Achievement Through the Pandemic (Wtr/Spr 2021)

Achievement Through the Pandemic (Wtr/Spr 2021)

The Kappa Alpha Psi ®

®

An Ocial Publication of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

A Brother For Such a Time as This: Chief Robert J. Contee III Protecting Metro Washington, D.C.

KappaAlphaPsi1911.com

WINTER 2020 - SPRING 2021

VOLUME CVI, ISSUE 4

brighter futures 36

Financial education is about more than learning financial terminology. It’s about setting yourself up for a better future. Regions is honored to be a part of this great community and to provide you with the skills that can help you reach your financial goals. We are committed to giving you knowledgeable advice and guidance so you can keep life moving forward. Regions is proud to provide financial education to the Kappa Leadership Development League, a program of Kappa Alpha Psi ® Fraternity, Inc.

1.800.regions | regions.com

© 2017 Regions Bank. Regions, the Regions logo and the LifeGreen bike are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.

VOLUME CVI, ISSUE 4

WINTER 2020 - SPRING 2021

18

12

6

Journal Notes

8

Grand Polemarch's Message

24 Undergraduate News

29 The Kappa Foundation

61 Article of Faith

62 To the Chapter Invisible

82

78 The Kappa Alpha Psi®

Directory

46

27

TABLE OF CONTENTS

24 32

VOLUME CVI, ISSUE 4

WINTER 2020 - SPRING 2021

The Kappa Alpha Psi ® Journal Established 1914 First Editor Frank M. Summers, Esq. Past Permanent Editors Lionel F. Artis 1921–1937 G. James Fleming 1938–1950 William L. Crump 1950–1975 Earl S. Clanton 1975–1985 Jonathan P. Hicks 1985–1989 Van Jordan 1989–1990 Mel L. Davis 1990–1999 Keflyn X. Reed 1999–2010 Jonathan P. Hicks 2011–2014 Thomas L. Cunningham IV 2014–2015 Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. 2016— Editor Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq. Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter [email protected]

28

30

Copy Manager Aaron Williams Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter [email protected] Features Editor Clarence Tucker Norfolk (VA) Alumni Chapter [email protected]

Feature Writers Nicolas Cole Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III Quentin Mitchell Earl T. Tildon Dr. Samuel Odom Aaron Williams

National Photographer Michael L. Hume

54 33

Published quarterly by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., 2322-24 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19132-4590. Periodic postage paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: $10 per year. USPS 291-300. No responsibility may be assumed by the Journal for receipt or return of material, news stories, photographs or creative pieces. Postmaster: Send address changes to: 2322-24 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590. International Headquarters 2322-24 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19132-4590 Phone: (215) 228-7184 www.KappaAlphaPsi1911.com Belleville-O'Fallon (IL) Alumni Chapter [email protected] Photographers Kevin Sellers Justin Tyson Gregory L. Williams Grand Historian Kevin P. Scott Chicago (IL) Alumni Chapter [email protected] Advertising Sales Director Clifford D. Franklin St. Louis (MO) Alumni Chapter [email protected] Cell: (314) 406-3472

37

4 | WINTER 2020 - SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

JOURNAL NOTES

Reflections on the “Whole Armor” of Achievement

will represent me in court (a lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a cli- ent!); how quickly can I reach the sheriff or the mayor of my city to let them know about this stupidity and so forth. Or, is this the day that some confederate-flag- clad-car next to me is going to create a situation that will have someone dialing 911...and I could go on. But then I am quickly reminded that before I left my house, my family prayed together and we asked the Lord to shine our armor, to help us remember to be "strong in the Lord and the power of his might," to go forth with truth, righteous- ness, peace and faith with the under- standing that we are under salvation. This is the whole armor of God. And, through his Spirit we must continue to pray with perseverance and supplication for our fellow man. "For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak." As I apply this armor to Kappa Alpha Psi, we are blessed to train others for leadership even as we continue to achieve ourselves. And so, I see The Journal as reflecting the armor of achievement through its stories to equip our mentees with the understanding that there are many paths to get to their chosen professions...but they will have to work for it, mightily. Think of Brother Contee's road to becoming the Chief of Police in Wash- ington, DC, right at the time of the Capitol riots. See page 12. Think of the brothers who are surgeons who are in "White Coats for Black Lives." See page 18. Think of the Grand Polemarch who was the head of litigation for the largest agribusiness conglomerate in the world, leading us now, making great use of social media, including to "get the shot." See page 8. I think of my mentor John W. Ruffin, Jr., and the advice he gave me "that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." See page 67. And my "Uncle Alcee," who was

