Gamma Xi Phi

The Fraternity for Artists and Creators

Tag: Gamma Xi Phi

  • Gamma Xi Phi Welcomes Seven New Members in Washington, DC, Maryland, and North Carolina

    Gamma Xi Phi Welcomes Seven New Members in Washington, DC, Maryland, and North Carolina

    October 10 initiation marks a new chapter of growth for the national arts fraternity, including Epsilon Chapter’s first new members since 2020.

    WASHINGTON, DC — Gamma Xi Phi, the professional fraternity for artists and creators, welcomed seven new members during an initiation held October 10, 2026, representing the District of Columbia, Maryland, and North Carolina. The newest members join a growing community of artists, educators, and cultural leaders committed to advancing the arts through service.

    The seven initiates bring an impressive range of professional experiences and artistic disciplines to the fraternity, including creative writing, journalism, theater, visual arts, filmmaking, arts education, and nonprofit leadership.

    The initiates join three chapters: Beta Chapter in Washington, DC; Epsilon Chapter in the Baltimore metropolitan area; and Phi Chapter in northeastern North Carolina.

    The initiation also marks an important milestone for Epsilon Chapter, which last welcomed new members in early 2020, shortly before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The addition of three accomplished professionals represents a renewed opportunity for growth and fellowship within the Baltimore-area chapter.

    Meet the New Members

    Beta Chapter — Washington, DC

    Aaliyah El-Amin

    Aaliyah El-Amin is a published poet, literary organizer, and founder of You Are Write Here, a writing collective dedicated to strengthening the literary community in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Through readings, workshops, writing sessions, and other programs, her organization has connected with nearly 900 people worldwide.

    Her poetry has appeared in several literary anthologies, and she has participated in workshops associated with Cave Canem and the Brooklyn Women of Color Writers Workshop. She is also a member of Federal Poets and Maryland Humanities.

    Inspired by Toni Morrison’s encouragement to write the books one wishes existed, El-Amin has dedicated herself to building the infrastructure that allows writers to flourish.

    For El-Amin, membership in Gamma Xi Phi represents an opportunity to expand that work alongside other artists committed to community building and service.

    Catherine Frost

    Catherine “Cat” Frost is a theater-maker, educator, and arts administrator whose work spans playwriting, arts education, and cultural programming.

    Frost’s accomplishments include receiving the Ninth Annual Gaffney Playwriting Award from the University of California San Diego, being selected as a Lambda Literary Fellow, and serving as a Local Theatre Resident at the Kennedy Center. Frost has also worked as a teaching artist with the National Portrait Gallery, Shakespeare Theatre Company, and Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater.

    Frost joins Gamma Xi Phi with a particular interest in nurturing relationships among Black artists and strengthening the institutions and communities that sustain their work.

    “I’m most fulfilled in positions where I nurture connections and share resources, especially with other Black artists,” Frost said. “I believe Gamma Xi Phi is that spot where I can lend my time and talents.”

    Chad Eric Smith

    Chad Eric Smith is an actor, filmmaker, producer, and communications executive with more than 15 years of experience in higher education, public art, and the performing arts.

    Smith serves as the inaugural Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing for Howard University’s Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. Previously, he served as Senior Director of Communications and Brand Management at Mural Arts Philadelphia.

    He is also the Board President of Theatre Horizon, founder of MisterDuke Productions, and a 2023 graduate of Leadership Philadelphia.

    Smith is particularly drawn to Gamma Xi Phi’s vision of artists as leaders who advance justice and strengthen their communities.

    “I have always believed that artists have the capacity—and, in many ways, the responsibility—to do more than create compelling work,” Smith said. “We can help shape how communities understand themselves, challenge inequity, expand whose stories are valued, and imagine possibilities that institutions and systems have not yet realized.”

    Epsilon Chapter — Baltimore, Maryland

    DeWitt Cooper III

    DeWitt Cooper III is a performing arts educator, director, choreographer, and mentor whose professional philosophy emphasizes the transformative power of artistic expression.

    Throughout his career, Cooper has worked to develop emerging performers through disciplined training, cultural awareness, professionalism, and artistic excellence. His work emphasizes the preservation and celebration of Black artistry while expanding opportunities for underserved performers.

