06/09/2026
Chartered on Saturday, June 9, 1923, in Greensboro, North Carolina, by Brother Stanback of Wilson, North Carolina, Kappa Lambda made history as the first alumni chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in North Carolina and the 10th alumni chapter established fraternity-wide. Kappa Lambda quickly became a beacon of leadership, scholarship, and service throughout the state.
The chapter’s charter members included several trailblazers whose impact extended far beyond Alpha. Our 7 charter members:
Brother F. L. Merry – President
Brother F. D. Bluford – Vice President
Brother J. B. Matthews – Secretary
Brother D. K. Cherry – Chaplain
Brother C. W. Davis
Brother R. O. Lanier
Brother H. D. Giles
Brother Ferdinand D. Bluford served as the transformative president of North Carolina A&T State University for 30 years, elevating the institution into a nationally respected HBCU. Brother Raphael O’Hara Lanier became a distinguished educator, diplomat, and founding president of Texas Southern University. Brother Julius B. Matthews broke barriers in medicine and civic leadership, while Brother David K. Cherry strengthened Black higher education as an educator, administrator, and college president. Brother Clarence W. Davis was recognized for advancing physical education at Howard University, helping transform the department into one of the university’s most dynamic programs.
As Kappa Lambda continues its second century of service, it remains guided by the principles of leadership, scholarship, fellowship, and the uplifting of humanity. The chapter’s rich legacy is reflected not only in its historic accomplishments but also in its ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
All Hail Kappa Lambda!