it's the Benchmark
baltimore
The Benchmark
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◇ Welcome, and thank you for visiting the official website of the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
◇ Since our founding in 1921, the Baltimore Alumni Chapter has proudly served as a beacon of Brotherhood, leadership, and community service in the Greater Baltimore area and throughout the Eastern Province. It is both a tremendous honor and a humbling responsibility to serve as the 54th Polemarch of this distinguished chapter. I am proud to follow in the footsteps of great leaders who helped build this chapter into one of the most respected and accomplished in all of Kappa Alpha Psi.
◇ As we prepare to host the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting in 2027, we stand at a critical moment in our chapter’s history. The opportunity to welcome our noble clan to Baltimore brings great responsibility, and it demands unity, preparation, and a clear vision. Under the theme, “Brotherhood, True to the Ideals of Fraternity,” we are committed to strengthening the relationships among our Brothers, expanding our impact in the community, and operating with a renewed focus on transparency, excellence, and accountability.
◇ Our chapter thrives because of its diversity, of age, profession, perspective, and experience. Senior Brothers are valued and honored for their wisdom and sacrifice. Young Brothers are empowered and nurtured for the future of the Fraternity. Reclaimed Brothers are welcomed and embraced as vital contributors to our legacy. And every Brother, regardless of when or where he was initiated, is reminded that this is a chapter where he belongs and where his presence makes a difference.
◇ Beyond our Brotherhood, the Baltimore Alumni Chapter is committed to meaningful community engagement. We continue to serve the city through youth mentorship, educational support, voter registration, health awareness, and strategic partnerships that create lasting change. We do this work not for recognition, but because it reflects who we are and what we believe: that achievement and service must go hand in hand.
◇ I am grateful to serve alongside a leadership team of Brothers who share a commitment to our mission and a heart for the work ahead. Together, we will continue to build upon the solid foundation laid before us, ensuring that this chapter remains a model of what it means to be true to the ideals of Kappa Alpha Psi.
◇ Whether you are a Brother looking to reconnect, a member of the community seeking collaboration, or someone simply learning more about who we are, know that you are welcome here. This website offers a glimpse into our history, our values, and our ongoing work. We encourage you to explore, engage, and reach out if we can be of service or support.
◇ On behalf of the Officers, Directors, and Brothers of the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter, thank you for your time, your interest, and your belief in what we represent.
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◇ Chartered on September 9, 1921, the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has a rich legacy of leadership, service, and community impact. Founded by a distinguished group of professionals, the chapter has consistently prioritized youth development through programs like Guide Right, which provides mentorship and moral guidance to inner-city youth. To further its outreach, the chapter established the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation of Metropolitan Baltimore, supporting academic, cultural, and social initiatives. Over the years, its members have earned high honors within the fraternity, while signature events like Night in Kappa Vegas showcase its vibrant brotherhood and ongoing civic engagement.
The Benchmark
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🔥 DIAMOND SMOKE 2025 🔥
Annual Bull Roast & Day Party
📅 Sunday, September 28, 2025 • 3PM–8PM
📍 Martin’s West • 6817 Dogwood Rd, Baltimore, MD 21244
Our Annual Farewell to Summer is here — and this year, we’re taking it to the next level. Join the Brothers of the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi for a sophisticated yet high-energy day party experience you won’t forget.
✨ Urban chic meets casual cool — think model energy, stylish jerseys, and end-of-summer-ready fits.
🏈 Big screens showing Ravens vs. Chiefs with Ravens, Eagles & Commanders fans all in the mix.
🎮 Madden Tournament Finals & Championship played live at the event.
🍽 Gourmet bull roast spread + signature cocktails.
🎶 Our DJs will keep the dance floor lit from start to finish.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS
• Steamed Shrimp
• Sliced Beef, Turkey & Ham
• Fried Chicken
• BBQ Ribs
• Mac & Cheese
• Hot Dogs & Sauerkraut
• Roasted Potatoes, String Beans
• Tuna Salad, Chicken Salad, Orzo Salad, Fresh Salad Bar
• Fresh Fruit, Assorted Desserts
• Homemade Soups
• Beer, Soda, Coffee & Tea
🎟 Get your tickets now → https://baltimorealumnichapter.ticketspice.com/bac-diamond-smoke?mc_cid=6b7148029a&mc_eid=121e338ec8
This is the party that will close out summer in style…don’t miss it!