    Cooper hopes to contribute to Gamma Xi Phi through mentorship, artistic collaboration, and educational opportunities for emerging artists, including potential partnerships to establish scholarship support for arts programs. He also looks forward to building relationships with fellow artists who understand the unique responsibilities and challenges of creative careers.

    E. L. Briscoe

    E. L. Briscoe is a visual artist and professor at Morgan State University, where he serves as Coordinator of the Visual Arts Program in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts.

    A native of Charles County, Maryland, Briscoe earned his bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University in 1996 and his Master of Fine Arts from Howard University in 1998.

    His artwork is represented in several distinguished collections, including the James E. Lewis Museum of Art, the David C. Driskell Center, the Jean and Robert Steele Collection of African American Prints, and the African American Museum of Art in Dallas, Texas.

    Briscoe sees Gamma Xi Phi as a platform for increasing public understanding of the arts and the contributions of working artists.

    Shernay Williams

    Shernay Williams is an award-winning journalist, content strategist, educator, and creative entrepreneur with 15 years of experience working across newsrooms, nonprofit organizations, startups, and corporations.

    Williams currently serves as an events manager and moderator for Word In Black, a national news organization focused on Black communities. She is also a media professor at Loyola University Maryland and provides media entrepreneurship training through the Institute for Independent Journalists, the National Association of Black Journalists, and her company, The StorySuite.

    In addition to her work in journalism and education, Williams designs earrings and bangles.

    “I’d like to serve the community through Gamma Xi Phi by leading workshops, events and initiatives that encourage literacy and expand arts access for young people and adults,” Williams said.

    Phi Chapter — Northeastern North Carolina

    Chanelle Owens-Henson

    Chanelle Owens-Henson is an author, visual artist, content creator, skilled tradesperson, and autism advocate whose work reflects a distinctive combination of creativity, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

    Originally from Largo, Maryland, Owens-Henson is a mother of three whose talents extend across electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, writing, visual arts, and independent publishing.

    Through her creative platforms and advocacy, she works to empower others and amplify important voices.

    “Adding Gamma Xi Phi allows me to expand both personally and professionally while strengthening my leadership,” Owens-Henson said. “I look forward to opening new doors, building meaningful connections, and using my journey to inspire others.”

    A Shared Commitment to Art, Fellowship, and Service

    Although their professional backgrounds and creative disciplines vary, Gamma Xi Phi’s newest members share a commitment to using their talents to enrich the communities around them. Together, they bring new perspectives and expertise to the fraternity’s work in arts education, mentorship, literacy, institutional development, and civic engagement.

    a quote from our national president hunter irby

    “It is wonderful to see Gamma Xi Phi initiate new members who demonstrate exceptional merit and artistic talent, each committed to serving their communities and advancing the arts.

    I am proud to call them members of our fine fraternity and can not wait to see them grow as Brothers, Sisters and Gammas in our organization.

    As WE GROW, we are “Uniting the World, one artist at a time’.”

    About Gamma Xi Phi

    Gamma Xi Phi is a national community of artists and creators dedicated to advancing the arts through fellowship, professional development, and community service.

    The fraternity brings together individuals working in a wide variety of artistic disciplines, creating opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, leadership, and service. Its members seek to build a world in which artists are valued as thoughtful and justice-oriented leaders in their communities and careers.

    Gamma Xi Phi welcomes members from all backgrounds, identities, and artistic disciplines, recognizing the power of creativity to strengthen communities and inspire positive social change.

  • Kappa Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi Initiates New Members

    Kappa Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi Initiates New Members

    Kappa Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi Welcomes Distinguished New Line of Artists and Educators.

    CHICAGO, IL — July 2, 2026 — On Saturday, June 27, 2026, the Kappa Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi, the international professional fraternity for artists and creators, proudly welcomed four distinguished artists, educators, and scholars into the fraternity during an inspiring initiation ceremony celebrating artistic excellence, scholarship, and service.

