At Alcorn State University, the eight chapters of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) are more than social clubs; they are deeply woven into the fabric of the historically Black college and university experience, fostering scholarship, service, and lifelong bonds.
Founded on principles of unity and upliftment, the “Divine Nine” – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.; Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.; Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.; and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – have a long and storied history at Alcorn State. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.’s Zeta Chapter was chartered at ASU on March 19, 1945, marking the beginning of a powerful legacy on campus.
For many students, the decision to join a Greek organization at Alcorn State is a pivotal moment, a step towards finding community and purpose. For Tia Doyle, a sophomore biology pre-nursing major from Vicksburg, Mississippi, that decision led her to Zeta Phi Beta. “Choosing Zeta Phi Beta was driven by my passion for making a positive impact, and the sorority’s values perfectly aligned with my goals,” Doyle explained. “I wanted a sisterhood that would uplift me, and crossing felt like a huge accomplishment, a real sense of belonging, marking the start of an exciting new chapter.”
The sense of belonging and transformation is a common thread among new initiates. Across the “yard,” Antoine Johnson Jr., a sophomore computer networking and information technology systems major from Clinton, Louisiana, found his place in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., whose Delta Kappa Chapter was chartered at ASU on March 18, 1950. “The brotherhood in Alpha Phi Alpha is unmatched,” Johnson said. “Crossing and revealing was an unforgettable experience that taught me about my strength and the unbreakable bonds I formed with my brothers. I emerged transformed.”
The impact of Greek life extends far beyond the individual, shaping the very culture of Alcorn State. These organizations are often at the forefront of campus initiatives, organizing social events that build school spirit, advocating for student needs, and serving as cornerstones of the university community. Alumni networks further amplify their influence, providing graduates with invaluable connections for career advancement and personal support, underscoring the lifelong commitment of membership.
Alcorn State’s rich history has seen countless accomplished individuals emerge from its Greek chapters, their leadership and service echoing the foundational principles of the “Divine Nine.” While their individual stories vary, they share a common thread of the values instilled during their time on campus.
Beyond the prominent NPHC, other student organizations also contribute their unique hues to the vibrant tapestry of Alcorn State. Groups like the National Society of Pershing Rifles Company B-17, established in 1972, instill discipline and leadership skills in ROTC cadets, shaping future military leaders. Similarly, the harmonious bond of honorary band fraternities and sororities, Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, whose Iota Beta and Theta Gamma chapters were installed on Feb. 4, 1989, respectively, fosters camaraderie and musicianship among the talented students of the “Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite.”
For Kendrick Matthews Jr., a junior recreation major from McComb, Mississippi, the legacy of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., whose Gamma Pi Chapter was chartered at ASU on April 9, 1949, resonated deeply. “I chose my org because of the consistent support I received from its members,” Matthews said. “Crossing felt amazing, the fruits of my labor, where all the hard work and sacrifices were definitely worth it.”
The call to service was the defining factor for Kameron Tucker, a junior English major from Philadelphia, Mississippi, who recently crossed into Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., whose Alpha Zeta Chapter was chartered at ASU on May 7, 1946. “Choosing Phi Beta Sigma was about our devotion to service,” Tucker explained. “I wanted to give back to my community in ways that actually impact and make a difference. Crossing felt amazing.”
Brotherhood, in its truest sense, drew Caleb Turner, a sophomore from Greenville, Mississippi, to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., whose Eta Chapter was chartered at ASU on September 26, 1949. “I felt a strong sense of brotherhood with Omega Psi Phi and felt they held each other accountable as men,” Turner recalled. “Crossing was one of the best feelings in my entire life; I felt like I could conquer the world.” That same sense of purpose resonated with Bryson Porter, a junior plant and soil sciences major from Brookhaven, Mississippi, also a new Omega, who noted the fraternity’s professional connections and the impactful presence of its members. “Crossing felt great,” Porter simply stated.
The influence of Greek life often begins long before a student steps onto Alcorn’s campus. For Vineterriois Hunt, a junior agricultural science major from Kosciusko, Mississippi, joining Kappa Alpha Psi was almost a foregone conclusion. “I was molded by NUPES growing up,” Hunt said, referencing the fraternity’s nickname. “They always taught me the importance of achieving the highest degree in everything you do… It felt unreal sometimes [to cross]. I still wake up and can’t believe I’m a Nupe, but it feels great.” Kobe Myles, a senior geospatial engineering technology major from Natchez, Mississippi, found his fit in Phi Beta Sigma, drawn by their commitment to service and the strong bonds of brotherhood he observed. “I experienced a profound sense of accomplishment on probate night, a memory that I will cherish,” Myles shared.
For some, the connection is rooted in a desire for community and support. Leah Jones, a sophomore social science education major from Natchez, Mississippi, found that in Zeta Phi Beta. “The reason I chose this organization is because I saw how Zeta Phi Beta really cared for their community by giving back… It was more of a relief than anything [to cross]. I was so proud of my sisters and me for this big accomplishment,” Jones reflected. Similarly, Chrisshun Armstrong, a sophomore history major from Calhoun City, Mississippi, found a reflection of his own values in Alpha Phi Alpha. “I chose my organization based on Alpha Phi Alpha’s aims, which are ‘manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind,’ values I already possessed,” Armstrong said. “I felt phenomenal [when I crossed], knowing I was entering a great fraternity with my newly found brother.”
The pride in their organizations and the unique spirit of Alcorn’s Greek life are palpable among the new initiates. Matthews Jr. proudly declared Kappa Alpha Psi as “the best choice at Alcorn State University,” emphasizing their historic “Mothership Chapter” status in Mississippi. Hunt echoed the sentiment, highlighting the “real family-like vibe” fostered by the HBCU environment. Tucker pointed to the “supportive and welcoming community,” while Myles lauded the “collaborative efforts” that enrich the university. Turner underscored the deep-seated “tradition” and strong representation of each organization, and Porter noted the distinct respect afforded to Alcorn’s single-letter Omega chapter. Turner’s advice to others considering Greek life was simple yet powerful: “It’s an opportunity of a lifetime that you’ll forever remember.”
The impact of Greek life extends beyond the social and service realms, often fostering leadership and academic achievement. Johnson Jr.’s election as the 68th SGA 2nd Vice President, while a new Alpha Phi Alpha initiate, speaks volumes about the leadership opportunities these organizations provide. Similarly, Armstrong’s involvement as Mister Junior, a Resident Assistant, and a Writing Center tutor underscores the multifaceted development fostered within Greek life.
Ultimately, Greek life at Alcorn State University is more than just letters and rituals; it is a cornerstone of the HBCU experience, shaping leaders, fostering community engagement, and forging enduring bonds of sisterhood and brotherhood. The traditions run deep, the commitment to service is unwavering, and the impact on the lives of students and the broader university community is profound and lasting.
