Keeping the Pace
“We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort.” – Jesse Owens
On April 21, 2011, at the request of our General President, Brother Herman “Skip” Mason, I and members of Alpha Rho Lambda chapter represented Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at the 75th Anniversary Celebration Dinner honoring our Brother, the late great Jesse Owens.
It 
His accomplishments reveal to us a few hard truths. The first being, that perseverance in the face of hardship will always yield positive results. Brother Owens undoubtedly faced trials and tribulations time and time again, but he kept the pace and ultimately helped to change a world ridden with hatred and prejudice. The Alpha Investment campaign is similar to that of Brother Owens’ perseverance; we remain dedicated to our pace and to the people who assist us in remaining strong. Just recently, I was informed by college Brother Curtis Tanner, President of the Epsilon Zeta chapter located in Fayetteville, NC of their endorsement of our campaign — it is clear that the pace we have set is inspiring more brothers to support my fraternal vision.
I began this race with the intentions of improving our dear fraternity, listening to brothers, and advancing our aims. I intend to keep running strong! With each day, with each supportive measure both financial and physical I have grown stronger and remain focused on our path to the future.
The second hard truth revealed from the life and legacy of Brother Owens is that we all must continue to mentor and give back to our communities despite our own personal challenges. Brother Owens, upon leaving the track, began doing the work of Alpha; mentoring and remaining a positive force in the hearts and minds of many young men who aspired to be like him. This truth reveals to us that we must stay on pace with our mentoring and community involvement. Alpha Phi Alpha is only as good as the communities in which we serve. Let’s forge onward and upward to those dedicated youths who watch our work. It is clear that organizations, similar to ours, have a responsibility to our youths. Brother Owens knew that responsibility and acted upon it. Remember to turn your dedicated thoughts into groundbreaking results.
Alpha Phi Alpha was an Olympian Level sponsor for the event. Our fraternity remained dedicated to follow through with our commitments. My attendance at this event allowed me to realize ever so much the wealth in our service. It is always important to call upon the laurels of service to allow us ample opportunity to live out our fraternal objectives, to stimulate the ambition of its members; to prepare them for the greatest usefulness in the cause of humanity, freedom, and dignity of the individual; to encourage the highest and noblest form of manhood; and to aid downtrodden humanity in its efforts to achieve higher social, economic, and intellectual status.
Maintaining our pace depends on you. We have committed ourselves to a lifetime of service; which at times can be rather intimidating, but when we all work collectively to keep up with our initial commitment to service, we too can be like Brother Owens and finish in record time. Lend me your support; we can all continue the pace set by our late Brother Owens. Let’s invest in Alpha to maintain our full speed ahead. Join the race and help me take Alpha Phi Alpha to the gold! On your mark….get set…..
Let’s keep running this race.
Jesse Owens Statue
Brother Tillman with Marlene Owens Rankin, daughter of Brother Owens.
Picture of Stadium
Brother Eric Brandon (Area Director), Brother Milton Woodard (Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter President), Brother Tillman, Brother Darryl A. Peal (Immediate Past Midwestern Regional Vice President), Brother Adam Troy (Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter Member).
Brother Tillman with ESPN reporter and emcee of the event, Jeremy Schaap, and author of Triumph: The Untold Story of Jesse Owens and Hitler’s Olympics.
Actor, director, and comedian Bill Cosby who was the keynote speaker for the occasion. Mr. Cosby ran track for Temple University.
Brother Tillman with Olympian Harrison Dillard, only the second man to win Olympic titles in both sprinting and hurdling.
Thank you in advance for your continued support and your investment in Alpha Phi Alpha.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman,
Candidate for 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Western Region Convention
Alpha needs quality, not quantity.” –Jewel George Biddle Kelley
I just concluded an outstanding 63rd Western Regional Convention. I commend Brother Aaron Crutison, Western Regional Vice President and Brother Mario Carroll, Western Regional Assistant Vice President on a job well done! The theme for the convention, “Leading for Tomorrow”, focused on the issues and solutions for the next generation of leaders. Brother Michael A. Blake – Assoc. Director, White House Office of Public Engagement & Deputy Assoc. Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, moderated the Saving Our Black Boys Forum that provided a dialogue to develop solutions that chapters can execute in their local communities. This event was the highlight of the convention.
