Building a Legacy: Mark E. Jackson Inspires at Founders Day Rededication Service at Howard University
On Sunday, November 17, 2024, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated gathered at the historic Cramton Auditorium on the campus of Howard University—the birthplace of Omega Psi Phi—for a powerful Founders Day Rededication Service. The keynote speaker for the evening was Mark E. Jackson, First Vice Grand Basileus, whose stirring address captivated attendees with a message of unity, purpose, and faith.
This year’s celebration, themed “Omega Men Building a Better Society with Friendship as the Foundation,” underscored the fraternity’s commitment to service, leadership, and unwavering friendship.
A Call to Unity and Gratitude
Jackson began by expressing heartfelt gratitude to the brothers and mentors who had shaped his journey over 36 years in Omega Psi Phi. With humility and humor, he reflected on the lessons learned from both triumphs and challenges, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, accountability, and shared purpose in the fraternity.
“Turn to your neighbor and tell them you love them,” Jackson encouraged, reminding the audience of the fleeting nature of life. “The reality is, someone here tonight won’t be here next year. Don’t miss the opportunity to express that love and strengthen the bonds of friendship.”
Friendship as the Foundation
At the heart of Jackson’s address was the core value of friendship—a principle deeply embedded in the fraternity’s mission. Drawing inspiration from the Founders and biblical teachings, Jackson highlighted the transformative power of friendship, which fosters trust, loyalty, and mutual support.
“Our Founders established friendship as the guiding standard because they understood its power to build strong men, families, and communities,” he said. “Friendship is the rock upon which we build our fraternity and our legacy.”
Building a Better Society
Jackson called on the brothers of Omega Psi Phi to actively engage in addressing critical issues facing their communities, including voter suppression, educational equity, and criminal justice reform. “We are the builders,” he declared. “We lay the foundation for a better society, not just through words but through action.”
He outlined four practical steps to build a stronger society with friendship at its core:
- Save Our Sons: Advocate for mentoring programs, STEM education, and financial literacy initiatives for young men.
- Check on Each Other: Participate in the “Brother, You’re On My Mind” initiative, prioritizing mental health and emotional support.
- Support HBCUs: Invest in historically Black colleges and universities through donations and advocacy.
- Reclaim and Retain Brothers: Encourage financial and active participation within the fraternity, fostering a stronger, united brotherhood.
A Legacy Rooted in Faith
As Jackson concluded, he reminded the audience of the fraternity’s Christian foundation and the enduring guidance of faith. “God has preserved Omega for the last 113 years, and He will continue to guide us,” he proclaimed, urging brothers to remain steadfast in their spiritual and fraternal commitments.
Quoting the Bible and invoking the legacy of the fraternity’s Founders—Frank Coleman, Oscar J. Cooper, Edgar Amos Love, and Dr. Ernest E. Just—Jackson inspired the audience to continue their work with courage, conviction, and a sense of divine purpose.
A Celebration of Brotherhood
The Founders Day Rededication Service at Howard University was a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. With over a century of commitment to manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift, the fraternity remains a beacon of excellence, service, and leadership.
As the applause filled Cramton Auditorium, Jackson’s words resonated deeply with all in attendance, leaving a lasting impact on the brothers and the Washington, D.C., community. It was a night to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look boldly toward a future rooted in friendship, faith, and service.
Long live Omega Psi Phi. Long live the legacy of our Founders.
