Mu Omicron
Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship Fund
Note: Donations must be noted for "Alpha Phi Alpha Endowment"
Contributor Donation Levels
In order to make this project a success, it is going to take the support of friends and alumni of Mu Omicron. Even though we have achieved our original goal of reaching transitioning the fund from scholarship to endowment status we are asking for your support to offer more scholarships to more students. We are seeking active participation in the form of donations at the following levels:
Black: $10.00 - $250.99
Old Gold: $251.00 - $500.99
Mu Omicron: $501.00 - $999.99
Jewel: $1,000.00 +
Why was the scholarship fund established?
The Mu Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc, founded on May 31, 1976 at the former Valdosta State College, created the Mu Omicron (MO) Endowment to assist in the education of deserving students enrolled at Valdosta State University (VSU). The endowment proposal initially required MO to raise $12,500.00 within three years. Through several productive meetings with former VSU President Patrick J. Schloss and VSU Foundation CEO John Crawford we were able to secure matching funds from the foundation not to surpass $12,500.00. As such, the hard work and persistence of Glenn Collins – MO Alumni Scholarship Coordinator, Frederick Jones – former President of the MO chapter, Sirocus Barnes – MO leadership & Development Advisor, Ryan T. Brown – former MO Executive Director & Scholarship Chairman and the members of the chapter during the 2012-2013 academic year, the scholarship fund obtained its endowment status a calendar year ahead of schedule.
Shortly after reaching this milestone in the history of Mu Omicron founding Endowment Chairman Ryan Brown was interviewed by the former President of Valdosta State, Dr. William J. McKinney. In the interview Brown stated, “our goal as a chapter at VSU has never been to sit on the sideline but to be an agent of change.” Our fraternity brother Dr. Martin L. King once said, “life’s most persistent and urgent question is what are you doing for others?” As a chapter we live by this question and felt the need to give back to VSU because of what the university has given us over the years. The university has allowed us to be initiated into a wonderful brotherhood, given us a quality education and helped prepare and develop us into productive citizens of society.”
As of Fall 2019, 246 men have crossed the burning sands of Mu Omicron at Valdosta State University. Currently, a majority of the funds for the endowment are raised with contributions from each new member of MO, MO alumni and philanthropic events such as the Homecoming Step Show, the Miss Black & Gold pageant and several others annually hosted by the MO chapter. Additionally, as the university continues to grow we plan to seek corporate donations.
In the opinion of the committee, each new member of the MO chapter should be commended for assisting their peers with pursuing a higher education degree. MO has and always will strive to assist in the production of an educated and socially engaged citizenry. If you feel compelled to do the same please read below on details of how you can donate.
How can I give?
Contributions of any amount can be made at any time. There is no limit to how large the fund can be – a larger endowment will produce a greater number of scholarships.
The Valdosta State University Foundation operates as a 501(c) 3 corporation. Contributions or gifts to the Alpha Phi Alpha Endowment are tax deductible as charitable contributions. The Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship Fund does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex or age.
Contributions to the general fund can be made as a one-time gift, or you may make a monthly or annual contribution. Whether $10 or $10,000, the funds will go directly towards the Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship Fund, which in return will produce interest for the scholarships. For detailed instructions on how to give from the Valdosta State University Foundation, Inc. see the contact information for representatives below. Please note that the gift is for the Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship Fund.
For more information about the Mu Omicron endowment, contact:
Brother Ryan Brown, Endowment Chairman
Sample Eligibility for Scholarship