Today we’d like to introduce you to Beta Theta Achievement Foundation, Gregory Knight, John Livingston, Solomon Wilcots
Hi Beta Theta Achievement Foundation, Gregory Knight, John Livingston, Solomon Wilcots, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The Beta Theta Achievement Foundation was founded to help bridge disparities in communities of color. Our mission is to promote financial literacy, close the digital divide, and foster healthier communities. While we serve a broad community, we place a special emphasis on empowering Black male college students in Colorado by fostering academic success, providing financial support, and promoting both mental and physical well-being.
Our members proudly pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. across colleges and universities in Colorado, and we are deeply aligned with its core principles of brotherhood, achievement, and service. Kappa Alpha Psi is a distinguished member of the historic “Divine 9,” a collective of Black Greek-letter fraternities and sororities.
While these values serve as our inspiration, the Beta Theta Achievement Foundation operates independently as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, committed to making a lasting impact in our communities.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Emmy Award-winning national sports broadcaster and former CU football star Solomon Wilcots spoke about the stress caused by a society that often excludes others based on skin color and has shown disregard for Black men. He emphasized the importance of organizations like the Beta Theta Achievement Foundation in providing resources to counter these challenges, particularly for young Black men.
Through his work with the Beta Theta Achievement Foundation, Wilcots is committed to helping Black male college students sharpen their advocacy and communication skills. He also aims to further their confidence to thrive in a job market where they are often highly qualified—if not overqualified—yet still perceived by some as underqualified.
The Beta Theta Achievement Foundation will continue to serve as a bridge toward greater opportunity and equity.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The Beta Theta Achievement Foundation is dedicated to several community service initiatives.
One of our key programs, Beta Theta Mentoring, supports Black college men by addressing educational disparities and breaking down institutional barriers. Through our comprehensive seminars, offered both virtually and in person, attendees gain valuable tools to enhance their academic success. These include effective study strategies, advocacy for fair grading, and guidance in navigating the higher education landscape.
Gregory Knight, a distinguished corporate board director and prominent member of the Beta Theta Achievement Foundation, eloquently captures the essence of mentoring: “Mentoring is not just about guiding someone through their journey, but about empowering them to forge their own path to success.”
Beyond mentoring, our commitment to community outreach remains steadfast. We host a book club open to both members and external participants, and we have donated books to the community. One of our favorite selections is Bunheads by Misty Copeland, which we gave to our daughters and read together. We were truly honored when Ms. Copeland autographed copies for our foundation.
Other community initiatives include organizing a school supply drive for the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Denver, as well as regular volunteer efforts by our members at food banks to support those in need.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Our members range in age from 22 to 70! While they share several common traits, three stand out: a commitment to helping others, a connection to fraternity, and a past or present residence in Colorado.
John Livingston, a Denver native and University of Colorado graduate, proudly highlights distinguished leaders within the membership ranks, including:
• Solomon Wilcots – National Broadcaster & Emmy Award Winner
• Morris Copeland – Retired Chief Community Services Officer, Miami-Dade County
• Mickey Pruitt – Super Bowl Champion
• Dr. Aswad Allen – Chief Diversity Officer, California State University
• Kevin Corke – Fox White House Correspondent
• Dr. Mike Jones – Virginia House of Delegates, 77th District
These outstanding individuals, along with many others, exemplify a blueprint for achieving success in America despite challenges. Additionally, John Livingston stated, “Personally, I’ve learned that success extends far beyond professional accomplishments. While earning a degree and building a respected career were meaningful milestones, true fulfillment came when I married and built a beautiful family with my wife. That’s when I truly felt a sense of richness and joy.”
Livingston further adds that this experience reinforced the importance of personal growth, supportive friendships, and loving relationships as essential pieces of the puzzle. He states, ‘I’m passionate about sharing this message with the young men mentored by our foundation, emphasizing the value of cultivating a well-rounded life.'”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.btafoundation1939.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betatheta1939?igsh=MWliaHF4NW42dThhcA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566748920367
