A Lifetime of Service, Leadership, and Brotherhood

Bro. Matthew W. Blount, Jr. quietly observed his 62nd anniversary in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. this past weekend, marking more than six decades of sustained commitment to scholarship, manly deeds and love for all mankind. Initiated into the Xi Chapter (home of the hymn and prayer) at Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio, Bro. Blount’s journey reflects not only longevity, but intentional growth, principled leadership, and an unwavering belief in the responsibility of Alpha men to uplift others.

From the outset, Bro. Blount’s story is rooted in transformation. Entering Wilberforce as an introverted young man seeking a fresh start, he was drawn to Alpha Phi Alpha by what he saw modeled on campus. “They were the leaders,” he recalled. “Our university president was an Alpha. The Academic Dean was an Alpha. I said to myself, ‘I’m going to be an Alpha because I’m going to rule this campus one day.” That vision quickly became reality, culminating in his election as student body president an experience that reinforced Alpha’s role in shaping confident, service-oriented leaders.

Brotherhood Forged Through Commitment

Bro. Blount crossed on January 10, 1964, following a lengthy intake process that emphasized discipline, accountability, and collective responsibility. Of the nine men who began the process together, four crossed initially, with only two line brothers living today. Yet even decades later, Bro. Blount still speaks of all nine as his line, underscoring his lifelong understanding of brotherhood as something larger than ceremony or timing.

That ethic of collective responsibility extended beyond the yard. Reflecting on his undergraduate experience, he noted that Alpha pushed him to grow socially, academically, and professionally. “Alpha made me visible,” he shared. “They showed me how to carry myself, how to lead, and how to be present where decisions were being made.”

Service as a Lifelong Mandate

Bro. Blount’s commitment to service did not end with graduation. After college, he dedicated his professional life to education and counseling, ultimately earning a doctorate in Counseling Administration from Wayne State University. His academic journey marked by perseverance after early setbacks mirrors the resilience he has consistently encouraged in others. “I went from flunking out of college to becoming Dr. Blount,” he said plainly, framing his success as proof that growth is always possible with discipline and purpose.

Service to Alpha Phi Alpha remained central throughout his professional life, particularly within Gamma Lambda Chapter in Detroit, where he became an active member shortly after completing his undergraduate studies. Over time, his involvement deepened, leading to his election as the chapter’s 38th President.

Leadership That Opened Doors

As president, Bro. Blount focused on inclusion, collaboration, and community impact. One of his most significant initiatives was bridging the gap between undergraduate and graduate chapters, creating space for shared fellowship and mentorship. He also helped launch O.A.K.S. an inter-fraternal mentoring collaboration among Alphas, Omegas, Kappas, and Sigmas serving Detroit youth and laying the groundwork for future mentoring efforts.

Reflecting on his presidency, he shared, “It was time for me to give back. Alpha had given me so much, and leadership was how I could return that investment.” Even when balancing family, work, and doctoral studies, he remained steadfast, delaying but never abandoning any responsibility he had undertaken.

Looking Forward While Honoring the Past

Today, Bro. Blount remains actively engaged, observing the chapter’s growth with quiet pride. “I usually just sit there and smile,” he said of chapter meetings. “I see where we are now compared to where we were, and it makes me feel good.” He is particularly encouraged by the increased visibility of service initiatives and the commitment of younger brothers to mentoring, education, and civic leadership.

When asked what he hopes to see next, his response was simple and instructive: “Expand upon what we’re already doing. The work is there…just make it more visible.”

After 62 years, Bro. Matthew W. Blount, Jr. continues to exemplify what it means to walk with excellence, lead with humility, and serve with intention. His life stands as a living testament to Alpha Phi Alpha’s mission and a reminder that true legacy is built not through titles alone, but through sustained service and faithful brotherhood.