Guide to Black Fraternities & Sororities

Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) stand as pivotal contributors to American college life and society. Originating from revered institutions like Howard University, these organizations, collectively known as the Divine Nine, have shaped the African-American collegiate experience through their commitment to academic excellence, community service, and civil rights advocacy.

Members like Martin Luther King Jr. from Alpha Phi Alpha and Vice President Kamala Harris from Alpha Kappa Alpha exemplify the leadership and dedication to public service that these fraternities and sororities cultivate. Founded at a time when African-American students faced significant challenges, BGLOs offered support and advocacy, particularly at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

This guide celebrates the history, impact, and ongoing contributions of Black fraternities and sororities. From their roots in the Civil Rights Movement to their widespread influence on college campuses across America, these organizations continue to uplift and empower the Black community. Join us in exploring the rich heritage and dynamic future of these essential pillars in African-American education and culture.

The birth of Black Greek life

The origins of Black Greek life are deeply rooted in the halls of Howard University, where, in 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. emerged as the first Black fraternity. This landmark event marked a pivotal shift in the collegiate experience for Black students, offering an alternative to the exclusionary practices of mainstream Greek life.

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like Howard played a crucial role in nurturing these organizations. They offered a safe and supportive environment where Black students could pursue education and leadership opportunities, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.

The early Black fraternities and sororities, and the subsequent formation of the Divine Nine, transcended their social origins. They evolved into platforms for leadership development, civil rights advocacy, and community upliftment. The establishment of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) in 1930 further united these organizations in their collective mission.

Reflecting on the beginnings of Black Greek life, we recognize its profound impact on American higher education and the empowerment of generations of African-American students. This era stands as a testament to the resilience, unity, and pursuit of academic and social excellence within the Black community.

The Divine Nine: an overview

The Divine Nine refers to the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Established in 1930, the NPHC serves as a collaborative umbrella organization, fostering unity and shared objectives among these Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs). 

The member organization boasts a rich history and a set of core values centered around scholarship, service, and community upliftment.

• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Founded in 1906 at Cornell University). As the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for Black men, Alpha Phi Alpha was founded on principles of scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the upliftment of humanity.
  • Notable members. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall
  • Key contributions. Advocacy in civil rights, educational programs like "Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College"
  • Historical significance. First Black intercollegiate Greek-lettered fraternity
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Founded in 1908 at Howard University). The first Greek-letter sorority established by Black college women, Alpha Kappa Alpha is dedicated to promoting sisterhood, scholarship, and service to all mankind.
  • Notable members. Vice President Kamala Harris, Maya Angelou
  • Key contributions. Women's health care initiatives, educational advancement programs
  • Historical significance. First Greek-letter sorority established by African-American college women
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (Founded in 1911 at Indiana University). This fraternity emphasizes achievement in every field of human endeavor and seeks to inspire service, leadership, and academic excellence.
  • Notable members. John Singleton, Gayle Sayers
  • Key contributions. Leadership training and community service programs
  • Historical significance. Emphasis on achievement in all human endeavors
• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (Founded in 1911 at Howard University). Known for its cardinal principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift, Omega Psi Phi works towards the betterment of local and global communities.
  • Notable members. Michael Jordan, Langston Hughes
  • Key contributions. Social action programs, scholarship funding
  • Historical significance. First fraternity founded at a historically Black university (Howard University)
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Founded in 1913 at Howard University). Focused on public service with an emphasis on programs that target the Black community, Delta Sigma Theta is dedicated to sisterhood, scholarship, and service.
  • Notable members. Shirley Chisholm, Aretha Franklin
  • Key contributions. Community empowerment programs, emphasis on Black cultural heritage
  • Historical significance. Largest Black Greek-lettered sorority
• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (Founded in 1914 at Howard University). This fraternity is built on ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service, and it strives to exemplify the principles of community leadership and educational empowerment.
  • Notable members. Al Sharpton, George Washington Carver
  • Key contributions. Social service programs, a focus on brotherhood and service
  • Historical significance. Pioneered the Phi Beta Sigma National Education Fund
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (Founded in 1920 at Howard University). With a focus on scholarship, service, sisterly love, and finer womanhood, Zeta Phi Beta aims to foster a sense of community and empower individuals and communities.
  • Notable members.  Zora Neale Hurston, Dionne Warwick
  • Key contributions. Community education programs, partnerships with charitable organizations
  • Historical significance. First to charter a chapter in Africa (1948)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (Founded in 1922 at Butler University).  Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life within the community, this sorority is committed to service, scholarship, and sisterhood.
  • Notable members. Hattie McDaniel, Kelly Price
  • Key contributions. Youth mentoring programs, support for women's health
  • Historical significance. Committed to enhancing the quality of life for women and their families
• Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (Founded in 1963 at Morgan State University). The youngest of the Divine Nine, Iota Phi Theta emphasizes scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood among men.
  • Notable members. Terrence C. Carson, Bobby Rush
  • Key contributions. Promoting leadership and academic excellence
  • Historical significance. Youngest of the Divine Nine, founded during the Civil Rights Movement

Expansion beyond HBCUs

The expansion of BGLOs from HBCUs to predominantly white institutions (PWIs) marks a significant chapter in their history. Initially rooted in institutions like Howard and Morgan State University, these organizations faced challenges integrating into PWIs, including resistance and a lack of acceptance.

Despite these obstacles, BGLOs established themselves at universities such as Cornell and Indiana University, providing vital support systems for African-American students in predominantly white environments. Their presence at these institutions introduced cultural exchange, raised awareness of diversity and inclusion, and enriched the academic and social life on campuses.

These organizations have maintained their founding values of leadership, service, and academic excellence, fostering inclusivity and nurturing future leaders across America's educational landscape. The journey of BGLOs into PWIs reflects their resilience and ongoing commitment to breaking barriers and promoting unity.

Legacy and future directions

The legacy of BGLOs is significant, having nurtured leaders and profoundly influenced American society and civil rights. Their contributions extend from academia to broader social justice issues.

Looking ahead, BGLOs are poised to further their impact in an increasingly global and digital landscape. Future directions include:

• Enhanced global collaboration. Forming alliances with international entities to address worldwide challenges.
• Embracing technology. Leveraging digital platforms for activism, education, and networking.
• Focused community initiatives. Prioritizing community service with an emphasis on economic empowerment and addressing health and education disparities.
• Policy advocacy. Increasing involvement in political advocacy and policy making, particularly concerning African American issues.

As BGLOs evolve, they are expected to remain committed to their foundational values while adapting to contemporary challenges, and continuing their legacy of leadership, community service, and educational excellence.

Celebrating the legacy and promise of Black Greek organizations

Black Greek Letter Organizations stand as pillars of resilience, unity, and cultural empowerment. Rooted in historic institutions like Howard University, they've significantly influenced Black history, culture, and community upliftment. Through promoting academic excellence, leadership, and social justice, BGLOs have left an indelible mark on the African-American community and beyond.

Their legacy extends beyond notable alumni to the daily lives of college students, offering mentorship, a sense of belonging, and advocacy for social change. As they adapt to contemporary challenges, BGLOs continue to be a beacon for future generations, embodying hope and progress.

For those inspired by the rich history of BGLOs and seeking to explore more, College Rover is your go-to resource. Offering insights into schools, programs, and Black Greek life, College Rover helps you navigate your educational journey and connect with this enduring legacy. Embrace this heritage and start your path with College Rover.