The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc. (NPHC) is the umbrella organization for the nine (9) historically African-African American fraternities and sororities. It was organized in May 1930 at Howard University, Washington D. C. The stated purpose of the organization as written in 1930 is, “Unanimity of thought and action, as far as possible, in the conduct of Greek letter collegiate fraternities and sororities, and to consider problems of mutual interest to its member organizations.” Through NPHC, fraternities and sororities work together to promote unity, share ideas, and discuss common goals or problems; however, the ultimate mission of all NPHC organizations is PUBLIC SERVICE. Membership in NPHC organizations extends beyond the college experience. Upon initiation, individuals accept a lifetime commitment to the goals and objectives of their respective organizations. Members develop many close bonds and friendships that are often unbreakable and maintained throughout their lives.

Recruitment and membership intake for the organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council may vary differently between each of the Divine Nine organizations. Most of the organizations require that you be invited to the organization by the current chapter meetings. Being that as the case, those who are interested in learning more about these Divine Nine Fraternities and Sororities are encouraged to research the history of each organization, visit their National website, learn of their respective membership requirements, and develop a relationship with the chapter members of your organizational interest. To any extent beyond that, membership recruitment and intake is under full coordination of the specific chapter and their national organization. However, all membership intake processes must be conducted by a chapter that is both active with its national organization and recognized by the campus.

The cost to join an NPHC organization varies from organization to organization, and the fees are subject to change at any time. Because these organizations exist under a national umbrella, a significant portion of the funds go to the National organization, required conferences and conventions, local chapter dues, and other various items that may be needed for the membership intake process. Talk to the members of the organizations if you would like a better idea of how much they might cost.

The requirements vary from organization to organization. All NPHC organizations at Oregon State University require students to have a least a 2.5 grade point average, after completing at least 12-24 units of college credit. It also helps to have prior leadership experience, and community service, as most organizations will want to see your resume to know that you will represent their organization well.  Once a member of NPHC, all organizations are required to participate in monthly service projects, and at least one educational program. 

Being a legacy of any Greek organization does not automatically guarantee membership in any organization. Some organizations have special sections on membership intake paperwork where you can indicate whether you are a legacy or not, while others do not have policies regarding legacies. Often times, it is advised to proceed through programs and interest meetings/recruitment without a large amount of members knowing about your legacy status. Remember that discretion is important with NPHC intake, so please exercise that concept in multiple areas, including sharing information about legacy status.

No. The NPHC, and each of its member organizations have non-discriminatory policies and practices. They are also actively involved in activities and programs designed to eradicate bias and discrimination in all phases of life. The formation of an NPHC council ensures that the philosophies of affiliate member organizations are maintained. It is important and highly recommended that NPHC councils seek to influence other organizations through its programming and activities.

The best way to express interest in joining an NPHC organization is by attending chapter programs, events, and community service projects. Each organization/chapter hosts a variety of educational, social, and philanthropic events on and off-campus throughout the year, and by showing up and participating, you are letting them know you are interested in their organization. In addition, some organizations (not all) have interest/informational meetings that allow you to gain more knowledge about their organization/chapter and express interest in their fraternity or sorority. Advertisements about these events are mainly posted on bulletin boards in residence halls, classroom buildings, cultural centers, and other various locations around campus. 

We currently are represented by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.,  

You should join an NPHC organization if you are interested in a historically significant organization dedicated to serving their community and continuing education. These organizations each have something that makes them special and it is up to you to find which one fits you best. Joining an NPHC represented organization is joining a brotherhood/sisterhood for life and is a lifetime commitment to serving the surrounding communities.

Some NPHC organizations do step, however stepping and strolling is a small portion of what we do, and should not be a major consideration when considering joining an organization.