the epitome of having done all, to stand who has now gone from labor to reward. When I was Polemarch of the Fort Lau- derdale (FL) Alumni Chapter, he served as the keynote speaker for our Charter Day observance in 2002, and admon- ished us to "open our mouths boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel." See page 11. Civil rights is the part of the gospel of this country. Uncle Alcee was nothing if not a champion of civil rights. In our conversations, he shared his passion with me for international law and inter- national norms, because they elevated one's understanding beyond the whims of the White House and embraced universal truths. I never forgot that in my travels and international association appointments. A central pillar of international law is that all people have rights that must be respected. When I survey the stories of achievement and the armor we must continue to burnish as (mostly) Black and Brown men, the light of truth must be reflected off of everything we do. We will honor the 59 th Laurel Wreath Laureate with a Chapter Invisible article in the next issue. Our very existence is called into ques- tion in 2021. It will continue to be called into question if we are not stead- fast in remaining united as college men of culture, patriotism and honor in a Bond of fraternity. We must continue to shine the light of truth, demand justice and we shall continue to chronicle these achievements in every field of human endeavor, with the hope that our future generations will take up the mantle, and that we may all one day say, as Paul did in 2 Timothy, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course. I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." Amen.

Cleveland Ferguson III, Esq., Editor O ne of the great pillars of Kappa Alpha Psi's con- tinued success is that it was founded on Christian principles. For it is in these times where one's principles are tested. I, for one, through His blood, want to hear those words "Well done, my good and faithful servant!" One of the ways in which we articulate our service based on our prin- ciples is through The Journal . Inspired to write and publish my entire life, there are few experiences as powerful as exhorting others to uplift the human condition and move the hearts, minds and souls of others to serve. That brings me to the Apostle Paul. Chosen to write more books (12) of the New Testament than any other (I know that Luke wrote more than 5,500 words than Paul in the two books he authored), the fervor and passion for Jesus Christ in his letters along with the plain applicability to today's circum- stances particularly grip me every time I study them. One such example in his writings is Ephesians 6: 10-20. When I consider that every day I pass a speed trap on the way to taking my son to school, I have to visualize whether this is the day that I am going to be stopped for some arbitrary reason, which fraternity brother will I call who

6 | WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

Social Media in a Culture of Service

I have dabbled in social media for many years but, until recently, never fully realized its utility when you want to stay connected with friends, family and constituent groups. I was reared in the fraternity at a time when you learned what brothers were doing across the Bond through the Kap- pa Journal or an occasional press release when someone thought the activity was newsworthy. Today, we get information in real time, instantaneously and contemporaneously to the event. I am happy for social me- dia technology in this brave new world because I learn what brothers are doing, at the time they are doing it, or a few minutes thereafter. I immediately see what I have sensed since my initiation. Ours is a Bond born in brotherhood, achievement and steeped in a culture of service to the Fraternity and the com- munities in which we live. We can trace our culture of service to the beginning of the Fraternity. You only have to thumb through the pages of the Fifth Edition of The Story of Kappa Alpha Psi to chronicle the spirit of service our members have demonstrated since our inception.

