“Advancing Omega’s future through leadership, vision and excellence is the theme of tonight’s banquet,” said Rev. Dr. Ralph W. Canty, guest speaker. “It is appropriate in that within our great Fraternity, we need strong leaders with a vision in order to achieve this excellence we speak of”.
In achieving such excellence, brothers of the Gamma Iota Chapter again stepped into leadership roles as they mentored children throughout the Sumter County school district. The brothers began the week on November 18th with a presentation on gangs and bullying to students at Chestnut Oaks Middle School. The intent of the presentation was to speak out against bullying and becoming a part of positive groups instead of gangs within the school system.
The brothers then visited Shaw Heights Elementary School where they read children’s books to the students. Not only did they spend time reading and playing with the children, but Bro. Anthony Dennis also served as the principal for the day.
On November 20th, the brothers visited Lakewood High School where members of the Chapter arrived in their work attire to discuss their profession. Career fields discussed included: military, law enforcement, education, and politics. During this venue, young teens viewed brothers portraying the true imagine of Omega Men within the community.
November 21st brought an opportunity for graduate brothers to build bridges for brothers of Epsilon Lambda located at Morris College. Brothers from both chapters had lunch on campus where they conversed and shared ideas for the upcoming year.
The brothers culminated the week with fellowship at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church prior to the annual banquet. During the banquet, the Gamma Iota Chapter recognized both brothers and members of the community. However, before the awards were presented, Bro. Dexter McLendon spoke briefly about the Chapter’s 5K “Fight Against Domestic Violence” Walk/Run Event. He stated that it was with great pleasure for him to present a check for $500 to the local YWCA from the proceeds raised during the event.
The Chapter invited Bro. James L. Felder, author of “I buried John F. Kennedy” and a native of Sumter SC to present the Col. Charles Young Military Leadership Award. After discussing the significance of the prestigious award, Bro. Felder presented it to Bro. Shawn Woodard. Following the emotional moment for some, the brothers in attendance were asked to stand in honor of the final award of the evening. Bro. Roosevelt Nelson received the coveted “Omega Man of the Year” award. Bro. Nelson’s accomplishments were acknowledged with a standing ovation - a suitable end to the week and an accomplishment for all brothers to emulate.
Other awards presented were: Cleyardis McDonald-Amaker, Miss Gamma Iota 2013; De’Vonte Clavon, Essay Contest Award; Bro. Hampton Gardner, Citizen of the Year; Brianna Witherspoon, Student of the Year; James Wilson, Citizen of the Year; Dr. Luns Richardson and Delcia Baxter, Bridge Builder Award; Bro. Shawn Woodard, Manhood Award; Rev. Dr. Ralph W. Canty, Scholarship Award; Bro. John Dicks, Perseverance Award; Bro. Dexter McLendon, Uplift Award.
Author: Bro. Shawn Woodard