In honor of Black History Month, HISD convened volunteers, community service members, and faculty affiliated with the Divine Nine, hosting a reception preceding the Straight From The Source meeting led by HISD Superintendent Mike Miles.
The Divine Nine refers to a collection of nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), which hold significant importance in Black American history and culture. Together, these organizations boast nearly four million members and serve as pillars of support and kinship for numerous Black students, including both first-generation and legacy members.
The Divine Nine consists of:
1.Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the pioneering intercollegiate Greek-letter organization established for Black men in the United States.
2.Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, originating from Howard University on January 15, 1908, with a mission to serve humanity.
3.Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, founded on January 13, 1913, at Howard University, is dedicated to community support worldwide.
4.Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, established on January 5, 1911, at Indiana University Bloomington, with a focus on excellence in all endeavors.
5.Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University, centered on principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.
6.Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, established on January 9, 1914, at Howard University, emphasizing community service, brotherhood, and scholarship.
7.Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, founded on January 16, 1920, at Howard University, is dedicated to excellence and sisterhood.
8.Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, the sole Black sorority originating from a predominantly white institution, Butler University, on November 12, 1922, committed to enhancing women's lives through community service and advocacy.
9.Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, formed during the Civil Rights movement on September 19, 1963, at Morgan State University, striving to make impactful contributions to society, particularly within the Black community.