For instance, our members offered their services in World War I and World War II. Just four days after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, Grand Polemarch James E. Scott sent a message to President Franklin D, Roosevelt to inform him of the large number of brothers that served and died in World War I and reaffirmed the Fraternity’s commitment to the “vigorous and successful prosecution of the war.” That willingness to serve continues with relentless vigor, now more than ever. Today we have brothers serving in many capacities in the military, education, law enforcement, clergy, government, politics, show business, social service agencies and in their private roles as concerned citizens in their communi- ties. I know the great things brothers are doing today because Immediate Past Junior Grand Vice Polemarch, Brother Christopher Cross, indoctrinated me in the nuances of Facebook ® , Instagram ® , Twitter ® and some other applications I have yet to conquer and can’t remem- ber their names. But, I will master them, too, in time. Suffice it to say I am no longer the technological Luddite

Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq. Grand Polemarch

8 | WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

GRAND POLEMARCH’S MESSAGE

I was a year and a half ago in my hotel during the 84 th Grand Chapter Meeting when Brother Cross verbally slapped me into social media submission. We all hear about the activities reported by national news outlets and our broth- ers have made the cut in those news- casts many times. But social media allow us to see the breadth and depth of our service and the tremendous impact we are having in our society. As a result, I know all the wonderful things our brothers are doing across the country. I, immediately, know the accomplish- ments of our brothers in Congress. I learn, almost in real time, about every award and prestigious appointment of brothers like Delaware State President, Tony Allen, when he was tapped as one of leaders of President Joe Biden’s inaugural committee. I know when our brothers like Trey Baker are lead- ing major initiatives in the Biden/Har- ris administration. I know when our brothers are fighting all over the country for justice and equality, serving seniors, feeding the unhoused and ensuring our voices are heard through political and social activism. Of course, I am aware when Brother Cliff Franklin obtains ten

million (10,000,000) COVID-19 protec- tive face masks to distribute to Urban League affiliates across the nation. I would be remiss if I didn’t especially recognize the value of social media when it informed the world of the ap- pointment of an impressive man like Brother Robert Contee III, who fea- tured in this Journal edition, as Police Chief of the District of Columbia. Social media was an extremely use- ful tool the past year as we navigated through the COVID-19 pandemic and turbulent political times. In our societal service, Brothers used the media to promote various causes, educate our constituent groups about critical issues and ensure our communities participat- ed on the electoral battlefield. Brothers, individually, were instrumental in sup- porting and helping like-minded people achieve positions that will allow them to forward ideas and legislation that will give Black and Brown people the best opportunities to achieve and maximize their God-given potential in this life. We must now use these same tools as guardians to hold accountable those who greatly benefitted from our help

and help in every way we can to achieve our desired outcomes.

I cannot say our culture of service is any stronger today than in past years. We have certainly done some outstand- ing things and shown an undeniable commitment to community and country since 1911. Evidence of our service is simply more evident today and, for that, we have to give a lot of credit to social media. For my part, I will just say thank you Brother Cross.

Yours in the Bond, Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq. Grand Polemarch

We can trace our culture of service to the beginning of the Fraternity. You only have to thumb through the pages of the Fifth Edition of The Story of Kappa Alpha Psi to chronicle the spirit of service our members have demonstrated since our inception.” “

Grand Polemarch Shelton, using social media to encourage the brothers and their families to "get the shot."

THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 | 9

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

COMMENTARY

"I AM HONORED TO STAND ON THE SHOULDERS OF OUR PAST, GREAT FRATERNITY LEADERS WHO PAVED THE WAY FOR THE MEMBERS OF TODAY. THOSE LEGENDARY MEN CREATED UNIMAGINABLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE GENERATIONS OF BROTHERS THEY WOULD NEVER KNOW. IT IS NOW OUR MISSION AND OBLIGATION TO CARRY ON THEIR VALUABLE LEGACY TO ENSURE THE FUTURE VIABILITY OF OUR NOBLE CLAN AND THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE." —REUBEN A. SHELTON III, ESQ., GRAND POLEMARCH Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Still in the Civil Rights Struggle

