A Celebration of Brotherhood: Omega Psi Phi’s Executive Director Inspires at Founders Day Rededication
On Friday, November 15, 2024, the brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. gathered at the Metro Atlanta Wide Founders Day Rededication Service, hosted by the Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter. Held in Atlanta, Georgia, the event was an inspiring tribute to the fraternity’s enduring legacy, featuring a keynote address from Executive Director John Howard.
Howard, initiated through the Mighty Upsilon Sigma (US) Chapter at Fort Valley State University in 2003, captivated attendees with a powerful message rooted in the theme, “Omega Men Building a Better Society with Friendship as the Foundation.” His words were a heartfelt call to action, urging brothers to reflect on the true meaning of fraternity and the vital role of friendship in their lives.
Friendship: The Bedrock of Brotherhood
Opening his address, Howard reminded the audience of Omega Psi Phi’s humble beginnings—a fraternity born out of a friendship between three young men and a college professor. He emphasized the Founders’ vision of fraternity as a bond forged through friendship, trust, and shared purpose.
“Pick no man for Omega unless you know that he is a friendly man, for he who would have a friend must be one,” Howard stated, quoting the wisdom of the Founders. He called on the brothers to evaluate the quality of their friendships, highlighting that the strength of Omega Psi Phi lies not in its numbers but in the depth of its relationships.
Trust: The Cornerstone of True Friendship
Howard’s address delved into the essential element of trust, describing it as the foundation upon which all meaningful friendships are built. Sharing a personal anecdote about teaching his daughter to drive, Howard likened trust to faith in a car’s ability to stop when needed—a necessary confidence to move forward.
“Trust is what binds friends together, even when the path is rough and uncertain,” he said. Howard challenged the brothers to embody trustworthiness in their relationships, noting that friendships require vulnerability, accountability, and a willingness to support one another through life’s adversities.
Friendship as a Gateway to Purpose
In a poignant moment, Howard explored the deeper purpose of friendship within the fraternity. He reflected on how meaningful connections help brothers navigate challenges such as loneliness, anxiety, and depression—issues that disproportionately affect Black men.
“Friendship provides a safe space to express struggles, seek support, and build resilience,” he said. Howard urged the brothers not to let the busyness of fraternity life overshadow the joy and love that friendship brings. He encouraged them to prioritize time spent together, from sharing a cigar to supporting each other at family events or social outings.
Building a Better Society Through Friendship
Concluding his address, Howard reminded the brothers that the principles of friendship extend beyond Omega Psi Phi and into the broader community. Grounded in faith, nurtured through trust, and applied to promote emotional and social wellness, friendship empowers the fraternity to uplift society and build a better future.
“Let us leave here tonight renewed in shared purpose, rededicated to standing shoulder to shoulder, united in brotherhood, and committed to building a better society for future generations—one friendship at a time,” Howard said.
A Night to Remember
The rededication service served as both a celebration of Omega Psi Phi’s legacy and a reaffirmation of its mission. Under the leadership of the Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter, the evening brought together brothers across generations to honor the fraternity’s history while looking ahead to its future.
Howard’s keynote address left an indelible mark, reminding all in attendance that the true value of Omega Psi Phi lies in its enduring friendships and unwavering commitment to service. It was a night of reflection, camaraderie, and inspiration—a testament to the fraternity’s motto: Friendship is Essential to the Soul.