Over the past few months I have been making phone calls, speaking with brothers, and replying to many of your questions. We should always be reminded of the wisdom Jewel Brother George Biddle Kelley issued atop of his chair during the 18th General Convention, “Alpha needs quality, not quantity.” Even today, Jewel Kelley’s words should strike deeply in our hearts as we work tirelessly to improve our communities.
Now that the final regional convention is complete, our brothers are speaking loud and clear – reaffirming that Alpha Phi Alpha needs quality! Just recently, I received the endorsement , in writing, from two of our esteemed Alumni Chapters: Gamma Kappa Lambda of Wilmington, North Carolina and Delta Alpha Lambda of Cleveland, Ohio. These brothers have openly endorsed my candidacy to be Alpha’s 34th General President. It is always a forceful statement when entire chapters decide to openly endorse their fellow brother who they believe will lead our fraternity to greater heights.
Gamma Kappa Lambda observed me at the Southern Regional convention and has now elected to support my vision for the fraternity. In the words of their Chapter President, Brother Brandon Hickman, “we believe that for Alpha to continue to be great we must evolve in a progressive direction where all brothers collegiate and alumni can offer opportunities for growth and fellowship. So, as of Saturday April 2, 2011 we fully Endorse Bro. Mark S. Tillman!” I am forever grateful of their decision to support my candidacy.
Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter President, Brother Lateef Saffore, declared that “(my) attention to detail and philosophy on effective communication and follow up has caused a positive paradigm shift in the way in which Alpha business has been conducted in the Midwestern Region.” I am thankful that chapters in different locations are connecting with my vision for our fraternity and are sharing that message with brothers on the local level.
This fraternity instilled in me the blessings to enter the portal of Leadership and Brotherhood. And like the theme of the Western Region convention, this fraternity instilled in me that I was not leading for today but for the days ahead. It takes service and love for all mankind to overlook the pomp and circumstance to bring efficiency and efficacy within Alpha Phi Alpha to even better levels. Also, it takes the support of chapters like Gamma Kappa Lambda and Delta Alpha Lambda to fully invest in Alpha Phi Alpha to ensure that the soul and dreams of our fraternity will live on into the future. Thank you for your support my brothers. This moment, similar to the historic periods of our founding, will live onward and upward, always towards the light.
My investment in you, Brother, as your 34th General President and leader for tomorrow is to protect our brand, advocate and fight for what is right, and continue to capitalize on our most valuable resource…One Another!
Delta Psi Lambda initiates; Brother Michael King-Stockton, Brother Conyea Nave, and Iota Omicron Lambda initiate; Brother Andrew Tingan.
Alpha Xi initiates Brother Greg Azulphart, Brother Shaughn Sanford, Brother Delon Lewis, and Brother Jarrell Townsend take a moment of fellowship with Brother Tillman.
Brother Tillman welcomes Brother Cameron E. Henry, incoming board member and Western Regional Asst. Vice President-elect.
Alpha Xi initiate, Brother Jesse E. Johnson who assisted Brother Tillman during the district caucuses.
Brother Aaron Crutison, Western Regional Vice President and Brother Mario Carroll, Western Regional Asst. Vice President, with local area kids who participated in the “Saving Our Black Boys” Forum.
Brother Tillman with Brother Michael A. Blake, past Midwestern Regional Asst. Vice President, who served as the moderator of the “Saving Our Black Boys” forum and he was the keynote speaker at the Black And Gold Banquet.
Brother Tillman congratulates former Michigan resident and Theta Zeta Lambda (Ann Arbor, Michigan) chapter president Brother Jonathon Madison for winning Alumni Brother of the Year for the Western Region.
Brother Tillman with Gwen Carmon, National Director of Volunteer Initiatives for the March of Dimes.
Brother Tillman with Laraine L. Davis, Vice President/Industry Relations and Brother Jerome P. Riley, Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager for Well Fargo.
10yr Big Brother mentor Brother Tillman with Anthony Spivey, Program Coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area.
