The Western Region of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and its Denver-based Delta Psi Lambda Chapter awarded a $17,000 grant to the Metropolitan State University of Denver Foundation. The grant demonstrates the chapter’s continued commitment to educational equity and uplifting the next generation of leaders.
“This funding will elevate the experiences of Black students to better see themselves reflected in the fabric of the university, while supporting the Black faculty and staff that tirelessly mentor these students,” said Javon Brame, president of the Delta Psi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated (Denver Alumni). “Our hope is to help support MSU Denver in strengthening the ecosystem that will ultimately breed successful educational pathways for Black students who matriculate through its programs for generations to come.”
The funding will directly support initiatives at MSU Denver aimed at strengthening student success, enhancing leadership development, and expanding scholarship opportunities for Black students.
The grant will benefit the university’s Brother to Brother Program, initiatives led by the Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA), educational efforts highlighting National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations, and scholarships for students. Collectively, these efforts are designed to improve persistence and completion rates while fostering a stronger sense of belonging on campus, particularly for students connected to the NPHC community and broader student success initiatives.
The Brother to Brother Program focuses on retention, mentorship, and academic achievement for MSU Denver’s male students of color. Through culturally responsive programming, leadership development, and peer support, the initiative helps students navigate both academic and personal challenges while building confidence and career readiness.
Support for the BFSA further reinforces the importance of representation and mentorship within higher education. By strengthening networks among Black faculty and staff, the initiative helps cultivate an environment where students can see themselves reflected in leadership and scholarship.
A portion of the funding will also expand education and visibility surrounding NPHC organizations, most commonly known as the “Divine Nine.” These historically Black fraternities and sororities have long been pillars of civic engagement, scholarship, and social justice advocacy. Increased awareness and institutional support of NPHC organizations can deepen student engagement while honoring their historic contributions to the Black community in Colorado and beyond.
The $17,000 award is part of a broader national effort by Alpha Phi Alpha that has contributed more than $600,000 to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) nationwide. These investments aim to expand educational access, strengthen institutional programming, and increase student retention and completion.
Founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University, Alpha Phi Alpha was established as the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African American men. For more than a century, the fraternity has championed scholarship, leadership, and service—principles that continue to guide its work today. The Delta Psi Lambda Chapter in Denver remains active in mentoring youth, supporting education initiatives, and partnering with local institutions to strengthen community impact.
“This investment reflects Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s enduring commitment to educational access, achievement, and community service,” said Fred Jackson, western region vice president. “We are proud to partner with MSU Denver in advancing student support, strengthening affinity-based community, elevating awareness of NPHC organizations, and expanding scholarship opportunities that help students thrive.”
For MSU Denver, an institution known for serving a diverse and first-generation student population, partnerships like this one provide more than financial assistance, they signal a shared commitment to student achievement and equitable opportunity.
University leadership will collaborate with the Delta Psi Lambda Chapter to ensure alignment with shared goals and measurable outcomes. Beyond dollars, the partnership represents relationship-building, mentorship, and sustained engagement between fraternity members and students.
At a time when higher education institutions across the country face funding challenges for supporting equity-based initiatives and programming, investments that prioritize belonging, scholarship, and leadership development are needed more than ever.
