The Golden Fold Concludes Year with 17th Annual Crossing the Bar Ceremony

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.