Brother Tillman with 70yr Member and Life Member #215,
Brother Dr. Peyton C. Cook of Theta Pi Lambda (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Immediate Past Western Regional Vice President and supporter, Brother Wilbur Jackson with Brother Tillman after the Black and Gold Banquet.
Delta Tau Lambda initiate, Brother Kevin H. Williams with Brother Tillman during a reception.
Thank you in advance for your continued support and your investment in Alpha Phi Alpha.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman,
Candidate for 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Midwestern Region Convention
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” — C.S. Lewis
I just completed a memorable and historic Midwestern Regional Convention in Louisville, Kentucky last weekend. Congratulations to my brothers of Alpha Lambda chapter on turning 100 years old, and for hosting this year’s convention. The brothers of Alpha Lambda and the entire Kentucky District did an outstanding job! We also celebrated the 100th Anniversary of Kappa chapter, the 10th house, seated at Ohio State University – the initiation chapter of Olympic champion Brother Jesse Owens.
Also, I am thankful, honored and sincerely humbled to share with you that one-by-one chapter delegates within the Midwestern Region stood at the microphone during our final business session and endorsed me as their candidate. I do not take these endorsements lightly. I am appreciative that our brothers are considering me as their next leader for our beloved Alpha. As 34th General President, I want us to invest in ourselves and retool our fraternity for our next journey of service. I will forever cherish their continued belief in my leadership as we march onward and upward, thank you brothers!
The faith brothers have placed in me by electing me to serve two terms as Midwestern Regional Vice President has been a high honor for both me and my wife. And, having had the opportunity to work with a talented and results driven team has been an even greater honor. Many thanks to all of the brothers of the Midwestern Region for supporting me and my vision over the last four years as we implemented the “Roadmap to Excellence” which allowed our region to flourish and keep the region in alignment with the fraternity’s strategic plan. I offer congratulations to Brother Elgie Sims who will succeed me as the 26th Midwestern Regional Vice President and to Brother Fredrick L. Cox who will serve as the 58th Midwestern Regional Assistant Vice President.
This year’s convention theme focused on “Extending our Collegiate Experience to a Lifetime of Brotherhood and Service.” This theme captures the essence of our brotherhood and how we transcend from college life to supporting our fellow brothers, their families and the communities in which we live. This theme underscores the fact that we must be servants of all mankind each day of the year, even when no one is watching.
We were joined by our 33rd General President, Brother Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. and honored Brother John T. Clark, Jr. with his 60-Year Member lapel pin – while his sons, Brother John T. Clark, III and Brother Eric R. Clark, stood proudly beside him. Brother Clark, 90-years-old, is also the son of Alpha Lambda’s first chapter president and charter member, Brother John T. Clark, Sr.
We also honored our brothers who have served, or are currently serving, in the United States military or law enforcement agency with a “Challenge Coin” that displays the centennial logo and date of the convention. Challenge Coins are generally bestowed to those serving in the military to identify them with their units and to enhance overall morale. As our momentous convention weekend concluded, General President Mason, Brother Cameron M. Thierry, Midwestern Region Assistant Vice President, and I visited the burial site of our 18th General President, Brother Frank L. Stanley.
Brothers have continued to remind me that they are looking for a 34th General President who will do what is right. As brothers endorsed me, there were references to my consistency, accountability, and commitment to Alpha Phi Alpha. I am appreciative that our brothers believe in me. I assure you that if given the opportunity to lead us forward, perhaps you too will realize my commitment to being a brother first and one who serves for a greater good.
Now, today I am in San Jose, California to celebrate the 63rd Western Regional Convention with brothers of the Great Western Region. I look forward to sharing my vision with my brothers here.
Brother Darryl A. Peal (24th Midwestern Regional Vice President),
Brother Gus T. Ridgel (15th Midwestern Regional Vice President),
Brother James B. “Tiny” Blanton (22nd Midwestern Regional Vice President),
33rd General President Brother Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr,
Brother Mark S. Tillman (25th Midwestern Regional Vice President)
25th General President Brother James R. Williams (16th Midwestern Regional Vice President),
Brother Dr. Ivan L. Cotman (19th Midwestern Regional Vice President)
New initiates of Pi Mu (West Virginia University) taking a moment with Brother Tillman
Brother Joel A. Cowart of Upsilon (University of Kansas) catching up with Brother Tillman since the last time they saw each other.
