Who Is The Divine Nine?

Posted by Onassis Krown on October 13, 2025

What Greek Organizations Make Up the Divine Nine

First we should answer the questions of what is a fraternity? What is a sorority? What is their purpose? A fraternity is a group of men with common interests, goals, or beliefs, united by a feeling of brotherhood and mutual support. A sorority is the same but consists of just women. The purpose of these organizations is to support members, have fun and help their communities.

The Divine Nine — a term that carries deep cultural, social, and historical significance — represents the nine historically Black Greek letter organizations (BGLOs) that form the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). These organizations are more than fraternities and sororities; they are institutions built on the foundations of scholarship, service, leadership, and community empowerment.

For over a century, the Divine Nine has played a pivotal role in shaping the Black collegiate experience, influencing social justice movements, mentoring future leaders, and fostering unity within communities worldwide. Whether you’re a student interested in Greek life, an alumni member, or someone who simply wants to understand the legacy of these storied organizations, this guide will give you a complete look into what the Divine Nine is, its purpose, and the remarkable organizations that make it up.

Why Is the Divine Nine Important: What Is Its Purpose?

The Divine Nine refers to the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities under the umbrella of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), which was founded on May 10, 1930, at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

The NPHC was established to bring unity and collaboration among these organizations during a time when African Americans were systematically excluded from many aspects of campus life and society. These Greek organizations provided students with support networks, leadership development opportunities, and a safe space to build pride in their heritage.

Each organization has its own unique identity, symbols, colors, mottos, and community initiatives, yet all share the same overarching mission: to uplift African Americans and underrepresented communities through education, service, and advocacy.

Who Is Part of the Divine Nine?

The Divine Nine organizations are:

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

Let’s explore each organization in detail and understand what makes them an integral part of the Divine Nine.

Who Is The Most Prestigious Black Fraternity?

There isn’t one universally recognized “most prestigious” Black fraternity, since prestige is subjective and can vary based on factors like historical impact, membership size, community influence, and notable alumni.

1. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (ΑΦΑ)

Founded: December 4, 1906
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Colors: Black and Old Gold
Motto: “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.”
Symbol: The Great Sphinx of Giza

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men. Known as “The First of All,” Alpha Phi Alpha paved the way for the formation of other Black Greek organizations.

The fraternity was born during an era of racial inequality and exclusion in higher education. Its founders — known as the Seven Jewels — created Alpha Phi Alpha to promote academic excellence, leadership, and social justice among African American men.

Notable members include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, and W.E.B. Du Bois — all men who shaped history through civil rights, law, and education. Alpha Phi Alpha’s national programs such as “Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College” and “A Voteless People Is a Hopeless People” continue to inspire and uplift youth across the nation.

2. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (ΑΚΑ)

Founded: January 15, 1908
Location: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Colors: Salmon Pink and Apple Green
Motto: “By Culture and By Merit.”
Symbol: Ivy Leaf

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. holds the distinction of being the first Greek-letter sorority established by African American college women. Founded by nine visionary women, AKA was built upon the pillars of scholarship, sisterhood, and service to all mankind.

Alpha Kappa Alpha has been instrumental in community service initiatives around education, women’s empowerment, and global health. The sorority is known for its polished image, leadership in civil service, and powerful influence across the political, social, and cultural landscape.

Notable members include Vice President Kamala Harris, Maya Angelou, and Coretta Scott King — women who have embodied excellence and grace in every field they touched.

3. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (ΚΑΨ)

Founded: January 5, 1911
Location: Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
Colors: Crimson and Cream
Motto: “Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor.”
Symbol: The Diamond

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on the principle of achievement, a value embedded deeply within its culture. Known for their immaculate style, strong brotherhood, and commitment to community uplift, members of Kappa Alpha Psi — affectionately known as “Kappas” or “Nupes” — emphasize discipline, leadership, and excellence.

During a time when racial hostility ran rampant, the founding members aimed to establish a fraternity that fostered leadership among Black men and cultivated success both on and off campus.

Kappas are renowned for their service work and mentoring programs. Their signature event, the Kappa League, prepares young men for academic and professional success.

Notable members include John Singleton, Colin Kaepernick, and Arthur Ashe.

4. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (ΩΨΦ)

Founded: November 17, 1911
Location: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Colors: Royal Purple and Old Gold
Motto: “Friendship is Essential to the Soul.”
Symbol: The Lamp

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., affectionately known as the “Ques” or “Omega Men,” was the first international fraternity founded at a historically Black college. Rooted in brotherhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift, Omega Psi Phi has a reputation for passionate service and strong cultural influence.

The fraternity’s members are easily recognizable for their vibrant enthusiasm and the famous “Omega hop,” symbolizing energy, unity, and pride.

Omega Psi Phi has produced influential figures such as Langston Hughes, Michael Jordan, Dr. Charles Drew, and Shaquille O’Neal. Their commitment to service can be seen through initiatives in mentorship, health awareness, and education.

5. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (ΔΣΘ)

Founded: January 13, 1913
Location: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Colors: Crimson and Cream
Motto: “Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom.”
Symbol: The Fortitude Statue

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was founded by 22 courageous women dedicated to promoting academic excellence and engaging in public service. One of their first public acts was participating in the 1913 Women’s Suffrage March in Washington, D.C., highlighting their early commitment to civil rights and social activism.

Deltas are known for their powerful voice in advocacy and social justice, with programs focusing on economic development, educational growth, political involvement, and international awareness.

