About
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African-American men, was founded December 4, 1906 at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., by seven college men who recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in this country. The visionary founders, known as the “Jewels” of the fraternity, are Henry Arthur Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel Allison Murray, Robert Harold Ogle and Vertner Woodson Tandy.
History of Pi Gamma Lambda
In 1988, while assigned to Fort McPherson, Ga., Bro. Silas Christian noticed there were several Alpha men stationed on the military installation. Most of them were not active with a local chapter. Because Bro. Christian had been instrumental in chartering other chapters, he asked the military brothers if they would be interested in establishing a chapter on Fort McPherson. After several interest meetings with current military personnel, retired military personnel and civilian brothers, it was decided to pursue the possibility of chartering an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. chapter on the military installation.
Bro. Christian and the other brothers petitioned the Alpha leadership for a charter to be located at Fort McPherson, Ga., after receiving permission from the installation commander. Bro. Henry Ponder was the General President at that time. Pi Gamma Lambda was chartered Fri., Jan. 6, 1989, at Fort McPherson Installation. Keeping with the true spirit of the fraternity, Pi Gamma Lambda provides outstanding leadership, scholarship and programs for the betterment of the Clayton County community.
On Jan. 15, 2009, as part of the 20th Anniversary celebration kickoff, Pi Gamma Lambda became the first to donate and deed the chapter’s historical papers, pictures and artifacts to the Auburn Avenue African American Research Library in Atlanta.
Through the Pandemic
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, communities across the globe faced unprecedented challenges, from health crises to economic hardships. In Clayton County, Georgia, the Pi Gamma Lambda Chapter stepped up to address one of the most pressing issues exacerbated by the pandemic: food insecurity.
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With a deep commitment to service and advocacy, the Pi Gamma Lambda Chapter swiftly mobilized its members to combat food insecurity in Clayton County. Understanding the immediate needs of their community, they launched several initiatives to provide support to those struggling to put food on the table.
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One of their most impactful efforts was the establishment of food drives and distribution events, where volunteers collected and distributed essential food items to families facing economic hardship. These events not only provided much-needed sustenance but also fostered a sense of solidarity and support within the community.
The Pi Gamma Lambda chapter's dedication didn't stop when the pandemic began to recede. Instead, the Pi Gamma Lambda Chapter remained steadfast in their commitment to serving the Clayton County community long after the initial crisis subsided. They recognized that food insecurity was not just a temporary issue but a systemic challenge that required ongoing attention and advocacy.
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As a result, the chapter shifted its focus to sustainable solutions and long-term support systems. They launched educational programs on nutrition and food budgeting, empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to make healthier choices and stretch their resources further.
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Additionally, the Pi Gamma Lambda Chapter engaged in advocacy efforts to address the root causes of food insecurity, advocating for policies that promote economic equity and access to nutritious food for all residents of Clayton County.
Through their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, the Pi Gamma Lambda Chapter has become a beacon of hope in Clayton County, inspiring positive change and making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and families. As they continue their mission of service and advocacy, they serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, community-driven action can create a brighter, more equitable future for all.