Mr. and Mrs. Tillman prepare for final banquet
Brother Tillman and his wife Velicia
Brother Tillman and Brother Thierry with district directors
and incoming district directors.
Members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. are celebrated along with Alpha Lambda chapter for reaching centennial milestones at the Vice Presidents Reception during the 79th Midwestern Regional Convention.
Members of Alpha Lambda Chapter and the Midwestern Region participated in a service project supporting Wayside Christian Mission which offers successful programs designed to help homeless, formerly homeless and indigent people get back on their feet.
Brother Tillman, Brother Cecil M. Brookins (79th Midwestern Regional Convention Chairman), and Brother Terrell L Holland (Midwestern Region Staff Member) making quick work in painting the walls.
Representatives from Wells-Fargo, corporate sponsors of the Community Outreach Luncheon at the 79th Midwestern Regional Convention.
Representatives from Abercrombie and Fitch, corporate sponsors of the College Brothers Luncheon at the 79th Midwestern Regional Convention.
Brother John T. Clark, Jr. holding the commemorative souvenir journal of the 79th Midwestern Regional Convention with the picture of his father, Bro. John T. Clark, Sr., the charter member and first chapter president of Alpha Lambda.
Brother Tillman, Brother Thierry, and Brother Mason at the resting place of the 18th General President Brother Frank L. Stanley.
Thank you in advance for your continued support and your investment in Alpha Phi Alpha.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman,
Candidate for 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Remembering the Legacy of a King
“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Forty-three years ago today, our Brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. The assassin succeeded in taking Dr. King’s life, but failed at killing his legacy. Please join me today as we remember the life and legacy of our brother.
During a recent visit to Atlanta, GA for our Board of Directors retreat, I was reminded of how Dr. King responded to the most dutiful call of Alpha leaders – that we serve our brothers and community well. Under the superior leadership of the Alpha Upsilon Lambda and Beta Upsilon Chapters, I traced the steps of Dr. King from Atlanta to Montgomery, AL and was reminded of the importance of the servant leadership model that he famously employed. When I made a decision to seek the 34th General Presidency, I did so with the belief that there is a direct correlation between Alpha’s prominence and our effectiveness as servant leaders.
Atlanta to Montgomery – retracting the steps of Dr. King memento.
Upon this 43rd anniversary of Dr. King’s death, I ask brothers to join me in renewing our vigor to build a stronger Alpha union through service and our commitment to principled leadership. The Alpha Investment, just like our dedication to Alpha’s aims, and the investments made by the giant steps that brothers have taken before us, promises a beyond ideal return. We all must invest in the management of our dear fraternity, by enhancing our local structures – our chapters, areas and districts – by strengthening existing lines of communication; promoting cross district, area, and chapter accountability; and re-engaging brothers who have lost their connection to us. They too have a share in the return. We can guarantee the stability of our fraternity by practicing the philosophy of Dr. King and executing our vision that all brothers can be great, because all brothers can serve.
Brothers, I am firm in my convictions that our brotherhood, with the right tools, can invigorate our goals and allow us to reach the zenith of our existence. The Alpha Investment will ensure that you all have a valued part in reaching our goals. The pursuit of our goals will take some reorganization and revitalization of our image and our approach challenges. Our beloved Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray stated in December 1947:
“Your founders sowed the seed, fed it, and as the plant which has come from this seed (sown in fertile soil) is expanding, you who are before me should see to it that the expansion is upward and onward rather than downward. Prune here and there like the good gardener does when he finds his plant getting unwieldy for only by doing so can the good old Alpha Phi Alpha spirit return.”
Picture of Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial to be unveiled August 2011.
Let us work together to increase our investment in Alpha Phi Alpha to ensure even greater returns. I make the clarion call to all brothers to lend me your support to help forever bring heavy returns to our beloved fraternity. May the spirit of our brotherhood and love for all mankind continue to fall upon each one of our brothers—our investors. And may we always remember that he who is greatest among you shall first be your servant.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Brother Mark S. Tillman,
Candidate for 34th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.