| Edward Giles Irvin | |
|---|---|
| Born | August 13, 1893 Spencer, Indiana, U.S. |
| Died | 1982 |
| Occupation | Founder of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated; Journalist |
Edward Giles Irvin (August 13, 1893–1982) was a founder of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.[1] He was a recipient of the Laurel Wreath, the highest recognition of achievement for the fraternity.
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Irvin was born in Spencer, Indiana on August 13, 1893.[1] He graduated from Kokomo High School in 1910.[2]
After graduating high school, Irvin enrolled at Indiana University.[2] He joined Elder Watson Diggs and other African-American men in forming the fraternity of Kappa Alpha Psi, officially founded January 5, 1911. Irvin later became a member of the fraternity's first alumni chapter, the Chicago Alumni Chapter, established on April 6, 1919.[2]
Irvin left Indiana University in 1911 and pursued a career in journalism.[2] He served on the staff of the Indianapolis Freeman, the first black illustrated newspaper.[2][3] and in March 1922, established his own newspaper called The Shining Star in Anderson, Indiana.[2]
Irvin was successful at expanding the paper from initially being a leaflet to an eight-page paper.[2] This success garnered the attention of management at the Gary Sun, who offered Irvin the job of editor.[2] Irvin accepted the offer, but later left to become sports editor for the Chicago Daily Bulletin.[2]
Irvin was a veteran of World War I, and served on the Selective Service Board during World War II and the Korean War.[2] He was a recipient of a Distinguished Service Medal from both President Harry S. Truman and President Dwight D. Eisenhower.[2]
Irvin died on November 4, 1982, having been the last surviving founder of Kappa Alpha Psi.[2] He was buried in Burr Oak Cemetery on November 12, 1982.[2]
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