The Columbus (OH) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was chartered on April 23, 1921, making it the seventh alumni chapter in the fraternity and the 23rd chapter overall. Fourteen distinguished men, many of whom were alumni of Ohio State University’s Zeta Chapter, founded the chapter to uphold the fraternity’s ideals of achievement and leadership beyond college life. Everett E. Simpson served as the first Polemarch, and the chapter quickly became a vital link between undergraduate brothers and alumni in central Ohio, fostering professional development and community engagement.

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In its early decades, the chapter faced challenges of sustainability, experiencing periods of dormancy before being formally re-activated on January 15, 1940 under the leadership of Hunter Stratton Hopson. This revival marked a turning point, as the chapter began to grow steadily despite the disruptions of World War II. By the mid-1940s, membership had doubled, and the chapter established itself as a respected presence in the fraternity and the Columbus community. The 1950s were a high point, highlighted by co-hosting the 45th Grand Conclave in 1955 and adopting the motto “Training for Leadership,” which became a guiding principle for decades to come.

 

The social upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s brought new challenges, including declining membership and strained relations between alumni and undergraduate chapters. Nevertheless, the chapter remained committed to service, supporting initiatives such as the United Negro College Fund and expanding Guide Right programs to mentor young men. These efforts reflected the fraternity’s broader mission of uplifting communities during times of change. Despite internal struggles, the chapter’s dedication to achievement and leadership never wavered.

 

A renaissance began in the 1980s, driven by younger leaders who revitalized membership and strengthened ties with Zeta Chapter. The chapter expanded its social and cultural footprint through events like the Valentine’s Dinner Dance and Spring Wine Sip, while also increasing scholarship opportunities. In 1994, the Columbus Kappa Foundation was established as a 501(c)(3) organization to support philanthropic efforts, marking a significant milestone in the chapter’s commitment to education and community service. These initiatives laid the groundwork for sustained growth and impact in the decades that followed.

 

The 21st Century ushered in new achievements, including the acquisition of the chapter’s first fraternity house in 2011—a historic first among NPHC alumni chapters in Columbus. The house became a hub for meetings, mentoring, and community programs. The chapter expanded its outreach through annual Thanksgiving Turkey and Christmas Toy giveaways, voter registration drives, and partnerships with organizations like the NAACP and King Arts Complex. By its centennial in 2021, the Columbus Alumni Chapter had awarded over $167,000 in scholarships and grown to nearly 90 financial members.

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Today, at 105 years old, the Columbus (OH) Alumni Chapter stands as a beacon of resilience and service, embodying the fraternity’s enduring motto: Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor.