In recognition of Black History Month, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. continues to recognize a few of its members’ “Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor.”

Elbert Frank Cox (Alpha 1915) was the first Black person to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics.

A native of Evansville, Indiana, Cox graduated from Indiana University in 1917 with an A.B. in mathematics, earning an “A” on every exam. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War I, Cox chaired the Department of Natural Sciences at Shaw University. In 1925, he earned his doctorate from Cornell University for his thesis, "Polynomial Solutions of Difference Equations," becoming one of only 28 mathematics Ph.D. recipients in the U.S. that year. After receiving his doctorate, Cox was appointed professor of physics at West Virginia State College. Cox was the second faculty member to hold a doctorate. In 1928, Cox was appointed associate professor of mathematics at Howard University.

Cox later taught at West Virginia State College and Howard University, where he became a full professor, department chair, and prolific mentor. In 1975, Howard established the Elbert F. Cox Scholarship Fund in his honor.

Kevin P. Scott

Grand Historian

For More Info on Brother Henry
click here

MWAC hosted a special Room to Read Event

Friday, January 30, 2026

At the Lincoln Elementary School, Bellwood, IL
for grades kindergarten - 5th Grade

Welcome to the official online home of the Maywood-Wheaton (IL) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

I am humbled and honored to serve as the 28th Polemarch (President) of this award winning chapter, comprised of accomplished men committed to achievement, scholarship, and service. Since our chartering on January 11, 1976, sixty-five years after the the Fraternity's founding on the campus of Indiana University, the Maywood-Wheaton (IL) Alumni Chapter has proudly served the western suburbs of Chicago with distinction.

For 50 years, MWAC has set a standard of excellence in both service and character. While our chapter continues to grow in size and recognition, our focus remains steadfast; expanding our impact through meaningful community engagement, strategic partnerships, and forward thinking initiatives that uplift the communities we serve. Whether you are a Brother seeking a Kappa home, prospective member, a fellow member of the Devine Nine, or a potential strategic partner, we welcome the opportunity to connect with you.

Stay connected with us by following MWAC Kappa Alpha Psi on Facebook and @mwacnupes on Instagram for the latest chapter news, events, and initiatives. To learn more about Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. from the Grand Chapter perspective, please visit KappaAlphaPsi1911.com

A. Craig Kinard,

Polemarch

Δ Chapter 1987