Notable members include Shirley Chisholm, Barbara Jordan, Angela Bassett, and Keisha Lance Bottoms.

6. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (ΦΒΣ)

Founded: January 9, 1914
Location: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Colors: Royal Blue and Pure White
Motto: “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.”
Symbol: The Dove

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was created with the vision of a brotherhood that exemplified inclusiveness and community connection. The founders sought a fraternity that did not isolate itself from the community but worked directly within it.

Sigmas emphasize brotherhood, scholarship, and service, partnering closely with their sister organization, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Together, they create impactful social and civic programs aimed at building better communities.

Their members include George Washington Carver, John Lewis, and Emmitt Smith. Phi Beta Sigma continues to champion initiatives in youth mentoring, financial literacy, and social equality.

7. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (ΖΦΒ)

Founded: January 16, 1920
Location: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Colors: Royal Blue and White
Motto: “A Community-Conscious, Action-Oriented Organization.”
Symbol: The Dove

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded on the principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. Known for their elegance and dedication, the Zetas are the first sorority to charter a chapter in Africa and the first to establish a national headquarters.

They are also the only sorority constitutionally bound to a fraternity — Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. — reflecting their deep commitment to unity and shared service.

Zetas focus on initiatives such as youth mentorship, elder care, community revitalization, and social justice. Notable members include Zora Neale Hurston, Dionne Warwick, and Sheryl Underwood.

8. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (ΣΓΡ)

Founded: November 12, 1922
Location: Butler University, Indianapolis, Indiana
Colors: Royal Blue and Gold
Motto: “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”
Symbol: The Poodle

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. stands out as the only sorority in the Divine Nine founded at a predominantly white institution. The seven founders were courageous educators who established a legacy focused on education, leadership, and community improvement during a time of deep racial tension.

Sigma women, known affectionately as “S.G.Rhos,” are deeply involved in community programs focusing on education reform, health awareness, and youth empowerment.

Prominent members include MC Lyte, Kelly Price, and Hattie McDaniel — the first African American woman to win an Academy Award.

9. Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (ΙΦΘ)

Founded: September 19, 1963
Location: Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland
Colors: Charcoal Brown and Gilded Gold
Motto: “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One.”
Symbol: The Centaur

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. is the youngest of the Divine Nine but no less influential. Founded during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, the Iotas were inspired by the era’s call for social change, justice, and empowerment.

The founders, who were nontraditional students and civil rights activists, envisioned a fraternity that valued maturity, responsibility, and social activism.

The Iotas’ programs emphasize education, mentoring, and community service, with a focus on addressing contemporary challenges in the African American community.

Notable members include Terrence C. Carson, Chris Darden, and T.C. Carson.

Can White People Join the Divine Nine?

Yes, white individuals can join Divine Nine organizations as long as they meet the membership requirements of the specific fraternity or sorority. Although the Divine Nine were founded as historically Black organizations, their membership policies emphasize inclusivity, and race is not a factor in eligibility.

Which Black Sorority Has the Largest Membership?

AKA appears to have slightly more lifetime initiated members than DST, per current reported stats.
However, DST isn't far behind. And depending on how you count (active, alumni, etc.), some of DST’s “over 350,000” may rival AKA's numbers.
Organizations update their numbers at different times; some reports may be more recent than others.
Definitions differ: initiated vs active vs alumni; living vs historic; graduate/alumnae chapters vs undergraduate only.
Rounding and reporting practices can vary (some may use estimates).
Some chapters or national offices may lag in updating.

The Collective Power of the Divine Nine

Each of the Divine Nine organizations brings something unique to the table, yet their shared vision for community uplift and empowerment binds them together. They continue to play a major role in:

Higher Education Access: Scholarships and mentoring programs help underrepresented youth achieve college success.
Civic Engagement: Members are consistently active in voter registration drives, public policy, and community reform.
Philanthropy: Fundraising efforts for causes like health equity, education, and disaster relief.
Cultural Legacy: The Divine Nine promotes pride, unity, and cultural expression through step shows, service projects, and national conventions.

Their influence reaches beyond college campuses — impacting corporations, political arenas, entertainment industries, and global communities.

The Divine Nine Today: Legacy, Impact, and the Future

The legacy of the Divine Nine continues to thrive more than a century after the founding of the first organization. With over 2.5 million members worldwide, these fraternities and sororities remain powerful networks of mentorship, leadership, and community service.

In recent years, Divine Nine organizations have become more visible than ever, partnering with major institutions and corporate brands while advocating for racial equity and social reform. They serve as mentorship pipelines for future leaders and a lifelong support network for members.

From the halls of universities to the highest offices in government, the Divine Nine’s presence is undeniable.

Final Thoughts: The Enduring Importance of the Divine Nine

The Divine Nine represents more than just Greek letters—it embodies a century-long movement of progress, resilience, and excellence. Each fraternity and sorority within the NPHC carries a powerful story of overcoming adversity, serving the community, and building a foundation for the next generation.

Whether it’s the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha, the elegance of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the achievement-driven spirit of Kappa Alpha Psi, or the activism of Delta Sigma Theta — every organization plays an irreplaceable role in shaping the cultural and educational landscape of Black America.

To this day, the Divine Nine stands as a symbol of unity, service, and legacy — a reminder that together, these organizations have not only changed the course of history but continue to inspire greatness for generations to come.

Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.

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