January Omega Spotlight: Brother Benjamin Sterling Ford
In honoring the life of Brother Benjamin Sterling Ford, we celebrate a man whose existence was a masterclass in service, devotion, and the pursuit of excellence. From his roots in Colorado to his impactful journey through Howard University and beyond, Benjamin moved through the world with a clear purpose: to uplift others. As a husband of 33 years to his beloved Charlene and a devoted father to Brentton, Carrie Elizabeth, and Vincent, he built a foundation of love that served as his greatest masterpiece. His family was his heart, and his role as a son to Mary Jane remained a cornerstone of his character throughout his 56 years.
In the classroom, Benjamin was more than an educator; he was a champion for those who needed one most. For over three decades, he poured his soul into the School District of Palm Beach County, specifically advocating for exceptional students with a patience and brilliance that earned him the prestigious William T. Dwyer Award and the title of Teacher of the Year. He didn't just teach lessons; he transformed futures, leaving an indelible mark on the Glades Region and the countless young lives he mentored.
As a proud son of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Brother Ford lived the cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift every single day. Within the Kappa Upsilon Chapter, he was a "servant leader" in the truest sense—a loyal brother whose presence strengthened the bond of the fold. Though he entered the Omega Chapter on December 20, 2025, his labor is far from over. His legacy continues to speak through every student he inspired, every brother he guided, and the beautiful family that carries his name. Rest in Omega, Brother Ford; your light continues to shine in the lives of all who knew you.
February Omega Spotlight: Brother Joe Baker
In the annals of the Kappa Upsilon Chapter, Brother Joe Baker stands as a paragon of fraternal excellence and tireless service. Since crossing in the Spring of 2008, his trajectory has been defined by an unwavering commitment to the highest ideals of the fraternity, culminating in his distinguished tenure as Basileus. A master strategist and leader, Brother Baker has navigated the complexities of chapter governance with precision, serving with distinction as Basileus, Vice Basileus, and Fundraising Chairman. His visionary leadership as Chairperson of the Masquerade Ball set a standard of sophistication and success that remains a benchmark for the organization.
Brother Baker’s profound impact is etched in a legacy of prestigious accolades, including the 2018 Omega Man of the Year Award and the 2022 Award of Excellence for Outstanding Community Service for his transformative work with Operation Hope. A constant fixture at the Conclave, District, and State levels, he has been a driving force behind the chapter’s strategic growth and regional influence. Beyond his storied professional and fraternal contributions, he remains a devoted family man, supported by his wife, Verdenia Baker, their daughters, Jasmin and Shannee, and their granddaughter, Lauren. His life’s work serves as a living testament to his core conviction: that it truly costs to be an Omega Man.
March Omega Spotlight: Brother Antonio Smith
Recognized as one of South Florida’s Most Powerful & Influential Black Business Leaders for 2025 by MIA Media Group, Antonio L. Smith serves as the Keeper of Finance for the Kappa Upsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. In this role he ensures the financial integrity and well-being of the chapter. Antonio is a native of St. Louis, MO. He has also spent 20+ years living and raising his 3 Children in Chicago, IL but he and his wife, Mona, have come to call West Palm Beach home.
Antonio has held several positions of considerable depth and breadth in both the IT/Telecom and Financial Business Sectors. In his career he has been blessed to survive a wave of mergers, acquisitions, and spin-offs before retiring and transitioning to deliver Financial Services with Edward Jones.
Antonio received his MBA from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, IL. He received his BS in Computer Science from Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. He has also completed an Executive-MBA in Global Finance at Penn State University. Often referred to as “The Money Man” he relies on his spiritual faith, the love and support of friends and family and experiences both formal and hard knocks to help others problem solve for their financial future.