Past National Executive Directors are fully invested in Brother Mark S. Tillman for 34th General President
Brother Willard C. Hall, Jr.
26th Executive Director of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Brothers of Alpha
I’m writing to you today to address concerns that I have about the current state of our Fraternal Affairs. I know that for months now you have been inundated with email, regular mail, social media and mainstream media comments about our Beloved Brotherhood. The messages have been divided and too often divisive.
For me, the position and role of General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. is truly the most noble, most demanding, and most trustworthy position we can elevate a brother to fulfill. The vote for our General President, to me is second only to a recommendation for entry into this Noble House.
You received your ballot to vote for one brother to become the 34th General President. I was proud to continue my investment in Alpha Phi Alpha by choosing Brother Mark S. Tillman to be our next General President. I support Brother Tillman and if you have not made your decision yet, then I ask you to join me, and give him your support also.
This broader message is for the still uncommitted, those of you that are still undecided; those of you that might “wonder’ if it is worth your time to vote. My Brother(s), I know that you love this Brotherhood as much as I do, or you would not even have a ballot. Brother(s) you must vote. You must be aware of the issues that concern us. Inside and outside this House, our leadership must reflect our core fraternal values. Our programs can and should be adaptable to society’s needs, yet, the bedrock of our Fraternal Essence must be immovable! Any step away from our core values is a backward step – and we cannot afford backward steps or voter apathy.
I have been trusted by you to assume and hold leadership roles at every level within our Brotherhood. Serving most recently as the 26th Executive Director. No title meant or means more to me than: “Brother”. We are Brothers because of our oath. My oath and yours was and is based on “trust”. We trust our Fraternity, we trust our Brothers, and we trust ourselves.
I trust Mark S. Tillman, to uphold the core values of our Dear “A Phi A”. I trust him to always stand firm. I trust him to always have his key, to always protect this House – via his thoughts, his words and his deeds. He has earned my investment by his steadfast demonstrations of consistent leadership and Fraternal Spirit.
My Brothers Beloved, if you are undecided, haven’t voted, Join me. Join the hundreds, the thousands who know without question or hesitation, that we need Brother Mark S. Tillman. Vote Now!
Always Fraternal,
Brother Willard C Hall Jr.
26th Executive Director (June 1, 2005 – February 5, 2009)
Brother Zollie Stevenson, Jr., Ph.D
24th Executive Director of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Dear Brothers
I received my ballot to vote for Alpha’s next General President as did many of you. For many weeks I have alternated between stewing about the current issues that have caused much anger and sadness within the Brotherhood to contemplating how we could turn this sour, lemony situation into lemonade. We have been blessed in each generation of Alpha with leaders who have sailed us safely to shore during challenging times and who have guided and led us to new achievements through a combination of their steadfastness, vision and integrity.
I have known both of our 34th General Presidential candidates for over a decade. I have worked with them during their service as members of the Board of Directors, as regional convention directors (coordinating national training logistics) and as committee members. Yes, I have even had a drink or two with each over the years. We need to rebuild our trust in our leadership…the belief that even as they love Alpha… that our leaders are not using our resources for personal gain or abusing their power to grant undue favors to a few.
With these thoughts and reflections in mind, I will be investing in the leadership of Brother Mark Tillman as our next General President when I cast my ballot tomorrow. Brother Tillman has demonstrated quality leadership through his work back in the 90’s with Alpha University, through his service working with the fraternity’s management information systems, and as a servant-leader of the Midwestern Region and on our national Board of Directors. He understands and believes that our fraternity should be guided by our mission statement and articulated in a strategic plan that will keep us on a path to implement our fraternal goals and objectives. I have never seen or heard of a time when Brother Tillman twisted one of Alpha’s constitutional provisions, by-laws or rules to benefit him differently than it would benefit another Brother. Further, he is a Brother’s Brother and is accessible. He does not need an entourage to deflect the Brothers away from himself at our meetings and conventions.
Brothers, I encourage you to invest in Alpha’s future by voting for Brother Mark Tillman…a man of integrity, steadfastness and vision… as our 34th General President.
Brother Zollie Stevenson, Jr., Ph.D.
24th Executive Director of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and past national chairman of Organizational Effectiveness, the Membership Intake Task Force, National Programs and Special Projects and Alpha University Co-Chair
Bros. Frederick Cox, Midwest AVP and Mario Carroll, Past Western AVP, are fully invested in Bro. Mark Tillman for 34th General President
Brother Frederick L. Cox, III
Midwestern Regional Assistant Vice President
Brothers of Alpha, 
As we face these challenging times we are in need of strong and strategic leadership. No more are days where we build our external image in order to validate our mission. No more rhetoric, it’s time for congruence. It is time for an honest inventory of Alpha.
Mark Tillman has always been invested. Throughout his leadership I learned the importance of strategic planning. Throughout his administration I witnessed development, mentorship, and the highly requested “transparency”. While most brothers are focused on the fraternity’s fiscal transparency, it was the moral transparency that encourage this college brother the most. Tillman has proven his financial responsibility, seeing that every regional convention during his administration was profitable, but the ability to raise funds came secondary the ability to be intentional in reaching the goals set by his administration. Tillman modeled that with strategic planning comes financial growth.
