The Enduring Legacy of the First Black Fraternities and Sororities
The first Black fraternities and sororities emerged during a time of systemic exclusion and adversity. Despite the challenges, they evolved into vital institutions for leadership, advancement, and community among African American students in higher education. Known collectively as the Divine Nine, these organizations have built legacies rooted in excellence and service. Today, they continue to empower students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), shaping scholars and professionals nationwide. For the Williams-Franklin Foundation (WFF), which provides scholarships, financial literacy, and mentorship to HBCU students, the first Black fraternities and sororities remain guiding lights of sustainable impact.
How the First Black Fraternities and Sororities Shaped Higher Education
The founding of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in 1906 at Cornell University marked a turning point for African American students facing racial isolation at predominantly white institutions. Two years later, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was established at Howard University, providing crucial support for Black women pursuing higher education during the Jim Crow era.
Over time, these pioneering groups expanded into the Divine Nine—organizations that collectively formed the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). They functioned not just as social groups, but as accelerators for academic excellence, civic responsibility, and leadership development. These spaces nurtured Black students intellectually and emotionally, empowering them to excel when broader society denied them opportunity.
Numerous iconic figures emerged from the first Black fraternities and sororities. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Alpha Phi Alpha), Vice President Kamala Harris (Alpha Kappa Alpha), and educator Mary McLeod Bethune (Delta Sigma Theta) are just a few who exemplify the transformational power of these communities.
Today, their legacy is deeply embedded in HBCUs. These organizations promote social justice, support academic achievement, and foster leadership in sectors where Black representation remains critical.
Scholarships, Mentorship, and Community: A Living Legacy
The first Black fraternities and sororities emphasize scholarship and service—values fully embraced by the Williams-Franklin Foundation. Through decades of awarding scholarships, creating academic support programs, and volunteering, Divine Nine organizations have built a tradition of giving back that continues to impact generations.
WFF extends these values through comprehensive scholarship offerings that pair financial support with mentorship and financial literacy. This multi-layered approach mirrors the holistic vision pioneered by the Divine Nine.
The need for such support is urgent. According to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), average student loan debt for HBCU graduates can exceed $32,000. For many, scholarships and mentorships aren’t simply helpful—they’re essential for long-term success and generational upliftment.
Why the Legacy of the First Black Fraternities and Sororities Matters Today
What the first Black fraternities and sororities built over a century ago continues to matter in today’s educational and professional landscapes. Racial disparities in access, academic resources, and leadership opportunities still persist. Yet organizations such as the Divine Nine and WFF prove that community-centered solutions can dismantle systemic barriers.
Both the Divine Nine and WFF recognize education as a public good—an engine for equity within the Black community. Both invest in students not just financially, but holistically, affirming that support, visibility, and accountability are key to shaping tomorrow’s leaders.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, HBCUs enroll only 9% of Black college students in the U.S. Yet, they produce 24% of Black graduates in STEM fields. This success is no coincidence. It stems from culturally affirming environments and sustained mentorship—principles upheld by the Divine Nine and by WFF’s scholar programs.
How You Can Help Sustain the Legacy
The first Black fraternities and sororities laid the foundation for leadership, excellence, and service. WFF continues this work by equipping students to break barriers and uplift their communities—but the mission requires collective support.
- Donate: Contributions to the Williams-Franklin Foundation directly fund scholarships for HBCU students—many of whom are first-generation college attendees.
- Mentor: Volunteer your experience and insight to help shape the paths of aspiring leaders. Mentorship builds confidence and opens doors to opportunity.
- Advocate: Share the value of HBCUs and scholarship foundations in your network. Help others understand the importance of inclusive academic pipelines.
Just as early members of Alpha Phi Alpha and Alpha Kappa Alpha committed to service and excellence, you too can power the next generation of changemakers. Together, we can extend the impact of the first Black fraternities and sororities into a future of limitless opportunity.
Join us in honoring their unmatched legacy by empowering the next wave of Black scholars and leaders.
Your involvement can make all the difference.
