Alpha Phi Alpha seeks chartering on campus

MICHAELA DENNIS / Executive Producer

As a member of a National Panhellenic Council (NPHC) Sorority, I am excited that the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated are in the process of chartering on the Tarleton State University campus.

The NPHC is composed of nine historically black fraternities and sororities. These organizations have elite members, such as United States Vice President Kamala Harris, who was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. 

Joining one of these nine organizations comes with high honor due to the organization's rich history. Their membership selection is invitation only, meaning you’re sought out for membership if the chapter's members are interested in you. 

Alpha Phi Alpha was the first historically black fraternity to be established in the United States. It was founded on the Cornell University campus on Dec. 4, 1906.

Personally, Alpha Phi Alpha is one of my favorite organizations within the NPHC. I like them for the way they stroll. Strolling is a unique aspect of the NPHC. It is a form of dance to express our organization. 

For instance, the Alpha’s signature move is beating on their chest and walking on their knuckles. They sure look good doing it and makes them as a fraternity stand out.

As an African American woman, I was excited to know that my campus, a predominantly white institution, had organizations that catered to my culture, accepted me and were founded for people like me. 

I hope the men on campus are able to feel that same pride I felt when I joined my organization. Once you gain your letters within your NPHC, you will never be the same.

Everyone’s journey is different, but I truly believe that joining one of these organizations will bring you leadership experiences, networking opportunities and memories that you could not get from joining any other council. 

“Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. develops leaders, promotes brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities,” according to Alpha Phi Alpha’s website. 

If African American men are looking to excel and give back to their community, I highly recommend they check out the fraternities within the NPHC.

The Alphas are hosting an informational this semester for undergraduates at Tarleton State University to join the fraternity.

An informational is where you learn basic information about the fraternity and their membership requirements.