Brother Lowell Washington's Story
Brother Lowell Washington was born on August 14, 1960, in Washington D.C., to Colonel Lawrence and Maxine Washington. Throughout his high school years, Brother Lowell excelled as a 12-time varsity letterman, earning multiple state championships in both individual and team sports. He held the position of captain in every sport he participated in, with the exception of basketball. He set a National High School Record in track, earned a spot on the All-State Second Team in football, and achieved the status of High School All-American. After graduating from Northwood High School in 1978, he continued his education in San Antonio, Texas, before beginning his undergraduate studies as a freshman at Prairie View A&M University in the Spring of 1980.
His athletic skills continued into his early tenure at Prairie View A&M University, where Brother Lowell was awarded a Full Military Scholarship. He engaged in football, basketball, track, and tennis; however, his primary focus was on military science. Lowell remained committed to his academic pursuits and scholarship obligations. In 1982, an injury terminated his athletic career, prompting him to concentrate on completing his undergraduate studies in Political Science, International Relations, and Economics. With the support of his parents, Brother Lowell financed his education through employment, as he did not qualify for grants or loans. Consequently, he worked full-time while enrolling in the maximum number of credit hours permitted.
As a freshman, Lowell was approached by Cadet Nancy Thomas from Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated, who invited him to participate in the pledge process for membership in Rhomeo. Despite receiving offers from various fraternity organizations, Brother Lowell adhered to a distinct set of values, moral principles, and standards for healthy living that contrasted sharply with those observed in many of these college groups. He was particularly critical of the treatment of individuals by those who claimed to seek brotherly love and togetherness. Due to his experiences, resilience, enthusiasm, and determination, Brother Lowell earned recognition from The Outstanding College Students of America, having achieved an impressive 3.46 GPA in Political Science.
From his sophomore year until graduation, Brother Lowell served as the Residential Hall Manager for both Alexander Hall and Fuller Hall. It was noted that he possessed significant moral fortitude and composure. Many sought his counsel, as he was always willing to share his experiences and knowledge with others until his departure from Prairie View A&M University, a practice he maintains to this day. Regardless of the challenges he encountered, Lowell executed his responsibilities with professionalism.
Brother Lowell Washington completed his graduation on August 13, 1989, having earned three distinct degrees in Political Science, International Relations, and Economics. After dedicating nine years to his studies at Prairie View A&M University, Brother Lowell continued his academic journey by acquiring further college degrees. Throughout his post-collegiate career, he has consistently mentored and guided the members of Sigma Rhomeo, maintaining a prominent role within the organization.
Furthered Education: Brother Lowell obtained a master’s degree in international relations and political science from Fayetteville State University in 1994. He furthered his education with a program in First Responders Trauma Prevention & Recovery at the US Army Academy of Health Science in 1996, followed by Military Science studies at the US Army Institute of Professional Development Academy in 1997. Additionally, he pursued Law & Legal Studies at George Mason University from 2003 to 2010.
Brother Lowell honorably served in the United States Army, from which he received an Honorable Discharge. His service was recognized with numerous decorations, medals, badges, and letters of commendation, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit Award, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal, Non-Commissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Grenade Bar, Parachutist Badge, Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-W Bar, among various other awards and commendations. He was distinguished as an Army Top Soldier.
Words of wisdom from Brother Lowell Washington Sr: "Nonetheless, I learned that achievement is not always in one's control, but quitting or continuing often is in one's abilities."
Today’s Success: Brother Lowell resides in Northern Virginia with his family, which includes two children. Both he and his wife actively encouraged their children in their educational endeavors. Their son is currently enrolled in an HBCU Medical School, while their daughter is pursuing her studies in Dental School. Presently, Lowell serves as an Educator, successfully working within Fairfax County Public Schools and the Department of Transportation Services. He has held the roles of personnel representative and counselor for these past years.