NPHC Membership Intake Guide - 2025 by Virginia Tech Fraternity & Sorority Life

FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE

AT VIRGINIA TECH

The fraternity and sorority community currently encompasses more than 5,700 students, representing approximately 19 percent of the undergraduate population; hence, fraternity and sorority life is incredibly dynamic at Virginia Tech.

There are three main aspects, on which great focus will be placed, to build upon the solid foundation of the interfraternal membership experience at VT: community development, leadership and learning, and strategic planning.

THE COUNCILS

Four governing councils make up the Virginia Tech fraternity and sorority community and provide coordination to the chapters they represent. Each governing council is unique in its operation and serves its chapters according to its own philosophy, purpose, and values.

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL

Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the governing council for 32 of our men’s fraternities, most of which are associated with the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC). IFC plans and implements educational and leadership programs for its chapter members and provides guidance for policy, procedure, recruitment, academic issues, and governance.

COUNCIL

Panhellenic Council (PHC) is the governing council for the 13 National Panhellenic Conference women’s fraternities and sororities. PHC is responsible for the implementation of educational programming, coordination of annual sorority recruitment in January, leadership development initiatives, and philanthropic and service events.

COUNCIL OF FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES

United Council of Fraternities and Sororities (UCFS) brings together Virginia Tech’s culturallybased and academic interest fraternities and sororities. UCFS plans and implements opportunities for chapters to collaborate with and support other campus organizations they are in.

WHAT IS NPHC?

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is a collaborative organization for the nine historically African American Greek-letter organizations, often referred to as the Divine Nine. NPHC chartered on Virginia Tech’s campus on April 28, 1993.

NPHC emphasizes a lifelong commitment to the goals and ideals of each of its respective organizations, focusing on community awareness and action through educational, economic, and cultural service activities.

NPHC HOUSE NPHC HOUSE

In Spring 2021, in partnership with Fraternity and Sorority Life and Housing, the NPHC of Virginia Tech officially opened the NPHC House on Oak Lane! This is a space for meeting, studying, community wide events, cookouts, and building brotherhood and sisterhood for all members of NPHC.

DEFINITIONS

TERMS TO KNOW

Active: An initiated member who is in good standing with their chapter

Alumni: Members who are no longer active members of a collegiate chapter and have left in good standing with the organization

Associate/New Member: A person who has accepted a bid, participated in the organization’s new member education process, and not initiated into a sorority or fraternity.

Badge/Pin: The fraternity or sorority membership insignia

Bid: A formal invitation to join a fraternity or sorority.

Calls/Chants: Unique vocal expressions used to identify and greet other members within the same organization. Nonmembers should not emulate these calls or chants as it would be a sign of disrespect

Crossing: Ceremony in which new members of culturally-based organizations become active, lifelong members. See “Initiation”.

Divine Nine (D9): Another name for the nine historically Black Greekletter organizations with the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)

Graduate Advisor / Graduate Chapter: An individual or group of alumni working to advise the local undergraduate chapter. This network is affiliated with the national organization and not the university.

Hand Sign: Signs that only a member of an organization can “throw up” with their hand(s). Most signs have a deep, unique meaning to the organization.

Informational: A forum for people interested in seeking more information about a particular fraternity or sorority.

Initiation: A ritual ceremony that brings new members into full membership of a Greek-letter organization.

Intake: The membership recruitment and induction process for culturally based Greek-letter organizations. This process is secretive and may include an application and an interview process, followed by a new member educational program and initiation or crossing.

Legacy: Someone whose parents, siblings, and/or family members hold membership within a Greek-letter organization.

Line / Class: Used by some culturally-based fraternal organizations to refer to the members who join the same chapter during the same semester.

Line Brother (LB) / Sister (LS): Members who went through the membership intake process together.

Neophyte (or Neo): Refers to a new member in culturally based Greekletter organizations

New Member Presentation / Probate: A public presentation that celebrates and welcomes new members in culturally based Greekletter organizations

Potential New Member (PNM): A student who is interested in joining a fraternity or sorority

Prophyte: Refers to older members in culturally-based Greek-letter organizations

Ritual: Beliefs and standards of a fraternal organization, which govern their purpose; some ritual activities may be closed to non-initiated members

Stroll: A dance in a line of active members displaying pride and knowledge of their organization and values. Chapters typically have national and local strolls that incorporate a variety of moves and hand signs unique to their organization.

Stepping: A tradition where members synchronize their moves to perform dance moves without music. Members will clap, stomp, jump, and chant, producing a complex rhythm It is a tradition NPHC and Culturally Based Greek-letter Organizations (CBFOs) participate in.