🔥 DIAMOND SMOKE 2025 🔥
Annual Bull Roast & Day Party
📅 Sunday, September 28, 2025 • 3PM–8PM
📍 Martin’s West • 6817 Dogwood Rd, Baltimore, MD 21244
Our Annual Farewell to Summer is here — and this year, we’re taking it to the next level. Join the Brothers of the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi for a sophisticated yet high-energy day party experience you won’t forget.
✨ Urban chic meets casual cool — think model energy, stylish jerseys, and end-of-summer-ready fits.
🏈 Big screens showing Ravens vs. Chiefs with Ravens, Eagles & Commanders fans all in the mix.
🎮 Madden Tournament Finals & Championship played live at the event.
🍽 Gourmet bull roast spread + signature cocktails.
🎶 Our DJs will keep the dance floor lit from start to finish.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS
• Steamed Shrimp
• Sliced Beef, Turkey & Ham
• Fried Chicken
• BBQ Ribs
• Mac & Cheese
• Hot Dogs & Sauerkraut
• Roasted Potatoes, String Beans
• Tuna Salad, Chicken Salad, Orzo Salad, Fresh Salad Bar
• Fresh Fruit, Assorted Desserts
• Homemade Soups
• Beer, Soda, Coffee & Tea
🎟 Get your tickets now → https://baltimorealumnichapter.ticketspice.com/bac-diamond-smoke?mc_cid=6b7148029a&mc_eid=121e338ec8
This is the party that will close out summer in style…don’t miss it!
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💎One Benchmark. Grounded in Brotherhood. Driven by Excellence.
This weekend, the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter came together in Wilmington for our 2025 William O. Dennis Planning Retreat — a powerful three days of strategy, fellowship, and purpose.
We’re united. We’re energized. And we’re ready for the road to the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting right here in Baltimore.
#BenchmarkKappas #OneBenchmark #BAC1921 #KappaAlphaPsi #WODRetreat2025 #BrotherhoodInAction
💎One Benchmark. Grounded in Brotherhood. Driven by Excellence.
This weekend, the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter came together in Wilmington for our 2025 William O. Dennis Planning Retreat — a powerful three days of strategy, fellowship, and purpose.
We’re united. We’re energized. And we’re ready for the road to the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting right here in Baltimore.
#BenchmarkKappas #OneBenchmark #BAC1921 #KappaAlphaPsi #WODRetreat2025 #BrotherhoodInAction
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📍Visit Baltimore x The Benchmark – 87th Grand Chapter Meeting Recap
The journey to the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting in Baltimore is officially underway, and the momentum is undeniable! ♦️♦️♦️
On Thursday, July 3, 2025, Visit Baltimore and the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter, “The Benchmark” proudly hosted a special reception at the Phoenix Convention Center during the 87th Grand Chapter Meeting.
Brothers from across the country got a preview of the energy, hospitality, and excellence that Baltimore will bring to Conclave 2027. From fellowship to food and forward-thinking conversations, we’re raising the bar like only The Benchmark can. ♦️♦️♦️
Baltimore is ready. Are you?
#88thConclave #TheBenchmark #KappaInBaltimore #VisitBaltimore #KappaAlphaPsi
📍Visit Baltimore x The Benchmark – 87th Grand Chapter Meeting Recap
The journey to the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting in Baltimore is officially underway, and the momentum is undeniable! ♦️♦️♦️
On Thursday, July 3, 2025, Visit Baltimore and the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter, “The Benchmark” proudly hosted a special reception at the Phoenix Convention Center during the 87th Grand Chapter Meeting.
Brothers from across the country got a preview of the energy, hospitality, and excellence that Baltimore will bring to Conclave 2027. From fellowship to food and forward-thinking conversations, we’re raising the bar like only The Benchmark can. ♦️♦️♦️
Baltimore is ready. Are you?
