New generation of leaders in Tarrant County to celebrate their successes
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is one of the oldest Black Greek-letter organizations in the U.S. The intercollegiate organization was founded in 1906 on the campus of Cornell University by a group of seven founders who identified a need to build deeper relational bonds, educational and social support.
The Beta Tau Lambda Chapter of the fraternity, which is a constant presence in Fort Worth, was chartered in 1940.
Daryl R. Davis, II, Alpha Beautillion Chair said he recognized the organization's mission early on, as well as a desire to align himself with men that demonstrated similar qualities.
"[Qualities like] manly deeds, scholarship [and] love for all mankind really resonated with me," he said.
Now, as an active member of the Fort Worth chapter, Davis said developing the next generation of young men with the same qualities is not just a goal; it's a necessity.
The organization accomplishes that through the Alpha Academy, its signature leadership, mentoring and college readiness program aimed at young men of color.
"As we are preparing these young men to go into society, we take them through a series of courses, everything from studying about college preparedness, civic engagement [and more]," he said. "We want our young men to understand that their voice matters."
After successfully completing the program, the participants participate in a grand finale; the Beta Tau Lambda Alpha Beautillion, which serves as the capstone to the chapter's Alpha Academy mentorship program.
Entering into its 14th year, the Beautillion recognizes the accomplishments of young men in the Tarrant County community with an annual black-tie event.
Anchored by the Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation, scholarship money is also awarded to graduating high school seniors who participate in the program to further their academic education.
"When it is time for them to become parts of society as young adults, they have all of the tools and resources and training that they need to be successful," Davis said. "We want to make sure that these young men have confidence, and confidence a lot of times comes through education and exposure."
CBS News Texas recently met two North Crowley High School students participating in the program, including Dillion Dill.
The North Crowley High School senior is graduating in a few weeks.
"I'm excited [because] it's a new chapter of my life," Dill said. The honors student plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where he plans to pursue a degree in kinesiology and a career in the medical field.
Growing up in a single parent home, Dill said the program has offered him more than practical tools; he's gained valuable mentors.
"Being in this program has changed my viewpoint on a lot of things," he said. "I understand that I have a support system [among] men who look like me, who have been in my shoes [and] who understand what it's like live in this day and age as a Black man."
While the Beautillion is usually just for high school graduating seniors, Devon Graham, a North Crowley High School junior, said he jumped at the chance to be a part of the program early.
"As a junior beau I originally felt a little bit intimidated being in a room full of seniors but once I got there after the first couple of meetings that we had, felt right at home," he said.
Now, he's not only competing for college scholarships, but said he also has a roadmap to success in the future.
"I'm seeing different Black men in places where they have great power. It's a great way to see myself where I could be if I make the right choices," he said. "They're holding the door open for me."
The Beautillion's organizers said the foundation works throughout the year to raise the money that supports their young scholars. Within the last several years, dozens of students have participated in the program. The group said it has also awarded around $100,000 in scholarships.
The 18th annual Beautillion Gala and Rites of Passage ceremony will take place on April 26 in Fort Worth.
