Where Equity Leads and Community Rises
Rooted in Ithaca, the Alpha Light Fund creates spaces of purpose and power — where leadership grows, culture flourishes, and legacy takes root.
Through cultural gatherings, and multigenerational programs, we foster community for changemakers to connect, build, and shape what’s next.
10,000 sq. ft. HoALI
A purpose-driven space
now anchors Ithaca as a
cultural and leadership hub serving multigenerational changemakers.
4+ Community Partners
Built in partnership with
minority- and women-owned businesses, reinforcing our commitment to inclusive growth.
7 Guiding
Pillars
Programs and gatherings shaped by seven pillars that inspire learning, collaboration, and lasting impact.
1st Cultural Leadership Hub
The first of its kind in Ithaca—preserving history while shaping the future of community leadership.
Lighting the Future,
Grounded in Legacy
HOUSE OF ALPHA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
Launching Fall 2025, the House of Alpha Leadership Institute (HoALI)
is a community-driven series of events, workshops, and gatherings open to all.
Rooted in our Seven Pillars, HoALI is a cultural and intellectual hub where leadership takes shape through dialogue, mentorship, and action.
From one-time seminars to multi-day summits, HoALI offers
a rotating calendar of events that empower Black students, professionals, and community leaders to grow — personally, academically, and systemically.
THE house that holds our light
Find Where You Belong. Step Into What’s Next.
I'm a Student: Participate in programs through the House of Alpha Leadership Institute (HoALI)—designed to develop your leadership, purpose, and community impact.
I’m a Future Resident: Apply to live at the House of Alpha,
Leadership Institute a supportive space that blends housing, mentorship, and growth.
I’m a Donor or Partner: Support the Alpha Light Fund by investing in programs, spaces, and initiatives that build future leadership.
I’m a Community Member & Leader: Rent HoALI for events, meetings, and cultural gatherings—and be part of
a space built for collective progress.
Discover the Residence & Cultural Center
The House of Alpha Leadership Institute (HoALI) is ALF’s student residence, leadership hub, and cultural destination—built to nurture growth, purpose, and legacy.
What makes the House of Alpha
more than just a place to live:
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13 total resident rooms, in addition to a dedicated Live-In Advisor suite
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Up to 100 guests accommodated in the Concourse event space
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50 guests accommodated on the rear deck for outdoor gatherings
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1 main-floor gallery space for exhibits, workshops, and community events
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4 minority- and women-owned businesses contracted during development
What We Build, We Build Together
Leadership lives here—in every form.
Explore the spaces, people,
and possibilities shaping what’s next.
A Home for Culture, Conversation,
and the Future of Black Leadership
CULTURAL CENTER & RESIDENCE
The House of Alpha Leadership Institute (HoALI) is more than a building — it’s the physical manifestation of the Alpha Light Fund’s vision: a space where culture, leadership, and legacy converge.
Located in Ithaca, New York, adjacent to the Cornell University campus, this beautifully renovated, eco-conscious 10,000+ sq. ft. property serves as the flagship home, student residence, cultural destination, and headquarters of the House of Alpha Leadership Institute.
Designed as a destination for dialogue, HoALI welcomes events, gatherings, and organizations committed to the candid exchange of ideas, especially those rooted in the advancement of Black culture.
Your Gift Powers Legacy.
Your Support Builds the Future.
Support the Alpha Light Fund
Your contribution to the Alpha Light Fund is more than a donation —
it’s a commitment to equity, leadership, and cultural legacy. We’re calling on donors who believe in nurturing future changemakers, sustaining a historic home with purpose, and advancing the values at the heart of our Seven Pillars.
Every dollar brings us closer to a world where potential is not just seen — but fully supported, elevated, and celebrated.
When you give to ALF, you turn vision into real-world impact — investing in the people, spaces, and ideas that shape what’s next.
The Alpha Light Fund, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions may be eligible for tax-efficient giving strategies.