#88thConclave #TheBenchmark #KappaInBaltimore #VisitBaltimore #KappaAlphaPsi
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♦️♦️♦️104 YEARS STRONG ♦️♦️♦️
THE BENCHMARK CHAPTER
On this 15th day of July, we celebrate 104 years of what would become known as “The Benchmark” of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
In 1921, Brothers George L. Newman, John Henry Alston, and John H. Lassiter petitioned the Grand Chapter for permission to organize here in Baltimore. That permission was granted on July 15, 1921 — and our chapter was born.
They were soon joined by Brother Deaver P. Young. These visionaries all resided in Baltimore at that time. Together with other committed brothers, they assembled, initiated, and laid the foundation for the legacy we carry forward today. In August of 1921, Lewis S. Flagg, Jr., John Johnson, William S. Harris, William S. Harris, and John H. Thompkins were initiated into the chapter.
Our Charter Members:
• John H. Alston — Educator
• Lewis S. Flagg, Jr. — Attorney
• William S. Harris — Pharmacist
• John Johnson — Mortician
• John H. Lassiter — Pharmacist
• George L. Newman — Pharmacist
• John H. Thompkins — Physician
• Deaver P. Young — Educator
The Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter was the first alumni chapter in the Eastern Province, setting the standard for achievement in every field of human endeavor.
104 years later, we remain committed to Brotherhood, Service, and Achievement!
#Benchmark #Achievement #Since1921
♦️♦️♦️104 YEARS STRONG ♦️♦️♦️
THE BENCHMARK CHAPTER
On this 15th day of July, we celebrate 104 years of what would become known as “The Benchmark” of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
In 1921, Brothers George L. Newman, John Henry Alston, and John H. Lassiter petitioned the Grand Chapter for permission to organize here in Baltimore. That permission was granted on July 15, 1921 — and our chapter was born.
They were soon joined by Brother Deaver P. Young. These visionaries all resided in Baltimore at that time. Together with other committed brothers, they assembled, initiated, and laid the foundation for the legacy we carry forward today. In August of 1921, Lewis S. Flagg, Jr., John Johnson, William S. Harris, William S. Harris, and John H. Thompkins were initiated into the chapter.
Our Charter Members:
• John H. Alston — Educator
• Lewis S. Flagg, Jr. — Attorney
• William S. Harris — Pharmacist
• John Johnson — Mortician
• John H. Lassiter — Pharmacist
• George L. Newman — Pharmacist
• John H. Thompkins — Physician
• Deaver P. Young — Educator
The Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter was the first alumni chapter in the Eastern Province, setting the standard for achievement in every field of human endeavor.
104 years later, we remain committed to Brotherhood, Service, and Achievement!
#Benchmark #Achievement #Since1921
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🎉🏆 WE DID IT! 🏆🎉
Congratulations to the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter Guide Right Kappa League Debate Team for bringing home the victory in the National Kappa League Debate Challenge Championship!
This win is a testament to the brilliance, preparation, and poise of our young men…and the tireless leadership of Brother Gary Rahman (Guide Right Chairman) and Brother Mike Worthy (Debate Coach).
We salute not only our team, but every young man who competed in this tournament. The intelligence, confidence, and critical thinking on display from all of these participants prove exactly why our Guide Right/Kappa League program is so powerful.
Moments like this remind us that we must celebrate academic excellence, leadership, and debate victories just as much…if not more…than we do athletic championships. Our young men are champions on and off the field.
Let’s keep raising the bar! ✨
#GuideRight #KappaLeague #AchievementInEveryField #BaltimoreNupes
🎉🏆 WE DID IT! 🏆🎉
Congratulations to the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter Guide Right Kappa League Debate Team for bringing home the victory in the National Kappa League Debate Challenge Championship!
This win is a testament to the brilliance, preparation, and poise of our young men…and the tireless leadership of Brother Gary Rahman (Guide Right Chairman) and Brother Mike Worthy (Debate Coach).
