FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 12, 2025

Media Contact:
Whitney Rawls
Chairperson, 7th Annual Benefit Gala & Achievement Week Awards
Eta Nu Education Foundation
954-444-0188 | etanuques1969@gmail.com

Eta Nu Education Foundation to Honor Dr. Dorsey C. Miller, Jr. at 7th Annual Benefit Gala & Achievement Week Awards

POMPANO BEACH, FL – The Eta Nu Education Foundation, in partnership with the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., will honor Dr. Dorsey C. Miller, Jr. with the prestigious James L. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award during the 7th Annual Benefit Gala & Achievement Week Awards, presented by The Figgers Foundation. The black-tie celebration will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Tru by Hilton Pompano Beach Pier, beginning with a rooftop open-bar reception at 6:00 PM.

Honoring a Legacy of Leadership and Service

A lifelong educator and civic leader, Dr. Dorsey C. Miller, Jr. has dedicated his career to advancing diversity, education, and opportunity. A proud graduate of Morehouse College, he earned advanced degrees from the University of Florida and Florida Atlantic University, leading to a distinguished career in education and public service.

As Executive Director of Diversity and Equal Educational Opportunities for the School Board of Broward County, Dr. Miller championed fairness and inclusion for all students. A Life Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he served as the organization’s 35th Grand Basileus (National President) and currently leads D.C. Miller & Associates, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in leadership and organizational development.

Dr. Miller’s service extends across numerous civic and community organizations, including the Urban League of Broward County, YMCA, American Cancer Society, and Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. Recognized in Ebony Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Blacks in America and Who’s Who in Black America, he has received more than 400 awards for his dedication to education and community uplift.

“Dr. Miller’s lifelong commitment to service and leadership continues to inspire generations,” said Whitney Rawls, Chairperson of the Benefit Gala & Achievement Week Awards. “His example embodies the mission of the Eta Nu Education Foundation and the true spirit of Omega Psi Phi.”

A Celebration of Excellence

In addition to honoring Dr. Miller, the Gala will also recognize:

• Omega Man of the Year – to be announced at the event
• Scholar of the Year – recognizing academic excellence among Eta Nu mentees
• Superior Service Award, and more

The event celebrates a year of achievement for the Eta Nu Chapter, which was recently recognized as the International Social Action Large Chapter of the Year by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.—a testament to its ongoing impact through mentorship, community engagement, and civic leadership.

Presented by The Figgers Foundation, the Gala is supported by generous sponsors including Holman, Arrow Group, and Love, Tito’s. Proceeds benefit the Foundation’s scholarships, mentorship programs (Gentlemen of Influence and Q-Unit), local service initiatives supporting youth and families throughout Broward County, and the Foundation’s recently opened, state-of-the-art S.T.E.M. and Innovation Lab in Pompano Beach.

Tickets: $150 per person | Tables: $1,450 (10 seats)

Sponsorships: Available at multiple levels. Reserve your seat or become a sponsor at www.etanu.org/gala.

About the Eta Nu Education Foundation

The Eta Nu Education Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, empowers youth and families across Broward County through scholarships, mentorship, and community uplift. The Foundation’s work is guided by the principles of leadership, education, and service to others.

Each year, Eta Nu recognizes its James L. Jones Lifetime Leadership Award honoree and Scholar of the Year at its annual Benefit Gala & Fundraiser. The James L. Jones Lifetime Leadership Award is named after Eta Nu’s founding charter member, James L. Jones, a retired educator, former principal of Blanche Ely High School and community servant. The award is given to members of the community who have devoted their life to serving others and making impact in disadvantaged and underserved communities. Past recipients have included James L. Jones (himself), George Smith, Coach Johnny Alexander, and Broward County Mayor Lamar Fisher, retired Judge Ilona Holmes and more. The awards and honorees will be celebrated at the annual Eta Nu Education Benefit Gala taking place on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 6:00pm to 10:00pm at Tru by Hilton Pompano Beach Pier, 200 N Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062. For more information or tickets, visit https://www.etanu.org/gala-2025.

