By Jessica Lewis, News Editor
Continuing traditions, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity will be hosting the 20th annual Ultimate Jam on May 7 at Hofstra USA from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. "I think students should come out because it is the absolute last party of the semester, last party at Hofstra USA and it will be a nice break before everyone takes their finals," said current president of the fraternity, Andre Derricotte.
In the Spring of 1990, after being a fraternity at the University for ten years, brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha in the Xi Psi chapter decided to host a party at Hofstra USA. During this time, black fraternities and sororities had traditionally held their parties in the Rathskeller or the Multi-Purpose room. The brothers wanted to expand their parties and be able to accommodate a larger amount of people.
Alpha Phi Alpha worked with Tau Epsilon Phi and Tau Kappa Epsilon to make an agreement for a party at Hofstra USA. Funding was an issue because a large amount of money was needed to reserve the facility. However, the three fraternities decided to split the cost and put on what may be considered the biggest and most successful party a black organization had ever put on at the University.
"My fraternity is still close with Tau Epsilon Phi and Tau Kappa Epsilon," said Derricotte. "We support one another's events, but I would like for us to go back to co-hosting events and working together."
The Ultimate Jam this year will also conclude Alpha Week. Alpha Week is put on once a semester by Alpha Phi Alpha.
"[The Ultimate Jam is] filled with fun educational and informational programs about life in today's society," Derricotte said.
A portion of the proceeds from this year's event will go to the March of Dimes Foundation and Project Haiti.
"The type of event that will happen on May 7 will be an extraordinary event. There will be surprises all night, performances and one can expect to witness the foundation of a unique Hofstra Party and Theme," Derricotte concluded.
Alpha Phi Alpha brothers show strong bond within their fraternity. (Photo Courtesy of Andre Derricotte)