Nov. 17, 1911
1946 - 2009
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Omicron Iota Chapter
Westchester County
The History
of
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
The founding of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
On Friday evening, November 17, 1911, three Howard University undergraduate students, with
the assistance of their faculty adviser, gave birth to the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. This event occurred in the office of biology
Professor Ernest E. Just, the faculty adviser, in the Science Hall (now known as Thirkield Hall). The three liberal arts students
were Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman. From the initials of the Greek phrase meaning "friendship is essential to the
soul," the name Omega Psi Phi was derived. The phrase was selected as the motto. Manhood, scholarship, perseverance and uplift were
adopted as cardinal principles. A decision was made regarding the design for the pin and emblem, and thus ended the first meeting
of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
The fraternity has grown to over 150,000 members with chapters located in Europe, Asia, and North
America. Members thrive on the Spirit of the fraternity's illustrious founders. Membership remains limited to matriculating college
men and college graduates only.