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE EVENTS EVENTS

NPHC WEEK NPHC WEEK

Each academic semester begins with NPHC Week, a themed week of programs centered on education, unity, and visibility. Events often include service projects, game nights, and NPHC 101, an informational session designed to educate interested students about the council’s history, values, and membership intake process

ANNUAL WELCOME BACK BBQ ANNUAL WELCOME BACK BBQ

The Annual Welcome Back BBQ, hosted by the Black Student Alliance (BSA), Black Organizations Council (BOC), their constituent organizations, and other campus partners, is a tradition that kicks off the academic year by bringing students together to celebrate community. Held the first Saturday of the semester, the event features free food, music, yard games, and the chance to meet fellow students, campus leaders, and learn more about the Black student community. It’s the perfect way to connect, get involved, and start the year off right!

DR. ZENOBIA L. HIKES DR. ZENOBIA L. HIKES HOMECOMING YARD SHOW HOMECOMING YARD SHOW

The Annual Dr. Zenobia L. Hikes Homecoming Yard Show is held during the week of homecoming to bring students, alumni, and the university community together to highlight the culture of the Divine 9 organizations through stepping and strolling.

Named in honor of Dr Zenobia L Hikes, who was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and a beloved former Virginia Tech administrator who was a huge advocate for student success The Yard Show brings together students, alumni, and the greater community to experience the spirit and pride of the NPHC organizations Attendees witness powerful step and stroll performances by the Divine Nine chapters, highlighting each organization’s unique history, energy, and creativity.

The Yard Show is more than entertainment it is a meaningful tradition that honors the contributions of those who came before, while inspiring

OVERTON R. JOHNSON

SCHOLARSHIP & STEP SHOW SCHOLARSHIP & STEP SHOW

Dr Overton R Johnson was born January 27, 1923 and passed on August 9, 1982. Dr. Johnson was a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. Dr. Johnson became the first Black academic faculty member at Virginia Tech in 1969. He continued to make Virginia Tech history by serving as the first president of the Virginia Tech Black Faculty/Staff Caucus, and as the first Black dean, serving as the Interim Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences from July- December 1975 At the time of his death, Dr. Johnson continued service to the Hokie community as Associate Director of Institutional Research and Planning Analysis

The Annual Overton R. Johnson Step Show was launched in 1986 and is held each spring to bring students, alumni, and the university community together for a friendly competition to highlight the culture of the Divine 9 organizations through stepping and strolling to see which fraternity and sorority will take home the trophy. To further honor Dr Johnson's legacy, a university-wide scholarship was established and officially endowed in 1985 to be awarded during the show to a current student(s).

EDUCATE YOURSELF EDUCATE YOURSELF

Before attending any events, take time to learn about each organization within the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Every org has its own history, mission, community initiatives, and cultural significance. Explore their national websites, social media, and what they stand for Going in informed shows respect and genuine interest and helps you figure out what aligns most with your values.

ATTEND EVENTS CONSISTENTLY ATTEND EVENTS CONSISTENTLY

Each chapter hosts events throughout the year such as general events, fundraisers, and interest meetings. Follow their Instagram pages to stay up to date on what’s coming up. Showing up consistently not only helps you stay informed but also gives you a real feel for each organization's energy and presence on campus. Be engaged, ask questions, and take note of how each chapter shows up in the community.

INTRODUCE YOURSELF INTRODUCE YOURSELF

Joining an NPHC organization is about building genuine relationships. Take the time to connect with members, have real conversations, and learn about their experiences and chapter culture. Be authentic, curious, and present. At its core, this processes is rooted in friendship, respect, and finding a space where you truly belong.

DEMONSTRATE YOUR VALUES DEMONSTRATE YOUR VALUES

Exhibit leadership, integrity, and a commitment to service qualities that are central to all NPHC organizations. Look for opportunities to get involved on campus and in your community, as these experiences reflect your alignment with the values that NPHC chapters seek in potential members.

PRIORITIZE ACADEMICS PRIORITIZE ACADEMICS

Maintain a strong academic record, as each NPHC organization has minimum GPA requirements. Your academic performance reflects your discipline and readiness for membership, and it demonstrates your ability to balance scholarship with leadership and service.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Theta Iota Chapter

National History

Founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men. At a time when African American students faced severe racial isolation and limited access to support systems in higher education, seven visionary men known as the “Seven Jewels” organized Alpha Phi Alpha to promote academic excellence, mutual support, and leadership The fraternity played a key role in the early civil rights movement and helped lay the groundwork for Black student empowerment nationwide.

