November 17

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a historically African American fraternity known for its unwavering commitment to manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. It is a member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) collaborative umbrella composed of historically African American fraternities and sororities, commonly called the Divine Nine.

The fraternity was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., by three undergraduate students — Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper, and Frank Coleman — along with their faculty advisor, Dr. Ernest E. Just.

As the first Black fraternity founded at a historically Black university, Omega Psi Phi set a precedent for academic excellence and social advocacy among African American men. Over the years, it has played a vital role in civil rights, youth mentorship, and community service, producing influential leaders across multiple fields.

Some of the most famous members of Omega Psi Phi who reflect the fraternity’s core values of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift include:

• Dr. Charles Drew — surgeon and pioneering medical researcher who developed large-scale blood banks;
• Rev. Jesse Jackson — civil rights icon, presidential candidate, and founder of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition;
• Stevie Wonder — legendary musician and activist;
• Spike Lee — acclaimed director and filmmaker; and
• Shaquille O’Neal — former NBA star known for his athletic achievements and philanthropic work.

Omega Psi Phi’s mission is to uplift communities by fostering the principles of manhood, academic achievement, and responsible citizenship.