Kappa Chi Lambda Chapter History Poised to impact and contribute to the well-being of those within their community, a group of professional men who shared a ‘common bond’ of membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, initiated the charge to organize, and founded a chapter in Lake County, in the State of Illinois.The 544th House of Alpha, The Kappa Chi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, was officially chartered on Friday, January 17, 1975.The Founding Brothers of Kappa Chi Lambda include: Brother George Dillard, Brother Walter McCallum, (Omega Chapter), Brother David Logan, Brother Vernon Sheldon, Brother Willie Stewart, (Omega Chapter), Brother Robert Thirston, Brother Leroy Thompson, Brother Rich Thompson, Brother Allen Turk, (Omega Chapter), Brother James Walker, (Omega Chapter), Brother Mel Washington, and Brother Willie J. Stepney.

A formal installation banquet was held at the Harrison House in Lake Forest, IL. Officers were installed by National Executive Secretary, Brother William Walker. Brother Robert Thirston, Sr. was installed as the first President of the Chapter. The State of Illinois granted Kappa Chi Lambda Chapter a state charter for incorporation on April 3rd in 1975. Soon thereafter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated was warmly welcomed into the local community during a reception held at the Elk Lodge in North Chicago, IL. Initiation of new members into the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity occurred on November 16, 1975. The first pledge line of chapter initiates included: Brother Sam Robinson, Brother Jesse Hawkins, and Brother Stan Murkey, (Omega Chapter). The new Brothers were honored at the first Black and Gold Ball on March 27, 1976, at the Gurnee, Illinois Holiday Inn.

In keeping with the legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and proudly preparing men for leadership and to be the voice and vision of their community, Kappa Chi Lambda Chapter has encouraged personal growth, the pursuit of excellence in education and professional advancement among its members, students, youth, and All we encounter. Embracing, ‘Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for All Mankind’, over the past five decades, Kappa Chi Lambda Chapter has continued in service and support of the Lake County community, the State of Illinois, and beyond.