Divine 9 Organizations

Divine 9 Paraphernalia

The Divine Nine: Guardians of Culture, Service, and Excellence

The Divine Nine refers to nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations (BGLOs) that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Founded during the early 20th century, these organizations arose in response to racial exclusion from predominantly white fraternities and sororities. More than just collegiate social groups, they have become pillars of African American community leadership, advocacy, service, and cultural enrichment.


Historical Context and Founding

The first of the Divine Nine organizations—Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.—was founded in 1906 at Cornell University. Over the next four decades, eight more organizations would follow, creating a collective devoted to uplifting Black students and communities through scholarship, unity, and activism.

Many of these organizations were born on the campuses of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), where they developed strong ties to civil rights advocacy, educational advancement, and cultural identity.

The National Pan-Hellenic Council itself was formed in 1930 at Howard University as a governing body to foster cooperation, collective action, and mutual respect among the nine organizations.


The Nine Organizations

Each of the Divine Nine has its own rich traditions, mottos, colors, symbols, and notable alumni. Here's a brief look at them:

Organization Founded Institution Letters
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Dec. 4, 1906 Cornell University ΑΦΑ
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Jan. 15, 1908 Howard University ΑΚΑ
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Jan. 5, 1911 Indiana University Bloomington ΚΑΨ
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Nov. 17, 1911 Howard University ΩΨΦ
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Jan. 13, 1913 Howard University ΔΣΘ
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Jan. 9, 1914 Howard University ΦΒΣ
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Jan. 16, 1920 Howard University ΖΦΒ
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Nov. 12, 1922 Butler University ΣΓΡ
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Sept. 19, 1963 Morgan State University ΙΦΘ


Core Values and Traditions

All Divine Nine organizations share a commitment to:

  • Community Service: Engagement in initiatives such as mentoring, scholarships, voter registration, and economic empowerment.

  • Academic Excellence: Scholarship is not only expected but celebrated as a lifelong pursuit.

  • Leadership Development: Many members have gone on to become trailblazers in politics, education, entertainment, and activism.

  • Lifelong Brotherhood/Sisterhood: Membership continues well after college, with alumni chapters globally.

  • Cultural Pride and Celebration: From step shows and calls to powerful rituals and ceremonial dress, their traditions celebrate and preserve African American heritage.

These groups use stepping, chants, hand signs, founders' days, and line names to mark identity and foster unity and pride.


Social Impact and Legacy

Divine Nine organizations have produced an impressive roster of influential figures, including:

  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Alpha Phi Alpha)

  • Vice President Kamala Harris (Alpha Kappa Alpha)

  • Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm (Delta Sigma Theta)

  • George Washington Carver (Omega Psi Phi)

  • Langston Hughes (Omega Psi Phi)

  • Huey P. Newton (Phi Beta Sigma)

  • Zora Neale Hurston (Zeta Phi Beta)

Their influence can be felt not only in African American communities but across the broader American landscape, where they’ve championed education, civil rights, social justice, and public health.


Modern-Day Relevance

Today, the Divine Nine remains vibrantly active on college campuses and in alumni communities worldwide. Their work includes:

  • Scholarship programs

  • Mentorship for underrepresented youth

  • Global service projects

  • Political advocacy and voter mobilization

  • Mental health and wellness initiatives