In a historic expansion, the Tau Kappa Lambda (TKL) Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has officially been chartered as the first chapter of the fraternity in the Republic of Panama. This milestone, which was approved on May 3, 2023, marks Alpha Phi Alpha’s inaugural presence in Central America.

The journey to establish the chapter began on February 5, 2021, when Brother Brian K. Potier initiated efforts to bring Alpha Phi Alpha to Panama. Potier enlisted the help of Brothers Norman Parrish, Dr. John H. Carter, and Robert L. Farmer III, who worked closely with the fraternity’s International Affairs Strategic Planning Committee to navigate the complex process of chartering. Throughout the endeavor, the group received support from Brothers Cecil E. Howard, Dr. Gregory J. Harris, Albert L. Bouie, and the Committee on Fraternal Standards.

The chartering of Tau Kappa Lambda was celebrated with a weekend of events from August 22-25, 2024, in Panama City. The festivities began with a Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner on Thursday, followed by a community service project in Colón on Friday. Led by Chapter President Brian K. Potier, who regularly commutes a 14-hour round trip from Chiriquí to Colón, the Brothers visited Instituto Rufo A. Garay, a school in Panama’s Afro-Panamanian province. The chapter organized an oratorical competition on topics such as the African presence in the Americas and the Olmec civilization. All 12 student participants were awarded scholarships, and additional contributions were made by fraternity members, including Brother Dr. Kenneth A. Walker, who pledged $2,000 to support scholar Isabel Torres’ university education.

Saturday’s events included a golf tournament and an optional tour of Panama’s historic sites, culminating in the Chartering Ceremony and Dinner Dance. The ceremony was attended by General President Brother Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III, past and present fraternity leadership, and Alpha brothers from across the globe. In his keynote address, 30th General President Brother Adrian L. Wallace emphasized the importance of perseverance and brotherhood. The chapter was officially welcomed into the fraternity, with a commemorative plaque presented by Brother Brent S. Harvey of Epsilon Lambda Chapter.

One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of a $11,562 scholarship, granted by “The Alpha’s English” initiative, to nursing student Rosario Martinez Pimentel, covering her tuition at Universidad Interamericana de Panamá. The Tau Kappa Lambda President’s Award, recognizing leadership and vision, was bestowed upon Brother Dr. Gregory J. Harris, Florida District Director.

The celebration continued with a dance, embodying the fraternity’s commitment to brotherhood and service. The weekend concluded with a Farewell Breakfast, as attendees reflected on the chapter’s successful launch and its potential to impact the Republic of Panama.

The Tau Kappa Lambda Chapter is now poised to further Alpha Phi Alpha’s mission of leadership and service in the region.