Founders

Known as “The Dreamer,” Elder Watson Diggs was a visionary leader and educator. Born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, he was instrumental in drafting the fraternity’s constitution and ritual. Diggs earned degrees from Indiana University and Howard University, dedicating his life to education and the betterment of African American youth.

Henry Tourner Asher was born in Woodburn, Kentucky. He graduated from Indiana University in 1914 with a Bachelor of Arts degree and later earned a Bachelor of Library Science degree from the University of Illinois in 1915. Asher became an educator and was instrumental in developing the fraternity’s early programs.

George Wesley Edmonds was born in Knight Township, Indiana. After leaving Indiana University in 1911, he returned home to take care of family responsibilities following his father’s death. Edmonds worked in the coal mines and railroads to support his family, demonstrating a strong sense of duty and resilience.

John Milton Lee was born in Danville, Indiana. He enlisted in the Army in 1917 and served as a First Class Sergeant and Gunner. Lee was passionate about education and was instrumental in establishing the fraternity’s foundational programs, emphasizing leadership and academic excellence.

Ezra Dee Alexander was born in Bloomington, Indiana. He graduated from Indiana University in 1917 and went on to earn his M.D. degree from the Medical School of Indiana University in 1919. Dr. Alexander practiced medicine in Indianapolis for over 50 years, serving his community with distinction.

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Marcus Peter Blakemore, affectionately known “Blakie,” was born in Franklin, Indiana. He was a man of deep religious convictions and quiet confidence, contributing significantly to education, his community, church, hospitals, and fraternity. Blakemore enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War I, serving with dedication.

Guy Levis Grant was born in New Albany, Indiana. He graduated from Indiana University with a degree in dentistry in 1920. Dr. Grant practiced dentistry in Indianapolis for over 50 years and was known for his commitment to community service and the fraternity.

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Byron Kenneth Armstrong, a scholar and educator, was born in Westfield, Indiana. He pursued graduate studies and earned multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. Armstrong’;s dedication to higher education and philosophy greatly influenced the intellectual foundation of the fraternity

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Paul Waymond Caine was born in Charleston, Indiana, and attended grade school and high school in Greencastle, Indiana. He enrolled at Indiana University in 1909 and was instrumental in organizing Kappa Alpha Nu. Due to a disastrous fire in the fraternity house where he was employed, he never finished his sophomore year.

Edward Giles Irvin was a civic and religious leader, journalist, and entrepreneur. At only 17 years of age, Irvin was the youngest of ten Black students who founded Kappa Alpha Psi. He was known for his dedication to uplifting African American youth and his contributions to journalism and community organizations.