Events on January 9 in history

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., the first historically black intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity to be officially recognized at Howard University, is founded.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (ΦΒΣ) stands as a prominent historically African American Greek-letter fraternity, renowned for its commitment to community service and inclusive principles. It was formally established on January 9, 1914, within the hallowed halls of Howard University in Washington, D.C. This seminal moment marked the beginning of an organization conceived by three visionary African-American male students, with nine additional Howard students serving as charter members.

Founding Principles and Vision

The esteemed founders of Phi Beta Sigma, namely A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown, sought to create a Greek-letter fraternity that would transcend the prevailing models of their era. Their core ambition was to establish an organization deeply rooted in the foundational ideals of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service. What truly set their vision apart was an unwavering commitment to an inclusive perspective, aiming to actively serve and uplift the broader community rather than existing with an exclusive or insular purpose. This forward-thinking approach laid the groundwork for a fraternity dedicated to making a tangible, positive impact on society.

Pioneering Innovations and Enduring Impact

Phi Beta Sigma distinguished itself from other Black Greek-letter fraternal organizations through several groundbreaking initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to sustained engagement and expansive reach:

• First to Establish Alumni Chapters: Recognizing the importance of lifelong involvement and continued service beyond collegiate years, Phi Beta Sigma pioneered the concept of alumni chapters, fostering enduring brotherhood and allowing members to contribute to their communities throughout their lives.
• First to Establish Youth Mentoring Clubs: Demonstrating a profound dedication to nurturing future generations, the fraternity established youth mentoring clubs, most notably the Sigma Beta Club. This program provides mentorship, guidance, and educational support to young men, helping them develop into responsible and productive citizens.
• First to Establish a Federal Credit Union: Highlighting its commitment to economic empowerment and financial literacy within the Black community, Phi Beta Sigma was the first Greek-letter organization to establish a federal credit union, providing financial services and promoting economic self-sufficiency for its members and the wider community.
• First to Establish Chapters in Africa: Emphasizing its pan-African vision and global responsibility, Phi Beta Sigma was the first Black Greek-letter fraternity to establish collegiate and alumni chapters on the continent of Africa, forging strong ties with African nations and promoting international collaboration.
• First to Establish a Collegiate Chapter Outside of the United States: Further extending its global footprint, the fraternity also founded the first collegiate chapter outside of the United States, showcasing its early commitment to an international presence.

Moreover, Phi Beta Sigma holds a unique place in the history of Greek-letter organizations as the only fraternity to maintain a constitutional bond with a historically African-American sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (ΖΦΒ). This bond reflects a profound shared history, as Zeta Phi Beta was founded on January 16, 1920, also at Howard University in Washington, D.C., largely through the concerted efforts and guidance of members of Phi Beta Sigma.

Global Reach and Diverse Membership

The fraternity experienced rapid geographical expansion early in its history, reflecting the urgent need and appeal of its principles. Its second, third, and fourth chapters were swiftly chartered at Wiley College in Texas and Morgan State College in Maryland in 1916, followed by Kansas State University in 1917. The establishment of chapters at diverse institutions, including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and predominantly white institutions (PWIs), underscored the fraternity's commitment to broad outreach.

Today, Phi Beta Sigma continues its mission through a robust global network. Its membership proudly exceeds 200,000 college-educated men, organized into more than 700 chapters spread across the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. While historically recognized as a predominantly African-American fraternity, its foundational principle of inclusivity is reflected in its diverse membership, which includes men of African, Caucasian, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian descent. According to its Constitution, academically eligible male students of any race, religion, or national origin are welcome to join through collegiate chapters while enrolled at a college or university. Additionally, professional men who have attained a college degree along with a specified minimum number of earned credit hours may join through an alumni chapter, ensuring continuous engagement and expansion of its reach.

Organizational Structure and Affiliations

Phi Beta Sigma is a proud member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), the umbrella organization for the nine historically Black Greek-letter fraternities and sororities, often collectively referred to as the "Divine Nine." This affiliation underscores its integral role within the historically Black Greek-letter community and its commitment to collective action and advocacy. The fraternity was also a former member of the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), an association representing a broader spectrum of collegiate fraternities.

The international operations of Phi Beta Sigma are guided by its elected leadership. The current International President is Chris V. Rey, J.D., who steers the fraternity's global initiatives and strategic direction. The fraternity's official international headquarters are centrally located at 145 Kennedy Street, NW, Washington, D.C., serving as the administrative hub for its worldwide activities and programs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

What is the founding date and location of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.?

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was founded on January 9, 1914, at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

Who are the three principal founders of Phi Beta Sigma?

The three principal founders are A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown.

What are the core ideals of Phi Beta Sigma?

The core ideals of Phi Beta Sigma are Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service, with a strong emphasis on community inclusivity.

What makes Phi Beta Sigma unique among Greek-letter organizations?

Phi Beta Sigma was the first Black Greek-letter fraternity to establish alumni chapters, youth mentoring clubs (like the Sigma Beta Club), a federal credit union, chapters in Africa, and a collegiate chapter outside the United States. It is also uniquely bonded constitutionally with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Is Phi Beta Sigma only for African-American men?

While historically African American, Phi Beta Sigma's membership is diverse and open to academically eligible male students and professional men of any race, religion, or national origin, reflecting its constitutional commitment to inclusivity.

What is the relationship between Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta?

Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. share a unique constitutional bond, being the only Greek-letter fraternity and sorority to have such a relationship. Zeta Phi Beta was founded through the efforts of members of Phi Beta Sigma.