    The chapter’s newest members are:

    • Vincent Singleton, an award-winning filmmaker, cinematographer, and Assistant Professor and Director of Media and Technology at Loyola University Chicago. His work as a filmmaker and educator has earned national and international recognition for its innovative storytelling and commitment to cultivating emerging artists.
    • Kent Ross Brooks, an acclaimed theatre artist, director, and educator at Northwestern University. His extensive career in performance, directing, and actor training has influenced generations of theatre practitioners and communicators.
    • Karla Rae Fuller, a scholar, author, and Associate Professor at Columbia College Chicago. Her research and publications examining race, media, and Black cultural representation have made significant contributions to the fields of communication and media studies.
    • Kamesha Khan, a director, educator, and professor at Chicago State University whose work in theatre arts, education, and community engagement continues to inspire artists while expanding opportunities for creative expression throughout Chicago.

    Collectively, these accomplished professionals represent excellence across filmmaking, theatre, visual arts, higher education, media studies, and community engagement. Their induction into Gamma Xi Phi strengthens the Kappa Chapter’s mission to advance artistic practice through fellowship, scholarship, leadership, and service.

    The initiation ceremony culminated in a memorable Odean Performance, an interdisciplinary celebration of the arts that reflected Gamma Xi Phi’s commitment to creative expression. Guests experienced an engaging artist talk with the production’s director, an inspiring ceremonial address, original poetry, vocal performances, live instrumental music, a film presentation, and an intimate piano mini-concert. The evening beautifully demonstrated the power of the arts to educate, heal, connect, and inspire.

    Gamma Xi Phi is an international professional fraternity dedicated to artists and creators across disciplines, fostering fellowship, philanthropy, artistic excellence, and community engagement. Through its members, the fraternity continues to build bridges between artists, educators, scholars, and cultural leaders while advancing opportunities for creative collaboration and public service.

    The Kappa Chapter, located on Chicago’s south side, looks forward to the leadership, scholarship, and artistic vision these new members will contribute as the fraternity continues its mission of strengthening artists and communities throughout Chicago and beyond.

    Gamma Xi Phi’s Public Motto: “Uniting the World, One Artist at a Time.”

  • Gamma Xi Phi Remembers Honorary Brother Allen “Uzikee” Nelson

    Artist. Sculptor. Engineer. Cultural Icon.

    We the artists of Gamma Xi Phi regret to announce the passing of Brother Allen “Uzikee” Nelson, September 22nd, 2026.

    Brother Nelson was a sculptor, educator, and former engineering faculty member of the University of the District of Columbia, located in Washington D.C.’s 4th Ward. His art, crafted from steel and glass, brought African-inspired works to the area.

    He has created many works in his life, the most notable being “(Here I stand) In the Spirit of Paul Robeson”, “Saint Dennard: The Edifying Spirit”, and “Doc”. Most of his art work can be seen around Washington D.C. 

    Brother Nelson was a Spring 2015 Honorary initiate of Gamma Xi Phi.

    We will remember Brother Nelson for his works, his life, his community impact, and we cherish the memory and rich legacy he leaves us all  with.

  • Grand Opening Brings Culture, Community, and Creativity to Chicago’s South Side

    Grand Opening Brings Culture, Community, and Creativity to Chicago’s South Side

    The Art Center of Englewood proudly opened its doors on February 1, 2025, marking a momentous occasion for the community as a new hub for artistic expression, cultural enrichment, and creative empowerment. The grand opening event was a vibrant celebration, featuring an impressive lineup of artists, live performances, and activities for all ages.

    The event showcased the works of esteemed artists Andre Brown, GXP Kappa Chapter Charter Member Dionne Victoria, Victor T. Simmons Sr., and youth artist Yusuf Olugbile, along with an inspiring exhibition from The Healing Academy Art Collection. Attendees were captivated by the diverse and thought-provoking artwork, highlighting themes of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of creativity.

    Adding to the cultural richness of the evening, guests were treated to mesmerizing live performances. The talented David Boykin delivered a soul-stirring musical set, while Jada K, a remarkable 16-year-old harpist, enchanted the audience with a stunning performance. The open mic session, featuring the dynamic spoken word artist Adverb, provided a platform for emerging voices to share their artistry with an engaged and appreciative crowd.

    The celebration extended beyond the gallery and stage, embracing the entire community. A carefully curated selection of Black-owned business vendors was present, offering unique goods and services, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting local economic growth. Additionally, interactive play spaces ensured that children could engage in creative activities while their families enjoyed the program, making the event a true reflection of community inclusivity and togetherness.