About the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was chartered on June 11, 1969 in Pompano Beach, FL. It is a premiere, award-winning chapter and 2x Social Action Large Chapter of the Year that provides uplift and community service to Pompano Beach and north Broward County.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 8, 2025

Media Contact:
Whitney Rawls
Director of Public Relations
Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
etanuques1969@gmail.com
(954) 408-2230

 

Nation-Leading Launch: REII and Blaze Fire Games Partner with Eta Nu Education Foundation to Unveil the First UGC + AI & Esports Academy Center of Excellence

Historic move closes the digital divide and propels students into high‑growth digital careers.

POMPANO BEACH, FL – The Eta Nu Education Foundation, Inc., in partnership with Reimagine Education and Innovation Institute (REII) and Blaze Fire Games, has launched the nation’s first Blaze Fire Games User‑Generated Content (UGC) + Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Esports Academy Center of Excellence (COE). This groundbreaking model integrates gaming, AI, and workforce development into a single pipeline, equipping students from middle school through higher education with stackable micro‑credentials, dual‑credit courses, and direct industry pipelines.

“As a son of Pompano Beach who built a career in technology and entrepreneurship—and as a lifelong advocate for youth—I am profoundly proud to help launch our nation’s first UGC + AI & Esports Academy,” said Harry B. Harrell, Sr., Chairman of the Eta Nu Education Foundation. “Together with the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity,
Inc., we built our educational facility through grit and community partnerships, driven by a vision to better serve the needs of our community.

Originally, we established an African American resource center to educate our youth about their past so they could be better prepared for their future. Today, we have reimagined and digitally upgraded that center—harnessing the power of esports and artificial intelligence to create new pathways that will transform lives and neighborhoods.

Our unwavering commitment is to uplift underserved youth through education and public service. This initiative—made possible through our partnership with the Reimagine Education Innovation Institute (REII) Center of Excellence and their global network of strategic partners—is a true testament to our creed, ‘Lifting as We Climb.’ It ensures that no young person will be left behind, regardless of their socioeconomic status.”

Harrell’s remarks were echoed by Dr. Isiah Reese, CEO & Co-Founder of Aperion Global Institute and Blaze Fire Games, who emphasized that this initiative is about igniting a movement.

“We are not just announcing a program – we are igniting a movement,” said Dr. Isiah Reese, CEO & Co‑Founder of AperionGlobalInstitute.com and Blaze Fire Games. “For too long, underserved students have been shut out of the digital economy. By weaving UGC, AI, and esports into education, this Center of Excellence ensures every learner – particularly Black and minority youth – gains the skills, mentorship, and credentials needed to lead in the fastest‑growing sectors on the planet.”

Following Dr. Reese’s remarks, James St. Louis—Chief Innovation Officer for the Eta Nu Education Foundation and Chief Technology Officer for Miami International Airport, and a proud US Marine Corps Veteran—underscored the initiative’s technological and societal impact.

“As both the Chief Innovation Officer of the Eta Nu Education Foundation and the Chief Technology Officer of Miami International Airport, I see every day how transformative technology can be,” said James St. Louis, CIO for the foundation and CTO for Miami International Airport. “This Academy harnesses that power to equip our youth with world‑class digital skills. As a veteran, I champion mission‑critical innovation; by bringing AI, esports, and UGC into education, we ensure our students are future-ready and our community remains competitive.”

Why This Matters

●    A widening participation gap. Nationally, 60% of Black students in grades 5–12 express interest in computer science, yet only 42% have ever taken a related course. This disparity persists through high school: Black students remain underrepresented
in advanced STEM courses and earn just 9 % of bachelor’s degrees in computer science and 5 % in engineering. Half of Black adults cite the lack of mentors as a significant
deterrent to pursuing STEM fields.

●    Games are influential teachers. Research from HEVGA and the ESA highlights that video games foster networks of playful learning, enhancing engagement and connecting students to course material. Games enhance problem‑solving skills and accommodate different learners, while promoting engagement, resilience, collaboration, and technical skills. Students who engage with game design and esports build computational thinking and open pathways into game development, live production, data analytics, and entrepreneurship.

