Alpha Phi

Alpha Phi Alpha’s National President to Speak as Durham Chapter Marks 87 Years of Service

DURHAM, NC – For nearly nine decades, a brotherhood rooted in service, scholarship, and social justice has shaped the civic and cultural landscape of Durham. This month, that legacy takes center stage as one of the most influential voices in Black Greek life prepares to visit the Bull City.

Metellus

The Durham chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will mark a major milestone with its 87th Anniversary Banquet on Saturday, May 17 at 7:00 PM at the Ivy Community Center (4222 Fayetteville Road, Durham, NC).

The featured guest for the evening is Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr., the 37th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., who will deliver the keynote address.

National Leadership, Historic Legacy

Founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University, Alpha Phi Alpha holds the distinction of being the first intercollegiate African American Greek-letter fraternity. Its mission: to foster brotherhood among men of African descent and promote scholarship, service, and social justice.

alpha phi alphaThe Beta Theta Lambda Chapter, chartered in Durham on May 7, 1938, continues to champion that mission, serving Durham and Orange counties with a commitment to uplifting the community through civic engagement, mentorship, and educational initiatives.

Keynote Speaker: A Historic Leader

Brother Lucien J. Metellus, Jr., a graduate of Syracuse University, currently serves as Project Manager and Senior Business Analyst at Centrilogic. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Metellus is:

  • A published author and minister

  • Chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee for the City of Frederick, MD

  • The first General President of Haitian descent in the fraternity’s 118-year history

Celebrating Lifelong Commitment

The banquet will also recognize brothers who have reached 25, 40, and 50 years of membership and honor individuals whose work has significantly impacted both the Fraternity and the broader community.

Distinguished local Alpha members include:

  • Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams

  • Mayor Pro Tempore Mark-Anthony Middleton

  • Durham School Board Member Wendell Tabb

An Invitation to Celebrate

The 87th Anniversary Banquet is not only a tribute to the Fraternity’s enduring impact in Durham but also a rare opportunity to hear directly from the national president as the chapter continues its legacy of leadership, service, and brotherhood.

Visit bullcityalphas.org for more information.