    “The Art Center of Englewood is more than just gallery space; it is a sanctuary for creativity, a beacon of cultural pride, and a space where artists, their families and the community can unite,” said Dionne Victoria, Founder/Director of the Art Center of Englewood and member of the GXP Board of Trustees. “We are thrilled to provide a platform where art can inspire, heal, and transform lives right here in the heart of Englewood.”

    The grand opening of the Art Center of Englewood marks the beginning of a new era for the neighborhood, promising ongoing exhibitions, workshops, and events that uplift and celebrate the rich artistic heritage of the community.

    Hours of operation are Wednesday – Saturday, 2-6 pm or by appointment. For more information about upcoming events and programs, please follow the art center @aceincchi or contact Dionne at 708-733-2936.

  • GXP SPONSORS anti-BOOK BANNING EVENTS

    Marla Taviano and La Toya Hankins

    CONWAY, N.C.— Gamma Xi Phi members engaged in virtual and in-person programming during October to raise awareness about the increasing trend of books being challenged and banned in communities across the country.

    Members shared videos of themselves reading portions of banned and challenged books via the fraternity’s YouTube channel on October 6. On October 21, National President La Toya Hankins and Phi Chapter Program Director Marla Taviano participated on a panel discussion that celebrated BIPOC and LGBTQ books, co-sponsored by Pen America Piedmont and Gamma Xi Phi.

    “Gamma Xi Phi is a professional fraternity of artists and creators and, as part of our national program, I SWEAR, advocate for topics related to the arts,” Hankins said. “The scourge of books being banned and challenged due to the subject matter is a topic that hits close to home.”

    According to PEN America:

    • During the 2022-2023 school year, there were 3,362 instances of book bans in the United States public school classrooms and libraries. This represents a 33 percent increase from the previous year.
    • The book bans represent 1,557 unique book titles and the works of over 1,480 authors, illustrators, and translators.  The top four banned authors were Ellen Hopkins, Sarah J. Mass, and Margaret Atwood. Nobel Prize Winner for Literature Toni Morrison was fourth on the list.
    • 44 percent of those books were banned pending investigation and the most frequently banned books are largely young adult novels featuring a female, queer and/or nonbinary protagonist.

    Laura Harris, who attended the October 21 event, said she appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the efforts involving book banning and how to get involved.

    “Growing up, I never faced having books I wanted to read as a child not being available,” she said. “It is something to think about considering what is happening now.”

    Gamma Xi Phi was established in 2010 at Ramapo College to provide a fraternal outlet for students engaged in the arts. Today it maintains a presence of working artists from Vancouver, British Columbia, to the northeastern and southern regions of the United States.

  • National Convention Elects New President

    National Convention Elects New President

    Gamma Xi Phi, the nation’s leading multi-disciplinary fraternity for artists, elected author La Toya Hankins as National President during the 2023 National Convention in New Orleans, La. The fraternity also partnered with the Xavier University Art Department on a service project for local artists.

    National President La Toya Hankins is the author of SBF Seeking and K-Rho: The Sweet Taste of Sisterhood. She has published multiple short stories with JMS Books, including “Married to the Struggle,” “Heat Wave-Southport,” and “Challah and Calloo.” Her work has been featured in anthologies “Black From the Future,” and “Lez Talk: A Collection of Black Lesbian Short Stories,” published by BLF Press.

    “I am inspired and appreciative of the support of the members of Gamma Xi Phi in selecting me as National President,” she said. “I look forward to continuing our mission to honor the achievements of artists through fellowship, philanthropy, social Justice and service.”

    Sister Hankins has been involved in Gamma Xi Phi as a charter member of Theta Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi in the Raleigh/Durham area, where she has served as Program Director. Before her election to National President, she served as Gamma Xi Phi’s National Secretary.

    Outgoing president Rashid Darden served as the third National President from 2015-2017 and the fifth National President from 2019-2023. Brother Darden will now hold the position of Member Emeritus, serving as Program Director of Phi Chapter in North Carolina.

    Read about the Board of Trustee members who also were elected. The 2023 National Program theme is Gammas Out Loud: Artistry Maximized Professionally.

