History of Omega

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Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is the first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a historically black college.

On the evening of November 17, 1911, Omega Psi Phi was founded inside the Science Building (later renamed Thirkield Hall) at Howard University located in Washington, D.C. The founders were three undergraduates — Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper and Frank Coleman. Joining them was their faculty adviser, Ernest Everett Just.

From the initials of the Greek phrase meaning, “friendship is essential to the soul“, the name Omega Psi Phi was derived. That phrase was selected as the motto.

Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift were adopted as Cardinal Principles.

On November 23, 1911, Edgar A. Love became the first Grand Basileus (National President). Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman were selected to be the Grand Keeper of the Records (National Secretary) and Grand Keeper of Seals (National Treasurer), respectively. Eleven undergraduate men were selected to become the charter members.

Alpha chapter was organized with fourteen charter members on December 15, 1911. Brothers Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman were elected the chapter’s first Basileus, Keeper of Records, and Keeper of Seals, respectively.

Brother Cooper became the fraternity’s second Grand Basileus in 1912 and authorized the investigation of establishing a second chapter on the campus of Lincoln University located in Pennsylvania.

HISTORY OF ALPHA PHI

The Alpha Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was chartered in Birmingham, Alabama, on July 5, 1924, marking the beginning of a legacy of leadership, service, and community impact in the city. The charter members who established this esteemed chapter are Landy E. Harris, James Gammon Brown, Walter L. Brown, Dr. Henry Clay Bryant, Dr. Arthur McKimmon Brown, Dr. J. A. McPherson, George Brantley, William E. Clark, Fred Snelling, D. D. Crawford, Dr. W. R. Brown, and Oscar W. Adams.

Within just two years of its founding, the chapter made history in Birmingham when, on Saturday, December 11, 1926, it assembled in its own “Frat House” located at the corner of Eighth Avenue and John Street. This achievement established Alpha Phi as the first chapter within the Pan-Hellenic Group in Birmingham to own their own home, showcasing their dedication to establishing a lasting presence and legacy in the community.

Alpha Phi Chapter has grown to become one of the largest chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, currently ranking as the sixth-largest chapter in the fraternity, with a membership exceeding 300 financial members. The chapter continues to uphold the fraternity's cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.

Prominent Members

Alpha Phi has been home to numerous prominent figures who have left indelible marks in their respective fields and the broader community. Among them are:

• Oscar Adams Jr.: Alabama Supreme Court Justice and a trailblazer in the judiciary.
• E.J. Oliver: A respected leader from      Fairfield.
• Arthur Harold Parker: A renowned educator, honored by the renaming of Industrial High School to A.H. Parker High School in 1939.
• Jesse Champion: An outstanding radio personality.
• Emory Jackson: A journalist with the Birmingham World, whose work elevated the voice of the community.
• Dr. Frederic G. Ransom: A trailblazing internist who was the fourth Black accepted into the UAB School of Medicine. 
• Dr. Horace Huntley: A historian and educator dedicated to preserving the legacy of civil rights.
• Bernard Kincaid: Mayor of Birmingham from 1999 to 2007, known for his leadership during pivotal times.
• Albert Sloan: The 12th President of Miles College, a visionary in education.
• Robert Holmes: A former Alabama Executive who exemplified leadership.
• Dwayne Murray: Former Chief of Birmingham Fire and Rescue, highlighting excellence in public service.

From its historic achievements in the 1920s to its modern-day impact, Alpha Phi Chapter has remained a leader in fostering educational advancement, community service, and civic engagement. Through its members’ contributions in education, politics, journalism, public safety, and beyond, the chapter continues to uplift the Birmingham community and advance the mission of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.