Local History

The Theta Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was chartered at Virginia Tech on January 29, 1973, by nine trailblazing men known as the Fine Nine, becoming the first Black Greek-letter organization on campus. Some of the chapter's recurring projects include: Phirst Thing Phirst,, JDC (Juvenile Detention Center), Nursing Home Visitations, Voter Registration Drives, Dr Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Service,Black & Gold

Founded: December 4, 1906, at Cornell University

Charter Date: January 29, 1973

Motto: “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All”

Pillars: Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love For All Mankind

Colors: Old Gold and Black

Projected National Fees: $1,200

Instagram: @tialphas1906

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Theta Phi Chapter

Local History

National History

AlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Inc.wasestablishedonJanuary15,1908,at Howard University in Washington, D.C., making it the first Greek-letter sororityfoundedbyAfricanAmericanwomen.The16originalfounders, led by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, envisioned a sisterhood that would foster academic achievement, leadership, and service to the community. Alpha Kappa Alpha emerged in response to the growing presence of African American women in higher education and the need for supportive networks that affirmed their identities. Over the decades, the sorority has been at the forefront of educational initiatives, health programs,andeconomicempowermentacrosstheU.S.andglobally.

TheThetaPhiChapterofAlphaKappaAlphaSorority,Incorporatedwas chartered on the campus of Virginia Tech on May 4, 1974, by twelve marvelous women committed to upholding the purpose of the organization by cultivating and encouraging high scholastic and ethical standards, promote unity and friendship among college women, and being a “Service to All Mankind”. Rooted in the Sorority’s core values, the Theta Phi Chapter has continued to uphold this legacy through impactful programs and service initiatives that support both the campus and local community Among the chapter’s most notable and recurring events are the Career Development Bootcamp, which equips students with professional tools for success, and the Adopt an Angel ToyDrive,whichbringsholidayjoytochildrenandfamiliesinneed.

Founded: January 5, 1908, at Howard University

Charter Date: May 4, 1974

Motto: “By Culture and By Merit”

Colors: Salmon Pink and Apple Green

Symbol: Ivy Leaf

Projected National Fees: $1,500

Instagram: @thetaphiaka

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

National History

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on Janu 1911, at Indiana University Bloomington, a predomin white institution where Black students experienced hostility and social exclusion. The founders, ten A American men led by Elder Watson Diggs and Byr Armstrong, created the fraternity to provide a netwo achievement, unity, and mutual support. Originally n Kappa Alpha Nu, the name was changed in 1915 to K Alpha Psi The organization emphasizes “Achieveme Every Field of Human Endeavor” and encourages acad success, public service, and leadership.

Theta Psi Chapter

Local History

The Theta Psi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was chartered on Friday, April 1, 1977 by 5 strong and ambitious young men willing to begin the legacy of Kappa Nearly 50 years later, the Theta Psi chapter continues to be a pillar among fraternities on campus because of its commitment to the VT community through service and leadership The chapter will be extremely active with community service and encourages VT students to pa

Founded: January 5, 1911, at Indiana University Bloomington

Charter Date: April 1, 1977

Motto: “Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor”

Core Values: Achievement, Brotherhood, and Service

Colors: Crimson and Cream

Projected National Fees: $3,000

Instagram: @thetapsinupes

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Eta Lambda Chapter

Local History

National History

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University by three undergraduate students and their facultyadviser,Dr.ErnestE.Just.Itisthefirstfraternityfoundedat a historically Black college or university (HBCU). The organization’s cardinal principles Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift guide its mission to develop strong leaders and serve the African American community Omega Psi Phi has a long-standing history of supporting civil rights, education, and public health initiatives The fraternity is known for its commitment to mentoring young men andfosteringexcellenceinallareasoflife

The Eta Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc was chartered on September 22, 1979, with a mission to uphold and embodytheFraternity’ssacredmotto,“FriendshipisEssentialtothe Soul” Established to serve the Blacksburg and New River Valley area, Eta Lambda has remained firmly rooted in the Cardinal Principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift striving to advance the ideals of Omega through meaningful service, leadership, and munityandbeyond

Founded: November 17, 1911, at Howard University

Charter Date: September 22, 1979

Motto: “Friendship is essential to the soul.”

Core Values/Cardinal Principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift

Colors: Royal Purple and Old Gold

Projected National Fees: $1,700

Instagram: @etalambdaques

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

National History

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc was established on January 13, 1913, at Howard University by 22 collegiate women seeking to advance academic excellence and advocate for social justice The sorority’s first public act was participation in the historic 1913 Women’s Suffrage March in Washington, DC, reflecting a deep commitment to civic engagement from its inception Over time, Delta Sigma Theta has expanded its efforts through a Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, focusing on economic development, educational development, international awareness, physical and mental health, and political involvement The organization has been instrumental in promoting voterregistration,youthdevelopment,andinternationaloutreach