    This year’s theme for the 6th National Convention was Awakening in the City of a Million Dreams. Representatives from the fraternity’s many chapters joined the Xavier University Art Department to host a discussion about the business of being an artist. The group of more than two dozen split into small teams representing a variety of disciplines, giving participants the opportunity to receive insights into pursuing their chosen art.

    Gamma Xi Phi also hosted a social event, Amethyst Hour, at the Royal Frenchman Hotel & Bar, with more than 50 artists, creators, and community members in attendance.

    The fraternity hosts a National Convention every other year and will host its next convention in Charlotte, N.C. in 2025.

    Gamma Xi Phi is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which honors the achievements of artists through fellowship, philanthropy, social justice, and service. Your ongoing support is appreciated.

  • Theta Chapter Brings Dance to the Forefront

    Theta Chapter Brings Dance to the Forefront

    Durham, North Carolina- Theta Chapter doesn’t tip toe around giving the gift of Dance Education

    DURHAM- Gamma Xi Phi, Theta Chapter brought together internationally recognized Black male dance educators and performers to discuss the past and potential of Black men in the world of dance September 24 during a virtual program.

    The program, facilitated by Thomas F. DeFrantz, research professor in the Department of African and African American Studies at Duke University, featured a conversation between renowned dancers Willie Hinton and M. Clayton Barrier. The trio discussed the relevance and necessity of Black men being a force in the world of dance. Participants learned about the impact fellow Black male dancers made on them spotlighting local legends Chuck Davis and Mel Tomlinson and as well as their goals to encourage the next generation.

    “The conversation was empowering and edifying. Our goal in bringing together members of a community engaged in the work of carrying on the legacy of Black men in dance was to raise awareness of the importance Black men play in the craft. The panelists achieved that and more,” La Toya Hankins, Gamma Xi Phi national secretary and Theta Chapter program director said.

    A little about our key guest panelists for this event:

    Willie Hinton

    Hinton, a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and current instructor at Carolina Ballet in Raleigh, recalls his start in the world of dance at Enloe High School in Raleigh, NC when he dealt with the perception from fellow male students who were engaged in athletics while he participated in dance class. Their curiosity evolved into respect as they were able to view the work that went into his study thanks to his dance class located in a room over the high school gym featured a window for students to observe. Hinton obtained his first professional job shortly after college graduation and, since then, has performed with The Rebecca Kelly Dance Company and Dance Kaleidoscope. Hinton has also been engaged as an educator as Artist in Residence at North Carolina State University and North Carolina Central University.

    M. Clayton Barrier

    Panelist Barrier, a graduate of North Carolina Centra University, cites Hinton as one of the forces that has impacted his dance journey. The Durham native has created hundred individual choreographic works including a murder mystery piece he created that only the dancer tapped to be the murder knew the answer to the whodunnit. He currently serves as an educator at the Longleaf School of the Arts. He is also a member of the National Dance Educator Organization.

    DeFrantz and panelists discussed the imposter syndrome of not believing in the strength of one’s talent, how support from fellow artists makes in success and the power of Black male involvement in the craft.

    “Dance is a salad that everyone can eat from, and Blackness is just part of the expression. It is history, it is a form of documentation, and it is spiritual.” Hinton said.

    The Black Men in Dance program event is part of the Gamma Xi Phi’s National Program of I SWEAR-Service, Wellness, Edification, Advocacy, and Recognition.

    Gamma Xi Phi was established in 2010 at Ramapo College to provide a fraternal outlet for students engaged in the arts. Today it maintains a presence of working artists from Vancouver, British Columbia, to the northeastern and southern regions of the United States.

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  • a gxp halloween spectacular

    a gxp halloween spectacular

    New York- Delta Chapter rings in Hallows Eve with a night of chilling stories

    The Delta Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi brings the bone chill on October 22nd with their event: From The Depths of Darkness: A Night of Terror. A night filled to the brim with talent by some of our members blessed with the gift of storytelling and masters of the pen. Hosted by Brother Marc Abbott along with guest appearances from Sister La Toya Hankins, Brother Kirk Johnson and Brother Steven Van Patten, each brought their flare to the short stories they wrote for this night of horror. Truly a great way to kick off the spooky season!