As a college brother I witnessed Tillman make stances on the elements of fraternity that impact college chapters every day. At my first regional convention Tillman brought Brother Walter Kimbrough, Black Greek Letter Organization Expert, into a business session to unpack the myth that hazing positively contributes to the fraternal commitment of brother who have participated in an underground process. Under Tillman’s administration I was sponsored by the region to attend Alpha’s National Leadership Academy learning the impact of my individual actions on the national fraternity and giving me the opportunity to experience a day in the life of our national headquarters.
Under Tillman’s administration I witnessed an emphasis on the mission. Developing leaders, Tillman’s administration ranks HIGHEST IN SPONSORSHIP and attendance at the National Leadership Academy. Promoting brotherhood, Tillman BUILDS AGENDAS that not only implement the business of the fraternity but builds the brotherhood by providing time for brothers to get to know each other at fraternity functions.
Academic excellence, being transparent about the regional GPA and producing out of the Midwest a constitutional amendment to RAISE THE STANDARD amongst the college brothers on a national level. At my first regional leadership staff meeting Tillman provided college brothers with three books. While many brothers may see this as minor, as a college brother that small deed gave me proof that we truly stand for scholarship. Service and advocacy, Tillman encouraged the region to continue working with our national programs, specifically march of dimes, as our region strived to raise funds that would impact research in communities in which the majority of our membership represent.
Under Tillman’s administration I saw nurtured relationships with college brothers on a local level as well as college brothers in leadership, to a standard in which made me want to run for the seat of Midwest Region Assistant Vice President. Tillman model a level of leadership that encouraged me to be the best Alpha I could be in the light, as well as in the dark.
Brothers, I endorse Mark Tillman not because of popularity or Alpha politics but for the need of strong leadership that will continue the Spirit of Fraternity that Charels H Garvin coined.
College brothers need empowerment, education, and men of standard to influence them. Tillman can provide an has delivered that mentorship.
Alumni brothers need direction, wise council, and return back to the collegiate focus that Alpha was founded upon. Tillman can provide, target, and appoint the individuals who are inspired by the strength and growth of tomorrows leaders.
Brothers I ask that you vote for the man congruent with the high moral character of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
There is no question about Tillman’s track record or leadership. The question is do you love Alpha enough to make a decision that will make sure we continue to be First of All, Servants of All, Trascending All.
Fraternally,
Brother Frederick Cox
Midwestern Regional Assistant Vice President
Brother Mario J. Carroll
Past Western Regional Assistant Vice President
Dearest Brothers, 
Every house needs a strong foundation and frame. As we approach 106 years of leadership and service to humanity, it is important — now more than ever before — that we build upon our foundation and reinforce the frame of our house! How are YOU committed to using YOUR VOTE, for the 34th General President, to strengthen the House of Alpha?
I endorse Brother Mark S. Tillman as the right candidate to elect as our 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated because he has the experience, the character, and the will to take on the heavy task of helping our brotherhood shape a vision for the future.
In 2010-2011, while serving as the Western Region Assistant Vice-President and a Board of Directors member, I had the opportunity to work alongside Brother Tillman. I witnessed firsthand his solution-based leadership style, as well as how he engaged with other leaders on the Board. I saw how he sought to prioritize the task of taking up some of the most pressing issues facing our brotherhood today.
In speaking and engaging with Brother Tillman personally, I learned that he is a man of vision and a man of standards. He is a man with sincerity and a true brother who values the stake that every Alpha Man has in this organization, and he aims to protect our stake as if it were his very own.
As a past National College Brother of the Year, I firmly believe that College Brothers continue to embody the essence of what our Jewels envisioned for our fraternity on that historic Tuesday, December 4th, 1906. Those embodying that essence — the Brothers who are earning an education, serving their community, and living those ‘college days’ that ‘swiftly pass’ — should forever be prioritized within Alpha. As a recent graduate, I am ready to vote and entrust the future of our college chapters with Brother Mark Tillman. I hope that you are ready to do so as well.
I am confident that, as General President, Brother Tillman will lead from the front and strive to bring out the best in our body of talent to address long standing issues of debate within our organization and create solutions: solutions for Membership Intake and Membership Development, Life Membership, assistance for College Brothers and College Chapters, and more.
I encourage every brother, college and alumni, in every region, to consider: How can we ensure a better future for Alpha tomorrow, if we do not unify and invest in it today? We need a General President who will begin the process of modernizing our organization to meet the challenges of tomorrow head on. A vote for Brother Tillman is a vote that says, “The glory days of Alpha are not behind us, but they are in front of us — in our future — as this brotherhood continues to ‘march onward and upward toward the light!’” Let us make that investment!
Let us be bold and begin to chart a vision for our future! Let us elect a man with the experience, character, and will necessary to succeed in taking us into that future! Let us vote to elect Brother Mark S. Tillman as the 34th General President! — An investment for the betterment of all Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated!
Fraternally,
Brother Mario J. Carroll
Past Western Regional Assistant Vice President (2010-2011)
Past National College Brother Year (2009-2010)
Brother Robert (Bob) Willis is fully invested in Bro. Mark Tillman for 34th General President
My Alpha Brothers,
At this time you should have received your ballot which allows you to do one of the most important tasks available to Alpha Men; to choose the General President of our noble brotherhood. Many of you have made your choice; many of you have already marked your ballot and returned it. Most Brothers that know me personally have known my choice for some time now.