By Earl T. Tildon, Chairman, Publicity & Publications Commission

escape a feeling of disappointment at the meager objectives our organization has thus far achieved. Perhaps, it is dif- ficult for me to see clearly and judge ac- curately. At any rate, I venture to hope the next 25 years will provide us with a clearer understanding of the purposes of Greek letter organizations, and a fuller realization of these purposes.” When I reflect on the words of our beloved Founder Elder Watson Diggs, and as I proudly and reverently wear the coveted medallion bearing his image, I ponder the thought; what have we done to make some things better for Kappa and the world during those 86 years since the brother we call “The Dreamer” shared his candid thoughts. My Kappa journey began 20 years later in 1955 and now I often pause to look through my rear-view Kappa mirror and wonder what Brother Diggs would say today. I decided that I should be as candid as Past Grand Polemarch Diggs was. I pen these thoughts knowing that the greatest barrier to the primary purpose of our fraternity has been and remains civil rights. Just as our Found- ers attended Indiana University at Bloomington, IN when racial animus was prevalent, the persistent racism continues today. Here we stand 110 years since our founding, hoping that Brother Diggs is looking down from Chapter Invisible saying; “I’m still a little disappointed, because I know that most of you have fervently embraced the tenets of Phi Nu Pi, but you have not labored in the Kappa vineyard as hard as you should have. You have not countermanded the pervasive, systemic racism that still im-

pedes the progress of our fraternity and our people. Yet, I have watched from my celestial perch as you have pursued your various fields of human endeavor, and I believe that your work will inevitably change the world.” Today, Grand Polemarch, Reuben A. Shelton III, Esq. has inherited the awe- some task of managing our Noble Klan using our history as his primary guide. He has the benefit of knowing what his predecessors did when faced with the obstacles in during their watch. He can help Brother Diggs understand that we are doing our best to replicate the vision and dreams of our founders. We are traveling on an upward course.

ELDER WATSON DIGGS Founder

OUR LATEST CRISES

W e remember the un- warranted abuse our founders endured, simply to pursue a higher education. We remember that relief from social injustice was nowhere to be found for these ten noble men. We remember their struggles and how their dreams were often nightmares, and how their hopes were often tarnished dur- ing their quest for equal access to justice. In spite of it all, these brothers rev- erently knelt at the Delphic Shrine and learned the true meaning of Phi Nu Pi and vowed to achieve in every field of human endeavor. When Kappa Alpha Psi Frater- nity, Inc. celebrated its 25 th anniver- sary in 1935, Founder Elder Watson Diggs said; “Although proud of hav- ing made some progress, I cannot

COVID-19 Affects Operations

Today, members of our fraternity have lived through a circumstance un- like any other in our history. The world has been affected by a highly contagious virus that has caused Kappa to conduct most of its business virtually. The dis- ease, COVID-19, has caused members to learn and use communications tech- niques that were not historically used in the conduct of Kappa business.

Thanks for the Vaccines

Because of the careful vigilance by Kappa’s leadership, chapters are mov- ing forth with their day-to-day opera- tions. Rank and file members are getting involved in making Kappa function in its quest for new normalcy. Brothers have obtained vaccinations in increasing numbers and following the COVID-19 protocols.

10 | WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

COMMENTARY

LET’S TALK ABOUT CIVIL RIGHTS AND VOTER SUPPRESSION In the midst of the COVID-19 pan- demic, vestiges of racism have raised its ugly head and placed on Kappa’s “to do” list the ugly subject of voter suppres- sion. Citizens of color are once again challenged to revisit what our gallant forebears bled and died for called, “civil rights.” Civil rights are certain inalien- able rights a U.S. citizen is born with that protect them from discrimination based on their age, sex, race, or religion. As we look at civil rights today, we see other disenfranchised groups that have joined the civil rights struggle. All desir- ing to receive equal treatment and the equal pursuit of freedom and expres- sion, including education, employment, housing, public display, and much more. Civil rights are not only a fight for our African American community, but a fight for every race, creed and religion who feels discriminated against.

