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 Americaceremony. Gathering promptly at 0900, the Brothers joined community members, veterans, families, andvolunteers in a solemn observance dedicated to honoring the lives and legacies of deceased service memberswho 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, ceremoniesare held across the country to ensure that the sacrifices of America’s military men and women are neverforgotten. 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 veteranswhose service spanned multiple conflicts and eras. The Brothers of Gamma Xi stood in unity, mindful that eachheadstone 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. Eachwreath, adorned with evergreen boughs and a red bow, symbolized enduring strength, honor, and sacrifice. AsBrothers 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 commitmentto 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 offraternity members underscored the role that civic organizations play in preserving national memory andfostering 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 ascommunities continue to remember, honor, and teach.

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.

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.
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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
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​By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.
Norfolk, VA

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.

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.

Virginia Beach, VA – June 10, 2025 — On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, The Golden Fold, a signature youth mentoring initiative supported by the Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., proudly concluded its program year with the 17th Annual Crossing the Bar Ceremony. This year’s celebration featured the accomplishments of twelve outstanding Young Leaders (YLs) and marked the end of another successful season of mentorship, growth, and service.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Noah Deavers, the program’s senior participant, who was honored as Mentee of the Year. In recognition of his leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to service, Noah was awarded the Gamma Xi Chapter’s James Dixion/Calvin Sears Memorial Scholarship. He is set to attend Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in the fall, where he will pursue a degree in nursing.

A Year of Growth and Leadership Development
Over the course of the 2024–2025 fiscal year, The Golden Fold conducted 20 enriching sessions designed to promote self-awareness, leadership, and public speaking skills. The program combined structured workshops with real-world experiences to help cultivate confident, community-minded young men.
Among this year’s standout experiences were:

• Attending a Norfolk State University football game, accompanied by two engaged fathers,
• Touring the Air & Space Museum,
• Participating in the prestigious 900 Men Strong Scholarship Breakfast, and
• Supporting The Salvation Army’s holiday kettlebell ringing campaign.

As part of their community service efforts, the Young Leaders raised $378.83 in charitable donations and contributed significantly to the chapter’s outreach by logging 851 total man-hours—a testament to their dedication and work ethic.
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A Strong Foundation for the Future
The Golden Fold continues to stand as a model for youth mentorship, offering young African American males the opportunity to develop their character, confidence, and sense of purpose under the guidance of committed mentors and community leaders.
This year’s Crossing the Bar Ceremony not only marked a moment of celebration but also served as a reminder of the transformative impact that structured mentorship can have on the lives of young men. With graduates like Noah Deavers leading the way, The Golden Fold’s legacy remains strong and its future even brighter.
The Golden Fold is proudly supported by the Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., whose mission of service, scholarship, and uplift continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.
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Virginia Beach, VA – June 7, 2025 — The Brothers of Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. demonstrated their ongoing commitment to community service on Saturday, June 7, by hosting an Adopt-A-Highway Clean-Up Event along Baker Road in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Fraternity members gathered early in the morning to don their colors, grab trash bags, and begin their work revitalizing a stretch of this well-traveled roadway. The event was part of Omega Psi Phi's national initiative to promote environmental responsibility and civic pride, aligning with the organization’s cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.

“Our goal is not just to clean the road,” said a chapter member, “but to set an example for our community, especially our youth. Service is central to our mission, and we take pride in doing our part to keep Virginia Beach beautiful.”
The clean-up event saw participation from both long-standing members and newer initiates, highlighting the chapter’s intergenerational unity and shared values. The Adopt-A-Highway program, run by the City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, allows civic-minded organizations like Gamma Xi to take responsibility for keeping public roadways free of litter.
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Passersby honked and waved in support as the brothers worked diligently under the summer sun. By the end of the event, several bags of litter had been collected, leaving Baker Road noticeably cleaner and safer.
The Gamma Xi Chapter plans to continue its regular participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program and other outreach initiatives throughout the year.

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.

Chesapeake, VA – May 31, 2025 — On Saturday, May 31st, the Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. proudly participated in the Annual Relay For Life event held at Chesapeake City Park. The event, which ran from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (event suspended due to inclement weather), brought together survivors, caregivers, families, and community members in a united stand against cancer.
Organized by the American Cancer Society, Relay For Life is a nationwide movement that raises awareness and funds for cancer research, support services, and advocacy. The Gamma Xi Chapter joined hundreds of participants walking the track, sharing stories, and honoring those affected by the disease.

Fraternity in Action
The Gamma Xi Chapter’s presence was marked by its commitment to community service, brotherhood, and uplifting those in need. Members set up a tent decorated in purple and gold, distributed educational materials, and participated in various relay activities throughout the day. The fraternity also raised funds in support of cancer patients and their families, continuing its legacy of servant leadership.
Brothers of Gamma Xi walked in solidarity with survivors and in memory of loved ones lost, offering words of encouragement and comfort to those navigating the journey of cancer recovery. Their participation was a testament to the chapter’s values and its ongoing engagement in health and social justice initiatives.
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Community Spirit and Support
Chesapeake City Park was filled with energy and purpose as teams from across the region came together to celebrate life and raise hope. Luminaria bags lined the track as evening fell, each one glowing in tribute to a name, a face, a story. The emotional luminaria ceremony reminded everyone of the importance of continued advocacy, research, and community support.
Food vendors, entertainment, and family-friendly activities made the day a vibrant mix of memories and celebration, while teams shared fellowship and a common goal—to end cancer. As a result of the goodwill of the event, Gamma Xi was able to raise $1022.68 online and $220 day of the event in donations.
 
Through their active involvement in the 2025 Relay For Life, the Gamma Xi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. once again demonstrated that their motto, “Friendship is Essential to the Soul,” extends far beyond fraternity—it’s a guiding principle in their service to humanity.