I want to take a few moments to share my choice with each of you, especially if you have not yet made your choice and are still asking questions. I am a past Southern Region Vice President, a recipient of the Alpha Award of Merit, the senior advisor to both the 32nd and the 31st General Presidents, a friend and confidant of each of the living Past General Presidents, Special Advisor to the 26th Executive Director and a friend and mentor to countless other Alpha Brothers. I have gained and earned the respect of Alpha Brothers worldwide for my unwavering stance on the importance of leadership in our Brotherhood. That leadership is first and foremost built on a foundation of integrity and trust; it is backed up by a proven and measurable track record. For these reasons and more, I’m confident in my ability to recognize and support quality leadership. It is from this perspective, to some, a vantage point, that I am able to say without hesitation or reservation; I support Brother Mark S. Tillman to be the 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Since his initiation into our ranks, through his non-stop efforts to be of service to his (our) Brothers, he has shown his investment to Alpha, he has proven that the investment that Alpha made in him has not been in vain. I believe unequivocally that Mark Tillman is the right man. He is the right man at this critical juncture in our continued development as a Brotherhood. In our 106 years of existence, we have achieved great feats, climbed to great heights internally and externally, however, we stand now at a crossroads. Never before has the world’s eye been on us as it is at these very moments. More importantly, we are examining ourselves, as we should do. We have seen times when we have allowed emotions to cloud our decision making and elevate some to leadership positions, when leadership is not the best fit for them. We must take a critical look at ourselves and make more reasoned choices moving forward. For me, the best reasoned choice is to declare myself “fully Invested” in Brother Mark S. Tillman.
Brothers, I hope that you will consider my words. Do your own examination, examine the men, examine their character – it should not be buried so deeply that you cannot determine the full measure of the man. Then I hope that you will join me, vote today for Brother Mark S. Tillman, candidate for 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Fraternally,
Brother Robert (Bob) Willis
Past Southern Region Vice President
Alpha Award of Merit Recipient
Life Member and Member of Eta Lambda chapter
Click here to view other endorsements!
Past Asst. Regional Vice Presidents are Fully Invested
Brother Cameron M. Thierry
Immediate Past Midwestern Region AVP
Greetings to the Distinguished Brotherhood:
In the coming months, you will all be called to vote in the election of our 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I write you today earnestly to share where my alliance stands in this election and why. It is without hesitation that I stand behind Bro. Mark S. Tillman and the Alpha Investment – Protecting Our Corporate Identity : College Life through Real Life : Fight on the Ice!
While serving as the Midwestern Regional AVP, I have had the privilege of working directly alongside Bro. Tillman to represent the brothers of the Midwestern Region and the brothers beyond on the National Board of Directors. During this time, I have witnessed his commitment to excellence in this Fraternity. What I have found to be most revered about Bro. Tillman is his diligence and the provocative thought offered when it comes to addressing the many pressing matters that are presented to this Fraternity. I believe that an imperative part of leadership is about having the audacity to lead authentically, and Bro. Tillman has proven he is about just that. He has modeled the appropriate leadership behavior which has fostered trust, and when you look at the roadmap Bro. Tillman has as already trotted down in this Fraternity you can see that he has not jeopardized this in any way. He has continuously dedicated his time, commitment, and heart to the betterment of this Fraternity and brotherhood, and we as brothers have reaped the fruits of his labor. Let us not judge a brother on what he says, but judge him on what he does.
Bro. Tillman is heavily invested in the renewed lifeline of this Fraternity – the college brothers. In our unique dual college/alumni leadership position, he gave me the freedom to lead in our region and voice my concerns. He was open to hearing my viewpoint and allowed me to execute my platform with his. That is the foundation of our fraternal ideal – equipping young men with the developmental leadership qualities by providing an outlet where they can build themselves into better men to be able to go out and better this world. Bro. Tillman understands this philosophy – he preaches it, practices it, and ensures we prepare college brothers for it.
I once said, “We are quick to identify a paper brother, but we play blind to paper leadership.” For the latter part of that quote, I can attest to the fact that when it comes to leadership Bro. Tillman has not fainted or faltered, and knowing the man and brother he is I do not expect him to do so while serving at the top. He will lead this House of Alpha with excellence in these doubtful and troubling times – not only those facing Alpha, but those facing this world at large, where the efforts of Alpha are needed and called. Therefore, I am banking my investment – my vote – with him for our collective future.
Fraternally,
Brother Cameron M. Thierry
Immediate Past Midwestern Regional Vice President
Brother Mark S. Crain
Past Midwestern Region AVP
My Beloved Brothers in Alpha:
As a former Regional Assistant Vice President, I write today to give my whole-hearted endorsement of the Brother whose commitment and dedication to excellence has assured me that he should serve as the next General President of Alpha Phi Alpha; Brother Mark S. Tillman.
There are a number of men who, since my initiation, have become Big Brothers in the truest since and I count Brother Tillman amongst them. His is the example we should follow in seeking to be good, committed and diligent servants in this organization of leaders. His is the example of a man who achieved that heavily sought balance between brotherhood and business and did so at the expense of neither. While capable, Brother Tillman’s respect within this house is not rooted in his ability to give a stirring speech. While knowledgeable, it is not grounded in his ability to recite to us our own history. Brother Tillman’s respect within the House of Alpha is squarely founded on the years of sincere time and effort he has given to Alpha and, more importantly, to the community that Alpha serves. This is a Brother whom an army of gentlemen that endeavor to be servant leaders would be proud to have as their General.
