WS Chronicle

The Psi Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. painted the city purple and gold last week as members of the international fraternity celebrated 85 years of service during their annual Achievement Week celebration. 

Founded in 1932, the Psi Phi Chapter is known throughout the community for its generosity and willingness to help those in need. Earlier this year, The Chronicle presented the chapter with the Community Service Award during the publication’s annual celebration held at the Benton Convention Center.

The highlight of Achievement Week was the annual gala held on Wednesday, Nov. 8. The event, held at the Enterprise Center, is designed to recognize individuals in the community who make the city of Winston-Salem a better place. 

Before award recipients were recognized for their good deeds and community service, Forsyth County Superior Court Judge Todd Burke read a proclamation presented to the Psi Phi Chapter by Mayor Allen Joines, who was unable to attend. Burke, who is a member of Omega Psi Phi and lifelong Winston-Salem resident said, growing up he was surrounded by “Omega Men” who motivated him to become the man he is today.

At the time of his appointment, Judge Burke was the youngest Superior Court judge, and first black Superior Court judge to serve Forsyth County.

Following dinner, another well-known Omega Man delivered the keynote address, N.C. Supreme Court Justice Michael R. Morgan. 

Justice Morgan, who assumed his role as a justice of the State Supreme Court in January, is a native of New Bern and was initiated in the Omega Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi at Duke University in 1974. He is also a life member and current member of the Iota Iota Chapter in Raleigh. Before his most recent appointment, Justice Morgan served as a judge on the 3rd Division of N.C. Superior Court.

Going along with the theme for the evening, “When the World Calls, Omega Men Answer,” Justice Morgan said the phrase should be viewed as a challenge or a mission statement. He said, “It’s a mandate. It’s a requirement because that’s who we are as Omegas.

“As Omega Men, let’s all be honest about it: We can all do better,” continued Morgan. “If we harnessed all the abilities we have and turned it around to what it could be, what would Omega become?”

Justice Morgan went on to say that the world is calling for Omega Men right now. And now is the time to rally together and answer the call. He said now is not the time to be divided.

“We can’t afford to let any of that nonsense divide us; it’s too important now. Omega Men can’t answer the world’s call if we’re divided,” said Morgan. “When Omega Men stand together and realize our potential and reach our full potential, nothing can stop us.

“When we’re together we can’t be stopped. It’s when were not together that we fail. If a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.”

The Psi Phi Chapter continued to celebrate their legacy throughout the remainder of the week. On Friday, Nov. 10, members hosted a Veteran’s Day Breakfast at K&W and on Sunday, Nov. 12, members attended church together at First Baptist Church.