    A little about our authors participating in our event

    Brother Marc Abbott

    Brother Marc Abbott, member of Delta Chapter and the host of our Event. An award-winning African American writer from Brooklyn, NY, with a portfolio of works that span genres such from Plays (his first novel, Gamble of Faith, having a 3-year run), YA novels, and in 2013 pivoting to the Horror genre. Flourishing in this genre, Brother Marc has created “Welcome to Brooklyn, Gabe” which is featured in the Bram Stoker nominated anthology New York State of Fright and “A Marked Man” featured in the Hell’s Heart horror anthology. In 2019 he co-authored Hell at the Way Station, which he won two African American Literary Awards (Best Anthology/Best Science Fiction). The sequel, “Hell at Brooklyn Tea“, was released in January 2021.

    Sister La Toya “Toya” Hankins

    Sister La Toya Hankins is the author of SBF Seeking, and K-Rho: The Sweet Taste of Sisterhood, and the Program Director of the Theta Chapter. The North Carolina native is an East Carolina University graduate who earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism with a minor in political science. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and is the National Secretary for Gamma Xi Phi, a predominately African American organization of men and women in the arts.

    Brother Steven Van Patten

    Brother Steven Van Patten is a Brooklyn native and member of the Delta Chapter. The author of the critically acclaimed Brookwater’s Curse trilogy and has had a hand in writing multiple anthology series such as, Hell’s Kitties, Shopping List 4 and the Stoker Award nominated New York State of Fright

    Along with a plethora of other honors and accolades, SVP won three African-African-American Literary Awards in 2019, two for Hell At The Way Station (Best Anthology and Best In Science Fiction) and one for Best Independent Publisher. He’s also written episodes of the YouTube series’, Extra Credit/Extra Mythology, and is currently a contributor for the Viral Vignettes, a charity-driven YouTube comedy series benefitting The Actor’s Fund.

    Brother Kirk A. Johnson

    Brother Kirk Johnson, Trinidad born and raised is a writer currently now living in Brooklyn, is a member of the Delta Chapter. A man with a love for the weird/cosmic horror, heroic fantasy, and Sword & Soul. Having created many short stories and stories throughout his career. The creator of the “Far Afield Press” creating books like The Obanaax: And Other Tales of Heroes and Horrors and works being featured on books such as “Hell at Brooklyn Tea” and “Hell at the Way Station”.

    To watch this event please click on the link below!

    Gamma Xi Phi was established in 2010 at Ramapo College to provide a fraternal outlet for students engaged in the arts. Today it maintains a presence of working artists from Vancouver, British Columbia, to the northeastern and southern regions of the United States.

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  • A Night of spoken word and art in motion

    A Night of spoken word and art in motion

    CHICAGO- Kappa Chapter brings the flow of spoken word and the brush with their Open Mic Night Event

    Kappa Chapter of Gamma Xi Phi, the professional fraternity for artists, presented a virtual open mic night hosted by Sisters Venise Keys and Dionne Victoria, with a spotlight on the work of Chicago native traditional artist, Marcus Alleyne.

    Marcus Alleyne is a Chicago artist, with a passion for visual art. An artist influenced by music, nature, Black culture, spiritualism and more, with a broad variety of styles and artistic know how. His mediums vary from the specific projects he works in but he displays a mastery of multiple, such as clay, paint and watercolor. His creative process, birthed from a sense of urgency on his projects, leads to works, at points look as if they were made by different artists. Throughout his career his work has been featured in the South Side Community Art Center and the Black Hammer Organization, as well as several places in his home of Chicago.

    The event featured other speakers from the audience, of all ages, focuses and backgrounds bringing their work to the forefront, with our hosts bringing the fire to help light the way. Among the speakers were one of our newest members, Gamma Leslie Cunningham, one of our past GXP President, Sister Sharnell Bryan, and, a special treat, one of Sister Venise’s students, Ms. Camari Bains. While many gave their all, showing us passed works and sneak peaks of works in progress, Marcus Alleyne, was at work painting a beautiful freeform portrait in the background. At the end, we were enamored by his finished piece as well as the stories and poetry we heard throughout the night.

    It was a time of celebration and creation with members, friends, and newcomers alike. We hope to see you again in the atmosphere abound with poetry, literature, and comedy.