●    Local proof and national impact. The Eta Nu Education Foundation’s mentoring programs demonstrate that when students receive early exposure and guidance, outcomes soar. Through the Q Unit (ages 10‑14) and Gentlemen of Influence (ages 15‑18) programs, Eta Nu promotes academic excellence, community service, college readiness, character, and life skills. Their research indicates that connecting students to mentors and advanced coursework is crucial in bridging the gap between interest and participation.

Community Impact

●    K‑12 Schools: After-school esports clubs, UGC maker labs, and AI-driven tutoring keep students engaged, particularly for those who are otherwise underrepresented in advanced courses. By delivering dual-credit courses and stackable credentials through our virtual campus, the Academy empowers districts to modernize their CTE offerings without incurring significant start‑up costs.

●    Colleges & Workforce Boards: Technical, community, and four-year institutions can license curricula aligned with industry standards. Executive-in-residence programs connect learners with senior executives and entrepreneurs. Competitive esports leagues and production labs offer pathways into careers in event management, streaming, and
broadcasting.

●    Nonprofits & Youth Organizations:
Partnering with AMIkids-inspired trauma-responsive programs, the COE integrates mental health supports, family engagement, and service-learning projects, ensuring holistic development for justice-involved and trauma-affected youth.

Call to Action

Educational institutions, workforce agencies, foundations, and employers are invited to become Founding Partners of the Blaze Fire Games UGC + AI & Esports Academy COE. Schedule a Zoom or in-person meeting within the next two weeks to discuss how this turnkey model can be adapted for your district, college, or community organization. To arrange a meeting, please contact Dr. Isiah Reese directly or provide your scheduler’s information.

Together, we will erase the digital divide, reimagine workforce readiness, and empower the next generation of digital innovators.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 3, 2025

Media Contact:
Whitney Rawls
Director of Public Relations
Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
etanuques1969@gmail.com
(954) 408-2230

Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Receives Top Honors at District and State Levels

POMPANO BEACH, FL – The Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., based in Pompano Beach, Florida, has once again been recognized among the best in the world, receiving the International Social Action Large Graduate Chapter of the Year Award for 2024–2025. The honor was presented during the Dr. Moses C. Norman, Sr. International Leadership Conference, held July 25, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan.

Selected from more than 750 chapters worldwide, Eta Nu’s international achievement marks the second time in its history to receive this prestigious award—further cementing its reputation as Florida’s most awarded chapter at the state, District, and international levels for its commitment to uplifting its community.

Eta Nu has earned this recognition through a tireless commitment to community service, Uplift initiatives, and educational advancement. The chapter’s impact includes:

• Youth Mentoring & Development: The Gentlemen of Influence program equips middle and high school students with life skills, leadership training, and mentorship from professional men in the community.
• Signature Community Outreach: The I.T. (Life, Information, Technology) Saturday event provides underserved residents with essential resources, health services, and access to technology to better their lives.
• Scholarship Giving: Each year, Eta Nu awards thousands of dollars in scholarships to deserving high school seniors pursuing higher education, continuing its legacy of supporting academic achievement and advancing minority participation at the collegiate level.
• Health & Social Justice Engagement: The chapter actively supports cancer awareness through Relay for Life and fundraising for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as well as voter education and community advocacy.

“This award isn’t just a reflection of our chapter—it’s a reflection of the community that stands with us,” said Rodney Hankins, Basileus (President) of Eta Nu Chapter. “For us, service is not an event, it’s a lifestyle—it’s a creed. Winning this award for the second time proves that consistent, committed action creates lasting change.”

For more than 55 years, Eta Nu has embodied Omega Psi Phi’s four cardinal principles—Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift—by addressing disparities, inspiring youth, and improving quality of life in Pompano Beach, across Broward County and beyond.

For more information about Eta Nu Chapter and its community programs, visit www.etanu.org or follow @EtaNuQues1969 on social media.

