Virginia Greek Picnic Is Coming To Virginia Beach: Organizers Share Vision for Unity, Service, and Celebration

From August 22nd to August 24th, 2025, the Virginia Greek Picnic (VAGP) will take place in Virginia Beach, bringing members of the Divine Nine, HBCU alumni, and supporters from across the country together for a weekend rooted in unity, celebration, and community service.

Behind this ambitious revival of a greek picnic in Virginia Beach is a powerhouse team of organizers: Derrick “Izzy the DJ” Isabell, a high-energy performer, entrepreneur, and proud member of Omega Psi Phi; Jay “Face Jay” Walke, a seasoned event planner, real estate investor, and community advocate, also of Omega Psi Phi; DeVaughn “DJ SK” Harrison, an international DJ, U.S. Navy veteran, and Spring ’22 initiate of Kappa Alpha Psi and Fred Whit, a talent manager and media producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in entertainment, as well as a lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi.

Together, they’re not just bringing back a long-missed tradition, they’re aiming to transform it into a cultural institution. In this exclusive Watch The Yard interview, the organizers share the inspiration behind VAGP’s return, why Virginia Beach was the perfect home for it, and how they’re ensuring the weekend is about more than just a party, it’s about legacy, service, and making history in Black Greekdom.

What inspired the creation of the Virginia Greek Picnic, and how has it evolved since its inception?

DJ SK: The inspiration behind the Virginia Greek Picnic came from seeing just how deep the D9 roots run here in Virginia. A few important positions in the Hampton Roads area are held by members of the D9. At one point, I was driving on the highway and saw at least 10 different cars in a row, all with Divine Nine license plate covers—and it hit me: Virginia really has something special. There’s a strong Greek presence in this state, and we felt like it deserved a signature event that matched that energy.

We were also inspired by the vibe of other Greek gatherings in different states like AGP, but we wanted to build something unique for our region. All of us—DeVaughn “DJ SK” Harrison and Derrick “Izzy the DJ” Isabell (Norfolk State University), Fred Whit (North Carolina A&T), and Jay ”Face Jay” Walke (Virginia State University)—are proud HBCU alumni, and we know firsthand the impact that Greek life and Black college culture can have. So this wasn’t just about throwing a party—it was about creating a weekend that felt like home. “Homecoming in the summer.”

Since its start, VAGP has grown into something bigger than we imagined. What began as a day of fellowship has evolved into a full weekend experience rooted in unity, service, and celebration. It’s not only a place to link up and have fun but it’s also a platform for giving back, uplifting each other, and honoring the legacy of Black Greekdom right here in Virginia.

Let’s talk location. Why did you decide to host the Virginia Greek Picnic in Virginia Beach?

Fred Whit: Virginia Beach was the perfect choice for what we envisioned with VAGP. It’s already a well-known destination, especially in the summer, drawing in tourists from all over the country. The beach, the boardwalk, the nightlife—it all adds to the experience. We wanted a place that could naturally bring people together and offer more than just a venue.

On top of that, the 757 has a rich legacy of Black excellence and Greek life. There’s a strong NPHC presence in this area, with two HBCUs in the immediate area and multiple throughout the state, as well as those close NC schools like ECSU. It felt right to host something that brings that energy to the forefront. Virginia Beach gives us the space, the visibility, and the vibe we need to create something memorable—not just for the Greek community, but for the city as a whole. It’s a place where culture, community, and celebration can thrive, and that’s exactly what VAGP is all about.

This year’s theme focuses on unity, celebration, and community. What does that look like in action during the weekend?

Face Jay: For us, unity and community aren’t just themes—they’re priorities. We’re very aware of the history between the City of Virginia Beach and members of the Divine Nine, especially the incidents from the ’90s that left a lasting impact on how Black Greek organizations were viewed and treated. Because of that, we’re intentional about shifting the narrative. While celebration is definitely part of the weekend, unity and community are at the forefront.

This year, we’re putting that into action through a major community service initiative that brings people together with purpose. On the morning of the picnic, we’ll be partnering with the YMCA—one of the largest nonprofits in the Hampton Roads area—and the Virginia Beach Police Department to host a school supply and hygiene product drive for local families. Officers will be side by side with volunteers, helping us pack backpacks and distribute essentials to those in need. We’re also organizing a children’s reading event at the Princess Anne YMCA the day before, again bridging that gap between community service and connection.

It’s about showing up together, giving back together, and setting an example of what real collaboration looks like. We want to build trust, not just moments—and we believe this kind of work is how that happens.

How do you envision VAGP contributing to the culture of Black Greekdom long-term?

Izzy the DJ: We see VAGP becoming a cornerstone in the legacy of Black Greek life. Our goal isn’t just to host an annual event—it’s to build a cultural institution that uplifts and represents the Divine Nine and HBCU alumni on a major scale. Long-term, we want to be mentioned in the same breath as the OGs—Atlanta Greek Picnic (AGP), Texas Greek Picnic (TGP), and others that have set the standard for what this experience can look like.

But we also want to bring our own flavor to it—by centering service, mentorship, and real community impact alongside the social experience. We envision VAGP becoming a space where generations of Greeks can connect, where college students find mentorship, and where young professionals discover opportunities through relationships built during the weekend.

It’s about more than just fun—it’s about legacy, leadership, and love for our culture. If we can continue to pour into the community while celebrating who we are, VAGP can absolutely be one of the defining events in Black Greekdom for years to come.

How did you all as founders first connect, and what made you decide to build something like the Virginia Greek Picnic together? Was there a moment when you knew this team had the right chemistry to make it happen?

DJ SK: To be honest, we already had the relationship. We’ve already collaborated on a number of major projects from homecomings to service projects, so it was only right to come together for something as massive as VAGP. Two of us are younger Greeks while the other two are seasoned Greeks, so it’s the best of both worlds to be honest. This makes the chemistry smooth because we respect each other’s knowledge and experiences in the space, and combined we feel that we can reach the masses effectively.

What aspect of the picnic are you the most excited about this year?

Izzy the DJ: Honestly, it’s hard to choose! But I’d say the most exciting part is seeing everything come together—watching people from across the region show up and truly enjoy themselves in a safe, positive, and culturally affirming space. Can’t wait to see it go from carefully planned meetings to an event everyone can enjoy.

What do you want attendees to walk away with after the weekend?

Fred Whit: We want them to leave feeling full—full of joy, connection, nostalgia, and pride. Whether you came to stroll, volunteer, network, or just vibe, we want every attendee to feel like they were part of something special. Our hope is that everyone walks away already looking forward to next year, knowing they were seen, celebrated, and poured into.

We at Watch The Yard are excited to see what the Virginia Greek Picnic will bring to the Black Greek community this year. With its mix of service, celebration, and connection, the weekend has the potential to become a meaningful addition to the culture. As the founders prepare to welcome Greeks and supporters from across the region, we look forward to seeing how VAGP builds on its vision and leaves its mark in Virginia and beyond.