Chapter History

The Willingboro-Fort Dix-McGuire Air Force Base Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was authorized on March 7, 1981, in Detroit, Michigan, following the petition of twenty-two Kappa men from the area. The charter members were Claude R. Attaway, Gorham L. Black III, Dr. William F. Duck, John Grinnage, George E. Henderson, Jr., Oliver Houston, Philip W. Houston, Edward S. James, Robert Johnson, Justin F. McNeil, Dr. Ezra A. Merritt, Roy Paige, Cleophus A. Robinson II, Cleophus A. Robinson III, Michael Robinson, Herman Robinson, Fred Rucker, Dr. George L. Sampson, Arthur L. Smith, Albert F. Washington, Henry A. Wiggins, Charles F. Williams, and James E. Williams, Sr. The chapter was officially chartered on July 10, 1981, at the Fort Dix Officers Club, with a commitment to uphold the high ideals and purposes of the Fraternity. The first officers of the chapter were Albert F. Washington, Polemarch; Dr. Ezra A. Merritt, Vice Polemarch; Charles F. Williams, Keeper of Records; John Grinnage, Assistant Keeper of Records, Cleophus A. Robinson III, Keeper of Exchequer; James E. Williams, Sr., Assistant Keeper of Exchequer; Herman Robinson, Strategus; Claude R. Attaway, Lieutenant Strategus; and Dr. William F. Duck, Historian. The members of the Board of Directors were George E. Henderson, Jr., Oliver Houston, Robert Johnson, Justin F. McNeil, and Cleophus A. Robinson II.

From its inception, the chapter has actively participated in community service and engagement. One notable event was a relaxing jazz day held on a hot September Sunday, where the chapter was the only Greek organization with a tent, providing refreshments to well-wishers and fellow Greeks. This event not only showcased the chapter’s visibility but also reinforced their commitment to being a prominent presence in the community. The flawless execution of the event, from logistics to entertainment, highlighted the chapter’s professionalism and dedication to creating memorable experiences for the community.
The chapter’s commitment to service is further exemplified through its annual initiatives. One of the most cherished traditions is the donation of Christmas toys to Twin Hills Elementary School in Willingboro. These toys are distributed to children who have achieved academically, and the project has grown to include donations to a local women’s shelter. This initiative, started at the chapter’s first annual Fall Harvest Dance, reflects the chapter’s ongoing dedication to supporting and uplifting the youth in their community. Additionally, the chapter has consistently provided Thanksgiving baskets to families in need, a project that has become a hallmark of their service. Brothers like Robert Glenn and LeRoy Harvey have played pivotal roles in ensuring the success of these initiatives, spending hours delivering baskets and witnessing firsthand the impact of their efforts.
In addition to their community service, the Willingboro-Fort Dix-McGuire Alumni Chapter has made significant contributions to the larger fraternity community. By hosting various events, including regional gatherings, they have strengthened the bonds of brotherhood and provided opportunities for fellowship and networking among members. The chapter’s leadership has also been instrumental in mentoring younger members, ensuring that the legacy of Kappa Alpha Psi continues to thrive in the Willingboro-Fort Dix-McGuire area. Their commitment to fostering leadership and excellence within the fraternity has solidified their reputation as a chapter dedicated to both service and brotherhood.