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About Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Chartered in 1969 in Pompano Beach, FL, the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is an unincorporated chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. that provides uplift and community service to Pompano Beach and the north Broward County communities. — http://www.etanu.org/

About Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Founded in 1911, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a historically Black fraternity committed to manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. The 7th District represents chapters in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi, focusing on leadership, service, and community advancement. — https://oppf.org/

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The Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., participated in a Social Action event – the complete and total renovation of a residence located at 601 NW 35th Avenue in Lauderhill on Monday, June 30, 2025. The genesis of this undertaking began after the tragic death of Mr. Otis Ragin, a husband, father, brother, uncle and little league coach who made an indelible impact on the people and lives he touched – young and old, family and friends – a consummate nurturer.

According to retired FHP Trooper Tommie Robinson and Eta Nu Brother, he affectionately knew Mr. Ragin as a co-worker, collaborating as coaches and mentors for over 30 years with the Sunland Tigers youth football program. Additionally, Brother Robinson viewed Mr. Ragin as legendary as a coach, businessman and community activist, who put his family and community above any personal needs, someone he considered to be a close friend. Trooper Robinson’s original plans involved purchasing a new vehicle to show his appreciation for Mr. Ragins’ unselfish dedication and service to others. His sudden and untimely death greatly altered those plans. In collaboration with his family and the brothers of Eta Nu, he and his wife Michelle decided that renovating his home, a three month project, would honor his lifelong service, dedication and commitment to his community…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 2, 2025

Media Contact:
Whitney Rawls
Director of Public Relations
Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
etanuques1969@gmail.com
(954) 408-2230

Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Receives Top Honors at District and State Levels

Pompano Beach, FL — Continuing its proud tradition of excellence and service, the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was honored with multiple prestigious awards at the recent 88th Annual 7th District Meeting, held in Orlando, Florida. The 7th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. comprises 140 chapters located throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. Eta Nu’s deep commitment to uplifting communities across Pompano Beach and Broward County earned them the top designation of Social Action Chapter of the Year, Large Chapter for the 2023-2024 fraternal year.

Eta Nu’s leadership in social impact, mentoring, and historical preservation was recognized across several categories at the District level, including:

• Social Action Chapter of the Year, Large Chapter
• Mentoring Program of the Year, Large Chapter
• Father of the Year, Large Chapter – Bro. Rodney Hankins, Jr.
• Mentee of the Year, Large Chapter – Asante Brooks
• 1st Place – History & Archives Award

These awards celebrate Eta Nu’s dynamic programming, strategic community outreach, and unwavering focus on youth development, fatherhood engagement, and community service.

“These honors are a testament to the collective dedication of the men of Eta Nu,” said Chapter Basileus Brother Rodney Hankins, Jr. “We are proud to be recognized not only for what we do, but for how we do it—with integrity, consistency, and a genuine love for the communities we serve.”

To be considered for competition at the District level, chapters have to earn recognition by their state organizations. The 2023-2024 high honors Eta Nu received and announced by the Florida Statewide Organization of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. during the State’s caucus meeting included:

• Chapter of the Year, Large Chapter
• Social Action Chapter of the Year, Large Chapter
• Fatherhood Chapter of the Year, Large Chapter
• Mentoring Program of the Year, Large Chapter
• Father of the Year, Large Chapter – Bro. Rodney Hankins, Jr.
• Mentee of the Year, Large Chapter – Asante Brooks
• 2nd Place – Scholarship Awards ($27,900 awarded)

As the Eta Nu Chapter continues to lead with vision and purpose, these recognitions affirm its place as a standard-bearer and premier chapter within the 7th District and across Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Through social action, mentorship, education, and advocacy, the chapter remains committed to the fraternity’s cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.

For more information about the Eta Nu Chapter’s programs and impact, visit www.etanu.org or follow @EtaNuQues1969 on social media.