I had the honor of working alongside Brother Tillman during his tenure on our National Board of Directors as an AVP in his region. During this time, I learned first-hand the detailed nature by which he approaches his work and his emphasis on transparent and regular communication with the Brotherhood. He engages each and every task with the strategic mindset you would expect from the leader of a 20,000-member organization and particularly one to which you pay dues. In the era of $100K losses, the fact that not a single one of Brother Tillman’s Regional Conventions lost money is a testament to his business prowess and commitment to planning and execution. These are the qualities we need to fortify the House of Alpha. Sound practices, proven results and an ability to execute are hallmarks of Brother Tillman’s leadership.
Lastly, I would be remiss not to discuss how Brother Tillman catered to our college membership, not in rhetorical or patronizing ways, but with significant efforts aimed at preparing us for fruitful membership in Alpha and success in Real Life. When I set out to host a College Brothers Retreat, he made sure that as many Brothers as possible from throughout the Region could attend, at practically no cost to themselves. He later supported an effort to solidify the College Brothers Retreat as an annual program with full funding from the General Organization. Under his leadership, his region was also the first to begin systematically collecting college chapter GPAs leading to an organization-wide effort to catalogue this data which in turn allows us to identify struggling chapters and help our Brothers meet their fullest academic potential.
Having now been a Brother under two administrations and having learned the legacies of those that preceded them, I can fully understand the significance of the Office of General President. This is not an election to take lightly, Brothers. We are at a moment where it is critical that the members herein have full faith that every dollar and moment of time that they invest in Alpha Phi Alpha is producing a positive return for the community and for themselves. Mark Tillman is the steward who can and will ensure that your Alpha Investment is protected.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Crain
Past MWR Assistant Vice President
Brother Mohamed F. Jalloh
Past Eastern Region AVP
It is no surprise to any Alpha brother that we’re at a critical junction in our Fraternity’s history – or at least it shouldn’t be. The stakes are as high as they’ve ever been, and rightfully so. The path we choose to embark on at this critical junction will undoubtedly shape our unwritten and written legacy. We must make sure that such legacy is protected, preserved, and nurtured with the right investments in order to ensure that when we look back at this moment it will be unequivocally clear that we stood up for the principles and ideals envisioned, articulated, and personified by the Jewels. No small task, indeed. We must search deep in our hearts while using every ounce of energy in our minds to ask some serious questions regarding the present state of Alpha as well as our near and distant future. Some may say that Alpha has lost its soul. Others may say that this is just business as usual and that all is good in the House of Alpha. Some may not even have an opinion. No matter what school-of-thought you belong to on this spectrum of perspectives, one fact surfaces: Alpha should and must remain “the college of friendship, the university of brotherly love, and the school for the better making men of men.” But will it?
I certainly hope so. Unfortunately, hope alone is not sufficient to shape our legacy – at least not in the direction that is aligned with our founding principles, ideals, and objectives. The right investment will be a step in the right direction. We must invest in our future by making a careful investment now in the Brother we elect as our next General President. We must invest in Alpha’s leadership. Can one man make Alpha the greatest organization in the world? That’s a far-fetched fantasy. But most of us can agree that we need the right servant leader with the adequate skill-sets to help stimulate the environment that will ultimately enable our success as an organization. We need a leader that can galvanize a balanced team of Brothers across all regions and demographics of Alpha so that we can build a climate destined for success. I know that Brother Mark S. Tillman is more than equipped to do so. If you take the time to make an objective evaluation of the facts, I am confident you will independently reach the same conclusion. We must move beyond the emotional appeals we hear in these campaigns. We really need to do the Alphaly thing; which is to be objective judges of facts and evidence. There is no shortage of opinions in Alpha – subscribe to just one Alpha listserv and you will see what I mean. But while opinions vary the facts will always hold constant.
Here are some facts about Brother Tillman that I can attest to based upon first-hand experience working with him. After serving on the Board of Directors with Brother Tillman from 2007-2008, it became clear that he is a steadfast leader, a visionary, and a Brother’s brother whose dedication to the ideals of Alpha will never waver under any circumstance. He was an independent thinker on the Board and always stood up for what he believed was in Alpha’s best interest. He never voted for something just because it was popular or politically expedient to do so. He always stood up for Alpha’s best interest. Why is this important? We need to know where our leaders stood yesterday, stand today, and will stand tomorrow and the days, weeks, months, and years to come. Brother Tillman’s core as a servant leader will not be influenced by political tides and/or desires for personal gain.
I won’t flatter myself into thinking that I can convince any Brother to vote one way or another. I am just kindly asking you to be an independent evaluator of the facts. I urge you to look at his record, ask tough questions of him, and scrutinize his experience within and outside of Alpha. Brother Tillman’s accomplishments are simply too long to discuss here so you are better served by visiting his website.
Go to http://www.thealphainvestment.
Fraternally,
Brother Mohamed F. Jalloh
Past Eastern Region Assistant Vice President
Brother Jarvis Givens
Past Western Region AVP
Beloved Brother of Alpha,
As a former Western Region Assistant Vice President, I had the opportunity to sit at the table of leadership. While serving in this capacity I saw a board member who set himself apart from the usual politics of the day and demonstrated his leadership with results and accountability—Brother Mark Tillman.
