Fabulous 50: Alpha Phi Alpha

The Eta Omicron Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.  The chapter was established on 7 April 1971, making it the first African American Greek-letter organization on NC State's campus.  Nationally, Alpha Phi Alpha is the first intercollegiate historically African American fraternity in the United States, having begun at Cornell University in 1906.  Eta Omicron's mission is "to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities."

The founding members of NC State's Eta Omicron chapter were Arthur Clement, Elwood Becton, Michael Dae, Marcus Martin, Eric Moore, Rufus Moore, and Marion Whigham (who was the first president).  Dr. Augustus Witherspoon was their advisor, and he was instrumental in the chapter's founding.  The Beta Rho Chapter at Shaw University also provided assistance.

Congratulations to the Eta Omicron chapter for 50 years at NC State!

Archival resources on the history of the Eta Omicron chapter are available in the Libraries' Special Collections Research Center.  If you have questions about our collections or would like to see our materials, please use our online request form or visit our homepage. 

The Special Collections Research Center is open by appointment only.  Please contact us at library_specialcollections@ncsu.edu for appointments or any questions. You can also submit a request to use materials, and we will email you with available appointment times.