INTRO: Alpha Phi Alpha is a distinguished fraternity with a rich legacy and significant contributions to both its members and society. As the first intercollegiate Black fraternity, it has played a pivotal role in advocating for civil rights and uplifting African American communities through education and service. Here are ten key facts that highlight the history, principles, and impact of Alpha Phi Alpha.
1. Alpha Phi Alpha: The First Intercollegiate Black Fraternity
Founded during a time of racial segregation and discrimination, Alpha Phi Alpha holds the distinction of being the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men. It was created to provide a support system and foster academic success among Black students at a time when they faced significant societal barriers. The fraternity’s establishment marked a transformative moment in the history of higher education, serving as a beacon of hope and a platform for leadership for generations of Black men.
2. Founded in 1906 at Cornell University in New York
Alpha Phi Alpha was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. The fraternity was initiated by a group of seven students who sought to create an organization that would enhance the educational experience and provide a network of support for Black students in a predominantly white institution. The founders recognized the importance of brotherhood, scholarship, and service, which have remained core tenets of the organization throughout its existence.
3. Notable Founders Include Henry Arthur Callis and Charles H. Chapman
The founding members of Alpha Phi Alpha, known as the "Seven Jewels," include notable figures such as Henry Arthur Callis and Charles H. Chapman. Callis, a physician and educator, was instrumental in shaping the fraternity’s focus on academic excellence and community service, while Chapman contributed to the development of its bylaws and organizational structure. Together, these individuals laid the groundwork for a fraternity that would influence countless lives and promote social justice.
4. The Fraternity’s Motto: "First of All, Servants of All"
Alpha Phi Alpha’s motto, "First of All, Servants of All," encapsulates the fraternity’s commitment to service and community engagement. This guiding principle emphasizes the importance of selflessness and a dedication to helping others, particularly within the African American community. The motto serves as a reminder to its members that their roles as leaders and scholars extend beyond personal achievement to include a responsibility to uplift those around them.
5. Alpha Phi Alpha’s Symbol: The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza serves as the symbol of Alpha Phi Alpha, representing strength, wisdom, and resilience. This iconic figure, which has stood for millennia, embodies the fraternity’s aspirations for its members to demonstrate these qualities in their lives and endeavors. The Sphinx also reflects the fraternity’s connection to African history and culture, reinforcing the importance of heritage and identity in the mission of Alpha Phi Alpha.
6. The Fraternity Has Over 290 Active Chapters Worldwide
With over 290 active chapters across the United States and internationally, Alpha Phi Alpha has established a strong presence in numerous academic institutions. These chapters serve as hubs for leadership development, cultural enrichment, and community service projects. The fraternity’s global reach allows it to foster connections among members from various backgrounds, reinforcing the values of brotherhood and solidarity that are central to its mission.
7. Alpha Phi Alpha Established the National Pan-Hellenic Council
In 1930, Alpha Phi Alpha played a pivotal role in the formation of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), a governing body for nine historically Black fraternities and sororities. The NPHC serves to promote unity, cooperation, and collaboration among its member organizations, providing a collective voice for Black Greek-letter organizations. This initiative has been crucial in advocating for the interests of Black Greek life and fostering a sense of community among its members.
8. Prominent Members Include Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall
Alpha Phi Alpha boasts an illustrious roster of notable members who have made significant contributions to American society, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall. King, a civil rights leader and advocate for social justice, utilized the values instilled in him by the fraternity to advance the cause of equality. Similarly, Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, exemplified the principles of leadership and service that Alpha Phi Alpha promotes, leaving an indelible mark on the legal landscape of the United States.
9. The Fraternity Hosts the Annual Alpha Phi Alpha Convention
Each year, the fraternity hosts an annual convention that serves as a gathering for members to connect, collaborate, and celebrate their achievements. This convention is an opportunity for brothers to engage in workshops, discussions, and networking events that foster personal and professional growth. The event also highlights the fraternity’s commitment to education and community service, allowing members to share best practices and collectively strategize on initiatives that address the needs of their communities.
10. Alpha Phi Alpha’s Impact: Focus on Education and Community Service
Education and community service are at the heart of Alpha Phi Alpha’s mission. The fraternity has launched various programs and initiatives aimed at promoting academic excellence, mentorship, and civic engagement among its members and the broader community. Through educational outreach, scholarship programs, and community service projects, Alpha Phi Alpha continues to fulfill its commitment to building a better future, demonstrating the profound impact of fraternity life on society at large.
OUTRO: Alpha Phi Alpha stands as a testament to the power of brotherhood, leadership, and service. With a legacy that spans over a century, the fraternity continues to inspire and empower individuals to make meaningful contributions to their communities and uphold the values of integrity, excellence, and social justice. As it looks to the future, Alpha Phi Alpha remains dedicated to its mission of service and education, ensuring that its impact endures for generations to come.