Celebrating our Fellowship Brotherhood
Our Founding History
In the fall of 1978, approximately thirty-five male students at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, with guidance from members of Groove Phi Groove, established the “Interest in Groove Phi Groove” group. The primary goal was to create a pathway for NCA&TSU men to pursue membership in Groove Phi Groove.
As part of this newly formed group, members quickly came to understand the level of commitment required—financially, physically, mentally, and in terms of time.
On Sunday evening, February 10, 1979, the Groove Phi Groove Aggie Chapter inducted approximately twenty-five students as Swanxmen—the designation for those engaged in the pledge process to become members of Groove Phi Groove.
The pledge process was designed to develop:
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Upstanding men who love Groove Phi Groove, uphold its principles, and commit to serving their culture and society.
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Men who are aware of and proud of their olive, brown, and black skin, and who honor their African heritage.
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Men who recognize the importance of graduating from North Carolina A&T or an equivalent institution, with the understanding that education provides the foundation for giving back to their communities.
On Friday evening, March 30, 1979, ten Swanxmen successfully crossed over and became lifelong members of Groove Phi Groove. For every man who achieved this milestone, there were others who, despite their efforts, did not reach the goal.
Genesis 10
Steven Wilkins
Steven Wilkins is the former Chief of the Organizational Development and Training Unit at the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts, with over 30 years of experience in leadership development, organizational consulting, and executive coaching. He led statewide training programs for more than 8,500 judiciary staff and partnered with court leaders to strengthen processes, people, and productivity. His work also extended internationally through leadership and training initiatives with the National Center for State Courts. Steven holds a master’s degree in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania and currently resides between Memphis and Florida with his wife, Dawn, and their two sons.
Franklin Scott
Coming to NC A&T (Aggie Chapter) and becoming a member of Groove Phi Groove was the only choice that felt right for me. The brotherhood and fellowship immediately felt like family. I had no interest in joining any organization until I met these brothers. The diversity within this organization—now represented globally—proves that there is nothing we cannot accomplish together. My line brothers are my family, and I am truly grateful to have them as a part of my life.
Sherwood Bethea
While at A&T I pledge Groove Phi Groove S.F.I. in the Spring of 1979. I was a Swanxman on the Line of the Genesis 10. My Line Brothers and I was able to bond together and go over the burning sands on March 30th 1979.Pledging 81/2 weeks. We were a committed Line and worked as one. Because of this we became members of Groove Phi Groove. As of today we are still fellowshipping and working as a team. My line brothers are my extended Family and I am thankful to be a part of their life's. Groove Phi Groove S.F.I. has become globally known with membership extending outside of the United States of America. I am grateful to God for allowing me to be part of this Fellowship.
Gregory “Keith” Royal
Keith’s currently serves as General Contactor for OIC, Inc., Owner of Royal Real Estate
Service LLC and Off the Hook Records. He has been serving the community for over
20 years through many positions with the Rocky Mount Juneteenth Planning
Committee. His community service can be seen through his work with his Masonic
Lodge, Eastern Star Chapter or his 12 Step Fellowship. Everything he does is written in
the principles taught in Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship Inc.
Darius McPherson
In the Spring of 1979, I proudly became a member of Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Inc. This organization proved to be an ideal fit for me, despite the challenging pledge period. On day one, Fellowman Green gave me the nickname Mr. Peaboy, a cartoon character from the early sixties. Although the nickname was somewhat belittling, it did not discourage me. I was one of the 10 out of 26 pledges who persevered. Today, I live in Atlanta, GA, where I work as an Oracle Engineer. My life has been blessed with a wonderful wife, one son, two daughters, and eight grandkids.
Will "Hey Hodge" Hodges
Will “Hey Hodge” Hodges is a former construction worker and skilled brick mason by trade. Over the course of his career, he served as a foreman on numerous projects from the late 1980s through the mid-2000s. In 2012, he became a proud member of the BAC Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union, where he remained active for 10 years until his retirement in 2022
Hodge attended North Carolina A&T State University majoring in Industrial Technology (Construction). He also became a Grove in 1979 on the Genesis 10 line, The Last Man, The Finished AKA Dark Rose.
Today, Hodge resides in Goldsboro, NC, where he cares for his father who will celebrate his 97th Birthday in September 2025. He is a devoted father to two daughters, Oresha and Cheri Hodges, and a proud grandfather to Justin Hodges and Cameron Williams.