Local History

TheNonstopNinepavedthewayforMuAlphatoupholdDeltaSigma Theta’s values of sisterhood, scholarship, and service through our Five-Point Programmatic Thrusts Our service includes events like Toys for Tots, canned food drives, and book donations We also host community initiatives like Tusk Talk, FAFSA workshops, breast cancer awareness booths, and voter registration drives, continuing ourlegacyofimpactandcommunityinvolvement

Founded: January 13, 1913, at Howard University

Charter Date: April 12, 1975

Motto: “Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom”

Core Values: Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Public Service

Colors: Crimson and Cream

Projected National Fees: $1,350

Instagram: @mualphavt

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Mu Nu Chapter

Local History

National History

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc was founded on January 9, 1914, at Howard University by three African American male students

A Langston Taylor, Leonard F Morse, and Charles I Brown who believed that fraternity members should be “a part of” the community, not “apart from” it Built on the principles of brotherhood, scholarship, and service, Phi Beta Sigma uniquely positioned itself to be inclusive and outward-facing, with an emphasis on community outreach and public service The fraternity established a constitutional bond with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc in 1920, and the two organizations often collaborateonserviceinitiatives

The Mu Nu Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc was chartered on the campus of Virginia Tech on May 15, 1980 Since then, they have continued to provide a consecutive 45 years of Service, Scholarship, and Brotherhood to the campus Some of the most recent accomplishments of the chapter are winning the Overton R Johnson Step Show in the Spring 2025 Semester The epout for the Homeless” to raise melessinMontgomeryCounty

Founded: January 9, 1914, at Howard University

Charter Date: May 15, 1980

Motto: “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.”

Core Values: Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service

Colors: Royal Blue and Pure White

Projected National Fees: $1,100

Instagram: @munusigmas

Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Upsilon Lambda Chapter

National History

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc was founded on January 16, 1920, at Howard University by five women known as the “Five Pearls” Encouraged by members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, the founders aimed to create a sorority based on scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood, with a focus on addressing realworld issues Zeta Phi Beta distinguished itself early on by rejecting elitism and focusing on public service and social causes The organization has led groundbreaking initiatives in maternal health,eldercare,anddisasterrelief

Local History

The Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated has been serving the Blacksburg and New River Valley region for over 40 years! Since the Chapter’s initial charter, Upsilon Lambda has continued to build upon its founding principles and national programs while tailoring projects that address the needs of our local community Upsilon Lambda has championed the basic needs of our community through food distribution programs and clothing drives while also emphasizing initiatives educating the BlacksburgandNRVareaonprenatalhealth,domesticviolence andselfdefense,andpromotingphysicalandmentalhealth

Founded: January 16, 1920, at Howard University

Charter Date: May 22, 1980

Motto: “A community-conscious, action-oriented organization.”

Core Values: Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood

Colors: Royal Blue and White

Projected National Fees: $1,300

Instagram: @ul zetas

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Kappa Psi Chapter

Local History

National History

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc was founded on November 12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, during a time when African American women faced both racial and gender-based exclusion in predominantly white institutions The seven founding educators sought to empower women and uplift their communities through education, service, and leadership As the only NPHC sorority founded at a predominantly white institution, Sigma Gamma Rho has a unique legacy of overcoming barriers and creating change in diverse settings The sorority has implemented nationwide programs focused on health awareness, educational access,andyouthdevelopment.

The Kappa Psi Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was chartered on Virginia Tech’s campus on April 20, 1985 by five exceptional women. Throughout the past 40 years, the chapter strivestomakeadifferenceinthecommunitythroughserviceand education! Some of the key chapters projects include: Affirmations, PRHOfessional tudywiththePoodles.

Founded: November 12, 1922, at Butler University

Charter Date: April 20, 1985

Motto: “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”

Core Values: Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service

Colors: Royal Blue and Antique Gold

Projected National Fees: $1,500

Instagram: @kappapsisgrhos

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

Xi Chapter

National History

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc was founded on September 19, 1963, at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. The twelve founding members, many of whom were older students, veterans, and community activists, formed the fraternity to reflect the evolving needs and realities of African American men in a time of great social change. Iota Phi Theta’s mission is centered on leadership, scholarship, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood among men. The organization continues to be active in grassroots organizing, civic engagement, and mentoring programs

Local History

The Eta Xi Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc was chartered at Virginia Tech on December 28, 2006, by four visionary men Dr. Nathan Howell - "Stand Owt" , Maurice Clarke - "The Architect, " Mat Good - "Clutch, and " Kevin Denny II - "Spoken Word" under the guidance of Dean Emet LaBoone, a former Virginia Tech faculty member and doctoral candidate, who pledged at San Francisco State Known collectively as the “I S Intelligent Design” line, the charter members laid the foundation for Iota’s legacy of scholarship, leadership, and service in the Virginia Tech community