The robust wind and gray sky pushed University of Memphis students through the doors of the University Center Sunday night.
Like the weather making people change their clothing, the UC Ballroom had been transformed as well, into a place dedicated to Harlem, N.Y. and its renaissance.
The Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. hosted its 17th annual Ebony Man Contest that night. With the theme "Who Will Survive a Night in Harlem?" twelve contestants took their chances to claim a coveted position and a scholarship.
The 12 contestants were selected after an application and interview process. From there, the men endured three weeks of learning dance routines and stage presence. It also gave the men a chance to bond with one another.
"I didn't really know half of the contestants at first," said Damien Jefferson, a sophomore criminal justice major. "Now I can consider them my friends. They are definitely a group of guys that I can call and hang out with."
Jefferson, who was named Mr. Congeniality, said the contest was a really great experience and he would encourage other men to get involved next time.
As diverse as the talents they performed, the contestants represented various aspects of campus life. From football players to a band member and members of a fraternity, the couple of things that these men had in common is their strive in excellence towards a better future for themselves and the African-American community.
With nearly 500 people in attendance, arts and letter chair Alana Mitchell said she was pleased with the turn out.
"The Ebony Man Contest basically showcases the positive aspects of our African-American men instead of the negative," Mitchell said. "It is such a wonderful event for that reason and because it is the only campus pageant dedicated to African-American men."
All proceeds of the Ebony Man Contest benefit the Gestra L. Harris and Glenda B. Hardin Scholarships, which are sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta. Each year these scholarships are given out to female, minority undergraduates who have excelled academically and contributed to their community and campus.
So who survived a night in Harlem?
Robert Leon Roby IV, senior communications major, was named the 2005 Ebony Man. The president of the Delta Nu chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. won over the audience and judges with his rendition from scenes of "A Raisin in the Sun" and his question and answer session.
The 2005 candidate for Mr. University of Memphis, Roby received a trophy and a $600 scholarship.
"It feels good to represent this sorority and be seen as a role model for the community," Roby said. "Students on campus refer to me as 'Ebony Man' and not just Robert Roby now. It is a great honor, and I am glad to be chosen from such a great set of men."
Second and third place winners, Steve Fox and David Jones, also received a trophy and scholarship.