We salute not only our team, but every young man who competed in this tournament. The intelligence, confidence, and critical thinking on display from all of these participants prove exactly why our Guide Right/Kappa League program is so powerful.
Moments like this remind us that we must celebrate academic excellence, leadership, and debate victories just as much…if not more…than we do athletic championships. Our young men are champions on and off the field.
Let’s keep raising the bar! ✨
#GuideRight #KappaLeague #AchievementInEveryField #BaltimoreNupes
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🚨 All Roads Lead to Baltimore! 🚨
The Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter — The Benchmark of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated — is honored to serve as the Host Chapter for the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting, coming to Baltimore, Maryland in Summer 2027!
For the first time since 1968, our great city will welcome Brothers, Silhouettes, family, and friends from around the globe to handle the business of Kappa, celebrate our legacy, and set the path for our future.
We invite you to prepare to roll out the Crimson Carpet as we showcase the very best that Baltimore has to offer.
Stay tuned as we embark on this historic journey to make the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting an unforgettable experience in Charm City!
#AllRoadsLeadToBaltimore #BenchmarkChapter #KappaAlphaPsi #88thGrandChapterMeeting #Baltimore2027 #Achievement
👌🏾♦️
🚨 All Roads Lead to Baltimore! 🚨
The Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter — The Benchmark of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated — is honored to serve as the Host Chapter for the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting, coming to Baltimore, Maryland in Summer 2027!
For the first time since 1968, our great city will welcome Brothers, Silhouettes, family, and friends from around the globe to handle the business of Kappa, celebrate our legacy, and set the path for our future.
We invite you to prepare to roll out the Crimson Carpet as we showcase the very best that Baltimore has to offer.
Stay tuned as we embark on this historic journey to make the 88th Grand Chapter Meeting an unforgettable experience in Charm City!
#AllRoadsLeadToBaltimore #BenchmarkChapter #KappaAlphaPsi #88thGrandChapterMeeting #Baltimore2027 #Achievement
👌🏾♦️
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🎉👏🏾 Congratulations Brother Gary Rahman and the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter!
We are proud to announce that at the 87th Grand Chapter Meeting of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., held in Phoenix, Arizona, Brother Gary Rahman was honored with the Bert V. Wadkins Award as the Outstanding Large Chapter Alumni Guide Right Director for the entire nation!
Your dedication to our youth and commitment to uplifting the next generation through Guide Right continues to elevate our chapter and our community.
Well deserved, Brother Rahman! Let’s keep setting the Benchmark for excellence.
♦️👌🏾 #KappaAlphaPsi #GuideRight #87thGrandChapterMeeting #PhoenixAZ #BaltimoreNupes #AchievementInEveryFieldOfHumanEndeavor
🎉👏🏾 Congratulations Brother Gary Rahman and the Baltimore (MD) Alumni Chapter!
We are proud to announce that at the 87th Grand Chapter Meeting of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., held in Phoenix, Arizona, Brother Gary Rahman was honored with the Bert V. Wadkins Award as the Outstanding Large Chapter Alumni Guide Right Director for the entire nation!
Your dedication to our youth and commitment to uplifting the next generation through Guide Right continues to elevate our chapter and our community.
Well deserved, Brother Rahman! Let’s keep setting the Benchmark for excellence.
♦️👌🏾 #KappaAlphaPsi #GuideRight #87thGrandChapterMeeting #PhoenixAZ #BaltimoreNupes #AchievementInEveryFieldOfHumanEndeavor
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Thank you to everyone who showed up and showed out at the Black and White event hosted by the Baltimore Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. Your presence made the night unforgettable.
A special thank you to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for graciously allowing us to use such a beautiful and meaningful space. We truly appreciate the support. #AchievementInEveryField #blackandwhiteaffair
Thank you to everyone who showed up and showed out at the Black and White event hosted by the Baltimore Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. Your presence made the night unforgettable.
A special thank you to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for graciously allowing us to use such a beautiful and meaningful space. We truly appreciate the support. #AchievementInEveryField #blackandwhiteaffair
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The Benchmark
baltimore
about the benchmark