Iota Profile #15: Gray Matter

Editor’s Note: This next brother of Iota was nominated by a Sweetheart who holds him in high regard, and judging by his Facebook page and amount of friends and supporters (over 5100 at the time of this writing!), she isn’t the only one.  I could list a bunch of his accomplishments, aspirations and job title here, but I’m going to let him tell it.

What I will preview, though, is that this brother needs the support of everyone reading this to help him reach his fundraising goal.  He is one of the featured participants competing for the title of Mr. Black Universe in Atlanta, GA, coming up at the end of this month on October 25-27th.  And he could still use as much help as possible from anyone able to contribute.

In the meantime, though, here are some words from an intelligent and motivated brother who is using his abilities on and off stage to better his community and himself.  Folks, meet Cameron Black, government name: Antonio Gray.

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Please introduce yourself to the readers.

Antonio Gray [performs under the stage name Cameron Black.]  Line Name: “Spotlight”. I.S.A.O ACE Club, Fall 2008. Delta Eta (Alabama State University).

What drew your interest to Iota Phi Theta?

The brothers on my campus were very cool and laid back. I appreciated their approach and their service, and genuine brotherhood. They were small in numbers but stuck together and in being a very ‘not the norm’ type of person I was drawn to that. Upon research, I related to the founders in starting college later, and in being a military man also. I applauded Iota’s stance on Political Social Activism which inspired me even more how there was an organization actually born out of a movement.

What is your current job title/business, and why are you in that field?

Leasing Agent Kennesaw State University, upcoming Professor of Cultural Studies/Political Science at KSU.

Please name one aspiration you hope to accomplish in the next 20 years.

In the next 20 years I hope to have graduated law school, have become Dean at a known university, and have a practice in family law for underprivileged families in the urban community. The goal is to provide reasonable law services to the communities who otherwise may not have these services available, in an effort to educate and promote knowledge.

How has Iota helped you in your endeavors, personal or professional?

Iota has provided a platform of networking that has come second to none. The brothers I encounter on a daily basis have all helped to steer me in the direction that I am headed in life. Brothers have been there for me and advised me politically and personally as to the steps I should take to get to where I am going. I appreciate the fellowship of Iota Phi Theta because the brothers whom I associate are very uplifting, positive and encouraging. “It always helps to have brothers in high places” is a common verbiage of mine. Lol.

What would you say to anyone considering membership in Iota Phi Theta/Iota Sweethearts?

I would say think about what you are doing. Iota Phi Theta is a fine organization to be a part of, however, like most organizations, we are going through growing pains of being an even better organization. It can be easy to get discouraged which is why we must consider our pledge. The promise and oath that we made must be kept in mind. The saying, “YOU GOT TO DIG,” holds very true. We must continue to dig and and build upon the foundation in which our founders have laid before us, not only dig, but do it as a collective unit in order to maintain our future. Remember, this for a lifetime, it’s a commitment, not an obligation.

More from Cameron:

On October 25th-27th, I will be competing for the title of Mr. Black Universe. This is the top black contest in the country. I am a former Mr. Black America and now ready to take on the task of ruling the universe. These competitions are very expensive seeing as how a lot of it is based on fashion and talent, if you anyone would like to donate, please click the link and follow the directions. I am 70% away from my goal at the time. Any help is appreciated. Thanks in advance. OW OW!!!

(Photos courtesy of A. Gray-Facebook)