Let’s Crush Voter Suppression

In times like this we need to remem- ber who the Kappa voices have been in the civil rights movement over the years. We can’t call out all the brothers who fought the good fight for justice, but we can research the record and find that Brothers Robert Sengstacke Abbott founded the Chicago Daily Defender , denouncing racial injustice in America; Thomas Gillis Nutter, Esq., involved in the segregation case in Louisville, KY and the covenant cases in the District of Columbia; George E. C. Hayes, Esq., an exemplary civil rights attorney; Donald Lee Hollowell, Esq. a civil rights attorney; and General Daniel “Chap- pie” James, Jr., first Black officer in the military to attain the rank of four-star General. In many states there are laws or actions in place that tip the executive scales in favor of Republicans in the upcoming election. These restricted measures will inevitably make it hard for minorities, the elderly, and young people to vote. Never before have these voter sup- pression efforts been so blatant, wide- spread, and systematic. Politicians are attacking one of the most fundamental rights of our democracy: the right to vote. We cannot sit idly by and allow our voices to be silenced. In the rearview mirror we see numer- ous brothers who have paved the way for members of Kappa Alpha Psi ® to identify uneven playing fields and learn the nuances of achievement in spite of the obstacles. As a result, Founder Diggs now knows that his vision of achieve- ment in every field of human endeavor has resulted in brothers throughout the fraternity placing great emphases on justice and fair treatment of all human beings, no matter their nationality, eth- nicity, creed, gender or sexual prefer- ence. Brother Diggs and other brothers in Chapter Invisible have witnessed the geopolitical changes that have modified human behavior during the 110 years since the founding of the fraternity.

In recent years we have seen increas- ing numbers of our constituents join the national political process. Those who have been fortunate to win races locally, and at the state and federal levels, are now fighting against significant odds to preserve the sanctity of our political process. We have had a successful transi- tion from a U.S. President who did not embrace the moral compass that guides our fraternity. Not only did he attempt to countermand the progress of the civil rights movement, but he was able to gain increased numbers of allies who joined the movement to suppress the right to vote, primarily of Black and Brown people. Let’s look carefully at the State of Georgia and its recent enac- tion of laws making it more difficult for citizens to vote . It is clear that there are those in high political offices who are fearful that fair and equitable voting processes are threats to their success in our elections. It is clear that there are those in public leadership positions who are actively using every means necessary to disenfranchise the most vulnerable citizens from easy access to the ballot box. Each of us can make a difference in the fight against voter suppression if we just look at the contributions of our brothers who understood our duties in Phi Nu Pi and labored in the civil rights vineyard. Reach back, my brothers and reflect on the words we learned early in our Kappa lives, when we memorized with great zeal, the poem written by William Ernest Henley, called “Invictus.” Let us live these words today and do what it takes to reverse the Voter Suppression Dilemma. “It matters not how strait the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll. I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.”

Voter Rights Champion Joins Chapter Invisible

ALCEE LAMAR HASTINGS U.S. Congressman, (D-FL) 59 th Laurel Wreath Laureate

U.S. Rep. Alcee L. Hastings, a civil rights pioneer and federal judge who served in Congress since 1993, died Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at age 84.

THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 | 11

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

COVER STORY

A Brother For Such a Time as This: Robert J. Contee III, Protecting Washington, D.C.

Robert J. Contee III (Fort Washington (MD) 2018).

By Dr. Samuel Odom

O n December 22, 2020, Wash- ington, D. C., Mayor Muriel E. Bowser announced her selection of Robert J. Contee III, (Fort Washington (MD) 2018) to serve as Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. He was sworn in on January 2, 2021. Acting Chief Contee joined the Metro- politan Police Department as a police cadet in November 1989. He became a sworn member of the Department three years later and quickly rose through the ranks, serving in a variety of assignments. He started as a patrol officer in the Third District, sergeant in the Second District, and the Metropolitan Police Academy.

As a lieutenant, he served as a Patrol Services Area leader in the Second Dis- trict, Regional Operations Command- East, and led the Intelligence Branch. In January 2004, Acting Chief Contee was promoted to captain responsible for leading the Violent Crimes Branch, including the Homicide Branch and the Sexual Assault Unit. Contee was promoted to Second District commander in August 2004 and was transferred to the Special Operations Division (SOD) in April 2006, where he was responsible for overseeing tactical patrol, special events

and traffic safety functions. Following his post at SOD, Acting Chief Contee became commander of the Sixth District in 2007, before taking command of the Recruiting Division in October 2014. He was named commander of the First District in January 2016 and was appointed Assistant Chief of MPD’s Professional Development Bureau in the summer 2016 where he oversaw the Human Resources Management Division, Disciplinary Review Divi- sion, the Metropolitan Police Academy, and Recruiting Division. In April 2017, Acting Chief Contee was named Patrol Chief of Patrol Services South (PSS),

