The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, has reaffirmed its enduring commitment to education, leadership, and national renewal, declaring that investment in learning remains Liberia's most reliable pathway to dignity, prosperity, and stability.
The declaration came at the fraternity's 12th Annual Scholarship and Awards Program, held over the weekend, which brought together Alpha brothers, national leaders, scholars, partners, and friends of the fraternity for an evening blending remembrance, recognition, and renewed purpose.
Delivering the keynote address, B. Elias Shoniyin, President of the Ila Epsilon Lambda Chapter, emphasized that the gathering was more than a social event--it was a statement of resolve amid Liberia's economic and educational challenges.
"This night is not just a ball; it is a statement," Shoniyin said. "A statement that even in difficult times, hope must never be rationed, and Alpha Phi Alpha will never retreat from its historic responsibility to lead."
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
The evening opened on a solemn note as Alpha brothers paid tribute to the late John Toback Foley Booth, an educator, public servant, patriot, and devoted Alpha man whose absence was deeply felt. Shoniyin described Booth as a man whose life demonstrated that "character outlives titles and service outlives applause," noting that his contributions continue to shape lives long after his passing.
"Brother Booth did not merely belong to Alpha; he made Alpha," he said, urging members to allow Booth's legacy to continue guiding the fraternity's work.
Acknowledging the broader national context, Shoniyin highlighted the financial hardships facing Liberian families, noting that many households are forced to choose between paying school fees and meeting basic needs such as food and healthcare.
"Liberia has never been an easy place to live or to become fully educated," he said, citing studies showing that more than half of Liberian households struggle annually to meet educational expenses.
Despite these realities, Shoniyin stressed that nations do not escape poverty by chance but by deliberately educating their children and preparing them for leadership. "That is why Alpha exists," he emphasized.
Founded in Liberia in 1958, the Ila Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha has consistently invested in human capital development through scholarships, mentorship, and leadership training. Initiatives such as the Alpha Leadership Academy, Mentoring Initiative, and My Brother's Keeper Program have supported young Liberians pursuing careers in medicine, engineering, agriculture, education, technology, public administration, and other key sectors.
Shoniyin shared the story of a former scholarship recipient who said Alpha's support restored his dignity, not just his finances. Today, the beneficiary is employed, supporting his family, and mentoring others.
"One scholarship does not lift one person," Shoniyin said. "It lifts a household, a family, and an entire community."
The program also acknowledged President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, who was unable to attend due to official duties abroad. Shoniyin described the President's absence as "leadership in real time," noting that while he could not be physically present, his Alpha values and spirit of service were felt throughout the hall.
A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 Alpha Awards of Distinction, led by Lamin Lighe, Chairman of the Election Committee.
Among the honorees, Ambassador George W. Wallace Jr. received the Alpha Award of Honor, the fraternity's highest civilian and public service recognition, for over five decades of distinguished diplomatic service to Liberia. T. Nelson Williams II was presented the Alpha Award of Merit for 41 years of service to Alpha Phi Alpha, including his role in expanding the fraternity's footprint in West Africa and the Middle East.
Dr. Puchu Leona Bernard received the Alpha Lifetime Achievement Award for her exceptional contributions to education, civil service reform, governance, and gender inclusion, including authoring Liberia's first sexual harassment policy for public employees. Dr. Frank Glover was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his leadership as a Christian minister and renowned surgeon, as well as his efforts to establish a medical college in Liberia to expand access to healthcare.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
Imam Sheikh Ali Krayee received the Alpha Leadership Award for his work as a religious scholar, peace advocate, and national ethics leader, promoting unity across Liberia and the region. Nathaniel E. Kevin was awarded the Alpha Leadership Award for his transformational role in youth mentorship and leadership development through the Alpha Leadership Academy.
In closing, Shoniyin reminded Alpha scholars that they are not charity cases but strategic investments in Liberia's future, noting that while Alpha does not demand perfection, it insists on character and excellence. He called on sponsors, partners, and friends of the fraternity to remain engaged, stressing that investing in education is an investment in national stability, opportunity, and prosperity.
"We wear black to remember the struggle, and gold to remind ourselves of the victory," he said. "And tonight, the gold is shining."
The evening concluded with fellowship and celebration, carrying a clear message: Alpha Phi Alpha is not merely celebrating success; it is actively shaping Liberia's future.
