About Our Organization
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is the first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a historically black college.
On the evening of November 17, 1911, Omega Psi Phi was founded inside the Science Building (later renamed Thirkield Hall) at Howard University located in Washington, D.C. The founders were three undergraduates — Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper and Frank Coleman. Joining them was their faculty adviser, Ernest Everett Just.
From the initials of the Greek phrase meaning, “friendship is essential to the soul“, the name Omega Psi Phi was derived. That phrase was selected as the motto.
Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift were adopted as Cardinal Principles.
About Our Chapter
The Lambda Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. was established on May 21, 1938, at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, through the efforts of Dean Horace Bishop and Dr. Arnold Caramel. As a part of our legacy, the chapter focuses on leadership and supporting the fraternity's 100+ year history of social action. The chapter consistently gives back to the City of Orangeburg and the Sixth District through volunteer work, Boys to Men camps, scholarships, talent hunts, and many other initiatives to enrich the community we serve.