12 | WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

COVER STORY

which included his oversight of the First, Sixth, and Seventh Police Dis- tricts. He was named Assistant Chief of the Investigative Services Bureau (ISB), in March 2018. The ISB works with the community to solve crimes, bring offenders to justice, support the recovery of victims, and protect wit- nesses. It includes several divisions that are integral to supporting community safety. These divisions are the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), which includes the Homicide Branch and Sex Assault Unit; the Narcotics and Special Investigations Division (NSID), which provides proactive criminal enforce- ment services so that citizens can live in neighborhoods free from drug dealing, drug-related crime, and prostitution; the Crime Scene Investigations Division; Youth and Family Services Division; and the School Safety Division. Brother Contee grew up in the Carver Terrace community in Northeast, DC, and is a DC Public School gradu- ate. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Pro- fessional Studies with a concentration in Police Science from George Washington

University. He has also completed the Management College at the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration and the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP) of the Police Executive Research Forum in Boston, Massachu- setts. “I met Brother Contee over 20 years ago when we sang on a men’s choir together. His dedication to the Lord was immediately clear but he also dem- onstrated sincere concern for people and the community. He embodies confidence, trust, and reliability. I have no doubt he is the right man for the challenges ahead.” Reverend Jonathan V. Newton, Esq. (Kappa Chi 1986) and current member of Washington (DC) Alumni Chapter. In discussing his role as police chief and how Kappa Alpha Psi influenced his leadership Contee recounted, “My role and responsibility as Chief of Police is to ensure the safety and security of the nation’s capital, which includes millions of visitors and over 712,000 residents. Kappa Alpha Psi has influenced my

leadership as Police Chief in a way that enables me to incorporate a spirit of ex- cellence and achievement into the DNA of the department.”

Mentoring is an important aspect of Brother Contee's approach.

“Mentoring is extremely important to me as a police chief and member of Kappa Alpha Psi. There are so many young men in our communities that need guidance, love, and structure to help them navigate the challenges of be- ing a young African American male. My position affords me the opportunity to be the example for many young men in Washington, D.C…I was mentored by a Kappa Man (Brother Robert F. Burrell) very early on in life. He was my 6th grade teacher and coach. At the time, I did not know he was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi, but I was not surprised when I learned later that he was a Kappa. Mr. Burrell was tough and demanded the best you had to give. He also modeled excellence and achievement.”

As it relates to the importance of

THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 | 13

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

COVER STORY

giving back, Brother Contee believes, “Giving back to your community is one of the greatest gifts one can give. I am fortunate to work in a city and in a de- partment where there’s always opportu- nities to serve our community. The need is so great in some areas of the city, but there are few people/groups who are ac- tually willing to do the consistent work that needs to be done to effect change. As a police chief and member of Kappa Alpha Psi, I am able to use my platform to ensure service is an important part of what we do as law enforcement of- ficers to build relationships in some of the most underserved communities in Washington, D.C.” In discussing his most important role as chief in the context of service to others, Contee expressed, “My most important role as a police chief is to build relationships with communities so that there will be strong partnerships in community. An important part of build- ing relationships is being in service to others. So, in a way, many of my duties with respect to service as a law enforce- ment officer are aligned with the Kappa spirit of service.” Other brothers expressed delight in Contee's elevation. “Brother Robert J. Contee III exemplifies the true meaning of our sacred oath," stated Charles A. Gilbert, (Alpha Xi 1980). "His humil- ity, integrity, and transparency, affords him the ability to successfully maneuver within diverse situations without fan- fare. Brother Contee’s leadership skills resulted in decades of achievement, resulting in a positive impact on our community. Brother Contee, I salute you and I appreciate you!”

