V1N2 - OIL Chapter Hosts Annual Beautillion

Post date: Jul 4, 2017 11:09:32 PM

Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter Hosts Annual Beautillion

by Brother James Winfield

On Saturday, June 11 the Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter of Columbia, S.C., in conjunction with Bridging the Gap with Alpha, Inc. hosted its annual Beautillion at the Seawell’s Banquet Facility. The event recognized high school junior and senior young men also known as "Beaux" who have completed the requirements of the chapter’s Alpha Academy Program. The program consists of various mentorship, service and scholarship components that span the academic year to enrich the experience of adolescent men in the Columbia area. The Beauxs represented Richland One, Richland Two and Fairfield County School Districts.

This year, 18 Beauxs were awarded approximately $22,000 in scholarship funds and were bestowed the Mantle of Manhood medal for their successful completion of the program. Other awards and acknowledgments included the recognition of Mr. Beautillion, Mr. Junior, Mr. Senior and the Commitment Awards that were presented to participants who have been a part of the program for both their junior and senior years.

The highlights of the program included a dynamic oration from this year’s Alfred F. Young Oratorical Contest Winner, Mr. Vernon Kennedy, Jr. of Fairfield Central High School. He presented on the importance of Black History Month. The Honorable Justin Bamberg provided a compelling address on the value of commitment and finding “The Why?” in both purpose and passions.

More than 300 brothers, parents, community partners and supporters gazed as the Beauxs performed a touching choreographed number with their mothers, an elegant dance with their dates, the "Belles" and capped off the night with a series of high impact step routines reminiscent of the “Ice Cold” brothers of our great fraternity.

The master of ceremonies, Dr. J.R. Green, commended the gentleman on a job well done and reiterated that they are “blessed” and “will take the world by storm.” This year’s director of education and chair for the Alpha Academy, Brother Brandon Ross provided closing remarks acknowledging the hard work and diligence of the Beaux and wished them much success in their future endeavors. The program concluded with all attending brothers surrounding the Beauxs to recite the fraternal hymn and prayer.

Since its inception the program has benefited more than 75 young men as they have progressed into institutions of higher education. The Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter is grateful and appreciative to the support of the schools, partners and parents that made this year’s program a success.