Our organization and this nation are yet again at a pivotal moment in history. As the climate has drastically changed socially, economically, and politically over the past few years it becomes even more pressing that Alpha Phi Alpha’s next steps are calculated and effective. We must change the way we do business, including how we prioritize the issues we choose to address as an organization. I am convinced that Brother Mark Tillman’s leadership is necessary to make the systemic changes in this fraternity to ensure our relevance in the years to come.
I have personally experienced his invested interest in the wellbeing of this organization, as a brother who met this candidate as a neophyte at my first convention in Kansas City and from the time I spent with him on the Board of Directors. As a neophyte I saw Brother Tillman engage with a group of college brothers whose chapter was on the brink of suspension. Despite the circumstances, he maintained a level of compassion that served to be developmental. I witnessed first hand how critical it was for Alumni brothers, especially those in positions of leadership, to build up undergraduates in their time of need. A selfless leader is what Brother Tillman has proven himself to be. The best interest of the organization always comes first to his personal agenda and this is exactly the type of leadership needed in Alpha Phi Alpha.
Brother Tillman understands the importance of being a compassionate yet firm leader. Not afraid to make hard decisions, he does so in a tactful manner. Furthermore, coupled with his dynamic leadership skills, he has the consciousness necessary to make the changes our organization needs in regard to heightened community action, the development of college brothers, and its economic stability. We need a leader that will not simply maintain the order of the house, but one who will be willing to challenge what has become the status quo—one who will set new standards, standards that are relevant to the context of today! For these reasons, I am convinced that Brother Mark Tillman’s leadership is necessary to protect our organizations integrity.
As the Vice President of the Midwestern Region for two terms, he has had proven results in regards to transparent and prudent fiscal management. As a fellow board member, he proved himself to be an accessible and ethical leader, more importantly a leader who understands the core principles of organizational behavior.
Brother Tillman’s investment in Alpha is characterized by a good balance between business and brotherhood. He has the experience, the vision, and the consciousness needed to take this fraternity to new heights. I endorse Bro. Mark Tillman in his candidacy for the office of our 34th General President without reservation!
Fraternally,
Brother Jarvis Givens
Past Western Region AVP
Brother Christian Jenkins
Past Western Region AVP
In my first years of this dear fraternity I saw great value in the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. A few years later, when I became Assistant Vice President of the Western Region, Brother Mark Tillman was one of the first brothers who welcomed me into the Board of Directors. His love for the fraternity was undeniable and his fever for the college chapters shined bright in every board meeting. Throughout my term I saw that same value in brotherhood glow from Brother Mark S. Tillman while he lead the Midwestern Region to amazing accolades; both within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the communities in his region.
It is very evident that Brother Mark S. Tillman carries the ‘intrinsic qualities’ of an Alpha Man, who has puts his ‘blood, sweat and tears’ into this fraternity. Whose’ unconquerable soul’ is willing and ready to hold high our ‘college of friendship;’ our ‘university of brotherly love;’ our ‘school for the better making of men;’ our dear, Alpha Phi Alpha!
Fraternally,
Brother Christian Jenkins
Assistant Vice President
Western Region ’08-’09
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Brother Stuart P. Lott
Past Southern Region AVP
My Dear Brothers:
In a matter of weeks, you will cast your ballots for 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. As you finalize your decision, I remind you that this is no ordinary election. The stakes are higher than in years past. We are at a critical point in the Fraternity’s history, and the next General President will have to make some tough decisions regarding the Fraternity’s future. The important point to remember is that, because our communities look to Alpha Phi Alpha for leadership, the decisions that the next General President will make will undoubtedly have broad implications for our communities, our nation, and our world. Hence, it is important that we select the best candidate to the position. That candidate is Brother Mark Tillman!
To lead an organization like Alpha Phi Alpha successfully, a candidate must have: 1) apractical vision for the organization 2) a proven record of achievement within the organization, and 3) the intangible personal qualities necessary to garner the respect and admiration of the members of the organization. Brothers, Mark Tillman meets, and exceeds, all of these criteria!
Brother Tillman has a practical vision for Alpha Phi Alpha. His Alpha Investment platform is built on three main themes: Protecting Our Corporate Identity, College Life Through Real Life, and Fight On The Ice. More than mere words, this platform will ensure that the Fraternity is managed effectively internally, that the Fraternity remains relevant to those it aims to serve, that College and Alumni Brothers get the training and guidance they need to succeed socially, fraternally, and professionally, and that the Fraternity continues to provide trailblazing service and advocacy to its target communities.
Brother Tillman has a proven record of achievement within Alpha Phi Alpha. At the local level, as an Area Director, he increased chapter compliance and served as a trainer for Alpha University. At the district level, as Michigan’s District Director, 100% of his chapters were in good standing, and he was one of the chief architects of AlphaNet. At the regional level, as Midwestern Regional Vice President, he instituted a regional strategic plan that improved the region’s financial position, that made the region’s operations more efficient, that increased regional participation in the Fraternity’s National Programs and Special Projects, and that increased College Brother participation in the Alpha Leadership Academy. In addition, under Brother Tillman’s leadership, every Midwestern Regional Convention posted a profit.
