10/12/2026
October update from ASC Project Archivist Jessica! Founded between 1906 and 1963, nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, known as The Divine Nine, emerged as Black students faced exclusion from many campus organizations, professional networks, and social institutions. They created spaces where students could pursue academic excellence, develop as leaders, form lasting personal and professional connections, and work collectively in service to their communities.
In 1930, representatives from several of these organizations gathered at Howard University to establish the National Pan-Hellenic Council. The council eventually grew to represent all nine organizations now known collectively as the “Divine Nine.”
Each organization developed its own mottos, programs, and traditions, including Stepping and Strolling. For generations, Divine Nine members have provided scholarships, mentorship, organized voter registration efforts, advocated for civil rights, supported charitable causes, and created professional networks extending far beyond college.
That legacy has deep roots at UNO. National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations have been part of campus life for more than 75 years and their traditions pass from one generation to another. Today, UNO is home to six Divine Nine chapters:
• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
This project is a collaboration between UNO Criss Library Archives and Special Collections and the Great Plains Black History Museum and is funded by the National Historical Publications and Records Commission.
All archival materials in this post are from the collection of the Great Plains Black History Museum. Contact the Museum to discuss licensing or authorization to use material in publications, documentaries, or other uses.
