The NPHC was founded at Howard University to support black college students who were searching for a voice, community, and shared identity as they pursued their education. Since 1930 the National Pan Hellenic has served as the premier organization for African American fraternities and sororities. This Fall the collective group will officially become a chapter of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). “This event is an opportunity for all the members of the D9 to come together as a united community to celebrate the history of the organizations and our collective family,” says Theta Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated President, Janelle Clark. These organizations were established in the early 20th century beginning in 1906 when Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity was incorporated at Cornell University. Members of Rhode Island’s chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha, Omega Psi Phi and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity joined their Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta in Sororities for stepping and strolling, a tradition that began over a hundred years ago.

Last Saturday on one of the steamiest days on record, Theta Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated invited their fellow “Divine Nine” members to join in a “Day of Unity” at a cookout at Goddard State Park in Warwick. The event was hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc Photo: Members of Providence Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. By Ann-Allison Clanton, contributing writer

List of the divine nine