Iota Profile #9: Higher Learning

Editor’s Note:  My grandfather was a grade school principal in Chicago for many years, and though he earned a master’s degree back when most black men didn’t go much higher than a high school degree, one thing that he always told me was that in my generation, the expectations for us would be much higher than they were for them then, because things would get easier.  And that there would be more like him.

Whether things have gotten easier remains to be seen; however, there are brothers of Iota who are making education a dual priority–getting theirs while bringing up those around them in knowledge.  The following profile features one such brother, Philip Cody, who, after I read his answers to the profile questions, reminded me of every positive black man I knew that stressed the value of education to me growing up–including my grandfather.  He is aspiring for a doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration, and the word is, also quite a talented vocalist (what, you thought the linename was for show? Nah.)

So, Granddad, here’s one for you.  

Hope the rest of you enjoy it as well.

—

Please introduce yourself to the readers.

Name: Philip M. Cody, MBA.  Line Name: Cadence, aka Choir Boy.  Chapter: Zeta Chi (Georgia Southern University), Gulf Coast Region, Fall 2005.

What drew your interest to Iota Phi Theta?

I chose Iota Phi Theta for many reasons, but I will share a few. First, I saw this as an opportunity to put my own personal stamp on the history of this up and coming organization. I have always considered myself as a LEADER, and with Iota Phi Theta, I have progressed tremendously as a servant leader. I also liked the strong bond between the members and the closeness of an organization that is still relatively smaller in number than all the other organizations of the NPHC. The fact that we are close makes me really feel the bond and makes me work harder. Iota men are hard working men!

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

My current job title is Counselor/Coordinator for Student Support Services. I’m in this field because of my passion and drive to help change a nation and there is no better starting place, than to start with our youth. I earned my Bachelors’ and Masters’ degrees in Business Administration and [am] working on my doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration.

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

Within the next 20 years I plan to have already completed my doctoral studies from Morgan State University (I finish in 2015), start a family and [be] in my position as president of a college or university.

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

Iota has allowed me to become a servant leader in my own community. It has given me the drive and determination to achieve more than I could ever think of. It is a brotherhood unlike any other. With the help of Iota and the focus of the 5 principles, I’ve created my own mentoring program for young men that need that extra push and encouragement to achieve their goals and aspirations. I’ve also started my own consulting business. Thanks to God, my family and my Iota family.

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

To anyone who wants to become a member of Iota please know that this is an organization that helps build leaders. Because our motto is “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One”, there is no room for just the ordinary individual, but you must possess extraordinary characteristics. Iota builds men of integrity, valor, strength, courage and men determined to make a change in their communities as well as the world around them.

 

(Images courtesy of Philip Cody)