    Open Mic Night is a Wellness Event and part of Gamma Xi Phi’s I SWEAR National Program, which focuses on Service, Wellness, Edification, Advocacy and Recognition.

    Gamma Xi Phi was established in 2010 at Ramapo College to provide a fraternal outlet for students engaged in the arts. Today it maintains a presence of working artists from Vancouver, British Columbia, to the northeastern and southern regions of the United States.

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  • “I Have Help From a Village” – Beta Chapter Selects 2016 Young Artisans

    “I Have Help From a Village” – Beta Chapter Selects 2016 Young Artisans

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    program logo - young artisans awards

    District of Columbia artists Sean Defreitas and Jeneesah Tate (also known as Ja’ness) have been selected as the 2016 Young Artisans for Gamma Xi Phi’s Beta Chapter in Washington, DC. The award is the highest honor that the fraternity bestows upon youth.

    “We are so happy and so proud to support these students, who represent the best of Washington’s emerging talent,” said Beta Chapter Program Director Shawn Spencer.

    The Young Artisans Awards initiative was created by Gamma Xi Phi in 2015 to honor emerging artists living within the service areas of the chapters. The selected artists must display both artistic merit and artistic citizenship, including a willingness to learn, grow, serve, and be mentored.  The Beta Chapter, serving the District of Columbia, selected two students after months of research and observation of young artists living within the chapter’s domain.

    Sean Defreitas is a student attending the Latin American Youth Center Career Academy, located in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, DC.  His artistic interests are varied and include graphic design, photography, music, and fashion.  His mother and other family members are also engaged in the arts, namely music, visual art, and crafts.  Mr. Defreitas came highly recommended by the faculty and staff of LAYC Career Academy.

    Ja’ness (Jeneesah Tate) is a Junior attending the historic Duke Ellington School of the Arts.  She is a singer, guitarist, and songwriter who has already created a name for herself in the Washington area and beyond through many public performances at festivals and music venues.  Coming from a long line of artists, Ja’ness strives to create a career that complements, but is independent from, her already successful family members.

    Over the next few months, the awardees will benefit from the full support of Brothers and Sisters of Beta Chapter and beyond.  Members will provide the students with support and connections to working artists.  In March 2016, the awardees will participate in the Young Artisans Combine, a private day of training, coaching, and mentoring with some of the Washington area’s most notable artists and professionals. In May 2016, the awardees will officially be presented to the community in a ceremony at Beta Chapter’s Odeon, a community talent show.

    (L-R) Mr. Atif Tate, Beta Chapter Young Artisan 2016 Ja’ness, Chapter Program Director Shawn Spencer

    (L-R) Ms. Crystal Defreitas, Beta Chapter Young Artisan 2016 Sean Defreitas, National President Rashid Darden

    National President Rashid Darden, who is a Washington-based novelist and member of Beta Chapter, expressed his pride at the selection of Ja’ness and Sean, saying “We needed humble students who would be their authentic, artistic selves when they didn’t expect that anyone was evaluating them.  That’s the beauty of the first year of this initiative–without the fanfare of previous years, we were able to find the most deserving students who weren’t just seeking accolades for their resumes.”

    Mr. Atif Tate, father of Ja’ness, said that due to this honor, his daughter’s “…positive actions towards her dreams are being noticed by others outside her family–which gives her more confidence to keep pushing through.” He added “I have help from a village. My advice to other parents is to invest your time and energy into their dreams now and help them develop so this experience will help them grow into something great.”

    Gamma Xi Phi was founded on October 7, 2010, by Ramapo College men and women who were interested in creating strong bonds between students pursuing artistic careers. The purpose of the fraternity is to unite collegiate and professional artists in the spirit of fellowship and perpetual artistic growth. Gamma Xi Phi promotes philanthropy and service to the arts, brotherhood among all artists, and leadership development in artistic professions through collegiate and community outreach to people of color across the world.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • District of Columbia Chapter Hosts Creative Conversation

    District of Columbia Chapter Hosts Creative Conversation

    The Washington, DC chapter of Gamma Xi Phi Professional Arts Fraternity hosted a Creative Conversation as part of the organization’s National Arts and Humanities Month observances.  The theme of the discussion was “Linking Young Artists to Opportunities.”

