The 87th Grand Chapter Meeting: A Legacy of Brotherhood, Business, and Reconnection in Phoenix
- Marcus D. Taylor
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 12
July 1–6, 2025 | Phoenix, Arizona
The 87th Grand Chapter Meeting
This summer, the city of Phoenix transformed into a desert oasis of crimson and cream as more than 15,000 noble men of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. gathered for the 87th Grand Chapter Meeting. Held July 1st through July 6th, this Conclave was not just a celebration—it was a statement. And for the Denton-Lewisville (TX) Alumni Chapter, it marked a historic milestone.
Denton-Lewisville’s Largest Showing Ever
With 20 members in attendance, this was the largest DLA turnout for any Grand Chapter Meeting to date. From seasoned 50-year Brothers to recent initiates, the presence of DLA was strong, proud, and purposeful. Brothers arrived with a unified mission: to represent, reconnect, and reaffirm their bond within the Noble Clan of Kappa Alpha Psi.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement—business during the day, celebration at night, and deep brotherhood throughout.
Leadership, Innovation, and Representation
Polemarch Randal V. Hawthorne, DLA’s 10th chapter Polemarch, took point in every business session—reviewing legislation, capturing key details, and offering strategic input to help shape the direction of the Fraternity.
Vice Polemarch Marcus D. Taylor, inspired by the Grand Keeper of Records’ presentation on emerging technologies, launched a prototype chatbot for the chapter website, showcasing DLA’s commitment to modernization and digital excellence. The tool is designed to answer questions, guide users through chapter events, and serve as a foundational resource for communication.
For first-time delegate Brother Eric Sturdivant, the experience was eye-opening. The procedural rigor, the magnitude of the assembly, and the layered responsibilities of representation provided him with a newfound appreciation for the inner workings of Kappa governance. His dedication throughout the week reflected the excellence that DLA aims to cultivate in all of its members.
Meetings, Moments, and Memories
Everywhere you looked—hallways, elevators, vendor rooms, hotel lobbies—Brothers were embracing, laughing, reminiscing, and exchanging numbers. The Conclave was a space for multi-generational connection: young Neos meeting 50-year members, old friends reuniting, and Brothers who had only known each other through GroupMe or Zoom finally shaking hands for the first time.
A Memorable Night of Brotherhood and Reunion
In addition to formal programming, one of the most meaningful experiences came off the Conclave agenda. DLA members joined with Zeta Upsilon alumni—many of whom trace their Kappa roots back to the University of North Texas—for a night of fellowship at the home of Brother Fred Bohanna. The evening was rich with laughter, stories, mentorship, and reconnection. From younger Neos to seasoned initiates, the gathering bridged generations and chapters, reminding everyone that Kappa is always home.
The business sessions were powerful, engaging topics such as leadership succession, chapter development, technology infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. DLA’s leadership remained attentive and engaged, taking lessons back home to strengthen chapter operations.
Entertainment and Signature Events
Evenings brought entertainment and elevation—dinners, galas, after-hour receptions, and of course, the legendary Cane Off, where skill, rhythm, and tradition collided in spectacular fashion. Whether in suits or chapter polos, Brothers showed up with pride and presence.
The vendor marketplace was bustling—a sea of Kappa Alpha Psi paraphernalia vendors from across the country. Blazers, lapel pins, custom canes, legacy patches, silk-lined jackets—anything you could imagine was on display. Brothers supported small businesses and celebrated the artistic expression of Kappa culture.
Family and Fellowship
The event was not just for members—Silhouettes, family members, and guests joined the festivities. From beautifully planned luncheons to casual meetups, the energy was high and the love was evident. Sorors from Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho added to the spirit of unity, laughter, and friendly conversations throughout downtown Phoenix.
Everywhere you turned, there was someone smiling, taking a selfie, or sharing a memory that would live long past this week in July.
Final Thoughts: The Bond in the Desert
The 88th Grand Chapter Meeting was more than a conference—it was a reset, a revival, and a reminder.
It reminded us of who we are and what we represent. It revived bonds that had been paused by distance, time, or life’s demands. And it reset our commitment to the purpose, mission, and legacy of Kappa Alpha Psi.
For the Denton-Lewisville Alumni Chapter, the showing in Phoenix was historic. But more than that, it was preparatory—laying the groundwork for future leadership, engagement, and innovation.
“Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor” is not just our motto. It is our mandate. And in Phoenix, we upheld it. With pride. With passion. And with purpose.
Comments