 

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About Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Chartered in 1969 in Pompano Beach, FL, the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is an unincorporated chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. that provides uplift and community service to Pompano Beach and the north Broward County communities. — http://www.etanu.org/

About 7^th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Created in 1935, the 7^th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. which encompasses Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. It is the fraternity’s largest district. — https://oppf7d.org/

About Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Founded in 1911, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a historically Black fraternity committed to manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. The 7th District represents chapters in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi, focusing on leadership, service, and community advancement. — https://oppf.org/

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 19, 2025

Media Contact:
Whitney Rawls
Director of Public Relations
Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
etanuques1969@gmail.com
(954) 408-2230

 

7th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to Host 88th Annual District Meeting in Orlando, Florida

Orlando, FL – March 2025 – The 7th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is set to convene in Orlando, Florida, for its 88th Annual District Meeting, taking place March 27-30, 2025, at the prestigious Rosen Shingle Creek Resort.

This year’s conference is themed “Unifying the District Through Purpose,” hosted by the Eta Nu Chapter (Pompano Beach, FL), in collaboration with Chi Tau and Omega Beta Beta chapters, and promises four days of impactful programming, including leadership development, community service, and cultural engagement. The event will bring together Brothers from across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi, along with their families and supporters, for a weekend dedicated to uplift and empowerment.

Highlighted Events & Initiatives:

• Clothing Drive & Health Fair – Supporting local communities, and fostering better health outcomes, through essential resources.
• STEM Camp – Inspiring the next generation of innovators.
• Daily Worship Services – Spiritual enrichment for all attendees.
• Golf Tournament & 5K Run/Walk – Promoting health and wellness.
• Charles Drew Blood Drive – A life-saving initiative with a goal of collecting 88 pints of blood.
• Leadership Development Workshops: Focused on enhancing the skills and knowledge of fraternity leaders at all levels.
• Community Impact Forums: Addressing issues such as education, economic empowerment, personal health, and voter engagement.
• Achievement Awards Banquet: Honoring the outstanding accomplishments of members and chapters across the district.
• March Down Step Show Competition & Talent Hunt Showcase – Celebrating the fraternity’s rich culture and immense talent from four states.
• Mardi Gras Party & Orlando Divine 9 Party – Exclusive social events uniting the local community with members of the Divine 9.

A Public Program to kick off the weekend will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 6:00PM to 8:00PM at Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819. The Public Program will include welcome messages from fraternity leadership, including Ricky L. Lewis, International Grand Basileus (President) of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and 7th District Representative Christopher Brooks; local elected leaders and dignitaries; regional member organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (Divine 9), Miss Black Florida USA, and the public.

The 88th Annual District Meeting will be a transformative experience, blending service, leadership, and celebration. Community members, fraternity brothers, and supporters are encouraged to participate in select events.

Christopher Brooks, 7th District Representative, shared his excitement about the upcoming meeting:

“The 88th Annual District Meeting is a time to reflect on our legacy, celebrate our achievements, and chart a bold course for the future. We are thrilled to host this year’s event in Orlando, a city that embodies growth and opportunity, much like the spirit of our fraternity.”

Harry Harrell, Sr., District Marshal, stated:

“While Eta Nu Chapter is located in Pompano Beach, Florida, we’re excited to partner with our brothers at Chi Tau and Omega Beta Beta (central Florida chapters) to bring ‘The Eta Nu Experience’ to Orlando and welcome over 2,000 brothers and visitors for what promises to be the most monumental gathering in the 7th District’s history. We expect this District Meeting to have a significant economic and social impact on Orlando and the Orange County community.”

** Media availability will take place immediately following the Public Program on Thursday, March 27th.

For more information, contact Whitney Rawls, Director of Public Relations for Eta Nu Chapter and the Florida Statewide Organization of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. at etanuques1969@gmail.com or (954) 408-2230.

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About Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Chartered in 1969 in Pompano Beach, FL, the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is an unincorporated chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. that provides uplift and community service to Pompano Beach and the north Broward County communities. — http://www.etanu.org/

About 7^th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Created in 1935, the 7^th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. which encompasses Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. It is the fraternity’s largest district. — https://oppf7d.org/

About Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Founded in 1911, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a historically Black fraternity committed to manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. The 7th District represents chapters in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi, focusing on leadership, service, and community advancement. — https://oppf.org/

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 3, 2025

Media Contact:
Whitney Rawls
Director of Public Relations
Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
etanuques1969@gmail.com
(954) 408-2230

 

88th Annual District Meeting of the 7th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to Be Held in Orlando, Florida

Orlando, FL – Following the tremendous success of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.’s Grand Conclave held in Tampa in July 2024, the fraternity’s largest district has chosen Orlando as the setting for its 88th Annual District Meeting.