ships based on the tenets of com- munication, cooperation, collabora- tion and participation • Focus on the mental health and wellness of police officers. When officers are not well, there are adverse impacts in Black and Brown communities in the form of exces- sive use of force and other forms of harassment When asked to share some perspec- tive on the United States Capitol Riots regarding readiness/preparation, lead- ership and command, Chief Contee stated, “For Metropolitan Police De- partment of the District of Columbia, there are lot of collaborations in terms of preparation for any event that oc- curs in the city of Washington, D.C., it falls within the purview of several law enforcement agencies e.g., the U. S. Capitol Police, U. S. Park Police and the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia our department all working together to ensure the safety and security, particularly when Ameri- cans elect to express their First Amend- ment Right.” “For Metropolitan Police Depart- ment of the District of Columbia, Joint Session of Congress to certify the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election on January 6, 2021 was not a regular event, given the news and plans noted on social media surrounding the Joint Session of Congress. The posture that Metropoli- tan Police Department of the District of Columbia needed to take was a very aggressive posture including working with Army National Guard to respond to any given situation. My primary area of responsibility is the City of Washing- ton D.C. For example, as Chief, I must consider what resources to send to assist with this type of event because of juris- diction. Several decisions are considered and executed in very real-time such as establishing a curfew, type of munitions utilization which are all a requisite test of leadership, situational awareness, to include making decisions that will oth- erwise be reviewed from the perspective of the “Monday Morning Quarterback” by the media and the public. The U.S.

Capitol Riot provided true-life context of watching a game from television (vir- tual) versus playing in the game (‘on the ground’)…it is existentially and pro- foundly different when confronted with the live setting where the Vice President of the United States, members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate were at risk and in fatal danger for their lives…the United States Capitol was a ‘War Zone’.” On Tuesday, December 22, 2020, during a press briefing post Mayor Bowser’s announcement, Brother Contee stated “many of the challenges and traumas experienced by so many young people today were very real and present in my community, but also in my home, Contee said, noting that crime, poverty, and educational and health disparities were all present in his community. Chief Contee worked a series of jobs as a teenager and took part in Mayor Marion Barry’s Youth Leadership Institute, and eventually becoming a D.C. police cadet at 17 years old, which he called a ‘pivotal moment’… “It changed my entire life, he said Tuesday, noting that those experiences will help him lead the department…it was these and other opportunities that helped shape the man I am today.” Brother Contee will also be the city’s first Black police chief since Charles Ramsey in the early 2000s. In March, the D.C. Council’s public safety committee unanimously supported Brother Contee as the District’s new po- lice chief, saying his wrenching personal story of growing up amid drugs and crime makes him sensitive to overreaches by police. All five members of the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety voted to support Contee, sending his name to the full council to approve his four-year term. φν π

As to Chief Contee's vision:

"My vision is very simple and

straightforward: • Prevent violent crime in Washing- ton, D.C., through focused law enforcement efforts. People have a right to feel safe and secure in their homes and community • Build strong community partner-

Opposite page: Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser presents her nomination of Brother Contee as the Metro DC Chief of Police. His wife, Silhouette Asure Merritt, son and daughter are on hand with his command staff.

14 | WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

COVER STORY

“

For Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, Joint Session of Congress to certify the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election on January 6, 2021 was not a regular event, given the news and plans noted on social media surrounding the Joint Session of Congress. The posture that Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia needed to take was a very aggressive posture including working with Army National Guard to respond to any given situation.” —Robert J. Contee III

THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 | 15

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department Robert Contee speaks during a press briefing about the security incident at the U.S. Capitol on April 2, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images).

Below: U.S. Capitol On Lockdown Due To External Security Threat. At center, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department Robert Contee and Acting Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman lead a group of law enforcement officials to a press briefing about the security incident at the U.S. Capitol on April 2, 2021 in Washington, DC. Pittman announced that one police officer is dead after a man rammed his vehicle into a Capitol barricade. The suspect was fatally shot by police during the incident. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images).

