Written by Von Howard
As Achievement Week is celebrated across the nation, the Zeta Chi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. began its observance with an act of service that spoke louder than any speech could. Brothers came together for an Adopt-A-Street Community Clean-Up, reminding everyone that true Omega spirit starts with giving back. Before any awards or ceremonies, these men chose to honor their community by caring for it, a gesture that set the tone for a week centered on purpose, unity, and uplift.
From there, Achievement Week grew into a powerful celebration of scholarship, leadership, and brotherhood. At the Achievement Week Banquet, guests were inspired by a meaningful keynote address from Broward County District 8 Commissioner,
, who highlighted this year’s theme: “Impactful Service Through Intentional Friendship.” He reminded attendees that the most lasting change comes from building real relationships and working together with compassion and purpose.
Following the keynote,
delivered the State of the Chapter Address, titled “Built To Last In Shifting Times.” His message encouraged brothers to stay grounded in their values, remain united, and continue being a positive force in Fort Lauderdale, especially in a world that is constantly evolving.
A major highlight of the banquet was the installation of the 2025–26 Chapter Officers, who will guide Zeta Chi in the coming year:
Basileus: Bro. Von Howard
Vice Basileus: Bro. Joseph Metts
Keeper of Records & Seal: Bro. Johnny Gaspard
Keeper of Finance: Bro. Shedrick Dukes
Chapter Reporter: Bro. Kenlon Stevens
Chaplain: Bro. Rodrick Melvin
Keeper of Peace: Bro. Randy Black
Immediate Past Basileus: Bro. Chad Walker
These officers step into their roles with a commitment to service and leadership.
Several brothers were also honored for exemplifying Omega’s highest values:
Bro. Von Howard – Manhood Award
Bro. Roderick Gray – Uplift Award & Omega Man of the Year
Bro. William King – Brigadier General Charles Young Award
Bro. Chad Walker – Perseverance Award
Bro. Joseph Metts – Scholarship Award & Superior Service Award
Bro. Eric Miller – Lifetime Achievement Award
The chapter also proudly honored its Citizen of the Year, Mrs. Kemma Foreman, whose work in parks and recreation continues to positively impact children and families in Northwest Fort Lauderdale and across Broward County.
Another uplifting moment was the induction of the 2025–26 Zeta Chi Lamplighters, a group of young men being guided in leadership and personal growth. The program celebrated Lamplighter Bryce Davis, winner of the Zeta Chi International Essay Contest for his standout essay on “In a World Powered by Artificial Intelligence, What Does It Mean to Lead With Integrity and Purpose?”
Achievement Week continued with a heartfelt worship service at First Baptist Church Piney Grove, a celebratory Founder’s Day social, an empowering Fatherhood Mentoring Roundtable, and a reflective Historical Archives & Oral Traditions Program. The week concluded with the chapter’s Formal Fraternity Meeting, where plans and goals were set for the year ahead.
Through every moment of service, celebration, and fellowship, the Zeta Chi Chapter demonstrated once again that Omega men are, built to serve, built to lead, and built to last.