The distinguished 7th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., encompassing the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi, will host its 88th Annual District Meeting, scheduled to take place from March 27-30, 2025, at the elegant Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida.

Hosted by the Eta Nu Chapter of Pompano Beach, Florida, this annual gathering will bring together over 2,000 members of the fraternity to the Orlando area. The District Meeting (district meeting) serves as a vital forum for leadership development and strategic planning, while celebrating the fraternity’s mission of service, scholarship, brotherhood, and friendship.

The theme for this year’s meeting, “Working for a Unified District,” reflects Omega Psi Phi’s continued commitment to uplifting communities and fostering excellence in every aspect of life. Attendees will engage in impactful workshops, networking opportunities, and dynamic discussions designed to advance the fraternity’s programs and initiatives.

Highlights of the 88th Annual District Meeting include:

• Leadership Development Workshops: Focused on enhancing the skills and knowledge of fraternity leaders at all levels.
• Community Impact Forums: Addressing issues such as education, economic empowerment, personal health, and voter engagement.
• Achievement Awards Banquet: Honoring the outstanding accomplishments of members and chapters across the district.
• Youth Leadership and STEM: Inspiring the next generation of leaders through mentorship and empowerment.
• Social Action and Community Service: Providing aid and support to uplift the local community.

The Rosen Shingle Creek Resort offers a premier venue with state-of-the-art facilities and luxurious accommodations, providing an ideal setting for this significant event. Located in the heart of Orlando, the resort also offers convenient access to the city’s renowned attractions and vibrant culture.

Christopher Brooks, 7th District Representative, shared his excitement about the upcoming meeting:

“The 88th Annual District Meeting is a time to reflect on our legacy, celebrate our achievements, and chart a bold course for the future. We are thrilled to host this year’s event in Orlando, a city that embodies growth and opportunity, much like the spirit of our fraternity.”

Harry Harrell, Sr., District Marshal, stated:

“While Eta Nu Chapter is located in Pompano Beach, Florida, we’re excited to partner with our brothers at Chi Tau and Omega Beta Beta (central Florida chapters) to bring ‘The Eta Nu Experience’ to Orlando and welcome over 2,000 brothers and visitors for what promises to be the most monumental gathering in the 7th District’s history. We expect this District Meeting to have a significant economic and social impact on Orlando and the Orange County community.”

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About Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Chartered in 1969 in Pompano Beach, FL, the Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is an unincorporated chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. that provides uplift and community service to Pompano Beach and the north Broward County communities. — http://www.etanu.org/

About 7^th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Created in 1935, the 7^th District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. which encompasses Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. It is the fraternity’s largest district. — https://oppf7d.org/

About Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.:
Founded in 1911, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a historically African American fraternity dedicated to the principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. With a legacy of excellence and service, the fraternity continues to positively impact communities around the globe. — https://oppf.org/

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Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. mourns the loss of Brother James L. “Jimmy” Jones, who entered Omega Chapter on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Originally from Fernandina Beach in northeastern Florida, James Leroy Jones, affectionately known as “Jimmy”, graduated second in his high school class before matriculating to Bethune-Cookman College (now University). His college education was briefly interrupted when Jones joined the United States Army where he served as a Communication Specialist in World War II. Eventually, he returned to Bethune-Cookman and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in mathematics. While at Bethune-Cookman, Jones was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in 1953 through the Omicron Epsilon Chapter.

After being sought out by the late Mrs. Blanche General Ely to teach math at Ely High School in Pompano Beach, Jones relocated to South Florida in 1955. He taught mathematics at Ely for 12 years before seeking to further his academic career. Jones received Masters’ Degrees in Guidance & Counseling and Administration and Supervision from Florida Atlantic University. His 37-year tenure in the Broward County Schools system included: classroom instructor at Blanche Ely, Guidance Director at Everglades Middle School in Fort Lauderdale, Dean of Students at Plantation and Pompano Beach High schools, and Assistant Principal and Principal of Blanche Ely High School. He eventually retired from Broward Schools in 1992.

