Howard University Greek Life: A Rich Tradition of Scholarship, Leadership, and Service

Nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., Howard University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and cultural legacy. Home to a vibrant Greek life system, the university fosters a sense of community, personal growth, and social responsibility among its students. With a rich history spanning over a century, Howard University’s Greek organizations have played an integral role in shaping the lives of countless individuals and the broader community.

Historical Roots and Legacy

The establishment of Greek life at Howard University can be traced back to 1906 with the founding of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. Over the ensuing decades, additional fraternities and sororities emerged, each with its unique mission and values. Today, Howard University boasts over 40 active Greek organizations, representing a diverse spectrum of backgrounds, cultures, and aspirations.

Prominent among these organizations is Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest academic honor society. Established in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa recognizes and celebrates academic achievement among students in the liberal arts and sciences. Howard University’s chapter of Phi Beta Kappa was founded in 1952 and has since inducted thousands of students into its ranks.

The Pillars of Greek Life

The Greek letter organizations at Howard University are anchored by four fundamental pillars:

Scholarship: Greek life places great emphasis on academic achievement. Members are expected to maintain high GPAs, participate in research and academic activities, and strive for intellectual excellence.

Leadership: Greek organizations provide numerous opportunities for students to develop their leadership skills. Through service projects, campus initiatives, and mentorship programs, members learn to lead with integrity, inspire others, and make a positive impact on their communities.

Service: Community service is an integral part of Greek life at Howard University. Members engage in a wide range of service activities, both on and off campus, including tutoring, mentoring, volunteering at local charities, and organizing community events.

Sisterhood and Brotherhood: Greek organizations foster a strong sense of sisterhood and brotherhood among their members. Through shared experiences, social gatherings, and support networks, members build lifelong bonds and create a sense of belonging.

The Impact of Greek Life

The impact of Greek life at Howard University is multifaceted and far-reaching. Studies have shown that members of Greek organizations tend to have higher GPAs, graduate in greater numbers, and earn higher salaries than non-members. Greek life also promotes civic engagement, social responsibility, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

In addition to its academic and social benefits, Greek life provides students with valuable opportunities for personal growth. Through their involvement in Greek organizations, students develop their self-confidence, communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. They also learn to navigate diverse perspectives, work as a team, and manage their time effectively.

Notable Alumni and Contributions

Throughout its long and illustrious history, Howard University’s Greek life system has produced a remarkable array of notable alumni. These individuals have made significant contributions to fields such as academia, politics, law, medicine, business, and the arts.

Among the most prominent alumni of Howard University Greek organizations are:

• Dr. Dorothy Height (Alpha Kappa Alpha): Civil rights activist and former president of the National Council of Negro Women
• Hon. Shirley Chisholm (Delta Sigma Theta): First African American woman elected to Congress
• Dr. Benjamin Carson (Alpha Phi Alpha): Renowned neurosurgeon and former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
• Hon. Clarence Thomas (Omega Psi Phi): Associate Justice of the Supreme Court
• Hon. Kamala Harris (Alpha Kappa Alpha): First African American and first female vice president of the United States

Tips and Tricks for Prospective Members

For students considering joining a Greek organization at Howard University, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Research different organizations: Take the time to explore the various fraternities and sororities on campus and identify those that align with your values and interests.
• Attend rush events: Rush events provide an opportunity to meet members of different organizations and learn more about their missions and requirements.
• Get involved on campus: Demonstrate your commitment to the Howard University community through involvement in other clubs, organizations, or volunteer activities.
• Maintain a strong GPA: Greek organizations place a high value on academic achievement, so it’s important to maintain a good GPA.
• Be prepared for the application process: The application process for Greek organizations typically involves submitting an application, attending interviews, and completing other requirements. Be prepared to share your accomplishments, goals, and reasons for wanting to join.

FAQs

1. How many Greek organizations are there at Howard University?

There are over 40 active Greek organizations at Howard University.

2. What is the oldest Greek organization at Howard University?

Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority is the oldest Greek organization at Howard University, founded in 1906.

3. What are the four pillars of Greek life at Howard University?

The four pillars of Greek life at Howard University are scholarship, leadership, service, and sisterhood/brotherhood.

4. What are the benefits of joining a Greek organization at Howard University?

Joining a Greek organization at Howard University offers numerous benefits, including improved academic performance, leadership development, opportunities for service, and lifelong bonds.

5. How do I join a Greek organization at Howard University?

To join a Greek organization at Howard University, you can attend rush events, get involved on campus, maintain a strong GPA, and be prepared for the application process.

6. What is the application process for Greek organizations at Howard University like?

The application process for Greek organizations at Howard University typically involves submitting an application, attending interviews, and completing other requirements. Be prepared to share your accomplishments, goals, and reasons for wanting to join.

7. What is the cost of joining a Greek organization at Howard University?

The cost of joining a Greek organization at Howard University varies depending on the organization and its fees.

8. What is the time commitment required for Greek life at Howard University?

The time commitment required for Greek life at Howard University varies depending on the organization and your level of involvement.