Spacious Facility
Fully renovated in 2024, our 10,000+ sq ft of state-of-the-art facilities, including a full industrial kitchen, a common room, study spaces, large outdoor patio and open multipurpose space. Located on North, The HoALI provides quick access to dining halls,
local Ithaca stores, and main bus routes.
rich history
Born from the visionary ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., HoALI stands as a beacon of leadership and innovation, drawing inspiration from a remarkable 120-year legacy—a legacy that has been at the forefront of societal change, nurturing minds and spirits that have left indelible marks on our world.
active community
We are a community dedicated to uplifting and empowering communities of color. From education and professional development to arts, media, and business ownership, HoALI is not just a residence—it’s a launchpad for leaders and change-makers committed
to making a difference.
AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS
Plan your next event in a space built for impact. HOA offers access for mission-aligned events, meetings, and gatherings.
Whether hosting a professional seminar, community dialogue, or celebration, the HOA provides a welcoming environment that honors Black excellence and collective growth.
Realizing the Dream of a more Just and Equitable Society.
Where Legacy Meets Leadership.
We nurture prudence, temperance, justice, and courage — not as distant virtues, but as daily practices.
This is where knowledge becomes power, where identity fuels vision, and where leadership is not only earned — it’s embodied.
Four Cardinal Virtues
Plato's "Republic"
ALF is about creating spaces where all voices—can rise, lead, and be fully seen.
"ALF was built for the brilliance of an entire community. This is about creating spaces where all Black voices — students, professionals, neighbors — can rise, lead, and be fully seen.”
Dr. Dennis A. Mitchell
President, Alpha Light Fund
We are reminded that our stories and our communities deserve the spotlight, the mic, and seats at every table.
"The Alpha Light Fund reminds us that our stories, our leadership, and our communities deserve the spotlight, the mic, and the seat at every table."
Sheri Nixon
Leader & Advocate
The House of Alpha Leadership Institute is more than a residence—it’s a beacon of legacy and belonging.
“Rooted in over a century of cultural excellence, the HoALI is a place where history lives, leaders grow, and every step through its doors says: You belong here.”
Shawn A. Lee
VP, Alpha Light Fund
At ALF, we believe real change-makers live their values, shaping culture and turning theory into action
"We inspire and develop leaders who are nurturing architects of possibility—people who not only question the present but boldly design what’s next."
Shanita Spencer
Leader & Advocate
Where Vision Meets Action, and Light Becomes Legacy.
PATHWAYS OF PURPOSE
House of Alpha Leadership Institute
Launching Fall 2025, the House of Alpha Leadership Institute (HoALI) is where leadership grows through culture, community, and purpose. Guided by our Seven Pillars, we offer events, dialogues, and mentorship that equip changemakers to lead with clarity and confidence.
Perfect for:
Students and young professionals
Aspiring Black leaders and organizers
Educators and mentors shaping
the next generation
HoALI Cultural Center & Residence
Just steps from Cornell University, the newly renovated House of Alpha Leadership Institute is more than a center — it’s a sanctuary. Whether hosting community think tanks, housing future leaders, or welcoming visitors this space honors culture while shaping what’s to come.
Perfect for:
Student residents seeking community
Local and national visitors exploring
Event organizers, educators, and collaborators
Alpha Light Fund Community Collective
From entrepreneurship initiatives to art exhibitions and equity-focused summits, this pathway drives sustainable change rooted in legacy. We support cultural expression, diverse partnerships, and wealth-building opportunities that honor our past — and boldly shape what’s next.
Perfect for:
Donors, partners, and funders
Artists, entrepreneurs, and scholars
Leaders committed to systemic change and inclusivity
Alpha Light Fund is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening
Ithaca and the Central New York Community through three key areas:
residency, programming, and cultural preservation.
We offer residency opportunities for purpose-driven individuals,
host workshops and events that spark civic leadership, and maintain a
historic home that serves as a cultural hub and gathering place.
Designed for community.
Built for generations.
Rooted in Ithaca.
SUPPORTED BY
