Greetings

  • Greetings - Dr. Melvin Johnson, TSU President

     

     

    It is my pleasure to greet you on behalf of the Tennessee State University family.  This is a momentous occasion.  This marker acknowledges the path taken by men of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc. and denotes the role TSU has played in preparing them to be positive contributors to society after their matriculation from the hallowed halls of this University.
     
    In the 96-year history of Tennessee State University, men and women of all Greek letter organizations have been instrumental in conveying the university’s message of service to the world.  But none surpasses the men of Alpha Phi Alpha as they have demonstrated service and scholarship to throughout the world.  This marker will stand as a symbol of the Fraternity's commitment of service to humankind and the university's commitment to foster the spirit of service in all students.  Alpha Phi Alpha and Tennessee State University are intertwined in their missions of scholarship and deeds of service to humankind.  I hope the campus community and visitors will see this marker as a reminder of the legacy of great service left by the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha that walked the campus of the Tennessee State University.  I hope those that someday chronicle the history of this great University make note of this day and tell the story of the men of Alpha Phi Alpha and their commitment and love for TSU.
     
    When the Alpha TSU story is told, you will hear of the exploits of the men of Beta Omicron Chapter.  Since 1934 they have consistently been student leaders and servants to the university.  You will hear about Brother William Jasper Hale, the first president of Tennessee State University.  Brother Andrew P. Torrence who served as the university’s third president.  The story will tell that Brother Frederick Humphries was the fourth president and how the historic Geiger lawsuit was filed on his watch.  The story will note Brother George Cox served as interim president.  The Alpha TSU story will surely tell of Brother Otis Floyd the university’s fifth president and the first African-American to serve as chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents.  As a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha, I Melvin N. Johnson, the seventh president of TSU, hope to be mentioned as well.
     
    Finally, this marker will contribute to the aesthetics of the campus landscape, but the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Beta Omicron Chapter have always and will continue to contribute to the legacy of TSU’s service and scholarship.