On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the brothers of the Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. proudly represented at the Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) 18th Annual African American Male Summit, held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Green Run High School.

Guided by the powerful theme, “The Time Is Always Right to Do What Is Right,” the summit brought together more than 300 students, parents, educators, and community members for a day centered on leadership, responsibility, and positive manhood.

Gamma Xi’s own Elisha “Cadillac” Harris ’79 served as the keynote speaker, delivering an inspiring address that challenged young men to lead with integrity, purpose, and courage. His message resonated strongly with the audience and reinforced the enduring legacy of Dr. King’s call to action. Additionally, Tim Pellerin ’84 represented Gamma Xi by presenting to the high school youth, offering guidance and encouragement rooted in lived experience, mentorship, and achievement.
Further demonstrating true Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift, Wm. Terry Calhoun ’00 and Marcus Rinehardt ’23 volunteered throughout the event, assisting as needed and serving as visible role models for the young men and families in attendance.

The summit also welcomed Mrs. Jobynia Caldwell, the originator of the African American Male Summit at Tallwood High School, whose continued leadership and vision were instrumental to the program’s success. She was joined by numerous Omega brothers from across VBCPS and the local community, underscoring a collective commitment to youth development and community engagement.
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The Gamma Xi Chapter’s presence and participation at the summit reflected its ongoing dedication to service, mentorship, and the empowerment of future generations—living out the principle that the time to do what is right is always now.

On the morning of December 13, 2025, Brothers of the Gamma Xi Chapter assembled at West Point Cemetery,
located at 238 E. Princess Anne Road in Norfolk, Virginia, to participate in the annual Wreaths Across America
ceremony. Gathering promptly at 0900, the Brothers joined community members, veterans, families, and
volunteers in a solemn observance dedicated to honoring the lives and legacies of deceased servicemembers
who have faithfully served the United States.

Wreaths Across America is a national initiative founded on a simple but powerful mission: Remember the
fallen. Honor those who serve. Teach the next generation the value of freedom. Each December, ceremonies
are held across the country to ensure that the sacrifices of America’s military men and women are never
forgotten. The Gamma Xi Chapter’s participation reflected its ongoing commitment to service, remembrance,
and community engagement—core principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
The ceremony at West Point Cemetery was marked by reverence and reflection.

As the program unfolded, participants paused to acknowledge the significance of the location—a resting place for generations of veterans
whose service spanned multiple conflicts and eras. The Brothers of Gamma Xi stood in unity, mindful that each
headstone represented not only a life lost, but also a family impacted and a freedom preserved.
A central moment of the event was the laying of wreaths at the gravesites of fallen servicemembers. Each
wreath, adorned with evergreen boughs and a red bow, symbolized enduring strength, honor, and sacrifice. As
Brothers moved respectfully through the cemetery, placing wreaths, the weight of the moment was evident.
This act served as a visible reminder that remembrance is not a passive gesture, but an intentional commitment
to honor those who answered the nation’s call.

Beyond the ceremonial aspects, the event reinforced the importance of teaching future generations about
service and sacrifice. By participating in Wreaths Across America, the Gamma Xi Chapter helped model civic
responsibility and historical awareness for youth and community members in attendance. The presence of
fraternity members underscored the role that civic organizations play in preserving national memory and
fostering unity.
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The Brothers of Gamma Xi Chapter are proud to have taken part in this meaningful ceremony. Their
participation at West Point Cemetery was not only an act of remembrance, but also a reaffirmation of the
fraternity’s enduring dedication to service above self. As the wreaths were placed and the ceremony concluded,
one message rang clear: the sacrifices of America’s servicemembers will never be forgotten, so long as
communities continue to remember, honor, and teach.

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.
Virginia Beach, VA

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, and Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the Gamma Xi Chapter proudly partnered with the Renaissance Academy to make a meaningful impact on the community by feeding 46 families during the Thanksgiving season. This initiative reflects the chapter’s ongoing commitment to service and brotherhood.
A total of 21 chapter brothers dedicated their time and energy to this effort, including:
Owen Nixon, Mike Mitchell, Mark Nisbett, Shafeeq Ameen, Tim Pellerin, Al Lyons, Keenan Davis, Steve Bynum, Emmanuel Williams, Marcus Rhinehardt, Reginald Hairston, Alvin Swilley, David Whitted, Reginald Duckett, Joe Lee, Kermit Joseph, Mark Watts, James Morton, Mike James, Randall Pearson, and James Barber.

In addition, one visiting brother, Anthony Smith (4-GE-94), and four volunteers joined forces with the chapter, contributing to a combined total of 48 man-hours of service.
Special recognition goes to Bro. Cadillac Harris, who generously donated 34 turkeys, and Bro. Turan Smith, who contributed 5 turkeys, ensuring that families could enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal.
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This collaborative effort exemplifies the spirit of giving and unity that defines the Gamma Xi Chapter. By working together, the chapter and its partners brought hope and nourishment to families in need, reinforcing the importance of community engagement and brotherhood.