Brother Tillman has the intangible qualities needed to lead Alpha Phi Alpha. Having served alongside him on the Fraternity’s national board of directors, I can attest to Brother Tillman’s leadership style and character. Brother Tillman is humble, practical, and consistent. He puts Fraternity before self, surrounds himself with excellent people, and is willing to listen and learn from College and Alumni Brothers of all ages and experience levels. He is a dedicated husband to Velicia, his wife of 15 years, and has a life outside of Alpha that makes him grounded and well-rounded. These things suggest that Brother Mark Tillman will provide moral leadership to the Fraternity as General President.
Brothers, in my humble opinion, Brother Mark Tillman is my candidate that has the vision, record, and character we need in our next General President. Without reservation, I urge all Brothers to cast their ballots for Brother Mark Tillman as 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated!
Fraternally and Tenaciously,
Brother Stuart P. Lott
Past Southern Region Assistant Vice President (2007-2008)
Immediate Past Eastern, Southern and Western Regional Vice Presidents are invested in Bro. Mark Tillman for 34th General President
Brother Dennis G. Kemp, Sr.
Immediate Past Eastern Regional Vice President
Our grand fraternity needs a leader and visionary for our next General President. The fraternity needs to capitalize on the interest garnered with the dedication of the Martin Luther King National Memorial. Also the fraternity needs to demonstrate financial stability and transparency. One of the most important decisions we as men of Alpha Phi Alpha will make is selecting our leader. We will select a Brother who will serve as the face of the fraternity and represent this distinguished organization in the world’s view.
It was indeed an honor to serve AlphaEast as the 25th Eastern Region Vice President, on this backdrop and as a former member of the Fraternity’s Board of Directors I wholeheartedly endorse Brother Mark S. Tillman as the 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. His Alpha Investment plan is critical to the long term success of this fraternity. I served on the Board of the Directors with Brother Tillman and I was able to observe firsthand his dedication and knowledge of this fraternity. He has served in all levels of fraternity leadership roles, including two terms as Midwestern Regional Vice President. In that role he served as the CEO of the region and successfully ensured chapter compliance. Brother Tillman’s background in information technology will ensure that the fraternity will remain…..”First of All.”
The Alpha Investment is highlighted by 3 major areas:
Protecting our Corporate Identity
- An absolute must if we are to survive for another 100 years.
College Life through Real Life
- We must ensure the academic and career aspirations of our College Brothers.
- We must ensure that our College Brothers are ready to take on the mantle of leadership within the fraternity.
Fight on the Ice!
- We must follow roadmaps that align with the fraternity’s strategic plan.
- We must place an emphasis on National Programs and Special Project to better serve the community.
As my Brothers of AlphaEast celebrated the 80th Annual Eastern Region Convention in Portsmouth, Virginia, they saw firsthand how Brother Tillman explained his vision for the fraternity in detail while maintaining a fellowship with the Brothers. Brothers of AlphaEast know that Brother Tillman is a “Brother’s Brother” and not pretentious in anyway.
I am fully invested in Brother Mark S. Tillman to lead Alpha Phi Alpha. I trust his leadership.
Fraternally,
Brother Dennis G. Kemp, Sr.
Immediate Past Eastern Region Vice President
Brother Everett B. Ward
Immediate Past Southern Regional Vice President
My Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha:
In the coming weeks we will be asked to select from our ranks the next Brother to lead our Fraternity as our 34thGeneral President. Without any reservation, I am supporting Brother Mark Tillman for this role and I ask you to join me in voting for him.
Brother Tillman is a seasoned leader and a consummate professional with extensive Alpha experience. Having worked alongside Brother Tillman on our National Board of Directors, I have witnessed first-hand his actions and his leadership style. Both are based on integrity, honesty and loyalty.
In these challenging days ahead, it’s critical that we have a leader who will put the will of the Brotherhood first in all his actions. I’m confident that Brother Tillman is that type of leader. I have no doubt that he will lead Alpha Phi Alpha without regard to internal or external politics. Instead, his decisions will be rooted and grounded in what’s best for the organization.
So, when your ballot arrives, please join me in proudly casting your vote for Brother Mark Tillman. In my opinion, he will serve our Brotherhood well with honor, integrity and distinction.
Fraternally,
Brother Everett B. Ward
Immediate Past Southern Region Vice President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Brother Wilbur E. Jackson, Jr.
Immediate Past Western Regional Vice President
Bro. Mark Tillman is prepared to lead Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as its 34th General President. He is qualified because:
- He has committed his life to serving the fraternity as a leader from the moment that he saw the light.
- He has served in every major position including Regional Associate Executive Director, Regional Vice President and numerous critical committees.
- His professional management experience gives him high levels of people, process and project management skills and practices.
- His many contributions to the current efficient and effective management of the general organization have been clearly shown as a board member for four years; as the Midwestern Regional Associate Executive Director and Midwestern Regional Vice President. He led efforts to deploy both process enhancements and management tools for the general office management.
- His fraternal spirit and commitment to brotherhood transcends all that he does supporting the fraternity as an organization and each individual brother he encounters.
- He has protected the fraternity’s assets through excellent risk management and appropriate disciplinary actions using thorough investigative techniques and respect for all involved.
- Under his mentorship, many brothers have advanced their leadership skills and positions in the fraternity.