Above: Razor wire is seen on fencing near the US Capitol Building on Capitol Hill March 3, 2021, in Washington, DC. - Police said March 3, 2021 they have bolstered security in Washington after intelligence uncovered a "possible plot to breach the Capitol" on March 4, a day that helds significance for conspiracy- believing supporter of former president Donald Trump. "We have obtained intelligence that shows a possible plot to breach the Capitol by an identified militia group on Thursday, March 4," the US Capitol Police said in a statement on Twitter, nearly two months after a deadly riot by Trump supporters shook the citadel of American democracy. (Photo by Eric BARADAT / AFP) (Photo by ERIC BARADAT/ AFP via Getty Images).

FEATURE STORY

18 | WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 ♦ THE JOURNAL

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

FEATURE STORY

Rare, Triple Threat Surgeons – Kappa Men – Filling a Void in the Black Community & COVID-19 Pandemic A ccording to medical research, it's rare to find Black aca- demic surgeons in the United States. However, there are surgeon," said Dr. Paris D. Butler, one of six members of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons identified within the Bond. "The road to becoming an academic surgeon is much longer than many of the other medical special- By Nicholas Cole

several members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., who have achieved this position. These Brothers, who are mem- bers of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons, can be found serving commu- nities across the nation. "It takes a lot of time, dedication, and training to become an academic

ties. It is undoubtedly the definition of Achievement. It requires four years of college, four years of medical school, 7+ years of residency/fellowship, and then you go into academic practice." The term "academic surgeon" generally refers to a medical school's

THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2020-SPRING 2021 | 19

Publishing achievement for more than 107 years

FEATURE STORY

department of surgery faculty members. Academic surgeons, a name that evolved in the 1960s, are typically seen as the "triple threat." They are surgeons that operate and care for patients, teach medical students and residents, and conduct research. Members of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons (SBAS) within Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. are: • Obinna Adibe, MD, MSc., FAAP (Delta Eta 1996, Consulting Associate Professor, Duke University) • Paris D. Butler, MD, MPH, FACS (Eta Sigma 2004, Assis- tant Professor of Surgery, Uni- versity of Pennsylvania) • Omar K. Danner, MD, FACS (Eta Chi 1987, Professor of Sur- gery, Morehouse University) • J. Keith Melancon, MD, FACS (Theta Nu 1987, Professor of Surgery, George Washington University) • Anthony C. Watkins, MD, FACS (Alpha Delta 1998,

these prior conversations about increas- ing racial diversity of the physician work- force have made a difference. Butler states, "But has any of the suggestions for enhancing diversity "truly" been taken seriously? Remarks such as 'at least there is more diversity than there was before' or 'things like diversity take time' or 'it’s a systemic problem, and you should focus your attention at the elementary school level to increase the pool of minority candidates,’ suggests otherwise. We are left to assume that those in power are either not convinced it’s a concern, satisfied with the status quo, or simply refuse to be committed to this cause.” Medical literature reveals that, unfor- tunately, things have not significantly improved for Black and Brown physi- cians and particularly Black and Brown surgeons, since integration (~1968). “There are fewer Black males in medical school now than there were in 1978,” Butler noted. In addition, Butler remarked that faculty representation of Black assistant, associate, and full professors within U.S. departments of surgery have either remained unchanged or decreased since 2005. There are fewer Black surgery de- partment chairs in 2020 than there were in 2008, and if the three historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are removed, there are only four Black surgery department chairs in the entire U.S. That is just 2.6 percent of the 154 departments of surgery recognized by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). When asked to reflect on how these statistics interface with the country (and the world) being in the midst of a pandemic, Butler responded that “COVID-19 has really highlighted the need for more African American doc- tors in general, but especially academic surgeons. We know that COVID-19 had disproportionately impacted our Black and brown communities. To enhance the provision of care and research en- deavors targeting these communities, an increase in Black and Brown physicians and surgeons is paramount.”

Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery, New York University)

In a recent article published in the American Journal of Surgery , Butler ex- plained that "Black and Brown surgeons who chose the life of academic surgery have historically been mindful and con- sciously respectful of the overwhelm- ingly Caucasian and male-dominant academic surgery system, and to those that have led it." However, black and brown surgeons have grown increasingly more vocal about the topic of enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Butler goes on to mention that "The argument for more black representation started as a social justice argument, transitioned to a >Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84

Made with FlippingBook HTML5