Meet the Elite Founding Members
ARCHITECTS OF A HIGHER STANDARD
Behind every great movement are the visionaries bold enough to begin it. The Elite founding members of the Fraternal Order of Classy Gentlemen: Sigma Rhomeo Incorporated, each bringing unique qualities, are not simply men of distinction - they are men of decision. Driven by purpose and bound by principle, they have laid cornerstones for a brotherhood that exists not status but for service.
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In a world often defined by noise, ego and competition, these men chose a different path - one of elevation, unity, and edification. They are leaders who lift others, builders of men and mentors who forge strength through wisdom and accountability.
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This is more than fraternity. It's a calling. And these are the pioneers who answered it first.
Lowell Washington
Brother Lowell Washington was born on August 14, 1960, in Washington D.C. After completing his education at Northwood High School in 1978, he pursued higher education in San Antonio, Texas, before commencing his undergraduate studies as a freshman at Prairie View A&M University in the Spring of 1980.
During his time at Prairie View, Lowell served as the first Vice-President of the Delta Alpha Chapter of Sigma Rhomeo from 1980 to 1981. In this role, he provided mentorship to his fellow brothers and played an active part in membership intake, offering guidance and leadership that motivated many. Renowned for his strong ethical principles and commitment to the welfare of his peers, he consistently exhibited personal concern and leadership throughout his involvement with Sigma Rhomeo. He graduated on August 13, 1989, with degrees in Political Science, International Relations, and Economics. Even after his graduation, Lowell has continued to mentor and lead Sigma Rhomeo brothers, remaining a significant influence within the organization.
Charles Burleson
Brother Charles Burleson was born on September 9, 1959, in Temple, Texas, and spent his influential years in Denver, Colorado. He graduated from East High School in 1977. Brother Charles was awarded a full golf scholarship and served as the Captain of Prairie View’s golf team while maintaining a 3.5 GPA (Grade Point Average).
As the first President of the Delta Alpha Chapter of Sigma Rhomeo, Brother Charles played a pivotal role in the chapter's transition to an independent fraternity. He also served as the Dean of Pledgee for “Aqua Ten,” the first group of members initiated without the supervision of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. He was a committed advocate for a “NO HAZING” policy during their pledge period, ensuring that the new members adhered to the principles of a true Rhomeo man. Brother Charles Burleson earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with a minor in Management in the spring of 1981.
Frederick Wells
Brother Frederick Wells was born on January 1, 1959, in Houston, Texas. He completed his secondary education at James Madison High School in 1978 and immediately enrolled at Prairie View A&M University during the summer of the same year. During this period, he participated in the university's pioneering eight-week freshman summer program known as “The Engineering and Science Concepts Institute (ESCI).” Frederick and his family financed his first year of undergraduate studies independently. He would return home on weekends to work and assist his father in covering his college expenses.
Brother Frederick demonstrated a poised and professional demeanor about himself. He was honored as "Most Together" during his freshman year at Prairie View A&M University. As a distinguished recipient of this accolade, Brother Frederick was known as being a leader among leaders. Prior to becoming an Rhomeo member, he served as the Line-president in a prior endeavor with his Elite line brothers. Brother Frederick pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering and graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors in the fall of 1981.
Lance A. Wyndon
Brother Lance A. Wyndon was born on August 16, 1960, in Houston, Texas. He attended the High School for Health Professions, where he developed a passion for music by playing the trumpet in the Houston Youth Symphony. After completing high school, he enrolled at Prairie View A&M University in the summer of 1978, where he participated in the Naval R.O.T.C. program.
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Brother Lance was instrumental in the establishment of Rhomeo, serving as its first Secretary for the Delta Alpha Chapter. He also took on the responsibilities of Historian, ensuring that all necessary documentation for the chapter's formation was carefully maintained, including operational guidelines, bylaws, and details of service projects. As the second president of the Delta Alpha Chapter, Brother Lance successfully registered Rhomeo at Prairie View A&M University on September 30, 1981, marking the first official registration of Rhomeos on any college campus. He graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in the spring of 1982.
Jimmy JD Williams
Brother Jimmy D. Williams, commonly referred to as JD, was born on December 24, 1961, in New Hebron, Mississippi. He completed his secondary education at Evans E. Worthing High School in Houston, Texas, graduating in 1979. In the fall of the same year, he completed his Mechanical Engineering degree at Prairie View A&M University.
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Brother Jimmy was recruited into the fraternity by Algie Armstead, a fellow member of the Elite brothers. As the youngest among them, he took on the role of the inaugural Treasurer for the Delta Alpha Chapter. His leadership on campus and his approach to personal presentation served as significant influences within the Rhomeo community. Jimmy believed in the importance of presenting oneself in a manner that aligns with how one wishes to be perceived by peers, educators, and potential employers. He exemplified the values of the Rhomeos by upholding high academic standards and dressing appropriately for success. Brother Jimmy JD Williams graduated on December 18, 1982, and received his degree with Magna Cum Laude honors during the commencement ceremony on May 1, 1983.
Algie Armstead
Brother Algie Armstead was born on September 20, 1960, in Houston, Texas, and graduated from Jesse H. Jones High School in 1978. Upon entering Prairie View A&M University in the summer of 1978, he quickly distinguished himself among his classmates. He pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA during his freshman year and earning the Superior scholarship.
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Brother Algie played a pivotal role in recruiting Frederick Wells, Lance A. Wyndon, and Jimmy JD Williams into their fraternity. This group of aspiring engineers sought to create a brotherhood that prioritized camaraderie over public humiliation during the initiation process. Brother Algie graduated with honors from Prairie View A&M University on May 9, 1982, completing his degree in less than four years.