhard Center – FILLED TO CAPACITY
6-7 p.m.- Onyx Society Reception- Gilmore Theatre Complex
7-9 p.m. “The Gathering,” the play written and directed by Von Washington Sr.
Saturday, Oct. 6
6:30 p.m.- Alpha Phi Alpha 50th Anniversary Ball with Onyx dance to follow- Bernhard Center