After moving to South Florida, Mr. Jones joined the Zeta Chi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi in Fort Lauderdale. In 1969, he and three other men (Clifford Dudley, Edgar Mills and Joseph Smith) founded the Eta Nu Chapter to stimulate Pompano Beach and the surrounding communities with the four cardinal principles of the fraternity: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift.

For decades, Jones served on various civic boards in Pompano Beach including the Charter Review Board, the Education Advisory Committee, the Police and Firefighter’s Pension Board, and as chairman of the Community Development Advisory Committee. He also served as a Trustee and member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Pompano Beach, a member of Kiwanis Club Northwest, and many other organizations.

Jones’ life as a community servant has become a symbol of excellence for generations of youth, men and women, both in and out of the classroom. He was often sought out for his advice and sound counsel. His indelible mark on South Florida can be seen and felt, far and wide, through the many people he has taught and mentored over the 69 years he has been in South Florida. A visit to Mr. Jones’s home reveals the countless honors and awards he has received from many organizations throughout the decades, including having the auditorium at Blanche Ely High School named in his honor, named Pompano Beach’s Citizen of the Year in 2010, and receiving his 70th Year Pin and Service Award from Omega Psi Phi, personally delivered to him by current Grand Basileus Ricky L. Lewis in June of 2023.

He will be remembered by all as he would often be heard saying: “Never let what you can’t do stop you from doing what you can do.”

Along with Jones’ family, the brothers of Eta Nu remember, honor, and celebrate the life and legacy of Brother James L. “Jimmy” Jones – a pillar of our community.

Funeral Services have been arranged as follows:

• Friday, July 12, 2024
  Visitation: 5:00pm-8:30pm
  Omega Service: 6:30pm
  
  
• Saturday, July 13, 2024
  Funeral Service: 9:00am

The location of both services is the James L. Jones Auditorium at Blanche Ely High School, 1201 NW 6th Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33060.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Eta Nu Education Foundation at https://www.etanu.org/donate.

Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the Eta Nu Education Foundation were recently awarded a $10,000 grant to further the chapter’s mentoring and STEM program. With over 75 boys from middle and high school enrolled in the mentoring program, the grant will allow the chapter to continue its work of providing quality leadership, life skills, and social entrepreneurship training while also building out its anticipated state of the art STEM Lab. The grant was provided as part of the Pompano Live! Resorts’ community benefit program through Harrahs Pompano Beach and Caesars Entertainment.

On Sunday, July 28, 2023, the Eta Nu Educational Foundation hosted its annual Benefit Gala and Fundraiser sponsored by Corporate Partner, Global Wealth Management. Held at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott, Coral Springs, the black tie affair supports STEM promotion, Gentlemen of Influence/Q’ Unit mentoring programs and scholarship initiatives.

This year’s honoree, retired Circuit Court Judge Ilona Holmes, is the recipient of the James L. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award, presented in honor of Eta Nu founder, philanthropist, Broward educator and former principal of Blanche Ely High School, Mr. James L. Jones.

Introduced by Eta Nu Basileus and Assistant U. S. Attorney Bruce Terry Brown, Judge Holmes’ selection recognized her impeccable, accomplished career as an attorney, proponent of equal justice and opportunity for all under the law, law professor, administrator and jurist. Event MC and Eta Nu Foundation Chairman Brother Harry Harrell welcomed all in attendance, including Mr. John Thomas, Global Wealth Management CIO; South Plantation High graduate and South Florida University enrollee Jahshai Reid, whose candid, impassioned remarks as a beneficiary of Eta Nu’s GOI mentoring program, acknowledging particularly the advice, encouragement and support of Brothers Rodney Hankins and Broderick Henry, left the audience spellbound; Delta Sigma Theta sisters who came in support of Judge Holmes; and the wives, sweethearts and loyal Eta Nu brothers in attendance…