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.
Norfolk, VA

On Saturday November 15th, 2025, the Members of the Gamma Xi Chapter participated in the Omega Psi Phi South Hampton Roads Joint Achievement Week Banquet.
The Omega Psi Phi South Hampton Roads Joint Achievement Week Banquet is an annual event hosted by the chapters in the South Hampton Roads area of Virginia, including:

• Lambda Omega Chapter (Norfolk)
• Zeta Iota Chapter (Portsmouth)
• Gamma Xi Chapter (Virginia Beach)
• Sigma Kappa Kappa Chapter (Chesapeake)

 
This joint banquet is the culminating activity of the fraternity's Achievement Week, a mandatory program established in 1921. Its primary purpose is to celebrate and recognize:

• Omega Men of the Year and Superior Service recipients from each participating chapter.
• Citizen of the Year awardees, who are community leaders and citizens who have made significant contributions.
• Founders Lifetime Achievement Award recipients for sustained excellence.
• High School Senior Essay Contest winners, who receive scholarships to benefit talented students.

The Gamma Xi Chapter honored the following brothers at this event:

• Superior Service: Brother John Jessup
• Founders Lifetime Achievement: Brother Turan Smith
• Omega Man of the Year: Brother Micheal Mitchell

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.
Norfolk, VA

On November 14, 2025 Brother Derrick L. Gilbert was inducted into the Norfolk State University Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC) Hall of Fame. Norfolk State University (NSU) ROTC Hall of Fame, was established to honor alumni who excel in military or civilian life, with inductees recognized for significant contributions, alongside inductees into the broader U.S. Army ROTC Hall of Fame, both celebrating Spartan excellence.

Brother Derrick L. Gilbert is a dedicated professional with various experiences in the private sector and military that include nine years of active duty. Brother Gilbert retired Dec 2018 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) in the U. S. Army. Global Experiences (Germany, Iraq, Kuwait, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Kenya). Brother Gilbert was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in the Spring of 1985 through the Pi Gamma (Norfolk State University) Chapter and is a current member of the Gamma Xi Chapter. 

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.

Chesapeake, VA

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. often refers to new members as the "Bloodline" of the fraternity, emphasizing their vital role in sustaining and continuing the organization’s legacy. This term signifies that new members are viewed as an essential part of the fraternity’s ongoing history and future. They are expected to uphold the fraternity's principles, values, and traditions, ensuring that these ideals are passed down through generations.
Saturday, November the 8th, 2025 the Gamma Xi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc, welcomed seven new members to the fold. 
The Gamma Xi Chapter would like to introduce the Fall 2025 line also known as the “5Q Yard line”
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** Pictured in order left to right **
Anthony Dukes
Alex Dukes
Eugene Johnson
Melvin Cotton III
Mike James
Mark Watts
Justin Chase

By Brother Oliver W. Hunter Jr. edited by Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.

Virginia Beach, VA

On September 20, 2025, the brothers of Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. proudly participated in the Annual Out of the Darkness Walk held at Mount Trashmore. The Out of the Darkness Movement, which began in 2004, creates opportunities for individuals to share their personal connections to suicide prevention while fostering a culture that is more informed and compassionate about mental health. During this event, friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers walked side by side supporting one another and honoring the memory of those lost to suicide.

This was Gamma Xi’s first time participating in the walk, where 11 brothers proudly took part, standing together in solidarity with the community. As a chapter, Gamma Xi exceeded its fundraising goal by raising $425, surpassing the initial goal of $250. Every dollar raised through the Out of the Darkness Walks allows the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to continue investing in life-saving research, education, advocacy, and support for those impacted by suicide.
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For young Black men, the reality is especially urgent—according to a 2022 study by the CDC National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, suicide is the third leading cause of death among Black or African Americans ages 10–24. These statistics remind us of the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and support in communities of color.
Purple, one of the primary colors representing suicide prevention, made the presence of the brothers of Gamma Xi wearing our signature purple and gold especially powerful at such a meaningful event.

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.
Norfolk State University, Norfolk, VA

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Sickle Cell Association, Inc. – Hampton Roads (SCAHR) welcomed community members, supporters, and families to its 32nd Annual Walk for Sickle Cell, held at the Norfolk State University’s Dick Price Stadium.
The event, under the theme “Every Step Counts”, served both as a fundraiser and as a celebration of hope, community, and ongoing advocacy for individuals living with sickle cell disease and their families.

Sickle cell disease remains a major public-health and social‐support challenge. The Sickle Cell Association of Hampton Roads has long offered critical non-medical support—such as crisis assistance, education, transportation aid, and advocacy—for adults and families affected by sickle cell disease.
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This annual walk is one of the keyways the organization raises both awareness and funds to support its programs. Proceeds from the 2025 walk will benefit the “emergency assistance fund”, disease-management counselling, educational and support counselling programs, and efforts to bolster quality of life for those impacted.
By holding the event in September—coinciding with National Sickle Cell Awareness Month—the walk helps amplify attention to sickle cell disease during a month of heightened national awareness.