In 1930 it was recognized that there was a need to form an umbrella organization that would provide coordination of philosophies and activities of the historically Black Greek-letter organizations that were formed over the 16-year period from 1906 to 1922.  This umbrella group, which became known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), was formally organized in May 1930 at Howard University, Washington, D.C.  The charter members were: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta Sororities, Inc., and Kappa Alpha Psi and Omega Psi Phi Fraternities, Inc.

In 1931, Alpha Phi Alpha and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternities, Inc. joined the Council.  In 1937, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. joined the Council and in 1996 Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. completed the list of organizations comprising the NPHC.

The nine affiliate organizations have pledged to devote their collective resources and services in an effort to enhance communities throughout the nation and world.  Despite the diversity inherent in the individual groups, the NPHC provides the forum and impetus for addressing issues of mutual concern.  The organizations soon discovered that both nationally and locally the effect of their educational, social and economic programs was greatly improved by uniting and coordinating efforts through the NPHC and the local councils.

For more information go to http://www.nphchq.org