Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is the first international fraternal organization to be founded on the campus of a historically black college. Established on November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., it was co-founded by three undergraduate students: Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, and Frank Coleman, with Dr. Ernest Everett Just serving as their faculty adviser.

Founding and Mission

The fraternity's name is derived from the Greek phrase "Ophelema Phelia Psukas," meaning "Friendship is Essential to the Soul," which was adopted as its motto. The organization is guided by four cardinal principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. These principles are central to the fraternity's mission of fostering a community of men who embody high character, intellect, and responsibility.

History

Omega Psi Phi's early years were marked by perseverance in the face of adversity. Initially, Howard University did not recognize the fraternity as a national organization, leading the fraternity to operate without official sanction until 1914, when the university withdrew its opposition. The fraternity was incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia on October 28, 1914.

In 1912, Oscar Cooper became the fraternity's second Grand Basileus and initiated the establishment of a second chapter at Lincoln University, Pennsylvania. Edgar Love served as the third Grand Basileus from 1912 to 1915. The Beta Chapter was chartered at Lincoln University in February 1914, marking the fraternity's expansion beyond Howard.

Expansion and Achievements

Over the years, Omega Psi Phi has expanded significantly. In 1923, the Lambda Chapter was organized at the University of Southern California, marking the fraternity's expansion to the West Coast, and Sigma Chapter was established at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, making Omega Psi Phi an international organization.

The fraternity played a significant role in social justice movements throughout the 20th century. It became one of the founding members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council in 1930 and has been involved in various initiatives, including voter registration drives and contributions to educational institutions.

Modern Day

Today, Omega Psi Phi continues to be an influential organization in the African American community, emphasizing education, leadership, and community service. Its members include many prominent figures in politics, education, arts, and sciences. The fraternity remains committed to its cardinal principles and continues to grow as a strong fraternal organization dedicated to uplifting its members and the broader community.