Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Founded:            December 4, 1906

Where:                Cornell University (Ithaca, New York)

Colors:                Black & Old Gold

Mascot:               Sphinx, Gorilla

Since it’s founding on December 4, 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has supplied voice and vision to the struggle of African-Americans and people of color around the world. Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African-Americans, was founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by seven college men who recognized the need for a strong bond of Brotherhood among African descendants in this country. The Fraternity initially served as a study and support group for minority students who faced racial prejudice, both educationally and socially, at Cornell. The Jewel founders and early leaders of the Fraternity succeeded in laying a firm foundation for Alpha Phi Alpha's principles of scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the uplifting of humanity.

The Kappa Chi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was charted on December 20, 1975 at Francis Marion University.  From a dream put into reality by Dr. Joseph E. Heyward, Sr., the 11 charter members began a journey, which has lead to one of the most outstanding organizations on the FMU campus.

The Kappa Chi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has maintained the university’s highest academic award to an organization, the President’s Cup-for having the highest grade point average amongst all fraternities (1998-2000, 2002, 2004).  Individually during this time frame, four brothers have had the privilege of maintaining the highest grade point average in their major for their classification and among all the fraternity members of NPHC.  Not only have these young men been noted for their academic achievement, but also for their community service and leadership abilities in such organizations as Student Government Association, NAACP, and the Resident Student Association.