Since the Xavier University of Louisiana was founded nearly 100 years ago by St. Katharine Drexel and her Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, it has boasted generations of students who strive for distinction and promote a more just and humane society. This past weekend, one such Xavierite, Terrol Perkins, served as an example of the standard for achievement and excellence instilled in every Xavier student; Perkins, a student leader and graduating senior, competed in the Belford V. Lawson Oratory Competition at the 78th annual Alpha Phi Alpha Southwestern Regional Convention, winning first place among the collegiate speakers. 

“I am very grateful and humbled to have received this distinguished award and plan to continue to live up to the aims of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. by empowering communities and speaking out against injustice,” said Perkins, who joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. in Spring 2023 through the Beta Tau Chapter at Xavier. “I joined [Alpha Phi Alpha] because of its commitment to empowering communities and promoting mentorship and education.” 

Earlier in January, Perkins triumphed at the Belford V. Lawson Oratory Competition during the Alpha Phi Alpha Louisiana District Convention in Shreveport, Louisiana, clinching first place and progressing to the regional level. Representing both the Beta Tau chapter and Louisiana, Perkins competed at the regional convention held from March 21st to 24th at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Orleans. During the first evening of the forum, Perkins explained that for most of their presence in America, Black people, particularly Black men, have been focused on survival rather than anything else during the 78th Annual Southwestern Regional Convention Public Program on “A Mental Health Mandate: Securing Our Brotherhood and Communities.” 

Perkins secured victory by his response to the prompt, "How can Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. better leverage the power of education to overcome barriers and pave the way to a brighter future?” Delivering an exceptional speech, Perkins made history as the first Beta Tau brother in at least 12 years to secure the Southwestern Regional Oratory award. His robust competitors hailed from Alpha districts spanning Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. 

Beyond his fraternity commitments, Perkins serves as the Chapter President for the Xavier Collegiate 100, where he devises initiatives to enhance student engagement and promote mentoring services. With plans to attend Southern University Law Center in the upcoming fall, the political science major continues to demonstrate his dedication to academic and leadership excellence.  

As Perkins prepares to compete in the Alpha Phi Alpha General Convention competition next summer in Pennsylvania, the Xavier community rallies behind him to offer their congratulations, cheer, and support!