Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the first intercollegiate Fraternity founded by African American men. Founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, it was established by seven college students, known as the “Seven Jewels,” who sought to create an organization dedicated to leadership, academic excellence, community service, and social advocacy.
Alpha Phi Alpha’s purpose and Mission
The fraternity’s motto is “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All,” which reflects its commitment to leadership, service, and excellence. According to it’s website, the fraternity focuses it’s time and resources on three major areas.
- Special Initiatives: These initiatives are designed to respond to timely issues affecting the African American community. For example, the fraternity has a special initiative called the “My Brother’s Keeper” program, which is designed to mentor young African American men.
- National Programs: These programs are signature efforts on voter engagement, mentoring, education, and elder care. The fraternity’s “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People” program is designed to increase voter turnout among African Americans.
- Alpha Foundations: These entities further the fraternity’s economic and charitable agenda. The Alpha Phi Alpha Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and grants to African American students.
Notable Members
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity has a long and distinguished history of producing successful and influential leaders. Some notable Alpha Phi Alpha men include Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Thurgood Marshall, and Keenan Ivory Wayans.
Becoming a Member
In order to join the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha, potential members must meet the following criteria:
- Be a male student at an accredited college with an active Alpha Phi Alpha chapter.
- Complete one semester or two quarters of coursework.
- Be in good academic standing.
- Be of good character.
- Be registered to vote (if eligible).
- Be sponsored and recommended by two Alpha Phi Alpha members in good standing.
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is a values-based organization that is committed to making a positive difference in the world. Its members are expected to uphold the fraternity’s values and to live their lives in a way that reflects them.
To learn more, visit the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity website.