    Held at the Greater Tried Stone Baptist Church, a favorite venue of the Beta Chapter, members of the community were invited to share their ideas for how the fraternity may best serve young artists in the Washington area.  Invited guests included working artists, leaders of arts nonprofit organizations, and other members of organizations with arts components.  The chapter provided a light lunch and lively discussion ensued.

    Action items that the group provided to the fraternity will help develop the local implementation of the fraternity’s Young Artisans Awards program.

  • Gamma Xi Phi Members Celebrate Fifth Anniversary of Founding

    Gamma Xi Phi Members Celebrate Fifth Anniversary of Founding

    On Wednesday, October 7, 2015, chapters of Gamma Xi Phi Professional Arts Fraternity participated in local celebrations commemorating the fifth anniversary of the founding of the organization.  Since that first day at Ramapo College of New Jersey, Gamma Xi Phi has grown in membership and in number of chapters.  Nationally, the fraternity took to social media to celebrate its birthday.  Locally, members assembled with one another in fellowship, toasting to the past and looking forward to a brighter future. (more…)

  • Happy Fifth Anniversary, Gamma Xi Phi

    Happy Fifth Anniversary, Gamma Xi Phi

     

    Rashid Darden, National President of Gamma Xi Phi
    Rashid Darden, National President of Gamma Xi Phi

    In 2110, by the grace of God, someone will call my name as the 3rd National President of a century-old fraternity for artists.  Perhaps there will be some three dimensional portrait of me in a historical exhibit with all the other past National Presidents.  Maybe there will be some bullet points with the major accomplishments of my administration.  If I’m lucky, someone will be there, not who remembers me, but remembers someone who remembers me.

    But one thing is certain:  I will not be alive in 2110.  So I’d better do a damn good job at being a National President if I want to be remembered.  I’d better make sure that every Founders’ Day is a milestone for our beloved fraternity.

    Today, Gamma Xi Phi is five years old.  Students attending Ramapo College of New Jersey came together five years ago with an idea for a new fraternity, one established for artists of all crafts.  Years later, the fraternity has already grown into something far greater in size and scope than our original members could have expected.  It has experienced this growth because it is fundamentally a good organization that has come at the right time.

    I am proud of each and every one of our members, from the charter members of Alpha Chapter to our newest initiates.  Gamma Xi Phi Brothers and Sisters are on the move, sculpting monuments in Washington, performing on tour in Europe and Africa, studying in graduate programs in New York, and hosting popular podcasts in New Jersey.  We have done a lot in five years and we are not stopping any time soon.  Through the years, Gamma will grow in size, in strength, and in influence due to our wonderful members.

    But we can’t do it alone.  To our families, friends, and supporters:  If you believe, as we do, that Gamma Xi Phi is a good organization, we ask that you spread this simple message to the artists in your life:

    You are not alone.  There is an organization out there for men and women in the arts.  They are waiting for you.  They need you, and while you might not know it now, you need them as well.  They are a group of great folks: literary artists, visual artists, performing artists, and professionals in arts-serving careers.  They have an awesome national program of artistic service that I think you’d like.  Check them out:  www.GammaXiPhi.com.

    Gamma Xi Phi will exist in 2110, certainly without me, but I must do my part to make sure that it is a greater organization than I could have imagined. If you are an artist, join us.  If you are a friend, help us.  These past five years have been a nice start, but we have only just begun to build our legacy.

    Happy fifth anniversary to my Brothers and Sisters.  Thank you, one and all.

    Rashid Darden,
    National President

     

     

  • A Celebration of Service and Fraternalism

    A Celebration of Service and Fraternalism

    On Saturday, August 15, 2015, Gamma Xi Phi Professional Arts Fraternity hosted A Celebration of Service and Fraternalism, a public program honoring National President Rashid Darden.  It was held at the Greater Tried Stone Baptist Church in the Columbia Heights Section of Washington, DC. (more…)

  • Gamma Xi Phi’s New National Program

    Gamma Xi Phi’s New National Program

    On Sunday, June 14, 2015, the National Board of Trustees of Gamma Xi Phi Professional Arts Fraternity approved a new National Program.  Below is a video overview of the new initiatives.  (more…)