Clarifying Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Gamma Lambda's Non-Participation in the 2026 Cincinnati Youth Conference

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter remains steadfast in its commitment to educational access, youth development, and community engagement throughout the Greater Cincinnati area.

Recently, questions have arisen regarding the chapter’s involvement in an event publicly promoted as the 2026 Cincinnati Youth Conference, scheduled for February 28, 2026. To ensure transparency and prevent confusion among schools, families, sponsors, and community partners, we wish to clearly state that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter is not affiliated with, participating in, sponsoring, or supporting this event.

Our chapter has become aware that elements associated with this conference were developed and promoted using information, materials, and institutional knowledge obtained during prior collaboration with Alpha Phi Alpha on one of our longstanding, nationally branded youth initiatives. That collaboration granted limited access for a specific purpose and did not include authorization to reuse or repurpose such materials for external events.

As stewards of programs that have been responsibly developed and sustained over many years, we take matters of organizational integrity, intellectual property, and community trust very seriously. These concerns are currently being addressed through appropriate organizational and legal channels.

It is important to emphasize that our position is not a reflection of opposition to youth-centered programming. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated has a proud legacy of advocating for education, leadership development, and service to young people. Our decision is rooted in the responsibility to protect the integrity and credibility of our official initiatives and to provide clarity to our community partners.

Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter will continue to plan and deliver its official youth programs, and we look forward to working with schools, families, and organizations that share our commitment to transparency, accountability, and positive outcomes for students.

We appreciate the continued trust of our community and encourage anyone with questions regarding Alpha Phi Alpha’s official programming to contact chapter leadership directly.

Tramell Harper

President

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated

Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter

Samu’El Fowler

Vice President

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated

Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter

QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE

Regarding Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter

and the 2026 Cincinnati Youth Conference

Q1: Is Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated involved in the 2026 Cincinnati Youth Conference?

No. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter is not affiliated with, participating in, sponsoring, or supporting the 2026 Cincinnati Youth Conference in any capacity.

Q2: Why is Alpha Phi Alpha not participating in this event?

The chapter has identified serious concerns related to the unauthorized use of materials, data, and institutional knowledge obtained during prior collaboration with our chapter on one of our nationally branded youth initiatives. These concerns involve organizational integrity and program ownership and are being addressed through appropriate channels.

Q3: Does this mean Alpha Phi Alpha is opposed to youth conferences or educational programming?

Absolutely not. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated has a longstanding and deeply rooted commitment to youth development and educational access as it is part of the Fraternity’s mission and aims. Our position is specific to this event and is focused on protecting the integrity and stewardship of our work.

Q4: Will Alpha Phi Alpha host its own youth programming in 2026?

Yes. Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter continues to plan and execute its official, nationally recognized youth initiatives, including programs that have served students and families in the Cincinnati community for many years. We will communicate the details for our 2026 event when they are finalized. 

Q5: Could there be confusion about which events are officially affiliated with Alpha Phi Alpha?

That is a key concern. To avoid confusion among schools, families, and sponsors, we want to be explicit that the 2026 Cincinnati Youth Conference is not an Alpha Phi Alpha program and should not be represented as such.

Q6: Are legal or organizational steps being taken?

The chapter is addressing this matter through appropriate organizational, regional, and legal channels, consistent with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated’s policies and governance processes.

Q7: Should schools, sponsors, or students change their plans?

That decision rests with each stakeholder. Our role is to provide accurate information regarding our non-involvement so partners can make informed decisions.

Q8: Who should stakeholders contact with questions?

Questions regarding Alpha Phi Alpha’s official programs or involvement should be directed to the chapter President, Tramell Harper or the chapter Vice President, Samu’El Fowler, to ensure clarity and accuracy via email at cincinnatialphas@gmail.com.