- Developing leaders is clearly a skill and personal commitment he has made to many brothers. As Western Regional Vice President, I personally benefited from his tutelage and management recommendation which helped to resolve our financial issues.
- His fiscal management skill and transparency have been a hallmark of his leadership career leaving a flawless record of financial solvency as his legacy.
The fraternity needs a brother at the top leadership position who can bring this potent record of success, experience and commitment to the position of General President. His leadership will bring integrity, accountability, transparency, fraternal spirit, and love for all mankind to the office. His record of consistent success will guarantee continued success at the General President level. His vision for the future will assure growth and operational effectiveness in all facets of fraternal business. His ability to represent our major corporate interest to the top leaders around the country and throughout the world will secure Alpha Phi Alpha’s seat at all major tables of important discourse on issues affecting our communities locally, nationally and internationally.
Please join me in supporting Bro. Mark Tillman as our 34th General President.
Fraternally,
Wilbur E. Jackson, Jr.
Immediate Past Regional Vice President
Western Region
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Remembering Brother King / Support March for Babies
Dear Brother:
Honoring Brother King
Today marks the 44th anniversary of the assassination of Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Brother King was the epitome of an Alpha man as he was a devout leader and scholar who fought for equality and was a drum major for justice. Bro. King’s legacy lives on in the names of streets, public and private schools, awards, scholarships, celebrations, buildings, and even through a national holiday. In addition, we as Alpha men led the charge in constructing the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the national mall in Washington D.C. commemorating his life and the major impact he had on the world.
However, the legacy of Brother King should not be limited to a monument or a holiday. The legacy of Brother King should dwell in each and every one of us. We must pick up and carry the torch of our beloved brother that was laid down after his untimely demise. There is still a lot of injustice in the United States and the world. Let us commemorate our beloved brother by continuing to keep up the fight against discrimination and injustice, and only then will we truly achieve his dream by overcoming all to reach the mountaintop that he witnessed for all.
March for Babies
We provide service and advocacy for our communities. Last year, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., received awards & recognition for being the #1 Adult Service Partner by raising over $244,000 for the March for Babies. As an annual supporter of March for Babies, I plan to raise at least $500.00 to help fund research and programs, and ask that you join me in raising at least $100.00 as your personal goal. So, let’s do our part and help mothers have healthy, full-term pregnancies. My personal link is www.marchforbabies.org/mtillm01.
Use Social Media to Help Reach Your “March for Babies” Goal
There are several social and mobile media options to choose from:
Facebook app: Link your Facebook and March for Babies accounts to access sharing tools.
Facebook “Friend”: “Friend” the March of Dimes and posts will show on your wall.
Badges: Use the customized online signature tool as an email signature.
Animated e-card: Email supporters a personalized animated electronic card.
LinkedIn: Share your support of March for Babies with your network.
Mobile app: Manage your campaign from your iPhone®, iPad® or Android device.
Twitter: Tweet about or follow @marchforbabies.
For more information, or to find events taking place near your district, area or chapters, go to http://www.marchforbabies.org
Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman
Candidate for 34th General President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Promoting Academic Excellence and Distinguished Collegians
The Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation allows for the investment in our brothers and the next generation of leaders. As brothers continue to move onward and upward in our scholastic endeavors, we quickly realize how costly it can be to achieve an education and excel in college. Brothers are often not aware of the scholarships and other financial assistance opportunities that are available to them through our brotherhood. Fortunately, the Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation provides scholarships for college brothers or brothers who are pursuing post graduate education; I encourage all college brothers that meet the requirements to apply.
The Distinguished Collegian Award honors brothers who have exemplified outstanding scholarship, community service, and leadership within their fraternity chapter and campus community.
Forms for both the Education Foundation Scholarship and the Distinguished Collegian Award are available on our official website at www.apa1906.net. Click the following link to go to the Forms page: http://www.alpha-phi-alpha.
For More Information: Email edfoundation@apa1906.net or call our corporate office at (410) 554-0040. The deadlines are approaching very soon so apply as soon as you can.
Don’t Forget to Register for the Alpha Leadership Academy
The 15th academy will be held June 9 ~ 15, 2012 at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. Each new class has a Greek-letter name and we are now on the Omicron class. To date, approximately 350 Brothers have received training during the week-long event.
I ask that you, and your chapter, strive to get a college brother to attend this year. It will be an investment much appreciated in that every participant will reap great rewards down the road. For More information: Contact Brother Dr. Ralph Johnson directly at 443.538.7602. You may also reach him via Email: Rjohns1706@gmail.com.
Brother Mark S. Tillman
Candidate for 34th General President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Alpha Leadership Academy
Dear Brother,
“Alpha Phi Alpha develops leaders…” These words are taken from our mission statement, it is a reflection of what is accomplished at the fraternity’s primary educational program for our college men, the Alpha Leadership Academy for College Chapter Officers.
On March 3, 2012, the announcement of the 15th academy will be held June 9 ~ 15, 2012 at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. Each new class has a Greek-letter name and we are now on the Omicron class. To date, approximately 350 Brothers have received training during the week-long event.
