DIVINE 9 FOR DECEMBER

BRIAN K. POTIER

Brian K. Potier is a native of Lake Charles, LA., and a Spring 2020 initiate of the Zeta Psi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is the visionary behind the establishment of Tau Kappa Lambda, the first chapter of Alpha in Panama and in Central America.

On February 5, 2021, having been in the Fraternity for eleven months, Brother Potier inquired about starting a chapter in Panama. He developed and conducted the Panama Alphas Educational Series, a series of seven classes geared toward high school students in Colon, Panama – the most populous Afro-Panamanian city on the isthmus. The series was approved in 2023 by the Ministry of Education for inclusion in the school’s curriculum.

Brother Potier continues to volunteer at schools across the country. He has also provided full-ride university scholarships for deserving Panamanian scholars and has plans to expand this ever-important scope of benevolence.

With his recent purchase still under construction, Potier’s Casa Legado (“Legacy House” in Spanish) will be Panama’s first Alpha House and the first of its kind in all Latin America.

LORI WRIGHT

Lori Wright is a dynamic professional who blends technical expertise with a passion for service and mentorship. She currently serves as an Adobe Workfront System Administrator and Agile Product Owner at Ernst & Young (EY), where she drives innovation and efficiency through technology solutions. Beyond her corporate role, Lori’s commitment to education and community empowerment shines through her role as Co-Director of EY’s Cleveland College Map program—a multiyear group mentoring initiative that provides local high school students with guidance, encouragement and resources to access higher education.

Her strong faith in God is central to her life, and she is an active member of Abundant Grace Fellowship Church, where she finds inspiration and fellowship. Lori has been a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. since 1985. She recently reconnected with her sisterhood through the Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter, continuing her lifelong dedication to service, scholarship, and sisterhood.

Lori is a graduate of DePaul University. She’s a native of Pittsburgh and an avid Steelers fan. Lori now calls South Euclid home, where she lives with her husband and son. A mother of three, she values family as her greatest blessing and loves time spent creating lasting memories together. In her free time, Lori enjoys paper crafting, reading, traveling, and photography—hobbies

DERELL BEDINGFIELD, JR.

Meet Derell Bedingfield Jr, Senior at the University of Toledo. Studying Public Relations, Derell has used his experience and personal outreach to connect with people all over the map. Oldest of 5 to Lakia Griggs, Derell has made huge strides within Cleveland (where he was born and raised), and anywhere his charismatic personality has driven him to go.

Leading to his college endeavors, Bedingfield earned (15) Division 1 scholarships. He decided to attend The University of Toledo. While in his freshman year, Bedingfield Jr won the 2022 MAC Championship along with the 2022 Boca Raton Bowl Championship. In addition to these feats, Bedingfield earned a place on the Dean’s List with a 3.5 GPA while also becoming a 2023 initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

Currently, Bedingfield Jr is a member of: The National Association of Black Journalists, Public Relations Student Society of America, Lambda Pi Eta Nat. Communications Honors Society. Holding multiple positions within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

Earning his degree, while just completing over 200 volunteering hours, continuing to be a representative for his younger siblings and family and growing his Junk Removal Business “WrldWdePros Hauling” are at the forefront of the list for Derell as he continues to navigate through his personal and professional development.

Bedingfield Jr, is currently seeking Graduate Assistant positions for multiple Universities and will graduate from The University of Toledo in May, 2026. He credits every ounce of his being and breath to Jesus Christ.