The week of March 22 – 26, 2021 has been proclaimed Smithfield Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Week by the Town of Smithfield and Mayor Andy Moore. Mayor Moore presented members of the fraternity with a plaque during the March 2nd meeting of the Town Council.
On January 5, 1911 Kappa Alpha Nu, later to be renamed Kappa Alpha Psi, was founded on the campus of Indiana State University. On May 15, 1911, Kappa Alpha Nu became the first incorporated Black Fraternity in the United States. It was renamed Kappa Alpha Psi in 1915.
The Smithfield Alumni Chapter was chartered on March 26, 1966 by Reginald Ennis, John Windley, Ronnie Grantham, Matthew Sanders, Elias Sanders, Norvell Lee, James Barbour and Vernon Nixon. Mr. Barbour later became the first African American to serve on the Smithfield Town Council. He is also the only surviving charter member.
Over the past 55 years, the local chapter has shown leadership and service to the Town of Smithfield and Johnston County, according to the proclamation read by Mayor Moore. The organization also provides opportunities for men to engage in social and civil activities for the betterment of the community.