The purpose of the academy is to provide a thorough and intense experience for young men who have been elected to a leadership role at the various levels of our fraternity. What makes this program unique is the student development foundation on which it is based. Several student development theories will be used as the theoretical framework within which it operates. Topics addressed include the Student Wellness Model for holistic development, involvement theory, moral development, service learning and many more. The Wellness Model will be of particular importance because it allows us to tap the cognitive, social, spiritual, physical and cultural dimensions of the college brothers’ development.
The academy’s faculty is comprised of brothers who are outstanding training and development specialists as well as student affairs practitioners who work with college brothers on a daily basis and whose expertise will add to the breadth and depth of the overall program. The program is facilitated under the direction of Brother Dr. Ralph Johnson and is supported by our Education Foundation, which is chaired by Brother Dr. Waldo Johnson.
This program produced several Assistant Regional Vice Presidents, Assistant District Directors and leaders of our college chapters. The Alpha Leadership Academy is an investment in the future of our college brothers, the future of our fraternity and the future of our country.
Under my leadership as Midwestern Regional Vice President, the region ranked #1 or #2 for four years in college brother attendance. We encouraged and supported participation to this powerful program. I ask that you and your chapter strive to get a college Brother to attend this year. It will be an investment that will reap great rewards down the road.
For More information: Contact Brother Dr. Ralph Johnson directly at 443-538-7602. You may also reach him via Email: Rjohns1706@gmail.com.
Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman
Candidate for 34th General President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
First of All…We Vote!…….Or Do We???
Dear Brother:
As we wind down to the final months for the election of the 34th General President, March 1 begins the countdown for our members to ensure their participation in the election process. Alpha Phi Alpha is developing a campaign to register a million voters this year for the upcoming presidential election. We are taking a stand against voter suppression laws and requirements that are meant to discourage voting among our people. Alpha Phi Alpha pioneered “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People” in the 1930’s and it’s one of our national programs. Our organization provided leadership to remind and encourage individuals that their VOTE is their VOICE when it comes to issues they care about.
But when we look inside of Alpha Phi Alpha, the numbers tell a different story. Each and every member in good standing has the right to vote for General President. Each member is given the opportunity to participate in the selection of our leader. Each member has the opportunity for his voice to be heard through his vote. From the minutes of our 102nd Anniversary | 88th General Convention in 2008, only 37% of our active membership participated in the last election for General President
Fig. 1: Results from the last General Election
Have we suppressed and discouraged ourselves? Have we become apathetic to the process of thinking our vote did not matter? Did we think that “oh, he got it in the bag?” Or have we become so disengaged because of life’s challenges that we allowed someone else to make the decision for us?
Make no mistake, I WANT YOUR VOTE! I believe that my experience, temperament, fortitude, stamina, humility, and vision is what we need to establish the next chapter in Alpha Phi Alpha. But I also want you to participate in the election process. How can we serve our communities and state “you are hopeless” if we don’t vote for ourselves? After all of the emails, phone calls, mailings, webinars, social networks, and personal visits, I heard you loud and clear. But when the time comes, will you TRULY be HEARD with your VOTE?
No matter what your decision is…First of All…WE VOTE!!!
Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman
Candidate for 34th General President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
A Global Brotherhood, A Global Mission!
형제의 인사
Brüderlich Glückwünsche
Fraternal Greetings
In any language, “Goodwill is always the monarch of this House!” As we have moved into the second decade of the 21st century, Alpha Phi Alpha has proudly established and re-chartered several chapters. Four of the new chapters are located outside of the United States: Beta Psi (London, England), Rho Chi Lambda (London, England), Rho Phi Lambda (Johannesburg, South Africa), and Eta Epsilon Lambda (Monrovia, Liberia).
I was able to travel to the chartering of Rho Phi Lambda in Johannesburg and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The camaraderie shared amongst the brothers make me proud to know that outstanding brothers are holding the banner of Alpha high throughout the world. I also enjoyed the experience of visiting brothers and chapters in Bermuda during the Eastern Regional Convention in 2011, chapters in Nassau, Bahamas, and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. In all of our international Alpha chapters, our Alpha brothers are, and will continue to be a critical component in their communities.
Alpha Phi Alpha has been an international fraternity since 1908 when our Delta chapter was first chartered at the University of Toronto, Canada, (now seated at Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, TX). We have greatly benefited from our international brothers who are actively engaged in the welfare and uplift of our fraternity stretching from Canada, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Asia, Europe, and South Africa.
I commend our brothers serving in the military overseas who continue to be concerned about the affairs of the fraternity and actively participate through our international chapters. Our brothers in the military have served our country with distinction and have also been outstanding representatives of our fraternity at home and abroad.
Unknown to many, our leadership was touched by an international presence in the early years when William A. Pollard (a native of Georgetown, British Guiana) served as 3rd Editor of the Sphinx and as our 8th General President. That legacy of leadership was felt beyond the American shores through the efforts of Brothers Norman Manley, former Premier of Jamaica and Rhodes Scholar; Dr. Henrique Tokpa, former President of Cuttington University in Liberia; Edward Richards, former Premier of Bermuda; Vincent Frazer, Virgin Islands Attorney General; and Gerald Eustis Thomas, former Ambassador to Guyana and Kenya.
As candidate for 34th General President of Alpha, I believe it is important that all brothers support our international chapters. I will invest in a strategy to evaluate our fraternal structure to better incorporate and support our international expansion. I have, and will continue to support our international brothers as I value the global makeup of our fraternity.
Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman
Candidate for 34th General President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.